Overview On December 20, 2025 , Ramesh Chennithala , the Congress Maharashtra in-charge, declared that the Congress party will contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections independently. This announcement ends speculation about the future of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Mumbai. The Congress aims to compete against both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) group. Key Developments Congress' Stand: The party will fight the BMC elections on its own strength, appealing to secular and democratic voters. Reason for Displeasure: Congress expressed dissatisfaction with Uddhav Thackeray's growing closeness to Raj Thackeray , leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) . Shiv Sena UBT's Reaction: Ambadas Danve stated the party is prepared to fight the BJP and Eknath Shinde , but will also compete against Congress if necessary. NCP's Response: Supriya Sule indicated that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will consult local leaders before commenting on Congress' decision. Previous Attempts at Alliance: Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena UBT had requested Sharad Pawar to persuade Congress to join the MVA for the BMC elections. Congress' Perspective Ramesh Chennithala emphasized that the Congress is fighting these elections independently due to the desire of local cadres. He highlighted issues of corruption and lack of progress in Mumbai, holding unnamed parties accountable. He also thanked the Supreme Court for ordering the elections, alleging government interference in the BMC's operations. Election Timing: No elections were held in the last four years. Focus on Corruption: Congress aims to highlight corruption issues in Mumbai. Supreme Court's Role: Elections are taking place due to the Supreme Court's intervention. Background and Political Dynamics The Congress had previously voiced concerns about Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray collaborating, citing ideological differences with divisive and communal forces. While Shiv Sena UBT sought Congress's participation in the BMC polls, Congress felt excluded from discussions between Shiv Sena UBT and MNS. Traditionally, Congress and Shiv Sena-BJP have been rivals in Mumbai. This time, Congress will fight separately, Shiv Sena UBT may ally with MNS, and BJP-Shiv Sena will contest together. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2: Polity and Governance , particularly concerning local governance, political alliances, and party strategies. The dynamics between national and regional parties, as well as the impact of local body elections on state politics, are important aspects for UPSC aspirants to understand. Important Facts Date of Announcement: December 20, 2025 Key Figure: Ramesh Chennithala Parties Involved: Congress, Shiv Sena UBT, BJP, MNS, NCP Election Type: BMC Elections Congress' Stance: Contesting independently