Mumbai BJP president Ashish Shelar is trying his luck once again from the Vandre East Assembly constituency. He had represented his party from this constituency twice since 2014 and hence, one can assume, he is firmly standing on the wicket on his home turf. But, more than that, as the Mumbai unit president of the BJP, he is expected to fetch more seats for the party from the city and looking at his stance, he seems to be firmly in control on that pitch also.
Born on October 3, 1972 at a chawl in central Mumbai, Shelar’s family that hails from Sindhudurg district moved to the western suburb of Bandra while he was very young. Involved in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities since his school days, Shelar’s leadership qualities got a boost as he started working closely in students’ organisation Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), during his college days at Parle College where he pursued a Bachelor ’s degree in Science. Later he gained a law degree from Mumbai University and pursued legal profession.
While pursuing legal profession he also got elected as corporator to BMC and began his career in the politics. After a two-year stint at the state legislative council Shelar contested assembly election in 2014 and defeated Baba Siddiqi of the Congress. Eventually he also became the party president for the Mumbai city and took on the Shiv Sena in municipal elections in 2017. The BJP and the Shiv Sena parted ways in the local body since then.
Being a sports lover himself, Shelar worked to advance a variety of sports. He was elected as the vice president of the Mumbai Cricket Association in June 2015 and later became its president in January 2017. He has also been involved in football administration, serving as the chairman of the Mumbai district football association, which represents over 350 football clubs.
Diligent, enthusiastic and inclusive are the three words that describe him the best, he feels. Known for his dedication to serving the people and making a positive impact in the community. With a strong background in politics and governance, Shelar has become a respected leader and voice for change.
Shelar will have to play a big role in this election. Since he is responsible for the BJP’s performance in Mumbai all eyes will be on his strategy and planning. He could expect a big reward if he delivers. A failure will bring him to the square one.
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