Started her journey from Congress, now became the first citizen of Mumbai, know who is Ritu Tawde, who created history in BMC

News India Live, Digital Desk: On Saturday, 7 February 2026, the Mahayuti alliance (BJP-Shinde Sena) declared Ritu Tawde as the mayor and Sanjay Ghadi as the deputy mayor candidate. Since he has crossed the majority mark, his election is certain. She will take charge after the official elections to be held on February 11.

1. Political journey of Ritu Tawde (From Congress to BJP)

Ritu Tawde is known as a down to earth and hardworking leader.

beginning: He started his political career Congress Did it from the party.

Join BJP: Year 2012 She left Congress and joined Bharatiya Janata Party. After this he did not look back.

Hat-trick of wins: She has been elected councilor from Ghatkopar area for the third consecutive time. He won ward number 121, 127 and now in 2026, ward no. 132 Has registered victory from.

2. Why was he chosen as mayor? (Key Reasons)

There are some solid reasons why BJP reposed confidence in Ritu Tawde among many experienced names (like Sheetal Gambhir and Rajshree Shirwadkar):

Maratha face and Gujarati vote: Ritu Tawde originally Maratha community She comes from (Kshatriya Maratha) background, but her hold is very strong even in Gujarati dominated wards. BJP has presented an ‘inclusive’ face through him.

Administrative Experience: He is a member of one of the most important committees of BMC, ‘Education Committee’ Has been the president of. He has a deep understanding of the functioning of the Municipal Corporation.

Immaculate Image: She is currently the Vice President of Maharashtra Pradesh BJP Mahila Morcha and has an image of a militant worker.

3. New Mathematics of BMC (2026)

The main reason for the change of power in the 227-member BMC is the Mahayuti alliance:

Mahayuti (118 seats): BJP (89) + Shiv Sena-Shinde faction (29). 114 seats were required for majority.

Cons: Shiv Sena-UBT (65), Congress (24), and MNS (6).

4. Deputy Mayor: Sanjay Ghadi

As per the terms of the alliance, the post of Deputy Mayor has gone to Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena. Sanjay Shankar Ghadi (Ward No. 5) has been elected for this post. He was earlier in the Uddhav Thackeray faction, but joined the Shinde faction after the 2022 rebellion.