Mumbai: Maharashtra’s political landscape is witnessing another upheaval. On one hand, veteran leader Sharad Pawar is honouring Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while on the other, Shinde appears dissatisfied with the ruling Mahayuti alliance with the BJP. These contrasting developments highlight the growing complexities and shifting alliances in the state’s politics.
Two key ministers from Shinde’s Sena faction, Bharat Gogawale and Dada Bhuse, have expressed displeasure with their government. Their primary grievance is the denying of guardian minister posts in their respective districts, sources said.
Both are considered close confidants of Shinde and their disappointment seems to have affected him as well. Notably, Shinde skipped two cabinet meetings chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Before a previous meeting, he even conducted a separate cabinet session exclusively with Shiv Sena ministers before attending the official one.
Pawar praises Shinde, Sena UBT upset
On Wednesday, Sharad Pawar’s public appreciation of Eknath Shinde left leaders of the Shiv Sena UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) deeply upset. Sanjay Raut openly expressed his dissatisfaction, calling a recent Delhi literary event—where Pawar honoured Shinde—a “political deal”.
Raut questioned why Pawar would praise a leader who “betrayed Maharashtra”, toppled the government and weakened Shiv Sena. He reminded Pawar that Thane’s development began under Balasaheb Thackeray long before Shinde became an MLA. The remarks triggered a sharp response from Shinde’s camp, with his supporters launching a counterattack on Raut.
Shinde’s growing frustration with Mahayuti
There are two key political dimensions to this situation. First, Shinde is reportedly upset over the denial of crucial posts, including the Guardian Ministership of Raigad and Nashik, as well as the Home Minister portfolio.
Second, while Shinde remains disgruntled with his alliance partners, Sharad Pawar is publicly appreciating his leadership and honouring him for his role in shaping Thane’s political landscape. These developments have intensified turmoil within both the Mahavikas Aghadi and Mahayuti coalitions.
Adding another layer to the intrigue, Fadnavis has been meeting leaders from the UBT faction. Recently, he hosted Rahul Narwekar and Subhash Desai at his official residence while his close aide and minister Chandrakant Patil was seen meeting Uddhav Thackeray at a wedding.
Interestingly, Fadnavis even visited Raj Thackeray at his residence in Dadar. These interactions have sparked speculation about shifting political dynamics, leaving many wondering who is aligning with whom in Maharashtra’s ever-evolving power struggle.
Operation Tiger and UBT’s Concerns
Meanwhile, the fear of “Operation Tiger” looms over Maharashtra’s politics. Aditya Thackeray recently visited Delhi to meet his nine MPs, possibly to prevent any defections. However, in a major political development, Shinde’s faction is set to induct former MLA Rajan Salvi, a senior leader from Konkan and a stronghold of the UBT faction. Shinde himself will be present at the induction event.
With tensions running high, Maharashtra’s political arena is witnessing multiple realignments. While the Shinde vs Uddhav battle continues, unexpected cordiality is emerging between Shinde and Sharad Pawar.
Simultaneously, Fadnavis’ interactions with UBT leaders, and vice versa, add another layer of complexity. Amid these shifting alliances, one question remains unanswered— who is aligned with whom in Maharashtra’s volatile politics.
