'What Matters Isn't Number Of Seats But...' Eknath Shinde Clears Air On BMC Polls Seat Sharing

Last Updated:September 29, 2025, 12:50 IST

Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister said while every partner in the Mahayuti will get due respect in the seat-sharing process, merit will be the priority and not numbers

Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the saffron flag of the Mahayuti will fly over the city once the polls are concluded. (PTI)

Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde has made it clear that the upcoming Mumbai civic elections will not be about the number of seats contested by allies within the Mahayuti, but about ensuring that the alliance secures control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Speaking after a meeting with Shiv Sena’s branch heads in Mumbai, Shinde expressed confidence that the saffron flag of the Mahayuti will fly over the city once the polls are concluded.

With the state gearing up for local body elections, Shiv Sena organised a meeting with its branch heads in Mumbai. After the event, Shinde addressed the media and stressed the critical role of these local leaders. “Branch heads are the backbone of our party. They are in touch with every citizen in their area, they know people’s problems, and they work actively to solve them. Their commitment is what strengthens us during elections," Shinde said.

According to Shinde, branch heads across Mumbai are already prepared for the polls and are only waiting for the election dates to be announced. “Our workers are ready. Whenever the elections are held, we are confident that the Mahayuti will win the BMC," he said.

On the sensitive issue of seat-sharing among alliance partners, Shinde said discussions would take place soon. He insisted that only winnable seats should be contested to avoid unnecessary conflicts within the alliance. “Merit will be the priority, not numbers. Every partner in the Mahayuti will get due respect in the seat-sharing process. What matters is not how many seats we contest, but that the Mahayuti flag flies over the BMC," Shinde noted.

Highlighting past achievements, Shinde reminded that when he was chief minister, several key development projects were implemented for Mumbai. He added that the current administration under chief minister Devendra Fadnavis is continuing that momentum with more projects for the city’s growth.

“It is on the strength of these development works that we secured strong numbers in the state assembly elections, and it is the same work that will ensure our success in the BMC polls," he said.

Shinde also took a swipe at the Opposition, accusing them of blaming electronic voting machines, the Election Commission, and the judiciary whenever they lose. “When the Opposition loses, they find excuses. They said our government would not last, they predicted the chief minister would fall. Clearly, they never found the right astrologer," he quipped, adding that people had renewed their mandate for the Mahayuti despite such claims.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment, Shinde said the Mahayuti is focused on the development of Maharashtra and Mumbai. “The people of Mumbai have always supported those who deliver. They have seen our work and will continue to trust us," he said, expressing confidence that the alliance is on track to take charge of India’s richest civic body.

News elections 'What Matters Isn't Number Of Seats But...' Eknath Shinde Clears Air On BMC Polls Seat Sharing

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