Kalidas Kolambkar, 70, a senior BJP leader from Mumbai’s Wadala constituency, is aiming for an unprecedented ninth consecutive term in the Maharashtra assembly elections. Having represented Wadala since 1990, Kolambkar has switched parties several times, previously serving under Shiv Sena, Congress, and now the BJP. Kolambkar credits his political longevity to building strong grassroots connections and focusing on constituency development, including vital housing and redevelopment projects.
However, Kolambkar faces stiff opposition from Shraddha Jadhav, former mayor and Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate, who criticizes his lengthy tenure, highlighting unresolved local issues like slum redevelopment, water supply problems, and lack of healthcare infrastructure. Snehal Jadhav, former MNS corporator, also enters the race, capitalizing on voter discontent with the current administration.
Kolambkar’s strong local ties and promises of development initiatives, backed by BJP leadership, position him as a key contender, but Jadhav’s challenge signals potential change in the constituency. With Mumbai’s demographic diversity playing a crucial role, Wadala’s voters are in for a decisive contest that could reshape the area’s political future.
