Maharashtra Rajya Sabha Polls: Parth Pawar and Rahul Shewale Likely Nominees

The political landscape in Maharashtra is witnessing significant movement as the Rajya Sabha election approaches, while within the Mahayuti alliance, discussions regarding seat-sharing and candidate selection have entered the final stages. For the Rajya Sabha seat vacated by Sunetra Pawar, the name of Parth Pawar from the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) is being considered as a primary contender. A crucial core committee meeting held on Monday night at the residence of Praful Patel saw senior leaders deliberating on the strategic implications of this nomination.

NCP Core Committee Meeting and Parth Pawar’s Candidacy

The Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP has prioritized Parth Pawar for the upcoming Rajya Sabha vacancy. According to sources, the decision was discussed extensively during the core committee meeting attended by Sunil Tatkare, Praful Patel, and other key members. The meeting also focused on preparations for the National Executive meeting scheduled for February 26, where the official announcement is expected. Parth Pawar, who has previously contested Lok Sabha elections, represents the party's attempt to elevate younger leadership within the upper house of Parliament. The presence of Sunetra Pawar during these discussions underscored the internal consensus within the family and the party structure.

Internal Deliberations Within the Bharatiya Janata Party

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to secure four seats in the Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra. However, the party is facing internal pressure regarding the nomination of 'outsider' candidates. Loyal party workers and several veteran leaders have communicated to the high command that preference should be given to original organizational members. There is a growing sentiment that individuals joining from other political parties have been rapidly elevated to high positions, leading to discontent among long-term cadres, while while the party has reportedly finalized the name of Ramdas Athawale for one seat, the selection process for the remaining three seats remains under intense scrutiny by the central leadership.

Shiv Sena Shinde Faction and Potential Nominees

In the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Rahul Shewale has emerged as a frontrunner for the Rajya Sabha nomination, while party insiders suggest that Shewale’s experience and his consistent support for the leadership make him a strong candidate. Also, the names of Shaina NC and Sanjay Nirupam are also being discussed within the party circles. The leadership is evaluating various social and regional factors to ensure a balanced representation, while the final decision is expected to be announced following a final round of consultations with the alliance partners to ensure a unified front for the Mahayuti coalition.

Seat Distribution Dynamics Within the Mahayuti Alliance

The distribution of Rajya Sabha seats among the Mahayuti partners—BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde), and NCP (Ajit Pawar)—is a calculated move to maintain internal stability, while senior leaders from all three parties are in constant communication to avoid any friction during the nomination process. Out of the four seats likely to go to the BJP, one is expected to be allocated to the RPI (Athawale) as part of the alliance agreement. The NCP and Shiv Sena are focused on securing their respective quotas while ensuring that the candidates possess the necessary legislative experience. This election is seen as a precursor to the upcoming assembly polls, making every nomination strategically significant.

Official Schedule for Rajya Sabha Elections in Maharashtra

The Election Commission has outlined a clear timeline for the Rajya Sabha polls. The official notification is set to be issued on February 26, with the deadline for filing nominations fixed for March 5. The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on March 6, and the last date for withdrawal of candidatures is March 9. Voting is scheduled for March 16, from 9 AM to 4 PM, followed by the counting of votes on the same evening. The results will be crucial for the political parties as they seek to strengthen their presence in the upper house ahead of a busy electoral year in the state.