BJP leader K Annamalai on Monday sharpened his attack on Maharashtra opposition leaders after his remark describing Mumbai as an "international city" triggered a political controversy ahead of the January 15 civic polls. The comment drew sharp reactions following criticism at a joint rally of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and the Shiv Sena (UBT), with leaders questioning Annamalai’s right to comment on Mumbai.
Responding to the backlash, Annamalai rejected threats and personal attacks, saying intimidation would not deter him from visiting Mumbai. He denied that his remarks undermined Marathi pride and said Mumbai’s global stature was built on the contribution of Maharashtrians. He accused opposition leaders of distorting his comments for political gain and alleged that the controversy had slipped into insults against Tamils, calling it a revival of identity politics ahead of elections.
The BJP dismissed the row as manufactured, while opposition parties continued to frame the remarks as an attempt to question Mumbai’s place in Maharashtra, reviving long-standing sensitivities around the city’s identity.
Polling for 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, is scheduled for January 15, with counting set for January 16.