Shinde may get this important post in Maharashtra, his son may get a place in the Centre

Maharashtra Politics: There are signs of a big change in the politics of Maharashtra once again. According to sources, Eknath Shinde is likely to become the Deputy Chief Minister. If this decision comes into effect, he can keep important departments like Urban Development or Public Works Department (PWD) with himself. Apart from this, Shinde can demand major ministries like Revenue, Agriculture, Health, Rural Development, Industry, and Social Justice in his party quota. Also, the demand for a cabinet and a minister of state post at the Center can also be included in his priorities.

Strategy of Shinde faction

People close to Eknath Shinde believe that becoming the Deputy Chief Minister and taking charge of heavy weight departments will strengthen the party in the state. This strategy is considered very important in view of the upcoming municipal elections. In early 2025, elections will be held in about two dozen municipal corporations including Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Aurangabad, Solapur, and Kolhapur. In such a situation, Shinde's active participation can be beneficial for the party.

By being part of the government, Shinde can ensure funds for his MLAs and maintain Shiv Sena's influence. Direct communication with senior leaders like Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar is considered necessary to protect the interests of his party.

Ajit Pawar faction's bet

On the other hand, Ajit Pawar will try to retain the Finance Ministry along with the post of Deputy Chief Minister. His hold on the Finance Department will give his party an opportunity to play an important role in the policy making of the state.

Ajit Pawar's faction insists that the ministries that he had during the Shinde government, such as Agriculture, Food Supply, Women and Child Welfare and Medical Education, should be retained. This will maintain his sphere of influence.

BJP's formula

Key departments like Home Ministry, Finance, Urban Development, Energy and Irrigation are priorities for the BJP. The party wants to keep these important departments under its control so that it can maintain its dominance over administrative and developmental schemes.

Important meeting in Delhi

The leaders of the three factions will meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi and discuss the power equation. The picture of government formation and distribution of ministries can become clear after this meeting.

Mathematics of cabinet expansion

According to sources, the formula of one ministerial post for six MLAs is being discussed. The number of ministers in Maharashtra including the Chief Minister cannot exceed 43. In such a situation, BJP can get 21-22 ministerial posts, Shinde Shiv Sena 10-12 and Ajit Pawar faction 8-9 ministerial posts.

Impact on future politics

Shinde's participation in the government and his activism is expected to strengthen his party. At the same time, the tussle between BJP and Ajit Pawar faction can affect the balance of power in the state. It will be interesting to see for whom this equation of power proves beneficial in the upcoming elections.

This change in Maharashtra's politics is sure to have an impact on the politics of the state and the country.