The highly anticipated Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election results for 2026 have been announced, delivering a setback to the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and its new ally, the Shiv Sena (UBT). MNS Chief Raj Thackeray has finally broken his silence on the results, admitting that the numbers were below expectations but sending a strong warning to the ruling parties.
In a rare political move, Raj Thackeray had joined hands with his cousin Uddhav Thackeray for this election. However, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a majority. Here is a detailed look at Raj Thackeray’s reaction, the controversies during the election, and what lies ahead for the MNS.
Raj Thackeray’s Message: Defiant in Defeat
Speaking to his party workers and the media after the results were declared in mid-January 2026, Raj Thackeray did not mince his words. While accepting the defeat, he attributed the loss to the massive use of money and administrative machinery by the ruling government.
- “Rule of Money Power”: Raj Thackeray alleged that this election was a battle between “wealth” and “public interest.” He claimed that the ruling alliance used immense financial power to sway voters.
- A Warning to Rulers: Despite winning fewer seats than hoped (approx. 6 seats), he stated, “We are not the kind to get discouraged. Our elected corporators will be enough to bury the arrogance of the rulers.”
- Role of Opposition: He urged his newly elected corporators to turn the municipal house into a “battleground” if any decision goes against the common Marathi people.
The Historic MNS-UBT Alliance Fails to Click
The biggest talking point of the 2026 BMC election was the coming together of the estranged Thackeray cousins, Raj and Uddhav.
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- Joint Campaign: For the first time, Raj and Uddhav Thackeray held joint rallies and released a common manifesto promising free electricity and better infrastructure for Mumbai.
- The Result: Despite the emotional appeal of the “Thackeray Brand,” the alliance could not stop the BJP and Shinde-led Shiv Sena from crossing the majority mark.
- Political Analysis: Experts believe that while the crowds at their rallies were huge, the votes did not fully transfer between the two parties.
Controversy: The “Rasmalai” Jibe and SEC Clash
The election season was filled with heated exchanges.
- The ‘Rasmalai’ Comment: During the campaign, Raj Thackeray mocked a BJP leader by comparing him to “Rasmalai” (a sweet dish), implying he was soft and ineffective. After the results, BJP leaders retorted, saying the voters had given a “sweet” reply to Raj Thackeray’s criticism.
- Clash with Election Commission: Just days before voting, Raj Thackeray slammed the State Election Commission (SEC). He accused the SEC of changing rules at the last minute to allow door-to-door campaigning, which he claimed was done solely to help the ruling party distribute money and influence voters.
Why This Matters for Maharashtra Politics
The BMC is the richest municipal corporation in India, and controlling it is key to controlling Mumbai. For Raj Thackeray, this election was a fight for survival.
- Impact on MNS: The low seat count raises questions about the MNS’s ability to win elections despite having a charismatic leader.
- Future of the Alliance: It remains to be seen if Raj and Uddhav will continue their alliance for future state-level elections or if they will part ways again.
What Happens Next?
Raj Thackeray has directed his party workers to focus on grassroots issues immediately. He emphasized that elections will come and go, but the party’s commitment to the “Marathi Manoos” (sons of the soil) must remain unshaken. The MNS is expected to take an aggressive stand in the BMC house against any corruption by the winning alliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many seats did MNS win in the BMC Election 2026?
The MNS performed below expectations, securing approximately 6 seats in the 2026 civic polls.
Q2: Did Raj Thackeray align with Uddhav Thackeray for this election?
Yes, Raj Thackeray’s MNS formed a pre-poll alliance with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) to take on the BJP-led Mahayuti.
Q3: What was Raj Thackeray’s main complaint after the results?
He alleged that the ruling parties won due to “money power” and questioned the neutrality of the State Election Commission.
Q4: Who won the BMC Election 2026?
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance (BJP and Shinde Sena) secured a simple majority, defeating the MNS-UBT alliance.
Q5: What is the “Rasmalai” controversy involving Raj Thackeray?
During the campaign, Raj Thackeray mockingly called a BJP leader “Rasmalai.” After winning, BJP leaders used this term to mock him back, saying he had been forced to eat humble pie.