BJP Proposes Eknath Shinde as Deputy CM in Maharashtra

New Delhi: Senior leaders of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, including Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar, met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the capital on Thursday night to discuss the formation of the next Maharashtra government. The BJP is keen on reinstating Fadnavis as Chief Minister while offering Shinde the role of Deputy Chief Minister, a move aimed at symbolizing unity within the alliance.

The decision comes amid discussions about the post-election power-sharing formula. BJP sources emphasized that Shinde's inclusion as Deputy CM would not only highlight coalition harmony but also help reduce dependence on Ajit Pawar’s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). A BJP insider explained, “Shinde’s presence as Deputy CM will project a strong message of solidarity and ensure balanced representation in the alliance.”

While some argued that transitioning from Chief Minister to Deputy Chief Minister could be challenging for Shinde, sources close to the BJP dismissed such concerns. They pointed to the precedent set by Fadnavis, who previously stepped down as Chief Minister to take on the Deputy Chief Minister’s role under Shinde. "This shows that such transitions are not unusual in Maharashtra politics," the source added.

Shinde, who has publicly reiterated his loyalty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, has indicated that he is open to the BJP’s decision. Speaking to the press, Shinde remarked, “There are no obstacles regarding the Chief Ministership. I am here in Delhi as a proud member of this alliance, and I fully trust our leadership.”

Despite these developments, speculation remains about Shinde’s next political move. Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat expressed doubt over Shinde accepting the Deputy CM’s post, suggesting he may instead opt to stay in Maharashtra with a ministerial portfolio. “This is my assessment. Shinde may not take the Deputy CM’s role but will remain a key player in state politics,” Shirsat said on Thursday.

The BJP’s intent to appoint Fadnavis as Chief Minister is rooted in its strong performance in the recent assembly elections, where it emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats. The party also received backing from five independent MLAs, further solidifying its claim to lead the state government.

With the Mahayuti alliance’s focus on presenting a unified front, the final decision on power-sharing is expected to be announced shortly, setting the tone for the next phase of governance in Maharashtra.