Nagpur, Jan 16 (NationPress) In a decisive affirmation of the "Double Engine" governance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has effectively overwhelmed the opposition in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) elections. As the counting process nears its conclusion on Friday, the BJP has surpassed the majority threshold in the 151-member NMC, reestablishing its dominance in the city of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Although the final figures are still being compiled by the State Election Commission, the latest trends and results announced by 5:30 p.m. suggest a substantial lead for the Mahayuti alliance. The BJP, which previously secured 108 seats in the 2017 elections, is on track to enhance its standing, likely exceeding the 115-seat mark.

Political analysts credit this triumph to the impactful campaigning by local stalwarts, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who centered the election discourse around infrastructure and urban development.

Despite a vigorous campaign led by party MLA Vikas Thakre, the Congress was unable to dismantle the BJP’s extensive grassroots network. Internal disputes and the decision by MVA constituents (NCP-SP and Congress) to run separately are viewed as key factors contributing to the divided opposition vote.

The city witnessed a modest turnout of about 51-52 percent on polling day, alongside reports of minor EVM issues and inconsistencies in voter lists in certain prabhags.

"This victory represents a triumph of development over divisive politics. Nagpur has reaffirmed its faith in PM Modi's vision and the leadership in Maharashtra,” stated CM Fadnavis.

Minister Gadkari expressed his satisfaction with the results, labeling them as a clear endorsement for stability, progress, and effective governance. He congratulated the alliance's top brass, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, BJP State President Ravindra Chavan, and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

He praised the collective contributions of the Mahayuti office-bearers, public representatives, and grassroots workers whose relentless campaigning culminated in this achievement.

"The people of Maharashtra have once again placed their unwavering trust in the BJP-Shiv Sena Mahayuti. This outcome extends beyond local governance; it reflects the overall political climate of the state and the government's development-focused policies," Minister Gadkari remarked.

The Union Minister underscored that this victory illustrates the favorable impact of the government's initiatives in recent years, especially in Infrastructure and Roads, which have significantly enhanced connectivity and transportation, as well as Urban Development, with increased emphasis on sanitation, water supply, and citizen-centric services, all aimed at making cities more capable and accessible.

Minister Gadkari highlighted that the electorate opted for development over negative politics, signaling a rejection of the opposition's narrative. He attributed the success to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the effective execution by CM Fadnavis, propelling Maharashtra towards becoming a leading industrial and prosperous state.

On the other hand, Senior Congress Leader Vikas Thakre responded to the NMC results, stating, “While we respect the mandate, the confusion caused by the prabhag system and voter list errors cannot be overlooked. We will persist in our role as a strong opposition for the people of Nagpur.”

With a clear majority within reach, attention now turns to the selection of the Mayor. Names of several senior BJP leaders are already being circulated. The official announcement of the newly elected corporators is anticipated by late tonight or Saturday morning.

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)