Maharashtra Elections: Will ‘Sangli Pattern’ Repeat in Vidarbha for Congress?

The ‘Sangli pattern’ is causing concern for the Congress party in Vidarbha as Yajnavalkya Jichkar, son of former minister Dr. Shrikant Jichkar, vies for the Katol seat currently held by NCP’s Sharad Pawar faction. Incumbent MLA Anil Deshmukh is reportedly reluctant to give up the seat to Jichkar and plans to contest against Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis in another constituency. Jichkar, who has been quietly working in Katol, believes his grassroots efforts will pay off. Congress insiders are hopeful they can convince NCP to vacate the seat for Jichkar, but if not, he may run as an Independent. Jichkar aims to carry forward his father’s legacy and secure a win in the upcoming elections.