MUMBAI: Tensions have escalated over the selection of the next mayor of Mumbai following the BMC election results on January 16. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has launched a sharp attack on the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena despite the Mahayuti alliance securing a clear majority. While the BJP-Shinde combine has crossed the halfway mark with 118 seats, the Thackeray faction has staked its claim to the mayor’s post by citing its position as the single largest party with 65 seats.
Uddhav Thackeray, speaking to party workers at Matoshree, alleged that the BJP’s strength exists only on paper and lacks genuine ground-level support. He asserted that the BJP will not be able to buy the loyalty of his corporators despite using all possible means. Escalating his rhetoric, he accused the BJP of wanting to mortgage Mumbai and stated that the Marathi Manoos will not forgive this sin. He expressed hope that a Shiv Sena (UBT) mayor would be elected by God’s grace, hinting at possible shifts in political loyalty.
Responding to these allegations, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed all claims of poaching or horse-trading. He maintained that the BJP-Shinde alliance is firm and that Mumbai will soon have a consensus Mahayuti mayor. While the BJP won 89 seats and the Shinde faction secured 29, Fadnavis emphasized that the mandate is for development and stable governance. As both sides dig in their heels, the financial capital remains on edge over the upcoming mayoral election. (TV9)
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