BMC Elections 2026: LIVE Updates: Mumbai Police says election were peaceful
Mumbai Police on Thursday said that no poll related incident was reported in the city. It was a peaceful election, the police said.&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026: LIVE Updates: Mumbai Police says election were peaceful
Mumbai Police on Thursday said that no poll related incident was reported in the city. It was a peaceful election, the police said.&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Cash and goods distributed openly, claims Congress Mumbai head
She alleged that cash and goods, including mixer grinders, were distributed openly, but no action was taken against the ruling alliance, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP. Congress workers were targeted instead, she claimed. Voting for elections to 29 municipal corporations in the state, including the Mumbai civic body, concluded on Thursday evening. Votes will be counted on January 16 (Friday).

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Cash and goods distributed openly, claims Congress Mumbai head
She alleged that cash and goods, including mixer grinders, were distributed openly, but no action was taken against the ruling alliance, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP. Congress workers were targeted instead, she claimed. Voting for elections to 29 municipal corporations in the state, including the Mumbai civic body, concluded on Thursday evening. Votes will be counted on January 16 (Friday).

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: BJP used unfair means in BMC polls, but Congress will win, says Gaikwad Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad on Thursday alleged large-scale misuse of money and power by the ruling BJP-led alliance in the BMC elections, but expressed confidence that her party would emerge victorious. Speaking to reporters after casting her vote in Dharavi, Gaikwad accused the Mahayuti coalition of indulging in corrupt practices during the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls. (PTI)

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: BJP used unfair means in BMC polls, but Congress will win, says GaikwadMumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad on Thursday alleged large-scale misuse of money and power by the ruling BJP-led alliance in the BMC elections, but expressed confidence that her party would emerge victorious. Speaking to reporters after casting her vote in Dharavi, Gaikwad accused the Mahayuti coalition of indulging in corrupt practices during the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls. (PTI)

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Some voters complain of booth changes, problems locating name on rolls Several Mumbaikars on Thursday complained of difficulties in exercising their franchise for the civic polls underway, including change in polling booths and name location on physical electoral rolls. Even election staff and party functionaries, on the other side of the poll process, found common ground with the segment of disgruntled voters, with many claiming the list given to them had poorly printed photographs, making verification tiresome. PTI)&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Some voters complain of booth changes, problems locating name on rollsSeveral Mumbaikars on Thursday complained of difficulties in exercising their franchise for the civic polls underway, including change in polling booths and name location on physical electoral rolls. Even election staff and party functionaries, on the other side of the poll process, found common ground with the segment of disgruntled voters, with many claiming the list given to them had poorly printed photographs, making verification tiresome. PTI)&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Ward No 114 in eastern suburbs records highest voter turnout at 41.08 per cent
As per the polling data released till 1.30 pm, Ward No 114 in Eastern suburbs recorded the highest voter turnout at 41.08 per cent, reflecting strong voter participation in parts of Mumbai. Ward No. 227 in South Mumbai logged the lowest turnout at 11.24 per cent in the first 6 hours. Prominent politicians like Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, his cousin and MNS president Raj Thackeray, Union minister Piyush Goyal and former Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik cast their votes.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Ward No 114 in eastern suburbs records highest voter turnout at 41.08 per cent
As per the polling data released till 1.30 pm, Ward No 114 in Eastern suburbs recorded the highest voter turnout at 41.08 per cent, reflecting strong voter participation in parts of Mumbai. Ward No. 227 in South Mumbai logged the lowest turnout at 11.24 per cent in the first 6 hours. Prominent politicians like Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, his cousin and MNS president Raj Thackeray, Union minister Piyush Goyal and former Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik cast their votes.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voting turnout stood at 29.96 per cent&nbsp;
A BMC spokesperson said the average voter turnout stood at 29.96 per cent till 1.30 pm in the metropolis, which has more than 1 crore eligible electors. Voting for the 227-member civic body, India`s largest and richest, began at 7.30am amid tight security and will end at 5.30pm. As many as 1,700 candidates are in the fray.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voting turnout stood at 29.96 per cent&nbsp;
A BMC spokesperson said the average voter turnout stood at 29.96 per cent till 1.30 pm in the metropolis, which has more than 1 crore eligible electors. Voting for the 227-member civic body, India`s largest and richest, began at 7.30am amid tight security and will end at 5.30pm. As many as 1,700 candidates are in the fray.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Around 30 per cent voters cast ballot until 1.30 pm in Mumbai
Polling began at 7.30 am and will continue till 5.30 pm, with counting to be held on Friday. The elections, which are being held after a considerable gap as the previous terms of many of the municipal corporations expired in 2022, are a test of political parties` grassroots strength. The ruling alliance of the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP and the opposition grouping of Congress, NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) have seen fragmentation in the civic elections with the allies taking on each other and joining hands with their traditional rivals in many places. &nbsp;An estimated 30 per cent of the eligible voters cast their ballots till 1.30 pm in elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday as prominent politicians and Bollywood celebrities exercised their franchise and urged others to do so.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Around 30 per cent voters cast ballot until 1.30 pm in Mumbai
Polling began at 7.30 am and will continue till 5.30 pm, with counting to be held on Friday. The elections, which are being held after a considerable gap as the previous terms of many of the municipal corporations expired in 2022, are a test of political parties` grassroots strength. The ruling alliance of the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP and the opposition grouping of Congress, NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) have seen fragmentation in the civic elections with the allies taking on each other and joining hands with their traditional rivals in many places. &nbsp;An estimated 30 per cent of the eligible voters cast their ballots till 1.30 pm in elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday as prominent politicians and Bollywood celebrities exercised their franchise and urged others to do so.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: 29.2 per cent turnout in municipal corporation polls across Maharashtra by 1.30 pm As much as 29.22 per cent of registered voters cast their ballots till 1.30 pm in elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra on Thursday, the State Election Commission said. No major untoward incident has been reported so far. (PTI)

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: 29.2 per cent turnout in municipal corporation polls across Maharashtra by 1.30 pmAs much as 29.22 per cent of registered voters cast their ballots till 1.30 pm in elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra on Thursday, the State Election Commission said. No major untoward incident has been reported so far. (PTI)

BMC Elections 2026: BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani to hold a meeting around irregularities amid civic polls

Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani is set to hold a meeting with senior civic and election officials to review reported irregularities during polling amid the ongoing civic elections in Mumbai.

BMC Elections 2026: BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani to hold a meeting around irregularities amid civic polls

Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani is set to hold a meeting with senior civic and election officials to review reported irregularities during polling amid the ongoing civic elections in Mumbai.


BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Uddhav claims irregularities in Maharashtra civic polls, calls it `murder` of democracy
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday alleged irregularities in the Maharashtra civic polls, saying it was an attempt to "murder" democracy. The former chief minister also demanded the suspension of the State Election Commissioner over alleged irregularities in the municipal corporation polls.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Uddhav claims irregularities in Maharashtra civic polls, calls it `murder` of democracy
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday alleged irregularities in the Maharashtra civic polls, saying it was an attempt to "murder" democracy. The former chief minister also demanded the suspension of the State Election Commissioner over alleged irregularities in the municipal corporation polls.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Vote to create better cities, says Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday appealed to the people to turn out in large numbers to vote in the civic polls, saying widespread participation was key to building better cities. Speaking to reporters after exercising his franchise in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation polls, Fadnavis said not voting amounts to a dereliction of responsibility.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Vote to create better cities, says Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday appealed to the people to turn out in large numbers to vote in the civic polls, saying widespread participation was key to building better cities. Speaking to reporters after exercising his franchise in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation polls, Fadnavis said not voting amounts to a dereliction of responsibility.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Actor Shraddha Kapoor casts vote
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: Actor Shraddha Kapoor shows her inked finger after casting her vote in the BMC elections. <a href="https://t.co/43cpEsKsXm">pic.twitter.com/43cpEsKsXm</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011717268645036068?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Actor Shraddha Kapoor casts vote

#WATCH | Mumbai: Actor Shraddha Kapoor shows her inked finger after casting her vote in the BMC elections. pic.twitter.com/43cpEsKsXm
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026


BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: BJP tried everything to win civic polls, alleges Uddhav Thackeray
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday alleged that the BJP and its allies had made every possible effort to secure a victory in the civic elections, raising serious concerns over the conduct of the polls. <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/maharashtra-civic-elections-2026-bjp-tried-everything-to-win-civic-polls-alleges-uddhav-thackeray-23612145" target="_blank" rel="none noopener">Read the story here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: BJP tried everything to win civic polls, alleges Uddhav Thackeray
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday alleged that the BJP and its allies had made every possible effort to secure a victory in the civic elections, raising serious concerns over the conduct of the polls. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voter turnout reaches 17.73 per cent till 11.30 am The average voter turnout stood at 17.73 per cent till 11.30 am, the BMC said. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bmc-elections-2026-voter-turnout-reaches-17-73-per-cent-till-11-30-am-23612137" rel="nofollow">here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voter turnout reaches 17.73 per cent till 11.30 amThe average voter turnout stood at 17.73 per cent till 11.30 am, the BMC said. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray claims BJP influence, irregularities in Mumbai civic polls Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray held a press conference this afternoon and raised concerns about the use of marker pens instead of traditional indelible ink to mark voters&rsquo; fingers in the <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/bmc-election/" rel="nofollow">BMC Elections 2026</a>, saying the mark can be wiped off easily, even with sanitiser,&nbsp; which he says could lead to confusion or attempts at voting more than once.&nbsp;
Thackeray alleged that the BJP and its allies are doing everything possible to influence the BMC civic polls. He claimed that in Kalyan-Dombivli, polling agents were found carrying candidate lists, something he said had never happened in previous elections.
Thackeray questioned the role of the State Election Commission and its staff, asking why they are drawing salaries when &ldquo;there are widespread anomalies in the electoral rolls that remain uncorrected despite repeated complaints.&rdquo; He also cited reports of indelible ink being erased easily, male names appearing against female voters, and other serious irregularities.
The Sena leader further criticized changes in electoral procedures, noting that counting, which previously began immediately after voting, is now delayed, raising &ldquo;serious questions about the fairness and credibility of the elections.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ShivsenaLive | पत्रकार परिषद | UddhavSaheb Thackeray | शिवसेना भवन, दादर, मुंबई <a href="https://t.co/NXEcAGqcEA">https://t.co/NXEcAGqcEA</a>
&mdash; ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivSenaUBT_/status/2011712674107965655?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray claims BJP influence, irregularities in Mumbai civic pollsShiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray held a press conference this afternoon and raised concerns about the use of marker pens instead of traditional indelible ink to mark voters&rsquo; fingers in the BMC Elections 2026, saying the mark can be wiped off easily, even with sanitiser,&nbsp; which he says could lead to confusion or attempts at voting more than once.&nbsp;
Thackeray alleged that the BJP and its allies are doing everything possible to influence the BMC civic polls. He claimed that in Kalyan-Dombivli, polling agents were found carrying candidate lists, something he said had never happened in previous elections.
Thackeray questioned the role of the State Election Commission and its staff, asking why they are drawing salaries when &ldquo;there are widespread anomalies in the electoral rolls that remain uncorrected despite repeated complaints.&rdquo; He also cited reports of indelible ink being erased easily, male names appearing against female voters, and other serious irregularities.
The Sena leader further criticized changes in electoral procedures, noting that counting, which previously began immediately after voting, is now delayed, raising &ldquo;serious questions about the fairness and credibility of the elections.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&nbsp;

ShivsenaLive | पत्रकार परिषद | UddhavSaheb Thackeray | शिवसेना भवन, दादर, मुंबई https://t.co/NXEcAGqcEA
&mdash; ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Update: Marker pens in BMC elections spark concerns
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A Shiv Sena (UBT) leader raised concerns over the use of marker pens instead of indelible ink during voting in the BMC elections, claiming the ink faded easily after washing hands with soap. Calling it a case of election-day mismanagement, the party urged workers across alliances&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/HM9ujW0wJc">pic.twitter.com/HM9ujW0wJc</a>
&mdash; Mid Day (@mid_day) <a href="https://twitter.com/mid_day/status/2011710628193337559?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Update: Marker pens in BMC elections spark concerns

A Shiv Sena (UBT) leader raised concerns over the use of marker pens instead of indelible ink during voting in the BMC elections, claiming the ink faded easily after washing hands with soap. Calling it a case of election-day mismanagement, the party urged workers across alliances&hellip; pic.twitter.com/HM9ujW0wJc
&mdash; Mid Day (@mid_day) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Uddhav Thackeray casts his vote with family&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
पक्षप्रमुख मा. श्री. उद्धवसाहेब ठाकरे, सौ. रश्मीवहिनी ठाकरे, युवासेनाप्रमुख शिवसेना नेते आमदार आदित्य ठाकरे आणि तेजस ठाकरे ह्यांनी आज वांद्रे पूर्व येथील मतदान केंद्रावर जाऊन मुंबई वाचवण्यासाठी सहकुटुंब मतदान केले. <a href="https://t.co/FGr8D0Mi8E">pic.twitter.com/FGr8D0Mi8E</a>
&mdash; ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivSenaUBT_/status/2011699758851821588?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Uddhav Thackeray casts his vote with family&nbsp;

पक्षप्रमुख मा. श्री. उद्धवसाहेब ठाकरे, सौ. रश्मीवहिनी ठाकरे, युवासेनाप्रमुख शिवसेना नेते आमदार आदित्य ठाकरे आणि तेजस ठाकरे ह्यांनी आज वांद्रे पूर्व येथील मतदान केंद्रावर जाऊन मुंबई वाचवण्यासाठी सहकुटुंब मतदान केले. pic.twitter.com/FGr8D0Mi8E
&mdash; ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai wants change, Mahayuti govt can deliver accountability in BMC, says Milind Deora
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: On BMC elections 2026, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora says, "The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is the largest and wealthiest municipal corporation in India, and some people have tried to divert attention by raising emotional issues in this election. However, it&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/RLltDpWyR5">pic.twitter.com/RLltDpWyR5</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011706373147672840?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai wants change, Mahayuti govt can deliver accountability in BMC, says Milind Deora

#WATCH | Mumbai: On BMC elections 2026, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora says, "The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is the largest and wealthiest municipal corporation in India, and some people have tried to divert attention by raising emotional issues in this election. However, it&hellip; pic.twitter.com/RLltDpWyR5
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE:&nbsp;Voters complain of missing booth numbers and long queues in Andheri Fresh controversy emerged during the BMC Election 2026 after voters in Andheri reported confusion over missing booth numbers on official voter slips. Long queues, lack of training among booth staff, and the use of marker pens instead of indelible ink added to voter inconvenience. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bmc-election-2026-voters-complain-of-missing-booth-numbers-and-long-queues-in-andheri-23612136" rel="nofollow">here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE:&nbsp;Voters complain of missing booth numbers and long queues in AndheriFresh controversy emerged during the BMC Election 2026 after voters in Andheri reported confusion over missing booth numbers on official voter slips. Long queues, lack of training among booth staff, and the use of marker pens instead of indelible ink added to voter inconvenience. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Raj Thackeray alleges voting fraud over the new ink pen method 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mumbai | MNS chief Raj Thackeray says, "The ink that was used before is being replaced with a new pen, and there are complaints about this new pen. If you use a hand sanitizer, the ink disappears. Now, the only option left is to apply the ink, go outside, wipe it off, and then go&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/yRi4YIjryr">https://t.co/yRi4YIjryr</a> <a href="https://t.co/4P7ECMNify">pic.twitter.com/4P7ECMNify</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011689570136711449?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Raj Thackeray alleges voting fraud over the new ink pen method

Mumbai | MNS chief Raj Thackeray says, "The ink that was used before is being replaced with a new pen, and there are complaints about this new pen. If you use a hand sanitizer, the ink disappears. Now, the only option left is to apply the ink, go outside, wipe it off, and then go&hellip; https://t.co/yRi4YIjryr pic.twitter.com/4P7ECMNify
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Senior citizens lead by example in BMC elections 2026 Elderly voters in Mumbai participate actively in the BMC Elections 2026 with the help of volunteers, wheelchairs, and senior-friendly polling booths, ensuring inclusive and accessible voting for all. <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/photo/in-photos-senior-citizens-lead-by-example-in-bmc-elections-2026-109168/4" rel="nofollow">See more photos here&nbsp;</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Senior citizens lead by example in BMC elections 2026Elderly voters in Mumbai participate actively in the BMC Elections 2026 with the help of volunteers, wheelchairs, and senior-friendly polling booths, ensuring inclusive and accessible voting for all. See more photos here&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Inside Mumbai&rsquo;s R North, Central, and South wards mid-day looks at R North, Central, and South wards, which comprise verdant SGNP, quiet beaches, gaothans, industrial zones. The BMC Election 2026 `<a href="https://www.mid-day.com/bmc-election/know-your-ward" rel="nofollow">Know Your Ward</a>` hub brings together all ward-specific articles and insights in one place, helping Mumbai residents better understand their local civic divisions.&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Inside Mumbai&rsquo;s R North, Central, and South wardsmid-day looks at R North, Central, and South wards, which comprise verdant SGNP, quiet beaches, gaothans, industrial zones. The BMC Election 2026 `Know Your Ward` hub brings together all ward-specific articles and insights in one place, helping Mumbai residents better understand their local civic divisions.&nbsp;

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Reports of ink being wiped off voters&rsquo; fingers are false, BMC clarifies Reports have been circulating in various media outlets claiming that the ink on voters&rsquo; fingers is being wiped off after voting in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) General Elections 2026. These reports also suggest that the Municipal Commissioner has acknowledged this issue.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation administration clarifies that Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagarani has not made any statement or comment regarding the wiping of ink after voting. Therefore, the reports circulating in the media have no basis in fact.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Reports of ink being wiped off voters&rsquo; fingers are false, BMC clarifiesReports have been circulating in various media outlets claiming that the ink on voters&rsquo; fingers is being wiped off after voting in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) General Elections 2026. These reports also suggest that the Municipal Commissioner has acknowledged this issue.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation administration clarifies that Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagarani has not made any statement or comment regarding the wiping of ink after voting. Therefore, the reports circulating in the media have no basis in fact.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Raj Thackeray, Nitin Gadkari and other key figures cast their votes
Prominent figures and community leaders were seen casting their votes across Mumbai today during the BMC Election 2026, highlighting active citizen participation and democratic engagement in the civic polls on Thursday. Click here to see <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/photo/in-photos-bmc-election-2026-devendra-fadnavis-raj-thackeray-eknath-shinde-nitin-gadkari-sachin-tendulkar-piyush-goyal-sanjay-raut-and-other-key-figures-cast-their-votes-109169/1" rel="nofollow">photos</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Raj Thackeray, Nitin Gadkari and other key figures cast their votes
Prominent figures and community leaders were seen casting their votes across Mumbai today during the BMC Election 2026, highlighting active citizen participation and democratic engagement in the civic polls on Thursday. Click here to see photos

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai voters face confusion over booths, new marking method at BMC polls The voter slips provided by BMC/ECI did not mention booth numbers, while those distributed by political parties had them. I had to stand in a queue to find out my booth. The BLO, who was using a laptop, said he was not given any training for this. After a short but impatient search, I was told where to go. However, the BLO and the returning officer were extremely polite and patient with my queries. The queue to find out the booths was longer than the one at the booth. All told, it took me about 20 minutes from 7.30 am, when actually it should have taken only 3 minutes of my time. This was not the case during the earlier elections. I was also surprised that a marker pen was being used instead of the indelible ink. I allowed it since an illegality of this nature couldn&rsquo;t have been done. But there was no information either in newspapers or on the ECI website about this new method of marking voters. -- Sunil Warrier, Andheri, Prabhag 63

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai voters face confusion over booths, new marking method at BMC pollsThe voter slips provided by BMC/ECI did not mention booth numbers, while those distributed by political parties had them. I had to stand in a queue to find out my booth. The BLO, who was using a laptop, said he was not given any training for this. After a short but impatient search, I was told where to go. However, the BLO and the returning officer were extremely polite and patient with my queries. The queue to find out the booths was longer than the one at the booth. All told, it took me about 20 minutes from 7.30 am, when actually it should have taken only 3 minutes of my time. This was not the case during the earlier elections. I was also surprised that a marker pen was being used instead of the indelible ink. I allowed it since an illegality of this nature couldn&rsquo;t have been done. But there was no information either in newspapers or on the ECI website about this new method of marking voters.-- Sunil Warrier, Andheri, Prabhag 63

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari casts his vote
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Minister Nitin Gadkari shows his inked finger after casting his vote at a polling station in Nagpur for Maharashtra local body polls. <a href="https://t.co/F5IRM0qgFb">pic.twitter.com/F5IRM0qgFb</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011668995272003740?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari casts his vote

#WATCH | Union Minister Nitin Gadkari shows his inked finger after casting his vote at a polling station in Nagpur for Maharashtra local body polls. pic.twitter.com/F5IRM0qgFb
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut casts his vote
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Maharashtra: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, along with his brother Sunil Raut, arrives at a polling station in Mumbai to cast his vote for the BMC election. <a href="https://t.co/IJY3Aw9UDz">pic.twitter.com/IJY3Aw9UDz</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011661155882975358?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut casts his vote
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#WATCH | Maharashtra: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, along with his brother Sunil Raut, arrives at a polling station in Mumbai to cast his vote for the BMC election. pic.twitter.com/IJY3Aw9UDz
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voter turnout stands at 6.98 per cent till 9:30 am

Polling for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections began early Thursday morning amid tight security arrangements across the city. As per official data released by State Election Commission (SEC), voter turnout stood at 6.98 per cent till 9:30 am.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Voter turnout stands at 6.98 per cent till 9:30 am

Polling for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections began early Thursday morning amid tight security arrangements across the city. As per official data released by State Election Commission (SEC), voter turnout stood at 6.98 per cent till 9:30 am.


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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: No mobile phones at polling booths: BMC issues advisory for Mumbai voters The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday urged Mumbaikars not to carry mobile phones to polling stations on the day of voting on January 15.&nbsp;For a smooth polling process, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bmc-election-2026-civic-body-sets-up-2600-polling-locations-to-ease-congestion-23611696" rel="nofollow">BMC</a> added that anyone carrying a mobile phone must keep it switched off. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bmc-urges-voters-not-to-carry-mobile-phones-to-polling-stations-ahead-of-the-bmc-election-2026-23611699" rel="nofollow">here</a>
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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: No mobile phones at polling booths: BMC issues advisory for Mumbai votersThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday urged Mumbaikars not to carry mobile phones to polling stations on the day of voting on January 15.&nbsp;For a smooth polling process, the&nbsp;BMC added that anyone carrying a mobile phone must keep it switched off. Read the story here


BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Citizens queue up for voting (Pics/Eeshanpriya MS)
<img src="http://admin.mid-day.com/images/2026/jan/PrabhadeviVotingEeshanpriya11_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="800" />
<img src="http://admin.mid-day.com/images/2026/jan/PrabhadeviVotingEeshanpriya22_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="837" />

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Citizens queue up for voting (Pics/Eeshanpriya MS)



BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Public holiday announced today
The Maharashtra government has declared January 15 a public holiday in 29 civic bodies going to polls today, including Mumbai, Pune, Thane, and Navi Mumbai, to facilitate smooth voting and boost turnout. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/public-holiday-announced-in-29-cities-for-maharashtra-civic-elections-2026-23611264" rel="nofollow">here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Public holiday announced today
The Maharashtra government has declared January 15 a public holiday in 29 civic bodies going to polls today, including Mumbai, Pune, Thane, and Navi Mumbai, to facilitate smooth voting and boost turnout. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Indian stock markets shut today for Maharashtra civic polls, trading to resume on Friday
Indian stock markets remained closed for trading on Thursday due to the municipal corporation elections in Maharashtra. Trading was halted across both major stock exchanges, including the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), on the polling day. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bmc-election-2026-are-stock-markets-open-on-january-15-during-mumbai-civic-polls-23611819" rel="nofollow">here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Indian stock markets shut today for Maharashtra civic polls, trading to resume on Friday
Indian stock markets remained closed for trading on Thursday due to the municipal corporation elections in Maharashtra. Trading was halted across both major stock exchanges, including the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), on the polling day. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Dombivli first-time voters turn out early on polling day Voters in Dombivli began arriving early along Savarkar Road in Dombivli East from 7 am on Wednesday, eager to cast their ballots. However, some initial confusion was observed as polling at a few booths commenced around 7.30 am, prompting voters to enquire about the exact locations of their designated polling rooms. Read the story <a href="https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/maharashtra-civic-elections-2026-dombivli-first-time-voters-turn-out-early-on-polling-day-23612112" rel="nofollow">here</a>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Dombivli first-time voters turn out early on polling dayVoters in Dombivli began arriving early along Savarkar Road in Dombivli East from 7 am on Wednesday, eager to cast their ballots. However, some initial confusion was observed as polling at a few booths commenced around 7.30 am, prompting voters to enquire about the exact locations of their designated polling rooms. Read the story here

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Actor Nana Patekar votes, urges civic participation 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Mumbai: After casting his vote in BMC polls, actor Nana Patekar says, "I travelled over three hours to vote because it is essential in a democracy, and will be returning immediately. I urge everyone to come out and exercise their right to vote."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BMCPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#BMCPolls</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#Mumbai</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/ixS4aa6b85">pic.twitter.com/ixS4aa6b85</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2011650845377773944?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Actor Nana Patekar votes, urges civic participation

VIDEO | Mumbai: After casting his vote in BMC polls, actor Nana Patekar says, "I travelled over three hours to vote because it is essential in a democracy, and will be returning immediately. I urge everyone to come out and exercise their right to vote."#BMCPolls #Mumbai&hellip; pic.twitter.com/ixS4aa6b85
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 15, 2026




BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Akshay Kumar arrives to cast ballot
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: Actor Akshay Kumar arrives at a polling station at Gandhi Shikshan Bhavan to cast his vote for BMC elections. <a href="https://t.co/K6kbDrGgAc">pic.twitter.com/K6kbDrGgAc</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2011621109452751320?ref_src=twsrc-Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script>

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Akshay Kumar arrives to cast ballot

#WATCH | Mumbai: Actor Akshay Kumar arrives at a polling station at Gandhi Shikshan Bhavan to cast his vote for BMC elections. pic.twitter.com/K6kbDrGgAc
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2026


BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Voting begins for high-stakes elections in Mumbai
Polling began in all 227 wards.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates:&nbsp;Voting begins for high-stakes elections in Mumbai
Polling began in all 227 wards.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: "They have come together for their survival:" BJP`s Poonam Mahajan on Raj and Uddhav Thackeray joining hands for BMC elections
Ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BJP) elections, BJP leader Poonam Mahajan took a swipe at the Thackeray cousins, alleging that MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray have come together solely for political survival, rather than the city`s development. The BJP leader also addressed concerns over an alleged threat to the Marathi identity in the wake of Raj Thackeray`s statement, which made a strong pitch for Marathi unity and warned that the state`s language, land, and identity are under threat. Reacting to these developments, Mahajan accused opposition parties of playing a game of divide and rule. She highlighted that it was under PM Modi that Marathi was finally granted the status of a classical language.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: "They have come together for their survival:" BJP`s Poonam Mahajan on Raj and Uddhav Thackeray joining hands for BMC elections
Ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BJP) elections, BJP leader Poonam Mahajan took a swipe at the Thackeray cousins, alleging that MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray have come together solely for political survival, rather than the city`s development. The BJP leader also addressed concerns over an alleged threat to the Marathi identity in the wake of Raj Thackeray`s statement, which made a strong pitch for Marathi unity and warned that the state`s language, land, and identity are under threat. Reacting to these developments, Mahajan accused opposition parties of playing a game of divide and rule. She highlighted that it was under PM Modi that Marathi was finally granted the status of a classical language.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: "Making every effort to encourage voters": Returning Officer Krishna Jadhav on BMC poll preparations
Ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections, South Mumbai Returning Officer Krishna Jadhav requested the people of Mumbai to cast their votes, asserting that the officials are making every effort. The South Mumbai Returning Officer also discussed the arrangements made to ensure a smooth voting experience for voters in the municipal polls. Speaking to ANI, Jadhav said, "We have a team in place that will assist senior citizens. They will take them to the voting compound...We encourage voters to come and cast their votes. We are making every effort to ensure this. For women, we have created pink booths. The pink polling station means that all the staff working at that booth will be women. The polling station will be decorated in pink, and the women working at that polling station will also wear pink sarees. So, we have introduced this new activity for the people here."

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: "Making every effort to encourage voters": Returning Officer Krishna Jadhav on BMC poll preparations
Ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections, South Mumbai Returning Officer Krishna Jadhav requested the people of Mumbai to cast their votes, asserting that the officials are making every effort. The South Mumbai Returning Officer also discussed the arrangements made to ensure a smooth voting experience for voters in the municipal polls. Speaking to ANI, Jadhav said, "We have a team in place that will assist senior citizens. They will take them to the voting compound...We encourage voters to come and cast their votes. We are making every effort to ensure this. For women, we have created pink booths. The pink polling station means that all the staff working at that booth will be women. The polling station will be decorated in pink, and the women working at that polling station will also wear pink sarees. So, we have introduced this new activity for the people here."

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai police tighten security ahead of BMC polls
Mumbai Police tightened security ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls on Thursday. The voting will take place from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Police personnel installed barricades at various locations and conducted checks on passing vehicles. Earlier, the South Mumbai Returning Officer, Krishna Jadhav, urged people in Mumbai to cast their votes, stating that officials are making every effort.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai police tighten security ahead of BMC polls
Mumbai Police tightened security ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls on Thursday. The voting will take place from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Police personnel installed barricades at various locations and conducted checks on passing vehicles. Earlier, the South Mumbai Returning Officer, Krishna Jadhav, urged people in Mumbai to cast their votes, stating that officials are making every effort.

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad on Thursday alleged large-scale misuse of money and power by the ruling BJP-led alliance in the BMC elections, but expressed confidence that her party would emerge victorious. We are closing the LIVE blog now

BMC Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: She alleged that cash and goods, including mixer grinders, were distributed openly, but no action was taken 

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE: BJP used unfair means in BMC polls, says Congress MP

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BMC Elections 2026 LIVE: BJP used unfair means in BMC polls, says Congress MP

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