Eknath Shinde Resumes Power-Sharing Talks After 2-Day Break
After a two-day break, Eknath Shinde, the caretaker chief minister of Maharashtra, has returned to Mumbai to resume discussions on power-sharing within the new government. Shinde’s absence had sparked speculation about his discontent, particularly regarding not being appointed as the home minister in the upcoming administration.
Meeting with Senior Colleagues and Alliance Leaders
Upon his return from Dare, his native village in Satara, Shinde held a meeting with his senior colleagues to discuss the party’s stance on government formation. This meeting was crucial in laying the groundwork for the resumption of talks concerning the distribution of departments, cabinet berths, and guardian ministerships among the alliance parties.
Shinde’s visit to Dare, which came after the cancellation of a scheduled meeting with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP chief Ajit Pawar, was seen as a reflection of his displeasure over not being granted the home department. Despite the BJP’s decision that the chief minister would be from their party, Shinde had insisted on this key portfolio, leading to tensions within the alliance.
Shiv Sena’s Position and BJP’s Stance
The Shiv Sena, Shinde’s party, has been vocal about its desire for the home department, citing precedents where Fadnavis retained the position even after being demoted to deputy chief minister. However, the BJP has stood firm on its stance that the home department will remain with them, leading to a deadlock in negotiations.
Additionally, the parties are at odds over the speaker’s post, with the Sena pressuring the BJP to concede this role along with the home department. The BJP, on the other hand, plans to retain both positions, further complicating the power-sharing talks.
Next Steps and Official Announcement
The decision on key portfolios, including the home department, will be made by the leaders of the three alliance parties. The BJP is expected to officially elect the chief minister in a meeting of the newly elected MLAs, with the oath-taking ceremony for the new government scheduled for December 5 at Azad Maidan.
As tensions continue to simmer within the alliance, the fate of the power-sharing talks remains uncertain. Shinde’s return to Mumbai marks a crucial turning point in the negotiations, setting the stage for further discussions and potential resolutions to the ongoing deadlock. The coming days will be pivotal in determining the shape and leadership of Maharashtra’s new government.
