Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Friday paid tributes to Shiv Sena founder, Balasaheb Thackeray, on his 100th birth anniversary, saying that the late leader’s influence on politics and social fabric remains unparalleled even years after his passing. In a heartfelt statement, the MNS leader emphasised that while many historical figures are celebrated on their centenaries, very few continue to shape the destiny of a region long after they are gone. Raj contrasts today’s politics with Balasaheb’s era Reflecting on the current political climate, the MNS chief noted a stark shift from the era of the senior Thackeray. He observed that today’s politics is often driven by "practicality" and electoral "tricks" rather than ideological conviction. “Today, loyalty is easily sold, and principles are discarded. Success is measured by electoral math rather than the intensity of linguistic or regional identity. Balasaheb would have rejected these yardsticks. He never craved power for himself; his satisfaction lay in elevating a common worker to a position of authority," he said in his long post on X. स्व. बाळासाहेबांची आज १०० वी जयंती. इतिहासात जन्म शताब्दी वर्ष अनेकांची साजरी झाली आहेत आणि होतील देखील, पण एखादी व्यक्ती हयात नसताना देखील ती लोकांच्या स्मृतीत रहावी, आणि त्या व्यक्तीने आज देखील एखाद्या प्रांताच्या राजकारणाला आणि समाजकारणाला आकार देत रहावं हे दुर्मिळ. हे फक्त… pic.twitter.com/iDRAjiYWSh — Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) January 23, 2026 Legacy to endure beyond even the bicentenary Predicting that Balasaheb’s legacy would endure even until his bicentenary (200th anniversary), the MNS chief highlighted the visionary nature of the late leader's thoughts. He stressed that while political power is fleeting, the ability to inspire generations is a rare strength -- one that defined Balasaheb Thackeray. Flexible politics only for Marathi interest, says Raj Thackeray Addressing the "changed realities" of modern politics, Raj Thackeray addressed the necessity of tactical flexibility. He assured his followers that any "flexible stand" taken in the current political landscape would never be for personal gain but for the larger interest of the Marathi people. Commitment to Marathi language and Maharashtra’s soil “Even when Balasaheb had to take a flexible stance in politics at times, his love for the Marathi people didn't diminish even by a fraction; on the contrary, it only grew stronger. These are the values instilled in us. I give my word once again today: even if I have to take a slightly flexible stance at times in this completely transformed politics, it will never be for my personal gain or selfishness,” he clarified. "I am one of the millions who joined him after witnessing his fierce love for the Marathi language and the soil of Maharashtra. The faith that I and my 'Maharashtra Sainiks' have in the words 'Balasaheb' and 'Marathi' will never diminish," he stated. Raj Thackeray vows to carry forward Balasaheb’s fight “Balasaheb was farsighted. His vision still feels consistent today and will remain so in the future. That's why he will remain timeless. Just as it's true that we will never see a talent like Balasaheb's again, it's equally true that no one will ever be able to practice politics like Balasaheb's in the future. But his image will never take a hit anywhere, and the fight he waged for the Marathi language, for the Marathi people, will continue to burn fiercely -- this is in the hands of Balasaheb's next generations to ensure. And we will do it with determination; this is our word to the Marathi people,” said Raj Thackeray. MNS salutes ‘Hinduhridaysamrat’ on centenary The tribute concluded with a solemn promise to keep the flame of the struggle for Marathi identity alive. The MNS chief urged the next generation to ensure that the "fight" built by Balasaheb remains untarnished and vibrant. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena joined the state in offering a humble salutation to the memory of the "Hinduhridaysamrat", reaffirming their commitment to his core values on this historic milestone, he said.
23 January,2026 11:44 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOn the occasion of the birth centenary of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, a leader remembered for his pivotal role in shaping Marathi identity and the politics of Maharashtra. Maharashtra remembers Balasaheb's contributions continue and how it still continues to influence the state's political and social landscape even after 100 years. The Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece, Saamana, which was launched in 1988 by Balasaheb Thackeray, highlighted the significance of his centenary celebrations. Saamana noted the convergence of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray at the main event held at Shanmukhanand Hall, where they paid tribute to the party's founder. The editorial described this joint homage as "perhaps the best birthday gift for Balasaheb,” as per news agency PTI. The daily editorial emphasised that Balasaheb's legacy is measured not by age but by his actions and contributions. The editorial further noted, "Leaders like Balasaheb remain immortal and inspiring, irrespective of their age... Their greatness depends not on age, but on their actions, ideas, and contributions to society," as per PTI. Balasaheb’s stand for Marathi people Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray is credited with awakening the Marathi community, organising them into a strong political force. Saamana, on the occasion of his birth centenary, pointed out that Shiv Sena's struggle is "not about caste or regionalism; it is a fight for livelihood, dignity, and self-respect." The editorial also noted that, without Balasaheb Thackeray’s efforts, "The Marathi people from Maharashtra's capital might have vanished forever." Balasaheb Thackeray’s stand for Marathi language The centenary edition highlighted Balasaheb's pride in the Marathi language and his efforts to ensure it received its rightful place in society. The editorial further noted Bal Thackeray’s commitment to liberal Hindutva, distinguishing his approach from the extremist ideologies that later influenced national politics. The editorial also cited his admiration for Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first President of modern Turkiye, stating that he "openly said that Indian Muslims should follow Ataturk's ideals". Balasaheb Thackeray’s political philosophy Balasaheb's political philosophy, according to ‘Saamna’, emphasised unity and resilience: "Anyone attempting to divide Maharashtra will not be spared by Shiv Sena...this roar continues to resonate even today." The centenary celebrations of Balasaheb Thackeray across Maharashtra serve as a reminder of his enduring influence on the state's social, cultural, and political spheres. (With inputs from ANI)
23 January,2026 10:54 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday outlined a detailed roadmap for India’s first “Innovation City” near Mumbai, saying the project will be finalised within the next six to eight months and is expected to attract investments exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, reported news agency ANI. Addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos, Fadnavis said the initiative—being developed in partnership with the Tata Group—has progressed from conceptual discussions held last year to advanced planning stages. He added that the Tata Group, led by chairman N. Chandrasekaran, will anchor the investment alongside participation from several international investors, reported ANI. Circular economy model planned for Mumbai region The Maharashtra Chief Minister said the Innovation City will incorporate a comprehensive circular economy model for the Mumbai region, addressing water management, air quality and waste processing through scientific methods. The impact of these measures is expected to be visible within two to three years, with plans to replicate the model in other major cities. He also announced the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre, envisaged as a major business district, noting that investments worth Rs 1 lakh crore have already been secured for the project. Global and Indian companies sign multiple agreements Fadnavis further said that multiple agreements have been signed with leading global and Indian corporations, adding that such investments typically materialise over a three- to seven-year period. Companies involved include SBG, Brookfield, ArcelorMittal, Fineman Global, Essar, Skoda Auto, Volkswagen, STT Telemedia, Adani Group, Reliance Industries, JBL, Coca-Cola, Bosch, CapitaLand and Iron Mountain, reported ANI. High-growth sectors identified for future investments According to the Chief Minister, the projects span key growth areas such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, global capability centres, data centres, healthcare, food processing, green steel, urban development, shipbuilding, fintech, logistics and digital infrastructure. He noted that while some participating firms are Indian, their operations and investments extend across more than 165 countries. 83 per cent MoUs involve direct foreign investment Fadnavis also said that 83 per cent of the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed involve direct foreign investment, while 16 per cent pertain to foreign technology collaborations. Investments are coming from 18 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Germany, France, Austria, the UAE, Spain, Canada and Belgium, reported ANI. State cites strong MoU conversion track record Reiterating the state’s execution track record, he said the proposed investments cut across industrial, services, agriculture and technology sectors, adding that Maharashtra has consistently achieved a 75 per cent MoU conversion rate, with a similar level of implementation recorded for agreements signed last year. (With inputs from ANI)
23 January,2026 10:30 AM IST | Davos | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday said that 83 per cent of the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed at the Davos Summit 2026 involve direct foreign investments, while 16 per cent pertain to foreign technology collaborations, reported news agency ANI. Investments secured from 18 countries across sectors He said investments have been secured from 18 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Germany, France, Austria, the UAE, Spain, Canada and Belgium, reported ANI. According to the Maharashtra Chief Minister, the proposed investments span industrial, services, agriculture and technology sectors. He added that Maharashtra has consistently achieved a 75 per cent MoU conversion rate, with last year’s agreements implemented at a similar pace, reported ANI. Global firms sign MoUs, investments to roll out over 3–7 years Fadnavis noted that most investments are expected to materialise over a period of three to seven years. MoUs have been signed with leading global and Indian firms such as SBG, Brookfield, ArcelorMittal, Fineman Global, Essar, Skoda Auto, Volkswagen, STT Telemedia, Tata Group, Adani Group, Reliance, JBL, Coca-Cola, Bosch, CapitaLand and Iron Mountain. While some of these are Indian companies, he said they operate and invest across more than 165 countries worldwide, reported ANI. High-growth sectors identified for future investments Key focus sectors for these investments include quantum computing, artificial intelligence, global capability centres, data centres, healthcare, food processing, green steel, urban development, shipbuilding, fintech, logistics and digital infrastructure. Innovation City near Mumbai planned with Tata Group The Chief Minister also announced that Maharashtra will develop India’s first Innovation City near Mumbai in partnership with the Tata Group. Detailed planning for the project is expected to be completed within six to eight months. Discussions on the concept began at last year’s Davos, followed by further consultations with Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran. The Tata Group is expected to invest over Rs 1 lakh crore in the project, along with participation from several international investors, reported ANI. In addition, a comprehensive circular economy model will be implemented in Mumbai to address water, air and waste management challenges. All categories of waste will be scientifically processed, with visible impact anticipated within two to three years before the model is extended to other major cities. Raigad-Pen Growth Centre to emerge as business hub Fadnavis further announced the Raigad-Pen Growth Centre, which is set to be developed as a major business district. Investments worth Rs 1 lakh crore have already been secured for the project, reported ANI. (With inputs from ANI)
23 January,2026 10:17 AM IST | Davos | mid-day online correspondentMumbai recorded a typical clear-sky winter day on Thursday, January 23, 2026, with bright, dry and largely comfortable weather prevailing across the city. The India Meteorological Department forecast sunny conditions throughout the day. Temperatures remained in line with seasonal averages, with the maximum hovering around 30 degrees Celsius and the minimum settling near 18 degrees Celsius. Owing to Mumbai’s coastal humidity, the ‘feels-like’ temperature was around 28 degrees Celsius. A gentle breeze blowing at approximately 12 kmph added to the overall pleasant conditions. Sunrise was recorded at 7:13 am, while sunset occurred at 6:25 pm. Despite the favourable weather, air quality continued to be a concern. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI), as per Indian standards, stood at 112 on Thursday, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. AQI levels at key locations across Mumbai were recorded as follows: Bandra Kurla Complex at 133, Kandivali West at 122, Byculla at 144, Andheri East at 102, Chembur at 104 and Deonar at 134. Light rain, thunderstorm bring slight relief as Delhi's air quality improves Light rain and a thunderstorm in the national capital on Friday brought slight relief from pollution as the air quality remained in the "poor" category, with the AQI recorded at 297 at 7 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). There was a marginal improvement compared to Thursday morning, when the AQI was in the 'very poor' category at 312. Several parts of the national capital continued to experience poor air quality, with Anand Vihar recording an AQI of 317, Ashok Vihar 335, Wazirpur 351, Punjabi Bagh 326, RK Puram 315, Bawana 342, ITO 266, Chandni Chowk 326, and Dwarka Sector 8 at 316, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Meanwhile, the temperature in the city was around 16.4 degrees Celsius at 7 am, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A day earlier, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked all Stage III actions across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect January 22, in view of the improvement in air quality and forecast trends.A statement from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change read: "The Sub-Committee had invoked Stage III of GRAP on 16.01.2026, following a deterioration in Delhi's average AQI." Subsequently, Delhi's air quality showed a downward trend. As per the daily AQI Bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average AQI improved from 378 on 20.01.2026 to 330 on 21.01.2026 and 322 on 21.01.2026. In view of this improving trend and based on air quality and meteorological forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the CAQM Sub-Committee met today to review the situation.
23 January,2026 10:01 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA four-kilometre stretch inside the Western Ghats forest in Kolzar in Dodamarg taluka of Sindhudurg district, which is a part of an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), has allegedly been heavily quarried, stripped of tree cover and left badly damaged, raising serious concerns over environmental violations and ecological loss. Environmentalist Stalin D from NGO Vanashakti has complained about this to the principal chief conservator of forest (wildlife) of the Maharashtra Forest Department, the head of forest force, additional principal chief conservator of forest (wildlife west), collector of Sindhudurg, deputy conservator of forest (Sawantwadi), principal secretary of the Maharshtra Pollution Control Board Environment Department, and the director general of forest - Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change. In his letter, Stalin D has alleged that massive deforestation, hill cutting, and quarrying are taking place inside the Sawantwadi-Dodamarg wildlife corridor. “We are particularly concerned with unprecedented large-scale destruction in Kolzar village of Dodamarg. We have visited the site and were horrified to see that almost 4 km of forest has been excavated, quarried, and a fresh vehicular access path created by pushing trees down the slopes and excavating the hills.” Nature and wildlife lovers from Kolzar have also alleged that the forests on the other side of the hills have been flattened and cleared for construction. “Villagers of Kolzar were caught unawares as the destruction unfolded deep inside the forests. They have protested and also lodged complaints with relevant authorities. We have attached videos of the site, which clearly establish the illegal excavation, destruction of forest trees, and creation of paths inside the forests. Though the forests may not be owned by the government, they need to be protected inside this fragile, pristine wildlife corridor.” Stalin D About Kolzar village Kolzar is protected as an ESA in the final judgement the Bombay High Court passed in Public Interest Litigation (PIL) 198 of 2014, read with PIL 179 of 2012. There is a tree-felling ban in Dodamarg imposed by the high court, and the task force constituted by the court has the responsibility of protecting this wildlife corridor. While the sale and purchase of land is not illegal, but tree felling inside the crucial wildlife corridor (Sawantwadi-Dodamarg) is not permitted. It is anticipated that the alleged massive tree felling will only cause more disturbance to the wildlife habitats, and it will increase human-wildlife conflict. Implement HC judgement Locals and nature lovers have appealed to authorities to take steps for the implementation of the HC judgement in letter and spirit. Stalin, in his letter, also demanded the prohibition of all environmentally destructive activities inside the wildlife corridor, and steps to demarcate it physically. “We call upon you to register offences under all applicable laws and also for contempt of court. An action taken reply beyond the imposition of a fine for illegal excavation and mining is expected. Also, please start efforts to restore the areas that have been severely damaged due to the illegal actions by so-called ‘investors’,” said Stalin D. What villagers say Kolzar village resident Devendranath Purushotam Desai said, “Awareness boards should be installed to clearly warn that the area is protected from tree felling and forms a vital wildlife corridor. Village-level committees must be constituted to safeguard the region’s forests. Local communities have coexisted with wildlife in harmony until now, but the growing menace of deforestation to carve out bungalow plots within dense forests must be stopped.” Another villager, Hirba Aanaji Desai, said, “We are deeply concerned over the unprecedented large-scale destruction in Kolzar village. During a site inspection, we were shocked to see that nearly 4 km of forest land had been excavated and quarried. We hope that authorities take a serious note as even though it is a private forest, it comes in the ESZ and destruction will impact biodiversity and the wildlife corridor.” Official Speak Vaibhav Borate, secretary of the Sawantwadi–Dodamarg Task Force, said, “Following complaints from villagers, the forest department has taken cognisance of the issue and is investigating the matter. A task force meeting is scheduled towards the end of the month, where the issue will be discussed further, and the actions taken will be reviewed.” Sindhudurg District Collector, Trupti Dhodmise, said, “The tehsildar’s office has received a complaint. The land is privately owned, and the owners have stated that they were unaware of the tree felling. The matter is under investigation.” Sawantwadi and Dodamarg wildlife corridor The region is home to a rich diversity of endemic and endangered flora and fauna, several of which are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and also functions as a crucial wildlife corridor for large mammals such as the endangered tiger and the Asiatic elephant.
23 January,2026 08:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavThe Goregaon lift accident continues to devastate the families of the two youths involved, with one battling for recovery in the hospital and the other beginning rehabilitation at home, even as questions are raised over accountability. According to sources, the condition of critically injured youth Vignesh remains a cause of serious concern. He is currently undergoing treatment at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri. Although doctors have removed him from ventilator support, there has been no significant improvement in his neurological condition so far. Family members said Vignesh opens his eyes occasionally but does not respond to voices or recognise even close relatives. Speaking to mid-day, his maternal uncle Yogesh Mahatre said, “He has come off the ventilator, but there is no movement. He opens his eyes briefly, but there is no reaction even when we call out to him.” Doctors have told the family that recovery is possible, but will be prolonged. Along with the emotional trauma, the family is also facing a severe financial crisis. The cost of treatment has already crossed Rs 13 lakh. Close relatives and friends have managed to arrange nearly Rs 3.5 lakh, but the burden continues to mount. “We are approaching trusts, NGOs, and political representatives for help. We have also applied to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund,” Mahatre told mid-day. The family has expressed dissatisfaction with the FIR, alleging that responsibility does not lie with the lift contractor alone, but also with society office bearers. Mahatre claimed that mandatory post-servicing inspections by society representatives were not conducted and that service documents were signed without checks. He said the family would approach senior police officials and, if needed, the court to seek action against society office bearers. “If the society’s responsible persons had acted honestly, this tragedy could have been avoided,” Mahatre said, adding that he would approach senior police officials demanding that society office bearers be named as accused in the FIR. In the same incident, the second injured youth, Rudra Susvirkar, has been discharged from the hospital and brought home. His father, Anil Susvirkar, said Rudra is recovering steadily. “We have rented a hospital bed at home for his care. His condition is improving. Doctors performed surgery to fix his fractured bones with screws. Once the bones heal, another operation will be conducted to remove them,” Anil said.
23 January,2026 08:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday assured cleaner air and safer water for Mumbai and other major cities such as Nagpur and Pune, saying the state (Maharashtra) will push a circular economy model that focuses on minimum waste and maximum reuse. Speaking from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Fadnavis said the initiative, to be led by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), will be driven by private investment and aimed at tackling long-pending environmental challenges in Maharashtra’s metro cities. In an interaction with media via a Zoom meeting from Davos, the chief minister said setting timelines for Mumbai’s environmental clean-up is challenging, as the issue is complex and there are no overnight solutions. Fadnavis said problems such as air and water pollution cannot be resolved in a year or two. “In Davos, we are pushing for the circular economy. Foreign companies have even shown willingness to be part of this mission. Visible improvement will be seen over the next three to four years, and the relief will come gradually. However, in around five to seven years, the city will witness a truly sustainable environment,” Fadnavis told mid-day. Mumbai has been witnessing “poor” to “severe” air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently slipping into the “poor”, “very poor” and even “severe” zones. The worsening air has resulted in thick smog, reduced visibility, and rising health complaints, including breathing difficulties and eye irritation, especially among children and the elderly. Fadnavis claimed that this experiment of roping in foreign entities with the BMC playing the lead role in addressing air and water quality control is a gift to Mumbai from Davos. “The circular economy model will be taken to other big cities like Pune, and Nagpur, too,” Fadnavis claimed. Meanwhile, the Opposition parties are slamming the CM and his government over the investment deals signed in Davos. Opposition parties are taking a swipe at Fadnavis for signing global deals with Indian firms in Davos. Replying to those allegations, Fadnavis said, “Signing deals at the WEF is a message to all investor communities across the world. Those who do not understand this are making a noise. Some understand this, but are deliberately still levelling allegations merely with the intention of opposing this.” Pen in Raigad to get its own ‘BKC’ Like Mumbai’s business hub Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Pen in Raigad will have similar business and commercial hubs. “We aim to develop many such business districts and hubs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and other parts of the state,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.
23 January,2026 08:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarIn a sharp rebuke, the Bombay High Court on Thursday asked whether the rule of law existed in Maharashtra and if the chief minister was so helpless that he couldn’t say anything against a minister whose son had been absconding after being named in a criminal case. Ministers’ children "commit crimes and roam freely" but police cannot find them, Justice Madhav Jamdar said in a scathing observation. The court was hearing a pre-arrest bail application of Vikas Gogawale, son of Shiv Sena minister Bharat Gogawale. Vikas has been named as an accused in a case related to a violent clash between rival groups during the Mahad Municipal Council elections. Following the court’s reprimand, the government assured that the minister would see to it that his son surrenders within a day. Vikas Gogawale moved the high court after the sessions court rejected his anticipatory bail application, but he remains absconding. “Is the state's chief minister so helpless that he does not say anything against even one minister? Ministers’ children commit crimes and roam freely, and they stay in touch with their parents, but the police cannot find them?” Justice Madhav Jamdar said. The judge also asked if law and order and the rule of law prevail in the state. Advocate General Milind Sathe said minister Gogawale would speak to his son and ensure that he surrenders before the police on Friday. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 January,2026 08:02 AM IST | Mumbai | AgenciesIn a cold war between the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kalyan-Dombivli, the first round has gone in favour of the Shinde camp. The lottery for mayoral post reservation has come as a setback for the BJP, as the mayor’s post in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) has been reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category. It may be recalled that during seat-sharing talks for the civic elections, relations between the BJP and the Shiv Sena turned so bitter that senior leaders had to step in. The crisis was defused only after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputy Shinde personally intervened and sealed the alliance. However, the Shinde-led Sena does not share a cordial relationship with state BJP president Ravindra Chavan, who hails from Dombivli, adding another layer of tension to the local power struggle. No wonder that despite the BJP and the Shiv Sena winning 50 and 53 seats, respectively, in the municipal corporation that has a total strength of 122 corporators, the Shinde Sena camp went ahead and stitched together additional support. It roped in the backing of five corporators from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and four from the Shiv Sena (UBT), a total of 11 elected candidates, clearly signalling its intent to assert dominance and strengthen its claim over the mayor’s post, an office the BJP is keenly eyeing. However, with the mayor’s post in the KDMC reserved for the ST category, the BJP has little option but to give up its hopes. The party does not have a single elected corporator from the reserved category. In contrast, its ally, the Shiv Sena, has two corporators from the ST category, while the MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, has one, clearly tilting the advantage away from the BJP in the race for the mayor’s post. A leader from the BJP, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that before the reservation draw, the party was hopeful of getting the mayor’s post. “As per the reservation announced for the mayor of the KDMC, the post has gone to the Scheduled Tribe category, and the BJP does not have a corporator from this category. Now the picture is clear; the Shiv Sena will have its mayor,” the leader said. Women to rule 15 state civic bodies Out of the total 29 corporations in the state, 15 will have women mayors. This list includes the prestigious BMC, where the top civic post will also be held by a woman. The other corporations that will have women mayors are Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, Jalna, Ahilyanagar, Akola, Chandrapur, Jalgaon, Chhatrapatti Sambhaji Nagar, Dule, Amravat, Bhiwandi-Nizampur, Nagpur, Latur, and Nanded. What is the mayoral lottery? The Urban Development Department conducts the procedure of mayoral lottery that decides whether the mayor’s post will be open (general), or if it is open (women); in that case, only women candidates can be mayor. Other reservation categories include OBC (open), OBC (women), SC (open), SC (women), ST (open), and ST (women).
23 January,2026 07:46 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarHow Mumbai’s mayor is elected The mayor of Mumbai is elected from among the corporators of the ruling party or alliance and serves a tenure of two and a half years. Traditionally, the largest party in the BMC decides the mayoral candidate from among its elected corporators. Stage 1: Reservation of the mayor’s post Mumbai’s post of Mayor has been reserved for the General (Women) category, following a draw conducted on Thursday morning by the Government of Maharashtra’s Urban Development Department. As per the reservation outcome, Mumbai’s next mayor must be a woman and from the General category. Stage 2: Election schedule The corporation will issue a formal schedule for convening the General Body meeting to elect the mayor. Stage 3: Letter of intent The majority party submits a letter of intent to the municipal secretary of the BMC, nominating its mayoral candidate from among the elected corporators. Stage 4: General body meeting and voting The first meeting of the general body is convened to elect the mayor. >> The meeting is chaired by the presiding officer, who is the senior-most corporator in the BMC, as a mark of respect for seniority>> In certain cases, the presiding officer can also be the municipal commissioner or administrator, currently Bhushan Gagrani>> The presiding officer announces the names of mayoral candidates based on the letters of intent received by the municipal secretary>> The House is given 15 minutes in case any candidate wishes to withdraw their candidature>> Voting takes place through a show of hands>> Votes are also recorded on official forms circulated to all 227 corporators, along with their signatures Stage 5: Mayor assumes office Once elected, the mayor formally takes charge and takes over the proceedings of the general body from the presiding officer.
23 January,2026 07:42 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentADVERTISEMENT
