Shiv Sena Alleges BJP Won Maharashtra Local Body Polls Through Money, Muscle Power

The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) accused the BJP-led Mahayuti of winning the nagar parishad and nagar panchayat elections in Maharashtra through financial and physical dominance. The party criticized the State Election Commission for not taking action against reported incidents of kidnapping, terror, and cash distribution during the polls. The editorial in the party’s mouthpiece, ‘Saamana’, claimed that the BJP and its allies have been using dishonest means to win elections, including the use of looted money and alleged drug funds. According to the State Election Commission, the BJP emerged as the largest party, securing over 100 municipal president posts, while the Shiv Sena and NCP won around 40 seats each. The editorial highlighted instances of alleged voter coercion and malpractice, with reports of high prices being paid for votes in certain areas, leading to tensions within the ruling alliance. The editorial also mentioned specific incidents of electoral disputes, including a public altercation between politicians over fund distribution in Sindhudurg. It further discussed allegations of voter intimidation and malpractice in various districts, such as detaining voters for bribes and instances of bogus voting. The editorial pointed out contrasting election results in Telangana and Punjab, where the BJP faced defeats despite alleged heavy spending. It raised concerns about the democratic process integrity in Maharashtra and highlighted the upcoming BMC elections in January 2026 as a crucial test of electoral transparency and wealth influence in politics.