Mumbai, Jan 16 (NationPress) In a significant political development, the BJP-led Mahayuti is currently leading in most of the 29 municipal corporations, while the BJP-Shiv Sena coalition has achieved a majority in the BMC according to early counts. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his congratulations via video calls to Ravindra Chavan, the state unit chief, and Ameet Satam, the Mumbai unit chief, acknowledging the party's impressive performance.

CM Fadnavis commended Chavan’s leadership, stating: “Honourable Ravindra Chavan, congratulations! Under your guidance, the party has secured a remarkable victory across Maharashtra. This is truly an extraordinary win, and I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you.”

He also praised Satam: “Amit, congratulations! You did exceptionally well, and there's no need to be concerned now. Your performance has been commendable, and I am very pleased. Let’s remain optimistic as we advance.”

The Chief Minister's optimistic tone underscored the uplifting mood within the party.

Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Revenue Minister and BJP’s in-charge for the 29 municipal corporation elections, also congratulated the Chief Minister for the party's success and the performance of the Mahayuti.

In a post on X, Bawankule expressed: “A storm of development... An unstoppable wave of trust... And the unwavering commitment of the people! From every corner of Maharashtra, the resounding cheer is clear – Devabhau’s leadership is Maharashtra’s future! The Mahayuti is surging everywhere! These leads are not just figures; they represent the people's heartbeat: a resounding YES to progress, sound governance, and a robust, Viksit Maharashtra! Calm yet indomitable resolve, precise decision-making, and tireless efforts – that defines our @Dev_Fadnavis ji, Devabhau!”

He further added: “His visionary approach has positioned Maharashtra on the global stage – top-notch infrastructure, substantial FDI influx, thriving job markets... everything is soaring to unprecedented heights! This victory is a result of the dedication and loyalty of every single karyakarta! Every voter who stood in long lines to cast their sacred vote – you are the true champions. Your wisdom has entrusted Maharashtra’s future in capable hands. We express our deep gratitude and commit to honoring this trust with even greater dedication. Total Victory... Unstoppable Maharashtra... Unmatched Growth! Congratulations, Devabhau, Jai Maharashtra!”

Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora remarked in a post on X: “In Mumbai, only two brothers… The beloved brother and the god-brother!”

He ridiculed the reunion of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, claiming their alliance failed to make an impact in the BMC elections.

In another post, Deora stated: “The @mybmc results have concluded the theatrics of #Mumbai politics, showing the city favors progress and accountability over melodrama. @mieknathshinde ji’s Shiv Sena is the authentic #ShivSena, and family drama couldn’t overshadow the real issues. The golden age for India’s commercial and cultural hub is just commencing.”

Meanwhile, in Pune (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the BJP is leading decisively. Interestingly, the two rival factions of the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar, reportedly formed a local alliance to challenge the BJP but are currently lagging.

In Thane, a stronghold of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, his faction of the Shiv Sena is maintaining its lead.

As for Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, the estranged cousins came together for this election to consolidate the “Marathi Manoos” vote. However, they have not succeeded in winning the BMC polls based on Marathi identity and the Thackeray legacy.

In PMC and PCMC, the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions are testing their local strength for the first time in a major civic poll since their division. Yet, the BJP has outmaneuvered the alliance between the Pawar factions.