Former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar to lead Sena (UBT) corporators in BMC

Senior party leaders said the decision was taken to ensure a strong presence in the BMC House. “She has experience in the corporation and knows how the House functions,” a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said.

Speaking after her appointment, Pednekar said she would follow the party’s stand and decisions taken by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.

She added that the Opposition would focus on issues related to Mumbai and its citizens.

After the registration of the group, Pednekar said that Sena UBT is focused on working for the city and not on showing strength inside the civic House.

“We as a party have faced many crises in past few years and we are ready to face more. Our aim is to work for Mumbai. We will accept whatever decision Uddhav Thackeray takes on the Mayor’s post. We are also making efforts for the post,” she said.

Pednekar is a three-time corporator from Lower Parel and has been part of the Shiv Sena’s Mahila Aghadi.

Corporator absent

While all the Sena corporators were present for the group registration, one corporator, Sarita Mhaske, remained absent. This led to rumours that she may have joined the Shinde-led Sena.

Denying this, the party said that Sarita Mhaske, who won from Ward 157 by defeating BJP candidate Asha Tayde, is currently out of Mumbai.

“She has told us she will register later this week. She is out of town. There is a 30-day period for registration, so there is no hurry. She has not left the party,” said Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab.

The party has not issued any notice to her or taken any action.

After group registration, the party whip will apply to all corporators. The Sena (UBT) is expected to issue a whip during the Mumbai Mayor election.