
Fri Jan 16 11:10:00 UTC 2026: ### BMC Election 2026: Results See Dramatic Shift, Hanging in the Balance
The Story:
The 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results are proving to be a nail-biter. Initial counting on Friday morning showed a strong lead for the BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, leading many to believe they would secure a comfortable victory. However, a shift in the vote-counting pattern during the day resulted in a significant change. The BJP’s projected seat count dropped from over 100 to 82, while the Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena rose from 57 to 63 seats. With many wards still to be counted, the final outcome remains uncertain.
Key Points:
- The initial vote count favored the BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena alliance.
- A shift in vote-counting patterns dramatically altered the results.
- The BJP’s seat projection fell from over 100 to 82.
- The Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena increased its seat count from 57 to 63.
- As of the latest count, the BJP has 82, Shinde faction 26, Thackeray faction 63, MNS 7, Sharad Pawar faction 1, Congress 22, Ajit Pawar faction 2 and Independents 10.
- A total of 157 seats results are out, and 72 seats are still to be declared.
- The majority mark in the BMC is 114.
- Possibility of an alliance between Thackeray Faction, Congress, and Vanchit.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 BMC election is highly contested, demonstrating a divided electorate.
- Vote counting irregularities created volatility in the reported seat counts.
- A potential alliance of opposition parties, including the Thackeray faction, Congress, and Vanchit, could significantly impact the final power dynamics in the BMC.
- The BJP’s initial dominance appears to be waning, showcasing a potential shift in political influence within Mumbai.
- The final results will be influenced by the remaining wards to be counted.