Raj Thackeray Warns ‘Marathi Manoos’ Ahead of BMC Polls: “This Could Be the Last Election”

Mumbai, Maharashtra – Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray issued a stern warning to the Marathi community ahead of the upcoming civic body polls, calling it potentially the “last election” for Marathi manoos to safeguard their identity. His remarks came during the inauguration of the MNS Konkan Mahotsav in Mumbai on Sunday.

“Do not let your guard down, otherwise the loss is imminent. The upcoming BMC elections will be the last for the Marathi manoos if you don’t remain vigilant. And the consequences would be uncontrollable,” Thackeray told party workers, according to PTI.

The MNS chief has recently raised concerns over discrepancies in the voters’ list and actively participated in a united opposition march in Mumbai, highlighting issues affecting local democracy.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Congress appears divided on its stance regarding an alliance with the MNS. Senior leader Vijay Wadettiwar expressed support for a united Opposition front, citing NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s call for unity to challenge the BJP. “Ultimately, ideology matters. We are positive towards a united fight, including with the MNS. Everyone must come together to defeat the BJP,” he said.

On the other hand, Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad reaffirmed the party’s position of contesting the BMC polls independently, asserting that the party will not align with groups that “take the law into their hands and intimidate others.” Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal added that alliance decisions at the local level will be made by Mumbai unit leaders closer to the civic elections.

The potential Congress-MNS tie-up has drawn criticism from the BJP, which accused the Congress of opportunistically shifting its stance. The political tussle highlights the complexities of Maharashtra’s local elections, where strategic alliances and community sentiments play a critical role.

Elections for 246 municipal councils and 42 nagar panchayats in Maharashtra are scheduled for December 2, 2025, while Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls are expected to take place in January 2026.