Shinde Strikes Back: “Alliance With BJP Rock-Solid — No More Poaching, No More Doubts”

Mumbai: Amid intensifying political activity ahead of the municipal council and town panchayat elections in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday strongly asserted that the Shiv Sena–BJP alliance remains “unbreakable” and fully committed to contesting the upcoming polls together. Addressing reporters, Shinde dismissed swirling rumours about rifts within the ruling coalition, insisting that the partnership is intact despite recent defections at the local level.

Shinde’s statement comes at a time when several Shiv Sena leaders have shifted towards the BJP, triggering speculation about internal friction and weakening unity within the Mahayuti alliance. Acknowledging the concerns, Shinde revealed that he had personally discussed the matter with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who assured him that corrective measures would be taken immediately to prevent any further tensions.

“There should be no actions that create mistrust or weaken the alliance,” Shinde said, stressing the importance of maintaining “alliance dharma” ahead of both the civic polls and the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He made it clear that neither side would encourage corporators or grassroots leaders to switch parties for political advantage. “The Chief Minister agreed that such activities must stop. We are contesting together and must avoid misunderstandings,” Shinde noted.

Despite these assurances at the top level, unrest continues on the ground. As the State Election Commission prepares for the elections—earlier scheduled for December 2—more than 20 municipal councils have seen their polling dates deferred due to procedural lapses and ongoing court cases, further adding to political uncertainty.

In the politically sensitive district of Sindhudurg, tensions escalated sharply after police registered a case against Shiv Sena leader Nilesh Rane. He allegedly entered the residence of a BJP supporter, claiming to have discovered bags of cash intended for voter distribution. The allegation instantly triggered a fierce political storm in the region.