Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray jointly released their alliance manifesto for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 4, 2026. The two cousins, who reunited politically last year after years of rivalry, launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Mahayuti government ruling Maharashtra. They accused the ruling alliance of turning the state into the condition of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar by failing to address key issues like unemployment, infrastructure decay, and rising crime. The manifesto focuses heavily on Mumbai’s civic problems and promises sweeping changes if their coalition wins the BMC polls.
During the event, Uddhav Thackeray criticized the Mahayuti government for neglecting Mumbai’s development despite making tall claims. He highlighted the poor state of roads, waterlogging, garbage management, and inadequate public transport. Raj Thackeray echoed similar concerns, accusing the BJP of prioritizing political gains over people’s welfare. He warned that continued mismanagement would push Maharashtra towards the backwardness seen in UP and Bihar. The cousins emphasized that their alliance represents a united Marathi manoos voice committed to reclaiming Mumbai’s glory. Their joint appearance marked a significant show of strength ahead of the civic body elections.
The manifesto outlines several key promises, including slum redevelopment with dignity, improved healthcare facilities, better education infrastructure, and enhanced employment opportunities for local youth. It also pledges strict action against illegal constructions and encroachments. Both leaders stressed the need for transparent governance and accountability in the BMC. They claimed the Mahayuti has failed Mumbai by allowing corruption and inefficiency to flourish. The document positions their alliance as the only credible alternative to deliver real change in India’s financial capital.
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The reunion of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray has added a new dimension to Maharashtra politics. Their combined appeal among Marathi-speaking voters could pose a serious challenge to the Mahayuti in the BMC polls. The manifesto release event drew large crowds and received widespread attention across the state. Political analysts see this development as a major boost for the opposition in Mumbai. The upcoming elections will test whether this renewed family alliance can translate public anger into electoral success against the ruling coalition. The cousins’ strong criticism signals an intense and high-stakes campaign ahead.
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