Political Rivals Set Aside Differences in Chakan
In a significant political development in Maharashtra, the two rival factions of Shiv Sena have come together for the election of the president of the Chakan Nagar Parishad. This show of unity occurred on Monday, November 18, 2025, which was the last day for filing nomination papers.
A Tribute to a Late Leader
The collaboration centers on Manisha Gore, the wife of the late MLA Suresh Gore. She filed her nomination papers for the presidency, representing the Shiv Sena faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Her candidacy was supported by leaders from the opposing Shiv Sena (UBT) camp, including MLA Babaji Kale and Sharad Sonawane.
Speaking at the event, Babaji Kale explained the emotional reasoning behind this unexpected support. He stated that this is the first election since the death of MLA Suresh Kale of Khed-Alandi. He emphasized that their decision to support Manisha Gore was a way to pay tribute to her late husband and is not indicative of a formal political alliance between the two parties.
"We have kept politics aside and have decided to support her. This is our tribute to the late leader...we want to ensure his wife’s victory," Kale said.
Clarification on Alliance and Historical Context
Kale was quick to clarify that this gesture should not be misinterpreted as a new political partnership. He provided context, recalling that Suresh Gore was the Shiv Sena MLA in 2014 and passed away during the Covid period. When Kale himself contested and won the MLA seat in 2024, Manisha Gore and her family had actively campaigned for him.
"Now she is fighting for the presidency. Therefore, as a tribute to Suresh Gore we are supporting her. Our aim is to ensure her unopposed victory," he added.
Kale expressed confidence that Manisha Gore would receive massive support in Chakan. He appealed to all involved to ensure her victory without any opposition, firmly stating that the move was a personal tribute and not a strategic alliance for the Nagar Parishad elections.
