Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding the formation of the Maharashtra government and the appointment of the Chief Minister (CM) during a press briefing on Monday. He confirmed that the swearing-in ceremony for the new government is scheduled for December 5, putting to rest any rumors about delays in government formation.
“The government is being formed, and the swearing-in ceremony will take place on December 5. It is incorrect to say that Eknath Shinde is the reason why the government is not being formed,” Kesarkar stated. He clarified that the BJP had appointed observers for the process, and the CM face would be announced later that day.
Kesarkar, a key ally in the Maharashtra political landscape, explained that Eknath Shinde, the current Chief Minister, had made it clear that the final decision regarding the CM candidate would lie with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. “Eknath Shinde has made it clear that PM Modi and Amit Shah’s decision will be final,” Kesarkar affirmed, emphasizing the central leadership’s role in the decision-making process.
The debate over the CM’s position had been a source of speculation in recent days. Kesarkar noted that while the Home Department typically reports to the Home Minister, in the case of Maharashtra, it is a joint responsibility between the Chief Minister and the Home Minister. He further explained that in most states, the CM holds primary responsibility over the Home Department’s affairs.
“The Home Department cannot be run by the Home Minister alone; it is managed jointly by the CM and the Home Minister. In most states, all rights of the Home Department rest with the CM,” Kesarkar stated.
Regarding the final choice for the CM, Kesarkar expressed strong support for Devendra Fadnavis, the leader of the BJP in Maharashtra. He noted that there is a 99% chance that Fadnavis would be appointed as the CM, while also emphasizing the importance of recognizing Eknath Shinde’s contributions and ensuring that his honor is upheld in the process.
As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, all eyes are now on the upcoming swearing-in ceremony, with the announcement of the CM face expected to clarify the leadership of the state in the coming days.
