The Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024 gave a decisive vote in favor of the BJP-led Mahayuthi alliance, which won a mandatory 235 seats out of 288 seats. But despite the coalition’s overwhelming victory, questions remain about who will lead the country as the next prime minister.

As the internal discussions continued, Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar expressed his party’s desire for Eknath Shinde to continue as Chief Minister. Kesarkar said the Shiv Sena MLAs felt that Shinde should remain in power as the Maha Alliance under his leadership had performed well and performed well in the polls. However, BJP insiders called for former CM Devendra Fadnavis to be taken back to the helm, leading to a possible power struggle within the alliance.

Mahayuti Alliance’s Victory
The Mahayuthi alliance—consisting of the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction—was led by the opposition Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) in which Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), . and... the Shiv Sena (UBT). The Coalition’s integrated campaign strategy and effective leadership were key to its overwhelming success.
Leadership Debate: Shinde vs. Fadnavis

The question of leadership has emerged as a contentious issue for the triumphant Mahayuti alliance.

• Shiv Sena’s Stand: Shiv Sena MLAs, under Shinde’s leadership, have expressed confidence in his continuation as CM, citing his ability to unite the alliance and deliver electoral success.
• BJP’s Silence: While the BJP has not made an official statement, internal voices within the party are pushing for Fadnavis, who has a proven administrative record and strong support base, to return as CM.

The final decision will likely emerge from high-level discussions among the alliance partners, balancing political strategy and party interests.

MVA Faces Unrest Amid Crushing Defeat

The Maha Vikas Aghadi suffered a devastating blow in the elections, and cracks within the opposition camp are already visible.

• Defections on the Horizon: NCP chief whip Anil Patil, who retained his Amalner seat, hinted at potential defections from the opposition to the ruling camp. Speaking to a Marathi news channel, Patil revealed that several re-elected MLAs from Congress, NCP (SP), and Sena (UBT) are disillusioned with MVA’s leadership and are considering switching allegiance. “There is tremendous unrest, and we might see five to six MLAs join us in the coming months,” he claimed.
• MVA’s Challenges: The opposition alliance, already weakened by internal conflicts, now faces the daunting task of regaining lost ground and maintaining unity in the face of possible defections.

What Lies Ahead?

As the BJP-led Mahayuti consolidates its power in Maharashtra, the leadership debate could shape the state’s political dynamics. Eknath Shinde, who has successfully steered the alliance through a turbulent tenure, enjoys strong support from his Shiv Sena faction. On the other hand, Devendra Fadnavis remains a popular leader within the BJP, known for his governance capabilities.

For the opposition, rebuilding their alliance and addressing internal unrest will be critical in regaining relevance in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

The coming days will reveal not only the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra but also the future trajectory of the state’s political power play.

Maharashtra Election Results 2024: Who Will Be the Next Chief Minister?

After the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance’s sweeping victory in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024, where it secured an impressive 235 out of 288 seats, the focus has shifted to the critical question: Who will lead the state as the next Chief Minister?

Shiv Sena Pushes for Eknath Shinde to Remain CM

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has strongly advocated for Eknath Shinde to continue as Chief Minister, emphasizing the alliance’s success under his leadership.

"Shiv Sena MLAs feel Shinde should remain in the post because under his leadership, the Mahayuti alliance worked very well and performed spectacularly in the polls," said Kesarkar.

Shinde’s leadership during his tenure as CM was instrumental in maintaining alliance unity and driving an effective campaign that resonated with voters.

BJP Stays Silent Amid Calls for Fadnavis

While the BJP, the largest party in the Mahayuti alliance, has yet to make an official statement on the leadership question, several voices within the party are calling for Devendra Fadnavis to return as CM. Fadnavis, a two-time Chief Minister, is known for his administrative skills and has a strong track record in governance.
The BJP’s silence suggests that internal deliberations are ongoing, and the final decision will likely involve careful negotiations between the alliance partners.

MVA in Turmoil After Crushing Defeat

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprising Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Shiv Sena (UBT), suffered a resounding defeat, exposing cracks in the opposition alliance.

• Defections Expected: Anil Patil, NCP chief whip, hinted at possible defections from the MVA to the ruling Mahayuti.

“There is tremendous unrest among some re-elected MLAs from Congress, NCP, and Sena (UBT). Five to six MLAs may switch sides in the coming months,” Patil revealed.

The opposition alliance is grappling with disillusioned members who are reconsidering their political affiliations following the MVA’s poor performance.

What Lies Ahead for Maharashtra?

• For Mahayuti: The alliance partners—BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP—must finalize their leadership choice soon to maintain the momentum of their victory.
• For MVA: The opposition faces an uphill battle to address internal unrest and rebuild after a devastating defeat.

The decision on Maharashtra’s Chief Minister will not only determine the power dynamics within the ruling alliance but also set the tone for governance in the state. The spotlight remains firmly on whether Shinde retains his position or Fadnavis takes the helm once more.