Mahayuti Finalizes 12:3:2 Formula for MLC Elections Amid Disputes
The Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra has set a 12:3:2 formula for the upcoming MLC elections, but disputes over three key seats—Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Pune—have emerged among coalition partners. The Shiv Sena claims traditional strongholds, while the NCP argues for its position based on local representation. Ongoing negotiations aim to resolve these tensions as the Election Commission announces the election schedule, with nominations due by June 1. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving political landscape.
May 26, 2026, 16:46 IST
Mahayuti's Formula and Ongoing Disputes
The Mahayuti coalition has established a "12:3:2 formula" for the upcoming biennial MLC elections concerning local bodies. However, three seats—Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Pune—have become contentious points among the coalition partners. Tensions have arisen between the BJP, Shiv Sena, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) over these seats.
Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the Shiv Sena has laid claim to the Nashik and Sambhajinagar seats, while the NCP is asserting its position for the Pune seat. The BJP, on the other hand, is claiming all three seats.
Negotiations Underway
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has indicated that the coalition partners will seek to resolve their disputes through dialogue. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the Shiv Sena regarding Nashik and Sambhajinagar, and with the NCP concerning Pune. Fadnavis acknowledged that disagreements over these three contentious seats remain unresolved.
Shiv Sena leaders argue that Nashik and Sambhajinagar are traditional strongholds for their party, expressing confidence in winning both seats.
Conversely, the NCP claims it has the largest number of local body representatives in Pune, making it a natural contender for that constituency. The Shiv Sena has also raised objections to the current 12:3:2 seat-sharing formula among the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, with party leaders reportedly demanding four seats instead of three. If Shiv Sena's request is granted, the NCP may have to settle for just one seat, potentially altering the formula to 12:4:1.
Previous Attempts to Resolve the Issue
Earlier, senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule met with Eknath Shinde to address the issue, but the discussions did not yield any results. The Election Commission has announced the schedule for the MLC (local body) elections, with the last date for filing nominations set for June 1, voting on June 18, and counting on June 22. Elected members of local bodies and district councils will be eligible to vote in these elections.
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