Maharashtra's Political Tussle: MVA Scrambles for Lone Winnable Seat

The competition for opposition seats in Maharashtra has intensified, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray asserting his party's claim to the Maha Vikas Aghadi's only winnable seats in the forthcoming Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections. Thackeray's confidence stems from the current assembly dynamics, favoring his party over its MVA allies Congress and NCP (SP).

The upcoming Rajya Sabha polls, to be notified by the Election Commission on February 26, involve seven seats in Maharashtra. With prominent leaders like NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar seeking re-election, the MVA's capacity to secure its lone winnable seat could strain its coalition. The BJP-led Mahayuti holds a substantial majority with 232 MLAs versus the MVA's 48, tightening the race.

Discussions among MVA partners are expected to be intense, covering both Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections. Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut emphasized the need for cohesion within the MVA following a past loss due to Congress' internal conflicts. This decision-making process will be crucial for balancing the coalition's differing priorities.