Thu Dec 05 13:38:11 UTC 2024: ## Fadnavis Sworn in as Maharashtra CM, Shinde and Pawar as Deputy CMs

**Mumbai, [Date]** – Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra today, marking his third term in the post. Simultaneously, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar took oaths as Deputy Chief Ministers. The ceremony, held at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and numerous other dignitaries including several Chief Ministers.

The event was marked by both political significance and lighter moments. A humorous exchange between PM Modi and Shinde after the latter’s oath-taking left the Deputy CM in laughter. Immediately following the ceremony, Shinde and Pawar proceeded to their respective ministries to meet with officials. CM Fadnavis is expected to convene a cabinet meeting shortly.

The newly sworn-in leaders paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Babasaheb Ambedkar, a symbolic gesture carrying weight in Maharashtra’s politically sensitive socio-religious landscape.

Earlier, there was some suspense surrounding Shinde’s participation, with reports of his displeasure. However, BJP leader Girish Mahajan confirmed Shinde’s participation as Deputy CM. The ceremony was preceded by Fadnavis’s mother performing his aarti, a picture of which went viral on social media. Shinde, before his oath, paid respects to Balasaheb Thackeray and Anand Dighe and expressed gratitude to PM Modi and HM Shah – an unusual public display of thanks.

The swearing-in ceremony attracted a large crowd, including celebrities such as Sachin Tendulkar, Salman Khan, and Ranbir Kapoor. Reports suggest that the allocation of portfolios, particularly the coveted Urban Development Ministry, is a point of contention within the new government. Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar did not attend the ceremony. There were initial concerns about Shinde’s willingness to accept the Deputy CM’s post, with Shiv Sena leaders actively working to persuade him. These concerns were ultimately resolved, leading to the successful formation of the new government.

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