After intense negotiations spanning nine rounds, the local units of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena are on the cusp of formally announcing an electoral alliance for the upcoming Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation (CSMC) elections, scheduled for January 15. This development marks a significant consolidation within the ruling Mahayuti coalition at the state level for the crucial urban local body polls.
Seat-Sharing Pact Reached Amid Minor Differences
Shiv Sena minister Sanjay Shirsat confirmed that the two parties have successfully arrived at a seat-sharing agreement for the CSMC polls. He acknowledged that while differences persisted over approximately eight to ten seats, a consensus was achieved for the majority of the constituencies. The formal announcement of the alliance and the candidate lists was anticipated by late Sunday night or Monday.
Shirsat attributed the delay in finalising the pact to the high number of aspirants from both parties and the necessary process of consulting with the state leadership. A local BJP functionary provided further insight, stating that delaying the candidate declaration was a strategic move to manage potential rebellions. "The BJP camp alone had more than 1,000 aspirants. The declaration of candidates as late as possible will give less time for rebellions," the leader explained.
NCP Reacts, Announces First List of Candidates
Feeling sidelined in the alliance discussions due to its perceived weak organisational presence in the city, the local unit of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) decided to chart an independent course. On Sunday, the party publicly announced its intention to field candidates in a minimum of 100 seats and promptly released its first list of 18 candidates, signalling its resolve to contest aggressively.
This move by the NCP, a constituent of the Mahayuti at the state level, highlights the internal tensions and competitive dynamics within the coalition when it comes to grassroots-level power sharing.
MVA Engages in Parallel Discussions
Meanwhile, on the opposition front, talks continued within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). The Shiv Sena (UBT) has been actively ramping up its preparations for the polls. The Congress party is also engaged in discussions with its allies. Congress district president Kiran Patil Dongaokar stated that talks were ongoing with all MVA partners regarding contesting the CSMC elections.
"The state leadership is expected to take a call on the alliance and seat-sharing agreement. Our party witnessed an increased base in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, having won two local polls," Dongaokar said, expressing confidence. Additionally, Congress held discussions with the Vidarbha Vikas Aghadi and other potential partners, exploring avenues to present a united front against the ruling alliance.
The political landscape in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is thus sharply divided, with the Mahayuti partners finalising their pact amidst some discontent, and the MVA working to solidify its own strategy. The stage is set for a highly competitive election for the city's municipal corporation.
