Recent political discourse in Maharashtra has centered on subtle comparisons between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's working relationship with current Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his previous tenure with Uddhav Thackeray. While no direct statements have explicitly declared one easier to handle than the other, Fadnavis's actions and statements offer insights into the dynamics of these relationships.
Fadnavis's Perspective: Hints and Humor
Fadnavis has often used humor to navigate the complex political landscape. Following a rare photo opportunity between Shinde and Thackeray at a formal function in July 2025, Fadnavis quipped that Thackeray had "scope to come to our side,". This comment, made during a farewell for Legislative Council Chairman Ambadas Danve, sparked speculation about potential realignments. Some interpreted it as a lighthearted jab at Thackeray, while others saw it as a subtle message to Shinde, especially given reports of underlying unease between Fadnavis and Shinde.
Adding fuel to the fire, Eknath Shinde, in July 2025, accused Uddhav Thackeray of betraying Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP alliance in the 2019 elections. Shinde claimed that Fadnavis made numerous calls to Thackeray after the alliance secured a majority, but received no response.
Underlying Tensions and Political Maneuvering
Several factors contribute to the perceived tensions. The upcoming BMC elections are a significant point of contention, with Shinde reportedly reluctant to concede ground to the BJP in the crucial civic body. Furthermore, incidents involving Shinde Sena MLAs have drawn criticism from Fadnavis, who has allowed police action against them. This has led to accusations from the Thackeray camp that Shinde is encouraging his MLAs to tarnish the BJP's image.
Fadnavis is aware that Eknath Shinde poses a potentially stronger long-term challenge to the BJP than Uddhav Thackeray. This understanding shapes his approach to the current alliance.
Differing Leadership Styles and Challenges
The comparison between managing Shinde and Thackeray also touches on their distinct leadership styles. Thackeray's tenure as Chief Minister was marked by a coalition government with the Congress and NCP after the 2019 elections. This alliance was formed after a fallout with the BJP, demonstrating Thackeray's willingness to explore alternative political partnerships.
Shinde, on the other hand, forged an alliance with the BJP after splitting the Shiv Sena. While this move solidified the BJP's position in the state, it also created a dynamic where Shinde's faction needs to maintain its relevance and bargaining power.
In December 2025, a political storm erupted between Fadnavis and Thackeray over allegations linking Eknath Shinde to a drug racket. Thackeray's veiled remarks about a minister from Thane needing to step down intensified calls for Shinde's resignation, which Fadnavis defended against, dismissing them as politically motivated.
The Bigger Picture: Power Dynamics and Realignment Possibilities
Fadnavis's statements and actions should be viewed within the broader context of Maharashtra's ever-shifting political landscape. With no permanent friends or enemies in politics, the possibility of future realignments remains a constant. Whether Fadnavis finds it "easier" to work with Shinde or Thackeray is a matter of speculation, but his strategic maneuvering suggests a keen awareness of the power dynamics at play.
