Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: The decision on Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister is expected soon after a crucial late-night meeting in Delhi among Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar. The meeting reportedly resolved key issues, paving the way for an official announcement, pending approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Developments
•BJP Leadership at the Helm:
The BJP is likely to secure the Chief Minister’s post, with two deputy chief ministers representing the Shinde Sena and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Devendra Fadnavis remains the frontrunner for the top position.
•Eknath Shinde’s Statement:
Mr. Shinde declared his willingness to abide by the BJP’s decision, stating, “I would not be an obstacle… We would go with whatever [PM Modi] decides.” This move clears the decks for the BJP’s leadership to finalize the Chief Minister’s post.
•Caste Dynamics:
The BJP is reportedly considering caste equations in the state, where the Maratha community holds significant sway among the 288 MLAs. Fadnavis, a Brahmin, faced criticism during the Maratha agitation, with leader Manoj Jarange-Patil labeling him a “Maratha-hater.”
Cabinet Distribution
Sources suggest the state cabinet will have 42 ministers, distributed as follows:
•BJP: 22 ministries
•Shinde Sena: 12 ministries
•NCP: 10 ministries
The BJP is expected to retain key portfolios, including the Home Ministry.
Future Plans for Eknath Shinde:
While Mr. Shinde may serve as Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra, speculation suggests he could also take on a cabinet role at the Center. Discussions are ongoing regarding his position in the new government.
The arrangement reflects the seat-sharing strategy and electoral outcome, with the BJP winning the highest number of seats (132), reinforcing its claim for the Chief Minister’s position.
