Tue Nov 26 07:37:51 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra’s Next CM: A Battle Between BJP and Shinde’s Shiv Sena
**Mumbai, [Date]:** A political stalemate grips Maharashtra as the BJP-led NDA coalition, victorious in the recent assembly elections, grapples with deciding its next Chief Minister. While the BJP, as the largest party in the coalition, claims the position is rightfully theirs, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s faction of the Shiv Sena insists on continuing his tenure. The situation has become a major talking point in national politics.
The BJP’s preference is reportedly Devendra Fadnavis, who played a crucial role in the NDA’s victory, even strategizing against the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition. Fadnavis’s influence and popularity within the party make him a strong contender. However, Shinde’s Shiv Sena, citing the Bihar precedent where the smaller party, JDU, got the CM post, argues for Shinde’s continuation. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s NCP, meanwhile, supports the BJP.
The uncertainty is heightened as the term of the 14th Maharashtra Legislative Assembly ends today. Although authorities deny it, fears of President’s Rule loom if a new government isn’t formed promptly. However, officials claim the 15th Assembly has already commenced with the Governor releasing a gazette notification with the names of newly-elected MLAs.
This power struggle within the NDA is further complicated by the fact that while Shinde is the current CM, Fadnavis is widely considered the de facto leader, wielding significant influence behind the scenes. Fadnavis recently travelled to Delhi for consultations with party leaders to resolve the impasse. The next few days will be crucial in determining Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister and the future stability of the state government.
First Piper 