Changing MNS-BJP dynamics ahead of assembly polls; Amit Thackeray will contest from Mahim

Mumbai: As the Maharashtra Assembly elections approach, the growing relationship between MNS chief Raj Thackeray and BJP leaders has become a talking point. Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule recently praised Raj Thackeray’s stand despite MNS fielding candidates for over 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 remarked, “Maharashtra needs Raj Thackeray’s vision”.

A few days ago, Raj Thackeray said that the next Chief Minister will be from the BJP, specifically mentioning Devendra Fadnavis. Bawankule’s recent statement fueled speculation about a potential internal alliance between the BJP and the MNS.

During the Lok Sabha elections, the MNS extended unconditional support to Mahayuti; however, for the current Assembly elections, the MNS fielded candidates in over 100 seats, pitting them against both the ruling BJP and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

BJP leaders even sought support for Amit Thackeray, but Sarvankar filed his nomination for the Mahim Assembly on behalf of Shiv Sena, undeterred by BJP’s efforts to persuade him to withdraw.

Expressing his resolve, Sarvankar said, “I am contesting the Assembly elections. I have made it clear that I will not retire.”

According to sources, Sarvankar recently met Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who advised him to withdraw his nomination and assured him an opportunity in the Legislative Council if compelled. However, Sarvankar remains undeterred for now. It will be interesting to see if he eventually backs down or chooses to rebel.

Candidates Mahim

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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