Eknath Shinde, leader of the Shiv Sena and a key contender for the Chief Minister’s position in Maharashtra, stated that he is satisfied with the accomplishments of his administration over the past two and a half years. Amid the suspense surrounding the next Chief Minister, Shinde emphasized his willingness to abide by any decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Speaking to reporters, Shinde shared, “I am content with the work we have achieved in the last 2.5 years. Yesterday, I spoke with Prime Minister Modi and conveyed that whatever decision he makes, we will accept it. I also called Home Minister Shah and assured him of my support for their decision.”
This statement comes in the wake of the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) decisive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The NDA, which includes the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), secured 235 out of 288 seats in the state assembly.
While Shinde has the support of several Shiv Sena leaders to continue as Chief Minister, no official announcement has been made. Both Shinde and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis remain top contenders for the position. The final decision is expected following consultations with PM Modi and Amit Shah.
Shinde also expressed gratitude to Maharashtra’s voters and reaffirmed his commitment to public service, saying, “I have always worked as a common volunteer and will continue to do so. Our aim has been to address the hardships faced by the poor and common people.”
The vote count concluded on November 23, following elections on November 20, which saw a voter turnout of 66.05%. The new government is expected to be sworn in soon, with the Mahayuti alliance poised to take the reins of Maharashtra.