Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) While the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance celebrated its overall triumph in the 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's faction of Shiv Sena experienced a stark reality check. In the crucial BMC elections, the much-discussed "Shinde charisma" failed to resonate, with the party managing to secure only 29 out of the 90 contested seats, primarily thanks to the BJP's backing.

The most notable outcome was the loss of several prominent candidates who were relatives of Deputy CM Shinde’s senior ministers and leaders.

Despite Deputy CM Shinde's efforts to negotiate for 90 seats based on the strength of former corporators who switched allegiance from the Thackeray camp, the decision to field family members proved detrimental. Notable losses in the “dynasty” category included Samadhan Sarvankar, the son of former MLA Sada Sarvankar; the daughter of MP Ravindra Waikar; the sister-in-law of former MP Rahul Shewale; along with the children of MLAs Ashok Patil and Mangesh Kudalkar.

Except for Shiv Sena legislator Tukaram Kate, most senior leaders couldn't secure victories for their family members. Local party workers are now questioning why Deputy CM Shinde prioritized familial connections over merit and local appeal.

Political analysts and internal party sources have identified several key reasons for this underwhelming performance. The loyalty of the core Marathi voter base in Mumbai to the “Thackeray brand” significantly impacted the results, with many rejecting those they view as “traitors”.

While Deputy CM Shinde focused on resolving seat-sharing disputes and campaigning in his strongholds of Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, and Ambernath, his presence in Mumbai was limited to just two rallies and three roadshows.

Party insiders acknowledged that poor strategic planning and lack of coordination hindered Deputy CM Shinde’s ability to connect with many candidates' constituencies during the campaign. Additionally, flawed ticket distribution adversely affected the party's performance.

Tickets were often awarded to family members of senior leaders instead of dedicated grassroots workers, hampering the Shinde faction's ability to effectively counter the emotional and political narrative established by the Thackeray faction.

The ongoing tension between the BJP and the Shinde faction regarding seat-sharing and future claims on constituencies further weakened the alliance's cohesion.

Although Deputy CM Shinde has expressed intentions to install a Mahayuti Mayor in Mumbai, the electoral numbers indicate a necessity for deep reflection. Beyond the Thane-Kalyan region, his faction has struggled to establish a pan-Maharashtra appeal.

Experts caution that if Deputy CM Shinde fails to acknowledge the prevailing realities and move past dynastic politics, justifying the retention of the “Bow and Arrow” symbol he acquired from the Thackerays will become increasingly difficult. With threats emerging from both opposition forces and perceived “friendly” allies, the path to the 2029 Assembly elections appears challenging for Deputy CM Shinde.

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