Suspense Over Maharashtra Govt Formation Continues As Shinde Recuperates From Illness

Caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, has been suffering from fever and a throat infection for the past two days, his family doctor has revealed.

Shinde is recovering in his native village in the Satara district, under the care of a team of three to four doctors, according to Dr RM Patre, the family doctor, as reported by ANI.

Photo Credit: PTI

Eknath Shinde, the Shiv Sena supremo, has remained in the spotlight since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), also known as the Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra, achieved a resounding victory in the state Assembly elections. This has sparked widespread speculation about who will assume the role of the next Chief Minister.

Earlier this week, Shinde stated he would abide by the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP leadership, clearing the way for the party to potentially name Devendra Fadnavis, the current Deputy Chief Minister, as the next leader. Although no formal announcement has been made, Fadnavis appears to be the leading contender.

Key Developments in Maharashtra Government Formation

Oath-taking Ceremony Scheduled
BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced that the Mahayuti government's oath-taking ceremony is scheduled for 5 pm on December 5 at Azad Maidan, Mumbai. The ceremony will take place in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shinde's Upcoming Decision
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat hinted that Eknath Shinde is likely to make a significant announcement by Sunday. Shirsat noted that Shinde often retreats to his native village for reflection and suggested a political decision may be on the horizon, with clarity expected by Monday evening.

Next CM to be from BJP
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar confirmed that the BJP would hold the Chief Ministerial position, while two Deputy Chief Ministers would be selected from other Mahayuti alliance members.

Election Results
The BJP emerged as the largest party in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, winning 132 seats out of the 288-member Assembly. Its allies, the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, and the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, secured 57 and 41 seats, respectively. Voting took place on 20th November, with the results declared on 23rd November.