The results of the January 15 civic elections showed that the Bharatiya Janata Party received 89 out of 227 available seats (BJP), and their ally Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena was far behind with 29 seats. However, this resulted in a coalition majority with the Mahayuti alliance (BJP & Shinde-led Shiv Sena) surpassing the voting required to elect their candidate as mayor.
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For almost 25 years, Shiv Sena held the mayor’s office; however, as time progressed, UBT diminished in stature and other parties have received all available seats – including the Congress, AIMIM, and NCP.
Who is Ritu Tawde
Tawde’s long history in Mumbai’s local government started when she was elected as a corporator in 2012 and has served through many terms including her most recent term as Corporator representing Ghatkopar Ward 132. As the Chairperson of the BMC Education Committee and as the Maharashtra BJP Mahila Morcha, Tawde has many years of local government and grassroots support behind her.
Tawde’s nomination is another example of BJP’s plan to increase experienced municipal leaders with strong grassroots support networks.
Deputy Mayor and Next Steps
The appointment of Shiv Sena Deputy Mayor Sanjay Shankar Ghadi will have a Deputy term which rotates between the Corporators. The Mayor will be elected on February 11, at the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) Office, and effectively replace the Mayoral position held for almost four years via administrative power.
What This Means for Mumbai Politics
This change indicates a definite shifting of the political structure within the City of Mumbai; the fact that another Political party other than Shiv Sena will control the Mayoral position represents a fundamental shift in the political narrative of the City of Mumbai. This outcome supports the increase in the influence of the BJP in Urban Local Government throughout the State of Maharashtra.
