In a fiery post-poll outburst, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has pointed fingers at ‘Jaychands’—a term symbolizing betrayal—for the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in the recent Maharashtra local body elections. Raut’s comments came amid celebrations by the BJP and its allies, who dominated several municipal polls across the state.
The elections, held across multiple civic bodies including key urban local bodies, saw BJP-led alliances securing a majority in most contests. Raut, addressing a press conference in Mumbai, alleged that internal betrayals within the opposition ranks handed the win to the ruling party on a platter. ‘Jaychands among us weakened our fight,’ he declared, invoking the infamous historical traitor who betrayed a king for personal gain.
Raut didn’t mince words, claiming that despite a strong anti-incumbency wave against the state government, disloyal elements sabotaged the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) campaign. He highlighted specific instances where candidates from allied parties allegedly defected or underperformed, leading to unexpected losses in winnable seats.
The BJP’s triumph extends its influence in urban governance, crucial for implementing welfare schemes and infrastructure projects ahead of state assembly polls. Party leaders credit their organizational strength and voter connect, dismissing Raut’s accusations as sour grapes.
Responding sharply, Shaina NC, a prominent BJP spokesperson, labeled Raut’s rhetoric as desperate deflection. ‘Instead of introspection, Shiv Sena blames phantoms. Voters rejected their divisive politics,’ she retorted, urging the opposition to analyze its failures rather than play the blame game.
This exchange underscores deepening rifts in Maharashtra’s polarized politics. As local body results settle, all eyes are on how these dynamics will shape the high-stakes assembly elections later this year. Raut’s salvo might rally his base but risks alienating potential allies in the fragile opposition front.
