Maharashtra Assembly Elections: Milind Deora Set to Challenge Aaditya Thackeray for Worli Seat

In an interesting turn of events just days before the Maharashtra Assembly Elections, Milind Deora, who recently defected from the Congress to join Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, is reportedly poised to challenge Aaditya Thackeray of Shiv Sena (UBT) for the Worli constituency in Mumbai. This highly anticipated face-off is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the election.

Aaditya Thackeray, son of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, has held the Worli seat since 2019, with his candidacy confirmed once again. Shiv Sena insiders have said that the party is deliberating over its final selection of a candidate to take on Aaditya, who has established a stronghold in the area.

Having joined Shinde’s Shiv Sena in January, Deora, is a current Rajya Sabha MP. He has reportedly been pitted against Aaditya Thackeray once again for the Worli seat in the 2024 Assembly Elections. Party strategists believe that Deora can resonate well with Worli’s diverse demographics, which include middle-class Marathi families, the local fishing community, and affluent residents.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), under Raj Thackeray's leadership, has fielded Sandeep Deshpande in Worli, reportedly hoping for Shiv Sena’s backing. However, sources indicate Shinde is adamant about fielding a Shiv Sena candidate to represent the party against Aaditya.

The Shiv Sena (Eknath Sinde faction) is a pivotal part of the Mahayuti coalition, which includes the BJP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. Their primary opposition, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprises the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP, setting the stage for a significant political showdown.

Elections for Maharashtra’s 288 Assembly seats are scheduled for November 20, with results set to be announced on November 23.​