Maharashtra's political landscape currently stands out as the most intricate in the nation. Deciphering the motives of political parties and leaders here is no easy feat. Speculation is rife, especially since just two months ago, the Mahayuti coalition ousted the Mahavikas Aghadi to form the government again. Eknath Shinde, who was former Chief Minister, was persuaded to join as Deputy CM, a role that seems ill-fitting as his presence appears reluctant right from the oath-taking ceremony. He's often missed cabinet meetings, hinting at a rift with CM Devendra Fadnavis. Recent developments suggest BJP might be looking for alternatives.
1- Meetings with Leaders from UBT and MNS
On a usual Monday, CM Devendra Fadnavis sparked a buzz in Maharashtra's tumultuous political sphere by visiting Raj Thackeray, head of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), at his residence—a rarity for a sitting CM. That evening, he welcomed three leaders from Shiv Sena UBT at his house, amid ongoing rumors of discord between him and Deputy CM Shinde, especially with the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections looming. Speculation is that Fadnavis's engagements were a message to Shinde that BJP has other options.
2- Troubles for Shinde with His Initiatives
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde doesn’t appear disgruntled without reason. It's believed he's been intentionally sidelined. A letter from industry minister Uday Samant, advising his officials to seek approval before making decisions, underscores the tensions between BJP and Shinde Sena. Vital initiatives launched by Shinde such as the free pilgrimage for seniors have been stalled. His absence from recent cabinet meetings adds fuel to the speculation of his growing disconnect.
3- Lingering Discontent over Not Being CM
A recent editorial from Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena alleged friction between Fadnavis and Shinde, along with insinuations of phone tapping by BJP. Though such claims by Shiv Sena might be politically motivated, Shinde’s demeanor suggests there might be some truth. Sanjay Raut shared that during a flight, a Shinde party member confided about Shinde’s ongoing struggle with being overlooked for the CM position.
4- Praise from Pawar and Shinde's Faith in Modi-Shah
At the 98th All India Marathi Literary Conference in Delhi, Shinde was lauded by NCP Leader Sharad Pawar, receiving the Mahadji Shinde Rashtriya Gaurav Award. This has stirred tensions within the MVA alliance, with UBT Sena initially critical of the event, deeming it manipulated by BJP. Shinde, in his response, emphasized unwavering faith in PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, crediting them for fast-tracking Maharashtra’s development.
