Aries March 21-April 20 For Aries, the year looks positive overall if decisions are made thoughtfully and practically rather than emotionally. Prioritising physical health through proper food, exercise, and sleep will also support mental well-being. Love remains emotionally strong, so it’s important to protect the relationship and avoid careless actions. Career or business moves quickly in the early months (January to March), bringing more work than usual, so managing workload and avoiding ego clashes with colleagues is advised. Regular networking will lead to positive outcomes. Physical and mental health Overall physical health is good, since you take good care of diet and sleep. Exercise is advised, but you could do with more sleep. Love and relationshipsSingles meet someone new after April, with friendship blooming almost immediately. Having found true love; its worth doing all you can to maintain this level of understanding and intimacy. Finance and careerIt's important to continue working on regular basis since this helps drawing in more business for the company. Cosmic Tip: Trust caustiously; but when u do, then make it total. Choose words with care. This is important especially when there are too many conflicting thoughts circling around in the mind. Gemini May 21-June 21 For Gemini, the year 2026 brings better health if you maintain good diet and sleep habits and avoid over-sharing personal issues. Mental well-being stays stable with discretion. Singles are likely to meet new people, with a meaningful mutual attraction developing with one person. For those in relationships, love remains genuine and supportive avoid revisiting past issues. Several months are favourable for finances and business, with chances of salary hikes or promotions. Let go of dropped projects and focus ahead; some may also be entrusted with setting up a small branch office. Physical and mental health There may be tendency towards developing fever especially at the beginning of the year and during monsoon. Love and relationshipsThe realtionship between us spouse/partner is good. The only thing that tends to annoy is compulsive discussions about love. 2026 is sociable year for singles where several new contacts are made out of which one becomes extra special. Finance and careerFinancially positive months, personally and for the company/business are January, February, May, June, September, and Novemeber. Those in family business can expect increased payment from June onwards. Cosmic Tip: Change something you do daily to bring about a transformation; whether it is pairing down obsessive habits or maintaining a healthy diet, etc. Tauras April 21-May20 For Tauras, this year will move completely different with positive energy. Health is generally strong, though minor issues like leg pain should be managed by following medical advice; mental health remains stable. Singles may unexpectedly find love, and existing relationships grow stronger through open communication. Finances and career see an auspicious phase with increased income or profits. While January and February may feel slow, momentum and improvement pick up from March onward. Physical and mental health Though Taureans love their food, but most of them have realised that overdoing anything causes problems for them finally; some just visualise food and put on pounds (so they say!). Love and relationships The relationship with your spouse/partner continues to be good since you both follow a simple solution; all and every issue is to be faced immediately and discussed with love and understanding, not bringing up the past in today's issue. Singles find love unexpectedly when not seeking it (they tend to be con- tent with their own company). Except for June, July and August, the rest of the months are auspicious for meeting new people. Finance and career2026 is positive for an increase in finance. Positive months are March, April, May, August to December. Though there are delays in the first two months of the year, but this is the plan of cosmic energies. Cosmic tip: Don't discuss issues (if any) with all and sundry. Speak, if you must, only with genuine people who care. CancerJune 22-July 23 For Cancer, 2026 is a year is full deep thinking, understanding situations, and responding with love and care. Maintaining physical health helps sustain positive energy and clear thinking, while mental well-being improves by making time for yourself and family and adopting effective stress-relief practices. Singles may enter a phase favourable for marriage. Those already in long-term relationships might choose to delay marriage decisions. Be cautious in partnerships, as rushed responses or lack of thoughtful communication could create difficulties. Physical and mental health As with everything in life, physical health needs to be taken care of regularly; which means having less late nights, getting enough nightly sleep, eating home cooked nutritious food and exercising as advised. Love and relationshipsSingles enter a marriage 'da- sha, with several proposals received by extended family. Those already in a relationship of at least two years may main- tain the status quo for another year. Finance and careerIts a good year for those who earn overtime, but not so good for those who dont, as working long hours will be norm. Those expecting a raise in salary finally get it. Cosmic tip: Dont react; respond. Think what has been communicated, not making answers ego-based or defensive. This year is ideal for introspection. Leo July 24-August 23 For Leo, this year brings practical, logical thinking rather than emotional reactions to maintain strong mental and physical health. December may bring emotional sensitivity that could affect digestion, so extra care is needed then. Singles should recognise when to pursue love and when to step back if feelings aren’t reciprocated. For those in relationships, bonds remain strong due to a loving and attractive personality just be mindful not to let emotions overpower judgment. 2026 brings financial stability with Goddess Lakshmi’s favour, indicating abundance if money is managed wisely. Maintaining a balance between income, savings, and expenses is important. New and interesting work opportunities emerge, especially at irregular intervals during the year. Physical and mental healthLeos are able to bounce back quickly from an issue that causes stress and may affect mental health, but doesn't. Several situations come up during the year that are handled promptly, keeping a calm and happy mind. Love and relationshipsBeing lucky in love is karma, as x well as your loving and caring personality that attracts the right spouse/partner. Singles may be unable to gauge the person's feelings and may decide to mentally let go due to confusing signals sent your way. Finance and careerGoddess Laxmi favours Leos. But that isn't enough. Dealing wisely with finances is equally essential to multiply what there is. Business/career are in a good space with regular increase in earnings. Cosmic tip: Remember, cosmic powers have your back always, not allowing anyone or any circumstances tocreate major problems. VirgoAugust 24-September 23 For Virgo, 2026 is a year of introspection knowing when to move forward and when to let go. Physical health improves with good hydration, regular exercise, and proper sleep, while mental health stays strong thanks to emotional support from family. Singles may meet someone new, though challenges may arise. Long-term relationships face testing periods but can stabilise with patience; married Virgos should ignore minor issues and focus on love. Career-wise, it’s a favourable year for both employed and self-employed Virgos. Those seeking jobs have strong chances between January and June, making it a good time for new beginnings. Physical and mental health There's gradual improvement in physical health since there's more awareness about what suits your sensitive digestive system. It's important to make daily decisions, not overdoing any one food group and completely cutting out others. Love and relationshipsBeing introduced to someone new in January begins a whole new chapter in romance and also slight confusion about whether you are interested in living over- seas at some point in life. Finance and careerCareer/ business in 2026 has a lot to cheer about since work moves ahead as planned and new assignments flow in regularly. July is a month of slight de- lays, especially two projects being negotiated for over a month. Cosmic tip: Being willing to see someone else's point of view, even if there's no agreement about it, goes a long way in maintaining dip- lomatic relations with people. Thinking before revealing what's on your mind also helps. Libra September 24-October 22 For Libra, the Tarot advises to be more careful about physical and mental health especially during travel and long workdays. Staying organised with medicines and managing stress is important. Some may encounter a karmic soulmate, but new relationships could face misunderstandings that need patience and clear communication. For those already in love, the year holds strong possibilities for marriage. Physical and mental health Physical health may be a little up and down as the year moves ahead. Remembering to carry all medicines when travelling is important, as some may visit places that are far away from major cities. Be extra careful in January 2026, May and June. Love and relationships Some Librans are lucky enough to meet or have al- ready met their karmic soul- mate. This year favours those in love and want to get mar- ried (auspicious months for getting married are January 2026, May, August and December). Finance and career Financially 2026 is a good year for receiving a raise in salary, a promotion, or both; some may receive an ample bonus. Posi- tive months for this are Janu- ary, April and November. The year begins on a positive note with two clients being signed in January, and several more as the year progresses. Cosmic tip: Don't overthink. You can't con- trol everything, so just let it be when not possible. ScorpioOctober 23-November 22 For Scorpio, physical health seems good, if there's awarness about certain situations. For example, staying away from people who have fever, only eating food that keeps your gut health happy and blood pressure under control. Mental health looks stable but do not overthink. A new relationship would be on the way making you feel like God's special person. All goes well till their hyperpossesive personality emerges. The overall realtionship with ur spouse/partner will be good. Self-employed scorpios will sign many new clients, also looking forward to a raise in salary. There are career highs in the first and last quarter of the year. Physical and mental healthPhysical health can be good the entire year through if Scorpios are careful about staying away from people with coughs and colds, especially in May and August. A digestion related issue in March, June and October, warrants being careful about what is eaten. Finance and careerYour canny business sense of knowing exactly who will agree to sign up with the company helps ink new deals/ signments/ projects. Cosmic Tip: Growth brings peace. Criticism brings unhappiness. Choose friends wisely. Your friends shape your future. SagittariusNovemeber 23-December 22 For Sagittarius, 2026 wants you to be aware about your health both mentally and physically. Be cautious while driving or been driven be somebody else to avoid small accident. Dealing with mental health is better in 2026, as long as you are aware of the decisions being taken. Looking forward for a happy relationship if both are on the same page, especially with finance. Those in realtionship where family isn't ready can think about having a conversation with them. Those offered a jobs overseas must think about pros and cons. Those having business clients overseas make trips to those destinations often because work comes in regularly. Physical and mental health In 2026 it just depends how careful you are about your health. Be actively aware, making correct choices. For example, choose what you eat carefully when at- tending weddings, or where food is being mass cooked. Love and relationshipsAs with everything in life, there's a need to make efforts to keep relationships loving and communicative to live together harmo- niously, even if most arguments revolve around finances. Finance and careerThose with business or clients overseas reveal a good income comes in regularly and offen travel to those destinations where business/ clients reside. Cosmic tip: Accept changes as they manifest with full faith in the Higher Power. CapricornDecember 23-January 20 For Capricorn, 2026 promises to be a better year with physical and mental health; though any warning comes from Tarot is just a reminder not to take health lightly. Some relationships will be on the verge of working out and some with long-term relationship quite content with how its panning out. The relationship withh ur spouse/partner has been through ups and downs and has survived this phase. Friendships have lased a longer time. Profesionally this will be a good year for both employed and self employed. Physical and mental healthPhysical health remains good for most of the year, but Tarot advises restraint in the diet since possible liver issues may manifest. Those with bone issues in the legs and feet, must follow their doctor's advice to prevent it from deteriorating. Love and relationships2026 is the year to heal relationships, whether with family or friends. For singles there are new beginnings almost from January itself, but don't be too enthusiastic about taking this forward as the real person is quite different to your first impressions at a party. Finance and careerThis is a good year for income, whether employed or self-employed. Self-employed Capricorns have more work than can be managed, but it feels good to know efforts are appreciated by clients. Cosmic tip: Maintain an attitude of gratitude at all times. AquariusJanuary6 21-February 19 For Aquarius, 2026 is the right year to take physical health seriously, also changing lifestyle such as keeping habits within limits. Mental health depends on not overhinking or trying to keep a perfect life. This year bring truth to the forefronts of life that is never perfect and is a matter of discussing issues before compromising. Couples nt speaking speaking to each other have a reconciliation in January, as some are lucky to meet their spouse. The relationship with ur spouse/ partner could do with a more tolerant attitude. Career, business, finance improves with time, as do investments and savings. Physical and mental health Make your perfectionist mindset work towards maintaining good health by practising a methodcan remain good if you stop over thinking about how to have a 'perfect life'. Love and relationships Aquarians who have undergone a messy and troublesome rift in though on the surface it seems the relationship can still salvage impulsiveness isn't a part of your it with a compromise in January that works for both. Singles could meet their potential life partner after August. Finance and careerCareer, finance, business is looking good, especially for those for whom 2025 wasn't as good as expected. Income increases after June. A job offer after June is tempting, so consider it carefully as it turns out to be slightly different to what was promised. Cosmic Tip: Curb an impulsive attitude, though on the surface it seems impulsiveness isn't a part of your personality. PiscesFebruary 20-March 20 For Pisces, they are usually healthy but this year holds true too, with only minor pain to attend. The most important thing should be feeling emotinally healthy and fulfilled. Mental health remains unstable depending on their mood (fortunately this year is happier than last year). Those considering to end their relationships with their partner/spouse should consider the reason why and not giving up. Singles will meet many people that will hold their interest for a while. Career/business enters with postivity. The second half of the year is better, though much bussier than the first six months, but repeat clients continue to remain with the company. Physical and mental health Some Pisceans tend to be secret hypochondriacs. Truth be told; Pisceans are as healthy as they are able to keep themselves, provided emotional life is happy and stress-free. Love and relationships 2026 is good for relationships as long as Pisceans are willing and aware of spending time intro- specting it, understanding what difference it makes to their life. Those on the verge of a break- up must pause, go for therapy and counselling first. Finance and careerIn 2026, career/ business re- ceives a shot in the arm with income and profits increasing in a sustained manner. A family holiday is enjoyable even if you spend more than budgeted. Second half of the year supports new clients being signed. Cosmic tip: Live each day with purpose, being disciplined and focused about what you want to achieve that day.
05 January,2026 06:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWestern Railway on Monday said that it has collected more than Rs 155 crore in fines through intensive ticket checking drives carried out between April and December 2025. The drive was aimed at curbing ticketless and irregular travel and improving the overall travel experience for genuine passengers, an official statement said. According to Western Railway, a total fine of Rs 155.46 crore was recovered during this period, which is nearly 49 per cent higher than the amount collected during the same period last year. Of this, Rs 41.26 crore was collected from the Mumbai suburban section alone. Strong action against ticketless travel The ticket checking drives were conducted across Mumbai suburban services, Mail and Express trains, passenger trains and holiday special trains. These operations were carried out under the supervision of senior commercial officers with the support of dedicated ticket checking staff. A press release issued by Western Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Vineet Abhishek, said that in December 2025 alone, WR recovered Rs 15.54 crore by detecting 2.51 lakh ticketless and irregular passengers, including cases of unbooked luggage. This marked an increase of about 42 per cent compared to December last year. Focus on Mumbai AC local trains To prevent unauthorised travel in Mumbai AC local trains, Western Railway also conducted frequent surprise checks. During the period from April to December 2025, nearly 91,000 unauthorised passengers were penalised in AC locals, resulting in the recovery of Rs 2.97 crore in fines, officials said. The figure is around 97 per cent higher than the amount collected during the same period last year, highlighting the effectiveness of the focused enforcement drive. Improving passenger experience Western Railway said the results reflect its commitment to stopping unauthorised travel, protecting public revenue and ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey for bonafide passengers. The railway authorities have appealed to commuters to travel only with valid tickets and follow railway rules to avoid penalties. Plans for customised AC locals in Mumbai In addition to regular AC locals, Indian Railways has begun procuring customised local trains for Mumbai. Mid-day had earlier reported that Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in March 2025, had approved the procurement of 238 air-conditioned Mumbai local trains for the city.
05 January,2026 06:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAhead of the Maharashtra local body elections, Thane Police have so far taken over 2,500 preventive actions and seized arms, liquor, and cash ahead of KDMC polls, reported the PTI. According to the police, the action was taken in Kalyan Zone III in preparation for the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) elections scheduled for January 15. Deputy Commissioner of Police Atul Zende on Monday said that a total of 2,527 preventive actions have been initiated under various provisions of the law to deter potential law-and-order disturbances during the election period, as per the PTI. Licensed weapons deposited and arms seized According to Zende, of the 1,301 licensed firearms within the zone’s jurisdiction, 1,110 have already been deposited, while 49 are yet to be surrendered. The remaining weapons are in the custody of banks and other authorised agencies. Thane Police have also seized two country-made firearms, two cartridges, 45 knives, five choppers (koytas) and three swords as part of the enforcement drive, officials said, the news agency reported. Crackdown on illegal liquor and narcotics The police have confiscated 779.57 litres of illicit country-made and foreign liquor. In addition, 1.78 kilograms of ganja and 120 bottles of codeine syrup have been seized. Atul Zende said that 107 individuals have been detained for their alleged involvement in the illegal liquor trade. Cash seizure and action against criminals The DCP further revealed that cash amounting to Rs 9 lakh was recovered near the Gavdevi Temple in Kachore, Kalyan East. Ten known criminals have been externed from the district, while several others have been booked under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities (MPDA) Act and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), according to the PTI. Security deployment for poll day Police said that as part of the comprehensive security arrangements, 24 drones have been deployed for surveillance. The police force assigned for election duty includes two Deputy Commissioners of Police, eight Assistant Commissioners of Police, 45 Police Inspectors, 293 Assistant and Sub-Inspectors, 2,134 police constables, 1,456 Home Guard personnel and nine platoons of State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) personnel, the news agency reported. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info below Read more: All about BMC Election Read more: Know Your Ward (with PTI inputs)
05 January,2026 05:39 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentWith just days to go for the BMC Election 2026, Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal on Monday said the BJP-led Mahayuti’s greed for power had reached the point of “swallowing democracy”, amid a fierce debate over 68 ruling alliance candidates winning unopposed ahead of the January 15 civic polls, news agency PTI reported. The state Congress chief further said that the Devendra Fadnavis Government is undermining democracy by using pressure, threats, and money power to force uncontested victories in municipal polls. Sapkal, while slamming the ruling party, asserted, "The principle of free and fair elections has been severely compromised in the ongoing civic elections. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar have wrapped up democracy. A blatant money game is underway even before polling. The hunger for power of the BJP-led Mahayuti has reached the point of swallowing democracy." The Congress chief also claimed that in order to win unopposed, leaders of the ruling parties are preventing opposition candidates from filing nomination forms with the help of police and the civic administration, PTI reported. He also added that the Election Commission is a mute spectator while such developments are afoot. Stressing that elections are not new to India's democratic tradition, Sapkal highlighted that opposition parties also have equal importance in a healthy democracy, PTI reported. While hailing Congress’s democratic values and traditions, Sapkal said that former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet included ministers from non-Congress parties as an example of democratic values. The Congress leader also said, "Voters should be given the option to use 'None of the Above' (NOTA) even in wards where candidates are elected unopposed, so that citizens can exercise their constitutional right to vote." Sapkal criticises Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar Slamming the speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Rahul Narwekar had damaged the dignity of his constitutional office. "Holders of constitutional positions such as the speaker are expected to rise above political bias, but Narwekar has failed to do so. Narwekar had earlier weakened the anti-defection law and has now descended to a very low level by misusing his position during municipal elections to benefit his relatives," Sapkal added. The Congress leader accused Narwekar of obstructing opposition candidates, issuing threats and misusing authority and demanded that the President of India remove him from the post. "CCTV footage from the incident sites is available, and complaints of those who were threatened should be recorded and action taken," he said while alleging the inquiry report so far amounted to mere "wordplay", Sapkal further emphasised. The allegations of opposition parties pertain to wards numbered 225, 226, and 227 in the Colaba constituency, where Narwekar's kin are in the fray for the January 15 civic polls. His brother Makrand, sister Gauri Shivalkar, and sister-in-law Harshita Shivalkar are contesting the civic polls from wards 225, 226, and 227. Narwekar, a BJP MLA from Colaba in South Mumbai, has dismissed the charges as baseless and politically motivated. The three parties in the ruling Mahayuti were contesting against each other in civic polls and publicly attacking one another, Sapkal said, and asserted it was a "friendly fight" or "sham wrestling". Sapkal added, "If they are serious about their differences, Ajit Pawar should quit the government, or the BJP should show him the door." (With inputs from PTI)
05 January,2026 05:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal on Monday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Mahayuti government, alleging that the basic principles of free and fair elections are being systematically undermined in the ongoing municipal corporation polls across the state, reported the IANS. Sapkal accused Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar of flouting democratic norms, claiming that political horse-trading has begun even before polling day. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Sapkal said the ruling alliance’s pursuit of power had reached a point where it was "swallowing democracy itself". Referring to the manner in which candidates are being elected unopposed, he remarked that the civic elections had turned into a grim demonstration of the belief that money outweighs all relationships and values, as per the IANS. He stressed that while elections are a routine feature of a healthy democracy, the present dispensation appears intent on eliminating the Opposition altogether. Allegations of coercion and administrative collusion Drawing a contrast with the democratic traditions of independent India, Sapkal recalled that the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, had included non-Congress ministers in his Cabinet. He alleged that the BJP and its Mahayuti allies now operate with a mindset that leaves no room for Opposition voices. According to Sapkal, ruling party candidates are being ensured "unopposed" victories by preventing Opposition nominees from filing papers, issuing threats and applying undue pressure, allegedly with the support of the police and administrative machinery. He further claimed that the Election Commission has remained a silent spectator to these developments, the news agency reported. Demand for NOTA option Sapkal demanded that even in constituencies where candidates have been declared elected unopposed, voters should be given the option to exercise the ‘None of the Above’ (NOTA), in order to protect citizens’ constitutional right to vote, as per the IANS. Criticism of assembly speaker The Congress leader also launched a scathing attack on Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, accusing him of compromising the dignity of his constitutional office. Sapkal alleged that Narwekar weakened the Anti-Defection Law during his first term and was granted a second term for the same purpose. He further claimed that the Speaker is now interfering in municipal elections to benefit his relatives by blocking Opposition candidates and misusing his authority. Sapkal said he has formally urged the President of India to take cognisance of the matter and remove Narwekar from office. Questions Over enquiry and evidence Responding to the Election Commission’s demand for evidence regarding alleged threats by Narwekar, Sapkal said CCTV footage and witness testimonies were available. He dismissed the findings of the recent enquiry as "mere wordplay" designed to shield the Speaker, reported the IANS. ‘Fixed wrestling’ within ruling alliance Commenting on visible tensions within the Mahayuti alliance, Sapkal described the public exchanges between the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) as ‘Nura Kushti’, or fixed wrestling, according to the IANS. He said the spectacle of the three parties criticising one another while continuing to remain in power was farcical. "If they are serious about their differences, Ajit Pawar should quit the government or the BJP should ask him to leave," Sapkal remarked. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info below Read more: All about BMC Election Read more: Know Your Ward (with IANS inputs)
05 January,2026 05:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of BMC Election 2026, the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Mumbai (Central), will remain closed on January 14 and 15. As per the statement issued by the transport department, during this period, no routine work will be carried out at the RTO. As per orders of the State Election Commission, election authorities have been empowered to requisition staff, premises and vehicles required for the conduct of panchayat and municipal elections. In line with these directives, the Deputy Election Officer of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has requisitioned the RTO Mumbai (Central) building and premises for two days to facilitate smooth polling scheduled on January 15, 2026. The transport department also clarified that the RTO premises will be used for election-related arrangements, including administrative and logistical support, making it necessary to suspend all regular operations during this period. The regional transport department also asserted that all services and operations at the RTO Mumbai (Central) will remain completely suspended on January 14 and 15. The department has also advised citizens to take note of this and reschedule their work related to RTO services for alternative dates. 8,000 new buses to join the MSRTC fleet by the end of 2026, says Pratap Sarnaik The Maharashtra Transport Minister and chairman of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), Pratap Sarnaik, on Sunday issued a strict advisory to the officials, directing them to immediately expedite the tender process to induct 8,000 new buses into the ST fleet by the end of 2026. The Maharashtra Transport Minister further stated that any delay in the process will invite strict action, with concerned officers being held personally accountable. While speaking at a high-level review meeting on the utilisation of MSRTC’s budgetary funds for the financial year 2025–26, Sarnaik also pointed out various developments in Maharashtra’s transportation. The meeting was attended by MSRTC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Dr Madhav Kusekar and other senior officials from various departments. Sarnaik also stressed that the funds originate from taxpayers’ money and must be utilised for improving basic passenger amenities, including the procurement of new buses and the construction, repair, and renovation of bus stations. He Sarnaik also noted that tender processes related to bus purchases and infrastructure works have been stalled for nearly nine months, leading to underutilisation of funds. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info here
05 January,2026 04:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Transport Minister and chairman of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), Pratap Sarnaik, on Sunday issued a strict advisory to officials, directing them to immediately expedite the tender process to induct 8,000 new buses into the ST fleet by the end of 2026. The Maharashtra Transport Minister further stated that any delay in the process will invite strict action, with the officers concerned being held personally accountable. While speaking at a high-level review meeting on the utilisation of MSRTC’s budgetary funds for the financial year 2025–26, Sarnaik also pointed out various developments in Maharashtra’s transportation. The meeting was attended by MSRTC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Dr Madhav Kusekar, Financial Advisor & Chief Accounts Officer Girish Deshmukh, and other senior officials from various departments. Expressing strong displeasure over the slow pace of work, Sarnaik pointed out that although the state government has allocated Rs 2,460 crore to MSRTC in the 2025–26 budget, nearly Rs 1,600 crore is likely to remain unspent with just three months left in the financial year. Terming this as a “very serious matter”, Sarnaik said that such lapses reflect poor planning and administrative inefficiency. The minister further stressed that the funds originate from taxpayers’ money and must be utilised for improving basic passenger amenities, including the procurement of new buses and the construction, repair, and renovation of bus stations. He also noted that tender processes related to bus purchases and infrastructure works have been stalled for nearly nine months, leading to underutilisation of funds. Maharashtra transport minister directs officials to ensure maximum utilisation of funds Holding the departments concerned responsible, Sarnaik directed officials to ensure maximum expenditure of available funds within the remaining three months and to immediately complete all pending tendering and administrative procedures. He specifically emphasised fast-tracking projects related to new buses, bus stations, and passenger facilities such as restrooms. The Maharashtra Transport Minister also reiterated that the modernisation of MSRTC would be carried out at a rapid pace, with passenger convenience as the top priority. Further, he called upon the administration to act responsibly and with urgency to strengthen the public transport system and restore public confidence in the state-run bus service. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info here
05 January,2026 04:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray have opted to visit party shakhas instead of addressing multiple rallies ahead of the BMC Election 2026, reported the PTI. The move is being seen as a strategic recalibration aimed at directly engaging with the maximum number of voters. Earlier, the two leaders were expected to address three rallies in Mumbai -- one each in the eastern and western suburbs, along with a mega rally at Shivaji Park in Dadar. However, they are now jointly scheduled to visit party offices across the city on Monday. Grassroots outreach takes priority On Sunday night, Uddhav Thackeray campaigned in ward number 2 in Dahisar, north Mumbai, in support of Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Dhanashri Kolge. Kolge is contesting against Tejasvi Ghosalkar, a former Sena (UBT) corporator who is now the BJP nominee. Speaking to reporters, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut said that only one public meeting would be held at Shivaji Park. "Instead of expending energy on rallies, when party workers are already campaigning, it is important to reach out directly to the people," Sanjay Raut said, according to the PTI. Limited rallies Raut added that both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray deliberated on the issue on Sunday and jointly decided to limit their rallies. While Mumbai will see only one mega rally at Shivaji Park, a public meeting is planned in Thane. Discussions are also under way regarding rallies in Kalyan and Dombivli, along with a joint rally in Nashik. Additionally, Uddhav Thackeray is scheduled to address a rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Alliance for ‘Marathi Manoos’ Last month, Raut had indicated that the Thackeray cousins would hold three joint rallies in Mumbai, as well as meetings in Thane, Nashik, Kalyan and Dombivli. The revised plan reflects a shift towards grassroots-level campaigning rather than large-scale public gatherings, the PTI reported. Elections to 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, are scheduled for January 15. Setting aside past differences in the name of the "Marathi manoos", Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have come together in an alliance for the high-stakes BMC polls. MNS Seeks Probe Into Unopposed Civic Poll Wins in Maharashtra Meanwhile, the MNS on Monday urged the State Election Commission to withhold the declaration of results of candidates elected unopposed to the Thane Municipal Corporation and other civic bodies across Maharashtra, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the matter, as per the PTI. The demand follows the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance securing 68 seats unopposed in municipal corporation elections scheduled to be held on January 15. Opposition parties have alleged that candidates were coerced into withdrawing nominations through intimidation and financial inducements. MNS leader Avinash Jadhav met the State Election Commission and submitted a detailed representation outlining the circumstances under which 68 candidates were elected unopposed, including several seats in Thane. The party has called for the formation of a high-level joint committee comprising retired judges and senior police officials to investigate the alleged irregularities, the news agency reported. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info below Read more: All about BMC Election Read more: Know Your Ward (with PTI inputs)
05 January,2026 04:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is scheduled to undertake a public outreach and campaign tour in Thane on Monday evening, during which traffic movement along several key routes is expected to be affected. Authorities have issued route details and advised commuters to plan their travel in advance to avoid inconvenience, as large gatherings of party workers and residents are anticipated at multiple locations. According to the tour plan, the roadshow will commence at Raghoba Shankar Road, Chendani, Koliwada, with coordination handled by Pavan Kadam. It will then proceed to Bhavani Chowk at Tembhi Naka, where arrangements are being overseen by Sudhir Kokate. The next scheduled halts are Chandanwadi Naka, Siddheshwar Talao Shakha, coordinated by Rajesh More and Narayan Pawar. Subsequent engagements include Dnyaneshwar Nagar Shankar Mandir Chowk, with Ashok Vaiti and Anil Bhor managing arrangements, followed by the Lokmanya Nagar Depot area, coordinated by Dilip Bartakke. The roadshow will also pass through Bhimnagar and Vartak Nagar, where Rajendra Phatak is overseeing preparations. The final phase of the tour will cover Manpada and Manorama Nagar, both coordinated by Minakshi Shinde. The outreach programme is expected to focus on direct interaction with local residents, strengthening party organisation at the grassroots level, and highlighting regional development issues. Fadnavis–Shinde target Thackeray camp, pitch development agenda at joint rally Earlier last week, with the battle for control of the Mumbai civic body intensifying ahead of the BMC Election 2026, the ruling Mahayuti alliance launched a sharp political attack on its rivals while projecting development and governance as its core agenda. Addressing a joint rally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena at the NSCI Dome in Worli, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the BMC elections as a contest to change Mumbai’s image and improve the lives of its citizens. Fadnavis said the Mahayuti was a coalition that had delivered on its promises, unlike others who, he claimed, relied only on empty rhetoric—a veiled reference to the Shiv Sena (UBT). “Vote us to power in the BMC and see the difference we make to the city,” the Chief Minister urged. Fadnavis also used the rally to counter claims made by the Thackeray cousins over the Marathi identity of Mumbai’s leadership. “Mumbai’s mayor will be Marathi only,” he said.
05 January,2026 04:44 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentEknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader Milind Deora on Monday expressed confidence in two Mahayuti alliance candidates contesting the upcoming BMC Election 2026 in south Mumbai. In a post on X, Deora said that he campaigned for the two 'promising' candidates and wished them success in the upcoming polls. He said that the candidates would connect with voters and help secure victory for the Mahayuti alliance. Campaigned for two candidates on Monday Deora campaigned for Ruchi Wadkar, who is contesting from Ward No. 224, and Rita Makwana, contesting from Ward No. 222, stating that both leaders have the potential to win the trust of citizens in their respective wards. आज दक्षिण मुंबईतील महायुतीच्या दोन होतकरू उमेदवारांची सदिच्छा भेट घेतली. वॉर्ड क्रमांक २२४ मध्ये रुची वाडकर जी आणि वॉर्ड क्रमांक २२२ मध्ये श्रीमती रिटा मकवाना ताई नक्कीच लोकांच्या मनात घर करून महायुतीचा विजय निश्चित करतील.@Dev_Fadnavis @mieknathshinde pic.twitter.com/V69yBrNP6U — Milind Deora | मिलिंद देवरा (@milinddeora) January 5, 2026 The campaigning in Mumbai by senior political leaders have intensified ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, with major parties focusing on local outreach and grassroots mobilisation, particularly in important areas of Mumbai. The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar, is seeking to strengthen its presence in Mumbai’s civic body through coordinated campaigning and strong local candidates. Fadnavis-Shinde hold joint public meeting With the battle for control of Mumbai civic body intensifying ahead of the BMC Election 2026, the ruling Mahayuti alliance on Saturday launched a sharp political attack on its rivals while projecting development and governance as its core agenda. Addressing a joint rally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena at the NSCI Dome in Worli, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the BMC elections as a contest to change Mumbai’s image and improve the lives of its citizens. Fadnavis said the Mahayuti was a coalition that delivered on its promises, unlike others who, he claimed, relied only on empty rhetoric -- a veiled reference to the Shiv Sena (UBT). "Vote us to power in the BMC and see the difference we make to the city," the Chief Minister urged. Fadnavis also used the rally to counter claims made by the Thackeray cousins over the Marathi identity of Mumbai’s leadership. "Mumbai’s mayor will be Marathi only," he said. First joint public meeting The rally marked the first joint public meeting of the BJP–Shinde Sena alliance for the prestigious civic polls. The undivided Shiv Sena ruled the BMC for nearly 25 years. Until 2017, the Shiv Sena and the BJP jointly governed the civic body before contesting separately in that year’s elections. In 2017, the undivided Shiv Sena emerged as the single largest party with 84 seats, while the BJP followed closely with 82 seats in the 227-member civic body. Echoing similar views, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that Balasaheb Thackeray was "the only brand". He was responding to claims by Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray that the Thackeray brand had reunited. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info below Read more: All about BMC Election Read more: Know Your Ward
05 January,2026 04:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAhead of the upcoming local body elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ram Kadam said that the party is confident of winning in Pune, attributing its prospects to Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis’s leadership and image. Speaking to news agency ANI, Kadam said, “There is a difference between Ajit Pawar's image and Devendra Fadnavis's image. The people of Pune want to vote for the BJP based on Devendra Fadnavis's image. Although we are together in Maharashtra (Assembly), I am confident that because of PM Modi's leadership and Devendra Fadnavis's image and work, we will surpass Ajit Pawar in the elections and win in Pune.” #WATCH | Mumbai | On upcoming local body elections, BJP Leader Ram Kadam says, "There is a difference between Ajit Pawar's image and Devendra Fadnavis's image. The people of Pune want to vote for the BJP based on Devendra Fadnavis's image. Although we are together in Maharashtra… pic.twitter.com/xLPUxn585M — ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2026 The Pune Municipal Corporation Election 2026 will be held on January 15, with the counting to take place the following day. Fight directly with BJP, Shinde's Sena: NCP's Nawab Malik on BMC polls Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Nawab Malik has stated that his party’s main electoral rivals in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Election 2026 are the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, ANI reported. Responding to allegations that the NCP is targeting minority votes, Malik clarified that the party is not contesting in several minority-dominated areas. “On most of the seats, our party is contesting against the BJP and the Shinde's Sena. We are not contesting elections in the minority areas. We are not contesting in Shivaji Nagar's three wards, where the minority is 90 per cent,” he told ANI. He added, “Our fight in this election is directly with the candidates of the BJP and Shiv Sena. When the results are out, it will be clear that our direct opponents are the Shinde faction and the BJP.” Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the upcoming BMC elections as “life-changing” for Mumbai and its citizens. Addressing a gathering at the NSCI Dome in Worli, he criticised opposition parties, saying that the Mahayuti alliance will “teach a lesson” to those who focus solely on self-interest. “We launched our BMC election campaign by breaking a coconut. This election will be a life-changing one for the people of Mumbai and for Mumbai itself. We have to teach a lesson to those who only care about their self-interest,” Fadnavis said. He further accused opposition parties of prioritising personal and political gains over public welfare. “There are people who only care about their own self-interest. These people (opposition) are all talk and no action, but now the public will elect those who fulfil their promises, that is, the Mahayuti alliance,” he added. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the Mahayuti alliance will secure a decisive victory in the BMC polls. (With ANI inputs)
05 January,2026 03:36 PM IST | MumbaiADVERTISEMENT
