Is Shiv Sena (UBT) Planning to Go Solo in the Next Local Body Elections?

Amid growing speculation about the future of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, questions are rising about whether Shiv Sena (UBT) plans to contest the upcoming municipal corporation elections independently. This comes after the alliance's underwhelming performance in the recent assembly elections, where it secured only 47 seats collectively, raising doubts about the coalition's effectiveness.

Shiv Sena (UBT) has recently signaled increasing ideological differences with Congress, further fueling the speculation. Speaking to the media, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut hinted that the party could contest the elections on its own. “Till now, local body elections have not been contested as part of an alliance or coalition. If any party wants to fight the upcoming municipal corporation elections solo to boost the confidence of its workers, they can do so. Nobody will stop them,” Raut said.

This statement comes amid rising tensions within the MVA. On December 6, a social media post by Congress leader Narvekar on the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition further added to the strain within the coalition.

Adding to the political intrigue, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray recently tweeted about the Maharashtra-Belgaum issue. “We are unanimously ready to support the proposal to make Belgaum a Union Territory for the rightful justice of the Marathi people. Additionally, a letter demanding that the state government promptly send this proposal to the central government was handed over to Maharashtra's newly elected Chief Minister, Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, today,” Thackeray tweeted.

In response to Raut’s remarks, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar sought to downplay the situation. “Victory and defeat are part of life; there is no need to feel disheartened. The body language reflects some disappointment. It is an independent party, and raising a slogan as part of their ideology is their right. As an alliance, we are ready to fight together. Regarding Sanjay Raut's stance, we will take a decision once it becomes clear,” Wadettiwar said.

The recent developments have led political observers to speculate that Shiv Sena (UBT) may be preparing to temporarily distance itself from the MVA in order to focus on rebuilding its base, particularly ahead of the crucial local elections.​