Rallies, roadshows, and social-media campaigns are taking place daily, as the Shiv Sena, BJP, Congress, and regional groups compete for control of India’s richest municipal body. Key issues dominating the debate include sanitation, water supply, housing redevelopment, public transport, and rising living costs.
Political analysts say the outcome could influence alliances at the state level. Voters appear focused on governance rather than ideology, demanding visible improvements in roads, waste management, and civic infrastructure.
With turnout expected to be high, the BMC contest is being viewed as a referendum on urban leadership.