A Shiv Sena leader has revealed that Eknath Shinde, the recently appointed Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, is seeking the Home portfolio in the state cabinet, which is currently led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This development comes as a significant shift in the power dynamics within the state government, where the Shiv Sena and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are in a coalition government.

According to the Shiv Sena leader, Shinde’s request is part of a broader effort to ensure greater control over the administration and to strengthen the party’s influence within the government. The Home portfolio is one of the most crucial and powerful positions in any state government, dealing with law and order, police administration, and internal security. By acquiring this portfolio, Shinde would be in a stronger position to influence policy and decision-making, especially in areas concerning law enforcement and public safety.

The move has sparked speculation about the internal dynamics of the ruling alliance. Devendra Fadnavis, a senior BJP leader, currently holds the Home portfolio, and Shinde’s demand for the position could lead to a reshuffling of responsibilities within the cabinet. This could also lead to potential tension between the Shiv Sena and BJP, which have already been in a delicate political partnership since Shinde broke away from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction and formed his own group.

As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding whether Shinde’s request will be granted, but the situation is being closely monitored by political observers. Any changes to the cabinet portfolios would have significant implications for the functioning of the Maharashtra government and the stability of the alliance.