MNS Supports Shinde-Led Shiv Sena in Kalyan-Dombivli, Affecting KDMC Power Dynamics

In the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) elections, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena won 53 seats and the BJP 50, falling short of a majority in the 122-member body. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, extended support to the Shinde faction despite contesting the polls alongside Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT). This post-poll alliance strengthens the Shinde-BJP combine's position, though Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have criticized the MNS move as a betrayal. The mayoral post and power-sharing remain under negotiation amid ongoing political maneuvering.