Maharashtra Phase-1 Lok Sabha Elections: BJP vs Congress Clash in Vidarbha's Key Constituencies

The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra's Phase-1 will witness a head-to-head contest between the BJP and Congress in five key constituencies: Nagpur, Ramtek (SC), Chandrapur, Bhandara-Gondiya, and Gadchiroli-Chimur (ST).

Nagpur, the central point of India, is at the center of an intriguing electoral battle. BJP heavyweight Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, is facing off against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre, backed by Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi chief Prakash Ambedkar. Gadkari, known for his effectiveness in governance and often dubbed as the "Highway Man of India," has secured victories in previous elections against prominent Congress figures.

In Chandrapur, senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar, the state Forest and Cultural Affairs Minister, is encountering strong competition from Congress candidate Pratibha Dhanorkar, widow of late MP Balu Dhanorkar. This constituency holds significance as it was the sole seat won by Congress in Maharashtra in the previous elections.

The Vidarbha region, where these constituencies are located, holds ten seats in total, with five of them going to polls in Phase-1. Both BJP and Congress are intensifying their campaigns, with prominent leaders from both parties addressing rallies and engaging in rigorous canvassing efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah are slated to address rallies in support of BJP candidates, highlighting the strategic importance of these constituencies in the larger electoral landscape of Maharashtra.