Maharashtra's CM and Dy CMs Share a Light Moment Over Chair Swap
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Synopsis
During a press conference on March 2, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar exchanged jokes about chair swapping, lightening the atmosphere of what could have been a serious discussion about the upcoming budget session.
Key Takeaways
- Humor lightens a serious press conference atmosphere.
- Shinde and Fadnavis swapped chairs, indicating leadership dynamics.
- The MahaYuti government remains strong despite changes.
- Fadnavis emphasizes teamwork in governance.
- Government seeks positive media coverage and public engagement.
Mumbai, March 2 (NationPress) The typically serious press conference featuring Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar on Sunday was interspersed with humor and light-hearted banter among the trio.
The humor was sparked by Shinde's remark that while the MahaYuti government, following a decisive Assembly election victory, may be new, the leadership team is seasoned, as evidenced by the swapping of chairs between him and Fadnavis.
“The budget session of the state legislature is set to commence tomorrow. This marks the second session of our grand alliance government and the inaugural budget session of the new administration post-election. While only Shinde and Fadnavis have exchanged chairs, Ajit Pawar’s chair (as the Deputy Chief Minister) remains unchanged,” Shinde stated.
Before Shinde could finish his thought, Ajit Pawar seized the microphone and retorted, “You (Eknath Shinde) failed to secure your chair and keep your position (of Chief Minister) stable; what can I do about that?”
This prompted laughter in the auditorium, creating a jovial atmosphere among the trio.
Shinde, who led the MahaYuti government from June 2022 to November 2024, had hoped to remain as chief minister after the MahaYuti coalition was established following its impressive electoral performance.
However, Fadnavis, appointed as Deputy Chief Minister under the guidance of the party’s senior leadership, assumed the chief ministership due to the BJP's emergence as the single largest party.
This left Shinde with no option but to take on the role of Deputy Chief Minister alongside Ajit Pawar. In this context, Shinde reaffirmed today that despite the alteration in positions, the MahaYuti remains robust and cohesive.
Fadnavis also rallied behind Shinde, stating that they are collaborating as a team to advance Maharashtra. “Our chair is rotating,” he remarked.
Shinde added, “Regardless of the breaking news, there will be no rift between us. Cold war... cold war... is there anything?” he queried while glancing at Fadnavis.
Following that, Shinde remarked: “What cold war? Everything is calm here. There is nothing between us. Our agenda is not to secure a chair. Our agenda is not to gain power or pursue our own interests. Our agenda is focused on what the people of Maharashtra deserve. What did the people of Maharashtra receive in contrast to what we acquired? This is a significant issue. Thus, there is a distinction between the MahaYuti and the Maha Vikas Aghadi. I urge you (the media) to report after careful verification. It will greatly enhance our public image.”
“If there are any errors, let us know. However, please highlight the positive work the government has accomplished. Additionally, kindly confirm the accusations made by the opposition,” he advised.
Shinde mentioned that the government has already established a special investigation team to examine allegations of a conspiracy during the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government aimed at “framing” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and himself in a fabricated case.
“There are some very sensational matters. These will become evident once the investigation concludes. But did we say anything about it? The truth will be revealed. We will not act out of any vengeful motives. No matter how significant our majority is, we will not engage in vendetta politics,” he clarified.
