Mumbai Mayor Election 2026: Decision Delayed Amid Mahayuti Power Struggle
The outcome of the Mumbai Mayor election remains uncertain as the Mahayuti alliance faces internal conflict. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena are vying for the prestigious post. This follows the alliance's decisive victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 16.
Shinde Asserts Mahayuti's Claim to Mayor Post
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed the media after meeting his newly elected corporators at a hotel in Mumbai on Sunday. He firmly stated that the Mumbai Mayor will be from the Mahayuti. This declaration comes amidst growing tensions within the alliance.
Shinde held the meeting at the Taj Lands End hotel, where his corporators have been staying for two days. The Shinde Sena describes this as an orientation session for the 29 newly elected members. However, opposition parties have criticized the move, accusing the alliance of resorting to resort politics.
BJP's Position and Reliance on Shinde Sena
The BJP emerged as the single largest party in the BMC, securing 89 seats in the 227-member house. Despite this strong showing, the party fell short of a majority on its own. This situation forces the BJP to rely on its ally, the Shinde Sena, to form the administration.
Reports indicate that the Shinde Sena is reluctant to simply hand over the Mayor's post to the BJP. The BJP, on the other hand, is unwilling to compromise on its demand for administrative control of the BMC. This deadlock has created a significant power tussle within the Mahayuti coalition.
Decision Awaits Fadnavis' Return from Davos
The resolution of this impasse is now on hold until Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis returns from Davos, Switzerland. Fadnavis is currently attending the World Economic Forum and is expected to return on January 24. The issue of the Mumbai Mayor's post is likely to be a top priority for discussion upon his arrival.
Fadnavis recently accepted his World Economic Forum badge in Davos, as shown in a photo shared on social media. His return is keenly awaited by both parties to break the current stalemate.
The political landscape in Mumbai remains tense as allies negotiate behind closed doors. The final decision will shape the city's governance for the coming term.
