Nagpur, Dec 20 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated on Friday that the Shiv Sena party embodies familial bonds, asserting that no member feels unhappy or distressed about the absence of ministerial positions following the recent cabinet expansion.

"It's human nature to feel disappointment when a post is not attained; some individuals have shared their sentiments publicly, but this does not imply anyone is discontent within the party. All three MLAs who voiced their grievances remain united with me, and none harbor unhappiness. Together, we will strive for the growth of Shiv Sena," the party leader expressed.

Shinde addressed the media after engaging with party legislators Narendra Bhondekar, Vijay Shivtare, and Prakash Surve, who had openly criticized their exclusion from the cabinet expansion that occurred on December 15.

Bhondekar had declared his resignation from all positions, while Surve was visibly emotional and chose to withdraw from participating in the state Assembly proceedings. Conversely, Shivtare stated he would decline a ministerial position if offered, emphasizing that the leadership should have consulted him before making their decision.

"In government roles, sometimes positions fluctuate. However, our close relationships take precedence over ministerial roles. Just as I value the role of a dear brother, Vijay Shivtare communicated that his position as Eknath Shinde's trusted ally holds significant importance," Shinde remarked.

He further affirmed, "We all belong to the family known as Shiv Sena, and no one will be estranged from this family. The three MLAs who expressed their discontent are present today, and we will work collectively for the party's advancement."

Shinde, still adjusting to his role as Deputy Chief Minister in the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, sought to reassure the dissatisfied Bhondekar, Shivtare, and Surve, emphasizing the necessity for party members to be prepared for sacrifices and adapt to the dynamics of alliance politics.

Already, Shinde has denied ministerial positions to former ministers Tanaji Sawant, Deepak Kesarkar, and Abdul Sattar. Sawant expressed dissatisfaction and departed for Pune after not securing a cabinet position, while Kesarkar and Sattar accepted Shinde's resolution.

Additionally, Shinde’s remarks came at a time when Fadnavis has yet to assign portfolios to himself, the two Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and the 39 ministers. Following the cabinet expansion on December 15, Fadnavis indicated that portfolio allocation would occur within two days. Sources within the MahaYuti government suggested that the Chief Minister is likely to finalize portfolio assignments post the ongoing winter session of the state legislature on December 21.

Meanwhile, following the Kalyan incident involving an attack on a Marathi family, Shinde firmly stated that Shiv Sena is dedicated to advocating for the rights of the Marathi community, asserting that any abuse or assault against a Marathi family will not be tolerated.

He condemned the murder of Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh from Massajog village in Beed, describing it as profoundly inhumane and a disgrace. "A judicial inquiry will be initiated regarding this matter, and an SIT has been established for the investigation. The transfer of the Beed Superintendent of Police has been decided upon," Shinde noted.

"The government stands resolutely with the victim's family in this case. Regardless of the accused's stature or their connections, no support will be extended," he concluded.