Shinde expressed confidence in the support of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, while dismissing the rumors as mere opposition tactics to create discord.
In a statement on Thursday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde dismissed reports suggesting discontent within the Shiv Sena over the inclusion of NCP leader Ajit Pawar in the state ministry. Shinde emphasized that the government had only grown stronger with Pawar's joining. He also expressed confidence in the unwavering support of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, stating that their backing further strengthened the government.
Shinde refuted the claims as mere rumors spread by the opposition, aiming to sow discord. While some Shiv Sena legislators had raised concerns following the NCP faction's inclusion led by Ajit Pawar, Shinde reassured party members during a meeting with Shiv Sena MLAs, MLCs, and MPs on Wednesday, according to media reports.
However, Ajit Pawar's recent statement expressing his aspirations to become the Chief Minister has caused ripples in political circles and raised apprehension within the Shinde camp. With the Assembly Speaker's ruling on the disqualification complaint against its MLAs pending, the remark has left Shinde's group somewhat nervous.
In response to speculations about Eknath Shinde's resignation, Maharashtra minister Uday Samant, who belongs to the Shinde-led group, dismissed the reports as false. The statement aimed to put an end to the swirling rumors surrounding the Chief Minister's position within the party.