Tue Dec 03 15:23:57 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra’s Power Sharing Deal Sealed: Fadnavis to be CM, Shinde Deputy

**Mumbai, December 4:** The political deadlock in Maharashtra has ended with a power-sharing agreement between the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP. Devendra Fadnavis will return as Chief Minister, while Eknath Shinde will serve as his Deputy. NCP leader Ajit Pawar will also be sworn in as a minister.

The announcement follows a crucial meeting between Fadnavis and Shinde, resolving a standoff over the top post. Shinde, who served as Chief Minister for two years, had initially been reluctant to accept the deputy’s role. However, after intense negotiations, a compromise was reached.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat confirmed that all is well within the Mahayuti coalition, stating that the swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for 5 pm on December 5th at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, will proceed as planned. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries are expected to attend.

Shinde, who recently underwent medical tests for a throat infection, will lead discussions on the allocation of cabinet portfolios in the coming days. The BJP Legislative Party will meet on Wednesday to formally elect Fadnavis as their leader.

This resolution comes after a weekend of uncertainty, sparked by Shinde’s sudden illness and trip to his hometown. His return to Mumbai and subsequent meetings with Fadnavis and a trip to Delhi by Ajit Pawar paved the way for the final agreement. The cabinet positions and portfolios for the three alliance partners will be finalized following the swearing-in ceremony.

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