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Eknath Shinde’s role in the Mahayuti government goes beyond ministerial positions. Shinde’s leadership during his tenure as chief minister helped the BJP navigate tricky situations, including the split in the Shiv Sena and the Maratha protests
Sources suggest that Eknath Shinde has asked the BJP to give the deputy CM post to another leader from his Shiv Sena faction. He is even considering staying out of the government entirely. (File photo/PTI)
The Mahayuti alliance is moving swiftly to form the new government in Maharashtra. A crucial meeting between union home minister Amit Shah and alliance leaders was held in Delhi on Thursday night. During this meeting, the Bharatiya Janata Party reportedly proposed the deputy chief minister post for Eknath Shinde. However, Shinde, who initially sought to retain the CM’s post, is reluctant to accept the offer. His resistance has created a political dilemma for the BJP.
Sources suggest that Eknath Shinde has asked the BJP to give the deputy CM post to another leader from his Shiv Sena faction. He is even considering staying out of the government entirely. However, the BJP is unwilling to let Shinde step aside, citing his importance in the new government. Shinde reportedly feels that accepting the deputy CM role would be a significant step down after holding the chief minister’s chair. He has also allegedly suggested his son, Shrikant Shinde, for the deputy CM post. However, this proposal is unlikely to be approved by the BJP. Shrikant Shinde lacks the political experience required for such a high-profile position. The BJP believes elevating him to this role could invite accusations of nepotism. Moreover, many senior leaders within Shinde’s faction may feel sidelined, leading to internal unrest.
If Shrikant Shinde were to take the deputy CM post, he would be placed alongside seasoned leaders like Ajit Pawar. Comparisons between the two could weaken the image of the Shiv Sena faction. BJP strategists also fear that Shrikant’s aggressive political style may lead to issues within the government.
The BJP views Eknath Shinde as a crucial figure in its government. Over the past year, Shinde has emerged as a prominent face of the Maratha community in Maharashtra. His association with key Maratha leaders, such as activist Manoj Jarange Patil, has strengthened his position. Shinde’s popularity and credibility among Marathas are valuable assets for the BJP. In the event of future protests or unrest over the Maratha reservation issue, the BJP believes Shinde’s involvement in the government will help defuse tensions.
Another reason the BJP is insistent on Shinde’s presence is the growing influence of Ajit Pawar within the Mahayuti alliance. If Shinde stepped aside, Pawar’s authority and control over the government could increase significantly. To counterbalance Pawar, the BJP wants two strong Maratha leaders in key positions. Shinde’s continued involvement would ensure that Pawar’s influence does not dominate the alliance. This balance is critical to maintaining the unity and stability of the Mahayuti government.
While Shinde is unwilling to accept the deputy CM role, he has reportedly demanded key portfolios as compensation. These include home, urban development, and public works—some of the most significant ministries in the government. The BJP is currently evaluating these demands as part of the ongoing negotiations. Whether these demands will be accepted remains uncertain. However, they reflect Shinde’s determination to retain political relevance within the government.
Eknath Shinde’s role in the Mahayuti government goes beyond ministerial positions. He is seen as a crucial link to the Maratha community, which has been at the centre of Maharashtra’s political debates. Shinde’s leadership during his tenure as chief minister helped the BJP navigate tricky situations, including the split in the Shiv Sena and the Maratha protests. His absence could leave a gap that the BJP might struggle to fill. Moreover, Shinde’s exit could embolden Ajit Pawar, who has already consolidated his position within the Mahayuti alliance. Pawar’s growing influence could disrupt the BJP’s plans and create a power imbalance in the government.
Eknath Shinde’s reluctance to accept the deputy CM role has added complexity to the Mahayuti government formation. While Shinde’s demands for key portfolios indicate his intent to stay relevant, the BJP’s insistence on his involvement underscores his importance in the alliance. Balancing the aspirations of Shinde and Pawar is a delicate task for the BJP. How this political tug-of-war resolves will have a lasting impact on the dynamics of the new Maharashtra government.
