In the backdrop of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, political parties are gearing up for vigorous deliberations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Despite claims that there are no disagreements within the coalition, subtle differences are becoming apparent as discussions progress. Sources suggest that out of the total 48 Lok Sabha seats within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, agreement has been reached on 40 seats. However, disagreement persists on eight seats.
Notably, deliberations between the Shiv Sena faction led by Thackeray and the Congress camp are going on. Within this context, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana are also reportedly vying for a foothold within the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Consequently, there are discussions regarding allotting seats within the Shiv Sena's quota to both of these factions.
The Tuesday meeting of the Maha Vikas Aghadi concluded in Mumbai. In this meeting, it was publicly stated that the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi has joined the Maha Vikas Aghadi, as claimed by Sanjay Raut. Particularly noteworthy is the revelation that there are no disagreements within the Maha Vikas Aghadi regarding the allocation of seats. However, according to sources, out of the 48 seats within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, consensus has been reached on 40 seats. There are disagreements on eight seats. Now, efforts are being made by the leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi to resolve the differences on each seat.
In this context, another meeting of the Maha Vikas Aghadi is scheduled for February 2. It is expected that all leaders will make efforts to resolve any remaining disagreements during this meeting.
"As of now, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi has not yet joined the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Information was sought about the decision takes at the Tuesday meeting. However, no consensus has been reached yet. We are ready to move two steps backward, but the letter given to us bears the signature of only the Congress's Nana Patole. Ashok Chavan and Balasaheb Thorat's signatures are missing. Therefore, we have not yet joined the Maha Vikas Aghadi," Prakash Ambedkar said on Wednesday.
Disputes Over These Seats
Out of the 48 seats within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, eight seats remain contentious. Among these, there are disputes over Ramtek, Hingoli, Wardha, Bhiwandi, Jalna, and Shirdi. Additionally, both South-Central and North-West Mumbai are also being claimed by the Congress. However, the Shiv Sena has secured victory on both of these seats in Mumbai. Consequently, the Shiv Sena is not willing to relinquish seats in Mumbai. Moreover, there is no indication of conceding seats in Shirdi, Ramtek, and Jalna. Therefore, Congress leaders may have to make significant concessions in this regard, and a clearer picture may emerge in the coming days.
