BJP Targets 150+ Seats in Upcoming BMC Elections

BJP-led Mahayuti aims to secure over 150 seats in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections on January 15. Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar announced plans for a Marathi mayor, emphasizing no alliance with Nawab Malik's NCP. Citizens seek change in the long-delayed polls.

The BJP-led Mahayuti coalition is setting its sights high, aiming to capture more than 150 seats in the impending Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, scheduled for January 15. Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar revealed these ambitious goals on Tuesday.

Addressing the press, Shelar confirmed that Mumbai would have a Marathi mayor following the polls, which have been delayed by almost four years. The Mahayuti's strategy hinges on a finalized formula, and further discussions are planned amongst its leaders in the coming days.

Shelar took a veiled swipe at Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray, pointing to premature defeatist posters, and asserted that Mumbai's electorate is eager for change. Additionally, he clarified BJP's stance against forming alliances with NCP leader Nawab Malik for this election and refuted recent claims regarding the separation of Mumbai from Maharashtra. The BMC, the largest civic body in Asia, faces a keenly anticipated election with a significant financial backdrop.

(With inputs from agencies.)