Will Eknath Shinde Return as Maharashtra CM Amid Growing Rift with the BJP?

Maharashtra: There is a stir once again in the politics of Maharashtra. There were already reports of tension within the Mahayuti alliance, but now a statement by state minister Dada Bhuse has added new heat to the discussions. Bhuse says that if people are asked who the Chief Minister is in their hearts, “the answer will be Eknath Shinde as before.” According to him, no matter what the times, “destiny takes its course.”

What does the chaff have so much confidence in?

In a very personal tone, Bhuse said that Shinde is a leader who works “forgetting sleep and rest.” He recalled that when he was the Chief Minister, Shinde used to stay engaged in meetings till late at night and hardly slept for 3–4 hours. Such leaders, who immediately pay attention to the problems of the people, make a place in the hearts of the people. In the eyes of the chaff, this connection can draw them back to that chair.

Are the reports of a rift in the alliance true?

For the last few weeks, the discussion of disagreement between BJP and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) has been increasing continuously. On many issues, the voices of the leaders of both the parties did not seem to match. However, efforts are being made by the BJP to ensure that the matter does not get much publicity. It is being advised within the party to avoid making statements on such sensitive issues, and the decision should be decided by the opinion of Delhi only.

How are Shinde supporters viewing this environment?

There is a wave of hope among Shinde's supporters. He says that people still remember the trust and hard work built by Shinde during his previous tenure. Supporters openly say that amidst the current confusion, Shinde is the leader whom the common people can trust. Therefore, if the political equations change, Shinde's return does not seem "impossible" but a "possible option."

Who will take the final decision on CM's chair?

No matter how heated the political atmosphere of the state is, the final decision is in the hands of BJP only. Who will be the Chief Minister will depend on the strategy within the Grand Alliance and the priorities of the BJP. Right now the party is not saying anything openly, but it is being felt in the political circles that the coming days are going to be very important.