THANE: The omission of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's name from an invitation for the inauguration of a civic health facility in Navi Mumbai has sparked strong reactions from senior Shiv Sena leaders and close associates of Shinde on Monday. Shinde is also the guardian minister of the district.
Shiv Sena Leaders Accuse BJP of Deliberate Slight
MP Naresh Mhaske and cabinet minister Pratap Sarnaik accused the local BJP of repeatedly sidelining Shinde and warned of escalating the matter before Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Sarnaik stated that while the Shiv Sena-led Thane Municipal Corporation has consistently adhered to the Mahayuti alliance protocol, the situation in BJP-dominated civic bodies such as Navi Mumbai and Mira-Bhayander presents a contrasting picture.
“The Navi Mumbai incident appears deliberate. I had already brought a similar matter to the notice of Chief Minister Fadnavis, who ordered an inquiry. Barely 48 hours later, another such incident has surfaced,” Sarnaik said.
Sarnaik to Raise Issue in Cabinet Meeting
He added that he would raise the issue during Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting and seek action, including suspension of officials found responsible. “Senior Mahayuti leaders respect alliance dharma. It is time their juniors also follow the same protocol,” he remarked.
Mhaske Blames Mayor's Office for Removal of Shinde's Name
MP Naresh Mhaske also hit out at BJP MLA Ganesh Naik, saying leaders should focus on their own work instead of attempting to diminish the contributions of others. Citing information attributed to the Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner, Mhaske claimed Shinde’s name was included in the original invitation issued by the administration but was allegedly removed by the Mayor’s office.
“Eknath Shinde’s name is etched in the hearts of the people. Such attempts cannot dent his popularity,” Mhaske said, while alleging that both he and Belapur MLA Manda Mhatre were kept uninformed about the inauguration until the last moment despite having pursued the project since June 2025.
