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.
Maharashtra
IN PICS: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis At ‘Warkari BhaktiYog’ Program On International Yoga Day 2025

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis participated in the ‘Warkari BhaktiYog’ program on the occasion of International Yoga Day, June 21, 2025. The event was held in Pune and witnessed the participation of lakhs of Warkaris.
Dignitaries present at the event included Minister Chandrakant Patil, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, Professor Sadanand More, and several other important leaders. In an X (formerly Twitter) post, CM Fadnavis shared pictures from the yoga session and expressed his thoughts on the confluence of yoga and the Warkari tradition through the ‘Bhakti Yoga’ program.
The ‘Warkari BhaktiYog’ program aimed to promote a balance between the body, mind, and soul. It concluded in Pune with a massive gathering addressed by Chief Minister Fadnavis, who highlighted the spiritual and healing powers of yoga.
The Chief Minister said that yoga is our tradition, culture and a key to a happy life, as well as a method of treatment. It has an extraordinary ability to rejuvenate the body and mind. With this in mind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed Yoga Day at the United Nations, with the view that the world should accept this ancient Indian knowledge. This is the only such proposal in the history of the United Nations which was supported and approved by all the countries present. Therefore, we have been celebrating World Yoga Day for the past 11 years.
He further said that yoga is a practice that anyone can do. These asanas are designed according to our body structure and have a therapeutic effect on all the external and internal organs of the body, from nails to hair. That is why yoga is being recognised as a ‘healing power’ at the global level.
Chief Minister Fadnavis, referring to the concept of ‘One Earth, One Health’ given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that the Warkari community upholds this concept through action. It is a matter of fortune for us to get the opportunity to do yoga with the Warkari after the Wari’s stay in Pune. Savitribai Phule Pune University is leading this program, which is a matter of pride.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that today, all the Dindyas are participating in yoga sadhana at their respective stations, and students from 700 colleges have also participated, which is a matter of great satisfaction.
The Chief Minister said that Pune has given a new ‘ring’ to the Wari. He wished that this tradition should continue and that we all remain committed to creating a ‘healthy and prosperous society’.
Maharashtra
Thane Sessions Court Convicts Hawker For Brutal Attack On Civic Officer During 2021 Encroachment Drive

Thane: The Thane Sessions Court has convicted a hawker for attempting to murder a senior civic officer and against her security personnel during an anti-encroachment drive conducted by the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in 2021.
The accused, Amarjitsingh Shivshankar Yadav, alias Amarjit Yadav, was found guilty under several sections of the Indian Penal Code — including Section 307 (attempt to murder), Section 353 (assault on a public servant), Section 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant), Section 333 (causing grievous hurt to deter public servant), and provisions under the Maharashtra Police Act.
About The Incident
The incident took place on August 30, 2021, at the Kasarvadavali junction during a routine anti-hawker and encroachment drive. Kalpita Pimple, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of the TMC’s Majiwada-Manpada ward, was overseeing the operation when Yadav, a hawker at the site, suddenly launched a violent assault on her.
In the unprovoked attack, Pimple suffered severe injuries — including the loss of three fingers and a head injury. A security guard accompanying her also suffered injuries while trying to shield her from the assault.
After a detailed trial, the court held Yadav guilty on all counts, reaffirming the severity of the offence and the need to protect public servants carrying out their lawful duties.
The public prosecutor Shishir Hirey said, “There were two victims in the case, in which Pimple lost three fingers while her security personnel suffered injuries in while trying to prevent the attack.”
Maharashtra
Kharghar Residents Stage Peaceful Protest Demanding Liquor Ban In Locality

Navi Mumbai: In a show of unity and resolve, residents of Kharghar gathered today at Shah Arcade, Sector 6, to participate in a sit-in protest demanding a complete ban on liquor outlets in the area.
Organised under the banner of the Liquor-Free Kharghar movement, the protest began at 11:00 AM and witnessed the participation of local citizens, social activists, and community leaders who voiced their concern over the increasing number of liquor shops and their adverse impact on the peace and safety of the neighborhood.
Protesters emphasised that making Kharghar a liquor-free zone is essential to safeguarding the area’s future and ensuring a safe, healthy environment for families and youth.
“Every responsible citizen must stand united to protect Kharghar from the ill effects of alcohol. This movement is not just for today but for the generations to come,” said one of the organizers during the protest.
The peaceful demonstration reflected the community’s collective demand for the authorities to take immediate action and revoke licenses of existing liquor shops to maintain the area’s sanctity and security.
Organisers have urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting similar initiatives until their demands are met.
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