Mumbai: Amidst preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Maharashtra is yet to announce its candidates, setting the stage for potential negotiations within the Grand Alliance. While the BJP has not revealed any candidates from Maharashtra, it is expected that contenders will be declared for the 23 constituencies where the party currently holds MPs, following the second meeting of the Central Election Committee this week.
On the other hand, key allies in the Grand Alliance are asserting their demands for a greater share of seats. Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, has reaffirmed its stance to contest in 22 constituencies, mirroring its participation in the previous elections. Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is advocating for 16 seats.
Last week, when the BJP unveiled its list of 195 candidates, it refrained from disclosing contenders from other states within the NDA alliance, including Maharashtra. Given the state's significance in the electoral landscape, it is speculated that candidates for Maharashtra seats will feature in the subsequent phase of candidate announcements.
Sources suggest that the BJP is eyeing over 30 seats in Maharashtra, with candidates for the remaining constituencies set to be declared in due course, excluding those currently vacant.
Pressure Mounts Within the Grand Alliance
Following internal divisions within the BJP, both the Shinde and Ajit Pawar factions have intensified efforts to secure a larger share of seats. Shambhuraj Desai, representing the Shinde group, emphasized Shiv Sena's historical claim to 22 seats in past elections. Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar's faction has identified 16 specific constituencies where it seeks representation.
The seats sought by the Ajit Pawar group include Gondia-Bhandara, Nashik, Dindori, Northeast Mumbai, and others. It is asserted that Ajit Pawar was promised these 16 seats by the BJP before coming to power.
Resolution Anticipated With Central Intervention
While tensions simmer within the Grand Alliance, there has been no formal discussion at the central leadership level to address the rift. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Maharashtra on March 5, where he is expected to engage with party officials and activists across various cities. It is hoped that Shah's visit will expedite efforts to resolve internal disagreements.
Decision Awaited
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified in Nagpur that a decision regarding seat allocation within the Mahayuti alliance is pending. Fadnavis indicated that discussions with all constituent parties are underway, with a resolution expected within the next ten days.
As the Lok Sabha elections draw closer, the political landscape in Maharashtra remains dynamic, with negotiations and consultations underway to ensure a cohesive and strategic approach within the Grand Alliance.