Just a day ago in Maharashtra, acting Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was wrapped in a blanket of silence, causing a political stir. The debate revolved around whether the CM would be from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or Shiv Sena (Shinde). Today, the picture is different. CM Shinde has made it clear there are no hurdles from our side in forming the government. Shiv Sena will support the BJP's choice for the CM post.
After Shinde's announcement, the scenario has shifted, and Devendra Fadnavis is now seen as the frontrunner in the CM race. A meeting in Delhi between Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar, and Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to seal the CM's name. Questions arise as to why Eknath Shinde, who has long claimed the CM position, has stepped back, and why Fadnavis has surged ahead in the race.
Why is Fadnavis leading the CM race?
Several reasons put Devendra Fadnavis at the forefront of the Chief Ministerial race. As the most prominent face of BJP in Maharashtra, compelling factors such as his experience running a coalition government and his strong organizational influence bolster his position. What are Fadnavis's strengths?
- Experienced in leading coalition governments - Strong administrative control - Clean image and dynamic leadership - Acceptance beyond just the BJP - Strong organizational grasp
Why has Shinde stepped back?
CM Eknath Shinde's retreat also comes with its reasoning. As the BJP's seat count crossed 110 in election results, Shinde and Ajit Pawar realized their claim to the CM's chair had weakened. Beyond the numbers, other factors have also contributed to Shinde taking a backseat.
- BJP's overwhelming numbers - BJP poaching nine legislators from Shinde-Ajit’s party - Ajit Pawar's unconditional support to BJP - Increasing pressure from BJP leadership - The existential threat in the Sena vs. Sena battle
Also read: Names of CM and both deputy CMs nearly finalized, crunching on major ministries... Maharashtra's evolving formula!
Why is power crucial for Ajit Pawar?
- Success in tough conditions after the Lok Sabha elections - Desire to stay in power - Efforts to strengthen party standing in upcoming municipal elections
