The suspense regarding the formation of the new government in Maharashtra is continuously increasing. Due to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde going to his native village Dare, the big and important meeting of the Mahayuti proposed on Friday has been postponed. On this, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat on Friday gave a big hint regarding the upcoming decision of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He said that whenever the Chief Minister has to consider any major decision, he goes to his native village. He will take a big decision by tomorrow evening.
Due to this delay, the new government could not be formed even a week after the declaration of the assembly election results. Shiv Sena sources said that now this meeting is likely to be held in Mumbai on Sunday. Meanwhile, BJP leaders said that they are waiting for the arrival of central observers for the legislature party meeting.
Had discussion with Shah in Delhi
Eknath Shinde met Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Thursday night and discussed the formation of the new government. Shinde described it as positive and expressed hope for the next round of discussions in Mumbai on Friday. However, according to BJP sources, no meeting of Mahayuti was scheduled on Friday. Leaders of BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) met Shah and J.P. in Delhi. Had met Nadda and discussed the distribution of power.
Doubt over Shinde becoming Deputy Chief Minister
Differences are emerging within Shiv Sena regarding Shinde’s role in the new government. Some leaders are advising Shinde to accept the post of Deputy Chief Minister, while others believe that after holding the post of Chief Minister for two and a half years, this role will not be suitable for him. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat said that if Shinde does not take the post of Deputy Chief Minister, then this post will go to some other leader of his party.
Opinion of senior Shiv Sena leaders
Senior Shiv Sena leader Shambhuraj Desai said that party workers want Shinde to play a major role in the new government. At the same time, Samant said that Shinde is not angry, and has gone due to health reasons. He also clarified that in case of no meeting, discussion is possible through video conferencing.
Swearing in may take place next week
In the 288-member assembly elections in Maharashtra, BJP won 132 seats, Shiv Sena 57, and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) 41 seats. The swearing in of the new government is likely to take place next week. However, the process is getting delayed due to power sharing and the ongoing tussle over Shinde’s role. A major decision in this direction can be taken in the proposed meeting of Mahayuti on Sunday.