Mumbai: Ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20, political dynamics are heating up in Mumbai’s Worli constituency, where former Congress leader Milind Deora will challenge Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Aaditya Thackeray. Deora, now aligned with Eknath Shinde’s Sena faction, is making his debut in state politics, following a notable career as a two-time MP for South Mumbai. He criticized the existing “speed-breaker politics” in Worli, citing stalled development under the Thackeray administration and pledging to bring more effective progress.
During his campaign, Deora highlighted his longstanding connection to the region, claiming it has given him insights into the area’s challenges. He expressed confidence in addressing the community’s core issues through development-focused initiatives under the Shinde-led administration. His campaign has been strongly backed by Shrikant Shinde, who declared that Worli would turn “saffron” under Deora’s leadership.
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Aaditya Thackeray, meanwhile, showcased his own rally before filing his nomination, stressing that Worli voters have seen his efforts to improve the area. He criticized the ruling alliance of the BJP, Shinde’s Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, accusing them of “looting Maharashtra.” Confident about his re-election, Aaditya believes Worli residents recognize his dedication and will continue to support him and the MVA, which includes his faction of the Sena, Congress, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP.
Adding another layer to this rivalry, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) might also enter the contest, potentially complicating the vote dynamics. The MNS, which supported Aaditya in 2019, may now capitalize on any waning support, especially following the narrow Lok Sabha margin between Thackeray’s Sena and Deora’s former constituency.
The electoral battle for Worli promises a dramatic clash of ideologies, personal history, and regional loyalty, as each candidate strives to prove they hold the key to the future of Maharashtra’s politics.
(By Sumit Singh)
