New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has arrived at the Ministry of Home Affairs office in New Delhi for an important meeting. The session, which will be chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah, also sees the presence of Maharashtra’s Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP). The meeting is focused on discussions concerning three significant criminal laws.
#WATCH | Delhi | Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis reaches the Ministry of Home Affairs for the meeting called by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to review the implementation of new criminal laws in the state. pic.twitter.com/GZIUZAMmFm
— ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2025
Fadnavis recently made waves in the state’s politics with two important meetings on the same day. He visited Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray’s residence, and later hosted three Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders at his own home. These meetings come amid rising tensions between Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, who has been seen as increasingly at odds with Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar.
BJP’s BMC gambit
Fadnavis’s actions are also being linked to the upcoming BMC elections, which are crucial for the BJP to strengthen its position in Maharashtra. In the past, the Shiv Sena controlled the BMC, but the BJP sees an opportunity now, as both the Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi may contest separately.
The meeting between Fadnavis and Raj Thackeray, though called a “courtesy visit,” raised eyebrows because Thackeray had publicly questioned the credibility of the BJP’s recent election win. The MNS has been on a decline but still has influence, particularly in Mumbai. Thackeray’s support could benefit the BJP in the BMC elections.
Shinde’ growing dissent
Fadnavis also met Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Milind Narwekar, Subash Desai and Ambadas Danve, officially discussing a memorial for Bal Thackeray, but the timing sparked speculation about tensions within the ruling alliance. Shinde’s dissatisfaction with the BJP has been growing, as seen in his skipping Cabinet meetings and protests over certain policies.
