MS Shanker
In a decisive political shift, Devendra Fadnavis has returned as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, leading the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance, or Mahayuti, to a resounding victory in the state elections. The win not only highlights Fadnavis’s political acumen but also signals the growing irrelevance of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), an alliance comprising the Congress, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP. Winning 235 of the 288 assembly seats, the Mahayuti has effectively consolidated power, leaving the opposition fragmented and demoralized.
The alliance’s triumph, against all odds and media speculation, underscores a significant shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Pollsters and sections of the media had predicted a resurgence of the MVA, banking on anti-incumbency sentiments and discontent within the Mahayuti. However, the electorate delivered a clear verdict, reinforcing the BJP’s position as a dominant force in state politics.
Fadnavis’s BJP secured 132 seats, surpassing its previous tally of 122, while the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction and Ajit Pawar’s breakaway NCP group contributed to the coalition’s overwhelming majority with 57 and 41 seats respectively. This win not only strengthens Fadnavis’s leadership but also marks a significant setback for the MVA, which managed to secure only around 45 seats combined.
Uddhav Thackeray’s decision to break the pre-poll alliance with the BJP in 2019 and align with the Congress and NCP is now widely regarded as a strategic miscalculation. The move, driven by his ambition to become Chief Minister, alienated the core Shiv Sena voter base, who saw it as a betrayal of Balasaheb Thackeray’s pro-Hindutva ideology. This discontent played a pivotal role in the Shiv Sena’s split, with Shinde leading a faction that returned to its ideological roots.
The electorate’s rejection of Uddhav’s faction can be traced to this perceived ideological compromise. What began as a tactical maneuver to retain power ultimately resulted in a loss of credibility and electoral support.
Ajit Pawar’s defection from the Sharad Pawar-led NCP to align with the BJP was another turning point. Sharad Pawar, once a formidable political force, now finds his influence waning. Ajit’s strategic move not only boosted the Mahayuti’s chances but also positioned him as a key player in Maharashtra’s future politics. With Sharad Pawar’s advancing age and Supriya Sule’s limited appeal, Ajit is poised to consolidate his hold over the NCP, sidelining the old guard.
The Congress, a once-dominant force in Maharashtra, continues its downward spiral. Despite attempts to rejuvenate the party under the broader umbrella of the INDIA alliance, it failed to retain its base in the state. The party’s inability to adapt to changing political dynamics and the absence of strong leadership have rendered it increasingly irrelevant in Maharashtra’s power structure.
Devendra Fadnavis’s return as Chief Minister for the third time underscores his resilience and strategic brilliance. Known for his clean image and administrative efficiency, Fadnavis has emerged as the BJP’s most trusted leader in Maharashtra. His ability to navigate internal party dynamics, manage coalition partners, and counter the opposition’s narrative has been instrumental in the Mahayuti’s success.
Fadnavis’s leadership will be crucial in consolidating the alliance’s gains and delivering on the promises made to the electorate. The challenge now is to ensure stability within the coalition, particularly with Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s factions, both of whom have their ambitions and expectations.
The Mahayuti’s victory provides a unique opportunity to reshape Maharashtra’s political landscape. With the opposition in disarray and the electorate’s clear mandate, the alliance has the momentum to implement transformative policies and strengthen its foothold. However, internal cohesion will be key to sustaining this success.
For Uddhav Thackeray, the road ahead looks bleak. Rebuilding the Shiv Sena’s credibility will be an uphill task, especially with Shinde firmly in control of the party’s core base. Similarly, Sharad Pawar’s legacy faces an uncertain future as Ajit Pawar consolidates power within the NCP.
In conclusion, Devendra Fadnavis’s return as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister not only marks a personal victory but also signals a broader political realignment in the state. The Mahayuti’s triumph has rendered the MVA irrelevant, setting the stage for a new era in Maharashtra’s politics. The challenge now lies in delivering on governance and maintaining the coalition’s unity, ensuring that the electorate’s trust is rewarded with tangible progress.
