05 May,2026 11:12 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Uddhav Thackeray. File Pic
The Shiv Sena (UBT) on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that recent assembly election results across key states reflect a larger "pattern" that could have long-term consequences for Indian democracy. The criticism came through an editorial published in the party's mouthpiece Saamana, reported IANS.
The editorial claimed that results in states such as West Bengal and Assam unfolded in line with what it described as a "Modi-Shah pattern." It alleged that the BJP's electoral success followed a pre-determined strategy rather than a straightforward democratic process. The party suggested that these outcomes indicate deeper concerns about how elections are being conducted, reported IANS.
Referring to developments in Tamil Nadu, the editorial claimed that a similar approach influenced the outcome. It pointed to actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), stating that strategic vote division played a key role in altering the political balance. According to the editorial, this led to a significant setback for the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance, reported IANS.
The article also raised serious allegations regarding the functioning of the Election Commission of India. It specifically mentioned Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of acting in a manner that favoured the BJP during the West Bengal elections. The editorial alleged large-scale deployment of paramilitary forces and removal of officials, questioning the neutrality of the process, reported IANS.
Further, the editorial alleged that millions of voters were removed from electoral rolls in West Bengal, claiming that a significant portion of them were supporters of Mamata Banerjee and her party. It argued that such actions undermined the credibility of the electoral process and cast doubt on whether the results truly reflected the will of the people.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) suggested that opposition parties must reconsider their approach to future elections if such patterns persist. It questioned whether participation in elections remains meaningful if the process is perceived as compromised. The editorial described the situation as a concerning sign for democratic institutions and political fairness, reported IANS.
The party also criticised the celebrations following election victories, calling them insensitive in the context of rising social issues, including crimes against women. It argued that political triumphalism should not overshadow pressing concerns affecting citizens, particularly in states like Maharashtra.
(With inputs from IANS)
