“Shinde’s Contribution Should Be Recognized”: Kesarkar on Maharashtra Leadershi

GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 3rd Dec. Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has reiterated that the recent Maharashtra assembly elections were fought under the leadership of Eknath Shinde, and it is the BJP’s central leadership that will decide how to preserve his stature. Kesarkar, speaking at a press conference on Monday, emphasized that Shinde’s significant contribution should be properly acknowledged.

The Mahayuti, a coalition comprising Shiv Sena under Shinde, the BJP, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, secured a resounding victory in the November 20 polls, winning 230 of the 288 assembly seats. The BJP led with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 seats and NCP with 41.

Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is widely viewed as the frontrunner for the top post. The BJP has confirmed that the new chief minister will take the oath of office on December 5 at Azad Maidan in South Mumbai, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the ceremony. It is also expected that the Shiv Sena and NCP will be given deputy chief minister positions in the new government.

Kesarkar stated, “Our leader has already proven who truly represents the Shiv Sena. Now, it is up to Delhi (the BJP’s central leadership) to decide how to maintain his stature. We will not interfere in that decision.” He also dismissed rumors of a delay in government formation, asserting that the swearing-in ceremony would occur on December 5 as scheduled. Kesarkar explained that the delay was due to the BJP’s internal selection process and that Shinde, as the caretaker chief minister, had no involvement in it.

On reports of discord within the Mahayuti, Kesarkar termed them as baseless rumors spread by the opposition. “This victory is significant, especially after years of vote polarization. We fought the election under Eknath Shinde’s leadership, and his contribution must be recognized. The opposition, with their limited seats, is looking for excuses to create unnecessary speculation,” he added.

Kesarkar further asked leaders and the media to refrain from making speculative comments about the alliance, asserting that discussions between the three parties were normal. “Shinde is not unhappy, and the alliance remains firmly united,” he concluded.