Shocking Exclusion: No Shiv Sena Leader from Mumbai in Cabinet Sparks Controversy Ahead of Crucial BMC Elections
In a surprising development, the Shiv Sena finds itself without a representative from Mumbai in the new Maharashtra cabinet, a first in the party’s history. This exclusion has left many of its supporters questioning the party’s strategy, especially since Shiv Sena traditionally considers Mumbai its political stronghold. In previous administrations, such as the BJP-Sena government led by Devendra Fadnavis (2014–2019) and the Uddhav Thackeray-headed Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), at least two to three Sena ministers from Mumbai were consistently appointed to ministerial positions.
Currently, while the Shiv Sena has six MLAs from Mumbai, none secured a cabinet position. In contrast, the BJP, boasting 15 MLAs from the city, has cemented its dominance by appointing Mangal Prabhat Lodha and Ashish Shelar as ministers. This move is widely seen as the BJP consolidating its influence and gearing up for upcoming civic polls, thus highlighting its role as the senior partner in the alliance.
Insiders express concern from the Shinde-led Shiv Sena camp. They argue that sidelining a Mumbai-based minister may risk diluting the party’s influence in its key urban area. An anonymous senior Sena leader underscored the importance of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to the party, expressing worry that this omission could cost them vital political ground, especially with elections on the horizon and the Uddhav Thackeray faction showing stronger electoral performance in the city.
The rivalry between Sena’s two main factions remains intense, with both camps vying for supremacy in Mumbai. Although Shinde’s faction has been more successful outside the city, Mumbai remains fiercely contested terrain where reclaiming dominance is critical, especially with looming BMC elections on the horizon.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/maharashtra-no-shiv-sena-leader-from-mumbai-in-cabinet-raises-brows-ahead-of-bmc-polls-9728567/
Category : Cities,Mumbai
Tags:
Publish Date: 2024-12-16 23:02:00
