Ahead of the crucial BMC polls, the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has commissioned a survey by an independent agency to feel the pulse of voters and identify wards that are favourable for the party to contest in. MNS insiders said a Pune-based firm has been hired for the job. A senior MNS functionary said the agency will be studying nearly 100 wards.

Since the independent agency is involved, the reports won’t have any bias. The outcome of the survey will help in identifying areas or wards where the party stands a better chance to win,” said the leader. Another mid-rank leader from the party appreciated the move initiated by the leadership. “Besides the party, even candidates will come to know the pulse of the voters through this pre-election survey,” he said.