Under fire over links with rape accused godman, Maharashtra womens panel chief quits
Party has asked her to resign on moral grounds, say NCP sources
Maharashtra Chief Minister Calls for Resignation of Womens Commission Head Following Gurus Arrest
Mumbai, March 21: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has requested the resignation of Rupali Chakanakar, the head of the State Womens Commission, according to sources from the Chief Ministers office. This directive comes two days after the arrest of self-proclaimed guru Captain Ashok Kharat from Nashik on charges of sexual harassment and rape. Chakanakar is ... Read more Maharashtra Chief Minister Calls for Resignation of Womens Commission Head Following Gurus Arrest
Resignation of NCP Leader Amid Controversy Surrounding Godman in Nashik
Mumbai, March 21: In a significant political development, NCP leader Rupali Chakanakar resigned from her position as the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Womens Commission on Friday. This decision comes amidst the controversy surrounding self-styled godman Captain Ashok Kharat, who has been accused of sexual harassment and rape. Following directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, ... Read more Resignation of NCP Leader Amid Controversy Surrounding Godman in Nashik
VP To Preside Over 1st Convocation Of Maharashtras Skill University
The ceremony will be held at 2 pm at the Durbar Hall in Lok Bhavan, Mumbai, according to Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
NCP Leader Rupali Chakanakar Claims Targeted for Being a Woman Amid Controversy
Mumbai, March 21: In the midst of a controversy involving self-proclaimed spiritual leader Ashok Kharat, Rupali Chakanakar, head of the Maharashtra NCP womens wing, stated on Friday that she is specifically being targeted because she is a woman. Speaking to reporters after resigning from her position as the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Womens Commission, ... Read more NCP Leader Rupali Chakanakar Claims Targeted for Being a Woman Amid Controversy
Maharashtra: Thane sessions court acquits five in 2018 murder case, citing weak evidence
Metro-3 faces mobile blackout as telecom infra contract scrapped
Under fire over links with rape accused godman, Maharashtra women's panel chief quits
Maharashtra State Commission for Women chairperson Rupali Chakankar resigned Friday following criticism over her association with rape-accused 'godman' Ashok Kharat. Chakankar, also NCP women's wing chief, submitted her resignation to Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar after reportedly being asked to step down by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
After rigging allegation, BMC to float global tender for zoo revamp
SBI receives Rs 6,338 crore income tax demand for AY24
State Bank of India is contesting a Rs 6338 crore income tax demand for assessment year 2023-24. Meanwhile, IDBI Bank faces a Rs 5.5 crore penalty for FY 2020-21, and ICICI Bank received a Rs 384 crore GST demand from Maharashtra.
Anil Ambani questioned by CBI for seven hours in bank loan fraud case
Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani was questioned by the CBI for the second consecutive day in connection with an alleged Rs 2,929 crore SBI fraud case. The probe involves claims of fund diversion and misutilisation of loans across multiple banks between 2013 and 2017
Family steps away for mins, 6-yr-old drowns in resort pool
Enrolments for state CETs drop 7%, MBA/MMS, LLB & BEd take a big hit in Maharashtra
Boy (8) goes to fetch ball from open bldg site opp home, drowns in 15ft deep pit
Gujarat residents report timely LPG supplies as Govt dismisses shortage rumours
Residents across Gujarat reported receiving cooking gas cylinders on time without disruption on Friday, as the state government dismissed shortage rumours and assured that adequate LPG stock is available
Congress targets Centre over silence on West Asia killings, petrol price rise
Congress leader Pawan Khera launched a sharp attack on the Centre for its alleged silence over the killing of Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Israeli strikes on schoolgirls, rising petrol prices after Assembly elections, and the film Dhurandhar 2, which he alleged was made to promote National Security Advisor Ajit Doval
Delhi-Vancouver Air India flight turns back mid-air, lands safely
Air India flight AI185 from Delhi to Vancouver returned to Delhi due to an operational issue. All passengers safely disembarked and were assisted. Meanwhile, the airline announced 36 additional international flights to meet rising demand amid West Asia tensions
Premium petrol prices hiked in Rajasthan amid global oil volatility
Oil Marketing Companies have increased premium petrol prices in Rajasthan by up to Rs 2.30 per litre due to global crude oil volatility. Regular petrol prices remain unchanged, offering relief. Experts warn continued Middle East tensions may impact fuel prices further
PM Modi speaks to 5 world leaders, stresses dialogue amid West Asia crisis
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Prime Minister held conversations with the leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan and Qatar, outlining Indias position on the ongoing conflict
Govt says LPG panic booking down, adequate stock available across country
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said LPG panic booking has declined significantly to 55 lakh bookings on Thursday, with adequate stock available and no dry-outs reported across the country. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma said 4,500 raids were conducted nationwide
BJP`s Suvendu Adhikari accuses CM of poll code violation, demands EC action
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of violating the Model Code of Conduct by using the chief minister`s official letterhead for political correspondence, including a strongly worded letter to Chief Election Commissioner and demanded immediate Election Commission action
Indian national killed in Riyadh amid West Asia conflict, MEA confirms
An Indian national has died in Riyadh following recent security incidents on March 18, the MEA confirmed. India is coordinating with Saudi authorities for repatriation while continuing evacuation efforts for citizens amid the escalating West Asia conflict
Govt convenes `Suraksha Sankalp Karyashala` to strengthen district HIV responses
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare convened the `Suraksha Sankalp Karyashala` workshop in New Delhi to strengthen district-level HIV/AIDS response, with a focus on Haryana and Delhi
1.5 Lakh Farmers Hit As Rule To Fix Errors Used To Usurp Land In Maharashtra
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule termed it a grave offence and acknowledged on the floor of the House that a major administrative lapse had occurred.
A self-proclaimed spiritual leader's arrest in Maharashtra for sexual assault has sparked a political storm, with the Opposition drawing parallels to the 'Epstein files'. Allegations of 58 assault videos and links to ruling alliance politicians have intensified scrutiny. The Maharashtra government has formed an SIT to investigate the disturbing claims.
Gudi Padwa leads Hindu new year festivities; nationalistic fervour on display
Hindu new year festivals, including Gudi Padwa, unfolded across Mumbai with grand parades and traditional observances. Celebrations honored the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' and marked the start of Vikram Samvat 2083. Other communities also celebrated Ugadi, Cheti Chand, and the upcoming Jamshedi Nowruz and Eid ul' Fitr.
EAM Jaishankar, Bangladesh envoy Hamidullah discuss advancing bilateral ties
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah in New Delhi on Friday, with discussions focused on advancing bilateral ties. India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 and continues to assist Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and other neighbouring countries
Rajya Sabha polls 2026: Sanjay Raut backs Mamatas undeclared emergency claims
You (BJP) cannot defeat Mamata Banerjee. Defeating Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal is not just difficult, its impossible. This is known to Amit Shah, PM Modi, and the entire BJP. Even the Chief Election Commissioner knows this. Thats why they have taken complete control over West Bengal, Raut told
Sri Lanka refuses US warplanes, stands firm on neutrality amid tensions
Sri Lanka refused a US request to station warplanes at a civilian airport while considering an Iranian naval visit, reaffirming its commitment to neutrality. The decision came after a US attack sank an Iranian frigate near Sri Lankan waters, with the country assisting in rescuing sailors
Anjarle: An Elevated Horizon by the Arabian Sea
A Liases Foras white paper identifies Maharashtras Anjarle as Indias most structurally compelling coastal land market undersupplied, infrastructure-primed, and priced at a fraction of Goa
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India launches 2 new resorts, adds 159 rooms
NEW DELHI, Mar 20: Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd on Friday announced addition of 159 rooms to its portfolio through the launch of two new resorts in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The launches of Club Mahindra Amba Ghat (Maharashtra) and Club Mahindra Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh) supports FY26s goal of 1,000 new rooms and 12,000 keys by FY30, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd (MHRIL) said in a statement. The two new properties strengthen the companys presence across Western and [] The post Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India launches 2 new resorts, adds 159 rooms appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Maharashtra government consults stakeholders on Uniform Civil Code
Move follows a demand from BJP MLC Parinay Fuke for a Uniform Civil Code similar to the one in Uttarakhand
Iranian Supreme Leader condoles death of intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib
Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei offered condolences to President Masoud Pezeshkian after the targeted killing of Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib by Israel. Khamenei urged officials to strengthen security and continue the ministrys work despite the loss
PM Modi, HM Shah to lead BJPs high stakes Kerala push ahead of Assembly polls
The BJP is preparing an all-out offensive in Kerala ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections, with PM Narendra Modi set to undertake two campaign tours across key districts and Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders also descending on the state
India says Indus Waters Treaty will stay in abeyance till Pakistan mends ways
India`s Permanent Representative P Harish reiterated at a UN World Water Day event that the Indus Waters Treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably ends its support for all forms of terrorism, calling it the global epicentre of terror.
ABVPs Demand Supported by Hussain Dalwai: Remove Jinnah-Related Content from Syllabus
Mumbai, March 20: Senior Maharashtra Congress leader Hussain Dalwai has voiced his support for the ABVPs demand to remove any content related to Muhammad Ali Jinnah from the syllabus. Dalwai stated that if such material is included, it should be eliminated, asserting that the ABVPs request is justified. The All India Students Council (ABVP) recently ... Read more ABVPs Demand Supported by Hussain Dalwai: Remove Jinnah-Related Content from Syllabus
Maharashtra Official Seen In Pics With Rape-Accused Astrologer, Row Erupts
The controversy deepened further when certain photos and videos surfaced on social media, depicting Rupali Chakankar in the company of rape-accused astrologer Ashok Kharat.
People of Kerala ready for change, says Rahul Gandhi; pitches for UDF govt
In a message shared on social media platform X, Gandhi expressed confidence in the UDFs leadership and said the alliance represents the aspirations of the people of the state
Man dies in elevator at RG Kar hospital, family alleges no operator on duty
A man identified as Arup Bandopadhyay died after being trapped in an elevator at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on Friday, with relatives alleging that no elevator operator or hospital staff was available to reactivate the stuck elevator for over an hour
Ceasefire under strain as Afghanistan reports fresh Pakistani attacks before Eid
Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of violating a ceasefire by carrying out artillery and air attacks in border areas, leading to casualties. Kabul warned that continued aggression could trigger a strong response, even as it had paused operations for Eid to maintain peace
Maharashtra government consulting stakeholders on Uniform Civil Code
The Maharashtra government is embarking on an important dialogue with stakeholders about the potential introduction of a Uniform Civil Code. This initiative arises from a strong push in the state council for establishing consistent laws for every citizen. Officials have acknowledged the need for further deliberation before issuing a full response, as consultations are taking place with various departments.
Govt notifies income tax rules 2026; new compliance regime from April 1
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) published the rules in the official e-Gazette, replacing earlier provisions and outlining detailed norms for the financial year 202627
India scripting decisive chapter in global energy landscape: PM Modi
The Prime Minister made the remarks while sharing an article by Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik, which outlined the countrys evolving energy strategy
President Murmu visits Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, meets Premanand Maharaj
Droupadi Murmu also offered prayers at Baba Neem Karoli Ashram in Vrindavan. She had a `darshan` at the Lord Hanuman temple inside the ashram premises
NASA rolls out Artemis II SLS rocket for first crewed Moon mission
The rollout began at 12:20 a.m. EDT on Friday after being delayed earlier due to high winds. The journey to the launch pad is expected to take nearly 12 hours, with the crawler-transporter carrying the rocket and spacecraft about four miles along the crawlerway
An influential astrologer in Maharashtra's Nashik, Ashok Kharat, has been arrested for raping and blackmailing multiple women under the garb of spirituality. Ashok Kharat, who was an ex Merchant Navy officer, repeatedly raped a woman for over three years and told her husband would die if she did not follow his orders. During the investigation, police found 58 videos, most of them were objectionable.
MPSC Recruitment 2026: Registration begins today for multiple Group A and B posts, know how to apply
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission has begun registrations for multiple Group A and B positions. These roles are in legal, healthcare, and administrative sectors. Applications are open from March 20 for specialized government jobs. Candidates can apply online through the official MPSC portal. Eligibility and selection processes vary by post. This recruitment is separate from the State Service Examination.
Kuwait: Fire erupts after Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery hit by multiple drones
According to KPC, the refinery was struck early in the day, leading to fires in parts of the facility. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed and are working to contain the situation
DGCA asks airlines to avoid 9 West Asia airspaces amid tensions
The DGCA has instructed carriers to refrain from flying through the airspace of Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates
Anil Ambani appears before CBI for second day of questioning in bank fraud case
Ambani had also appeared before the investigating officer on Thursday, during which he was questioned for nearly eight hours, according to an official statement
Govt invites bids for rare earth magnet units under Rs 7,280 crore scheme
The Ministry of Heavy Industries has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select companies for establishing integrated manufacturing units for Sintered NdFeB rare earth permanent magnets
Tiger continues to strike fear in Jagtial, pug marks noticed near temple
Hyderabad: A tiger moving around the villages of Surampeta and Dammapeta in Kodimial mandal of Jagtial district continues to strike fear among villagers. J-1, as the big cat is called, entered Nizamabad in the last week of February from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in neighbouring Maharashtra, and is believed to have taken shelter. Forest officials say 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 .
US Congress divided over USD 200 billion Iran war funding as Gulf tensions rise
Rising costs of the Iran conflict are causing divisions in the US Congress, as Republicans and Democrats question a proposed funding request that could exceed USD 200 billion. Lawmakers are seeking details on how the money will be used, how long military engagement will last, and potential economic impacts
Goa CM Pramod Sawant undergoes angioplasty at Pune hospital, condition stable
The Chief Minister successfully underwent an angioplasty procedure, which was completed without any complications, the hospital said
Maharashtra Godman Scandal: Nashik Famous Astrologer Accused of Years of Abuse, 58 Videos Surface
Retired Merchant Navy officer and self-proclaimed astrologer Ashok Kharat arrested in Nashik for repeatedly raping a woman over 3.5 years. Police seized 58 videos and weapons; SIT probe underway.
8-year-old boy dies after falling into water-filled construction pit in Mumbai
An eight-year-old boy tragically lost his life after falling into a water-filled construction pit in Malad East on Thursday evening. The child had reportedly gone to retrieve a ball when he slipped into the excavated pit. Despite being rescued and rushed to the hospital, he was declared dead on arrival.
Village farmer from Amravati to share success story at Oxford University
Maharashtra farmer Ravindra Metkar, who turned a small venture into a thriving business and an annual turnover of Rs 15 crore, has been invited to speak at the University of Oxfords Global Research Conference on agri-entrepreneurship
Retired Merchant Navy Officer Held for Rape in Nashik
The accused was held by the Crime Branch under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act
Luxury tower to replace 70-year-old Art Deco building in Malabar Hill
A historic Art Deco building, Malabar Court, in Mumbai's Malabar Hill, will be redeveloped into a luxury residential tower by JSW Realty. The project, expected to generate over Rs 2,000 crore, aims to blend the building's Art Deco legacy with contemporary design, offering exclusive residences and amenities. This redevelopment highlights ongoing urban transformation pressures on heritage structures.
US Israel attack Iran: Israel holds off attack on Iran gas site as markets react
Netanyahu said in a televised address that Iran no longer has the ability to enrich uranium or make ballistic missiles, although he did not provide evidence
Iran no longer capable of enriching uranium, producing ballistic missiles after
We are winning and Iran is being decimated. Iran`s missile and drone arsenal is being massively degraded and will be destroyed
Punjab Police conducts statewide anti-drug operation, carry out 187 arrests in a
Speaking on the development, the DGP said the operation was conducted under the directions of the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and targeted identified drug hotspots across the state
UAE President, US President Trump discuss regional tensions, security in phone c
The statement did not disclose the number or nationalities of those detained, though an image shared on WAM`s X account showed five blindfolded individuals in custody, Al Jazeera reported
Labubu set for big-screen debut with Sony Pictures
The two companies have roped in BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Paul King, to serve as the director and producer on the project
Border Brew Cafe opens in Arunachal, promotes tourism, community growth
It was built by the Indian Army in a record time of just 31 days
Moldova: Water crisis after Russian strike on Ukraine
President Maia Sandu blamed Russia for polluting Dniester River in an attack on Ukraines Novodnistrovsk plant on March 7
Anutin Charnvirakul wins parliamentary vote, set to remain Thailand PM
The leader of the Bhumjaithai Party garnered 293 votes, exceeding the required majority of the 498 members who attended the session in the House of Representatives
Six held, 3,900 kg adulterated paneer seized in Secunderabad`s Ganj Bazar raid
Six people allegedly involved in the sale of adulterated paneer and other dairy products were apprehended and about 3900 kgs of contaminated products were seized following a raid by the Task Force and Food Safety sleuths which conducted a surprise inspection at Ganj Bazar, near Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad on Wednesday
EU leaders meet in Brussels, focus on Iran war and energy crisis
Many of those leaders have deflected entreaties by US President Donald Trump to send military assets to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for the global flow of oil, gas and fertiliser
US considering military reinforcements as Iran war enters new phase: Report
Discussions within the administration include the possibility of sending thousands of US troops to bolster ongoing military operations
IMD Today Weather Update: The IMD has forecast unseasonal rain in Mumbai and other districts of Maharashtra after days of scorching heat. Kolkata is also likely to receive rain, thunderstorms with strong gusty winds today. The weather is expected to remain unstable in Jammu and Kashmir and rainfall has been predicted for Indore and Patna.
Platform change info cant be given last-minute
The situation was dire with a passenger saying that somebody could have collapsed from the stress or resulted in some kind of stampede
Mumbai mayors home set for Rs 1.5 cr revamp; 1931 bungalow to get Italian marble, new chandeliers
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde will move into a refurbished heritage bungalow at VJB Udyan. The extensive Rs 1.48 crore renovation includes structural restoration and high-end interior upgrades, featuring Italian marble flooring and redesigned living spaces. The opulent transformation aims to create a more luxurious official residence.
Qatar LNG attack could slash exports by 17 per cent; PM Modi condemns strikes
Attacks on Qatars Ras Laffan LNG hub could slash exports by 17 per cent, impacting global energy supplies. PM Modi condemns the strikes and expresses Indias solidarity with Qatar amid rising West Asia tensions
Rolling roomalis longer, more time spent on sigri: On their toes ahead of Eid
Gudi Padwa marked by processions across Maharashtra
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended a procession in Nagpur
Why didnt you tell me about Pearl Harbor? Trump startles Japan PM
Speaking in a notably cordial meeting with PM Sanae Takaichi, the US President explained to reporters why he had not informed allies before the US and Israel carried out military action against Iran on February 28
Decide on Jewish school redevpt proposal within six months: HC
Three IIT-Bombay students died on the Mumbai-Pune expressway after their car rear-ended a truck while attempting to overtake. The vehicle flipped multiple times before hitting a safety railing near the Panvel exit. Police are investigating the incident, with an FIR lodged against the unidentified truck driver.
Raj Thackeray Criticizes Maharashtra Government Over Rising Drug Issues in Schools
Mumbai, March 20: During a large public gathering at Shivtirath on the occasion of Gudi Padwa, Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, launched a sharp attack on the states law and order situation. He specifically targeted the Home Department under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Thackeray expressed deep concern over the increasing spread ... Read more Raj Thackeray Criticizes Maharashtra Government Over Rising Drug Issues in Schools
Self-styled godmans arrest in Nashik rape case triggers political row in Maharashtra
The Oppn. hit out at ruling Mahayuti leaders for their alleged close ties with the accused
Rly min: Centre gives 3k cr/yr subsidy for Mumbai local trains
Maharashtras Epstein files: Spiritual leader arrested in sexual assault case sparks political uproar
Ashok Kharat, a spiritual leader, has been arrested in Nashik, Maharashtra, on charges of sexual assault. The Opposition has drawn parallels to the 'Epstein files', alleging Kharat has links to senior politicians. Videos of alleged assaults have surfaced. The Maharashtra government has formed an SIT to investigate the case. Kharat has been remanded to police custody.
Gudi Padwa leads new year festivities; patriotic fervour on display
12 bikers booked for rash driving in Mumbai, 1 attempts to run over constable
BMC introduces monthly pass for Mumbais Malabar Hill elevated walkway
Shiv Sena corporators raise questions over unregistered doctors in Thane
Shouldnt think can get off lightly: No bail for mule a/c holders in Rs 58cr digital arrest scam
HC relief for charitable trusts in regn dispute with I-T dept
