Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: The BJP plans to secure half of the Maharashtra cabinet berths while allotting 12 ministries, including significant portfolios, to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena as a consolation for ceding the Chief Minister position, sources revealed. The Ajit Pawar-led NCP is likely to receive nine berths in the Mahayuti alliance’s power-sharing arrangement.
With Maharashtra’s cabinet limited to 43 ministers, including the Chief Minister, the BJP is expected to retain 21 seats. Mr. Shinde’s faction may get key ministries like Urban Development, Public Works, and Water Resources. Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar has reportedly informed his NCP colleagues that the swearing-in ceremony could take place this weekend.
Shinde Concedes Amid BJP’s Dominance
Despite initial resistance, Mr. Shinde announced his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah’s decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate. “I will not be an obstacle,” Mr. Shinde said. However, his leverage is limited, with the BJP winning 132 seats and the NCP backing its decision.
The Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, criticized Mr. Shinde for his perceived lack of influence within the alliance. Sanjay Raut and Ambadas Danve of the Sena (UBT) took jabs, claiming that Mr. Shinde had served his purpose for the BJP.
Devendra Fadnavis Emerges as Frontrunner
Devendra Fadnavis, the BJP’s most prominent leader in Maharashtra and a former Chief Minister, is considered the leading contender for the top post. Known as a key architect of the Mahayuti’s landslide victory, Mr. Fadnavis is reportedly backed by BJP workers and endorsed by the NCP for his leadership.
In 2022, Mr. Fadnavis reluctantly took the Deputy Chief Minister role despite the BJP’s dominance, but this time, his party aims to secure the top spot for him.
Balancing Caste Equations
Home Minister Amit Shah recently met senior BJP leader Vinod Tawde to assess the potential reaction to Mr. Fadnavis’s appointment, particularly among the Maratha community. While Mr. Shinde is a Maratha leader, Mr. Fadnavis is a Brahmin. Concerns about backlash from Maratha leaders like Manoj Jarange-Patil, who accused Mr. Fadnavis of being a “Maratha-hater,” have prompted the BJP to proceed cautiously.
The party seeks to address caste dynamics and ensure smooth governance before making an official announcement about the Chief Minister.
