Pote files nomination for Legislative Council from BJP, but Rana couple remains absent

Amravati: BJP candidate Pravin Pote Patil on Monday filed his nomination for the Legislative Council election from the Amravati Local Authorities Constituency in the presence of revenue minister and district guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule and senior functionaries of Mahayuti allies Shiv Sena and NCP.However, the absence of MLA Ravi Rana and former MP Navneet Rana during the nomination filing fuelled speculation of unease within the ruling alliance. The Yuva Swabhiman Party, led by the Rana couple, is a constituent of Mahayuti.Pote's supporters had expected Ravi Rana to attend the event. However, sources said he left for Delhi after participating in a Shiv Parivar programme. Navneet Rana is also in Delhi. Their absence triggered speculation as reports suggested the couple had opposed Pote's candidature.Responding to questions on the issue, Bawankule dismissed suggestions of a rift. "I spoke to Ravi Rana this morning. Both he and Navneet Rana are out of town. They are mature leaders and, despite local differences, will remain with Mahayuti," he said, adding that he would personally speak to them after their return.Seeking to project unity within the alliance, Pote claimed there was no discord in Mahayuti and expressed confidence of winning by a record margin. Contesting from the constituency for the third time, he said he enjoyed strong support among local body representatives and expected backing beyond party lines.Pote's candidature was finalised by the BJP on Sunday night. Although he was initially scheduled to file his nomination on May 29, the filing was later deferred to Monday.Among those present were NCP MLC Sanjay Khodke, MLA Sulbha Khodke, Shiv Sena MLA Bachchu Kadu, former MP Anandrao Adsul, BJP MLAs Rajesh Wankhade and Pratap Adsad, besides office-bearers and workers of the alliance partners.