In a significant development in Maharashtra politics, twelve MLAs from Shiv Sena are set to take oath as ministers during the state's cabinet expansion. The ceremony, scheduled for 4 pm today, will see a mix of new and returning faces.
According to Shiv Sena MLA Bharatshet Gogawale, seven of the twelve MLAs are new to the cabinet, while five have been reappointed. This move is part of the ongoing reshuffle to strengthen the ruling coalition government.
The oath-taking ceremony comes after much anticipation, particularly as the expansion marks a crucial step in the governance of Maharashtra following the recent elections.
Bharatshet Gogawale, speaking to the media, confirmed the details of the event, stating that all the involved MLAs had arrived in Nagpur for the ceremony. The event is expected to set the stage for the government's future decisions and its push for developmental initiatives in the state.
Among the prominent figures participating in the ceremony is BJP MLA Girish Mahajan, who expressed his gratitude for being selected once again as a minister.
Mahajan shared that he had received a call from the state BJP Chief, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, informing him about his ministerial appointment.
This will be Mahajan's third term as a minister, a sign of his continued influence within the state government. His statement reflects the trust placed in him by the party leadership, which he holds in high regard.
Similarly, Shiv Sena MLA Yogesh Ramdas Kadam expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve as a minister. Kadam, the youngest MLA in his party, mentioned his willingness to serve the people of Maharashtra, especially those in the Konkan region.
He conveyed his gratitude towards Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for offering him the chance to take on the ministerial responsibility. His remarks highlighted the unity and commitment to serving the state, regardless of the official appointments.
In contrast, BJP MLA Shivendra Raje Bhosale, who has not yet received a call from the party leadership, expressed uncertainty about his future role in the cabinet.
He acknowledged the expectations of workers in his constituency but assured that he would respect the decision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This statement illustrates the discipline within the BJP ranks, where party decisions are respected, and loyalty to the leadership is emphasised.
Shiv Sena MLA Uday Samant also shared his thoughts on the cabinet expansion. While he had not received a call at the time of speaking, he assured that all the appointed ministers would take on their responsibilities seriously.
Samant's statement reflects the general optimism within the Shiv Sena regarding the cabinet reshuffle. The party remains committed to fulfilling its duties and ensuring the welfare of the people of Maharashtra.
The cabinet expansion has been long awaited, with over two weeks passing since the swearing-in of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his two deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, on December 5.
The delay had drawn criticism from opposition parties, who questioned the ruling alliance’s ability to form a full cabinet despite its overwhelming majority. This expansion is seen as a necessary step in finalising the government's structure and preparing for the challenges ahead.
The Maharashtra Assembly Election of 2024 was a landmark event, with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance securing a resounding victory. The alliance garnered a total of 235 seats, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party, securing 132 seats.
The Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) also made notable gains, winning 57 and 41 seats, respectively. The alliance’s decisive victory has set the stage for the state’s political future, with the cabinet expansion acting as a reflection of the electoral success.
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