The first general meeting of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sparked a political debate even before it formally begins.
The general meeting, which was scheduled for February 24, had been adjourned to pay tribute to the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
The House will resume on February 25, when the names of the nominated corporators are likely to be announced and several nomination proposals will be taken up for approval.
According to reports, out of the 27 proposals listed on the agenda sent to the corporators, 20 proposals relate to the names of roads, squares and municipal works.
The Congress has sharply criticised the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena, accusing it of prioritising symbolic renaming exercises over pressing civic concerns.
Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi said that Mumbai is currently grappling with serious concerns, including deteriorating air quality, traffic congestion, drinking water shortages and strained public health infrastructure. Pollution levels have made it difficult for citizens to breathe, especially children and senior citizens. Respiratory illnesses are rising.
Azmi further highlighted encroachments on footpaths, making pedestrian movement increasingly hazardous. Ongoing Metro construction, combined with pothole-ridden roads, has compounded commuting woes across the city.
Basic amenities such as water supply, healthcare for slum residents and education require urgent attention.
The Congress maintained that the tone and priorities set in the first General Body meeting should reflect a commitment to development rather than optics.
Mumbaikars want development. The Congress will hold the ruling alliance accountable and will not remain silent on issues affecting citizens, Azmi asserted.
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