Lakhani Elected Unopposed for MLC Seat in Chandrapur Arun Hanumant Lakhani, a nominee of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the legislative council (MLC) seat representing the Wardha-Chandrapur-Gadchiroli local authorities constituency, was declared the unopposed winner of the election on Wednesday. The result was formally announced by district collector and returning officer Vasumana Pant in Chandrapur. Lakhani’s victory came after two other candidates withdrew their nominations, leaving him without opposition. The ceremony was attended by several local MLAs, including Kishor Jorgewar, Deorao Bhongale, and Karan Deotale. Lakhani is the father-in-law of Supriya Sule, the daughter of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule. The election contest initially featured Congress candidate Shailesh Agrawal and independent candidate Sudhirchand Kothari. Agrawal withdrew from the race after acknowledging that the Congress party lacked the numerical strength required to remain competitive. He argued that continuing the contest would have led to increased expenses and encouraged political horse-trading, making withdrawal the most practical decision. Agrawal accused some Congress functionaries of betrayal, alleging they had supported the BJP. As a result, Agrawal was suspended from the Congress party. The withdrawal of Agrawal and Kothari left Lakhani without opposition, securing his victory. Observers noted that Lakhani’s election represents a setback for the Congress party in a constituency where representatives of local self-governing bodies play a decisive role. The outcome is also viewed as a reflection of the BJP’s strong influence across Wardha, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli districts.#bharatiya_janata_party #vasumana_pant #arun_hanumant_lakhani #kishor_jorgewar #deorao_bhongale
