Eknath Shinde’s Future as Maharashtra CM Unclear: Key Roles Under Consideration

After serving as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for two and a half years, Eknath Shinde from Shiv Sena may lose the position. Many expect Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP to take over, though no official announcement has been made yet.

The BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance (Mahayuti) won the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly Elections, securing 235 of 288 seats. However, the alliance is yet to decide on the Chief Minister, with Shinde and Fadnavis vying for the role. Media reports suggest Shinde is unwilling to step down or accept the Deputy CM position. Addressing the rumors, Shinde said on Wednesday that he would accept the decision of PM Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP leaders, adding that he would not be an obstacle.

Shinde has been a key figure in Maharashtra politics, rising to power after rebelling against Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena in 2022. Under his leadership, several welfare schemes were launched.

What’s Next for Shinde?

If Shinde steps down, he might negotiate for a significant role. Here are the possibilities:

1. Deputy CM Position
   There’s speculation that Shinde wants his son, Shrikant Shinde, a Lok Sabha MP from Kalyan, to be appointed as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister.
2. Convenor of the Grand Alliance
   Reports suggest Shinde is eyeing the role of Mahayuti Convenor to maintain influence. However, the BJP is reportedly hesitant about this request.
3. Home Minister of Maharashtra
   Shinde might seek the Maharashtra Home Minister position, a powerful role often held by Chief Ministers in other states.
4. Central Ministerial Role
   Shinde could follow the example of Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who transitioned from being Madhya Pradesh CM to a central ministerial role, possibly securing a key position in the Union government.
5. Mayor of Mumbai
   Controlling the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is vital in Maharashtra politics. Shinde’s Shiv Sena may aim to win the Mayor’s post, even if the BJP dominates the municipal elections.

Shinde’s next move will depend on the BJP’s decisions and his negotiations with the alliance.