While it is almost clear that the BJP may pick Devendra Fadnavis to be the next chief minister of state, speculations are rife that an 'upset' Shinde might choose not to become the deputy chief minister, instead offer the coveted post to his son Shrikant Shinde.
Shrikant, a doctor by profession, is an MP from the Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency. The 37-year-old holds a degree in MBBS and an MS in Orthopedics, which he completed at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Navi Mumbai. He made his foray into politics in 2014 from Kalyan.
While Shiv Sena's pressure tactic to get the chief minister's post for Eknath Shinde failed, the party's next move is to get his son the deputy chief minister's post along with NCP leader Ajit Pawar. This is also to send a message to Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, which mocked Eknath Shinde for his impending demotion. Shinde has also expressed willingness to step aside from joining the Cabinet if this condition is met.
However, many leaders within the party feel the elevation of Shrikant, a young MP, to the top post might tarnish the party's image. It would also seem hypocritical considering Eknath Shinde had attacked Uddhav for promoting Aadithya Thackeray.
The BJP is reportedly yet to react to the demands as they are wary of placing Shrikant on equal footing with Ajit Pawar, who is much more experienced, both politically and administratively.
Local media reports also claim that Shinde has also asked the BJP leadership for the post of Mahayuti convenor. He may also seek a plum post in the Centre, much like what Shivraj Singh Chauhan got in place of the Madhya Pradesh CM post, or an important ministry like Home.
After days of waiting, Shinde finally announced his decision to support the BJP leadership on Wednesday, stating he won't be a hurdle in the process. "I called PM Modi and Amit Shah yesterday and told them to decide (on who will be the CM), and assured them that I will abide by whatever decision they take," Shinde said, adding that there was no speed breaker from the side of Shiv Sena.
