Political turmoil in Maharashtra: BJP refuses to give Home Ministry to Shinde camp, gives option of other departments
Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): The election results of Maharashtra have completely changed the politics of the state. Eknath Shinde, who was the Chief Minister for two and a half years and was successful in bringing the legacy of Shiv Sena to his side, is now facing one blow after another in the game of power. After BJP came into the role of elder brother in Mahayuti, Shinde had to lose the post of Chief Minister and now his wish to become the Home Minister also does not seem to be fulfilled. At the same time, the way for the Finance Department seems to be clear for Ajit Pawar.
Devendra Fadnavis, who has been leading the BJP's strategy after becoming the Chief Minister, has gained control over both the administration and political power in the state. The BJP has made it clear that it cannot give the Home Ministry to the Shiv Sena, and instead has given options like Revenue, Urban Development and Public Works Department to the Shinde camp.
According to media reports, the BJP has given a clear message to the Shinde faction that the Home Ministry cannot be given. Many Shiv Sena leaders, including Gulabrao Patil, Sanjay Shirsat and Bharat Gugavale, have strongly supported Shinde to be made the Home Minister, but the BJP is not ready for this. Devendra Fadnavis said in an interview that the Union Home Ministry is with the BJP and hence having the Home Ministry post with the ruling party makes coordination easier.
Fadnavis held the home portfolio while he was chief minister from 2014 to 2019, and several important reform measures were taken during his government that led to a better functioning of the police force. Fadnavis also held the home portfolio during Shinde's two-and-a-half-year tenure, and that is why he wants to retain this important portfolio.
Although the Shinde camp is adamant on its demand for the Home Ministry, the BJP is now preparing to give them the option of other departments, due to which the BJP's stand in this struggle for power is clearly visible.