BJP-Sena Talks Hold Up PM Cabinet Changes? The Devendra Fadnavis Factor

PM Modi and Uddhav Thackeray's one-on-one discussions after a meeting on June 8 over Maharashtra-related issues first set off the reunion buzz.

Moves towards a patch-up between the Shiv Sena and the BJP, which could lead to a massive realignment in Maharashtra, are believed to be a big factor in holding up Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet expansion, expected any day now.  BJP sources reveal talks have been on for some time between the two parties but it is not clear what shape their reunion will take. BJP sources deny reports that PM Modi's cabinet expansion is delayed due to the Maharashtra developments. If the two parties come together, the Shiv Sena can be adjusted in the cabinet later, they say. However, any BJP-Sena reconciliation has to factor in the ambition of BJP leader and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. According to reports, a possible deal in discussion is for Devendra Fadnavis to move to Delhi as a minister in PM Modi's cabinet and for Uddhav Thackeray to continue as Chief Minister, with two deputies from the BJP.