Who Was Neela Desai? Shiv Sena's First Woman MLA Dies

Neela Desai, the first female Member of Legislative Assembly in the the Shiv Sena died on January 16, Lokmat Times reported. She held an important place in the political history of Maharashtra due to her association with Shiv Sena in its early years. Her election brought women’s representation into the party's legislative leadership for the first time.

According to ETV Bharat, Neela Desai died after suffering a heart attack. The news of her death has led to widespread mourning within political circles.

Political Career and Contributions

Neela Desai was elected as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and became the first woman MLA of Shiv Sena in 1990 from the Vile Parle assembly constituency, as per ETV Bharat.

शिवसेना माजी आमदार नीला देसाई ह्यांना भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली! pic.twitter.com/XlW72SdmdW

— Shivsena UBT Communication (@ShivsenaUBTComm) January 17, 2026

She was part of Shiv Sena's old guard and had been associated with the party for many years. Although she was not actively involved in politics in recent times, her earlier contributions continued to be remembered by party workers and leaders.

Desai was given the opportunity to serve as a Legislative Council member after Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray expressed trust in her leadership abilities.

In political circles, she was known as a loyal leader closely associated with Balasaheb Thackeray. During the formative period of Shiv Sena, she played her role as a dedicated party worker and legislator.

Her tenure as a member of the Legislative Council contributed to strengthening the party’s representation at the state level.

Maharashtra Current Political Landscape

The news of Neela Desai’s passing emerged on the same night that the results of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections were announced.

On that day, Shiv Sena (UBT) experienced a major political setback, as its long-standing dominance in Mumbai came to an end after several decades. Amid these developments, the death of the party’s first woman MLA added to the sense of loss felt by its supporters.

After her demise, several leaders and party workers expressed their condolences. Her death has been described as a significant loss, especially for those who were associated with the party during its initial years.

Neela Desai’s demise has once again drawn attention to her role in the party and her contribution to women’s representation in state politics.