Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for the third time on December 5. After the ceremony, he addressed the media, vowing to provide a stable government and ensuring the state would experience a politics of change, not revenge. Fadnavis emphasized that his leadership would bring transparency, development, and speed to Maharashtra’s progress.
The state has seen significant political shifts in recent years. Since 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-Shiv Sena alliance fractured after the assembly elections, leading to the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government with Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Congress. In 2022, a rebellion led by Eknath Shinde split Shiv Sena, which resulted in the downfall of the MVA government. Shinde later allied with the BJP and became the chief minister. However, after the recent Maharashtra elections, Fadnavis was sworn in again as CM on December 5.
Reflecting on these political upheavals, Fadnavis stated, “From 2019 to mid-2022, we saw a lot of changes. We hope there are no more shocks in the future.” He stressed that his government would focus on change, not revenge, aiming to bring about a more stable and progressive political atmosphere.
Fadnavis outlined the goals of his new administration, emphasizing it would be people-oriented, transparent, and committed to development. He assured that the government’s priorities would be to ensure rapid progress and address the needs of the people.
On the issue of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, where the Maha Vikas Aghadi has less than 50 members in the 288-member house, Fadnavis clarified that the decision would be made by the new speaker, not the government. He also pointed out that in the past, when the main opposition party lacked enough members for the LoP post in the Lok Sabha, the leader of the largest political party had been given all the necessary powers.
When asked about the key portfolios of home and finance, Fadnavis avoided giving a direct answer, only stating, “They will be with our government,” signaling the roles would remain within the ruling coalition. He also dismissed rumors that Eknath Shinde was upset about not securing a second term as CM. Fadnavis explained, “Shinde immediately agreed to my request to join the government. The main leader must be part of the government to ensure smooth functioning.” He acknowledged that while roles had changed, the direction and focus of the government remained the same.
On fulfilling pre-poll promises, Fadnavis confirmed that his government would continue the Ladki Bahin Yojana. The scheme’s monthly stipend for eligible women would be increased from ₹1,500 to ₹2,100, as promised by the Mahayuti alliance during their campaign.
Additionally, Fadnavis shared details of the special session of the Maharashtra assembly, scheduled for December 7-9. During this session, a new assembly speaker will be elected. Fadnavis also mentioned that the new cabinet, which includes Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena) and Ajit Pawar (NCP), will be expanded before the winter session of the state legislature, set to be held in Nagpur later this month.
With his message of stability, change, and development, Fadnavis set the tone for his third term as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, promising to deliver on the Mahayuti’s promises and ensure smooth governance.
