Congress Goes Solo in BMC Elections, Citing MNS Alliance; Analysts Call it Risky

• Congress will contest BMC elections independently, opting out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
• The decision stems from ideological differences with Raj Thackeray's MNS, allied with Shiv Sena (UBT).
• Political analysts deem Congress's solo move bold but risky, given its declining influence in Mumbai civic politics.
• Congress aims to consolidate minority, Dalit, and migrant votes, rejecting alliances promoting "divisive politics."
• Control of BMC is crucial due to its significant budget and administrative impact on Mumbai.

Why It Matters: Congress's solo BMC bid, driven by MNS differences, is a high-stakes gamble for its Maharashtra future.