Mumbai: While the suspense over Maharashtra CM continues, Devendra Fadnavis may take oath as Maharashtra chief minister on December 5, according to the claims made by his party leaders. Fadnavis is likely to be elected as the legislature party leader in a meeting to be held either on December 2 or 3, reported the Hindustan Times.
Amid such developments, Eknath Shinde—a key contender of the CM post— is reportedly exploring his options to strike a favourable deal with the BJP as speculations are rife that he may give up claim to the CM’s chair in exchange for influential and important portfolios.
According to several reports, Shinde’s has been insisting on securing the home ministry, a critical department, overseeing the police force and playing a vital role in managing the state’s law and order. Political analysts claimed Shinde’s inclination towards the ministry had been well-known within Shiv Sena circles for years.
Shinde’s fondness for Home Ministry since 2019
In 2019, when the Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Congress formed the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, it was clear that Uddhav Thackeray would take the CM post. But even then Shinde was keen to bag the home ministry. However, the home ministry was assigned to the NCP. As compensation, the urban development portfolio was handed to the Shiv Sena. Shinde was appointed the urban development minister.
In June 2022, Shinde led a rebellion leading to a split in the Shiv Sena and the fall of MVA government. He formed a new alliance with the BJP. After becoming CM, he once again expressed interest in the home ministry. However, his deputy chief minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis retained the portfolio for the BJP.
The home ministry has become a focal point of contention between Shinde and Fadnavis, the News 18 reported. This is in fact a reflection of the larger power struggle within the Mahayuti government. This ongoing tug-of-war is not just restricted to the home ministry. Shinde is also reportedly eyeing other influential portfolios. Some of these portfolios are public works, revenue, industries, and the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).
