Devendra Fadnavis to Take Oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister Tomorrow

Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis is set to be sworn in as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister tomorrow at a grand ceremony in Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, marking the beginning of his third term in the state’s top post. The decision was finalised today by the BJP leadership, ending days of speculation over who would assume the role following the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance's landslide victory in the state elections.

Mr. Fadnavis’ name was formally proposed before the newly elected BJP legislators, who unanimously endorsed his selection. The 11-day suspense over the Chief Minister’s post now concludes as the BJP gears up to formally stake its claim to form the government. Mr. Fadnavis is scheduled to meet Governor CP Radhakrishnan later today to submit the proposal.

Preparations are in full swing at Azad Maidan, where the swearing-in ceremony will take place. The event comes two weeks after the Mahayuti alliance secured a decisive victory in the Assembly elections, winning 230 of the 288 seats.

The BJP's decision to nominate Mr. Fadnavis followed intense discussions within the alliance. Although the BJP emerged as the dominant party with 132 wins out of the 148 seats it contested, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, who served as Chief Minister during the alliance's previous term, also laid claim to the role.

Shiv Sena leaders argued that Mr. Shinde’s leadership during the campaign was instrumental in securing the Mahayuti’s victory. However, the BJP maintained its position that it would claim the Chief Minister’s post this time. After days of back-and-forth, Mr. Shinde publicly announced that he would abide by any decision made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

Despite Mr. Shinde’s concession, Shiv Sena leaders continued to emphasize his contributions. However, the BJP’s strong performance in the elections left little room for negotiation. The party now only requires the support of one ally to secure a majority in the Assembly. Reports suggest that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has also extended its support to the BJP-led government.

The swearing-in of Mr. Fadnavis will formally mark the start of the Mahayuti alliance’s new term in Maharashtra, as attention now shifts to the formation of the Cabinet and the policy roadmap for the state.