The saying that in politics no one is a permanent enemy has once again proved true in Maharashtra's Amravati district. In a surprising political development, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), parties with sharply opposing ideologies, have come together to secure power in Achalpur Municipal Council (AMC). After Akot, this is the second instance in the district where the two parties have formed an understanding, triggering intense political discussion.
The BJP adopted an unexpected strategy during the selection of subject committee chairpersons in the Achalpur Municipal Council. To balance power equations, the party secured the support of three AIMIM corporators. In addition, two corporators from Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party and a group of independent corporators extended their backing to the BJP.
This arrangement has proved beneficial for the AIMIM. With BJP’s support, an AIMIM corporator was appointed chairperson of the education and sports committee. In return, AIMIM members voted in favour of BJP candidates during the selection of other committees. This mutual understanding between the two parties has helped them establish control over the municipal council.
The alliance has drawn particular attention as leaders from both parties had sharply criticised each other during the election campaign. The BJP had accused the AIMIM of promoting fundamentalism, while the AIMIM had consistently opposed the BJP’s Hindutva ideology. However, in Achalpur, leaders from both sides are now seen working together, setting aside past differences for positions of power.
The development has sparked debate among political observers and BJP supporters alike. As the BJP is widely known for its Hindutva stance, its alliance with the AIMIM has raised questions among voters. Many are asking whether the partnership is aimed at local development or is merely a move to retain control over the municipal council.
"BJP and AIMIM leaders speak against each other during the day and have dinner together at night. One eats veg, the other non-veg. In the morning, they get up and start their nonsense again," said Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar.