Why Did the Shinde Faction Relocate Corporators to Resorts Before the Mayor Election?
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Synopsis
In a strategic move, the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena relocated its corporators to a luxury hotel to avoid poaching ahead of the crucial Mayor election. As political tensions rise in Mumbai, Thackeray hints at a potential power shift, while the BJP prepares its strategy for claiming the mayoral post. Discover the unfolding drama in Mumbai's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena faction relocates corporators to prevent poaching.
- Thackeray hints at potential power shift in BMC.
- BJP emerges as the largest party with 89 seats.
- Discussion of sharing the mayoral role is on the agenda.
- Election expected by the end of January.
Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde, who is also the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, has reportedly relocated its corporators to a luxury hotel in Mumbai. This move comes just a day after it was revealed that they have a significant influence in the recent Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. According to sources, the Shinde faction's 29 corporators are staying at a five-star hotel to prevent poaching as they prepare for the upcoming election to choose the new Mayor, particularly given the tight competition.
In a statement that stirred considerable political interest, Uddhav Thackeray addressed the impending mayoral elections in Mumbai.
Even though the BJP-led alliance has a slight majority based on the latest BMC election results, Thackeray hinted at a possible power shift.
"It is our (Shiv Sena-UBT's) aspiration to have our Mayor in place. If it is destined, then it shall come to pass," he stated, leaving room for speculation.
The Shiv Sena-UBT has secured 65 seats, with 6 from the MNS, while the Congress captured 24 seats, followed by MNS with 8, NCP-SP with one, and the Samajwadi Party with two.
In the Mahayuti alliance, the BJP has claimed 89 seats, with Shiv Sena securing 29 and NCP obtaining 3.
Thackeray has not elaborated further, reiterating the Shiv Sena-UBT's goal of maintaining control and the mayoral position within Mumbai's civic administration.
His remarks come at a time when representatives from BJP and Shiv Sena are scheduled to convene to strategize for the mayoral election.
The BJP, having emerged as the largest party with 89 seats, is positioning itself to claim the mayoral role, bolstered by the support of Shiv Sena, which has won 29 seats. Together, they surpass the halfway mark of 114 seats in the 227-member BMC.
Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have consistently asserted that a Marathi candidate will be appointed as the BMC Mayor.
Insiders from the party indicated that discussions may revolve around sharing the mayoral position between the two for 2.5 years each.
This meeting may take place before Chief Minister Fadnavis departs for Davos, Switzerland, to participate in the World Economic Forum summit.
The voting is anticipated to occur by the end of January, as the BMC Commissioner is expected to present the annual budget prior to February 5.
Thackeray, addressing the newly elected party corporators, accused the Mahayuti alliance of employing every conceivable tactic—"Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed" (persuasion, wealth, punishment, and division)—and misusing government resources to achieve their victory.
He stressed that while "traitors" (referring to the Shinde faction) departed from the party, they could not purchase the loyalty of its fundamental members.
"I bow before you all. Our responsibility has now increased," he declared.
In a scathing critique of the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance's motives, Thackeray condemned the alleged intention to "mortgage Mumbai" to corporate interests.
He cautioned that the Marathi populace would never pardon such an act.
Point of View
The recent actions of the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena reflect the high stakes involved in the upcoming mayoral elections. The strategic relocation of corporators to a hotel underscores the vulnerability of political alliances and the fierce competition for power. The situation remains fluid, and all eyes are on how it will unfold in the coming days.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Shinde faction move to a resort?
The Shinde faction relocated its corporators to avoid poaching ahead of the mayoral election, as political tensions are high.
What are the latest BMC election results?
The latest results show BJP with 89 seats, Shiv Sena with 29, and Shiv Sena-UBT with 65 seats in total.
What did Thackeray say about the Mayor election?
Thackeray expressed hope that the Shiv Sena-UBT would secure the Mayor's position, hinting at a potential power shift.
What is the significance of the mayoral election?
The mayoral election is crucial as it determines leadership in Mumbai's civic body, impacting local governance.
When is the mayoral election expected to occur?
The election is anticipated by the end of January, before the BMC Commissioner presents the annual budget.
