It's Final! Devendra Fadnavis To Be Maharashtra's Next CM

Devendra Fadnavis is set to become the new Chief Minister of Maharashtra, a senior BJP leader confirmed to media on the condition of anonimity. The decision was made after discussions among top party leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President JP Nadda. The meeting to elect the new BJP legislature party leader is scheduled for December 2 or 3.

Despite Eknath Shinde's call for unity within the Mahayuti alliance, some members have expressed differing views. Shiv Sena MLA Gulabrao Patil mentioned that his party might have secured 90-100 seats if Ajit Pawar's NCP hadn't joined the alliance. Similarly, former Union minister Raosaheb Danve suggested that a united Sena and BJP could have won more seats.

Maharashtra Assembly Election Results

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a significant victory in the recent Maharashtra assembly elections, winning 230 out of 288 seats. Within this coalition, the BJP secured 132 seats, Shiv Sena obtained 57, and NCP captured 41 seats. The oath-taking ceremony for the new NDA government is planned for December 5 at Azad Maidan with PM Modi in attendance.

Eknath Shinde has reiterated his "unconditional support" for the decision made by the BJP's top leadership regarding the CM pick. He also addressed rumours about his son Shrikant Shinde potentially becoming Deputy CM and their interest in the home ministry portfolio. Shinde emphasised that government formation will be decided through consensus among Mahayuti allies.

Upcoming Leadership Decisions

The BJP legislature party meeting to choose its leader and CM candidate is yet to occur. Meanwhile, both Shiv Sena and NCP have already elected Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar as their respective legislature party leaders. Notably, both Shinde and Fadnavis have been prominent contenders in discussions about Maharashtra's next chief minister.

Chandrashekhar Bawankule, BJP state president, confirmed on Saturday that the oath-taking event would take place on December 5 at Azad Maidan. This event will mark the official commencement of the NDA government's term in Maharashtra following their electoral success.

The political landscape in Maharashtra remains dynamic as parties navigate alliances and leadership roles post-election. As decisions unfold over the coming days, all eyes are on how these developments will shape governance in one of India's most populous states.