With buzz growing around a potential Shiv Sena (UBT)–MNS alliance, the Congress has decided to gear up for the 2025 BMC elections with an independent strategy, sources confirm.
While Sena (UBT) eyes a tie-up with Raj Thackeray’s MNS, Congress leaders in Mumbai say they can’t afford to wait. “Whether they go solo or align with MNS, we have to be ready with our own roadmap,” said a senior Mumbai Congress leader.
A key meeting held on May 13 in Delhi saw high drama as internal differences surfaced, particularly over MRCC chief Varsha Gaikwad’s leadership. Her focus on Dharavi, where her sister contested the Assembly polls, drew criticism from several city leaders.
Attended by Rahul Gandhi, Kharge, Chennithala, and Venugopal, the meeting reflected growing unease within the party. Despite criticism, Gaikwad found backing from Kharge and Chennithala, sources said.
The Congress doesn’t want to break from the Maha Vikas Aghadi but is now leaning towards contesting alone, even while remaining part of the alliance in principle. The central leadership remains cautious and non-committal but has asked Mumbai leaders to stay prepared.
As Mumbai heads into a critical civic battle, the Congress appears determined to reclaim lost ground—even if it means going solo.
