Maharashtra Polls 2024: BJP Makes A U-Turn, Will Not Support Raj Thackeray's Son Amit Thackeray

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided not to back Amit Thackeray, son of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Initially, there was talk of BJP supporting Amit in Mahim, but this has now changed. Instead, BJP is backing MNS candidate Bala Nandgaonkar in the Shivdi assembly seat.

Amit Thackeray is set to make his electoral debut from Mahim in central Mumbai. He becomes the third member of the extended Thackeray family to enter politics. His father, Raj Thackeray, has never contested an election. The MNS announced Amit's candidacy as part of their list for the Maharashtra elections.

BJP's Support Limited to Shivdi

Mumbai BJP President Ashish Shelar clarified that their support is restricted to the Shivdi assembly seat. "I am telling you all through the workers and the media that (BJP's support) is limited to Shivdi assembly seat only," he stated. This statement came after previous discussions about potential support for Mahim spread across Maharashtra.

In Mahim, current MLA Sada Sarvankar represents the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Meanwhile, Mahesh Sawant is contesting from Shiv Sena (UBT), headed by former CM Uddhav Thackeray. The MNS is not part of the Mahayuti alliance but supported them in earlier Lok Sabha polls.

Thackeray Family's Political Legacy

Amit's entry into politics follows his second cousin Aaditya Thackeray's successful debut in 2019 from Worli. Aaditya is the son of Uddhav Thackeray and a prominent figure in Shiv Sena (UBT). Uddhav himself joined the legislative council in 2020 after becoming Maharashtra's chief minister.

The political landscape in Maharashtra remains dynamic with these developments. The decision by BJP not to support Amit could impact MNS's strategy and influence in the region. Observers are keenly watching how these alliances and rivalries unfold during the elections.