Fadnavis Fires Sharp Response to Thackeray's Mayoral Claim
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis delivered a sharp and witty retort to Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. Thackeray recently claimed that his party could have its mayor in Mumbai if God wills it. Fadnavis cleverly questioned whether the term "Deva" referred to him or to God.
Thackeray's First Public Address After BMC Defeat
Uddhav Thackeray made his first public speech following the BMC election defeat. He expressed his party's dream to elect a Shiv Sena (UBT) mayor. Thackeray stated that this would happen if God wills it. He also took a direct dig at the BJP during his address.
Thackeray accused the BJP of wanting to mortgage Mumbai. He claimed the BJP won the polls through betrayal. Thackeray asserted that the Marathi manoos would not forgive this sin. He highlighted a clear difference between the BJP and his party. Thackeray emphasized that Shiv Sena may have been targeted on paper. However, he insisted no one could erase it from the hearts of the people.
Fadnavis Asserts Control Over Mayoral Decisions
Devendra Fadnavis reacted strongly to Thackeray's statements. He asserted that even divine will aside, the details of the mayoral post would be decided by him and his allies. Fadnavis posed a pointed question about the meaning of "Deva." He asked whether it meant him or God, noting that he is also called Deva Bhau.
Fadnavis declared it is indeed the will of the Almighty that the Mayor will come from the Mahayuti alliance. He outlined the decision-making process for the mayoral position. Fadnavis stated that who becomes the Mayor, when the election occurs, where it is decided, and the term length would all be determined collectively. He specified that these decisions would involve him, Eknath Shinde, and their party leaders. Fadnavis firmly stated there is no dispute whatsoever on this matter.
Historic Shift in BMC Control
The Thackerays have lost control of the BMC after nearly three decades at the helm of India's richest civic body. The Mahayuti alliance, led by the BJP and former Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, now holds power. Shinde split from the Shiv Sena three-and-a-half years ago.
Mahayuti crossed the halfway mark of 114 seats in the 227-member House. The BJP won 89 seats, while Shinde's Sena secured 29 seats. This gives the BJP a narrow lead in the alliance. The party will require Shinde Sena's support for major decisions moving forward.
