The Times of India

Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have joined forces for the BMC polls. They accuse the BJP of trying to separate Mumbai from Maharashtra and divide Marathi speakers. The leaders highlighted the Adani group's extensive project acquisitions. They also criticized the BJP for unopposed elections, claiming it denies voters their right. This alliance aims to protect Mumbai and Maharashtra.

Shiva Sena (UBT) candidate Rajool Patil is campaigning in Bhandup's Ward 114, focusing on decluttering congested settlements and securing a dedicated children's playground. Known for her organ donation advocacy, Patil aims to leverage her social work credibility and local familiarity to address issues like traffic gridlock and inadequate civic services in the multi-cornered election fight.

Mumbai's BMC elections are seeing a surge in candidates, particularly in areas with homogeneous voter bases like slum clusters, Dalit, and Muslim pockets. This proliferation, with 18 wards having 15+ candidates, intensifies competition and often benefits larger parties, as analysts suggest it can fragment votes and provide recognition for aspiring candidates.

The newly formed P East administrative ward faces political and civic challenges due to redrawn boundaries and uneven infrastructure. Candidates are navigating demographic shifts and addressing issues like water supply, traffic, and stalled rehabilitation projects. Local concerns, including hawker management and housing redevelopment, are central to the electoral contest.

The Mahayuti alliance has launched a comprehensive manifesto for Mumbai civic elections, promising technology-driven governance and a global powerhouse vision. Key pledges include a 50% fare concession for women on BEST buses and the use of AI to curb corruption and improve services. The alliance also aims to free the city from Bangladeshi migrants.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi slammed Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma's remark that only a Hindu can be PM, calling it a Pakistan-like mindset. Owaisi asserted India's Constitution allows any citizen to hold the top post, envisioning a future hijab-clad PM. Political leaders across parties criticized Owaisi's comments, with some accusing him of appeasement.

Former DGP Rashmi Shukla's pre-retirement report recommends FIRs against ex-DGP Sanjay Pandey and two others. They are accused of conspiring to implicate Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde in a 2016 ULC certificates scam. Shukla's report details alleged pressure on a businessman to falsely implicate the leaders.

BMC elections reveal a stark wealth divide among candidates. Makrand Narwekar, brother of the state assembly speaker, leads with Rs 124 crore in assets, a significant jump from previous elections. Many contenders are crorepatis, while others, like a pan vendor and a rickshaw driver, highlight their commitment to public service despite modest means.

London-based doctor and YouTuber Sangram Patil was briefly detained at Mumbai airport on Saturday in connection with a defamation case filed by a BJP functionary. Police confirmed Patil was served a notice under Section 35(3) of BNSS, allowing for an appearance notice instead of arrest. He and his wife were questioned and released after a preliminary inquiry.