Political Dynamics Intensify Ahead of Maharashtra Municipal Elections
Coalition Strategies Emerge for Upcoming Elections
In many urban local bodies, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena are likely to contest elections together. Meanwhile, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has expressed its readiness to participate in the elections both within and outside the ruling Mahayuti coalition. During a recent meeting of the party's election decision committee, NCP leaders confirmed that preparations are in place for all possible scenarios. Political activities have ramped up in Maharashtra ahead of the upcoming municipal elections, with all parties accelerating their coalition calculations and seat preparations.
NCP Prepares for 50 Seats in Mumbai
Sources indicate that the NCP has completed groundwork for at least 50 seats in Mumbai. The final decision regarding the party's position within the Mahayuti coalition is expected to be made by Ajit Pawar. Political observers are closely monitoring this decision, as it could significantly alter the coalition dynamics in the state.
Trust in Nawab Malik Despite BJP Opposition
Despite strong opposition from the BJP, Ajit Pawar continues to place his trust in Nawab Malik regarding the BMC elections. An NCP leader mentioned that a coordination committee may be formed for discussions with the Mahayuti. There are ongoing talks about including Minister Aditi Tatkare and two other Mumbai leaders, including MLA Sana Malik, in this committee. Ajit has stated that they will strive to contest the elections under the Mahayuti banner. However, he also noted that they must be prepared to enter the fray independently if necessary. Meanwhile, Mumbai BJP President Amit Satam has remarked that if Nawab Malik is the NCP's election chief, they cannot align with him.
Importance of Nawab Malik for Ajit Pawar
In the 2017 BMC elections, nine NCP corporators were elected. Among them, two are aligned with Ajit's faction, while two are with Sharad's faction, and the rest have joined the Shinde faction. Nawab Malik is a key leader for the NCP in Mumbai, holding sway over Muslim and Dalit voters due to his secular image. The NCP is not particularly strong in Mumbai, and Malik's family is crucial for the party's strength in the city. Therefore, Ajit does not want to abandon Nawab. A similar situation arose during the 2024 assembly elections when Pawar stood by Nawab.
Municipal Election Schedule Announced
Amidst political upheaval, the election commission has announced the schedule for municipal elections in Maharashtra. Voting will take place for 29 municipal corporations, encompassing 2,869 seats.
Election Schedule Details
According to the schedule:
Nominations: December 23-30
Scrutiny of nomination papers: December 31
Last date for withdrawal of candidatures: January 2, 2026
Allocation of election symbols and final candidate list: January 3
Voting: January 15, 2026
Counting of votes: January 16, 2026