Shiv Sena leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut addressed the media on the crucial Mumbai BMC elections, emphasizing the dual themes of Marathi identity and urban development. Speaking to senior correspondent Ganesh Thakur, Raut highlighted the high stakes of the elections, saying that Mumbai’s future leadership will be decided by voters on 16th January. He noted that Uddhav Thackeray’s camp is focused on preserving Marathi pride and cultural identity, while rival parties, including BJP and Shinde-led Shiv Sena factions, are appealing to voters based on development projects. Raut also pointed out the global attention Mumbai receives, with voters from London, the US, and France engaging remotely, reflecting the city’s significance. Raut called for the electorate to recognize Shiv Sena’s historical role in protecting Marathi interests and countering corporate and political pressures in the city. He framed the election as more than a local body vote, but as a defense of cultural identity and governance vision, urging citizens to participate actively and shape the city’s political future.


