The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged victorious in the Maharashtra elections, securing a massive mandate. With a total of 136 MLAs, including four from smaller allies, the BJP’s victory has reshaped the political dynamics in the state. The Shinde Sena holds 57 seats, while the Ajit Pawar-led NCP has 41. The Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the NCP (SP), secured just 49 seats combined.
This sweeping victory has empowered the BJP, but it has also led to tensions among its allies, especially with the Shinde Sena. The BJP’s commanding position in the legislature could trigger a shift in power-sharing dynamics, particularly concerning the Chief Minister’s (CM) post, which could see some negotiation between the BJP and its partners. The Shinde camp, having helped the BJP return to power in 2022 after a split in the Shiv Sena, is making a strong case for retaining the CM’s position, at least for the first two and a half years, given their role in the party’s rise.
On the other hand, Devendra Fadnavis, a key leader in the BJP, is also seen as a strong contender for the CM’s office. Fadnavis has deep ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which played a pivotal role in strengthening his position. His leadership style, rooted in BJP’s core values, is credited with the party’s impressive win. However, there is internal division over whether Fadnavis should be given the CM’s post or whether the BJP should honor its alliance commitment to Shinde, at least temporarily.
The BJP’s internal debate over the CM candidate is complicated by the need to balance party unity and alliance dynamics, particularly with partners like the Shinde Sena and the Ajit Pawar faction of NCP. The BJP’s leadership will soon have to make a decisive call on both the CM’s candidate and how to manage its growing alliance, which could have lasting implications for the party’s future in Maharashtra.
The BJP’s overwhelming victory is also a reflection of its dominance in the state’s political landscape, with the opposition in a weakened position. The party must now navigate the tricky waters of alliance dharma, balancing its own political goals with the demands of its allies. As the party leadership prepares for its next steps, the coming days will determine whether the alliance remains stable or if internal power struggles create fractures.
