A political row has broken out in Mumbai ahead of the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections following a statement by Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap, reported the IANS.
Jagtap declared that the Congress would contest the polls independently, effectively ruling out any alliance with Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) or Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT).
His remarks sparked sharp reactions from political allies, prompting the Congress to issue a clarification, stating that the comments reflected Jagtap’s “personal opinion” and that no official decision had yet been made. Jagtap claimed that the matter had been discussed in a recent meeting with Maharashtra Congress in-charge Ramesh Chennithala, but admitted that no formal announcement had been issued by the party, according to the IANS.
Mumbai Regional Congress Committee (MRCC) President and MP Varsha Gaikwad responded to the controversy, stressing that the final decision regarding the BMC elections would be made by the party`s top leadership.
“Jagtap’s statement is his personal view. The high command will decide whether to contest alone or in alliance. Once the leadership gives the directive, we will abide by it,” Gaikwad told reporters, as per the IANS.
She further emphasised party discipline, noting, “Every party leader is entitled to an opinion, but we must follow organisational protocol. I am speaking in my capacity as Mumbai President, and the official stance will be communicated in due course.”
The Shiv Sena (UBT) also took exception to Jagtap’s remarks. Party MP Arvind Sawant questioned his authority to make such pronouncements, saying, “Bhai Jagtap is neither the President of Mumbai Congress nor Maharashtra Congress. Though he is my friend, I am unaware of his current role in the party. He must clarify his position before issuing such statements.”
“Only Uddhav Thackeray will decide whether to contest jointly or separately. Everyone must respect his decision,” Sawant added.
Meanwhile, the ruling Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) seized the opportunity to criticise the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), accusing it of sacrificing ideology for political convenience.
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC remarked, “Even if this is their internal matter, the fact is that the Congress has nothing left — their ship has already sunk,” the news agency reported.
She continued, “With this move, Congress has shown MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) their real place. This is classic use-and-throw politics — aligning only when power is at stake, without any ideological commitment. Unlike the opposition, the Mahayuti alliance has never compromised its principles.”
(with IANS inputs)
