Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar emphasized the need for acknowledging Eknath Shinde’s pivotal role in leading the Shiv Sena during the recent Maharashtra assembly elections. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Kesarkar said it is now up to the BJP’s central leadership to decide how to honor Shinde’s contribution while maintaining alliance harmony.
Shinde’s Leadership in Spotlight
“The Maharashtra elections were fought under Eknath Shinde’s leadership. His contribution should be duly recognized. Now, it is up to Delhi (BJP’s central leadership) to determine how his stature will be upheld,” Kesarkar stated, reiterating the importance of respecting Shinde’s efforts in the Mahayuti’s success.
In the November 20 assembly elections, the Mahayuti alliance comprising Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), BJP, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP claimed a landslide victory, securing 230 of the 288 seats. The BJP emerged as the leading party with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 and NCP with 41 seats.
On CM Decision and Alliance Unity
While BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is seen as the top contender for the chief ministerial post, Kesarkar emphasized that Eknath Shinde has no reservations about the decision-making process.
“The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for December 5 at Azad Maidan in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shinde, as caretaker CM, has no role in delays or BJP’s internal decisions. He has expressed his readiness to accept any decision made by the BJP leadership,” Kesarkar said.
He dismissed reports of dissatisfaction or discord within the alliance, calling them baseless opposition tactics.
“This is a historic victory for Mahayuti, achieved through Eknath Shinde’s leadership. Opposition parties are spreading rumors after facing a major defeat. The alliance remains united, and Shinde is fully aligned with the coalition’s decisions,” Kesarkar added.
A Call for Constructive Dialogue
Kesarkar urged the media and political leaders to avoid speculative narratives that could harm the alliance’s stability.
“Three parties working together naturally involves discussions. It’s normal and doesn’t imply discord. Shinde is not unhappy, and the alliance is solid,” he clarified.
The Mahayuti government is set to begin its new term with the swearing-in ceremony on December 5, with expectations running high for a harmonious and effective administration.
