On this Special Report, veteran editor Rajdeep Sardesai analyses the significant shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape following the BMC election results. Sardesai observes that ‘today the big winner is Devendra Fadnavis’, noting that the BJP has established itself as the dominant force across the state. The discussion highlights how Eknath Shinde has successfully used the BJP to legitimise his position, particularly in his stronghold of Thane, while accepting a secondary role in the alliance. The transcript further explores the resilience of Uddhav Thackeray in the Shiv Sena heartlands of Mumbai despite the split. Journalists Maria Shakil and Sneha Mordani contribute to the analysis, focusing on the rejection of ‘Parivar Vada’ or dynasty politics as the Thackeray family loses its 30-year grip on the BMC. The programme provides a comprehensive look at the organizational strength of the BJP and the future challenges for regional parties in Maharashtra.
