Amid discussions over alliances for the upcoming Mumbai civic polls, Congress leader Bhai Jagtap has said that the party should consider contesting the elections independently. Speaking to reporters, Jagtap stated, “I’m not the only one saying this — the Political Affairs Committee also believes Congress should fight alone. This is a fight between the workers, and our view has been presented to the top leadership. In Congress, the final decision always rests with the top leadership.”
#WATCH | Mumbai | On Mumbai civic polls, Congress leader Bhai Jagtap says, “I`m not the only one saying this (that Congress should contest the polls alone). Our Political Affairs Committee also says that this is a fight between the workers and Congress should fight alone… We… pic.twitter.com/DJR6LmWwBB
— ANI (@ANI) October 22, 2025
Responding to Jagtap’s remarks, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar acknowledged his openness to listening to party workers. “He has a good habit of listening to his cadre. His suggestion reflects what he currently feels is right. At the moment, he believes Congress should not ally with Uddhav Thackeray, especially since Raj Thackeray is also supporting him,” she said. Pednekar added that Jagtap hasn`t rejected anyone outright but has spoken like a leader focused on boosting worker morale.
#WATCH | Mumbai | On Congress leader Bhai Jagtap`s statement that Congress should contest Mumbai civic polls alone, Shiv Sena-UBT leader Kishori Pednekar says, “… He has a good habit of listening to party workers. His proposal is based on what he feels… Right now, he feels… pic.twitter.com/VyAywWls4M
— ANI (@ANI) October 22, 2025
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde defends RSS, calls curb attempts `unfortunate`
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday criticised recent efforts to restrict the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling them “unfortunate” and “condemnable.” Speaking to reporters during Diwali celebrations in Thane, Shinde defended the RSS, describing it as a patriotic organisation committed to public service.
Shinde said, “The RSS is a staunchly nationalist organisation that always steps forward in times of national crisis.”
His remarks come shortly after the Karnataka cabinet proposed rules that could limit RSS events in public places and on roads. In a separate development, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai claimed the RSS was involved in anti-national activities and wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding a ban on the organisation.
Shinde, who also heads a faction of the Shiv Sena, said such moves to curb the RSS were politically motivated and disrespected the organisation’s contributions.
On the political front, Shinde expressed confidence that the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance would win the upcoming civic elections in Maharashtra. The coalition includes the BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP.
“We secured major victories in the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. The saffron flag of Mahayuti will also fly high in local body elections,” he said.
Shinde attributed the alliance’s continued popularity to the success of welfare schemes like the ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana’, which offers monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,500 to eligible women. He reassured that the scheme, launched during his tenure as Chief Minister, will continue and won’t be scrapped.
