Overview
- Congress maintains a plan to contest the Mumbai civic polls independently while keeping the door open to like‑minded partners, with Gaikwad asking Pawar to join forces.
- The discussion took place at Pawar’s Silver Oak residence with Supriya Sule and Congress leaders Aslam Shaikh, Jyoti Gaikwad and Amin Patel present.
- Shiv Sena (UBT) urged Congress to reconsider the solo strategy, warning that division in the Maha Vikas Aghadi could benefit the BJP.
- Gaikwad emphasized civic issues over identity politics and said the party cannot align with those who take the law into their own hands, a stance relevant to talks about the MNS.
- Elections to the 227-seat BMC are expected in January 2026, with Congress seeking to improve on its 2017 tally of 30 seats.