Will Congress Contest BMC Elections Independently?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala declares that the party will contest the upcoming BMC elections alone. This decision comes amid concerns over potential alliances threatening the party's values and voter base. Discover why Congress is taking a stand and what it means for Mumbai's future.
Key Takeaways
- Congress to contest BMC elections independently.
- Ramesh Chennithala criticizes current governance.
- Opposition to Shiv Sena-MNS alliance due to ideological conflicts.
- Focus on rising pollution, healthcare, and corruption issues.
- Manifesto and chargesheet to be released soon.
Mumbai, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Congress party's Maharashtra in-charge, Ramesh Chennithala, revealed on Saturday that the party aims to contest the forthcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections independently.
Chennithala emphasized that the Congress is ready to confront both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its regional partner, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray).
The main catalyst for this decision in Mumbai is the prospective alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray’s MNS (Maharashtra Navnirman Sena).
Congress has voiced strong objections to the collaboration between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, citing that they cannot partner with MNS due to its hostile approach towards North Indian migrants, which contradicts Congress’s principles and its voter base in Mumbai.
Both Chennithala and Varsha Gaikwad, the President of Mumbai Congress, stated that if Shiv Sena (UBT) pursues an alliance with MNS, Congress will independently contest the BMC elections to safeguard its values and electoral base.
During a meeting to assess the Congress party's preparations for the BMC elections and 28 other civic bodies, Chennithala launched a fierce critique of the municipal corporation's governance over the past four years.
He pointed out that ordinary Mumbaikars are facing significant challenges due to escalating pollution, the deteriorating state of civic hospitals, and widespread corruption.
Chennithala alleged that, despite these pressing issues, the underprivileged have received no assistance from the administration. He held the state government accountable for the failure to conduct civic elections for the last four years.
He accused the government of intentionally sidestepping the electoral process while exerting direct influence over the corporation’s daily operations.
“The government had no intention of facilitating the election process,” Chennithala remarked. He expressed appreciation to the Supreme Court, noting that the elections are taking place solely because of the Court's intervention.
“Without the Supreme Court, another five years would have gone by in the same way,” he added.
As the campaign gears up, Congress has called on “true patriots and secular citizens” to band together.
Chennithala disclosed that the party will soon unveil a manifesto for the city, along with a ‘chargesheet’ detailing the shortcomings of the current administration.
He asserted that the Congress would guarantee that the BMC operates competently and effectively for the residents of Mumbai.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the implications of Ramesh Chennithala's decision to contest the BMC elections independently. This move reflects a critical stance against potential alliances that may not resonate with Congress's core voter base. It will be interesting to observe how this impacts the party's performance in the upcoming elections and the overall political dynamics in Maharashtra.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Congress contesting BMC elections independently?
Congress is contesting independently due to concerns over potential alliances with parties that threaten its core values and voter base.
What issues did Ramesh Chennithala highlight?
Chennithala pointed out rising pollution, poor conditions of civic hospitals, and rampant corruption as major issues faced by the common Mumbaikar.
What is the stance of Congress on the Shiv Sena and MNS alliance?
Congress opposes the alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS due to MNS's aggressive stance against North Indian migrants.
How has the Congress party prepared for the elections?
The Congress party is preparing a manifesto and a 'chargesheet' against the current regime's failures in governance.
What does Chennithala say about the electoral process?
Chennithala accused the state government of deliberately avoiding the electoral process and expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for intervening.
