Eknath Shinde, the caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Shiv Sena president, made a strong pitch for his return to the top post, asserting that his connection with the common man played a key role in his popularity. Speaking to reporters on Sunday in his native village of Dare in Satara district, Shinde emphasized that he was not only the Chief Minister but also the “Common Man” who understood the struggles and pain of the people, which is why they now want him back in power. He reiterated that his leadership was central to the success of the Assembly elections and that the Shiv Sena would support the final decision made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the Chief Minister’s position.
Shinde also reminded the BJP leadership of the significant success achieved by the Mahayuti government under his leadership, emphasizing that the Assembly elections had been fought successfully with his guidance. He stressed that this victory had been unprecedented in terms of the success secured by his government, claiming that no one in the past had achieved such a result. However, he also made it clear that he respected the decision of the central leadership and that his party would fully support their choice. Shinde had clarified in a previous press conference that any decisions regarding the Chief Minister’s post would be taken by Modi and Shah, and there should be no ambiguity in anyone’s mind.
Regarding the allocation of ministries, Shinde stated that discussions would be held to resolve various issues, with the main focus being on fulfilling the promises made to the people of Maharashtra. He made it clear that the priority would be working for the people rather than debating who would get which portfolios. When asked about his son Shrikant Shinde potentially becoming Deputy Chief Minister, he indicated that discussions were ongoing, and a decision would be made in the interest of Maharashtra after a meeting with the BJP and other allies.
Shinde also responded to allegations of EVM tampering by the opposition, dismissing them as baseless, pointing out that similar claims had not been made when the opposition won in other elections. He emphasized that the Mahayuti’s victory was a result of the welfare and development schemes his government had implemented, benefiting women, youth, and farmers. Shinde proudly stated that no government in history had launched such extensive welfare initiatives.
Highlighting the historic nature of his government’s achievements, Shinde said that the welfare schemes and development works carried out over the past two and a half years would be remembered as a milestone in Maharashtra’s history. He concluded by stressing that his tenure would be written in golden letters due to the positive impact it had on the state’s people.
