After days of speculation, acting Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday announced his withdrawal from the race for the Chief Minister’s post, effectively clearing the way for BJP leader and former CM Devendra Fadnavis to assume the role. Speaking to the media, Shinde expressed gratitude for the landslide victory of the Mahayuti alliance in the state elections and reaffirmed his loyalty to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“I am not upset or angry. For the past few days, there have been rumors, but let me clarify — we are not people who get miffed,” Shinde said. He emphasized his commitment to the alliance, stating, “I spoke with the PM yesterday and assured him there will be no obstruction from our side. The BJP’s decision is final. I told PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to make a decision, and Shiv Sena will fully support it.”
Shinde’s announcement signals a likely return to power for Fadnavis, one of Maharashtra’s most prominent BJP leaders. The BJP secured 132 of the 288 Assembly seats in the recent elections, while Shinde’s Shiv Sena bagged 57. Together, the Mahayuti coalition won an overwhelming 235 seats, marking a historic victory.
Eknath Shinde rose to power in June 2022 after leading a dramatic revolt within the Shiv Sena that unseated Uddhav Thackeray. In a surprising arrangement, the BJP made Fadnavis Shinde’s deputy in the coalition government, enabling Shinde to serve as CM. Reflecting on his tenure, Shinde expressed pride in his contributions and the support from the central leadership.
“Who is the leader of NDA? PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. I have left the decision to them. Their candidate for the CM post will have Shiv Sena’s complete backing,” Shinde said.
Fadnavis, widely regarded as the BJP’s face in Maharashtra, has received strong support from party leaders and allies. His anticipated return to the Chief Minister’s office comes amid calls for stability and effective governance in the state following the coalition’s resounding mandate.
Shinde’s declaration has been seen as a strategic move to ensure unity within the alliance and focus on delivering on the Mahayuti’s electoral promises. As Maharashtra awaits official confirmation, the transition signals a renewed chapter for the state under the leadership of the BJP and Shiv Sena alliance.
