Mon Jan 19 04:39:52 UTC 2026: ### Mumbai’s Resort Politics Returns: Shinde’s Maneuvers Raise Questions About BJP Alliance

The Story:
Following the NDA’s victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, political maneuvering has begun in Mumbai, with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction moving its corporators to a five-star hotel. This action, known as “resort politics,” comes as the BJP secured its best-ever tally in the BMC polls, while the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) suffered a setback. The focus is now on Shinde, who toppled the Thackeray government in 2022 and is now aligned with the BJP. The move raises questions about potential horse-trading and an internal power struggle within the NDA, specifically regarding the coveted Mayor’s post.

Key Points:

  • The BJP won 89 seats in the 227-ward BMC, while the Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured 29 seats, giving them a combined majority of 118.
  • The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) won 65 wards.
  • The resort politics move by Shinde‘s camp aims to prevent corporators from being poached by the opposition.
  • A power struggle is brewing between the BJP and Shinde‘s Shiv Sena over who will hold the Mayor’s post.
  • Uddhav Thackeray accused Shinde of being wary of the BJP, suggesting potential instability within the alliance.

Critical Analysis:

The “resort politics” tactic reveals deep-seated distrust and strategic maneuvering between political actors after the BMC election. The historical context highlights an ongoing tension within the Mahayuti, particularly between Shinde and the BJP. Shinde’s actions suggest a proactive attempt to consolidate his position and influence, potentially driven by fear of marginalization or a repeat of past betrayals, as alluded to by Thackeray. This strategic placement of corporators is a direct response to perceived vulnerabilities in the ruling coalition, aiming to protect the party’s influence.

Key Takeaways:

  • The post-election environment in Mumbai is characterized by intense political maneuvering and distrust.
  • The fight for the Mayor’s position is a key indicator of the power dynamics within the NDA alliance.
  • Eknath Shinde‘s actions reveal a proactive strategy to safeguard his political influence.
  • The events highlight the volatility of political alliances and the ever-present risk of defections and power shifts.
  • Uddhav Thackeray’s faction is attempting to exploit the tensions within the ruling coalition, potentially hoping to regain lost ground.

Impact Analysis:

The outcome of the mayoral election will significantly impact the political landscape of Mumbai. If the BJP secures the Mayor’s post, it would solidify its dominance and potentially undermine Shinde‘s authority. Conversely, if Shinde manages to install a Shiv Sena mayor, it would demonstrate his continued relevance and influence, reinforcing his claim to Bal Thackeray’s legacy. The resolution of this power struggle will likely shape the future trajectory of the BJP-Shinde alliance and its impact on Maharashtra politics. The unfolding events have the potential to cause realignments within the Mahayuti government.

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