Eknath Shinde takes Deputy CM role, eyes urban Development Ministry: sources

Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde has accepted the Deputy CM role in Maharashtra. Sources suggest he may also handle the Urban Development Ministry. This decision followed a meeting with BJP leader Girish Mahajan in Thane on Monday evening. Mahajan assured that Shinde remains committed and emphasized unity within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Meanwhile, NCP leader Ajit Pawar met Praful Patel in Delhi, signaling internal discussions within their party. Pawar is expected to join BJP leaders and Shinde in Mumbai on Tuesday to review preparations for the swearing-in ceremony at Azad Maidan.

Earlier, BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar confirmed that Devendra Fadnavis is likely to become the new Chief Minister. Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, a central observer for the BJP legislature meeting, supported this, stating efforts are underway to elect a leader unanimously.

The BJP legislature party will convene on Tuesday or Wednesday in Mumbai, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Rupani attending as observers. The leader chosen in this meeting will likely assume the CM post.

The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for December 5, will feature PM Modi and other dignitaries. Devendra Fadnavis, a two-time CM and the outgoing Deputy CM, is widely viewed as the frontrunner.

In the November elections, the Mahayuti coalition secured a majority, winning 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP emerged as the largest party with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena (57) and NCP (41). The new government will include two Deputy CMs from the BJP’s allies, ensuring power-sharing within the coalition.

With major developments and a decisive leadership transition underway, Maharashtra’s Mahayuti aims for a stable five-year governance.