Shiv Sena Dominates Kalyan-Dombivli, BJP's Mayoral Hopes Dashed

• Shiv Sena asserts dominance in Thane district, a stronghold of Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.
• The party is poised for sole power in municipal corporations of Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, and Ulhasnagar.
• Shiv Sena has secured 51 seats in Kalyan-Dombivli, nearing the magic figure of 62, with support from independents.
• BJP, with 41 seats, had sought a two-and-a-half-year mayoral term but is now unlikely to achieve it.
• The 'Ambernath pattern' of political maneuvering is evident, with Shiv Sena countering BJP's attempts to form alliances.

Why It Matters: Shiv Sena's strong performance in Kalyan-Dombivli thwarts BJP's mayoral ambitions, consolidating its power.