The Mahayuti alliance comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP has secured a sweeping victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, winning 232 out of 288 seats. However, the celebrations are clouded by the critical question: who will be the next Chief Minister? With three parties vying for influence, the decision on the top post remains contentious.
The Numbers Game
Of the 232 seats, the BJP won 132, Shiv Sena 57, and NCP 41. Despite the BJP emerging as the dominant partner, its 14-seat deficit to a clear majority means it requires support from one of its allies to form the government. This dynamic has put Shiv Sena and NCP in a position to negotiate for key roles in the cabinet, including the Chief Minister’s post.
BJP’s Case for Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis, a seasoned leader and former Chief Minister, is the BJP’s frontrunner for the position. Fadnavis, who played a key role in BJP’s impressive strike rate of 132 wins from 148 contested seats, served as Deputy Chief Minister in Eknath Shinde’s government. BJP leaders argue that his leadership and the party’s significant contribution to the alliance’s victory justify his return to the top role.
Reports suggest that the BJP is against any rotational Chief Minister formula and is pushing for Fadnavis to hold the post for the full five-year term.
Shiv Sena’s Push for Eknath Shinde
On the other hand, the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, insists he should continue as Chief Minister, emphasizing that his government’s policies were instrumental in securing the Mahayuti’s victory. At a recent Sena meeting, party MLAs raised slogans in support of Shinde retaining the position.
Shinde’s supporters argue that relinquishing the Chief Minister post would weaken his leadership and expose him to criticism from rivals like Uddhav Thackeray, who has already taken jabs at Shinde, saying he would have to work “under Fadnavis.”
NCP’s Role in the Decision
The NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, may emerge as a kingmaker in this equation. Sources suggest that Pawar’s faction could support Fadnavis, which would tilt the scales in favor of the BJP. However, the NCP is likely to demand significant cabinet posts in exchange for its support.
Unanimous Decision and Rotational Formula
The three alliance partners have stated that the final decision on the Chief Minister will be unanimous. Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar are expected to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi to discuss the matter. A rotational Chief Ministership formula, wherein the post is shared between two leaders during the five-year term, is also reportedly on the table.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its strong position, the BJP’s reliance on allies and the resulting power-sharing negotiations highlight the challenges of coalition politics. The decision on the Chief Minister post will not only determine the immediate political scenario in Maharashtra but also shape the alliance’s future dynamics and voter perception leading up to the 2024 general elections.
As deliberations continue, all eyes are on Delhi, where the alliance’s top leaders are expected to finalize their decision. The outcome will signal whether the Mahayuti can maintain unity or if internal rivalries could lead to cracks in the alliance.