Did Shiv Sena Achieve a Hat-Trick of Unopposed Wins in Kalyan-Dombivli Civic Polls?
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Synopsis
In a significant political maneuver, the Shiv Sena has secured a trio of unopposed victories in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation elections, solidifying its foothold alongside the BJP. This development signifies the strength of the Mahayuti alliance and sets an exciting tone for the upcoming civic polls.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena secures unopposed wins in Kalyan-Dombivli.
- The victories strengthen the Mahayuti alliance.
- Key candidates include Ramesh Mhatre, Vishwanath Rane, and Vrushali Joshi.
- Political reactions highlight the party's organisational strength.
- Unopposed elections signal confidence in local governance.
Thane, Jan 1 (NationPress) In a remarkable development for the Shiv Sena as they gear up for the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) general elections, three candidates from Ward No. 24 have been declared elected unopposed. This marks a significant milestone for the Shiv Sena as they officially open their account in the forthcoming civic elections, thereby bolstering the position of the Mahayuti alliance in the twin cities.
The victorious Shiv Sena candidates who were elected without contest are Ramesh Mhatre, Vishwanath Rane, and Vrushali Joshi. Their election was confirmed after all rival candidates chose to withdraw their nominations during the scrutiny phase.
In addition, Jyoti Patil of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a partner in the ruling Mahayuti coalition, was also elected unopposed from the same ward, contributing to a clean sweep for the alliance in this area.
Following this announcement, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Member of Parliament Dr. Shrikant Shinde congratulated the newly elected corporators via video call, crediting the outcome to the organisational strength of the Shiv Sena and the ongoing public support for its leadership.
Party members regarded the unopposed election of the three Shiv Sena corporators as a testament to the “Shinde style” of governance and expressed optimism that similar outcomes could be expected in other wards of the civic body.
This development comes shortly after the BJP made early strides in civic elections across Maharashtra by winning several seats unopposed, even before the actual polling. By Thursday, at least six candidates had reportedly been declared elected unopposed across various municipal corporations in the state.
In the KDMC, Rekha Chaudhary was elected unopposed from Ward No. 18-A. A seasoned corporator and district president of the BJP Mahila Morcha, she was the only nominee from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) reserved ward.
Asawari Navre was also elected unopposed from Ward No. 26-C of the KDMC. This marks her first attempt at civic elections, and she is known to have strong family ties to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Ranjana Perkar was similarly declared elected unopposed from Ward No. 26-B, achieving a hat-trick of unopposed wins for the BJP in the KDMC.
Ravindra Chavan, state BJP president, personally congratulated the successful candidates, highlighting that the party’s entry into the civic polls was initiated by its women leaders. He also facilitated a video call between the three unopposed candidates and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
In the Panvel Municipal Corporation, Nitin Patil was elected unopposed from Ward No. 18-B after the nomination of his only opponent, Rohan Gawand of the Peasants and Workers Party, was rejected due to an invalid caste certificate during scrutiny.
In the Dhule Municipal Corporation, the BJP secured two seats unopposed, as reported by party sources.
Another noteworthy update is that Ujjwala Bhosale, the wife of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) City District President Ranjit Bhosale, joined the BJP just two days ago and was elected unopposed after the nominations of all opposing candidates were rejected during scrutiny, making her a corporator within just 24 hours of her party switch.
Jyotsna Praful Patil was also elected unopposed from Ward No. 6-B, as no other candidates filed nominations against her.
Point of View
I observe that the Shiv Sena's unopposed victories in Kalyan-Dombivli signify not just internal party strength but also the growing influence of the Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra. This development could reshape the dynamics of local governance and reflects the evolving political landscape in the region. It's crucial to monitor how these alliances will impact future elections.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for candidates to be elected unopposed?
When candidates are elected unopposed, it means they have no rivals contesting against them, often indicating a strong support base or strategic withdrawals from opposing candidates during the nomination process.
Why are the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation elections significant?
These elections are significant as they reflect local governance dynamics and can influence larger political trends in Maharashtra, particularly regarding the strength of political alliances like the Mahayuti coalition.
Who are the major political players in the Kalyan-Dombivli elections?
The major players include the Shiv Sena and the BJP, both of which form the Mahayuti alliance, along with other parties like the NCP and the Peasants and Workers Party.
What could be the implications of the Shiv Sena's victories?
The Shiv Sena's unopposed victories could strengthen their political position in the region, provide momentum for future campaigns, and enhance their bargaining power in the Mahayuti alliance.
How do unopposed wins affect public perception of a party?
Unopposed wins can enhance public perception of a party's strength and popularity, signaling to constituents that the party has significant support and confidence in its governance.
