New Delhi: Speculation of a growing rift within Maharashtra’s BJP-led Mahayuti alliance has intensified after Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s conspicuous absence from three high-profile government events.
Shinde’s absence from the inauguration of a Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue, Maratha king’s birth anniversary celebrations, and the opening of a theme park, all attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, fuels ongoing rumours of a cold war within the ruling coalition.
The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, swept the November 2024 state elections with a decisive victory. However, this seemingly strong alliance has been plagued by undercurrents of discontent since its formation. Shinde’s exclusion from the Chief Minister’s post, despite leading the Shiv Sena faction into the alliance, and his subsequent appointment to the State Disaster Management Authority, hinted at early tensions.
Recent events have exacerbated these tensions. The withdrawal of ‘Y’ category security cover from several MLAs, disproportionately affecting Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction, has fueled further speculation. While the government claims the move was based on a security assessment, the high number of affected MLAs from Shinde’s party has triggered resentment.
Disagreements within the alliance also extend beyond security concerns. The rollout of the Ladki Bahin Yojana, largely credited with the alliance’s electoral success, became a source of friction when Shinde’s party objected to the omission of “Mukhyamantri (Chief Minister)” from the NCP’s promotional materials.
Similarly, the appointment of guardian ministers in Nashik and Raigad sparked further disagreement. Shinde’s absence from a review meeting for the 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela, chaired by Fadnavis, further highlights the growing divide.
Despite these mounting tensions, senior BJP leader Ashish Shelar downplayed the rift, insisting that the government functions harmoniously. Shinde himself echoed this sentiment, denying any “cold war.” However, Shinde’s absence from these crucial events and the persistent disagreements within the coalition cast doubt on the alliance’s unity and its ability to govern effectively. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the Mahayuti can overcome these internal divisions or succumb to the strain.
