Why BJP is keen on Eknath Shinde’s active role despite his hesitation?

Eknath Shinde

It’s been over six days since the announcement of the Maharashtra assembly election results, however, the suspense over the new head of the state and fresh cabinet ministers continues even after a crucial meeting between union home minister Amit Shah and Mahayuti alliance leaders in New Delhi.

During the meeting, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) reportedly suggested offering the deputy chief minister position to Eknath Shinde. However, Shinde, who had previously aspired to continue as the chief minister, is hesitant to accept the offer, according to a report by CNN-News18. This has created a complex challenge for the BJP.

The report, citing sources, further reveals that the outgoing chief minister has asked the BJP to give the deputy CM post to another leader from the Shiv Sena faction. Reportedly, he has also proposed his son, Shrikant Shinde, as a potential candidate for the deputy CM post.

After his meeting in the national capital, Shinde said that he would not be an obstacle in the government formation in the state and abide by the decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah. He even termed the discussion with them as “good and positive”.

Shinde reportedly views the deputy CM role as a significant step down, particularly after leading the state as CM, the CNN-News18 report said. In Shiv Sena, different viewpoints are emerging over Shinde's place in the next government after the BJP-led Mahayuti posted a thumping win in the assembly polls.

Many leaders in the Shiv Sena are asking Shinde to accept deputy CM's post if offered by the BJP. However, another section feels it wouldn't be right for him to accept No. 2 position after serving as CM for more than two-and-a-half years, Shiv Sena sources told PTI.

Why Shinde is a crucial figure in the Mahayuti?

BJP considers Eknath Shinde a strategic asset in its governmental framework. Throughout the past year, Shinde has distinguished himself as a significant representative of the Maratha community in Maharashtra. By cultivating robust relationships with key Maratha leaders, including activist Manoj Jarange Patil, he has substantially enhanced his political stature. Shinde's considerable popularity and credibility among Marathas are key assets for the BJP.

Moreover, BJP's insistence to retain Eknath Shinde stems partly from the rising prominence of Ajit Pawar within the Mahayuti alliance. If Shinde withdraws, Pawar's potential to consolidate power and expand his governmental control would increase. Shinde's sustained presence in the government would serve as a critical counterweight.

In the just-held polls to the 288-member assembly, the BJP won 132 seats, followed by its allies Shiv Sena (57) and NCP (41).