The ruling MahaYuti alliance in Maharashtra is experiencing significant internal rifts ahead of the upcoming local body elections. Tensions, particularly between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, have escalated in various districts, potentially leading to 'friendly fights' where both parties contest against each other.
Growing Discontent Across Districts
Reports indicate widespread disagreements in key regions such as Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, and Nashik, while in Thane Municipal Corporation, BJP leaders Ganesh Naik and Sanjay Kelkar have openly stated their intention to contest without an alliance, prompting the Shinde faction to prepare for an independent fight. Similar strains are evident in Navi Mumbai and Mira Bhayandar, where both parties might go solo.
Relations in Kalyan-Dombivli have been sour since the shooting incident involving MLA Ganpat Gaikwad. In Ulhasnagar, despite Shiv Sena being in power, BJP MLA Kumar Ailani has threatened agitation against the commissioner, highlighting internal dissent. Badlapur Municipal Corporation also sees rising tensions between BJP's Kisan Kathore and Shinde Sena's Vaman Mhatre, while in Sangli, Vaibhav Patil's defection to BJP has further strained ties with the Shinde Sena.
Challenges with Other Alliance Partners
The complexities extend to other alliance partners. In Nashik, a public spat between NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) minister Chhagan Bhujbal and Shinde Sena MLA Suhas Kande has complicated matters, while in Satara, the entry of Satyajit Patankar, who previously contested against Shinde camp minister Shambhuraj Desai, into the BJP has caused resentment within the Shinde faction. Raigad has also seen increased friction with Snehal Jagtap joining the NCP.
Amidst these developments, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently instructed BJP workers to form alliances wherever possible for the upcoming civic polls, and where not, to ensure a friendly contest. Sources suggest that a final decision on alliances will be made only after district-level review meetings, but the current situation poses a considerable challenge for the MahaYuti.
