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Bhujbal has said he is ready to take on any responsibility assigned by the Chief Minister. However, sources suggest that he is still keen on the Nashik portfolio.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis being greeted by NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal after the latter took oath as a minister in the state cabinet. (Image: Maharashtra CMO)
Veteran NCP leader and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal was sworn in as Cabinet Minister on Tuesday, marking a significant political development in Nashik district. With Bhujbal’s induction, Nashik now has four ministers in the Maharashtra cabinet — Dada Bhuse (Shiv Sena – Shinde faction), Manikrao Kokate , Narhari Zirwal, and now Bhujbal himself (NCP – Ajit Pawar faction). Bhujbal’s return to the cabinet has reignited the political tug-of-war over Nashik’s coveted Guardian Minister post. Until now, there had been a silent contest among BJP’s Girish Mahajan, Shiv Sena’s Dada Bhuse, and NCP’s Manikrao Kokate for the position.
Bhujbal’s entry has changed the dynamics, especially given his seniority, experience, and strong base in Nashik. The appointment of Girish Mahajan as Nashik’s Guardian Minister had reportedly been put on hold after Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena expressed displeasure, insisting on their claim to the post.
Responding to the speculation, Manikrao Kokate played down the race, saying, “There’s no competition as far as I’m concerned. The party is more important than any individual post. Bhujbal’s inclusion will benefit Nashik and the state as a whole.” He also welcomed Bhujbal’s return, noting that it brings greater social inclusivity to the cabinet, especially with Bhujbal being a prominent OBC face. On perceived friction between the two, Kokate dismissed any such notion. “There are no differences between us. People may talk, but we are united in working for the party,” he said.
Sources suggest that Bhujbal, who was earlier denied a cabinet berth, has now been inducted to consolidate OBC support in regions like Marathwada, Nashik, and Ahilya Nagar ahead of upcoming local body elections, which the Supreme Court has directed to be held within four months. After Dhananjay Munde’s resignation due to health reasons, the NCP lacked a major and aggressive OBC face. After consultations with the core leadership, Ajit Pawar took the strategic decision to bring Bhujbal back. Sources also indicate that Bhujbal might be assigned as Guardian Minister of Beed, to avoid escalating the ongoing tussle over Nashik’s portfolio between the BJP and Shiv Sena.
On sharp criticism from Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil – who accused Ajit Pawar of promoting caste-based politics through Bhujbal’s inclusion – Kokate responded cautiously. “That’s Jarange’s personal opinion. I don’t know what his equation is with Bhujbal, but Ajit Dada is a strong and fair leader,” he said. Reflecting on his own political path, Kokate added, “Had I joined Ajit Dada earlier, it would’ve helped me. But as they say, better late than never.”
With Bhujbal back in the cabinet and political energy renewed in Nashik, all eyes are now on the Guardian Minister appointment. Bhujbal has said he is ready to take on any responsibility assigned by the Chief Minister. However, sources suggest that he is still keen on the Nashik portfolio. If that happens, it could significantly reshape local power equations ahead of the crucial civic polls.
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