Decision on Maharashtra CM choice today, swearing-in likely tomorrow

Sources say Fadnavis tipped to lead next Mahayuti govt; Home portfolio may go to Shinde camp

- RAJESH KUMAR THAKUR

AMID intense speculation over who will be the next Maharashtra chief minister, the BJP's top leadership is expected to finalize the name on Monday, it is learnt.

Informed sources told this newspaper that the swearing-in ceremony of the Mahayuti government is most likely to take place on Tuesday evening as November 26 is the last day of the current assembly term. If the ceremony gets delayed by even one day, then President's Rule will kick in, said a senior leader.

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar said the oath-taking ceremony may be held on Monday, though BJP sources denied it.

"The BJP and allies are set to meet on Monday to finalize their decision on the CM pick," said a senior BJP leader.

While intense lobbying for the CM post is underway, a source privy to the decision-making claimed Devendra Fadnavis is most likely to be named the chief minister of the new government with two deputy CMs. In this scenario, sources said, the Home department may be offered to Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.