In a recent statement, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized his commitment to meritocracy within his party and the state. Despite his position as Chief Minister, Shinde insists that he still works as a worker, highlighting the egalitarian ethos of his party.
“There is no boss or any servant in our party. We are all working in cooperation with each other,” Shinde stated, underlining the collaborative spirit that drives his party’s operations.
Shinde further stressed that in his party, the king’s son will not automatically become the king. Instead, leadership roles are earned through hard work and dedication. This principle stands in stark contrast to the dynastic politics often seen in other parties.
“Only the one who works will become the king,” Shinde declared, reinforcing his belief in merit-based leadership.
Shinde also drew a distinction between his leadership style and that of Uddhav Thackeray. He claimed that while Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena, considered his colleagues as friends, Uddhav viewed them as domestic servants.
“A party or the state can never be run sitting at home,” Shinde said, implying a criticism of Uddhav’s leadership style.
Shinde’s comments reflect his commitment to a more democratic and merit-based political system. They also signal a potential shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape, where the value of hard work and cooperation may take precedence over traditional power dynamics.