The Gondia Assembly Constituency in the Gondia district of Maharashtra is set for an intense political clash in the upcoming state elections. Vinod Agarwal, an independent MLA who won this seat in 2019, is now contesting as the candidate of the BJP-led Mahayuti. He will face Gopaldas Agarwal, representing the Congress-backed Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA).  

Constituency overview

Gondia, known for its significant tribal population, shares borders with Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, making it strategically important. The region is a hub for paddy cultivation, with a strong agricultural economy bolstered by rice mills. The constituency includes revenue circles such as Kamtha, Ravanwadi, and Dasgaon Budruk, along with the Gondia Municipal Council.  

The town has a rich cultural and educational legacy, with institutions like the Manohar Bhai Patel Academy contributing to its prominence. Despite limited industrial activity, small-scale enterprises thrive, generating employment and bolstering the local economy.  

Past results 

The 2019 elections in Gondia saw a three-way battle. Independent candidate Vinod Agarwal emerged victorious with 102,996 votes, defeating BJP’s Gopal Agarwal, who secured 75,827 votes. The Congress candidate, Amar Varade, trailed significantly with just 8,938 votes. 

Vinod Agarwal’s win as an independent highlighted the electorate’s focus on hyper-local issues, favouring candidates who addressed the region's agricultural and developmental needs over party affiliations.  

In 2024, Vinod Agarwal’s alliance with the Mahayuti signals a shift in his political trajectory, with the BJP banking on his local popularity to consolidate its voter base. On the other hand, Gopaldas Aggarwal’s candidacy under the Mahavikas Aghadi banner reflects the opposition's effort to unite against the ruling coalition. 

Voter base & key issues 

The constituency’s voters, which include a mix of farmers, small-scale industrial workers, and tribal communities, prioritise issues such as irrigation, rural infrastructure, and employment opportunities. Caste and tribal dynamics, combined with the influence of regional leaders like Praful Patel from the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP, add layers of complexity to the electoral battle. 

As voting approaches on November 20, both candidates are ramping up their campaigns to secure the support of Gondia’s diverse voter base. With results to be announced on November 23, the Gondia constituency remains a key indicator of the broader political trends in Maharashtra.