Cracking the whip ahead of BMC polls, BJP has shown the door to 26 Mumbai karyakartas for a whopping six years, citing gross misconduct and disloyalty. This sweeping disciplinary measure reflects the saffron party’s aggressive bid to fortify its position in the nation’s commercial hub, where municipal control translates to immense political leverage.
The decision, ratified by the state disciplinary committee, stems from complaints of sabotage, unauthorized protests, and fraternizing with opposition elements. Party observers note that these expulsions target mid-level operatives in volatile areas like the suburbs and island city, where BJP’s vote share has shown vulnerability.
The BMC, managing a budget exceeding Rs 50,000 crore, remains a golden goose for ruling parties. BJP’s incumbency since the 2022 no-confidence victory is now under scanner amid escalating complaints on urban services. Expelling dissenters is BJP’s way of signaling resolve to voters frustrated with status quo.
Rival camps are quick to pounce, portraying the move as evidence of internal chaos. ‘BJP is eating its own to stay afloat,’ taunted an NCP leader. Yet, pro-BJP voices counter that such cleanses are routine in competitive politics, drawing parallels to past Shiv Sena purges.
In the coming weeks, expect intensified door-to-door campaigns and high-decibel rhetoric. This episode could galvanize the party’s core supporters while serving as a warning to fence-sitters. Ultimately, Mumbai’s electorate will judge if the BJP’s tough love translates into electoral success.