The political landscape of Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation experienced a dramatic transformation on Tuesday. Two councillors originally elected on the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi ticket decided to back the Shiv Sena. This move has substantially bolstered the party's position to take control of the civic body.
A Major Setback for the BJP
The development deals a significant blow to the Bharatiya Janata Party. The BJP had contested the elections independently and emerged as the single largest party with 37 councillors. However, it lacked the necessary numbers to secure a majority and form the administration. The party required support from at least three more councillors to stake its claim to power.
Shiv Sena Crosses the Majority Mark
The Shiv Sena, which secured 36 seats in the elections, had already gathered support from one councillor of its local ally, the SAI Party, and one Independent councillor. This initial support brought its tally to 38 members. With the addition of the two VBA councillors, the Shiv Sena has now comfortably crossed the majority threshold. The path is now clear for the party to establish its civic administration in Ulhasnagar.
Formal Submission of Support
VBA councillors Surekha Sonawane and Vikas Kharat met Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence in Mumbai. They formally submitted letters of support during this meeting. Kalyan Lok Sabha MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde was also present, highlighting the importance of the occasion.
The councillors explained their decision by emphasizing the need for comprehensive development in their wards. They specifically mentioned schemes like the Dalit Basti Sudhar Yojana and other local infrastructure projects as key factors guiding their choice.
MLA Dr. Balaji Kinikar and Sunil Chaudhary, the former President of Ambernath Municipal Council, attended the meeting as well. Their presence underscored the political significance of this development.
Accelerating Government Formation
This latest shift in political allegiance is expected to speed up the process of forming a government in the municipal corporation. The coming days will likely see swift moves toward establishing the new civic administration under Shiv Sena's leadership.
