Elective Merit Over Numbers: Eknath Shinde’s Bold Stance on Civic Elections
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Sunday that the saffron flag of the Mahayuti alliance will wave proudly over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) following the upcoming civic elections. He emphasized that achieving victory is more crucial than the number of seats contested, asserting the alliance’s determination to secure the mayoral position in Mumbai based on elective merit.
“Seats should only be contested where victory is certain. Mahayuti’s saffron flag will fly over the municipal corporation only if this principle is upheld. Strategizing for seat count alone is inappropriate. Elective merit will guide our decisions,” he stated during a press conference held after meeting with leaders of Shiv Sena’s local units, known as Shakha Pramukhs.
Shinde indicated that meetings with Mahayuti coordinators are forthcoming, noting, “Booth chiefs maintain close contact with every resident in their respective areas, taking the lead in addressing citizens’ issues and questions. This role is vital within the Shiv Sena. Ensuring booth chiefs understand their responsibilities during elections is essential for keeping them engaged. Our booth chiefs are now fully prepared and eager for the elections, ready to ensure that Mahayuti’s saffron flag rises over Mumbai during the polls.”
Emphasizing the significance of party workers, Shinde remarked that they are instrumental in securing victories for candidates. He assured that the alliance will practice respect and coordination in determining seat distributions, stating, “The number of seats is not our priority. Our ultimate aim is to see the saffron flag of Mahayuti flying over the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.”
Reflecting on the alliance’s accomplishments, Shinde highlighted numerous development projects launched during his tenure as Chief Minister, alongside ongoing initiatives under Devendra Fadnavis. “These development efforts have led to strong support for the Mahayuti in Assembly elections. Our workers play a crucial role in informing the public about these successes, which is key to securing their votes,” he added.
In a critique aimed at his opponents, Shinde remarked, “When competitors face electoral defeat, they blame EVMs, courts, or the Election Commission. They have claimed that our government would collapse or that we would lose the Assembly elections, even consulting astrologers, yet they failed. The public has reaffirmed their mandate in our favor. We will allow our opponents to remain under false impressions while we remain dedicated to the development of Maharashtra.”
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/civic-elections-holding-seats-just-for-numbers-is-not-appropriate-elective-merit-will-be-considered-eknath-shinde-10277045/
Category: Cities,Mumbai
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Publish Date: 2025-09-28 22:26:00