Wed Dec 04 11:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Fadnavis Returns as Maharashtra CM, Pawar Deputy in Surprise Coalition

**Mumbai, [Date]** – Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for a second time on Thursday, forming a government with a surprising coalition of the BJP, the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena, and a breakaway group from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar. Pawar will serve as Deputy Chief Minister.

The announcement followed a meeting between the Mahayuti alliance leaders and Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, where they staked their claim to form the government. A letter of support signed by all alliance MLAs was submitted.

While the alliance boasts a clear majority, the inclusion of current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde remains uncertain. Despite assurances from Fadnavis that all alliance leaders wished for Shinde’s continued participation in the government, potentially as Deputy CM, sources indicate Shinde’s happiness with the arrangement remains questionable, with the Shiv Sena reportedly pushing for key ministerial portfolios.

Fadnavis insisted that the trio – himself, Shinde, and Pawar – will continue to make collective decisions, downplaying the Chief Minister’s role as a “technical arrangement.” Shinde, in turn, reiterated his support for the decision made by Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP president J.P. Nadda.

Ajit Pawar addressed speculation about a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, clarifying that his visit was personal. He expressed confidence in the coalition’s majority and ability to govern effectively.

The BJP legislative party unanimously approved Fadnavis’s nomination for Chief Minister earlier in the day. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 5:30 PM on Thursday. The portfolio distribution and power-sharing arrangements are expected to be finalized later. The news comes amidst reports that the Shiv Sena is demanding key ministerial portfolios held by Fadnavis.

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