Maharashtra Chunav Results: Now CM Race in Maharashtra! Ajit Pawar Talks to Shah for 25 Minutes

 

The political landscape in Maharashtra is undergoing a seismic shift following the landslide victory of the Mahayuti alliance in the 2024 Assembly elections. With the alliance of BJP, Shinde's Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar's NCP leading in over 224 seats, a clear mandate has been delivered. However, as the celebrations begin, a new drama unfolds—the race for the Chief Minister's post in Maharashtra. Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister and a significant leader within the Mahayuti alliance, has reportedly had an extended 25-minute conversation with Home Minister Amit Shah during the vote-counting process, signaling intense discussions and negotiations about the leadership of the state.
Historic Victory for Mahayuti Alliance
The Mahayuti alliance's performance in the Maharashtra Assembly elections has been nothing short of extraordinary. Garnering a lead in 224 seats out of 288, the alliance has dwarfed the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition of Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawar's faction of the NCP, which is trailing with only 54 seats.
This decisive mandate reflects the voters' endorsement of the BJP's governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the alliance's narrative of stability, development, and welfare. Analysts attribute this success to the Mahayuti's strategic alliance-building and grassroots campaigns.
Who Will Be the Chief Minister?
Amidst this historic victory, the focus has shifted to the all-important question: Who will occupy the Chief Minister's chair?
Before the elections, the Mahayuti alliance had reportedly agreed that the party securing the highest number of seats would nominate the Chief Minister. With BJP contesting the lion's share of seats—149 out of 288—it is expected to assert its claim. However, Ajit Pawar's long-standing ambition to become Maharashtra's Chief Minister has added complexity to the equation.
Ajit Pawar’s Strategic Move
Ajit Pawar's 25-minute conversation with Amit Shah during the counting of votes has sparked widespread speculation. According to insiders, Pawar is positioning himself as the frontrunner for the Chief Minister's post, citing his pivotal role in the alliance's victory.
Earlier, Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s wife and NCP MP, hinted at this ambition. Speaking to reporters, she remarked, “This is a day of good fortune for the people of Maharashtra, NCP, and Baramati. The people have shown their faith in Ajit Pawar, and I wish for what the people of Maharashtra want—for Ajit Pawar to lead the state as Chief Minister.”
Pawar’s supporters within the NCP argue that his administrative experience and ability to maintain alliances make him a strong contender. Moreover, his faction's critical support helped consolidate votes from key constituencies, including Baramati.
Eknath Shinde’s Camp Responds
Eknath Shinde, the current Chief Minister, is not sitting idle. Shinde's Shiv Sena faction, which contested 81 seats and played a crucial role in the Mahayuti alliance, is also eyeing the top post. Shinde loyalists argue that his leadership during a tumultuous political phase has strengthened the alliance and stabilized governance in the state.
Before the elections, Shinde had expressed confidence that the Shiv Sena's performance would secure his continuation as Chief Minister. However, with the BJP's overwhelming majority within the alliance, Shinde’s position is under scrutiny.
BJP’s Calculations
The BJP holds the most leverage in this power struggle, with its massive seat count solidifying its dominance within the alliance. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a BJP stalwart, is a natural contender for the top post. Known for his administrative acumen and strong rapport with party leaders, Fadnavis remains a favorite within the BJP.
However, the BJP leadership faces a delicate balancing act. While asserting its claim, the party must ensure that the alliance remains intact and that all partners feel adequately represented. This dynamic was likely a key topic during Ajit Pawar’s conversation with Amit Shah.
A Day of Negotiations and Statements
As counting continues and final results trickle in, leaders across the political spectrum are issuing statements and holding discussions. Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda are reportedly closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that the party's interests are safeguarded without alienating key allies.
Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress, reeling from their electoral debacle, have raised concerns over the alliance dynamics and the use of EVMs. Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, stated, “There is a need for a comprehensive discussion on EVMs. Questions are being raised repeatedly, and the Election Commission must address them.”
Ajit Pawar’s Strengths and Challenges
Ajit Pawar's claim to the Chief Minister's chair is not without merit. As a seasoned administrator and leader with significant grassroots appeal, Pawar brings experience and political acumen to the table. His ability to secure crucial constituencies for the Mahayuti alliance strengthens his case.
However, Pawar faces challenges as well. His decision to align with the BJP had caused a split within the NCP, with Sharad Pawar openly criticizing him. While his faction has emerged stronger in these elections, questions about long-term stability within the party persist.
Implications for the Alliance
The outcome of this power tussle will have significant implications for the Mahayuti alliance. A smooth resolution will bolster the alliance's credibility and set the tone for governance in Maharashtra. Conversely, prolonged infighting could weaken the alliance and provide ammunition to the opposition.
Political analysts suggest that the BJP is likely to offer key cabinet positions to Shinde’s Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's NCP as a compromise, while retaining the Chief Minister’s post for itself. However, whether Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde will accept such an arrangement remains to be seen.
What Lies Ahead?
The Mahayuti alliance’s victory in Maharashtra marks a significant political milestone. However, the race for the Chief Minister’s post underscores the complexities of coalition politics.
As Maharashtra awaits its new leader, the spotlight remains on Ajit Pawar, Eknath Shinde, and Devendra Fadnavis. The final decision, influenced by BJP’s central leadership and ongoing negotiations, will shape the future of Maharashtra’s governance.
For now, all eyes are on Maharashtra, where the question of leadership remains as captivating as the election itself. The next few days will be crucial in determining how this political drama unfolds and whether the alliance can transition seamlessly from electoral victory to effective governance.