File photo: PM Modi with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray
When the BJP's first government in Maharashtra is sworn in today, former ally Shiv Sena will be confined to the role of spectator. "No Shiv Sena leader will be inducted," said BJP General Secretary Rajiv Pratap Rudy on Thursday, though he added that negotiations continue for a possible reunion.
The BJP has planned a mega-inauguration for a mini-cabinet headed by
Devendra Fadnavis as Chief Minister. The Sena and the BJP cut a 25-year alliance ahead of the election, with the Sena bearing monumental costs for the split. The BJP accrued its best-ever result, and though the Sena placed second, it has been filched of the chance to play king-maker. (
BJP's Special Effect Swearing-In for Maharashtra: 10 Points)
The BJP has resolutely refused to hit the gas pedal in the negotiations for a reunion, not least to exact revenge for a vicious campaign that saw its top leaders being pilloried by Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. On Thursday evening, sources said Mr Thackeray will skip today's inaugural; some of his colleagues reportedly feel that their exclusion from the first cut of the government is a public insult.
But the Shiv Sena can do little than mark its protest with a no-show. The BJP won the most seats but not a clear majority, and yet, it faces no discomfort. Sharad Pawar's party, the NCP, has said it will support a minority government; a handful of independents are also willing to align with the BJP.
That has forced the Sena to marshal uncharacteristic pliancy. Its mouthpiece had been enlisted for particularly piercing critiques of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi; now, editorials offer ingratiating praise. "With Narendra at the centre, and Devendra heading the state, we expect 'achche din' ahead" said a column on Thursday, citing two popular BJP slogans. (
'Achche Din' With Devendra-Narendra Combo, Says Eager Shiv Sena)