New Maharashtra government likely to take oath on December 2: sources – India TV

The inauguration ceremony of the new Maharashtra government, including the chief minister, may take another four to five days, sources said. Discussions are underway to hold the grand event on December 2, while preparations are in full swing for a large-scale ceremony. While discussions are underway to hold the event on December 2, the main reason for the delay is an ongoing tussle within the ruling Mahayuti coalition for the chief minister’s post, sources revealed.

Shinde versus Fadnavis: the crux of the delay

The impasse stems from differences between the BJP and Shiv Sena factions over leadership. Shiv Sena leaders are determined to retain Eknath Shinde as chief minister, citing his leadership as key to the alliance’s resounding victory. Sena spokesperson Naresh Mhaske said the Maharashtra elections were fought under Shinde’s leadership and retaining him as chief minister would honor the unity and leadership of the alliance.

However, BJP leaders, including MLC Pravin Darekar, are pleading for Devendra Fadnavis to regain the chief minister’s post. With the BJP securing its highest tally of 132 Assembly seats, many in the party believe Fadnavis is best placed to lead the state government.

In the meantime, the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP, which is also part of the Mahayuti (great alliance) would have agreed to support the BJP Devendra Fadnavis for the post of Chief Minister (CM).

Amid speculation of a potential constitutional crisis if the government is not formed by November 26, officials clarified that the 15th assembly has already been constituted following the publication of election results by the Election Commission. This allays fears related to presidential rule, ensuring that there is no immediate legal emergency to break the impasse.

The Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, secured 230 of the 288 Assembly seats, leaving the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi with just 46 seats. Although the alliance remains confident in its ability to form the government, the delay has fueled political speculation and public interest. BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis denied any dispute over the CM’s post, insisting that coalition leaders would reach a consensus.