Tue Nov 26 07:03:21 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Chief Minister Deadlock Continues as BJP Weighs Options

**Mumbai, October 26** – A political stalemate grips Maharashtra as the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance grapples with choosing a new Chief Minister three days after a landslide victory in state elections. Incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde resigned today, as the 14th Assembly’s term concluded, but the BJP has yet to announce his successor.

The BJP, with 132 seats, is vying for former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to reclaim the top post. However, Shinde’s faction of the Shiv Sena (57 seats) is pushing for him to remain Chief Minister. Adding another layer of complexity, the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP (41 seats) is reportedly backing Fadnavis. This leaves Shinde with limited negotiating power, as the BJP only needs the support of one of its allies to secure a majority in the 288-member Assembly.

While some Shiv Sena leaders planned a show of support for Shinde, he urged them to refrain from any public displays. He tweeted, emphasizing the alliance’s unity and expressing gratitude for the support shown.

The debate is further fueled by contrasting arguments. Shiv Sena spokesperson Naresh Mhaske cited the “Bihar model,” where BJP allowed Nitish Kumar of the JD(U) to remain Chief Minister despite BJP having a larger seat share, as a precedent for Shinde’s continuation. He also pointed to Haryana, where the BJP maintained the incumbent Chief Minister. Conversely, BJP’s Pravin Darekar argued that the mandate clearly favors Fadnavis, highlighting his role in maintaining alliance unity. Sources suggest that the BJP’s ideological parent, the RSS, also favors Fadnavis.

The situation mirrors the 2019 scenario, when a similar power struggle led to a collapse of the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance. This time, however, the BJP’s position is stronger due to NCP support. This leaves Shinde potentially negotiating for ministerial portfolios rather than the Chief Ministership. Former CM Uddhav Thackeray has already commented on the anticipated outcome.

Concerns arose regarding the possibility of President’s Rule due to the delay. However, a legislature official clarified that the 15th Assembly has been duly constituted, dismissing these concerns. The prolonged uncertainty continues to dominate Maharashtra’s political landscape.

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