In a surprising turn of events in Maharashtra politics, Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has extended its support to Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena in the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC). This tactical move comes as alliances take a backseat, reshaping the political landscape of the region. The decision is particularly noteworthy considering the long-standing rivalry between Shinde and Raj Thackeray, and the fact that Shinde is a political opponent of Uddhav Thackeray, Raj's cousin and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT).
The KDMC elections recently concluded with Shiv Sena emerging as the single largest party with 53 corporators, followed closely by the BJP with 50 seats. The Shiv Sena (UBT) secured 11 seats, while the MNS won five. With 122 seats in the corporation, a majority of 61 is required to form the government. The MNS's support brings Shiv Sena's total to 58, improving their chances of reaching a majority.
This alliance is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it potentially sidelines the BJP in the KDMC power equation. With the combined strength of Shinde's Shiv Sena and the MNS, the need for BJP's support diminishes, possibly thwarting the BJP's ambition to install one of their leaders as the Mayor of KDMC. Secondly, it deals a blow to Uddhav Thackeray, as Raj Thackeray chooses to support his rival. Thirdly, it highlights the fluid nature of political alliances in Maharashtra, where traditional party lines are increasingly blurred in favor of local-level strategies.
According to sources, five MNS corporators have declared their support for Shiv Sena in the KDMC. Local MNS leader and former MLA Raju Patil stated that the decision was taken at the local level to facilitate developmental work. Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, son of Eknath Shinde, confirmed the alliance, emphasizing that it was aimed at the development of KDMC. He also clarified that the alliance with the BJP remains intact, and discussions regarding the Mayor candidate and other key positions would be finalized jointly by Eknath Shinde and BJP's state president Ravindra Chavan.
The move has sparked reactions from various political factions. Sanjay Raut, a leader from Shiv Sena (UBT), expressed his displeasure, stating that anyone who joins hands with the "traitors" (referring to the Shinde-led Sena) would also be considered a traitor. He had met with Raj Thackeray to convey his unhappiness. Speculation is rife that more corporators from the Uddhav Thackeray faction might switch sides, further solidifying the Shinde-led alliance.
This development underscores a growing trend in Maharashtra politics, where local alliances are taking precedence over established party affiliations. The focus seems to be shifting towards addressing local development issues and securing power at the municipal level, even if it means aligning with former rivals. As Maharashtra gears up for future elections, these evolving alliances are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the state's political landscape.
