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Devendra Fadnavis’s victory marked the culmination of a journey fraught with political obstacles, personal attacks and intense scrutiny
Devendra Fadnavis first rose to prominence in 2014. (PTI File)
Life came a full circle for Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis as he returned as the chief minister of Maharashtra on Thursday.
In a decisive meeting attended by all 132 BJP MLAs, Fadnavis was unanimously chosen as the leader of the legislature party, in the presence of central observers, including finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani.
The victory marked the culmination of a journey fraught with political obstacles, personal attacks, and intense scrutiny. Despite the challenges, Fadnavis never wavered, emerging stronger each time. His resilience, calm demeanour, and political acumen have solidified his reputation as one of BJP’s most capable leaders.
YOUNGEST CM, ‘INFRASTRUCTURE MAN’
Fadnavis first rose to prominence in 2014, becoming Maharashtra’s youngest CM. His leadership style, rooted in meticulous preparation and a commitment to development, set him apart. From implementing key infrastructure projects such as the Mumbai Metro, Coastal Road, and Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Mahamarg to ensuring their timely completion, he earned the moniker ‘Infrastructure Man’. His vision for a modern Maharashtra resonated with the masses, creating a loyal support base that transcended party lines.
RESILIENT, CALM UNDER PRESSURE
The journey back to power, however, was anything but smooth. In 2019, the BJP’s alliance with the Shiv Sena faltered after the assembly elections, leading to a political realignment that saw the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. Fadnavis, sidelined but not defeated, took on the role of leader of the opposition, using his platform to critique the government’s policies, while preparing for a potential comeback.
One of Fadnavis’s most remarkable traits is his ability to endure criticism without retaliation. Social media has often been unkind, with trolls targeting him for his decisions and statements. Yet, unlike many politicians, Fadnavis never indulged in public outbursts. He responded only when necessary, maintaining his composure and focusing on the larger picture. His resilience under pressure has earned him respect across the political spectrum.
SECOND TENURE BEGINS
In the months leading up to his return as chief minister, Fadnavis faced challenges within his party as well. Leaders like Eknath Khadse, Vinod Tawde, and Pankaja Munde, once seen as competitors, are no longer in the fray, a testament to Fadnavis’s strategic and diplomatic prowess. His ability to unify the party and garner support from diverse factions has been pivotal in his political resurgence.
Beyond his political skills, Fadnavis is known for his meticulous preparation and eloquence. Whether addressing legislative issues or articulating his vision for the state, his speeches reflect a deep understanding of the subjects at hand. This intellectual rigour, combined with his strategic foresight, has made him a formidable leader.
As Maharashtra enters a new political chapter, Fadnavis’s leadership will once again come under scrutiny. However, his track record of effective governance offers a promising glimpse into the state’s future.
For Fadnavis, the journey has not just been about reclaiming the CM’s chair, but about proving that challenges, however daunting, can be overcome with determination and grace.