Thackeray Cousins Finalise Seat Sharing for BMC Polls
Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) headed by Raj Thackeray have finalised a seat-sharing agreement for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The understanding marks a significant political development in Mumbai civic politics, bringing the Thackeray cousins together after years of political separation.
Seat distribution agreed
As per the agreement, Shiv Sena (UBT) will contest between 145 and 150 seats in the 227-member BMC, while the MNS will field candidates in around 65 to 70 seats. The remaining seats are expected to be adjusted through mutual understanding to avoid overlapping contests. Party leaders indicated that the formula was finalised after several rounds of discussions to ensure organisational balance and electoral viability for both sides.
Political context of the alliance
The alliance is being seen as an attempt to consolidate Marathi voter support in Mumbai and present a united front against rival political formations in the civic polls. Both parties have described the agreement as a practical arrangement focused on local governance rather than ideological expansion. Senior leaders said grassroots feedback was considered before closing the deal.
Congress and other parties
The Congress has decided to contest the BMC elections independently and is not part of this arrangement. Other opposition parties are also preparing their strategies as the civic polls approach, making the contest in Mumbai highly competitive.
Significance of BMC elections
The BMC is India’s richest civic body, and control over it is considered politically crucial in Maharashtra. The outcome of these elections is expected to influence broader political equations in the state ahead of future Assembly and parliamentary contests.
