Shiv Sena and MNS Finalize Seat-Sharing Ahead of BMC Elections
In a pivotal move ahead of the BMC elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) has confirmed a seat-sharing agreement with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). This development comes as the Congress party opts to contest independently, signaling potential fractures within the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition. With the ruling Mahayuti coalition celebrating recent victories in local elections, the stakes are high for the Thackeray brothers. As discussions progress, Congress raises concerns about MNS's inclusion in the alliance, while also pushing for an independent candidacy focused on key issues affecting Mumbai residents. The elections are set for January 15, with significant implications for all parties involved.
| Dec 22, 2025, 09:56 IST
Political Developments Before BMC Elections
In a significant political development ahead of the BMC elections, Sanjay Raut, a member of Shiv Sena (UBT), has confirmed that discussions regarding seat-sharing with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have reached a conclusion. This announcement follows the Congress party's declaration to contest the elections independently, indicating a potential rift within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Meanwhile, the ruling Mahayuti coalition is buoyed by a recent victory in over 200 local bodies in Maharashtra's local elections. This situation highlights the high stakes for the Thackeray brothers in the upcoming BMC elections, especially after the shifting alliances and divisions within Shiv Sena and NCP.
Potential Coalition Announcement
Additionally, Anil Parab, a leader from Shiv Sena (UBT), mentioned that the announcement of the coalition could happen at any time. The leaders of both parties—Uddhav Thackeray from Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray from MNS—will decide on the manner of the coalition's announcement.
Congress Raises Objections
MNS Coalition Concerns from Congress
Earlier, Sanjay Raut, a Rajya Sabha MP from Shiv Sena (UBT), stated that the coalition would be finalized within 2-3 days, while also noting that Congress has expressed "objections" to including MNS in the alliance. Speaking to reporters, he said, "We believe that this (the discussions held on Sunday) is the final meeting. An official announcement will be made in two to three days." He further added, "Congress has raised concerns regarding MNS led by Raj Thackeray. We are trying to convince Congress that coming together is essential to defeat the BJP."
Congress Considering Independent Candidacy
Congress Plans to Contest Alone
On Saturday, addressing the media, Ramesh Chennithala, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and Maharashtra in-charge, stated that party workers are urging the leadership to contest the BMC elections independently. Chennithala remarked, "We will focus on issues affecting common Mumbai residents, such as pollution, healthcare, and corruption. Mumbai residents should give us a chance to serve them well. The Congress is determined to contest independently to protect the secular fabric of the metropolis."
Upcoming BMC Elections
The elections for BMC and 29 other municipal corporations are scheduled for January 15, with vote counting taking place the following day. Ramesh Chennithala reiterated that there is a strong demand from party workers for Congress to contest the BMC elections alone, emphasizing their commitment to addressing the pressing issues faced by Mumbai residents.