The Times of India

A Mumbai sessions court has rejected the discharge plea of Mayor Ritu Tawde in a 2016 case involving the alleged assault of school teachers. The court found sufficient evidence, including victim and witness statements, to proceed with charges of using criminal force against public servants. The order allows the case to move towards trial.

A UK parliamentary delegation, led by Liam Byrne, met with Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting the state's economic prowess and 'Startup Capital' status. Fadnavis urged UK investors, emphasizing Maharashtra's robust ecosystem and its significant contribution to India's GDP. Discussions focused on opportunities within the India-UK trade agreement, particularly in pharma, electronics, technology, and higher education, aiming to foster mutual growth.

A lawyer has filed a complaint with the CBFC and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting seeking an immediate ban on the song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke. The complaint alleges the song's lyrics and visuals are obscene and harmful, particularly to minors, and may violate several Indian laws.

India's animal welfare landscape received a significant boost with the launch of the India Karuna Collaborative (IKC), uniting over 50 organizations and 70 leaders. This initiative aims to integrate animal welfare, particularly industrial farming, into crucial discussions on climate, public health, and development, highlighting its intersectional risks.

A year after a teen's suicide due to online scammers, police arrested Harish Meghwal, 27, from Madhya Pradesh. The victim was lured into a task fraud on Telegram, losing Rs 49,000 after being asked to invest. Meghwal, a beneficiary of the scammed money, was apprehended while serving time for vehicle theft. Investigations are ongoing, with more arrests anticipated.

A 42-year-old electrician was arrested in Surat after allegedly pushing his wife to death in front of a local train at Mulund station. The couple's 13-year-old son witnessed the fatal incident. The couple had a history of frequent arguments, with the wife having previously filed complaints.

Maharashtra's legislative assembly passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, aimed at preventing religious conversions through coercion or inducement. While Sena (UBT) supported the Mahayuti government's bill, opposition parties like Congress and NCP (SP) voiced concerns, deeming it unconstitutional and a violation of privacy. The bill is expected to be tabled in the Legislative Council soon.

A 17-year-old Dubai resident, visiting Mumbai, allegedly killed a 15-year-old boy on a scooter after hitting him with a rental SUV in Chandivli and fleeing. The driver was apprehended within hours and sent to a correctional home. Charges were also invoked against the MBBS student who rented the car.