In a significant political move ahead of the crucial civic elections, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) alliance has unveiled a comprehensive manifesto packed with populist promises aimed directly at Mumbai's voters. The joint 'Vachan Nama, Shabd Thackerencha' was presented on Sunday at the Shiv Sena Bhawan, marking a symbolic return for MNS chief Raj Thackeray to the venue after nearly two decades.
Key Promises Targeting Women and Essential Services
The manifesto's cornerstone is a direct financial sop for key voter segments. The alliance has promised a monthly 'Swabhiman Nidhi' allowance of ₹1,500 for domestic workers and women from the fishing (Koli) community who sell fish. This scheme is modeled on the state government's existing Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin Yojana. Furthermore, the alliance has vowed to provide 100 units of free electricity for residential consumers through the BEST Undertaking, though clarity is pending on whether this will cover the island city or the entire metropolitan region.
In a major relief for homeowners in Asia's most expensive city, the coalition has pledged a complete property tax waiver for houses up to 700 square feet. For daily commuters, the manifesto promises to slash the minimum bus fare from ₹10 to ₹5, alongside plans to introduce new buses and routes. The document also includes a commitment to build good restrooms for women on major roads across Mumbai.
Housing, Healthcare, and Employment Initiatives
Addressing Mumbai's perennial housing crisis, the manifesto makes bold claims. It states that Mumbai's land will be used exclusively for housing Mumbaikars, with plans for affordable homes for BMC, government, BEST, and mill workers. The alliance promises to establish a BMC housing authority with a target of constructing one lakh affordable houses within the next five years. Rules for redeveloped buildings will also be altered to ensure one parking slot per flat.
On the healthcare front, the promises are expansive. The alliance plans to block any privatization of civic-run hospitals and establish five new medical colleges within them. A super-speciality cancer hospital is also on the cards, along with a novel rapid bike medical assistance service for emergency care.
Education, Youth, and City Amenities
The manifesto outlines a vision for a more supportive city for families and the youth. It proposes that all Mumbai Public Schools run by the BMC will have classes from junior kindergarten to Class 12. Creches will be set up in every assembly segment for children of working parents. For young entrepreneurs and gig workers, the alliance promises financial assistance ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh for self-employment and interest-free loans of ₹25,000.
Other city-centric initiatives include the introduction of a subsidized meal scheme offering breakfast and lunch for just ₹10, similar to the Shiv Bhojan Thali. The document also mentions plans for pet parks, animal clinics, ambulances, and improved crematorium facilities, aiming to address a wide spectrum of urban needs.
The release event was notable for the visual of cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray together on the manifesto's cover, alongside Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray. Although the broader opposition alliance includes the NCP (SP) led by Sharad Pawar, no senior leader from that party was present on the dais during the unveiling. Voting for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and 28 other civic bodies in Maharashtra is scheduled for January 15, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle where these promises will be rigorously tested.
