Eknath Shinde to act as caretaker chief minister; suspense continues over CM post in Maharashtra

NEW DELHI: Three days after its one-sided victory in the assembly elections, the Mahayuti Front (MF) is yet to decide on a chief minister in Maharashtra. The BJP is of the view that Devendra Fadnavis should become the chief minister as the party has 132 seats. Shinde has not backed down from the demand for continuity in the chief minister's post. Discussions were held today to pacify Shinde.

Meanwhile, Shinde resigned as chief minister after the term of the assembly ended. Governor CP Radhakrishnan has directed him to continue as the caretaker chief minister till the appointment of a new chief minister.

In Bihar, the JD(U) was given the chief minister's post despite the BJP winning more seats. The Shiv Sena says the 'Bihar model' should be implemented in Maharashtra as well. Meanwhile, Shinde's supporters called off the show of strength outside Varsha, the chief minister's official bungalow.

Ajit Pawar, who has 41 seats, favours Fadnavis becoming the chief minister. Ajit's support is enough for the BJP to secure the 145 seats required for an absolute majority. However, the BJP central leadership is of the view that the Shiv Sena should not be abandoned after contesting together.

No presidential rule situation

• Sources in the assembly indicated that the president's rule will not have to be imposed though the term of the assembly is over.
• A copy of the gazette notification containing the names of the new MLAs was submitted to the Governor by election officials on Sunday.
• It is claimed that the 15th Legislative Assembly has come into being with this. As per rule 73 of the Representation of the People Act, the House shall be deemed to have been duly constituted upon the submission of the notification