Devendra Fadnavis Set To Meet PM Modi Ahead Of Maharashtra Cabinet Expansion

The expansion of the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led Maharashtra cabinet is likely to take place by 14 December, news agency PTI reported citing a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader.

Fadnavis reportedly left for Delhi on Wednesday (11 December), marking his first visit to the national capital since assuming office.

During the visit, he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

A BJP leader, speaking to PTI, stated that the Shiv Sena would not be given the home department and was unlikely to receive the revenue portfolio either.

The discussions over the portfolios were being delayed due to the involvement of three Mahayuti allies—BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, according to the leader.

"The cabinet expansion is likely by December 14. The allocation of home department to Shiv Sena is ruled out. The Shiv Sena may get urban development, but is unlikely to get revenue," said the leader.

The BJP is likely to retain 21 to 22 ministerial berths, including the Chief Minister's position, while keeping four to five positions vacant, the leader noted.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde did not accompany the delegation to Delhi, according to his office.

On 5 December, Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Chief Minister, with Eknath Shinde and NCP leader Ajit Pawar assuming roles as his deputies.

This followed the Mahayuti alliance's victory in 230 out of 288 seats in the state assembly elections.

The Maharashtra cabinet has a maximum capacity of 43 ministers, including the chief minister.

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