Leader of the rebel group of Shiv Sena legislators Eknath Shinde reached Mumbai on Thursday evening. He, along with Opposition leader Devendra Fadnavis are expected to meet governor in the evening and stake claim for forming new government in Maharashtra.
Fadnavis is expected to become the chief minister of Maharashtra for the third term reportedly with the support of rebel Sena MLAs. The rebel leader reached Goa from Guwahati along with other rebel MLAs on Wednesday night to take part in the proposed floor test on Thursday morning. However, following the resignation of Shiv Sena leader Uddhav thackeray from the CM's post, the special session of assembly planned today was postponed.
Shinde landed in Mumbai amidst heavy security. He along with BJP leader is expected to meet the governor around 4.30pm. According to reports, Eknath Shinde would be sworn-in as deputy CM in the new cabinet and at least four rebel MLAs would be given berths in the cabinet.
The BJP has also asked all of its MLAs to remain in Mumbai city till the next steps are taken. Following Thackeray's resignation on Wednesday night, Chandrakant Patil had said that Fadnavis and rebel Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, who claims to have the support of 39 rebel Sena legislators and 11 independent MLAs as well as small parties, would decide the next court of action.