BJP’s Sanap elected NMC standing committee chief

Nashik: BJP's Machhindra Sanap was unopposed elected as the chairperson of the Nashik Municipal Corporation's (NMC) standing committee on Wednesday after independent corporator and panel member Mukesh Shahane withdrew his nomination.With Shahane stepping aside, Sanap's elevation to the coveted post became mere formality and it has strengthened the BJP's hold over the civic body's key decision-making panel.
The standing committee currently comprises 16 members, out of which the BJP holds nine seats, ensuring a clear majority. Its ally Shiv Sena controls four additional seats, taking the alliance tally to 13, which gave the ruling bloc a comfortable position in the election. District collector Ayush Prasad served as the presiding officer for the election and was appointed by Nashik divisional commissioner Pravin Gedam.Speaking after his election, Sanap said his top priority would be to ensure smooth execution of preparations for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. He recalled that the 2015 Kumbh Mela was successfully managed under chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. "The administration would make all efforts to deliver seamless arrangements for the mega religious event," Sanap added.Apart from the Kumbh-related responsibilities, Sanap emphasized that he would focus on public welfare and overall development of Nashik city. "I intend to work with a forward-looking vision, ensuring that civic projects move ahead without delays and citizens' issues are addressed promptly," he said.Sanap's rise to the chairperson's post follows recent political developments within the NMC. During the municipal corporation's mayoral and deputy mayoral elections on Feb 10, the BJP had initially nominated Sanap for the deputy mayor's role.