Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray may have lost administrative control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), India’s richest civic body, but the latest electoral outcome indicates that his political relevance within Mumbai remains firmly intact.

Despite a strong challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has secured 74 seats so far, positioning itself as a key force in the civic landscape. The result has reinforced Thackeray’s standing as a leader of consequence, even as the BMC slipped out of his direct control.

Political observers note that while Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde managed to make electoral inroads into parts of Mumbai, the gains were not sufficient to dislodge the Thackeray family’s long-standing influence. Uddhav Thackeray continues to be viewed as the primary political face of the “Marathi Manoos” in India’s financial and entertainment capital.

Also Read: Mahayuti Set to Win BMC Elections, Says Deputy CM Eknath Shinde

The election dynamics were further shaped by the Congress party, an ally of Thackeray under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), choosing to contest independently. This decision compelled the Thackeray cousins to consolidate their traditional support base and mount a focused campaign in key Sena strongholds across the city.

Voters in these areas appeared to respond positively, with the Shiv Sena (UBT) delivering a performance that party leaders describe as resilient under challenging circumstances. The outcome suggests sustained grassroots support despite organizational splits and shifting alliances.

With the BMC no longer under his control, Uddhav Thackeray’s next political moves will be closely watched. Analysts say his options now include leveraging moral authority within Mumbai, strengthening party organization, and positioning the Shiv Sena (UBT) strategically ahead of future state and national contests.

Also Read: Fadnavis, Shinde Launch Election Manifesto Promising Modern, Clean, Smart Mumbai