The dynamics of MNS-BJP changed before the assembly elections; Amit Thackeray will contest elections from Mahim

Mumbai: As Maharashtra Assembly elections are approaching, the growing closeness between MNS chief Raj Thackeray and BJP leaders has become a topic of discussion. BJP Maharashtra president Chandrashekhar Bawankule recently praised Raj Thackeray's stance despite MNS fielding candidates on more than 100 seats.

Notably, MNS chief Raj Thackeray's son Amit Thackeray is making his electoral debut from Mahim against Shiv Sena's Sada Sarvankar. Despite these developments, Bawankule commented, “Maharashtra needs Raj Thackeray's vision.”

A few days ago, Raj Thackeray had announced that the next chief minister would be from the BJP, specifically mentioning Devendra Fadnavis. Bawankule's recent statement has fueled speculations about a possible internal alliance between the BJP and MNS.

During the Lok Sabha elections, MNS offered unconditional support to Mahayuti; However, for the current assembly elections, the MNS has fielded its candidates on over 100 seats, pitting them against both the ruling BJP and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

BJP leaders have also solicited support for Amit Thackeray, but Saravankar, unfazed by BJP's efforts to convince him to withdraw his name, has filed his nomination for Mahim Assembly on behalf of Shiv Sena.

Expressing his determination, Saravankar said, “I am contesting the assembly elections. I have made it clear that I will not back down.”

According to sources, Sarvankar recently met Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who reportedly advised him to withdraw his nomination and assured him of a chance in the Legislative Council if he was forced to do so. However, Saravankar is still determined. It will be interesting to see if he ultimately backs down or chooses to rebel.

Mahim Candidate

Amit Thackeray (MNS)

Sada Sarvankar (Shiv Sena)

Mahesh Sawant Shiv Sena (UBT)

Total voters 2,25,373

Male 1,12,638

Female 1,12,657

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