Shiv Sena backs BJP for Delhi Assembly polls

There is need for a stable, corruption-free government in Delhi, similar to one led by Modi at the Centre, says Sena chief Eknath Shinde

The Shiv Sena, led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, on Tuesday (January 21, 2025) announced its support for the BJP in the upcoming Delhi Assembly election, further strengthening their long-standing alliance. Shiv Sena’s Delhi State chief, Sandeep Chaudhary, handed over a letter of support to BJP Delhi State president Virendra Sachdeva, confirming their partnership.

The decision was made by Mr. Shinde, who highlighted the need to avoid a division of votes and called for a stable, corruption-free government in Delhi, similar to the one led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre.

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“Delhi, as the nation’s capital, is very important. To ensure its progress, a BJP government is necessary,” Mr. Shinde said. He praised the Modi government’s achievements, such as making India the fifth-largest economy, and stressed the importance of replicating such governance in Delhi.

“Shiv Sena Party under my leadership has been a torch bearer of Hindutva Ideology of Hinduhrudaysamrat Shivsena Pramukh Vandaniya Balasaheb Thackeray. Following this legacy, we are an active and proud member of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) under the able leadership of Prime Minister Modi. Our party has decided to actively support all the candidates of the BJP in the ensuing elections to the Assembly of NCT Delhi. I have directed the Shiv Sena Delhi unit to align with the BJP State unit and participate actively in the election campaign,“ he said in his letter.

Mr. Chaudhary criticised the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) governments for alleged corruption over the past 30 years. He pointed to scandals such as the liquor scam and Delhi Jal Board scam under the AAP, and accused the government of failing to tackle key issues like Yamuna River pollution.

“Delhi needs a double-engine government to develop like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The people of Delhi will reject these corrupt parties and support BJP for a brighter future,” he added.

Published - January 21, 2025 10:32 pm IST