New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed speculation that his sudden Delhi visit was linked to a possible shift to national politics or induction into the Union Cabinet. Fadnavis said he would continue working from Mumbai and serving Maharashtra, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of the state had given him responsibility.
The Maharashtra CM met PM Modi on Monday and invited him to inaugurate Pune Metro Line 3. The meeting also triggered political discussions amid reports of a possible expansion of the Union and Maharashtra cabinets.
Delhi Visit Sparks Political Speculation
Fadnavis' unscheduled visit to Delhi led to speculation that he could be given a larger role at the Centre. Reacting to the rumours, he said those interested in political speculation could continue doing so, but his priority remained Maharashtra.
“Many people feel that I should go to Delhi, but I am currently in Mumbai and will continue to serve the state,” Fadnavis said.
Before reaching Delhi, Fadnavis had reportedly visited a temple in Ujjain on Sunday night.
PM Modi Meeting Focused On Maharashtra Projects
During his meeting with Prime Minister Modi, Fadnavis discussed the progress of major infrastructure and development projects in Maharashtra.
He briefed the Prime Minister about projects being implemented with central assistance and submitted proposals seeking further support from the Centre.
Cabinet Expansion Buzz Amid Political Developments
The Delhi meeting came at a time when speculation is growing over a possible expansion of the Union Cabinet. Political observers also linked the discussions to developments in Maharashtra, including the ongoing Supreme Court hearing related to the Shiv Sena anti-defection case.
A senior BJP leader suggested that political issues and possible cabinet representation may have also been discussed during the meeting.
Fadnavis Discusses Industrial Corridors And Clearances
The Maharashtra CM also met Union ministers, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. He discussed industrial corridors, environmental approvals and investment projects.
Fadnavis highlighted plans for industrial development along the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, Delhi-Nagpur corridor and Mumbai-Bengaluru corridor.
Focus On Infrastructure Growth
The meeting also covered the ₹55,000 crore Uttan-Virar corridor project, which aims to improve connectivity with Vadhvan Port. Maharashtra officials were advised to explore funding options with additional international agencies along with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).