Analysis of editorial from The Hindu newspaper on January 20, 2026
Regional saffron: On Maharashtra politics
BJP is on the ascent in Maharashtra; so is Chief Minister Fadnavis
Maharashtra PoliticsBJPShiv SenaNCPCivic Body ElectionsDevendra Fadnavis
Sentences
Sentence 1 of 18
English Original
Maharashtra politicsremainsin a flux,butthe Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)continues to beon the ascent,as trends from the recent civic body elections suggest.
Simple PresentS + V + C + S + V + C + AdjunctCompound-ComplexCompound-Complex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Maharashtra politics
The political activities and situation in the state of Maharashtra
VerbWhat is happening
remains
Stays or continues to be in a particular state
ComplementCompletes meaning
in a flux
In a state of continuous change or uncertainty
SubjectWho/What
the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
A major political party in India, currently leading the ruling alliance in the state
VerbWhat is happening
continues to be
Keeps on being in a certain condition
ComplementCompletes meaning
on the ascent
Increasing in power, influence, or success
AdjunctAdditional info
as trends from the recent civic body elections suggest
As indicated by the patterns seen in the results of the lately held local city elections
Context and Background
Maharashtra Civic Body Elections 2026
In January 2026, Maharashtra conducted elections for 29 municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). These local elections are crucial as they manage large urban budgets and serve as a major test of strength for political parties before the state assembly elections.
Sentence 2 of 18
English Original
Various factionscontinue to fightfor the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray,who combined Marathi nativism and Hindu communalism,butthe BJPappears to have adoptedthat agendamore smartly,catering to the State’s changing demographics, particularly in Mumbai and other urban centres.
Simple PresentS + V + Adjunct + Adjunct + S + V + O + Adjunct + AdjunctCompound-ComplexCompound-Complex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Various factions
Different split-off groups from the original political parties (referring to the divided Shiv Sena and NCP)
VerbWhat is happening
continue to fight
Keep on competing or struggling with each other
AdjunctAdditional info
for the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray
To be recognized as the true followers or heirs of Balasaheb Thackeray’s political influence
AdjunctAdditional info
who combined Marathi nativism and Hindu communalism
Who brought together the focus on local Marathi identity and Hindu religious politics
SubjectWho/What
the BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
VerbWhat is happening
appears to have adopted
Seems to have taken over or started using for themselves
ObjectWhat receives action
that agenda
That specific set of political goals or plans (nativism and communalism)
AdjunctAdditional info
more smartly
In a more clever and effective manner
AdjunctAdditional info
catering to the State’s changing demographics, particularly in Mumbai and other urban centres
Providing what is needed by the shifting population groups, especially in big cities like Mumbai
Context and Background
Balasaheb Thackeray
Balasaheb Thackeray (1926–2012) founded the Shiv Sena in 1966. His politics was famously based on two pillars: ‘Marathi Manoos’ (protecting the rights of native Marathi speakers) and ‘Hindutva’ (Hindu nationalism). Today, his son Uddhav Thackeray and former aide Eknath Shinde lead rival factions, both claiming to be the true protectors of his ideology.
Sentence 3 of 18
English Original
The BJPsecuredroughly 1,425 of 2,869 corporator seatsacross 29 municipal corporations,whileits ally, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction),alsodidwell,except in Mumbai.
Simple PastS + V + O + Adjunct + S + V + C + AdjunctCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
VerbWhat is happening
secured
Won or obtained through the election process
ObjectWhat receives action
roughly 1,425 of 2,869 corporator seats
Nearly half of the total positions available for city council members
AdjunctAdditional info
across 29 municipal corporations
In all 29 of the state’s major city-level government bodies
SubjectWho/What
its ally, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction)
Its partner group, the part of the Shiv Sena party led by Eknath Shinde
VerbWhat is happening
did
Performed or acted
ComplementCompletes meaning
well
Successfully or in a good manner
AdjunctAdditional info
except in Mumbai
With the only exception being the city of Mumbai
Context and Background
The Shinde Faction and Mahayuti
In 2022, Eknath Shinde led a split in the Shiv Sena and formed an alliance with the BJP. This alliance is known as the ‘Mahayuti’ (Grand Alliance). While the Shinde faction is the official Shiv Sena, it faces a tough challenge from Uddhav Thackeray’s faction, especially in their traditional stronghold of Mumbai.
Sentence 4 of 18
English Original
The Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)hadan understandingin their family strongholds in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad,while remaining in opposition alliances — the former in the BJP-led Mahayuti and the latter with the Congress and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction).
Simple PastS + V + O + Adjunct + AdjunctMain Clause with Participle PhraseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)
The two separate groups of the NCP party, one led by Ajit Pawar and the other by his uncle Sharad Pawar
VerbWhat is happening
had
Reached or possessed
ObjectWhat receives action
an understanding
An informal agreement or arrangement between two parties
AdjunctAdditional info
in their family strongholds in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad
In the specific cities (Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad) where the Pawar family has traditionally held very strong political power
AdjunctAdditional info
while remaining in opposition alliances — the former in the BJP-led Mahayuti and the latter with the Congress and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction)
Even though they were part of different, competing groups of parties (Ajit Pawar with the BJP and Sharad Pawar with the Congress and Uddhav Thackeray)
Context and Background
The NCP Split and Alliances
The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) split in July 2023. Ajit Pawar joined the BJP-led ‘Mahayuti’ alliance, while Sharad Pawar remained with the ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ (MVA) which includes the Congress and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena. Despite this split, the family often maintains local-level cooperation in their home district of Pune.
Sentence 5 of 18
English Original
Uddhav Thackeray and estranged cousin Raj Thackerayjoinedhandsafter many yearsto reclaim the family’s prominence in Mumbai and in Nashik.
Simple PastS + V + O + Adjunct + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Uddhav Thackeray and estranged cousin Raj Thackeray
Uddhav Thackeray (son of Balasaheb) and his cousin Raj Thackeray (leader of MNS), who have been politically separated for a long time
VerbWhat is happening
joined
Connected or came together
ObjectWhat receives action
hands
Used here as part of the idiom ‘joined hands’ meaning to cooperate
AdjunctAdditional info
after many years
Following a very long period of time
AdjunctAdditional info
to reclaim the family’s prominence in Mumbai and in Nashik
In order to get back the Thackeray family’s high status or importance in the cities of Mumbai and Nashik
Context and Background
The Thackeray Split and Reunion
Raj Thackeray left the Shiv Sena in 2005 to form the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after differences with Uddhav Thackeray. For nearly 20 years, they were bitter political rivals. Their decision to cooperate in the 2026 elections was seen as a desperate attempt to save the Thackeray family’s political influence against the rising BJP.
Sentence 6 of 18
English Original
Both the Pawar and the Thackeray familiesperformedpoorly,whilethe BJP and the Shinde Senaseizedpowerin the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Simple PastS + V + C + S + V + O + AdjunctCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Both the Pawar and the Thackeray families
The two most powerful political families in Maharashtra, who have dominated the state’s politics for decades
VerbWhat is happening
performed
Did or acted in a particular way (referring to election results)
ComplementCompletes meaning
poorly
In a bad or unsuccessful way
SubjectWho/What
the BJP and the Shinde Sena
The alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena
VerbWhat is happening
seized
Took hold of suddenly and forcibly; here, it means winning control
ObjectWhat receives action
power
Political control or authority
AdjunctAdditional info
in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
In the local government body that manages the city of Mumbai
Context and Background
The Fall of the Thackeray Bastion
The BMC has been the financial and political powerhouse of the Thackeray-led Shiv Sena for over 25 years. It manages a massive budget and provides the party with significant influence in Mumbai. The BJP-Shinde alliance winning the BMC is a historic shift, as it breaks the long-standing monopoly of the Thackeray family over India’s financial capital.
Sentence 7 of 18
English Original
Uddhav Thackerayhad beenin control of the BMCfor 25 years.
Past PerfectS + V + C + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Uddhav Thackeray
The leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction and son of Balasaheb Thackeray
VerbWhat is happening
had been
Was in a certain state for a long time in the past
ComplementCompletes meaning
in control of the BMC
Having the authority and power to manage the Mumbai city government
AdjunctAdditional info
for 25 years
Over a period of twenty-five years (a quarter of a century)
Context and Background
The Thackeray Era in Mumbai
The Shiv Sena’s control over the BMC began in the late 1990s and continued uninterrupted until these 2026 elections. This long period of governance allowed the party to deeply embed itself in Mumbai’s local administration and social fabric, making the recent loss even more significant.
Sentence 8 of 18
English Original
The BJPemergedas the single largest partyin key cities, including Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and Navi Mumbai.
Simple PastS + V + C + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
VerbWhat is happening
emerged
Became known or came out as
ComplementCompletes meaning
as the single largest party
As the party that won more seats than any other individual party in the election
AdjunctAdditional info
in key cities, including Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and Navi Mumbai
In the most important big cities of the state, specifically naming Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, and Navi Mumbai
Context and Background
BJP
The BJP’s success in these major cities highlights its growing appeal among urban voters in Maharashtra. Nagpur is the political home of Devendra Fadnavis, while Pune and Navi Mumbai are major IT and industrial hubs where the BJP has built a strong support base over the last decade.
Sentence 9 of 18
English Original
The Congressmanagedwinsin Latur, Bhiwandi and Chandrapur,butisstill distant from showing signs of a notable comeback.
Simple Past and Simple PresentS + V + O + Adjunct + V + CCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The Congress
The Indian National Congress party
VerbWhat is happening
managed
Succeeded in achieving something difficult
ObjectWhat receives action
wins
Victories in the election
AdjunctAdditional info
in Latur, Bhiwandi and Chandrapur
In these three specific cities in Maharashtra
VerbWhat is happening
is
Exists in a certain state
ComplementCompletes meaning
still distant from showing signs of a notablecomeback
Still very far from proving that it is making a significant return to its former power
Context and Background
Congress
Latur, Bhiwandi, and Chandrapur are among the few remaining pockets where the Congress still holds some ground in Maharashtra. However, compared to its past dominance, the party’s inability to win in major urban hubs like Mumbai, Pune, or Nagpur indicates that it has not yet recovered from its long-term decline in the state.
Sentence 10 of 18
English Original
Itcan takesolaceonly in the fact that people are not very excited about the family politics of the Pawars and the Thackerays,leaving an opening for it.
Simple PresentS + V + O + Adjunct + AdjunctMain Clause with Subordinate ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
It
The Congress party (referred to by the pronoun ‘It’)
VerbWhat is happening
can take
Is able to find or receive
ObjectWhat receives action
solace
Comfort or consolation in a time of disappointment or sadness
AdjunctAdditional info
only in the fact that people are not very excited about the family politics of the Pawars and the Thackerays
Only because voters seem to be losing interest or enthusiasm for the traditional political families of the state
AdjunctAdditional info
leaving an opening for it
Creating a potential opportunity or space for the Congress to gain more support
Context and Background
Voter Fatigue with Dynasties
The Pawar and Thackeray families have dominated Maharashtra’s political landscape for over 50 years. However, recent splits within these families (Ajit vs Sharad Pawar, and Eknath Shinde vs Uddhav Thackeray) have caused confusion and disappointment among their traditional supporters, potentially creating a vacuum that other parties like the Congress could fill.
Sentence 11 of 18
English Original
The Congresshad disapprovedof the Uddhav-Raj partnershipin Mumbai.
Past PerfectS + V + O + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The Congress
The Indian National Congress party
VerbWhat is happening
had disapproved
Had expressed a negative opinion or disagreement with something
ObjectWhat receives action
of the Uddhav-Raj partnership
Regarding the political alliance or cooperation between the cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray
AdjunctAdditional info
in Mumbai
Specifically within the city of Mumbai
Context and Background
Congress
The Congress is a partner of Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. However, it has always been wary of Raj Thackeray’s MNS due to his past aggressive campaigns against North Indian migrants, which could alienate the Congress’s core voters in other parts of India.
Sentence 12 of 18
English Original
Butadding to the party’s troublesisthe AIMIM, which has made some inroads in Muslim-dominated areas.
Simple PresentComplement + V + SMain Clause with Relative ClauseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
ComplementCompletes meaning
adding to the party’s troubles
Increasing the problems or difficulties that the Congress party is already facing
VerbWhat is happening
is
Linking verb used to connect the subject and the complement
SubjectWho/What
the AIMIM, which has made some inroads in Muslim-dominated areas
The AIMIM party, which has successfully started gaining support in areas where many Muslims live
Context and Background
AIMIM
The AIMIM, led by Asaduddin Owaisi, has been expanding its presence in Maharashtra, particularly in the Marathwada region and Mumbai. By winning votes in Muslim-majority areas, it often cuts into the Congress’s traditional vote bank, making it harder for the Congress to win seats in these regions.
Sentence 13 of 18
English Original
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavishas emergeda strong leader,andthe election resultsboosthis standingwithin and outside the BJP.
Present Perfect and Simple PresentS + V + C + S + V + O + AdjunctCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
The head of the Maharashtra state government and a prominent BJP leader
VerbWhat is happening
has emerged
Has become recognized or known as
ComplementCompletes meaning
a strong leader
A person who shows great ability, authority, and success in leading others
SubjectWho/What
the election results
The final outcome and numbers from the lately held local elections
VerbWhat is happening
boost
Increase, improve, or make stronger
ObjectWhat receives action
his standing
His reputation, status, or level of respect among others
AdjunctAdditional info
within and outside the BJP
Both inside his own political party and among the general public or other parties
Context and Background
The Rise of Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis is the first BJP Chief Minister of Maharashtra to complete a full five-year term (2014–2019). Known for his administrative skills and political strategy, he has been the face of the BJP in the state. Winning the 2026 civic elections under his leadership further strengthens his claim as the most powerful leader in Maharashtra politics today.
Sentence 14 of 18
English Original
Heis walkinga thin linebetween pleasing the ideological hardliners in the BJP and managing the complex realities of governance.
Present ContinuousS + V + O + AdjunctMain ClauseSimple Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
He
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
VerbWhat is happening
is walking
Is currently moving through or dealing with a situation
ObjectWhat receives action
a thin line
A very delicate or difficult balance between two opposing things
AdjunctAdditional info
between pleasing the ideologicalhardliners in the BJP and managing the complex realities of governance
Between satisfying the party members with very strict beliefs and handling the difficult practical work of running the state
Context and Background
The Challenge of Moderation
Devendra Fadnavis is often seen as a moderate and modern face of the BJP. However, he must constantly balance this image with the demands of the party’s core ‘hardline’ supporters who expect a strong focus on religious and ideological goals. Managing a diverse state like Maharashtra requires him to prioritize development and administration over pure ideology.
Sentence 15 of 18
English Original
The composition of the State’s populationis changingwith migration,weakening the Sena’s nativist politics.
Present ContinuousS + V + Adjunct + AdjunctMain Clause with Participle PhraseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The composition of the State’s population
The makeup or mixture of different groups of people (based on language, religion, or origin) living in Maharashtra
VerbWhat is happening
is changing
Is becoming different over time
AdjunctAdditional info
with migration
Due to the movement of people from other states or regions into Maharashtra
AdjunctAdditional info
weakening the Sena’s nativist politics
Making the Shiv Sena’s political focus on local Marathi interests less powerful or effective
Context and Background
Demographic Shift in Urban Maharashtra
Over the last few decades, the percentage of native Marathi speakers in cities like Mumbai has decreased as people from across India move there for opportunities. This demographic shift has forced regional parties to either expand their appeal to non-Marathi voters or risk losing their political dominance to national parties like the BJP.
Sentence 16 of 18
English Original
All factions of the Senaare trying to adaptto this changed reality,butits pastrestrictsits manoeuvrability.
Present Continuous and Simple PresentS + V + Adjunct + S + V + OCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
All factions of the Sena
Both the split groups of the Shiv Sena party (led by Shinde and Thackeray)
VerbWhat is happening
are trying to adapt
Are attempting to change their ways to fit the new situation
AdjunctAdditional info
to this changed reality
To the new situation where the population and voter needs have changed
SubjectWho/What
its past
The party’s history of aggressive regional and anti-migrant politics
VerbWhat is happening
restricts
Limits or keeps something within certain bounds
ObjectWhat receives action
its manoeuvrability
Its ability to move or change its political strategy easily
Context and Background
Historical Baggage of the Shiv Sena
The Shiv Sena was built on aggressive ‘sons of the soil’ campaigns that often targeted migrants from other states. Today, as the party tries to become more inclusive to win urban votes, this violent and exclusionary history acts as a barrier, making it difficult for them to gain the trust of non-Marathi speaking communities.
Sentence 17 of 18
English Original
The BJP,on the other hand,has turneddemographic changesinto a tool of communal propaganda against Muslimswhile winning over Hindi-speaking voters.
Present PerfectS + Adjunct + V + O + C + AdjunctMain Clause with Participle PhraseComplex Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
AdjunctAdditional info
on the other hand
Used to show a contrast with what was mentioned before (the Shiv Sena’s situation)
VerbWhat is happening
has turned
Has transformed or changed something into something else
ObjectWhat receives action
demographic changes
The shifts in the makeup of the population (like people moving in from other states)
ComplementCompletes meaning
into a tool of communalpropaganda against Muslims
Into a method of spreading biased information to create religious division against the Muslim community
AdjunctAdditional info
while winning over Hindi-speaking voters
At the same time as gaining the support of people who speak Hindi (mostly migrants from North India)
Context and Background
BJP
The BJP in Maharashtra successfully combines religious mobilization with an appeal to the large migrant population. By focusing on a broader Hindu identity, it overcomes the regional limitations of the Shiv Sena, while its national presence makes it the natural choice for Hindi-speaking migrants who have moved to Maharashtra’s cities.
Sentence 18 of 18
English Original
Itisnot much better for the State to replace nativism with communalism,andthe BJPshould driveits ambitionsusing a more inclusive platform.
Simple Present and ModalS + V + C + S + V + O + AdjunctCompound ClauseCompound Sentence
Phrase Breakdown
SubjectWho/What
It
The situation or idea being discussed (dummy subject)
VerbWhat is happening
is
Linking verb used to describe a state or condition
ComplementCompletes meaning
not much better for the State to replace nativism with communalism
Not a good thing for Maharashtra if it simply swaps regional politics for religious politics
SubjectWho/What
the BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
VerbWhat is happening
should drive
Ought to pursue or move forward with
ObjectWhat receives action
its ambitions
Its strong desires or goals for political power and success
AdjunctAdditional info
using a more inclusiveplatform
By using a political plan that welcomes and includes all sections of society
Context and Background
The Path Forward for Maharashtra
The editorial ends with a call for a more balanced and inclusive form of politics. It warns that while communal polarization might bring short-term electoral gains, it can harm the social fabric of a diverse state like Maharashtra. A truly successful political platform should focus on development and unity for all citizens, regardless of their background.
Sentence 1 of 18
Sentence 1 of 18
Maharashtra politicsremainsin a flux,butthe Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)continues to beon the ascent,as trends from the recent civic body elections suggest.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Maharashtra politics
The political activities and situation in the state of Maharashtra
Verb
remains
Stays or continues to be in a particular state
Complement
in a flux
In a state of continuous change or uncertainty
Subject
the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
A major political party in India, currently leading the ruling alliance in the state
Verb
continues to be
Keeps on being in a certain condition
Complement
on the ascent
Increasing in power, influence, or success
Adjunct
as trends from the recent civic body elections suggest
As indicated by the patterns seen in the results of the lately held local city elections
Sentence 2 of 18
Various factionscontinue to fightfor the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray,who combined Marathi nativism and Hindu communalism,butthe BJPappears to have adoptedthat agendamore smartly,catering to the State’s changing demographics, particularly in Mumbai and other urban centres.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Various factions
Different split-off groups from the original political parties (referring to the divided Shiv Sena and NCP)
Verb
continue to fight
Keep on competing or struggling with each other
Adjunct
for the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray
To be recognized as the true followers or heirs of Balasaheb Thackeray’s political influence
Adjunct
who combined Marathi nativism and Hindu communalism
Who brought together the focus on local Marathi identity and Hindu religious politics
Subject
the BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
Verb
appears to have adopted
Seems to have taken over or started using for themselves
Object
that agenda
That specific set of political goals or plans (nativism and communalism)
Adjunct
more smartly
In a more clever and effective manner
Adjunct
catering to the State’s changing demographics, particularly in Mumbai and other urban centres
Providing what is needed by the shifting population groups, especially in big cities like Mumbai
Sentence 3 of 18
The BJPsecuredroughly 1,425 of 2,869 corporator seatsacross 29 municipal corporations,whileits ally, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction),alsodidwell,except in Mumbai.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
Verb
secured
Won or obtained through the election process
Object
roughly 1,425 of 2,869 corporator seats
Nearly half of the total positions available for city council members
Adjunct
across 29 municipal corporations
In all 29 of the state’s major city-level government bodies
Subject
its ally, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction)
Its partner group, the part of the Shiv Sena party led by Eknath Shinde
Verb
did
Performed or acted
Complement
well
Successfully or in a good manner
Adjunct
except in Mumbai
With the only exception being the city of Mumbai
Sentence 4 of 18
The Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)hadan understandingin their family strongholds in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad,while remaining in opposition alliances — the former in the BJP-led Mahayuti and the latter with the Congress and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction).
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)
The two separate groups of the NCP party, one led by Ajit Pawar and the other by his uncle Sharad Pawar
Verb
had
Reached or possessed
Object
an understanding
An informal agreement or arrangement between two parties
Adjunct
in their family strongholds in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad
In the specific cities (Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad) where the Pawar family has traditionally held very strong political power
Adjunct
while remaining in opposition alliances — the former in the BJP-led Mahayuti and the latter with the Congress and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction)
Even though they were part of different, competing groups of parties (Ajit Pawar with the BJP and Sharad Pawar with the Congress and Uddhav Thackeray)
Sentence 5 of 18
Uddhav Thackeray and estranged cousin Raj Thackerayjoinedhandsafter many yearsto reclaim the family’s prominence in Mumbai and in Nashik.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Uddhav Thackeray and estranged cousin Raj Thackeray
Uddhav Thackeray (son of Balasaheb) and his cousin Raj Thackeray (leader of MNS), who have been politically separated for a long time
Verb
joined
Connected or came together
Object
hands
Used here as part of the idiom ‘joined hands’ meaning to cooperate
Adjunct
after many years
Following a very long period of time
Adjunct
to reclaim the family’s prominence in Mumbai and in Nashik
In order to get back the Thackeray family’s high status or importance in the cities of Mumbai and Nashik
Sentence 6 of 18
Both the Pawar and the Thackeray familiesperformedpoorly,whilethe BJP and the Shinde Senaseizedpowerin the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Both the Pawar and the Thackeray families
The two most powerful political families in Maharashtra, who have dominated the state’s politics for decades
Verb
performed
Did or acted in a particular way (referring to election results)
Complement
poorly
In a bad or unsuccessful way
Subject
the BJP and the Shinde Sena
The alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena
Verb
seized
Took hold of suddenly and forcibly; here, it means winning control
Object
power
Political control or authority
Adjunct
in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
In the local government body that manages the city of Mumbai
Sentence 7 of 18
Uddhav Thackerayhad beenin control of the BMCfor 25 years.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Uddhav Thackeray
The leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction and son of Balasaheb Thackeray
Verb
had been
Was in a certain state for a long time in the past
Complement
in control of the BMC
Having the authority and power to manage the Mumbai city government
Adjunct
for 25 years
Over a period of twenty-five years (a quarter of a century)
Sentence 8 of 18
The BJPemergedas the single largest partyin key cities, including Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and Navi Mumbai.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
Verb
emerged
Became known or came out as
Complement
as the single largest party
As the party that won more seats than any other individual party in the election
Adjunct
in key cities, including Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and Navi Mumbai
In the most important big cities of the state, specifically naming Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, and Navi Mumbai
Sentence 9 of 18
The Congressmanagedwinsin Latur, Bhiwandi and Chandrapur,butisstill distant from showing signs of a notable comeback.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The Congress
The Indian National Congress party
Verb
managed
Succeeded in achieving something difficult
Object
wins
Victories in the election
Adjunct
in Latur, Bhiwandi and Chandrapur
In these three specific cities in Maharashtra
Verb
is
Exists in a certain state
Complement
still distant from showing signs of a notable comeback
Still very far from proving that it is making a significant return to its former power
Sentence 10 of 18
Itcan takesolaceonly in the fact that people are not very excited about the family politics of the Pawars and the Thackerays,leaving an opening for it.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
It
The Congress party (referred to by the pronoun ‘It’)
Verb
can take
Is able to find or receive
Object
solace
Comfort or consolation in a time of disappointment or sadness
Adjunct
only in the fact that people are not very excited about the family politics of the Pawars and the Thackerays
Only because voters seem to be losing interest or enthusiasm for the traditional political families of the state
Adjunct
leaving an opening for it
Creating a potential opportunity or space for the Congress to gain more support
Sentence 11 of 18
The Congresshad disapprovedof the Uddhav-Raj partnershipin Mumbai.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The Congress
The Indian National Congress party
Verb
had disapproved
Had expressed a negative opinion or disagreement with something
Object
of the Uddhav-Raj partnership
Regarding the political alliance or cooperation between the cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray
Adjunct
in Mumbai
Specifically within the city of Mumbai
Sentence 12 of 18
Butadding to the party’s troublesisthe AIMIM, which has made some inroads in Muslim-dominated areas.
Phrase Breakdown
Complement
adding to the party’s troubles
Increasing the problems or difficulties that the Congress party is already facing
Verb
is
Linking verb used to connect the subject and the complement
Subject
the AIMIM, which has made some inroads in Muslim-dominated areas
The AIMIM party, which has successfully started gaining support in areas where many Muslims live
Sentence 13 of 18
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavishas emergeda strong leader,andthe election resultsboosthis standingwithin and outside the BJP.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
The head of the Maharashtra state government and a prominent BJP leader
Verb
has emerged
Has become recognized or known as
Complement
a strong leader
A person who shows great ability, authority, and success in leading others
Subject
the election results
The final outcome and numbers from the lately held local elections
Verb
boost
Increase, improve, or make stronger
Object
his standing
His reputation, status, or level of respect among others
Adjunct
within and outside the BJP
Both inside his own political party and among the general public or other parties
Sentence 14 of 18
Heis walkinga thin linebetween pleasing the ideological hardliners in the BJP and managing the complex realities of governance.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
He
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
Verb
is walking
Is currently moving through or dealing with a situation
Object
a thin line
A very delicate or difficult balance between two opposing things
Adjunct
between pleasing the ideological hardliners in the BJP and managing the complex realities of governance
Between satisfying the party members with very strict beliefs and handling the difficult practical work of running the state
Sentence 15 of 18
The composition of the State’s populationis changingwith migration,weakening the Sena’s nativist politics.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The composition of the State’s population
The makeup or mixture of different groups of people (based on language, religion, or origin) living in Maharashtra
Verb
is changing
Is becoming different over time
Adjunct
with migration
Due to the movement of people from other states or regions into Maharashtra
Adjunct
weakening the Sena’s nativist politics
Making the Shiv Sena’s political focus on local Marathi interests less powerful or effective
Sentence 16 of 18
All factions of the Senaare trying to adaptto this changed reality,butits pastrestrictsits manoeuvrability.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
All factions of the Sena
Both the split groups of the Shiv Sena party (led by Shinde and Thackeray)
Verb
are trying to adapt
Are attempting to change their ways to fit the new situation
Adjunct
to this changed reality
To the new situation where the population and voter needs have changed
Subject
its past
The party’s history of aggressive regional and anti-migrant politics
Verb
restricts
Limits or keeps something within certain bounds
Object
its manoeuvrability
Its ability to move or change its political strategy easily
Sentence 17 of 18
The BJP,on the other hand,has turneddemographic changesinto a tool of communal propaganda against Muslimswhile winning over Hindi-speaking voters.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
The BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
Adjunct
on the other hand
Used to show a contrast with what was mentioned before (the Shiv Sena’s situation)
Verb
has turned
Has transformed or changed something into something else
Object
demographic changes
The shifts in the makeup of the population (like people moving in from other states)
Complement
into a tool of communal propaganda against Muslims
Into a method of spreading biased information to create religious division against the Muslim community
Adjunct
while winning over Hindi-speaking voters
At the same time as gaining the support of people who speak Hindi (mostly migrants from North India)
Sentence 18 of 18
Itisnot much better for the State to replace nativism with communalism,andthe BJPshould driveits ambitionsusing a more inclusive platform.
Phrase Breakdown
Subject
It
The situation or idea being discussed (dummy subject)
Verb
is
Linking verb used to describe a state or condition
Complement
not much better for the State to replace nativism with communalism
Not a good thing for Maharashtra if it simply swaps regional politics for religious politics
Subject
the BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party
Verb
should drive
Ought to pursue or move forward with
Object
its ambitions
Its strong desires or goals for political power and success
Adjunct
using a more inclusive platform
By using a political plan that welcomes and includes all sections of society
Reading Comprehension
Practice questions based on this editorial
Reading Comprehension - Maharashtra Politics
Practice reading comprehension questions based on the editorial about the 2026 Maharashtra civic body elections and the state's changing political landscape.
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