Following the announcement of Maharashtra's election dates, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis has given a significant hint. On October 16, Maharashtra's Shinde government released its report card. When asked about the CM face for the upcoming elections of Mahayuti (NDA alliance in Maharashtra), Devendra Fadnavis smiled and replied, 'Our Chief Minister is present right here.' Although, he refrained from naming anyone directly.
During the event, Fadnavis challenged the MVA alliance, suggesting that the Maha Vikas Aghadi should announce NCP (SP) Chief Sharad Pawar as their CM candidate. He further emphasized that Mahayuti does not need to announce a new CM face because their CM is already present.
Questions Raised About the MVA Alliance
Former CM and current Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis remarked, 'The Maha Vikas Aghadi has not declared a CM candidate because they doubt their capability to secure the Chief Minister position post-elections. I challenge Mr. Pawar to reveal their face.'
Fadnavis's Political Statement
This strategic response by Fadnavis is perceived as an effort not to upset Mahayuti's allies. Political circles have speculated that alongside Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar also aspires to become Maharashtra's next Chief Minister.
CM Shinde's Non-committal Approach
During the event, Eknath Shinde refrained from directly addressing the issue. He remarked that the government's two years of work and achievements represent the alliance's face. Taking a jab at the opposition, Shinde suggested, 'MVA should declare their opposition leader's face.'
Demand from Maha Vikas Aghadi
The Maha Vikas Aghadi, comprising the NCP (SP), Shiv Sena (UBT), and Congress, has yet to announce their CM candidate. Earlier this week, Uddhav Thackeray avoided answering by stating that MVA will disclose their face if the Mahayuti alliance does so first.
