- By Abhishek Sheoran
- Sun, 24 Nov 2024 11:50 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
As the Mahayuti coalition moves towards a massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly polls, discussions about potential Chief Ministerial candidates are gaining momentum. While Shiv Sena workers argue that the mandate was in favour of Eknath Shinde's leadership, the BJP is keen to stake its claim to the top post, as it has emerged as the single largest party in the current trends.
Amid growing uncertainty, a crucial meeting is set to take place today, bringing together the key stakeholders of the NDA alliance in Maharashtra. This high-stakes discussion is expected to tackle the leadership question and chart the future course of action for the government.
Earlier, in response to a question about the Chief Minister's post, Shinde stated that all three coalition partners would come together to make a decision, emphasising that there was no dispute on the matter. Regarding the BJP's claim to the CM post based on its share of total seats, Shinde clarified that no such decision had been made by them, and they would await the final outcome.
Shinde Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat said they want to see Eknath Shinde as the Chief Minister as he was the most preferred leader in Maharashtra for this post. He also asked the constituents of the Mahayuti alliance to consider this request.
Besides, Sunetra Pawar, wife of NCP chief Ajit Pawar, said the latter should be made Chief Minister. "It is a very fortunate day for Ajit dada, NCP, for the public and Baramati. I thank the people of Baramati for extending their support to Ajit dada. This is the victory of the people of Baramati...I want the same (Ajit Pawar to be CM) as the public wants…," she said.
On the other hand, the BJP is likely to send central observers to Maharashtra to engage with the newly elected lawmakers and decide on the Chief Ministerial candidate. However, Devendra Fadnavis is widely considered the frontrunner for the post. Union Minister Piyush Goyal has already met with him as the coalition moves swiftly towards a resounding victory.
BJP is currently leading on 220 of 288 seats. Voting across all 288 Assembly seats in Maharashtra took place on November 20. The state recorded an overall voter turnout of 62.05 per cent. The current legislative assembly's tenure ends on November 26.
