Maharashtra Legislative Council polls: six seats likely to be won unopposed, say sources

Elections for the remaining contested seats will be held on June 18. File Pic

Several candidates in the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections are expected to be elected unopposed after opposition nominees withdrew their candidature on the final day for withdrawal of nominations.

Political observers believe that around six of the 17 seats scheduled to go to polls on June 18 could witness uncontested elections, highlighting the growing influence of the ruling Mahayuti alliance in local authority constituencies across the state.

Among those expected to secure victory without facing a contest are BJP candidate Arun Lakhani from the Wardha-Chandrapur-Gadchiroli Local Authorities constituency and NCP candidate Aniket Tatkare.

Aniket Tatkare is the son of Maharashtra NCP chief Sunil Tatkare and is considered an important young leader within the party.

The withdrawal of rival candidates has significantly reduced competition in several constituencies, paving the way for easy victories for candidates backed by the ruling alliance.

Opposition withdrawals change electoral picture

The final day for withdrawal of nominations witnessed several opposition candidates stepping out of the race. These withdrawals have altered the electoral landscape and strengthened the prospects of Mahayuti-backed candidates.

Political sources indicated that the trend reflects the alliance's strong position in local authority constituencies, where elected representatives from local bodies form the electoral college for state Legislative Council elections.

Mahayuti demonstrates strong local support

The possibility of multiple unopposed victories is being viewed as a sign of the Mahayuti alliance's organisational strength and influence at the grassroots level.

The alliance, which includes the BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has maintained a strong presence across several local bodies in Maharashtra.

Analysts believe the developments underline the challenges faced by opposition parties in mobilising support within local authority constituencies.

Polling and results schedule

Elections for the remaining contested seats will be held on June 18. Voting will take place across the constituencies where more than one candidate remains in the race.

The counting of votes and declaration of results are scheduled for June 22.