Maharashtra CM Update: Devendra Fadnavis Expected to be Named CM as NDA Allies Finalize Govt Formation

As Maharashtra gears up for a new government, the suspense around the chief ministerial post appears to be nearing its end, with Devendra Fadnavis widely expected to take the helm. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners, however, are still deliberating over critical positions as the state prepares for its swearing-in ceremony scheduled for December 5.

Latest Political Movements:

• Ajit Pawar Heads to Delhi, Shinde and Fadnavis in Mumbai: On Monday, NCP leader Ajit Pawar flew to Delhi, while the two primary contenders for the chief minister’s post—Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis—remained in Mumbai. Both leaders have been meeting party workers and leaders, and they are awaiting confirmation on the chief ministerial pick. An official announcement is expected on December 4, a day before the swearing-in.
• Shrikant Shinde Denies Deputy CM Buzz: Shrikant Shinde, the son of Eknath Shinde, publicly dismissed rumors about him being a contender for the deputy chief minister’s position. In a statement, Shrikant clarified that he had “no desire for any ministerial position” and would continue to focus on his role as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Kalyan constituency. He added that he had previously turned down a central ministry post in the Lok Sabha to focus on party organization.

Critical Developments in Maharashtra Government Formation:

• BJP Appoints Central Observers: In a significant move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani as central observers for the state legislature party meeting. The meeting, set for December 4, will see BJP MLAs elect their leader, with Fadnavis expected to be chosen as the next chief minister.
• Deputy CM Roles for Shiv Sena and NCP: As part of the Mahayuti alliance, the BJP’s two key allies—the Shiv Sena and the NCP—are likely to be offered the deputy chief minister’s post in the new government. Eknath Shinde, the outgoing CM, has already stated that he will not stand in the way of Fadnavis assuming the top role. In the recently concluded elections, the BJP secured 132 seats, while Shiv Sena won 57 and the NCP 41 seats in the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.
• Official Announcement Expected on December 4: The suspense surrounding the Maharashtra CM appointment is set to end on December 4, with the BJP legislature party scheduled to meet that morning at the Vidhan Bhawan in Mumbai. Senior BJP leader Girish Mahajan, who is close to Fadnavis, visited Eknath Shinde’s residence in Thane on Monday evening, signaling the final stages of government formation.

Political Reactions and Developments:

• Shrikant Shinde’s Firm Stand: Amid growing speculation about a potential deputy CM post for him, Shrikant Shinde was evident in his rejection of such offers. He emphasized that his focus remained on his parliamentary duties and that he had no interest in joining the state cabinet. “I have no desire for a ministerial post. I will continue working for Shiv Sena and my constituency,” he stated.
• Ladki Bahin Scheme Grant in Focus: In response to media reports suggesting an increase in the Ladki Bahin scheme grant for women, BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar clarified that while the issue was under discussion, any decision regarding the grant hike would ultimately be made by the state cabinet. The scheme, aimed at providing financial support to women, could see a significant boost if the proposal moves forward.

Conclusion:

As Maharashtra braces for the formation of a new government, all eyes remain on the December 4 meeting of the BJP’s state legislature party, where Devendra Fadnavis is likely to be confirmed as the next chief minister. The suspense over deputy CM positions and ministerial appointments will also soon be resolved, with Eknath Shinde and his son Shrikant remaining central figures in the discussions. The swearing-in ceremony on December 5 promises to mark the official beginning of the new administration in Maharashtra, with BJP allies Shiv Sena and NCP also set to play critical roles in the coalition government.