Wed Dec 04 16:22:22 UTC 2024: ## Devendra Fadnavis Sworn in as Maharashtra Chief Minister in Surprise Coalition

**Mumbai, December 4, 2024** – In a stunning political development, Devendra Fadnavis has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for a third term. This comes after a dramatic turn of events involving a coalition of the BJP, the Eknath Shinde faction of Shiv Sena, and a breakaway group from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar.

Fadnavis, along with Shinde and Pawar, submitted a claim to Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan to form the government. BJP observers Vijay Rupani and Nirmala Sitharaman were present during the submission. A subsequent press conference saw Fadnavis and Shinde state that details regarding the remaining ministers and their portfolios would be released later. The swearing-in ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is scheduled for 5:30 PM tomorrow at Azad Maidan.

While initial reports suggested negotiations were ongoing regarding the Deputy Chief Minister positions, Ajit Pawar confirmed his own swearing-in, adding that the situation regarding the others would be clarified later. Eknath Shinde, initially reported to be insistent on the Home Ministry, ultimately accepted the Deputy Chief Minister post. Both Fadnavis and Shinde emphasized the unity of the alliance, downplaying the significance of titles and highlighting their shared commitment to Maharashtra’s development.

The unexpected alliance, dubbed the “Maha Yuti” (Grand Alliance), commands a significant majority with over 230 seats in the state assembly. The BJP secured 132 seats, the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena 57, and the Pawar faction of NCP 41. Speculation regarding the cabinet composition is rife, with reports suggesting a formula of approximately one minister for every 6-7 MLAs.

This development marks a significant victory for Fadnavis, who was previously Chief Minister twice. The BJP’s strong showing in the recent elections is largely attributed to his leadership. The swift formation of this government follows days of intense political maneuvering and negotiations, culminating in this dramatic coalition that has reshaped the political landscape of Maharashtra.

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