Amit Shah is scheduled to meet with Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde
Mumbai: Eknath Shinde stated on Wednesday that he has assured Prime Minister Narendra Modi of his commitment to adhere to the BJP’s decision regarding the appointment of his successor. On Thursday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to meet with Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party in New Delhi to deliberate on the formation of the government and finalize the name of the chief minister.
As uncertainty looms over the selection of the next chief minister of Maharashtra, discussions concerning government formation will occur in the national capital, leading to a conclusive decision. Ajit Pawar indicated that he, along with Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde, will arrive in Delhi on Thursday for further discussions.
He mentioned that the agenda will include deliberations on the chief minister’s position and the appointments of two deputy chief ministers. Ajit Pawar’s remarks come in light of Eknath Shinde’s assurance to Prime Minister Modi that he will comply with the BJP’s decision regarding his successor.
Shinde’s declaration followed strong calls from his Shiv Sena party members urging him to remain as chief minister, especially after the ruling Mahayuti alliance achieved a significant victory under his leadership. With Shinde aligning with the party’s direction, preparations are underway for a new government, which is expected to be led by BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis.
During a press conference at his residence in Thane, Shinde remarked, “There is a meeting in Delhi tomorrow with Amit bhai (Shah), and all pertinent decisions will be made there.” He further noted that the details regarding the formation of the new government will be finalized during the meeting in Delhi.
Shinde also expressed his intention to “fully support” the BJP leadership’s decision regarding the next chief minister and assured that he would not obstruct the process. “I contacted PM Modi and Amit Shah yesterday and informed them to make the decision (on the chief minister), assuring them that I will comply with whatever choice they make,” Shinde stated.
Eknath Shinde affirmed that the Shiv Sena will wholeheartedly endorse the BJP’s choice for the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra, stating, “There are no obstacles from our end.”
Regarding the swearing-in ceremony, Ajit Pawar informed the media that the new Chief Minister is expected to take the oath of office on either November 30 or December 1. He further mentioned, “The new administration will include two deputy chief ministers.”
In response to inquiries about his feelings on not securing a second term as Chief Minister, Shinde dismissed any claims of disappointment, despite the Mahayuti alliance’s significant electoral success under his leadership. “There is no discontent. We have functioned as a united Mahayuti,” he asserted. When questioned about his potential dismay over not being re-elected, Shinde clarified, “That is not the case. It is important to note that the BJP supported my time as Chief Minister.”
