Reports suggested that Shinde has been discontent with several decisions taken by Fadnavis, who overturned multiple policy decisions implemented during Shinde’s previous tenure as the Chief Minister. This development has reportedly led to strain in their relationship.
Read more: Fadnavis downgrades security cover for Shinde MLAs, Dy CM downplays reports on ‘cold war’
Decision on Transport Board Chairman revised
In a bid to address these concerns, Fadnavis has recently reconsidered a major decision. On February 6, the Chief Minister appointed senior IAS officer Sanjay Sethi as the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation. However, this move was seen as a direct intervention in the department managed by the Shiv Sena faction, led by Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
The appointment was perceived as bypassing the minister’s authority, which led to dissatisfaction within the Shinde faction.
Read more: Eknath Shinde leading Operation Tiger to weaken Uddhav Thackeray’s position in Maharashtra
News18 Hindi reported that Shinde urged Fadnavis to reconsider and reinstate Pratap Sarnaik as the chairman. Following discussions, Fadnavis agreed to the proposal, leading to Sarnaik’s reappointment to the position, the report said.
Pratap Sarnaik returns as Chairman
Previously, the transport department was under Shinde’s charge before the Mahayuti government was formed. During that period, Bharat Gogawale briefly held the chairman position.
However, after recent state elections, Fadnavis-led decision reversed some of the earlier policies, leading to friction between the two leaders. The reappointment of Sarnaik is now seen as a step towards resolving these tensions.
Read more: Marathi is the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra, asserts CM Fadnavis amidst controversy
Changes in appointment policies
In the past, there was no structured process for appointing transport board chairpersons, with independent or political figures often assuming the role. However, since 2014, the government introduced a policy allowing the Transport Minister to hold the chairman’s position.
This latest adjustment indicates an effort to maintain stability within the Mahayuti alliance and ensure smooth governance while addressing concerns of allied factions. Political analysts believe that while tensions may have eased temporarily, the alliance will need further coordination to function effectively in the long run.
(With inputs from media reports)
