Big Setback for Raj Thackeray: Several MNS Leaders and Workers Join BJP in Dombivli

Ahead of civic elections, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena faces a major blow as several party leaders and workers quit Raj Thackeray’s party to join the BJP in Dombivli.

January 7, 2026 | Dombivli – Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray has suffered another significant political setback as several party leaders and workers from Dombivli have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. The development, reported on January 7, 2026, comes at a crucial time when preparations for upcoming municipal and local body elections are intensifying across the state.

The induction of MNS leaders into the BJP took place in the presence of senior BJP functionaries, who welcomed the new entrants and described the move as a sign of growing confidence in the party’s leadership and governance. BJP leaders stated that workers from various parties are aligning with the BJP due to its strong organisational structure and active role in governance at both state and central levels.

According to sources, the leaders and workers who left the MNS were active at the grassroots level in Dombivli and played an important role in local mobilisation. Their exit is being viewed as a blow to the MNS’s organisational strength in the region, particularly as municipal elections approach and ward-level influence becomes critical.

Those who joined the BJP reportedly cited dissatisfaction with the current direction of the MNS and a lack of clarity regarding the party’s electoral strategy. They stated that the BJP offers a stronger platform to work for development and public welfare, especially given its role in government. Some leaders also mentioned that being part of the ruling establishment would help them address local issues more effectively.

Political observers believe that Dombivli has emerged as a key battleground in Thane district’s civic politics. The BJP has been steadily expanding its base in the region, while the MNS has struggled to maintain momentum in recent years. Analysts point out that repeated defections from the MNS reflect broader challenges faced by the party in retaining its cadre amid competition from larger political formations.

The BJP leadership emphasised that its doors remain open to leaders and workers who wish to contribute to development-oriented politics. Party leaders said that the growing number of leaders joining the BJP demonstrates public approval of its governance model and political stability.

The MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, has traditionally relied on its strong Marathi identity and urban appeal. However, defections of local leaders in places like Dombivli are seen as affecting the party’s ability to mobilise voters effectively. Political analysts note that municipal elections often hinge on booth-level management, where experienced local workers play a decisive role.

Opposition leaders criticised the BJP, alleging that defections are being encouraged through political pressure and the lure of power. They argued that such moves weaken ideological politics and undermine democratic competition. BJP leaders dismissed these allegations, stating that leaders are joining voluntarily after evaluating ground realities and voter sentiment.

Public reaction in Dombivli has been mixed. Some residents believe that leaders joining the BJP could help improve coordination with the government and speed up development works. Others expressed disappointment over frequent party switching, stating that political loyalty and ideology should matter.

As of January 7, 2026, the BJP appears to be consolidating its position in Dombivli ahead of civic elections, while the MNS faces renewed challenges in retaining its organisational base. The political atmosphere in the region is expected to heat up further as campaigning gains momentum.

The coming weeks will determine whether this defection leads to further shifts within the MNS or prompts the party to reassess its strategy. For now, the joining of several MNS leaders and workers into the BJP marks a notable development in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape and underscores the intense competition ahead of local body elections.

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