Sanjay Pandurang Shirsat

Social and Political Life of Sanjay Shirsat, MLA from Aurangabad West, Maharashtra

1. Political Journey and Milestones

Sanjay Pandurang Shirsat began his public life without any political family background, rising from humble beginnings as a rickshaw driver and helper at Bajaj Auto in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). His entry into politics was motivated by the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray and the Shiv Sena’s focus on uplifting common people. Shirsat’s first electoral post was as a corporator in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation in 2000, where he later became the House Leader in 2001. He steadily rose through the party ranks, serving as a Shiv Sena division chief and gaining recognition for his grassroots activism and commitment to social causes.

A major turning point came in 2009 when Shirsat was elected as the MLA from Aurangabad West, a seat reserved for the Scheduled Castes. He has since retained his seat for four consecutive terms (2009, 2014, 2019, 2024), establishing himself as a consistent and influential figure in Maharashtra politics. In 2022, he was among the prominent Shiv Sena leaders who supported Eknath Shinde during the party’s split, aligning with the Shinde-led faction.

2. Current Political Role

As of December 2024, Sanjay Shirsat serves as the Minister for Social Justice in the Maharashtra government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. He represents Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) and continues as the MLA for Aurangabad West, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra. Shirsat is known for his vocal participation in legislative debates, particularly on issues of social justice, budget allocations, and backward class welfare. His recent electoral victory in 2024 was marked by a strong margin of 16,351 votes, reflecting significant public support in his constituency.

3. Social Work and Community Engagement

Shirsat’s public service is rooted in his early social work in localities like Bansilal Nagar and Konkanwadi, focusing on marginalized communities. He has actively participated in health camps, educational outreach, and disaster relief efforts. As Social Justice Minister, he has championed hostel improvements and better access to scholarships for students from backward classes. His leadership in CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation) as chairman further highlights his commitment to urban development, affordable housing, and infrastructure projects like the Navi Mumbai International Airport and NAINA city. Shirsat’s public image in Aurangabad West is that of a “grassroots leader” and a strong advocate for the underprivileged.

4. Youth and Women Empowerment

While specific flagship programs for youth and women are not detailed in public records, Shirsat has consistently spoken about the need for scholarships, hostels, and mainstreaming backward community students. He has also defended the importance of social justice funding, which supports various empowerment schemes, and has publicly opposed the diversion of such funds, emphasizing the constitutional mandate for targeted welfare.

5. Election Performance and Campaign Style

Sanjay Shirsat has contested and won four consecutive assembly elections (2009, 2014, 2019, 2024) from Aurangabad West, often with significant margins. His campaign style combines traditional outreach with strong local presence, leveraging his reputation as a “karyakarta” (worker) who rose from the grassroots. His 2024 campaign focused on development, social justice, and continuity of service, successfully countering both opposition and intra-party challenges.

6. Public Perception and Media Presence

Shirsat is widely covered in regional and state media, often described as a “grassroots karyakarta” and “clean image politician”. He is known for his forthrightness and willingness to publicly challenge decisions he deems unjust, such as the diversion of social justice funds. While he has faced controversies, including recent scrutiny over his son’s business dealings, Shirsat has managed to maintain his public standing by addressing issues directly and transparently.

7. Associations and Leadership Roles

Beyond his legislative duties, Shirsat has held significant leadership roles, including Chairman of CIDCO, where he emphasized timely project completion and affordable housing. He has also served as party spokesman and division chief within Shiv Sena, playing a key role during the party’s realignment in 2022.

8. Recognitions and Awards

There is no public record of major awards, but Shirsat’s repeated electoral victories and his appointment as Minister for Social Justice are testament to his recognition within Maharashtra’s political landscape.

9. Crisis Response and Ground Presence

Shirsat has been proactive during crises, notably raising concerns about budget cuts affecting backward communities and opposing fund diversions that could harm social welfare schemes. His direct engagement with the public during such times reinforces his image as a leader who remains accessible and responsive to constituents’ needs.