The results of the Vasai–Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) elections have firmly established the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) as the dominant political force in the civic body, with the party securing a clear majority. With this decisive mandate, political attention has now shifted to the crucial question of who will be appointed as the next Mayor of Vasai–Virar.
According to political observers, the role of BVA supremo and senior-most leader Hitendra Thakur is expected to be decisive in the selection of the Mayor and other key office bearers in the municipal corporation. Party sources indicate that internal discussions within the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi are currently underway, and the final decision will be announced after consultations at the leadership level. With the Mayor’s post reserved for the open category, deliberations within the party have intensified, leading to the emergence of several strong contenders.
Potential Mayoral Candidates
Ajiv Patil: A two-to-three-time corporator and former Chairman of the Standing Committee, Patil brings extensive administrative experience and qualifies under the open category.
Beta Bhoir: Backed by strong support in the eastern parts of Vasai–Virar, Bhoir has successfully led two divisions and is considered a popular grassroots leader.
Prakash Rodriguez: A senior leader from the Catholic community and a former Deputy Mayor, Rodriguez’s candidature gains significance amid the election of several Catholic corporators
Shekhar Dhuri: A former BJP leader with over four decades of political experience, Dhure recently joined the BVA and secured a decisive victory from the Vasai Station area, making him a notable contender.
The mayoral election is expected to take place within the next eight days, and the choice of the BVA candidate will be critical, as the final call will rest with Hitendra Thakur. Party insiders suggest that once a decision is made, it is likely to be unanimously accepted by BVA corporators. Addressing speculation about political maneuvering and alleged attempts at “Operation Lotus,” Thakur dismissed such claims, asserting that all 71 BVA corporators remain firmly loyal to the party. Speaking to the media, he said that the people of Vasai–Virar have once again placed their trust in the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi, giving the party a clear and unquestionable mandate.
On the question of the next Mayor, Thakur clarified that the decision would be taken collectively within the party, ensuring stability and effective governance. He stressed that power is not an end in itself, but a responsibility, and reaffirmed that the BVA’s priority would remain civic amenities, development works, and addressing citizens’ concerns. Reacting to opposition parties, Hitendra Thakur stated that the election results have clearly reflected the public’s stand and that unnecessary political speculation should now come to an end. He added that the BVA would continue to work constructively and transparently, keeping the interests of Vasai–Virar residents at the forefront.