Mumbai, Feb 12 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray criticized the BJP-led Mahayuti on Thursday, asserting that despite the influx of funds in the recent local and civic body elections, it failed to dismantle the foundation of loyalty. He encouraged party members to remain optimistic and prepared for upcoming challenges, highlighting that the public still seeks their leadership.

Thackeray addressed the party's elected representatives after the elections for 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis, which showcased the overwhelming strength of the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Following victories in Municipal Councils, Nagar Panchayats, and Municipal Corporations, the BJP has achieved a trifecta of wins, solidifying its status as the leading party in the state. Conversely, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) faced a significant setback during these elections.

Despite acknowledging the defeat, Thackeray delivered an encouraging message to party workers and successful candidates. “You have truly achieved a miracle. You succeeded even in the face of daunting challenges,” he remarked. He added, “Even though the current circumstances may appear unfavorable, the future is ours. The bravery with which you contested these elections is our greatest asset,” stated Thackeray.

While the Mahayuti has made substantial inroads in rural Maharashtra — the state's backbone — Thackeray's response suggests that Shiv Sena (UBT) is gearing up for a return with renewed vigor. Despite a lower seat count, Thackeray commended the resilience of his victorious candidates, reiterating that the financial onslaught from the opposition could not undermine the fidelity of his supporters.

Thackeray’s remarks are significant as the 2026 rural elections are viewed as a vital barometer for political parties ahead of the next Assembly cycle. The BJP’s successes in districts such as Latur, Sangli, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar have further solidified its grassroots organizational power. In contrast, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena showed commendable performance in coastal regions, while the NCP (Ajit Pawar) retained its stronghold in Western Maharashtra.

Earlier, the Shiv Sena (UBT) noted that while the BJP celebrated a substantial trifecta in Maharashtra’s local body elections after its success in Municipal Council and Corporation contests, this political blossom conceals a growing crisis in rural livelihoods and democratic integrity.

In a pointed editorial from the party’s mouthpiece, 'Saamana', the Thackeray camp claimed that the BJP's triumph in rural strongholds was artificial and unnatural, akin to Chinese products rather than authentic public support. “The BJP's victory and the 'fake' Shiv Sena faction lack legitimacy because their party identities and symbols are in question. How can victories from parties whose identities and symbols are not genuine be considered valid? Yet, the reckless celebration continues,” it stated.