Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS Join Hands Ahead of Mumbai Civic Polls 

Mumbai: In a significant political development ahead of the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) on Wednesday announced an alliance for the Mumbai civic polls scheduled on January 15.

MNS chief Raj Thackeray made the announcement in the presence of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, marking a major step towards reconciliation between the two cousins after years of political estrangement. Raj Thackeray said the alliance, announced for Mumbai at present, could be extended to other cities, including Nashik, in the coming days. He also confirmed that discussions are underway with NCP leader Sharad Pawar.

While details of seat-sharing for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections were not disclosed, Raj Thackeray asserted that the next Mayor of Mumbai would be a Marathi leader from either of the two allied parties.

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Addressing party workers and supporters, Uddhav Thackeray said the alliance was formed with the aim of protecting Mumbai’s interests. He urged the Marathi-speaking electorate to remain united, warning that internal divisions could weaken their political strength. “Those attempting to snatch Mumbai will be defeated,” he said, underlining the alliance’s resolve.

Uddhav Thackeray also extended an open invitation to leaders dissatisfied with developments within the BJP to join the alliance.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut termed the alliance a “historic moment” for Maharashtra politics, claiming that the renewed unity of the Thackeray cousins would play a decisive role in shaping the State’s political future.

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