By the NewsPatron Political Desk
The saying “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” reflects a mindset that currently defines Maharashtra’s political chessboard. At present, Uddhav Thackeray’s biggest political adversary is ostensibly the BJP. But in his calculus, there is a threat even larger than the BJP: Eknath Shinde and his Shiv Sena faction.
This rivalry has brought the battle for the Mumbai Mayor’s post to a boiling point. Shinde, knowing his faction holds a crucial swing vote of 29 corporators, has reportedly sequestered them in a hotel at Bandra’s Land’s End. His demand? The Mayor’s chair, even if only for half the term.
But a report from Loksatta suggests a silent counter-move is in play—one that could render Shinde’s leverage completely useless.
The “Silent Strategy”: The Math of 227 vs. 162
To understand the coup being planned, we must look at the numbers. The BMC House has a total strength of 227. To elect a Mayor, a simple majority of 114 is needed.
The Current Tally:
- BJP: 89 Corporators
- Shinde Sena: 29 Corporators
- Uddhav Sena: 65 Corporators
- Congress: 24 Corporators
Normally, the BJP (89) needs Shinde (29) to cross the 114 mark. This gives Shinde bargaining power. But here is the loophole being discussed in hushed tones:
The Absentee Gambit: If Uddhav Thackeray’s 65 corporators deliberately stay absent during the voting, the total strength of the house drops from 227 to 162.
In a house of 162, the majority mark drops to just 82. Since the BJP already has 89 corporators, they would win the Mayor’s post comfortably—without needing a single vote from Shinde.
Why Would Uddhav Help the BJP?
It seems counter-intuitive for Uddhav Thackeray to help his arch-rivals. However, the logic is rooted in retaliation and survival.
In the recent power tussle in Kalyan-Dombivli, Shinde allegedly engineered defections from Uddhav’s camp to secure power, raising his tally from 54 to 57. This signaled that Shinde is willing to cannibalize the original Shiv Sena to grow. By enabling a BJP Mayor in Mumbai, Uddhav achieves a strategic victory: he breaks Shinde’s veto power and denies him the legitimacy of ruling Mumbai.
The Stakes: A ₹75,000 Crore Empire
Why is this fight so dirty? Because the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is not just a civic body; it is a financial powerhouse. With an annual budget of approximately ₹75,000 crore, it is wealthier than several small Indian states combined. Controlling the BMC means controlling the financial heart of India.
For decades, the BJP played junior partner to the undivided Sena. Today, with the “Silent Strategy” in their back pocket, they are poised to take the crown jewel alone.
Conclusion: The End of Emotional Alliances
The emerging consensus is clear: No matter how long Shinde’s corporators stay holed up in hotels, the Mayor will likely come from the BJP. This saga highlights the shift in Maharashtra politics from emotional alliances to cold, procedural power plays. In this game, sometimes you help your enemy today to destroy the traitor tomorrow.
