Mumbai: Tensions have surfaced within the Mahayuti alliance following the BJP’s announcement of its 99 candidates for the Maharashtra Assembly polls. The Shiv Sena faction, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has taken exception to the BJP’s decision to field candidates in four key constituencies: Kalyan East, Thane, Airoli, and Murbad.
Specifically, Shiv Sena workers are opposed to Sulabha Gaikwad’s nomination in Kalyan East, citing her husband Ganpat Gaikwad’s alleged involvement in opening fire on Sena leader Mahesh Gaikwad. They demand a Shiv Sena leader be fielded instead.
Additionally, the BJP’s selection of Sanjay Kelkar in Thane, considered a stronghold of Shinde, has drawn ire from Shiv Sena workers. Similarly, the party is displeased with the BJP’s decision to field sitting MLA Kisan Shankar Kathore in Murbad and Ganesh Naik in Airoli.
The latter’s son, Sandeep Naik, joined Sharad Pawar’s NCP faction after being denied a BJP ticket and will contest from Belapur.
Notably, the BJP’s first list includes prominent figures like Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
The Mahayuti alliance’s internal rifts may impact its electoral prospects, as Shiv Sena workers have threatened not to campaign for the BJP candidates in the contested seats.
With over 80 sitting MLAs re-contesting and five previous losers given another chance, the alliance’s dynamics will be closely watched. The Maharashtra Assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with results to be announced on November 23.
Key Points of Contention
Kalyan East: Sulabha Gaikwad’s nomination is opposed due to her husband Ganpat Gaikwad’s alleged involvement in opening fire on Sena leader Mahesh Gaikwad.
Thane: Sanjay Kelkar’s selection has drawn ire from Shiv Sena workers, as Thane is considered a stronghold of Shinde.
Murbad: The party is displeased with the BJP’s decision to field sitting MLA Kisan Shankar Kathore.
Airoli: Ganesh Naik’s candidacy is opposed, especially since his son Sandeep Naik joined Sharad Pawar’s NCP faction after being denied a BJP ticket.
Comments