Amidst BJP’s tenuous position, Shinde experiences a rise in status

Shiv Sena contested 15 seats and won seven, while BJP contested 28 seats and secured nine seats. NCP fielded candidates in four seats, winning one, while their ally RSP contested one seat unsuccessfully.

Written by Vallabh Ozarkar

Mumbai | Updated: June 11, 2024 10:23 PM IST

3 min read

Shiv Sena functionaries led by Shinde said despite falling short of expectations, the party has outperformed BJP in Maharashtra, boasting a better strike rate. (Express Photo)

The unexpected outcome of the 18th Lok Sabha elections, falling short of BJP’s anticipated resounding mandate and leaving PM Modi’s government formation aspirations hanging by a thread due to a shortfall of 32 seats for crossing the crucial 272 mark, has placed the BJP at the mercy of its allies. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, securing seven pivotal seats, now holds significant sway over BJP’s ability to form the NDA government.

While prominent BJP allies such as the Telugu Desam Party’s Chandrababu Naidu and JDU’s Nitish Kumar emerge as potential ‘kingmakers,’ Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde has also emerged as a key player. Shinde’s support has become crucial for BJP, elevating his status within the NDA.

With seven seats, Shinde stands poised as the next potential kingmaker after Nitish and Naidu. His newfound importance within the NDA allows him to assert more influence and make greater demands.

Despite pledging allegiance to BJP, Shinde may leverage his position to secure greater autonomy in governing Maharashtra, as well as address issues such as seat-sharing arrangements for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections scheduled in the next three months. Additionally, he is likely to push for a cabinet expansion to accommodate his party’s legislators and leaders.

Possessing decisive numbers, Shinde not only gains national significance but also strengthens his party’s position within the state. He may strive to lead the state assembly elections independently, aiming to minimize interference from the local BJP unit, which Shiv Sena accuses of causing losses during the Lok Sabha polls.

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“Shinde’s support has become indispensable within the NDA, enhancing his leverage, including potential representation in the Union ministers’ cabinet,” remarked political expert Pratap Asabe.

Shiv Sena functionaries led by Shinde said despite falling short of expectations, the party has outperformed BJP in Maharashtra, boasting a better strike rate. The ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP secured 17 out of 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

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Within this alliance, Shiv Sena contested 15 seats and won seven, while BJP contested 28 seats and secured nine seats. NCP fielded candidates in four seats, winning one, while their ally RSP contested one seat unsuccessfully.

“Shinde’s impressive strike rate surpasses that of his allies, BJP and NCP, amplifying his assertiveness and bargaining power within the alliance,” said political expert Hemant Desai.

“His strengthened position allows him to negotiate for greater autonomy in state governance and demand a more favorable seat-sharing arrangement, a stance likely evident in his posture and approach during the recent NDA meeting in Delhi,” said Desai.

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Bharatiya Janata Party Congress Eknath Shinde