Devendra Fadnavis Returns as Maharashtra CM

In a significant political development, Devendra Fadnavis is set to take oath as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister on December 5, 2024. His election as the leader of the BJP legislature party marks a comeback for the seasoned leader. The government formation was delayed by two weeks after the assembly election results, a period marked by intense negotiations among the BJP and its allies.

BJP’s Election Victory and Mahayuti’s Strength

The BJP emerged as the single largest party in the November 20 elections, securing 132 out of 288 seats—its best performance in Maharashtra. Combined with Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition now commands a formidable majority of 230 seats. This victory was celebrated as a mandate for stability and development, emphasizing BJP’s position as a key player in Maharashtra’s politics.

Governor Meeting and Claim Staking

On December 4, Fadnavis, along with leaders from the Mahayuti coalition, met Governor CP Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai to formally stake claim to form the government. The decision followed a BJP core committee meeting and a legislature party meeting earlier in the day. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani served as observers during the internal party discussions.

Power-Sharing Negotiations

The negotiations leading to the announcement highlighted the complexities of alliance politics. The Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s NCP demanded clarity on their roles in the new government. Shinde, who served as Chief Minister in the previous term, agreed to take the Deputy Chief Minister role. This move demonstrated a willingness to maintain alliance unity despite initial friction over cabinet portfolios.

Sources indicate that Fadnavis held multiple meetings with Shinde over the past week to iron out differences. Their recent meeting at ‘Varsha,’ the official CM residence, was described as cordial and focused on ensuring a smooth transition of power.

Swearing-In Ceremony and Future Plans

The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for December 5, will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior BJP leaders, and key allies. Political analysts expect Fadnavis to prioritize economic growth, infrastructure development, and farmer welfare in his new term. Addressing the media, Fadnavis reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance and pledged to implement key policy initiatives promised during the election campaign.

Challenges Ahead for the Fadnavis Government

While the Mahayuti coalition enjoys a strong majority, internal dynamics could pose challenges. Balancing the interests of alliance partners and delivering on governance promises will require adept political management. The allocation of key ministries, particularly finance, home, and urban development, remains a contentious issue among allies.

Moreover, opposition parties, including the Congress and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, are likely to keep a close watch on the new government’s policies. They have already criticized the BJP-led coalition for delaying government formation, accusing it of prioritizing internal power struggles over public welfare.

Public Reaction and Expectations

Fadnavis’ return as Chief Minister has garnered mixed reactions. While BJP supporters have welcomed his leadership, some sections of the public have expressed concerns about the coalition’s ability to deliver cohesive governance. The state faces pressing issues, including agrarian distress, unemployment, and urban infrastructure challenges, which demand immediate attention.

Conclusion

Devendra Fadnavis’ appointment as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister marks a critical juncture for the state. As he steps into the role, the spotlight will be on his ability to navigate alliance politics, address public grievances, and fulfill the BJP’s development agenda. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the Mahayuti coalition can deliver on its promises and maintain its electoral mandate.

This government formation not only solidifies BJP’s dominance in Maharashtra but also sets the stage for its preparations for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, making the Fadnavis-Shinde partnership a key experiment in coalition governance.