Jarange Patil Praises Uddhav-Raj Thackeray: Maratha Vote Game Changer for BMC Elections?

• Manoj Jarange Patil, a key Maratha leader, openly praised Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, stating they support the Maratha community.
• This statement comes just before the BMC elections, scheduled for January 15, 2026, and is seen as a significant political signal.
• The Maratha vote bank is considered decisive in Mumbai's politics, especially in the 227 wards of the BMC.
• Jarange's potential alignment with the Uddhav-Raj duo could significantly benefit Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, while posing a challenge for BJP and the Shinde faction.
• Political analysts view Jarange's move as pressure politics, aiming to support parties that back the Maratha community's reservation demands.

Why It Matters: Jarange Patil's praise for Uddhav and Raj Thackeray could reshape Maratha vote dynamics in BMC elections.