If we were after power, I would be CM: Fadnavis

Nagpur: “We staked claim to form the government because of eroding Hindutva values of the erstwhile Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and not for the sake of coming back to power,” deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis told BJP cadres at Ramtek on Sunday.
He said, “If we were actually behind power, then I would have been CM not the deputy. But we are here to deliver good governance.”
Though the rally’s audience was local level party workers, Fadnavis might have slipped in a hint for higher rung leaders across the state.
Considering rumours about unrest in senior leaders about the long pending cabinet expansion, Fadnavis’ statement about ‘patience’ could have been a message for all and not just those present in Ramtek.
“Patience is the key. You have to stay focussed and not be bothered about how you are benefiting. Instead, think of what can be done for the party,” said Fadnavis.
The senior BJP leader urged party workers to get into action mode now as Lok Sabha polls are scheduled for next year. “As of today, we need to be united and work selflessly for the party. The public wants PM Narendra Modi to continue (as PM), and for that you need to create awareness about all the work which has been done under his guidance,” said Fadnavis.
He warned cadres against thinking of personal gains. “If we loose focus, then the opposition will waltz their way to power, so don’t be complacent. Next few months require non-stop hard work from all of you,” said Fadnavis.
Along with Fadnavis on the stage were the party’s state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule, MLAs Ashish Jaiswal (Ramtek) and MP Krupal Tumane. While Tumane is officially a member of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, Jaiswal is an independent MLA who owes allegiance to Shinde.