05 August,2026 10:15 AM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Pic/X
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday said elected representatives should view themselves as public servants rather than authority figures, urging Shiv Sena representatives from the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) to remain accessible to citizens and focus on resolving public issues.
Shinde was speaking at a training workshop organised by Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini at the initiative of former Member of Parliament Anand Paranjpe. The programme was attended by KDMC officials, local legislators and party office-bearers.
During his address, Shinde reflected on his political journey from a grassroots party worker to serving as Maharashtra's chief minister and stressed the importance of maintaining close contact with the public irrespective of the position held.
Addressing party representatives, Shinde said public office should be viewed as an opportunity to serve citizens rather than exercise authority.
"For me, 'Chief Minister' means 'Chief Servant'. Positions are temporary, but being a dedicated party worker is a lifelong identity," Shinde stated.
He urged elected representatives to remain approachable, respond to phone calls from citizens and address civic complaints without unnecessary delay.
"Elected representatives are servants of people, not masters of power," he said.
Shinde emphasised that public trust is built through continuous engagement with citizens and timely resolution of their concerns.
The Deputy Chief Minister encouraged Shiv Sena representatives to strengthen their connection with local communities by remaining available to residents and actively participating in addressing civic issues.
He said effective governance depends on responsiveness at the grassroots level and advised public representatives to prioritise public welfare over political status.
According to Shinde, maintaining regular communication with citizens and understanding local issues are essential responsibilities of elected representatives.
He also highlighted the importance of organisational discipline and teamwork in strengthening local governance.
Shinde also spoke about the need to balance infrastructure development with environmental conservation as cities continue to expand.
He said urban development projects should be planned in a manner that minimises environmental damage and avoids unnecessary felling of trees.
Recalling the approach of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray towards civic administration and environmental protection, Shinde said development and ecological preservation should go hand in hand.
He also advocated large-scale tree plantation initiatives as part of efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve the urban environment.
The training workshop was organised to familiarise elected representatives with governance practices, public administration and leadership responsibilities.
Apart from Shinde, the event was attended by KDMC officials, local MLAs and party office-bearers, who discussed issues related to civic administration and public service.
(With inputs from PTI)
