India News
The political drama in Maharashtra intensifies as uncertainty looms over the next Chief Minister. The tug-of-war for the CM chair between Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde is gaining momentum.
Amid the suspense, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, submitted his resignation to Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan at the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai.
BJP Emerges as the Largest Party
In the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP emerged as the single largest party, winning 132 of the 149 seats it contested. Shiv Sena secured 57 seats, while the NCP won 41. Given BJP's dominant position, it is pushing to claim the Chief Minister's post, with Devendra Fadnavis being considered the strongest contender.
Political Equation in Flux
Although the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) contested the elections under Eknath Shinde's leadership, Fadnavis played a pivotal role in strategizing the alliance's record-breaking victory. His influence and popularity within the BJP make him a leading candidate for the CM post.
Reports suggest an agreement within the alliance that the BJP would get the Chief Minister's position, with Shiv Sena and NCP leaders occupying Deputy CM roles. Despite this, Shiv Sena is advocating for Eknath Shinde to retain the position, citing the "Bihar formula," where Nitish Kumar became CM despite BJP's majority.
Local media indicates that Devendra Fadnavis is almost certain to return as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, though official confirmation is awaited. The final decision will depend on BJP's leadership and alliance dynamics in the state.
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