Eknath Shinde's Veiled Threat to Mahayuti, Says 'They Tool Me Lightly...,' Rift Out in the Open?

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday made a cryptic remark about his role in the 2022 political shake-up, indirectly cautioning the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Speaking at an event in Nagpur, he stated, “I am a worker, a simple worker, but I should be seen as a worker of Balasaheb and Dighe Saheb.”

Referring to the dramatic split in Shiv Sena that led to the downfall of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government led by Uddhav Thackeray, Shinde remarked, “When I was taken lightly, I changed the government in 2022 and brought in a government that reflects the people's will.”

Shinde Hints at Unease in Mahayuti

Shinde’s remarks come at a time when speculations of a rift within the Mahayuti alliance—comprising BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction)—are growing. Differences between Shinde and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis have surfaced over several issues, including the guardian minister’s post, review meetings, and parallel administrative structures.

According to reports, Shinde has stayed away from key meetings convened by Fadnavis, including discussions on the 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela preparations under the Nashik Regional Development Authority (NRDA). Additionally, while Fadnavis held a review meeting for the industries department, Shinde conducted a separate meeting on the same issue soon after.

Security of Shiv Sena MLAs Downgraded

Tensions reportedly escalated further after the security cover of 20 Shiv Sena MLAs was either reduced or withdrawn following a threat perception exercise by Maharashtra Police. These MLAs were granted ‘Y’ security cover after the June 2022 split in Shiv Sena but have now seen their protection downgraded.

Shinde’s 200+ Seats Prediction

Reaffirming his political strength, Shinde reminded his critics of his earlier prediction on Mahayuti’s electoral success:

“In my Assembly speech, I had said that Devendra ji and I would secure more than 200 seats, and we won 232 seats. Do not take me lightly—those who need to understand this message will understand.”

With the ruling coalition securing 230 out of 288 seats in the recent Assembly elections, the alliance appeared strong. However, recent developments suggest growing fault lines within Mahayuti.

As speculations rise, it remains to be seen whether Shinde’s remarks are merely a warning to allies or a sign of deeper political unrest in Maharashtra.