The suspense continues over the formation of the new government in Maharashtra. The election results came out on November 23 with a resounding victory for the grand alliance. The BJP almost achieved the majority on its own, yet, six days later, no new government has been formed. Last night, Home Minister Amit Shah held separate discussions at his residence in Delhi with Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar.
BJP President JP Nadda, NCP's Executive President Praful Patel, and NCP MP Sunil Tatkare also reached Shah's residence, but after nearly three hours of discussions, the name of the CM was not finalized. The major question is, where is the glitch?
Shinde Wants the Home Ministry
According to sources, during yesterday's meeting with Amit Shah, Eknath Shinde received indications that Devendra Fadnavis will be the CM. Initially, Shinde was not ready to accept the deputy CM position, but later, he softened his stance. Shinde wants to hold onto the Home Ministry.
This evening, there is a meeting scheduled in Mumbai with the three leaders of the grand alliance, and tomorrow, a BJP legislators' meeting could take place to elect the leader of the legislative party. After these meetings, a grand alliance meeting is proposed in Delhi as well. Clearly, more time may be required for the formation of the new government.
Shiv Sena Eyes Powerful Ministries
Senior Shiv Sena leaders believe Eknath Shinde should be made part of the cabinet with significant portfolios to strengthen the party in Maharashtra. Party leaders fear that Shinde's absence might cause party MLAs to struggle for sufficient shares and funds in the government.
Similarly, Ajit Pawar is eyeing the Deputy CM post along with the Finance Ministry. The BJP leadership is keen to retain the Finance and Planning departments. Ajit Pawar will insist on keeping ministries like Agriculture, Food and Civil Supplies, Women and Child Welfare, Medical Education, Sports, Rural Development, Cooperation, and Marketing.
Formula for Ministerial Distribution
According to sources, a formula of one ministerial position for every six legislators is being considered to determine each ally's share in the government. As per this, the BJP would have around 21 to 22 ministerial posts, the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena around 10 to 12 ministries, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction would get about 8 to 9 ministries. The total quota of ministerial posts in Maharashtra, including the Chief Minister position, should not exceed 43.
