Why Fadnavis Becoming CM is Beneficial for NCP, A Big Challenge for BJP
The question of Maharashtra's next CM remains uncertain. However, Devendra Fadnavis becoming CM could benefit Ajit Pawar. Here's why this scenario might work in his favor.
Why Fadnavis as CM Could Benefit NCP
The suspense over who will be Maharashtra's next Chief Minister continues. The Mahayuti alliance is currently deliberating on its CM candidate after having won the Maharashtra elections strongly. Many believe Eknath Shinde might resume his job as CM, while some feel that Devendra Fadnavis is gaining in popularity. What's surprising is that even NCP's Ajit Pawar faction seems to be okay with having Fadnavis as the CM. What is the reason behind this? Let's see.
Fadnavis-Pawar Alliance: A Strong Bond
Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar share a strong working relationship. In 2019, the two came together to form a government in Maharashtra, which though collapsed within 80 hours due to internal disagreements within the NCP. In the latest election, BJP emerged as the largest party with 132 seats, followed by Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena with 57 seats, and Ajit Pawar's NCP securing 41 seats.
Why Fadnavis as CM might work for Ajit Pawar:
Many political observers consider Fadnavis the strongest contender for the CM post. If Fadnavis gets CM, there's every chance both Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar will get elevated as Deputy CMs. Chhagan Bhujbal, a senior NCP leader, has already come out in open support of Fadnavis: "There is no logic as to why one should oppose Fadnavis." If Fadnavis were to become the CM, Ajit Pawar's faction will claim enormous political weightage.
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Why Shinde as CM Could Be a Problem for Ajit Pawar
Ajit Pawar would be hard-pushed if Eknath Shinde was made CM. Here, the Deputy CM would most likely be offered to BJP since it is the largest party in the alliance, whereas NCP would get a relatively poor deal. With BJP having the maximum number of seats, NCP would find it tough to hammer out an equal share of power especially in key ministries.
Ministerial Allocation: A Potential Sticking Point
Besides the CM, ministry distribution might emerge as another contentious issue. Shinde and Ajit Pawar factions are likely to ask for crucial portfolios. Reports suggest that the BJP could stake claim over half the state ministries by virtue of its 132 seats, which might make NCP wary of lower-profile ministries, thereby leaving distribution a bit tense.
In short, since the CM post remains undecided, Fadnavis' candidature appear to hold more promising power-sharing prospects for the Ajit Pawar's faction within the Mahayuti. The coming days will tell if these complex dynamics prove amiable enough for the alliance.
