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India's Mahayuti Coalition Faces Cracks as Pawar Criticizes BJP

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. lition-faces-cracks-as-pawar-criticizes-bjp.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 6:23 GMT by moneycontrol.com

Cracks Appear in India's Mahayuti Coalition: Pawar's Sharp Criticism Signals Deeper Discontent

India's ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), rebranded as the "Mahayuti" (Grand Alliance) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, is facing early signs of strain. A scathing critique from veteran politician and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar has ignited speculation about underlying tensions within the coalition, suggesting that the seemingly unified front masks significant disagreements and power dynamics. The Moneycontrol.com article highlights Pawar’s recent remarks as more than just political rhetoric; they are indicative of a growing unease amongst some Mahayuti partners regarding the BJP's dominance and perceived lack of consultation.

Pawar's "Gang of Robbers" Jab & Its Significance

The controversy began with Pawar's unusually blunt description of certain BJP leaders as a “gang of robbers.” While he later attempted to soften his language, claiming it was misconstrued, the initial impact was significant. The remark, delivered at a public rally in Maharashtra, immediately drew condemnation from the BJP and sparked a wave of political commentary. The Moneycontrol article emphasizes that Pawar's decades-long experience in Indian politics makes him a shrewd observer, suggesting his words carry more weight than simple verbal sparring. He doesn’t typically engage in such direct attacks, making this outburst particularly noteworthy.

Pawar's NCP has been a part of the Mahayuti since July 2023, following a split within the party itself. This split saw Ajit Pawar and several other NCP leaders break away from Sharad Pawar (Ajit’s uncle) to join the NDA. This move was widely seen as an attempt by the BJP to consolidate its power in Maharashtra, a state with significant electoral importance. However, the initial enthusiasm surrounding this alliance seems to be waning, according to the Moneycontrol report.

Beyond the Rhetoric: Underlying Issues of Power and Consultation

The article argues that Pawar’s comments are symptomatic of deeper issues within the Mahayuti. While the BJP remains the dominant force in the coalition, other parties like the NCP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and smaller regional players reportedly feel sidelined in decision-making processes. Sources quoted anonymously within the Moneycontrol piece suggest a lack of meaningful consultation on key policy matters and candidate selection for the upcoming elections.

The Shinde faction of the Shiv Sena, another crucial member of the Mahayuti, has also voiced concerns about its relative power within the alliance. The article points to instances where Shinde’s group felt their influence was being disregarded, particularly in seat-sharing negotiations. This feeling of marginalization can breed resentment and potentially lead to strategic maneuvering by coalition partners.

Maharashtra as a Flashpoint

The tensions are particularly acute in Maharashtra. The state has historically been a battleground for political dominance, and the Mahayuti’s formation was intended to solidify BJP's position there. However, the internal dynamics remain complex. The split within the NCP itself highlights the fragility of alliances built on shifting loyalties. Sharad Pawar continues to command significant influence in Maharashtra, especially amongst traditional NCP voters, and Ajit Pawar's faction is facing challenges in establishing its legitimacy independently.

The Moneycontrol article references previous instances of instability within Mahayuti-like coalitions in Maharashtra, pointing to a recurring pattern of power struggles and disagreements between regional parties and the BJP. This history provides context for understanding the current situation. [ You can read more about past coalition governments in Maharashtra here ].

Implications for the Lok Sabha Elections & Beyond

The growing cracks within the Mahayuti have significant implications for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and potentially for the stability of the government after the polls. While the BJP is likely to remain the largest party in the coalition, the internal friction could impact campaigning efforts and voter turnout. A demoralized or disgruntled alliance partner can significantly hinder a coalition’s ability to present a united front to the electorate.

Furthermore, Pawar's criticism has emboldened opposition parties like the Congress and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). They are actively capitalizing on these fissures to portray the Mahayuti as unstable and prone to infighting. The Moneycontrol article suggests that this narrative could resonate with voters who are disillusioned with the current government. [ You can read more about opposition strategies here ].

Conclusion: A Coalition Under Pressure

While the Mahayuti leadership is likely to downplay the significance of Pawar's remarks and attempt to project an image of unity, the underlying tensions are undeniable. The Moneycontrol article paints a picture of a coalition grappling with power dynamics, a lack of consultation, and simmering resentment amongst its members. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these cracks can be repaired or if they will widen into a full-blown crisis that could significantly impact the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections and the future stability of India’s political landscape. The situation highlights the inherent challenges of managing large, diverse coalitions, particularly when one party exerts such dominant influence.

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