The BJP-led Maharashtra government will witness its cabinet expansion today (December 15). A new cohort of ministers will be sworn in at a ceremony in Nagpur. A senior BJP leader reported to news agencies that around 30-32 ministers are expected to take the oath.
This expansion carries weight because it precedes the legislative session in Maharashtra, beginning tomorrow in Nagpur, which serves as the state's second capital.
Limit of 43 Ministers Including CM
The Maharashtra Council of Ministers can accommodate a maximum of 43 members, including the Chief Minister. Recently, on December 13, state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule met separately with the Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar to discuss the expansion. Sources suggest that the BJP might secure 20-21 ministerial positions, followed by Shiv Sena with 11-12, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) with about 9-10 positions.
Contenders for the Home Ministry
Prior to government formation in Maharashtra, the state witnessed several political turmoils. Shiv Sena has often advocated for positions that match Shinde’s stature. Insiders reveal that the party sought the Home Ministry, but the BJP opposed it.
Fadnavis’ List of 22 Ministers!
Reports indicate that Devendra Fadnavis has finalized a list of 22 ministers for the state cabinet. He recently consulted with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss power-sharing dynamics and priorities for the newly formed government. Allegedly, they also deliberated on the schemes and projects set to roll out in the state.
Victory of MahaYuti in 288 Seats
In the Maharashtra Assembly elections held on November 20, the MahaYuti coalition emerged victorious by securing 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP led the charge with 132 seats, followed by Shinde's Shiv Sena claiming 57, and Pawar's NCP securing 41 seats.
