The shifting political dynamics in Maharashtra have complicated the Congress party's position. Previously, in the state, Congress was part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance alongside Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction).
Maharashtra Election: Maharashtra's politics are once again witnessing turmoil. The growing closeness between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has raised questions about the equations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the India alliance in the state. The signals of Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray coming together could deliver the biggest blow to the Congress, which has been a crucial part of these alliances.
No need for MVA in local elections: Sanjay Raut
On July 10, 2025, senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated that the India alliance was formed for the Lok Sabha elections and the Maha Vikas Aghadi for the Assembly elections. He clearly said that these alliances are not needed in local body elections. Raut further stated, "The public wants Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray to come together for Marathi pride and the development of Maharashtra." This statement came at a time when talks of a rift between Congress and Shiv Sena were emerging.
Congress's reaction: A restrained response
The Maharashtra Congress has responded with restraint to Sanjay Raut's statement. Former state Congress president Nana Patole said, "I do not want to comment on Sanjay Raut's statements." Patole further added that the role of local workers and leaders is important in local body elections. These elections should not be viewed like national alliances.
Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan also stated in a statement to PTI that it would not be surprising if the Congress decides to contest the Mumbai and other municipal elections in Maharashtra alone.
Thackeray brothers share a stage on July 5
Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray appeared together on a stage on July 5, where both leaders participated in a cultural program on the 'Hindi language issue.' Uddhav Thackeray openly stated there that he and Raj Thackeray could contest the upcoming elections together. NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MP Supriya Sule was also present on this stage, but the absence of Congress raised several questions.
The Congress's stance is clear that it wants to maintain distance from Raj Thackeray's aggressive politics. The MNS's history is known for its aggressive stance against Hindi-speaking North Indians, which could affect the Congress's inclusive image. In such a scenario, if Uddhav Thackeray forms an alliance with the MNS, the Congress may be forced to take a separate path in the local body elections.
