In New Delhi, a power struggle has begun within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) after Narendra Modi was elected as the leader. The Shiv Sena's Shinde group and the NCP's Ajit Pawar group are both vying for ministerial positions, with each demanding at least two posts - one Union minister and one state minister.
Following the NDA meeting, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, held discussions regarding Fadnavis' resignation proposal, ministerial posts, and potential cabinet expansion in the state. Shinde and Pawar also met with Shah to express their aspirations for ministerial roles. While both factions have requested two ministerial positions, it is likely that the Pawar group will receive a single Union ministerial berth, potentially filled by their Rajya Sabha MP Praful Patel.
The Shinde group's demand for two ministerial posts may also be met, considering their seven MPs, making them the largest party in the NDA after Telugu Desam and Janata Dal (ND). Additionally, the Shinde group has expressed interest in heading the Ministry of Heavy Industries. The leaders of the constituent parties, including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, supported Rajnath Singh's proposal to elect Narendra Modi as the NDA leader.
During the event, Shinde was positioned as the third-ranking leader on the dais, following Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, while Ajit Pawar was placed on the other side of Modi after Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah. Modi's consecutive third term as Prime Minister marks a historic moment, with Shinde expressing optimism about the country and Maharashtra's development over the next five years when speaking to reporters.
