Mumbai MNS chief Sandeep Deshpande has denied rumors of joining the BJP, asserting his commitment to the MNS ahead of the BMC elections. His clarification follows the defection of a close associate, who cited MNS's alliance with Shiv Sena UBT and perceived sidelining of leaders. Deshpande acknowledged potential friction in alliances but emphasized the party's collective goal in the upcoming electoral contest against the ruling Mahayuti coalition.