Mumbai: After a significant loss in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) faces increasing pressure from its cadre to reconsider its alliance with the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ahead of the local body elections. Sources suggest that during a recent meeting of party candidates who lost in the polls, Thackeray acknowledged the need to reassess whether continuing with MVA is in the party’s best interests or if a more independent approach could yield better results.
Ambadas Danve, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, revealed that there is a growing sentiment within Shiv Sena (UBT) for contesting the upcoming elections independently. “Rebuilding our party and strengthening its base is key, irrespective of our past electoral outcomes,” Danve stated. He emphasized that the party’s focus should be on regaining its position rather than relying on the MVA coalition.
The alliance with Congress alienated Hindutva voters, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning only 20 out of 95 contested seats. “Our traditional voters, who align with Hindutva, were confused by our association with Congress,” he commented.
Arvind Sawant, a senior party leader and South Mumbai MP, added that Shiv Sena (UBT) will evaluate the election results and decide whether it would be better to go solo. “In 2014, we secured 63 seats on our own. Our leadership will decide the course of action,” Sawant stated.
The upcoming local body elections, especially in Mumbai, will be critical for the Thackeray faction to regain momentum. BJP and Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) may oppose Shiv Sena (UBT) regaining control, while Congress maintains a neutral stance.If Shiv Sena (UBT) decides to exit, we will react accordingly” .
 faces increasing pressure from its cadre to reconsider its alliance with the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ahead of the local body elections){kind=link}