Mon Nov 25 18:42:29 UTC 2024: ## Fadnavis Likely to be Maharashtra’s Next CM, Shinde and Pawar as Deputies: Reports

**Mumbai, [Date]** – Devendra Fadnavis is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar as his deputy chief ministers, according to reports. While the BJP is yet to officially announce the decision, sources indicate that the three names have been finalized and a formal announcement is imminent.

Fadnavis’s ascension to the top post is attributed to several factors. His consistent loyalty to the RSS, even amidst periods of tension between the BJP and the Sangh, is seen as a key element. The RSS’s increased ground-level campaign efforts, aimed at countering the opposition’s narrative, are also credited with contributing to the BJP-led alliance’s unexpected victory.

Fadnavis’s five-year tenure as CM, his administrative experience, and his ability to maintain party unity within the BJP during challenging times are also cited as crucial factors in his selection. The BJP’s landslide victory in the recent elections, securing over 132 seats with a strike rate exceeding 80%, reinforces the party’s decision to prioritize experience and stability. The BJP’s strong performance is also viewed as an opportunity to assert its dominant role in the alliance, similar to the BJP’s position in Bihar.

Furthermore, the NCP’s open support for Fadnavis has solidified his position. NCP leaders have stated their lack of objection to Fadnavis’s nomination given the BJP’s substantial electoral win. This eliminates potential internal conflict within the alliance.

Interestingly, analysis reveals an increase in BJP’s success in constituencies with over 20% Muslim population. Despite 58 candidates across parties receiving over 100,000 votes yet losing the election, the BJP suffered minimal losses, with only 4 losing candidates compared to significantly higher numbers for the NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT). This unexpected outcome further bolsters Fadnavis’s claim to leadership.

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