Mumbai: Kalyan West’s 138th Assembly constituency is shaping up to be a dramatic electoral battleground with a mix of seasoned veterans, fresh contenders, and rebel forces vying for dominance. The Mahayuti alliance, which traditionally aims for a united front, is facing a significant challenge in Kalyan West as internal friction and dissatisfaction among party loyalists have paved the way for a total of 33 candidates, including several prominent independents.
Leading the coalition ticket is Vishwanath Bhoir, the sitting MLA from the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Bhoir, who has held a firm grip over Kalyan West, now faces challenges not just from the opposition but from his own coalition as well. With the Shiv Sena’s shift to the Mahayuti alliance, Bhoir’s position has often been viewed as secure, yet the entry of BJP dissidents and former party loyalists filing as independents puts his seat at greater risk.
One of the major thorns in Bhoir’s campaign is the candidacy of former MLA Narendra Pawar, who is running independently. Pawar’s defection, and his decision to contest without the Mahayuti’s banner, signals an internal schism within the coalition, particularly among those who view Bhoir’s nomination as politically motivated. Pawar’s known for his proximity to Devendra Fadnavis will have the silent backing of BJP’s cadre thereby impacting Bhoir’s chances.
Adding to the tension is Varun Patil, President of the Kalyan West BJP, who has also entered the fray as an independent. Patil’s decision to contest without the Mahayuti alliance’s endorsement suggests disapproval of the alliance’s candidate selection process. With Patil’s influence in the local BJP network, his independent bid could siphon off a notable portion of the BJP’s grassroots support from Bhoir.
The opposition presents a diverse lineup, with Sachin Basre of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction entering the race as a prominent figure. As the official candidate of the Uddhav Thackeray faction, Basre seeks to reclaim Kalyan West under the original Shiv Sena’s vision, hoping to capitalize on the sentimentality of traditional Shiv Sainiks. However the Congress was absent while Basre filed his nominations showing displeasure of not getting any seat in kalyan Dombivali area.
Ulhas Bhoir from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) is also vying for support. The MNS, once a significant player in Kalyan West, is looking to regain its former stronghold. Although its influence has waned over the years, the party is counting on its regional appeal to secure a substantial number of votes.
From the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), Aiyaz Maulvi has filed his candidacy, appealing to marginalized sections of society.
With an unprecedented 33 candidates competing, the Kalyan West assembly election has evolved into a fierce contest, reflecting both discontent within the Mahayuti & MVA and a desire for alternatives among voters. As the electoral winds shift, Kalyan West is set for an unpredictable showdown, testing the strength of alliances, party loyalty, and the enduring appeal of independent candidates.
