"Unacceptable" alliances rock Maharashtra BJP; Fadnavis warns party workers

Mumbai: Maharashtra's recent civic elections have taken an unexpected turn. In some local councils, including Ambernath and Akot, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders teamed up with parties they usually oppose, such as the Congress and AIMIM, to form civic body majorities and secure leadership posts. These post-poll arrangements have caused a political stir within the party. 

Why is BJP's leadership upset?

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday described the alliances as "unacceptable." He said the BJP's core position has always been against tying up with the Congress or AIMIM. 

"The BJP can never form an alliance with the Congress or the AIMIM. Such alliances are unacceptable and will not be tolerated," Fadnavis said.

According to Fadnavis, these decisions were taken by local leaders without approval from the state or national leadership and go against party discipline. 

He warned that strict action will follow if these alliances are not undone.

What exactly did Fadnavis say?

Fadnavis told reporters that any understanding with the Congress or AIMIM is a serious breach of organisational rules. He said the instructions had already been given to reverse such arrangements, and leaders responsible could face party action. The BJP, he added, can never formally align with its traditional opponents. 

"If any local BJP leaders have entered into alliances with these parties (AIMIM, Congress) without approval, it is a serious breach of party discipline and strict action will be taken," he said.

Where did these alliances form?

In Ambernath Municipal Council, the BJP joined hands with the Congress and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction under a local group to win a majority of seats and elect their candidate as council president. In Akot (Akola district), the BJP formed a coalition with the AIMIM and others to control the civic body. 

How are other parties reacting?

The moves have drawn criticism from political rivals. Leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT) called the alliances opportunistic, accusing the BJP of ignoring “coalition dharma” and its own national stance against the Congress just to stay in power locally. 

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut accused the BJP of opportunism, saying the party was willing to align with anyone to grab power.