Maha Civic Polls: Is BJP's Alliance with AIMIM in Akot a Game Changer?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, BJP's recent alliances with Congress in Ambernath and AIMIM in Akot have stirred political dynamics. These unexpected partnerships raise questions about the future of local governance and the implications for broader political messaging.
Key Takeaways
- BJP forms unexpected alliances with Congress and AIMIM.
- New coalition dynamics in Akot and Ambernath.
- Critics question the contradiction in the BJP's local and national messaging.
- Coalition includes multiple political factions.
- Implications for future political strategies in Maharashtra.
Akola/Thane, Jan 7 (NationPress) The political landscape is witnessing unexpected coalitions. Following a partnership with its historical competitor, the Congress, to gain control over the Ambernath Municipal Council from the Shiv Sena, the BJP has now formed a surprising alliance with the AIMIM, led by Asaduddin Owaisi, in Akot to secure dominance over the Municipal Council there.
In Akot, the BJP’s Maya Dhule was elected as President, despite the party not achieving a majority in the 35-member council. Out of the 33 seats contested last month, the BJP secured only 11. To address this shortfall, the party initiated a new coalition called the Akot Vikas Manch to consolidate support.
In a move that has stirred debate in political circles, the AIMIM, which won five seats and was the main competitor to the BJP in the elections, has allied with the BJP-led coalition. This coalition also includes both factions of the Shiv Sena (Shinde and UBT), both factions of the NCP (Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar), and Bacchu Kadu’s Prahar Janshakti Party.
BJP corporator Ravi Thakur has been named as the group leader, and a directive has been issued for alliance members to vote according to the BJP's instructions.
This coalition now holds the backing of 25 councillors, along with the President, increasing its effective strength to 26 in the 33-member assembly. The Congress (6) and the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (2) will serve as the opposition.
The final breakdown of the 33 elected seats in Akot is as follows: BJP 11, Congress 6, AIMIM 5, Prahar Janshakti Party 3, Shiv Sena (UBT) 2, NCP (Ajit Pawar) 2, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi 2, Shiv Sena (Shinde) 1, and NCP (Sharad Pawar) 1.
This new alliance in Akot has ignited controversy, especially given the BJP’s previous high-profile campaign “Batenge toh Katenge” during the Assembly elections, with critics highlighting the inconsistency between their slogan and their collaboration with the AIMIM.
A similar political maneuvering occurred in the Ambernath Municipal Council in the Thane district. In a setback for the state-level ally, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the BJP reached an agreement with the Congress to maintain control over the civic body.
In the 60-member Ambernath council, the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena emerged as the largest party with 27 seats, followed by the BJP with 14, Congress with 12, NCP (Ajit Pawar) with 4, and three independents. By aligning with the Congress, NCP, and two independents, the BJP managed to form a working majority of 32 seats, allowing them to capture the President’s position and relegating the Shinde faction to the opposition. Even with the support of one independent, the Shiv Sena fell short at 28.
Although the BJP has been advocating for a “Congress-mukt Bharat” nationally, the local unit has opted for Congress support to retain power, which has sparked noticeable discontent within the MahaYuti alliance.
Now, all eyes are on how these “unnatural” alliances will function in practice and how BJP leadership reconciles these local strategies with its overarching political narrative.
Point of View
The recent alliances formed by the BJP with Congress and AIMIM reveal the party's tactical adaptability in the face of changing political landscapes. While these moves may seem contradictory to their national rhetoric, they highlight the importance of local governance dynamics. Such pragmatism could influence future electoral strategies and alliances across the country.
NationPress
11/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the BJP to ally with Congress and AIMIM?
The BJP's alliances with Congress in Ambernath and AIMIM in Akot were driven by the need to secure control over local municipal councils, despite historical rivalries.
How many seats did BJP secure in the Akot Municipal Council?
In the Akot Municipal Council elections, the BJP secured 11 out of 33 contested seats.
What is the significance of the Akot Vikas Manch?
The Akot Vikas Manch was formed by the BJP to consolidate support and bridge the gap resulting from their lack of majority in the Akot Municipal Council.
What are the implications of these alliances for the BJP's political narrative?
These alliances may challenge the BJP's broader political messaging, particularly their campaign for a 'Congress-mukt Bharat,' raising questions about their local governance strategies.
Who are the key political figures involved in these alliances?
Key figures include Maya Dhule from the BJP, Asaduddin Owaisi from AIMIM, and various leaders from Congress and Shiv Sena factions.
