Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut suggested that if Devendra Fadnavis moves to Delhi, Vidarbha leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule might be considered for Maharashtra’s chief ministerial post. Opposing leaders countered with differing views, keeping the political drama alive.

Key Takeaways (मुख्य बिंदु)

  • Sanjay Raut links Devendra Fadnavis's possible Delhi posting to Bawankule as CM candidate
  • Eknath Shinde’s return as CM is ruled out by Raut, but other leaders see him as a strong contender
  • BJP has dismissed the speculation, stating no official proposal exists

Mumbai – A fresh wave of speculation has rippled through Maharashtra’s political corridors after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar hinted at a potential reshuffle involving Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. While Raut envisioned a Delhi assignment for Fadnavis and earmarked Chandrashekhar Bawankule as a successor, Pawar highlighted the growing clout of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in both the state and the national capital.

Background and Emerging Narrative

The idea of Fadna​vis moving to Delhi has been circulating for weeks, especially after Shiv Sena (UBT) heavyweight Aaditya Thackeray floated similar suggestions. Raut amplified the narrative, stating, “If Devendra Fadnavis goes to Delhi, I believe Bawankule’s name will be considered for the chief minister’s post. In fact, it is my assessment that Fadnavis himself would recommend Bawankule’s name.” He praised Bawankule, a Vidarbha stalwart, as “the most suitable leader after Fadnavis, who maintains communication with everyone and carries people along.”

Shinde’s Prospects and Party Dynamics

Contrasting Raut’s confidence, Pawar offered a different reading. “Shinde’s weight has increased both in Maharashtra and in Delhi. Senior BJP leaders are backing him,” he said, implying that the deputy chief minister could still be a viable candidate if a vacancy emerges. Raut, however, dismissed any chance of Shinde returning as chief minister, declaring, “Eknath Shinde will not become chief minister again, absolutely not.”

BJP’s Official Stance

Senior BJP figures, including Girish Mahajan and MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar, brushed off Raut’s statements as internal speculation. Mahajan sarcastically remarked, “We don’t think the BJP leadership informs all its decisions to Sanjay Raut.” The party has yet to confirm any plan to shift Fadnavis to the centre, maintaining that no proposal is under consideration.

Alternative Views Within Shiv Sena

Shiv Sena MLC Bacchu Kadu offered a distinct formula, suggesting that while Fadnavis should take on national responsibilities, Shinde should retain the state’s top job. “Shinde’s rebellion brought the BJP back to power in Maharashtra. Therefore, if Fadnavis goes to Delhi, the leadership of the state should go to Shinde on moral grounds, irrespective of numbers,” Kadu argued. He also mocked Raut’s prediction, questioning its accuracy and even joking about an astrologer’s involvement.

These divergent opinions underscore a volatile political environment. Should Fadnavis indeed be posted to Delhi, Maharashtra could witness a reshuffling of coalition dynamics, development agendas, and regional power balances between Vidarbha, Marathwada, Konkan, and Western Maharashtra. The next few weeks will be crucial as parties sharpen their strategies, and the state awaits a definitive decision on its leadership future.