Shinde to back BJP’s CM choice, meeting.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, when questioned about reports suggesting he had requested the deputy CM post for his son, Shrikant Shinde, alongside key portfolios like home and urban development, remained evasive. Speculations have been rife regarding the allocation of top ministries in the new government, and many believe Shinde is negotiating significant roles for his faction within the alliance. However, when asked directly, he chose not to provide a definitive answer, leaving room for further conjecture.
Political observers suggest that Shinde’s strategic silence might indicate ongoing discussions with alliance partners, particularly the BJP, which has a decisive role in the formation of the government. The deputy CM post, considered a crucial position, could solidify Shrikant Shinde’s political future while strengthening the Shinde faction’s influence within the alliance.
Meanwhile, the opposition has raised concerns about nepotism and the concentration of power within a select few families in the state’s political landscape. Critics argue that such maneuvers could sideline senior leaders and diminish democratic representation. Despite the swirling rumors, Shinde’s camp remains tight-lipped, suggesting that final decisions will only be revealed after key meetings with BJP leadership.
Eknath Shinde Backs BJP’s CM Decision, Maintains Silence on Son’s Deputy CM Role
MUMBAI: Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday reaffirmed his support for the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) decision on the next chief minister of the state, dispelling any speculation about differences among MahaYuti alliance partners over government formation. Shinde’s remarks come amid growing anticipation surrounding the selection of the new CM and the allocation of key portfolios.
Speaking to reporters in his native village of Daregaon in Satara district, Shinde emphasized that the decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the chief minister’s post would be final and binding for the Shiv Sena. backing,” Shinde reiterated.
Shinde’s statement sought to quell rumors of discord within the MahaYuti alliance, which comprises the BJP, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Shiv Sena. Over the past few days, there has been intense speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations among the alliance partners, particularly over the distribution of key ministries and the deputy chief minister’s post.
Silence on Son’s Role
When asked directly whether he had sought the deputy CM position for his son, Shrikant Shinde, along with crucial portfolios like home, urban development, and the assembly speaker’s post, Shinde refused to give a clear response. Instead, he maintained that all MahaYuti allies would sit together and decide on the distribution of portfolios through mutual consensus.
Political analysts believe Shinde’s non-committal stance indicates ongoing negotiations within the alliance. The deputy CM post is seen as a critical position, and securing it for his son could significantly bolster the Shinde faction’s influence within the government. However, Shinde’s reluctance to confirm or deny the reports has only fueled further speculation.
Opposition Raises Nepotism Concerns
The opposition parties, particularly the Congress and Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), have been quick to criticize the alleged power play within the MahaYuti alliance. They have raised concerns about nepotism and the concentration of power within a select few political families in the state.
The people of Maharashtra deserve a government that prioritizes governance over family interests,” said a senior Congress leader.
Critics argue that the appointment of Shrikant Shinde as deputy CM, if it materializes, could lead to the sidelining of experienced leaders from other alliance partners, thereby weakening democratic representation within the cabinet.
Decision Pending After High-Level Meetings
Shinde remained tight-lipped about the timeline for government formation, stating that the MahaYuti allies are scheduled to hold a series of high-level meetings with BJP leadership to finalize the power-sharing arrangement. Sources close to the matter suggest that the BJP is keen on ensuring a balanced distribution of portfolios to maintain stability within the coalition.
We are committed to providing a stable and efficient government,” Shinde said.
The caretaker CM also underscored the importance of unity among MahaYuti allies, emphasizing that any internal differences would be resolved amicably.
Path Ahead
As Maharashtra awaits the official announcement of the new chief minister and the cabinet lineup, all eyes are on the MahaYuti leadership. The alliance’s ability to navigate the complexities of coalition politics will be critical in ensuring the smooth formation of the new government.
For now, Shinde’s assurance of backing the BJP’s choice for CM has brought some clarity, but questions remain over the final power-sharing formula and the future role of his son, Shrikant Shinde, in the new government.