Tensions Ease as Shiv Sena’s Naresh Mhaske Gains Support in Thane Lok Sabha Constituency
Thane, 8th May 2024: In Mumbai, there’s a notable shift in the atmosphere surrounding Shiv Sena’s Naresh Mhaske, the Maha-Yuti candidate for the Thane (25) Lok Sabha constituency, as tensions among certain BJP leaders and officebearers over his selection appear to have eased.
Mhaske kick-started his campaign in the Mira Bhayandar and Ovala Majiwada assembly segments, garnering significant support from leaders, office bearers, and party workers of Shiv Sena, BJP, and other allies of the Maha-Yuti coalition on Tuesday.
Following Mhaske’s announcement as the candidate, there were resignations among BJP workers and office-bearers from Navi Mumbai and Mira-Bhayandar, protesting the denial of a ticket to former MP Sanjeev Naik. Some even expressed reluctance to campaign for Mhaske. However, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis swiftly intervened, placating the disgruntled supporters.
The Maha-Yuti campaign projected an image of unity, with leaders like legislators Pratap Sarnaik (Shiv Sena), Geeta Jain (Ind), former MLA Narendra Mehta, and former corporators actively participating in rallies and meetings held on Tuesday.
Mehta emphasized that while party workers voiced their concerns, once a candidate is selected, all alliance partners must collaborate to secure victory, ensuring a third consecutive term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contest the crucial Thane seat, Mhaske conveyed confidence in the tireless efforts of party workers and allies dedicated to serving the common man. A stalwart in the Thane unit of Shiv Sena, Mhaske, who has held prominent positions from the leader of the opposition to mayor in the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), is set to face the challenge against two-time MP Rajan Vichare of the UBT.
