Maharashtra
Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: From Eknath Shinde To Amin Patel, Veteran MLAs From MMR Push For Historic Consecutive Victories
Mumbai: With the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections fast approaching, many sitting Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from the state are aiming for consecutive victories. In the 288-member Assembly, a total of 151 MLAs are eyeing for a third or more-term in the upcoming elections.
Several MLAs from the Mumbai & surrounding regions, also known as the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), are also aiming to secure consecutive victories for a third or more than third term in their Assembly constituencies. For these MMR-based legislators, achieving victory is not just about personal accomplishment but also a validation of the impact they have had on the lives of Mumbaikars in their respective constituencies.
Challenges In MMR
In a region as dynamic as the MMR, where every neighbourhood comes with its unique set of challenges, these leaders are hoping to leverage their record of public service to win the trust of the city’s voters for another term.
MMR’s political and social landscape requires its MLAs to balance development with the diverse needs of their constituencies. From managing the pressures of rapid urbanization to ensuring healthcare, infrastructure and environmental sustainability, the job of a MLA is multifaceted.
Those aiming for a consecutive win more than twice, must not only showcase their achievements but also address any criticisms and unmet promises from previous terms. With residents of MMR increasingly vocal about issues like housing, traffic congestion and pollution, these leaders have a crucial task in framing their past contributions and future plans in a way that resonates with the city’s growingly aware and scrutinizing electorate.
Party Support & Social Media Outreach
In the high-stakes arena of MMR’s political battles, party backing can make a crucial difference. Whether it’s the BJP or the Shiv Sena and the NCP, especially after the recent split in both parties, party support in terms of resources, strategic backing and outreach efforts can tip the scales for a candidate.
This factor, combined with the rise of social media as a powerful engagement tool in the city, has added new layers to campaigning. Today’s electorate, particularly in MMR’s urban areas, is more inclined toward leaders who not only deliver on-ground results but are also responsive online, addressing issues in real-time and engaging directly with the public.
Eknath Shinde
Eknath Shinde, the current Chief Minister and a leader of the Shiv Sena, represents the Kopri-Pachpakhadi constituency in Thane, and his influence extends well into Mumbai. Shinde has represented the seat three times consecutively since its formation since 2009. He is keen to win the seat securing his fourth term in the upcoming elections
Shinde has spearheaded several large infrastructure projects in the region, including metro expansions and the Thane Coastal Road, aiming to alleviate the commuting strains for Mumbaikars who travel from Thane. While his BJP alliance has stirred some controversy among Shiv Sena loyalists, his focus on regional development has strengthened his popularity. Shinde will be facing the nephew of his own mentor Anand Dighe in the upcoming elections.
Pratap Sarnaik
Pratap Sarnaik, representing the Ovala-Majiwada constituency on the fringes of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has played a major role in the area’s infrastructural development, which is crucial given the rapid urban growth here. Representing the seat since 2009, the CM-Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader has focused on projects tackling water scarcity, improved road connectivity and addressing the daily traffic woes that Thane-Mumbai commuters face.
His fourth-term campaign is centred on promising further improvements and long-term solutions for Thane’s infrastructure, positioning himself as a leader who understands the unique pressures of being part of Mumbai’s extended suburbs. Sarnaik is facing Shiv Sena UBT’s Naresh Manera this time.
Jitendra Awhad
Representing Mumbra-Kalwa, NCP’s Jitendra Awhad has gained respect for his focus on social justice, particularly in areas with high-density and lower-income populations. Known for his housing rights activism and efforts to regularize slums, his approach has struck a chord with marginalized communities in Mumbai’s outskirts.
Awhad is another leader who has been representing the same constituency for three consecutive terms. In a constituency where the major vote-bank is from the Muslim community, Awhad’s bid for a fourth term emphasizes continued work on social equity, which has helped him maintain a loyal voter base in Mumbra-Kalwa. Awhad is facing a contest from his rival faction, NCP’s Najeeb Mulla during this time’s elections.
Sunil Prabhu
Sunil Prabhu, the Shiv Sena UBT MLA from Dindoshi in Mumbai’s western suburbs, has focused on local healthcare, sanitation and waste management, which are pressing issues for suburban Mumbaikars. Prabhu’s pragmatic and consistent approach has made him a well-regarded figure in Dindoshi, securing consecutive wins for him in past two elections.
His third-term campaign highlights these achievements, appealing to voters who prioritize stability and practical solutions to the everyday urban challenges that suburban residents face, such as waste management and access to healthcare facilities. Prabhu will face a strong contender, newly inducted Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam to claim victory in the upcoming elections.
Prakash Phaterphekar
Representing Chembur, Prakash Phaterphekar of the Shiv Sena UBT is seen as a ‘new-age’ politician who actively engages with youth-centric issues. Chembur, known for its vibrant demographics and active civic scene, has benefited from Phaterphekar’s focus on education, skill development and sports facilities.
Two-time MLA, Phaterphekar’s digital-savvy approach, including frequent engagement on social media platforms, appeals to younger Mumbaikars who value transparency and accessibility in their leaders. His campaign for a third term aims to maintain this modern yet grounded connection with his constituents. Phaterphekar will be facing Shinde-led Shiv Sena’s Tukaram Kate in the upcoming polls.
R. Tamil Selvan
BJP’s R. Tamil Selvan represents the culturally diverse Sion-Koliwada constituency, an area that reflects the multiplicity of Mumbai’s heritage with its mix of Marathi, Tamil and North Indian communities. Selvan who has secured two consecutive wins in past two elections is eyeing a third term from the constituency. He has focused on fostering unity through development projects that bridge cultural divides while meeting the practical needs of residents.
His emphasis on housing projects, civic improvements and inclusive community engagement resonates with Sion-Koliwada’s residents, who seek both modern amenities and respect for their cultural identity. Selvan is set to contest against Congress leader Ganesh Kumar Yadav in the upcoming polls.
Kalidas Kolambkar
Kalidas Kolambkar, a seasoned politician representing Wadala, is known for his adaptive approach to governance, balancing traditional political values with the evolving demands of urban Mumbai. Kolambkar is among those few MLAs who have a strong political career.
He has never lost any election fought in his life and also holds a record of being elected as an MLA for 8 times straight. This time, the BJP leader is eyeing for a ninth victory to register his name in the record books as the most successful MLA.
Originally from Shiv Sena, then shifting to Congress and finally joining BJP, over the years Kolambkar has concentrated on healthcare, education and infrastructure, addressing Wadala’s specific needs as it grows into a densely populated area. His pragmatic style and long-standing loyalty to his constituents could be crucial in his ninth-term campaign, appealing to voters who seek both continuity and progress in Wadala. Kolambkar is set to fight against Shiv Sena UBT’s Shraddha Jadhav for his victory.
Ajay Choudhari
Shiv Sena UBT’s Ajay Choudhari, who represents Shivadi, is dedicated to addressing the infrastructure issues that challenge this industrial and residential area. A two-time MLA from Shivadi, Choudhari’s focus on urban redevelopment and flood control resonates well with residents, especially as monsoon flooding remains a frequent concern.
Choudhari’s third-term campaign focuses on progress made in affordable housing and drainage systems, which are crucial in an area like Shivadi. His ability to demonstrate visible progress in these areas is likely to play a central role in his efforts to win another term. Ajay Choudhari will face former Shivadi MLA and MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar this time.
Mangal Prabhat Lodha
Mangal Prabhat Lodha, a prominent BJP leader and successful real estate developer, represents Malabar Hill, one of Mumbai’s most affluent areas. Lodha has championed regulatory reforms, transparency in real estate, and heritage conservation, appealing to Malabar Hill’s elite residents who prioritize sustainable development.
The BJP leader holds a record of six consecutive victories from the high-profile Assembly seat. As he aims for a seventh term, Lodha’s campaign will likely emphasize his ability to preserve the heritage of South Mumbai while advocating for smart and modern growth, a balance that appeals to the upscale demographic he represents. Lodha will be contesting against Shiv Sena UBT’s Bhirulal Jain in the upcoming polls.
Amin Patel
Congress MLA Amin Patel, who represents Mumbadevi, is known for his humanitarian approach. Mumbadevi, a densely populated and socio-economically diverse constituency, benefits from Patel’s strong advocacy for small businesses, healthcare accessibility and minority rights.
The Congress leader, a three-time MLA from the seat is regarded as one of the best MLAs in the Maharashtra Assembly. His campaign for a fourth term emphasizes inclusive growth and community-driven governance, addressing the distinct needs of Mumbadevi’s residents.
Patel’s track record of responding to local issues positions him as a key figure in Congress’s effort to retain influence in Mumbai. Patel is set to contest against former BJP spokesperson and newly inducted Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC, in order to claim his fourth victory.
For these MLAs, a third or more-term victory represents not only personal achievement but also a deeper validation of their work for MMR’s varied and complex constituencies. Each of these leaders must prove their worth through past accomplishments while adapting to a new, more demanding electorate that is aware of its rights and vocal about local issues.
Crime
Wildlife Smuggling Racket Busted: Rare Snakes, Reptiles, Caged Orangutan Rescued From Dombivli House
Thane: In a significant operation exposing a wildlife smuggling racket, the Forest Officials rescued rare species of animals from a highrise in Dombivli. The officials raided an apartment in Palava City, Dombivli and found exotic animals including lizard, turtles, rare species snakes and other reptiles stored in the flat. Horrifying enough, the team found a monkey caged in the washroom of the apartment.
It was later confirmed that the rescued animals included Ignuana (lizard), an Orangutan and python. The operation was conducted by the Forest Range Officers from Thane and Kalyan along with a team from Manpada Police Station after a tip.
The officials did not find any accused present in the apartment at the time of the raid. A case under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 has been registered and a search for the accused is underway. Meanwhile, the seized species are handed over to a local NGO on a temporary basis for observation.
The video of the forest officials raid surfaced on the internet shows a boy opening the door of the well-kept apartment. After entering the flat, the officials gradually come across wildlife species stores in small cage, plastic boxes piled up in the passage and shocking enough an Orangutan in washroom at the end of the apartment.
As per the statement issued by the police, the teams raided the 8th floor apartment in B wing of Savarna Building in Palava City, Dombivli. In the action, the exotic animals seized as prima facie identified as python, ignuana (lizard), turtle, snake etc. The seized wildlife species, on temporary basis, are handed over to Birsa Munda- a local NGO. The pachanama, documentation and search for the accused is underway, it added.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra Elections 2024: Milind Deora Challenges Aaditya Thackeray For Open Debate On ‘Future Of Worli & Mumbai’
Shiv Sena MP and party’s candidate from Mumbai’s Worli constituency for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Milind Deora, on Wednesday challenged Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and his opponent in the seat, Aaditya Thackeray, to an open debate on the future of Worli, Mumbai, and Maharashtra. In an X post, Deora referred to Aaditya’s old post in which he had said, “Someone who is scared of an open debate with rival candidates is not worthy of being in any public forum.”
Responding to an old post by Aaditya on X, which was posted in May this year during the Lok Sabha elections, Deora invited the former Maharashtra minister to a debate, saying, ‘Let’s also talk about BMC’s 30-year misgovernance, Mumbai Metro delays, Mahalaxmi Racecourse, and the Sachin Vaze scandal’s impact on Maharashtra’s economy.’
‘Worlikars should decide whether “speed breaker politics” or “progress without speed limits” is the best way forward for our city and state,’ he added.
Notably, in May this year, Aaditya Thackeray had challenged the Shiv Sena candidate Yamini Jadhav, who was pitted against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Arvind Sawant from Mumbai South seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Aaditya had said that two events where citizens could have watched South Mumbai candidates debate face-to-face and be asked questions by the citizens were canceled at the last minute. He alleged that the police canceled the events citing ‘fear of political workers clashing.’
In the post, he further said that Shiv Sena (UBT) South Mumbai candidate Arvind Sawant was ready for the debate and open questions, but the event was canceled.
‘Someone who is scared of an open debate with rival candidates is not worthy of being in any public forum, the Parliament being the highest,’ Aaditya had said.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra Elections 2024: ‘Modi Govt Will Amend Waqf Act, Danke Ki Chot Par,’ Says Union Home Minister Amit Shah At Ghatkopar Rally
Mumbai: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday boldly asserted that the Narendra Modi government will amend the Waqf Board law “come what may (danke ki chot par)” and after that no one would be able to declare private land as Waqf property.
Shah said the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is against the changes, but the bill to amend the law regarding the Waqf board will soon be passed in the Parliament.
Home Minister On Waqf
Speaking at the rally in Ghatkopar on Tuesday, the Union Minister said that in Congress-ruled Karnataka, entire villages had been declared as Waqf property.
“The Waqf Board of Karnataka has transferred lands of farmers, villages and old temples to Waqf property, and no one can stop them. It won’t be possible here, because Modi ji has proposed the changes in the law of the Waqf Board. The Aghadi is against the changes, but the bill to amend the law regarding the Waqf board will soon be passed in the Parliament,” Shah said.
“Narendra Modi sarkar waqf kanoon danke ki chot par badal ne wali hai (Come what may Narendra Modi government is going to amend the Waqf act) and then no one’s land or house would be declared as Waqf property. This is a free India, and no one has the permission to do this,” he added.
What Is The Waqf Act Of 1995?
The Waqf Act 1995, was originally established to regulate Waqf properties, but it has long faced criticism over issues of mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which was introduced in the Lok Sabha this August, seeks to bring sweeping reforms, introducing digitisation, stricter audits, transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties.
Amit Shah in his rally further talked about a petition submitted by a large group of ulemas to the Congress State President in Maharashtra, demanding 10 per cent reservation for Muslims. He said the Indian Constitution does not allow reservation based on religion.
“Just now, a large group of ulemas met the Congress State President in Maharashtra and submitted a petition demanding 10 per cent reservation for Muslims. In this country, 50 per cent of reservations have already been allocated, and if you (Congress) want to provide reservation to Muslims, then someone’s reservation will have to be reduced. Our Constitution does not allow reservation based on religion…let Rahul Baba and his company do what they can, but we will protect the reservation rights of OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis,” Shah said in his speech.
“A few days ago, I presented the BJP’s manifesto before the people of the state, and on the same day, Kharge ji presented the Maha Aghadi’s manifesto to the public. Furthermore, Kharge ji told the Maharashtra Congress to make promises that can be fulfilled, not promises that can’t be kept,” Shah added.
Campaigning has intensified for the 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra with both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) making efforts to woo the electorate.
The polls are scheduled for November 20 and counting will be held on November 23.
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