The process of government formation in Maharashtra is expected to get a boost after a crucial meeting between caretaker CM Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar and Union minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Thursday night,

Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is being billed as the top favourite for the position, with the backing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Ajit Pawar-led NCP.

Maharashtra CM LIVE: Caretaker CM Shinde says he had called Amit Shah and Modi to decide on who would be the next CM of the state. “I told them to decide (on who will be the CM), and assured them that I will abide by whatever decision they take," Shinde said, reported ANI

Eknath Shinde stated he conveyed to PM Modi and Amit Shah that their decision on the next Maharashtra CM is final for his Shiv Sena faction. He added there are no obstacles from their side, effectively giving BJP the lead in choosing the coalition leader.

The decision on 43 other cabinet berths and portfolio distribution among the three alliance members of Mahayuti (BJP, Shiv Sena, NCP) is yet to be finalised.

Even as the Maharashtra assembly poll results were declared on November 23, the Mahayuti alliance, which has emerged victorious with absolute majority, is yet to decide on the choice of the next chief minister for the state.