urban local bodies

The Orissa High Court has validated the state's 2014 decision to elevate Rourkela Municipality to a Municipal Corporation, incorporating nearby villages. While dismissing petitions challenging the move, the court emphasized the crucial need to protect tribal rights in Scheduled Areas, ensuring a balance between urban development and indigenous safeguards.

Issues notices to the state govt

Bhubaneswar's urban local bodies are preparing for the monsoon. A new SOP directs them to ensure drainage systems are clear and safe. Low-lying areas will receive special attention for waterlogging. Relief centers will be ready. Officials are accountable for preparedness. Citizens are asked to cooperate for a safe monsoon season.

The BJP dominated Gujarat's local body elections, securing nearly 60% of the vote in municipal corporations and maintaining a strong lead across taluka panchayats, district panchayats, and municipalities. This performance underscores the party's broad electoral advantage in both urban and rural areas, with its strongest support evident in major urban centers.

The Orissa High Court has upheld the state government's 2014 notification to declare Rourkela Municipality a corporation and merge nearby villages. This ruling dismisses petitions challenging the inclusion of Scheduled Area villages, deeming the action legally valid and paving the way for long-delayed civic body polls.

Kulgaon-Badlapur Municipal Council President Ruchita Rajendra Ghorpade has been unanimously elected as the president of the Maharashtra State Nagaradhyaksha Mahasangh. This marks a significant achievement for the city, as it's the first time in the organization's 18-year history that it has secured the top post.