Pune: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again fielded sitting MLA Madhuri Misal as its candidate for the Parvati constituency in the upcoming state assembly elections.

Misal, who has represented Parvati for three consecutive terms, will contest for the seat for the fourth time. The BJP’s decision to continue with Misal signals their confidence in her leadership and track record in the constituency.

However, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), Congress, and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), is yet to finalize its candidate for the Parvati seat.

Traditionally, the NCP, led by Sharad Pawar, has held sway in this constituency, but Congress has now staked its claim as well, leading to internal discussions within the alliance.

Former Standing Committee chairperson Ashwini Kadam from the NCP (SP) has expressed her interest in running from the Parvati seat and has already begun preparations.

Kadam, who was the NCP’s candidate in 2019, has started reconnecting with voters and organizing events in the constituency. NCP (SP) workers are rallying behind her, urging the party to nominate her once again.

Meanwhile, Aaba Bagul from the Congress is also eyeing the MVA nomination and has initiated his groundwork. In addition, Sachin Taware from the Shiv Sena (UBT) is lobbying for the same candidacy.

On the other hand, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has put forward Jayraj Landge as their hopeful candidate for the constituency, adding another layer of competition.

The 2019 elections saw a fierce battle between Madhuri Misal and Ashwini Kadam, where Misal secured 90,461 votes, while Kadam received 60,245.

The upcoming election is expected to see another tight contest, especially if Kadam is once again nominated. However, the MVA’s decision on a candidate remains uncertain, and discussions are ongoing within the alliance.

BJP Resolves Internal Dispute

Apart from Misal, other contenders from the BJP, including former House Leader Shrinath Bhimale and former corporator Rajendra Shilimkar, had expressed interest in the party’s ticket.

Bhimale was particularly persistent in seeking the nomination, but the BJP managed to address the dissent by appointing Bhimale as the chairman of a corporation board.