The Times of India

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray fiercely criticized the BJP's alleged attempts to dismantle opposition parties, warning of 'Operation Kamal' in response to defections. He expressed concern over the nation's democratic trajectory and apologized to voters for MPs who switched allegiances. Thackeray emotionally offered to resign, vowing to fight against 'robbers and traitors' and refuting merger rumors with Congress.

Mumbai's public transport faced severe disruption as BEST bus employees began an indefinite strike, leaving thousands stranded. Only a handful of buses operated amidst protests and obstructions. Commuters scrambled for alternative transport, facing significant delays. The strike persists despite court orders and essential services legislation, with unions demanding various long-pending benefits and reforms.

Mumbai customs officials have made a significant bust, arresting a pharmaceutical director alongside a customs broker for trying to unlawfully send Phenylacetic Acid, a controlled substance, to the Czech Republic. Initially registered as an impurity, the substance was confiscated after it was discovered that essential clearance from narcotics authorities was missing.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) suffered a major setback as only three of its nine Lok Sabha MPs participated in a significant party meeting, underscoring the imminent closure of 'Operation Tiger' led by Eknath Shinde's group. The defecting MPs are now requesting seating arrangements next to the Shinde faction in Parliament.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Nitin Nandgaonkar criticized BEST and the government for the ongoing workers' strike, citing a lack of dialogue and employee exploitation. He highlighted issues like stalled promotions, declining fleet, unpaid gratuities, and unequal pay for contractual staff.

Mumbai University has seen a significant drop in its overall QS World University Rankings, but has achieved a remarkable surge in employment outcomes, ranking 25th globally. This impressive performance in graduate employability outshines several top IITs, highlighting the university's strong alumni network and industry connections. Despite this, its employer reputation score remains lower than some IITs.

Mumbai cyber police apprehended a Virar-based tour operator, Nilesh Upadhyay, whose bank account allegedly facilitated the transfer of crores of rupees siphoned by cyber fraudsters nationwide. Investigators found his account linked to multiple fraud complaints, with funds possibly routed overseas. Upadhyay reportedly provided his banking details for a commission.

A two-decade-old murder case involving the father of a Shiv Sena (UBT) MP has become a flashpoint in the party's internal conflict. Uddhav Thackeray's faction alleges pressure linked to the impending verdict is being used to engineer defections to the Eknath Shinde camp. Six MPs are reportedly considering switching sides, with a verdict due soon.

Indian scientist Prof. Jainendra K. Jain has received the prestigious Wolf Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking discovery of composite fermions. This insight revolutionized the understanding of the fractional quantum Hall effect, transforming condensed matter physics. His journey from a small desert town, overcoming personal tragedy and disability, highlights remarkable resilience and intellectual pursuit.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Rajabhau Waze, who remained loyal, received a personal invitation from Uddhav Thackeray for the party's 60th anniversary. Waze, who rejected offers to switch sides, expressed gratitude to supporters and affirmed his commitment to the party's ideology. Meanwhile, rebel MPs are reportedly avoiding the rival Shiv Sena event due to anti-defection law concerns.

A special Pocso court has granted temporary bail to an 18-year-old student. He is currently in judicial custody at Taloja Central Prison. The student needs to appear for the upcoming NEET re-examination. The exam is scheduled for June 21. The court found valid grounds for his release. This allows him to prepare and sit for the crucial exam.

BEST Sanyukt Kamgar Kruti Samiti launched an indefinite strike on Friday, disrupting bus services for approximately 23 lakh commuters and potentially impacting power supply. Despite an industrial court order restraining participation, union leaders cited management's failure to address their demands and initiate talks as reasons for proceeding with the protest.

Shiv Sena (UBT) faces significant challenges as a corporator, Deepak Sawant, was disqualified due to an invalid caste certificate. Adding to the turmoil, a party politician claimed at least 25 corporators are considering switching allegiance to Eknath Shinde's faction, citing leadership inaccessibility as a key driver for discontent.

Says Sena (UBT) MPs caustic words enough to drive away party members, claims no BJP hand in recent developments

Unions Announce Decision Despite Industrial Court Restraining Staffers From Protesting; Stir Could Impact Public Transport Day at Bandra-Kurla Complex

Mumbai's BEST undertaking faces an indefinite strike from midnight Thursday as employees demand merger of budgets, settlement of dues for retirees, and implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission. Power supply in South Mumbai and bus services are at risk. Key demands also include ending contractual work and private partnerships, alongside filling vacant posts and operating more owned buses.