Maharashtra’s political scene is brimming with speculation regarding the future of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, especially after his cryptic social media post on Tuesday, which hinted at the possibility of his stepping down. The post has led to growing uncertainty about who will lead the state government following the 2024 assembly elections.
In his X (formerly Twitter) post, Eknath Shinde urged his supporters not to gather at Varsha Niwas or any other location to press for his return as the chief minister. His message conveyed a sense of calm as he assured that the Mahayuti alliance, which won the state elections, would continue to remain strong for the prosperity of Maharashtra. Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude for the love and support from his followers but made it clear that no one should assemble in his support at this moment. “After the great victory of Mahayuti, our government will be formed once again in the state,” he wrote, stressing that the alliance would remain united. He urged Shiv Sena workers to avoid gathering at Varsha Niwas, signaling that he was not seeking a show of support at this stage.
This post comes amid growing debates within the political circles in Maharashtra over who will assume the position of chief minister. Eknath Shinde, who led the Shiv Sena faction to a significant victory alongside the BJP in the recently concluded elections, had previously been the chief minister after a political reshuffle in 2022. However, sources indicate that the decision regarding the new chief minister might take another week to be finalized, with the Maharashtra assembly’s current term coming to an end.
Simultaneously, several Shiv Sainiks in Thane held prayer meetings at local temples, hoping that Eknath Shinde would retain the top post. These gatherings reflect the strong support Eknath Shinde has among Shiv Sena loyalists, with many attributing the Mahayuti alliance’s success to his grassroots connect and his popular schemes like ‘Ladki Bahin Yojana.’
The BJP, which emerged victorious with 132 seats in the election, is reportedly backing its own candidate for the chief minister’s position, Devendra Fadnavis, while the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde continues to push for his return. The Maharashtra government formation has been delayed, with sources revealing that the new government would likely have two deputy chief ministers, with Devendra Fadnavis among them. Additionally, the government’s ministerial distribution is expected to see the BJP having 24 ministers, the Shiv Sena 12, and the NCP 10.
Despite the delays, the new government formation process is underway, and a meeting between Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, and NCP leader Ajit Pawar is expected soon, possibly to discuss the final contours of the new cabinet. The uncertainty regarding the chief ministerial post has kept political observers on edge, and a final decision is awaited in the coming days.
