Maharashtra Political Buzz: Eknath Shinde Meets Amit Shah in Mumbai, Downplays Factionalism Concerns

Mumbai, Maharashtra: In a move that has set Maharashtra’s political circles abuzz, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde held a private meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Mumbai’s Sahyadri Guest House on Sunday. The meeting, which took place just hours before Shah’s departure for Bhopal, was notable for the absence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, raising speculation about possible factional issues within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

The one-hour meeting comes after a joint meeting of the three Mahayuti leaders Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar at Raigad Fort on Saturday, followed by a lunch hosted by NCP MP Sunil Tatkare. The solo follow-up between Shinde and Shah prompted fresh questions regarding unresolved issues, particularly the guardianship of Raigad and Nashik districts and delays in the clearance of Shiv Sena ministerial files by the finance ministry, which is under Ajit Pawar’s charge.

Adding fuel to the fire, Shinde called Shiv Sena MLA Bharat Gogawale to Mumbai later on Sunday, signaling potential changes in Raigad’s political leadership.

However, Shinde downplayed the significance of the meeting, calling it a casual conversation with Amit Shah, leader of the NDA and Mahayuti. He emphasized that not all meetings necessarily involve political discussions.

Industries Minister Uday Samant echoed this sentiment, stating that the meeting was in the state’s interest and that any important updates would be shared with the media. BJP MLC Pravin Darekar also dismissed speculation, asserting there was no rift within the Mahayuti.

Ajit Pawar responded to rumors about Shinde’s grievances, stating there was no basis to them and that Shinde would have addressed any concerns directly. He also reassured that the Raigad guardian issue would be resolved soon.