Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Marathi vs. Gujarati row sparks controversy in Mumbai North East constituency ahead of elections

A job advertisement excluding Marathi candidates sparked a controversy, fueling a Marathi vs. Gujarati sentiment in Mumbai North East. BJP's Mihir Kotecha faces Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena's Sanjay Dina Patil, who switched from NCP. Despite BJP's past victories, there's nervousness due to the issue. Marathas form the largest group, followed by Muslims, Gujaratis, and North Indians. Allegations of discrimination and attempts at polarisation add tension. Local issues like the Kanjurmarg dumping ground also impact voter sentiment.