Devendra Fadnavis Returns as Maharashtra CM Amid Political Power Shifts

December 5, 2024: Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister on Thursday evening, marking a triumphant return after weeks of suspense and political maneuvering. The BJP leader, now a three-time CM, took charge following the Mahayuti alliance’s sweeping victory in the state elections, which saw them secure 235 of 288 seats. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats, solidifying its leadership position.

In his first address as CM, Fadnavis emphasised a vision of progress and unity, declaring, “From here on, we will work for the development of Maharashtra and we will not stop.” He also extended an olive branch to Eknath Shinde, stating, “The direction and speed remain the same… only our roles have changed. We will take decisions in Maharashtra’s interest.”

Shinde, leader of a Shiv Sena faction, and Ajit Pawar of the NCP were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers, reflecting the new political alignment in Maharashtra. The “1+2 formula” continues, though with a significant tilt in favour of Fadnavis.

Shortly after taking their oaths, the leaders paid tributes to Maratha icon Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Fadnavis then signed his first official file—a medical assistance grant—as Chief Minister.

This return to power fulfils Fadnavis’ bold promise made five years ago when he was ousted despite the BJP’s 2019 electoral win. Back then, the BJP’s fallout with the Shiv Sena allowed Uddhav Thackeray to align with Congress and the NCP to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

“Will Be Back,” Fadnavis had declared at the time, quoting, “I am the sea, I will return.” On Thursday, standing at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, he delivered on that promise, aided by two strategic moves: the BJP’s success in fracturing the Sena and NCP, and leveraging these divisions to secure a commanding majority.

The Shinde Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP factions flipped 75 seats that their parent parties had previously held. This significantly weakened the MVA, which was reduced to just 49 seats. Fadnavis credited the victory to meticulous planning, saying in March, “It took two-and-a-half years… but I returned after breaking two parties.”

Shinde, who had hoped to retain the Chief Minister’s position, ultimately conceded as the BJP’s dominance and the NCP’s swift support diminished his leverage. Negotiations secured 20 cabinet berths for the BJP and around a dozen for Shinde’s faction. Speculation remains over high-profile ministries, including the Home Ministry, which Fadnavis currently holds, and other key portfolios like Water Resources and Public Works.

While the dust has settled, political observers note this reshaped government is a testament to Fadnavis’ political acumen and the BJP’s ability to recalibrate Maharashtra’s power dynamics.

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