Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday clarified that his party’s decision to contest local body polls solo is aimed at strengthening its grassroots base and does not signal a break in the opposition INDIA bloc or the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
Speaking to reporters, Raut explained, “The MVA was formed for assembly polls and the INDIA bloc for Lok Sabha elections. Local body elections are meant to empower party workers and strengthen the organisation at the grassroots level. I or my party have never called for the dissolution of these alliances.”
Raut’s earlier remarks about the lack of opportunities for workers in alliances sparked speculation about opposition unity. However, he maintained that his comments were misconstrued. “Congress leaders should listen to my full statement before reacting. Strengthening the ‘flaming torch’ symbol at the grassroots is our priority,” he said.
Opposition’s strategy amid state challenges
Raut emphasized the importance of MVA allies working at the booth level to rebuild their organizational strength, especially after their setback in the November 2024 Maharashtra assembly polls. The ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a commanding 230 out of 288 seats, reducing the MVA’s tally to 46.
Meanwhile, Raut criticized NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar’s recent discussions with Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis over the unrest in Beed and Parbhani. He accused the government of failing to deliver justice in the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh and the death of Somnath Suryavanshi.
The killings, which have triggered protests and fears of caste conflict in the state, continue to dominate Maharashtra’s political discourse.