BMC Election: Mumbai politics once again seems to be moving towards a big change. After almost a decade of political distance, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are preparing to come together for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The ongoing talks between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) are indicating that the Thackeray brothers may contest the upcoming BMC elections as a united front.
What is the ‘MaMu’ factor?
The ‘MaMu’ factor is considered to be the center of the strategy of this possible alliance. ‘MaMu’ means Marathi-Muslim equation. This social balance has been playing a decisive role in Mumbai politics for a long time. Under the plan, special attention will be given to Marathi dominated areas as well as Muslim dominated wards, so that joint support of both the communities can be achieved.
Which wards will be the special focus?
Out of the total 227 BMC seats in Mumbai, about 72 wards are considered Marathi dominated, while in 41 wards Muslim voters play a decisive role. Strategists believe that this equation proved beneficial for Shiv Sena (UBT) in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The party had the benefit of minority and local support in areas like Govandi, Mankhurd, Byculla and Mahim.
Seat sharing formula and constraints
According to preliminary talks, Shiv Sena (UBT) may contest on 140 to 150 seats, while MNS is likely to get 60 to 70 seats. However, the seat distribution is stuck in four major Marathi bastions – Worli, Dadar-Mahim, Sivri and Vikhroli-Bhandup. MNS is staking claim in these areas, whereas these areas are currently considered to be under the influence of Uddhav Thackeray’s party.
division of responsibilities
The roles in the alliance strategy also seem to be clear. While Uddhav Thackeray will fulfill the responsibility of keeping the minority vote bank simple, Raj Thackeray will work to energize the Marathi voters. There is a preparation to bring the issue of Marathi identity and ‘Marathi Manus’ back to the center through Raj Thackeray’s aggressive speeches.
show of strength through joint rallies
According to sources, Thackeray brothers may hold three joint rallies in Mumbai to show their unity. Through these rallies, the message will be given that the contest in BMC elections is directly between ‘Thackeray vs Mahayuti’. It is believed that there will be an important meeting between the two leaders in the next 48 hours, after which the alliance and joint election strategy can be formally announced.
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