The Times of India News

Vision IAS faces a hefty Rs. 11 lakh penalty from the CCPA for misleading advertisements. The consumer watchdog found the coaching institute published unsubstantiated claims and selectively showcased successful candidates, with some listed toppers not even enrolled. Despite prior rulings, the institute continued its deceptive practices, prompting a thorough investigation and a stern warning.

An 11-year legal battle concluded with a Mumbai family court granting industrialist Jaidev Shroff a divorce from Poonam Bhagat Shroff on grounds of cruelty. He is ordered to pay Rs 10 crore as a final alimony settlement, rejecting her Rs 1,000 crore demand. The court also dismissed her claims for lifelong residency and overseas property usage.

The TISS Parzor Academic Programme for Zoroastrian Studies has successfully concluded its first edition. The program welcomed students of all ages and backgrounds, fostering enriching academic and personal growth. The second edition is set to begin soon, offering full certificate courses and smaller modules. International teachers and experts will guide students through Parsi Zoroastrian history, culture, and heritage.

Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena will contest 87 seats against Uddhav and Raj Thackeray's parties in the BMC polls. Recent elections show Uddhav Thackeray's faction (UBT) holding an edge, winning more Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai. This election is seen as a crucial referendum on the Thackeray brand and the 'Marathi Manoos' narrative, potentially shaping Mumbai's political future.

Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have joined forces, demanding the cancellation of unopposed civic election wins, alleging democracy is being replaced by 'mobocracy'. Thackeray accused the ruling parties of a Rs 3 lakh crore BMC scam and 'stealing votes'. CM Fadnavis dismissed the claims as excuses, stating people's mandate prevails.

The BJP's BMC election candidate list reveals a significant focus on women, fielding 76 female nominees out of 137. Notably, the party has nominated women even in open wards, traditionally male strongholds, emphasizing winnability and local sentiment. This strategic move aims to leverage strong candidate performance regardless of seat category, showcasing a progressive approach to civic representation.

A significant number of Mahayuti candidates secured unopposed victories in municipal polls, with the BJP leading the count. Opposition leaders decried the situation, alleging widespread use of money and threats to force withdrawals, and accused the state election commission of bias. Allegations of bribery and undue influence were prominent.

Oshiwara Police have apprehended H Yadav, a wanted accused in an attempted murder case from 1994, after he evaded capture for over three decades. Following a renewed effort to track down fugitives ahead of municipal elections, police located and arrested Yadav in Uttar Pradesh on New Year's Eve.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut urged Ajit Pawar's NCP faction to merge with Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) after they allied for Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad civic polls. Raut questioned Ajit Pawar's presence in the Mahayuti government, citing corruption allegations between the BJP and Ajit Pawar's NCP.

Mumbai's Parvez Suleman Lakdawala, a Memon businessman, received an honorary doctorate at the UK Parliament for his over three decades of work in real estate and slum redevelopment. Lakdawala, who has built 32 buildings through SRA schemes since 1995, expressed humility at the recognition, attributing his success to dedication and honesty.