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Bomb threat to yatra in Nashik, Mumbai police file FIR

The Times of India 23 Dec 2024 12:29 am

After Portfolios Declared, Mahayuti Ministers Compete for District Guardian Ministership

Mumbai: After the cabinet portfolio distributions, tug of war has begun among the Maharashtra ministers over the post of guardian minister of the districts. Shiv Sena cabinet Bharat Gogawale has staked claim over Raigad district, while Sanjay Shirshat wants to become the guardian minister of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. Ajit Pawar-led NCP has control over Raigad district, while the BJP does not want to leave its claim on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. There are at least 11 districts, where two or three of Mahayuti constituents have staked their claim. In Maharashtra, a cabinet minister is made guardia minister of a particular district, which means that he or she is responsible for the overall development and implementation of government schemes in the district. He/she is also the ex-officio chairperson of the District Planning Committee (DPC), which is responsible for addressing issues of common interest between panchayats (local government bodies) and municipalities, such as infrastructure development, resource sharing and environmental protection. This gives control over the government spendings in the district, because of which the position has become important for all parties. A week ago, 39 MLAs had been administered an oath of ministerial berth and secrecy. Following this, the portfolio were allocated to them on only Saturday after a lot of deliberation among the three parties BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has kept the home department with himself, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde has got three departments including key departments like urban development and housing, while another DCM Ajit Pawar has retained the finance portfolio. After the portfolios were announced, Shiv Sena cabinet ministers started openly demanding guardian ministership of their favorite districts. Mr. Gogawale, who has been made a minister of horticulture and salt pan land development, said that he should be made the guardian minister of Raigad district. However, it is not easy for Gogawale to get the responsibility as the Ajit Pawar-led NCPs Adity Tatkare, daughter of Sunil Tatkare, is also a strong contender here. After taking darshan at Shri Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, Mr. Gogawales said he has sought blessings from lord Ganesha. I have prayed for Raigad district guardian ministership. I am hopeful that I will get it, he said. It is pertinent to note that Aditi Tatkare was the guardian minister for Raigad during the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government. After the collapse of the MVA government, Uday Samant was made the guardian minister of Raigad district and Sindhudurg district in the Eknath Shinde led Mahayuti government. NCP leader and Maharashtra agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate also said that the NCP has a natural claim over the guardian ministership of Nashik as his party has the largest number of MLAs from there. I will demand to keep Nashiks guardian ministership with us as we have seven legislators from here, Mr. Kokate said. There is also a report of a tug-of-war over Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Kolhpaur and Pune districts. While deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar will not leave his claim over Pune, senior BJP cabinet minister Chandrakant Patil is also eyeing for it. An insider in the BJP said that the guardian minister of cities like Pune is important as the corporation elections are likely to be held in the first half of 2025. Therefore, Mr. Patil has been pushing for Pune districts guardian ministership. Shiv Sena cabinet minister Sanjay Shirsat said that his party would keep the guardian ministership of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and he would be the next guardian minister. Interestingly, BJP minister Atul Save is also vying for the post. Shiv Sena also wants to continue its dominance in the Thane district, while the BJP wants the guardian ministers post for its minister Ganesh Naik. Shiv Sena leader Shambhuraj Desai wants to remain the guardian minister of Satara, where the leaders from other two parties have also joined the race. BJP cabinet minister Shivendra Raje Bhosale, descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is hoping to get the post in Satara, the NCP is also vying for it. However, Mr. Desai denied there was any competition for the Satara guardian ministership. There is no tussle in Mahayuti, he said.

Deccan Chronicle 23 Dec 2024 12:10 am

OBC leaders shocked by my exclusion from Maharashtra cabinet: Chhagan Bhujbal

The former NCP minister, who represents the Yevla constituency in Nashik district, did not attend the winter session of the state legislature that concluded in Nagpur on Saturday. He left for Nashik on the first day of the session, a day after 39 Mahayuti MLAs took oath as ministers

Mid Day 22 Dec 2024 11:00 pm

Jewellery store salesman shot dead by two bike-borne men in Thane

Thane: A 25-year-old jewellery store salesman was killed after two unidentified persons fired at him and his employer in Shahapur in Maharashtra's Thane district, a police official said on Sunday. The incident took place at 10:30pm on Saturday when deceased Dineshkumar Manaram Chaudhary, his employer and one more person had called it a day and were waiting outside Mahalaxmi Jewellers in Gotheghar area, the official said. Two motorycle-borne persons fired some rounds, which hit Chaudhary, who succumbed to his wounds some time later at a hospital in Thane. He passed away in the early hours of Sunday. They stole a bag Chaudhary was carrying, the Shahapur police station official said. Chaudhary was a salesman with Mahalaxmi Jewellers, Senior Inspector Jitendra Thakur said, adding the motive of the incident remains unclear. A probe has begun under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Milind Shinde. Road blocks have been set up in several places in the district to nab the assailants. CCTV footage from the area as well as stretches of Mumbai-Nashik highway are being checked to ascertain their route of escape, the official informed. The firing incident has caused widespread discontent among the business community in the area, with the Shahapur Trade Association asking police to nab the culprits as quickly as possible.

Deccan Chronicle 22 Dec 2024 3:09 pm

From reel to real: Drug smuggler caught from theatre during Pushpa 2 show

Nagpur: Moviegoers watching a late-night show of Pushpa 2 at a multiplex in Maharashtra's Nagpur witnessed a real-life action scene as police stormed the cinema hall and arrested a man wanted in murder and drug cases. The dramatic arrest of Vishal Meshram shortly after midnight on Thursday left the packed audience stunned, but police assured them that they could continue enjoying the movie as they nabbed the accused and took him away. Meshram was on the run for 10 months and was eventually tracked down after police learnt about his interest in the recently-released film, an official from Pachpaoli police station said on Sunday. The gangster had 27 cases against him, including two of murder and drug trafficking, and was known for his violent tendencies, even attacking police in the past, he said. Authorities had been pursuing him relentlessly, using cyber surveillance and tracking his movements in a new sports utility vehicle (SUV), the official said. After tracking him on Thursday, police deflated the vehicle's tyres outside the cinema hall, located in central part of the city, to prevent his escape, he said. When police personnel entered the hall during the movie's climax, Meshram was engrossed in the film. The police surrounded him and made the arrest swiftly, giving him no chance to resist, the official said. Meshram is currently lodged in the Nagpur Central Jail and will soon be transferred to a prison in Nashik, the police said. Pushpa 2: The Rule, the blockbuster movie starring Allu Arjun, is a sequel to 2021's Telugu film Pushpa: The Rise. It was released on December 5 with dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali and Malayalam.

Deccan Chronicle 22 Dec 2024 12:08 pm

Shiv Sena (UBT) likely to go solo in BMC election

Mumbai: After a crushing defeat in the recent Maharashtra Vidhan sabha elections, cracks are appearing in the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance as Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday hinted that his party may contest the upcoming Mumbai local body polls independently. The Sena (UBT)s hold in Mumbai is undisputed. It is necessary for Mumbai that Sena (UBT) wins in the city otherwise Mumbai would be separated from Maharashtra by the ruling alliance, said Raut. If we had more seats to contest in Mumbai (during the assembly polls), we would have won them, he added. The Shiv Sena, before its split, had controlled the BMC, Indias richest municipal corporation, for 25 consecutive years from 1997 to 2022. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party contested the April-May Lok Sabha elections in alliance with Congress and Sharad Pawars NCP under the banner of the MVA and won three out of the six seats in Mumbai. However, it could not repeat its impressive performance in the Vidhan Sabha polls, as it won only 10 of the 24 it contested out of the total 36 seats in the city. Party workers demand that Shiv Sena (UBT) should contest the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections on its own. Uddhav Thackeray will take a decision after meeting the workers, said Raut. However, the Sena (UBT) leader clarified that the MVA still exists in the state. Even before this, when we were in alliance with the BJP, we had contested elections separately. The MVA will continue in the Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Nashik civic bodies, he said. Rauts remark comes after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that the ruling Mahayuti alliance, consisting of the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, would contest the BMC elections as a united front. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, however, said it appeared that Rauts statements stemmed from frustration. They are an independent party and if the Sena wishes to go independent, its their choice. We are willing to contest in an alliance, but since Raut has presented Sena (UBT)s stance of going solo, we must seek clarity, he said. The BMC elections are expected to be held very soon as the term of the previously elected representatives in the BMC ended in March 2022. Since then, the BMC has been operating without elected representatives for nearly three years, including the COVID-19 period.

Deccan Chronicle 21 Dec 2024 11:32 pm

Maharashtra govt to prepare norms for industrial reactors to improve workers' safety

Nagpur: The Maharashtra industrial department will prepare norms and a system for inspecting industrial reactors, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the legislative council on Saturday. Fadnavis was responding to the leader of the opposition Ambadas Danve's demand for drafting a policy for reactors on the line of boilers to prevent blasts and other accidents involving industrial workers. Danve mentioned such accidents in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Mumbai, Nashik, and other industrial areas, raising concerns over the safety of workers employed in small units that use reactors. He demanded rules and policies for the regulation of reactors on lines of boilers. Fadnavis said the state industrial department will be immediately directed to frame norms and set up a system for the reactor inspection. An industrial reactor is a piece of equipment being used to create chemical reactions in various industries, including chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics.

Deccan Chronicle 21 Dec 2024 1:41 pm

Three arrested for running fake ticket collector job racket

BENGALURU: CCB sleuths arrested three men for allegedly cheating four people from Vijayapura by issuing fake ticket collector employment orders of Indian Railways. They are among eight accused. Incidentally, the victims are relatives of the main accused, and had paid Rs 80 lakh to get the posts. The victims were taken to Nashik in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh and were given fake training to make them believe it was a genuine employment process. The incident came to light when the four victims went to South Western Railway office in Bengaluru with the offer letters, to report for duty. The main accused, identified as Lakshmikanth Hosamani, 41, from Vijayapura, had collected Rs 20 lakh each from the four victims after assuring them of the ticket collectors job in the Railways. The victims are said to have paid the money in instalments for almost two years since 2022. The accused had reportedly collected cash and also money through bank transactions. Hosamani and two others sent fake employment orders to the accused online. The other five accused had posed as railway employees and reportedly given fake training to victims at Nashik and in Uttar Pradesh. When the victims went to report for duty, they found the recruitment was fake. The main accused is alleged to have threatened them when they demanded money from him. The complaint was registered at the CCB police station on December 9. A search is on for the remaining five accused, said an officer. CCB police registered a case of cheating along with other sections of the Indian Penal Code and are investigating.

The New Indian Express 21 Dec 2024 9:16 am

Onion Crisis In Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar Urges Centre To Withdraw 20% Export Duty

In his letter, Pawar elaborated on the dire situation faced by onion farmers in Maharashtra, particularly in Nashik district, where onion cultivation is a primary source of livelihood.

News18 20 Dec 2024 10:11 am

ATS Probing Terror Funds' Use In Maharashtra Polls, Says Fadnavis; Claims 'Foreign Interference' Evidence

Fadnavis referred to a case being probed in Malegaon in the state's Nashik district as well as a meeting held in Nepal which deliberated on removal of EVMs and the need for ballot papers in polls

News18 19 Dec 2024 8:27 pm

Ajit Pawar urges Centre to scrap 20% onion export duty, citing farmers plight

Pawar details the challenges confronting onion growers in Nashik, a key production centre, where falling prices are compounding their woes

The Hindu 19 Dec 2024 8:02 pm

Maharashtra: Farmers briefly halt onion auctions at Nashik after price dip

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar urged the central government to remove 20 per cent export duties and provide relief to the farmers

Mid Day 19 Dec 2024 4:42 pm

Remove 20 per cent export duty on onions: Ajit Pawar to Centre

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, has written to the Union Commerce Minister. Pawar seeks removal of the 20% export duty on onions. Nashik onion farmers face distress due to low prices. The current rate is around Rs 2,400 per quintal. Unseasonal rains and climate change have impacted earnings. The export duty makes Maharashtra onions less competitive globally.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2024 2:53 pm

Three Of Nashik Family, Including Baby, Die In Mumbai Ferry Accident

A couple and their child died in the Mumbai ferry accident on Wednesday that has claimed 13 lives so far and injured around 100 others.

NDTV 19 Dec 2024 11:20 am

Chhagan Bhujbal again takes dig at Ajit Pawar over Maharashtra Cabinet snub

Chhagan Bhujbal again takes dig at Ajit Pawar over Maharashtra Cabinet snub Nashik: Veteran NCP legislator Chhagan Bhujbal on Wednesday again took a dig at party chief and Deputy Maharashtra Chief Minister Ajit Pawar for not considering him for the Cabinet expansion exercise despite strong recommendations by Working President Praful Patel and state unit chief [] The post Chhagan Bhujbal again takes dig at Ajit Pawar over Maharashtra Cabinet snub appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Mangalorean 18 Dec 2024 6:46 pm

I Got My Lesson In 2019: Uddhav Thackeray Offers Support To Upset Bhujbal After Cabinet Snub

The 77-year-old OMC MLA from Nashik district, who was a cabinet member in the previous Mahayuti government, did not find a place in the new ministry

News18 18 Dec 2024 11:54 am

Issue with Bhujbal will be sorted within few days, I am in touch with his son and nephew: NCP state president Sunil Tatkare

NCP state president Sunil Tatkare aims to resolve the ongoing dispute with veteran leader Chhagan Bhujbal, who expressed discontent over cabinet berth exclusion. Bhujbal organized a show of strength in Nashik. Tatkare dismissed rumors of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's absence from legislative proceedings due to portfolio allocation dissatisfaction, citing health reasons instead. He anticipates a resolution with Bhujbal soon.

The Times of India 18 Dec 2024 11:32 am

MSRTC Gears Up For New Year With 1,300 New Buses Amid Rising Demand

Of these, approximately 450 buses will be deployed in key regions such as Mumbai-Pune, Nashik-Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur-Amravati, among others.

News18 18 Dec 2024 10:41 am

Am I a Toy?: NCP's Bhujbal Asks Party

Mumbai : After being denied cabinet berth in the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, disgruntled senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal on Tuesday slammed senior party leader Praful Patel and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar asking whether he was a toy in their hands. Mr. Bhujbal also claimed that chief minister Devendra Fadnavis wanted him to be part of his cabinet. He said that he was upset not because of the ministerial berth but the way he has been humiliated. Mr. Bhujbal is deliberating about his next move with his followers and supporters in Nashik. The senior NCP leader will also continue a deliberation on Wednesday with the supporters across the state. Two days after the expansion of the Maharashtra cabinet, there is unease in all three parties. NCP and Shiv Sena leaders, who could not secure a cabinet berth, are openly expressing their unhappiness. Mr. Bhujbal, one of the prominent OBC leaders of Maharashtra, has skipped the ongoing Winter Session of the Assembly and reached Nashik. The OBC leader met his supporters and announced that he would find out who denied him the ministerial berth even though the CM was in favour of his induction. The senior NCP leader told his supporters that he would soon take a decision on the future course of action. In Nashik, he told the reporters that the party has asked him to resign and go to Rajya Sabha. I have rejected this offer as the election just concluded. I have sought time of a year to two. They (the party leadership) have asked me to hold a discussion over it. But they never held a meeting on this.I am not a toy in your hand and play as per your wish.I am not the kind of person who can bend as per your instruction, Mr. Bhujbal said. Speaking with the reporters, Mr. Bhujbal said, I am informing my supporters what has happened (with me) in the last six to eight months. They have assured me that they will stand behind me whatever decision I take. Mr. Bhujbal further said that Fadnavis wanted him to become a part of the government. BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule told me that Fadnavis was insisting over your name till the last moment that I should be inducted, he claimed.

Deccan Chronicle 18 Dec 2024 1:33 am

I'm A Toy In Your Hands? Chhagan Bhujbal To Ajit Pawar Over Cabinet Expansion

Bhujbal, who is sulking over not getting a ministerial berth decided to skip the ongoing Winter Session of the House and reached Nashik on Tuesday.

NDTV 17 Dec 2024 4:21 pm

Mishap between two trucks near Kalwa disrupts traffic on the Mumbai-Nashik highway

Two trucks collided on the Mumbai-Nashik highway near Kalwa. The accident blocked both lanes. A truck carrying construction bars blew a tire and hit a container truck. Debris spilled onto the road. Traffic was stalled for hours. Commuters faced long delays. Some drivers detoured through Kalyan but still encountered heavy traffic.

The Times of India 17 Dec 2024 12:36 pm

Rejected RS seat offer week before Maharashtra cabinet expansion: NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal

NAGPUR: Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, who is disappointed at not being included in the new Mahayuti government in Maharashtra, has claimed he was offered a Rajya Sabha berth eight days ago but he rejected it. Talking to reporters in Nagpur on Monday, Bhujbal, the legislator from Yeola in Nashik district, said he rejected the Rajya Sabha seat proposal as it would amount to betrayal with his assembly constituency which he won in the state polls last month. When I wanted to be in the Rajya Sabha earlier this year, I was told that I should fight the assembly elections. I was offered the Rajya Sabha berth eight days ago which I rejected. I said I could consider the Rajya Sabha option after one or two years but not immediately, the former state minister added. Bhujbal said he had not spoken to NCP head and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar after being denied the state cabinet berth. A prominent OBC leader, Bhujbal claimed he had been excluded from the cabinet because he took on activist Manoj Jarange, who has been demanding reservation for the Maratha community in jobs and education. I stood up for the Other Backward Classes community when the Maratha quota activist was demanding its inclusion in the OBC category. The Ladki Bahin scheme and OBCs helped the Mahayuti win the elections, he said. Asked about his future course, Bhujbal, who left for Nashik after the assembly session proceedings in Nagpur were adjourned for the day on Monday, said, Let's see. Jahan nahi chaina, wahan nahi rehna. Bhujbal, who served as the food and civil supplies minister in the previous Mahayuti government, said he was upset at not being included in the new cabinet. I am an ordinary political worker. It doesn't matter if I am sidelined or rewarded, he said. Ministerial berths come and go, but I cannot be finished off, the NCP leader added. A total of 39 legislators from Mahayuti allies - BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP - were sworn in on Sunday in the first cabinet expansion of the Devendra Fadnavis-led government. Ten former ministers were dropped from the cabinet, and 16 new faces have been introduced. Former ministers Bhujbal and Dilip Walse Patil of the NCP and Sudhir Mungantiwar and Vijaykumar Gavit of the BJP were some prominent leaders who didn't make it.

The New Indian Express 17 Dec 2024 11:25 am

Rs 20K cr okayed to make Su-30, K-9 howitzers in India

The 12 SU-30MKI jets for the Indian Air Force would be licensed manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at its Nashik facility and cost around Rs 13,000 crore.

Rediff 12 Dec 2024 8:26 pm

Sharad Pawars Birthday: Currency Note Press Nashik Presents Unique Gift

NCP chief Sharad Pawar is celebrating his 85th birthday today and the Currency Note Press in Nashik has presented him with a unique gift. A decorative piece featuring the number 85 adorned with coins has been specially crafted and gifted to him. The NCP supremo graciously accepted the thoughtful gesture, reflecting the strong bond he shares with the institution. VIDEO | Country's first currency note was made in Nasik in 1924. Nasik holds unique importance as far as Indian currency is concerned. Today, it is Sharad Pawar's birthday. We have come to Delhi on this occasion because he has supported us to run these factories. We have always pic.twitter.com/xrcOwRDMku Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 12, 2024 Nashik holds a significant place in country's currency history as India's first currency note was printed in 1924 in Nashik. Officials of the Currency Note Press highlighted Pawar's support for their operations, which inspired them to offer such unique tokens of appreciation on his birthday, Other leaders including Ajit Pawar, Sunetra Pawar, and Chhagan Bhujbal visited Sharad Pawars residence in Delhi to convey their birthday wishes.

Deccan Chronicle 12 Dec 2024 10:59 am

Maharashtra: Nashik man arrested for duping Tamil Nadu scientist of Rs 5 cr with fake governor post promise

The city police have arrested a fraudster who allegedly duped a scientist from Tamil Nadu of Rs five crore by luring him to get the governor's post.

Web Dunia 10 Dec 2024 10:28 am

Nashik: Mizan, Sharik, 3 others brutally assault Hindus for commemorating Shaurya Divas on Instagram

The accused persons have been booked by the police under sections 109, 118(1), 115(2), 352, 351(3), 126(2), 189(2), 191(2), 191(3) and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyay Samhita, 2024 and section 3(2)(va) of the SC/ST Act. No arrests in the case have yet been made.

OpIndia 9 Dec 2024 5:40 pm

Vegetable prices soar in Sundargarh despite being a bulk producer; delayed cultivation blamed

ROURKELA: Sundargarh district may have been a bulk producer of vegetables but continues to grapple with spiralling prices of the essentials this winter. The rising prices have heaped additional miseries on the consumers amid prolonged inflation of all other food commodities. In fact the consumers are getting battered from all sides. Market sources at Rourkela informed among staple vegetables potato is priced at Rs 45 per kg while onion is costlier at Rs 55 per kg. For potato, Rourkela city and other markets of Sundargarh are dependent on West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh whereas Nashik largely caters to the onion needs. For other vegetable crops, the district is a bulk grower with Nuagaon block regarded as one of the leading producers of horticulture crops in Odisha. Besides Nuagaon, Bisra, Kuanrmunda, Lathikata, Lahunipada, Kutra, Bargaon, Tangarpali and several other blocks significantly contribute to vegetable production. Around this time of the year, locally-grown vegetables flood the Rourkela market, substantially bringing down the cost. Locally-grown tomato is priced around Rs 10 per kg or less, while most other vegetables sell for Rs 20 to Rs 40 per kg. This winter, however, seems to be an exception. Cauliflower is priced in the range of Rs 40-Rs 50, while bitter-gourd sells for Rs 60. Brinjal, bean, plantain and pointed-gourd are selling in the price range of Rs 50-Rs 60 per kg, while medium size bottle-gourd is available for Rs 20 per kg. Similarly, garlic is priced at Rs 360, while coriander leaf continues to be dearer at Rs 400 per kg. Limited availability vegetables like drum-stick, ladys-finger, chickpea are priced Rs 80 or above, while capsicum is priced Rs 60 per kg. Only carrot price has come down to Rs 40 from Rs 60. Cow-pea continues to be sold at Rs 40 per kg. In the kharif season, the district agriculture strategic committee had targeted to cover 36,800 ha with vegetable crops and the target was claimed to have been achieved which raises question as to why the price of the vegetables runs so high. Deputy director of horticulture of Sundargarh Sukanta Naik said he was clueless about inadequate availability of locally-grown vegetables in the local markets though the phenomenon prevails across Odisha. He believes low yield could be a reason. Some vegetable farmers cited delayed and erratic monsoon to be the culprit and pointed out that most vegetable farmers delayed vegetable cultivation which is why standing crops would take 15 days to a month to reach the markets.

The New Indian Express 9 Dec 2024 10:03 am

Father-son duo running Madrasas in UP held for enabling cyber-fraudsters to park 'digital arrest' money

BHOPAL: A father-son duo, found to be running Madrasas in Kannauj district of Uttar Pradesh, have been arrested by the Madhya Pradesh police, for enabling an inter-state racket of cyber fraudsters in parking the proceeds of money extorted through the menace of digital arrest. The duo identified as Ali Ahmad Khan (69) and his 36-year-old son Asad Ahmad Khan has been arrested by the Indore polices crime branch from the Kannauj district of UP. Following investigations into extortion of Rs 46 lakh from a 69-year-old woman in Indore in September via digital arrest. The unidentified cyber fraudsters had extorted Rs 46 lakh from an elderly woman from Indore in September this year, after keeping her in digital arrest for five days, posing as officials of TRAI, CBI and other enforcement agencies. The Indore police crime branchs probe revealed that one of the two bank accounts in which the aged woman was made to transfer Rs 40 lakh and Rs 6 lakh were opened just nine days before the alleged extortion and fraud happened. The probe took the Indore cops to the Kannauj district of UP, where it was found that Rs 40 lakh was parked initially in an account held in the name of Falah Daren Madrasa Samiti. The Samiti run by the father-son duo was found to be running 2-3 Madrasas in UP, including Kannauj districts Satoura area. According to cops privy to the ongoing probe, the primary grilling of the father-son duo has revealed that the current account opened by them in September to run the Madrasas was used to park Rs 40 lakh, after talking to a caller who rang them from a Mauritius number (which may be a masked VoIP call). The caller promised to render them a 50% commission out of the parked money, after which the fraud money was parked in their account. Weve gathered details of nine accounts held by the duo and their kin, including in the name of the committee formed to run the Madrasas. While the father-son duo are being grilled to know much about their involvement in the cyber extortion-fraud, transactions in the other eight accounts held by them and those related to them will also be probed in detail, once weve details of those transactions, one of the cops forming part of the probe said. The sum of Rs 40 lakh and Rs 6 lakh which was deposited by the elderly woman in two accounts initially under threat from the cyber fraudsters in September, was subsequently diverted to 18 other bank accounts operating in multiple states of the country. These 18 bank accounts in multiple states were not just used to divert the money extorted from Indore, but a much bigger sum totalling Rs 1.5 crore, including money derived from similar extortion fraud from victims in Chennai and Nashik. According to additional DCP (crime-Indore) Rajesh Dandotiya, Our teams are working in the case in multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, from where the father-son duo has been held for allowing the cyber fraudsters to park the illegal money.

The New Indian Express 8 Dec 2024 10:02 pm

Suryakiran aerobatic team to dazzle once again at Hussainsagar on Sunday

Hyderabad: The Suryakiran aerobatic team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will dazzle once again with a mesmerising aerobatic display over the picturesque Hussainsagar on Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm. The team leader is a Su-30 MKI pilot Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi. He and his team the Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy here on Saturday. The airshow will surely be an event to remember for the spectators as these air devils will perform breath-taking aerobatic manoeuvres such as loops, rolls, crosses and inverted flying. The event is being conducted as part of the Indian Air Force Outreach Programme. For more information and all the latest updates, follow the team on social media on Instagram (@suryakiran_iaf), X(@Suryakiran_IAF) and Facebook (@SuryakiranAerobaticTeam) and Youtube (@Suryakiran_IndianAirForce). Suryakiran aerobatic team also called SKAT was established in 1996. This team holds the coveted title of being the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia, and is one of the elite few teams in the world. This exceptional team has performed over 700 displays across India, while also representing the professionalism of the IAF at international air shows in countries such as China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and the UAE. The Suryakiran team consists of 9 Hawk Mk 132 aircraft flying in extremely close proximity at a distance of merely 5 metres. There are 12 pilots in the team. The team leader is a Su-30 MKI pilot Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi. The Deputy Leader is Group Captain Sidhesh Kartik. Other pilots include Squadron Leader Jasdeep Singh, Squadron Leader Himkhush Chandel, Squadron Leader Ankit Vashisth, Squadron Leader Vishnu, Squadron Leader Diwakar Sharma, Squadron Leader Gaurav Patel, Wing Commander Rajesh Kajla, Wing Commander Arjun Patel, Wing Commander Kuldeep Hooda and Wing Commander Allen George. Their technical team is led by Wing Commander Abhimanyu Tyagi, Squadron Leader Sandeep Dhayal and Flight Lieutenant Manil Sharma. The teams commentator and administrator is Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu and the teams doctor is Squadron Leader Sudharshan. All members live by the teams motto Sadaiva Sarvottam meaning Always the Best! SKAT embodies the spirit of excellence. The pilots undergo intensive training to master complex aerobatic manoeuvres, with their expertise and flawless coordination forming the foundation of the close formation flying. The aircraft flown by the Suryakiran Team is the Hawk Mk 132 advanced jet trainer. This aircraft is used to impart fighter flying training to the newly commissioned pilots of the Indian Air Force. This aircraft is proudly made in India today by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) showcasing the nations aviation technology. Recently, the Suryakiran Teams Hawk Mk 132 aircraft have undergone a significant indigenous modification i.e the integration of smoke pods capable of producing colored smoke. This advancement was developed within India at Indian Air Forces Base Repair Depot, Nashik and allows the team to display the colors of the national flagsaffron, white, and greenacross the sky during their aerial performances. This enhancement not only adds visual impact to the displays but also serves as a powerful symbol of national pride, celebrating Indias achievements in aerospace engineering and innovation.

Deccan Chronicle 7 Dec 2024 3:32 pm

Vote scam: ED seizes Rs 13.5 cr after multiple raids in Mumbai, Ahmedabad

Mumbai: In another major swoop, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) carried out raids at seven locations in Mumbai and Ahmedabad and seized proceeds of alleged crimes worth Rs 13.50 crore, an official said here on Saturday. The seizure pertains to a case lodged on November 7 against the Nashik Merchant Cooperative (NAMCO) Bank, in Malegaon Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 7 Dec 2024 12:49 pm

Former Maharashtra Minister Madhukar Pichad passes away in Nashik

Former Maharashtra Cabinet Minister and senior BJP leader Madhukar Pichad died while he was undergoing brain stroke treatment in a Nashik hospital

The Hindu 6 Dec 2024 9:44 pm

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Dates, Place, Key Rituals, Attractions And More

The sacred festival of Kumbh Mela happens four times over the course of 12 years, across the cities of Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik and Prayagraj in rotation.

Bloomberg Quint 6 Dec 2024 10:28 am

Sitharaman blames `Congress-led MVA govt' for delaying bullet train, Metro car shed projects

Mumbai: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday accused the past Congress-led government of stalling key infrastructure projects in Maharashtra including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train and Mumbai Metro car shed in Aarey Colony. The previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of the Congress, undivided Nationalist Congress Party, and undivided Shiv Sena also created hurdles when the Union government tried to resolve the issues plaguing Mumbai's suburban railway network, she claimed. Sitharaman was speaking at a meeting of the state BJP legislature party where Devendra Fadnavis was elected as its leader ahead of the swearing-in of the new BJP-led government. Sitharaman, along with Vijay Rupani, was present as a central observer. Had the Congress-led government not been in power in Maharashtra during the MVA period, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train would have already commenced, she said. Sitharaman also questioned the delay in the Aarey car shed construction, part of the Mumbai Metro project. The MVA government had shifted its location after environmental groups opposed its construction in the leafy Aarey Colony area. She called the results of the November 20 Maharashtra assembly polls unprecedented and unexpected, attributing the BJP's success to voter dissatisfaction with the earlier Congress-led MVA government. The people were tired and concerned about the functioning of the Congress-led coalition. That is why they have given this clear mandate. We will remind people of the losses incurred during Congress rule, she said. A double-engine government (a BJP-led regime in a state working in tandem with the party-led Union government) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership would fulfill the promises made during the campaign and take Maharashtra towards speedy development, Sitharaman said. She referred to key central government initiatives for the state, such as the Rs 76,000 crore Vadhavan port project and the recognition of Marathi as a classical language. Mumbai is the financial capital of the country and plays a pivotal role in economic progress, including the fintech sector. With our efforts, Maharashtra's leadership in this field will remain intact, she said. The finance minister also outlined plans to boost agricultural infrastructure in north Maharashtra's Nashik region, with investments in new godowns and scientific packaging units for crops such as onion, garlic, and grapes. Projects like the Warkari corridor between Pune and the pilgrimage town of Pandharpur reflect how much Maharashtra and its culture mean to the prime minister, she said. Let's make Maharashtra a powerful state. Hum ek hai to safe hai (united we are safe), she said to the newly-elected party MLAs.

Deccan Chronicle 4 Dec 2024 3:00 pm

When is Maha Kumbh Mela: Know Dates, Location, Historical and Spiritual Significance...

The Maha Kumbh Mela , one of the largest and most revered religious gatherings in the world, is set to take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025 . This grand Hindu festival attracts millions of devotees and visitors, who come together to take a ritual dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Spiritual Significance of Kumbh Mela The Maha Kumbh Mela is a celebration of faith, devotion, and renewal. For many participants, it represents an opportunity for spiritual awakening and cleansing. Bathing in the holy rivers during this festival is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul, providing a fresh spiritual start. Historical Roots of Kumbh Mela The origins of the Kumbh Mela lie in ancient Hindu mythology. According to the scriptures, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a divine pitcher (Kumbh) containing the nectar of immortality was created. A fierce battle ensued between the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) for possession of this nectar. Legend has it that drops of the nectar fell at four sacred locations on EarthPrayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashikduring the tussle. These sites are now the rotating venues of the Kumbh Mela, with the Maha Kumbh Mela being held every 12 years in Prayagraj. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and serves as a time of spiritual reflection and community bonding. Here are the importat dates to save for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima, January 14, Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan), January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan), February 3, Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan), February 4, Achla Saptami, February 12, Maghi Purnima, February 26, 2025: Maha Shivratri (Final Snan) How is the Kumbh Mela Celebrated? The core ritual of the Kumbh Mela involves pilgrims taking a holy dip in the sacred rivers at designated locations. Devotees believe that immersing themselves in these waters during the auspicious period cleanses their sins and brings spiritual merit. Apart from bathing, the festival features prayers, religious discourses, and cultural events. Sadhus (holy men) from different sects gather in large numbers, displaying unique traditions and spiritual practices. It is also a time for devotees to connect with their faith, seek blessings, and experience unity among diverse communities. Known as one of the largest peaceful congregations on Earth, the Maha Kumbh Mela attracts millions of people, including international visitors, spiritual seekers, and photographers eager to capture the vibrant atmosphere. The event is not just a religious festival but also a global cultural phenomenon that highlights the richness of India's heritage and spirituality. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Where To Stay? Tips for Finding Accommodation and More....

News Track 30 Nov 2024 4:11 pm

Sharad Pawar to form legal team to examine EVM tamperingconcerns

NCP-SP only won 10 seats in Assembly election; losing candidates say vote tallies in their strongholds do not reflect voters sentiments; claim suspiciously similar vote counts for winning candidates in Nashik

The Hindu 26 Nov 2024 10:43 pm

Radisson Hotel Group debuts Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in Odisha, Maharashtra

MUMBAI, Nov 25: Radisson Hotel Group on Monday announced the signing of 62-key and 55-key Park Inn & Suites by Radisson in Odishas Puri and Maharashtras Nashik, respectively. With this, the group will have its second hotel in Odisha and 12th in Maharashtra. It also marks the global hospitality groups debut of the Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in both locations, it said in a statement. Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Nashik is scheduled to [] The post Radisson Hotel Group debuts Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in Odisha, Maharashtra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 25 Nov 2024 4:11 pm

Raut demands re-election, alleges irregularities in EVMs during Maharashtra polls

Mumbai: Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday demanded a re-election in Maharashtra using ballot papers, claiming there were irregularities with the electronic voting machines (EVMs). Talking to reporters, Raut alleged several complaints about EVMs malfunctioning and questioned the integrity of the recently held elections. The BJP-led Mahayuti won 230 out of 288 seats in the assembly elections, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi managed 46 seats, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning just 20 out of 95 seats it contested. We have received nearly 450 complaints regarding EVMs. Despite raising objections repeatedly, no action has been taken on these issues. How can we say these elections were conducted fairly? Hence, I demand that the results be set aside and elections be held again using ballot papers, Raut said. Citing some instances, he said a candidate in Nashik reportedly received only four votes despite having 65 votes from his family, while in Dombivli, discrepancies were found in EVM tallies, and election officials refused to acknowledge the objections. The Sena (UBT) leader also questioned the credibility of the landslide victories of some candidates, saying, What revolutionary work have they done to receive more than 1.5 lakh votes? Even leaders who recently switched parties have become MLAs. This raises suspicions. For the first time, a senior leader like Sharad Pawar has expressed doubts about EVMs, which cannot be ignored. Asked about the MVA's poor performance in the elections, Raut rejected the idea of blaming a single individual. We fought as a united MVA. Even a leader like Sharad Pawar, who commands immense respect in Maharashtra, faced defeat. This shows that we need to analyse the reasons behind the failure. One of the reasons is EVM irregularities and the misuse of the system, unconstitutional practices, and even judicial decisions left unresolved by Justice Chandrachud, he said. Raut stressed that though internal differences might have existed within the MVA, the failure was collective. He also accused the Mahayuti of conducting the elections in an unfair manner. I cannot call the elections fair given the numerous reports of discrepancies in EVMs, mismatched numbers, and vote irregularities across the state, Raut said.

Deccan Chronicle 25 Nov 2024 2:01 pm

More women vote, but fewer elected in battle for Maharashtra

MUMBAI: The Mahayuti governments Ladki Bahin scheme may have helped increase women voters turnout in the Maharashtra assembly polls, but only 21 women got elected this time against 24 in the previous election. According to the Election Commission data, of the 4126 candidates in the fray, 250 were women including independents. Out of the 250 women candidates, only 21 got elected to the assembly. The BJP has the largest elected women MLAs 10 out of 14 candidates. Two women candidates of Shiv Sena (Shinde) got elected, four from Ajit Pawar-led NCP and one from the Congress. The elected BJP women MLAs include Shweta Mahale from Chikhali, Meghna Bordikar from Jintur, Devyani Farande from Nashik Central, Seema Hire from Nashik West, Manda Mhatre from Belapur, Manisha Chaudhary from Dahisar, Vidya Thakur from Goregaon, Madhuri Misal from Parvati, Monika Rajale from Shevgaon and Namita Mundada from Kaij, Sreejaya Chavan from Bhokar, Sulabha Gaikwad from Kalyan East, Sneha Pandit from Vasai, and Anuradha Chavan from Phulambri. Shiv Senas women MLAs include Manjula Gavit from Sakri and Sanjana Jadhav from Kannada. NCPs elected women candidates include Sulabha Khodke (Amravati), Saroj Ahire (Deolali), Sana Malik (Anushakti Nagar) and Aditi Tatkare (Shrivardh). In the 2019 assembly elections, the BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP had fielded 45 women, of whom 24 women were elected to the 288-member assembly. The women representation percentage was 8% against 7% this time. Though the state and Central governments launched schemes for women empowerment, representation of women is sliding, said a political analyst. Political parties are always reluctant to field women candidates arguing that they face difficulty to get elected.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2024 7:37 am

21 women among 288 winning candidates in Maharashtra; only 1 from oppn side

Mumbai: As many as 21 women candidates have emerged winner in the elections to the 288-seat Maharashtra assembly, with only one of them from the opposition, according to the poll results. The BJP accounted for the highest number of 14 women candidates emerging victorious, including 10 who were re-elected: Shweta Mahale (Chikli constituency), Meghana Bordikar (Jintur), Devyani Farande (Nashik Central), Seema Hiray (Nashik West), Manda Mhatre (Belapur), Manisha Chaudhari (Dahisar), Vidya Thakur (Goregaon), Madhuri Misal (Parvati), Monica Rajale (Shevgaon) and Namita Mundada (Kaij). The four new women winners of the BJP are Shreejaya Chavan (Bhokar), Sulabha Gaikwad (Kalyan East), Sneha Pandit (Vasai) and Anuradha Chavan (Fulambari), as per the poll results announced by the Election Commission on Saturday. Manjula Gavit (Sakri) and Sanjana Jadhav (Kannad) were elected on the ruling Shiv Sena tickets. Sulbha Khodke (Amravati), Saroj Ahire (Deolali), Sana Malik (Anushaktinagar) and Aditi Tatkare (Shrivardhan) won on the ruling NCP tickets. Congress' Jyoti Gaikwad (Dhavari) will be the lone woman MLA from the opposition's side.

Deccan Chronicle 24 Nov 2024 11:27 am

BJP retains stronghold in Nashik city, wins all 3 seats

The Times of India 24 Nov 2024 12:27 am

Nashik assembly elections 2024: Who is winning in Dindori, Igatpuri and other 13 constituencies of Nashik

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is poised to retain power in Maharashtra, leading in a majority of assembly seats as vote counting continues. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi trails behind, with early trends indicating a significant victory for the incumbent alliance.

The Economic Times 23 Nov 2024 10:22 am

HC fines Nashik jailor for rejecting parole to inmate

The Bombay High Court has imposed a Rs 25,000 fine on a Nashik prison jailor for illegally rejecting a prisoner's parole application. The court stated that the jailor's decision contravened the law and was based on a government circular that is inconsistent with existing prison rules. The court has ordered the jailor to reconsider the parole application and forward it to the appropriate authority for a decision.

Rediff 21 Nov 2024 5:31 pm

Over 10,000 kg silver seized from truck in Maharashtra on polling day

MUMBAI: Police seized 10,080 kg of silver from a truck in Maharashtra's Dhule district on the day of polling for the state assembly elections, an official said. Polling for 288 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra was held between 7 am and 6 pm on Wednesday. The seizure was made from the truck headed towards Nagpur under Thalner police station limits at around 6 am on Wednesday during a routine check-up, Special Inspector General of Police, Nashik, Dattatray Karale said. Poll expenditure observers and the Income Tax department have been informed by the police. Prima facie, the silver is owned by a bank, the official said, adding further action will be taken after verification. Since October 15, state and central agencies have seized assets of Rs 706.98 crore as part of enforcement activities. These include illegal cash, liquor, narcotics and precious metals, poll authorities said on Wednesday.

The New Indian Express 21 Nov 2024 9:43 am

Maharashtra assembly elections: Naxal-hit Gadchiroli district scores highest turnout, Mumbai lowest

MUMBAI: An estimated 64.72% voter turnout was recorded in the Maharashtra assembly elections on Wednesday, where the ruling BJP-led MahaYuti alliance is making a determined bid to retain power and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition is hoping to continue its good showing in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The figures are provisional, election officials said, adding 61.74% polling was recorded in the 2019 assembly elections in the state. The Naxal-affected Gadchiroli district recorded the top turnout of 73.68%, while the countrys financial capital Mumbai saw the lowest at 51.41%. In the 2019 polls, Mumbais polling figure stood at 52.07%. In the MahaYuti alliance, the BJP is contesting 149 seats, Shiv Sena 81, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP fielded candidates in 59 constituencies. In the oppositions MVA combine, the Congress fielded 101 candidates, Shiv Sena (UBT) 95, and NCP (SP) put up 86 candidates. BSP fielded 237 candidates, while AIMIM putting up 17 candidates. The MVA combine had performed well in this years Lok Sabha polls by securing 30 out of 48 seats in the state. Several Bollywood celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar and Ranbir Kapoor, cast their votes adding a touch of glamour to the polling day. The voting for the 288 assembly seats began at 7 am and people sealed the fate of over 4,100 contesting candidates across 1,00,186 booths, an increase from 96,654 in the 2019 elections. In the high-voltage election, physical fights broke out between MVA and MahaYuti workers at some places. In Baramati, Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) candidate Yugendra Pawars mother Sharmila complained that in the polling booth, deputy CM Ajit Pawar-led NCP workers were blocking the entry of people and asking them to vote for the Ajit faction. In Beed districts Parli, party workers allegedly belonging to NCP minister Dhananjay Munde assaulted Sharad Pawar-led NCPs local worker. The video of this assault got viral on social media. NCP workers even vandalised polling booths by breaking EVMs. Beed Collector Avinash Pathak said the administration replaced the damaged EVMs. We are taking strict action in such incidents, he said. The NCP (SP) candidate from Parli assembly constituency, Rajesaheb Deshmukh claimed that a CCTV camera was disabled at a polling booth in Dharmapuri in the constituency. A bitter fight was witnessed in Nashik, where Shiv Sena MLA Suhas Kande allegedly threatened independent candidate Sameer Bhujbal over voter fraud in the Nandgaon constituency. Sameer Bhujbal is nephew of NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal. In Mumbais Sion, BJP MLC Prasad Lad and Pravin Darekar involved in a fight with police. BJP, Cong key players In MahaYuti, the BJP is contesting 149 seats, Shiv Sena 81, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP in 59 constituencies. In oppositions MVA combine, the Congress fielded 101 candidates, Shiv Sena (UBT) 95, and NCP (SP) put up 86. Fadnavis in RSS HQ Deputy CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis visited the RSS HQ in Nagpur after voting for the assembly polls concluded. Fadnavis is seeking another term from the Nagpur South West segment.

The New Indian Express 21 Nov 2024 7:39 am

Maharashtra Voting Marred by Hooliganism, MCC Violation Allegations

Mumbai: Maharashtras image of holding peaceful elections was marred on Wednesday as the state witnessed several alleged incidents of distribution of money and hooliganism during the voting. In Nandgaon constituency of Nashik district, Shiv Sena legislator Suhas Kande allegedly threatened independent candidate Sameer Bhujbal with death during a confrontation over accusations of voter fraud. According to the officials, Kande and Bhujbal as well as their supporters had a heated exchange of words at a polling centre in Nandgaon after the independent candidate raised objection over the authenticity of some voters in the segment. As police attempted to intervene, Kande allegedly threatened Bhujbal, stating in Marathi, Tujha murder fix aahe aaj (your murder is fixed today). The threat was captured on video. While Bhujbal has initiated legal proceedings against Kande, the latter, however, said the incident was misrepresented. I did not name Sameer Bhujbal. I only warned those fighting to stop, as it would result in someones death, he said. In the high-profile constituency of Baramati, NCP (SP) candidate Yugendra Pawars mother alleged intimidation and bogus voting by workers of the rival NCP led by sitting MLA Ajit Pawar. When we objected to it, a few people intimidated us and threatened our party activists, said Yugendras mother, Sharmila Pawar. She said a complaint will be lodged with the Election Commission in this regard. Yugendra Pawar, a grandnephew of NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar is pitted against his uncle and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati. However, Ajit Pawar denied the allegations and said that, on the contrary, their party activists were being threatened. Ajit Pawar said, Sharmila Pawars allegations are completely false. If a complaint has been filed, the Election Commission and the police will investigate, he said. In chief minister Eknath Shindes Kopri-Pachpakhadi constituency, a case has been filed against the Shiv Sena UBT candidate Kedar Dighe for allegedly possessing liquor and cash. Kedar Dighe is the nephew of late Anand Dighe, a mentor of CM Shinde. According to the FIR filed at the Kopri police station, Kedar Dighe and a few others were allegedly caught with envelopes of cash and bottles of liquor at Ashtavinayak Chowk around 2 am. Kedar Dighe has been charged under Section 174 of the Indian Penal Code for undue influence in an election. However, he has denied the allegations against him. On the social media platform X, Kedar Dighe wrote that nothing wrong was found in his car. He claimed that the incident was an attempt by his opponents to defame him and he had personally brought the car to the police station. He also called the situation politically motivated. A polling booth was vandalised and a worker of the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) was assaulted in Parli constituency, from where minister Dhananjay Munde of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP is seeking re-election. Madhav Jadhav, a local leader of the Sharad Pawar-led party was assaulted in Parli and the video of the assault went viral on social media, after which a polling booth at Ghatnandur in the constituency was vandalised. Some people entered the polling booth at Ghatnandur, threw the EVM on the ground and damaged the furniture in the booth, the official said. Beed Collector Avinash Pathak said that after some persons tried to damage EVMs at Ghatnandur, the administration replaced the EVMs and voting resumed. Three unidentified persons allegedly opened fire at Shiv Sena candidate Bhausaheb Kambles car in Shrirampur in the early hours of Wednesday. The three persons riding two motorcycles targeted Kambles car on the day of polling. The bullets, however, didnt hit the car and Kamble, a police official said. Sanjay Nirupam, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena candidate from Dindoshi in Mumbai, has alleged that his party worker was attacked by activists of rival Shiv Sena (UBT). The attack was carried out by Muslim supporters of Shiv Sena (UBT), he claimed. Hundreds of Muslim workers of Shiv Sena (UBT) were trying to influence voters and obstructing, Nirupam said. NCP (SP) spokesperson Nitesh Karale from Wardha constituency claimed that he was assaulted by two BJP supporters near a polling station. He said the incident took place at Umri Meghe when he was returning after casting his vote. Karale said he filed a police complaint about the alleged assault. A flying squad of the Election Commission seized Rs 60 lakh in the Rajura constituency in Chandrapur district. Poll officials raided a house at Gadchandur and confiscated the cash and some campaign material.

Deccan Chronicle 21 Nov 2024 1:29 am

Violence, intimidation, EVM glitches mar Maharashtra polls

In Nashik districts Nandgaon constituency, scuffle broke out between Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena candidate Suhas Kande and Independent candidate Sameer Bhujbal, nephew of top NCP (Ajit Pawar) leader Chaggan Bhujbal at a polling centre

The Hindu 20 Nov 2024 10:27 pm

Aaj tujha murder fix: Sena MLA Suhas Kande threatens independent candidate Sameer Bhujbal in Nashik (VIDEO)

The supporters of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) candidate Suhas Kande and Independent candidate Sameer Bhujbal, nephew of state minister and senior NCP (AP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal, in Nandgaon constituency of the district on Wednesday, when the polling ...

Web Dunia 20 Nov 2024 3:34 pm

Another Onion Express from Nashik arrives in Delhi, one more expected in next two days

An Onion Express train carrying 1,341 tonnes of onions arrived in Delhi from Nashik to combat rising prices. This initiative aims to benefit both farmers and consumers. Another train with a similar quantity is scheduled to arrive within two days. This follows the removal of the minimum export price on onions and previous export restrictions.

The Economic Times 17 Nov 2024 1:26 pm

Fragmentation muddies the poll picture in north-west Maharashtra

Dindori and Kalwan to see a fight between the establishment and change,while Nashik witnesses a contest between strands of political Hinduism

The Hindu 15 Nov 2024 10:54 pm

ED raids in Maharasthra, Gujarat in bank accounts 'fraud', 'cash-for-votes' case'

The federal agency is searching 23 premises in Malegaon, Nashik and Mumbai in Maharashtra and Ahmedabad and Surat in Gujarat under the provisions of the PMLA

The Hindu 14 Nov 2024 1:55 pm

ED Raids 24 Locations in Maharashtra and Gujarat Over Alleged 'Vote Jihad' Scheme

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has raided 24 locations across Maharashtra and Gujarat in connection with a suspected case of vote jihad. The investigation is centered around the illegal opening of multiple bank accounts using fake documents and fraudulent Know Your Customer (KYC) processes. According to ED sources, the raids are targeting financial fraud activities where accounts were allegedly created with false information. These accounts are believed to have been used to manipulate the electoral process, potentially influencing elections by illegal means. The ED's investigation is focusing on how the banking system was misused to distort public representation and the democratic process. Raid Locations The raids are being carried out in several prominent cities across Maharashtra and Gujarat. In Ahmedabad, 13 locations are being searched, along with 3 in Surat, 2 in Malegaon, 1 in Nashik, and 5 in Mumbai. During these operations, officials have seized important documents and evidence that will aid the investigation. Investigation and Future Actions The ED has made it clear that the investigation will be thorough, considering the seriousness of the crime. Those under suspicion will be included in the probe, and further actions will be taken accordingly. Authorities are also expected to implement stricter monitoring measures at banking and financial institutions to prevent similar frauds in the future. This case raises serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the banking system in India, and the ED is determined to uncover and halt any illegal activities related to it. Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: Reservation Policies and the Maratha Demand at the Forefront 'Mera Booth Sabse Mazboot': PM Modi to Interact with BJP Workers on Nov 16 How BJP's 2024 Maharashtra Manifesto Promises Economic Growth and Social Welfare for All

News Track 14 Nov 2024 12:11 pm

ED raids in Maha, Gujarat in Malegaon trader bank accounts fraud case

Mumbai: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided multiple locations in poll-bound Maharashtra and neighbouring Gujarat as part of a money laundering probe against a Malegaon-based trader who allegedly misused bank accounts of various people to carry our transactions worth more than Rs 100 crore. The federal agency is searching 23 premises in Malegaon, Nashik and Mumbai in Maharashtra and Ahmedabad and Surat in Gujarat under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Polls for the 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra are slated to be held in a single phase on November 20. The money laundering case stems from a Malegaon Police FIR filed last week against a local trader named Siraj Ahmed Harun Meman, who runs a tea and cold drinks agency apart from some of his associates. The complainant in the case is a man whose bank account was allegedly misused for illegal transactions triggering speculation that the accounts were misused for routing election funds. It is alleged that the main accused took KYC details of about a dozen people to open bank accounts in the Nashik Merchant Cooperative Bank as he told these persons that he wanted to start a corn business and hence needs to take money from farmers. The accused allegedly got opened two more accounts taking KYC documents from his friends. These 14 accounts were opened between September and October, according to sources. The ED has found debit and credit entries worth more than Rs 100 crore each and is now conducting the searches to get more evidence, including the role of some Hawal operatives, the sources said. The agency suspects that the accused may be using these funds to divert and route funds for some people by misusing the banking credentials of common people and using them as mule accounts. The angle of misusing the accounts for electoral malpractice are also been looked at. However, no such inputs have been gathered so far, the sources said.

Deccan Chronicle 14 Nov 2024 11:54 am

Legal Briefs | Telangana HC seeks action against Qazi for child marriages

Hyderabad : Justice Surepalli Nanda of the Telangana High Court has directed the principal secretary of the minority welfare department to take appropriate legal action against Qazi Mohammad Zaheeruddin, who is accused of performing marriages between young girls and older Arab sheikhs. This directive comes in response to a writ petition filed by Ahmed Shujauddin Quadri, a government-appointed Qazi serving in the Jahanuma Zone (Ghazibanda). Quadri challenged the authorities' failure to act on a report submitted by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in July 2021, which allegedly detailed misconduct by Zaheeruddin. According to Quadri, since his appointment in 2008, Zaheeruddin, who serves as the Additional Qazi of Qila Mohammednagar, appointed several Naib Qazis (assistant qazis) to assist in conducting Muslim marriages. Quadri alleged that Zaheeruddin and his Naib Qazis were involved in performing illegal marriages between young Muslim girls and older Arab sheikhs. Multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against the Naib Qazis for facilitating child marriages. Despite being suspended in 2017 for similar offenses, Zaheeruddin allegedly continued these activities. Three additional FIRs were registered against him for performing child marriages after his suspension. Quadri expressed frustration over the lack of action taken against Zaheeruddin, leading him to approach the High Court once again. In an earlier proceeding, the High Court had directed the assistant commissioner of police to investigate the matter based on Quadri's representation. The resulting report was submitted to the commissioner of police and subsequently forwarded to the principal secretary of the minority welfare department. However, Quadri alleged that no action was taken after the submission of the report, prompting the latest court intervention. In his defence, Zaheeruddin argued that no complaints were made against him by any victims or their families, suggesting that the allegations were motivated by personal vendetta. He claimed that a boundary dispute over their respective jurisdictions as qazis had led to animosity between him and Quadri. Zaheeruddin contended that Quadri had been filing false and frivolous complaints against him as a form of revenge. He also pointed out that he had filed a separate writ petition challenging his suspension by the State Minorities Welfare Department through a Government Order dated September 25, 2017. Zaheeruddin asserted that his suspension was carried out without giving him an opportunity to present his side, violating principles of natural justice. Furthermore, he stated that no charges had been formally filed against him, as investigations were still ongoing and police had yet to file charge sheets in the said crimes. After reviewing submissions from both parties, Justice Nanda observed that the respondent department's response included details of several cases registered against Zaheeruddin and his Naib Qazis. Taking into account all allegations and the report from the assistant commissioner of police, the judge directed the minority welfare department to initiate appropriate action against Zaheeruddin under Section 2 of the Khazi Act, 1880. HC orders release of SI detained in Nashik The Telangana High Court ordered immediate release of Sadam Krishna, sub-inspector, detained under the guise of registering an FIR by Mumbai Naka police station at Nashik with regard to a custodial death. Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy was dealing with a writ petition filed by N. Gopi Krishna, the brother of the detainee. Y. Soma Srinath Reddy, counsel for the petitioner, argued that the deceased, Vijay Budhu Dirari, was a criminal involved in approximately 27 cases including one registered at Shamshabad police station. The petitioner would contend that the detainee was acting within his official duties and travelled to Nashik, Maharashtra, to execute the arrest in a case registered by the Shamshabad police station. The Station House Officer at Pachavati Police Station in Nashik was duly notified before and after the arrest. However, while the deceased was being brought to Hyderabad, in transit, he allegedly committed suicide at a guest house. Following the incident, Mumbainaka police station in Nashik started an inquiry under provisions Criminal Procedure Code 1973 to investigate the circumstances of the death. The inquiry, conducted by the additional superintendent of police, state CID Nashik, reportedly concluded that the death of the deceased occurred while in police custody. Consequently, a case was registered, and charges were altered among other things to include abetment of suicide. Counsel for the petitioner contended that the prosecution under Section 306 IPC was unsustainable due to the protection provided under Section 197 CrPC, which shields public officials acting in their official capacity. The judge prima facie found that the charges under Section 306 IPC to be unsustainable and directed the commissioner of police, Nashik Commissionerate, and others to forthwith release the sub-inspector. However, the judge required that the detainee shall report to the Station House Officer, Bachupally police station, every alternate day between 9 am and 10 am until further orders. The matter will now be heard on December 9. ZPHS headmaster not to dismiss cooks Justice T. Vinod Kumar of Telangana High Court passed an interim order preventing the headmaster of Zilla Parishad High School (ZPHS) for boys in Nagarkurnool, from terminating the services of workers responsible for preparing mid-day meals, without adhering to due process. This interim order came in response to a writ plea filed by Kubra Fatima and seven others, who are cooks and helpers in the school. The petitioners allege that the school authorities abruptly and unjustly terminated their employment and contended that they were providing mid-day meal services at the school for over 10 years. The case of the petitioners is that on November 11, 2024, the school headmaster instructed them to discontinue their services without any formal notice, inquiry, or explanation. The petitioners argued that this action violated principles of natural justice and contravened guidelines established in a GO dated November 25, 2002, which regulate employment practices for mid-day meal workers. In response, the Government Pleader appearing for the respondent authorities contended that Fatima, one of the petitioners, previously submitted a letter on June 14, 2024, requesting to step down from her duties, and presented a copy of this letter to the court. However, the petitioners disputed this claim, contending that no formal notice or termination order was ever issued. After hearing the parties, the judge passed an interim direction prohibiting the school authorities from terminating the remaining cooks and helpers without following proper procedures. The judge also directed the respondent authorities to file their responses.

Deccan Chronicle 14 Nov 2024 1:09 am

BJP promises strict anti-conversion law, skill census in Maharashtra

Mumbai: The BJP on Sunday promised to enact an-anti conversion law with stringent provisions in Maharashtra, and also assured a skill census for training as per industry needs as well as free ration to low-income families. Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled in Mumbai the 25-point 'Sankalp Patra 2024', as per which the financial assistance component under the Mahayuti government's Ladki Bahin scheme for women will be increased from Rs 1,500 per month to Rs 2,100. The BJP, in its manifesto for the November 20 state assembly polls, also promised to create 25 lakh job opportunities and assured 10 lakh students will get a stipend of Rs 10,000 every month. The ruling Mahayuti comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and NCP led by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. The BJP's manifesto promised that an anti-conversion law will be enacted with provides for stringent action against forced and deceitful conversions. Though the skill census, the ruling party assured to ascertain the needs of the industry and upgrade skill training wherever necessary. Under the Akshay Anna Yojana, low-income families will be provided free food items every month through the Public Distribution System (PDS), as per the manifesto. The BJP has also planned to develop the state into an advanced robotic and Artificial Intelligence (AI) training hub. It also promised to create 10 lakh new business leaders through the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Akanksha centres in each district. The party promised to create 50 lakh lakpati didis by 2027 for which one industrial cluster of 500 self-help groups will be created and an initial corpus of Rs 1,000 crore will be provided. The manifesto promised that if voted to power, the Mahayuti will develop Nagpur, Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nashik and Ahilyanagar as modern aeronautical and space manufacturing centres. It also promised that the SGST on the purchase of fertilisers will be returned to farmers as grant. The prices of essential commodities will be kept stable, according to the manifesto.

Deccan Chronicle 10 Nov 2024 3:31 pm

Maharashtra polls: Friendly face-offs between allies in 29 out of 288 assembly seats

Mumbai: The November 20 Maharashtra election will witness friendly contests among the Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies in 29 out of 288 assembly seats. Friendly fights, however, are more complicated for the MVA, especially since smaller parties who are part of the INDIA bloc are also in the mix. The ruling Mahayuti's partners BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress, will contest alongside each other in six seats Mankhurd Shivajinagar (Mumbai), Ashti (Beed), Sindhkhed Raja (Buldhana), Katol (Nagpur), Morshi (Amravati), Dindori (Nashik), Shrirampur (Ahmednagar) and Purandar (Pune). The opposition alliance of the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP) and Congress will engage in such face-offs in 21 assembly constituencies. One of the major fights will take place in the Nanded North seat, where Congress's Abdul Gaffoor is in the fray with Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Sangita Patil. In most constituencies, MVA allies are contesting alongside candidates fielded by the Peasants and Workers Party of India (PWPI), Samajwadi Party and the Left. The Samajwadi Party has fielded eight candidates and will be contesting alongside the Congress on six seats, namely Bhiwandi West (Thane), Tuljapur (Dharashiv), Aurangabad East (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), Malegaon Central (Nashik) and with NCP SP in Paranda (Dharashiv), and Shiv Sena UBT in Dhule City assembly seats. The PWPI has fielded candidates on 14 seats and is in contest with the Shiv Sena (UBT) in Sangole, Loha, Pen, Uran, Ausa, Malegaon Outer and Panvel, and with NCP (SP) in Katol. A PWPI leader said they had sought six seats where they are in serious contest. However, the bigger parties fielded candidates despite our strong presence in these constituencies, he said. The leader said the party had to field candidates wherever it has influence, as it needed to fulfil the electoral criteria of getting the desired number of votes. Asked about the possibility of eating into the alliance's votes, he said, It will happen. But what can we do? We sought seats from bigger parties, but they remained adamant. In an interview earlier this year, Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi said the Maha Vikas Aghadi should have fought the polls as a united front, but it had not even called his party for talks. He said, They (MVA) think they can win the polls on their strength, and there is no need for us (SP). Solapur City Central will see a contest between the CPM's Narsaya Adam and the Congress, while in the Wani constituency, CPI's Hepat and Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Sanjay Derkar are in the fray. In Mahayuti, the Shiv Sena and the NCP are in a friendly contest in Purandar, Dindori, Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar, Sindkhedraja and Shrirampur. The NCP and BJP will battle it in Katol, Morshi and Ashti.

Deccan Chronicle 9 Nov 2024 4:23 pm

Maharashtra govt's 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' for women getting fame across India: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Nashik. He praised the Mahayuti government's 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' for women. Modi criticized the opposition for opposing the scheme. He highlighted his government's commitment to women's empowerment. The Prime Minister also spoke about farmer welfare and infrastructure projects. He urged OBC communities to stay united.

The Economic Times 8 Nov 2024 10:47 pm

Modi Calls Congress Jhooth ki Dukaan, Says Ek Hain toh Safe Hain

MUMBAI: Prime minister Narendra Modi on Friday attacked Congress on its election promises saying the grand old party has opened. jhooth ki dukaan (shop of lies) in Maharashtra like the other states where it is ruling. He also alleged that schemes designed by the Congress governments have been implemented to allow the party to indulge in maximum corruption. In Maharashtra, the Congress has only one option available to fight the BJP on the development plank in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha polls. It has opened a jhooth ki dukaan, wherein it is making false promises to the people of Maharashtra, Mr. Modi said while addressing a rally at Nashik. The PM said the grand old party made similar promises to people in states like Telangana, Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. The Congress opened jhooth ki dukaan in these states where it is ruling. But that shop is on the verge of shutting down as the Congress does not have money to run the government (schemes) and pay salaries to their employees. The schemes designed by the Congress governments are intended to indulge in maximum corruption, he added. Mr. Modis attack comes on the backdrop of BJPs campaign in Maharashtra accusing the Congress of not fulfilling the guarantees given during the Karnataka, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh assembly elections and betraying the people. He also said the Congress wants to shut the popular Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme of the Mahayuti in which Rs 1,500 per month is being given to women in the state. Every woman should be cautious of them. They cant tolerate our popular scheme, he said. The PM alleged that for many decades, Congress gave the slogan of eradicating poverty but the poor remained dependent for food, clothes and shelter. However, 25 crore people have been freed from the clutches of poverty in the last 10 years, he claimed. Addressing a rally in Dhule earlier in the day, the promised continued development for the state under the Mahayuti government.He accused the Congress and the INDIA bloc parties of plotting against Kashmir after a recent ruckus in the J&K assembly over a resolution calling for the restoration of Article 370. The PM appealed to Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to stay united, coining the slogan Ek hain toh safe hain (Together, we are safe). If STs (Scheduled Tribes), SCs (Scheduled Castes), and OBCs stay united, the politics of Congress will be over. The Congress has become parasitic and is surviving on crutches. It can contest polls only with the support of other parties, it cannot stand on its own and hence to survive, it has resorted to its oldest tactic of dividing SCs, STs, and OBCs by sowing seeds of discord among them to weaken their unity, he said. Mr. Modi dared Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders to publicly praise Hindutva ideologue V.D. Savarkar and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. He asked Uddhav Thackeray to make then do so, saying Rahul Gandhi had repeatedly insulted Savarkar despite being in alliance with the Shiv Sena (UBT). How can he (Uddhav) align with the Congress, which neither respects Savarkar nor Balasaheb? the PM asked. The Congress has reacted sharply to Mr. Modis jhooth ki dukaan barb calling it a false propaganda. To counter it, the grand old party has summoned the heads of its ruling states to Mumbai. Telangana and Himachal Pradesh chief ministers Revanth Reddy and Sukhvinder Sukhu and Karnataka deputy chief minister D.K. Shivakumar will hold a joint Press Conference in Mumbai on Saturday to expose BJPs fake narrative, said the party leader. To counter BJPs fake narrative and present the truth to the people of Maharashtra, Reddy, Sukhu and Shivakumar will expose BJP's lies, he added. On Thursday, the Congress party lodged a complaint with the Election Commission, demanding action against the BJP. This is an attempt by the BJP to spread false propaganda against the Congress. Despite being in power at the centre for 10 years and in the state for seven and a half years, the BJP has nothing significant to show in terms of achievements. Since they cannot gain votes based on work, the BJP has resorted to spreading rumours and false propaganda, said the party leader. Mr. Modi will hold two more rallies in Akola and in Nanded on Saturday. On November 12, he will address rallies in Chimur and Solapur and join a roadshow in Pune in the evening. His final rallies are planned for November 14 in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Raigad, and Mumbai. Voting for the 288-seat Maharashtra state legislative assembly will take place in a single phase on November 20 and results will be announced three days later on November 23.

Deccan Chronicle 8 Nov 2024 9:54 pm

PM Modi attacks Congress in Nashik rally, says party wants to create rift among OBCs

He said the people of Maharashtra are seeing the manifesto of 'Mahayuti' and the 'ghotala patra' of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). The MVA includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP).

DNA India 8 Nov 2024 7:27 pm

'Congress is now parasitic party surviving on crutches': PM Modi slams Congress at Nashik rally ahead of Maharashtra polls

Addressing a rally in Nashik, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for hindering India's progress in defense production and social welfare. He highlighted the BJP's achievements in Jammu and Kashmir, poverty reduction, and infrastructure development, urging voters to support the 'double-engine' government in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections for continued growth.

The Times of India 8 Nov 2024 5:24 pm

'Nehru, Gandhis never backed quota': Top quotes from PM Modi's rally in Maharashtra's Nashik

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress and the MVA during his Maharashtra campaign. He accused them of hindering reservations and disregarding the Constitution. Modi highlighted his government's efforts in poverty reduction and women's empowerment. He also criticized Congress for its dependence on other parties for electoral success.

The Times of India 8 Nov 2024 4:30 pm

Congress has become parasitic, is on crutches: PM Modi

Addressing a rally in Nashik, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party, stating that it has been rejected by the nation and now relies on other parties for survival. He accused the Congress of perpetuating poverty, engaging in scams, and hindering India's progress. Modi highlighted his government's achievements, including poverty reduction and the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir.

The Economic Times 8 Nov 2024 4:06 pm

PM to address nine election rallies across Maharashtra, starting today

PM Modi's first rally is in Dhule, north Maharashtra, at noon on Friday. He will then address a public meeting in Nashik at 2 pm.

The Hindu 8 Nov 2024 1:03 am

Maharashtra election: PM Modi to address nine rallies in state in a week; first public meeting on Friday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold nine rallies across Maharashtra over the next week as part of the BJP's campaign for the upcoming state assembly elections. His first rally will be in Dhule on Friday, followed by public meetings in Nashik, Akola, and Nanded. Modi will also participate in a roadshow in Pune on November 12.

The Economic Times 7 Nov 2024 9:07 pm

Maharashtra: EC Orders Checking of all Vehicles including Police Vans

Mumbai : The State branch of Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken cognizance of NCP founder Sharad Pawars claim that police vans are being used to supply money to the ruling parties candidates. The state branch of ECI has instructed all the district collectors to check all the vehicles including the vehicles of the police department and police personnel. Dr. Kiran Kulkarni, Additional Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Maharashtra said that there are specific instructions on vehicle checking. Flying Squad Teams (FST) and Static Surveillance Teams (SST) have been instructed to check all types of vehicles, he said. The additional CEO made it clear that there is no expedition even for the chief minister and deputy chief ministers vehicles. Since a prominent leader of the state has expressed doubt, we have informed all the district collectors that all the vehicles have to be checked. Accordingly, the action has been initiated, the joint CEO said. Three days ago, the NCP founder had alleged that police vehicles were being misused to supply money to Mahayuti candidates in the Maharashtra Assembly election. He went on saying that they had come to know from officials of many districts that candidates of the ruling parties are getting financial assistance for the election. On the Shiv Sena (UBT)s demand to include expenses incurred on the celebration of Deepotsav by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park in the election expenses of the party and the nominee from Mahim Amit Thackeray, Mr. Kulkarni said that the ECI has directed the district returning officer to verify the facts in this regard and take a decision. The district returning officer will ultimately decide whether to include the Deepotsav expenses in the election expenses of MNS or from its Mahim candidate, he said. The state branch of the ECI has also sought a report from the District Electoral Officer in connection with the A and B form sent by helicopter to Nashik to the ruling party candidates. Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S. Chockalingam said that after getting information, they have issued clear instructions to concerned officials. We asked them to decide whether the expenses should be added to the candidates or the parties as per the rule. They are taking appropriate action, said Mr.Chockalingam. Mr. Chockalingam said that the election machinery is fully geared up for smooth polling in the state adding that over two lakh personnel have been deployed on election duty. He further stated that the static surveillance teams and flying squads have been also deployed in addition to special expenditure observers across the state. The state CEO also said that there are a total of 1,00,186 polling stations for the assembly elections, with 42,604 located in urban areas and 57,582 in rural regions. The state branch of the ECI also took preventive actions against 46,630 individuals since the implementation of the code of conduct. They have also seized a total of Rs 252.42 crore cash. As far as the seizure of Rs five crore from a vehicle near Pune, the police and income tax are conducting an investigation. In the case of a seizure of gold worth Rs 135 crore in Pune, it has been released to the concerned party after investigation as the van carrying the gold was with necessary permission of jewellery supplier to the seller, Mr. Kulkarni said.

Deccan Chronicle 5 Nov 2024 11:49 pm

Indian Railways for Onion Transport

By Arun Kumar Shrivastav Recently, the Indian governments Department of Consumer Affairs announced that 1600 metric tons of onions procured by the National Cooperative Consumers Federation of India Ltd was shipped by the railway from Nashik to Delhi. The quantity of 42 BCN (Bogie Covered New) was enough to fill 53 trucks. The initiative was taken under the price stabilisation fund, and its the first time that onions were transported in bulk by railway under this programme. The shipment [] The post Indian Railways for Onion Transport appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 1 Nov 2024 4:20 am

After Bandra Terminus stampede, CR imposes platform ticket sale restrictions to curb crowding

MUMBAI: Central Railway on Sunday imposed a temporary restriction on sale of platform tickets at major stations to reduce festival crowding, the move coming hours after nine people were injured at Western Railway's Bandra Terminus while trying to board a train to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh. Nine persons were injured at 2:45 am while trying to enter the unreserved Bandra Terminus-Gorakhpur Antyodaya Express when it was entering platform number 1 from the yard ahead of its scheduled departure at 5:10 am. Videos of the incident went viral on social media. In a release issued during the day, CR said the platform ticket sale restrictions will be in force in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Dadar, Kurla LTT, Thane, Kalyan, Pune and Nagpur stations with immediate effect. Stampede at Mumbai's Bandra railway station leaves several persons injured The restriction imposed to manage anticipated crowding during the upcoming Diwali and Chhath Puja festive season will be there till November 8. This step aims to manage crowding on platforms and ensure smooth passenger movement within station premises, the release stated. Senior citizens and those with medical needs, however, are exempted from these restrictions. Passengers are urged to adhere to the new regulations for smooth and safe travel experience during the festive period, it added. In another release, CR said it would run two additional unreserved trains between CSMT and Gorakhapur to clear the extra rush of passengers during Diwali and Chhath. This will take the total number of services run or planned for these two festivals to 583, it said. The 01019 unreserved special will depart from CSMT Mumbai at 2:30pm on October 28 and arrive at Gorakhpur at 11pm the next day. The 01020 unreserved special will depart from Gorakhpur at 12:45am on October 30 and arrive at CSMT at 10:35am the next day. They will halt at Dadar, Thane, Kalyan, Igatpuri, Nashik Road, Bhusaval, Khandwa, Itarsi, Bhopal, Bina, Virangana Lakshmibai Jhansi, Orai, Kanpur Central, Lucknow, Barabanki, Gonda and Basti.

The New Indian Express 27 Oct 2024 7:15 pm

Maharashtra Assembly Polls: NCP (SP) Releases Second List Of 22 Candidates; 67 So Far

Sunita Charoskar has been nominated from Dindori in Nashik district against deputy speaker Narhari Zirwal, fielded by Ajit Pawar-led NCP.

Bloomberg Quint 27 Oct 2024 11:12 am

BJP Steps up Outreach for OBC Votes in Maharashtra

New Delhi : Amid the scramble to finalise the ruling Mahayuti bloc seat-sharing pact, the BJP on Sunday released its second list of 22 candidates for the Maharashtra Assembly polls. Among the names announced, the party has retained six sitting MLAs and dropped two. Also, the BJP has intensified its outreach for OBC votes, which comprise around 45 per cent of the state's population. In the run-up to the Maharashtra polls, top BJP leaders, particularly deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, have been holding regular parlyes with the leaders of the OBC community since the past few weeks in the presence of Union minister and state election in-charge Bhupender Yadav. Sources said that Mr Fadnavis has held over 100 meetings with the OBC community leaders in over one month at his official residence in Mumbai. During this outreach meeting, Mr Fadbavis heard their concern and promised to address them at the earliest, said a source aware of these meetings, adding that about 200 to 300 prominent leaders of a particular backward class called for the meeting. According to sources, Mr Fadnavis has so far met over 25,000 prominent OBC leaders from across the state. It is learnt that apart from Mr Yadav, BJPs OBC wing national president K. Laxman was also present in a few meetings held at Mr Fadnavis residence. The OBCs, who constitute around 45 per cent of the Maharashtra electorates, are categorised into various sub-groups like Kumbis, Malis, Vanjaris, Dhangars and others. Sources said that the recent decision of the Mahayuti government to request the Central government to raise the income threshold for the on-creamy layer category from `8 lakhs to `15 lakhs per year, thereby expanding reservation benefits to more individuals or the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) recommending more communities and their synonyms to be included in the Central OBC list are based on inputs received in the meetings. A BJP insider told this newspaper that the party is looking to replicate the success of its Haryana model, where the consolidation of OBC votes propelled the party to a win, in Maharashtra. Like Haryana, OBCs play an important role in Maharashtra as well. As part of social engineering, while working on to keep our OBC votes intact, we are trying to gain votes from other communities, especially Marathas, he said, adding that leading from the front, Mr Fadnavis has met prominent leaders of each backward community in the state. With the release of its second list of 22 candidates for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP has so far named 121 candidates in two lists. In the second list, the party replaced sitting MLAs of Washim and Gadchiroli while retaining the MLAs of Akot, Nashik Central, Pen, Khadakwasla, Pune Cantonment and Ulhasnagar. Among the 22 candidates announced, there is only one woman candidate, Devyani Suhas Pharande from Nasik Central. The second list also featured two members of the Legislative Council -- Gopichand Padalkar is fielded from Jat and Ramesh Karad from Latur Rural, where he will take on Congress' Dhiraj Deshmukh. The BJP, along with Shiv Sena and NCP, is a member of the ruling Mahayuti coalition. Elections to the 288-member Assembly will take place on November 20.

Deccan Chronicle 27 Oct 2024 1:22 am

Maharashtra: BJP releases 2nd list of 22 candidates; two MLAs dropped

Mumbai: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday released its second list of 22 candidates for the Maharashtra assembly elections, retaining six sitting MLAs and dropping two.The saffron party, a member of the ruling Mahayuti coalition along with the Shiv Sena and NCP, has declared candidates for 121 constituencies so far. In the second list, the party replaced sitting MLAs of Washim and Gadchiroli while retaining the MLAs of Akot, Nashik Central, Pen, Khadakwasala, Pune Cantonment and Ulhasnagar. The second list also featured two members of the legislative council: Gopichand Padalkar was fielded from Jat and Ramesh Karad from Latur Rural where he would take on Congress' Dhiraj Deshmukh. Elections to the 288-member assembly would take place on November 20.

Deccan Chronicle 26 Oct 2024 6:17 pm

Sula Vineyards celebrates 25 years with new Merlot and a focus on sustainability

As Nashiks Sula Vineyards celebrates 25 years with the launch of a merlot, the winery is eager to explore the evolving Indian wine market

The Hindu 25 Oct 2024 3:36 pm

All in the family: Parties give chance to kin of leaders in Maharashtra polls

Mumbai: While political parties often accuse rivals of dynastic politics, during elections, they do not shy away from fielding relatives of their established leaders - as the lists of candidates for the next month's Maharashtra assembly polls show. Most of the prominent political parties in the state have so far declared at least the first list of their candidates for the November 20 elections to 288 assembly seats. From the ruling side, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party have declared the first list of candidates, while from the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) has come out with the first list so far. Their lists show that a significant number of contenders are closely related to the current ministers, legislators or MPs, including their sons or daughters, wives and brothers or sisters. Sreejaya Chavan, the daughter of former chief minister and Congress turncoat Ashok Chavan who joined the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, is among the kin of a political heavyweight picked by the saffron party for the November 20 contest. She will contest from the family's traditional constituency of Bhokar in Nanded district. Vinod Shelar, the brother of Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar, has been fielded by the party from the Malad West constituency, while Ashish himself has been re-nominated from the Bandra West seat in Mumbai. The BJP has replaced its sitting MLA Babanrao Pachpute from the Shrigonda assembly constituency (in Ahilyanagar district) with his wife, Pratibha Pachpute, due to his health issues. The saffron party has dropped the name of Ganpat Gaikwad, its MLA from Kalyan East constituency in Thane district, and instead nominated his wife, Sulabha, to contest from the same constituency. Gaikwad is currently in jail for opening fire on a Shiv Sena worker inside a police station a few months ago. Former Union minister and Lok Sabha member Narayan Rane's son, Nitesh, currently represents the Kankavli assembly segment. His elder brother, Nilesh, a former Lok Sabha member, has now joined the ruling Shiv Sena and is set to contest from the Kudal constituency, which falls under the family's home district of Sindhudurg. In Chinchwad constituency in Pune district, the BJP replaced sitting MLA Ashwini Jagtap, the wife of late party leader Laxman Jagtap, but gave ticket to his brother Shankar Jagtap. This is his first election. Shinde-led Sena has nominated Kiran Samant, the brother of state minister Uday Samant, from the Rajapur seat in Ratnagiri district. The family members of Shiv Sena leaders Sandipan Bhumare and Ravindra Waikar, who became members of the Lok Sabha after this year's general elections, have also been given a chance by the party from the respective constituencies that the two former MLAs represented. While Bhumare's son Vilas will contest from the Paithan in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, Waikar's wife Manisha will test electoral waters from the Jogeshwari East assembly seat. The ruling NCP already nominated Pankaj Bhujbal as the party MLC earlier this month. He is the son of senior party leader Chhagan Bhujbal, who is contesting from the Yeola assembly segment in Nashik district. But since Bhujbal's nephew Sameer is keen on contesting the election, he will fight as an independent candidate against Sena's incumbent MLA Suhas Kande from Nandgaon constituency in Nashik. Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena (UBT) has renominated sitting MLA Aaditya Thackeray from the Worli seat in Mumbai, while his cousin Varun Sardesai will contest his maiden election from Bandra East. The Sena (UBT) also decided to given ticket to sitting MLA Sunil Raut, brother of the party's Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut from Vikroli seat in Mumbai. Although the NCP (SP) has not announced its list of candidates so far, Rohit Patil, son of former home minister late R R Patil, filed his nomination as an NCP (SP) candidate from Tasgaon-Kavathe Mahankal constituency in Sangli district on Thursday. According to party insiders, Rohit Pawar, the grandnephew of Sharad Pawar and sitting MLA from Karjat Jamkhed assembly seat in Ahilyanagar, is most likely to be renominated from the constituency. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, who never contested election, has fielded his son Amit from Mahim assembly seat in Mumbai. It will be his maiden election. When asked about parties fielding relatives, political observer Abhay Deshpande said, The established leaders want to retain their control over their constituency, and as a part of that, they develop their network and connections with the voters. In order to continue the hold, their traditional constituency becomes safer for that particular family and hence handed over to a son or daughter as political inheritance. But in some cases, a party chooses someone from the family of an established leader due to reasons like the death of the leader. For instance, Shiv Sena has fielded Suhas Babar from the Khanapur seat (in Sangli) because his MLA father Anil Babar passed away a few months back. One factor is seeking political gains from the sympathy that voters will have for the family. At the same time, it is also considered as token of gratitude from the political party to a particular family that has served it for a long time, he said.

Deccan Chronicle 24 Oct 2024 6:04 pm

Talks on seat-sharing in Maharashtra is at final stage: CPM

NEW DELHI: The discussion pertaining to seat-sharing among Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) for Maharashtra assembly elections with the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM) is at the final stage. The Left party is expected to make a candidature announcement in a couple of days. The CPM had conveyed to the alliance partners that it wishes to contest 12 seats. Senior CPM leaders said that the partys state unit held talks on seat-sharing with alliance members mainly with Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar (NCPSP) on Wednesday evening. According to the leaders, if talks fail with alliance partners --Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-headed Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP-SPthe party may go ahead on its own and nominate candidates for at least five seats in the district where the CPM has been struggling for rights of the people including tribal and farmers. The three parties are also part of Maha Vikas Aghadi; a state-level political coalition formed after the 2019 legislative assembly elections in the state. Dates out for high-octane Maharashtra, Jharkhand electoral battles We have given a list of 12 seats. The partys priority will be five seats having tribal populations including Dahanu, where the Left had struggled for the rights of the tribal for years. The other seats are where we have been contesting in the past, said CPM leaders. Vinod Nikole CPM won Dahanu seat in 2019. The seats being sought by the Left party are Igatpuri, Kinwat, Vikramgad, Shahpur, Kalwan, Dindori, Nashik West, Majalgaon, Pathari, Solapur City Central, Akole and Dahanu. The elections in Maharashtra are scheduled on November 20 and counting of votes will take place on November 23. The party has already announced that it would contest the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections independently. It has named candidates for nine constituencies; Tamar, Baharagora, Sisai, Chatra, Jamtara, Pakur, Maheshpur, Jama and Mandar. The elections in the state will happen in two phases; November 13 and November 20. The results will be announced on November 23. There are a total of 81 seats in the Jharkhand assembly. Maharashtra Assembly polls: MVA finalises 85-85-85 deal for Uddhav Sena, Congress, Sharad Pawar's NCP

The New Indian Express 24 Oct 2024 11:29 am

shiv-sena-releases-first-list-of-candidates-for-maharashtra-assembly-polls-it-is-all-about-rewarding-loyalty

The Shiv Sena has released the first list of 45 candidates which saw the party renominating almost all MLAs who backed Chief Minister Eknath Shinde against Uddhav Thackeray when the Shiv Sena split. This is also the first Assembly election to be contested under Shinde's leadership. Shiv Sena has given tickets to 45 candidates in the first list, which includes over half a dozen Cabinet members. Most of them have been retained in their respective seats. Many see this as a reward for their loyalty when they sided with Shinde while breaking away from Uddhav Thackeray during the June 2022 revolt. No sitting MLA has been dropped, except those who became MPs. Family members of deceased MLAs have been given tickets. The party has fielded ministers Gulabrao Patil, Deepak Kesarkar, Abdul Sattar and Shamburaj Desai from Jalgaon Rural, Sawantwadi, Sillod and Patan, respectively. Dada Bhuse, will contest from the Malegaon Outer assembly constituency in Nashik district. Ministers Uday Samant and Tanaji Sawant have been fielded from Ratnagiri and Paranda, respectively. Interestingly, the kin of many ministers, including Uday Samant's brother, have been given tickets. Kiran Samant will contest from Rajapur whilelate MLA Anil Babar's son Suhas Babar will contest from Khanapur in Sangli. Manisha Waikar, wife of Shiv Sena Lok Sabha MP from Mumbai North-West Ravindra Waikar, has been fielded from Jogeshwari (East), while Abhijit Adsul, son of Sena leader and former Union minister Anand Adsul, will contest from Daryapur in Amravati district. Vilas Bhumre, son of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) Lok Sabha MP Sandipan Bhumre, will contest from Paithan.

The Week 23 Oct 2024 11:45 am

FIR against Resolution Professional Girish Juneja in Hindustan Glass case: How OpIndia had exposed malpractice in the longest running IBC case

Nashik Court ordered MIDC Sinnar Police Station to lodge FIR against Resolution Professional Girish Juneja in HNG or HNGIL case

OpIndia 23 Oct 2024 9:53 am

Maharashtra polls: Shiv Sena releases first list of 45 candidates

Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on late Tuesday night released its first list of 45 candidates for the November 20 Maharashtra assembly polls, nominating Chief Minister Eknath Shinde from Kopri -Panchpakhadi in Thane city and over half a dozen Cabinet members from their respective seats.The ruling party has re-nominated almost all the MLAs who backed Shinde when he led a revolt against the then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray in June 2022. Shinde will seek re-election from Kopri -Panchpakhadi in adjoining Thane city. The party has fielded ministers Gulabrao Patil, Deepak Kesarkar, Abdul Sattar and Shamburaj Desai from Jalgaon Rural, Sawantwadi, Sillod and Patan, respectively. Another cabinet member, Dada Bhuse, will contest from the Malegaon Outer assembly constituency in Nashik district. Ministers Uday Samant and Tanaji Sawant have been fielded from Ratnagiri and Paranda, respectively. Another prominent leader Sada Sarvankar will fight the polls from Mahim in Mumbai. The party has also fielded kin of several MLAs. From Rajapur, it has given ticket to Kiran Samant, brother of minister Uday Samant. Suhas Babar, son of the late legislator Anil Babar, will contest from Khanapur in Sangli district. Manisha Waikar, wife of Shiv Sena Lok Sabha MP from Mumbai North-West Ravindra Waikar, has been fielded from Jogeshwari (East), while Abhijit Adsul, son of Sena leader and former Union minister Anand Adsul, will contest from Daryapur in Amravati district. Vilas Bhumre, son of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) Lok Sabha MP Sandipan Bhumre, will contest from Paithan. With this, the Shiv Sena has become the second major political party to release its list of candidates. Its ally BJP had released a list of 99 candidates on Sunday last. The ruling Mahayuti, which consists of the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP, is yet to announce its seat-sharing deal for polls to the 288-member assembly.

Deccan Chronicle 23 Oct 2024 8:02 am

Maharashtra assembly polls: Shiv Sena releases first list of 45 candidates

MUMBAI: The Shiv Sena on late Tuesday night released its first list of 45 candidates for the November 20 Maharashtra assembly polls, nominating Chief Minister Eknath Shinde from Kopri -Panchpakhadi in Thane city and over half a dozen Cabinet members from their respective seats. The ruling party has re-nominated almost all the MLAs who backed Shinde when he led a revolt against the then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray in June 2022. Shinde will seek re-election from Kopri-Panchpakhadi in adjoining Thane city. The party has fielded ministers Gulabrao Patil, Deepak Kesarkar, Abdul Sattar and Shamburaj Desai from Jalgaon Rural, Sawantwadi, Sillod and Patan, respectively. Another cabinet member, Dada Bhuse, will contest from the Malegaon Outer assembly constituency in Nashik district. Ministers Uday Samant and Tanaji Sawant have been fielded from Ratnagiri and Paranda, respectively. Another prominent leader Sada Sarvankar will fight the polls from Mahim in Mumbai. The party has also fielded kin of several MLAs. From Rajapur, it has given ticket to Kiran Samant, brother of minister Uday Samant. Suhas Babar, son of the late legislator Anil Babar, will contest from Khanapur in Sangli district. Manisha Waikar, wife of Shiv Sena Lok Sabha MP from Mumbai North-West Ravindra Waikar, has been fielded from Jogeshwari (East), while Abhijit Adsul, son of Sena leader and former Union minister Anand Adsul, will contest from Daryapur in Amravati district. Vilas Bhumre, son of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) Lok Sabha MP Sandipan Bhumre, will contest from Paithan. With this, the Shiv Sena has become the second major political party to release its list of candidates. Its ally BJP had released a list of 99 candidates on Sunday last. The ruling Mahayuti, which consists of the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP, is yet to announce its seat-sharing deal for polls to the 288-member assembly.

The New Indian Express 23 Oct 2024 12:25 am

MVA Claims EC Deleting Voters Names Under BJPs Pressure

Mumbai: The Maha Vikas Aghadi on Friday alleged that the names of thousands of voters have been deleted from electoral rolls for the Assembly election at the behest of the BJP-led Mahayuti. Names of 2,500-10,000 voters have been deleted from the rolls of each assembly constituency, the opposition leaders claimed. The MVA has also urged the Election Commission to stop the process of deleting names immediately. Leaders of the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP) alleged that the EC officials are working under pressure from the BJP. State Congress chief Nana Patole said that the BJP is misusing Form 7 to strike the names of voters. We expect the EC to be impartial and try to increase voter turnout. But there is no transparency in ECs functioning and it is not working impartially. ED officers are working under pressure from the BJP. Names of thousands of voters have been deleted from the electoral rolls. We have received information that it is being done on the instructions of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Mr. Patole said. Form 7 is a voter application form for objection for proposed inclusion or deletion of a name in the existing electoral roll. The applicant using Form 7 must be a voter of the same constituency. The application can be an objection in respect of a registered elector or an objection to the proposed inclusion of an entry in the electoral roll of the constituency. The reasons for which names can be deleted include death, under age, permanently shifted, already enrolled in the electoral roll at the same place or some other place, not an Indian citizen etc. The onus of proof to substantiate the reason given for objection or removal of name lies with the applicant. Leader of opposition in the state Assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar said, Names are being removed from the areas where the BJP did not get votes during the Lok Sabha election. There is a conspiracy to delete at least 10,000 votes from each of such areas. Form 7 is being misused and therefore the EC must stop accepting these forms. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and leader of the opposition to the legislative council Ambadas Danve claimed that names of 6,000 voters were missing from the list in the Nashik Central assembly seat, and no cognisance was taken about this despite raising the issue with the collector. He also claimed that in Aurangabad Central and Sillod seats, represented by the ruling parties, nearly 27,000 voters were added to the electoral rolls. NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad demanded that the ECI publish a white paper on the voters list. The way the election is being conducted is suspicious. It is shameful, he said. The Election Commission has announced Assembly elections in Maharashtra, which will be held for 288 seats in a single phase. The voting will be held on November 20 and the results will be declared on November 23.

Deccan Chronicle 18 Oct 2024 9:24 pm

Chhattisgarh govt to introduce new hologram to curb illegal liquor sales

RAIPUR: In a significant decision taken by the Chhattisgarh government on Wednesday, there will be a strict monitoring step in place to curb the nuisance of illegal liquor sales across the state. A cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai took a decision to introduce new holograms for both domestic and foreign liquor bottles, intended to restrain illegal liquor trade. In the cabinet meeting, the state government announced to introduce the new security features on all domestic and foreign liquor bottles in the form of holograms which will be procured from the India Security Press, Nashik. A unique identification will be put in place for each bottle making it easier to detect illegal liquor and deter the unauthorised trade, said a government spokesperson. The government hopes that the new initiative besides ensuring the well-being of consumers will also pave the way to boost the state revenues. The proactive effort by the state is expected to witness stern crackdown on illicit liquor sales in future. As a commodity, the liquor often led the state to secure high revenue collections but it eventually also became an issue of acrimonious tussle in Chhattisgarhs political battleground between the Congress and the BJP. In January this year, the BJP government decided not to open new liquor shops in the state while endorsing the Chhattisgarh Excise Policy 2024-25. Presently, the sale of liquor is done by Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited through 750-plus government-owned shops. The federal probe agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) last year investigating the liquor scam, allegedly occurred during the previous Congress regime, had claimed a prevailing criminal syndicate had operated illegal bribe collections by controlling the high-level management of key state departments and state public sector units in Chhattisgarh. It was then estimated that Proceeds of Crime of around Rs 2,161 crore have been generated by the suspects in the alleged scam. Other major decisions taken by the Sai cabinet included the procurement of paddy from November 14 till January 31, 2025, through both cash and linking methods. This year an estimated 16 million ton of paddy will be procured, the officer said. The cabinet also approved the Chhattisgarh Rural Drinking Water Operation and Maintenance Rules, 2024 to ensure the supply of clean drinking water in all gram panchayats.

The New Indian Express 16 Oct 2024 8:09 pm

KBC International Ltd plans to raise upto Rs. 100 crore from Equity Issue

Nashik (Maharashtra) [India], October 15: KBC Global Ltd (Previously known as Karda Construction Ltd) BSE - 541161, in the business of construction and real estate development is planning to raise upto Rs. 100 crore by way of equity issue. Meeting of Board of directors of the company is scheduled to be held on October 16, 2024 to consider and approve the fund raising proposal. Company is exploring preferential allotment, warrants and other permissible mode or combination thereof in one or more tranches as decided in the board meeting subject to the approval of shareholders and regulatory authorities. The proceeds of the equity issue will be utilize for the repayment of debt.

Business Standard 15 Oct 2024 7:55 pm

SGS hosts comprehensive workshop on GLOBALG.A.P. V6.0 and BRCGS - FOOD SAFETY ISSUE 9 in Nashik

Nashik (Maharashtra) [India], October 15: SGS is proud to organize an exclusive, high-impact workshop focusing on two of the most critical international standards in the sector: GlobalG.A.P. V6.0 and BRCGS - Food Safety Issue 9. This workshop aims to equip food industry professionals with the latest updates, best practices and practical insights to enhance their food safety management systems and maintain compliance with global regulatory standards.

Business Standard 15 Oct 2024 2:05 pm

Rahul Gandhi attacks government after death of 2 Agniveers

Rahul Gandhi has urged PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to address the unequal treatment of deceased Agniveers compared to other martyred soldiers. Following the deaths of Agniveers Gohil Vishwaraj Singh and Saifat Sheet during training in Nashik, Gandhi questions why their families won't receive equivalent compensation, pension, and other government benefits.

The Times of India 14 Oct 2024 3:22 am

Rahul Gandhi hits at government over death of two Agniveer recruits in Nashik

Rahul Gandhi asked why the two Agniveers would not get the same pension and benefits as other martyred soldiers and said that he would keep fighting against this injustice

The Hindu 13 Oct 2024 11:27 pm

Mumbai: IMD predicts thunderstorms in parts of city on October 14

On Sunday evening, parts of Mumbai experienced moderate rainfall due to the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon. The Met Department predicted rain or thunderstorms for Monday evening or night in some areas. A yellow alert for thunderstorms with lightning and moderate rain has been issued for Palghar, Thane, Dhule, and Nashik districts.

The Economic Times 13 Oct 2024 9:01 pm

Rahul raises questions on Agnipath scheme asks why life of one soldier is not same as another

New Delhi, Oct 13: After the death of two Agniveers in Nashik during training, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday demanded answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on why the life of one soldier is more valuable than the other. He asked why the families of the two soldiers, [] The post Rahul raises questions on Agnipath scheme asks why life of one soldier is not same as another appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 13 Oct 2024 5:53 pm

Why life of one soldier is not same as another: Rahul questions Agnipath

After the death of two Agniveers in Nashik during training, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday demanded answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on why the life of one soldier is more valuable than the other. He asked why the families of the two soldiers, who died as 'Agniveers' would not get the same pension and benefits as other martyred soldiers and said that he would keep fighting against this injustice. The death of two Agniveers - Gohil Vishwaraj Singh and Saifat Sheet - during training in Nashik is very tragic. My deepest condolences to their families. This incident once again raises serious questions on the Agniveer scheme, which the BJP government has failed to answer. Will the families of Gohil and Saifat receive timely compensation that is equivalent to the compensation for any other martyred soldier? Gandhi asked in a post in Hindi on X. Why will the families of Agniveers not get the benefits of pension and other ...

Business Standard 13 Oct 2024 5:12 pm

Rahul Raises Questions On Agnipath Scheme, Asks Why Life Of One Soldier Is Not Same As Another

New Delhi, Oct 13: After the death of two Agniveers in Nashik during training, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday demanded answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on why the life of one soldier is more valuable than the other. He asked why the families of the two soldiers, who died as Agniveers would not get the same pension and benefits as other martyred soldiers and said that he would keep fighting against this [] The post Rahul Raises Questions On Agnipath Scheme, Asks Why Life Of One Soldier Is Not Same As Another appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 13 Oct 2024 5:07 pm

Head priest of Nashik temple, advocates to share views before par panel on Waqf bill

A parliamentary panel will hear views on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill from religious leaders, advocates, and a Muslim organization. The panel will discuss digitizing records, auditing processes, legal measures for encroachments, and decentralizing Waqf management. Over 1.2 crore emails have been received amid campaigns supporting different viewpoints. Additional staff from the Lok Sabha Secretariat has been requested.

The Economic Times 13 Oct 2024 3:45 pm

70-foot tall statue of Lord Ram unveiled in Nashik's Tapovan

The statue, made of fibre reinforced polymer (FRP), has been erected on a RCC structure

The Hindu 12 Oct 2024 12:11 am

2 Agniveers killed during field firing exercise, army orders court of inquiry

NASHIK: Two Agniveers were killed during a field firing exercise in Maharashtra, an official said on Friday, adding the army has initiated a court of inquiry to determine the cause of the accident. Gunner Gohil Vishvarajsinh (20) and Gunner Saikat (21) from the Artillery Centre Hyderabad died during a field firing exercise at the Deolali Field Firing Ranges in Nashik district, the official said. A team of Agniveers was firing a field gun when one of the shells exploded, the official said, adding the duo sustained injuries and were taken to the military hospital at Deolali, where they were pronounced dead. Based on a complaint by Havildar Ajit Kumar, a case of accidental death has been registered with the Deolali Camp police, and further investigations are on, he said. Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi and all ranks of the army salute the supreme sacrifice of braveheart Agniveers (Gunner) Gohil Vishvarajsinh and Agniveer (Gunner) Saikat, who laid down their lives in the line of duty while undergoing training at the firing ranges, the army said in a post on X. Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, Army Commander, along with all ranks of #SouthernCommand , express deep sorrow over the tragic loss of Agniveers, Gunner Gohil Vishvarajsinh and Gunner Saikat from the Artillery Centre, #Hyderabad , during a field firing exercise at the #Devlali Field Firing pic.twitter.com/b9oK1aitqH Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) October 11, 2024 The army has ordered a court of inquiry to find out the exact cause of the accident, it said. The army offers deepest condolences and stands firm with the bereaved families in this hour of grief, it added.

The New Indian Express 11 Oct 2024 7:24 pm