BMC Election 2026: Muslim Voter Influence Could Tilt Battle Between Thackeray Alliance and Mahayuti

Ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, the political landscape in Mumbai is witnessing a significant shift. Uddhav and Raj Thackeray’s historic alliance brings together two influential factions of the Thackeray family, while the Mahayuti camp, including BJP and Eknath Shinde’s party, prepares to counter them. The alliance is expected to consolidate Marathi manoos votes, but the role of Muslim voters has emerged as a crucial factor in several key wards. Political analysts suggest that Muslim votes in Mumbai, traditionally split between the Maha Vikas Aghadi and parties like the Samajwadi Party, may influence outcomes in contested areas. BJP and Eknath Shinde’s party have fielded Muslim candidates in several wards such as Anushakti Nagar, Devnar, Mankhurd, Govandi, and Nagpada to strategically appeal to these voters. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar’s NCP and Congress continue negotiations with smaller parties to protect their voter base. With campaigning underway and the press conference by the Thackeray brothers imminent, all eyes are on how alliances and voter dynamics shape the city’s civic polls.