The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday announced senior corporator Ritu Tawde as its candidate for the Mumbai mayoral election, ending days of speculation.
At the same time, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena named Sanjay Ghadi as its candidate for the Deputy Mayor’s post. The mayoral election is scheduled to be held on February 11 at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters.
BJP and Shiv Sena Announce Candidates
BJP leader Amit Satam formally announced Ritu Tawde’s name. Shiv Sena leader Rahul Shewale confirmed Sanjay Ghadi’s nomination for deputy mayor.
Ghadi is expected to serve a 15-month term as part of the Mahayuti alliance arrangement.
All About Ritu Tawde
Ritu Tawde is a well-known name in Mumbai’s civic politics with over a decade of experience in the BMC.
She was first elected as a corporator in 2012 from Ward No. 127. In the 2017 elections, she won from Ward No. 121 in Ghatkopar.
In the recent civic polls held on January 15, Tawde secured another victory from Ward No. 132, further strengthening her political position within the BMC.
Key Roles and Experience
During her tenure, Ritu Tawde has served as the Chairperson of the BMC’s Education Committee. She is known for her administrative experience and close connection with local communities.
Party leaders view her as a capable leader with strong grassroots support.
Mumbai to Get a Mayor After Four Years
Mumbai is set to get an elected mayor after nearly four years. Since 2022, the BMC has functioned without elected corporators and has been run by the Municipal Commissioner.
The mayoral election marks the return of an elected civic leadership in the city.
How the Numbers Stand in BMC
In the 227-member BMC, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats. The Shiv Sena won 29 seats.
Together, the Mahayuti alliance holds 118 corporators, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 114, strengthening its claim to the mayor’s post.
Opposition’s Performance
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Shiv Sena (UBT): 65 seats
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Congress: 24 seats
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AIMIM: 8 seats
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MNS: 6 seats
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NCP (Sharad Pawar): 1 seat
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NCP (Ajit Pawar): 3 seats
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Samajwadi Party: 2 seats
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Independents: 2 seats
Shiv Sena (UBT) had ruled the BMC for 25 years before losing control in the latest elections.
With Ritu Tawde’s nomination, the BJP has signaled confidence in experienced leadership as Mumbai prepares for a new chapter in civic governance.
