Mumbai: The political landscape in Maharashtra is on the brink of a significant shift as the tussle for forming a new government intensifies. With continuous deliberations stretching from Delhi to Mumbai, a decisive announcement regarding the next Chief Minister is expected today. Leaders of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), are set to meet in Delhi to finalize their pick for the top post.
Eknath Shinde Bows Out, Paves Way for BJP Leadership
Outgoing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who faced dwindling bargaining power after the alliance’s massive electoral victory, has publicly declared his acceptance of the BJP’s decision on his successor. Addressing the media in Thane, Shinde assured his unwavering support to the BJP’s leadership and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“I spoke with Modi ji on November 26 and assured him that there are no differences between us. We remain a united front under the NDA. Whatever decision the BJP takes, we will support it without any hindrance,” Shinde stated. He further dismissed speculation about his disappointment, emphasizing that his tenure as Chief Minister had the full backing of the BJP and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Devendra Fadnavis and Mahayuti Leadership Close Ranks
Former Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed Shinde’s sentiments, asserting that the alliance remained cohesive and focused on governance. “There have been no differences within the Mahayuti. Shinde’s statement clarifies all doubts. The new Chief Minister’s name will be announced soon,” Fadnavis remarked.
The BJP, having emerged as the dominant force in the alliance, is expected to take the lead in forming the government. Shinde’s assurances have all but cleared the way for a BJP leader to assume the Chief Minister’s role.
Electoral Mandate: A Resounding Victory for Mahayuti
The Mahayuti alliance delivered a stellar performance in the November 20 assembly elections, winning 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP led the charge with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 and the NCP with 41. In contrast, the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) suffered a crushing defeat. The Congress recorded its worst-ever performance in the state, securing just 16 seats. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and Sharad Pawar’s NCP factions managed only 20 and 10 seats, respectively.
Shinde Reflects on Tenure, Thanks Leadership
Shinde, who resigned as Chief Minister on November 26 after submitting his resignation to Governor CP Radhakrishnan, highlighted his achievements during his tenure. “In just six months, Maharashtra rose from the third position to number one in development. I am grateful to Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah for their trust and support,” Shinde said.
As Maharashtra awaits its new Chief Minister, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance appears poised to consolidate its governance with a strong mandate, setting the stage for a fresh chapter in the state’s political journey.
