Wed Nov 27 22:41:21 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra CM Deadlock Continues as Shinde to Address Press Conference

**Mumbai, India –** Suspense hangs over the Maharashtra Chief Ministership as caretaker CM Eknath Shinde prepares to address a press conference later today. The Mahayuti alliance, which secured a decisive victory in the November 20th assembly elections, remains divided on its choice of leader.

The BJP emerged as the largest party, winning 132 seats, while its allies, Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena (57 seats) and Ajit Pawar’s NCP (41 seats), also contributed significantly to the coalition’s success. Shinde resigned as CM on Tuesday, assuming the caretaker role until a new government is formed.

However, divisions within the alliance are apparent. RPI(A) leader Ramdas Athawale, a key BJP ally, publicly advocated for BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis as the next CM, citing the BJP’s substantial seat count. Athawale suggested that Shinde, who reportedly feels unhappy about Fadnavis’s potential appointment, could be offered a position in the Union cabinet. Athawale’s comments highlight the internal struggle between the BJP’s desire to install Fadnavis and the Shiv Sena’s apparent preference for Shinde’s continuation. Shinde’s press conference is expected to shed light on this ongoing deadlock.

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