Web Desk
In the lead-up to Maharashtra’s critical state elections, the Mahayuti coalition—comprising BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction—has not finalized its chief ministerial candidate. Despite growing curiosity, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the decision would be made collectively by alliance leaders post-election. Fadnavis underscored that there was no formal pre-election formula for selecting the chief minister, with the decision resting on central BJP leadership and alliance partners.
Eknath Shinde, who currently holds the CM post, highlighted the achievements of his government over the past two years as a testament to his leadership. Shinde’s administration released a “report card,” contrasting their governance record with that of the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. The Mahayuti alliance has expressed confidence in their governance and investment-attraction measures in Maharashtra, further bolstering their campaign.
Interestingly, the opposition MVA coalition has also refrained from naming its CM candidate, sparking debates over strategy and internal unity. Uddhav Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT) stated that the MVA would reveal its candidate only after Mahayuti did the same. Fadnavis, in response, challenged the opposition, questioning their hesitation and dismissing claims of a Gujarat-centric investment shift as baseless.
This cautious approach from both sides reflects the high stakes of the Maharashtra elections, where leadership and governance records will play pivotal roles in shaping voter sentiment
