Nagpur is set to get its eighth woman mayor following the reservation lottery for mayoral posts, with the seat this time falling under the general women’s category. The draw of lots was held in Mumbai on Thursday, setting off intense political deliberations within parties over their choice of candidate.
With the reservation confirmed, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has emerged as the dominant force in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections, has begun internal discussions to finalise its nominee. Senior corporators Nita Thakre, Divya Dhurde, Sadhana Barde, Ashwini Jichkar, Shivani Dani and Vishakha Mohod are among the prominent names doing the rounds for the mayor’s post.
According to party sources, Ashwini Jichkar and Vishakha Mohod, both of whom have won from wards in the South-West Nagpur Assembly constituency, are also being viewed as strong contenders. Their names have gained traction as the party weighs social justice considerations while selecting its candidate.
In earlier municipal elections, the BJP had fielded Tara Munna Yadav from the Gawli community, reflecting an effort to balance representation while distributing tickets. A similar approach is now expected to influence the mayoral decision.
Historically, several leaders from South-West Nagpur Assembly constituency have served as mayor, including Anil Sole, Nanda Jichkar and Sandeep Joshi. Other leaders such as MLA Praveen Datke, BJP city president Dayashankar Tiwari, Deorao Umredkar and Archana Dehankar from Central Nagpur Assembly constituency have also previously had opportunities to become the city’s first citizen. Maya Inwate from West Nagpur Assembly constituency has likewise held the post.
In contrast, South Nagpur, North Nagpur and East Nagpur Assembly constituencies have not seen a mayor in the recent past. This has led to speculation that the party may consider a candidate from one of these areas to ensure regional balance.
The mayor’s post, while largely ceremonial, carries significant symbolic importance as it represents the position of the city’s first citizen. With the reservation process complete, the BJP is expected to accelerate consultations and announce its candidate in the coming days.
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