Eknath Shinde Claims “Real Shiv Sena” Victory, Cites Strong Strike Rate in Local Body Polls

Mumbai, Dec 2025 : Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde on Sunday claimed that his party has achieved a strong strike rate in the recent Nagar Parishad and Nagar Panchayat elections, asserting that the results have settled the debate over which faction represents the “real” Shiv Sena.

Speaking to reporters, Shinde attributed the party’s success to its development-focused agenda and strong grassroots connect, while taking a swipe at the Opposition. “The people have sent home those who wanted to keep others restricted. The verdict has made it clear whom the real Shiv Sena belongs to,” he said, highlighting voter rejection of parties he said sought to confine citizens.

The Mahayuti alliance secured a sweeping victory in the local body polls. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the largest party, crossing the 100-seat mark, while Shiv Sena secured second place with over 50 seats. Despite contesting fewer seats, Shiv Sena recorded a high success rate and won a notable number of President (Nagaradhyaksha) posts, Shinde noted. In several areas, the tally of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) fell short of the seats won by Shiv Sena alone.

Rejecting claims that the party’s influence is confined to Mumbai and Thane, Shinde pointed to Shiv Sena’s strong performance in the Konkan region. “We recorded major victories in Raigad, Palghar, and other coastal districts, reaffirming Konkan as a Shiv Sena stronghold,” he said. Crediting the party’s grassroots workers and office-bearers, he added, “The Bow and Arrow symbol has now reached every household in Maharashtra.”

Shinde emphasized that the poll results reflect citizens’ preference for leaders focused on infrastructure and basic amenities over political rhetoric. “People want leaders who deliver. Shiv Sena has always stood by the people during crises, and the ‘Sena-Sankat’ relationship remains deeply rooted in public memory,” he said.

Congratulating Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the alliance’s performance, Shinde described the victory as a “receipt of approval” for the Mahayuti government’s work over the past three-and-a-half years. Looking ahead to the upcoming Municipal Corporation and Zilla Parishad elections, he expressed confidence that the alliance is set for a decisive win. “This is just a trailer; the full movie is yet to come,” Shinde remarked, predicting a clean sweep for the Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra.

With this performance, Shinde said the results have not only strengthened Shiv Sena’s position in the state but also sent a clear message about the party’s widespread appeal and voter trust, setting the tone for the elections next year.