Sharad Pawar signals MVA alliance for upcoming civic polls

Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Friday (June 20, 2025) indicated that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance partners — comprising the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, Shetkari Kamgar Paksh, and other parties — will deliberate on contesting the upcoming civic elections in Maharashtra together.

“Though formal discussions with the Congress are pending, we intend to explore a united front for the polls. A final decision will be taken soon,” he said.

The Supreme Court has directed the State to conduct municipal elections, and the process is expected to commence shortly.

When asked about a joint MVA strategy for Mumbai’s civic polls, Mr. Pawar clarified that no discussions had taken place yet but acknowledged Shiv Sena (UBT)’s stronghold in the city. “Their opinion will be crucial,” he added.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), once dominated by the undivided Shiv Sena for over two decades, is currently under administrator rule.