2 minutes of readingBombayUpdated: February 5, 2026 08:17 pm IST
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Thursday criticized the BJP over the upcoming Mumbai mayoral elections, saying a BJP mayor in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation would mark a “black day” for the city.
The BMC will elect its mayor and deputy mayor on February 11. The BJP, which has the largest number of corporators in the House, is expected to reclaim the mayor’s post as part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
Speaking to reporters, Raut said, “If a BJP mayor holds office BombayIt will be a black day for the city, for the 106 martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement and for all Marathi people.”
Alleging that the BJP has undermined the identity of Mumbai, he said, “The BJP has constantly worked to weaken the existence of Mumbai and its Marathi character. Its stance on Mumbai has always raised doubts.”
Raut further stated, “In future, Mumbai could be handed over to industrialists. It is not just about a position, but about the identity of the capital of Maharashtra.”
He also criticized the alliance between the BJP and the Eknath ShindeThe Shiv Sena-led faction said, “Because of those who joined the BJP, Mumbai and the Marathi manoos have suffered.”
The BJP dismissed the comments. Party corporator Navnath Ban said: “The day a Mahayuti mayor takes office will be a golden day for Mumbai. We will end 25 years of misrule and focus on development.”