February 21st 2025.
In the midst of rumors about a strained relationship with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra's deputy CM Eknath Shinde made it clear that no one should underestimate him. Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Shinde issued a subtle warning about the possibility of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government being overthrown. He emphasized that his experience as a worker of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray and Sena leader Anand Dighe has taught him to not be taken lightly.
"In 2022, I proved my capabilities by toppling the government of those who underestimated me. We were able to establish a new government that gained the trust and support of the people," Shinde stated, possibly alluding to the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government. It was during this time that Shinde became Chief Minister by forming an alliance with the BJP after splitting from the Thackeray-led Sena.
Shinde proudly reflected on the success of the "double engine government", crediting himself and Devendra Fadnavis for securing a total of 232 seats in the elections. He asserted, "Do not underestimate me. This hint should be enough for those who can read between the lines. I will continue to do my work with dedication."
Although both Shinde and Fadnavis have denied any discord between them, recent events have suggested otherwise. After the elections, Shinde was asked to switch roles with Fadnavis, who became Chief Minister while Shinde took on the role of deputy. Tensions between the two came to the forefront when NCP leader Aditi Tatkare and BJP leader Girish Mahajan were appointed as guardian ministers for Raigad and Nashik districts, respectively. This led to dissatisfaction among Shiv Sena leaders and both appointments were eventually revoked, leaving Fadnavis with the responsibility of making a new decision.
In an effort to assert their authority, both deputy CMs, Shinde and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, set up project monitoring cells to track the progress of projects in their respective districts and departments. This was seen as a sign of both BJP allies asserting their power in the government. While the Chief Minister's "war room" for monitoring key projects already existed, Shinde established his own medical aid cell to provide assistance to those in need.
Shinde has also been absent from several meetings called by Fadnavis, including the one for the Nashik Regional Development Authority to discuss preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela. Instead, he held a separate meeting in Nashik where BJP minister Girish Mahajan was missing. Similarly, after Fadnavis held a review meeting for the Industries department, Shinde held his own meeting recently. The Industries department is led by Shiv Sena minister Uday Samant.
The tension between the two leaders became more apparent when the Home department, headed by Fadnavis, downgraded or removed police security for 20 Shiv Sena MLAs who were given this protection after the party split in 2022. However, both Fadnavis and Shinde downplayed any issues, with Fadnavis stating that there was "no harm" in Shinde setting up his own medical cell as the intention was to help people. He also mentioned that he had done something similar when he was deputy Chief Minister.
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