Axis My India Exit Poll Forecasts BJP-Led NDA Victory in Mumbai BMC Elections
Axis My India's exit poll predicts a decisive win for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The survey indicates a strong performance by the ruling coalition in Maharashtra's capital city.
Seat Projections Show Clear NDA Lead
According to the exit poll findings, the BJP+ alliance is projected to secure between 131 and 151 seats in the 227-member BMC. This alliance includes the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction.
The UBT+ bloc, comprising the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, and NCP (SP), is expected to win 58 to 68 seats. The Congress-led alliance faces a challenging outcome with just 12 to 16 projected seats. Other smaller parties and independents may capture between six and twelve seats.
Lower Voter Turnout Recorded
Polling officials reported an estimated turnout of 46 to 50 percent across Mumbai and 28 other municipal corporations in Maharashtra. This figure falls below the 55.53 percent voter participation recorded during Mumbai's 2017 civic elections.
Voting concluded at 5:30 PM under heavy security arrangements. Authorities deployed more than 25,000 police personnel across the city to ensure peaceful polling.
Controversial Election After Nine-Year Gap
The BMC elections occurred after a nine-year delay caused by multiple factors. The COVID-19 pandemic, court rulings on OBC reservations, and ward delimitation issues postponed the crucial civic polls.
A fiercely contested battle unfolded between the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the reunited Thackeray cousins. Over 1,700 candidates competed for positions in Mumbai alone. The municipal body controls an annual budget exceeding Rs 74,400 crore, making these elections particularly significant.
Ink Removal Controversy Mars Polling Day
The election day faced controversy regarding the indelible ink used to mark voters' fingers. Opposition leaders claimed the ink could be easily removed, raising concerns about potential electoral malpractice.
While the State Election Commission firmly rejected these allegations, opposition figures Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray accused the poll body of serious irregularities. They demanded accountability and transparency in the electoral process.
The BMC elections represent a critical political battleground in Maharashtra. The final results will determine control of India's richest municipal corporation and shape the state's political landscape for years to come.
