Eknath Shinde resigns, to act as caretaker Maharashtra chief minister | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Eknath Shinde tendered his resignation as chief minister to governor CP Radhakrishnan as the term of the Maharashtra assembly ends on Tuesday. The governor, however, asked Shinde to remain as caretaker CM until the new government is sworn-in.
NCP chief Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis also reached the governor’s office to tender their resignation.
The Mahayuti alliance is yet to decide on its chief ministerial candidate after its huge win in the state. Two time chief minister and current deputy CM, Devendra Fadnavis is also seen as a choice for the position, as he is part of the BJP, the single largest party in the assembly.
While Maharashtra voters have delivered a decisive victory to the Mahayuti, uncertainty remains regarding the next chief minister. Senior Mahayuti leaders are currently in discussions to determine the state’s leadership. Although deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis is the frontrunner for the post, the Shiv Sena supports retaining Eknath Shinde as chief minister.
Earlier on Tuesday, Shinde told his party’s workers to not congregate or gather in Mumbai to show support for him.
“Out of love for me, some congregations have appealed to everyone to gather together and come to Mumbai. I am deeply grateful for your love. But I appeal that no one should come together in my support in such a manner. Once again it is my humble request that Shiv Sena workers should not assemble at Varsha bungalow (official residence of CM) or anywhere else,” said the X post by Shinde.
He also reiterated the strength of the Mahayuti alliance, saying that after the decisive victory, the alliance will stay together.
“After the great victory of Mahayuti, our government will be formed once again in the state. As a grand alliance, we contested the election together and are still together today,” the post said.
“The grand alliance has been and will continue to be strong for a strong and prosperous Maharashtra,” Shinde added.
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a substantial victory, winning 235 seats in the 288-member assembly. In the recent assembly elections, the BJP secured 132 seats, while their allies Shiv Sena and NCP won 57 and 41 seats respectively. The coalition also includes various smaller political groups.