Maharashtra's outgoing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday night to decide on the power-sharing in Maharashtra. Though no announcement was made on who will helm the new Mahayuti government, what set the tongues wagging was Eknath Shinde's 'sulky' expression.
The image shared by Amit Shah's office showed the Union Minister handing over a bouquet to Fadnavis. All leaders were seen smiling, except Shinde, who looked lost and sulking. His sombre expression has triggered speculations that the outgoing chief minister is still unhappy about the new arrangement.
Meanwhile, reports are that Shinde presented Shiv Sena's position before Amit Shah, demanding 12 ministerial posts, along with that of the Speaker. He has also sought important portfolios, including home and urban development. Shinde is also said to have requested Amit Shah to give Shiv Sena its due respect. The outgoing chief minister is also said to have assured Shah that he will be a part of Mahayuti, no matter what.
Eknath Shinde later reiterated that there was no resentment and that the three will work together.
Meeting again in Mumbai today
The three leaders will meet in Mumbai on Friday to discuss the suggestions and decisions given by Amit Shah. Leaders of the alliance said a new government could be in place in Maharashtra by December 2.
Shrikant Shinde's reaction
There are reports Shiv Sena might ask the BJP to give the deputy chief minister's post to Eknath Shinde's son Shrikant Shinde. Sanjay Shirsat, an MLA and Shinde's close aide, told reporters on Thursday that Eknath Shinde will probably opt out of becoming the Deputy Chief Minister but may join the Cabinet.
Meanwhile, Shrikant Shinde expressed pride in his father, stating that he set an excellent example of following coalition dharma by setting aside personal ambition.