Maharashtra Politics: Eknath Shinde Meets Amit Shah Privately In Mumbai, Downplays Factionalism Concerns

In a move that has stirred fresh speculation in Maharashtra’s political circles, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Mumbai’s Sahyadri Guest House on Sunday morning, just hours before Shah left for Bhopal. The meeting was held in the absence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, prompting political buzz.

This one-hour meeting stood out as all three Mahayuti leaders – Fadnavis, Shinde and Pawar – had already met Shah together on Saturday at Raigad Fort, followed by a lunch hosted by NCP MP Sunil Tatkare. The solo follow-up between Shinde and Shah raised questions about whether the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader brought up specific grievances or unresolved issues.

Sources suggest discussions may have focused on two contentious matters: The guardianship of Raigad and Nashik districts, and the delay in the clearance of files belonging to Shiv Sena ministers by the finance ministry which is under the charge of Ajit Pawar.

Adding to the intrigue, Shinde summoned Shiv Sena MLA Bharat Gogawale – a strong contender for Raigad’s guardian minister post – to Mumbai later on Sunday. The move is being seen as a signal of possible changes in Raigad’s political leadership.

When questioned by the media, Shinde downplayed the meeting, saying, “What is wrong in meeting Amit Shah, who is the leader of the NDA and Mahayuti? It was a casual meeting. It’s not necessary that we only talk politics.”

Industries Minister Uday Samant also sought to defuse speculation. “I am going to meet DCM Eknath Shinde. If he shares anything, I’ll inform the media. But I believe the meeting was in Maharashtra’s interest,” he said.

BJP MLC Pravin Darekar echoed this sentiment, “If Amit Shah gave time to Eknath Shinde, he must have gone accordingly. There is no rift or discontent within Mahayuti.”

Ajit Pawar rejected suggestions that Shinde may have complained about him. Asked if Shah had raised concerns about pending files, he replied, “Amit Shah has not asked me anything. Don’t go by what sources say. If Shinde had any issue, he would talk to me or CM Fadnavis directly. Our relations are good.”

On Raigad’s guardian minister issue, Pawar assured, “Don’t worry, it will be resolved soon. When we find a solution, we’ll inform you.”