"Raj-Uddhav Alliance in BMC Polls? Sanjay Raut Drops Hint: 'If Mumbai Is to Be Saved...'"

by Webdesk
10 Jul 2025

Ever since Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray shared the stage after nearly two decades at the ‘Awaj Marathicha’ rally in Worli, political circles and citizens alike have been asking one big question: Will the Thackeray cousins join forces for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections?

On Thursday, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut added fuel to the speculation by suggesting that the two factions — Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) — might contest the crucial civic polls together. Speaking to the media, Raut said the idea of unity was not yet a confirmed decision, but there is growing public demand for it.

"I never said Shiv Sena and MNS are officially contesting the local elections as allies," Raut clarified. "What I did say is that people are pressuring both parties to fight the elections together, especially to protect the interests of Mumbai." His comments, quoted by news agency ANI, sparked renewed political chatter.

Will Uddhav Break from MVA and INDIA for BMC?

Raut also made a strong statement that could mark a shift in political alliances. He suggested that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and INDIA bloc, both of which include Congress and NCP (Sharad Pawar), may not be required for local body elections like the BMC polls.

“The INDIA bloc was formed for the Lok Sabha elections, and the MVA came together for the Assembly polls,” Raut said. “But local elections are different, and they should be handled based on local issues and by local leadership. These alliances are not essential at the civic level.”

This has led to speculation that Uddhav Thackeray might step away from his alliance partners—at least temporarily—for the BMC elections, in a bid to explore a Thackeray-Thackeray tie-up instead.

Raj Stays Silent, But Uddhav Opens the Door

When asked about Raj Thackeray’s decision to instruct MNS leaders to avoid media comments, Raut acknowledged that Raj has a different style of functioning. "He works differently. We speak openly, but he prefers silence. Regardless, things will become clearer in the coming days,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray made headlines with a subtle but powerful remark at the Awaj Marathicha event, where he appeared alongside Raj. The event was organized to celebrate the Maharashtra government's decision to withdraw two controversial resolutions that aimed to introduce Hindi as a third language in Marathi-medium schools.

During the rally, Uddhav stated, “We have come together and will stay together,” sparking further speculation about a joint political campaign. His statement is being viewed as a strong hint that the cousins may consider contesting the BMC polls as a unified front.

BMC Elections: A Prestige Fight for the Thackerays

The upcoming BMC elections are not just about political power — they are seen as a prestige battle for both Thackeray-led parties. Before the Shiv Sena split in 2022, the party had held control over Mumbai’s municipal corporation for more than 20 years. Losing grip on the BMC not only impacted the party’s finances and influence but also its symbolic hold over Mumbai, the city it once dominated.

Now, with the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray still resonating strongly among the Marathi-speaking population, many believe that a reunited Thackeray front could prove to be a powerful force in the polls.

While there is no official confirmation yet, the public sentiment, political signals, and strategic silence from the MNS camp all suggest that Mumbai’s 2025 BMC election could see one of its most dramatic alliances in years.

Image Courtesy:

02 Jan 2026

BMC Elections

"Raj-Uddhav Alliance in BMC Polls? Sanjay Raut Drops Hint: 'If Mumbai Is to Be Saved...'"

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