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During the meeting with chief minister-elect Fadnavis, Shinde expressed reservations but was reportedly assured a fair distribution of key portfolios, including the home department, MSRDC, and energy, which are crucial for both governance and his party’s political standing
Eknath Shinde’s decision to join the Fadnavis-led government as deputy chief minister is a significant moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape. (PTI)
The past 10 days have been particularly challenging for Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde. Not only did Shinde face health issues, but he also endured mounting pressure to join the Devendra Fadnavis-led government as Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister. Having served as chief minister for two-and-a-half years, Shinde initially resisted the idea of stepping into a secondary role, citing a preference to focus on strengthening the party’s organisation.
Speculation about internal discord within the Mahayuti alliance grew when Shinde retreated to his native village in Satara. However, he returned to Mumbai after a brief hiatus and resumed deliberations with key alliance leaders. The interactions with chief minister-elect Fadnavis at the CM’s official residence, Varsha Bungalow, were pivotal in persuading Shinde to accept the deputy CM role.
Fadnavis played a central role in this decision-making process. After staking claim to form the government, Fadnavis visited Shinde at Varsha to urge him to join the cabinet. During their 20-minute meeting, Shinde expressed reservations but was reportedly assured a fair distribution of key portfolios, including the home department, MSRDC, and energy, which are crucial for both governance and his party’s political standing.
Speaking to the media, Fadnavis stated, “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.”
Shiv Sena MLAs and former cabinet colleagues also played a significant role in convincing Shinde. Sources indicate that Shinde initially wanted a senior party leader to assume the role of deputy CM. However, persistent demands from MLAs, MPs, and Shiv Sainiks across the state forced him to reconsider.
Prominent Shiv Sena leaders emphasised the necessity of Shinde’s participation in the new government to maintain party morale and unity. Party MLA Bharat Gogavale said, “We urged him to be part of the government as this will help both the party and the administration.” Similarly, Uday Samant pointed out that around 60-61 MLAs, including independents, firmly backed Shinde for the position, reflecting a strong consensus within the party.
Shinde’s hesitation stemmed from balancing personal stature with party loyalty. Accepting the deputy chief minister role would reinforce Shiv Sena’s presence in the government and ensure the party’s interests remain safeguarded. However, it also risked being perceived as a step down after his tenure as chief minister. Declining the post, on the other hand, could weaken Shiv Sena’s influence within the Mahayuti alliance and jeopardise its future political prospects.
Shinde’s decision to join the Fadnavis-led government as deputy chief minister is a significant moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape. It ensures Shiv Sena’s continued relevance within the ruling coalition and reinforces Shinde’s leadership within the party. The assurances of a fair portfolio distribution also underline the importance of maintaining coalition harmony while addressing internal demands. As Maharashtra embarks on this new chapter under the Mahayuti government, Shinde’s role will remain crucial in shaping governance and political dynamics in the state.
