Dispelling rumours of a deadlock over the Chief Minister’s post, Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar clarified on Monday.
That caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is not the reason behind the delay in forming Maharashtra’s new government. Kesarkar stressed that the swearing-in ceremony has already been scheduled for December 5, and final discussions to determine the state’s next leader are progressing smoothly.
“It is incorrect to say that Eknath Shinde is the reason why the government is not being formed in the state,” Kesarkar stated, addressing growing speculation. “The BJP has appointed observers, and the Chief Minister’s face will be announced today.”
He reaffirmed that Shinde has placed the decision firmly in the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, showcasing his commitment to the Mahayuti alliance’s unity and purpose. The Mahayuti coalition-comprising the BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction-secured a resounding victory in the November 20 Assembly elections, winning 230 out of 288 seats.
With the BJP claiming 132 seats, the Shiv Sena 57, and the NCP 41, the BJP is expected to take the lead in government formation, with Devendra Fadnavis emerging as the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s post. Kesarkar assured that the swearing-in ceremony, slated to be held at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan and attended by PM Modi, would go ahead without further delay.
Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule confirmed the December 5 event, marking a significant milestone in the coalition’s roadmap for the state. Eknath Shinde, who has been unwell and recently cancelled public engagements, has emphasised that he will not obstruct discussions for the top post.
“Eknath Shinde has made it clear that PM Modi and Amit Shah’s decision will be final,” Kesarkar reiterated, urging respect for Shinde’s pivotal role in the coalition. Meanwhile, speculation surrounding Shinde’s son and Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde being considered for a Deputy Chief Minister position was firmly denied.
Shrikant called the rumours baseless, asserting, “I have no desire for a position in power. My focus remains on my Lok Sabha constituency and my party’s growth.” NCP leader Ajit Pawar also confirmed that the Chief Minister’s position would go to the BJP, with Deputy Chief Minister roles reserved for the Shiv Sena and NCP.
“The Home Department, like other key portfolios, is always jointly run by the Chief Minister and the Home Minister,” Kesarkar added, further emphasising the BJP’s leading role in the coalition.