Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari's name is more heard since yesterday for the top chair of the Maharashtra. BJP which is likely to form a minority government with the help of independent candidates, is expected to take a decision on the CM candidate after Diwali when Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP general secretary will be visiting the state. However, sources say that 44 MLAs are backing Gadkari's candidature for the CM post.

As the news reached Gadkari, he reacted that he is quite happy in Delhi [as Union Minister] and holding an important responsibility there. Gadkari added that he would support any candidate whoever party chooses and the talks with Shiv Sena to be part of government are still going on.

While Maharashtra BJP chief Devendra Fadnavis is also making efforts for the CM post. Fadnavis and Gadkari hail from Nagpur and have the RSS backing. The suspense will continue till Friday as BJP is expected to announce the government formation and new CM on the same day.

(AW: Vamshi)