Eknath Shinde on Wednesday said that the Shiv Sena would support the BJP’s choice for the Chief Minister's post. However, in the same breath, he emphasized that the final decision would be made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at a press conference in Thane, Shinde sought to dispel rumours of discord within the Mahayuti alliance
Reading the indications, it became clear that the next chief minister will be from BJP's side but whether that name is Devendra Fadnavis or not will be approved after all the three leaders of the Mahayuti alliance i.e. Fadnavis, Shinde and Ajit Pawar meet PM Modi and Amit Shah in New Delhi tomorrow.
Shinde also expressed gratitude to the BJP for entrusting him with the Chief Minister's role for the past 2.5 years. Shinde’s statement is seen as an olive branch, signalling Shiv Sena's willingness to accept the BJP's leadership in the new government.
Key Takeaways From Eknath Shinde's Press Conference
- Decision on CM Lies with BJP Leadership: Eknath Shinde shared that he had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, asking them to make the final decision on the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra. He assured them of his full compliance.
- Support for BJP's Decision: Shinde declared that Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) would wholeheartedly back the BJP’s choice for the Chief Minister. He dismissed speculation of dissent within his camp, stating, "There is no speed breaker from our side."
- Denial of Disappointment: When asked if he was disheartened about not being given a second term, Shinde said, "There is no such thing. BJP supported my tenure as CM."
- Upcoming Delhi Meeting: Shinde revealed that a meeting in Delhi with Amit Shah and other leaders is scheduled for tomorrow to finalize key decisions, including the appointments of deputy chief ministers.
- Gratitude for Election Victory: He thanked the voters of Maharashtra for their overwhelming support in the elections, calling it a "landslide victory."
- Campaign Dedication: Shinde highlighted his commitment during the election campaign, mentioning that he slept only 2-3 hours a night to ensure the campaign's success.
- "Common Man" Leadership Philosophy: Referring to himself as a lifelong worker, Shinde said, "For me, CM is not Chief Minister but Common Man."
- Achievements as Chief Minister: Shinde expressed gratitude to Modi and Shah for their support during his tenure. He claimed that under his leadership, Maharashtra moved from the Number 3 spot to Number 1 in various parameters within six months.
- Dismissal of Discontent Rumors: Responding to reports of dissatisfaction, Shinde firmly stated, "I am not disappointed. We fight and don’t cry."
- Focus on Welfare, Not Popularity: Shinde emphasized that his work as CM was driven by his commitment to the welfare of the people, not personal popularity.