Devendra Fadnavis Visits Eknath Shinde, Takes Health Update Ahead Of Maharashtra CM Oath Ceremony

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday visited Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde to enquire about his health. According to the reports, Fadnavi and Shinde's meeting lasted for 30 minutes and was crucial ahead of the finalisation of the power-sharing formula and oath-taking ceremony scheduled for December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. Sources indicate that Shinde is firm on retaining the Home Ministry post, which is also desired by the BJP.

Earlier in the day, Eknath Shinde went to a private hospital in Thane for a health check-up, just two days before the grand oath ceremony. He had been staying at his private residence in Thane recently. "I came for a check-up. My health is in good condition," he informed reporters while leaving for Varsha, the official residence of the Chief Minister in Mumbai.

Shinde's Health Concerns Amid Political Developments

A doctor mentioned that Shinde had throat issues along with fever and infection, leading to weakness. As a precautionary measure, he underwent an MRI scan. The Shiv Sena leader has been unwell for several days. His recent visit to his village in Satara district sparked rumours about his dissatisfaction with how the new government was forming.

The swearing-in ceremony preparations are ongoing despite uncertainty over who will be sworn in as chief minister at Azad Maidan on December 5. The event will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, around 2,000 VVIPs, and approximately 40,000 supporters. Dignitaries like Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda are expected to attend.

Anticipation Builds for New Government Formation

The Mahayuti coalition's landslide victory in the November 20 elections has set the stage for Maharashtra's new government formation on Thursday. Devendra Fadnavis, who has served as chief minister twice before, is considered a strong contender for this top position.

The political landscape remains tense as both parties negotiate key positions within the government. The outcome of these discussions will shape Maharashtra's political future significantly.