BJP Releases First List of Candidates for Maharashtra Assembly Polls

The BJP's first list of candidates for the Maharashtra assembly elections includes 71 sitting MLAs and kin of regional political figures. Key figures like Devendra Fadnavis and Rahul Narwekar feature prominently. The list also highlights key strategic replacements and notable newcomers such as Srijaya Chavan.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has published its first list of candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, retaining 71 sitting MLAs among the 99 listed contenders. Notably, this roster includes the kin of several regional political figures, signaling strategic placements.

Among the prominent figures reaffirmed in their positions are Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, state BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule, and Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. The list, revealed on Sunday, also contains 13 women candidates, though it excludes three previously serving MLAs.

Significant newcomers include Srijaya Chavan, daughter of former Congress leader Ashok Chavan. She's set to make her electoral debut in the Bhokar constituency. The list reflects familial strategies, with several spouses and offspring of regional stalwarts getting tickets, reinforcing the BJP's tactical electoral moves as the November 20 elections approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)