Maharashtra government formation: Mahayuti mulls Opposition leader’s post for Eknath Shinde

Eknath Shinde

As the suspense over the next chief minister of Maharashtra continues more than a week after the declaration of the outcome of the Assembly polls, that the BJP and the NCP want Eknath Shinde to become the Leader of Opposition if he is not keen to take the deputy chief minister’s post, according to a report by the Indian Express.

Reportedly, newly elected BJP MLA Bharat Gogawale, a close ally of Shinde, revealed that Shinde had conveyed his desire to remain outside the government. During a recent meeting with leaders and MLAs, Shinde reportedly emphasised his wish to work without holding an official position.

Gogawale noted that others at the meeting encouraged Shinde to consider participating in the government to contribute from within.

Meanwhile, the MVA has asserted its claim to the Leader of Opposition post, arguing that its pre-poll alliance meets the required threshold. Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe explained that a party needs at least 29 MLAs to claim the position, and the MVA coalition collectively meets this criterion.

Even without clarity  yet on who would take oath as chief minister at Azad Maidan on the evening of December 5, preparations are in full swing for the ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, about 2,000 VVIPs and some 40,000 supporters.