Leaders from both parties have explicitly clarified that this alliance is not a broader political realignment but rather a calculated step aimed squarely at protecting the interests of milk-producing dairy farmers in the Bhandara region. Their stated objective is to revive the cooperative institution, which has reportedly been struggling. This move underscores the critical role of milk unions in supporting farmer livelihoods and managing milk production infrastructure at the grassroots level.

Both Shiv Sena (Shinde) and Congress factions have voiced strong criticism against former cooperative leaders, holding them accountable for the Bhandara Milk Union’s current financial woes. They have also alleged that the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) is actively weakening the dairy sector in the region, turning these local cooperative elections into a battleground over agricultural policy and management.

Political observers are keenly watching this unusual alliance, viewing it as a significant tactical shift in local power dynamics. The outcome of these milk union elections could have wider implications, potentially influencing upcoming elections for the District Central Cooperative Bank and various municipal bodies. This reveals the interconnectedness of local agricultural cooperatives with broader political control and influence in agribusiness.