The stage is set for Maharashtra's upcoming political highlight as the oath-taking ceremony is officially scheduled for December 5. Hosted in Mumbai's historic Azad Maidan, this event will see only three power figures taking oath: the Chief Minister (CM) and two Deputy CMs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to grace the occasion with his presence. However, the suspense lingers as the identities of the CM and Deputy CMs remain unannounced. The next 24 hours promise to be pivotal for unfolding Maharashtra’s political landscape.
On December 4 at 10 AM, the BJP legislative party meeting is set, under the watchful eyes of appointed central observers—Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former CM Vijay Rupani. As these observers arrive in Mumbai this evening, they plan to engage with alliance leaders, leading to the decisive announcement in the legislative party meeting on Wednesday regarding the new Chief Minister.
Alliance of Leaders’ Crucial Meeting Today
Topping Mumbai's political charts, a crucial meetup among the alliance's triad leaders—Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar—looms large. Their agenda? Deciphering the new CM and reaching a consensus on the cabinet's structure. Nonetheless, with interim CM Eknath Shinde's ongoing health struggles, frequent meeting postponements have ensued. Shinde is scheduled for tests today at Jupiter Hospital, Thane, grappling with fever-induced weakness. This pivotal alliance meeting is pegged for 3 PM, albeit uncertainty shrouds Shinde’s attendance.
Insiders hint at Devendra Fadnavis's near-certain victory as CM, pending only a formal announcement. Clarity shall prevail post the alliance's declaration.
BJP Likely to Secure Up to 22 Departments
According to sources, just three individuals will be sworn in on December 5—a CM and two Deputy CMs. Eknath Shinde will join Ajit Pawar in the oath-taking. Subsequent to this, the cabinet and departmental division amongst the three parties will seek finalization, with BJP anticipated to secure 21-22 departments. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena, after requesting 16 seats, may settle with 12, and Ajit Pawar's faction is speculated to retain around 9-10 departments.
Power Sharing Dynamics Unraveled: BJP Set for 22 Ministries, Insight into Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s Stakes
BJP appears poised to hold onto significant portfolios such as Home, Revenue, Speaker, and the Legislative Council Chairman. Amidst Shiv Sena's expressed desire for the Legislative Council presidency, with its vice-presidency in hand, the Deputy Speaker role is likely to land with the NCP. The Finance department might be earmarked for NCP, while Shiv Sena is assured of gaining Urban Development. Discussions on remaining departments will follow.
Subsequent to the swearing-in, Mumbai will host a 3-day legislative session, entailing Speaker elections, a confidence vote, and the Governor's address. The 16th winter session is slated for commencement in Nagpur thereafter.
