Chandrahar Patil, Shiv Sena (UBT)'S "Strongman" From Sangli Lok Sabha Constituency (image@chandrharpatil)

Chandrahar Patil is contesting from Maharashtra”s Sangli Lok Sabha seat. While fielding Patil, who has won the state”s wrestling competition “Maharashtra Kesari” twice, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray – UBT) said that the party needs to send a “strongman from Sangli with a blunt mace in one hand and a flaming torch in other to the Parliament”. Flaming torch is the symbol of Shiv Sena (UBT).

The announcement of Patil”s candidature by Shiv Sena (UBT) has caused issues, as he was earlier with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), which is led by Prakash Ambedkar. The VBA was in talks with the the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for an electoral alliance in this election. The Shiv Sena (UBT)”s announcement seemed to breach an agreement reached by the MVA that none of the constituents would unilaterally declare candidates.

There were also confusions regarding Chandrahar Patil”s ticket from Sangli, as Congress hinted that it would like to contest from the seat. Patil even declared that he is ready to withdrew his nomination from the fray if it is difficult to field him. He said, “I am ready to withdraw my candidacy if it is causing difficulty”. He also added that the move from Congress has hurt him and the party should say “loud and clear” if it does not want a farmer”s son (Chandrahar Patil) to become an MP.

However, Patil will be contesting in the election. Congress MLA, Vikrant Sawant, who is the head of the party”s Sangli district unit said that the party tried their best to get the Sangli seat, “but now we will follow the alliance dharma”. Congress is also part of the MVA alliance.