Reservation Row Intensifies Multi-Cornered Electoral Contest in Ghansawangi

The Ghansawangi constituency in Maharashtra is bracing for a competitive election amid ongoing Maratha-OBC reservation disputes. Activist Manoj Jarange's demand for Maratha quotas has sparked lively debate. Key political figures include NCP's Rajesh Tope and Shiv Sena's Hikmat Udhan, with independents Satish Ghadge and Shivaji Chothe complicating the electoral picture.

The Ghansawangi assembly constituency in Jalna district is preparing for a fierce electoral battle as the Maharashtra polls approach. Central to the debates are jobs and development, along with the contentious Maratha-OBC reservation issue that has occupied headlines for months.

Activist Manoj Jarange has been the face of protests advocating for Maratha community quotas in both educational and governmental sectors, placing Antarwali Sarati village into the political limelight. Within this tense landscape, incumbent Rajesh Tope of Sharad Pawar's NCP stands against Hikmat Udhan from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena. Independents, namely BJP's ex-member Satish Ghadge and Shivaji Chothe, previously a Sena legislator, have added complexity to the elections.

The OBC community, comprising a significant 38% of the voters, remains a pivotal group but struggles with fragmented support, say political analysts. Marathas, who represent 32% of voters, face potential vote splits between Tope, Udhan, and Ghadge. Despite these challenges, some believe the division could inadvertently work in Tope's favor. Aspirants like Ghadge hope to capitalize on previous connections and accomplishments within the constituency amid a politically charged atmosphere.

(With inputs from agencies.)