As Maharashtra eagerly awaits the announcement of its next chief minister, Shiv Sena leader and current caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is reportedly pushing for his son, Shrikant Shinde, to take up the role of Deputy Chief Minister in the anticipated Devendra Fadnavis-led Cabinet. This development has stirred significant interest in the state’s political circles.

Who is Shrikant Shinde?
Shrikant Eknath Shinde, born on February 4, 1987, is a prominent political figure and a member of the 17th Lok Sabha. Representing the Kalyan constituency in Maharashtra, he is a key leader of the Shiv Sena party and the son of Eknath Shinde.

Before entering politics, Shrikant Shinde pursued a medical career. He holds an MBBS degree and a Master’s in Orthopedics from Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College in Navi Mumbai. Remarkably, when he won his first election in 2014, he was still completing his Master’s program.

Shrikant made history in the 2014 general elections by securing the Kalyan Lok Sabha seat, becoming the youngest-ever Maratha Member of Parliament. He successfully retained his seat in the 2019 elections, solidifying his position in Maharashtra politics.

Shrikant Shinde’s Political Ambitions
Reports suggest Shrikant Shinde has expressed a strong desire to play a key role in the state government. Allegedly, he requested to be designated as the convener of the Mahayuti government if not appointed Deputy Chief Minister, citing the elections were conducted under his father’s leadership. This indicates his aspirations to continue influencing Maharashtra’s governance.

Shrikant Shinde Praises Father’s Leadership
Shortly after Eknath Shinde declared that he would abide by the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the chief ministerial post, Shrikant Shinde expressed deep admiration for his father’s leadership and dedication.

"I am very proud of my father and Shiv Sena leader Eknath ji Shinde Saheb. His unwavering commitment to Maharashtra and its people is unparalleled. He worked tirelessly day and night, earning their love, trust, and appreciation by serving selflessly every section of society," said Shrikant.

Shrikant highlighted his father’s humility, saying, “For Shinde Saheb, 'CM' means 'Common Man.' He opened the doors of Varsha bungalow, the Chief Minister’s official residence, for the common people, creating a new history in public service.”

Eknath Shinde’s Legacy of Public Service
Shrikant Shinde also underscored his father’s dedication to alliance politics. “Even at the peak of his career, his humility and sense of duty are evident. He reposed faith in Modi and Shah and set an example of how alliance dharma is more important than personal ambitions,” he added.

The younger Shinde emphasized that public service and nation-building have always been the core priorities for his father. “His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” he concluded.

MORE...
Maharashtra CM News Live: Suspense Over CM Post as Eknath Shinde Prepares to Address Press-Meet

Who Will Be Maharashtra’s CM? The Countdown Begins, Clarity Soon