Maharashtra's Municipal Elections: A Political Battlefield

Maharashtra heads into municipal corporation elections, with major political battles in Mumbai. The BJP-led Mahayuti competes with the Thackeray front for the BMC. Chief Minister Fadnavis predicts setbacks for Raj Thackeray's alliance. The Shiv Sena faces its first BMC election since a significant party split in 2022.

Maharashtra is gearing up for crucial municipal elections this Thursday, with the spotlight firmly on Mumbai. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is set to clash with the united Thackeray front for control over the cash-rich Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Fadnavis, leading the Mahayuti campaign, forecasts a significant loss for MNS leader Raj Thackeray in his alliance with cousin Uddhav Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT). The election marks the first challenge for the Shiv Sena since its 2022 split when Eknath Shinde departed with a majority of party legislators.

Across 29 municipal corporations, 2,869 seats are contested, with voting on January 15 and results on January 16. More than 25,000 police personnel will ensure security during these polls, characterized by intense political alliances and populist promises aimed at women voters.

(With inputs from agencies.)