Maharashtra CM Face: Amit Shah's Key Meeting With MVA Unveils the Strategy | ABP News

The suspense over the Chief Minister's post in Maharashtra continues, even seven days after the assembly election results were declared. A high-level meeting was held at Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s residence on Thursday to discuss government formation. The meeting, which lasted an hour, was attended by BJP President JP Nadda, Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena Chief Eknath Shinde, and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, among others. A photograph from the meeting showed smiles on the faces of key leaders like Amit Shah, JP Nadda, and Fadnavis, but Eknath Shinde appeared visibly disappointed. Despite being projected by his Shiv Sena faction as the Chief Ministerial candidate, Shinde has left the final decision to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. No decision was made regarding the CM post after the late-night discussions. It is anticipated that another meeting in Mumbai will finalize the candidate. Devendra Fadnavis remains a strong contender, credited with leading the BJP to surpass the 100-seat mark in three consecutive elections. A seasoned leader and two-time Chief Minister, Fadnavis enjoys support from both the party and the RSS. However, the BJP is reportedly also considering names of Maratha leaders to balance regional equations. The BJP is keen on making Shinde the Deputy CM, offering his Shiv Sena faction a Union Ministerial berth and 12 state ministerial positions, including key portfolios. However, Shinde, who previously served as CM, might resist accepting the Deputy CM role. Sources indicate that Shinde has demanded the Legislative Council Chairmanship and a significant share of ministerial positions. The proposed formula suggests one minister for every six MLAs, giving the BJP 21-22 ministerial posts, Shiv Sena 10-12, and NCP 8-9. Maharashtra’s cabinet is capped at 43 members, including the Chief Minister. After the meeting, Shinde stated that he would not obstruct government formation and would abide by decisions made by Modi and Shah. He reiterated his loyalty to the party leadership, calling himself the "ladla bhai" (beloved brother) ready to align with their vision for the state.