Mumbai Mayor race turns bitter: Uddhav warns BJP, CM Fadnavis dismisses poaching claims
Tensions have escalated over the selection of the next mayor of Mumbai after the BMC election results, with Uddhav Thackeray launching sharp attacks on the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. Despite the BJP–Shinde alliance securing a clear majority, Shiv Sena (UBT) has staked claim to the mayor's post, citing precedent and accusing the BJP of betrayal, attempts to "buy loyalty," and undermining Marathi interests.
New Delhi: Tensions have intensified over deliberations on who will become the next mayor of India’s financial capital, with political leaders trading fresh barbs following the conclusion of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 16. The polls ended with a clear victory for the BJP–Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena alliance.
While there is no written rule stating that a member of the single largest party must be elected mayor, past elections have followed this precedent in similar situations. In the latest results, the BJP won 89 seats, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured 18, while Shiv Sena (UBT) emerged as the single largest party with 65 seats.
'BJP won't be able to buy loyalty'
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticised Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, alleging that he is apprehensive about the prospects of his faction aligning with the BJP. Speaking to party workers at Matoshree, Uddhav claimed that the BJP’s strength exists only "on paper” and lacks ground-level support. He further asserted that the BJP "will not be able to buy loyalty despite using all possible means.”
'Marathi manoos won't forgive': Uddhav Thackeray
Escalating his attack, Uddhav alleged that the BJP won the elections through betrayal and accused it of wanting to "mortgage Mumbai.” He said that "Marathi Manoos will not forgive this sin,” adding that it is his party’s dream to elect a Shiv Sena (UBT) mayor, which, he claimed, would happen "by God’s grace. ( Deva)” He also warned that corporators who had defected earlier might switch sides again, allegedly facilitated by the BJP.
Uddhav’s remarks came after the Shiv Sena shifted 29 newly elected corporators to luxury hotels in Mumbai. While party leaders said the move was meant for rest and orientation, it sparked controversy. Party sources confirmed that they would demand the first 2.5-year mayoral term, arguing that the BJP does not have sufficient numbers to elect a mayor on its own and that the post must therefore be shared.
CM Fadnavis dismisses poaching allegations
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed allegations of poaching, stating that the alliance would instead opt for a consensus "Mahayuti mayor.” He said that he, Eknath Shinde, and other senior leaders would meet to finalise the selection of the Mumbai mayor as well as the tenure of office.
"There will be no differences. Everything will go smoothly. Together, we will efficiently run Mumbai,” Fadnavis said.
Responding to Uddhav’s remarks, Fadnavis said the former chief minister is also called "Deva,” adding that "God has already decided that Mumbai will have a Mahayuti mayor.”