As 2025 begins, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis finds himself basking in an unusual wave of appreciation, even from the Opposition. Amid ongoing tensions within the ruling Mahayuti coalition—comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP—regarding guardian minister posts, Fadnavis has been lauded by some unexpected quarters in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) camp.
An Indian Express report said that some close aides of Fadnavis admit that “it’s not brickbats but bouquets which are now coming in for the CM from his known opponents”.
Recently, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), in its party mouthpiece Saamana, praised Fadnavis, referring to him as "Devabhau." On Saturday, Supriya Sule, leader of the NCP (SP) and daughter of Sharad Pawar, further commended Fadnavis for his proactive governance. Highlighting his visit to the Naxal-affected district of Gadchiroli on January 1, Sule remarked, “Devendra Fadnavis has been in action mode from day one. He seems to be the only minister working proactively and sincerely.”
Sule also drew parallels between Fadnavis and late NCP leader R. R. Patil, who had prioritized Gadchiroli’s development during his tenure as home minister. “It’s good to see Fadnavis continuing that legacy,” she added.
This unexpected praise has raised eyebrows within the BJP. A party insider told The Indian Express that the NCP (SP) has historically been critical of Fadnavis, particularly during his tenure as deputy CM in the Eknath Shinde-led Mahayuti government. Sule herself had previously accused him of being a “part-time home minister” during the Badlapur sexual assault controversy, alleging he was preoccupied with Delhi politics at the expense of state governance.
State BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule welcomed the shift, stating, “Fadnavis’s sincerity and hard work are well-known, even to his critics. Hearing this acknowledgement from our opponents is gratifying.”
The Saamana editorial, "Abhinandan Devabhau (Congratulations Devendra)," applauded Fadnavis’s initiative to transform Gadchiroli from a Naxalite hub into a steel city and called it a praiseworthy effort.
Shifting alliances and NCP dynamics
The praises for Fadnavis come amidst speculation about a possible reconciliation between the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) faction and Ajit Pawar’s NCP. Following a statement by Ajit Pawar’s mother, Asha Pawar, expressing hope for the family’s unity, leaders from both factions have indicated openness to rapprochement. Praful Patel, a close aide of Ajit Pawar, even referred to Sharad Pawar as the party’s “revered leader.”
“There are signs that the two NCP factions may be working towards ending their differences. Whether this will lead to a full merger remains uncertain,” an Indian Express report citing a BJP leader said.
A senior NCP leader aligned with Sharad Pawar noted, “Politics often necessitates moving beyond electoral rivalries. Maintaining cordial relations with the ruling party is essential.” They added that Sule’s acknowledgement of Fadnavis aligns with Sharad Pawar’s approach of avoiding personal enmities, citing past instances where he invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to events related to agriculture and cooperatives.
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