Special Correspondent
Pune : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Sunday that the civic body elections across the state are expected to be held in May 2025. The final schedule, however, depends on the Supreme Court’s verdict on the inclusion of OBC reservation in municipal bodies.
Addressing BJP workers at the party’s state convention, Fadnavis urged immediate preparation for the elections and highlighted the critical role of local units. He indicated that the BJP is likely to contest the elections independently. However, he instructed ministers and office bearers to avoid making adverse remarks about allies in the Mahayuti alliance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cordial relations with Shiv Sena and NCP workers.
“Despite the possibility of contesting solo, maintaining unity within the Mahayuti is crucial,” a BJP MLA present at the convention quoted Fadnavis as saying.
The announcement comes at a time when the opposition coalition, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), is grappling with internal discord following its assembly poll defeat. Recently, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut declared that his party would contest local body polls independently, surprising allies Congress and NCP.
The stage is now set for intensified political activity across Maharashtra as parties gear up for the upcoming elections.
