Pune: Shiv Sena’s Shrirang Barne to Defend Maval Lok Sabha Seat Against Thackeray Faction’s Sanjog Waghere

Maval, 29th March 2024: Maval Lok Sabha constituency, encompassing Pune and Raigad districts, gears up for a fierce electoral showdown as Shiv Sena’s Shrirang Barne, the current MP, faces off against Sanjog Waghere of Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray faction from Maha Vikas Aghadi. Barne, seeking re-election for the third consecutive term, asserts his candidacy amidst shifting political alliances.

Despite initial challenges from allies BJP and NCP, Shiv Sena’s decision to field Barne underscores its resolve within the Mahayuti coalition. The dynamics within Mahayuti have evolved with Shiv Sena’s partnership with BJP, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and NCP, led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. This realignment alters the political landscape in Maval, where local party affiliates initially opposed Barne’s nomination.

Barne’s candidacy solidifies Shiv Sena’s claim in Maval, a constituency traditionally dominated by the party. The rift within Shiv Sena over candidature briefly surfaced, with local BJP and NCP representatives advocating for alternative candidates. However, Barne’s nomination reaffirms his allegiance to Shiv Sena, aligning with the party’s electoral agenda.

The contest intensifies with Waghere’s entry into the fray, representing the Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena’s challenge to Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena stronghold. Waghere, a newcomer to electoral politics, poses a fresh challenge to Barne’s chances, backed by the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance.

Local dynamics come into play as both candidates hail from Pimpri-Chinchwad city, potentially dividing votes along geographical and communal lines. Barne, a resident of Thergaon, and Waghere, from Pimpari Gaon, may draw support based on local affiliations, adding complexity to the electoral landscape.

In response to Barne’s candidacy confirmation, NCP MLA Sunil Shelke’s stance shifted, signalling solidarity with Mahayuti’s electoral agenda, emphasizing support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Barne, expressing gratitude for Shiv Sena’s endorsement, pledges to continue developmental initiatives and strengthen alliances for Maval’s progress.

As the electoral battle unfolds, Maval braces for a riveting contest between entrenched incumbency and emerging challengers, shaping the political trajectory of the region.