As the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 draw closer, both the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the Mahayuti (the coalition of BJP, NCP’s Ajit Pawar faction, and Shiv Sena-Shinde) have largely settled on a seat-sharing agreement. However, disagreements over candidate selections continue to pose challenges for the Mahayuti, particularly concerning candidates linked to high-profile controversies.
Key Points:
- Contentious Candidates:
- The BJP has raised concerns over two specific candidates proposed by its allies:
- Sana Malik, daughter of NCP leader Nawab Malik, is expected to run from the Anushakti Nagar seat, which her father formerly represented. Nawab Malik, currently on medical bail, is facing charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). There is also speculation that he may contest from the Shivaji Nagar-Mankhurd seat, challenging Samajwadi Party’s Abu Azmi.
- Swikriti Sharma, wife of former police officer Pradeep Sharma, who was involved in the controversial Antilia bomb scare case, is a likely candidate from Andheri East under the Shiv Sena-Shinde faction.
- The BJP has raised concerns over two specific candidates proposed by its allies:
- BJP’s Opposition:
- Mumbai BJP President Ashish Shelar has publicly rejected the candidacy of individuals linked to controversies, specifically referencing Sana Malik’s association with Nawab Malik, who was alleged to have connections with underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim.
- The BJP is also hesitant about Swikriti Sharma’s nomination due to her connection with Pradeep Sharma, who was arrested by the NIA. This disagreement has led to tensions between the Shiv Sena-Shinde faction and the BJP.
- Seat Controversies:
- In Anushakti Nagar, the BJP’s objection is primarily based on Nawab Malik’s ongoing legal issues.
- In Andheri East, the dispute centers around the Shiv Sena-Shinde’s push for Swikriti Sharma, while the BJP is backing Murji Patel, who had previously withdrawn his nomination in favor of Rutuja Latke from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction. Recently, Patel demonstrated his political influence in a rally attended by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting the BJP’s support for his candidacy.
Seat-Sharing Challenges
While most seat-sharing arrangements have been finalized, the selection of candidates with politically sensitive backgrounds remains a point of contention, highlighting the balancing act required in coalition politics. With several constituencies still unresolved, the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve as alliances are tested ahead of the 2024 elections.
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