After agreeing to a Deputy Chief Minister role, Eknath Shinde’s political journey hangs in the balance. The allocation of key ministries like Home, Urban Development, and Health will determine whether he regains his stature or cements his decline in Maharashtra politics.
By PC Bureau
Eknath Shinde’s political maneuvering, once hailed as a masterstroke that guided the Mahayuti alliance to a resounding victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, now faces a stern test. With his demotion to Deputy Chief Minister under Devendra Fadnavis, Shinde has lost the first round of the state’s high-stakes political game.
The swearing-in ceremony at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan showcased a stark contrast: a beaming Devendra Fadnavis reclaiming the Chief Minister’s chair for a historic third term and an ebullient Ajit Pawar asserting his place as Deputy CM, while Shinde’s somber demeanor spoke volumes about his current political standing.
Now, all eyes are on the second round—the allocation of key portfolios. For Shinde, this is more than a procedural matter; it is a battle to preserve his hard-earned political clout and public image. Unless he secures critical ministries such as Home, Urban Development, Irrigation, and Health, his trajectory could spiral downward, reducing him to a figurehead rather than the leader who once boldly redefined the political map of Maharashtra.
A Test of Influence
Shinde’s position has already been weakened. Despite his pivotal role in splitting the Shiv Sena and leading his faction to align with the BJP, his grip on power within the Mahayuti alliance has loosened. BJP’s commanding performance in the elections, combined with Ajit Pawar’s swift backing, has overshadowed Shinde’s contributions.
The distribution of portfolios presents Shinde with a rare opportunity to reassert himself. Holding influential ministries would allow him to showcase his ability to deliver on key public issues, from urban development to healthcare reforms. This could not only restore public faith but also consolidate his stature within the alliance.
Risks of Diminished Authority
Failure to secure significant portfolios could accelerate Shinde’s decline in public perception. Critics from both within and outside the alliance are already questioning his influence, with opposition leaders mocking his demotion as a sign of the BJP’s dominance.
Shinde’s political future depends on whether he can leverage his alliance with the BJP to reclaim some control over Maharashtra’s governance. Anything less than a decisive victory in the portfolio battle risks relegating him to the role of a subordinate, a shadow of the leader who once held the Chief Minister’s chair.
The Road Ahead
As the political drama unfolds, Shinde’s next moves will be closely scrutinized. If he can emerge victorious in securing key portfolios, it could signal a turnaround and reaffirm his relevance in Maharashtra’s volatile political landscape. If not, his journey from kingmaker to a sidelined deputy could be sealed, reshaping the dynamics of the Mahayuti alliance.
For Eknath Shinde, the game isn’t over, but the stakes couldn’t be higher. The outcome of this round will determine whether he remains a formidable player or fades into the background of Maharashtra’s political chessboard.
