India
Eknath Shinde backs BJP in Maharashtra CM choice, says ‘Shiv Sena will support any candidate chosen by Prime Minister Modi Amit Shah’ | India News – Times of India
“I spoke to Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah yesterday and made it clear to them that I will not in any way be a hindrance or obstacle in the formation of the new government in the state,” Prime Minister Shinde said at a press conference. “Our Shiv Sena will fully support the BJP’s decision to appoint the next Maharashtra CM. There is no speed breaker from our side,” he said. Shinde’s clarifications come amid a strong stance and concerted campaign by Shiv Sena leaders for his continuation as chief minister.
“Tomorrow (November 28), a meeting of all three parties (of Mahayuti) will be held with Amit Shah. Detailed discussions will take place during that meeting. After that, a final decision will be taken,” Shinde said.
Shinde denied reports that he was disappointed at not getting a second term as CM despite the ruling Mahayuti alliance scoring a resounding victory under his leadership. “No one is annoyed. We have worked as Mahayuti,” he said. Shinde thanked Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah for their support during his two-and-a-half-year tenure as Prime Minister. “We have been working to take Maharashtra from No. 3 to No. 1 within six months of me becoming CM,” he said. “I’m not disappointed. We do not fight or cry,” Shinde said, referring to media reports that he was not happy with the request to resign despite leading the Mahayuti to a landslide election victory.
“My identity as a ladla bhai is far beyond all political designations,” the interim CM added while speaking in detail about the achievements of his tenure as the leader of the Mahayuti government.
