Shiv Sena’s Quiet Absence in Maharashtra Cabinet Sparks Debate Ahead of BMC Polls

Mumbai, Maharashtra: The absence of a Shiv Sena MLA from Mumbai in the Maharashtra Cabinet has raised concerns among party supporters ahead of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. For the first time, none of the six Shiv Sena legislators from Mumbai have been inducted into the cabinet, marking a stark contrast to previous regimes where at least two to three representatives were included.

The Rising BJP Presence in Mumbai

While the Shiv Sena faces this exclusion, the BJP, with 15 MLAs in Mumbai, has made its presence felt by inducting prominent leaders Mangal Prabhat Lodha and Ashish Shelar into the Cabinet. This move reinforces BJP's ambition to dominate Mumbai politically, ahead of the civic polls, positioning itself as the senior partner in the Shinde-led alliance.

Discontent Within Shiv Sena

The omission of a Mumbai-based minister has sparked frustration within the Shinde faction, with leaders emphasizing the importance of having representation from the city to maintain its base. One senior leader noted, “The BMC has always been the backbone of the Shiv Sena,” implying that such exclusion could harm the party's position ahead of the polls.

The Uddhav vs. Shinde Battle for Mumbai

As Uddhav Thackeray’s Sena (UBT) gains momentum in the city, winning recent local elections, Shinde’s faction finds itself under pressure to regain control. Without key Mumbai leaders in the Cabinet, the Shinde faction risks weakening its influence just as the battle for Mumbai heats up.

Conclusion: A Risky Move?

Whether this exclusion is part of a bigger strategy or an oversight, it remains to be seen. With the BMC elections around the corner, Shinde’s faction will need to prove it can hold its ground in Mumbai—or risk further alienation in its strongest political base.