BMC Election 2026 : History in Mumbai Municipal Corporation! For the first time, 10 approved corporators; Lobbying accelerates
After the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections, political movements have gained momentum for the nominated (approved) corporator positions. This time, a total of 237 corporators, including 227 newly elected corporators and 10 nominated members, will be seen in the assembly. Currently, it is observed that aspirants are vigorously lobbying with their party leaders for the appointment of these 10 approved corporators. For the first time in the history of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, a total of 10 approved corporators will be appointed. According to the bill passed in the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2023, the number of approved corporators was increased from five to ten. The implementation of that decision is now taking place in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.
According to the number of elected corporators, it is speculated that BJP may get 4, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) 1, and Uddhav Thackeray faction 2 nominated corporators. If MNS supports, they may get 3, and if independents support Congress, Congress may also get 3 nominated members, as per political discussions. Therefore, the appointment of approved corporators may somewhat change the numerical strength in the assembly. Meanwhile, a question mark has been raised over the seating arrangement in the municipal headquarters' assembly hall. Currently, seating is available for only 227 corporators. If 10 additional approved members are added, the administration will have to find a solution on where and how to arrange their seating.
What is an Approved Corporator?
An approved corporator is a special member of the municipal corporation's general assembly. They are not elected directly by the public. These positions have been created with the aim of including experienced, efficient, and expert individuals from various fields for the development of the city.
Eligibility and Fields
According to the guidelines of the Election Commission, the inclusion of eminent persons from the following fields as approved councilors is expected—
Administration and Law: Experienced government officials, experts in the field of justice and law
Health and Education: Renowned doctors, teachers, professors, principals
Technical and Social Fields: Engineers, social workers, experts in urban development
These experts will be utilized for strategic decisions in education, health, engineering, and other important committees.
BMC Election 2026 Background
In the 2026 Mumbai Municipal Corporation election, BJP has emerged as the largest party with 89 seats. The grand alliance has ended Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena's 25-year solo rule. After this result, all eyes are now on the appointment of nominated corporators. The appointment of nominated corporators is done on the recommendation of the commissioner, with the consent of the house, and final approval is given by the state government. These members receive the same honorarium, allowances, and development funds as elected corporators. They can participate in committees, but they do not have the right to vote in the election of the mayor, deputy mayor, or standing committee.