Maharashtra Politics: Devendra Fadnavis Breaks Down Dynamics Between Shinde and Ajit Pawar

Devendra Fadnavis discusses the emotional vs. pragmatic leadership styles of Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar amid Mahayuti’s internal developments.

In fact, political circles in Maharashtra have been witness to whirlwind of activities, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis turning out to be one of the most vocal proponents about changing power dynamics in the state. Right from speaking on recent electoral triumph to giving hints on the internal squabbles within Mahayuti, Fadnavis shared candid thoughts, which even include his views on Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s connection with one another. One of the standout comments by Fadnavis is that though Eknath Shinde appears emotional, Ajit Pawar is a more practical leader-a statement that has acquired much attention in the public eye due to its implications upon Mahayuti’s consolidation.

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Recently, in a leading news channel interview, Fadnavis referred to questions about Shinde’s temperament and whether there was ever any lingering resentment or frustration within the Mahayuti coalition. Contrary to speculations, Fadnavis rubbished all reports of Shinde being angry or at loggerheads with the BJP leadership. He said that Shinde’s natural tendency is to get emotional and that is in contrast to Ajit Pawar, who is a pragmatic thinker and takes calculated decisions. Whatever ups and downs were seen in political maneuvering, Fadnavis asserted that the situation was stable and that the reported rift was just a rumour.

Fadnavis described the last two and a half years of governance as being “like a roller coaster ride” during which the Mahayuti alliance has faced the kind of challenges and highs one never wants to have. In a clarification, however, Fadnavis maintained that there was no delay in the formation of a new government and added that Shinde had never shown anger about any key issue. In this connection, one finds that an element in the coalition faction was even for Shinde as its chairman of coordination committee. Nonetheless, these issues are too small and cannot create dissensions in Mahayuti.

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The former Shiv Sena chief and current Maharashtra CM also touched upon an important point during his speech: that Eknath Shinde had, in fact, proposed in a meeting in Delhi that the BJP should keep the post of Chief Minister given the party’s greater strength. Fadnavis said he personally convinced Shinde to take the Deputy Chief Minister’s post instead, saying that a party leader should remain in the government to ensure its proper functioning and the continuation of important schemes. Shinde was initially reluctant to accept the position, but party leaders and MLAs approached him to drive home its significance, especially with regards to ensuring the success of projects and schemes initiated under his leadership.

Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar take the oath of MLA at the special session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.

(Source: Maharashtra Assembly) pic.twitter.com/H3YbMuiLnF

— ANI (@ANI) December 7, 2024

As another prominent Shiv Sena leader, Uday Samant, has confirmed that indeed Eknath Shinde would not have agreed to a DyCM position but was convinced.
This statement also throws into the light internal negotiations over tactics within the Mahayuti camp. Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde and Shiv Sena MLA, Bharat Gogavale, have said that indeed the home portfolio is now discussed between the two parties from the BJP.

Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar are with me. People want a stable government, so they have chosen us and we will stay and work together. We will continue the 'Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana'….We will soon elect the Maharashtra Assembly… pic.twitter.com/2wSwAP58OK

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2024

Cabinet expansion is likely to be done between December 11 and December 16 in advance of the winter session of the state legislature scheduled to meet from December 16 onwards at Nagpur. Gogavale said that active negotiation is going on to conclude this portfolio arrangement. This political development gives an indication of a proper balancing as Shinde consolidates his position in Mahayuti and satisfies the aspirations to fulfill leadership responsibilities.

As Maharashtra navigates these political shifts, the alliance’s ability to maintain stability will depend on strategic decisions and timely leadership moves. Devendra Fadnavis’ insights suggest that the emotional and practical divides within the leadership will shape Mahayuti’s path forward as it heads into key legislative milestones and strategic realignments.

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