The BJP has appointed Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik as election in-charge for seven organisational districts in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's home turf of Thane, for upcoming local body polls. This move has brought renewed attention to Naik, a long-time rival of Shinde and one of Navi Mumbai's most prominent political figures. Over his four-decade political career, Naik has built a reputation for challenging powerful leaders and asserting himself in difficult political situations. In the past, he broke ranks with Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray and held his ground against the party in Thane, once dominated by Shinde's mentor Anand Dighe. Naik's elevation is seen as a potential flashpoint between Mahayuti partners BJP and Shiv Sena, whose fragile relationship has shaped regional politics in recent years. His strategic appointment reflects the BJP's effort to establish a parallel power base in areas controlled by Shinde.
Why the BJP Relies on Naik to Counter Shinde
Apart from his rivalry with Shinde, Naik's influence in the MMR and Navi Mumbai provides the BJP with a parallel base in areas seen as controlled by the Deputy CM. His long-standing presence in the Trans Thane Creek (TTC) and connections with workers and contractors enable him to mobilise support quickly. His political independence and history of challenging towering figures like Bal Thackeray, Anand Dighe, and Manohar Joshi without fearing political costs make him one of the few leaders capable of confronting Shinde in his own backyard. Naik also brings a functioning local organisation, with a network of corporators and former MLAs providing the BJP ground support across Navi Mumbai and areas of Thane where Shinde's reach is limited. His deep understanding of CIDCO, NMMC, and other local bodies makes him an
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