Overview
- Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad told workers to prepare for all wards as Maharashtra in‑charge Ramesh Chennithala confirmed an independent contest on every seat.
- The decision was formalized at a city workshop on November 15, setting up a solo campaign for polls expected in January 2026 to the country’s wealthiest civic body.
- Party leaders cited objections to accommodating Raj Thackeray’s MNS, pointing to its record on violence and anti‑North Indian rhetoric as incompatible with Congress values.
- Insiders said the Bihar assembly defeat intensified demands to rebuild the party’s urban base and organizational strength through a full-fledged solo run in Mumbai.
- MVA partner Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders questioned the call, BJP’s Ashish Shelar mocked Congress’ capacity to go it alone, and NCP (SP) warned the move could split anti‑BJP votes.