The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released its first list of 99 candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, marking a significant step in the political landscape of the state. The list includes several prominent leaders, with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis being a notable figure.
Devendra Fadnavis, who has been a stalwart in Maharashtra politics, will be contesting from his traditional Nagpur South West seat. This move is seen as a strategic one, given his strong hold in the region and his influence within the party. Fadnavis's inclusion in the list is expected to boost the party's chances in the elections.
Another prominent figure in the list is Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who has been named as the state BJP president. Bawankule will be contesting from Kamthi, a seat that is crucial for the party's stronghold in the region. Bawankule's nomination is seen as a strategic move to consolidate the party's base in central Maharashtra.
The list also includes Sreejaya Ashok Chavan, the daughter of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan. Sreejaya has been fielded from Bhokar constituency, marking a significant entry into politics for her. Ashok Chavan, who quit the Congress and joined the BJP in February this year, has been a key figure in the party's efforts to expand its base in western Maharashtra.
Other notable candidates in the list include Mumbai BJP president Ashish Selar, who will be contesting from Vandre West seat, and senior party leader and Lok Sabha MP Narayan Rane's son Nitesh Rane, who will be contesting from Kankavli. Nitesh Rane currently represents Kankavli in the assembly and his inclusion in the list is expected to strengthen the party's hold in the region.
The BJP is looking to contest around 150 seats in the state but is involved in tough bargaining with its allies and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar-led NCP. The party's decision to field candidates from various regions reflects its strategy to maintain a strong presence across different parts of the state.
The Assembly elections in Maharashtra will be held in a single phase on November 20, with the counting of votes scheduled for November 23. The BJP, which is part of the Mahayuti alliance with Shiv Sena and NCP, is keen to retain power in the state. The alliance won 161 seats in the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections but faced a political crisis after Shiv Sena demanded a rotational Chief Minister arrangement, which the BJP refused.
The political landscape of Maharashtra has been dynamic, with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition of Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena emerging as a significant force after the 2019 elections. However, internal conflicts within the MVA led to its downfall, paving the way for the current political scenario.
The BJP's move to release its first list of candidates is seen as a strategic step towards the elections. The party's ability to field prominent leaders and consolidate its base across different regions will be crucial in determining its performance in the polls.
In conclusion, the BJP's first list of 99 candidates for the Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024 reflects the party's strategic approach to maintaining its stronghold in the state. With prominent leaders like Devendra Fadnavis and Chandrashekhar Bawankule at the forefront, the party is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming polls.
