Shiv Sena, AIMIM eye alliance ahead of Maharashtra local polls

Mumbai: As Maharashtra gears up for the upcoming local body elections, political maneuvering is intensifying across the state. Amid shifting alliances and evolving strategies, a potential partnership is emerging between Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray, and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), headed by Asaduddin Owaisi.

The Maharashtra unit of AIMIM has hinted at forging an alliance with Shiv Sena for the local elections. This development follows a recent call by MLA Aaditya Thackeray urging all for a grand alliance parties to unite for the state’s welfare, a move that has received a positive response from AIMIM.

Mufti Ismail Qasmi, AIMIM MLA from Malegaon, expressed his desire for a collaboration between Thackeray and Owaisi, emphasizing that their focus transcends religious divides and centers on developmental issues. “If the agenda is development, I am willing to move forward,” he said, while clarifying that the ultimate decision rests with AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.

Qasmi also recalled his efforts during the last assembly elections to join the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, which were unsuccessful. With Aaditya Thackeray’s recent appeal, the possibility of a renewed partnership remains uncertain and will unfold in the coming days.