PM Modi's Decision Final On Next Maharashtra CM: Eknath Shinde

Amid ongoing suspense over Maharashtra's next Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde on Wednesday declared his support for any decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Speaking to media, the caretaker Chief Minister said, "I have told the Prime Minister that if there is any problem in forming the government in Maharashtra because of me, then do not bring any doubt in your mind and whatever decision you take, that decision is acceptable to me. You are the head of our family. The way people of BJP accept your decision, we will also accept your decision in the same way."

Shinde assured that he would not hinder the government's formation. "I called PM Modi and HM Amit Shah yesterday to inform them that I will not create any issues in forming the government," he stated. He further emphasized that his party, the Shiv Sena, would back any candidate chosen by the Mahayuti alliance for the Chief Minister's role. "Whoever is elected as CM by Mahayuti will have the full support of Shiv Sainiks," he affirmed.

Reflecting on his tenure as Chief Minister, Shinde said, "I have always worked as a party worker and never saw myself as just a Chief Minister. For me, CM stands for 'Common Man.' I worked with that mindset, focusing on serving the people. I have witnessed the struggles of citizens and the challenges they face in managing their households," he added.

In the recently concluded elections, the Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, emerged victorious, winning 230 of 288 seats. The BJP won 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 and NCP with 41. In contrast, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) managed only 46 seats, with Shiv Sena (UBT) securing 20, Congress 10, and Sharad Pawar-led NCP 10.

Shinde said that there will be a meeting of Mahayuti parties on Friday, during which the decision on the next CM will be made.

Eknath Shinde served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for 28 months after revolting against Uddhav Thackeray in June 2022, leading to the collapse of the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi government.