BJP Under Pressure Over Maharashtra CM Decision, Nana Patole Criticizes Delays

Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole on Wednesday accused the BJP’s central leadership of pressuring Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde to relinquish his claim to the state’s chief minister post. His comments followed Shinde’s announcement of supporting any leader chosen by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the position.

Patole questioned the delay in naming the next CM, calling it “suspicious” and alleging that BJP leaders have kept Maharashtra in limbo regarding government formation. “It is condemnable to keep the state waiting,” he remarked.

BJP’s Decision-Making Process Draws Speculation
Reports indicate that both Eknath Shinde and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis are contenders for the CM post. While Fadnavis is backed by the BJP’s recent assembly election success, Shinde’s supporters point to the coalition precedent in Bihar, where a junior partner took the CM role.

Nana Patole hinted that BJP might sideline Fadnavis as well, citing the party’s tendency to introduce “new faces” unexpectedly.

Eknath Shinde’s Stand Garners Mixed Reactions
Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule praised Shinde’s decision to prioritize the state’s development and highlighted his achievements as CM, including the completion of the Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Expressway.

Shinde’s resignation earlier this week and subsequent declaration of support for BJP’s decision sparked debates within political circles. He clarified his position, stating, “Our Shiv Sena will fully support the BJP’s decision to name the next CM.”

Coalition Leaders to Finalize CM Soon
BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis assured that the coalition will collectively finalize the CM appointment. “We’ve always made decisions together. Eknath Shinde ji has clarified any doubts. A decision will be announced shortly,” Fadnavis told PTI.

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar denied rumours of Shinde stepping away entirely, calling the discussions premature.

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a commanding 230 out of 288 assembly seats, with BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 132 seats, solidifying its hold on the state’s political future.