Amid Delay in Government Formation, Eknath Shinde Visits Native Village

AB News, Mumbai, November 30, 2024: The much-anticipated oath-taking ceremony for Maharashtra’s new Chief Minister is likely to take place on December 5 at Azad Maidan, sources from the BJP and Shiv Sena confirmed. The delay in government formation has raised questions, as six days have passed since the Assembly election results were declared.

Caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde left for his native village in Satara on Friday, a day after meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J.P. Nadda in New Delhi. The BJP reportedly reaffirmed its decision to appoint a party member as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Despite the delay, BJP insiders assured that the process is progressing smoothly. “The BJP follows party discipline. Two Central observers will be appointed to meet legislators in Mumbai, after which the leader will be finalized and presented to the Governor,” a senior BJP leader stated.

Sena Assures Cooperation
The Shiv Sena has expressed its full support for the BJP’s leadership, emphasizing unity among alliance members. “We are not a hindrance in the CM selection. The ball is in the BJP’s court now,” said a top Shiv Sena source.

Sena leader Uday Samant dismissed concerns over delays, stating, “All leaders are on the same page. Government formation will happen soon.”

While BJP sources confirmed plans to retain two Deputy Chief Ministers in the new government, there is no official announcement regarding the appointment of observers for the selection process.

The political landscape of Maharashtra remains dynamic, as all eyes are now on the December 5 swearing-in ceremony, marking a new chapter for the State.