Political Maharashtra
Jan 04, 2025
Shiv Sena:
A prominent regional party founded by Bal Thackeray in 1966, primarily representing the Marathi-speaking population. Historically, it has focused on regionalism, pro-Hindu ideology, and advocating for the rights of the local population.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
A major national party with a strong presence in Maharashtra, especially since 2014. The BJP often forms alliances with regional parties, like Shiv Sena, and promotes a pro-Hindu, conservative agenda.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP):
Founded by Sharad Pawar in 1999 after a split from the Congress party, the NCP is a significant player in Maharashtra politics. The party focuses on secularism, social justice, and agricultural reforms.
Indian National Congress (INC):
Historically, the Congress party has been one of the dominant parties in Maharashtra but has lost ground to regional parties in recent decades. The party has often been a key player in forming state governments.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS):
Founded by Raj Thackeray, a nephew of Bal Thackeray, in 2006. MNS has a similar ideology to Shiv Sena but focuses more on social issues related to the Marathi-speaking population.
Republican Party of India (RPI):
A party that has its roots in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's movement, focusing on the rights and upliftment of Dalits and other marginalized communities. RPI has had influence in various parts of the state, particularly among the Dalit community.
Key Alliances:
Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA):
This alliance consists of Shiv Sena, NCP, and Congress, and it has played a major role in Maharashtra's politics since 2019, with Uddhav Thackeray becoming the Chief Minister.