Chandrapur: BJP nominee for the legislative council (MLC) seat from the Wardha-Chandrapur-Gadchiroli local authorities constituency, Arun Hanumant Lakhani, was declared the unopposed winner and was formally presented with his certificate of election on Wednesday by district collector and returning officer Vasumana Pant in Chandrapur.
Ceremony and Attendees
Among those present on the occasion were MLAs Kishor Jorgewar, Deorao Bhongale, and Karan Deotale. Lakhani, who is the to-be father-in-law of NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule's daughter, secured an uncontested victory after two other candidates in the race withdrew their nominations.
Details of the Contest
The contest had initially featured Congress candidate Shailesh Agrawal and Independent candidate Sudhirchand Kothari. Agrawal acknowledged that Congress lacked the numerical strength required to remain competitive in the election. He maintained that continuing in the contest would have only increased expenses and encouraged horse-trading, making withdrawal the most practical decision under the circumstances.
Aftermath and Reactions
Agrawal had accused some Congress functionaries of betrayal and of helping the BJP. Following his withdrawal and anti-party remarks, Congress suspended him from the party. Observers view Lakhani's election as a setback for Congress in a constituency where representatives of local self-governing bodies play a decisive role. The outcome is also being seen as evidence of the BJP's strong influence across the Wardha, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli districts.
