Amid ongoing deliberations over the Maharashtra Chief Minister post, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde on Wednesday stated that he would accept any decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the leadership of the state.
Shinde assured full support from Shiv Sainiks to whoever is chosen as the Chief Minister by the Mahayuti alliance.
Shinde: “No Obstacle to Government Formation Because of Me”
In a press conference held in Mumbai, Shinde remarked, “I have told the Prime Minister that if there is any problem in forming the government in Maharashtra because of me, then do not hesitate. Whatever decision you take will be acceptable to me.”
Shinde highlighted his humility and focus on serving the public:
“I have always worked as a worker. I never considered myself a Chief Minister. For me, CM means Common Man, and I worked with that perspective. Whoever is elected as the CM by Mahayuti, Shiv Sainiks will support him.”
Meetings in Delhi to Resolve the CM Impasse
Shinde is expected to travel to Delhi later today for a key meeting with Mahayuti leaders, including PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is already in the capital, discussing the stalemate with BJP’s senior leadership.
When asked about the timeline for finalizing the CM post, Fadnavis told reporters,
“The answer to this will be given soon. All senior members of the three parties of Mahayuti are taking this decision together. The Chief Ministerial decision will come first, followed by decisions for other ministerial posts.”
Mahayuti Alliance Yet to Decide Leadership
The Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), achieved a decisive victory in the November 20 Maharashtra assembly elections.
- BJP: 132 seats (largest party)
- Shiv Sena: 57 seats
- NCP: 41 seats
Despite their combined strength, the alliance has yet to finalize its Chief Ministerial candidate, with BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde among the key contenders.
Key Takeaways
- Shinde’s Stand: Willing to step aside if it facilitates smooth government formation.
- Delhi Talks: PM Modi and Amit Shah to meet Mahayuti leaders to resolve the leadership question.
- Shiv Sena’s Support: Pledged allegiance to whoever is chosen as CM by the alliance.
- Timeline: The decision is expected soon, with a new government likely to be sworn in by December 2.
The Mahayuti’s decision will set the tone for the coalition’s governance and dynamics in Maharashtra.