BJP-led Mahayuti’s BMC Manifesto Promises AI to Track Bangladeshi, Rohingya Migrants

January 12, 2026: The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance on Sunday released its manifesto for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, outlining an ambitious agenda focused on technology-driven governance, infrastructure upgrades, women’s welfare, and migration control.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled the manifesto in Mumbai, stating that the alliance aims to transform the city into a “global powerhouse” while addressing long-standing civic issues.

A key and controversial promise in the document relates to migration.

Key Highlights:

Migration and AI: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis promised to make "Mumbai free of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas" and to develop an AI tool in coordination with IIT to identify Bangladeshi migrants. The manifesto also proposes AI solutions to curb corruption and enhance administrative efficiency.

Technology and Smart Governance: The manifesto talks about incorporating AI laboratories in all municipal schools, mobile-based citizen services, and the integration of "Japanese technology" to make urban governance more effective and efficient.

Infrastructure and Climate Resilience: IIT will design a drainage system with four new underground floodwater tanks and upgraded drainage lines. The manifesto promises a "flood-free Mumbai" within five years and allocates ₹17,000 crore for climate action.

Public Transport and Women's Welfare: Reduction of fares in BEST by 50% for women; expansion of fleet from 5,000 to 10,000 buses, with a focus on electric vehicles.

Urban Redevelopment: The Dharavi redevelopment project will upgrade micro-businesses and include previously ineligible residents. Redevelopment plans also include Koliwada and Gavthan areas to protect local communities.

Cultural Preservation: Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized promoting Marathi culture, establishing cultural centers, libraries, and a "Mumbai Fellowship" program. Mumbai's history and the Samyukta Maharashtra movement will be included in the school curriculum. Healthcare and Housing: Civic hospitals will be upgraded to AIIMS-level standards, a health card system will be introduced, tenancy issues will be resolved, and occupancy certificates will be issued for 20,000 stalled buildings. Sustainable building practices will be encouraged.

Fadnavis criticized the previous administration's 25 years of inefficiency, while the BMC has been under state-appointed administration since March 2022.

Other key promises in the manifesto include:

• Upgrading civic hospitals to AIIMS-level standards and introducing a health card system
• Resolving tenancy issues and issuing Occupancy Certificates for 20,000 stalled buildings
• Providing incentives for high-rise buildings adopting sustainable “Living Forest” practices
• Redeveloping koliwadas and gaothans to protect the identity and livelihoods of the Koli community and other original inhabitants