Raut and Pawar Speculate Chandrashekhar Bawankule Could Become Maharashtra CM

On Saturday, opposition leaders Sanjay Raut and Rohit Pawar sparked political speculation in Mumbai by suggesting that BJP minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule could become the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra if Devendra Fadnavis is promoted to a Union minister role in Delhi. The comments have created a stir in the state's political circles regarding potential leadership transitions.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut stated that if Fadnavis moves to the Centre, the leadership of Maharashtra would go to Bawankule. Raut, who noted that Bawankule currently holds the revenue portfolio, described him as the right leader from Vidarbha. According to Raut, Bawankule is someone who communicates with everyone and takes care of everyone.

Raut also claimed that Fadnavis himself would recommend Bawankule for the role. Furthermore, Raut stated his belief that Fadnavis should become the prime minister before the year 2029.

In contrast, Raut dismissed the possibility of Eknath Shinde returning to the top post, stating that Shinde will not become the Chief Minister again. Raut also remarked that BJP minister Girish Mahajan’s record is "very bad."

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar supported the speculation, stating that if the leaders of the BJP decide to give an important post at the Centre to Fadnavis, then Bawankule could get a chance to become the Chief Minister in Maharashtra. However, Pawar also observed that Eknath Shinde’s weight had increased in Delhi, noting that the state and top BJP leaders were backing him.

Both opposition leaders clarified that they were not claiming Fadnavis was definitely moving to Delhi, but rather pointing out the possibility of such a transition.

Reacting to the political speculation, Devendra Fadnavis downplayed the comments, stating, "I just went to Delhi the day before yesterday."