Even as the fervour for Municipal Corporation elections sweeps the state, the Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) will hold a press conference at 4 pm on Tuesday to announce the schedule for elections to the 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis, reported news agency IANS. Polling likely on February 5 As the state Board examinations for grade 12 are starting from February 10, the voting for these local bodies is expected to take place on February 5, reported IANS. Supreme Court grants extension to SEC The SEC’s move comes after the Supreme Court on Monday admitted the SEC’s plea seeking extension for holding these elections beyond the January 31 deadline set by the apex court. The SEC had sought extension up to February 10 but the SC gave it up to February 15 asking the former to complete the polls to 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis before that. Preparations finalised amid ongoing civic polls While the state is currently in the thick of municipal election campaigning — with only voting and counting remaining — the SEC has finalised its preparations for Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis. In the first phase, the Commission plans to hold elections for 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 panchayat samitis where the 50 per cent reservation limit has not been breached. Currently, elections for 32 Zilla Parishads and 336 Panchayat Samitis remain pending across Maharashtra. Polls in districts within legal reservation limits Out of these, 20 Zilla Parishads and 211 Panchayat Samitis exceed the 50 per cent reservation cap and their elections will take place depending on the SC order. Consequently, the SEC has prioritised the 12 districts and 125 panchayat samitis that fall within the permissible legal reservation limits. Districts where elections will be held The revenue division wise districts where the elections will take place are Pune Division: Pune, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, and Kolhapur, Konkan Division: Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Division: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Parbhani, Dharashiv, and Latur. The primary reason for the delay has been the legal battle over Other Backward Classes (OBC) quotas. In 2021, the top court struck down the 27 per cent OBC reservation in local bodies because it pushed the total reservation beyond the 50 per cent ceiling set by the Indra Sawhney judgment. Triple test mandated before restoring OBC quota The court mandated a "triple test" (setting up a commission, collecting empirical data, and ensuring reservations don't exceed 50 per cent total) before the quota could be restored. This led to a long-drawn process of data collection and legal challenges. ‘Mini Assembly’ polls seen as political barometer These elections are often called "Mini Assemblies" because they reflect the ground-level pulse of rural and semi-urban voters. For the major alliances in Maharashtra, these results are crucial for momentum heading into state-level contests. (With inputs from IANS)
13 January,2026 02:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAkasa Air deplaned passengers from a Bengaluru-bound flight at the Pune airport on Tuesday morning due to a technical glitch in the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, and the airline said the flight has now been rescheduled. The passengers were seated in the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for nearly one-and-a-half hours before they were deplaned, one of the passengers who was on the flight told PTI. The flight was scheduled to depart from Pune at 8.50 am, and boarding had started around 8.10 am. "Akasa Air Bangalore-bound flight -- QP1312-- from Pune on January 13 is held up at Pune airport. "Passengers had boarded the aircraft and the flight was getting ready for departure when some technical issue was reported in the aircraft at the last minute. Later, all the passengers were deplaned," the passenger said. In a communication to the passengers, Akasa Air said the flight QIP 1312 was delayed due to operational reasons and added that the flight will now depart at 1.15 pm. Akasa Air later issued a statement, admitting the delay in flight due to technical reasons. "Akasa Air flight QP1312, scheduled to operate from Pune to Bengaluru on January 13 has been delayed due to technical reasons. The aircraft is currently undergoing inspection, and the flight is now scheduled to depart at 1315 hrs," the airline said. It further said that the affected passengers have also been offered the option to reschedule on an evening flight, while the refund process has been initiated for those who have opted for it. 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.
13 January,2026 01:50 PM IST | Mumbai | PTINationalist Congress Party chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday condemned the Brihanmumbai Municipal Elections 2026 being given a 'communal angle.' As he reaffirmed that he has 'a secular mindset', he said that in such a diverse country like India, everyone is equally a citizen. ‘I have a secular mindset’, says Ajit Pawar "I do not like this at all, I have a secular mindset. The ideology of Ambedkar does not teach us this. I just have to say that our country is so big, and those who stay in this country are all Indians. If someone is committing treason against the country, action should be taken against them, and they should be given the death penalty, a new law should be made," Ajit Pawar told ANI in an interview. Pawar cites Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution Calling on the ideology of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar, Pawar, "Everyone should get the opportunity to show and do their work, Babasaheb Ambedkar told us that only in the Constitution, and others have said the same too," reported ANI. Pawar's statement comes a day after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asserted that the new BMC mayor will be "from Mahayuti, will be a Hindu, and a Marathi." Fadnavis counters ‘Marathi manoos’ narrative Countering Opposition claims over threats to the "Marathi manoos," Fadnavis said it was not the Marathi community but certain political forces whose existence was at stake, underscoring that Maharashtra belongs to all Marathi people, not any single group, reported ANI. ‘Only Marathi will lead BMC’, says Fadnavis "It's not the Marathi manoos whose existence is in danger. It's you whose existence is at stake. I want to say this again that you are not the whole Maharashtra. You are not the only Marathi here. I want to reiterate that only Marathi person will be at the helm of affairs in BMC. Only Marathi will lead," Fadnavis said. AIMIM leaders have also replied to the statements, with the party chief Asaddudin Owaisi saying that a hijab-clad daughter will become India's Prime Minister one day. The statement was heavily criticised by BJP leader Nitish Rane, claiming in such a stituation, a "Hindu nation" will become an "Islamic state". Nitish Rane hits back at Owaisi "Barking dogs never bite. The attempt to turn the nation into an Islamic state begins with the threat of a burqa-clad Prime Minister. Owaisi is trying to threaten us by suggesting that if a burqa-clad woman can become Prime Minister tomorrow, then everyone will be forcibly converted, and this Hindu nation will be transformed into an Islamic state," Nitish Rane told reporters in Mumbai. On the other hand, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Sunday made a strong pitch for Marathi unity, warning that the state's language, land and identity are under threat. Opposition to imposition of Hindi Addressing party workers, Thackeray said people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should not impose Hindi in Maharashtra, asserting that any such attempt would be resisted. He termed the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls as a "decisive" election for the Marathi community, urging voters to unite for Maharashtra and remain vigilant on polling day to prevent any malpractice. Polling on January 15, results on January 16 Polling for Mumbai's municipal elections will be conducted on January 15, along with polling for more than 20 other municipal corporations. The results will be announced on January 16. While the estranged Thackeray cousins, Raj and Uddhav, have decided to ally for the Mumbai local body elections, another alliance of estranged family members, of Ajit Pawar's party and Sharad Pawar has also been formed to contest the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad local body polls. (With inputs from ANI)
13 January,2026 01:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai’s iconic Shree Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple has reopened to devotees following the completion of the annual sindoor lepan ceremony, which began on January 7. Watch | First look after sindoor lepan ceremony View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati (@siddhivinayakonline) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati (@siddhivinayakonline) Earlier, the temple remained closed to the public from January 7 to January 11 for the traditional sindoor lepan ritual and other religious observances. During this period, devotees were unable to have darshan of the main idol, though they were allowed to offer prayers to a replica idol placed in the temple. Originally built on November 19, 1801, by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil, the Siddhivinayak Temple is among Mumbai’s most visited and wealthiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. The annual sindoor lepan ceremony attracts large crowds, making the temporary closure of the sanctum necessary. Following the completion of the rituals, the temple performed Prokshanvidhi, Naivedya, and Aarti on the morning of January 12. Regular darshan of the main idol from the sanctum resumed at 1 pm. The Siddhivinayak Temple Trust appealed to devotees to take note of the schedule and cooperate with temple authorities. The reopening comes ahead of Makar Sankranti, a day when the Siddhivinayak Temple traditionally witnesses a massive influx of devotees. Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayana or simply Sankranti, is a Hindu festival marking the Sun’s transition into Capricorn and the beginning of the harvest season, according to the reports. Celebrated across India and Nepal, the festival is observed with colourful decorations, fairs (melas), kite flying, bonfires, dances, and festive meals, as per reports. Many devotees mark the occasion by visiting temples and taking ritual baths in sacred rivers, as mentioned in ancient Hindu texts, including the Mahabharata. Devotees observe Angarika Sankashti Chaturthi at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple Earlier last week, devotees marked Angarika Sankashti Chaturthi at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple by observing a strict fast from morning until evening. The fast was traditionally broken at night after the darshan of the moon, following special prayers and pooja dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Angarika Chaturthi, derived from the Sanskrit word Angarak, meaning red like glowing embers, is regarded as especially auspicious. Devotees believe that prayers offered on this day help fulfil wishes and remove obstacles. The Angarika Sankashti fast is associated with relief during difficult times, as Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the embodiment of wisdom. Before moonrise, devotees recited the Ganapati Atharvashirsha to seek Ganesha’s blessings. The Siddhivinayak Temple also hosted kirtan and bhajan sessions, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere throughout the day. According to Hindu tradition, Angarika was the son of Earth Goddess Prithvi and a revered sage who was deeply devoted to Lord Ganesha. On Magha Krishna Chaturthi, which fell on a Tuesday, Angarika performed intense worship seeking the deity’s blessings. Moved by his devotion, Lord Ganesha is believed to have appeared before Angarika and offered to grant him a wish. Angarika asked to be eternally associated with Ganesha’s name. Granting the boon, Ganesha declared that devotees who worship him on this day would have their prayers fulfilled.
13 January,2026 01:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA municipal corporator (or councillor) is an elected representative responsible for addressing and resolving local civic issues within their specific ward or constituency. Their powers are defined by state laws and focus primarily on legislative and deliberative functions within the municipal government, while executive authority usually rests with the government-appointed municipal commissioner. Key powers and functions of your municipal corporator Corporators exercise their authority mainly through the municipal council and its committees: Legislative powers: They participate in policy-making, pass resolutions, and enact by-laws related to urban governance, including prioritising development proposals in their wards. Financial powers: Corporators contribute to approving the municipality’s annual budget and can propose local taxes, fines, and fees. Administrative and supervisory powers: They oversee municipal services in their wards, such as public health, sanitation, and public works. They can raise civic concerns like water contamination, streetlight repairs, or road maintenance in council meetings. Implementation and oversight: Corporators can initiate local development schemes and monitor civic projects to ensure proper execution. Scope of responsibility Their authority covers civic services outlined by state municipal acts and often guided by the 12th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These include: Water supply, sanitation, and solid waste management Public health and fire services Urban planning, including land use and building construction Maintenance of local infrastructure such as roads, street lighting, parks, and playgrounds Registration of births and deaths Key limitations Executive vs deliberative role: Corporators, including the mayor, primarily serve deliberative and supervisory functions, while significant executive power rests with the municipal commissioner, a state-appointed bureaucrat. Limited individual financial authority: Individual corporators usually cannot directly sanction payments, fines, or disciplinary actions and must work through the municipal commissioner or council for such matters. Jurisdictional limits: Their authority is confined to municipal matters. State or national responsibilities, such as policing, railways, or national highways, fall under the purview of MLAs and MPs. Why your ward vote matters more than assembly elections While state and national elections receive widespread attention, your ward vote directly shapes the quality of life in your neighborhood. A corporator’s decisions impact daily services you interact with, like water supply, garbage collection, street lighting, road repairs, and local parks, far more immediately than policies made at the assembly or the Parliament. Unlike MLAs or MPs, corporators: Decide how local development funds are allocated within your ward Monitor and ensure proper implementation of civic works Directly influence municipal services that affect your day-to-day life In short, while assembly elections affect broader policy, your corporator has the power to solve practical problems you face on a daily basis, making your ward vote arguably more consequential for your immediate living conditions. Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info here https://www.mid-day.com/bmc-election/ https://www.mid-day.com/bmc-election/know-your-ward
13 January,2026 01:30 PM IST | MumbaiAs the battle for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) intensifies, Mumbai Regional Congress Committee (MRCC) President and MP Varsha Gaikwad has made a bold claim regarding the post of the city's Mayor, reported news agency IANS. Congress to hold the ‘key’ to mayor’s post, says Gaikwad Speaking on the current political landscape, Gaikwad on Tuesday asserted that the Congress party will hold the "key" to the municipal corporation and that no party will be able to appoint a Mayor without their support. Congress confident of higher seat tally Gaikwad dismissed claims that the Congress has been sidelined in the Mumbai civic polls. "The political arithmetic of Mumbai is changing. We are confident that the Congress will win a significantly higher number of seats this time. In the post-election scenario, no one will be able to install a Mayor in the BMC without the Congress' involvement," she stated, reported IANS. Gaikwad targets Marathi vs Hindutva narrative The Congress MP also took a swipe at the ongoing "Marathi vs Hindutva" narrative being pushed by the Mahayuti (BJP-Shinde Sena) and the Thackeray-led MNS/Sena factions. She emphasised that the Congress’ agenda is strictly focused on the city's infrastructure and the daily struggles of Mumbaikars. Focus on development over identity politics "While others are fighting over religion, caste, and language, our priority is development. Mumbai is facing severe issues with traffic, water supply, waste management, and air pollution. We want a Mayor who works on the ground for the people, not one who operates solely from the Mantralaya," Gaikwad remarked, reported IANS. Congress forms alliance with VBA, RSP and RPI (Gavai) “Congress has teamed up with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), Rashtriya Samaj Paksha (RSP), and the RPI (Gavai faction). This alliance aims to consolidate the Dalit, Muslim, and minority votes, and it will significantly boost Congress' seat tally compared to previous elections,” noted Gaikwad, reported IANS. Gaikwad attacks Mahayuti over Mumbai development Launching a scathing attack on the state government, Gaikwad accused the ruling Mahayuti of neglecting Mumbai's interests and "selling off" land for various projects. She claimed that the Congress has a long-standing record of developing Mumbai’s landmarks, including the Sea Link and major highways, and promised that the party would fight to keep Mumbai’s resources for its own residents. BMC polls on January 15 With the BMC elections scheduled for January 15, Gaikwad’s statement signals the Congress' intent to position itself as a decisive power player in the country’s richest municipal body. (With inputs from IANS)
13 January,2026 01:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Shiv Sena (UBT) on Tuesday slammed the BJP and Shiv Sena leadership in Maharashtra for not publicly condemning the “treasonous" statements of Annamalai and Kripashankar Singh, who "insulted" the bravery and self-respect of Maharashtra. It warned that the Marathi people have taken a "serious note" of this perceived spinelessness and the government's refusal to protect the state's dignity, reported news agency IANS. Annamalai and Kripashankar Singh’s remarks trigger outrage The Thackeray camp referred to BJP leader Annamalai’s statement during a public rally that Mumbai does not belong to Maharashtra, and questioned the city's connection to the state, while former Minister Kripashankar Singh announced that a Hindi-speaking person will become a Mumbai Mayor. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, in a scathing editorial in the party mouthpiece 'Saamana', alleged that under the Fadnavis-Shinde regime, the dignity of Maharashtra has been ruined. It highlighted a perceived "cowardice" within the ruling alliance, specifically targeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, saying that administration is subservient to the BJP central leadership as it has "hoisted the white flag of surrender", reported IANS. Marathi language, culture and pride under threat, claims UBT The corrupt politics of the Fadnavis-Shinde duo continue by trampling over the Marathi language, culture, and pride. It is a terrifying sight when any "Tom, Dick, or Harry" (random person) comes to Mumbai, insults Maharashtra, and the Marathi rulers support them. The editorial said that concerns are mounting over the systematic erosion of Marathi pride and identity under the Fadnavis-Shinde administration, and that the Mahayuti alliance government’s silence is a betrayal of the state's legacy. Saamana accuses BJP allies of surrendering Marathi self-respect “The relationship between the BJP and Marathi pride never existed in the first place. However, those who considered themselves "diamonds" while in the Shiv Sena have now lost their luster by associating with "bedbugs". What else can one call the rulers and their supporters who do not even issue a simple protest against the anti-Maharashtra statements made by Kripashankar and Annamalai, if not "impotent"? Just as one might wave a white flag of surrender and kneel, these people have hoisted the flag of impotence and insulted the bravery and self-respect of Maharashtra,” said the editorial, reported IANS. It has accused the Mahayuti alliance leadership of prioritising political alliances over the protection of Marathi culture and language. BJP accused of trying to create Tamil–Marathi friction According to the editorial, the BJP's strategy involves creating friction between the Tamil community and the Shiv Sena for political gain. It notes that traditionally, Tamil Nadu leadership -- whether from the DMK or AIADMK -- has always respected regional identities and even stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Maharashtra in past struggles, such as the fight against the mandatory imposition of Hindi, reported IANS. Eknath Shinde targeted over silence on Annamalai Targeting Deputy CM and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde, the editorial said, “Amit Shah has created a cowardly army that refuses to fight people like Annamalai. These people claim to be the heirs to the thoughts of Balasaheb Thackeray. If they were truly his heirs while occupying chairs of power, they wouldn't have let Annamalai leave Mumbai and allowed such insults to Maharashtra to pass unchallenged. Instead, by siding with the BJP and others, they have completely stripped away their Marathi identity.” (With inputs from IANS)
13 January,2026 12:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has questioned the contribution of RSS in India's freedom struggle and alleged that Sangh founder K B Hedgewar was jailed not for opposing British rule but for supporting the 'Khilafat movement', reported news agency PTI. Rally held ahead of January 15 municipal polls Addressing a rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Monday ahead of the municipal corporation polls scheduled on January 15, he denied the presence of Bangladeshis in the region and claimed that if any Bangladeshi migrants were found here, it would reflect the failure of the Narendra Modi government, reported PTI. He criticised the ruling BJP for using such narratives to push its Hindutva agenda and distract from governance failures. Owaisi challenges RSS over British-era imprisonments Targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Owaisi said, "Is there any RSS leader who has been to jail fighting against the British?" "They say that Hedgewar was imprisoned, but he went to jail in support of the Khilafat movement. And today they speak of hatred against Muslims," he claimed. Owaisi cites Yusuf Meherally’s role in freedom struggle "RSS gives us the knowledge of patriotism, but did anyone from them lose their lives against the Britishers? Instead, (socialist leader) Yusuf Meherally of Mumbai gave the slogans of 'Quit India' and 'Simon Go back'. They don't read the history and accuse us of being Bangladeshis," he charged, reported PTI. The Khilafat movement (1919 to 1924) was an agitation by Muslims to pressure the British government to preserve the authority of the Ottoman Sultan as Caliph (spiritual leader) of Islam after World War I. Government criticised over Bangladesh border fencing Owaisi targeted the government, saying that despite having police, intelligence, and border control, it failed to complete even a 10-km fence along the Bangladesh border. "China and ISI have reached Bangladesh, and the BJP and RSS are saying 'Bangladesh-Bangladesh' here," he added. Appeal for high voter turnout He appealed to the people to vote in large numbers in the upcoming municipal elections, emphasising that a strong turnout would serve as proof of their participation when the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) takes place in Maharashtra. The authority to question citizenship lies with the Home Ministry as per the Citizenship Act, "but the Modi government has given these responsibilities to the Election Commission," Owaisi alleged, reported PTI. Imtiaz Jaleel challenges Eknath Shinde Former AIMIM MP Imtiaz Jaleel challenged state Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's claim that the party would be wiped out in the elections. "I challenge you (Shinde) that if this happens here, I will shave my beard. But if it does not happen, you should be ready to use a razor for the same," he added. (With inputs from PTI)
13 January,2026 12:36 PM IST | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar | mid-day online correspondentAmeet Satam, President of Bharatiya Janata Party's Mumbai Unit, on Monday launched a sharp attack on opposition leaders, including Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, alleging that they did nothing in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation in the last 25 years, reported news agency ANI. Opposition has no vision document for Mumbai, says Satam Speaking to the media, Satam said that the opposition parties have no vision document for Mumbai city. "What other work does Raj Thackeray have? Does he know anything else? In the last 25 years, they have done nothing in BMC. They have no vision document for Mumbai city. Such conduct is what Raj Thackeray has done in his political life," he said, reported ANI. Raj Thackeray makes pitch for Marathi unity Raj Thackeray on Sunday made a strong pitch for Marathi unity, warning that the state's language, land, and identity are under threat. Addressing party workers, Thackeray said people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should not impose Hindi in Maharashtra, asserting that any such attempt would be resisted. Raj calls BMC elections 2026 decisive for Marathi community He termed the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections 2026 as a "decisive" election for the Marathi community, urging voters to unite for Maharashtra and remain vigilant on polling day to prevent any malpractice. "People from UP and Bihar should understand that Hindi is not their language. I don't hate the language... But if you try to impose it, I'll kick you. They're coming from all sides to Maharashtra and snatching away your share... If land and language are gone, you will be finished. Today, this crisis has arrived at your doorstep," Raj Thackeray said, reported ANI. Raj Thackeray urges booth-level vigilance on polling day "This is the last election for the Marathi man... If you miss this opportunity today, you will be finished. Unite for Marathi and Maharashtra. Mumbai was obtained through the sacrifices of so many people... What will we tell them?... The BLA (Booth Level Agents) appointed at 6 AM should be ready on election day... Be alert, be vigilant, don't be careless... If anyone comes to vote again, throw them out," the MNS Chief added, reported ANI. BMC polls on January 15, counting on January 16 Meanwhile, the BMC will go to the polls on January 15, with counting scheduled for January 16. 227 wards with 114 seats reserved for women There are a total of 227 wards with 114 seats reserved for women, including women belonging to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, and the Backwards Class of Citizens. Elections to be held for 20 other municipal corporations The election will also cover 20 other municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Over 1.03 crore voters are eligible in BMC elections 2026 A total of 1,03,44,315 citizens are eligible to vote in the BMC polls. Out of these, 55,16,707 are male, 48,26,509 are female voters, and the number of Other voters stands at 1,099. (With inputs from ANI)
13 January,2026 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named after the people's leader, late D B Patil, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, asserting that the facility will play a key role in the region's economic expansion, reported news agency PTI. Announcement made during NMMC election campaign Addressing a public meeting in Airoli during the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation election campaign, Fadnavis said, "The international airport started in Navi Mumbai will be named after the people's leader late D B Patil," and added that the project would strengthen growth in multiple sectors, reported PTI. Navi Mumbai to emerge as new engine of economic growth Fadnavis said Navi Mumbai is an extension of Mumbai and will emerge as the next engine of economic growth. Airport to boost pharma, innovation, services and trade He said the airport would support sectors such as pharmaceuticals, innovation, food processing, services, and import-export, enabling the city to expand its economic base. Major infrastructure projects to ease traffic congestion "Various infrastructure projects are underway to address traffic congestion, including a new junction at Kalamboli and the Kharghar-Turbhe tunnel. A metro network was being developed through CIDCO to improve connectivity across the city," he said, reported PTI. Water supply projects to meet future demand Fadnavis added that the Shilar and Poshir projects would address the drinking water needs of Navi Mumbai residents in the coming days. EduCity planned to attract global universities "An EduCity would be developed in Navi Mumbai, which would attract leading universities from across the world and provide education and employment opportunities to students locally," the chief minister said, reported PTI. Housing redevelopment and APMC market revamp announced Addressing housing concerns, he said redevelopment of houses at the Ghansoli simplex would be undertaken, while the APMC market would be developed at the same location. Multi-speciality hospital and central library in the works He added that tenders had been floated for a multi-speciality hospital in Belapur and work on a central library at Manpada had also begun. Fadnavis said the government would introduce schemes for the fishermen community and locals. Fadnavis appeals for BJP victory in NMMC polls He appealed to voters to elect BJP candidates with a large majority on January 15, stating that the government would take responsibility for the city's development over the next five years. (With inputs from PTI)
13 January,2026 11:22 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion minister and RPI (A) chief Ramdas Athawale has said Uddhav Thackeray would have retained the Shiv Sena's 'bow-and-arrow' symbol had he remained a BJP ally after the 2019 assembly elections, instead of joining hands with the Congress, reported news agency PTI. He blamed the political choices of ex-chief minister Thackeray for the subsequent split in the Shiv Sena in 2022. Election Commission decision handed symbol to Shinde faction In 2023, the Election Commission recognised the Eknath Shinde-led faction as the real Shiv Sena and ordered allocation of the 'bow-and-arrow' poll symbol to it, delivering a big blow to the rival camp led by Uddhav Thackeray, whose father Bal Thackeray founded the outfit in 1966. Remarks made at Mahayuti rally ahead of BMC polls Addressing a Mahayuti rally at Shivaji Park on Monday ahead of the January 15 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Athawale said, "After the 2019 assembly elections, Uddhav Thackeray should have remained with the BJP as the Shiv Sena had won the second-highest number of seats," reported PTI. Athawale recalls Balasaheb’s opposition to Congress "Had he stayed with the BJP, the bow-and-arrow symbol would have remained with him. Late Balasaheb Thackeray opposed the Congress, but Uddhav Thackeray joined hands with the same party to become chief minister," said Athawale, whose party is a member of NDA, reported PTI. Athawale alleges corruption in BMC Athawale alleged rampant corruption in the BMC and said the civic body needed to be "freed from the clutches of Uddhav Thackeray", reported PTI. "The BMC should come under the control of the Mahayuti alliance," he added. Mahayuti rally turnout bigger than Uddhav-Raj meet, claims Athawale He also compared the turnout at rival rallies, claiming the Mahayuti rally had drawn a larger crowd than the earlier joint rally of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray. Athawale, however, said the alliance of the two cousins was a "good thing" politically. Praise for Fadnavis-Shinde government and Modi’s Mumbai push Praising the BJP-led Maharashtra government and the Centre, Athawale said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde had undertaken major development works in Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sanctioned substantial funds for metro projects, the upgradation of suburban railway services, slum redevelopment, and the construction of quality housing for the poor, including the redevelopment of the Dharavi slum, he noted. (With inputs from PTI)
13 January,2026 11:12 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
