Shiv Sena (UBT) Hit Hardest

The Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray suffered the biggest damage. A total of 19 runners-up from the party have joined the Mahayuti within twelve months. Many of these defections occurred in the party’s traditional strongholds, including Konkan and parts of Marathwada.

Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) also faced significant losses, with 13 former candidates moving to the ruling front. The Congress recorded 10 defections during the same period. These shifts highlight the growing influence of the BJP-led alliance across multiple regions.

BJP Gains Strong Foothold Across Regions

The BJP attracted the highest number of leaders—26 of the 46 total runner-up candidates. Most of its gains came from Marathwada, North Maharashtra, and Konkan. In Marathwada alone, eight candidates joined the BJP, marking a clear regional strategy to strengthen its presence.

Ajit Pawar’s NCP welcomed 13 defectors, many from its strongholds in Western Maharashtra and Marathwada. The Shinde-led Shiv Sena added seven new leaders, with three coming from the Konkan belt.

Mahayuti’s Dominance Continues

The Mahayuti alliance had already secured a massive victory in the 2024 Assembly polls by winning 235 of the 288 seats. The BJP claimed 132 seats, while the Shinde Sena and NCP (Ajit Pawar) secured 57 and 41 seats.
The continued inflow of opposition leaders adds to the ruling coalition’s expanding political strength in Maharashtra.

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All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge Ramesh Chennithala explained that the party had faced challenges in past elections while in alliances, hinting at issues over seat-sharing and campaign responsibilities. Congress confirmed it will field candidates in all 227 BMC wards, while keeping limited room for negotiations with like-minded parties, indicating a selective approach rather than a full alliance.

Insiders revealed that during the last Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, several Mumbai Congress units were unhappy campaigning for Shiv Sena (UBT) candidates, while the party itself contested very few seats. Surrendering strongholds such as Versova, Kurla, and Byculla created further resentment among local leaders, reinforcing the need for an independent strategy.

Mumbai’s diverse electorate also influenced the decision. With Gujarati voters largely favoring the BJP and Marathi voters split between Shiv Sena factions, leaders were concerned that aligning with MNS could alienate north Indian voters. Additionally, the party emphasized providing opportunities for young leaders, who view local elections as a stepping stone for future political roles.

By going solo, Congress hopes to restore morale within its ranks, strengthen its local presence, and reassert itself as a competitive force in Mumbai politics. The strategy aims to balance grassroots expectations, voter dynamics, and leadership aspirations while preparing for a stronger role in upcoming elections.

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