Shiv Sena Unveils First Candidates for Maharashtra Assembly Elections

The Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena announced 65 candidates for upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, including Aaditya Thackeray from Worli. NCP also released their list with Ajit Pawar contesting from Baramati. The elections are set for November 20, with major alliances gearing up for the polls.

In a significant move ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena released its first list of 65 candidates on Wednesday. Highlighting the list, Aaditya Thackeray will be seeking re-election from the Worli constituency, marking a notable contest.

A notable political showdown is anticipated as Kedhar Dighe, nephew of the late Shiv Sena leader Anand Dighe, will challenge Chief Minister Eknath Sindhe in the Kopri-Panchpakhadi constituency. This is seen as a strategic choice given Anand Dighe's past mentorship of Sindhe. Other prominent candidates include Sunil Raut from Vikroli and Rajan Vichare from Thane.

In parallel, Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) unveiled its first list of 38 candidates, with Pawar himself contesting from Baramati. The NCP's lineup features experienced politicians like Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse Patil, and recent entrants such as Hiraman Khoskar and Shulbha Khodke, adding a dynamic mix to the race. With the state elections slated for November 20 and results on November 23, both ruling and opposition alliances are ramping up their campaign efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)