Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s exclusion from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has raised significant political intrigue, triggering speculation about a growing rift within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. The SDMA, established following the 2005 Mumbai floods, is responsible for coordinating disaster management efforts across the state, with the Chief Minister at the helm.

According to PTI reports, the Maharashtra government recently reconstituted the SDMA, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assuming leadership, while State Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik has been appointed as the CEO. Despite Shinde's key position as Deputy CM and head of the Urban Development Department, he has been notably omitted from the nine-member authority. On the other hand, NCP leader and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has been included in the reconstituted body.