In 2022, Eknath Shinde shocked the nation by becoming the Chief Minister of Maharashtra with just 40 MLAs in the 288-member Assembly. This political upheaval was not only one of the most significant rebellions in the history of the Shiv Sena but also led to the splitting of the party and the ousting of the Thackeray family. Shinde's journey from a humble autorickshaw driver in Thane to the pinnacle of Maharashtra politics is a story of resilience, ambition, determination and street-smartness.
Early struggles in Thane
Eknath Shinde’s life began in Kisannagar, a modest Marathi-majority locality in Thane. Born into a family struggling with poverty, Shinde had to leave school midway due to financial hardships. To support his family, he worked as a laborer and later as an autorickshaw driver. The unpredictable earnings often meant days of struggle to even refuel his vehicle. Shinde’s deep knowledge of Thane's streets as an autorickshaw driver would later symbolically mirror his ability to navigate the complex alleys of politics.
Mentorship under Anand Dighe
Shinde’s political journey began under the mentorship of Anand Dighe, a revered Shiv Sena leader in Thane. Known for his towering influence and fearlessness, Dighe recognized Shinde’s leadership potential during a meeting over a local dispute. He persuaded Shinde to take on the challenging role of a Shiv Sena branch chief, warning him about the dangers and controversies it would entail. Despite the risks, Shinde accepted, slowly becoming Dighe’s most trusted aide.
Personal tragedy and a turning point
In 2000, Shinde faced a devastating personal tragedy when his two children, 11-year-old Dipesh and 7-year-old Shubhada, drowned in a boating accident in Satara. The loss left Shinde shattered, and he withdrew from public life. However, Anand Dighe intervened, encouraging him to channel his grief into serving others. Following Dighe’s advice, Shinde immersed himself in political and social work, eventually becoming the leader of the Thane Municipal Corporation. His office became a hub for addressing public grievances, often staying open late into the night.
Rising political influence
Shinde’s ascent in the Shiv Sena was marked by his grassroots connect and social initiatives. From providing free medical aid during the COVID-19 pandemic to organizing relief efforts during Kerala’s 2019 floods, he earned a reputation as a "Robin Hood" figure in Thane. His influence expanded beyond his constituency to neighboring regions, establishing him as a leader with a broad support base.
In 2004, Shinde contested and won his first Assembly election from Thane. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, gaining prominence within the Shiv Sena. Despite the party’s occasional controversial stances, such as targeting North Indians or Muslims, Shinde ensured inclusivity and safety in his constituency, steering clear of divisive politics.
Tensions within the Shiv Sena
Shinde's discontent with the Shiv Sena leadership grew during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition government. While he was made the Urban Development Minister, a key portfolio often controlled by the Chief Minister, he felt undermined by Uddhav Thackeray’s son, Aaditya Thackeray. Aaditya’s involvement in Shinde’s ministry, including major decisions and public announcements, created friction. Shinde also resented the Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) dominance in the government, perceiving it as a threat to Shiv Sena’s future electoral prospects.
Shiv Sena MLAs shared Shinde’s grievances, particularly regarding the NCP's attempts to strengthen its base in constituencies where Shiv Sena had a foothold. Additionally, Uddhav Thackeray’s unapproachability and reliance on a close-knit group of advisors alienated many party members.
Rebellion and aftermath
On June 21, 2022, Shinde led a rebellion, taking 40 MLAs with him to Gujarat, followed by Assam and Goa. This move crippled the Shiv Sena-led MVA government, forcing Uddhav Thackeray to resign as Chief Minister. Shinde, with BJP’s support, took the reins of Maharashtra as Chief Minister, while BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis became his deputy.
The Election Commission later recognized Shinde’s faction as the legitimate Shiv Sena, granting them the party’s iconic bow-and-arrow symbol. This marked the culmination of Shinde’s journey from a loyal party worker to the leader of a faction that claimed to be the true torchbearer of Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy.
Will Shinde become CM again?
Shinde aspires to become CM once again, however, there are numerous challenges this time. Firstly, the Mahayuti alliance has to win enough number of seats to claim majority in the Legislative Assembly. Secondly, if Shinde's Shiv Sena needs to win the highest number of seats within the alliance. However, BJP has fought on more number of seats and if it emerges as the single largest party then Shinde's hope of becoming CM weakens. However, the last five years have revealed that anything is possible in Maharashtra politics which could defy common sense.
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