Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Unite for Mumbai Elections with Joint Manifesto

In a surprising political development, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have united to present a joint manifesto for the upcoming Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections. This alliance, termed 'Vachanama', aims to address critical issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, and education. With the elections set for January 15, their collaboration could significantly alter the political landscape of Mumbai. The manifesto includes various welfare schemes and a strong critique of the BJP, highlighting the brothers' commitment to the Marathi community. This unexpected partnership is poised to reshape the dynamics of the upcoming elections, making it a focal point for voters.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 4, 2026, 22:38 IST

A Significant Political Alliance in Mumbai

On Saturday, Mumbai's political landscape witnessed a notable shift as Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), and Raj Thackeray, head of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, set aside their long-standing differences. They unveiled their joint manifesto, termed 'Vachanama', ahead of the upcoming Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The leaders described this document as a dedication to the public, symbolizing the 'Shiv-Shakti' alliance aimed at safeguarding the interests of the Marathi community and Mumbai.

This manifesto has been crafted with the January 15 BMC elections in mind, often referred to as a semi-final for power in Mumbai. Reports indicate that the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS coalition has prioritized issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, education, and enhancing public transport in their declaration.

Notably, the alliance has pledged to introduce the 'Swabhimaan Nidhi' scheme for domestic workers and women from the Koli community, providing them with monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500, similar to the Chief Minister's Ladki Behan scheme. Additionally, they announced the launch of 'Maa Saheb Rasoi' in honor of Meena Tai Thackeray, where breakfast and lunch will be offered at just ₹10.

The manifesto also promises relief from property tax for homes up to 700 square feet and plans to amend regulations to ensure each flat in redeveloped buildings has a parking slot. Regarding public transport, the coalition aims to reduce the minimum bus fare from ₹10 to ₹5 and introduce new bus routes along with additional buses.

In the education sector, the manifesto commits to providing schooling from junior KG to 12th grade in the BMC-run 'Mumbai Public School'. It also includes a scheme offering interest-free loans of up to ₹25,000 for gig workers to purchase e-bikes.

While releasing the manifesto, both Thackeray brothers launched a sharp critique against the BJP. Uddhav Thackeray accused the party of undermining democracy and engaging in candidate 'theft' to secure uncontested victories. He called for re-elections in such cases and demanded an investigation into the call details of returning officers.

Raj Thackeray also targeted the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, warning that Maharashtra is being led down a path similar to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which poses a threat to the state's future.

It's important to note that in the 2017 BMC elections, the undivided Shiv Sena emerged as the largest party with 84 seats, while the BJP followed closely with 82 seats. The lack of a clear majority led to political instability, which was later resolved with the Shiv Sena's mayoral position supported by the BJP. The Congress secured 31 seats, the NCP got nine, and the MNS faced significant losses.

According to current information, voting is scheduled for January 15, with counting the following day, making the Thackeray brothers' alliance a potential game-changer in Mumbai's political dynamics.