Melbourne Council's Indian-Origin Mayor Pradeep Tiwari Resigns, Condemns Racism

Councillor Pradeep Tiwari made history as Victoria's first Indian-origin mayor in November 2024. Photo: Facebook

Victoria’s first Indian-origin mayor, Pradeep Tiwari, has stepped down from his role as Mayor of the City of Maribyrnong - an inner-Melbourne council - following charges related to a two-year-old dangerous driving incident.

The charges relate to an incident in Flemington on June 14, 2023, before Cr Tiwari was elected to the council.

Last Thursday, August 21, an arrest warrant was briefly issued after Cr Tiwari missed a scheduled appearance at the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court. Hours later, the warrant was withdrawn following discussions with his legal team, and the matter was adjourned to October 2025.

Criminal Case Has Nothing To Do With Work On Council, Says Pradeep Tiwari

On Monday, Cr Tiwari released a statement via Facebook addressing the situation, saying he was only recently made aware of the charges and would be stepping down from mayoral duties while the case is resolved. “This matter has nothing to do with my work on council or the period I have been on council,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Bernadette Thomas has stepped in as Acting Mayor for the time being.

“I want to make it clear that I remain a Councillor of the City of Maribyrnong,” Cr Tiwari said, adding that he intends to return to his role after the legal matter is resolved. “There is still so much to do and so much to achieve for our city and community, and I remain deeply committed to that work.”

The charges lodged against Cr Tiwari include dangerous driving, touching a mobile phone while driving, and failing to ensure a passenger was seated in safety-approved seating—breaches considered serious under Victorian road laws.

Councillor Condemns Racism

Councillor Pradeep Tiwari. Photo: Facebook

Cr Tiwari acknowledged the support he has received but condemned the racist comments aimed at his heritage in the wake of the charges.

“I must strongly condemn the racist comments posted about my heritage,” he said. “It is very difficult for me to understand why the entire Indian community is being mocked and degraded with racist commentary. Racism has no place in our society, and I will continue to call it out whenever it appears.”

Pradeep Tiwari was appointed as mayor in November 2024, marking a historic milestone for Victoria and its Indian community. Tiwari has advocated on behalf of both the Indian community and the wider Maribyrnong area. His term as mayor was due to come to an end in November 2025.

“I remain deeply committed to that work,” Cr Tiwari emphasised. “I apologise to my fellow councillors and community for any inconvenience, but assure everyone no critical works will stop.”