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SC stays conviction of NCP leader Manikrao Kokate; bars him from holding office of profit
NEW DELHI: In a major relief to Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Manikrao Kokate, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed his conviction in a cheating and forgery case. Issue notice to the Maharashtra government. Meanwhile, the conviction of the petitioner (Manikrao Kokate) shall remain stayed to the extent that there shall be no result of disqualification as a member of the state legislative assembly. However, that will not entitle the petitioner to hold an office of profit. He shall not hold any office of profit, said a two-judge vacation bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. Senior advocate and former Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Kokate, argued that this was a case deserving relief as Kokate was a five-time MLA, a current minister, had no criminal antecedents, and had been awarded a two-year sentence. I am not a holder of any post in 1989. I started as a lawyer. A lawyer in 1989 cannot have Rs 30,000. Please consider all this, my lords, Rohatgi submitted. Kokates conviction and two-year jail sentence awarded by a magistrate in February this year were upheld by a Nashik sessions court last Tuesday, which held that Kokate and his brother had dishonestly induced the state government to allot them flats. The Supreme Courts special vacation bench was hearing Kokates appeal in the cheating and forgery case linked to a government housing scheme. Although the Bombay High Court had suspended his two-year jail term on December 19, 2025, it had refused to stay his conviction, noting that prima facie evidence pointed to Kokates involvement. Challenging the High Courts refusal to stay his conviction, Kokate moved the apex court seeking relief. The NCP leader has been accused of securing a flat under a government housing scheme meant for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) by submitting false affidavits regarding his income. After hearing the submissions, the top court granted relief to Kokate by staying his conviction in the cheating case.
ArcelorMittal to Invest $0.9 Billion in 3 New Clean Energy Projects in India
ArcelorMittal has planned for a 36-MW solar project at Amravati in Maharashtra by the first half of 2027
PMFME scheme: 646 crore support boosts over 26,000 micro food units in Maharashtra
The scheme has also sanctioned seed capital assistance to more than 53,000 SHG members, supported branding and marketing proposals, and trained nearly 36,000 beneficiaries
Goa nightclub fire: Court extends police custody of Luthra brothers till Dec 26
The nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane, located in Arpora, North Goa, was the site of a devastating fire on 6 December, which claimed 25 lives and left several others injured
Hansi becomes Haryanas 23rd district, state issues notification
The Governor of Haryana hereby varies the limits and alters the number of sub-division of district Hisar, so as to form a new District to be called Hansi comprising of the sub-divisions of Hansi and Narnaund, an official statement said
Cold wave-like conditions in interior Maharashtra; Ahilyanagar the coldest
Several cities in western and central Maharashtra experienced chilly mornings. Pune recorded a minimum temperature of 8.6 degrees Celsius, while Nashik registered 8.8 degrees Celsius. Jeur in Solapur district reported a low of 8.0 degrees Celsius, and Baramati recorded 9.3 degrees Celsius
Bangladesh minorities protest `persecution, silence` under Yunus-led rule
Addressing the gathering organised by the Minority Unity Front outside the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka, minority leaders said that inadequate investigations and the absence of justice had created an atmosphere of fear and mistrust in Bangladesh
Gujarat man arrested with whale vomit worth Rs 80 lakh in Mumbai
Kurla Police, with Forest Department assistance, apprehended a 28-year-old man for illegally possessing and attempting to sell ambergris, also known as whale vomit. The 627 grams of the protected wildlife product, valued at 80 lakh, was seized near Bohri Kabristan. The accused faces charges under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in collaboration with Bisleri International Private Limited and the Pune Book Festival, with Samarth Yuva Foundation as the Festival Partner, has created a Guinness World Record for the “ Largest Online Video Album of People Reciting an Oath or Pledge .” The initiative was undertaken to promote environmental responsibility, with a particular focus on engaging young citizens through a participatory and inclusive platform. Bisleri International, NBT and Pune Book Festival Creates a Guinness World Record The record attempt was conducted during the Pune Book Festival from 13 December to 21 December 2025. As part of the initiative, participants recorded and submitted short video messages reciting a common environmental pledge in a multilingual format, enabling participation across diverse linguistic backgrounds. The pledge was administered in English, Hindi, and Marathi, affirming collective commitment to sustainable and responsible living. The pledge stated, “ I pledge to care for my planet by reducing waste, saving water, and protecting nature. Swachh Bharat, Samruddha Bharat, Mera Bharat .” Through this collective affirmation, participants committed to adopting environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives, reinforcing the values of cleanliness, sustainability, and stewardship of natural resources. The Pune Book Festival witnessed participation of over 10 lakh visitors, representing hundreds of schools, colleges, and institutions. More than 27,000+ video entries were submitted and validated as part of the Guinness World Record process. The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, volunteers, and members of the public, underscoring the festival’s role as a platform for large-scale public engagement and awareness. The official result of the Guinness World Record attempt was announced in the presence of Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust (NBT), India; Mr. K. Ganesh, Director - Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International; Shri Rajesh Pandey ji, Chief Convener and Chief Coordinator, Pune Book Festival; Dr. Rajendra Shende, Former Director, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP); Shri Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairperson, National Book Trust (NBT), India; Prof. (Dr.) Suresh Gosavi, Vice-Chancellor, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU); Prof. Parag Kalkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU); Dr. Sanjeev Sonawane, Vice-Chancellor, Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU); Shri Krishna Kumar Goyal, Chairman, Kohinoor Group of Enterprises; Shri Somnath Patil, Secretary, Dr. D. Y. Patil Group; Shri Shankar Karajagi, Director, Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL); and Shri Aaba Rawat, Chairperson, Deccan Education Society (DES), Pune, along with other distinguished guests. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, India , said, “ The environmental pledge undertaken at the Pune Book Festival represents a meaningful integration of knowledge, awareness, and responsible citizenship. As the Reading and Knowledge Partner of the Nation, the National Book Trust remains committed to promoting reading and informed engagement on issues of national importance. Our collaboration with Bisleri International has enabled us to take the message of sustainability and the ethos of Swachh Bharat to young readers, students, and families through a participatory and accessible format .” Mr. K. Ganesh, Director - Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International , added, “ This Guinness World Record initiative brought together a large and diverse group of participants around a shared commitment to saving water, reducing waste, and protecting nature. The scale of participation reflects a growing public consciousness around environmental responsibility. The multilingual approach ensured wider reach and inclusiveness, allowing participants to engage meaningfully in their preferred language. The focus now is to ensure that these pledges translate into sustained action beyond the festival .” Shri Rajesh Pandey ji, Chief Convener, Pune Book Festival , said, “ This Guinness World Record achievement reflects the collective effort, discipline, and dedication of the entire organizing and volunteer team. The successful execution of such a large-scale initiative within a limited timeframe demonstrates the strength of collaboration and shared purpose. Platforms like the Pune Book Festival provide a powerful opportunity to engage citizens - especially young people in meaningful action towards environmental responsibility ." The organizers noted that the initiative was conceptualized to leverage the wide reach and high footfall of the Pune Book Festival to encourage public participation through a simple, inclusive, and accessible format. The use of multilingual digital video submissions enabled large-scale participation and amplified the message of environmental responsibility across diverse audiences, making the record attempt both impactful and future oriented. About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water. Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. www.bisleri.com .
Goa Zilla Panchayat poll results: BJP looks set for massive victory
MUMBAI: In the Goa Zilla Panchayat polls, the results of which were declared on Monday, the BJP is set for a massive victory by winning 17 of the total 50 seats. The Congress party won five seats, while other smaller parties together secured four seats. Goa has two Zilla ParishadsNorth Goa and South Goawhich together comprise 50 district panchayat seats. In this election, over six lakh voters cast their ballots, with a voter turnout of 72.6 per cent in North Goa and 68.9 per cent in South Goa. The first Zilla Parishad election was held in 2005 and recorded a voter turnout of 51.2 per cent. The second-highest turnout was achieved in 2015, at 66.4 per cent. A total of 226 candidates were in the fray for the 50 Zilla Parishad seats in the current election. According to the latest updates from the rural body elections, the BJP won eight seats in South Goa and nine seats in North Goa Zilla Parishads. The Congress party won all its five seats in South Goa. The Maharashtra Gomantak Party (MGP) and the Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) won one seat each, while four independent candidates also emerged victorious. The rural body polls are significant as they help gauge the pulse of rural Goa, where public sentiment appears to be shifting. The election was particularly important in the backdrop of several pressing issues, including a recent hotel fire that claimed 25 lives, alleged job scams, gang wars, and attacks on activists. The BJPs performance in this poll is expected to help incumbent Chief Minister Pramod Sawant consolidate his political position in the state.
People put faith in PMs development vision: Fadnavis on local body poll win
According to results announced late on Sunday, the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and the NCP, dominated the elections to 288 municipal councils and nagar panchayats, securing 207 president posts. In contrast, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi managed a combined total of just 44 posts
Mumbai hospital blaze: Electrical wiring catches fire at Bhatia Hospital; patients safe
A fire erupted at Bhatia Hospital in Grant Road on Monday afternoon, originating from electrical wiring in the CT-MRI unit on the ground floor. While heavy smoke was reported, the Mumbai Fire Brigade quickly brought the blaze under control and extinguished it. Emergency services were mobilized as a precaution, and no injuries have been reported.
68-Year-Old Man Loses Rs 23.5 Lakh In Cyber Fraud In Maharashtra
A 68-year-old man was allegedly cheated of Rs 23.5 lakh by cyber fraudsters who threatened him with digital arrest in Maharashtra's Thane district, police said on Monday.
India, New Zealand conclude FTA talks; key sectors to gain duty-free access
India and New Zealand have concluded negotiations for a free trade agreement that will give duty-free access to Indian goods like textiles, footwear and engineering products, while excluding dairy concessions. India has not given any duty concessions in the dairy sector, which was a key demand for New Zealand
It's A Tourist Party: Shiv Sena-UBT Hits Out At Congress After Maharashtra Civic Poll Rout
Uddhav faction leader Anand Dubey said the Congress had lost touch with voters and failed to build a sustained grassroots presence.
No large-scale mining allowed in Aravallis under new definition: Centre
The government said a Supreme Court-approved framework provides for stronger protection of the mountain system and places a freeze on new mining leases until a comprehensive management plan is finalised
Gill, Arshdeep, Abhishek Named In Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy Squad
New Zealand T20Is: India openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, along with pacer Arshdeep Singh, have been named in Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy squad Alongside the trio, the squad also includes Prabhsimran Singh, Naman Dhir, Anmolpreet Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sanvir Singh, Harpreet Brar, Gurnoor Brar and Krish Bhagat. Punjab, who were last season's quarterfinalists, are slotted in Elite Group C and will begin their campaign against Maharashtra on December 24, playing all seven league matches in Jaipur. The league-stage fixtures conclude on January 8, three days before India's first ODI. Gill, Abhishek and Arshdeep's availability, however, remains unclear, as India are scheduled to play three ODIs against New Zealand starting January 11, followed by five T20Is from January 21. Gill, who was dropped from the T20I squad for the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand T20Is, will captain the ODI side, while Abhishek and Arshdeep are part of the T20I squad. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Earlier, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant had already been included in Delhis probables list, and the duo will be available for Delhi till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11 to 17, 2026. Meanwhile, former skipper Rohit Sharma was also named in the Mumbai squad for the first two Vijay Hazare Trophy games. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Harnoor Pannu, Anmolpreet Singh, Uday Saharan, Naman Dhir, Salil Arora (wk), Sanvir Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Jashanpreet Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Harpreet Brar, Raghu Sharma, Krish Bhagat, Gourav Choudhary, Sukhdeep Bajwa Article Source: IANS
ArcelorMittal unveils three green energy projects in India with $900 million investment
ArcelorMittal announced three new renewable energy projects in India, totaling 1 GW of solar and wind capacity, with an investment of $900 million. These projects, located in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, will double the company's renewable energy capacity in India to 2 GW upon completion. The generated power will be supplied to AMNS India, its steelmaking joint venture.
Three killed after lorry rams into stationary Bolero in Mancherial
Hyderabad: Three people were killed and 10 injured after a lorry rammed into a stationary Bolero near Jaipur village of Mancherial district, Telangana, in the early hours of Monday, December 22. According to Jaipur police station house officer (SHO), the lorry was carrying over 20 daily wage labourers from Maharashtra to Sultanpur village in Karimnagar. 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 .
As part of its steadfast commitment to advancing India’s digitization mission, and further driving financial inclusion agenda, PayU, a leading fintech platform, executed a host of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in 2025. Designed to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities nationwide, PayU’s multi-faceted programs have directly benefited over 50,000 rural beneficiaries and over 140 women across key villages in states like Maharashtra, etc. and about 450 students and educators in India since 2024. To drive this mission forward, PayU partnered with the key organizations including partnerships with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), NeevJivan NGO, etc. PayU conducted engaging sessions on cybersecurity for students in partnership with DSCI’s Cyber for Youth Program " PayU's commitment to social impact goes beyond financial inclusion – we're building digitally safe and economically empowered communities from the ground up ," said Richa Mukherjee, Senior Director – Corporate Affairs and Public Policy . " These programs represent our belief that technology and entrepreneurship can transform lives. When we see rural students mastering cybersecurity concepts or women launching sustainable businesses, we're creating lasting change that supports the Digital India mission ." Pioneering Digital Safety Education In partnership with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI) for its Cyber for Youth Program, PayU revolutionized cybersecurity education in rural Karnataka. Through engaging activities such as interactive quizzes, poster competitions, and live demonstrations conducted in local languages, covering critical topics including cyberbullying prevention, social media safety, and digital payment fraud awareness. The program's impact was validated through rigorous pre- and post-assessments, with students showing knowledge improvement rates ranging from 62.5% to 82.3% across different schools. Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Sustainable Livelihood Programs By collaborating with NeevJivan NGO, PayU implemented its ‘Model Village Program’ focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in the Nashik, Dahanu, and Jawhar regions of Maharashtra. The initiative introduced sustainable livelihood projects including bee-keeping, mushroom farming, poultry farming, and vermicomposting, providing women with viable alternate income sources. The program provided comprehensive support including 30-45 days of entrepreneurship training and strategic branding assistance, with products like " Madhu " for honey and "Mastshroom" for mushrooms. The initiative successfully established 14 sustainable projects, with every participating household gaining access to new income-generating opportunities, demonstrating PayU's commitment to economic empowerment through innovation. Leadership-Driven Educational Impact PayU further strengthened its educational commitment through a strategic partnership with Teach for India. PayU's senior leaders engaged directly with over 450 students and educators through extended mentorship sessions, facilitating knowledge sharing and providing real-world insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and career development. This initiative reinforced PayU's belief in leadership-driven social change and the power of direct engagement in shaping young minds. All these initiatives build upon PayU's established track record of impactful CSR programs. Last year, the company successfully implemented two major initiatives: the Village Adoption Program under RBI's framework, which brought digital payment literacy to 5,000 beneficiaries across five villages in Uttar Pradesh under the theme ‘ Har Payment Digital ’ and the Digital Vans initiative in partnership with MeITY's CSC, which delivered financial and digital literacy training to over 50,238 citizens in remote areas around Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Gurugram. These programs demonstrate PayU's consistent commitment to bridging the digital divide and advancing financial inclusion across India's rural landscape. About PayU PayU , India's leading diversified fintech platform with Prosus as an investor, operates businesses that are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and offers advanced solutions to meet the digital financial services needs of customers (merchants, banks, and consumers). PayU provides payment gateway solutions to online businesses through its cutting-edge and award-winning technology and has empowered 4.5 lakhs+ businesses, including India’s leading enterprises, e-commerce giants and SMBs. It enables businesses to collect digital payments across 100+ online payment methods such as Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Net Banking, EMIs, pay-later, QR, UPI, Wallets, and more. It’s a preferred partner in the affordability ecosystem, offering the maximum coverage of issuers and easy-to-implement integrations across card-based EMIs, pay-later options and new-age cardless EMIs. PayU offers e-commerce brands best-in-industry success rates while ensuring a seamless checkout experience.
Global Maitri Festival 2025: Celebration of Sanskriti, Maitri Bhaav and Seva Bhaav
The Global Maitri Festival, one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year with an audience over 12000 is happening on 27 December 2025 at Police Parade Ground, Mumbai. Organised by the MaitriBodh Parivaar , and supported by Ministry of Culture, Government of India, this 7th annual celebration of the festival brings forth the larger-than-life display of our rich Sanskriti and foundational values of Maitri Bhaav and Seva Bhaav. The Global Maitri Festival is an invitation to all wanting to witness the pride of our Bharat in motion. Global Maitri Festival 2025 to Celebrate Sanskriti, Maitri Bhaav, and Seva Bhaav Joining this year’s celebration are esteemed dignitaries including Shri. Arjun Meghwal, Union Minister of Law and Justice; Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of AYUSH, Health and Family Welfare; Shri Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra; and many more. The occasion will also be graced by veteran celebrities such as Jackie Shroff, Smita Jaykar, and Kajal Aggarwal. Global Maitri Festival is honored to have the Maitri Cultural Economy Summit as our Cultural Partner for the year. With their participation, we bring culture to the forefront on this grand stage through a one-of-a-kind cultural performance that highlights India’s unique cultural identity, celebrates our sanskriti, and contributes to the revival of our rich cultural heritage on a scale like never before Each year, the celebration reflects Bharat’s inclusive spirit and the timeless message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. Guided by the physical presence of Maitreya Dadashreeji, Visionary of the Festival and Founder of MaitriBodh Parivaar, the event draws its depth and purpose from His leadership. The 2025 edition revolves around the theme Ek Bharat Hum Bharat, emphasising unity and shared identity at a time when collective consciousness is vital. This message reflects a renewed call for citizens to rise above differences and recognise their origin as one family. This year, the festival showcases four transformative initiatives driving lasting social reform. Maitri Adarsh Gram for rural development, Chinta Mukt Bharat 2032 a national initiative for mental and emotional well-being, Yuva Parivartan for youth development, and Vishwa Shanti Maha Yagnya in association with Akhil Vishwa Gayatri Parivaar for global peace and harmony. The highlight of the festival is the annual address by Maitreya Dadashreeji, offering profound guidance and inspiration to help individuals overcome mental health challenges and navigate the year ahead with clarity and strength. www.maitribodh.org/gmf , or you can call 8929 707 222 for more information.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh announces public agitation campaign to repeal abolition of MGNREGA
NEW DELHI: Congress MP and General Secretary in-charge of Communications Jairam Ramesh, on Monday announced the party's plan to organise a public agitation campaign to repeal the abolition of MGNREGA. In a post on the social media platform X, Ramesh shared the background of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which is now replaced by the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgaar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act (VB-G RAM-G) . Sharing the timeline of how Congress laid the foundation stone of the two-decade-old act, Ramesh wrote, In the 1970s, following a severe drought, the Congress Govt in Maharashtra under the leadership of V.P. Naik and inspiration of V. S. Page introduced the pioneering Employment Guarantee Scheme to deal with rural distress. Subsequently, in the early 1980s, two new schemes were announced by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi - the National Rural Employment Programme (NREP) and the Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP). In the early 1990s, an Employment Assurance Scheme in 100 poorest districts was announced by Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, who also happened to be Minister of Rural Development. He added that the Congress, in its Lok Sabha election manifesto released in late March 2004, pledged to enact a new law to guarantee employment for 100 days a year to rural families. This was two years after Congress Chief Ministers met in April 2002 to review all schemes and programmes related to rural employment. This pledge formed part of the Common Minimum Programme of the UPA that was released in May 2004, Jairam Ramesh wrote. In the 1970s, following a severe drought, the Congress Govt in Maharashtra under the leadership of V.P. Naik and inspiration of V. S. Page introduced the pioneering Employment Guarantee Scheme to deal with rural distress. Subsequently, in the early 1980s, two new schemes were pic.twitter.com/bvf86Ky6QL Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) December 22, 2025 Further in his post, he highlighted the role of late Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, Sonia Gandhi, in the formation of MGNREGA. The Congress MLA wrote the post in response to Sonia Gandhi's Monday editorial in The Hindu , titled The Bulldozed Demolition of MGNREGA. On Sunday, Jairam Ramesh said the fundamental character of MGNREGA has been changed, announcing that the Congress Working Committee meeting scheduled for December 27 will finalise an action plan for a nationwide movement. The parliament, on December 18, passed the VB-G RAM G Bill and President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday gave her assent to the bill and made it an act. This act replaces the 20-year-old MGNREGA and guarantees 125 days of rural wage employment every year. Speaking to ANI , Ramesh said the new legislation has taken away employment opportunities from rural, deprived and exploited sections of society. The fundamental character of MGNREGA has been changed; the basic structure of the scheme has been altered. The employment that was being provided to rural, deprived, and exploited people has been taken away, he said. Ramesh further accused the BJP of acting out of ideological bias. They hate Mahatma Gandhi's name, and they hate the laws enacted during the Congress regime. I don't understand why they rushed this through, he said, adding that the law was enacted without consultations with state governments. Rahul Gandhi slams VB-G RAM G Bill as anti-village, says Modi Govt destroyed 20 years of MGNREGA
No leads yet on prime suspect in Bangladesh youth leader Hadi killing: Police
Bangladesh Police said they have no specific information yet on the whereabouts of the prime suspect in the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, adding that investigations are ongoing and all possible angles are being examined
Maharashtra civic polls: Mahayuti may face seat tussle, MVA struggles
The BJP-led Mahayuti's decisive victory in recent municipal elections amplifies the challenge for the opposition ahead of the crucial BMC polls. Political observers believe this win will boost the Mahayuti's morale and potentially lead to further defections, while the Thackeray cousins face an acid test in Mumbai.
Lorry Rams into Van in Mancherial; 3 Killed
Around 23 labourers from Chandrapur in Maharashtra boarded a van to attend to agriculture works in Karimnagar district. When the van reached Indaram village crossroads at Jaipur mandal in Mancherial, the speeding lorry hit the van
Air India Delhi-Mumbai flight returns after take-off due to technical issues
An Air India flight bound for Mumbai returned safely to Delhi shortly after take-off on Monday following a technical issue. The aircraft is undergoing the necessary checks, the spokesperson added
In Maharashtra Local Body Poll Result, An Eknath Shinde Message To Ally BJP
Municipal council elections in Maharashtra, which happened after almost a decade, mirrored the 2024 Vidhan Sabha elections.
Indonesia bus accident leaves atleast 16 dead in Central Java
At least 16 people were killed after a passenger bus crashed and overturned on a toll road in Indonesias Central Java province early Monday. Police and rescue teams arrived about 40 minutes after the accident and recovered the bodies of six passengers who died at the scene
BJP emerged as the single largest party in Maharashtra's local body polls, securing 117 president posts and doubling its councillors since 2017. Despite challenges, the Mahayuti alliance, including Shiv Sena and NCP factions, celebrated a significant win, seen as a precursor to upcoming municipal corporation elections.
Maharashtra's ruling Mahayuti alliance celebrated a significant victory in local body elections, with CM Devendra Fadnavis highlighting BJP's leading role. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde declared the results a 'trailer' for upcoming municipal corporation polls, while Ajit Pawar asserted his faction's strength. Leaders credited transparent governance and farmer support for the win.
Senior citizen duped of Rs 23.5 lakh on threat of digital arrest in Thane
THANE: A 68-year-old man was allegedly cheated of Rs 23.5 lakh by cyber fraudsters who threatened him with digital arrest in Maharashtra's Thane district, police said on Monday. This is a second such incident reported in the district this week, an official said. Based on a complaint, the Kalyan police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act, Assistant Inspector Vinod Patil of Mahatma Phule police station said. The complainant alleged that two unidentified persons cheated him of Rs 23.5 lakh by threatening to place him under digital arrest and forced him to transfer money through online transactions between December 8 and 12, Patil said. 'Digital arrest' is a growing form of cybercrime in which fraudsters pose as law enforcement officials or personnel of government agencies and intimidate victims through audio/video calls. They hold the victims hostage and put pressure on them to pay money. He said that the accused allegedly contacted the victim on WhatsApp video calls and claimed that his bank transactions were suspicious and linked to alleged irregularities. The fraudsters told him that he could be placed under digital arrest, but assured him that they would help him avoid legal action if he cooperated, the officer said. He said that the accused repeatedly threatened the senior citizen and put pressure on him to make multiple online money transfers amounting to Rs 23.5 lakh. The fraud came to light after the victim narrated the incident to acquaintances and approached the police on realising he had been duped. We are analysing bank transaction details, call records and digital evidence to track down the accused, Patil said. SC entrusts CBI with unified, pan-India probe into digital arrest cases; seeks coorporation from States
Delhi pollution: Air quality remains in very poor category, smog persists
According to data from the Sameer app, Delhis average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 366 at around 7.05 am The worst air quality was reported from the Narela monitoring station, which logged an AQI of 418, the highest in the city so far on Monday
Byculla police have registered an FIR against two directors of Aafiyah Realtors for allegedly cheating a businessman of Rs 5 crore. The couple allegedly sold flats in a proposed high-rise project, Aafiyah Heights, promising possession within 30 months. However, no flats were handed over, and the company was not registered at the time of the transactions.
At least 16 Epstein files removed from US Justice Department website
Among other files that appear to have been removed, the majority depicted explicit artwork, showed mail slots filled with envelopes, a tiled hallway, and a notebook page with names and apartment numbers
MNS alliance call in 2-3 days, efforts on to convince Cong on united anti-BJP fight: Sena (UBT)
MUMBAI: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Parab on Sunday said that the announcement on the alliance between his party and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena could be made any moment. According to his party colleague Sanjay Raut, it can happen in two to three days. Speaking to reporters, Parab said the people of Mumbai have always backed []
US says talks with Ukraine, Europe on ending war with Russia `constructive`
Posting on social media, Steve Witkoff said the talks aimed at aligning on a shared strategic approach between Ukraine, the United States and Europe
Indian H-1B visa holders who flew back to renew work permits left stranded
The Indian high-skilled workers had appointments cancelled between December 15 and 26, the lawyers said, a period coinciding with the US holiday season
Donald Trump removes nearly 30 career diplomats from ambassadorial posts
The chiefs of mission in at least 29 countries were informed last week that their tenures would end in January, according to two State Department officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal personnel moves
West Bank to get 19 new Jewish settlements after Israel Cabinet approval
The settlements include two that were previously evacuated during a 2005 disengagement plan, according to Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich, who has pushed a settlement expansion agenda in the West Bank
Saudi Arabia expands access to alcohol for non-Muslim residents
Theres been no official announcement of the decision, but word has gotten out, and long lines of cars and people can now be seen at the discreet, unmarked store in the Diplomatic Quarter of the Saudi capital, Riyadh
Pearl Harbor survivor who witnessed 1941 attack dies aged 105
With his passing, there remain only about a dozen survivors of the surprise attack, which killed just over 2400 troops and propelled the United States into the war
Nine killed, 10 wounded in South African pub shooting
The incident occurred just before 1 am in the township of Bekkersdal, which is located 46 km west of Johannesburg. It is the second mass shooting to happen in South Africa in three weeks
Thousands gather to mourn Bondi shooting victims
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, his predecessors John Howard and Scott Morrison, and Governor-General Sam Mostyn, who represents Australias head of state King Charles III, were among the dignitaries at the commemoration that drew more than 10,000 people
Elephant death toll in Assam train collision rises to eight
Seven elephants were killed, and one was injured, after a herd of tuskers was hit by the Sairang-New Delhi Rajdhani Express in Changjurai village on Saturday.
India slams reports of security breach at Dhaka Mission
Certain reports in Bangladeshi media claimed that the youths protesting outside the Bangladesh High Commission tried to breach the security of the premises
Heritage is an overrated concept
We should stop worrying about how the past is constantly being erased and start focusing on new roads or bridges instead
We must protect trees with all our might
Responding to complaints, officials from the civic bodys G North ward inspected the site and issued a warning to the developer to remove the rods
Cashing in! UPI transactions soar as Keralas digital aspirations take flight
KOCHI: Its a digi-tell all! In a clear pivot from cash, Kerala is increasingly taking to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) figures reveal that 444.9 million UPI transactions were processed in the state in November, marking a 29.6% year-on-year increase. The value of these transactions rose 28.6% to `59,793 crore. Per capita usage climbed to 12.7 transactions a month, up from 9.8 a year earlier, indicating not just wider adoption but also more frequent use. Over the past three years, rising merchant acceptance, expanding smartphone penetration and a sustained, state-supported push towards cashless behaviour have together reshaped everyday money interactions in Kerala. The states performance mirrors a broader national surge. An NPCI-Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report released at the Global Fintech Festival 2025 highlights the scale of UPIs expansion across India. As of August, the country had 504 million unique UPI users nearly half of the adult population and close to 65 million merchants accepting UPI payments. UPI now accounts for 84% of all digital retail payments, with monthly transaction run rates 34% higher than a year ago. Within this nationwide expansion, Kerala contributes around 4% of Indias total UPI transaction volumes, placing it between ninth and eleventh nationally, depending on the month. Larger states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu continue to dominate the top tier with double-digit share of the pie. In several pockets, UPI is already the default mode. In others, adoption is rising sharply, said Indraneel Ajitkumar Pandit, executive vice-president and chief digital officer, Federal Bank. Kerala stands out for its exceptional engagement among senior citizens, with digital literacy among the elderly reaching near-universal levels through systematic campaigns, he added. UPI-first state ESAF Small Finance Bank executive director George K John described Kerala as a true UPI-first state, citing women-led digital participation through Kudumbashree networks, senior-citizen digital literacy initiatives and near-universal merchant QR code adoption as defining features. In urban centres such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur, UPI penetration is close to universal, especially for small-ticket payments across retail, transport, healthcare, hospitality and education. Merchant acceptance is extremely high, with even micro-merchants routinely using QR codes, he pointed out. According to Madhavankutty G, chief economist, Canara Bank, Keralas broader socio-economic profile also plays a role. It is a state with a high degree of consumerism. Banking penetration is very high, implying the number of bank accounts per capita is well above the national average, he said. High levels of urbanisation and internet penetration further support digital payments, while the large migrant workforce using UPI to send money to home states adds to transaction volumes, he added. Indraneel also pointed to the growing link between digital payments and credit growth. Studies show that business loan growth has a strong correlation with UPI adoption. Districts recording over 100% UPI growth reported a 4.2 times higher CAGR in business loans, he said. EMI collections and debt repayments through UPI have doubled over the past two years, underlining the rise of high-value and recurring transactions on the platform.
BMC spends 4.3cr on anti-infective bed mats for hosps, docs say product unproven
Mumbai's BMC is spending over Rs 4 crore on 'anti-infective bed cover mats' for its medical colleges, a product unknown to many infection control specialists. Supplied by a real estate firm, the mats claim to kill 99.99% of microbes, but lack real-world clinical trial backing. Experts question their efficacy and necessity.
Mahayuti sweeps Phase 1 of Maharashtra local body polls
The BJP-led Mahayuti coalition has secured a decisive victory in Maharashtra's civic elections, winning nearly 207 out of 288 council and nagar panchayat president posts. This performance mirrors their assembly election success, with the BJP emerging as the biggest gainer. The results consolidate Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's position and are seen as a significant win for the ruling alliance.
Bagging 10 of 17 president posts, Ajit keeps grip over Pune dist, Baramati
A model tribal school in Maharashtra battles water scarcity to fight migration
The Hiwali school has been seeking solar power and a KT dam or Kolhapur-Type Weir, a low-cost, gravity-based riverbed structure that acts as a small dam or barrage to store post-monsoon river flow for water supply
Opposition Blames EVMs, EC for Their Defeat
Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal alleged that the ruling parties won due to Election Commissions blessing and the verdict does not reflect peoples mandate.
UBT-MNS seat talks over, announcement soon: Parab
Sena scores duck in bastion Uran
Three people from Maharashtra get three years imprisonment for kidnapping baby of 5 months
Maharashtra: Mephedrone worth Rs 7.2 lakh seized, 55-year-old man arrested
Man steals Rs 10 lakh gold in black magic fraud in Mumbai
Mumbai: Kitchen fire at Colaba bar injures two workers
Mumbai: Gas leak explosion in Andheri chawl injures three, woman suffers 95% burns
Analysis | Local Body Poll Results Validation Of E Shinde In Maharashtra Politics
Municipal council elections in Maharashtra, which happened after almost a decade, mirrored the 2024 Vidhan Sabha elections.
11-year-old boy riding pillion hurt after BEST bus runs over bike in Mumbai
BJP-led Mahayuti sweeps Maharashtra local body polls, winning 207 of 288 posts
The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) managed a collective tally of just 44, according to the state election commission (SEC). The Congress bagged 28 posts, the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) seven, and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) nine
BJP-led Mahayuti sweeps local body polls in Maharashtra, Opposition routed
The Mahayuti alliance secured a significant victory in Maharashtra's local body elections. They won 207 posts for presidents of municipal councils and nagar panchayats. The BJP emerged as the largest party within the alliance. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi secured a much smaller share of the wins. Results were announced by the State Election Commission.
VB-G RAM-G replaces MGNREGA with Presidents assent; Gazette notification issued
The Rural Development Ministry described it as a decisive reform in Indias rural employment and development framework. According to the government, the VB-G RAM G scheme aligns rural development with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047
BJP Single-Largest Party As Mahayuti Dominates Maharashtra Local Body Polls; MVA Cries Foul
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a sweeping win in the Maharashtra municipal council and nagar panchayat polls, with the BJP emerging as the largest party.
Maharashtra: 4 set up 8 fake GST-registered firms, claim Rs 22 crore, booked for tax fraud
PM Modi thanks people of Maha for supporting BJP-led alliance in local elections
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday thanked the people of Maharashtra for supporting the BJP and the Mahayuti coalition led by it in the local bodies elections, asserting that it reflected their trust in people-centric development. Maharashtra stands firmly with development! Grateful to the people of Maharashtra for blessing the BJP and Mahayuti 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 .
Congress hopeful of political comeback despite blow to MVA in Maharashtra local body polls
MUMBAI: The Maharashtra urban local body election results are not unexpected, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party. However, the Congress has shown its political prowess in the polls, posing a minor challenge to the ruling alliance. Dalits, Muslims, and other socially weaker communities stood with the Congress in times of major crisis, and reposed their faith in Indias oldest political force. The success is credited to Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, Congress Lok Sabha MP Pratibha Dhanorkar, and Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal. Of the total 34 nagar parishad president posts won by the Congress, eight seats were in Chandrapur district and three were in Buldhana district. Vishwajit Kadam was also able to retain his fort, but former MPCC president Nana Patole and Congress MLA Amit Deshmukh failed to retain the ground. In the urban local body polls, the BJP has bagged 120 nagar parishad president posts out of 288, while Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena won 56, and DCM Ajit Pawar-led NCP won 36. Congress has done better in the opposition alliance, winning 35 nagar parishad president posts. A senior Congress leader said the local body polls are not disappointing. We had no resources at all, and still, we were able to win the 34 nagar parishad president posts, through direct public vote. On the other hand, the BJP and its allies were allegedly distributing Rs 5000 per vote, even when they had the assistance of the state and election commission machinery at their doorstep, he said. He added, Some of the Congress' leaders were not contesting as a cohesive and united force, but instead fighting separate battles. Despite all these odds, we were able to win a number of seats close to the third partner of Mahayuti, Ajit Pawar-led NCP. It means there are better hopes in the future. The Congress leader further said, If we choose the right candidates and resources, things will definitely be different and better in state politics. The local body poll is a green shoot for us. Now, we have to nurture and cultivate it into a green patch and tend to the garden. He also added that this election result has given strong hopes and positivity to fight the long battle against the BJP.
Debate Settled Over Real Shiv Sena: Eknath Shinde After Local Body Poll Win
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena Chief leader Eknath Shinde said on Sunday that the party has maintained a formidable strike rate in the recent nagar parishad and nagar panchayat elections.
Maharashtra Police Helps in Rescue of 7 Persons from Cyber Slavery in Myanmar's Notorious KK Park
The probe into the financial trails of the ransom amounts is underway
Maharashtra local body poll results: PM Modi thanks people of for supporting BJP-led Mahayuti
The State Election Commission has not yet declared the results of all 286 municipal councils and nagar panchayats, which went to polls in two phases on December 2 and 20
Local body polls: Congress claims it won 41 posts of municipal council presidents
Congress has announced significant wins in Maharashtra's local body elections. The party claims 41 municipal council presidents and 1,006 councillors have been elected on its symbol. Results for all local bodies are still being declared. The Chief Minister stated the BJP achieved a record with 48 percent of councillors winning on its symbol and 129 presidents elected.
Fixing by SEC, money power behind Mahayuti win: MVA
Nagesh Trophy: Final League Stage Of Mens National T20 For The Blind Set For An Action-packed Start
National T20 Cricket Tournament: The final 10 group stage matches of the 8th Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind will commence at the Railway Cricket Stadium in Hubli, Karnataka, on Monday. Group C, consisting of Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh, will be played from Monday till December 25, and the group winners will qualify directly for the Super 8 stage. Nagesh Trophy is Indias premier national-level T20 cricket tournament for visually impaired (blind) mens teams. It brings together state and union territory teams from across the country to compete in a structured T20 format under the auspices of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), with support from organisations like the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. The opening ceremony for the league stage was held at Karnataka Gujarat Bhavana at Hubli in the presence of Jagadish Shettar, Member of Parliament, Belagavi Constituency and Former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Abbayya Prasad, MLA, Hubli-Dharwad-East constituency, Dr. G.K. Mahantesh, Chairman, CABI and Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust, and Udaya Kumar, Trustee, Samarthanam Trust. Welcoming the participating teams to Hubli, Jagadish Shettar, MP, extended his best wishes to all the players for the tournament. He said that the entire country has now become aware of cricket for the blind following the historic victory of the Indian womens team, and expressed hope that this success would further increase awareness and support among the general public. He also thanked the Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring the womens team and for showing strong support towards the growth of cricket for the blind. The dignitary later joined all the participating teams for a group photograph. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. The eighth edition of the tournament had 29 teams in the fray, which were placed in six groups with a total of 56 league matches. The winners of Groups A, B, C, and D qualified directly for the Super 8 stage. The next two places in the Super 8 stage will be decided on Net Run Rate. The winners of Groups E and F will play against the 7th and 8th-placed teams from all the teams of Groups A to D in the eliminators, and the winners of those two matches will complete the Super 8 stage. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Nagesh Trophy is named in honour of the late S. P. Nagesh, founder president of CABI and a champion for blind cricket development in India. The first edition of the tournament was held in 201819, and has continued annually with increasing participation and competitiveness. Teams from multiple states and union territories compete each year in round-robin league matches followed by knockouts and finals. Andhra Pradesh are the defending champion of the tournament, winning the title by beating Delhi in the finals last year. Article Source: IANS
In Nanded, the Bharatiya Janata Party's family strategy for Loha municipal council polls did not succeed. The Nationalist Congress Party candidate, also named Sharad Pawar, secured the president's post. Several BJP candidates and their relatives lost their elections. The NCP performed well in several local bodies across Nanded district.
Worli residents protest SRA move to terminate developer and warn of agitation
LIVE:Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis press briefing on BJP, Mahayuti victory in Local Body Election
Minister urges Maharashtra MP to stop raking up border issue
Kannada and Marathi speakers are living like brothers in Karnataka, says H.K. Patil
Maharashtra MP says Belagavi DC illegally restrained him from entering district
Dhairyasheel S. Mane submits a complaint to the Lok Sabha Speaker even as Kannada organisations in the district condemn the move
NAGPUR: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said the BJP has set a record in local body polls with 48 per cent of councillors winning on the party symbol, and its candidates elected as presidents in 129 municipal councils. He attributed the Mahayuti alliance's success in the municipal council and nagar panchayat elections to the BJP organisation and development agenda of the government. Counting of votes for elections to the posts of president and members in 286 municipal councils and nagar panchayats held in two phases began in the morning. Fadnavis said the BJP has once again emerged as the single largest party. 48 per cent councillors have been elected on the BJP symbol, which is a record. The BJP has created another record with 3,300 councillors being elected from the party. BJP candidates have been elected as presidents in 129 municipal councils. In 75 per cent of the local bodies, Mahayuti nominees have been elected as municipal presidents, he said. Fadnavis emphasised that the BJP's national leadership has put faith in the state leadership for elections. It is the team effort - the organisation and government. We fought the polls on the development plank. I led a positive campaign on the development agenda. I never criticised any political leader or party. I solicited votes on the development agenda, the work done by the government so far, and our blueprint for the future, the chief minister told a press conference. In the multi-dimensional contests, Mahayuti allies- the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar's NCP- contested against each other in some places. There were alliances as well as friendly fights among Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) constituents- the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and Congress. The opposition Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) virtually conceded defeat in the elections, accusing the election commission of facilitating the victory of the ruling Mahayuti. State Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal congratulated the party candidates who won the posts of municipal president and councillors. In a terse comment, he congratulated the state poll body for helping the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the elections. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut attributed the victory of Mahayuti to ampering of EVMs. He said the opposition couldn't withstand a hailstorm of money. His party colleague Ambadas Danve alleged money and muscle power shaped the Mahayuti win. The Mahayuti has bagged a larger number of seats as compared to constituents of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, thanks to the muscle and money power deployed by the ruling parties, Danve told PTI in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan claimed the party had got a decisive mandate as voters had rejected the Opposition's fake narrative. He claimed the Mahayuti had won more than 250 councils, nagar parishads and nagar panchayats out of 288, with BJP candidates securing 134 out of 236 council chief posts and over 3,000 councillor seats. The Opposition levelled all kinds of allegations during the campaign, but people saw through them. Uddhav Thackeray himself said he had nothing to offer to the people and that is why his party was rejected. His party could not even win council chairperson posts in double digits, Chavan claimed. Now, Mumbaikars too would reject the opposition's narrative in the upcoming BMC polls, he said. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the overwhelming success of the BJP was a victory of the (party) workers. This is a victory of our workers. Thank you to the people who supported the BJP by maintaining faith in its development-oriented working style, the Union minister stated. Maharashtra minister and BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed the Mahayuti is headed to secure two-thirds seats. The Mahayuti has taken a very good lead in Maharashtra and the people have rejected the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP), he added. State minister Shivendrasinh Bhosale claimed BJP candidate Amol Mohite was elected municipal president in Satara district by 42,000 votes, an outcome that even surpassed the vote margins typically seen in assembly elections. Minister of state for home Yogesh Kadam claimed the Mahayuti had registered a clean sweep in Khed municipal council in Ratnagiri district by winning all 21 seats, including 17 seats won by Shiv Sena. The BJP has won the president's post in four out of five local bodies in Udgir, Ahmedpur, Nilanga, and Renapur in Latur district, while its ally NCP bagged the seat in Ausa. In the Beed district, the Mahayuti combine has taken a decisive lead. People have demolished the plot of the Opposition to defame Parli and Beed through the results of the local body polls, former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Dhananjay Munde claimed. The Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) claimed they had retained their party bastions in Chandrapur and Sangli districts. The Congress won the municipal council president's post as well as 21 of the 23 seats in the Brahmapuri municipal council in Chandrapur district, party leader Vijay Wadettiwar said. The BJP and NCP have secured one seat each. In the Urun-Ishwarpur municipal council in Sangli district, the NCP (SP) has won 23 seats as well as the post of council president, senior leader Jayant Patil claimed. In Palghar district, the Shiv Sena has won the president's election in the municipal councils of Palghar and Dahanu, while the BJP bagged the president's posts in Jawhar municipal council and Wada Nagar Panchayat. Recounting of votes was ordered after the Congress objected to the 116-vote win of BJP candidate Ajay Agrawal in Kamptee municipal council polls in Nagpur district, an official said. In a setback for the BJP, the party candidate for the post of Loha municipal council president, Gajanan Suryavanshi, and his five kin lost. The post was won by Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party, whose candidate, incidentally, is named Sharad Pawar. The NCP emerged victorious in Loha, Kandhar, Degloor and Umri, while the BJP won in Kundalwadi, Mudkhed and Bhokar in Nanded district. The Shiv Sena and Marathwada Janhit Party won from two places each, while the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress emerged victorious from one place each, officials said. Only the NCP (SP) led by opposition stalwart Sharad Pawar failed to capture any of the municipal councils that went to polls in the district, they added. BJP consolidates Mahayuti dominance in Maharashtra local body polls, big blow to MVA
News headlines December 22: The Indian Visa Application Centre in Chattogram suspends services due to security concerns. In Maharashtra, the BJP leads local body polls, while ISRO conducts parachute tests for astronaut safety. International news includes South Korea ordering compensation for a data breach, US-Russia talks on Ukraine, and tech giants advising employees on visa travel.
Mahayutis success in Maharashtra local body polls a team effort: CM Fadnavis
He added that the BJP sought votes based on its development agenda, the work accomplished so far, and the blueprint for the future. Meanwhile, the opposition Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) largely conceded defeat in the local body elections
BJP-Led Mahayuti Alliance Dominates Maharashtra Local Body Polls
With Leads In 129 Seats, BJP Emerges Single-Largest Party In Maharashtra Local Body Polls
Dr Ashish and Dr Kavita Satav share how their work has been able to bring policy changes, not just in Maharashtra but also in several other states.
Trends showed the Mahayuti, comprising the BJP, Ajit Pawar's NCP and Shinde's Shiv Sena, ahead comfortably
News18 Evening Digest: BJP-Led Mahayuti Crosses 200-Mark In Maharashtra Civic Polls & More
We are also covering: Indian Railways Revises Ticket Prices, Non-AC Fares Up Rs 10 For Every 500 km and more.
