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Imtiaz Jaleel Eyes Nanded Bypolls
Maharashtra: Imtiaz Jaleel Eyes Nanded Bypolls Against Congress
Introduction
The political scene in Maharashtra is heating up as the All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) is gearing up to contest the Nanded Lok Sabha bypolls on November 20. Imtiaz Jaleel, the Maharashtra unit President of AIMIM, has hinted at his readiness to take on the Congress in this electoral battle. Nanded, a seat historically dominated by the Congress, may witness a fierce contest if Jaleel decides to enter the fray.
AIMIM’s Intent to Contest Nanded Bypolls
In a recent interaction with media persons, Imtiaz Jaleel, who has previously served as an AIMIM MP from Aurangabad, expressed his willingness to participate in the Nanded Lok Sabha by-elections. When questioned about AIMIM’s decision to contest the polls, Jaleel remarked, “There is an election taking place… so why not?” His comments suggest that AIMIM is not shying away from challenging Congress in its stronghold.
Congress Fields Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan
The Congress party, meanwhile, has named Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan as its candidate for the Nanded bypolls. Chavan, an academician, comes from a background of active involvement in Congress student and youth party politics. He is the son of the late sitting MP Vasantrao B. Chavan, who passed away on August 6 in a Hyderabad hospital. The bypolls were necessitated following the senior Chavan’s death, and the Congress is hoping to retain the seat with Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan’s candidacy.
Jaleel’s Response to Criticism of AIMIM
Imtiaz Jaleel’s statement has sparked discussions in political circles, particularly regarding the long-standing accusation that AIMIM functions as the “B-team” of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Responding to this, Jaleel laughed off the criticism, stating, “This is what we have been hearing for very long… But I am part of a political party.” His remarks underscore AIMIM’s intent to establish its own political identity while countering accusations of being aligned with the BJP.
Historical Context of the Nanded Constituency
Nanded has traditionally been a Congress bastion, with the party maintaining a stronghold over the constituency for years. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the late Vasantrao B. Chavan defeated the BJP’s Prataprao Patil-Chikhalikar by over 59,000 votes. Chavan’s victory came despite facing stiff competition, highlighting Congress’s grip over the seat. Following his demise, senior Congress leaders, including party President Mallikarjun Kharge, visited the Chavan family in Nanded to offer their condolences and support.
Imtiaz Jaleel’s Political Journey
Imtiaz Jaleel is no stranger to tough electoral battles. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he pulled off a significant upset by defeating Chandrakant Khaire, a four-term MP from Aurangabad and a prominent figure in the (undivided) Shiv Sena. This victory cemented Jaleel’s position as a formidable politician. However, in 2024, Jaleel faced a setback when he lost to Sandipanrao Bhumre, the Shiv Sena’s candidate, in Aurangabad. Despite this defeat, Jaleel remains a key player in Maharashtra’s political landscape and is now considering taking on Congress in the upcoming Nanded bypolls.
The Road Ahead for AIMIM and Congress
With the bypolls approaching, the contest between AIMIM’s Imtiaz Jaleel and Congress’s Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan is shaping up to be a closely watched battle. If Jaleel decides to contest, it could add a new dimension to the political dynamics of the Nanded constituency, challenging the Congress’s dominance. As both parties prepare for the election, the outcome could have broader implications for their respective political fortunes in Maharashtra.
Conclusion
The Nanded Lok Sabha bypolls are expected to draw significant attention, with Imtiaz Jaleel of AIMIM potentially challenging the Congress’s hold over the seat. Jaleel’s participation would bring a new level of competition to the election, setting the stage for an intense political showdown. Whether AIMIM can make inroads into the Congress bastion remains to be seen, but the stakes are undoubtedly high for both parties.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on current political developments and media reports. The views expressed by individuals mentioned in the content are their own. The article does not endorse any political party or candidate and aims to present an unbiased perspective on the upcoming Nanded bypolls.
