Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Uddhav Sena suffered a major setback in the municipal corporation elections, winning only six seats. Opposition leader Ambadas Danve acknowledged the unexpected defeat, attributing it to the use of power and money rather than the people’s will. He strongly accused the BJP of leveraging wealth and authority to secure victory.
Danve alleged widespread use of cash and manipulation of EVMs during the elections. “We ran our campaign with complete honesty, but the BJP resorted to blatant financial influence. Literally, money rained in their favor. On polling day, January 15, complaints of EVM resets and suspicious incidents affected nearly 25% of polling,” he said. He expressed regret that voters still chose the BJP despite its failure to adequately serve the city.
The results were disastrous for both Sena factions. Shinde Sena, despite having access to government resources, could win only 12 seats. Danve criticized BJP for targeting both factions, saying the party aimed to defeat them entirely, though they were allied parties.
Uddhav Sena, while winning only six seats, finished second in 35 wards, showing persistent support among voters. Danve expressed confidence that their 70 representatives in the municipal corporation would work to bring new energy and direction to city politics. “We will not be discouraged. We will continue raising public issues and working tirelessly for the city’s development,” he said, underlining the party’s commitment to public service despite the electoral setback.