Battle of Loyalties: Bhujbal vs. Shinde in Yevla

The Yevla assembly election will see a fierce contest between NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal and opponent Manikrao Shinde. Key issues include the Maratha-OBC quota and onion prices, influencing voter sentiment. Bhujbal's opposition to Maratha quota activist Jarange might alienate Maratha voters, adding to the election's complexity.

The upcoming election in Maharashtra's Yevla assembly constituency will witness a high-stakes battle between NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal and his challenger, NCP (SP) candidate Manikrao Shinde. Both candidates are appealing to distinct voter groups, with Bhujbal drawing support from the OBC communities, while Shinde banks on his Maratha roots.

The campaign is steered by pressing issues such as the Maratha-OBC quota debate and the region's reliance on onion prices, as Yevla houses one of the largest onion wholesale markets. Bhujbal's firm stand against Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange may resonate with OBC voters but risks alienating the Maratha segment.

As the election date approaches on November 20, with the count on November 23, both candidates are stepping up their campaigns. Bhujbal remains confident, citing his development works, while Shinde hopes to leverage Sharad Pawar's influence and address farmers' grievances to secure victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)