In a notable divergence from the unified stance of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), where leaders have stated that the decision on the Chief Minister’s post will be taken collectively after the upcoming elections, Vidarbha Congress leaders have been striking a different chord. In a recent meeting, they strongly backed Nana Patole for the Maharashtra Chief Ministerial position, asserting that he deserves the role due to his efforts for the party.
Congress MLA Vikas Thakre, speaking at a review meeting for Nagpur city led by Nana Patole, made a bold statement, saying, “The Congress is set to witness good days after the Assembly elections, and Nana Patole, who has worked tirelessly, should be rewarded with the Chief Minister’s post. If that doesn’t happen, we will seize it.” He added that the people of Vidarbha would stand with Patole and, if necessary, fight for him.
The meeting, which was attended by several Congress leaders, echoed this sentiment. Many predicted that Nana Patole would be the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Thakre highlighted Patole’s journey, stating that he gave up the position of Assembly Speaker to serve as Congress president, traveled across the state, and made personal sacrifices. According to Thakre, these efforts should not go unrewarded, and the people of Vidarbha are prepared to fight for Patole’s rightful claim.
Senior Congress leader Nitin Raut also openly called for Patole to be made the Chief Minister, asking party workers whether they felt it was time for Patole to rise further. Raut reminded everyone that it had been 32 years since a Chief Minister from Vidarbha had led the state, following the legacy of Vasantrao Naik and Sudhakarrao Naik. He expressed confidence that the Gandhi family, which has always had Vidarbha’s support, would back Patole’s claim.
Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe further emphasised that the party was ready to defeat the BJP in Nagpur, a stronghold of the BJP and RSS, and that Nana Patole was the party’s best bet for the Chief Minister’s post.
While MVA leaders continue to promote a collective decision on leadership, the push from Vidarbha Congress members for Patole’s Chief Ministership could stir internal discussions within both the MVA and Congress.
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