BJP's Dominance: A Saffron Surge in Maharashtra Civic Polls

The BJP has emerged as a leader in the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad municipal elections, surpassing the NCP-NCP (SP) alliance led by Ajit and Sharad Pawar. The BJP's success extends across several other civic bodies in western Maharashtra, demonstrating its ability to counter opposition challenges.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has surged ahead in the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporations, outpacing the NCP-NCP (SP) alliance led by Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. Early trends from Friday morning's vote count for the civic polls indicate a clear lead for the BJP in these regions.

In addition to Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, the BJP is also leading in the Kolhapur, Satara, Solapur, and Sangli municipal bodies in western Maharashtra. The saffron party's strong performance suggests it has successfully countered the challenge posed by the 'united' Nationalist Congress Party factions.

The civic elections on January 15 marked a significant return to polling after several years, with most municipal corporations having their terms end between 2020 and 2023. In Pune, the BJP is leading in 43 out of 165 wards, while in Pimpri Chinchwad, it is ahead in 70 of the 128 seats. The elections saw intense campaigning marked by sharp exchanges between Ajit Pawar and BJP leaders.

(With inputs from agencies.)