In a display of political determination, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance organized a massive public rally in the north-western Maharashtra city of Jalgaon. Despite the extreme heat conditions, hundreds of supporters gathered at the rally for over two hours. Leading the charge for the MVA was NCP (SP) state president Jayant Patil, who was joined by Rohini Khadse, the head of the women’s wing of NCP (SP). Together, they filed nominations for Shriram Patil’s candidature for the Raver Lok Sabha constituency. Notably, Raksha Khadse, Rohini Khadse’s sister-in-law, is the current BJP candidate for the same constituency, setting up a unique family rivalry.
Speaking at the rally, Rohini Khadse outlined her vision for the Raver constituency, emphasizing the fight against a certain ideology and addressing issues such as farmer welfare, unemployment, and women’s empowerment. She highlighted the specific challenges faced by rural India, including the struggles of farmers and the lack of development and economic opportunities.
Rohini Khadse asserted that her political ambitions and family ties were distinct, stating that politics was left outside the family home. She reminisced about her brother, Nikhil Khadse, who passed away by suicide in 2013, acknowledging his absence and the impact it had on the family, especially during election time.
Jayant Patil, also addressing the rally, voiced concerns over the rising inflation and the plight of farmers in Maharashtra and across the country. He highlighted the skyrocketing fuel prices and the challenges faced by farmers in cultivating soybeans and cotton due to the lack of subsidies and support.
The rally in Jalgaon showcased the ongoing political battles in Maharashtra, where family ties and political differences intersect. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be a test of strength for both the ruling MVA alliance and the opposition BJP, as they vie for the support of voters amid the ongoing heatwave and the pressing issues facing the state.
