Maharashtra Municipal Polls: BJP Dominates, Shiv Sena (UBT) & NCP (SP) Face Challenges

• BJP emerged as the dominant force in Maharashtra municipal body elections, securing nearly half of the 2,900 seats.
• BJP gained control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), previously held by Shiv Sena for three decades, needing ally Shiv Sena's support for a majority.
• Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena (Mahayuti) secured 399 seats, positioning itself as Balasaheb Thackeray's successor, while Shiv Sena (UBT) came second in Mumbai.
• Indian National Congress, despite going solo, secured third position with 324 seats statewide and 24 in Mumbai.
• Both NCP factions (NCP and Sharad Pawar faction) performed poorly, especially in their traditional strongholds, indicating a potential need for merger to regain ground.

Why It Matters: BJP's strong performance in Maharashtra municipal polls signals a shift in political dynamics, challenging opposition.