Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar dispelled speculation of a deadlock over the Chief Minister’s post in Maharashtra, confirming that preparations for the swearing-in ceremony on December 5 are progressing smoothly. Speaking on Monday, Kesarkar clarified that caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is not the cause of any delays in government formation following the Mahayuti coalition’s landslide victory in the recent Assembly elections.
“It is incorrect to say that Eknath Shinde is the reason why the government is not being formed in the state,” Kesarkar said, addressing widespread speculation. He emphasized that final discussions are underway, and the BJP’s appointed observers will announce the Chief Ministerial candidate soon.
Shinde, who has been unwell and cancelled public engagements recently, has placed his trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the final decision. “Eknath Shinde has made it clear that PM Modi and Amit Shah’s decision will be final,” Kesarkar reiterated, praising Shinde’s dedication to the Mahayuti alliance’s unity.
BJP Expected to Lead Government
The Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, emerged victorious in the November 20 elections, securing 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP won 132 seats, followed by the Shiv Sena with 57, and the NCP with 41.
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With the BJP taking a dominant position, Devendra Fadnavis is widely regarded as the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s role. NCP leader Ajit Pawar confirmed the arrangement, stating that Deputy Chief Minister positions would be allocated to the Shiv Sena and NCP.
Swearing-In Ceremony Confirmed
Kesarkar and Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule both confirmed that the swearing-in ceremony will take place on December 5 at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, with PM Modi expected to attend.
Amidst these developments, Kesarkar also dismissed rumors about Shinde’s son, Shrikant Shinde, being considered for a Deputy Chief Minister role. Shrikant refuted the claims, asserting, “I have no desire for a position in power. My focus remains on my Lok Sabha constituency and my party’s growth.”
A Unified Roadmap
Kesarkar reiterated that the BJP would lead the coalition while emphasizing the collaborative efforts of all allies. “The Home Department, like other key portfolios, is always jointly run by the Chief Minister and the Home Minister,” he added, further solidifying the coalition’s unified strategy for governance.
As the Mahayuti alliance prepares to assume office, the state looks forward to a new chapter under this coalition’s leadership.
