Eknath Shinde Warns Rivals: ‘Don’t Take Me Lightly’ Amid Rift Speculations

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a stern warning to his political opponents, cautioning them against underestimating him.

His remarks come amid growing speculation about tensions between him and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Shinde, who has been avoiding meetings called by Fadnavis, reminded everyone of his 2022 rebellion that led to the fall of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

Controversy Over Halted Jalna Project

The latest friction between Shinde and Fadnavis intensified after the Chief Minister put on hold a Rs 900 crore project in Jalna, which had been approved during Shinde’s tenure as Chief Minister.

An investigation has been initiated into the project’s validity and Shinde’s motivations for approving it, adding to the growing discord.

Shinde’s Assertion of Political Strength

Addressing reporters, Shinde stated, “I am a normal party worker, but I am also a worker of Bala Saheb, and everyone should understand this. When I was taken lightly in 2022, I overturned the incumbent government.”

His rebellion in 2022, which saw 40 MLAs defect, resulted in the collapse of the MVA government. He then allied with the BJP and was appointed Chief Minister.

However, following the BJP’s strong performance in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, Shinde was asked to step aside, making way for Fadnavis as Chief Minister.

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance won 232 of the 288 seats, securing a commanding majority.

Shinde’s Cryptic Remarks Raise Eyebrows

In a cryptic statement, Shinde said, “In my first speech in the Vidhan Sabha, I said that Devendra Fadnavis ji would get more than 200 seats, and we got 232 seats. That is why do not take me lightly. The people for whom it is intended will understand it.”

The Shinde Sena currently holds 57 seats in the Assembly, while Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction has 41.

Reports of Growing Rift Between Shinde and Fadnavis

Political sources indicate that Shinde has been avoiding public appearances with Fadnavis and skipping key meetings called by the Chief Minister.

Their rivalry has become increasingly evident, with both leaders establishing separate medical assistance desks in the state secretariat.

A major flashpoint has been the ongoing dispute over the guardian minister posts for Raigad and Nashik, a matter that remains unresolved.

Despite this, Shinde recently denied any discord, stating, “There is absolutely no cold war with the Chief Minister. We are united in our fight against those who oppose development.”

Shinde Unfazed by Security Threats

Shinde’s warning was also linked to a death threat he received via email, which mentioned a bomb planted in his car. Addressing the issue, he declared, “Threats came before too… attempts were made too, but I am not afraid.”

His defiant stance further fueled speculation that his remarks were directed at those undermining his political position within the Mahayuti alliance. “Do not take me lightly… I have already said this to those who took me lightly,” he reiterated.

Mahayuti Alliance Facing Internal Challenges?

Reports of friction within the Mahayuti alliance, particularly between Shinde and the BJP, have dominated political discussions in Maharashtra.

Another major issue has been the reduction in security cover for Shinde Sena MLAs.

Sources indicate that 55 lawmakers from Shinde’s faction were provided Y-security cover, which was recently downgraded or withdrawn. This move has reportedly fueled resentment within Shinde’s camp.

The Maharashtra government has defended the decision, stating that an independent panel reviewed potential security threats and that there was no political interference.

However, Shinde’s dissatisfaction remains apparent, especially following his exclusion from the State Disaster Management Authority. Although he was later included, his absence from key government programs further fueled rumors of discord.

‘No Cold War,’ Says Shinde

Despite mounting speculation, both the BJP and Shinde have denied any tensions within the alliance.

BJP leader Ashish Shelar insisted that Shinde harbored no resentment over stepping down as Chief Minister, while Shinde himself dismissed rumors of a power struggle.

“There is absolutely no ‘cold war’,” Shinde declared, reaffirming his commitment to the alliance.

The Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, recorded a sweeping victory in the November elections.

The Power Struggle in Maharashtra Politics

Although the Mahayuti alliance achieved a decisive electoral win, the internal struggle over leadership has remained unresolved.

The appointment of Fadnavis as Chief Minister, despite Shinde’s significant role in securing the alliance’s victory, continues to be a contentious issue.

Reports suggest that negotiations over the leadership position took nearly two weeks, with Shinde being pressured to step aside after Ajit Pawar pledged his support to the BJP, giving them a clear majority without needing Shinde’s faction.