Mumbai bridge naming row: Shiv Sena UBT backs Nana Patekar, BJP pushes Smit Machchhar

A dispute has emerged in Mumbai over the naming of the Vidyavihar bridge. Shiv Sena (UBT) is campaigning to name the structure after actor Nana Patekar, creating a direct counter to BJP MLA Parag Shah's proposal to honour Smit Machchhar.

The two camps have staked competing claims on the bridge-naming decision, reflecting broader political divisions in the city. While Shiv Sena (UBT) has mobilised support around Patekar's candidacy, the BJP legislator continues to advocate for Machchhar as the appropriate namesake.

The row underscores how civic infrastructure naming decisions have become a flashpoint for party politics in Mumbai, with both groups seeking to secure symbolic recognition through municipal projects.