Why The BMC Mayor’s Decision Is Likely To Take Time? Answered

Discussions over power-sharing in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are expected to continue throughout the month, with key political developments lined up in the coming days.

The delay comes as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has left for Davos to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF), and the process to decide the reservation category for the mayor's post is yet to be completed.

According to sources, a lottery to determine whether the mayor's post will be reserved for the open category, SC/ST, OBC, or women is likely to be held on January 22. Once the category is finalised, the official notification is expected to be issued either the same day or the following day.

After that, a mandatory seven-day notice period will be required before the mayoral election can take place.

Leaders to Decide Mayor After CM's Return from Davos

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis departed for Davos on Sunday and is scheduled to return on January 24. Earlier, he had stated that the decision on the mayor would be taken collectively by him, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and other senior leaders.

His remarks came in response to a comment by Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sanjay Raut, who said that "God willing" the mayor's post could go to his party. Responding with sarcasm, Fadnavis said he was unsure whether Raut was referring to God above or to him, as he is also popularly known as "Devabhau".

During his visit, the chief minister interacted with members of the Marathi community in Davos and highlighted the importance of the World Economic Forum for Maharashtra's economic growth.

WEF 2026 Seen as Key to Maharashtra's Economic Goals

Speaking about the significance of the event, Fadnavis said that WEF 2026 would play an important role in pushing Maharashtra towards its goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy. He noted that last year, the state signed investment agreements worth Rs 16 lakh crore, and the government is aiming to attract even more investments this year.

The chief minister is accompanied by Industries Minister Uday Samant and senior government officials during the Davos visit. Officials believe the meetings and discussions at the forum will help strengthen Maharashtra's position as a preferred investment destination.

Meanwhile, political talks around the BMC mayor's post are expected to gain momentum once the chief minister returns to Mumbai and the reservation category is officially announced.