BJP-led Alliance Claims Victory in Maharashtra Local Elections Amid Allegations of Excessive Spending

A dispute has arisen between the ruling MahaYuti and the opposition following the BJP-led alliance’s significant win in the Maharashtra Nagar Parishad and Nagar Panchayat elections. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the outcome as an “unprecedented mandate,” while Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut accused the alliance of spending a massive Rs 15,000 crore to secure the victory. Fadnavis highlighted that MahaYuti has clinched 75% of the Municipal President positions, asserting BJP’s dominance in Maharashtra and the defeat of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). He expressed gratitude to the voters and emphasized the alliance’s strength in semi-urban and rural areas, gearing up for upcoming BMC and Zilla Parishad elections in early 2026.
On the other hand, Raut criticized Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar, alleging that the trio spent exorbitantly to influence voters. He dismissed Fadnavis’ victory claim as a result of extensive money distribution. Raut also targeted Shinde, suggesting that his loyalty lies with Amit Shah rather than the Shiv Sena. He voiced dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court’s handling of the MLA disqualification case and symbol dispute, accusing the court of delay and pressure. Raut hinted at a potential alliance between the Thackeray brothers, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, signaling a shift in the MVA’s strategy.
Earlier, Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) criticized the BJP-led MahaYuti’s victory in the Maharashtra local elections, attributing it to money and power. The party expressed concern over the impact of such wins achieved through financial means on Maharashtra’s pride and honor.
The Thackeray camp condemned the State Election Commission for alleged inaction, denouncing instances of violence and corruption during the elections.