As calls grow for Eknath Shinde to remain Chief Minister following a decisive victory for the MahaYuti alliance, the leader took to X to make a heartfelt request to his supporters. In a post, Shinde appealed to Shiv Sena members not to gather in Mumbai in his support, urging them to refrain from organizing shows of strength. He expressed deep gratitude for the love but emphasized that the grand alliance, which secured a strong mandate, remains united in its mission for a prosperous Maharashtra.
&ldquo;After our tremendous victory, we will form the government again. We contested together as a grand alliance and remain united. While some party groups have expressed their love by calling for a gathering in Mumbai, I humbly request that no one should assemble at Varsha (the CM's residence) or elsewhere in my support. The MahaYuti has been, and will continue to be, a strong force for the state&rsquo;s progress,&rdquo; Shinde said.
Shinde&rsquo;s plea comes as the MahaYuti coalition is yet to resolve the issue of the Chief Minister&rsquo;s position. While Shiv Sena leaders are strongly advocating for Shinde to continue, there is growing pressure within the BJP for Devendra Fadnavis to take the role of Chief Minister. Meanwhile, some factions within the NCP are pushing for party president Ajit Pawar to lead the government. Veteran OBC leader Chhagan Bhujbal has already declared his support for Fadnavis as CM.
Across Maharashtra, Shiv Sena workers have been holding special prayers and ceremonies in hopes of Shinde assuming the Chief Minister&rsquo;s post. However, the BJP has not organized similar shows of strength for Fadnavis.
A senior Shiv Sena leader, who previously served in Shinde&rsquo;s cabinet, said, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s only natural for Eknath Shinde to be the next CM. His leadership has been pivotal in the success of schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana, which contributed significantly to the MahaYuti&rsquo;s overwhelming win. Shinde also played a key role in securing 10% reservation for Marathas and has earned a reputation as a leader who connects with the common man.&rdquo;
Shiv Sena legislators have already elected Shinde as their leader, giving him the authority to lead the government formation process. Similarly, the NCP has elected Ajit Pawar as their legislature leader. However, the BJP has yet to hold a meeting to finalize its legislature party leader. Once the BJP completes this formal process, it, along with its allies, will formally approach the state Governor for government formation.

MahaYuti yet to decide on CM; Shinde has been clear about his desire to stay in power.

Don’t Rally for Me: CM Shinde to Supporters

MahaYuti yet to decide on CM; Shinde has been clear about his desire to stay in power.

November 26, 2024 | 17:00 IST