Mumbai, December 24, 2025 – In a significant development for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections slated for January 15, 2026, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have announced a formal alliance between their respective parties, Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The reunion, a first in nearly two decades, aims to consolidate Marathi votes and regain control of the financial capital.
The announcement was made at a joint press conference where both leaders addressed the media, signaling a united front after years of political separation. Raj Thackeray declared the alliance, stating, "I officially declare that Shiv Sena and MNS are alliance partners". He further asserted that Mumbai would have a Marathi Mayor from the Shiv Sena-MNS alliance. Uddhav Thackeray echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that "Mumbai will stay with us, come what may".
Under the seat-sharing arrangement, Shiv Sena (UBT) is expected to contest approximately 145-150 seats, while MNS will field candidates in around 65-70 seats. While details regarding seat allocation remain under wraps, Raj Thackeray indicated that similar announcements would be made for Nashik as well. However, there has been no announcements regarding the rest of Maharashtra.
The alliance has been dubbed as "Batenge to Katenge," a slogan previously associated with Yogi Adityanath and the BJP, which translates to "if you divide, you will be destroyed". While initially intended to promote Hindu unity, its use in this context signifies a consolidation of Marathi identity in Mumbai's political landscape.
The BMC elections, long delayed and finally scheduled for January 15, are crucial for all parties involved. The BMC, with a budget exceeding Rs 74,000 crore for 2025-26, is one of the richest civic bodies in Asia, and its control holds significant sway in Maharashtra politics. For the Thackeray factions, this election is a test of strength and a chance to revive their political standing after recent splits and realignments.
The Congress party has indicated it will contest the polls independently. Meanwhile, the NCP (SP) has requested 53 seats from Congress. Prakash Ambedkar, leader of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), has stated his party is prepared to contest 200 seats and insists on a 50-50 seat-sharing formula with Congress if an alliance were to occur.
The ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, is also gearing up for a tough fight. Sanjay Nirupam of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has demanded 90-100 seats for his party, emphasizing that the Mayor should be from the Mahayuti alliance.
Political analysts suggest that the BMC polls will be an "acid test" for the Thackeray cousins and the MVA. The reunification of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray is expected to significantly impact the elections, with a focus on Marathi voters. However, some experts caution that relying solely on the Thackeray name may not be enough to secure victory.
