Uddhav Thackeray Urges INDIA Bloc to Revitalize Ahead of Elections

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has called for immediate action from the INDIA bloc, urging its leaders to convene as upcoming elections in Bihar and Mumbai approach. Despite the alliance’s surprising performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the coalition, which includes over two dozen parties, has not met since last year. Thackeray’s remarks reflect growing concerns regarding the alliance’s inactivity, especially as it was formed to counter the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Thackeray stressed the urgency of reinvigorating discussions within the INDIA bloc. He stated, “After the Lok Sabha elections, there has been no meeting of the Bharat Alliance. I want the meeting to be called as soon as possible because Bihar elections are coming closer, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation election in 2025 will also be held.” His comments highlight the need for collaboration as critical elections approach.

In addition to rallying the bloc, Thackeray voiced a significant electoral reform proposal, advocating for all elections in India to be conducted via paper ballots. He questioned the reliance on electronic voting machines (EVMs), stating, “When countries like Britain conduct elections through ballot papers, why are we emphasising the use of EVMs in India? This change is necessary for the transparency of democracy.”

This shift in rhetoric marks a departure from the recent stance taken by Sanjay Raut, a senior leader within the Shiv Sena (UBT). Last week, Raut downplayed the necessity of political alliances like the INDIA bloc for local and civic body elections, suggesting that these elections are primarily contested over local issues. He remarked, “I said that it was formed for the Lok Sabha polls and Maha Vikas Aghadi was for Assembly elections. There is no need of these two in local bodies elections.”

As the landscape of Maharashtra politics evolves, the timing of Thackeray’s call to action is critical. Elections in various municipal bodies, including the lucrative Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), are anticipated later this year. The BMC has been under the control of the Shiv Sena for nearly two decades before its split in 2022.

The INDIA bloc’s ability to unite and strategize effectively in the lead-up to these elections may determine its influence in Maharashtra’s political arena. Thackeray’s push for action highlights not only the immediate need for collaboration among opposition parties but also emphasizes the importance of electoral integrity in the eyes of the public.