Municipal corporations in India are the foundation of self-government. They operate in cities that have more than 1 million people, as stated in the Constitution. This is because of the Amendment Act of 1992, which added Part IXA to the Indian Constitution.
The idea of these corporations comes from the British style of municipal bodies, but they are designed to fit India's federal system. Municipal corporations in India provide people with necessities like water and roads. They also help make sure that cities develop in a way that's good for everyone and does not harm the environment, like what is stated in the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act.
People choose a corporator for their area to be on the council. There is one corporator for each area. In cities there are several hundred corporators. These corporators then choose a mayor. The mayor is usually someone from the party that's in charge. The mayor is in charge of the meetings for one year. The mayor is, like, a symbol of the corporation. Citizens select corporators to represent their ward. These corporators elect a mayor who serves as the head of the corporation for one year. The mayor has a deputy to help them. When it comes to the administrative side of the city there is a full-time municipal commissioner who is in charge. This person is an IAS officer. They have their own team with deputies who specialize in engineering, health and accountancy. The municipal commissioner and their deputies work together to make sure everything runs smoothly in the city. The deputies of the commissioner are very important because they help with things, like engineering and health, and accountancy.
On this India Today special report, senior NCP (SP) leader and former minister Eknath Khadse reveals that the merger between the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party had been finalised prior to the latter's sudden demise. Khadse stated, 'The merger of both NCP factions has been finalised,' noting that the move was intended to follow local body elections. The transcript details how both factions had already begun contesting local polls as an alliance against the BJP using the 'clock' symbol. Journalist Sahil Joshi adds that the late Ajit Pawar had hinted at this reunification during a January 2026 interview, suggesting the merger would involve supporting the NDA government at both State and Central levels. The report further notes that Sharad Pawar is set to retire from the Rajya Sabha in April 2026, which was expected to facilitate a smoother transition for the unified party under the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the ongoing investigation into the phone tapping case in Telangana involving former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR). The BRS chief has sought a fresh date for his examination by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), stating in a written reply that he is 'unable to appear on Jan 30th as directed in the notice, as it is the last date for filing nominations to elections for 150 municipalities and seven municipal corporations.' KCR cited his preoccupation with issuing authorizations to party candidates as the reason for his absence. The case involves allegations that the previous BRS government breached the privacy of politicians, celebrities, and businessmen. While the Congress government maintains that strict action will be taken against those responsible, the BRS has dismissed the allegations as a 'time lapse' and political vendetta. The SIT, led by the Commissioner of Police, is expected to issue a new date for the former Chief Minister's statement recording.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Aman Bahadur reports from the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation House where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has successfully retained the mayoral post. Presiding officer Ramneet Singh Bedi declared Sourav Joshi as the new Mayor after he secured 18 votes from councillors. The election marks a significant procedural shift as the reporter notes, 'after 1996, it's for the first time that show of hands has taken place for the voting' for the 36 total votes polled. The results saw the Congress party receiving 7 votes, including that of Member of Parliament Manish Tiwari, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured 11 votes. The report highlights the absence of cross-voting during this session, contrasting with previous controversies that reached the Supreme Court. Following the declaration, celebrations erupted within the MC House as councillors congratulated Sourav Joshi on the BJP's victory in the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation.
In this special broadcast, India Today pays tribute to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar following his tragic demise in an air crash in Baramati. The discussion features insights from Sahil Joshi, Managing Editor and Mumbai Bureau Chief, who reflects on Pawar's three-decade-long political journey. The speakers describe Pawar as a 'complex character' and a 'very efficient administrator' who was known for his directness and deep connection with the people of Baramati. The bulletin highlights his transition from being in the shadow of Sharad Pawar to seeking his own political identity, including his recent hints at a potential NCP merger. 'He did not pretend to be some political saint or sadhu,' noted the speaker, emphasizing Pawar's candid ambition to become Chief Minister. The programme explores the vacuum left in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the uncertain future of Maharashtra's political landscape following this sudden loss, while also recalling Pawar's personal interests in cricket and old Hindi film music.
In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker expresses deep devastation over the reported death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a tragic air crash near Baramati. The speaker, identified in the transcript as a senior Shiv Sena MP, reflects on Pawar’s political legacy, describing him as a 'trustworthy man' who was 'dynamic, bold, transparent, and blunt.' The discussion highlights Pawar’s reputation for being a man of his word, his deep connection with the people of Baramati, and his dedication to development regardless of party lines. The speaker recounts personal anecdotes of Pawar’s efficiency as a Finance Minister and his ability to maintain relationships across the political spectrum, even after the 2023 political split. The bulletin notes that Pawar was traveling for Zilla Parishad election campaigning when the crash occurred, leaving a significant void in Maharashtra politics. The unidentified speaker emphasizes that despite political differences, Pawar remained a respected figure known for his directness and administrative discipline.
This news bulletin reports on the sudden demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. Following the tragic incident, the state government has announced a three-day period of state mourning. A widespread bandh is being observed across Pune district, with markets, shops, and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) offices remaining closed as a mark of respect. The speaker notes, 'The mortal remains will be kept at Vidya Pratishthan ground to pay the final respects by the huge crowd'. The final rites are scheduled to take place at his native village, Katewadi, in Baramati tomorrow at 11:30 AM. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde have reached the hospital in Baramati to pay their respects. Reports suggest that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah may visit Baramati tomorrow to attend the funeral, following a discussion with Sharad Pawar.
In this special report, Secunderabad Cantonment MLA Sri Ganesh Rao highlights the ongoing crisis regarding the lack of local body elections and development funds in the Cantonment area. Speaking from his relay hunger strike, which has entered its fifth day, Rao states, 'The issue is we want the Cantonment Board merger in GHMC' to ensure justice and adequate funding for the residents. He criticises the Central Government for allegedly withholding ₹1,200 crores in dues and failing to conduct elections since the board was dissolved in 2020. Rao argues that the absence of elected representatives has silenced the people's voice and stalled civic progress. He also questions the silence of the local Member of Parliament, Eatala Rajender, on the merger issue. The MLA asserts that the state government is ready to take responsibility for the area's development if the merger with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is finalised, vowing to continue the protest until their demands are met.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the political fallout in Maharashtra following the BMC poll results. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has launched a scathing attack on his political rivals, reiterating allegations of 'vote chori' or vote theft. Addressing his party cadre in Mumbai, Thackeray stated, 'You can buy votes, but how can you buy spirit?' He expressed disappointment that 'traitors' from within, rather than outsiders, were being used in an attempt to finish the Thackeray name and legacy. While Thackeray did not explicitly name Eknath Shinde, his remarks were clearly directed at the Shinde faction and the BJP, whom he referred to as outsiders trying to divide the Shiv Sena. Thackeray appreciated his workers for resisting these pressures and vowed to continue the fight. The programme examines these comments as the mayoral race begins in Mumbai amidst a highly charged political atmosphere.
On this Special Report, Maria Shakeel examines the deepening internal friction within the Congress party in Kerala ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. The focus is on Thiruvananthapuram MP Dr. Shashi Tharoor, who reportedly skipped a crucial strategy meeting attended by Rahul Gandhi. Maria Shakeel notes, 'Tharoor skipped the Congress High Command's Kerala strategy meet altogether, reportedly upset with both the party leadership over what is seen as lack of due respect by Rahul Gandhi.' The programme features veteran Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, who downplays the rift, claiming Tharoor had prior commitments at a literary forum. However, the report highlights past instances where Tharoor’s praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and LK Advani caused friction with the party brass. The discussion, featuring Shehzad Poonawalla and Sanjay Jha, explores whether the Congress can afford to alienate a prominent face like Tharoor as the BJP gains ground in urban Kerala, particularly following their performance in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation elections.
In this address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) significant victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Nagar Nigam, describing it as an 'extraordinary and historic' win that lays the foundation for a BJP government in Kerala. Highlighting the mandate as a vote for good governance and a 'Viksit Kerala', Modi asserts: 'The people's feelings for me are thousands of times more powerful than these railways .' He addresses critics who dismiss his interactions with children and supporters as 'drama', stating he will not insult the hard work of young admirers. Modi further criticises the LDF and UDF for decades of injustice and corruption that hindered the city's development. He promises a new era of progress, pledging to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a model city and one of the best urban centres in India, urging citizens to maintain their faith in the BJP's vision for development.
On this Special Report, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addresses the ongoing speculation regarding the appointment of the next Mayor of Mumbai following the Mahayati alliance's victory in the BMC elections. Speaking exclusively to India Today from Davos, Fadnavis dismissed reports of a rift between the BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena over a proposed 2.5-year split term for the mayoral post. He stated, 'Main Mumbai mein nahi hoon, isliye khabre chal rahi hai' (I am not in Mumbai, that is why these rumors are circulating), insisting that the alliance remains stable. The Chief Minister's comments come amidst reports that the Shinde faction is playing hardball to secure a shared tenure. The programme examines the political dynamics within the Mahayati alliance as they finalize leadership roles in India's richest municipal corporation, despite the Chief Minister's firm stance that there is no internal tussle regarding the prestigious Mumbai Mayor position.
In this report, Mustafa Shaikh provides details on the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) mayoral race following the state government's reservation lottery. Mustafa Shaikh notes, 'The lottery goes to women from the open category,' confirming that Mumbai will have a female mayor. The Urban Development Department conducted the lottery for 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, leading to a walkout by the Uddhav Sena. The opposition party has slammed the result, demanding an OBC mayor instead of one from the open category. Mustafa Shaikh explains that authorities followed an alphabetical order for the reservation process, which excluded the BMC from the OBC bracket this time. While the category is now fixed, the specific individual who will lead the 'maximum city' remains a suspense. The report highlights the political friction between the Mahayuti and the Uddhav Sena following the recent elections and the subsequent administrative procedures for local body leadership.
This Special Report focusses on the significant political shift in Chandigarh as the alliance between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Indian National Congress collapses ahead of the Mayoral Election.
In an exclusive interaction with India Today, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the ongoing speculation regarding the Mumbai Mayor's post and the state's investment pacts in Davos. Speaking on the perceived 'tug of war' between the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, Fadnavis stated, 'I will reach Mumbai and sit with Mr. Shinde. All the news will stop. We will decide our formula.' He dismissed reports of a rift, asserting that both sides would be satisfied with the eventual decision. Furthermore, Fadnavis defended the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed at the World Economic Forum, countering opposition claims that the trip was a 'picnic.' He clarified that none of the MOUs signed in Davos have less than 60% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with some reaching 80%. He specifically addressed investments involving Mangal Prabhat Lodha’s company, explaining that the project brings significant hyperscaler investment to Maharashtra through international collaborations.
This report highlights a significant administrative reshuffle in the national capital as IAS officer Sanjeev Kherwar is appointed the new Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). The 1994-batch officer returns to a high-profile role in Delhi after being shunted to Ladakh in 2022 following a massive controversy. The speaker notes that 'Sanjeev Kherwar, the same man, the IAS officer, in fact, the top Babu, who was shunted to Ladakh, has now, in fact, been broken as the new MCD commissioner'. The appointment, notified by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, comes just ahead of the MCD's budget presentation. The bulletin recalls the 2022 incident at Thyagaraj Stadium where Kherwar was accused of halting athlete practices to walk his dog, sparking allegations of VVIP racism. While Kherwar denied the charges at the time, his return to a central role in Delhi's administration is expected to trigger fresh political reactions from the Aam Aadmi Party and Congress.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Ritwik Bhalekar examines the shifting political landscape in Maharashtra as the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena maneuvers to secure the mayoral post in the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC). In a significant move, Shinde Sena MP Shrikant Shinde confirmed an alliance with Raj Thackeray’s MNS, stating, 'The support is coming from Mahayuti'. This strategic shift effectively sidelines their ally, the BJP, despite the latter's strong performance of 50 seats. With the Shinde faction holding 53 seats and gaining 5 from the MNS, they are nearing the 62-seat majority mark. The report highlights the growing friction between the Shinde Sena and the BJP, which was evident during the election campaigns. Sources suggest the Shinde faction is also garnering support from UBT Sena and Congress corporators to prove they can claim power independently. This development reflects broader tensions within the alliance, extending to other crucial municipal corporations like Mumbai and Thane.
A five-year-old boy was attacked by a stray dog in Hyderabad’s Suraram colony on Tuesday morning.
In this Special Report, the focus is on the shifting political landscape of the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC). The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena is reportedly manoeuvring to secure the Mayor's post by sidelining its ally, the BJP, and joining forces with Raj Thackeray's MNS. The speaker notes that 'Shinde Sena is now trying to lure corporators from MNS, UBT Sena and also Congress' to consolidate power. Despite the BJP winning 50 seats, the Shinde faction, with 53 seats and support from the MNS, is nearing the 62-seat majority mark. The programme highlights the potential rift within the Mahayuti alliance as Shrikant Shinde hints at welcoming UBT faction corporators to bypass a power-sharing deal with the BJP. This development marks a significant blow to the BJP, which had been demanding a split mayoral term. The discussion explores how these volatile equations in KDMC might signal broader changes in Maharashtra's municipal politics.
In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker reports on a significant political shift within the Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra. The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena is reportedly manoeuvring to secure the Mayor's position in the Kalyan Dombivalli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) by partnering with Raj Thackeray's MNS, effectively sidelining its ally, the BJP. The speaker notes that 'Shinde Sena MP Shrikanth Shinde confirmed the MNS alliance', bringing their combined strength to 58 seats, just short of the 62-seat majority. The transcript highlights a potential rift as the Shinde Sena resists the BJP's demand for a split mayoral term. The discussion also touches upon the possible role of the UBT faction, which holds 11 seats, and suggests that this power struggle over mayoral posts could extend to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The report concludes by examining the BJP's potential counter-strategies while senior leadership is away.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the internal power dynamics of the Mahayuti alliance regarding the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor post. Susieben Shah, Spokesperson for Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), emphasized the emotional significance of the post, stating, 'it will be a tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray's memory, if our mayor is, if Shiv Sena mayor is once again hoisted at BMC.' She argued that despite numerical differences, the alliance operates on mutual respect and negotiation rather than surrender. Conversely, BJP National Spokesperson Sanju Verma highlighted the BJP's superior strike rate and seat count in Mumbai, noting that the BJP has been 'generous and magnanimous to a fault' in accommodating partners. The discussion, moderated by Preeti Choudhry, also featured Dr. Shoaib Hashmi of Shiv Sena (UBT), who suggested potential friction within the alliance. The programme explores whether the 'Fevicol ka jod' of the NDA will hold as both parties eye the prestigious Mayor's chair in the centenary year of Balasaheb Thackeray.
