MUMBAI: The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance expressed strong confidence on Thursday following the conclusion of voting for municipal corporations across Maharashtra. Leaders pointed to what they called "positive voter response" throughout the Mumbai Metropolitan Region as a key indicator.
Voter Turnout and Support Patterns
Polling began at 7:30 AM and ended at 5:30 PM across 29 municipal corporations. These included major urban centers like Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, and Kalyan-Dombivli. Initial estimates placed voter turnout between 41% and 50%.
Mahayuti leaders stated that turnout patterns in Mumbai, Thane, Mira-Bhayander, Vasai-Virar, and Navi Mumbai showed a consolidation of support for the ruling alliance. They believe this reflects voter approval of recent development work and governance stability.
Confidence in Key Municipal Corporations
In Mumbai specifically, alliance leaders asserted they are well positioned to become the single largest bloc in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. They cited steady turnout throughout the day and improved voting in middle-class areas, particularly those undergoing redevelopment projects.
Similar confidence was expressed for Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, and Mira-Bhayander municipal corporations. The alliance expects to build upon its existing strength in these urban bodies.
Statewide Projections
Mahayuti leaders also projected gains in several other municipal corporations across Maharashtra. These include Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Nashik, Nagpur, Solapur, and Kolhapur.
BJP leaders pointed to higher voting percentages in numerous wards as evidence of voter satisfaction. They attributed this to infrastructure projects, road works, and welfare schemes implemented over recent years.
Leadership Statements
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, after casting his vote, stated that the civic polls would reaffirm public trust in the Mahayuti government. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed this sentiment, saying voters had "decided in favour of the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance" across civic bodies.
A senior BJP functionary commented, "The mood on the ground in Mumbai and MMR is clearly in our favour. People have voted for development and a decisive mandate."
Polling Process and Security
Election officials confirmed that adequate security arrangements were in place throughout the voting process. They described the polling as generally free and fair, with only isolated complaints of minor skirmishes and technical glitches reported from a few towns.
The election commission stated that all complaints received during the day were being examined according to due process. Final turnout figures will be released after consolidation of data from all polling centers.
Response to Opposition Allegations
The Mahayuti alliance dismissed opposition allegations of irregularities in the polling process. Alliance representatives characterized these allegations as "anticipatory excuses ahead of results."
Counting of votes is scheduled for Friday, when the actual performance of all political parties will be revealed. The results will determine control of Maharashtra's major urban local bodies for the coming term.
