Tue Dec 03 17:57:18 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Power Sharing Deal Reached: Fadnavis to be CM, Shinde Deputy

**Mumbai, December 4:** A power-sharing agreement has been reached within Maharashtra’s Mahayuti alliance, ending days of speculation over the Chief Minister’s post. Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP will return as Chief Minister, while Eknath Shinde, the Shiv Sena leader, will serve as his Deputy. NCP leader Ajit Pawar will also be sworn in as a key member of the government.

The announcement follows a crucial meeting between Fadnavis and Shinde, resolving a standoff that had threatened the coalition government’s formation. Shinde, who previously served as Chief Minister, had initially resisted taking the deputy’s role. However, after intense negotiations, he agreed to the arrangement.

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

Shinde, who recently underwent medical tests for a throat infection, is expected to play a key role in finalizing cabinet portfolios in the coming days. The BJP legislative party will meet on Wednesday to formally elect Fadnavis as its leader, paving the way for the official announcement of the new government.

The deal marks a significant political shift in Maharashtra, ending a period of uncertainty following the recent elections and subsequent negotiations. The allocation of ministerial portfolios among the three alliance partners will be determined following the swearing-in ceremony.

Read More