BMC Election 2026: Nitesh Rane Roasts Thackeray, ‘Penguin Army’ Era Comes to an End

Mumbai: The much-anticipated results of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections have been declared, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as the single largest party. The outcome comes as a major setback for Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT), which has ruled Mumbai for decades. BJP MLA Nitesh Rane did not hold back in criticizing Thackeray following the defeat.

BJP’s Resounding Victory Sends Shockwaves to ‘Matoshree’
The BJP strengthened its position across several Mumbai wards, defeating candidates of the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Political analysts expressed surprise at the party’s success in Marathi-dominated areas. The results clearly indicate BJP’s growing dominance in the city.

Nitesh Rane Launches Scathing Attack
Speaking to the media, Nitesh Rane targeted Uddhav Thackeray, stating that Thackeray treated Mumbai as his private property. “But today, the citizens of Mumbai have shown him his place. Those who cannot manage their own party and stronghold cannot manage Mumbai. The so-called ‘Penguin Army’ is now a part of history. The days of looting the city’s treasure are over,” Rane said.

Criticism of Thackeray’s Leadership
Rane further added that Uddhav Thackeray conducted politics only from the window of Matoshree, whereas the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde’s Mahayuti actively engaged with the people on the ground. “This is just the beginning; the decline of Thackeray’s politics is inevitable,” he asserted.

Shiv Sena UBT Responds
The Thackeray faction did not achieve the expected results, with several senior candidates losing their seats, creating a tense atmosphere at Matoshree. Sanjay Raut described the outcome as a victory of money and power. However, Nitesh Rane dismissed the claim, calling it a triumph of the people’s trust. With this victory, the BJP is now poised to secure the mayor’s seat in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.