10 Days After Maharashtra Election Results, CM Suspense Continues
The Maharashtra Assembly elections concluded on November 20, and the results were announced three days later. The Mahayuti alliance (BJP-led coalition) secured a clear majority, yet the suspense over who will be the next Chief Minister persists even ten days after the results.
In the results, the BJP emerged as the largest party, winning 132 seats. The caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Eknath Shinde secured 57 seats, while Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP won 41 seats. Following the results, seven more MLAs joined the BJP, taking its tally to 139. With 288 seats in the Maharashtra Assembly, any party or alliance needs 145 seats to form the government.
BJP and Shiv Sena Clash Over CM Post
The BJP, being the largest party in the alliance, is insisting on claiming the Chief Minister’s position. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leaders demand that Eknath Shinde should continue as CM, citing the "coalition dharma" and attributing the Mahayuti alliance's electoral success to Shinde's leadership. They argue that had Ajit Pawar's faction not joined the alliance, Shiv Sena could have won up to 100 seats. They also point to the BJP’s decision in Bihar, where despite having more seats, it allowed JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar to become CM, to justify their claim.
Amit Shah Steps In to Resolve Deadlock
Amid the deadlock, Union Home Minister Amit Shah intervened and held meetings in Delhi with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, and NCP leader Ajit Pawar. Reports suggest that a resolution was reached, with the BJP offering the Deputy Chief Minister post to Shinde’s faction. Shinde publicly stated that he would unconditionally support whoever is chosen as CM. However, after returning to Mumbai from Delhi, Shinde went directly to his hometown, canceling the Mahayuti alliance meeting.
Shinde’s actions fueled speculation that he was unhappy with the BJP’s decision and was adamant about retaining the Chief Minister’s post. Some reports suggest he even demanded the Deputy CM post along with the Home Ministry portfolio for his faction, making it clear that he would not accept anything less. Shinde, however, clarified to the media that he canceled meetings and took a two-day break in his village due to health issues.
BJP Prepares for CM Swearing-In Ceremony on December 5
Despite the ongoing suspense, BJP leaders announced that the new government in Maharashtra would be sworn in on December 5. Preparations have already begun for the swearing-in ceremony, which is set to take place at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. On December 4, the BJP legislative party is scheduled to elect its leader, who will take the CM oath the next day.
The BJP’s high command has also appointed observers to oversee the legislative party meeting and resolve the CM deadlock. According to BJP sources, clarity on the next Chief Minister is expected by Tuesday evening.
Opposition Criticism
Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticized the BJP-led alliance for delaying government formation despite securing a majority. They have accused the Mahayuti alliance of internal conflicts and questioned their ability to govern effectively. Additionally, rumors suggest that Shinde is deliberately delaying the CM announcement, using health issues as an excuse to stay away from alliance meetings.
As the December 5 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the BJP’s next move. Until then, uncertainty looms over who will lead Maharashtra’s new government.