In a fiery accusation that has intensified Mumbai's political battleground, the Congress party has launched a scathing attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging a calculated plot to dismantle Mumbai's unity and plunder the city's civic treasury.
The controversy erupted during a protest at Azad Maidan, where Congress leaders including General Secretary Sachin Sawant and Mumbai President Varsha Gaikwad made explosive claims about the BJP's alleged hidden agenda for India's financial capital.
The Division Doctrine
According to Congress leaders, the BJP is actively working to split Mumbai into multiple smaller corporations, a move they claim is designed to weaken the city's administrative structure and make it easier for the ruling party to control the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's massive financial resources.
"The BJP wants to break Mumbai's strength by dividing it into pieces," warned Sachin Sawant, painting a picture of a systematic strategy to fragment the city that contributes significantly to India's economy.
Financial Plunder Allegations
The Congress party's most serious charge revolves around the BMC's enormous budget, which they claim has become the BJP's primary target. With the civic body controlling funds exceeding ₹45,000 crore annually, the opposition party alleges this represents a treasure trove too tempting for the BJP to ignore.
"Their eyes are fixed on BMC's coffers," declared Varsha Gaikwad, suggesting that the proposed division of Mumbai serves as a smokescreen for what she termed "organized financial looting."
Historical Parallels and Current Fears
Congress leaders drew historical parallels, reminding citizens of the BJP's previous attempts to create multiple municipal corporations in cities like Pune and Nagpur. They warned that Mumbai could face a similar fate if citizens don't remain vigilant.
The timing of these allegations is particularly significant, coming just ahead of crucial BMC elections. The Congress has positioned itself as the guardian of Mumbai's integrity, urging voters to see through what they describe as "divisive politics for financial gain."
The Political Stakes
This confrontation represents more than just typical political sparring. The control of BMC isn't merely about administrative power—it's about commanding one of the wealthiest municipal corporations in Asia and shaping the future of India's most iconic city.
As both parties dig in for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle, Mumbai's citizens find themselves at the center of a political storm that could redefine their city's governance structure for generations to come.
