BJP–Shinde Sena Finalise BMC Seat-Sharing Deal Ahead of Polls
Mahayuti allies BJP, Shinde Sena seal seat-sharing pact.
The ruling Mahayuti alliance finalized its seat-sharing formula for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on December 29, 2025, allocating 137 seats to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and 90 to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena out of the total 227 wards. This agreement, concluded after intensive negotiations, enables both parties to cede portions of their quotas to smaller Mahayuti partners and facilitates a coordinated campaign strategy ahead of the January 15, 2026, polling date, with nominations required by December 30.
Negotiations began with the BJP offering approximately 50 seats to Shinde's faction, amid demands from the latter for up to 110 or more, reflecting Shinde's leverage from recent electoral performances and the need to counter opposition alliances. Mumbai BJP president Ameet Satam confirmed the resolution, having previously agreed on over 200 seats before amicably settling the remainder, and stressed the alliance's determination to hoist the Hindutva flag over the BMC while prioritizing Mumbai's safety and security.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reinforced the partnership's unity, asserting strong public support for Mahayuti in the battle for control of Asia's richest civic body, which boasts a substantial budget and influences urban governance profoundly. The pact underscores a joint electoral effort, with candidates from both parties urged to expedite nomination filings on the final day to ensure seamless participation.
Also Read: BJP-Led Mahayuti Alliance Leads in Maharashtra Local Body Polls
Dissent emerged from within the alliance as Republican Party of India (A) leader and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale accused the BJP of sidelining his party during discussions, leading to expressions of discontent among workers and potential independent contestation in select wards. This episode reveals underlying tensions in accommodating smaller allies despite the primary BJP-Shinde accord.
Observers highlight Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's adept negotiation skills in securing a favorable Mumbai deal, contrasting with limited gains in other corporations such as Pune and Navi Mumbai, as Mahayuti prepares to confront a fragmented opposition including the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS tie-up and other groupings in this pivotal contest.
Also Read: Mahayuti Nears Seat-Sharing Deal for BMC Polls, BJP–Shiv Sena Finalise 200 Wards
