Mumbai, April 4: The recent bill granting Amaravati the status of the official capital of Andhra Pradesh has sparked intense discussions in Maharashtra’s political circles. Shiv Sena (UBT) has labeled this move as a “warning bell” for Mumbai in its editorial in the party’s mouthpiece, ‘Saamana’.
The party argues that while the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Bill, 2026, may seem confined to Andhra Pradesh, its constitutional implications could be far-reaching. The editorial expresses concerns that this decision could potentially impact the status of major cities like Mumbai in the future.
It points out that under Article 3 of the Constitution, Parliament has the authority to alter state boundaries, create new states, or change names. However, the power to designate a state capital has traditionally rested with the states. Declaring Amaravati as the capital through parliamentary action could set a “dangerous precedent.”
Critics, including Anil Shidore, suggest that this may be a calculated strategy. The editorial accuses the central government of advancing this model through methods like the “underground tunnel,” which could be used to bypass decisions related to Maharashtra in the future.
A potential scenario is also presented in the editorial, suggesting that Parliament could introduce a bill to declare Mumbai a “National Economic Zone,” citing its global economic strength, and subsequently convert it into a Union Territory.
Shiv Sena (UBT) has also targeted the current Maharashtra government. It has mocked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde, suggesting they might portray such a move as a “matter of pride.”
The editorial warns that Mumbai could be made dependent on the central government, and another city could be declared as the capital of Maharashtra. The party accuses the current state leadership of lacking “Maharashtra pride.”
It also highlights a cultural shift, noting that traditional Marathi terms like Ravasahab and Taisahab are being replaced by terms like Ravbhai and Taibhen, reflecting external political influences.
Shiv Sena (UBT) reminds that Mumbai became part of Maharashtra through the sacrifices of 106 martyrs, and past leaders have always prioritized the state’s identity.
The editorial recalls that after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati was declared the new capital following the merger of Hyderabad with Telangana. Thousands of acres of fertile land were acquired from farmers, and hundreds of crores were received from the center, yet the city’s development remains incomplete. Many administrative buildings stand as mere structures, leading to local rumors of “haunted buildings.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) warns that if Maharashtra’s current leadership continues to remain weak and indifferent, decisions to separate Mumbai from the state could become a possibility in the future.
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My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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