Fadnavis in Delhi for crucial talks, meets PM Modi; Shinde's absence sparks speculation

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is in Delhi to hold crucial discussions with BJP leadership regarding the allocation of ministerial portfolios among the three allies of the Mahayuti coalition — BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP. NCP leader Ajit Pawar is also present in the capital and has been stationed at senior leader Praful Patel’s residence. However, Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde’s conspicuous absence has fueled speculation, especially after his reluctant acceptance of the Deputy Chief Minister’s post.

According to sources, the formula for cabinet berth distribution has been agreed upon, reflecting each party’s performance in the recent Assembly elections. The BJP is set to claim 20 seats, the Shiv Sena 12, and the NCP 10, aligning with Mahayuti's landslide victory. The BJP secured 132 seats, followed by the Shiv Sena’s 57 and NCP’s 41. Maharashtra's cabinet can accommodate a total of 43 ministers, including the Chief Minister.

Mr. Fadnavis met Union Home Minister Amit Shah late last night to discuss the cabinet expansion and also held talks with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

While the BJP insists that Mr. Fadnavis, their face of leadership, deserved the Chief Minister’s post, the Sena had argued that the victory was achieved under Mr. Shinde’s leadership. Despite reluctantly vacating the position, Mr. Shinde publicly stated that he would not hinder government formation and even took oath as Deputy Chief Minister on December 5.

However, his absence in the capital has triggered speculation, with political circles questioning if lingering discontent still remains over the power-sharing arrangement. While it is unclear if Mr. Shinde intends to join the talks, his absence casts a shadow over the otherwise finalized distribution of ministerial berths.

Fadnavis drops Shinde’s trusted aide from CM’s Relief Fund

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has appointed Rameshwar Naik as the head of the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Naik replaced Mangesh Chivte, considered a close aide of former CM Eknath Shinde. Chivte had been given the post after Shinde took over as Maharashtra’s CM in June 2022. Naik earlier headed the medical aid cell of the deputy chief minister when Fadnavis held the post. CM’s Relief Fund provides assistance to deserving families and individuals affected by natural calamities or the loss of life of relatives in accidents, or for treatment for major diseases.