Mumbai, December 29 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena (UBT) has launched a fierce critique against Congress, accusing it of operating as the 'B-team' for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the lead-up to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections scheduled for January 15.

In an interview with IANS, Anand Dubey, national spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT), asserted that Congress has undermined the Opposition alliance at a pivotal moment.

"Congress is indeed functioning as the B-team of the BJP in Mumbai. They have betrayed our trust. Knowing that the BMC election is of utmost importance, why did they choose to go solo?" he questioned.

Dubey further claimed that Congress had previously benefitted from the support of Shiv Sena but subsequently abandoned the coalition.

"Prior to 2019, Congress was already struggling. We provided them a lifeline, allowing them to stay afloat. Once they regained stability, they seized our resources and departed. Congress has exploited our legacy and the Thackeray brand. They will find it impossible to secure any seats in Mumbai, likely ending up in single digits," he emphasized.

Continuing his onslaught, Dubey pointed out the lack of genuine organizational strength within Congress in Mumbai.

"We do not anticipate Congress winning more than a seat or two in the Municipal Corporation elections as they lack real strength in the city. Congress in Mumbai resembles a tourist party, coming and going without making an impact. We believe Amit Shah is right in saying that Rahul Gandhi still faces significant challenges ahead," he elaborated.

Dubey also criticized AIMIM leader Waris Pathan, accusing him of serving as a B-team for the BJP and reiterated that the Shiv Sena (UBT) is committed to ensuring a Marathi Hindu mayor occupies the top position in the BMC.

His statements were a response to Pathan's suggestion that a woman in a hijab could be elected as mayor.

In reaction to Pathan's comments, Dubey remarked, "Waris Pathan is acting as the BJP's B-team. His remarks at this time are quite unfortunate. The people of Mumbai know that the Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) will secure the mayoralty, and that person will be a Marathi Hindu. If Pathan is so fond of burqas and Muslims, he should consider moving to neighboring countries where such sentiments are more accepted, as he would likely find electoral success there."

Election day for 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, is set for a single phase on January 15, 2026, with results to be announced on January 16.