Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Nov 30: A fresh wave of political tension has gripped Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s stronghold, where a fierce battle of strategy and counter-strategy is underway. The BJP has intensified its moves, directly challenging Shinde within his own bastion. The friction escalated to Delhi, with Shinde reportedly raising a formal complaint against BJP state president Ravindra Chavan before Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Amid this, the ongoing ticket distribution for local body elections has triggered controversy within the Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The party found itself at the centre of a storm after six members of senior leader Vaman Mhatre’s family were given election tickets in Badlapur, leading to severe criticism and allegations of dynasty politics.
Local body elections are traditionally known to be driven by grassroots workers. However, the scenario appears to be shifting across several regions, with dominant political families exerting control. The multi-member ward system allows three to four candidates to be elected from one ward, prompting some leaders to field multiple family members to consolidate power. This helps them maintain control over civic works, contracts, and the flow of funds, creating discontent among loyal party workers.
Following the controversy, many leaders and their relatives found their names circulating widely on social media, drawing criticism for attempting to “settle” entire families in politics. Upset party workers questioned whether their role had been reduced merely to logistical labour, asking, “Are we here only to carry carpets?”
In an attempt to contain the growing dissatisfaction, the BJP and Shinde Sena have jointly decided to implement a new rule—only two members from a single family will be allowed to receive tickets. The decision is expected to be enforced across Kalyan-Dombivli and other parts of the state. According to reports carried by ‘Lokmat’, this move could complicate matters for several influential political families.
As tensions rise and alliances face internal strain, the political atmosphere in Shinde’s bastion remains heated. All eyes are now on how both parties balance family influence with growing resentment among grassroots workers.