Seat Sharing Negotiations Heat Up Ahead of BMC Elections in Maharashtra

Tensions are escalating in Maharashtra as the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, and the BJP engage in heated negotiations over seat distribution for the upcoming BMC elections. The BJP has rejected the Shinde faction's demand for all 84 seats won in 2017, citing significant changes in the political landscape. The allocation will be based on a 'winning potential' formula, with disputes over 77 seats. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Election Commission has announced that elections for 29 municipal corporations, including the BMC, will take place on January 15, 2026. Additionally, a selection committee has been formed by the Mumbai BJP president to finalize candidates.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 15:08 IST

Tensions Rise in Seat Allocation Talks

In Maharashtra, discussions regarding seat distribution for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections have hit a significant snag between the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to sources, during a recent meeting, the Shinde faction demanded all 84 seats that were won by the undivided Shiv Sena in the 2017 BMC elections. However, the BJP outright rejected this request.

The BJP argued that the political landscape has changed drastically since 2017. They expressed concerns that a direct contest between the Shinde faction and the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray could jeopardize the Mahayuti alliance.

Seat Distribution Based on Winning Potential

The BJP stated that the Shinde faction would only be allocated seats where they have a strong presence, with the distribution based on a 'winning potential' formula. Out of the total 227 seats in the BMC, there are disputes over 77 seats between the two parties. Senior leaders from both sides are expected to work towards resolving the deadlock in the coming days.

State Election Commission Announces Voting Schedule

The Maharashtra State Election Commission has announced the election schedule for 29 municipal corporations in the state, including the BMC, set for December 15. The elections will take place in a single phase on January 15, 2026, with results expected to be declared on January 16.

Mumbai BJP President Forms Selection Committee

Amit Satam, the Mumbai BJP president, has established a 20-member committee to select candidates for the BMC elections. The committee, chaired by Satam, includes central minister Piyush Goyal, national general secretary Vinod Tawde, state assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar, along with several state cabinet ministers and legislators.