Internal Tensions Simmer in Mahayuti Alliance Post BMC Election Victory

Following the recent Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, the Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP and Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction, has secured a slim majority. The BJP emerged as the largest party, winning 89 out of 227 seats, while Shinde's Shiv Sena secured 29. However, internal discord has surfaced regarding the allocation of key positions, including the Mumbai Mayor post. Sources indicate that the BJP's central leadership is taking a firm stance, reportedly leading to the Shinde faction ending its 'hotel politics' for their newly elected corporators. The BJP claims the Shinde faction's weaker performance in seats contested contributed to the current friction, while the Shinde group refutes this, citing inadequate support from BJP grassroots workers. Discussions to resolve these issues, including the distribution of power in committees, are slated to take place in Delhi. Opposition leaders have criticized the intervention of Delhi leadership in Mumbai's mayoral decision, terming it an affront to Marathi identity, while also raising questions about the democratic process. The BJP has instructed its corporators to remain in Mumbai for the foreseeable future.