Shiv Sena Stakes Claim on Pune's Assembly Seats Amid Mahayuti Negotiations

The Shiv Sena, led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, aims to secure three assembly constituencies in Pune despite having no current MLAs there. Pramod Bhangire, party President in Pune, contends the reports stating otherwise are false, emphasizing their organizational and cadre growth in the city.

In the complex seat-sharing discussions among Mahayuti allies, the Shiv Sena, under the leadership of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has boldly staked its claim on three of Pune's eight assembly constituencies for the forthcoming state elections. The move comes despite the party's lack of serving MLAs in the city, underscoring a strategic push by the Shiv Sena to strengthen its organizational and cadre base.

According to Pramod Bhangire, Shiv Sena's Pune city President, erroneous media reports have suggested that the party has no stake in Pune's constituencies. Refuting these claims, Bhangire asserts that the Shiv Sena is setting its sights on Hadapsar, Wadgaon Sheri, and Khadakwasla. Bhangire himself is keen on representing Hadapsar and has appealed to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to heed the party's demands.

Historically, the Shiv Sena held a presence in Pune through two MLAs back in 2009, before the party split. The upcoming election will serve as a litmus test for the Shiv Sena's resurgence in the city. Currently, the BJP controls five seats including Parvati and Kothrud, the NCP holds two, while Congress maintains a single seat in Kasba - positions that reflect the shifting political dynamics in Pune.

(With inputs from agencies.)