Overview The Maharashtra Congress , led by chief Harshwardhan Sapkal , announced on December 25, 2025 , that it is engaged in discussions to form an alliance with Prakash Ambedkar's Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) for the upcoming municipal corporation elections. This development is significant in the context of local body politics and potential shifts in political alliances within Maharashtra. Key Developments Alliance Talks: Discussions are focused on forming an alliance between the Congress and VBA for the municipal corporation elections. Local Leadership Empowerment: Both parties have authorized their local leadership to make decisions regarding the alliance. Meeting at Tilak Bhavan: The decision was announced after a meeting of the Congress state election committee at Tilak Bhavan in Dadar. Candidate Selection: The meeting also addressed candidate selection for 28 municipal corporations (excluding Mumbai), emphasizing social representation. Other Alliances: Discussions are also underway with the Shiv Sena (UBT) , a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and INDI bloc . Mumbai Alliance: Harshwardhan Sapkal is not directly involved in alliance talks for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) . AICC Involvement: AICC secretary U.B. Venkatesh is entrusted with holding discussions with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi . Election Schedule: Polls to 29 municipal corporations , including Mumbai, will be held on January 15, 2026 , with vote counting on January 16, 2026 . UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2: Polity and Governance , specifically concerning local self-government, political alliances, and social justice. Understanding the dynamics of regional political parties and their alliances is crucial for analyzing the political landscape of India. The emphasis on social representation in candidate selection also aligns with the principles of inclusive governance. Important Facts Date of Announcement: December 25, 2025 Parties Involved: Congress, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), Shiv Sena (UBT) Key Figure: Harshwardhan Sapkal (Maharashtra Congress Chief) Meeting Location: Tilak Bhavan, Dadar Number of Corporations: 29 municipal corporations going to polls Election Date: January 15, 2026 Vote Counting Date: January 16, 2026 AICC Secretary: U.B. Venkatesh