Weather Today (June 26, 2026): Widespread rainfall is forecast across India as the Southwest Monsoon advances, bringing heavy to extremely heavy showers to several states. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also expected in many regions. Meanwhile, heatwave conditions will persist in parts of eastern and northern India, with maximum temperatures set to fluctuate. Residents are advised to stay alert and take precautions.
RTI Under Threat? Why Anna Hazare is fighting Maharashtras new rules | Pulse Maharashtra
TheMaharashtragovernment issued a notification amending certain provisions of the Maharashtra Right to Information Rules, 2026. The amendments have drawn criticism from social activists.
Ketan Agrawal Murder Case Rocks Assembly; SIT Probe Ordered
Maharashtra Assembly presiding officer Raju Khare on Thursday directed the state government to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the murder of Pune realtor Ketan Agrawal.
Airbag deployment kills 25-year-old inside parked car near Mumbai
State ordered to set up SIT probe in Pune realtor murder
Mumbai gets new private skill university, state OKs Rs 4k cr ITI upgrade
Car crashes into gym in Mumbai, receptionist hurt
Activists serve legal notice to Maharashtra government over new RTI rules
Mumbai police register case against Chembur shop owner for selling Pakistani cosmetic product
Mismatch between growing crowds & transit infra worsening stress: Experts
Modern Stressors Can Trigger Fight Or Flight Response: Study
Knife used for Mumbai train stabbing bought online same day, thrown after attack: Police
Sukhbir Badal urges Maharashtra to drop Hazur Sahib Act repeal plan
BEST aims to be self-sustainable from 2027, says last BMC grant sought this year
Airbag deployment kills 25-year-old inside parked car at Mumbai's Mira Road
A shocking incident in Mira Road saw a 25-year-old man fatally injured when a parked car's airbag unexpectedly deployed, striking him in the neck. Mohit Soni was inside the stationary Honda when the steering wheel airbag casing allegedly flew off with immense force, causing severe internal hemorrhaging. Police have registered an accidental death report and are investigating the suspected technical failure of the 15-year-old vehicle.
6,669 farmers, agricultural labourers committed suicide in Maharashtra in 2023: Minister
Nagpur, June 25: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that Nagpur Airport will serve as a catalyst for development in Vidarbha and Central India. This is particularly significant as substantial investments are flowing into maintenance command, auto-aviation, and defense aviation manufacturing sectors in and around Nagpur. Fadnavis highlighted that the growth of these ... Read more Nagpur Airport Set to Propel Development in Vidarbha and Central India, Says Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
CM Fadnavis to chair key meeting on Pavana Direct Pipeline Project on July 3
According to an official communication issued by the Chief Minister's Secretariat on Thursday, the meeting will be held at 3 pm at Vidhan Bhavan. The agenda includes a detailed discussion on the Pavana Direct Water Conveyance Project, a long-debated proposal aimed at addressing Pimpri-Chinchwad's growing water needs
Maharashtra Governments Major Decision: Three Teachers for Every 20 Students in Rural Areas
Mumbai, June 25: The Maharashtra government has made a significant decision to ease the criteria for appointing teachers in rural and remote areas to ensure that students education is not disrupted. During a question hour in the Legislative Council, State Minister for School Education, Pankaj Bhoyar, announced that secondary schools in rural and remote areas ... Read more Maharashtra Governments Major Decision: Three Teachers for Every 20 Students in Rural Areas
Maharashtra launches statewide review of stamp duty cases from 2021
The Maharashtra government has ordered an AG-supervised investigation into stamp duty adjudication cases handled between 2021 and 2026. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said the probe could uncover irregularities worth Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore
Ornaments worth Rs 20 lakh stolen from jewellery store in Kalyan
State orders probe into stamp duty scam estimated to be worth up to Rs 20,000 crore
Mumbai, June 25: A heated debate erupted in the Maharashtra Assembly on Thursday as legislators confronted Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne regarding the announced economic compensation package for mango and cashew farmers in the Konkan region. These farmers have suffered crop losses due to unseasonal rains and climate change. Tensions rose during the session when lawmakers ... Read more Maharashtra Legislators Challenge Agriculture Minister Over Insufficient Compensation for Konkan Farmers
Maharashtra govt allows three teachers for 20 students in remote areas
Maharashtra: Gadchiroli Police seize contraband worth Rs 5 lakh
During the operation, 13 cases were registered against illegal liquor trade, and contraband worth Rs 5,00,700 was seized. As part of the combing operation, 139 history-sheeters and known criminals were checked
Mumbai mayor suspects foul play in BMC staffers fall into flooded open drain, seeks inquiry
Hang Her If She's Guilty: Siya Goyal's Mother On Pune Fort Murder
According to the police, Siya Goyal and Chetan Babulal Chaudhary pushed 26-year-old Ketan Agarwal from Lohagad Fort in Maharashtra's Sahyadri range, causing him to fall to his death.
49-year-old man with knife barges in car, threatens and attempts to rob woman in Mumbai, arrested
Flash floods, landslides hit Arunachal Pradesh; 1 dead, 4 missing
The flash flood struck the area on Wednesday following continuous heavy rainfall, causing widespread disruption and damage
Sanjay Dina Patil row: Fadnavis says police will act against threats
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said police would take strict action against anyone issuing threats after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut accused MP Sanjay Dina Patil of threatening protesters following his defection
Delhi HC permits 15-year-old rape survivor to terminate 28-week pregnancy
Delhi HC allowed minor rape survivor to medically terminate her 28-week pregnancy, observing that constitutional courts can permit abortion beyond the 24-week limit prescribed under MTP Act in exceptional cases involving rape and severe mental trauma
6,669 farmers, agricultural labourers ended their lives in Maharashtra in 2023: Minister
The government's reply came amid concerns over the classification of farm death cases and whether all eligible agricultural labourers had been accounted for in the official data.
Venezuela Earthquakes: 164 dead, over 970 injured; countries offer aid
Venezuela's strongest earthquake since 1900 sent rescuers and locals clambering in the dark over flattened apartments, hunting for survivors and extracting people from under the ruins
Maharashtra to audit thermal power plants amid concerns over fly ash pollution
Environment Minister Pankaja Munde said the audit would examine whether power plants are following environmental norms related to fly ash storage, transport and utilisation
'Not a single MLA will leave': Sharad Pawar rejects defection speculation
Pawar's remarks come amid political churn in Maharashtra following the recent defection of six of the nine Lok Sabha Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) to the Eknath Shinde faction
FIR Filed Against Nazia Ilahi Khan in Malegaon for Allegedly Hurting Religious Sentiments
Malegaon, June 25: An FIR has been filed against Nazia Ilahi Khan in Malegaon, Maharashtra, for allegedly making offensive comments regarding the Prophet Muhammad and other Islamic figures. This action follows a complaint lodged by officials of the All India Sunni Jamiat-ul-Islam. The organization claims that Nazia Ilahi Khan has been making controversial statements against ... Read more FIR Filed Against Nazia Ilahi Khan in Malegaon for Allegedly Hurting Religious Sentiments
Ayodhya Ram Temple: AAP MP Sanjay Singh claims he has evidence of a land scam
Sanjay Singh told ANI, I have a lot of evidence related to the land scam, and I will present all those documents before the SIT. Why has no action been taken till now? Action should have been taken by now.
Casio Computer Co. Ltd , headquartered in Japan and the parent company of Casio India, launches its flagship G-SHOCK Exclusive Store in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This milestone marks a significant step in the brand’s ongoing efforts to expand its retail footprint across India, strengthening its presence to a total of 12 stores in Maharashtra and 8 stores in Mumbai. G-SHOCK Linking Road store, Mumbai Strategically located on Linking Road in Santacruz West, one of Mumbai’s most vibrant and prominent high-street retail destinations, the new G-SHOCK Exclusive Store spans an expansive 890 sq. ft. carpet area. Surrounded by leading global and premium lifestyle brands, the high street is known for its bustling consumer footfall and strong appeal among fashion-forward Gen Z and millennial audiences, making it an ideal destination for watch enthusiasts and style-conscious shoppers alike. Designed uniquely for the location, the space features contemporary retail aesthetics inspired by the bold and rugged DNA of G-SHOCK, along with unique mural-based art that adds an artistic and immersive dimension to the customer experience. The store showcases an extensive range of timepieces, including G-SHOCK’s rugged and iconic collections. This includes the premium MR-G collection, being showcased in India with an expanded lineup, alongside MT-G and the latest limited-edition models, as well as popular series such as the 5000, 5600, 6900, 110, and 2100 lines. In addition to bringing together some of G-SHOCK’s most premium, edgy, and sought-after timepieces under one roof, the store offers the opportunity to discover the true motorsports DNA and fusion of technology and design in the Edifice collection, the neo-retro appeal of the Vintage range, and timeless everyday styles from the Casio collection. Speaking on the launch, Mr. Takuto Kimura, Managing Director, Casio India, said, “The launch of our flagship G-SHOCK Exclusive Store on Linking Road reflects our continued commitment to strengthening G-SHOCK’s retail presence in India and offering consumers a highly immersive brand experience. Mumbai continues to be one of our most significant markets, driven by a strong culture of fashion, individuality, and premium lifestyle consumption. Through this store, we aim to bring the bold spirit of G-SHOCK closer to consumers while showcasing our latest collections in a dynamic and creatively inspired space.” Located at Unit No. 2, Ground Floor, Link Palace, Linking Road, Opposite Standard Chartered Bank & Skechers Store, Santacruz West, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400054, the brand invites visitors to explore the newly curated space, where every corner reflects the spirit of creativity and self-expression. The store will be operational from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM, every day of the week. About G-SHOCK G-SHOCK, the pioneering timepiece that revolutionized the very concept of toughness. In 1981, a daring challenge to prevailing norms ignited the genesis of G-SHOCK. Driven by Mr. Kikuo Ibe’s unwavering conviction that a watch could be crafted to withstand any shocks, Project Team Tough was formed to translate this vision into reality. Over a span of approximately two years, this team meticulously developed more than 200 prototypes. Their resolute efforts culminated in the breakthrough shock-resistant yet sophisticated and streamlined architecture we know today. Since its inception, G-SHOCK has embarked on a relentless journey of evolution, ceaselessly pursuing greater resilience and bold stylish appeal across structure, materials, and functionalities. Envisioned in 1983, G-SHOCK now stands on the cusp of its 40th Anniversary in 2023, having left an indelible mark by retailing over 100 million watches across 100 nations. Strengthened by this remarkable legacy, G-SHOCK remains resolute in its quest for enduring strength, ever ready to conquer new frontiers of toughness. About Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd. (CIC) is the Indian subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world's leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Casio India has established a dynamic presence in the Indian market since 1996, emerging as a leading and cherished consumer goods manufacturer. Casio India's range of products include sales and marketing of Timepieces, Electronic Musical Instruments, Desktop Calculators and Scientific Calculators. Setting the benchmark for excellence, Casio India is dedicated to embodying the spirit of innovation and quality that defines the Casio legacy. With a strong commitment to its corporate creed of "creativity and contribution," Casio has consistently translated this ethos into the creation of innovative products making a positive impact on society. www.casio.com/in
Central Railway to run 54 special train trips for Ashadhi Wari 2026 pilgrims
Ashadhi Ekadashi, which falls on July 25 this year, draws lakhs of Warkaris to Pandharpur every year. To manage the surge in passenger traffic and ensure convenient travel for pilgrims, Central Railway will operate a mix of reserved and unreserved special trains through the Solapur Division
PM Modi welcomes Amazons USD 48 billion India investment
PM Modi welcomed Amazons record USD 48 billion investment in India over the next five years, saying it will create new opportunities for young people. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy reaffirmed the companys long-term commitment, with major investments planned in AI, cloud infrastructure and e-commerce
Maharashtra govt accepts demand for thermal power plant audits amid concerns over fly ash disposal
Maharashtra government will audit thermal power plants following assembly concerns over fly ash disposal and its environmental impact, especially in Chandrapur. Environment Minister Pankaja Munde assured a review of management practices against norms. Legislators highlighted unscientific dumping and its health effects. The government pledged action against violations and committed to scientific disposal and environmental protection.
At least 32 dead, 700 injured after powerful earthquakes strike Venezuela
At least 32 people were killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.1 and 7.5 struck Venezuela. The government declared a nationwide State of Emergency as rescue teams were deployed, buildings collapsed, and tremors were felt across neighbouring Colombia
Venezuela Earthquakes: PM Modi extends condolences, offers Indias assistance
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 7.1 quake at 2204 GMT on Wednesday evening, followed just one minute later by an even stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor. Both struck near the coastal town of Moron, about 160 km west of Caracas
PM Modi calls Emergency a 'direct assault on Constitution' on 51st anniversary
PM Modi recalled the suspension of civil liberties and arrests of political leaders under the stringent Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA)
A 18-year-old student in Hingoli, Maharashtra, allegedly died by suicide after taking the NEET-UG re-examination. He reportedly left a video message for his mother, expressing his difficulties with the test. Police are investigating a potential link between the student's death and the national medical entrance exam, following his family's claims that the re-test was challenging.
NEET re-test candidate dies by suicide in Maharashtra; family says paper was difficult
A 18-year-old student in Hingoli, Maharashtra, allegedly died by suicide days after taking the NEET-UG re-test. Police are investigating a potential link to the examination, as the student's family reported he found the re-exam difficult. In a video message to his mother, he expressed his intention to end his life, apologizing and asking her to support his sibling. An accidental death report has been filed.
Tragic Accident in Madhya Pradesh Claims Four Lives, Two Injured
Madhya Pradesh, June 25: A tragic accident occurred in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh on Thursday. A car collided with a truck on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and leaving two others seriously injured. Reports indicate that the victims, residents of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, were traveling towards Delhi in a ... Read more Tragic Accident in Madhya Pradesh Claims Four Lives, Two Injured
Maharashtra CM Responds Firmly to Sanjay Rauts Letter on Bomb Threats
Nagpur, June 25: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has issued a strong response to a letter written by Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut to the Mumbai Police Commissioner. Fadnavis emphasized that no one in the state will be allowed to create fear through bomb threats or intimidation. In a conversation with reporters, ... Read more Maharashtra CM Responds Firmly to Sanjay Rauts Letter on Bomb Threats
Gold loans have emerged as a strategic driver of financial inclusion, outpacing all other credit products with 84% growth YoY in FY26, according to an Experian report. It has expanded beyond traditional southern markets to Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.
Over 5,100 forest fires affected 11,580 hectares in Maharashtra in 2023-24: Minister Naik
Maharashtra witnessed over 5,100 forest fires in 2023-24, impacting nearly 11,600 hectares. Gadchiroli alone reported over 7,000 incidents. Forest Minister Ganesh Naik revealed this in the assembly, also noting over 3.5 lakh trees were illegally felled in five years. The state is employing AI for better monitoring and awareness campaigns to combat these fires, with strict action promised against offenders.
Delhi cyber crime: 18 held in fake export call centre case
According to officials, the racket was exposed during the investigation of multiple NCRP cyber fraud complaints received from different parts of the country
Air India launches Easy Connect flights under Centre's new hub-and-spoke model
The inaugural service, Flight AI1111, departed from Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at 9:23 am, carrying passengers who will connect through Delhi to international destinations including Dubai, Colombo, Jeddah, Riyadh, Kathmandu and Phuket
By 2030, almost 90% of India's planned renewable energy infrastructure could face dire climate challenges, putting assets worth over Rs 4 lakh crore at stake. Investing just 2% in resilience strategies could significantly mitigate potential losses, presenting impressive returns. Although Maharashtra is less at risk, the pressing coastal threats and surging energy demand demand immediate measures to protect the future of clean energy in the country.
PM announces compensation as Kolkata warehouse collapse death toll reaches 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for each injured person in the Tartala warehouse roof collapse case
Pune court convicts accused in Nasrapur minor rape and murder case
A special court in Pune has convicted 65-year-old Bhimrao Kamble in the Nasrapur minor rape and murder case. The court will decide the quantum of punishment on June 29, with prosecutors expected to seek the maximum penalty under the POCSO Act and BNS
Shiv Sena (UBT) Criticizes Maharashtra Governments Excessive Spending Amid Economic Crisis
Mumbai, June 25: Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed on Thursday that the Maharashtra governments request for supplementary demands amounting to 97,706.40 crores, just three months after the annual budget for 2026-27, highlights a decline in the states financial discipline. The party noted that public debt has surged to nearly 11 lakh crores, with an annual interest ... Read more Shiv Sena (UBT) Criticizes Maharashtra Governments Excessive Spending Amid Economic Crisis
Centre clarifies passport is not proof of citizenship, cites 1967 law
The government said the distinction is rooted in the Passports Act, 1967, and has also been upheld by judicial pronouncements, including a Bombay High Court ruling in 2013
Murder in Mumbai local: How cops tracked accused Roshan Suvarna
A dispute over a train door on a rainy night tragically escalated into a fatal stabbing on Mumbai's suburban railway. Police swiftly apprehended the accused, Roshan Suvarna, after a massive manhunt involving extensive CCTV footage. The incident, stemming from a minor scuffle over rainwater splashing, has reignited calls for enhanced security measures on the busy network.
IMD Issues Weather Alert for 31 Districts in Maharashtra, 113 Trees Down in Mumbai
Mumbai, June 25: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Maharashtra and issued weather alerts for 31 districts. Of these, 25 districts are under a Yellow Alert and six districts are on Orange Alert, indicating the likelihood of continuous rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported 113 incidents ... Read more IMD Issues Weather Alert for 31 Districts in Maharashtra, 113 Trees Down in Mumbai
CBI Raids 80 Locations Nationwide in Major Digital Arrest Scam Crackdown
New Delhi, June 25: In a significant operation against a cybercrime network promoting the Digital Arrest scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched Operation Chakra-VI. This involved the formation of 60 special teams that simultaneously raided over 80 locations across 16 states, including Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar ... Read more CBI Raids 80 Locations Nationwide in Major Digital Arrest Scam Crackdown
Assam Rifles seizes heroin worth Rs 1.34 crore, arrests three in Mizoram
During the operation, the joint team intercepted two individuals whose movements were found to be suspicious
Weather tomorrow: IMD predicts more rain across Gujarat, MP, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR and beyond
The southwest monsoon has advanced into several parts of central and eastern India, with favorable conditions for further progress expected in the coming days. Mumbai experienced intense rainfall due to a confluence of weather systems. Delhi anticipates continued rain and thunderstorms, keeping temperatures moderate. Heavy rain alerts are in place for the west coast and Northeast India, while heatwave conditions persist in isolated pockets of north-central India.
France isolates five possible Ebola contacts after infected doctors flight
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control estimates that the risk of infection for people living in Europe is very low
Trump signals progress on F-35 deal with Turkey
Trump also said he had made similar requests to other world leaders
Sanjay Raut urges Mumbai police to book Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil under UAPA for 'bomb' remarks
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has urged Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti to arrest recently defected Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil under UAPA. Raut cited Patil's alleged threats to bomb and kill protesters, and his confession of having previously killed five people. Raut emphasized the need for an immediate investigation into these claims, warning of potential national security implications and demanding swift action to ensure public safety.
Five more South Korean-operated vessels exit Strait of Hormuz
A total of 21 South Korean sailors were aboard the vessels, with one vessel bound for South Korea, the ministry said.
Mumbai ko gussa kyun aata hai!
Five months after a typical verbal spat on a train in Malad ended in the brutal stabbing of a 33-year-old college professor, a 22-year-old was callously murdered under similar circumstances on a Nalasopara-bound local
UP: Police arrest 20-year-old suspected of ties to Pakistan-based terror outfit
Police have arrested a 20-year-old man identified as Suhail, a native of Uttar Pradesh, on suspicion of having links with a Pakistan-based terror organisation. Authorities are investigating the nature and extent of his alleged connections
Make slippery spot in Bhandup East safe for bikers
Can bikers be warned to go extremely slow? Can we have signage at the spot?
Examples of breaching team curfew rules have a commonality, however serious amusement. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson being wide awake in time meant for sleeping is not unprecedented
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio holds talks with UAE leadership on Iran
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met senior UAE leaders during his Gulf tour to discuss regional security and ongoing Iran negotiations. The talks come amid concerns among Gulf allies over the proposed US-Iran peace framework and nuclear discussions
Computer solves 500 years of work in day
The US has commissioned Flyer, a USD 20 million supercomputer at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Designed for advanced military research, the system will support AI development, hypersonic weapons studies and next-generation aircraft design
The Mumbai BEST bus employee unions have made multiple demands from the Maharashtra state government regarding salary hike, implementation of the 7th pay commission recommendations, retirement and gratuity payments.
Pakistan court sentences rights activist Mahrang Baloch to life imprisonment
A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sentenced rights activist Mahrang Baloch and a fellow activist to life imprisonment over the killing of a paramilitary soldier during a 2024 protest. The verdict has drawn criticism from human rights groups
Varanasi: Chicken, beer party on boat in Ganga lands five in jail
Five men were arrested in Varanasi after a video showing them cooking chicken and consuming beer on a boat in the middle of the Ganga river went viral on social media. Police also seized the boat and launched further action in the case
Warehouse collapse in WB kills 4, injures 17
A three-storey under-construction warehouse collapsed in Kolkata's Taratala area on Wednesday, killing at least four people and injuring 17 others. Rescue teams, including the Army, are searching for several workers believed to be trapped beneath the rubble
Iran invites PM Modi to Ayatollahs funeral
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the state funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran on July 4. The invitation comes as Iran prepares for a major state ceremony amid ongoing regional tensions
Powerful earthquakes rock Japan and Venezuela
A strong 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Japan, shaking several prefectures and disrupting bullet train services, though no tsunami warning was issued. Meanwhile, Venezuela was hit by back-to-back earthquakes measuring 7.1 and 7.5, raising fears of widespread damage and casualties
A fathers desperate demand for the death penalty surfaces after his 22-year-old son was tragically murdered on a Mumbai local train due to a dispute regarding the doors. The victim's grieving family voices their anguish over the shocking lack of safety measures and bystander intervention. Meanwhile, police have apprehended the perpetrator, but the familys pain endures as they seek accountability for this senseless tragedy.
The Southwest Monsoon is making significant progress across India, reaching more areas of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. While heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for the West Coast and Northeast, heatwave conditions persist in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Thunderstorms and strong winds are also expected in several states, with fishermen advised to stay ashore.
A shocking act of violence unfolded on a Mumbai local train as a clothing store employee allegedly stabbed a co-passenger to death following an argument over a train door. The dispute, reportedly sparked by rain splashing passengers, escalated when the accused, feeling humiliated, repeatedly attacked the victim. Authorities apprehended the suspect in Panvel while he was attempting to flee.
How could RTI Rules be amended without prior disclosure and public consultation, ask activists
Anna Hazare warns of mass agitation unless Maharashtra withdraws RTI amendments
Hazare said that if the government does not scrap the amendments before July 5, he would start a nation-wide agitation
Maharashtra police bust cyber fraud ring in Goa
Amravati: Amravati Rural Police from Maharashtra have reportedly dismantled an interstate cyber fraud network operating out of a premium residential apartment complex in South Goa. During the raid, authorities arrested 12 individuals, including one woman. The suspects, who hail from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, are accused of using bank accounts belonging to daily []
Long Live Democracy: Why Remembering Freedom Matters
India's democratic ethos is deeply rooted in our civilizational traditions Fifty years since the imposition of Emergency, the nation continues to reflect upon this period which is remembered as one of the darkest chapters in India's democratic history. The objective of observance of closing ceremony of the national commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas - Long Live Democracy (Loktantra Amar Rahe) - is not merely to remember history, but to reflect on the enduring values that sustain our Republic. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar once remarked: The Constitution is not a mere lawyer's document; it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of the age. Few statements capture the essence of our constitutional journey more powerfully than these words. The Constitution is not simply a legal framework that governs the affairs of the State. It is a living covenant between citizens and institutions, between rights and responsibilities, between liberty and accountability. Democracy Must Be Remembered to be Preserved India's democratic ethos is deeply rooted in our civilizational traditions. For centuries, our society nurtured institutions of consultation, collective deliberation, and public participation. It is essential to recall that Bharat did not inherit democracy - it nurtured it. From ancient sabhas and samitis to the post-independence parliamentary system, we have always believed in the collective will of the people. The Constitution transformed these traditions into a modern democratic framework while preserving the values that had sustained them through generations. The Preamble remains our constitutional compass. Justice. Liberty. Equality. Fraternity. These are not merely constitutional ideals. They are national aspirations. They guide public policy, shape institutions, and define the relationship between the State and the citizen. At the same time, history reminds us that democracy can never be taken for granted. The Emergency of 1975-77 remains one of the most significant tests faced by independent India. It demonstrated how democratic institutions can come under strain when constitutional safeguards are weakened and public freedoms are curtailed. The impact of that period extended beyond political life. It touched the everyday experiences of citizens across the country. It carried a profound human cost. These experiences serve as a powerful reminder that constitutional rights are not abstract legal principles; they are safeguards that directly shape the dignity, liberty, and everyday lives of citizens. When these rights are curtailed, it is not merely institutions that suffer - it is ordinary people, families, and communities whose freedoms and aspirations are most deeply affected. Yet the enduring lesson of that period is one of democratic resilience. The people of India demonstrated extraordinary faith in constitutional methods. Democratic processes ultimately corrected democratic distortions. Through peaceful participation and the ballot box, citizens reaffirmed the principle that sovereignty resides with the people. That remains one of the greatest strengths of Indian democracy - its ability to learn, adapt, self-correct, and emerge stronger from periods of challenge. Marking this occasion, a curated exhibition forms an important segment of the commemoration. It serves as a visual journey through one of the most challenging times in Indian democracy - presenting archival material, stories of resistance, constitutional milestones and peoples experiences during the Emergency. Another crucial element marking the occasion is a special memorial lecture - by Padma Bhushan veteran journalist and author Shri Ram Bahadur Rai - one that lends contemporary relevance to the larger theme of constitutional vigilance and democratic renewal. In contemporary times, nearly eight decades after Independence, the meaning of democracy continues to evolve. Citizens increasingly seek not only representation, but participation. Not only rights, but responsive governance. Initiatives promoting financial inclusion, grassroots participation, and citizen-centric governance have widened the reach of democratic institutions. At the same time, the responsibility of citizenship has become even more important. A strong democracy depends upon informed citizens. Today, when the world turns to India and calls her the Mother of Democracy, it is a recognition of our long civilizational journey from the dharma of ancient kings to the will of modern voters. Recovering Peoples Histories and the Living Legends of Freedom The components comprising this closing ceremony reflect this broader understanding of democracy as a living and evolving national experience. The exhibition on Digital District Repository (DDR) - a pioneering initiative launched under the commemoration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) in the year 2021 - aims to bring to the forefront hundreds of lesser-known stories of sacrifice, courage, and public participation from every corner of the country. The Ministry of Culture has also created 10 short films pertaining to these lesser-known narratives from our freedom struggle. Together, these initiatives remind us that democracy is strengthened when constitutional values are reinforced by cultural memory, historical awareness, and a deep sense of national belonging. So far DDR has more than 19,500 narratives on the dedicated website section. Among the institutions and departments that have contributed to the DDR initiative, the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) - an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Culture - has played an important role in documenting and curating a substantial number of stories that illuminate lesser-known dimensions of India's struggle for independence. On this occasion, we are privileged to be joined by two living freedom fighters who stand before us as living embodiments of courage, sacrifice, and service - Shri Sheshrao Laxmanrao Khot of Maharashtra joined the Hyderabad Liberation Movement as a young student; and Shri Eddula Suryanarayana Reddy from Andhra Pradesh, who began supporting the freedom movement as a child and was detained by the police at the age of eleven years. Their presence reminds us that freedom is not a distant history but a living memory. Virasat and Cultural Continuity Complementing this is 11th edition of Virasat - that celebrates the cultural traditions, artistic expressions, and shared heritage that have fostered dialogue, diversity, and social cohesion across generations. It honours the memory of Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay - freedom fighter, cultural visionary and institution-builder. The classical presentations draw upon musical traditions that have evolved through centuries of dialogue between generations, regions, and schools of thought. Indian classical music itself is a testament to the values of continuity, diversity, discipline, and creative freedom - values that are equally essential to a vibrant democracy. The presentation Enajori: Loknaad - Janjatiya Samrasta ka Swar-Sangam celebrates the rich cultural traditions of Assam and the North-East. Through its music and dance traditions representing diverse communities, it beautifully demonstrates the idea of unity in diversity, one of the foundational principles of our Republic. It reminds us that India's strength lies in its ability to accommodate multiple identities. Particularly meaningful is the special thematic presentation by the CCRT scholars, From Silence to Voice, From Darkness to Dawn. Through the language of Indian classical music, it traces the journey from fear and suppression to courage, renewal, and democratic resurgence. Another milestone in connection with the commemoration relates to the laying of the foundation stone for the Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Kala Gurukul & Kalagram, which is designed to establish centres where Indias artistic heritage can be studied and practiced. This is inspired from the age-old tradition of the Gurukul system. Just as democratic values must be passed from one generation to the next, cultural traditions too require institutions that sustain and renew them. In line with this principle, Seva Parv shows that cultural expressions still have an impact on peoples consciousness and civic sense. Taken together, the components associated with the commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas convey a common message. They remind us that democracy is not merely a political system; it is a living tradition. It is sustained by public participation, and protected by an informed and vigilant citizenry. As we move towards the centenary of Independence in 2047, let us carry forward this spirit with renewed commitment! (The author is Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, Government of India. Courtesy: PIB)
FDA inspects JJ Mahanagar blood bank, inquiry ordered
Restaurant menus must have calorie & allergen info: Maharashtra FDA
