Maharashtra Politics: Devendra Fadnavis Dials Eknath Shinde, Here's What They Talked About

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday made a phone call to Maharashtra's caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to enquire about his health, said sources. Eknath Shinde, who was reportedly not happy with BJP leadership's decision to remove him from the CM's chair, had demanded key portfolios from alliance partner in the next Government including deputy CM's post for his son Shrikant Shinde in the meeting held at Amit Shah's residence in Delhi.

Unhappy Shinde then went to his ancestors' village 'Satara' stating that he was not well and complained of sour throat and mild fever.

Now after three days, Fadnavis tried to continue talks on Government formation in Maharashtra.

According to reports, Eknath Shinde is expected to return to Mumbai on Sunday evening.

Health Update and Return Plans

Dr. Parte stated, "He has been given medicines and put on IV (intra-venous therapy for medication). He will feel better in two days. He is leaving for Mumbai on Sunday." A close aide also mentioned that Shinde has been unwell for some time but is now recovering.

Shinde plans to travel back to Thane via helicopter today at around 2:00 pm. By 4:00 pm, he will be at his residence in Thane, where he intends to stay throughout the day as he continues his recovery.

Political Developments Amid Health Concerns

Amidst the suspense over Maharashtra's Chief Ministerial candidate announcement, BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule declared that the Mahayuti government's oath-taking ceremony will occur on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the event.

Bawankule shared this news in a post on X, stating, "The oath-taking ceremony of the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra will be held in the presence of the pride of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 5 PM at Azad Maidan, Mumbai."

Upcoming Decisions and Political Moves

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat hinted that Eknath Shinde might make an important decision by Sunday. When questioned about ministry allocations for allies, Shirsat assured that everything would be clarified by Monday evening.

"In my opinion, whenever Eknath Shinde feels the need for time to reflect, he goes to his native village. By tomorrow evening, he will make a major decision. It could be a political decision... Everything will be clear by Monday evening," said Shirsat.

Maharashtra's Political Landscape

The recent Maharashtra Assembly election results were announced on November 23. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a landslide victory with a significant majority but has yet to finalise its Chief Ministerial candidate.

The BJP emerged as the largest party with 132 seats out of 280 in the Maharashtra Assembly. Its allies-the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and NCP led by Ajit Pawar-won 57 and 41 seats respectively.