Mumbai: With the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections drawing closer, Mumbai’s political atmosphere has intensified following a high-profile defection and the release of an ambitious civic manifesto. Former Mumbai Mayor Shubha Raul has exited the Shiv Sena (UBT) and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), adding fresh momentum to the ruling party’s campaign just days before polling.
Raul formally entered the BJP in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a move that sent ripples through the Thackeray-led camp. Her decision coincided with the joint manifesto launch by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray, making the political timing particularly significant.
The manifesto unveiling itself was symbolically important, marking Raj Thackeray’s return to Shiv Sena Bhavan after nearly two decades since his separation from the undivided party. Though the alliance also includes the NCP (SP), its senior leadership remained absent from the stage, keeping the spotlight firmly on the Thackeray cousins.
The alliance’s vision for Mumbai places strong emphasis on welfare-driven governance, especially targeting women voters. A key proposal is the introduction of “Swabhiman Nidhi,” under which women from the househelp and Koli communities would receive a monthly assistance of ₹1,500. The proposal closely mirrors the Mahayuti government’s existing women-centric support schemes.
Beyond direct financial aid, the manifesto promises improved civic amenities, including modern restrooms for women across major city roads and a low-cost meal programme offering breakfast and lunch at ₹10. Housing remains a central pillar, with commitments to reserve Mumbai’s land primarily for locals and to construct affordable homes for civic employees, transport workers and mill labourers. The alliance has also proposed the creation of a dedicated housing authority under the BMC, with a target of building one lakh affordable homes over five years.
Infrastructure and utilities also feature prominently. The manifesto pledges 100 units of free electricity for residential consumers through the city’s power utility, alongside upgrades to public transport, healthcare facilities and educational infrastructure across Mumbai.
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