Maratha activist Manoj Jarange may not be fielding candidates in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, but his influence looms large, unsettling BJP’s prospects in Jalna, the epicenter of Maratha agitation, political observers said.
In the 2019 elections, the BJP secured three key constituencies in the district—Bhokardan, Partur, and Badnapur—and is striving to retain them despite shifts in the political and social landscapes. The party has renominated two-term MLA Santosh Danve, son of former Union minister Raosaheb Danve, from Bhokardan; Babanrao Lonikar from Partur; and Narayan Kuche from Badnapur.
Also Read:Maharashtra elections: Shiv Sena (UBT) releases manifesto, promises scrapping of Dharavi redevelopment project
Also Read US Election Results 2024 Highlights: Will President-elect Donald Trump help resolve India-Canada relations? Maharashtra Elections 2024: Congress faces candidate dilemma in Kolhapur North as BJP resolves internal conflicts Netherlands to restrict international students from studying in Dutch universities Not just Antilia, here are 6 other lavish properties owned by Mukesh Ambani and family in India and abroad
Over the last five years, divisions within Shiv Sena and NCP and massive Maratha protests demanding reservations in jobs and education, led by Jarange, have reshaped local dynamics. Jarange has warned the BJP that the community could turn against its candidates in the November 20 polls, though he recently decided not to put forward candidates of his own.
Marathas comprise approximately 32% of Jalna’s population in the Marathwada region, which includes 46 assembly segments. In Jalna, BJP ally Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has fielded candidates for Ghanswangi and Jalna seats.
Also Read:Maharashtra Elections 2024: MVA’s poll manifesto promises Rs 3,000 monthly allowance for women, caste census and more
In Bhokardan, with 32 candidates competing, the main contest is between Santosh Danve and NCP (SP) candidate Chandrakant Danve, a three-term MLA. Observers have noted the “Jarange factor,” suggesting it played a role in Raosaheb Danve’s Lok Sabha loss in Jalna earlier this year. In 2019, Santosh Danve defeated Chandrakant by a 32,000-vote margin.
In Partur, two-time MLA and former minister Lonikar faces Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Asaram Borade and Congress rebel Suresh Jethliya, the former head of Partur’s municipal council. Borade and Jethliya’s presence may split votes, aiding Lonikar. However, the Maratha and Banjara communities are likely to be decisive in this constituency,
» Read More
