Shiv Sena should get Home portfolio in new Maharashtra government, says party leader Shirsat

Sat Nov 30 05:43:53 UTC 2024: ## Shiv Sena Demands Key Portfolio Amidst Maharashtra Government Formation Uncertainty

**Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra –** Tensions are rising within the Maharashtra Mahayuti alliance as the formation of the new government following the recent state elections remains uncertain. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat has publicly demanded that his party receive the crucial Home Department portfolio, claiming that attempts are being made to sideline caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

The BJP, which won 132 seats, is expected to lead the government, but the allocation of key portfolios is proving contentious. Shirsat argued that Shinde’s popularity and successful implementation of welfare schemes, including the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, warrant the Shiv Sena’s control over the Home Department, currently held by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He suggested that Shinde, who has publicly expressed support for the BJP’s decision on the next Chief Minister, is nonetheless upset by the negotiations.

Shirsat highlighted Shinde’s role in addressing the Maratha reservation issue and his significant contribution to the Mahayuti’s electoral victory. He believes that Shinde, if given more time as CM, could have further benefited the state. While Shinde has said he would not be a hurdle in the government formation process, Shirsat’s statements point to growing fissures within the alliance, comprised of the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, which collectively won 230 out of 288 assembly seats. The BJP’s claim to the Chief Minister’s position based on its higher seat count has reportedly caused friction with the Shiv Sena. The new Chief Minister is expected to be sworn in on December 5th.