GST cut on insurance: Relief for common man sparks political credit war

This special report offers a dual focus, first examining the critical Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections in Mumbai, held after a three-year delay. The program explores the disconnect between political rhetoric and the daily civic struggles of residents, such as poor air quality, potholes, and water supply issues. Featuring media personality Cyrus Broacha, the segment highlights how shifting alliances and name-calling have overshadowed basic urban governance needs. Subsequently, the report shifts to the entertainment world with an interview featuring comedian Vir Das discussing his directorial debut, 'Happy Patel Khatarnag Jassoos'. Das reveals the film's 10-year journey, his collaboration with producer Aamir Khan, and his creative process in crafting a 'counter-culture' spy comedy that stars Imran Khan.

On this Special Report, legal editor Nalini Sharma provides details on the legal battle surrounding the film Jananayagam. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on January 15 after the producers challenged a Madras High Court order that denied censor board clearance. Nalini Sharma notes that 'the producers had created this false sense of urgency to bring the matter to the court' according to the previous High Court ruling. To avoid repeating this, the makers have reportedly not mentioned the matter for urgent listing before the Chief Justice of India, opting instead to wait for the registry's tentative schedule. The Central Board of Film Certification has already filed a caveat in the top court to ensure their side is heard before any order is passed. The report explores whether the makers of the Vijay-starrer will receive a reprieve ahead of the Pongal festival.

Residents of Shimla’s Chalonthi area were forced to evacuate their homes after severe cracks appeared in a six-storey residential building.

The campaign for 29 municipalities, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), concluded today at 5 PM. Voting for the crucial local body elections is scheduled to take place on January 15, with the results expected to be announced on January 16. The speaker noted that 'More than 1700 are vying for 227 wards in the BMC' following a significant delay in holding the polls. The election cycle has been characterized by political volatility, featuring 'whirlpool events of parties joining hands' and the formation of unlikely alliances. This period of political realignment has led to what the speaker described as 'full chaos' in the lead-up to the polls. The upcoming elections are seen as a major test for the various political factions involved in these new and unexpected partnerships across the municipalities.