Fadnavis Signals Major BMC Shift, Targets Looters in Fiery Dahi Handi Speech

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, speaking at Dahi Handi celebrations in Mumbai and Thane, took a sharp jab at the Shiv Sena (UBT), declaring that a significant transformation is imminent in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). He accused past administrators of looting the civic body, asserting that the BJP-led Mahayuti government has “broken the pot of sins” and ushered in an era of development.

Addressing reporters during the vibrant Dahi Handi festivities, which mark Lord Krishna’s birth with human pyramids breaking suspended pots of curd, Fadnavis emphasized the Mahayuti government’s commitment to Mumbai’s progress. “We have shattered the ‘handi’ of corruption and initiated a new ‘handi’ of development,” he stated, signaling a shift ahead of the upcoming civic elections. The undivided Shiv Sena controlled the BMC, India’s richest civic body, from 1997 to 2022, and Fadnavis’ remarks come in response to Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut’s claim that his party will ally with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena for the polls.

Fadnavis also highlighted the festive spirit, undampened by rains, and stressed safety measures for “govindas,” the participants forming human pyramids. “We want a safe and secure Dahi Handi,” he said. The Mahayuti government, which designated Dahi Handi an adventure sport in 2022, has introduced insurance coverage for participants, reinforcing its commitment to their welfare.

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At a Ghatkopar event hosted by BJP MLA Ram Kadam, the celebrations honored security personnel involved in Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the Pahalgam attack. “Our forces broke Pakistan’s pot of sins, and we dedicate this festival to their bravery,” Fadnavis remarked. In Thane, at the Tembi Naka Mitra Mandal, he praised Deputy CM Eknath Shinde as a “true Shiv Sainik” carrying forward the legacy of Anand Dighe.

With local body elections approaching, the Dahi Handi festivities have become a platform for political mobilization, with parties leveraging the cultural event to rally supporters. Fadnavis’ remarks underscore the Mahayuti’s focus on development and accountability as it gears up for a pivotal electoral battle.

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