Fadnavis warns BJP: Immediately end civic election alliances with Congress and AIMIM

January 7, 2026

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed strong displeasure over post-election alliances by local BJP units with rival parties and directed them to end them immediately. He specifically called for ending alliances with AIMIM in Akot and Congress in Ambernath and warned that disciplinary action will be taken against leaders who do not follow party instructions. Fadnavis said, “Any alliance with Congress or AIMIM will not be acceptable. Any such decision will be considered indiscipline and action will be taken.”

Ambernath Municipal Council Controversy

In Ambernath, the BJP formed the “Ambernath Vikas Aghadi” (Ambaranath Vikas Aghadi) with the Congress and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, sidelining its ally, the Shiv Sena. BJP councilor Tejashree Karanjule Patil was elected council president, defeating Shiv Sena’s Manisha Walkar. In the 60-member Ambernath Municipal Corporation elections held on December 20, the Shiv Sena emerged as the single largest party with 27 seats, while the BJP won 14, the Congress 12, and the NCP 4. The alliance secured a majority (32) with the support of an independent member. The Shiv Sena called this “unethical and opportunistic” and a violation of coalition dharma.

Controversy over alliance with AIMIM in Akot

In Akot, the BJP formed the “Akot Vikas Manch,” supported by AIMIM and other parties, including Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT), Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar’s NCP, and the Prahar Janshakti Party. The BJP won 11 seats in the 35-member council, while AIMIM won five. Maya Dhule was elected mayor and Ravi Thakur was appointed BJP group leader. The alliance was officially registered with the Akola District Administration, and deputy mayor and committee elections will be held on January 13th.