Tensions inside the Mahayuti alliance have escalated as the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena prepare for a high-stakes showdown over seat distribution in the upcoming Mumbai BMC elections. With both parties determined to showcase their dominance in the city, the seat-sharing debate has turned into a fierce tug of war.
The Shinde faction of the Shiv Sena has officially demanded 90 to 100 seats, arguing that its grassroots network across Mumbai remains robust despite past political upheavals. Party functionaries claim that areas like Dadar, Wadala, Andheri, Sion, and the eastern suburbs continue to rely heavily on Sena’s local leadership. The party believes that this legacy of strong connect gives it legitimate grounds to seek a sizeable chunk of the 227 seats.
On the other hand, the BJP has adopted a far more ambitious approach, signalling that it plans to contest 135 to 140 seats. Leaders insist that the BJP’s growing influence in Mumbai’s wards and its strong performance in past elections make the party the natural front-runner. The BJP has also strengthened organisational structures at the booth level, making it clear that it intends to dominate the civic battlefield.
Across Maharashtra, the broader alliance strategy is being tailored city by city. The BJP and Shiv Sena intend to contest jointly in Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, and Kalyan-Dombivli, where the alliance believes a combined effort will ensure control over key municipal corporations. In contrast, in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the BJP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP have opted for independent contests to prevent internal friction among workers and give each party a fair share of opportunities.
One major puzzle remains Navi Mumbai, where talks are still underway and no agreement has been finalised yet.
Senior leadership from both parties recently held a lengthy meeting in Nagpur to untangle the deadlock. CM Devendra Fadnavis, Dy CM Eknath Shinde and senior party leaders reviewed political data, organisational strength, and ward-level feedback. A joint committee with representatives from both sides has been formed to review seat demands and present final recommendations.
