As the political scenery in Maharashtra takes shape, preparations for the grand swearing-in ceremony on December 5 at Mumbai's Azad Maidan are in full swing. In recent developments, caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has reportedly met with the likely Chief Minister-elect Devendra Fadnavis, marking their first meeting since the prolonged negotiations over government formation began.

Shinde Accepts Deputy Chief Minister Role
After extensive discussions, Eknath Shinde has agreed to serve as the Deputy Chief Minister of the Mahayuti government. This decision comes following initial reports suggesting Shinde’s reluctance to accept the role under Fadnavis’s leadership. With this agreement in place, the path appears clear for Devendra Fadnavis to return as Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Power Sharing: Who Gets What?

The Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, has finalized a power-sharing formula that outlines the distribution of key cabinet positions:

• BJP: Expected to retain significant portfolios such as Home and Revenue among its 21-22 ministries. The party is also likely to hold onto the Speaker and Legislative Council Chairman positions.
• Shiv Sena: Aiming for 16 ministries, the Shiv Sena is likely to secure 12, including the critical Urban Development portfolio. Additionally, it may retain its current Deputy Chairman post and seek the Legislative Council Chairman position.
• NCP: The party is projected to receive 9-10 ministries, including the Finance portfolio and the Deputy Speaker position.

Grand Preparations for December 5

The swearing-in ceremony is set to be a high-profile event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, numerous Union ministers, and 19 chief ministers and deputy chief ministers from across the country. BJP leader Prasad Lad confirmed that approximately 42,000 people, including 40,000 BJP supporters and 2,000 VVIPs, will attend the event, which will also be broadcast live statewide.

Special arrangements are being made for leaders from various communities, ensuring inclusive participation. The BJP’s remarkable performance in the November 20 Maharashtra elections, securing 132 out of 288 seats, has further solidified its position in the state’s political framework.

With the groundwork laid and roles allocated, Maharashtra is set to witness a momentous swearing-in ceremony that underscores the strength of the Mahayuti alliance. All eyes are on December 5 as the state gears up for a new chapter in its political journey.

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