The opposition's absence marked a significant moment in the state’s political landscape, coinciding with discussions surrounding the leadership of the next government. Speculation has centered on a reshuffling of key posts within the ruling alliance. Eknath Shinde, who currently serves as the chief minister, may step down to make way for Devendra Fadnavis of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). If this occurs, Shinde is expected to assume the role of deputy chief minister alongside Ajit Pawar. These shifts have yet to be officially confirmed, but BJP sources suggest unity remains strong within the coalition.
The BJP-led alliance, which secured a landslide victory in the recent assembly elections with 230 of the 288 seats, has emphasized its mandate to deliver effective governance. The coalition includes the BJP with 132 seats, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) with 57, and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction with 41 seats. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprised of the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawar's NCP faction, faced a crushing defeat, capturing only 46 seats collectively.
Ajit Pawar expressed disappointment over the absence of opposition legislators at the oath-taking ceremony, stressing the importance of setting aside political differences during such formal occasions. "The legislature is a space for debate, dialogue, and cooperation, not boycott," he remarked, urging the opposition to engage constructively in the upcoming sessions.
Tensions within the opposition have been evident since the election results were announced. Sharad Pawar, leader of the rival NCP faction, has voiced concerns about defections within his party and accused Ajit Pawar of betraying party ideals by joining the BJP-led coalition earlier this year. The Congress, led by Nana Patole in the state, has also signaled dissatisfaction with the election outcome and hinted at restructuring efforts to regain its foothold in Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, the ruling coalition has begun preparations for the formation of the new cabinet, with key decisions expected in the coming days. Fadnavis, seen as a frontrunner for the chief minister’s post, assured that the coalition remains united. "We have a shared vision for Maharashtra’s development, and the decisions regarding leadership will reflect our collective priorities," he stated.
As political realignments unfold, analysts have noted the strategic significance of the BJP’s growing influence in Maharashtra, particularly after setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections earlier this year. The consolidation of power within the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance reflects a recalibration of state politics, setting the stage for broader national implications ahead of the 2024 general elections.