Maharashtra Government Formation: Shiv Sena Demands Home Department, Fadnavis Stands Firm
Mumbai: The delay in forming the coalition government in Maharashtra has led to a series of questions and political tensions within the ruling alliance. A key issue that has emerged is the battle over the crucial Home Department, with the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde demanding control over it.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat made it clear on Saturday that his party should be given the responsibility of the Home Department in the new government. This demand comes amidst ongoing efforts to sideline Eknath Shinde leadership, despite his pivotal role in the formation of the current alliance with the BJP.
Fadnavis Refuses to Relinquish Home Department
In the current dispensation, the Home Department is under the control of senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, who is adamant about retaining this portfolio. Fadnavis, along with Shinde, had returned to Mumbai from Delhi on Friday after meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the formation of the government. Despite Shinde’s insistence on securing the Home Department, Fadnavis has made it clear that he is not willing to vacate this position.
Shinde Demands and Political Manoeuvring
Shinde, who played a crucial role in the political shift in Maharashtra, had earlier demanded either another term as Chief Minister or a rotational CM position for two and a half years. Though Shinde eventually paved the way for the BJP to take the CM’s office, he has staked a claim to two critical portfolios: the Home Department and the Chairmanship of the Legislative Council.
The tussle over these positions has highlighted the ongoing power struggle within the Maharashtra coalition, as both factions vie for control of key administrative functions.
Political Uncertainty Amidst Government Formation
The political uncertainty continues as Shinde and Fadnavis remain in a stand-off over these significant cabinet posts. The final resolution of this issue will determine the structure of the Maharashtra government and the balance of power within the ruling alliance. As discussions continue, the future of the state governance hangs in the balance.
