Mumbai Confidential: Waiting for the CM

Will Jarange Contest?

Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil’s extensive tour across Marathwada and parts of North and Western Maharashtra has left both the Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi guessing about his political intentions. Observers are speculating whether Patil might contest the upcoming elections independently. His frequent visits to the Gevrai assembly constituency in Marathwada are particularly raising eyebrows. Is this a move to secure a seat for himself in the Assembly polls? Patil has already suggested that he may field over 115 candidates in the elections.

Unsurprisingly, at least three former BJP MLAs from the Marathwada region have submitted their resumes to Patil, hoping to secure a ticket.

Bhupender Yadav leading the charge

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, who is overseeing BJP’s efforts in Maharashtra, is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the party’s success in the Assembly polls. A senior party functionary close to Yadav noted, “We are amazed by his commitment. He is deeply involved in micro-planning and engaging with every level of party workers, including various cells.” Unlike the typical state incharge who merely oversees preparations and issues instructions, Yadav is spending extensive time in Mumbai, working tirelessly to address issues within the state BJP and prepare it for the elections.

Caught in a Catch-22

With Maharashtra’s elections just months away and all sides in contention, law enforcement officers are navigating a delicate balance when it comes to filing FIRs against political leaders. There is pressure to register cases from one side, while officers are wary of potential repercussions if the other side comes to power. In some instances, officers are directly informing politicians about the pressure to file FIRs, while others are sticking to the truth without exaggeration despite external pressures.

Back in the Saddle

A former officer, once sidelined by the powers that be, is now reportedly regaining influence and making key decisions on transfers and postings. This influential figure has consistently aligned with government interests, which has helped him regain a significant role in administrative affairs. His renewed clout is gradually helping him recover lost ground over the years.