In the wake of the NDA's resounding victory in the Maharashtra civic polls, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde asserted that the people have rejected "anti-development politics". The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance secured a significant win in the elections for 29 municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the country's richest civic body, effectively ending the Thackeray family's 25-year stronghold in Mumbai.
Celebrations erupted as the Mahayuti (BJP+Shiv Sena) crossed the halfway mark in the Mumbai local body polls, leading in 114 seats. The victory reflects a broader trend across Maharashtra, with the BJP leading in 25 out of the 29 municipal corporations. The results indicate a consolidation of the BJP's urban dominance in the state, with significant leads in key cities like Pune and Nagpur.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the people of Maharashtra for blessing the NDA's agenda of pro-people good governance. He stated that the results indicate a further deepening of the NDA's bond with the people of Maharashtra and that their track record and vision for development have resonated with voters. Home Minister Amit Shah echoed this sentiment, stating that the victory clearly shows the people's faith in the NDA's development policies.
Several factors contributed to the NDA's success. The BJP topped the list of unopposed candidates with 43, followed by the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena with 18. This pre-election advantage, combined with effective campaigning and a focus on development, helped the alliance secure a comfortable victory. Furthermore, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari congratulated Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, expressing confidence that Maharashtra's progress would be further strengthened under their leadership and Prime Minister Modi's guidance.
The results also highlight shifts in political dynamics within Maharashtra. In Thane, the Shiv Sena emerged as the dominant force, winning 50 seats in Eknath Shinde's home turf. The BJP followed closely behind. This signifies a change in the political equation in Thane following the split in the Shiv Sena.
While the NDA celebrated its victory, the opposition faced setbacks. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and its allies trailed in key races, including the BMC. The Pawar and Thackeray reunions appear to have failed to make a significant impact on the overall results.
Overall, the Maharashtra civic poll results represent a significant win for the NDA and a validation of their development-focused agenda. The victory is expected to further strengthen the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra and pave the way for continued progress in the state. The outcome also underscores the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra, with new alliances and shifting loyalties shaping the future of the state's political arena.
