'Maha' Cliffhanger Continues: Power-Sharing Talks Called Off As Eknath Shinde Retreats To Native Village

The formation of Maharashtra's new government remains uncertain after a key meeting of the Mahayuti alliance, scheduled for Friday, was cancelled.

Caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde unexpectedly travelled to his village in Satara district, delaying crucial discussions on the allocation of ministerial portfolios.

Photo Credit: PTI

Shinde, along with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, returned to Mumbai on Friday morning after discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda in Delhi.

The talks focused on finalising a power-sharing arrangement following the BJP-led coalition's decisive victory in the recent Maharashtra assembly elections.

Describing the Delhi meeting as "good and positive," Shinde's sudden departure has stalled progress, heightening suspense over the next Chief Minister and cabinet allocations.

According to India Today, the Shiv Sena leader is expected back in Mumbai on Saturday.

The BJP, which secured 132 assembly seats, has yet to hold its legislature party meeting to confirm its candidate for Chief Minister.

However, the role is widely expected to go to Devendra Fadnavis. Mahayuti allies Shiv Sena (57 seats) and Ajit Pawar's NCP (41 seats) are reportedly concentrating on securing prominent cabinet positions, as their chances of claiming the top role appear slim.

Sources have also indicated that the government may adopt a power-sharing structure with two deputy chief ministers representing the three main Mahayuti constituents. Regarding ministerial berths, the BJP is expected to accommodate approximately 20 ministers, with the Sena likely receiving more positions than the NCP.

What's next for Shinde?

Shiv Sena leaders are advocating for Shinde to retain the Chief Minister position, citing his leadership and initiatives like the Ladki Bahin scheme. Shinde, however, has deferred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah on the matter.

"I told PM Modi not to worry about any obstacles in government formation because of me. Whatever decision you make is final for BJP, and it is final for us," Shinde said prior to the Delhi meeting.

Amid speculation about his future role, Shiv Sena spokesperson and MLA Sanjay Shirsat suggested that Shinde is unlikely to accept the role of Deputy Chief Minister.

"He is unlikely to be a deputy chief minister. It does not befit a person who has already served as chief minister," Shirsat remarked.

Shinde's son, Shrikant Shinde, affirmed his father's commitment to the Mahayuti alliance, stating, "He is exemplifying the 'alliance dharma' by prioritising collective governance over personal ambition."

During the Delhi meeting, BJP leaders reportedly conveyed to Shinde that Fadnavis would become Chief Minister. Initially reluctant to accept the Deputy Chief Minister position, Shinde later softened his stance and requested the home portfolio, sources revealed.i