The Times of India

BMC election candidates have voiced concerns over the phased counting of votes, fearing delays in result declarations and the emergence of early trends. The administration confirmed counting will occur in phases, with two wards processed at a time. This change from the traditional simultaneous counting method has drawn criticism from various political parties.

A 21-year-old air hostess was found dead in Thane, leading police to book her 23-year-old ex-partner for abetting suicide. Allegations include threats to release photos, refusal to marry, and a new relationship, reportedly driving the victim to despair. Investigations revealed financial exploitation and physical assault, prompting the FIR.

Candidates made a final push for votes in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Motorcades and social media campaigns highlighted symbols and poll timings. Parties focused on civic amenities, Hindutva, and Marathi pride. Women candidates often had male family members lead their campaigns. Various symbols represented independent candidates. Music and drumbeats filled Koliwadas. Some candidates promised dedicated grievance redressal channels.

The BJP has labeled MNS chief Raj Thackeray as anti-industry, anti-investment, and anti-youth. Thackeray, however, clarified his stance, stating he's not against investments but questions the rapid growth of Adani since 2014. BJP's Ashish Shelar asserted their support for rule-abiding investors and advised Thackeray to approach the Competition Commission with grievances.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar indicated a potential reunion with his uncle Sharad Pawar, stating he believes in addition, not subtraction in politics. He admitted that the bitterness between the two NCP factions has subsided following their alliance for the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad civic polls, making the contest against the BJP tighter.

Mumbai anticipates a bright, warm mid-winter day on January 14, 2026, with temperatures reaching 27.6C. However, lingering Poor air quality from yesterday, with AQI-IN 195, necessitates caution in traffic zones. While sunshine prevails, masks are advised for sensitive individuals. The week ahead promises consistent sunshine with slightly cooler nights.

State minister Ashish Shelar backed BJP candidate Sayali Kulkarni for Ward 60, promising tech-driven solutions and critiquing Uddhav Thackeray. Kulkarni outlined plans for an upgraded lifestyle, focusing on clear roads and transparent governance, supported by various community groups. Local issues like pollution and hawker problems were briefly mentioned.

A 63-year-old woman was abducted and coerced into signing documents acknowledging an 80 lakh debt owed by her son to illegal money lenders. The incident, which occurred last month, saw the victim threatened with harm to her son. Police have arrested one associate of the main accused, who remains at large.

After 35 years of dedicated grassroots work, 58-year-old Bharati Pednekar, a Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate, is finally contesting the BMC elections in Parel.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis declared the Mumbai civic polls a fight for the survival of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, not the Marathi people. He highlighted development projects and criticized the previous MVA government's policies. Fadnavis vowed to install a Mahayuti mayor and transform the city, asserting the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance's victory.

Mumbai anticipates a warm, mostly dry Tuesday with partly cloudy skies and temperatures near 28C. Despite pleasant weather, yesterday's 'Poor' air quality, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, may persist, prompting mask use near busy roads. The week ahead promises sunny days, with slightly cooler nights mid-week, though humidity may rise later.