BJP Sparks Controversy with Renomination of Amravati MP Navneet Rana Despite Coalition Opposition
Mumbai, 28th March 2024: In a contentious move, the BJP declared the renomination of sitting Amravati MP Navneet Rana despite staunch opposition from leaders of all ruling allies, leading to dissent within the coalition. The delay in announcing candidates stems from disagreements over the allocation of at least six constituencies among the three ruling parties.
Despite numerous meetings in Mumbai and Delhi, the alliance has failed to reach a consensus on seat-sharing, particularly in constituencies such as Nashik, Mumbai South, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, Osmanabad, Aurangabad, and Satara. Nashik has become a point of contention, with the BJP proposing state minister and Ajit Pawar camp leader Chhagan Bhujbal as its candidate, causing discord within the alliance. The Shinde camp is also eyeing the seat, currently held by its sitting MP Hemant Godse. Similarly, conflicting interests arise in the Aurangabad seat, with the BJP considering Bhagvat Karad and state minister Atul Save, while the Shinde faction supports state minister Sandipan Bhumare.
Tensions escalate over the Mumbai South seat, with the decision on Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s potential induction still pending. The Shinde camp argues historical claim, citing Mumbai South as originally a Shiv Sena stronghold, while the BJP asserts its likelihood of victory. Disagreements also extend to Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, where Shinde seeks to field Kiran Samant against the BJP’s preference for Union minister Narayan Rane.
The BJP faces a challenging decision in Satara, where potential candidate Udayanraje Bhosale encounters internal resistance despite mounting pressure on the leadership. The Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP advocates for either Ramraje Nimbalkar or his brother Sajivraje Nimbalkar to contest from Satara.
Dissatisfaction surfaces promptly following Navneet Rana’s candidacy announcement for Amravati, with Shinde faction leader Anandrao Adsul and independent MLA Bacchu Kadu, aligned with the Shinde Sena, refusing to campaign for her. Additionally, local BJP leaders and workers express discontent with the party’s decision.
