Will Accept PM Modi’s Decision on CM Candidate: Shinde

In a press conference held at his residence in Thane, Mumbai, on Wednesday, Acting Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde made a crucial statement. Shinde revealed that he had spoken with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, assuring them that he would accept any decision regarding Maharashtra’s Chief Ministerial position. This announcement ends the uncertainty surrounding the leadership choice after the state elections. Shinde’s statement has paved the way for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to select its preferred candidate for the top post.

Shinde further mentioned that Amit Shah is scheduled to hold a meeting in Delhi with leaders of the three parties forming the grand alliance on Thursday. This meeting will finalize the government formation in Maharashtra. Reassuring his party and alliance members, Shinde stated, “I am not unhappy nor will I create obstacles in their decision-making process. We will wholeheartedly support any decision taken by Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah.”

Amid speculation of a power struggle between Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the chief ministerial role, Shinde had tendered his resignation on Tuesday, effectively dissolving the current government. While addressing this speculation, he clarified that he neither harbored unhappiness nor anger over the political scenario. Instead, he emphasized his dedication to the people and his belief in the alliance’s unity.

Election Results and the Grand Alliance

In the recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) achieved a significant victory by securing 235 out of 288 seats. Of these, the BJP won 132 seats, Shiv Sena claimed 57, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) secured 41. The remaining seats were won by smaller parties allied with the ruling coalition. Shiv Sena MLAs had strongly supported Shinde’s candidature for the chief ministerial position, citing his effective handling of key issues such as the Maratha quota agitation and his popular welfare initiatives like the Ladki Behan Yojana, which boosted the alliance’s overall performance.

On the other hand, the BJP is reportedly keen on claiming the chief ministerial post after its strong performance in the elections, where it fell just 12 seats short of a simple majority. The NCP has also extended its support for a BJP-led candidate, further strengthening the party’s case.

Shinde’s Leadership and Legacy

Shinde dismissed the idea of vying for the CM post, reiterating that his focus has always been on serving people rather than chasing positions of power. Reflecting on his journey, Shinde said, “I come from a humble background. My family struggled to make ends meet, and this has driven me to work for the welfare of farmers and the underprivileged.” He highlighted that welfare schemes like Ladki Behan Yojana were implemented to uplift marginalized communities and transform lives.

Shinde also expressed pride in his tenure as Chief Minister, stating that he had fulfilled Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision of elevating an ordinary Shiv Sainik to the state’s highest office. “Maharashtra has witnessed a historic victory under our leadership. This success is a result of the Mahayuti’s efforts and the people’s trust in us,” he remarked.

He credited the BJP-led central government for its unwavering support, noting that funding and guidance from Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah were instrumental in implementing development projects and welfare schemes. “The alignment between the state and central governments allowed us to achieve remarkable progress. I am deeply satisfied with the decisions we took during my tenure,” Shinde added.

Reactions from Political Leaders

Following Shinde’s announcement, Maharashtra BJP Chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule praised his contributions to the alliance’s resounding mandate. “Eknath Shinde has been an exceptional leader, following the BJP’s directives as a true ally. His efforts have been pivotal in securing the Mahayuti’s unprecedented success,” Bawankule said.

NCP state president Sunil Tatkare echoed similar sentiments, reaffirming the party’s stance on allowing the BJP to decide the CM candidate. “We had already made our position clear. The decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate will be finalized on Thursday,” Tatkare said.

As Maharashtra awaits the formal announcement, the political developments signify a moment of transition and reflect Shinde’s commitment to prioritizing the alliance’s stability and progress over personal ambitions.