Secular Front Poised for Bhiwandi's Civic Leadership

The Maharashtra Congress, led by Harshwardhan Sapkal, has allied with NCP (SP) and rebel BJP corporators to form a 'secular front' to attain leadership in the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation. This coalition, excluding BJP and Shiv Sena, is poised to secure the civic body's mayoral positions.

In a strategic political maneuver, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal announced the formation of a 'secular front' comprising Congress, the NCP (SP), and several rebel BJP corporators. This coalition aims to secure mayoral and deputy mayoral posts in the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation.

After emerging as the single largest party with 30 seats in the January 15 polls, the Congress, with the aid of 12 NCP (SP) seats, is on the brink of majority in the 90-member body. The alignment figures as a challenge to traditional powerhouses, the BJP and the Shiv Sena.

The unexpected defection of BJP corporators and the backing from independent groups have strengthened the Congress-led front. With the deadlock broken, political observers will soon decide on key appointments in the civic administration, asserting a clear stance against BJP influence.

(With inputs from agencies.)