Four days after the historic election results of the Maharashtra assembly, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde broke his silence. On Wednesday, he assured Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he would abide by any decision made by the BJP regarding his successor. Following Shinde's announcement, leaders from the Shiv Sena strongly demanded that he remain as Chief Minister due to the remarkable victory achieved by the ruling Mahayuti coalition under his leadership.
Political analysts believe this move has set the stage for the new government to take oath, with Devendra Fadnavis poised to possibly lead the regime. At a bustling press conference at his home in Thane, Shinde (60) expressed unreserved support for the BJP's leadership decision on the next Chief Minister, vowing no hindrance to the process.
Quick Decision with Leaders: Fadnavis
Reacting to Shinde's statements, Devendra Fadnavis commented on the claims regarding Shinde's candidacy for the CM post, stating, "There has never been any discord within our Mahayuti. We have always reached decisions collectively, even before the elections, and had committed to deciding on the Chief Minister post together after the election. Eknath Shinde Ji has clarified any doubts today, and soon we will meet with our leaders to make a decision."
During a press conference, Shinde remarked, "Yesterday, I called Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah, expressing that they should decide on the Chief Minister, assuring them that whatever they decide, I will abide by it. Our Shiv Sena fully supports the BJP's decision for the next Maharashtra Chief Minister, and there is no blockade from our side."
CM Oath Likely on December 1: Ajit Pawar
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar mentioned to reporters that it’s likely the new CM will be sworn in on November 30 or December 1. He hinted at a new government structure featuring two Deputy Chief Ministers. Shinde debunked reports suggesting he was upset about not getting a second term despite the spectacular victory under his leadership of the ruling Mahayuti coalition. He stated, "No one is annoyed. We have worked as a Mahayuti."
When asked if he was disheartened by not receiving a second term, Shinde responded, "There’s nothing like that. You must remember that the BJP supported my tenure as Chief Minister. I will be meeting with Amit Bhai (Shah) in Delhi tomorrow, where all related decisions will be finalized. The framework for the new government will be shaped at the meeting in Delhi. Once again, I thank the people and voters of Maharashtra for the overwhelming victory in the recent assembly elections."
