Maharashtra Politics: 'Grandmaster' Poster of Fadnavis Sparks Buzz in Nagpur

The expansion of Maharashtra's Maha Yuti government under Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected soon, with the division of portfolios among the alliance's three major parties also likely to be finalized. According to sources, the Shiv Sena, led by former Chief Minister and current Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, may be allotted the Housing Ministry. A PTI report indicates that this portfolio could be handed over to Shiv Sena as part of the BJP cabinet expansion, which is expected to take place in Nagpur on Sunday, December 15. Meanwhile, the BJP is reportedly keen on retaining the Home Ministry, which was previously held by Devendra Fadnavis. New faces might be inducted into the cabinet, and BJP’s allies are likely to retain the portfolios they held in the previous government, with Shiv Sena potentially receiving an additional ministry. As one of the deputy CMs, Eknath Shinde’s party might also secure another significant portfolio. Similarly, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is expected to retain the Finance Ministry. Shiv Sena, however, has been persistently demanding the Home Ministry since the formation of the government. Reports suggest that Eknath Shinde initially did not want to become Deputy CM, but his party leaders convinced him, emphasizing their claim for the Home Ministry. The Shiv Sena even warned of escalating their demand to the central leadership if their request was not met. The Home Ministry is considered crucial, as it oversees the state police and other key departments.