Sun Jan 11 06:58:03 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Former Thackeray Loyalist Joins Shinde’s Shiv Sena Ahead of Mumbai Civic Polls

The Story:

In a move perceived as a significant blow to the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), former MLA Dagdu Sakpal has joined the Eknath Shinde-headed Shiv Sena on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Sakpal, a multiple-term MLA from Mumbai’s Lalbaug-Parel-Sewree belt, a historical stronghold of the Thackerays for over five decades, switched allegiances just days before the crucial Mumbai civic body polls scheduled for January 15, 2026. This defection provides a morale boost to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as he attempts to erode the Thackeray’s influence in their traditional bastion.

The move follows a meeting between Shinde and Sakpal last week, fueling speculation about the impending switch. While Ajay Choudhari currently represents the Lalbaug-Parel-Sewree belt, Sakpal’s experience and former influence in the area makes his move symbolic and potentially impactful.

Key Points:

  • Dagdu Sakpal, former MLA and Thackeray loyalist, joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on January 11, 2026.
  • Sakpal previously represented Mumbai’s Lalbaug-Parel-Sewree belt, a long-time Thackeray stronghold.
  • The move occurs just days before the Mumbai civic body polls on January 15, 2026.
  • The defection is seen as a boost for Eknath Shinde’s efforts to gain ground in the Thackeray’s traditional territory.
  • Shinde met with Sakpal last week, suggesting a planned defection.

Critical Analysis

The historical context provided reveals a pattern of escalating tensions and strategic maneuvering between the Shinde and Thackeray factions of the Shiv Sena, alongside the BJP’s involvement in the BMC polls. Sanjay Raut’s remark about the Thackerays’ ability to “shut down Mumbai in 10 minutes” suggests the Thackeray faction still wields considerable influence. Aaditya Thackeray’s claims of “ghettoisation against Marathis” points to attempts to frame the political battle in identity-based terms to mobilize support. Poonam Mahajan’s characterization of the situation as an “Alliance of Survival” implies desperation and a sense of existential threat. The context portrays a fierce competition for political dominance and influence in Mumbai, with attempts to exploit regional and identity-based sentiments.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Shinde-led Shiv Sena is actively attempting to weaken the Thackeray-led faction by poaching key leaders.
  • The Mumbai civic body polls are shaping up to be a fiercely contested battle for control of the city.
  • The Thackeray faction still retains a significant level of perceived influence and power.
  • Identity politics may play a crucial role in swaying voters in the upcoming elections.
  • The BJP has taken a strong anti-Thackeray stance, further complicating the political landscape.

Impact Analysis:

This event series has significant long-term implications for the political landscape of Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai. The defection of Dagdu Sakpal could embolden other Thackeray loyalists to switch sides, further eroding the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s power base. If Shinde’s Shiv Sena performs well in the upcoming civic polls, it could solidify its position as the dominant faction and reshape the future of Mumbai politics. A poor showing by the Thackeray faction could lead to internal strife and further fragmentation. Overall, the shift in allegiance by Sakpal is indicative of a major power struggle that will likely reshape the Shiv Sena’s future.

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