Politics: BJP-Led Alliance Takes Early Lead in BMC Trends as Opposition Questions Poll Process

Early trends in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections indicate a strong performance by the BJP-led alliance, triggering sharp political reactions and renewed debate over the electoral process. As counting began for the first phase of wards, the BJP alliance surged ahead, while Congress and other opposition parties lagged behind. Speaking on the developments, BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla attributed the early lead to the party’s leadership, governance model, and grassroots efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He dismissed opposition allegations, stating that voters were expressing clear trust in the BJP alliance through their mandate. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Saral Patel raised concerns over the use of markers instead of traditional indelible ink during voting, echoing objections raised by opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Sanjay Raut. Patel demanded clarity from the Election Commission, questioning whether the markers used were sufficiently permanent. Responding to these claims, BJP representatives argued that markers have been used in Maharashtra elections since 2010 and accused the opposition of deflecting responsibility instead of introspecting on electoral losses. They maintained that repeated allegations against the Election Commission undermine democratic institutions without evidence. As per official trends from the first 46 wards—out of a total 227—the BJP alliance is leading in 27 wards, Shiv Sena alliance in 13, and the Congress alliance in five. Counting is ongoing, and final results are awaited

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