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The Shiv Sena has released its initial list of 45 candidates for the upcoming assembly election in Maharashtra, but notably omitted four sitting MLAs from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The omitted MLAs are Vishwanath Bhoir from Kalyan West, Shantaram More from Bhiwandi rural, Balaji Kinikar from Ambernath, and Shrinivas Vanga from the Palghar constituency. While the party functionaries have confirmed the finalization of these candidates, the announcement has been delayed pending further seat negotiations with the BJP.
The omission of these sitting MLAs from the first list has sparked speculation, with some suggesting that their exclusion might be strategic and that they could be included in the second list. Notably, Vanga expressed his confidence in receiving a ticket in the upcoming second list, citing his strong faith in Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The Shiv Sena has indicated that it will contest between 80-85 seats in the election and plans to release the second list later this week.
The first list has revealed a trend of the Shiv Sena accommodating family members of sitting MLAs, including sons, a wife, and a brother. This practice is in line with the BJP's approach, suggesting a strategic effort to consolidate power within family networks. For instance, the party has nominated Kiran Samant, brother of Industries Minister Uday Samant, from Rajapur, while Uday Samant will contest from Ratnagiri. Similarly, in Mumbai, Manisha Waikar, wife of Mumbai North West MP Ravindra Waikar, has been nominated as the candidate from Jogeshwari East.
Furthermore, the list showcases the Shiv Sena's effort to ensure the inclusion of prominent leaders and members of Shinde's cabinet. This is evident in the nomination of Pratap Sarnaik from Ovala Majiwada and Mahendra Thorne from Karjat, both sitting MLAs and key figures within the party. Additionally, Abhijit Adsul, son of former MP Anandrao Adsul, has been given a ticket from Daryapur. The selection process underscores the importance of loyalty and family connections within the party's leadership, reflecting a broader trend in Indian politics.
The omission of the four MLAs from the initial list and the emphasis on family members in the candidate selection highlight the complex dynamics within the Shiv Sena. While the party's alliance with the BJP remains crucial, internal power struggles and strategic considerations are shaping the candidate selection process. The release of the second list will be crucial in understanding the final composition of the Shiv Sena's candidates and the party's strategy for the upcoming assembly election.
Source: Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena Omits Four Sitting MLAs from Initial Election Candidate List in Mumbai