Thackeray Cousins' Alliance: Zero Sum Game for Mumbai Civic Polls

The BJP argues that a potential alliance between Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray's MNS will not affect the outcome of Mumbai's upcoming civic elections, as the merging parties hold insignificant sway. Even if hyped, the alliance is seen as unlikely to best the BJP's Mahayuti.

The BJP has dismissed the potential electoral impact of an alliance between the Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray and the MNS led by Raj Thackeray on the upcoming Mumbai civic elections. According to Navnath Ban, the BJP's media in-charge in Maharashtra, the addition of two politically diminished forces is equivalent to zero influence. He remains confident that voters are already inclined towards the BJP, which is gearing up to take control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) through its Mahayuti coalition.

Despite several discussions, a formal alliance announcement between the Thackeray cousins is yet to materialize. Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut revealed that positive discussions regarding seat-sharing are underway. While Uddhav and Raj Thackeray are reportedly in excellent dialogue, questions remain on whether their partnership can yield tangible political success.

The once undivided Shiv Sena controlled the financially robust BMC for nearly three decades. Since 2022, a state-appointed administrator has managed the civic body as elections were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The BMC polls are anticipated to occur in January, following the conclusion of local body elections.