Will Uddhav and Raj Thackeray's 20-Year Alliance Shape the 2026 BMC Elections?

The recent political reunion of the Thackeray cousins marks a significant moment in Maharashtra's political landscape as they unite to challenge the BJP in the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The alliance between Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) aims to consolidate their support, drawing on their shared heritage and the historical fight for Marathi identity.

Last updated: 26 December 2025 (BST)

What’s happening now

On 24 December 2025, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray held a joint press conference in Worli, announcing their alliance ahead of the BMC elections scheduled for 15 January 2026. This reunion is viewed as a turning point in Maharashtra politics, particularly as the two cousins have maintained a rivalry for over two decades. Sanjay Raut of the Shiv Sena (UBT) described the event as historic, emphasising that their joint efforts are aimed at safeguarding the interests of Maharashtra and its people.

Key takeaways

The Thackeray cousins announced a political alliance to contest the BMC elections.
Uddhav Thackeray described the alliance as a safeguard for Maharashtra, reminiscent of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement.
Details on seat-sharing arrangements for the 227 municipal seats have yet to be disclosed.

Timeline: how we got here

The rivalry between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray traces back to 2005 when Raj left the Shiv Sena, citing feelings of being sidelined. He subsequently founded the MNS in 2006, advocating for Marathi interests. Here’s a brief timeline of significant events leading to the recent reunion:

1966: Shiv Sena founded by Balasaheb Thackeray, focusing on the rights of Marathi speakers.
2005: Raj Thackeray departs from Shiv Sena.
2006: Raj establishes the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).
2012: MNS wins 27 seats in the Mumbai civic polls, marking its peak.
2025: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray announce their alliance for the BMC elections.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most significant development is the announcement of the alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS. This collaboration aims to present a united front against the BJP, which has been dominant in the BMC. The emotional nature of the press conference and the presence of the entire Thackeray family further underscored the importance of this reunion.

What was already established

The Thackeray cousins have a long history of rivalry, with Raj Thackeray's departure from Shiv Sena in 2005 leading to the formation of MNS. Both parties have previously contested elections separately, with varying degrees of success, particularly in Mumbai's municipal politics.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the direct impact on UK consumers and households is minimal, the political dynamics in Maharashtra can have indirect effects, particularly in terms of trade and investment ties with the UK. A stable political environment in Maharashtra is crucial for businesses operating internationally.

Businesses and jobs

The alliance could influence the business landscape in Mumbai, which is a significant economic hub. A change in municipal governance may affect regulations, local taxes, and business operations, thus affecting job creation and economic stability.

Policy and regulation

The outcome of the BMC elections could lead to shifts in local policies regarding urban development, infrastructure, and public services. If the alliance succeeds, it may implement new policies that align with their political agendas, impacting various sectors.

Numbers that matter

227: Total number of municipal seats in the BMC up for election.
135: Estimated number of wards the Shiv Sena (UBT) may contest.
80: Estimated number of wards the MNS could field candidates in.
10-12: Number of seats possibly offered to the NCP-SP alliance if they join.

Definitions and jargon buster

BMC: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the governing civic body of Mumbai.
MNS: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, a regional political party in Maharashtra founded by Raj Thackeray.
Shiv Sena: A regional political party in Maharashtra, originally founded to advocate for the rights of Marathi speakers.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the elections approach, the focus will be on finalising the seat-sharing arrangements between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, along with campaigning strategies to mobilise their voter bases.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-elections, the newly elected body will need to address municipal governance challenges, including infrastructure, public safety, and economic recovery initiatives in the wake of the pandemic.

Signals to watch

Any announcements regarding seat-sharing between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS.
Voter turnout trends in the lead-up to the elections.
Polling data reflecting public sentiment towards the alliance.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the political developments and candidate announcements.
Engage with local community discussions regarding the elections.
Consider the implications of municipal policies on your daily life.

Don’t

Don’t ignore the potential for changes in local governance.
Don’t rely solely on social media for information; seek out reputable news sources.
Don’t overlook the importance of voting in local elections.

Checklist

Understand the candidates standing in your local ward.
Research the key issues at stake in the BMC elections.
Engage with local political events or forums.
Prepare to vote early and know your polling station.
Discuss the implications of the election outcome with peers.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the alliance between the Thackeray cousins presents a united front, uncertainties remain regarding the actual implementation of their plans, seat-sharing dynamics, and voter response. The potential for internal dissent or shifts in public opinion could also impact the effectiveness of their campaign.

Bottom line

The alliance between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray represents a significant shift in Maharashtra politics ahead of the BMC elections. This reunion not only aims to challenge the BJP's dominance but also seeks to unify Marathi identity and interests. As the elections approach, the political landscape will be closely watched, with potential implications for governance in Mumbai and beyond.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Thackeray cousins' alliance?

The alliance is significant as it marks the end of a two-decade rivalry and aims to consolidate votes against the BJP in the upcoming BMC elections.

How many seats are contested in the BMC elections?

There are a total of 227 municipal seats in the BMC elections, which are set to take place on 15 January 2026.

What impact could the alliance have on local governance?

If successful, the alliance could lead to changes in local policies regarding infrastructure, public services, and economic development in Mumbai.