The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) party has published its second list of candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Aaditya Thackeray to Contest from Worli, Shiv Sena UBT Reveals Second List of Candidates, This second list unveils fifteen prominent candidates chosen to represent the party in critical constituencies across the state, signaling its strategic approach to securing seats in the assembly.
Key Candidates Announced for Crucial Seats in Maharashtra
In this significant development, Shiv Sena UBT has nominated Ajay Chaudhary to stand in the Sewri constituency, while other influential leaders are set to contest key areas. Manoj Jamsutkar will be representing Byculla, Sandesh Parkar has been selected for Kankavali, and Shraddha Jadhav will take on Wadala. These selections underscore the party’s effort to strategically position strong candidates in vital constituencies, aiming to capture widespread support.
Aaditya Thackeray Confirmed to Contest from Worli
Following the earlier announcement of 65 candidates, Aaditya Thackeray, son of party leader Uddhav Thackeray, will contest from the Worli constituency. This seat holds particular importance due to Aaditya’s prominent role within the party. Alongside him, Sunil Raut has been fielded to run for the Vikhroli constituency, highlighting the party’s intention to place trusted leaders in strategic districts across Maharashtra.
High-Profile Challenges Set for Major Rivals
In a bid to secure major political ground, the Shiv Sena UBT has fielded Kedar Dighe in Kopri, challenging Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This contest is expected to draw significant public attention as Dighe represents a strong opposition force against the current administration. Additionally, Unmesh Patil has been selected to contest Chalisgaon, while Thackeray’s cousin, Vaishali Suryavanshi, will face off with MLA Kishor Appa Patil in Pachora. Nitin Deshmukh will also make a comeback in Balapur, continuing the party’s strategic alignment against key BJP figures, including former BJP MLA Anil Gote, who recently joined the Shiv Sena UBT.
Additional Candidates to Reinforce Party Presence
The list further highlights notable figures across Maharashtra, enhancing the party’s presence in various regions. Some of the other candidates include:
- Raju Tadvi for Chopada
- Jayshree Mahajan in Jalgaon City
- Jayshree Shelke for Buldhana
- Pawan Jaiswal in Digras
- Rupali Patil for Hingoli
- Asaram Borade representing Partur
- Yogesh Gholap for Deolali
- Sachin Basre in Kalyan West
- Dhananjay Bodore from Kalyan East
- Ajay Chaudhari for Sewri
- Anuradha Nagawde representing Shrigonda
These candidates are set to reinforce the Shiv Sena UBT’s footprint across urban and rural Maharashtra.
Political Friction with Congress Over Key Seats
Despite a coalition with Congress, the Shiv Sena UBT faces an internal clash over claims to several seats, particularly in Colaba and Versova. Both parties have shown interest in these influential seats, along with additional regions in Maharashtra. This intra-coalition rivalry underscores the competitive nature of the election, as both parties aim to maximize their reach and influence.
Former ABS Corporator Bypassed for Byculla
Amidst rumors that former Akhil Bhartiya Sena (ABS) Corporator Geeta Gawli would run from Byculla, the Shiv Sena UBT has instead chosen Manoj Jamsutkar as the candidate for this constituency. Jamsutkar, previously affiliated with Congress before joining the Shiv Sena UBT, received the party’s official AB form, validating his position as the official nominee. His experience and strategic placement in Byculla are expected to strengthen the party’s foothold in this region.
Conclusion
As the Maharashtra Assembly elections approach, Shiv Sena UBT’s announcements reflect a tactical strategy, balancing familiar faces with fresh contenders. With key figures challenging high-profile opponents, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction aims to capture crucial constituencies and further establish its presence across Maharashtra. The unfolding dynamics between Shiv Sena UBT and its coalition partner Congress add an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming polls, making this election season one to watch closely.