Fadnavis Reflects on 2014 Maharashtra Election Alliance Hurdles

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis shared insights from the 2014 assembly elections, discussing alliance negotiations with Shiv Sena over seat distribution. Despite BJP's proposals to share power, Shiv Sena's demand for more seats led to both parties contesting separately. Ultimately, BJP's victory saw Fadnavis becoming CM, with Shiv Sena joining post-election.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended a significant event in Mumbai honoring a senior BJP leader and former Sikkim governor. During the gathering, he recounted the hurdles faced during the 2014 state assembly polls, particularly in discussions with Shiv Sena about forming an electoral alliance.

Fadnavis detailed their proposal for Shiv Sena to contest 147 seats while the BJP would contest 127, leaving the remaining for smaller alliance partners. However, he noted that Shiv Sena insisted on contesting 151 seats, causing the alliance talks to collapse. This impasse led both parties to vie separately in the elections.

Despite offering Shiv Sena the Chief Minister position, Fadnavis revealed the settlement was not achieved. The BJP ultimately secured 122 seats, and Fadnavis assumed the role of CM. Post-election, Shiv Sena joined the BJP-led government. This recasting of past events underscores the fragile nature of political alliances.

(With inputs from agencies.)