Maharashtra Local Body Elections: NCP’s Dilemma Over Alliance with Uddhav, Mahayuti on Alert

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Mumbai, Maharashtra: The first phase announcement of local body elections in Maharashtra has heated up state politics. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by Ajit Pawar and a key constituent of the ruling Mahayuti alliance, is facing speculation about aligning with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena in Raigad — a development that has sent ripples across political circles and made the BJP uneasy.

Testing Alliances Ahead of Elections
The upcoming elections will serve as a litmus test for the unity of both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA). In Raigad, the NCP’s potential collaboration with Uddhav-led Shiv Sena (UBT) has sparked rumors of shifting alliances, even as BJP insists no such coalition is necessary. For now, Ajit Pawar’s NCP is maintaining a cautious “wait and watch” stance. The focus remains on Raigad, where the NCP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena together hold 36 seats — prompting Pawar’s faction to consider Uddhav’s Shiv Sena as a strategic partner in the district.

What NCP Leaders Say
Sunil Tatkare, Maharashtra NCP chief and Raigad MP, stated that party workers are prepared for the elections. Reviewing the districts of Palghar, Thane, Mumbai, Raigad, and Ratnagiri, Tatkare confirmed plans to contest as part of a grand alliance. Over the next three days, discussions among the three parties are expected, culminating in a meeting of the Grand Alliance Coordination Committee next Tuesday to finalize joint contest strategies for municipal council and panchayat elections. Tatkare added that NCP has received candidate applications from every district, reflecting strong enthusiasm among party workers.

Cautious Approach in Raigad
Regarding a potential alliance with Uddhav Thackeray in Raigad, the NCP is adopting a watchful stance. Tatkare emphasized that decisions will be taken at the right time. When asked about Thackeray’s ongoing criticism of Mahayuti, Tatkare remarked, “Opponents are bound to criticize; it’s part of politics. Their sole agenda is to attack Mahayuti.” Political analyst Dayanand Nene observes that the statements emerging from Raigad are part of a larger power game, including controversies involving caretaker ministers. He predicts that while alliances may be discussed, parties might contest individually and consider forming coalitions post-election if necessary.

Election Schedule
The Maharashtra State Election Commission has announced elections for municipal councils and panchayats, with polling scheduled for December 2, 2025, and results to be declared on December 3, 2025.