Mahayuti Alliance to Face ‘Friendly Fights’ on Select Seats: CM Fadnavis

Quick Summary

• Maharashtra Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the mahayuti alliance will contest upcoming local polls together where feasible, while “friendly contests” may occur in other constituencies.
• The announcement was made during a meeting with BJP leaders in Wardha district on July 28, 2025.
• Mr. Fadnavis stated that the BJP is prepared for elections, dismissing opposition narratives as false and claiming they cannot compete on development issues.
• Following a Supreme Court directive issued on May 6 to conduct local body elections within four weeks, preparations began for polls delayed due to litigation over OBC reservation concerns.
• The election process has started for 29 municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Mr. Fadnavis expressed confidence that Mumbai’s Mayor would belong to the Mahayuti alliance regardless of whether Thackeray brothers contest together or separately.
• He criticized opposition behavior regarding “Operation Sindoor,” labeling it as a “shoot and scoot” strategy aimed at avoiding discussion.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The announcement by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis signals strategic planning within the ruling Mahayuti coalition ahead of Maharashtra’s local body elections. Coordination between parties in areas deemed suitable showcases an effort toward unity while allowing versatility with “friendly contests.” This approach could help optimize electoral outcomes while mitigating internal disagreements among allies.

The directive from the Supreme Court has reignited political activity following delays linked to OBC reservation litigation. Resuming these crucial elections-especially for major civic bodies like Mumbai’s BMC-ensures democratic processes continue despite prior legal challenges. With all parties ramping up their preparations and rhetoric intensifying regarding issues like Operation Sindoor, Maharashtra’s political landscape is poised for complex competition centered around governance records and public sentiment.

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Image credit: PTI