“I Never Saw Him as Deputy CM”: Eknath Shinde Opens Up About His Relationship with Fadnavis

Mumbai: Amid the ongoing municipal election campaigns in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has spoken candidly about his working relationship with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. His remarks, made during a media interview, have sparked widespread discussion.

Shinde Clarifies Misconceptions
Responding to questions about his rapport with Fadnavis, Shinde said, “Even when I was the Chief Minister, I never regarded him as Deputy CM; I always considered him a Chief Minister in his own right.” He emphasized that their relationship is based on mutual respect and cooperation, dismissing any rumors of conflict or tension.

Shinde also addressed circulating speculation about a so-called “cold war” between the two leaders, calling it “entirely a creation of the media” and insisting that there is no truth to these reports. “There should be no doubt about the cordial nature of our relationship,” he added.

Shared Agenda: Accelerating Mumbai’s Development
Shinde highlighted that both he and Fadnavis share the same development agenda—to make Mumbai faster and more efficient. “We are working 24/7 to improve the city,” he said, adding that Fadnavis has committed to making Mumbai pothole-free within the next year. Shinde further assured that efforts are underway to ensure that all roads in Mumbai are free of potholes by 2027.

Election Context
The comments come as Shiv Sena, under Shinde’s leadership, emerged as the largest party in Ambernath. However, the BJP formed the local government by including Congress councillors, showcasing the complex political dynamics at play in the region.

Shinde’s statement seeks to reinforce unity and focus on governance, stressing that the priority for both leaders is the development of Maharashtra’s urban centers, particularly Mumbai.