BJP Unveils First Candidates List for Maharashtra Assembly Elections

The BJP has announced its initial list of 99 candidates for the Maharashtra assembly elections. Notable candidates include Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Mumbai BJP president Ashish Selar. The party is negotiating with allies for seat allocation as it aims to contest around 150 seats.

On Sunday, the BJP unveiled its first list of 99 candidates set to contest in the Maharashtra assembly elections, which features 288 seats. Highlighted within this list is the nomination of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis from the Nagpur South West constituency.

In addition, Mumbai BJP president Ashish Selar will run from the Vandre West seat, while Narayan Rane's son, Nitesh Rane, is again fielded for Kankavli, the seat he currently holds in the assembly. The list also includes Maharashtra president Chandrashekhar Bawankule from Kamthi and ex-state president Chandrakant Patil from Kothrud.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan's daughter, Sreejaya Chavan, will contest from Bhokar. Amid these preparations, the BJP is strategizing to secure about 150 seats despite difficult negotiations with its allies including the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP.

(With inputs from agencies.)