Meghna Pant on Mumbai Polls: 'We Need Problem Solving, Not Just Politics'

Ahead of the Mumbai civic polls, this special report features author Meghna Pant and comedian Aditi Mittal discussing the city's pressing concerns. Pant makes a strong case for 'boring, relentless, technocratic governance' to tackle core issues like failing drains, poor air quality, and women's safety. She argues that citizens deserve a city where they can thrive, not just survive. 'We need to stop this whole clamor,' Pant states, urging a shift from slogans to statistics. In a satirical contrast, Aditi Mittal highlights voter despair, joking that she supports parties with large posters that hide the city's garbage and crumbling buildings. She sardonically notes that through political horse-trading, voters 'will end up as donkeys.' The discussion covers the need for accountability from politicians on civic emergencies including urban flooding, shrinking green spaces, and traffic.