In a strategic move to consolidate power, the MahaYuti coalition—comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)—has decided to contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections as a united front. This decision, confirmed by a senior BJP leader at a recent Diwali gathering, aims to prevent the fragmentation of Hindutva and pro-government votes in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

The decision comes amid reports of a potential reconciliation between Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, whose possible alliance could galvanize the Marathi manoos vote bank. Sources within the BJP express concern that a united Thackeray front, potentially backed by minority communities, could pose a significant challenge to the MahaYuti’s dominance. “The Thackerays have always positioned themselves as champions of Marathi identity, leveraging language and regional sentiments. Going solo risks splitting our vote base, which could hand the advantage to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS),” the leader explained, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The BJP, which relies heavily on upper-caste business communities, North Indians, and Gujaratis, acknowledges the critical role of Marathi votes in securing a BMC victory. In the 2017 BMC elections, the BJP came tantalizingly close to capturing the corporation but fell short by a handful of seats. “This time, we’re leaving nothing to chance. The MahaYuti will pool all resources, strategize collectively, and fight as one to ensure a decisive win,” the leader added.

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The coalition’s unity extends beyond Mumbai. Discussions with MahaYuti partners have confirmed a joint approach for three other municipal corporations in the MMR. However, in the Thane Municipal Corporation, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will have the final say on alliance decisions, reflecting his influence in the region. “Local body elections require flexibility. In Thane, Shinde’s leadership will guide our strategy, while in rural areas, local leaders may have the autonomy to decide on alliances or even contest independently,” another senior BJP leader revealed, also requesting anonymity.

The MahaYuti’s decision to present a united front is a calculated response to the MVA’s own plans to contest the elections together. Analysts suggest that the Thackeray cousins’ potential collaboration could create a formidable regional force, appealing not only to Marathi voters but also to minority communities wary of the BJP’s policies. “The MNS factor cannot be ignored either. Raj Thackeray’s influence could sway a significant portion of the electorate, making it imperative for us to avoid vote division,” the BJP leader noted.

As the BMC elections draw closer, the MahaYuti is intensifying its efforts to strengthen its network and maintain its grip on power. “Unity is our strength. We’ve learned from past elections that a divided vote benefits the opposition. This time, we’re fully committed to a coordinated campaign,” the leader emphasized. With Mumbai’s municipal landscape at stake, the MahaYuti’s strategic alliance signals a fierce electoral battle ahead, one that could reshape the city’s political dynamics for years to come.

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