As the results of the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 have been declared, the biggest question is: Who will be the Chief Minister? Discussions are heating up as leaders from the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP head to Delhi for a key meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah.
BJP Emerges as the Largest Party
In the 2024 Maharashtra elections, the Mahayuti (grand alliance) achieved a landslide victory, securing over three-fourths of the majority. The BJP contested 149 seats, winning 132 of them, making it the largest party in the alliance. Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) won 57 seats out of the 80 it contested, while NCP's Ajit Pawar faction also played a significant role.
Despite the BJP’s clear edge, there is speculation about who will lead the state as Chief Minister. Party insiders suggest that the decision may follow one of three political formulas that have been successful in other states.
Formula 1: The 'Rajasthan Model' – A Fresh Face as CM
The Rajasthan model involves selecting a surprise candidate, possibly a newcomer. In Rajasthan, Bhajan Lal Sharma, who was elected as an MLA for the first time, became the CM. Similarly, BJP might opt for a fresh face in Maharashtra to lead the government.
Formula 2: The 'MP Model' – A Senior Cabinet Member as CM
In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP chose Mohan Yadav, a cabinet minister under Shivraj Singh Chouhan, as CM after a decisive victory. Following this model, BJP may hand over the reins to a senior leader from the Devendra Fadnavis or Shinde cabinet.
Formula 3: The 'Bihar Model' – Leadership to Allies
In 2020, despite being the third-largest party in Bihar, the BJP fulfilled its pre-election promise by allowing JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar to become CM. Similarly, BJP may apply this formula in Maharashtra and retain Eknath Shinde as CM.
A Possible Fourth Formula: Power Sharing
Another option being discussed is a power-sharing arrangement. Under this formula, BJP and Shiv Sena could alternate the CM’s post for 2.5 years each. While BJP might start with its CM, the second half of the term could go to Shiv Sena.
Could There Be a National Role for Fadnavis?
Speculation is rife that BJP may assign a national role to Devendra Fadnavis, possibly making him the party’s national president. This could pave the way for a new leader to take over the CM's responsibilities in Maharashtra.
BJP’s Decision Could Be a Game-Changer
The suspense surrounding the Maharashtra CM face will end soon, with the BJP’s decision likely to reflect its long-term political strategy. Whether it’s a new face, a senior leader, or a power-sharing formula, the final choice is expected to balance alliance dynamics while solidifying the BJP's dominance in Maharashtra politics.
Stay tuned for updates as the Mahayuti leaders meet to finalize their decision.
