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When the Mahayuti alliance secured a sweeping victory in the Maharashtra elections, Eknath Shinde’s jubilant celebration, which included lifting Devendra Fadnavis, captured the moment’s euphoria. Yet, less than ten days later, the alliance’s resounding triumph has been overshadowed by a brewing power struggle between Shinde and Fadnavis, threatening to dull the sheen of their electoral success.
The BJP, with a commanding 132 seats, is in no mood to relinquish the Chief Minister’s post. Unlike the previous term, when the BJP allowed Shinde to assume the CM’s role in a strategic move, the current scenario is vastly different. Now, the BJP, renowned for its “use and throw” tactics, views every ally as dispensable in its quest for control.
Shinde, recognizing the political reality, appears to have shifted his focus. It’s no longer just about retaining the Chief Minister’s chair but about negotiating terms that will strengthen his Shiv Sena faction and maintain his public clout. Without significant portfolios, Shinde risks being perceived as weakened, despite his instrumental role in the alliance’s success. The Deputy Chief Minister’s position is his for the taking, but key cabinet positions will determine whether he emerges as a power player or a political subordinate.
Late in the evening, Shinde has reportedly agreed to serve as Deputy Chief Minister , with Fadnavis reclaiming the CM’s post. The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for December 5 at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, will also feature NCP leader Ajit Pawar. While this compromise signals an uneasy truce, the allocation of cabinet portfolios remains a contentious issue. Shinde will now have to watch each of his step with caution. The future could bring more challenges that he could ever anticipate.
The BJP is expected to secure 21-22 ministries, including critical departments like Home and Revenue, and retain the Speaker and Legislative Council Chairman posts. The Shiv Sena, despite requesting 16 ministries, may have to settle for 12, including Urban Development. Meanwhile, the NCP is likely to receive 9-10 ministries, with Finance and the Deputy Speaker role among their shares.
Shinde’s challenges don’t end there. Speculation about his health—he recently underwent medical tests for a throat infection and fever—delayed critical discussions, raising questions about internal tensions. His sudden illness coincided with an important Mahayuti meeting over the weekend, fueling rumors of discord within the alliance.
With the BJP’s legislative party meeting set for December 4 to finalize its Chief Ministerial candidate, and prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected to attend the December 5 oath-taking ceremony, the stakes remain high. As the Mahayuti alliance prepares to form its government, Shinde’s political acumen will be tested as he navigates a delicate balance of asserting his influence while aligning with a dominant BJP.
The coming days will reveal whether the uneasy peace within the Mahayuti coalition holds or gives way to further friction as the political drama in Maharashtra continues to unfold.
