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This is an archive article published on May 27, 2024

MNS names MLC polls candidate on seat represented by BJP

Raj Thackeray had recently pledged support to Mahayuti and PM Modi

Raj Thackeray, MNS support Mahayuti, Sharad Pawar, caste-based politics, Ajit pawar, Thackeray poll rally, Pune Lok Sabha seat, Mahayuti candidates, Narendra Modi, Ayodhya Ram Mandir, indian express newsMNS Chief Raj Thackeray. (File Photo)

On Monday, the Raj Thackeray–led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) announced Marathi film director and MNS functionary Abhijit Panse as its candidate for the Konkan Graduates’ constituency in the upcoming biennial legislative council elections slated for June 26. This constituency is currently represented by BJP’s Niranjan Davkhare.

The announcement, made by MNS general secretary Shirish Sawant, sparked interest in the state’s political circles. Just prior to LS polls, Raj Thackeray had declared his and his party’s unconditional support to the ruling BJP–Sena and NCP alliance in the state. Raj had openly endorsed PM Narendra Modi and campaigned for the alliance.

However, this recent announcement raises questions about whether the MNS will maintain its support for the ruling alliance or contest MLC polls independently.

MLC polls have been necessitated as the terms of sitting MLCs— Vilas Potnis of Sena (UBT) (Mumbai Graduate constituency), Niranjan Davkhare of BJP (Konkan division Graduate constituency), Kishore Darade of Sena–UBT (Nashik division Teacher constituency), and Kapil Patil, independent (Mumbai Teacher constituency)— are set to end on July 7.

While Sena UBT has already announced the candidature of party leaders Anil Parab and JM Abhyankar for the biennial election to Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC), the ruling Maha Yuti alliance is yet to announce its candidates for MLC polls.

Sources within the CM Eknath Shinde–led Sena indicate that the party is eyeing not only the two Mumbai seats but also Konkan graduates seat, currently held by BJP’s Davkhare. However, seat-sharing discussions are pending within the Mahayuti alliance.

The Election Commission of India announced the biennial election to MLC from two graduates and two teachers constituencies on June 26, with counting scheduled for July 1. The deadline for filing nominations is June 7, with votes to be cast on June 26 and counted on July 1.

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Of 78 seats in the Legislative Council, 21 are currently vacant, with 12 being Governor-appointed MLCs and nine selected through local body representatives.

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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