Tue Nov 26 15:59:29 UTC 2024: ## BJP Delays Maharashtra CM Announcement, Prioritizes Portfolio Allocation

**Mumbai, [Date]** – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has postponed the announcement of its chief ministerial candidate for Maharashtra, prioritizing the allocation of ministerial portfolios within the newly formed government. Following a landslide victory in the recent state assembly elections, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured 230 out of 288 seats. However, internal discussions regarding cabinet formation are delaying the decision on who will lead the state.

Governor Ramesh Bais has asked outgoing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to continue in a caretaker role. While former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is considered a frontrunner, Shiv Sena leaders have voiced support for Shinde’s continuation, and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) hasn’t ruled out Fadnavis.

A senior BJP leader explained that the party is focusing on a comprehensive plan for government formation, including the distribution of key posts like district guardian ministers. The central leadership is reportedly hesitant to rush the CM announcement due to past internal rivalries and the need for consensus among coalition partners. The party aims to ensure all coalition members agree before proceeding.

The BJP’s careful approach reflects the complexities of forming a government in a state as large as Maharashtra, with 36 districts requiring representation in the cabinet. The process is further complicated by the ongoing parliamentary session, stretching the central leadership’s resources. A team of observers will be sent to Mumbai to meet with MLAs and senior party officials to finalize the cabinet formula before a decision on the chief minister is made. The party will then announce its choice for the leader of the legislative wing.

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