Shiv Sena MLAs are backing Eknath Shinde to continue as Maharashtra’s chief minister, state minister and party leader Deepak Kesarkar confirmed. This statement came after the Mahayuti coalition, which includes Shiv Sena, secured a massive victory in the state assembly elections.
Strong Backing for Shinde’s Leadership
Kesarkar met Shinde at his Mumbai residence and expressed confidence in his leadership. He told reporters, “Shiv Sena MLAs feel Shinde should stay in the post. Under his leadership, Mahayuti performed exceptionally well in the polls.”
CM Decision to Be Made Collectively
However, Kesarkar emphasized that Shinde, along with Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis (BJP) and Ajit Pawar (NCP), will make the final decision regarding the CM post. “Whatever the decision, it will be in Maharashtra’s best interest,” he added. Kesarkar, who won re-election from Sawantwadi, highlighted that this decision would be a collective one.
Speculation on CM Post After Election Results
Speculation about the CM post grew after BJP, led by Fadnavis, won 132 out of 288 seats, while Shiv Sena secured 57 seats.
BJP Leaders Address CM Issue
On Saturday, Fadnavis denied any dispute over the CM post and said that Mahayuti leaders would decide the issue together. Similarly, on Sunday, BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule echoed this sentiment, stating, “Leaders of the ruling Mahayuti and BJP will jointly decide who will be the next CM.”