Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut Blames Eknath Shinde for BJP’s Mumbai Mayor Victory

• What happened: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut accused Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of betraying the Marathi manoos, paving the way for the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance to install its mayor in Mumbai.

• Why it matters now: This marks the end of the Thackeray family’s 30-year control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, signaling a major political shift in Maharashtra.

• What changes for people: Governance of Mumbai’s civic body will now be influenced by the BJP-led alliance, potentially impacting urban planning, municipal services, and local policies.

• Who is affected: Mumbai residents, Marathi community stakeholders, and political parties in Maharashtra, including Shiv Sena (UBT), MNS, and Congress.

Political upheaval in Mumbai after decades of Thackeray rule

Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has openly blamed Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for facilitating the BJP’s historic victory in Mumbai’s civic elections, which allowed the party to secure the mayoral post. The BJP-Shiv Sena combine won 89 of 227 seats, ending the Thackeray family’s long-standing hold over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Raut highlighted that the Marathi manoos, traditionally backing the Thackeray-led party, felt betrayed by Shinde, which weakened the Uddhav Thackeray faction’s hold on the city. He also noted that the MNS underperformed, claiming fewer seats than expected.

Opposition vows strong check on ruling alliance

The Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS combined for 71 seats, with the opposition promising to act as a vigilant check on the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance to safeguard Mumbai’s civic interests. Raut stated that most defectors to the Shinde faction faced electoral defeat, underscoring voter disapproval of political opportunism.

“The Marathi people will never forgive this betrayal,” Raut said, referencing Shinde’s 2022 split from the undivided Shiv Sena. He added that Congress’ solo contest strategy, in alliance with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, proved effective, securing 24 seats and altering the balance of power.

Political implications for Maharashtra

The outcome also raises questions about Shinde’s future influence, with Raut suggesting that the BJP no longer requires his support in civic governance. Additionally, he hinted at potential shifts in the NCP leadership dynamics, citing tensions with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar following BJP victories in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections.

Raut’s statements highlight the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra, where historic alliances are being redefined, and the BJP is consolidating its position at the civic level.