A day after the Republican Party of India (A) announced its independent stance in the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Shiv Sena(UBT) criticized Union Minister Ramdas Athawale for not realizing the BJP’s history of betraying allies. Athawale’s party, the RPI(A), decided to go solo in the BMC elections, severing ties with the Mahayuti alliance.
Shiv Sena(UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey expressed disappointment in Athawale’s move, highlighting the BJP’s alleged track record of betrayal. Dubey emphasized the importance of understanding political alliances and referenced the BJP’s history of not honoring commitments.
Athawale’s decision to contest independently came after accusing the Mahayuti alliance of betrayal in seat-sharing arrangements. The RPI(A) released a list of 39 candidates, signaling a clear break from the alliance just before the nomination deadline.
Tuesday marked the final day for BMC election nominations, with the RPI(A) fielding candidates across various regions of Mumbai. Despite assurances, Athawale claimed the Mahayuti alliance did not fulfill its commitments, leading to the decision to contest solo.
Mumbai BJP president Amit Satam had earlier announced the seat distribution within the Mahayuti alliance, with the BJP and Shiv Sena allocated 137 and 90 seats, respectively. The decision sparked reactions within the alliance, with Shiv Sena(UBT) questioning the BJP’s ticket allocation process.
Adding to the political dynamics, the NCP, another Mahayuti constituent led by Ajit Pawar, also opted to contest the BMC elections independently. The upcoming elections on January 15 will witness contests in 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including the crucial Mumbai civic body.
