BJP Offered Eknath Shinde Mahayuti Chief’s Post, But Suspense Over Maharashtra CM Remains
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Tuesday revealed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had offered the leadership of the Mahayuti alliance to Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde. However, Shinde reportedly declined the proposal, adding a new layer of suspense over who will ultimately take on the role of Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. The decision comes amid growing anticipation following the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance’s victory in the recent Maharashtra assembly elections.
Eknath Shinde Declines Multiple Roles
Athawale disclosed that BJP’s top brass offered Shinde alternative positions as a central minister or the President of the Mahayuti alliance, both of which he turned down. Despite this, Shinde has maintained that he is not seeking the chief minister’s position. Athawale suggested that the final announcement regarding the Chief Minister could take place on December 4.
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“The BJP high command has already informed Eknath Shinde that he will not be made the Chief Minister. They offered him alternatives, but he has not shown readiness for these roles. Shinde is reportedly uneasy about the situation,” Athawale explained.
Eknath Shinde’s Current State
Over the last few days, Eknath Shinde has been staying in Satara due to health concerns. He was recently hospitalized, which has added to the uncertainty surrounding his involvement in the political developments. Despite the health setback, Shinde has expressed his willingness to accept any decision made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Chief Ministerial post.
BJP’s Silence on Chief Ministerial Candidate
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance emerged victorious in the Maharashtra assembly elections held on November 23, with the BJP becoming the single-largest party. Despite this, the alliance has yet to announce its candidate for Chief Minister. Among the frontrunners for the position is BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, who has previously served as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister and is widely regarded as the most likely choice.
Shiv Sena’s Stance
Shiv Sena leaders have thrown their weight behind Eknath Shinde, emphasizing his contribution to the party’s leadership during the elections. However, they have also stated that the final decision rests with the BJP’s central leadership.
“Our leader, Eknath Shinde, has already demonstrated who truly represents the Shiv Sena. It is now up to Delhi to decide how to preserve his stature. We will not interfere in their decision-making process,” said Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar.
Reports of Alliance Discord Denied
Kesarkar denied any reports of discord between the BJP and Shiv Sena within the Mahayuti alliance. He clarified that the delay in announcing the Chief Minister is primarily due to BJP’s internal selection process.
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“There are several baseless rumors circulating about disagreements within the alliance. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for December 5. As the caretaker Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde has no role in the delay. He has already communicated his willingness to accept any decision made by the BJP’s leadership,” Kesarkar added.
Devendra Fadnavis: A Strong Contender
Devendra Fadnavis has emerged as the strongest contender for the Chief Minister’s role. Known for his administrative skills and experience, Fadnavis is seen as a natural choice to lead Maharashtra again. His candidature is bolstered by his strong rapport with the BJP’s central leadership, as well as his reputation for effective governance during his previous term.
Challenges Ahead for the Mahayuti Alliance
While the BJP’s electoral victory has solidified its position as the dominant party in Maharashtra, the delay in announcing a Chief Minister has raised questions about the alliance’s cohesion. The BJP must navigate these challenges carefully to ensure that the alliance remains intact and focused on governance.
Conclusion
The suspense surrounding the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s announcement highlights the complexities of coalition politics. While Eknath Shinde has ruled himself out of the race and expressed loyalty to the BJP’s leadership, the final decision will be crucial for the stability of the Mahayuti alliance. As the swearing-in ceremony approaches on December 5, all eyes are on the BJP to unveil its candidate, with Devendra Fadnavis widely expected to take the helm. However, the political dynamics within the alliance will continue to shape Maharashtra’s political landscape in the coming days.