Mumbai: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has stated that his "flexible" approach to politics is not for personal gain, but rather guided by principles. This declaration comes on the heels of MNS corporators extending their support to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC).

The KDMC election yielded a fractured verdict, with the Shiv Sena securing 53 seats and the BJP trailing closely with 50 seats in the 122-member corporation. The majority mark required to form the government is 62. The MNS won 5 seats, while the Shiv Sena (UBT) secured 11, Congress 2, and NCP-SP 1. With neither the Shiv Sena nor the BJP able to reach a majority on their own, post-poll alliances became essential.

The MNS's decision to support the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has fueled speculation and debate within Maharashtra's political circles. This move is particularly noteworthy as the MNS contested the civic elections against the ruling Mahayuti coalition, which includes the Shiv Sena. The support from the MNS increases Shiv Sena's chances of securing a majority in the KDMC.

MNS leader Raju Patil met with Shiv Sena MPs Shrikant Shinde and Naresh Mhaske, preceding the formal announcement of support to the Shinde-led Sena. Dr. Shrikant Shinde affirmed that despite this development, the alliance between Shiv Sena and BJP remains intact.

Raj Thackeray's recent statement emphasizing that his flexible political stance would never be for selfish interests comes in the wake of this alliance. The MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) had previously contested civic polls in an alliance, which was formed after Raj Thackeray reconciled with his cousin Uddhav Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT). This recent move has therefore raised questions about the durability of the MNS's alliance with the Shiv Sena (UBT) across Maharashtra and whether it was a move to keep the BJP out of power in the civic body.

Avinash Jadhav, an MNS leader, initially stated that final clearance from Raj Thackeray was pending. The recent developments suggest that clearance has been granted, leading to the MNS's support for the Shinde-led Shiv Sena in the KDMC.

With the MNS's support, the Shiv Sena now holds 58 seats, improving its position to form the government. Sources indicate that the Shiv Sena will likely dictate terms regarding the selection of the mayor candidate and chairpersons for key committees within the corporation. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments are expected as the parties work towards securing a majority and establishing governance in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation.