Nashik MLC poll result exposes cracks in Mahayuti alliance

Shinde Sena alleges betrayal after Nashik MLC election setback (File pic)

The Nashik Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) election has brought the differences within the ruling Mahayuti alliance into the open. The victory of BJP leader-turned-rebel Gokul Gite, who contested as an independent candidate, over Mahayuti-backed Narendra Darade has raised fresh questions about coordination and trust between the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The result has exposed cracks within the alliance and highlighted growing unease among its leaders despite being partners in government.

Shinde Sena candidate claims betrayal

Post results of the Nashik MLC speaking to the media, Darade alleged betrayal by the Mahayuti alliance partners. "Ideally, I should have got all Mahayuti votes. But that has not happened. It is a clear sign of betrayal by the alliance partners."

BJP says, 'It's unfortunate, and they need to find reasons'

However, BJP leader Girish Mahajan claimed that the defeat of the official candidate is unfortunate and, before making any further comments, needs to find reasons for the defeat of the official candidate.

'Independent wins', Gite says, got votes without any campaign

Gokul Gite claimed that although he did not withdraw his nomination, he also did not actively campaign in the election, as senior Mahayuti leaders had advised him that doing so would send the wrong political message. A long-time BJP leader, Gite entered the fray as an independent after the party denied him a ticket and allotted the seat to Narendra Darade of its alliance partner, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. Despite staying away from campaigning, Gite went on to defeat the official Mahayuti candidate, exposing divisions within the ruling alliance.

Shinde to review the reasons for defeat

According to reports, Eknath Shinde is upset with the defeat of his party candidates. Sources close to Shinde claimed that the deputy chief minister will review the reasons for the defeat and might even take up the issue with the BJP state leadership.

Shiv Sena (UBT) claims BJP defeated Shinde's candidate

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, speaking to reporters, claimed that the fight is now within the Mahayuti alliance partners, and Shinde Sena's candidate's defeat, allegedly by the BJP, is a signal that all is not well within the Mahayuti alliance.