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Shinde Accuses Uddhav of Ignoring Marathi Issues, Praises Raj’s Cultural Commitment

July 6, 2025, 11:31 am

In a rare public moment, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a stage in Mumbai after two decades. Their reunion at the “Victory Rally” in Worli reignited political debates across Maharashtra. While their supporters welcomed the move as historic, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance launched fierce attacks.

Shinde Slams Uddhav’s Intentions

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reacted sharply. He praised Raj’s concern for the Marathi language but criticized Uddhav’s tone. “Raj reflected genuine concern for the Marathi language. In contrast, Uddhav’s speech was filled with bitterness, jealousy, and a desperate craving for power and position,” he stated.

Moreover, Shinde said Uddhav missed the rally’s real purpose. “He raised no issue concerning the Marathi Manoos. Self-interest and the hunger for power were the only visible agendas.”

Allegations of Betrayal and Decline

Shinde accused Uddhav of betraying Marathi identity. He blamed the 2019 alliance with Congress and NCP for diluting Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision.

He questioned Uddhav’s leadership and the fall of Marathi representation in Mumbai. “The Shiv Sena under my leadership won 60 seats, while Uddhav’s party contested 100 and managed just 20,” he said.

Furthermore, Shinde accused Uddhav of insulting Prime Minister Modi during the event. “It is unfortunate that even the PM was targeted. That only exposes their hatred and desperation for power,” he added.

BJP Leaders Push Back

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale warned the MNS against using aggression. “Love for Marathi can be understood, but the feeling of opposing the Hindi language is not right,” he told ANI.

He called on Raj Thackeray to restrain his party workers. “Bullying can be answered with bullying. Beating someone is wrong.” He also claimed that the reunion could divide the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

Meanwhile, State Minister Ashish Shelar dismissed the rally as a political stunt. “This was not a rally for the love of language but public appeasement of a brother once thrown out of the house,” he said.

According to him, the cousins reunited out of fear of BJP’s rising strength in civic polls. “They remembered their brotherhood due to the fear of BJP’s strength,” he added.

Fadnavis Responds with Sarcasm

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded to Raj’s remark that “What Balasaheb could not do, Devendra Fadnavis did it.”

He replied with sarcasm, “I express my gratitude to Raj Thackeray that he gave me the credit for the coming together of both the brothers; I must be getting the blessings of Balasaheb Thackeray.”

Fadnavis ridiculed the rally as a show of emotion rather than purpose. “I was told there would be a victory rally, but there was also a speech of ‘rudaali’. Not a single word was spoken about Marathi,” he said. He also slammed the Thackerays for mismanaging the BMC during their long control. “They did not do any work that could be shown,” he added.

Uddhav and Raj Vow to Stay United

During the rally, Uddhav declared a strong message of unity. “We have come together to stay together. We will together capture power in the Mumbai civic body and Maharashtra,” he announced.

The rally drew loud cheers from members of both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS. Uddhav stressed that this fight was not just political. He said the battle was about “defending the Marathi language and identity” against the “imposition” of Hindi.

Raj opened his speech with a light dig, “Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has done what even Balasaheb Thackeray couldn’t, he brought us together.” He warned the BJP against dividing Mumbai from Maharashtra. He claimed the now-cancelled three-language policy was just the beginning.

Speculations About a New Alliance

The rally raised fresh speculation. Could the Thackeray cousins form a new alliance before the BMC polls? Uddhav’s Shiv Sena (UBT) has seen electoral setbacks. Raj’s MNS has been struggling to stay relevant. Both parties now seem to be looking for revival through unity. Saturday’s rally may signal a turning point both strategically and emotionally for the Thackeray cousins.

Rahool Kanal on Habitat Studio Vandalism: “We Know Kamra, But This Was Too Much”

March 28, 2025, 11:59 am

Shiv Sena Yuva Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) leader Rahool Kanal has defended the vandalism at Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, following comedian Kunal Kamra’s controversial remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kanal claimed the attack was not premeditated but happened “in the heat of the moment.”

In an interview with The Indian Express, Kanal claimed that their fury increased once Habitat Studio owner Balraj “misbehaved” with them when they went to him about Kamra’s show.

Arrests and Bail for Sena Workers

12 Shiv Sena workers, including Kanal, were arrested by the Mumbai Police for the vandalism of the studio where Kamra’s show was being taped and the hotel where it was hosted. All of them, however, were let out on bail a few hours after their arrests.

Kanal, who is a well-known personality in Bollywood and political circles, asserted that they never meant to assault the venue but were provoked by the reaction of Balraj. “We had no intention to vandalise. We went there just to talk, but the response we got triggered it, and it happened in the heat of the moment,” Kanal explained.

Kanal Files Complaint Against Kunal Kamra

One day after the alleged assault, Kanal lodged a new complaint with Khar police against Kunal Kamra. He requested an inquiry into the money transactions made on Kamra’s YouTube account, claiming they “seem irregular and may suggest the movement of funds for unlawful purposes.”

Who is Rahool Kanal?

Kanal was Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray’s close associate and a member of the party’s youth organization, Yuva Sena.

In July 2023, he switched sides to join the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde.
A prominent figure in Bandra, Kanal is a restaurateur known for his links to Bollywood.
He owns Bandra’s Bhaijaanz restaurant, named after Bollywood star Salman Khan.
He runs the NGO ‘I Love Mumbai’ and was a trustee of the Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust.
His political career was initiated with the original Shiv Sena’s youth organization, Yuva Sena, where he served for more than a decade.

Kunal Kamra’s So-Called “Gaddar” Joke

Controversy brewed after Kunal Kamra’s show at the Habitat Comedy Club at the Unicontinental Hotel, Khar. In his act, Kamra reportedly made a joke about Eknath Shinde calling him a “gaddar” (traitor) and sang a ridiculous song about him.

After the performance, Shiv Sena workers who were accompanied by Kanal protested against the owner of the studio, asking questions. Kanal asserted, “I know all these artistes, including Kamra and Munnawar (Faruqui). I am someone who always supports artists. But when we saw the video, we initially contacted Balraj and enquired about the show. However, he did not talk to us properly and misbehaved.”

Kanal stated that Balraj brushed off their concerns, assuring him that he just leased out the venue and didn’t dictate what content went on there. “He was highly arrogant and obnoxious,” Kanal claimed.

Political and Legal Ramifications

The case of vandalism has evoked political tensions, with opposition leaders accusing Shiv Sena of being rash. Kamra, whose politics has always had a satirical bent, hasn’t reacted to Kanal’s claims or vandalism in the open.

With legal action pending and both sides refusing to budge, the controversy continues to agitate political and artistic circles in Maharashtra.

Kunal Kamra Slams T-Series Over ‘Naya Bharat’ Copyright Strike: ‘Stop Being a Stooge’

March 27, 2025, 9:56 am

Comedian Kunal Kamra has accused Bollywood music company T-Series of flagging his stand-up unique “Naya Bharat” on YouTube for copyright infringement. His performance has created buzz because of its biting political satire, particularly jokes aimed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

T-Series Flags Kamra’s Parody on YouTube

On Wednesday, Kamra posted a new clip from “Naya Bharat”, where he had parodied the song “Hawa Hawai” from the old Bollywood hit “Mr India”. The parody was meant to take digs at Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the economic policies of the government. The rights to the song are owned by T-Series, which quickly raised a copyright issue.

Kamra went live on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and posted a screenshot of YouTube, where he revealed that his new video had been blocked because of copyright restrictions. This block also denies the video access to generate ad revenue.

Hello @TSeries, stop being a stooge.

Parody & Satire comes under fair use Legally.

I haven’t used the lyrics or the original instrumental of the song.

If you take this video down every cover song/dance video can be taken down.
Creators please take a note of it.

Having said… pic.twitter.com/Q8HXl1UhMy

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 26, 2025

Kamra Slams T-Series, Calls It a ‘Stooge’

Blaming T-Series for removing the content, Kunal Kamra stated, “Hello @TSeries, stop being a stooge. Parody and Satire comes under fair use legally. I haven’t used the lyrics or the original instrumental of the song. If you take this video down every cover song/dance video can be taken down. Creators please take a note of it.”

He went on to say, “Having said that every monopoly in India is nothing short of Mafia so please watch/download this special before it’s taken down. FYI – T- Series I stay in Tamil Nadu (sic).”

T-Series Defends Copyright Claim

In response to Kamra’s claims, a T-Series spokesperson explained that the comedian had not obtained permission to utilize the musical composition. The release stated, “Mr Kunal Kamra has not taken any authorisation or approval for the usage of the underlying musical work in the song hence the content has been blocked for infringement of composition rights.”

Shiv Sena Members Attack Kamra’s Venue

“Naya Bharat” has already amassed more than 6.7 million views on YouTube, with sharp political commentary on the NCP and Shiv Sena breaks in Maharashtra. But the furor over Kamra’s show turned violent last Sunday night when Shiv Sena workers ransacked the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar where the comedian was performing. The violence spread to a hotel that accommodated the club.

Despite these difficulties, Kamra is defiant, saying he will not apologize for what he said in the video.

Eknath Shinde Slams Kunal Kamra’s Joke, Says Satire Must Have Limits

March 25, 2025, 10:36 am

Comedian Kunal Kamra caused a massive stir on Sunday after modifying a song from Dil Toh Pagal Hai to make a ‘gaddar’ (traitor) reference. Although he did not mention any names, many assumed the joke was aimed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Shiv Sena Leaders Demand Apology

Shiv Sena leaders strongly condemned Kunal Kamra’s remarks. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized the joke and urged Kamra to apologize, calling it “low-level comedy.” Meanwhile, several Shiv Sena workers took drastic action by storming and vandalizing the Habitat comedy club, where Kamra performed. Mumbai police later detained and arrested some of them for the damage.

Shinde Responds, Says Satire Must Have Limits

Breaking his silence, Shinde addressed the controversy for the first time. He acknowledged the right to free speech but insisted satire should have boundaries. “Freedom of speech is there, and we understand satire, but there should be a limit,” he said.

Shinde also took a veiled dig at the opposition, suggesting Kamra’s remarks were politically motivated. He compared the comedian’s joke to taking a “supari” (contract) to speak against someone.

Justifying Shiv Sena Workers’ Reaction

Shinde defended his party workers, implying that Kamra’s joke provoked their response. He stated, “The other person should also maintain a certain level; otherwise, action causes reaction.” His comments seemed to justify the vandalism at the comedy club.

Free Speech vs. Political Tolerance

This incident has reignited the debate on free speech and political tolerance. While Kamra has not directly responded to Shinde’s statement, many social media users have defended him, arguing that comedy should not be censored. On the other hand, Shiv Sena supporters believe the joke was inappropriate.

For now, the controversy remains heated, with both sides refusing to back down.

Shiv Sena Threatens Kunal Kamra: ‘Picture Abhi Baaki Hai’ Amid Shinde Joke Row

March 24, 2025, 2:20 pm

Comedian Kunal Kamra has found himself in legal trouble following his reported defamatory comments against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde that evoked mass political responses. The Mumbai police filed an FIR against Kamra and close to 40 Shiv Sena workers for destroying the Habitat Studio, the venue where he performed.

Political Reactions Over Remark of Kunal Kamra

The episode has heightened political tensions, with the ruling Mahayuti coalition condemning Kamra’s reported remarks and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) standing up for his right to free speech.

Maharashtra ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/FYaL8tnT1R

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 23, 2025

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar stressed the need to remain within the letter of the law. “No one should cross the law, constitution, and norms. They should speak within their rights. There can be differences, but it should be noted that there need not be police involvement,” he said.

Shiv Sena youth wing (Shinde faction) General Secretary Rahool Kanal, who is also charged with an FIR for vandalism, accused Kamra’s act as a “paid conspiracy.” Kanal issued a warning to Kamra saying, “The message (for Kunal Kamra) is clear, ‘Abhi tak toh ye trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai.’ Whenever you are in Mumbai, you will get a good lesson in Shiv Sena style.”

BJP’s Allegations Against Kunal Kamra

BJP MLA Ram Kadam associated Kamra’s statement with a broader political plot, alleging that the timing was deliberate to deflect attention from the charges against the Thackeray family in the Disha Salian case. He charged Kamra with acting at the behest of the Thackeray faction.

“Whose contract is he working on? Thackeray faction? Look at the timing. Did Kunal Kamra deliberately choose this time to distract people as soon as Thackeray family’s name appeared in Disha Salian case? That too on the behest of Thackeray faction? What is the reason? It’s time to blacken his face wherever one sees him. Maharashtra Government will take strict action against Kunal Karma, we warn him that he cannot use derogatory language for petty publicity,” Kadam said to ANI.

MVA Stands with Kamra

Conversely, the opposition stood up for Kamra’s freedom of speech, criticizing the vandalism of his venue.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut condemned the attack on Kamra’s studio but stood with the right to satire. “However, I believe that there is freedom of speech. If there is no personal comment, then that should be accepted. If the comment is on any political line of thought, it should be accepted. This is the beauty of our country’s democracy. Kunal Kamra’s office, studio were vandalised, this is hooliganism,” Raut said.

NCP-SCP MLA Rohit Pawar added that comedians no longer have the same freedom that they previously enjoyed before 2014. He remembered how previous leaders, such as Balasaheb Thackeray and Chhagan Bhujbal, dealt with situations in a similar manner with maturity.

“Such satirical remarks were a strength for several tall leaders, like Balasaheb Thackeray. Eknath Shinde is his worker. In 2003, such remarks were made on Chhagan Bhujbal, who is now in Mahayuti. At that time, his workers vandalised an office. Taking responsibility for it, Chhagan Bhujbal had resigned. When Rahul Gandhi was asked about a petty comment on Rajiv Gandhi in a series, he said that Rajiv Gandhi’s significance will not diminish if someone says something like that,” Pawar said.

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari also supported Kamra, reiterating that freedom of expression is guaranteed by the Constitution. “If anybody has insulted someone, then you should investigate the matter. Courts are there to punish them, but this is hooliganism,” he said.

Increasing Tensions and Legal Actions

With the row mounting, everyone is looking to the Maharashtra government to learn how it treats the case against Kamra and the Shiv Sena employees involved in the desecration. As the comedian’s legal woes mount, the larger argument on freedom of speech versus political sentiments continues to polarize public opinion in Maharashtra.

“London me kaali taxi ka meter tez bhaagta hai, Aur yaha pe Archer sahab ka meter bhi tez bhaaga hai (The meter of London’s black taxis, just like the meter of Archer here, has been on the higher side),” Harbhajan said live.

His remark angered cricket enthusiasts, with most demanding his suspension from the IPL 2025 commentary team immediately. Social media was filled with anger, with users criticizing the remark as racially insensitive and unsuitable for live broadcast.

Archer Records Most Costly Bowling Stats in IPL History

Jofra Archer had a forgettable performance in Hyderabad, giving away 76 runs for no wickets. Figures of 0/76 are now the most costly in the history of IPL after his performance surpassed Mohit Sharma’s earlier best of 0/73 for Gujarat Titans against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024.

Regardless of Archer’s fight, Sunrisers Hyderabad ruled the bat. They tallied their fourth 250-plus score in T20 cricket and became the team to have the most such scores, overtaking India and Surrey. They were short just two runs of equalling their own IPL record for the highest team total. SRH tallied 286/6, falling short of their 287/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024.

Ishan Kishan’s Blazing Century Propels SRH to Victory

Ishan Kishan played a stellar role in SRH’s triumph, smashing his maiden IPL century in just 45 balls. His knock helped SRH secure a 44-run victory over Rajasthan Royals, giving them a strong start to their IPL 2025 campaign.

With mounting pressure on Harbhajan Singh, it remains to be seen whether IPL authorities take any action regarding the controversy.

Habitat Comedy Club That Hosted Kunal Kamra and Samay Raina Shuts Down

March 24, 2025, 12:42 pm

Recent stand-up act by Comedian Kunal Kamra, Naya Bharat, has sparked a controversy, with Shiv Sena workers labeling him a “traitor” for allegedly mocking Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. After a video of his performance went viral on social media, enraged Sena workers vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area, where Comedian Kunal Kamra had performed.

Maharashtra ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/FYaL8tnT1R

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 23, 2025

Habitat Comedy Club Reacts to Vandalism after Kunal Kamra

The Habitat Comedy Club issued an official statement expressing its shock at the vandalism. The statement reiterated its dedication to creative expression and deplored violence and destruction.

The club is owned by Balraj Singh Ghai, who was also involved in India’s Got Latent show Samay Raina.

“We urge constructive conversations, not destruction, to address disagreements. We do not support hate or harm of any kind. Violence and destruction undermine the very spirit of art and dialogue,” their statement read.

The club too, announced its temporary closure, saying, “We are shutting down till we figure out the best way to provide a platform for free expression without putting ourselves and our property in jeopardy.”

View this post on Instagram.

A post shared by The Habitat (@indiehabitat)

Shiv Sena Workers Target Habitat Comedy Club

After Kamra’s comments, Shiv Sena workers broke into the comedy club, breaking its properties. The police reported that the protest broke out after Kamra’s performance made comments about the political unrest in Maharashtra, labeling a political leader as ‘gaddar’ (traitor).

Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel also registered a police complaint against Comedian Kunal Kamra, alleging he insulted the governing Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). The Mumbai police have confirmed that they are looking into the issue.

What Did Kunal Kamra Say?

Kamra made a cutting remark about the political scenario of Maharashtra, referring to the splinter groups of the Shiv Sena and NCP. During his performance, he implied that “one guy” initiated the trend, using the word ‘gaddar’ to address him. His satirical show also featured an altered version of a Hindi number from “Dil To Pagal Hai,” eliciting chuckles from the audience.

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske strongly responded to Kamra’s action, giving a severe warning. “You will be forced to flee India,” Mhaske said in a video message. He further labeled Kamra a “contract comedian” and accused him of taking a bribe from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray to attack Shinde.

Political Leaders React

Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader posted the viral clip of Kamra’s act on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption, “Kunal Ka Kamal.”

कुनाल की कमाल!
जय महाराष्ट्र! https://t.co/U4Jxdo4dCm

— Sanjay Raut (@rautsanjay61) March 23, 2025

Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel promised to “show Kamra his level” and called for an apology from the comedian.

Shiv Sena (UBT) legislator Aaditya Thackeray criticized the vandalism at the Habitat as a cowardly act.

“Mindhe’s coward gang breaks the comedy show stage where comedian @kunalkamra88 put out a song on Eknath Shinde, which was 100 percent true. Only an insecure coward would react to a song by someone.” “By the way, law and order in the state? Another attempt to undermine the CM and Home Minister by Eknath Mindhe,” Thackeray posted on X.

Mindhe’s coward gang breaks the comedy show stage where comedian @kunalkamra88 put out a song on eknath mindhe which was 100% true.

Only an insecure coward would react to a song by someone.

Btw law and order in the state?

Another attempt to undermine the CM and Home Minister…

— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) March 23, 2025

He also questioned Maharashtra’s law and order situation when he said, “By the way, the state’s law and order? Another move by Eknath Mindhe to discredit the CM and Home Minister.”

A Growing Debate on Artistic Freedom

Kamra, known for his sharp political satire, has frequently been at loggerheads with various political parties. This recent controversy again puts the spotlight on artistic freedom and whether comedians are morally liable for their opinions.

While the police probe is ongoing, the incident also raises questions about the security of venues for hosting politically sensitive performances.

As polls draw near, Maharashtra’s political environment is still volatile, and actions such as Kamra’s will most probably continue to stir controversies on free speech versus political sensibility.

Eknath Shinde Demands Death Penalty for Pune Bus Rape Accused: “Such People Should Be Hanged”

February 27, 2025, 3:18 pm

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde vehemently criticized the rape of a 27-year-old woman within a bus at Pune’s Swargate Bus Stand. During his remarks on Thursday, he promised that the accused will not be let off the hook, no matter the political allegiance.

“Pune accident is extremely tragic. Whoever is the accused, irrespective of which party he is from, will not be exempted. Those kinds of individuals should be hanged,” said Shinde. He also instructed the auction of the wrecked bus in the depot.

Incident Took Place Near Police Station

Early on Tuesday morning between 5:45 and 6 AM, the dastardly crime took place just 100 meters away from a police station. The victim was a domestic help waiting for a bus to Satara when 36-year-old Dattatraya Ramdas Gade deceived her. Saying that a stationary bus would drop her at her destination, he got her on board, closed the door, and raped her.

Gade, who has a past conviction for theft, robbery, and snatching of chains, has been free on bail since 2019. Pune police have initiated a large-scale search, setting up 13 teams and declaring a reward of ₹1 lakh to anyone providing clues to arrest him.

Opposition Slams State Government

The government of Maharashtra is incurring sharp criticism from the opposition regarding the incident. The Sharad Pawar faction of NCP organized demonstrations outside the Swargate police station, and Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal blamed the government for giving priority to welfare schemes over women’s security.

“When the Nirbhaya gangrape occurred in Delhi, people overthrew the regime. You [BJP-led Maharashtra government] introduce the ‘Laadki Bahin’ scheme for women but turn a deaf ear towards people’s basic issues,” Sapkal added.

Ajit Pawar: Only Death Penalty for the Accused

Maharashtra’s other Deputy CM, Ajit Pawar, referred to the crime as “unforgivable” and sought the harshest punishment. “The rape at the Swargate bus stop is very unfortunate, painful, infuriating, and shameful for all in civilized society. The act of the accused is unforgivable, and there can be no other penalty for him except death,” Pawar said.

He also instructed the Pune Police Commissioner to personally monitor the investigation and get the accused arrested immediately.

Security Measures Tightened

Following the incident, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik declared a security audit of all bus depots in Maharashtra. The security personnel at Swargate depot has been changed, and it has been decided to dispose of non-functional buses at the earliest.

Manhunt for the Accused

Pune Police have come out with a picture of the suspect and are putting in extra efforts to trace him. “Lights were dimmed in the bus when the victim thought twice about getting in, but the accused tricked her by saying people were asleep inside,” said an officer.

With 13 special teams following his trail, authorities are optimistic about an early arrest. Meanwhile, the victim has been treated medically and provided with counseling assistance.

Threat Call Warns of Bomb Attack on Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde’s Car, Investigation Underway

February 20, 2025, 3:41 pm

Mumbai Police reported receiving anonymous threats on Thursday regarding a bomb attack on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s car, according to a PTI report citing an unnamed official.

The threats were made through phone calls to the Goregaon and J J Marg police stations, as well as the control room at Mantralaya, the state government’s headquarters.

“The caller threatened to blow up Shinde’s car with a bomb,” the official confirmed.Threat Call Warns of Bomb Attack on Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde’s Car, Investigation Underway

Following the threat, media reports indicate that security around Eknath Shinde has been tightened.

At present, Shinde is in Delhi alongside Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar for the swearing-in ceremony of BJP’s Rekha Gupta as Delhi’s Chief Minister. He is also expected to attend the NDA Chief Ministers’ meeting at the Imperial Hotel.

Further details on the situation are awaited.

Kalyan Assault Related to ‘Marathi Asmita’, Action Will Be Taken Against Those Responsible: Dy CM Shinde

December 20, 2024, 7:14 pm

After an alleged assault on a Marathi family in the Kalyan area of Thane, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said that action will be taken against those who are responsible for the incident.

Addressing a press conference, Deputy CM Shinde stated that the Kalyan issue is related to “Marathi Asmita” (Marathi identity) and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis himself has informed the Maharashtra Legislative Council about this incident.

“Kalyan issue is an important issue and this is related to the ‘Marathi Asmita’. Balasaheb Thackeray founded Shivsena to protect the Marathi Asmita and the Chief Minister has already informed the Maharashtra Legislative Council about this incident. An investigation will be done and action will be taken against those responsible for the incident…” Shinde said.

The alleged assault took place in Kalyan’s Yogi Dham area, where a government officer reportedly assaulted a Marathi family and made derogatory remarks about their ethnicity and food habits.
The accused has been identified as an employee of MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation). He allegedly summoned goons to attack Abhijit Deshmukh, a Marathi resident, and his family after an argument escalated over lighting of incense sticks, leading to an injury of an individual.

The incident came to light after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

Earlier today, during the session of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Sunil Prabhu raised the issue of the assault on a Marathi family in Kalyan and demanded action against the accused.

Maharashtra CM Fadnavis stated that an FIR has been filed against Kalyan incident accused Akhilesh Shukla and his wife.

The Chief Minister iterated that the government will ensure that there will be no injustice to the Marathi people. He added that our Constitution gives every person the right and freedom to decide what to eat. It is not right to reject a house based on eating habits.

“FIR has been filed against Kalyan incident accused Akhilesh Shukla and his wife. He is an employee of MTDC, action is being taken to suspend him. Police will take further action. No one should have any doubt that Mumbai and Maharashtra were and will remain Marathi people’s. Sometimes some people make wrong statements. We will teach such people a lesson. There was no reason to give political colour to this incident. We will not let injustice happen to the Marathi people. Our Constitution gives every person the right and freedom to decide what to eat. It is not right to reject a house based on eating habits. If such complaints are received in the future, action will be taken,” Fadnavis said in the Maharashtra Legislative Council.

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Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also said that the administration will take prompt action against the accused.

“The information given by Sunil Prabhu will be investigated immediately. No matter how senior the officer (accused) is, action will be taken. The honour of the Marathi people will be maintained in the state. The administration will take prompt action against the accused,” Pawar said.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Cabinet Sworn In: Meet the new Ministers

December 15, 2024, 5:14 pm

The Maharashtra cabinet was officially sworn in on Sunday in a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan in Nagpur, attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. Governor CP Radhakrishnan administered the oaths to the new ministers. This event is notable as it marks the first cabinet swearing-in in Nagpur since 1991, when then-Governor C Subramaniam administered oaths to Chhagan Bhujbal and other ministers.

The timing of the swearing-in, just a day before the winter session of the legislature, underscores the urgency for the new cabinet to finalize portfolio allocations. The parties have only one day to determine the roles of the MLAs before the session commences.

List of New Cabinet Ministers

Chandrashekhar Bawankule (BJP) – The state president of the BJP, Bawankule was the first to take the oath. He represents the Kamthi assembly constituency in Nagpur district.
Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil (BJP) – A veteran politician in his eighth term as MLA from Shirdi, Patil previously served with the Congress and Shiv Sena before joining the BJP. He was the revenue minister in the Shinde government.
Hasan Mushrif (NCP) – Representing Kagal in Kolhapur district, Mushrif is in his fourth term as MLA.
Chandrakant Patil (BJP) – Serving his second term as MLA from Kothrud in Pune district, Patil has held various ministerial roles, including revenue and public works minister in the previous Fadnavis government. He was also the Maharashtra BJP chief from 2019 to 2022.

The ceremony was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Ajit Pawar from the NCP and former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde from Shiv Sena, who took oaths as deputy chief ministers.

Challenges in Portfolio Allocation

The prolonged discussions over portfolio allocations and the last-minute swearing-in of the cabinet can be attributed to the challenges faced by the Mahayuti alliance in balancing power among the factions of Shiv Sena and NCP, both of which are keen to secure influential positions in the government.

In the recent state elections, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a decisive victory, winning a total of 235 seats. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats, while Shiv Sena secured 57 seats and NCP claimed 41 seats. In contrast, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance faced significant setbacks, with Congress winning only 16 seats, Shiv Sena (UBT) obtaining 20, and the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) securing just 10 seats.

Will Eknath Shinde’s Fight for Influential Deptt in Portfolio Work With BJP?

December 8, 2024, 7:45 pm

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, now serving as Deputy Chief Minister, is maneuvering to secure influential portfolios following his political downgrade. Representing the new Shiv Sena, Shinde is eyeing key departments like irrigation, public works (PWD), and revenue—despite the BJP’s dominant position with 132 assembly seats.

BJP Turns Down Shinde’s Home Portfolio Request
Shinde’s request for the powerful home ministry was rejected by the BJP, which holds significant sway in the coalition government. Political analysts suggest Shinde’s bargaining power has been weakened by the entry of Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP into the alliance, with Pawar making fewer demands due to pending corruption cases reportedly held by the BJP.

Strategic Importance of Portfolios
Shinde’s Shiv Sena is particularly interested in securing infrastructure and economic departments, given Maharashtra’s critical role in India’s economy. Contributing 20% of the national industrial output, the state’s economic portfolios carry substantial influence and potential for development.

Irrigation projects, in particular, are a significant focus. Maharashtra, being water-rich, has numerous ongoing projects, including the Adhala Medium Irrigation Project, Chikotra Irrigation Project in Kolhapur, and the Gosikhurd and Jayakwadi Dam projects. These initiatives not only boost the economy but also offer political leverage.

Political Analyst Weighs In
Rajan Khanna, a Mumbai-based political analyst, commented on the dynamics, stating, “There is certainly going to be some give and take, but Shinde’s position is not too strong, particularly given the fact that Ajit Pawar’s NCP is not making too many demands; Pawar has too many anti-corruption files in the hands of a BJP that has the numbers and can dictate terms.”

The Road Ahead
As negotiations continue, Shinde faces the challenge of maintaining relevance within the coalition while vying for departments crucial to Maharashtra’s infrastructure and economy. The final allocation of portfolios could shape the state’s political and economic trajectory in the coming years.

Maharashtra cabinet portfolio allocation to be decided this week ; Sources

December 6, 2024, 2:54 pm

The suspense over who will be the next CM of Maharashtra finally came to an end yesterday evening when Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the Chief Minister for the third time. The grand event took place yesterday at Mumbai’s historic Azad maidan in the evening at 05:30 pm where all the VVIP’s including PM Narendra Modi, Union HM Amit Shah and the Chief Minister’s of the ruling NDA states were present . Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar were also were sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister’s.

But now the tensions might arise within the Mahayuti over the cabinet portfolio allocation. As per sources, the meeting to discuss the cabinet portfolio allocation is set to take place this week among the top three leaders of the Mahayuti. Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar together will decide the cabinet portfolio allocation. The formula of the allocation can be as follows BJP CM + 22 cabinet berths, Shivsena DCM + 12 cabinet berths and NCP DCM + 10 cabinet berths.

Sources have also said that the BJP might keep the key portfolios with them which includes Home Ministry, Revenue Ministry and the speaker’s post which was already with them in the previous Mahayuti tenure under Eknath Shinde. On the other hand Eknath Shinde is insisting on the home ministry and the speaker’s post. Whereas the finance ministry is already been offered to Ajit Pawar.

Yesterday while addressing a press conference the newly elected Deputy CM Eknath Shinde said that cabinet allocation will be done soon and all the three leaders will sit together and have a detailed discussion about it.

Eknath Shinde’s Oath Ceremony ‘Speech’ Gets Interrupted By Governor | WATCH

December 6, 2024, 9:48 am

A much-awaited decision came when Eknath Shinde was finally sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra last evening, ending nearly two weeks of political suspense gripping the state. Acceptance of the deputy role came from Shiv Sena leader after very serious negotiations about whether he will relinquish his ambition to becomeChief Minister.

A Departure from the Script

The ceremony, which had begun with Devendra Fadnavis taking the oath as Chief Minister, turned brief when Shinde went off script just before taking his oath. Shinde thanked key political figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and late Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray besides his political mentor Anand Dighe. He ended up saying something more, which left Governor CP Radhakrishnan momentarily speechless.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

#WATCH | Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde takes oath as Deputy CM of Maharashtra @mieknathshinde #MaharashtraCM #DeputyCM pic.twitter.com/VGi1X7zesh

— editorji (@editorji) December 5, 2024

Shinde’s brief speech lasted about 40 seconds before he was guided to complete the official oath-taking process. Once the process was over, Shinde’s office announced his decision to pay tributes at Balasaheb Thackeray‘s memorials in Colaba and Anand Dighe‘s memorial in Thane, to the very influential leaders he had dealt with in his political journey.
Ambiguity About Shinde’s Decision:

Prior to the oath-taking ceremony, Shinde’s presence was ambiguous. Party sources claimed that he had softened his stance, post his defeat in the battle for Chief Minister’s post. It was widely viewed as an attempt by Shinde to grab the critical cabinet berths within the government, in light of the ongoing power tussle.

Cabinet Berths: Expectations

The coalition talks between Shinde’s faction and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have led to the handing over of important cabinet positions. The BJP, which won about 20 cabinet berths, is going to share 12 with the Shinde faction. Though details are yet to be confirmed, sources claim that Shinde Sena is seeking high-profile portfolios, such as the Home Ministry presently held by Fadnavis, and key postings like Water Resources and Public Works.

The Shinde-Fadnavis Partnership

The turbulence up to this point will actually help the political scenario settle in Maharashtra with the new government. Shinde and Fadnavis, heavyweights in the state‘s political scene, will play a huge role in the governance structure of Maharashtra going forward. The entire state will eagerly wait to see which big-ticket ministries will be dealt out to which ministry holders as well as the difference Shinde will make from being a Deputy Chief Minister.

Devendra Fadnavis Promises Stability After Taking Oath

December 6, 2024, 8:29 am

Devendra Fadnavis, sworn in as Maharashtra’s chief minister for the third time, assured the public of a stable government for the next five years. Addressing the media on Thursday, he emphasized that his leadership would focus on “politics of change and not revenge.”

Political Turmoil Since 2019

Maharashtra has experienced significant political shifts over the years. After the 2019 assembly elections, the BJP and Shiv Sena broke their alliance. As a result, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government was formed by Shiv Sena, NCP, and Congress.

However, in 2022, Eknath Shinde’s rebellion caused a split in Shiv Sena, leading to the fall of the MVA government. Subsequently, Shinde allied with the BJP and became chief minister. Recently, following the Maharashtra elections, Fadnavis returned as chief minister on December 5.

Looking back on these events, Fadnavis said, “From 2019 to mid-2022, we saw a lot of changes. We hope that there are no more similar shocks in the future.” Furthermore, he assured, “There will be politics of change and not revenge.”

Focus on Transparency and Development

Fadnavis promised that his government would prioritize transparency and a people-centric approach. Moreover, he committed to accelerating Maharashtra’s development and creating a government that listens to its citizens.

Decision on Leader of Opposition

When asked about the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the assembly, Fadnavis clarified that the new speaker would make the decision. Additionally, he pointed out that in the Lok Sabha, even when the main opposition party lacked the required numbers, the leader of the largest party was granted LoP powers.

Allocation of Key Portfolios

On the allocation of important portfolios like home and finance, Fadnavis avoided specifics. Instead, he stated, “They will be with our government.”

He also addressed rumors about Eknath Shinde being upset over losing the CM position. He explained, “Shinde immediately agreed to my request to join the government.” According to Fadnavis, having a senior leader in the government ensures smooth functioning. He further remarked, “Roles may have changed, but focus and direction remain the same.”

Commitment to Ladki Bahin Yojana

Fadnavis reiterated his commitment to the Ladki Bahin Yojana. Furthermore, he assured that his government would fulfill its promise to increase the monthly stipend for eligible women from ₹1,500 to ₹2,100.

Special Assembly Session and Cabinet Expansion

The chief minister announced a three-day special assembly session starting on December 7 in Mumbai. During this session, the election of a new assembly speaker will occur on December 9.

Additionally, Fadnavis confirmed that the cabinet, currently including deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, would expand before the winter session in Nagpur later this month.

In conclusion, Fadnavis reassured the people of Maharashtra that his government would work efficiently, ensure transparency, and focus on the state’s growth and stability.

Devendra Fadnavis Sworn in as Maharashtra Chief Minister for Third Time

December 5, 2024, 5:01 pm

Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday evening, concluding nearly two weeks of suspense and a power struggle between the BJP and the Shiv Sena over the top post.

Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and NCP chief Ajit Pawar, whose impressive performances in last month’s elections bolstered the Mahayuti alliance to a decisive victory, have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers. This maintains the existing 1+2 formula, with a significant adjustment favoring Mr. Fadnavis.

With this appointment, Fadnavis becomes a three-time Chief Minister and a six-time MLA, marking a notable milestone in his political career.

In a related development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Eknath Shinde on his new role as Deputy Chief Minister during a ceremony held at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. Shinde’s appointment is seen as a recognition of his vital role in the political realignment that led to the formation of the Mahayuti alliance. The event also underscored the beginning of a new chapter for the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP coalition government in Maharashtra, with numerous political leaders in attendance, emphasizing the importance of this political transition.

Maharashtra Chief Minister-designate Devendra Fadnavis offered prayers at Shree Siddhivinayak Temple ahead of his swearing-in ceremony in Mumbai today. Fadnavis, the leader of the BJP legislature party, will be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday evening, December 5, 2024, during a grand ceremony expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other dignitaries.

This marks Fadnavis’s third term as Chief Minister, and he will be joined by two Deputy Chief Ministers, as confirmed by BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar. Sources indicate that Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde are anticipated to take the oath as Deputy Chief Ministers.

To ensure security for the swearing-in ceremony, over 4,000 police personnel have been deployed. Traffic regulation will be managed by an Additional Commissioner of Police and three Deputy Commissioners from the Mumbai Police, along with a dedicated unit of 30 police officers and 250 police enforcers.

Fadnavis was unanimously elected as the Maharashtra BJP Legislature Party leader on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, paving the way for his swearing-in. The ceremony is scheduled to take place at Azad Maidan in south Mumbai at 5:30 p.m. today, with attendance from Prime Minister Modi, several Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers from states governed by the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.

Outgoing Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his full support for Chief Minister-designate Devendra Fadnavis, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collective decision-making in governance.

The 20 Minute Power Talk: How Fadnavis Sealed Eknath Shinde’s Deputy CM Role

December 5, 2024, 11:07 am

The last ten days have been a rollercoaster ride for Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde, facing personal health issues and extreme political pressure. While dealing with health issues, Shinde was also mounting expectations to join the government headed by Maharashtra‘s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Having been the chief minister of the state for more than two years, Shinde was initially opposed to this idea, stating that he would like to concentrate on strengthening his party’s organisation rather than accepting a secondary position.

Internal Discord and Speculation on Alliance Unity

As the rumours regarding fissures within the Mahayuti alliance continued to spread, Eknath Shinde went back to his native village in Satara for a few days. Nevertheless, his temporary sojourn could not last for long, as he returned to Mumbai to discuss matters with key leaders of the alliance. It was at the official residence, Varsha Bungalow, that he met chief minister-elect Devendra Fadnavis and made the final call to accept the deputy chief minister position.

Fadnavis Plays Key Role in Shinde‘s Decision

Fadnavis was instrumental in persuading Eknath Shinde to think again on his decision. After having staked claim to form the government, Fadnavis personally visited Shinde and discussed cabinet formation with him. He reportedly conveyed his reservations at a 20-minute meeting, after which Fadnavis reassured him of a fair deal for key portfolios, including home department, MSRDC, and energy – critical to governance and party political stakes.

In a media interaction, Fadnavis said that he was confident of Shinde‘s decision, adding, “It is the wish of Shiv Sena and Mahayuti members that Shinde should be with us in this government. I have full faith he will join us.”

Party Unity and Pressure from Shiv Sena Leaders

Shiv Sena MLAs and former cabinet colleagues also played an important role in making Shinde succumb to the deputy CM position. Sources indicate that Shinde had initially entertained hopes of another senior party leader taking it up. However, strong demands from Shiv Sena MLAs, MPs, and party members across the state forced him to reconsider.

Party MLA Bharat Gogavale stressed that Shinde must join the new government for party morale and unity. “We requested him to join the government as this will benefit both the party and the administration,”he said. Similarly, Uday Samant said that the number of MLAs including independents was in majority that supported Shinde‘s joining the government, showing how unanimous the party is.

Balancing Leadership and Party Loyalty

Shinde‘s main hesitation came from the fact that in taking on the deputy chief minister role, he would make Shiv Sena a prominent force within the ruling government and protect its interests. However, thepost might be seen as something of a demotion coming off a tenure as chief minister. In contrast, refusing to take on the post might dilute the power Shiv Sena enjoyed within Mahayuti, thus jeopardising the party‘s power base going forward.

Shinde’s Acceptance Marks a Turning Point for Shiv Sena

Eknath Shinde‘s decision to accept the deputy chief minister role is a turning point in the political scenario of Maharashtra. He is joining the Fadnavis-led government and thus ensures Shiv Sena‘s relevance in the ruling coalition, while his leadership in the party will be further reinforced. With promises of fair distribution of key portfolios, the decision will also highlight the importance of maintaining coalition harmony and meeting internal demands.

Under Mahayuti governance, Eknath Shinde is important as this new phase may hold in the formation and evolution of governance and the dynamics in state politics in making sure that Shiv Sena retains its position.

‘Dada Ko Anubhav Hai’ : Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar’s Banter Leaves Leaders In Splits | Watch

December 4, 2024, 8:40 pm

A light-hearted interaction between Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and NCP leader Ajit Pawar brought moments of laughter among party leaders during a press conference on Wednesday. The event followed a meeting where BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar staked their claim to form the state government.

When a journalist asked if Shinde and Pawar would be sworn in as deputy chief ministers at Azad Maidan, Shinde responded, “Let’s wait till evening. The oath ceremony is tomorrow.” Pawar humorously interjected, saying, “Inka to shaam tak pata chalega. Main to shapat le raha hoon. He (Shinde) will figure it out by evening. I’m the one taking the oath.”

Watch the video here:

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The remark elicited laughter, but Shinde promptly replied, “Dada (Ajit Pawar) ko anubhav hai subah ko bhi lene ka aur shaam ko bhi. Ajit Pawar has the experience of taking the oath both in the morning and evening.”

Also Read: Eknath Shinde Proposes Six-Month CM Term During Meeting with Shah

Pawar added in Marathi, referencing the 2019 political episode when he and Fadnavis were sworn in during a pre-dawn ceremony at Raj Bhavan but failed to sustain the government. He assured this time they were committed to completing the full five-year term.

The banter harked back to the dramatic 80-hour government in 2019, where Pawar, then part of the united NCP, failed to secure enough support to align with the BJP. This led to the formation of the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress coalition, with Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister and Pawar as Deputy Chief Minister.

Eknath Shinde Proposes Six-Month CM Term During Meeting with Shah

December 4, 2024, 12:02 pm

Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena leader and current Maharashtra Chief Minister, sought a compromise during a key meeting in Delhi on November 28. He requested to remain CM for six months if a full-term tenure was not possible. However, BJP leaders firmly declined the proposal, citing administrative concerns.

“There is no system of appointing a CM for six months; it would disrupt governance,” a BJP leader explained.

BJP Stands Firm on Majority Mandate

The meeting, led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, included BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, NCP leaders Ajit Pawar, Praful Patel, and Sunil Tatkare. Shinde reminded BJP leaders of an alleged pre-election promise to let him continue as CM if the alliance achieved a clear majority.

The BJP dismissed his claim, arguing their 132 seats in the 288-member House gave them a strong mandate compared to Shiv Sena’s 57. When a BJP leader asked if Shinde would step aside if he had the majority, Shinde reportedly had no answer.

Changing Dynamics Since 2014

This situation contrasts sharply with 2014, when the BJP, despite winning 122 seats, appointed Devendra Fadnavis as CM with NCP’s external support. Shinde’s efforts to retain his position seem increasingly futile, as BJP leaders have ruled out his return as CM.

Cabinet Decisions Still Pending

The size of the new cabinet remains undecided. BJP leaders plan to finalize these details in their legislature party meeting on Wednesday.

Shinde Acknowledges BJP’s Authority

Following the Delhi meeting, Shinde visited his village in Satara due to health issues. On returning to Mumbai, he reassured his support for the BJP’s decision. “We will address all power-sharing issues with Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar,” Shinde said.

The tug-of-war for power highlights the complexities of coalition politics. It also reflects the BJP’s determination to assert its majority-driven leadership in Maharashtra.

Eknath Shinde Discharged After Routine Check-Up; BJP Leaders Convene in Mumbai| Video

December 3, 2024, 3:38 pm

Caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, was discharged from Jupiter Hospital in Thane today after undergoing a “routine check-up” earlier this morning. The hospital visit was part of standard medical procedures, and Shinde has since resumed his duties.

Watch

VIDEO | Caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde (@mieknathshinde) discharged from Jupiter Hospital in Thane. Shinde was taken to the hospital in the city today morning for a "routine check-up".

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/37vAG6GXMl

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 3, 2024

In a separate development, Maharashtra BJP leaders held a meeting at the party’s state office in Mumbai. The agenda of the meeting has not been disclosed, but it comes at a time of significant political activity in the state.

Watch

#WATCH | Maharashtra BJP leaders hold a meeting at the party's state office in Mumbai.

(Video Source: BJP) pic.twitter.com/rjq9Fqn2gI

— ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2024

Also read: Eknath Shinde Hospitalized in Thane Amid Uncertainty Over Maharashtra CM Post

These events occur amid ongoing discussions within the Mahayuti alliance regarding the formation of the new state government and the selection of the next Chief Minister. The alliance partners are expected to make a formal announcement soon.

This is a developing story.

“Already given my unconditional support”: Eknath Shinde Reaffirms Support for BJP

December 1, 2024, 4:15 pm

Caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde has reaffirmed his full, unconditional support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in selecting the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Shinde emphasized that the people have delivered a historic mandate in favor of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.

Speaking to reporters in his native village in Satara district, where he took a break following a hectic election schedule, Shinde confirmed his recovery from a recent illness and stated, “I am feeling better now. I came here to rest after the busy election schedule. I didn’t take any leave during my 2.5 years as Chief Minister. People are still visiting me here. This government will listen to the people. I have already given my unconditional support to the party leadership, and I will stand by their decision.”

Shinde highlighted the unity among the Mahayuti leaders

Shinde also highlighted the unity among the Mahayuti leaders, asserting that the government’s work over the past 2.5 years would be remembered in history. “This is why the people gave us a historic mandate and denied the opposition even the chance to elect a Leader of the Opposition. All three allies of the Mahayuti have a good understanding. The Chief Minister candidate will be decided tomorrow,” he added.

In a related development, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Chief Ajit Pawar clarified that the Chief Minister would be from the BJP, with the other two coalition partners, Shiv Sena and NCP, holding Deputy Chief Ministerial positions. “During the meeting in Delhi, it was decided that the Mahayuti would form the government with the Chief Minister from BJP, while the remaining two parties would have Deputy Chief Ministers,” Pawar stated.

Shinde, along with Devendra Fadnavis—widely considered the frontrunner for Chief Minister—Ajit Pawar, and other Mahayuti leaders, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda in Delhi on Thursday evening to discuss the deadlock over the Chief Ministerial position.

The Maharashtra Assembly election results, declared on November 23, revealed a landslide victory for the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, although the alliance has yet to finalize its Chief Ministerial candidate. The BJP emerged as the largest party with 132 seats in the 280-member Maharashtra Assembly, while its allies, the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and the NCP led by Ajit Pawar, secured 57 and 41 seats, respectively.

BJP to Lead Maharashtra Government with CM Post, Swearing-In on December 5

December 1, 2024, 8:06 am

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold the chief minister’s position in Maharashtra. The swearing-in ceremony is set for December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. This announcement, however, drew criticism from the Shiv Sena over its “unilateral” nature.

CM from BJP and Two DCMs for Allies

Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) confirmed the decision. “During the meeting in Delhi, it was decided that Mahayuti will form the government with the CM from the BJP and the remaining two parties will have DCMs (deputy chief ministers),” he said. He also addressed concerns about delays, pointing out that similar delays occurred in 1999.

BJP Announces Venue and Timing

State BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the oath-taking ceremony on Saturday. He stated it would occur at 5 pm, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. However, this announcement, made via X (formerly Twitter), upset the Shiv Sena.

Shiv Sena Demands Fair Treatment

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat criticized the announcement. “Leaders of all three parties — Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar — should have announced this together,” he said. He also demanded that the Shiv Sena receive the home department if the BJP gets the CM post.

Previously, deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis held the home department while Eknath Shinde was chief minister. Bawankule dismissed the demand and said such discussions should not happen publicly.

Shinde Faces Health Issues

Meanwhile, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde retreated to his village in Satara on Friday due to health issues. His doctor confirmed he has a fever, throat infection, and cold, requiring intravenous medication. Shinde’s son, MP Shrikant Shinde, stated that no meetings were held on Saturday. Shinde is expected to return by Sunday.

Despite this, Shinde’s camp continues to push for control of the home department. Sources claim Shinde is resisting the BJP’s offer of a deputy CM post.

Opposition Voices Concerns

Opposition leaders have also weighed in. Sanjay Raut from Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed Shinde is “deeply upset” about losing the CM post. “He is mentally and physically disturbed,” Raut said. Uddhav Thackeray criticized the delay, accusing the coalition of being unprepared for power. He also questioned the lack of celebrations after the BJP-led Mahayuti’s “monstrous victory.”

Grand Plans for the Swearing-In

The BJP has planned a grand ceremony for December 5. Top leaders, including PM Modi and Amit Shah, will attend. After considering multiple venues, the party finalized Azad Maidan for the event.

Preparations Underway

The administration has begun preparations for the new government. The winter session of the legislature will take place from December 16 to 24 in Nagpur. Local authorities are making arrangements for the session.

Coalition Faces Challenges

The BJP won 132 seats in the assembly, while Shiv Sena secured 57 and NCP gained 41. Despite the majority, disagreements over the CM post and portfolio distribution caused delays. Now, with plans in place, the BJP aims to stabilize the coalition and move forward effectively.

Political Drama Continues: Shinde’s Trip to Satara Raises Questions

November 29, 2024, 4:10 pm

Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister, canceled his scheduled appointments on Friday. Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande confirmed this development. Shinde traveled to his native village in Satara district, adding to the ongoing suspense over the Chief Minister’s post.

Key Political Leaders Meet in Delhi

On Thursday, leaders of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda in Delhi. Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar discussed the power-sharing formula for the new government. The meeting focused on the distribution of cabinet positions among the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP.

Cabinet Berth Formula Finalized

Reports indicate that the BJP will hold the Chief Minister’s post. Shiv Sena and NCP are expected to secure one Deputy Chief Minister position each. Shinde, commenting on the meeting, said, “The discussions were good and positive.” He added that the final decision on the Chief Minister’s post would be made in an upcoming meeting in Mumbai.

Read: Eknath Shinde’s First Post-Election Meeting with BJP Leaders Described as Positive

Election Results and Government Formation Plans

The Maharashtra Assembly election results were announced on November 23. The BJP emerged as the largest party, winning 132 seats in the 280-member Assembly. Its allies, Shiv Sena and NCP, won 57 and 41 seats, respectively.

Decision Expected Soon

Despite the election results, the alliance has yet to finalize its Chief Minister. The Mahayuti alliance is expected to form the government early next week. With meetings underway, a decision on the Chief Minister’s post is likely to be announced soon, keeping political watchers in Maharashtra on edge.

Eknath Shinde’s First Post-Election Meeting with BJP Leaders Described as Positive

November 29, 2024, 10:19 am

Amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the Chief Minister’s selection in the Mahayuti alliance, Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, described his first post-election meeting with Union Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda as “good and positive.”

Key Decision Pending on Chief Minister’s Post

Shinde, who has been actively involved in discussions, confirmed that the final decision on who will take the Chief Minister’s position is yet to be made, and will likely be decided in another meeting scheduled to take place later. He told reporters, “The meeting was good and positive. This was the first meeting. We discussed with Amit Shah and JP Nadda…There will be another meeting of the Mahayuti. In this meeting, a decision will be taken about who will be the Chief Minister. The meeting will be held in Mumbai.”

Shinde’s Comments on His Role and ‘Ladla Bhai’ Title

Before the meeting, Shinde clarified that there were no hurdles concerning the Chief Minister’s post and emphasized the significance of the title “Ladla Bhai” for him. “I cleared my role in the press conference yesterday that there are no obstacles regarding the chief minister of Mahayuti. This ‘ladla bhai’ has arrived in Delhi and the ‘ladla bhai’ is a designation higher than anything else for me,” Shinde said.

Additionally, Shinde reiterated on Wednesday that he would respect whatever decision Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes regarding the CM candidate for Maharashtra.

First Mahayuti Meeting with Key Leaders

The inaugural official meeting of the Mahayuti alliance was held on Thursday, where key political figures, including Shinde, BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, NCP chief Ajit Pawar, and other alliance members, gathered in the presence of Amit Shah and JP Nadda. A crucial meeting of BJP legislators is scheduled for Saturday in Mumbai, where the party is expected to announce its choice for the Chief Minister’s position.

Fadnavis Dismisses Any Internal Differences

In response to questions about possible internal divisions, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis made it clear that the Mahayuti alliance was united. He stressed, “In our Mahayuti alliance, there has never been a difference of opinion. We have always made decisions collectively. Before the elections, we announced that the decision regarding the Chief Minister’s post would be taken collectively after the results.”

Election Results and Alliance Composition

The Maharashtra Assembly election results, which were announced on November 23, saw the BJP emerging as the largest party with 132 seats in the 280-member Assembly. The BJP’s allies, the Shiv Sena (led by Eknath Shinde) and the NCP (led by Ajit Pawar), secured 57 and 41 seats, respectively. However, despite the results being declared, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance has not yet reached a consensus on who will become the next Chief Minister.

Who Gets What? Amit Shah’s Midnight Meeting Reshapes Maharashtra Cabinet

November 29, 2024, 6:36 am

Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting with the leadership of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance on Thursday to finalize the power-sharing arrangement in Maharashtra. The late-night meeting at Shah‘s Delhi residence lasted for two hours and went into the distribution of Cabinet portfolios among the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP. The coalition government is expected to take oath early next week.

Insiders claim that the BJP would continue to hold the position of chief minister, and the Shiv Sena and NCP would get deputy chief ministers each. The Bharatiya Janata Party is likely to finalise its candidate for the position of chief minister at the MLAs meeting in Mumbai on Saturday, with Devendra Fadnavis emerging as the most probable contender. If Fadnavis turns out to be CM, the home portfolio may stick to him, but the finance may go to NCP. The UDD and PWD are given to Shiv Sena.

Cabinet Berths and Portfolio Allocation

The alliance is likely to follow a seat-based formula for Cabinet distribution. The BJP is expected to secure 22 out of 43 berths, including the chief minister’s position. The Shiv Sena and NCP are projected to receive 12 and 9 berths, respectively. Both allies are also eyeing representation in the Union Cabinet, with the NCP nominating Praful Patel and the Sena pushing for a ministerial role.

Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, currently the caretaker CM, may opt for a Union Cabinet berth instead of serving as a deputy CM under Fadnavis. This decision aligns with Shinde’s focus on expanding his party ahead of the upcoming Mumbai civic polls.

Caste and Leadership Considerations

BJP leaders, including Vinod Tawde, briefed Shah on the caste composition in Maharashtra, emphasizing the implications of not having a Maratha chief minister. The leadership is keen on balancing caste representation in the Cabinet to address community concerns, especially in light of ongoing Maratha reservation demands. Observers are expected to visit Mumbai to gather feedback from BJP MLAs before finalizing the leadership lineup.

Alliance Unity and Future Plans

NCP leader Ajit Pawar dismissed rumours of discord within the alliance over portfolio allocation. He reiterated the coalition’s unity and commitment to amicably resolving differences. Pawar also discussed key district guardianships with BJP leaders, including Pune and Raigad.

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat hinted at Shinde’s plans for a state-wide campaign under the Ladki Bahin Yojana, signalling his focus on grassroots outreach. Meanwhile, BJP’s former state chief Chandrakant Patil suggested the possibility of a surprise CM pick, reflecting the party’s strategy of experimenting with leadership roles.

The Mahayuti government is poised to assume power by Monday or Tuesday, marking the culmination of weeks of political negotiations.

Shinde Meets Amit Shah In Delhi To Discuss Maharashtra Govt Formation

November 28, 2024, 10:49 pm

Maharashtra’s political landscape is poised for a significant development as caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde arrived in New Delhi on Thursday to engage in discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other leaders of the Mahayuti alliance regarding the formation of the new state government.

Shinde’s Commitment to Collective Decision-Making

Addressing the media upon his arrival, Shinde emphasised that there are no obstacles concerning the Chief Minister’s position within the Mahayuti alliance. He expressed his dedication to the alliance’s unity, stating, “This ‘ladla bhai’ has arrived in Delhi, and the ‘ladla bhai’ is a designation higher than anything else for me.” Shinde underscored his readiness to accept any decision made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi concerning the state’s leadership. He remarked, “I have told the Prime Minister that if my presence creates any obstacle in forming the government in Maharashtra, there should be no hesitation in making a decision. Whatever decision you take will be acceptable to me.”

Mahayuti Alliance’s Unified Approach

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis affirmed the alliance’s cohesion, stating that the Mahayuti alliance has consistently made decisions collectively. He noted, “Before the elections, we announced that the decision regarding the Chief Minister’s post would be taken collectively after the results. A few people had doubts, but Eknath Shinde ji has clarified those today. We will soon meet our leaders and finalize the decision.”

Ongoing Deliberations Among Alliance Partners

In parallel, NCP leader Ajit Pawar convened a meeting with party leaders in Delhi to deliberate on the government’s formation. The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, is actively engaging in discussions to determine the leadership structure for the forthcoming administration.

Anticipation Surrounding the Chief Ministerial Appointment

The recent assembly elections resulted in a decisive victory for the Mahayuti alliance, securing 230 out of 288 seats, thereby retaining power in the state. The alliance is now in the process of finalizing the Chief Ministerial candidate, with both Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis being prominent contenders. The decision is expected to be made following consultations with senior leaders in Delhi.

Public and Political Reactions

The impending decision has garnered significant attention from both the public and political circles. Supporters of the respective leaders are closely monitoring the developments, expressing their preferences and expectations for the state’s leadership.

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As Maharashtra awaits the announcement of its new Chief Minister, the Mahayuti alliance’s commitment to a unified and collective decision-making process remains evident. The forthcoming meetings in Delhi are anticipated to provide clarity on the leadership that will steer the state in the coming term.

Eknath Shinde Thanks PM Modi for Fulfilling Balasaheb Thackeray’s Dream of a Common Shiv Sainik CM

November 27, 2024, 5:56 pm

Maharashtra caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for fulfilling the dream of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray to make a common Shiv Sainik the Chief Minister of the state.

In a press conference, Shinde said, “I thank all the voters of Maharashtra for supporting Mahayuti and giving us a landslide victory. It’s unprecedented… Amit Shah and PM Modi have fulfilled the dream of Balasaheb Thackeray to make a common Shiv Sainik, the CM. They have always stood with me.”

Shinde added that the decision on the Chief Minister’s post will be taken in a meeting of the alliance parties of the Mahayuti with Amit Shah on Wednesday. He stated that he will abide by whatever decision Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes, even if it means not becoming the Chief Minister himself.

Shinde emphasized that he never considered himself a Chief Minister

The Sena leader emphasized that he never considered himself a Chief Minister, but rather a common man whose job is to work for the citizens of the state. He said, “I have always worked as a worker. I never considered myself a Chief Minister. CM means Common Man, I worked by considering this… We should work for people.”

Shinde also mentioned that whoever is elected as the CM by Mahayuti, Shiv Sainiks will support him. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis met with the BJP top brass in New Delhi to resolve the impasse over the decision of who will be the Chief Minister of the state.

Fadnavis stated that a decision on the Chief Minister’s post will be taken soon, and all senior members of the three parties of Mahayuti are working together to reach a decision. The election results for Maharashtra were announced on November 23, but the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is yet to decide on the Chief Minister.

Maharashtra CM Drama: BJP Sticks with Fadnavis, Rules Out Bihar Formula; Clarity Expected Today

November 27, 2024, 12:21 pm

Amid intense discussions within the Mahayuti alliance on who should hold the position of Maharashtra’s Chief Minister—Devendra Fadnavis or Eknath Shinde—the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made it clear that the situation in Maharashtra is different from Bihar. They stated that they had no intention of adopting the same formula used in Bihar to decide the CM’s position.

BJP Clarifies Stance on Chief Ministership

BJP national spokesperson Prem Shukla addressed the confusion, explaining that the arrangement in Bihar, where Nitish Kumar was promised the CM post before the elections, was not applicable to Maharashtra. He explained, “Firstly, the announcement to make Nitish Kumar CM was done before the election. In Maharashtra, there was no such commitment made to Shiv Sena.” He went on to add that the alliance with Janata Dal (United) in Bihar was intended to help BJP gain a foothold in the state, but it did not yield the expected results. Therefore, he emphasized, “there is no question of replicating the same in Maharashtra.”

Prem Shukla further told that the conditions in Maharashtra differ significantly. “In Maharashtra, there is no reason for such a commitment as we have a stronger organisational base and leadership,” he stated. He reiterated that the BJP had never promised to keep Eknath Shinde as CM after the elections. “The decision on the CM would be based on the electoral outcome,” he said.

BJP Responds to Sena’s CM Push

Raosaheb Danve, a former union minister and BJP’s election coordinator, rejected claims made by some Shiv Sena leaders that Eknath Shinde was promised the CM post prior to the elections. He clarified, “The process of choosing the CM has started. Two parties have already appointed their legislative leaders, and the BJP will pick one soon.”

Reports indicated that the Shiv Sena’s insistence on Shinde becoming the Chief Minister was not well received by BJP’s central leadership. A senior Sena leader mentioned that the BJP had informed Shinde that the CM position would remain with their party, leading to the cancellation of a show of strength planned by the Sena at Varsha on Tuesday morning.

Eknath Shinde Resigns Amid CM Talks

On Tuesday, Eknath Shinde resigned as part of his constitutional duties, but the suspense around the CM’s post continued. He met with Governor CP Radhakrishnan, accompanied by the two deputy chief ministers from the previous government—Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar. The Governor instructed Shinde to remain in a caretaker capacity until a new Chief Minister is sworn in.

The urgency around the resignation arose because the term of the outgoing assembly ended on November 26. In the recent elections, the Mahayuti coalition secured 230 out of 288 seats, with the BJP winning 132 seats. Fadnavis emerged as the leading contender for the CM post, followed by Shinde’s faction of Shiv Sena with 57 seats and Ajit Pawar’s NCP with 41 seats.

Clarity on the CM’s Position Expected Soon

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat indicated that the decision on the CM’s post would be announced soon, likely by Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, following discussions among Shinde, Fadnavis, and Pawar with top BJP leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He said, “The three leaders will meet in the evening and take an appropriate decision, which will be communicated to the media later.”

Shirsat added that, since the assembly elections were contested under Shinde’s leadership, many people felt that he should continue as CM. However, he admitted that he was unaware of the BJP leadership’s stance on the matter.

Ramdas Athawale Supports Fadnavis for CM

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, in a statement from New Delhi, expressed his support for Devendra Fadnavis, claiming that the BJP had decided to appoint him as Chief Minister for a third term. However, this has not been officially confirmed by the party. A BJP leader, speaking anonymously, mentioned that the party would not make a final announcement on the CM candidate until discussions about ministerial portfolios were concluded.

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde’s Message Sparks Growing Speculation Over His Replacement

November 26, 2024, 12:48 pm

Eknath Shinde has hinted at stepping down as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, as speculation grows over his replacement. Sources suggest he might remain as caretaker CM until a new government is formed.

In a post shared early Tuesday on X (formerly Twitter), Eknath Shinde urged supporters not to gather at Varsha Niwas or elsewhere to push for his return. He stressed that the Mahayuti alliance remains united and committed to a prosperous Maharashtra. “After the great victory of Mahayuti, our government will be formed again. We contested the elections together and remain united,” Shinde wrote. He thanked his supporters but requested that they not assemble at his residence. He added, “The grand alliance will continue to be strong for a prosperous Maharashtra.”

महायुतीच्या प्रचंड विजयानंतर राज्यात पुन्हा एकदा आपले सरकार स्थापन होणार आहे. महायुती म्हणून आपण एकत्रित निवडणूक लढवली आणि आजही एकत्रच आहोत. माझ्यावरील प्रेमापोटी काही मंडळींनी सर्वांना एकत्र जमण्याचे, मुंबईत येण्याचे आवाहन केले आहे. तुमच्या या प्रेमासाठी मी अत्यंत मनापासून ऋणी…

— Eknath Shinde – एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) November 25, 2024

On the same day, Shinde, along with Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, met Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as the current assembly’s term ends.

Sources within the BJP say it could take another seven days to decide on the new CM and oath-taking.

Shiv Sainiks Hold Prayers for Shinde’s Second Term

In Thane, Shiv Sainiks held prayer meetings, hoping for Shinde’s reappointment. Supporters at the Siddhi Vinayak Temple and other locations attributed Mahayuti’s victory to Shinde’s leadership and his connection with the people. MP Naresh Mhaske said all Shiv Sainiks believe Shinde deserves another term as CM. He also hoped Mahayuti leaders would adopt the merit-based approach seen in states like Bihar.

Thane, Shinde’s home turf, showed strong support for his leadership. Shinde had won his seat in Kopri-Pachpakhadi by over 1.2 lakh votes.

Maharashtra Election Results and Government Formation

Mahayuti won a decisive victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections. However, government formation has been delayed. Reports suggest the BJP and NCP are supporting Devendra Fadnavis for CM, while Shinde’s faction wants him to stay.

The BJP secured a record 132 seats, while Shinde’s Shiv Sena won 57. The new government is expected to have two deputy CMs, with BJP getting 24 ministers, Shiv Sena 12, and NCP 10.

Shinde, Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar are expected to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah soon to finalize the formation.

Maharashtra Government Formation Timeline

Though reports suggested a new CM might be sworn in by November 26, no decision has been made yet. An official dismissed rumors of President’s Rule being imposed if the new government isn’t formed by the end of the current assembly’s term. The 15th Maharashtra Assembly is already in place, with the names of newly-elected members submitted to Governor Radhakrishnan, the Election Commission confirmed.

Shiv Sena MLAs Support Eknath Shinde for CM Post

November 25, 2024, 8:53 am

Shiv Sena MLAs are backing Eknath Shinde to continue as Maharashtra’s chief minister, state minister and party leader Deepak Kesarkar confirmed. This statement came after the Mahayuti coalition, which includes Shiv Sena, secured a massive victory in the state assembly elections.

Strong Backing for Shinde’s Leadership

Kesarkar met Shinde at his Mumbai residence and expressed confidence in his leadership. He told reporters, “Shiv Sena MLAs feel Shinde should stay in the post. Under his leadership, Mahayuti performed exceptionally well in the polls.”

CM Decision to Be Made Collectively

However, Kesarkar emphasized that Shinde, along with Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis (BJP) and Ajit Pawar (NCP), will make the final decision regarding the CM post. “Whatever the decision, it will be in Maharashtra’s best interest,” he added. Kesarkar, who won re-election from Sawantwadi, highlighted that this decision would be a collective one.

Speculation on CM Post After Election Results

Speculation about the CM post grew after BJP, led by Fadnavis, won 132 out of 288 seats, while Shiv Sena secured 57 seats.

BJP Leaders Address CM Issue

On Saturday, Fadnavis denied any dispute over the CM post and said that Mahayuti leaders would decide the issue together. Similarly, on Sunday, BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule echoed this sentiment, stating, “Leaders of the ruling Mahayuti and BJP will jointly decide who will be the next CM.”