BJP-Shiv Sena Alliance Triumphs in BMC Elections, Ending Thackeray Family's Dominance
The recent BMC elections have resulted in a significant victory for the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, marking the end of the Thackeray family's long-standing dominance in Mumbai's political arena. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has played a pivotal role in this success, leading the BJP to surpass its previous seat count. The elections were characterized by unexpected alliances and a focus on digital campaigning, showcasing a shift in political strategies. As the new mayor is set to take office, the implications of this election will undoubtedly reshape the future of governance in Mumbai. Read on to explore the details of this transformative election.
Jan 16, 2026, 20:23 IST
BMC Elections Mark a New Era
The recent BMC elections have seen the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance emerge victorious, effectively ending the long-standing dominance of the Thackeray family over Asia's richest municipal corporation. This victory paves the way for the BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) to appoint a mayor in Mumbai after a significant hiatus. Following an impressive performance, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has become a focal point of discussion. Under his leadership, the BJP has surpassed its previous record of 82 seats achieved in 2017, currently leading or winning in 88 of the 227 wards. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena, as the BJP's ally, is ahead in 28 seats, comfortably pushing the alliance past the majority threshold of 114 seats.
A Unique Election Cycle
Distinctive Features of the BMC Elections
The elections for the BMC and 29 other municipal corporations in Maharashtra have been notably different from those held in the past two decades. In a bid to reclaim power after 20 years, Uddhav Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray of the MNS joined forces. Conversely, an unexpected alliance formed between the AIMIM and BJP, while reports of Congress and BJP setting aside their ideological differences to collaborate also made headlines. The ruling BJP, Shinde faction, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP contested against each other, exchanging accusations. Ajit Pawar, who took control of the party in 2023, allied with his uncle Sharad Pawar's NCP to contest the Pune municipal elections. The election campaigns also saw a significant emphasis on digital outreach.
Unexpected Alliances and Their Fallout
Alliance in Akot
The alliance between the MIM and BJP in Akot was one of the most surprising developments, although it collapsed within hours, leading to embarrassment for the BJP. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had to instruct local leaders that such alliances were unacceptable, warning of disciplinary action against those who defied party norms. Local MLA Prakash Bharkhasale received a show-cause notice regarding this incident. In Ambernath, the unusual alliance between Congress and BJP sparked considerable discussion throughout the elections, leading to criticism for the BJP. However, this coalition also disbanded quickly, with 12 expelled councilors rejoining the BJP. In the vice-chairman elections, the Shinde faction defeated the BJP candidate in collaboration with Ajit Pawar's NCP.
Contradictory Strategies in Elections
Allies in Governance, Rivals in Elections
The ruling BJP, Shinde faction, and Ajit Pawar's NCP contested against each other in several municipal corporations across the state. While the BJP and Shinde faction collaborated in Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Vasai-Virar, Bhiwandi, and Panvel, they ran separately in Navi Mumbai, Mira-Bhayander, and Ulhasnagar. Ajit Pawar's NCP chose to contest independently, while he and Sharad Pawar joined forces in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.