Mon Nov 25 17:27:19 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra’s Next Chief Minister Remains Undecided as Assembly Term Ends

**Mumbai, November 26** – With the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly’s term ending today, the state remains in suspense regarding its next Chief Minister. Despite the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition securing a resounding victory in the recent elections, the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) have yet to announce their choice for the top post. While the BJP and a faction of the NCP are pushing for Devendra Fadnavis, the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde prefers him to continue as Chief Minister.

Sources indicate that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is likely to resign today, with the Governor potentially appointing him as caretaker Chief Minister until a new government is formed. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place on either November 28th or 29th.

A key question circulating is whether a new government must be sworn in before the Assembly term’s expiry. Sources close to the assembly have clarified that this is not constitutionally mandated, citing past instances where Chief Ministers assumed office after the assembly’s term concluded. The Election Commission has already issued the notification for the formation of a new assembly. The situation is expected to become clearer in the next few days. Fadnavis and Shinde are currently in Delhi, where they may meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The possibility of President’s Rule being imposed before the new government is formed is currently considered unlikely.

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