The Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray, has embarked on a colossal and meticulous exercise to select its candidates for the upcoming high-stakes Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. In a significant display of internal democracy and scrutiny, the party conducted a three-day interview marathon, interacting with a staggering 2,700 aspirants who are seeking the party's ticket to contest the crucial civic polls.
A Rigorous Three-Day Selection Marathon
The interview process, a critical phase in the Shiv Sena's candidate selection strategy, unfolded over December 16, 17, and 18, 2025. The scale of participation underscores the immense interest in the BMC elections, which control India's richest municipal corporation. A dedicated committee, spearheaded by senior party leaders, was constituted to oversee this extensive screening. The interviews were conducted at the Shiv Sena's central office in Mumbai, transforming it into a hub of political activity as hopefuls from across the city's 227 electoral wards presented their cases.
This systematic approach highlights the party's intent to field the most capable and winnable candidates. Each aspirant was given an opportunity to articulate their vision, their connection with their local constituency, and their plan to address civic issues. The screening committee reportedly assessed candidates on various parameters, including their grassroots work, public service record, electability, and loyalty to the party's ideology.
Leadership Oversight and Strategic Importance
The entire process was held under the direct supervision of top Shiv Sena leadership. Uddhav Thackeray, the party president, is deeply involved in the final selection, which is expected to be announced in the coming days. Other prominent leaders, including Anil Desai and Anil Parab, were actively engaged in the interview rounds, questioning aspirants and evaluating their potential.
The BMC elections are historically a prestige battle for the Shiv Sena, which has held sway over the civic body for decades. The 2025 polls are seen as particularly consequential, making the candidate selection process one of the most critical tasks for the party leadership. The decision to interview such a large pool reflects a desire to tap into fresh talent while also rewarding dedicated party workers, ensuring a blend of experience and new energy in the final list.
Next Steps and Final Ticket Distribution
With the interview phase now concluded, the party's internal committee is tasked with the challenging job of shortlisting names from the 2,700 aspirants. The final list of candidates, which will number 227 for each ward, will be compiled based on the interviews, internal surveys, and ground-level feedback. The leadership will have to make tough choices, balancing various community interests and ensuring a slate that can secure a majority.
This massive exercise also sends a strong political message about the Shiv Sena's organizational strength and its commitment to a transparent, merit-based selection system—at least in appearance. As Mumbai prepares for the electoral battle, the outcome of this screening process will significantly shape the campaign dynamics and the party's prospects in retaining control of the financially powerful and administratively vital BMC.
