Will the BJP-Shiv Sena Alliance Dominate Mumbai's Civic Elections?
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Synopsis
The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance appears poised for a historic victory in the Mumbai civic elections, as indicated by several Exit Polls. The Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, face steep challenges in consolidating their support against this formidable coalition. Will this be a turning point in Mumbai's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- BJP-Shiv Sena alliance projected to win decisively.
- Thackeray brothers struggling to consolidate votes.
- BMC elections involve 227 wards.
- Polling took place on Thursday, counting on Friday.
- Alliance expected to reshape Mumbai's political landscape.
Mumbai, Jan 15 (NationPress) The alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena is on track for a resounding victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, encountering minimal opposition from the 'united' Thackeray brothers, according to various Exit Polls conducted by polling agencies.
At least two Exit polls have shown a clear and decisive mandate favoring the BJP-Sena alliance, with the Thackeray brothers trailing significantly, while the Congress-led alliance appears to be heading for another disappointing outcome.
The Exit polls indicate that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Mahayuti alliance is the preferred choice among the migrant population from both North and South India, and is also expected to secure a substantial portion of Maratha votes. Conversely, the Thackeray cousins seem to be struggling to consolidate the Marathi and Muslim votes, as even these constituencies appear hesitant to support the Shiv Sena (UBT)-Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) alliance.
Pollsters like Axis My India and JVC have forecasted a sweeping victory for the BJP and Shiv Sena in this fiercely contested BMC battle.
According to JVC, the BJP-Sena alliance is anticipated to win in 138 wards, while the Shiv Sena-UBT is projected to secure 59 wards. The Congress-led coalition is lagging significantly and may only manage to win 23 wards.
Axis My India’s predictions suggest victories in the range of 131-151 wards for the BJP-Sena alliance, while estimating 58-68 seats for the Shiv Sena-UBT coalition.
According to another polling agency, The Sakal Poll, the BMC elections are shaping up to be a close race between the BJP-Shiv Sena and the Shiv Sena(UBT)-MNS.
The BJP-Shiv Sena coalition is expected to gain an advantage over the Thackeray brothers, albeit by a narrow margin.
The polling agency estimates that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance could claim victory in 119 wards, while the Shiv Sena-UBT might win 75, with the Congress tally expected to fall below 20 seats.
For these elections, the Thackeray cousins—Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray—have reunited after nearly two decades of political estrangement.
Leading the Shiv Sena-UBT, Uddhav Thackeray, alongside Raj Thackeray at the helm of the MNS, have set aside their longstanding differences to face the formidable challenge posed by the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in the BMC elections.
The Shiv Sena-UBT contested approximately 160 wards, while the MNS nominated candidates across around 53 seats.
It is noteworthy that the BMC is the wealthiest civic body in the country, which held elections on Thursday, alongside 28 other municipal corporations across Maharashtra.
Voting took place for 227 civic wards of the BMC from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with vote counting scheduled for Friday.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain unbiased while reporting on the evolving political dynamics in Mumbai. The anticipated victory of the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance signifies changing sentiments among voters, reflecting a strategic shift in alliances and voter consolidation. The outcome of these elections could reshape the political landscape, and it's essential to observe how the Thackeray cousins adapt to these challenges.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BMC elections?
The BMC elections are crucial as they determine the governance of Mumbai, India's financial capital, affecting millions of residents and the city's future.
How many wards are contested in the BMC elections?
A total of 227 wards are contested in the BMC elections, making it one of the largest civic elections in India.
Who are the major political players in this election?
The major political players include the BJP, Shiv Sena, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena.
What are the polling dates for the BMC elections?
Voting for the BMC elections was held on Thursday, with vote counting scheduled for Friday.
What impact does the BMC have on local governance?
The BMC governs Mumbai's infrastructure, public services, and development projects, making its role vital for the city's progress.
