Speculation over a possible change in Maharashtra's political leadership has intensified after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP
Sanjay Raut claimed that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis could be inducted into the Union Cabinet in the coming months.
Raut also suggested that if Fadnavis moves to the Centre, Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule could emerge as the next Chief Minister. At the same time, he asserted that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde would not return to the state's top post.
Speaking to reporters, Sanjay Raut claimed that Devendra Fadnavis could be moved to the Union Cabinet, while Chandrashekhar Bawankule may be considered for the Chief Minister's post in Maharashtra.
"You may expect me to name someone else, but from what I see, Chandrashekhar Bawankule appears to be the most suitable leader to succeed Fadnavis. He is capable of maintaining dialogue with everyone and carrying all sections along. However, Eknath Shinde will not become Chief Minister again," Raut said.
The remarks have triggered political reactions across Maharashtra, with Prahar Janshakti Party leader and MLA Bachchu Kadu expressing a different view. Speaking to the media, Kadu said he would like to see Fadnavis take on a role in the Union government, while Eknath Shinde should lead Maharashtra.
"We want Devendra Fadnavis to serve at the Centre, and we want Eknath Shinde to remain in Maharashtra. That is our expectation," Kadu said. He, however, dismissed Raut's political predictions, stating that they have rarely proved correct.
"I don't know which astrologer Sanjay Raut consulted, but his predictions have never come true. So there is no point in giving much importance to them," Kadu remarked.
Despite disagreeing with Raut's assessment of the leadership, Kadu said he believes a political reshuffle could take place within the next few months.
"Overall, the political situation suggests that changes may happen in the coming months. It would be appropriate to entrust Maharashtra's responsibility to Eknath Shinde. The BJP formed the government because of Shinde's support, and the party should respect his contribution," he said.
However, the Monsoon Session of Parliament is set to begin next week. According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to carry out a major reshuffle of the Union Cabinet by July 12.
