Mumbai: Bharatiya Janata Party Fields Ritu Tawde for Mumbai Mayor Election
Mumbai, 7th February 2026: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has formally announced corporator Ritu Tawde as its candidate for the upcoming mayoral election in the municipal corporation, bringing an end to speculation over the party’s choice for the key civic post.
Tawde, who represents Ghatkopar, is known within the party for her organisational experience and has previously held the position of committee chairperson. The mayoral election is scheduled for February 11 at 12 noon, while the nomination filing process is underway today.
A large number of BJP corporators gathered at the party office during the filing of nominations, with celebrations and slogan-chanting reflecting confidence within the party ranks. The announcement was made in the presence of senior BJP leaders including Mumbai unit president Amit Satam, Union Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, and Member of Parliament Manoj Kotak. Leaders from the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Rahul Shewale, Amey Ghole, and Sheetal Mhatre, were also present, highlighting coordination within the ruling alliance.
Party insiders said Tawde’s name was finalised after consultations among top leaders. Senior BJP figures are expected to accompany her to the municipal headquarters as a show of strength when she submits her nomination.
The mayoral election carries significance in view of the current political balance within the corporation, where the BJP is the single largest party. Tawde’s administrative background and long-standing party involvement are being seen as advantages in the race.
The Shiv Sena faction led by Uddhav Thackeray has not yet declared its candidate, prompting speculation that the election could be uncontested. Further strengthening the ruling alliance’s position, the lone corporator from the Sharad Pawar-led NCP faction extended support to the coalition on Friday.
Senior leaders from the Thackeray faction are scheduled to meet at Matoshree later in the day, after which the opposition is expected to clarify its stand. Their decision will determine whether the mayoral election turns into a contest or results in an unopposed victory.
