Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar and former MLA Dayanand Sopte have exchanged sharp remarks over the political situation in Mandrem, with both leaders expressing contrasting views on leadership, development and the constituency’s future.

Responding to Sopte’s remarks, Arolkar urged senior leaders to speak responsibly and avoid making statements that could upset the youth of Mandrem. He asserted that public support, rather than backing from political leaders, would determine electoral success in the constituency. Arolkar also defended the development works undertaken in Mandrem.

Sopte, meanwhile, said he would never support Arolkar, accusing the MLA of destroying Mandrem’s youth. He said he had been working in the constituency for the past four-and-a-half years and remained united with former Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar.

Sopte added that he and his associates would abide by the party’s decision on the election ticket, leaving the final call to the party leadership.