And given the bitterness between the ruling saffron allies, these results can also potentially change the political dynamics of the sitting government. The results will give us answers to these questions, which in turn can shape political futures,” said political analyst Prakash Bal. If the Sena does badly and comes second to the BJP in Mumbai, Thackeray will have to fight against tide to remain relevant. Away from the high-decibel Mumbai battle, the results to district councils will decide if the Congress, nursing a debilitating defeat in 2014, can get a fresh lease. And, for the MNS, these polls results will decide if party’s chief Raj Thackeray can fight another day.

Source: Hindustan Times February 20, 2017 18:45 UTC