Thu Dec 05 15:16:26 UTC 2024: ## Shinde Sworn in as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister After Last-Minute Uncertainty

**Mumbai, December 5, 2024** – Eknath Shinde was sworn in as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Thursday evening, ending days of speculation about his participation in the new government. The Shiv Sena leader, after initially hesitating, accepted the position under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The swearing-in ceremony took an unexpected turn when Mr. Shinde, after taking the oath, delivered an unscripted speech thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, momentarily disrupting the proceedings. Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan was mid-sentence when Mr. Shinde interrupted.

Prior to the ceremony, there was considerable uncertainty regarding Mr. Shinde’s participation. Sources indicated he had been reconsidering his role after losing the Chief Minister’s post to Mr. Fadnavis. This hesitation was reportedly linked to negotiations over key cabinet positions for his faction of the Shiv Sena. The BJP and Shinde Sena reportedly agreed to a power-sharing arrangement giving the BJP around 20 cabinet berths and a dozen to the Shinde faction. High-profile portfolios, including the Home Ministry (currently held by Mr. Fadnavis), Water Resources, and Public Works Department, are expected to go to Shinde’s faction. The exact allocation of these portfolios remains unclear.

Following the ceremony, Mr. Shinde’s office announced he would visit memorials honoring Balasaheb Thackeray and his political mentor, Anand Dighe.

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