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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India won the high-profile match against Pakistan by seven wickets on September 14. However, Thackeray argued that victory on the pitch could not hide the larger issue of credibility. “When we tell the world that Pakistan promotes terror, the obvious question arises: why do you still maintain sporting ties? If you are truly against them, then cut every link,” he told reporters.

The Asia Cup clash drew mixed reactions nationwide. While fans celebrated the win, political leaders and civil society groups questioned the moral stance of engaging Pakistan in sports while blaming them for terrorism. Thackeray’s remarks reflected growing anger among sections of the public who felt the government failed to match words with actions.

The Sena (UBT) chief also targeted the Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena for backing the BJP. He said their silence showed they cared only about clinging to power. “They love their chair, not the country,” he remarked.

Switching to state matters, Thackeray launched a scathing attack on Maharashtra’s financial management. He highlighted that the state’s debt burden has crossed ₹9 lakh crore and warned that lavish projects and new schemes serve contractors more than citizens. Experts have also cautioned that such high levels of debt could impact welfare spending, reduce investor confidence, and increase the long-term tax burden on citizens.

He further demanded urgent relief measures for farmers hit by heavy rains and floods. Thackeray argued that ignoring rural distress would harm both the economy and society. He urged the government to prioritize farmers’ welfare and redirect resources toward real needs.

By linking national security concerns with Maharashtra’s fiscal health, Thackeray positioned himself as a strong voice of opposition. His comments added fuel to the ongoing debate on patriotism, governance, and economic priorities in the state.

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At a press conference in Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray said Indian soldiers sacrifice their lives on the borders. Yet, the Centre wants cricket ties with Pakistan. He asked whether patriotism has been reduced to a joke. “Blood and water cannot flow together. So how can cricket and blood go together?” he asked.

Thackeray also targeted the BJP-led Centre. He questioned if Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, has been abandoned. He urged patriots not to watch the match, saying it insults martyrs.

The Sena (UBT) will stage sindoor protests across Maharashtra. Women workers will collect sindoor and send it to the Prime Minister’s Office as a symbol of protest.

Thackeray recalled that his father, Bal Thackeray, opposed cricket with Pakistan until terror stopped. He also cited the U.S. boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. According to him, such boycotts send a strong message to the world.

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Commenting on the development, Bhuvanagiri MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy said Justice Sudershan Reddy was a strong candidate and deserved recognition . He questioned Union Minister Kiren Rijiju’s remarks confirming cross-voting , asking what such statements meant when the government itself was in power.

Kiran Kumar Reddy added that political maturity required welcoming the newly elected Vice President instead of creating confusion. He emphasized that the INDIA bloc would respect the outcome while continuing its democratic struggle.

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