Fadnavis Launches Campaign for BMC Elections, Promises Hindu-Marathi Mayor
Campaign Kickoff in Mumbai
Mumbai, January 4, 2026: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has officially launched the election campaign for the Mahayuti alliance ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. During a grand rally held at the NSCI Dome in Worli, Fadnavis asserted that the next mayor of Mumbai will be from the Mahayuti and will be both Hindu and Marathi. This statement has intensified the political atmosphere in the region.
Clear Stance on the Mayor's Identity
Fadnavis emphasized, “Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and I have made it clear that the mayor of Mumbai will be Marathi and Hindu. Some individuals have suggested that a woman in a burqa could become mayor, but those who claim to uphold Marathi pride have remained silent. Our position is unequivocal—Mumbai's mayor will be Marathi and Hindu.”
Criticism of the Opposition
This statement comes amidst recent controversies, particularly after Mumbai BJP President Amit Satam declared that no 'Khan' would be elected as mayor. The opposition parties, including Shiv Sena (Uddhav) and MNS, have criticized this stance.
Attacking the Opposition
During the rally, Fadnavis subtly targeted Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, stating that some only remember the Marathi community during elections, yet have stopped chanting 'Vande Mataram' at their rallies. He dismissed the opposition's promises of free electricity and tax waivers as 'false', asserting that the Mahayuti is committed to fulfilling its promises.
Key Promises Made
Other significant pledges include:
- Identifying and deporting Bangladeshi infiltrators to ensure the city's safety.
- Providing housing for every Mumbaikar, ensuring that Marathi residents do not have to leave the city.
- Focusing on the redevelopment of slums and chawls, along with a ₹17,000 crore green budget to make Mumbai environmentally friendly.
- Emphasizing the expansion of the metro network and infrastructure projects.
Election Schedule
Voting for the 227 BMC seats is scheduled for January 15, 2026, with the counting of votes taking place on January 16. The Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shinde Sena, and RPI, is confident, while the opposition, led by the Uddhav-Raj Thackeray coalition and MVA, remains active.