In a dramatic political development, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has been sworn in as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for the third time, with Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and NCP’s Ajit Pawar assuming the roles of Deputy Chief Ministers. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, marked a reshuffling of roles in the Mahayuti alliance, signaling a new chapter in the state’s political landscape.
The trio officially staked their claim to form the government by presenting letters of support to Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan after weeks of intense political discussions. The event, scheduled for 5:30 pm, saw the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and prominent dignitaries, including Chief Ministers from various NDA states.
Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, unanimously elected as the Leader of the Maharashtra BJP Legislative Party, credited the landslide victory of the MahaYuti alliance in the recent Assembly elections as the driving force behind the formation of the new government. The alliance secured 235 out of 288 seats, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 132 seats. Shiv Sena and NCP added 57 and 41 seats, respectively.
In sharp contrast, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition faced a crushing defeat. Congress managed just 16 seats, Shiv Sena (UBT) secured 20, and the NCP faction led by Sharad Pawar won only 10. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who attended the BJP legislative meeting, described the MahaYuti alliance as a “double-engine government” set to accelerate Maharashtra’s development.
Eknath Shinde, the outgoing Chief Minister, expressed satisfaction with the governance of the past two-and-a-half years under the Mahayuti alliance. He called the achievements of their government “remarkable,” highlighting significant decisions taken during their tenure. “It will be written in golden letters in history,” he said.
Mumbai’s Azad Maidan was heavily fortified for the event, with over 4,000 police personnel deployed, including units like the State Reserve Police Force, Quick Response Teams, and bomb disposal squads. Traffic in South Mumbai was managed by 280 traffic personnel to ensure smooth movement. The ceremony drew a massive audience of 42,000, with seating for 2,000 VIPs, including religious and political leaders.
With this reshuffling of roles, the Mahayuti alliance aims to fulfill its promises and propel Maharashtra’s development, signaling a strong start for the new government.
