Thu Dec 05 21:35:37 UTC 2024: ## Fadnavis Sworn in as Maharashtra Chief Minister for Third Time in Star-Studded Ceremony

**Mumbai, Dec 5 (IANS)** – Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Maharashtra Chief Minister for a third term on Thursday in a lavish ceremony attended by a galaxy of dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan administered the oath at a ceremony that also saw Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers.

The ceremony, held at Azad Maidan, was attended by a massive crowd estimated at over 40,000 people, including prominent figures from business, Bollywood, and politics. High-profile attendees included Mukesh Ambani, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and numerous Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from other BJP-ruled states, and representatives from various industries and social groups. The event featured a strong security presence with over 5,000 police personnel deployed.

Fadnavis’s cabinet is expected to be expanded on December 11 or 12, before the winter session of the state legislature begins in Nagpur on December 16. The swearing-in marked a significant political development, with Shinde’s participation following earlier reported reluctance. The event underscored the BJP’s strong position in Maharashtra, forming a government with the Shiv Sena and a faction of the NCP.

Read More