BMC Election

On this Special Report, the focus is on the political fallout in Maharashtra following the BMC poll results. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has launched a scathing attack on his political rivals, reiterating allegations of 'vote chori' or vote theft. Addressing his party cadre in Mumbai, Thackeray stated, 'You can buy votes, but how can you buy spirit?' He expressed disappointment that 'traitors' from within, rather than outsiders, were being used in an attempt to finish the Thackeray name and legacy. While Thackeray did not explicitly name Eknath Shinde, his remarks were clearly directed at the Shinde faction and the BJP, whom he referred to as outsiders trying to divide the Shiv Sena. Thackeray appreciated his workers for resisting these pressures and vowed to continue the fight. The programme examines these comments as the mayoral race begins in Mumbai amidst a highly charged political atmosphere.

In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker reports on a significant political shift within the Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra. The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena is reportedly manoeuvring to secure the Mayor's position in the Kalyan Dombivalli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) by partnering with Raj Thackeray's MNS, effectively sidelining its ally, the BJP. The speaker notes that 'Shinde Sena MP Shrikanth Shinde confirmed the MNS alliance', bringing their combined strength to 58 seats, just short of the 62-seat majority. The transcript highlights a potential rift as the Shinde Sena resists the BJP's demand for a split mayoral term. The discussion also touches upon the possible role of the UBT faction, which holds 11 seats, and suggests that this power struggle over mayoral posts could extend to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The report concludes by examining the BJP's potential counter-strategies while senior leadership is away.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the intensifying 'resort politics' in Maharashtra as the Mahayuti alliance maneuvers to secure the Mumbai mayoral post. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has asserted that the 'mayor's chair is firmly in the Mahayuti's grip' and emphasized that the final decision will be made in consultation with the BJP. The transcript details the movement of 29 newly elected Shiv Sena corporators to a hotel to prevent poaching before formal group formation under the Mumbai Municipal Act. Reporter Vidya highlights that while Eknath Shinde is currently in Davos, backroom maneuvering continues in Kalyan-Dombivli and Mumbai. The programme analyzes various numerical scenarios, noting that while the Mahayuti holds a majority with 118 seats, any shift in alliance dynamics could alter the outcome. The report underscores the strategic importance of the upcoming gazette notification and the subsequent mayoral elections in the state's political landscape.

This news report examines the intensifying political battle for the Mumbai Mayor’s chair following the BMC elections. Amidst reports of resort politics and backroom maneuvering, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena has asserted that the 'mayor's chair is firmly in Mahayuti's grip,' dismissing conspiracy theories of a split. Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has hinted at potential counter-poaching, suggesting opposition corporators might become unreachable on voting day. The report breaks down the 227-seat BMC tally, where the BJP holds 89 seats and the Shinde-led Sena holds 29, placing the Mahayuti alliance at 118—surpassing the 114-seat halfway mark. Three scenarios are analyzed: a united Mahayuti victory, the impact of Shinde Sena potentially ditching the BJP, and a possible opposition-led mayor if the Shinde Sena and NCP switch sides. The suspense remains as parties strategize to secure the prestigious mayoral post in India's richest municipal corporation.

This bulletin covers the ongoing political manoeuvring in Maharashtra as Shiv Sena corporators, aligned with Eknath Shinde, gather at a Mumbai hotel to strategise for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) term. According to the speaker, 'Shiv Sena leaders are trying to clear the air since yesterday that they have gathered in the Mumbai's Taj Land Hotel just for the planning of the future, how they will going to work in the BMC for the next five years.' Key issues include the contest for the mayor post and how alliances with the BJP might influence the outcome. Uday Samant, Shiv Sena minister, and Sheetal Matre, Shiv Sena UBT spokesperson, both clarified that the gathering is intended to educate first-time corporators and plan the party’s agenda, not merely engage in 'resort politics.' The situation is fluid as procedural and political steps unfold.

This report analyzes the post-election dynamics of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) following the conclusion of civic polls. With the BJP emerging as the single largest party securing 89 seats, the focus shifts to the high-stakes battle for the Mumbai mayor post. The speaker notes, 'Well, it's very simple, it's all for the mayor post,' highlighting the intense political maneuvering among elected corporators. The transcript details a fragmented mandate where Shiv Sena (UBT) holds 65 seats, followed by Shinde Sena with 29, and the Congress with 24. The programme explores three potential scenarios: a united Mahayuti alliance surpassing the 114-seat halfway mark, a possible breakaway by the Shinde faction, or a broad opposition coalition coming together to claim the mayoralty. Despite the BJP's lead, the final outcome remains dependent on alliance stability and the upcoming internal vote by the 227 corporators to choose the city's next head.

This news report focuses on the aftermath of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, where the Mahayuti alliance has emerged victorious, ending the dominance of the Thackeray faction. Following the results, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena has moved its newly elected corporators to a five-star hotel in Mumbai to prevent potential poaching. Sources indicate that the Shiv Sena is negotiating a '50-50 power-sharing formula for the mayor's post' with the BJP, potentially involving a split term of 2.5 years each. While the BJP remains the single largest party with 89 seats, the alliance holds a combined total of 118 seats, surpassing the halfway mark. The opposition, including the Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena and Congress, has criticized the move, alleging that the alliance partners fear 'Operation Kamal' and internal poaching. The report outlines various political scenarios, including the possibility of the Shinde Sena breaking away or the Mahayuti staying united to appoint a mayor.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the political developments following the recently concluded BMC election summit in Maharashtra. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has addressed rumours of a rift within the Mahayuti alliance regarding the appointment of the next Mumbai Mayor. Fadnavis stated, 'Mayor decision will be collective,' emphasizing that he, Eknath Shinde, and other alliance leaders will jointly decide on the candidate. The report highlights that despite rumours of the Shiv Sena and BJP not being on the same page, the Chief Minister maintains there is no dispute. Analysis suggests that the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, is in a strong position to negotiate as no party can appoint a mayor without their support. The process is expected to take 15 to 20 days as official reservations for the mayoral post are yet to be declared. The programme explores the internal dynamics of the Mahayuti allies as they navigate the power-sharing agreement for the crucial mayoral post in Mumbai.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a massive public rally in Malda, West Bengal, where he sounded the poll bugle for the upcoming state elections. During his speech, the Prime Minister asserted that 'this time, the people of Bengal will also make the BJP victorious', citing recent electoral successes in Maharashtra and Bihar as evidence of a growing national trust in the BJP's development model. He flagged off India's first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Malda, calling it a major boost for regional connectivity. PM Modi launched a scathing attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, accusing it of being 'merciless' and 'an enemy of the poor' for allegedly blocking central schemes like Ayushman Bharat and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. He further highlighted the issue of illegal immigration, promising that a BJP government would take 'big action' against infiltrators to protect the rights and land of local citizens while ensuring safety for refugees under the CAA.

This report explores the emerging tensions within the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance following the BMC election results. The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena has proposed a 'split term' formula, demanding the Mumbai Mayor's position for the first 2.5 years of the five-year term. The party is reportedly keen on holding the civic office to coincide with the birth centenary year of Balasaheb Thackeray. While the BJP has emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats, the Shinde faction, with 29 seats, is positioning itself as a kingmaker. The transcript highlights concerns over 'hotel politics' and potential poaching of corporators, as Uddhav Thackeray takes jibes at the power tussle. The final decision on the mayoral formula remains with the BJP high command as discussions continue between the alliance partners in Maharashtra.

This report covers the unfolding political drama in Maharashtra following the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results. Amid fears of potential poaching, all 29 newly elected corporators from the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena have been shifted to the Taj Lands End hotel in Bandra, Mumbai. The speaker notes, 'Eknath Shinde has managed to secure 29 seats and he's in the kingmaker position because without him BJP cannot rule BMC.' With the BJP securing 89 seats, the Shinde faction is reportedly bargaining for a 50-50 power-sharing formula, specifically seeking the Mayor's post for 2.5 years to coincide with Balasaheb Thackeray's birth centenary. The programme highlights that while the BJP holds the most seats, they require Shinde's support to reach the majority mark of 114. Currently, senior leaders are holding meetings with the corporators to prevent any cross-voting or defection as negotiations with the BJP continue.

In this news bulletin, the focus is on the unfolding 'resort politics' in Mumbai following the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has reportedly ordered all 29 newly elected corporators from his Shiv Sena faction to gather at the Taj Lands End hotel in Bandra. The move is aimed at preventing potential poaching or 'horse-trading' attempts by rival parties as the Mahayuti alliance prepares to claim power in India's richest civic body. The speaker notes that the Shinde faction has emerged as a 'kingmaker,' as the BJP's 89 seats fall short of a majority without their support. The programme highlights the historic shift in Mumbai's political landscape, ending the 28-year rule of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena. 'Eknath Shinde is reportedly taking no risks and intends to keep his team united until the power is claimed in the civic body,' the report states, detailing the high-stakes battle for the mayoral post and control of the ₹74,000 crore BMC budget.

In this special report, the focus is on the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results where the BJP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena alliance has successfully dethroned the Thackeray family. The Saffron Alliance secured 89 seats, while the Shinde faction managed 29. In contrast, the Shiv Sena (UBT) won 65 seats and the MNS was restricted to just 6. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the verdict, stating that 'People have blessed the NDA for the good governance and that the NDA's bond with the people has deepened.' Following the setback, Uddhav Thackeray has convened a crucial meeting with his 62 newly elected corporators to discuss the future strategy and ensure the party remains intact. The programme highlights the shifting political dynamics in Mumbai as the BJP-Shinde combine crosses the majority mark required for the Mayorship, marking a significant blow to the Thackeray brothers in the civic body polls held after a nine-year gap.

This news report focuses on the political fallout in Maharashtra following the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results. Following a significant victory for the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, BJP leader Nishikant Dubey launched a scathing mythological attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. Dubey stated, 'Sanjay Raut is a combination of Narada Muni and Mantra', referring to characters known for causing discord in Indian epics. The verbal spat intensified as Sanjay Raut accused Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of betraying the 'Marathi Manus' and acting like a 'Jaichand', which he claims allowed the BJP to secure a majority in Mumbai. The report highlights that for the first time in over four decades, a BJP Mayor is set to take oath in Mumbai. The discussion underscores the deep rift between the Eknath Shinde-led faction and the UBT group following the civic poll outcome where the MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) failed to meet their expected seat targets.

On this special report, India Today examines the first reaction from Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray following the party's performance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. Despite the MNS failing to reach double digits in seat counts, Thackeray remains defiant about the party's core ideology. He stated, 'Our fight is for the Marathi Manus, for the Marathi language, for Marathi identity, and for a prosperous Maharashtra.' Thackeray described the electoral contest as a battle of 'tremendous money, power, and the power of authority against Shiva Shakti.' While the BJP-led Mahayuti and the Uddhav Thackeray faction secured significant seats, the MNS leader urged his workers and newly elected corporators to continue standing up for the Marathi people. The programme analyses whether the 'Marathi agenda' still resonates with Mumbai's voters and what the future holds for the MNS as they navigate this political setback in the state's capital.

This special report highlights the political ascent of Devendra Fadnavis following the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance's historic victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The win marks a significant shift in Maharashtra politics as the alliance 'dethroned the Thakurs from the BMC, Asia's richest municipality'. The report traces Fadnavis' journey from being the youngest councillor at 22 and Nagpur’s youngest mayor to becoming the state's Chief Minister. It details his resilience through the political upheavals of 2019 and 2022, including his stint as Deputy Chief Minister under Eknath Shinde. After a setback in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Fadnavis led the BJP to its best-ever performance in the assembly elections, culminating in his restoration as Chief Minister and this latest municipal triumph.

This report covers the landmark results of the 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, where the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance successfully ended the decades-long dominance of the Thackeray family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the verdict, stating that 'People have blessed the NDA for good governance and that the NDA's bond with the people has deepened.' The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 89 seats, while Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena also secured significant gains to help the alliance surpass the majority mark. In contrast, the Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, faced a major setback as the Sena UBT won 65 seats and the MNS managed only 6. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, credited with leading the campaign, thanked voters for endorsing the development agenda. The programme also highlights the upcoming meeting between Uddhav Thackeray and his newly elected councillors following the defeat.

This special report examines a historic shift in Mumbai's political landscape as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) moves out of the Thackeray family's control for the first time in 25 years. The report highlights the decline of the Shiv Sena's traditional stronghold following the party split and changing voter aspirations in the city. An unidentified speaker, supporting the current leadership, stated, 'My own leader, Eknatji Shinde, has worked tirelessly on ground and he has proven that those who stay at home will probably get a mandate of work from home'. The programme explores how the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is celebrating this breakthrough as a sign of its organisational expansion and a decisive shift in the city's power axis. While the Uddhav Thackeray faction struggles to reclaim ground, the report suggests that Mumbai's youth and aspiration-driven electorate are moving away from identity-based politics, leaving the Thackeray family to face the challenge of reinventing their political relevance in a city they once ruled unchallenged.

On this Special Report, Consulting Editor Rajdeep Sardesai analyses the 2026 Maharashtra civic election results, marking a 'tectonic shift' as the BJP dethrones the Thackeray family from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after 30 years. Sardesai observes that 'The BJP has emerged as the party number one in India's second most populous state,' highlighting a 'saffron surge' across the region. The report identifies Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as a 'big winner' now positioned in the BJP's next-generation leadership. Key takeaways include the routing of the Pawar family in Western Maharashtra, the continued decline of the Congress party, and the significant rise of the AIMIM, which secured over 100 seats. Sardesai concludes that a fragmented opposition, combined with the 'Hindutva plus Vikas' formula, has granted the BJP a decisive advantage, establishing a 'triple engine' government with power at the Centre, the state Mantralaya, and local bodies.

In this special report, the focus is on the landmark results of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, held after a gap of over eight years. The ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, has emerged victorious, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics of India's financial capital. The BJP has secured its position as the single largest party, surpassing its 2017 performance. This victory ensures a 'triple-engine' government with the BJP in power at the Centre, the State, and now the local civic body. The report highlights that 'The people of Mumbai have accepted development and have not done anti-development,' as the city prepares to welcome its first-ever BJP mayor. While the MNS and Congress faced setbacks, the verdict is seen as a preference for 'Vikas' over traditional ideology. The programme explores how these results reshape the political landscape of Maharashtra.