Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has refuted claims made by Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan that Ajit Pawar would replace Eknath Shinde as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis stated that there would be no change in the leadership of the Maha Yuti alliance and that Shinde will continue to be the chief minister. He dismissed the speculations made by senior leaders and emphasized that the opposition is merely indulging in kite-flying.
Chavan had earlier claimed that Ajit Pawar, who recently took oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, would be appointed as the chief minister in early August. Chavan cited the pending disqualification matter of 40 MLAs before the Speaker as a reason for his prediction. He stated that the Supreme Court must make a decision within 90 days, and by August 10, there is a chance for Ajit Pawar to become the Chief Minister.
Chavan also questioned Eknath Shinde’s visit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and suggested that it indicated his imminent replacement. He claimed that Shinde’s faction violated the Supreme Court’s 10th Schedule and that a decision could be expected soon.
It’s worth noting that NCP leader Ajit Pawar’s recent alliance with the BJP-Shiv Sena and the subsequent split within the NCP has changed the political landscape of Maharashtra. While Ajit Pawar has garnered support from NCP leaders like Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Dilip Walse Patil, Sharad Pawar, the party’s founder, has asserted his authority by expelling several leaders for anti-party activities.
Ajit Pawar’s move is reminiscent of Eknath Shinde’s split within the undivided Shiv Sena last year, which resulted in the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government and Shinde assuming the Chief Minister’s post.
The Maharashtra Deputy CM’s firm denial of any leadership changes within the Maha Yuti alliance contradicts Chavan’s claims. It remains to be seen how the political landscape in Maharashtra will evolve in the coming weeks.
