Wed Nov 27 08:56:54 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Chief Minister Selection Remains in Limbo Amidst BJP-Shiv Sena Power Struggle

**Mumbai, [Date]** – The selection of Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister remains uncertain, despite the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition securing a landslide victory in the recent state elections. While the BJP insists on Devendra Fadnavis returning to the top post, its ally, the Shiv Sena, continues to push for Eknath Shinde’s reappointment. This stalemate has fueled speculation and internal disagreements within the ruling coalition.

The BJP firmly rejected comparisons to the Bihar model, where Nitish Kumar leads the government despite the BJP holding more seats. BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla emphasized the party’s stronger organizational base in Maharashtra and the absence of a pre-election commitment to Shinde similar to the one made to Kumar in Bihar. He reiterated that the BJP’s decision on the chief ministerial candidate would be made after the election results.

While BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar stated that a BJP member will become Chief Minister, he acknowledged the final decision rests with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He assured the formation of a Mahayuti government, though the specific leadership remains undecided.

Conversely, Shiv Sena sources indicated a wait-and-see approach from the BJP’s top leadership, citing the lack of appointed observers and an unannounced legislative party meeting. The allocation of ministerial portfolios is pending the finalization of the power-sharing agreement.

Adding another layer of complexity, the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP has also voiced support for Fadnavis’s return. This support, along with the BJP’s 132 seats, the Shiv Sena’s 57, and the NCP’s 41, solidifies the Mahayuti’s substantial majority (230 out of 288 seats).

Despite the BJP’s apparent preference for Fadnavis, who served as Chief Minister from 2014-2019, the Shiv Sena’s insistence on Shinde’s continuation highlights the ongoing power struggle. Shinde resigned as Chief Minister on Tuesday, but remains as caretaker until a new government is sworn in. The BJP clarified that the announcement of a Chief Minister will be delayed until portfolio allocation is finalized.

Discussions regarding ministerial positions suggest the BJP aiming for the home department and around 20 ministerial berths, while the Shiv Sena and NCP could receive 11-12 and 10, respectively. While NCP’s Sunil Tatkare suggested Ajit Pawar for Chief Minister, he acknowledged the practical limitations. He expressed confidence in a swift resolution within a day or two. The ongoing negotiations highlight the intricate power dynamics and the uncertainty surrounding Maharashtra’s future leadership.

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