Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Akola, Jun 12: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday reaffirmed that the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance will jointly contest the upcoming local body elections across the state. However, he added that in places where alliance agreements are not reached, “friendly fights” between partners may occur.

Speaking to the media after launching a series of irrigation and power projects in Akola, Fadnavis clarified that the state BJP president, working president, and the party’s election committee have been empowered to make key decisions on the upcoming polls. "The plan is to fight unitedly as Mahayuti. In areas where seat-sharing doesn’t materialize, we will go ahead with friendly contests," he stated.

The Mahayuti alliance comprises the BJP, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, and the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde. The elections to several key municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and other local bodies have been on hold for the past three years.

Addressing the ongoing hunger strike by Prahar Janshakti Party leader Bachhu Kadu—who is fasting over farmers’ issues—Fadnavis said that district guardian minister Chandrashekar Bawankule has been tasked with initiating dialogue. Kadu has been on strike for four days demanding solutions for farmer-related concerns.

On a different note, Fadnavis was also asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent inquiry into the health of NCP chief Sharad Pawar during a meeting with MP Supriya Sule. Responding, he remarked, “Humanity and sensitivity are part of politics. We may be ideological adversaries, but we are not enemies.”

Fadnavis reiterated that the state government remains stable and that Mahayuti partners are firmly committed to staying united in governance and electoral strategy.