Mahayuti deadlock drags on even as BJP sets date for Maharashtra CM oath ceremony: Reports
PTC Web Desk: Amid uncertainty over the formation of the government in Maharashtra, BJP sources on Saturday said the party’s MLAs would convene on Monday, December 2, to select their legislative party leader. The newly appointed leader was expected to take the oath of office as Chief Minister in Mumbai on Thursday, December 5.
The development follows reports of unease within the Mahayuti alliance over portfolio allocation and the Chief Minister’s position. Caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who recently cancelled an alliance meeting, has travelled to his hometown Satara. Shiv Sena clarified that Shinde’s absence was due to health issues, dismissing claims of dissatisfaction.
Outgoing Minister Uday Samant reiterated that Eknath Shinde is committed to the state's development and has no disagreements over the ongoing discussions. “He is unwell, not upset. Speculations about his discontent are baseless,” Samant stated.
Shinde had earlier announced that the next alliance meeting would occur in Mumbai on Friday. Shiv Sena leaders confirmed that meetings could proceed via video conferencing if necessary.
The BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance achieved a decisive victory in the Assembly elections, securing 233 of 288 seats. The BJP led with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 and NCP with 41. Despite the strong mandate, the coalition is yet to finalise the Chief Minister's role.
Reports suggest Shinde is advocating for key portfolios such as the Home Department alongside the Deputy Chief Minister’s position. Meanwhile, BJP remains firm on appointing Devendra Fadnavis as Chief Minister.
Shiv Sena leaders have expressed their support for Shinde as Deputy Chief Minister. "All 60 MLAs have conveyed to Shinde ji that they want him to take this role. However, the final decision rests with him,” Samant noted, adding that cabinet expansion details would be discussed further in upcoming meetings.
Sources indicate that Eknath Shinde is open to taking on the role of Mahayuti Convener instead of Deputy Chief Minister in the coalition's second term. Shinde has assured that he will not hinder the formation of the government and will follow the decisions made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
A meeting among Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar is expected to finalise the Cabinet structure and portfolio allocations in the coming days.
- With inputs from agencies
