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Amid growing speculation of tensions between Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, the latter has dismissed any rift, asserting that there is "no cold war" between them.
Speaking to reporters, Shinde refuted claims of internal conflict, saying:
"There is no cold war as this is not Maha Vikas Aghadi or the INDI alliance. Our fight is against those opposing Maharashtra’s development."
In a light-hearted remark, he added:
"We are ‘thanda thanda cool cool’."
His statement comes after several reports suggested rising tensions within the ruling alliance following the state assembly elections last year.
Why Are There Reports of a Rift?
The speculation of a rift gained momentum after Maharashtra’s Home Department, led by CM Fadnavis, downgraded security cover for over 20 Shiv Sena MLAs (who are not ministers) from the Y+ category to just one constable.
Key Developments:
- Security cover of some Sena leaders was fully withdrawn.
- Simultaneously, security for select BJP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP leaders was also reduced.
- However, the number of Shiv Sena leaders affected was significantly higher, fueling speculation of power struggles between Fadnavis and Shinde.
Political Balancing Act or Growing Tensions?
While the government maintains that these security changes are part of a routine assessment, many see it as a political balancing act—possibly signaling an undercurrent of tension between the two top leaders in the state.
Despite Shinde’s public denial of any internal issues, the timing of security downgrades and other political developments suggest that all may not be smooth within the ruling alliance.
With Maharashtra’s political landscape evolving rapidly, this power equation between Fadnavis and Shinde will remain under close watch in the coming months.
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