The upcoming municipal elections in Maharashtra are not just a fight for local power, but have become important contests that will decide the direction of the state’s politics. The credibility of many big leaders is at stake in these elections and most of the attention is focused on Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which has always been considered the center of power politics.
Devendra Fadnavis’s comprehensive strategy
Devendra Fadnavis has made a comprehensive strategy to ensure victory in all the 29 municipal corporations on behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party. From alliance management to election campaigning, his role has been decisive at every level. However, the biggest target for them is BMC, which was dominated by the undivided Shiv Sena for the last two and a half decades. In 2017, BJP had come very close to power in BMC, but then Fadnavis did not take a direct fight with his ally Shiv Sena, giving priority to the stability of the government. Now after the split of Shiv Sena and deteriorating relations with Uddhav Thackeray, BJP has a golden opportunity to capture Mumbai. Victory in BMC can make Fadnavis the undisputed leader of Maharashtra.
On the other hand, for Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, this election is like a fight for survival. After the breakup of the party in 2022 and poor performance in the 2024 assembly elections, BMC is their last stronghold. Losing control of Mumbai would not only be a political loss but would also deeply hurt their claim to “putra of the land” and Marathi identity. That is why he has compromised with his cousin and MNS chief Raj Thackeray, so that Marathi votes can be consolidated. Victory in BMC can firmly establish Uddhav again in state politics, while defeat will prove to be a huge blow for him.
Eknath Shinde’s focus
Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde is also considering this election as very important. After the success in the first phase of local body elections, they want to maintain the same rhythm. His special focus is on Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli and Navi Mumbai. If the Mahayuti alliance wins in Mumbai, it will be considered a decisive lead for Shinde over Uddhav Thackeray and his claim on Shiv Sena’s legacy will be further strengthened. On the contrary, defeat may raise questions on Shinde’s political future.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has also kept his strategy limited but focused on important municipal corporations. Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad remain a question of prestige for them. Ajit Pawar’s move amid tension with BJP and growing closeness with his uncle Sharad Pawar is increasing speculation about his political direction. Victory in these municipal corporations will strengthen their position, while defeat may make them more dependent on the BJP.
BMC elections are an opportunity for political revival for Raj Thackeray. After not being able to even open an account in the Assembly in 2024, he has joined hands with Uddhav Thackeray. If this alliance is successful, MNS will get new energy and Raj Thackeray’s return to politics will be possible. In case of defeat, they will have to rethink their strategy.
Challenge for Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad
Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad also faces a big challenge. Congress is trying to regain its lost ground in the city, but organizational weakness and confusion about alliance are making its path difficult. Despite the alliance with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, the party’s position remains uncertain.
There is a tough contest in Navi Mumbai between BJP leader Ganesh Naik and Shiv Sena, while for VBA chief Prakash Ambedkar, this election is an attempt to manage his declining political credibility. Overall, these municipal elections can create new equations in the politics of Maharashtra and decide the future of many big leaders.
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