Sagare's appointment has surprised corporators since he is a known supporter of Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi leader Suresh Kalmadi. Justifying his decision, Gaikwad said he appointed Sagare as a group of ten Independent corporators had submitted him a letter requesting to appoint Sagare as the Leader of the Opposition.

Sources said Kalmadi had offered the post to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had withdrawn its candidate for the mayoral election. The BJP, however, turned down the offer. They maintained disinterest since they had voted in favour of the MVA candidate in the mayoral election.

Sources said the BJP had demanded the post of the leader of the House. Kalmadi, however, refused to oblige the BJP. Meanwhile, the Mayor submitted a letter to Chandrakant Chhajed that he should continue to work as the Leader of the House.