Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena leader and a top contender for the chief minister’s post in Maharashtra, expressed humility and gratitude following the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) landslide victory in the recent state assembly elections. “I thank the voters of Maharashtra for this historic mandate. This is a landslide victory,” Shinde said, emphasizing the collective effort behind the Mahayuti alliance’s success.
Reflecting on his journey, Shinde said, “I worked as a common volunteer and will continue to do so. I never considered myself a chief minister. My commitment has always been to the people of Maharashtra.” Shinde highlighted his focus on addressing the struggles of the state’s poor and common citizens. “I had decided to do something for the common man in Maharashtra. I have seen the hardships faced by poor and common people here,” he said.
Shinde credited the Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, for completing several halted projects initiated under the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. “Works halted by the MVA were finished by Mahayuti,” he added, underlining the alliance’s dedication to development.
While Shinde’s future role remains uncertain, with Devendra Fadnavis also a frontrunner for the chief ministerial post, his statements resonate with the alliance’s focus on public service. The NDA secured a decisive victory, winning 235 of the 288 seats, including 131 for the BJP, 57 for the Shiv Sena, and 41 for the NCP.
As consultations continue among alliance leaders and senior BJP figures, Shinde’s commitment to serving as a “common volunteer” reflects his grassroots connection, a hallmark of his political career.
