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The political landscape of Maharashtra is currently experiencing a significant shift, with the recent state elections leading to a complex power struggle among key political players. A pivotal figure in this unfolding drama is Ajit Pawar, who, according to sources cited in India Today, is advocating for Devendra Fadnavis to assume the position of Chief Minister. This endorsement carries substantial weight, given Pawar's influence within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and his strategic alliances. The reasons behind Pawar's decision, however, are multifaceted and rooted in the intricate history of Maharashtra's political dynamics. A meeting convened by Pawar with newly elected NCP legislators seemingly solidified this support for Fadnavis, hinting at a potential power bloc emerging within the newly formed legislative assembly.
The current situation is a direct consequence of the fractured relationships between key figures, particularly the longstanding tension between Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde. This rift dates back to the 2019 formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, comprised of the Shiv Sena (then united), the NCP, and the Congress. Shinde's discontent reportedly stemmed from Ajit Pawar's significant influence within the state administration during Uddhav Thackeray's tenure as Chief Minister. Thackeray's infrequent presence at the Mantralaya (state secretariat) inadvertently allowed Pawar to exert considerable control over the bureaucracy, leading to friction between Shinde and Thackeray. This friction ultimately culminated in the dramatic split within the Shiv Sena in 2022, with Shinde leading a significant portion of the party's MLAs to form a government in alliance with the BJP. Ajit Pawar's subsequent revolt against his uncle, Sharad Pawar, and the formation of a breakaway NCP faction further complicated the already turbulent political scene. His alignment with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance only intensified this pre-existing tension with Shinde.
The election results themselves paint a clear picture of the BJP's dominance. Securing 132 out of 149 contested seats, the BJP's electoral performance stands in stark contrast to other parties. The Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) secured 57 seats, Ajit Pawar's NCP faction 41, while the Congress won a meager 16 seats. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP (SP) secured 20 and 10 seats, respectively. These numbers highlight the BJP's commanding position within the Mahayuti alliance, prompting questions about the ultimate allocation of the Chief Minister's post. Will Devendra Fadnavis, given the BJP's significant win, finally assume the top position, or will he once again serve as deputy to Eknath Shinde? This ambiguity adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding political saga. The final decision, as stated, awaits a joint meeting of senior leaders from the Shinde Sena, Ajit Pawar's NCP faction, and the BJP high command. This crucial meeting will determine the future leadership of Maharashtra and solidify the state's shifting political alliances.
The situation underscores the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Indian politics, where personal rivalries, power struggles, and shifting alliances play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. The coming days will be critical in determining not only who leads Maharashtra but also the trajectory of the state's political alliances in the years to come. The weight of this decision rests on the shoulders of a few key figures, whose choices will have far-reaching implications for the governance and political stability of Maharashtra. The final outcome will likely redefine the dynamics of power within the state and set the stage for future political maneuvering. The ongoing negotiations and strategic alliances highlight the intricate and ever-evolving power dynamics inherent in the Indian political system.
Source: Ajit Pawar's power play, backs Devendra Fadnavis for Chief Minister: Sources