Navi Mumbai Election Results Spark Reflection for Shiv Sena and BJP Alliance

Navi Mumbai, 12th June 2024: Despite the victory of Mahayuti candidate Naresh Mhaske of Shiv Sena in the Thane Lok Sabha constituency, defeating two-time sitting MP Rajan Vichare of Shiv Sena (UBT), there is a cause for reflection for the Shiv Sena and the BJP in Navi Mumbai. The lead in both assembly constituencies of the city has significantly diminished by approximately 75%.

With the assembly and civic elections looming ahead, the narrowed victory margin signals the necessity for continued vigilance for the alliance partners, who have experienced discord in the region in the past.

Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena (UBT), which has experienced a loss of key leaders in the city, will need to intensify efforts to reclaim its influence. Despite the backing of the Congress and NCP, it couldn’t replicate its previous performance.

Both assembly constituencies of Airoli and Belapur are currently represented by BJP MLAs, former minister Ganesh Naik and Manda Mhatre, respectively. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Mahayuti candidate of the united Shiv Sena, Vichare, held a substantial lead of 84,087 votes in Navi Mumbai. However, Mhaske’s lead has reduced to just 22,047, indicating a decrease of 62,040 votes. Similar reductions in leads are observed in the Airoli and Belapur segments.

Despite Navi Mumbai historically being a stronghold of Naik and the departure of top Shiv Sena leaders to Eknath Shinde’s camp, the diminished lead has surprised many.

There were speculations about whether the Naiks would support Mhaske due to historical differences with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. However, BJP city chief Sandeep Naik ensured the party backed Mhaske by actively campaigning and ensuring the Naiks’ presence at roadshows.

Political parties, particularly the Shiv Sena and the BJP, are meticulously analyzing the results booth-wise to discern voting patterns and sentiments.

“This result underscores the steadfast support of the city for Eknath Shinde, ensuring Mhaske’s victory,” remarked Shiv Sena Upneta Vijay Nahata, emphasizing the need for introspection and improvement in future elections.

Kishore Patkar, Shiv Sena city Sampark Pramukh, expressed confidence in the city’s faith in Eknath Shinde’s leadership, highlighting the importance of adapting strategies for each election.

Former MLA Sandeep Naik acknowledged the challenges of campaigning within a short timeframe but lauded Navi Mumbai for supporting the Mahayuti candidate despite not having the ‘lotus’ symbol. He stressed the importance of unity for the upcoming assembly elections.

Naresh Mhaske expressed gratitude for the support received from Navi Mumbai residents, refuting propaganda about his candidacy.