Eknath Shinde officially resigned as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister on Tuesday, marking a significant moment in the state’s political landscape following the recent electoral victory of the Mahayuti coalition.
Eknath Shinde resigns as Maharashtra CM
Eknath Shinde submitted his resignation to Governor CP Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan, with key political figures Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis present during the proceedings. Despite stepping down, Shinde will continue to serve as the caretaker Chief minister until a new government is formed.
Mahayuti wins the Maharashtra Assembly Polls
The recent state assembly elections saw the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition securing a commanding majority, winning 235 seats in the 288-member Assembly. The coalition’s composition includes the BJP with 132 seats, Shiv Sena with 57, and NCP with 41 seats.
However, uncertainty persists regarding the next chief ministerial candidate. The Shiv Sena faction has advocated for Shinde’s continuation, emphasizing his role in the successful Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, which was considered a pivotal electoral strategy.
Who will be the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra?
Conversely, BJP leaders have been actively promoting Devendra Fadnavis for a potential third term as chief minister. NCP’s Ajit Pawar has publicly supported the BJP’s claim.
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske drew a parallel with Bihar’s political scenario, stating, “Nitish Kumar was made the Chief Minister of Bihar even though his party didn’t have the majority.”
Shinde takes to social media
In a notable move, Eknath Shinde requested his supporters to refrain from demonstrating at his official residence. “Out of love for me, some people have appealed to everyone to gather together and come to Mumbai. I am deeply grateful for your love. But I appeal that no one should come together in my support in such a manner,” he said.
The political deliberations continue as the Mahayuti coalition navigates the complexities of leadership selection, with stakeholders closely watching the unfolding political negotiations.
As the state awaits further developments, the focus remains on who will lead Maharashtra in the next governmental term.