लेखक: Mahesh Rathod

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BJP Set to Install First Mumbai Mayor as Ritu Tawde Files Nomination; Shiv Sena Names Sanjay Ghadi as Deputy Mayor Candidate

BJP Set to Install First Mumbai Mayor as Ritu Tawde Files Nomination; Shiv Sena Names Sanjay Ghadi as Deputy Mayor Candidate

BJP Set to Install First Mumbai Mayor as Ritu Tawde Files Nomination; Shiv Sena Names Sanjay Ghadi as Deputy Mayor Candidate Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 07, 2026 The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to create history in Mumbai’s civic politics by installing its first-ever Mayor, bringing an end to the Shiv Sena’s 25-year-long dominance over the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). BJP corporator Ritu Tawde filed her nomination for the mayoral post on Saturday, February 7, 2026, marking a major political shift in the country’s richest civic body. The BJP’s ally in the ruling Mahayuti alliance, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, has announced Sanjay Ghadi as its candidate for the post of Deputy Mayor. Tawde and Ghadi submitted their nomination papers at the municipal secretary’s office in the presence of senior Mahayuti leaders, including Maharashtra Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, BJP Mumbai president Amit Satam, former MP Rahul Shewale, and other party functionaries. Shiv Sena secretary Sanjay More confirmed that Ghadi, a corporator from Ward 5, will serve as Deputy Mayor for a period of 15 months. Party leaders said the decision to split the tenure is aimed at giving leadership opportunities to multiple corporators over the five-year term. Ghadi was earlier associated with the Shiv Sena (UBT) before joining the Eknath Shinde-led faction. The mayoral and deputy mayoral elections are scheduled for February 11, which also marks the final day for withdrawal of nominations. Ritu Tawde, a two-term corporator from Ghatkopar East (Ward 132), joined the BJP in 2012 and was elected to the BMC the same year. During her first term, she chaired the Education Committee and actively raised issues related to civic infrastructure, water supply, and public safety. In her previous tenure, Tawde drew attention for raising concerns over objectionable clothing displayed on shop mannequins, a move that sparked public debate. Addressing a press conference, BJP Mumbai chief Amit Satam said the city is set to get a BJP Mayor after a gap of 44 years. He asserted that the ruling Mahayuti alliance is committed to improving governance and rooting out corruption from the BMC. “We have the support of 118 corporators, well above the required majority. Mumbai will now have a Marathi, Malvani, Konkani, and Hindu mayor,” Satam said. In the recently concluded BMC elections, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats, while the Shiv Sena secured 29 seats. Together, the Mahayuti alliance commands a strength of 118 corporators in the 227-member House, comfortably crossing the halfway mark of 114. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), which controlled the BMC since 1997, won 65 seats, while its allies—MNS and NCP (SP)—secured six and one seat respectively. Among other parties, the Congress won 24 seats, AIMIM eight, the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) three, and the Samajwadi Party two. Two independent candidates also registered victories in the high-stakes civic polls held after a nine-year gap. The BMC has been under the charge of a state-appointed administrator since March 7, 2022, following the expiry of the previous term. With an estimated budget of ₹74,450 crore for 2025–26, the BMC remains the wealthiest civic body in the country, making the mayoral post one of the most influential positions in urban governance.
Rs 7.88 Crore Gold Heist in Mumbai’s Borivali: Two Arrested, Minor Detained; Hunt On for Absconding Accused

Rs 7.88 Crore Gold Heist in Mumbai’s Borivali: Two Arrested, Minor Detained; Hunt On for Absconding Accused

Rs 7.88 Crore Gold Heist in Mumbai’s Borivali: Two Arrested, Minor Detained; Hunt On for Absconding Accused Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 06, 2026 Mumbai: Mumbai Police have arrested two persons and detained a minor in connection with a high-value gold theft worth ₹7.88 crore from a jewellery store in Borivali West. The theft involved nearly 5 kilograms of gold ornaments, making it one of the major jewellery heists reported in the western suburbs in recent times. According to police officials, the incident took place during the intervening night of January 13 and 14 at My Gold Point, a jewellery store located in the IC Colony area. Investigations have revealed clear insider involvement, with at least two store employees allegedly executing the theft and fleeing with the gold after closing hours. The employees, who were entrusted with the keys of the shop, reportedly emptied the jewellery display counters and escaped with the ornaments. The crime came to light the next morning when the store owner discovered the missing stock and immediately alerted the police. A special team from MHB Colony Police Station was formed, which scanned multiple CCTV cameras from the store and surrounding areas to trace the suspects’ movements. Based on technical evidence and surveillance inputs, police successfully arrested one employee and his accomplice, while a minor involved in the crime was detained and sent to an observation home. Senior officials confirmed that one kilogram of stolen gold has been recovered so far, while another employee remains absconding with approximately four kilograms of gold. Police suspect that the absconding accused received help from two to three additional accomplices, who arranged transportation to aid his escape. “We have identified all suspects involved in the case. Efforts are underway to trace the absconding accused and recover the remaining gold,” said a police official, adding that multiple teams are conducting searches across Maharashtra and nearby states. The investigation is being carried out under the supervision of DCP Sandeep Jadhav and Senior Inspector Harish Gawli. Police have assured that further arrests are likely and recovery efforts will continue until all stolen property is traced. The case has once again highlighted the risk of insider thefts in jewellery establishments, prompting calls for stricter internal security measures across the sector.
Mumbai Police Crack Down on Illegal Hawkers, Suspend On-Duty Cop for Inaction

Mumbai Police Crack Down on Illegal Hawkers, Suspend On-Duty Cop for Inaction

Mumbai Police Crack Down on Illegal Hawkers, Suspend On-Duty Cop for Inaction Mumbai | February 6, 2026 In a strong message against negligence and illegal encroachment, the Mumbai Police have intensified their crackdown on unauthorised hawkers across key public spaces in the city, going a step further by suspending an on-duty police officer for failing to take action despite clear instructions. The suspended officer, Assistant Police Inspector Narayan Siddhappa Anand of Azad Maidan police station, was posted near the busy Churchgate subway on January 27 during evening hours when illegal hawkers were operating openly. Police officials said that despite repeated directions from senior officers, Anand allegedly did not act against the unauthorised vendors, prompting an internal inquiry that led to his suspension. Senior officials said the move reflects a zero-tolerance approach, not only towards illegal hawking but also towards dereliction of duty within the force. “Strict action will be taken against anyone found compromising public convenience or violating orders,” a senior police officer stated. Visible Impact at Churchgate Following the suspension and renewed enforcement drive, the Churchgate subway area has been largely cleared of hawkers. A visit to the spot showed unobstructed footpaths and smoother pedestrian movement, a significant relief for daily commuters who had long complained of congestion and safety concerns. Police confirmed that FIRs are being registered where necessary and that regular patrols and surprise checks will continue to prevent hawkers from returning. Dadar East Sees Major Clearance Drive In another major operation, Bhoiwada police assisted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in removing illegal hawkers from MMGS Road outside Dadar East railway station. The stretch, previously choked with vendors, has now been cleared, significantly improving access for pedestrians and commuters. Officials said police provided security during the eviction process to ensure smooth execution and prevent confrontation. Commuters Demand Sustained Action Commuters welcomed the action but urged authorities to ensure continuity. “These drives bring temporary relief, but hawkers usually return within days,” said Dilip Dave, a daily commuter to Churchgate. Others echoed similar concerns, pointing out that subways and footpaths often turn into makeshift markets, leaving little space for safe movement. Legal experts and citizen groups have also stressed the need for sustained coordination between police and civic authorities to maintain public order and pedestrian safety, especially in high-footfall areas. With BMC elections approaching, officials indicated that enforcement against encroachments would remain strict, signalling that accountability—both among hawkers and law enforcement personnel—will be a priority in the days ahead.
Punjab AAP Leader Shot Dead Outside Gurdwara in Jalandhar; Police Launch Manhunt

Punjab AAP Leader Shot Dead Outside Gurdwara in Jalandhar; Police Launch Manhunt

Punjab AAP Leader Shot Dead Outside Gurdwara in Jalandhar; Police Launch Manhunt Jalandhar | Undercover Editor News Channel Jalandhar: In a shocking incident that has raised serious security concerns, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Lucky Oberoi was shot dead in broad daylight outside a gurdwara in Punjab’s Jalandhar city on Friday. The attack took place in the crowded Model Town area, sending shockwaves across the region. According to police officials, Oberoi was sitting inside his car when two unidentified bike-borne assailants opened fire on him near a Gurdwara Sahib. At least five bullets struck him, leaving him critically injured. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Eyewitnesses reported panic at the scene as the firing occurred during peak daytime hours. Soon after the incident, multiple police teams reached the spot, cordoned off the area, and began a detailed investigation. CCTV footage from nearby locations is being examined to identify the attackers and trace their escape route. Senior police officials said the motive behind the killing is yet to be ascertained. Investigators are questioning witnesses and probing possible political or personal angles linked to the murder. The incident has triggered fear among local residents, prompting authorities to step up security in and around Model Town and other sensitive areas of Jalandhar. Party sources said Lucky Oberoi was a well-known local AAP leader and had close links with the party’s Cantt constituency leadership. His wife had previously contested municipal elections on an AAP ticket. Police have assured that all leads are being pursued and that those responsible will be brought to justice. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
India–U.S. Trade Deal: Joint Statement Likely Within Days, Legal Pact by Mid-March

India–U.S. Trade Deal: Joint Statement Likely Within Days, Legal Pact by Mid-March

India–U.S. Trade Deal: Joint Statement Likely Within Days, Legal Pact by Mid-March Union Minister Piyush Goyal. New Delhi | February 5, 2026 India and the United States are set to take a significant step forward in strengthening their bilateral economic ties, with a joint statement on the India–U.S. trade deal expected to be finalised and signed within the next four to five days, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday. Addressing the media amid ongoing discussions around the framework of the agreement, Goyal clarified that the proposed deal represents the first tranche of a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between the two countries. He added that this initial phase would pave the way for deeper trade cooperation in the coming months. According to the Minister, once the joint statement is signed, the United States is expected to issue an executive order reducing tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent. This marks a significant reduction from the current tariff regime, under which Indian exports face a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff, along with an additional 25 per cent levy linked to India’s purchase of Russian crude oil. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that “Made in India” products would soon benefit from reduced tariffs in the U.S., following a telephonic conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. The announcement was seen as a major boost for Indian exporters, particularly in manufacturing and labour-intensive sectors. Goyal further stated that the joint statement would be followed by a detailed legal agreement, which is expected to be completed and signed by mid-March. “The joint statement will outline the broad contours of the agreement, after which an exhaustive legal document will be prepared,” he said, adding that the first tranche does not include any direct investment commitments. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal echoed this timeline, expressing confidence that the legal agreement would be signed by mid-March. “Once the joint statement is issued, it will be converted into a legally binding agreement. We are hopeful of completing that process within the stipulated time,” he said. Officials indicated that the agreement is aimed at providing immediate tariff relief while laying the foundation for a comprehensive trade pact that could address market access, regulatory cooperation, and long-term economic engagement between the two strategic partners. The India–U.S. trade deal is being closely watched by industry stakeholders on both sides, as it is expected to unlock new opportunities for exports, improve competitiveness, and reinforce the growing economic partnership between New Delhi and Washington.
Top 5 Real Estate Hotspots in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) in 2026

Top 5 Real Estate Hotspots in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) in 2026

Top 5 Real Estate Hotspots in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) in 2026 Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel,February 04, 2026 The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) continues to rank among India’s most dynamic and resilient real estate markets in 2026. Despite economic uncertainties and rising construction costs, residential demand across the region has remained steady, driven by large-scale infrastructure upgrades, expanding employment corridors, and a growing preference for planned urban living. With improving connectivity and relatively affordable housing options, both homebuyers and investors are increasingly looking beyond Mumbai’s traditional city limits. Stretching across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and Panvel, the MMR offers a diverse mix of residential choices, making it one of the most attractive property markets in the country. Based on market trends and infrastructure-led growth prospects, here are the top five real estate hotspots in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region in 2026: Thane Once considered a distant suburb, Thane has firmly established itself as a self-sufficient urban hub. The region boasts strong social infrastructure, reputed educational institutions, healthcare facilities, retail centres, and recreational spaces. Improved connectivity via the Eastern Express Highway, suburban rail network, and upcoming metro lines has significantly enhanced its appeal. Thane continues to attract both end-users and long-term investors due to its balanced lifestyle offerings and steady appreciation potential. Navi Mumbai As one of India’s best-planned urban regions, Navi Mumbai remains a preferred destination for those seeking quality living and open spaces. Areas such as Vashi, Belapur and Kharghar have witnessed consistent residential demand. The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport has further strengthened the city’s investment outlook, positioning it as a major growth centre for the coming decade. With robust infrastructure and future-ready planning, Navi Mumbai stands out as a strong long-term real estate destination. Kanjurmarg Located in Mumbai’s central suburbs, Kanjurmarg has emerged as a promising residential hotspot. Its proximity to key employment hubs like Powai and easy access to the Eastern Express Highway make it especially attractive to working professionals. Compared to nearby developed localities, Kanjurmarg still offers relatively competitive pricing, while ongoing residential developments are steadily enhancing its market value. Panvel Panvel is fast emerging as one of MMR’s most significant growth corridors. Improved road and rail connectivity, coupled with its strategic location near major economic zones, has brought Panvel closer to Mumbai’s commercial centres. The upcoming international airport has further boosted investor confidence. With lower entry prices compared to other MMR locations, Panvel is particularly popular among first-time homebuyers and investors looking for long-term gains. Goregaon Goregaon continues to be a key residential market within Mumbai due to its strategic location, strong transport connectivity, and well-developed civic infrastructure. With access to both the Western Express Highway and suburban rail services, Goregaon offers convenience for daily commuters. The area’s mix of residential, commercial and recreational spaces ensures sustained demand from both homebuyers and investors. Outlook for 2026 The Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s real estate market in 2026 is being shaped by infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity, and evolving lifestyle preferences. With multiple growth corridors gaining momentum, MMR remains a strong and diverse property market, offering opportunities across budget segments and investment horizons.
BMC’s Nominated Corporators: Selection Process, Eligibility and Role Explained

BMC’s Nominated Corporators: Selection Process, Eligibility and Role Explained

BMC’s Nominated Corporators: Selection Process, Eligibility and Role Explained Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 03, 2026 Mumbai’s civic governance is set to see the induction of 10 nominated corporators into the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in addition to the 227 elected members, following the election of the city’s Mayor. These nominated members play a distinct advisory role in the civic body, bringing experience and subject expertise into municipal decision-making. Who are nominated corporators? Nominated corporators are senior party members or domain experts appointed by political parties based on their performance in the BMC elections. Unlike elected corporators, they do not contest polls but are inducted to strengthen the quality of debate and policymaking within the civic council. The provision for nominated corporators was first introduced in 1994, through an amendment to the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act. Increase in number Until recently, Maharashtra civic bodies were allowed a maximum of five nominated corporators. However, in 2023, the State Urban Development Department increased this number to 10, expanding expert participation in large municipal corporations like the BMC. Party-wise distribution For the upcoming BMC term: The allocation is done proportionately based on the number of seats won by each party in the municipal elections. A party must win at least five seats to qualify for a nominated corporator, and generally, one nomination is granted for every 20 elected corporators. Eligibility criteria Since nominated corporators are not elected, they must meet strict eligibility norms laid down by the state government. Eligible individuals include: The objective is to utilise their technical knowledge and administrative experience to improve governance. Powers and limitations Nominated corporators: However, they do not have voting rights, which limits their participation in key statutory committees such as the Standing Committee or Improvements Committee, where policies are approved through voting. Development funds If a nominated corporator wishes to carry out development work in a ward, they must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the elected corporator of that ward. Why nominated corporators matter Former nominated corporators say their role is crucial in scrutinising policies, identifying gaps, and offering corrective suggestions before decisions are finalised. Their experience often helps improve governance outcomes, even though they do not influence final voting. As Mumbai’s civic administration enters a new term, nominated corporators are expected to act as knowledge contributors and policy watchdogs, ensuring informed decision-making in India’s richest municipal corporation.
Mumbai observes Shab-e-Baraat with prayers, graveyard visits and halwa offerings

Mumbai observes Shab-e-Baraat with prayers, graveyard visits and halwa offerings

Mumbai observes Shab-e-Baraat with prayers, graveyard visits and halwa offerings Mumbai: Muslims across Mumbai will observe the sacred festival of Shab-e-Baraat, also known as the Night of Forgiveness, on the intervening night of February 3 and 4, marked by special prayers, remembrance of the departed, and acts of charity. Shab-e-Baraat falls on the 15th night of the Islamic month of Shaban, a night believed to be spiritually significant in Islam. Religious scholars say it is on this night that Allah records the destiny of individuals for the coming year, including matters related to life, death, sustenance and important events. “Laylat-ul-Baraat is a night of mercy and forgiveness. Muslims spend the night in prayer, reciting verses from the Holy Quran and sending Durood Sharif upon Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), while seeking forgiveness for their sins,” said Maulana Shahabuddin Shaikh of Andheri West. A key aspect of Shab-e-Baraat observance is visiting graveyards to pray for deceased loved ones. From late evening, thousands of devotees are expected to visit mosques and Muslim burial grounds across the city, particularly in the western suburbs. “People pray not only for their own relatives but for all departed souls. It is a night of compassion and remembrance,” said Maulana Mohammed Saad of Andheri Muslim Qabrastan Masjid, Four Bungalows. The Four Bungalows Qabrastan, which is the final resting place of noted cultural figures such as Kaifi Azmi, Shaukat Kaifi, Khayyam, Farooque Shaikh and Ishan Arya, is expected to witness a heavy turnout. According to mosque authorities, the cemetery received around 18,000 visitors last year, and similar numbers are anticipated this time as well. Volunteers and mosque committees have made extensive preparations ahead of the festival. All 1,676 graves inside the compound were freshly painted, the premises cleaned, and white cloth coverings and floral decorations arranged. Police permission has been obtained, and volunteers will assist in crowd management and traffic regulation during peak hours. Charity forms an important part of Shab-e-Baraat observances. Many families distribute cooked meals, sweets and food packets to madrassas, mosques, orphans and underprivileged households. Traditional delicacies such as chana dal halwa and suji halwa are prepared at home and offered as Esaal-e-Sawaab — prayers for the souls of the departed. Some devotees also observe fasting, either on February 3, February 4, or both days, depending on personal and religious preference. The festival also marks the spiritual transition into Ramzan, the holy month of fasting, which is expected to begin around February 18, adding to the sense of anticipation and devotion among the community.
One Dead, One Injured While Cleaning Drain in Mumbai’s Goregaon West

One Dead, One Injured While Cleaning Drain in Mumbai’s Goregaon West

One Dead, One Injured While Cleaning Drain in Mumbai’s Goregaon West Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 03, 2026 Mumbai: A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday when two labourers suffocated while cleaning a deep drainage line near Mega Mall in Goregaon West. One worker lost his life, while the other sustained injuries and was later discharged after treatment. The incident was reported to the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) control room at around 3:40 am. According to officials, the two workers—Salil Razak Gazi (27) and Sahil Noor Islam (30)—were employed by a private contractor and were engaged in cleaning a drainage line along Link Road near Mega Mall Gate No. 2. Officials said the drain was approximately 25 to 30 feet deep and about six feet wide. While carrying out the cleaning work inside the confined space, both labourers suddenly complained of severe breathing difficulties. Preliminary information suggests that the men may have been exposed to toxic gases or a dangerously low oxygen level inside the drain. Before fire brigade teams could reach the spot, staff from the private company managed to rescue one of the workers using a rope. Subsequently, personnel from the Mumbai Fire Brigade conducted a coordinated rescue operation and pulled out the second labourer from the drain. Both workers were immediately rushed to Trauma Care Hospital for medical treatment. Doctors later confirmed that Sahil Noor Islam, aged 30, suffered minor injuries and was discharged after receiving first aid. However, Salil Razak Gazi, aged 27, was declared brought dead on arrival. The rescue operation involved multiple agencies, including the Mumbai Fire Brigade, local police, the 108 ambulance service, and civic ward officials. Further investigation is underway to determine whether proper safety measures, protective equipment, and protocols were followed during the drainage cleaning work. The incident has once again raised serious concerns over worker safety, hazardous manual cleaning practices, and the lack of adequate safeguards for labourers engaged in high-risk civic work across the city.
Parliament Budget Session 2026: Lok Sabha Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi’s Reference to Former Army Chief’s Memoir

Parliament Budget Session 2026: Lok Sabha Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi’s Reference to Former Army Chief’s Memoir

Parliament Budget Session 2026: Lok Sabha Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi’s Reference to Former Army Chief’s Memoir New Delhi: The Budget Session of Parliament witnessed intense political confrontation on Sunday as the Lok Sabha was disrupted following remarks made by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who quoted from an unpublished memoir of former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane during a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address. The remarks triggered sharp objections from the Treasury benches, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah questioning the credibility and propriety of citing material that is not in the public domain. The House saw repeated interruptions, forcing the Speaker to intervene as members from both sides raised slogans. Government Pushback on ‘Unverified’ Reference Rajnath Singh strongly objected to the reference, stating that quoting from an unpublished book was inappropriate and misleading. He stressed that Parliament must rely on verified and publicly available information, especially when matters related to national security and the armed forces are involved. Amit Shah echoed the concerns, asserting that speculative or unverified content should not be used to frame narratives in the House. He accused the Opposition of politicising sensitive military matters. Rahul Gandhi, however, maintained that his remarks were based on media reports referring to General Naravane’s observations and argued that the government was attempting to silence dissent during a crucial debate. Budget 2026 Presented Amid Turmoil The uproar came on the same day Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026–27, outlining the government’s roadmap for fiscal consolidation, increased capital expenditure, infrastructure expansion, and investment in future-ready sectors such as technology, green energy, and manufacturing. Despite disruptions, the government reiterated its commitment to economic growth, projecting a steady GDP expansion while navigating global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions. Key Developments in Parliament Proceedings Continue The Lok Sabha is scheduled to reconvene with nearly 18 hours allotted for discussion on the President’s Address. However, continued political friction suggests further disruptions as the Budget Session progresses.

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