Ramdas Athawale Backs Fadnavis for Maharashtra CM, Suggests Role Shift for Shinde
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Tuesday publicly backed BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra, proposing that current CM Eknath Shinde either step into a Deputy CM role or join the central government.
Speaking on the ongoing political developments, Athawale emphasized the need for the BJP high command to finalize the leadership decision swiftly after consulting with Fadnavis, Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
Shinde’s Discontent
Athawale disclosed that Shinde seemed “unhappy” upon learning that the BJP high command had reportedly decided on Fadnavis as the next CM.
“When Eknath Shinde came to know that the BJP high command has finalized Devendra Fadnavis as the CM, he is a bit unhappy, which I can understand,” Athawale said. He added, “But BJP has 132 seats, so Devendra Fadnavis should lead. Shinde can be made a Union Minister.”
Shinde’s reaction to the unfolding situation was measured. He appealed to his supporters not to gather in Mumbai or anywhere else in his favor.
“Out of love for me, some congregations have appealed to everyone to gather together and come to Mumbai. I am deeply grateful for your love. But I appeal that no one should come together in my support in such a manner,” Shinde said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. He reassured his allies in the MahaYuti coalition that the alliance remains united.
Athawale’s Proposal and Cabinet Expectations
Athawale suggested that Shinde adopt a compromise similar to Fadnavis’ previous acceptance of a secondary role under Shinde’s leadership. “A quick compromise is necessary. Shinde’s contribution of 57 MLAs and his developmental work cannot be overlooked,” Athawale noted.
Additionally, Athawale reiterated his request for the Republican Party of India (Athawale) to secure a ministerial post in the expanded cabinet.
MahaYuti Alliance’s Success
In the recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly elections held on November 20, the BJP emerged as the single largest party, securing 132 seats out of 288.
Its allies, Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, won 57 and 41 seats respectively, giving the MahaYuti alliance a historic victory with 230 seats.
This outcome surpassed BJP’s previous tallies of 105 seats in 2019 and 122 in 2014, further strengthening its claim to the top post.
Fadnavis as the Frontrunner
Athawale’s endorsement of Fadnavis aligns with public sentiment, as he claimed, “The people of Maharashtra want Devendra Fadnavis to be the CM.” Following discussions with Fadnavis, Athawale revealed that the cabinet formation would be finalized in the next two to three days, with an oath-taking ceremony soon after.
“I have been assured that the RPI-A will also be allocated a ministry in the cabinet,” Athawale told IANS.
Fadnavis’ leadership has received broad support within the alliance. Despite his frontrunner status, Fadnavis maintains that the decision on the CM post will be made collaboratively.
“Leaders of the three parties will sit together to discuss and decide on the chief ministership. This outcome is incredible and unprecedented. People have voted for us wholeheartedly, and we are grateful for their trust,” he said.
Shinde and Pawar’s Prospective Roles
Athawale suggested that Eknath Shinde could be honored with a central position, while Shiv Sena could retain one Deputy Chief Minister seat.
He acknowledged Shinde’s significant contribution to the alliance’s success and highlighted Ajit Pawar’s pivotal role in adding 41 seats to the alliance’s tally. Discussions with both leaders are ongoing.
As Maharashtra awaits the resolution of its leadership debate, the MahaYuti alliance’s overwhelming mandate underscores the importance of unity and strategic decision-making.
Athawale’s remarks reflect the urgency to resolve the leadership question while respecting the contributions of all key players.
