OBC Voters May Sway Ghansawangi Outcome in Maharashtra

In Maharashtra's Ghansawangi constituency, OBC voters could be decisive in the upcoming assembly elections. This region, marked by Maratha quota agitations led by Manoj Jarange, has seen shifts in political dominance. Veteran leader Rajesh Tope faces challenges from both internal splits and strong opposition.

In the politically charged Ghansawangi assembly seat in Maharashtra, Other Backward Classes (OBC) voters could potentially determine the election outcome, experts suggest. The constituency, home to the Maratha quota protests spearheaded by Manoj Jarange, has recently witnessed a significant political shift in the state's Marathwada region.

Since 2009, the seat has been held by seasoned NCP (SP) leader and former state minister Rajesh Tope, who now faces a challenging battle against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena candidate Hikmat Udhan in the elections slated for November 20. Tope secured a narrow victory in 2019, winning by only 1,600 votes.

Amidst confidence in his enduring popularity, Tope acknowledged the complexities within his constituency, while local analysts emphasized the potential division among Maratha voters. The split within the NCP and presence of political rebels threaten Tope's chances, while OBC votes remain pivotal.

(With inputs from agencies.)