All Not Well With BJP In Maharashtra?

Eknath Shinde is visibly perturbed by the treatment he receives from senior central leaders, which seems to undermine his influence and standing within the party. Despite these challenges, Shinde remains hopeful that the initial agreement regarding a two-and-a-half-year tenure—divided between himself and the BJP nominee, will be honoured. According to an informed source, during a recent meeting, Shinde was assured that the matter would be resolved after the upcoming local body elections. However, the unexpected victory of the BJP in these elections appears to have significantly altered the political landscape, complicating negotiations. 

When Shinde attempted to contact a senior leader at the central level for clarification, he was informed that due to preoccupations, arranging a meeting was not feasible, with a suggestion that he instead meet with a lesser-ranking junior leader. At one stage, it was conveyed that Fadnavis would make the final decision on the matter, and that sharing power might not be possible unless Fadnavis felt that his son, a Member of Parliament, could be inducted into the central ministry, la possibility that remains uncertain. The abrupt death of Ajit Pawar, followed by the induction of his wife into the cabinet and a detailed briefing to the Chief Minister himself, reportedly delivered a severe blow to the Shinde group’s position and morale. 

Additionally, the respectful and cordial treatment extended by senior leaders to MPs from the Shinde camp, who were told they are like family members and can meet him anytime, likely serves as motivation to either bring them into the party fold or secure their support when neededsource says. The most favourable treatment might have been detailed personally by Shinde’s son to his father, emphasising the importance of these gestures. Collectively, these developments probably signalled to Shinde that he has little choice but to follow the trajectory outlined by the BJP, which remains a significant and pressing concern, according to sources.