BJP's Praveen Darekar Addresses Concerns Over Seat Distribution in Mahayuti Alliance Ahead of BMC Elections
As the BMC elections draw near, tensions regarding seat allocation within the Mahayuti alliance have emerged. BJP MLC Praveen Darekar has assured RPI leader Ramdas Athawale that he is not upset and remains committed to the coalition. Darekar emphasized the importance of ensuring respect and participation for Athawale's party in the government. Athawale, on the other hand, expressed the need for a fair distribution of seats and indicated that discussions with the Chief Minister are necessary to resolve ongoing issues. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the alliance's strategy moving forward.
| Dec 30, 2025, 20:08 IST
BJP's Assurance to RPI Leader Amidst Seat Distribution Discontent
As the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections approach, discontent regarding seat allocation within the Mahayuti alliance has surfaced. On Tuesday, BJP MLC Praveen Darekar stated that Ramdas Athawale, the leader of the Republican Party of India (RPI), is not upset and remains aligned with the Mahayuti coalition. After meeting with Athawale, Darekar informed reporters that their participation and respect within the government will be ensured in a dignified manner.
Darekar reassured the media that Athawale is not displeased; he is committed to the Mahayuti alliance. However, due to the nature of his own party, there is pressure from his party workers. With 227 seats available and thousands of eager candidates, Darekar expressed confidence that discussions with the Chief Minister would lead to a respectful assurance of their involvement and recognition within the government.
Conversely, Athawale mentioned that Darekar came to convey a message from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who had spoken to him earlier that morning. Athawale noted that Darekar acknowledged their grievances and that the Chief Minister had also reached out to him. He added that all 39 individuals from the list they submitted have completed their forms, and he has requested Darekar to arrange a meeting with Fadnavis on Wednesday to resolve the issue and ensure a fair distribution of seats for his party.
Athawale further stated that they are open to considering seat allocations from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's quota if they meet. He indicated that the party would determine its next steps after discussions with the Chief Minister, highlighting that the seat distribution issue within the alliance remains unresolved. Athawale emphasized that if they are to move forward together, decisions must be made. He expressed that even securing six or seven seats would not pose a problem, but the seats allocated so far are not what they requested. Therefore, discussions were held today, and strategies will be formulated after speaking with the Chief Minister.