In the vibrant political landscape of Vasai, the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi has thrown its hat into the ring for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This move comes as no surprise considering the party’s growing influence, particularly in the Palghar district, where it has been garnering significant votes in recent elections. Back in 2009, the party even secured a Member of Parliament seat in this district. Now, with the winds of change blowing through the state’s political dynamics, speculations are rife about whether the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi will align itself with the BJP-Shiv Sena coalition.
In recent days, the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi has been actively organizing meetings across the district. Known for its dominance in Vasai Virar politics, courtesy of MLA Hitendra Thakur, the party boasts three MLAs and has long held sway over the municipal corporation. Moreover, it wields influence in local self-government bodies and the cooperative sector within Palghar district. The party’s support for the BJP in Legislative Council and Rajya Sabha elections, as well as its backing of the Shinde-Fadnavis state government, had hinted at a potential alliance. However, recent developments suggest otherwise.
Contrary to earlier speculation, the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi has announced its intent to contest the Lok Sabha elections. Over the past few days, the party has been mobilizing its workforce, inaugurating various development projects and engaging in discussions with local leaders. Ajiv Patil, the party’s spokesperson, affirmed their decision to contest the elections, dismissing rumors to the contrary. “We are fully committed to participating in the elections and are confident of securing victory,” Patil declared.
As for their alignment, the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi remains tight-lipped. With India Aghadi or Mahayuti yet to announce their candidate for Palghar, the question of alliance with either the BJP or the Shiv Sena remains unanswered. Patil emphasized that the candidate selection process is underway, with input sought from party activists. The final decision regarding the candidate will be revealed in due course.
With the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi’s entry, the electoral contest in Palghar is set to intensify. As the political landscape witnesses a fracture, with splits within Shiv Sena and NCP in recent years, the upcoming election will serve as a litmus test for the party’s support base. Furthermore, the results will shape the groundwork for future assembly and municipal elections. For the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi, this Lok Sabha election holds immense significance, paving the way for its future trajectory in the political arena.
