The ruling BJP and Shinde group have decided to come together to form a grand alliance for the municipal elections in the state. Although the time for filing nominations is near, there is no clarity on the seats contested by both parties. While seat allocation in Mumbai and Thane is almost decided, there are still disagreements over some seats. In Pune, dissatisfaction is growing within the Shinde group against the BJP, while in Nashik, the entry of new members into the BJP has created a dilemma. This has delayed the announcement of the grand alliance.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the grand alliance is already prepared, so there is no need for an official announcement. BJP and Shinde faction are together and everything is smooth.
27 seats deadlock in Mumbai
In Mumbai, BJP will field candidates in 140 seats and Shinde faction in 87 seats. Both parties have agreed on 200 seats, but there are still disagreements on 27 seats.
Strain in NCP in Pune
In Pune, there have been disagreements over seat allocation between two factions of the NCP. Ajit Pawar's faction demanded 35 seats and to contest on the clock symbol, but Sharad Pawar's faction did not agree.
BJP Firm in Kalyan-Dombivli
BJP has shown readiness to leave 83 seats in Kalyan-Dombivli, but the Shinde group has set a condition to give the mayoral position to BJP. If this condition is not accepted, BJP is considering contesting independently.
BJP Displeased in Thane
BJP had demanded 55 seats in Thane, but the Shinde group has shown readiness to give 45 seats to BJP. This has caused dissatisfaction among BJP's local leaders.
Allegations Against Shinde Group
BJP leaders Neelam Gore and Nana Bhangire have accused the Shinde group of distributing tickets in a "commercial manner," which led to Shinde group's workers protesting outside Dr. Neelam Gore's house.