All For One, One For All?

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis faces tremendous challenges of managing competing interests and rising ambitions of allied partners

- Shweta Desai

PINK, a seemingly unlikely political colour, took centre-stage at the star-studded swearing-in ceremony of the three heads of the Mahayuti government at Mumbai’s iconic Azad Maidan.   

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar stole the show, twinning in mauve pink jackets. Seated together, next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the chemistry between the two leaders, seen bantering and smiling on the stage, was undeniable. Later, Fadnavis even humorously remarked that his ‘pink’ jacket was a gift from Pawar, who had been sporting pink-coloured outfits as part of his campaign strategy.

Former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde though, who also took oath as the deputy CM, seemed disconnected at the much-anticipated event, seated at a distance in his trademark white clothes, synonymous with mainstream Indian politicians.

The appearance of the Mahayuti trio on the stage effectively encapsulated the theatrics of the past two weeks, while also offering a glimpse into the government’s potential future direction.

Ahead of the oath-taking ceremony, Eknath Shinde’s frustration over the CM post cast doubt on his participation, with speculation swirling around his demand for the coveted home ministry. Despite negotiations with Union Home Minister and former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah in Delhi, Shinde withdrew to Satara, citing health issues and avoiding further power-sharing talks. As uncertainty persisted, Ajit Pawar on the other hand, had intervened offering the NCP’s unconditional support to Devendra Fadnavis, helping to ensure the government formation proceeded.