Uddhav Thackeray Faces Setback in Kalyan-Dombivli, Three Corporators Join Shinde Faction

Mumbai, Maharashtra: The real political maneuvering has begun in Maharashtra following the declaration of results for 29 municipal corporations, as suspense continues over the new mayor of Mumbai. In Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation, a significant blow has hit Uddhav Thackeray as three corporators from his faction reportedly switched allegiance to Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena.

Election Numbers and Power Play

In the Kalyan-Dombivli civic elections, which cover 21 wards of the 122-seat corporation, Shinde’s Shiv Sena secured 53 seats while the BJP won 50. The Congress managed to win 2 seats, and the MNS 5 seats, while Uddhav Thackeray’s faction of Shiv Sena (UBT) captured 11 seats. The NCP, led by Sharad Pawar, secured a single seat.

With the defection of three corporators, Shinde’s strength in the 122-member body has risen to 56, bringing him closer to the majority mark of 62 required to elect the mayor. This shift has tilted the balance of power further in favor of Shinde’s faction.

Rising Tensions Ahead of Mayoral Decision

The pre-election political tussle between Shinde’s and Thackeray’s factions has intensified, especially in the wake of past local rivalries. Shinde’s son, Shrikant Shinde, and local MLA Ravindra Chavan have been at odds over influence in Dombivli, adding another layer to the mayoral contest. Neither Shinde’s Shiv Sena nor BJP can claim a clear majority alone, making alliance-building crucial in the coming days.

Political observers note that this early realignment could determine the outcome of Kalyan-Dombivli’s mayoral post, signaling a strategic advantage for the Shinde faction in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s local politics.