The Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra is fracturing along lines that go far beyond routine political bickering. A leaked audio clip, released by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil, alleges a Rs 500 crore transaction involving Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The fallout was immediate. The clip was framed to target Shinde, but allegations quickly emerged that BJP social media cell members were involved in a conspiracy to derail the Maratha reservation movement.
Realizing the damage to the BJP’s image, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis moved fast. He ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe via the Mumbai Police. This was not just an administrative order; it was a power play. By taking direct control of the investigation, Fadnavis asserted his authority over a sensitive issue, while deep-seated mistrust between the two major allies continued to fester.
The tension is not limited to the top. At a recent Dussehra rally, Shiv Sena leaders like Ramdas Kadam and Minister Gulabrao Patil publicly declared Shinde the future Chief Minister. They credited the coalition’s success entirely to welfare schemes launched during Shinde’s previous tenure. This bold stance rubbed the state BJP leadership the wrong way. By openly claiming the top spot, Shinde’s faction is signaling that it will not accept permanent junior partner status.
Meanwhile, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction is pushing hard for the Finance portfolio. Following a core committee meeting, a delegation led by Sunetra Pawar met Fadnavis to demand the key department. Senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal claimed Fadnavis responded positively, though he dismissed rumors of a merger with Sharad Pawar’s faction. Securing control over state finances is a massive lever of power, and the NCP’s aggressive push highlights how fiercely each ally is fighting for dominance before any prospective cabinet expansion.
The cracks became visible during recent MLC elections, where internal seat-sharing disputes forced coalition partners to turn on each other. In the Pune teacher constituency, candidates from Shinde’s Shiv Sena and the BJP fought directly against one another. Local leaders are willing to challenge alliance discipline to secure their own political survival. The next move likely involves a cabinet reshuffle, where the balance of power will be truly tested.