Maharashtra's political stage is once again pulsating with anticipation. Within the next 48 hours, either Devendra Fadnavis or Eknath Shinde is expected to take the oath of office. However, there are several imponderables.
While the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will nominate Fadnavis with eyes shut, Shinde's claim is buttressed by his remarkable electoral success and coalition dynamics; it gets further reinforced by the caste factor.
THE RSS FACTOR
Fadnavis, a staunch RSS loyalist and the BJP's golden boy from Nagpur, is the obvious frontrunner. Known for his administrative acumen and clean image, he aligns perfectly with the Sangh's ideology. For the RSS, Fadnavis symbolizes continuity and trust—qualities vital for navigating Maharashtra's volatile political terrain.
Yet, his path to the CM's chair isn't obstacle-free. The BJP leadership fears that appointing a Brahmin Chief Minister might alienate the electorally critical OBC and Maratha communities. Moreover, sidelining Eknath Shinde could be precarious for the coalition and undo the effort to dismantle Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena.
STUBBORN SHINDE
This story is from the November 25, 2024 edition of The Free Press Journal.
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This story is from the November 25, 2024 edition of The Free Press Journal.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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