Pune: BJP’s Push for Shankar Jagtap’s Candidacy Adds Intrigue to Maval Politics

Maval, 23rd March 2024: The Maval Lok Sabha constituency is currently under the spotlight as political dynamics evolve, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) asserting its claim on the seat, currently held by Shiv Sena’s MP Shrirang Barne. Following a request made by former BJP MLA Bala Bhegde, urging Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to nominate Pimpri-Chinchwad BJP city president Shankar Jagtap, indications suggest a growing candidacy within the Mahayuti alliance for the Maval seat.

Amidst shifting political equations, both the BJP and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) lay claim to the Maval constituency within the Mahayuti Alliance. NCP MLA Sunil Shelke and MP Shrirang Barane have engaged in mutual accusations, reflecting the heightened competition. BJP, having missed out on contesting in the coalition for three consecutive elections, asserts its right to field a candidate this time, advocating for representation under the lotus symbol.

Former MLA Bala Bhegde and his supporters have vocally opposed MP Barne’s candidacy, advocating for Jagtap’s nomination. The endorsement of Jagtap, backed by his track record as the city president, is seen as a strategic move that could secure victory for the BJP. BJP City Secretary Sachin Kalbhor has urged Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to consider Jagtap’s candidacy, stressing the potential benefits for both Mahayuti and the BJP.

The legacy of Shankar Jagtap’s late brother, MLA Laxman Jagtap, who contested the 2014 elections, adds further weight to the argument in favour of his nomination. However, with another BJP leader’s name emerging in the candidacy contest, tensions within the Mahayuti alliance appear to be escalating, posing a challenge for resolution.

In another development, the refusal of the NCP to support the Shiv Sena candidate in Maval, Vijay Shivtare, in Baramati, underscores internal discord within Mahayuti. The city NCP’s decision not to campaign for Shivtare stems from Shivtare’s perceived deviation from Mahayuti’s principles. NCP MLA Anna Bansode emphasizes the importance of adhering to Mahayuti’s collective agenda, expressing hope that Shivtare will align with the Chief Minister’s directives.