Power Struggles In Maharashtra: Mahayuti Allies Jostle For Key Portfolios After Election Win

The Mahayuti alliance may have secured an easy victory in the Maharashtra elections, defying predictions of a tough contest.

However, the post-election period has been marked by intense negotiations, as the three parties - BJP with 132 seats, Shiv Sena with 57, and NCP with 41 - compete for control over key portfolios.

Photo Credit: PTI

The swearing-in ceremony on Thursday was finalised only at the last moment, with Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde reportedly insisting on the Home Ministry in addition to the Deputy Chief Minister's position.

Shinde eventually agreed to the BJP's plan after being given a choice between the Home and Urban Development portfolios, reported the Indian Express.

Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar, who has strengthened his position with the BJP by presenting himself as a cooperative ally, has been pushing for the Housing and Finance portfolios, which he previously held in the Mahayuti government.

A Look at Maharashtra's Most Sought-After Portfolios:

Home
Home is consistently the most coveted department in both state and central governments. It provides control over the police and access to early intelligence on significant developments. In times of political instability, it can serve as a tool to maintain or destabilise alliances. Investigative agencies also report to the Home Ministry, adding to its appeal.

A strong law-and-order record can attract businesses and investment to the state. In the previous Mahayuti government, despite Shinde holding the Chief Minister position, the BJP retained the Home portfolio under then-Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. However, Fadnavis faced criticism for the police handling of the Maratha quota agitation.

Finance
The Finance Ministry is crucial, as it controls the release of funds for development projects and individual constituencies. No state decision can proceed without Finance's approval, giving the minister significant influence.

In coalition governments, fund allocation often becomes contentious, making this portfolio highly sought after. Ajit Pawar held the Finance portfolio in the last government, emphasising the BJP's need to secure his support. He is expected to reclaim the position.

Urban Development
This department oversees development and infrastructure projects in Maharashtra's urban areas, including municipal corporations like the wealth-rich Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). It also handles the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and City and Industrial Development Corporation.

With municipal elections approaching, control over this portfolio is particularly important for parties focused on urban voters, such as the Shiv Sena. Shinde, who managed the department previously, is likely to retain it.

Revenue
Revenue deals with land management, including buying, selling, and policymaking for mineral extraction and taxation. It holds significant influence over district collectors and the real estate market. The BJP held this portfolio in the last government, and discussions over its allocation are ongoing.

Housing
The Housing Department is overseeing major projects like the Dharavi Redevelopment Project and upcoming initiatives such as Motilal Nagar, Abhyuday Nagar, and Kamathipura redevelopment projects. These high-investment projects make the department lucrative for any party.

Previously held by the BJP, the Housing portfolio is now a point of contention with allies.

Irrigation
The Irrigation Department saw a 13% budget increase for 2024-25, making it attractive for all parties. Its projects have a direct impact on farmers, a significant voter base in Maharashtra. Major initiatives include the Maharashtra Resilience Development Project, the Marathwada Water Grid Project, and the Nalganga-Wainganga river linking project.

The BJP, which made gains in traditionally non-supportive regions like Marathwada and Vidarbha, held this portfolio in the previous government and is expected to retain it.