In Mumbai, India, the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) have been facing challenges due to rebels filing nominations for the upcoming assembly polls. Both camps have seen rebels emerge from major parties, leading to clashes in about a dozen seats. The last date for withdrawing candidature is November 4, giving parties time to resolve disputes and convince rebels to withdraw their nominations.
The Shiv Sena, NCP, and Shiv Sena (UBT) have faced confusion over the number of seats shared between them, resulting in candidates from the same alliance filing nominations against each other. The BJP leadership has taken steps to persuade rebels to withdraw their nominations, with senior party leaders assigned the task of resolving disputes and ensuring party unity.
In the MVA coalition, individual parties have been holding meetings to convince rebels to withdraw their candidature and work for the alliance candidate. Despite differences and double claims on constituencies, MVA leaders have emphasized the importance of unity and resolving issues through discussion.
The smaller allies of the MVA, such as the PWP and CPI (M), have also fielded candidates in constituencies claimed by their alliance partners, adding to the complexity of seat-sharing negotiations. However, leaders like MP Sanjay Raut have expressed confidence in resolving the double-claim issue and ensuring unity within the alliance.
While discussions between the three parties are expected to take place after Diwali, efforts are being made to address disputes and prevent a “friendly fight” among alliance members. The focus is on reaching agreements on seat allocations and resolving conflicts to present a united front in the upcoming elections.
Overall, the efforts to control rebels filing nominations and resolve disputes within the Mahayuti and MVA reflect the complexities of coalition politics and the challenges of maintaining unity among alliance partners. As the parties continue to engage in discussions and negotiations, the outcome of these efforts will determine the strength and stability of the alliances in the upcoming assembly polls.
