The Times of India

Mumbai's running community is gearing up for the upcoming marathon, with dedicated runners of all levels training diligently. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants, the city's early mornings are filled with disciplined runs along iconic locations like Marine Drive, showcasing a shared passion and commitment to race day.

A 58-year-old pedestrian, Bhimrao More, died after being struck by the open luggage compartment door of a private bus in Dahisar East. The incident occurred when the bus driver opened the door while More was walking nearby. Police have registered an FIR for negligence against the driver.

Dindoshi Police apprehended a man in Malad East carrying a countrymade revolver and a live cartridge, violating prohibitory orders ahead of municipal elections. The individual, identified as Shailesh Pawar, was found hiding behind a tempo and attempted to flee upon seeing the officers. An FIR has been registered against him under the Indian Arms Act.

Twelve Congress corporators and a former Block President, suspended for aligning with the BJP in Ambernath Municipal Council, have officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. State BJP President Ravindra Chavan welcomed them, citing their commitment to city development as the reason for induction. This move follows a controversial local alliance that aimed to foster civic governance and development in Ambernath.

Population experts warn that a growing influx of illegal immigrants from neighboring countries poses significant social, economic, and security risks to India. This unchecked migration is reportedly facilitated by corrupt systems and exploited for electoral gains, leading to demographic shifts and impacting local employment and internal security.

Renowned ecologist Dr. Madhav Gadgil has passed away. He was a leading voice for environmental conservation and public policy. Dr. Gadgil founded the Centre for Ecological Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science. He chaired the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel. His work earned him national and international awards. He believed in empowering communities alongside protecting nature.

The World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) is celebrating 25 years by hosting a convention to revive entrepreneurship among Parsi-Irani youth. The organization offers interest-free finance and scholarships to support young entrepreneurs globally, aiming to counter a decline in community business ventures.

Bombay High Court has directed a petitioner to submit written notes on his PIL seeking proper enforcement of the 'None of the Above' (NOTA) option in unopposed elections. The plea argues that declaring uncontested winners denies voters their right to choose NOTA, a right the court is now examining.

An alliance between BJP and AIMIM in Akola's Akot town collapsed within hours after CM Devendra Fadnavis warned of action. The state BJP issued a show-cause notice to Akot MLA Prakash Bharsakale for promoting the arrangement without party consultation. A new front, 'Akot Nagar Vikas Manch', formed with support from multiple parties, claimed majority.

An intoxicated patient assaulted a 23-year-old intern doctor at Cooper Hospital early Wednesday while she was examining him. The patient allegedly kicked her in the chest twice. Hospital administration reportedly attempted to dissuade her from reporting the incident to the police, leaving the decision to her.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has received BMC permission for a rally at Shivaji Park on January 11. This allows for a joint rally with Shiv Sena (UBT) on Sunday, where Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray will address the public together for the first time in over two decades.

Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam has raised concerns about a growing settlement of infiltrators in the city. He presented data indicating a significant population increase in minority-resident wards. Satam warned of a potential 'Bondi beach situation' if this trend continues.

Independent candidate Tejal Pawar alleges pressure to withdraw from Colaba polls, claiming her husband was offered crores, BMC tenders, and a flat. Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar denies the accusations, calling it 'dirty politics' by the opposition fearing defeat. Opposition parties have accused Narwekar of violating the model code of conduct.

As many as 59 municipal corporation posts in Maharashtra will see unopposed wins, with no polls to be held even if NOTA is the only other option. Civil society groups are demanding NOTA inclusion, while the opposition alleges money and threats led to withdrawals, questioning the Election Commission's independence.

Discontent brews in R Central as BJP fields new faces over experienced workers, leading to a prominent corporator switching to Shiv Sena (UBT). Meanwhile, mangrove depletion for a coastal road project sparks environmental concerns, while residents grapple with pollution and resource distribution issues. Traffic congestion and extensive construction also plague the area.

Opposition party whips in Maharashtra may lose state-funded facilities under a new government resolution. The GR states parties with less than 10% of the assembly's strength can appoint a chief whip and whip, but without entitlement to facilities. This comes as the assembly still lacks a leader of the opposition.

Congress suspended 12 Ambernath municipal councillors and its local chief for allying with BJP, accusing the latter of opportunism. Meanwhile, a BJP-AIMIM alliance in Akot collapsed hours after CM Fadnavis warned of action, with the local MLA issued a show-cause notice.

Uddhav Thackeray and cousin Raj Thackeray unite for the first time in two decades to contest polls, aiming to preserve Marathi identity and Mumbai's interests. Uddhav accuses the ruling MahaYuti of corruption and deceit, highlighting massive financial irregularities in BMC under administrator rule. He questions the allocation of prime city lands and contracts, alleging a hidden agenda behind development projects.