Mumbaikars can now directly observe how their elected representatives function, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started live-streaming its General Body meetings on social media platforms.
This marks a significant step towards transparency and public engagement in the functioning of the civic body.
This initiative comes at a crucial moment, as the BMC now has an elected body in place after a gap of three years and 10 months. Notably, this is the first time in the history of the municipal corporation that General Body proceedings are being broadcast live for the public, as reported in Mid-Day.
The sessions are being streamed on the BMC’s official YouTube channel, making it the first civic body in the country to adopt such a practice, similar to how proceedings of the Lok Sabha and various Vidhan Sabhas are televised.
Trial Phase Underway
The move is currently being implemented on a trial basis. The first test run of the live telecast was conducted on April 9, 2026. Following that, another General Body meeting took place without being streamed.
However, on Monday, the civic body successfully carried out a live broadcast of its proceedings on YouTube, signalling a gradual rollout of the initiative.
Aim: Greater Transparency And Public Access
According to a senior BMC official, the live telecast system is still being fine-tuned. Once all technical and procedural aspects are finalised, every General Body meeting is expected to be streamed live.
The official explained that the primary objective is to enhance transparency and allow citizens to witness, in real time, how their representatives raise issues and participate in discussions that impact the city.
Political Context Behind The Move
The announcement regarding the live telecast was made by Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde after a General Body meeting held on April 16.
This meeting witnessed political tension, as opposition members demanded the suspension of Leader of Opposition Kishori Pednekar over remarks she made about Bal Thackeray on the floor of the House. Pednekar briefly walked out during the proceedings and later returned, refusing to apologise for her comments.
Alongside the controversy, opposition corporators have been consistently raising concerns about the alleged allocation of lower funds to wards under their control. These issues have added to the charged atmosphere within the General Body meetings.
April 9 Marked The Beginning
The first-ever live telecast of a BMC General Body meeting took place on April 9, setting the stage for this new transparency initiative.
With further refinements expected, the civic body aims to make live streaming a regular feature, bringing governance closer to the people of Mumbai.
