Cousins share stage as Sena (UBT), MNS and NCP (SP) launch joint BMC manifesto packed with subsidies and big-ticket civic promises
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray release the joint manifesto ahead of the BMC elections. Pic/ATUL KAMBLE
The Shiv Sena (UBT), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (SP) on Sunday released a joint manifesto for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections at Shiv Sena Bhavan in Dadar West, marking a key moment in their political alliance.
The cover of the manifesto features the Thackeray cousins seated on either side of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, symbolising political unity. The manifesto outlines a 31-point agenda addressing civic issues such as healthcare, education, affordable housing, clean air, open spaces, traffic congestion, pet care, solid waste management and parking.
Among the major promises made to Mumbaikars are subsidised breakfast and lunch at R10, monthly financial assistance of R1500 to women under the Swabhiman Scheme, and self-employment assistance for youth.
The alliance has promised that one lakh young people will receive interest-free financial support ranging from R25,000 to R1 lakh. It has also proposed interest-free e-bike loans for dabbawalas and financial assistance for registered women from the Koli community.
The parties further announced free electricity up to 100 units for households and a waiver of property tax for homes measuring up to 700 square feet. The manifesto also promises affordable housing for one lakh Mumbaikars within a year and a reduction in BEST bus fares, with a flat slab structure of Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 15 and Rs 20.
MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray were present on the dais during the release. Notably, the NCP (SP) did not have a representative on the podium, though Vidya Chavan, the party’s chief spokesperson, attended the event. Addressing the media, the Thackeray cousins said, “This time, the Mayor of Mumbai will be Marathi.”
Raj returns to Shiv Sena Bhavan after two decades
Speaking at the event, Raj Thackeray, who entered Shiv Sena Bhavan after nearly 20 years, said the repeated references to his return made it seem as though he was coming back home after a long imprisonment.
“This is the first time I am seeing the new Shiv Sena Bhavan. All my memories are of the old building, which I recall with fondness. Today, we are releasing the joint manifesto of Shiv Sena (UBT), MNS and NCP (SP),” he said.
Uddhav Thackeray said he was happy about Raj Thackeray’s presence at Shiv Sena Bhavan after two decades. “A new wave of inspiration has been created in Maharashtra today. Together, we are presenting a joint manifesto,” he said.
Subsidy-intensive promises
>> Breakfast and lunch at Rs 10 at Mataji kitchens
>> Property tax waiver for homes up to 700 sq ft
>> Self-employment assistance of Rs 25,000 to R1 lakh for 25,000 youth
>> Free electricity up to 100 units
Other promises
>> Expansion of BEST fleet with 10,000 electric buses and 200 double-decker e-buses
>> 24x7 health control rooms
>> Resolution of 200 identified traffic congestion spots
>> Toilets every two kilometres on major roads
>> Improved air quality through a Mumbai Construction Environment Management Plan
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