The Times of India

AIMIM's M East ward committee chairperson Khairunnisa Akbar Hussain faced controversy after displaying her husband's photograph in her office. The BJP objected, leading to the photo's removal. Hussain stated party workers placed the picture and she had it taken down upon notification, feeling the issue was exaggerated.

Two Tunnel Boring Machines for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project have arrived, overcoming geopolitical delays. These machines will tackle the challenging 20.37-km underground stretch, including a 7-km subsea tunnel. This development signals progress for India's first high-speed rail corridor, designed for speeds up to 320 kmph.

Sanjay Raut, a prominent figure in Shiv Sena (UBT), provocatively claims in his latest book that former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation in 2025 was driven by coercive tactics from the Enforcement Directorate over his bold political maneuvers against the Modi government.

Maharashtra has seen a surge in autonomous colleges, more than tripling to 314 by 2025, with Mumbai University leading. Eased UGC norms, including removing the 'A' grade requirement, have fueled this growth. While proponents highlight enhanced course flexibility, concerns about diluted academic standards and potential fee hikes are being raised, prompting calls for careful selection and continuous monitoring of institutions.

Iran's iconic heritage sites, including Unesco-listed Golestan Palace and Naqsh-e Jahan Square, have reportedly sustained damage from US-Israel airstrikes. While not always directly hit, shockwaves and falling debris caused harm to these ancient monuments. Historians and heritage enthusiasts express outrage, emphasizing the universal value of these sites.

A self-proclaimed spiritual leader's arrest in Maharashtra for sexual assault has sparked a political storm, with the Opposition drawing parallels to the 'Epstein files'. Allegations of 58 assault videos and links to ruling alliance politicians have intensified scrutiny. The Maharashtra government has formed an SIT to investigate the disturbing claims.

Hindu new year festivals, including Gudi Padwa, unfolded across Mumbai with grand parades and traditional observances. Celebrations honored the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' and marked the start of Vikram Samvat 2083. Other communities also celebrated Ugadi, Cheti Chand, and the upcoming Jamshedi Nowruz and Eid ul' Fitr.