Mumbai, Jan 21 (NationPress) The Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra is facing a notable rise in internal discord as Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena seems to be employing a complex dual strategy to assert its influence over the BJP in local civic administrations. The latest political maneuvers in the Kalyan-Dombivli and Ulhasnagar municipal corporations have created waves within the ruling coalition, leading Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to adopt a cautious wait-and-watch approach.

In a surprising turn of events, Shinde's Shiv Sena has garnered support from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in Kalyan-Dombivli, effectively marginalizing the BJP.

With a consolidation of 62 seats, the Shinde faction is poised to exercise power independently of its senior partner, the BJP. This shift not only sidelines the BJP but also presents a strategic setback for Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT).

Similar strategies are being implemented in Ulhasnagar. Under the guidance of Shinde Sena MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde, the party is actively courting independent corporators and two members from the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA). With both the BJP and Shinde Sena currently tied at 37 seats each, Shinde is aiming for the crucial 40-seat mark to elect a Shiv Sena Mayor, potentially leaving the BJP sidelined.

Political analysts believe these actions are a direct response to recent developments in Ambernath and Badlapur. In Ambernath, the BJP allegedly collaborated with Congress corporators to secure the presidency, excluding the Shinde faction. In retaliation, Shinde partnered with Ajit Pawar's NCP for the vice-presidency. The recent assertive moves in KDMC are viewed as a strategic response to the BJP’s previous actions.

Reacting to Shinde Sena’s maneuvers, BJP leader Pravin Darekar issued a stern reminder about the party's strength. “The BJP is a large organization deeply rooted in the populace. Political games played by leaders are secondary to us,” he noted. He added a pointed caution: “Maharashtra knows the implications when Devendra Fadnavis makes a move. If he could politically outmaneuver Sharad Pawar, others should think carefully before engaging against him.”

The unfolding drama has also attracted comments from the opposition. Sanjay Raut, a leader from Shiv Sena (UBT), characterized the developments in Kalyan-Dombivli as unfortunate while hinting at future consequences for the Shinde-MNS alliance.

“Ultimately, power in Maharashtra lies with Devendra Fadnavis. If he disapproves of these developments, those participating in this support drama may soon encounter significant repercussions (sase-mira),” Raut warned.

As Mahayuti partners continue to vie for dominance ahead of critical local elections, Devendra Fadnavis' wait-and-watch strategy indicates that the BJP may be gearing up for a counter-move. Currently, Eknath Shinde’s dual strategy of localized alliances has effectively placed the BJP on the defensive, marking a new chapter of pressure tactics within the ruling coalition.

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)