MUMBAI: Chhagan Bhujbal, a prominent figure in Maharashtra’s political landscape and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), finds himself in an unexpected battle to retain the Yevla seat in Nashik district. Once an undisputed leader, Bhujbal’s re-election bid has become mired in vendetta politics, fueled by both former allies and Maratha activists.

Bhujbal’s political journey took a major turn in 2023 when he split from NCP leader Sharad Pawar and backed Ajit Pawar’s entry into the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance. This move, coupled with his controversial remarks during the Maratha reservation agitation, led to tensions with Maratha leaders like Manoj Jarange-Patil, who has called for Bhujbal’s defeat. Maratha activists have also mobilized against him, accusing him of disrespecting their community.

The Yevla constituency, home to 3.2 lakh voters, is divided along caste lines. Marathas form the largest voting bloc, with OBCs, including the 25,000-strong Maali community to which Bhujbal belongs, making up the second-largest group. Bhujbal’s rhetoric against the Marathas, including mocking their reservation demands, has alienated many voters. “He mocked us at public meetings. We want him to lose,” said Ambadas Bonate, a Maratha voter from Yevla.

In response to the mounting opposition, Bhujbal remains confident. “I have the support of several Maratha leaders in Yevla. Besides, I brought water for irrigation through a 165-km canal, solving a major water issue in the region,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Bhujbal family is also seeking revenge in the neighboring Nandgaon constituency, where Sameer Bhujbal, Chhagan’s nephew, is contesting against Shiv Sena MLA Suhas Kande, who defeated Chhagan’s son in the 2019 elections. Sameer, campaigning on the slogan ‘Bhaymukta Nandgaon’ (terror-free Nandgaon), accuses Kande of using violence and intimidation to win votes.

With the race in Yevla heating up, the dynamics of caste and political loyalty could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this high-stakes electoral battle.