BJP to focus on strategies for Maharashtra civic polls at Shirdi meet; Shah to attend

The Maharashtra BJP's convention in Shirdi on Sunday, to be attended by Union minister Amit Shah, is expected to fine-tune its strategies for the local body polls, building on its impressive show in the 2024 state Assembly polls.

The state-level convention is the BJP's first major gathering since its win in the November 2024 Assembly polls and formation of government under its leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Senior BJP leader Shah is expected to address the party workers during the event, at the Shirdi temple town in Ahilyanagar district, which is likely to see the participation of nearly 15,000 delegates.

The BJP has now shifted focus on the local body polls, including in Mumbai, and the convention is aimed at formulating strategies for them, a party functionary said.

The convention will focus on strengthening the party's position in 27 municipal corporations by discussing strategies, addressing ground-level challenges, and planning organisational changes, he said.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday evening, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “This convention is about expressing our gratitude towards the party functionaries and workers. We will also get a new task for our party workers.”

Fadnavis is set to meet district party leaders, state office-bearers, newly elected legislators and ministers to discuss strategies and plans for the elections.

Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule will open the event proceedings and Fadnavis will propose a resolution thanking the people of the state for their support in the assembly elections, a party functionary said.

Amit Shah will also address the event.

A youth-focused campaign, inspired by the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, will be launched to coincide with the National Youth Day, celebrated on January 12 every year in commemoration of the spiritual leader, sources said.