Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde (Centre).
Credit: PTI Photo
Mumbai: Outgoing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is yet to formally convey to the Maha Yuti leadership whether he wants to accept the role of Deputy CM in the new Maharashtra government headed by BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis.
NCP President Ajit Pawar has conveyed that he would be part of the government and accepted the post of Deputy CM.
Over the last three days, Fadnavis met Shinde, the chief leader of Shiv Sena, three times in private and urged him to be part of the government.
Shiv Sena leaders, too, have urged Shinde to be the Deputy CM in the government.
However, Shinde is insisting on portfolios like Home and Urban Development.
Sources said that Shinde, may, by Thursday noon take a final decision. Maha Yuti leaders are optimistic, nonetheless.
The swearing in ceremony is slated at 1730 hrs which would be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On Wednesday, Fadnavis, the BJP legislature party leader of the state, Shinde and Pawar together met Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan and staked claim to form the government.
Shinde and Pawar have extended letters of support for Fadnavis' appointment as the CM.