As the speculation kept growing about who will be the Maharashtra Chief Minister after a landslide victory of Mahayuti, Eknath Shinde said on Wednesday that, “I have communicated to PM Modi,” and also expressed his gratitude to the voters for the assembly elections.
The BJP has won 132 seats, while its allies—the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, won 57 seats, and the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, won 41 seats. Seeing the number of seats secured by the BJP, it’s been anticipated that the new CM will be from the BJP, and Devendra Fadnavis is most likely to be that candidate.
Communicated to PM Modi
Eknath Shinde said a recent statement: “I have communicated to PM Modi that as the leader of the NDA, the choice is in your hands. Whatever decision you make will be final for us.” This move comes amid ongoing discussions within the Mahayuti alliance as they navigate the leadership dynamics following their electoral success.
Shinde stated that the Shiv Sena will support the decision made by the BJP leadership regarding the Chief Minister’s post. He acknowledged the ongoing suspense surrounding the appointment, emphasizing that the final choice will be determined by discussions among key leaders within the Mahayuti alliance.
Did not seek popularity
“I did not seek popularity, yet I have gained it.” He made this remark amid ongoing speculation regarding the next chief minister of the state, noting that his efforts and accomplishments have elevated him among the most popular leaders.
Gratitude to voters
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude to the voters following the assembly elections, stating, “This is our first meeting after the election results, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the voters and the public who supported us. I am truly appreciative of their backing. This victory is a landslide, something we haven’t witnessed in two decades.”
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his satisfaction with the acceptance of the schemes introduced by the Mahayuti alliance, stating that he is pleased to see the people of Maharashtra benefiting from these initiatives. Drawing from his own experiences growing up in a poor family, he emphasized his understanding of the struggles faced by the state’s residents. Shinde assured his party workers, “I will always stand by you.”
Continue to operate as a common man
“I often worked late into the night and began my days early. I held several public meetings and have continued to operate as a common man since taking office as Chief Minister. I never viewed myself as above the people; I engaged with them directly without adhering to formal protocols.” said Shinde while highlighting the extensive efforts he made during the election campaign, stating, “The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) had hindered the developmental projects initiated by the Mahayuti alliance. We introduced welfare schemes for the people of Maharashtra, and the entire Mahayuti worked diligently.”