The Shiv Sena faction led by Uddhav Thackeray announced 65 candidates this evening, confirming that seat-sharing arrangements for Maharashtra have been finalized. This decision comes after weeks of intense negotiations. According to the Shiv Sena, the outcome means that each of the three major allies in the Maha Vikas Aghadi—Sena UBT, Congress, and Sharad Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party—will contest 85 seats each.

This arrangement brings the total number of seats to 255. The remaining 33 seats in the state’s 288-seat assembly will be allocated to smaller allies within the MVA, with some seats potentially shared among the three main parties. This suggests that the formula is still in draft form and may undergo further revisions. Sanjay Raut emphasized that the candidates’ list is also subject to change as discussions continue.

Congress, with its long-standing history and established presence, aims to leverage its experience and organizational capabilities. Meanwhile, Uddhav Sena, under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray, seeks to harness regional support, particularly in Maharashtra, where it has significant influence. Sharad Pawar’s party, known for its grassroots connect and stronghold in rural areas, will play a crucial role in attracting votes from various demographics.

The decision to contest 85 seats each also underscores the need for a strategic approach to seat sharing, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently and that candidates are selected based on local dynamics.

As the political landscape evolves, this alliance signals a shift towards collaboration among opposition parties, which may reshape the electoral dynamics in the region. With the elections on the horizon, all eyes will be on how this partnership unfolds and its impact on voter sentiment in the coming months.