Maharashtra: BJP-Sena Tensions Escalate as Security of Over 20 Shinde MLAs Get Downgraded

The power struggle between Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde escalated on Monday, as the state’s Home Department, under Fadnavis, downgraded the security cover for over 20 Shiv Sena MLAs reportedly loyal to Shinde. These legislators, previously under Y+ security—which includes 11 personnel, including 2-4 commandos—will now be assigned a single constable. In addition, the security details for several other Shiv Sena leaders have been entirely withdrawn.

In a bid to appear impartial, the Home Department also revoked security arrangements for certain BJP and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) politicians aligned with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. However, the number of Shiv Sena leaders impacted by the security reductions far outweighs those from other parties.

This latest development comes amid rising tensions between Fadnavis and Shinde, who have clashed over various matters in recent weeks. One such instance occurred on Monday, when Shinde convened a review meeting of the Industries Department, a move seen as a direct counter to a similar meeting held by Fadnavis in January. The Industries Department, which is overseen by Shiv Sena’s Uday Samant, has been a point of contention, with Samant previously expressing concerns about being excluded from crucial policy discussions.

The discord between the two leaders has been evident in other recent actions as well. Last month, Shinde notably abstained from a meeting of the Nashik Metropolitan Regional Development Authority, called by Fadnavis to discuss preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela, opting instead to hold his own review session on the matter. In a further sign of growing friction, Shinde established a Deputy CM's Medical Aid Cell in Mantralaya, appointing a close associate to lead it—marking a first for a deputy CM, given the existing Chief Minister's Relief Fund Cell.

Political analysts view these actions as indicative of a widening rift within the ruling coalition. The opposition has been quick to criticize the government, arguing that internal power struggles are taking precedence over the state's governance. NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar remarked, “Separate cells have been established for the CM and both the DCMs to review projects... There must be three CMs to make these squabbles of the ruling parties more dynamic.”

In response to the mounting media speculation about a “cold war” between him and Fadnavis, Deputy CM Shinde dismissed such claims, stating, “We are thanda thanda cool cool.” Despite Shinde’s attempt to downplay the situation.​