Mumbai: The ruling Mahayuti alliance has moved a step closer to finalising its strategy for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena reaching an understanding on seat-sharing in 150 of the 227 civic wards. Mumbai BJP president Amit Satam confirmed on Thursday that negotiations for the remaining wards are progressing swiftly and are expected to be wrapped up within the next few days.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with Maharashtra minister and Shiv Sena leader Uday Samant, Satam said the alliance leadership is focused on presenting a united front to deliver a clean and efficient municipal administration. He stressed that the final call on the remaining seats will be taken by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde after consultations with senior leaders.
Satam asserted that the Mahayuti alliance would contest all BMC wards together and expressed confidence of securing a decisive majority. According to him, the aim is not to compete within the alliance but to ensure victory and install a Mahayuti-backed mayor in Mumbai. He accused previous civic administrations of indulging in large-scale corruption and claimed that the alliance is determined to prevent any political force from altering Mumbai’s character for electoral advantage.
Reinforcing unity within the coalition, Satam said the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Republican Party of India (RPI) remain firmly aligned. He dismissed speculation about internal differences, stating that the alliance symbols represent a single political force and that there is no question of a split.
Addressing questions about the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Nawab Malik, Satam clarified that the Mahayuti has no association with Malik until he is cleared of serious allegations. He said the alliance has drawn a clear line on the issue to maintain credibility and public trust.
Responding to these remarks, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare said efforts are ongoing to ensure coordination within the Mahayuti framework. He clarified that discussions related to alliances are handled at the state leadership level and that Nawab Malik currently holds an internal organisational role within the party. Tatkare added that talks have already taken place with top national and state leaders, and a resolution is likely soon.
