With the backing of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray, the INDIA alliance presents a challenge for Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP. Fadnavis is tasked with the goal of winning 45 seats for the BJP-led alliance in the state while also acting as a ‘peacemaker’ to resolve tensions among party workers and allies.
Despite back-to-back meetings, Fadnavis has yet to resolve differences over Satara and Madha Lok Sabha seats in western Maharashtra. The BJP’s preference for fielding Rajya Sabha MP Udayan Raje Bhosale from the Satara seat clashed with the NCP’s demand for the same seat.
Reports suggest that the BJP is now attempting to persuade Bhosale to run as an NCP candidate for the Satara seat.
The Madha Lok Sabha seat is also causing tensions within the BJP, with the anti-Nimbalkar faction opposing the declaration of sitting MP Ranjit Naik Nimbalkar as the candidate. Fadnavis intervened in this situation as well to broker peace.
In an effort to smooth over conflicts and navigate the challenge of seat sharing with alliance partners, Fadnavis is playing a crucial role. Despite the aspirants outnumbering the available seats, Fadnavis is working to ensure that individual aspirations and issues are addressed at the appropriate time.
As the Lok Sabha polls approach, Fadnavis continues to oversee preparations and work with allies to ensure a united front in key constituencies.