Mumbai: The formation of a new government in Maharashtra has hit a roadblock as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has left for his native village in Satara district, causing the cancellation of a crucial meeting that was scheduled to take place among the MahaYuti allies on Friday. The meeting was set to discuss the details of the new government, such as cabinet positions, portfolio distribution, and the appointment of district guardian ministers.

This meeting was planned after a two-and-a-half-hour discussion chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday evening in New Delhi. Reports suggested that during this meeting, Devendra Fadnavis' name was finalised as the new Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Following the meeting with Amit Shah, Shinde had said that the MahaYuti allies would meet in Mumbai on Friday to finalize the government formation and resolve any remaining issues. He added that the discussion with Shah and BJP leaders JP Nadda was productive and confirmed that the deadlock was over. "Everything is fine. As a Shiv Sena leader, I am supporting the Grand Alliance’s Chief Minister. I am a caretaker Chief Minister, and I will take care of everyone," Shinde said.

Earlier this week, Shinde had expressed his willingness to follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision on who should become the next Chief Minister. However, Shinde appears reluctant to accept the position of Deputy Chief Minister in the new government. At the same time, there is growing pressure from Shiv Sena leaders and party workers for him to be part of the government and continue to lead the party.

Shinde’s negotiating power has diminished since NCP leader and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar announced his party’s support for Devendra Fadnavis to become the Chief Minister. Pawar also stated that he would retain control of the important planning and finance departments.

Shinde’s camp is pushing for the allocation of the Home and Urban Development departments. However, the BJP has already ruled out the proposal, as it intends to keep the Home department within its control.

Despite the BJP’s stance, Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat emphasized that Shinde should be in charge of the Home department, citing his ability to handle law and order in the state.

The Shiv Sena is also seeking control over the Urban Development, Education, Cultural Affairs, Water Supply, Health, Transport, and State Excise departments. Meanwhile, the NCP has made its pitch for departments such as Planning and Finance, Cooperation, Women and Child Welfare, Food and Civil Supply, Minority Affairs, Medical Education, and Tribal Development.

BJP sources indicated that the party intends to keep important portfolios like Home, Revenue, Energy, Housing, Rural Development, Water Resources, Forest, OBC Welfare, Tourism, and General Administration.

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