The Shiv Sena expressed worry over the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill, 2026, which aims to confirm Amaravati as the official capital, stating it could have repercussions for Mumbai. The party’s publication ‘Saamana’ cautioned that this bill might establish a concerning constitutional precedent affecting Mumbai’s future. The debate centers on Parliament’s authority to designate a state capital, a power typically held by the states themselves under the Indian Constitution.
Critics, including Anil Shidore, have raised concerns that passing an ‘Amaravati Bill’ through Parliament could set a precedent for bypassing Maharashtra’s authority over Mumbai. The editorial suggested a scenario where Mumbai could be declared a “National Economic Zone” and transformed into a Union Territory, potentially diminishing the city’s autonomy. The editorial also criticized Maharashtra’s current leadership for allegedly lacking “Maharashtra Pride” and allowing cultural shifts that could compromise the state’s identity.
The Shiv Sena-UBT criticized the current Maharashtra leadership for their perceived silence on cultural and regional issues, warning that this indifference could lead to Mumbai’s separation from the state. The editorial highlighted a shift in traditional Marathi titles and emphasized the historical significance of Mumbai, won through the sacrifice of martyrs. Despite legislative successes, the editorial pointed out the stagnant progress in Amaravati post-bifurcation, with incomplete administrative buildings symbolizing the city’s stalled development.
