The Times of India

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has intensified its crackdown on air pollution in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, shutting down 10 ready-mix concrete plants and collecting Rs 84 lakh in penalties over two days. Inspections revealed multiple violations of environmental and dust-control norms at RMC plants and construction sites, leading to stern enforcement actions under joint MPCB-BMC guidelines.

Bombay High Court invalidated a Returning Officer's order rejecting BJP candidate Nikesh Bhojane's nomination for ward 17A in Navi Mumbai. The court found the RO wrongly applied a disqualification clause meant for sitting councillors, allowing Bhojane to contest the upcoming civic polls.

A sessions court has denied a temporary bail plea filed by Purushottam Chavan, husband of an IPS officer, who is accused of defrauding citizens of over Rs 24 crore by promising government quota flats. Chavan had requested a three-month medical release, but the court rejected it, citing his previous regular bail plea dismissal.

Teachers and school staff on election duty are demanding a paid rest day from the Maharashtra government due to prolonged working hours and exhaustion. They report working 30-35 hours continuously, often with late-night travel, and are expected back at school the next day.

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has been asked by the returning officer to provide a sworn affidavit supporting his complaint against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Kishori Pednekar. Somaiya alleges Pednekar submitted false information in her election affidavit, citing an FIR in the Covid-19 body bag scam and an alleged SRA scam.

Authorities in Beed, Maharashtra, have booked four individuals for allegedly amassing over 4 crore by falsely promising aid for Palestine. The funds were collected through an unregistered trust, raising suspicions of fraud. Police are investigating potential links to terror financing and have arrested two suspects.

Bombay High Court has halted the election process for Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's Ward 17A. This decision follows a BJP candidate's challenge after his nomination was rejected due to an alleged unauthorized commercial use notice. The court found the returning officer's actions potentially arbitrary and scheduled further hearings.

The State Election Commission is reviewing the Colaba returning officer's decision to reject two nomination forms. While initially deeming the action legally sound, the SEC has requested an observer's report. The rejected candidates alleged Speaker Rahul Narwekar's influence, claiming their forms were refused despite tokens and presence before the deadline.

Mumbai BJP has suspended 26 office bearers, including former corporators, for six years for not cooperating with Mahayuti candidates in the BMC elections 2026. The disciplinary action was taken against those who contested as rebel candidates or worked against the party's ideology despite repeated requests. Some rebels have since withdrawn their nominations.

Ward E's politics favors familiar faces and legacies, with families like the Jadhavs and Gawlis dominating for years. Despite this, residents face persistent civic issues including poor water, broken footpaths, and inadequate healthcare. This election, voters seek basic service delivery over grand promises, as the ward grapples with its past and present.

BMC elections are set for a tight contest with 1,700 candidates, featuring multi-cornered fights in most wards. However, at least 11 wards will see one-on-one battles, offering a clearer test of local political strength. Key matchups include Colaba and a keenly watched face-off between two Sena candidates.

Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray jointly criticized the Mahayuti government, alleging a decline in Mumbai and Marathi pride due to rampant corruption and stalled projects. They emphasized the critical juncture Maharashtra faces, urging unity to prevent irreversible damage to the state and its people.

Sena's Bandra candidate Haji Salim Qureshi was stabbed while campaigning in a crowded lane, realizing the attack only after exiting. Neither he nor his supporters saw the assailant, and police are investigating, exploring angles including a builder lobby and a past stabbing incident. Qureshi sustained 56 stitches but is stable.

BJP's Ashish Shelar stated the alliance with Shiv Sena in BMC was solely for Hindutva, distancing the party from alleged Rs 3 lakh crore corruption. He emphasized BJP's focus on Mumbai's development, security, and addressing demographic changes, promising corruption-free governance and initiatives like a Water Management Authority if elected.

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.