Wed Jan 07 08:02:30 UTC 2026: ### Maharashtra BJP Faces Internal Dissent Over Post-Poll Alliances with Rivals

The Story:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Maharashtra is grappling with internal discord after some local leaders forged post-poll alliances with rival parties, including the Indian National Congress (Congress) and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), in various municipal councils. These alliances, formed after civic elections in December 2025, directly contradict the party’s established policy and have drawn criticism from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has vowed to take action against those involved. The alliances have occurred despite the BJP being part of the ruling Mahayuti government in the state, alongside the NCP and Shiv Sena.

The most prominent example is the “Ambernath Vikas Aghadi” in the Ambernath Municipal Council, where the BJP, Congress, and NCP joined forces, sidelining the Shiv Sena, which had emerged as the single largest party. A similar alliance, “Akot Vikas Manch,” was formed in Akot, Akola district, involving the BJP, AIMIM, and various other parties. These alliances have triggered a political storm, raising questions about the BJP‘s commitment to its stated ideologies and its ability to maintain discipline within its ranks.

Key Points:

  • The BJP formed post-poll alliances with the Congress and the NCP in the Ambernath Municipal Council, calling it “Ambernath Vikas Aghadi.”
  • A similar alliance, “Akot Vikas Manch,” was formed in the Akot Municipal Council with the AIMIM and other parties.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has condemned these alliances, stating they were not approved by senior leadership and violate organizational discipline.
  • BJP councillor Tejashree Karanjule Patil was elected the Ambernath Municipal Council president.
  • The BJP won 11 seats in the 35-member Akot council and formed an alliance to reach a strength of 25.

Key Takeaways:

  • The events highlight the pragmatic approach taken by some local BJP leaders, prioritizing local power dynamics over strict adherence to national party ideology.
  • These alliances expose potential rifts within the BJP and the Mahayuti government, suggesting a struggle between central directives and local autonomy.
  • The alliances offer valuable insights into the fluidity of Indian politics at the local level, where unexpected partnerships can emerge based on specific regional needs and calculations.

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