Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis Dismisses Claims of Ajit Pawar Replacing CM Eknath Shinde

In a recent statement, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has firmly denied any leadership changes within the ruling 'Mahayuti' government. The dismissal comes in response to claims made by senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan, suggesting that NCP leader Ajit Pawar would replace Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde as Chief Minister around August 10.

Fadnavis, as the leader of the single largest party in the grand alliance, officially declared that Ajit Pawar would not assume the position of Chief Minister. He emphasized that there was clarity among the alliance partners regarding the leadership, and Eknath Shinde would continue to hold the position.

Furthermore, Fadnavis stated that Ajit Pawar had been informed about the power-sharing formula, and he had agreed to it. The claim was reinforced by Pawar's own speech, wherein he confirmed that there were no discussions about changing the current leadership in Maharashtra.

Taking a stern tone, Fadnavis criticized Prithviraj Chavan for allegedly spreading rumors and attempting to confuse the public about the Mahayuti alliance. He asserted that there were no doubts among the leaders, though party workers might occasionally be perplexed. Fadnavis clarified that if any developments were to occur around August 10, they would pertain to the expansion of the state Cabinet, which would be decided by the Chief Minister.

Earlier in the day, Prithviraj Chavan had claimed that after the disqualification of Eknath Shinde and 15 other MLAs of Shiv Sena, Ajit Pawar would be appointed as the Chief Minister around August 10. Chavan also mentioned that the BJP seemed disinterested in contesting the next Lok Sabha elections under Shinde's leadership, as he lacked influence outside of his home district of Thane. Instead, Chavan argued that the BJP viewed Ajit Pawar as a viable alternative for the position.

Criticizing the work style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chavan accused the BJP of adopting a "use and throw" approach, evident in the treatment of Eknath Shinde. He implied that the BJP leadership intended to make Ajit Pawar the Chief Minister and subsequently face the elections.

In conclusion, Maharashtra's Deputy CM, Devendra Fadnavis, has dispelled speculations surrounding the replacement of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde by NCP leader Ajit Pawar. The 'Mahayuti' alliance remains intact and continues to assert its support for Eknath Shinde as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Image Source : Twitter/@MaharashtraCMO

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