New Delhi: Caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, currently recuperating from a high fever and throat infection at his native village of Dare in Satara, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for the next Maharashtra Chief Minister. Shinde, who fell ill after a gruelling election schedule, is expected to return to Mumbai later today.
Speaking about his tenure and the alliance’s historic mandate, Shinde said, “Our government’s work over the last 2.5 years will be written in golden letters. I have already given my unconditional support to the BJP leadership and will back their decision on the Chief Minister.”
No decision on CM yet
The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, secured a landslide victory in last month’s assembly elections, collectively winning 230 seats. However, the decision over the Chief Minister’s post has seen delays, reportedly due to internal discussions.
BJP leader Raosaheb Danve hinted that the choice for the next Chief Minister has been finalised, though formal confirmation from the leadership is awaited. Speculation points to Devendra Fadnavis, a two-time Chief Minister and Deputy CM in the previous government, as the likely candidate.
Swearing-in ceremony on December 5
The swearing-in ceremony for the new Mahayuti government is scheduled for December 5 at Azad Maidan, Mumbai. State BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would attend the event.
Shinde’s visit to his native village comes amid reports of dissatisfaction with the pace of government formation. Reflecting on his tenure, he remarked, “I did not take any leave during my time as CM. People’s faith in our government is evident, as the opposition couldn’t even elect a leader of opposition.”
