Parliament Watch: Centre halts MGNREGS, housing funds to Bengal, vacancies on NCS portal, and more
The central government has stopped funding MGNREGS and PMAY-G in West Bengal due to financial irregularities. Maharashtra recorded the highest off-budget borrowing in FY25. Direct Benefit Transfer led to significant savings. The National Career Service portal listed many vacancies. India created a large number of jobs in the last decade.
Factory Oversight Left to States: Minister Shobha Karandlaje
Karandlaje reaffirmed the Centres commitment to industrial safety under the Factories Act, 1948, even as concerns rise over declining oversight, especially in major industrial states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
The Maharashtra government will hold a meeting to address public backlash over two Bombay High Court rulingsrelocating elephant Mahadevi from Kolhapur to Gujarat and banning pigeon feeding in Mumbai. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis said the government must consider public sentiment and explore possible solutions, as the decisions were court-mandated and not initiated by the state.
Supreme Court clears path for local body polls in Maharashtra with 27 per cent OBC reservations
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday cleared the path of Maharashtra election commission to conduct the local body elections as per new ward delimitation with 27 per cent Other Backward class reservations (OBC). The petitions were filed in the Supreme Court seeking to halt the State Election Commissions process and demanding that elections be conducted as per the 2022 ward structure without OBC reservation. The local body elections were not held since the pandemic in the state therefore many civic bodies are run by the administrator rather than the elected bodies. However, during the hearing, the apex court rejected all such petitions and clarified that, in line with its order dated May 6, 2024, the 27% OBC reservation will remain applicable in local body elections in Maharashtra. Furthermore, the court stated that elections will be conducted based on the new ward delimitation, not the old structure of March 11, 2022. The court has directed the State Election Commission to issue election notifications within four weeks and complete the entire electoral process within four months. This ruling comes as a significant relief for the state government and has sparked excitement within the OBC community. Following the judgment, elections in 29 municipal corporations, 290 municipal councils, 32 district councils, and 335 panchayat samitis are expected to be announced. The new delimitation will be submitted to the state election commission by August 6. NCP minister and OBC leader Chhagan Bhujbal welcomed the Supreme Court order saying this is their victory. He said that the OBCs right in local bodies cannot be snatched and he is glad the Supreme Court has dismissed the petition that challenged the OBC reservations in local bodies. The Bhantia commission has directed the 10%, 10% and 30% reservations for the OBC in local body elections as per the size of OBC populations in respective districts and areas. We received the Bhantia commission report. There were 27 % OBC reservations given by the centre so in totality it has to be implemented in local body elections as well. There should not vary in reservations from 10% to 30% in the local body. We wanted 27% OBC reservations across the state. We consistently fought for our rights and we got victory. Now, it is the right of the state government to prepare the delimitation wards and submit them to the election commission, Bhujbal said.
Raj Thackeray Tells Party Men Not To Target Hindi Speakers, Avoid Confrontations
Maharashtra govt to hold urgent meeting over elephant Mahadevis return amid public outcry; CM Fadnavis cites court orders behind relocation
State panel to check feasibility of MHT-CET twice a yr
ED records statement of former Vasai-Virar civic chief Anil Pawar
Two youths on Kanwar Yatra drown in Tungareshwar
India rejects Trumps tariff warning, calls it unjustified and unreasonable
In a statement, the MEA defended Indias energy strategy, stating that crude oil imports from Russia are a sovereign decision based on national interests, affordability, and global market disruptions caused by the Ukraine conflict
CM says Mahayuti will win BMC polls, Raj asks cadre to end intra-party feuds
Man dies day after being hit by speeding bike on Juhu Tara Road in Mumbai
Niti Aayog's inaugural India Electric Mobility Index 2024 reveals Delhi, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh as leaders in EV transition. The index assesses states on EV adoption, charging readiness, and innovation. As of June 2025, over 6.5 million EVs operate on Indian roads, marking a significant rise from 0.5% of vehicle sales in 2018 to 7.
Fadnavis Calls Urgent Meeting To Bring Back Elephant Mahadevi From Vantara
Maharashtra govt to hold urgent meeting over elephant Mahadevis return amid public outcry; CM Fadnavis cites court orders behind relocation
PM Modi`s Pariksha Pe Charcha enters Guinness World Record
PM Modi directly interacts with students, teachers, and parents as part of the Pariksha Pe Charchainitiative, which aims to transform the examination season into a festival of positivity, preparation, and purposeful learning, making exams a time for encouragement rather than stress
CM reviews infrastructur projects, sets deadlines for completion
PM Modi to inaugurate first of new Common Central Secretariat buildings on Aug 6
Named `Kartavya Bhavan`, PM Modi will visit and inaugurate it and later address a public programme at `Kartavya Path`, an official statement said on Monday
Maharashtra: Shaina NC takes center stage in Shiv Sena; appointed national spokesperson
Shaina NC, a fashion designer and politician, has been named the Shiv Sena's new national spokesperson as the party, led by Eknath Shinde, gears up for upcoming civic elections in Maharashtra. This appointment follows a controversy involving a derogatory remark allegedly made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant regarding her switch from the BJP, which Shaina strongly condemned.
Acid flung on autorickshaw driver in Mumbai, police register case
Mumbai court grants bail to high-end furniture businessman in Rs 30 crore customs duty evasion case
Two arrested in Maharashtra for discussing jihad in WhatsApp group
Mumbai: Two members of a WhatsApp group were arrested following a joint operation by Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh police in Thane district on Monday, August 4, on charges of alleged radicalising people and discussing jihad (holy war), officials said. Based on specific information, Anti-Terrorism Squads (ATSs) of Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra police raided a house 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 .
Mercedes driver arrested for fatally injuring drunk man sleeping on footpath
SC order paves way for holding local body polls with 27 pc OBC quota: Fadnavis
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said the Supreme Courts order has paved the way for holding the elections to local bodies with a 27 per cent quota for OBCs. The apex court had already directed on May 6 that the local body polls be held as per the OBC quota of 2017. 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 .
Will raise tariff on India: US President Trump
US President Trump`s heightened pressure on India comes after he signaled fresh sanctions on Moscow if it did not make progress by Friday towards a peace deal with Kyiv, more than three years since Russia`s invasion
Cama gets centre for womens pelvic health
Mumbai Metro Lines 2A and 7 clock 200 million rides in 39 months
South Korea begins removing loudspeakers on border with North
The nations, still technically at war, had already halted propaganda broadcasts along the demilitarised zone, Seoul`s military said in June after the election of President Lee Jae Myung
Minister orders passenger bays under Metro 4 stations after staircase safety lapse
Uttar Pradesh ATS arrests two men for plotting anti-India conspiracy
According to a press release issued by the ATS on Monday, the arrests were made after a sustained digital surveillance operation revealed a WhatsApp group which had more than 400 members, mostly Pakistani nationals and three group administrators
Calligraphy becomes a therapeutic and creative pursuit for women
Shashikala Jolle to write to Centre, Fadnavis for revocation of order transferring elephant
The BJP MLA representing Nippani visits a Jain Math in Nandani of Maharashtra to express solidarity with devotees
`China guru` Rahul Gandhi vowed to weaken India: BJP
Calling Gandhi China guru, the ruling party claimed that Gandhi and his party hate the Indian Armed Forces and that he is being remotely controlled by foreign forces
UP Anti-Terrorist Squad nabs two for plotting to incite communal discord
LUCKNOW: In a major crackdown, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), on Monday evening, busted a gang comprising two individuals, allegedly engaged in hatching a conspiracy to incite communal disharmony and wage an ideological war against the state of India. As per the ATS sources, the arrests were part of a wider investigation into radical online networks linked to Pakistan. The UP ATS, initially detained Ajmal Ali, 19, from Amroha in western UP on August 2 for questioning. Based on Ajmals grilling, his mentor, Usama Maj Sheikh, 24, was picked up from Thane on August 3. The ATS arrested both Ajmal and Usama officially on Monday. The ATS sources claimed that sustained electronic surveillance and intelligence inputs led them to uncover a WhatsApp group named Reviving Islam with over 400 members, including three group administrators. The majority of the group members were reportedly based in Pakistan, while one mobile number linked to the group was traced to a UP resident. The ATS sleuths identified that the number belonged to Ajmal Ali, son of Asgar Khan, of Dehra village under Naugawan Sadat police station in Amroha district. Ajmal was found to be actively promoting radical ideology against non-Muslim communities and was involved in propagating anti-India content across multiple social media platforms, said the ATS sources. Ajmal was summoned to the ATS headquarters in Lucknow for questioning, during which he confessed that he was part of the Reviving Islam WhatsApp group. Ajmal also confessed to being in touch with several Pakistani nationals on other social media platforms. He revealed the identity of Thanes Usama Maj Sheikh, whom he considered his mentor. Usama was operating through an Instagram handle, said the ATS sources. ATS added that Usama, son of Maj Sheikh, residing near a Dargah in Badlapur village under Badlapur West police station in Thane district of Maharashtra, was allegedly in regular touch with Ajmal through Instagram and the encrypted messaging platform Signal. They used to exchange views on overthrowing the democratically elected government of India and replacing it with Sharia law through violent jihad, said an ATS source. Consequently, UP ATS registered an FIR arresting Ajmal and produced him before the court, which sent him to judicial custody. Following further leads, the ATS tracked down Usama Maj Sheikh, arresting him on August 4, 2025, from his residence in Badlapur in Thane, Maharashtra. He was interrogated further regarding his role in the ideological indoctrination and recruitment of radical youth for extremist objectives, said the ATS sources. As per the ATS sources, the preliminary inquiry revealed that the objective of both the persons was to incite communal hatred, provoke religious animosity, and prepare ground for a violent movement to establish Ghazwa-e-Hindan Islamist concept of religious conquestby spreading Sharia law through jihad. Both Ajmal and Usama were allegedly influencing Muslim youth against non-Muslims while pushing them to join anti-national activities aimed at destabilising the country, the ATS added.
Fadnavis Dismisses Marathi Vs Non-Marathi Row In Maharashtra But Urges Caution
There is no Marathi versus non Marathi tension in Maharashtra and no injustice is being done to either of them, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday.
`Heavy to very heavy rainfall` alert by IMD for Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh
Heavy showers are expected in northern, eastern, and southern Haryana, including Chandigarh, from August 4 to 6
Delhi, Maharashtra, Chandigarh frontrunners in the first India Electric Mobility Index: NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog's inaugural India Electric Mobility Index reveals Delhi, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh as leaders in overall EV adoption. The index evaluates states and UTs across transport electrification, charging infrastructure, and EV research. While 29 states have EV policies, India's EV market surged in 2024, with over 12 lakh registrations and 25,000 charging stations nationwide.
Nuclear submarines are in Russian region, says Trump
When asked if there was anything Russia could do to avoid sanctions at this point, Trump said, Yeah, get a deal where people stop getting killed. He further said that he was looking for fairness and not leverage when he was imposing tariffs
Philippines President Marcos begins 5-day state visit to India
This is the first visit by the President of the Southeast Asian country to India since he assumed office three years ago. The visit is of significance as it aligns with the 75th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic ties between the two nations
Three women allege harassment by cops during probe in Pune; police denies claim
Following the allegations, political parties, including the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP), have demanded action against the concerned officers and personnel from the Kothrud police station in Pune
Gujarat misses top skill rankings, youth bear the brunt of job crisis
AHMEDABAD: Despite crores spent on skill development, Gujarat has failed to make it to the top five in the India Skill Report 2025, exposing a glaring mismatch between state policies and ground realities. While states like Maharashtra and Delhi surge ahead in youth employability, Gujarats youth are battling low wages, shrinking opportunities, and systemic neglect from a government long accused of prioritizing big industries over meaningful employment. In a major blow to Gujarat's growth narrative, the India Skill Report 2025 has placed the state outside the top five in youth employability, signalling a persistent skills crisis. The report, which analyses parameters like knowledge, aptitude, communication, behavioral traits, and alignment with industry needs across 11 sectors, has exposed Gujarats stagnation in preparing its youth for future-ready jobs. While Maharashtra tops the chart with 84% employability and cities like Pune, Bangalore, and Mumbai dominate the employment map, Gujarat fails to find a place even among the top-performing states or cities. This dismal performance is despite the tall claims and big-ticket schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kaushalya Vikas Yojana, Kaushalya University, and the Mukhyamantri Bhavishya Loksi Kaushalya Vikas Yojana. Gujarat congress chief spokesperson Dr. Manish Doshi said, The reality on the ground tells a grimmer story. Small and medium industries - once Gujarats industrial backbone are gasping for survival, with nearly 50% of units in GIDC (Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation ) struggling to stay afloat. As state policy favors corporate giants, grassroots enterprises are shutting shop, directly impacting job creation and wage levels. Youth entering the job market are not only underpaid but increasingly compelled to migrate to other states in search of work, he added. The report highlights that even with expensive education, Gujarats youth are unable to convert degrees into decent employment. In 2024, the male employment rate stood at 51.8%, and while a marginal improvement is forecast for 2025, a sharp dip is expected in womens employment, revealing a widening gender gap in the states job ecosystem. Ten years of similar assessments have underscored Gujarats consistent underperformance in youth employability, pointing fingers at directionless governance and alleged corruption in education and employment departments. Insiders allege that the 500 skill development centres across the state have become dens of mismanagement, with outsourced agencies reaping profits while students suffer. Critics argue that the BJP government, despite splurging crores on advertising skill programs, has failed to create genuine pathways to employment. As Gujarat's youth are pushed to the margins, the larger question looms: how long will the state remain a bystander while others race ahead in the employment revolution? Top 5 States in Employability (Skill Report 2025): 1. Maharashtra 84% 2. Delhi 78% 3. Karnataka 75% 4. Andhra Pradesh 72% 5. Kerala 71% Top 5 Cities with Employment Potential: 1. Pune 78.32% 2. Bangalore 76.48% 3. Mumbai 72.45% 4. New Delhi 70.22% 5. Thiruvarur 72.15%
Monsoon Session: Opposition protests stall Lok Sabha proceedings for third week
The third week of the Monsoon Session in the Lok Sabha began with Opposition protests over the SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar, stalling proceedings. Despite Speaker Om Birla`s appeal for decorum, repeated disruptions led to adjournment. Key bills, including two related to sports, remain pending
UN chief urges global support for Afghanistan amid deepening humanitarian crisis
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for urgent regional and global support for Afghanistan during the launch of a new SDG centre in Kazakhstan. He stressed the importance of human rights, especially for women and girls, and praised Kazakhstans continued engagement with Afghanistan amid its ongoing crises.
Akhilesh Yadav slams UP government over poor response to flood-hit districts
Government is absent from the ground and more focused on image-building rather than action, alleged Akhilesh Yadav
Shibu Sorens mortal remains to reach Ranchi this evening, says JMM leader
The late leaders mortal remains will be taken to his hometown in the Ramgarh district on Tuesday and his last rites will be performed there, a JMM leader said
Jharkhand govt declares 3-day state mourning in honour of Shibu Soren
During the mourning, the national flag will remain at half-mast on all the buildings, no state function will be organised, and all the offices of the state government will remain closed
SC directs petitioner to Bombay HC over Raj Thackeray speech case
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday asked a petitioner to move the Bombay High Court with his plea accusing Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray of hate speech and inciting violence against the north Indian community. A bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran asked Sunil Shukla, national 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 .
Terrorism isnt saffron or green: Sanjay Raut blames unemployment; says political spin is dangerous
Sanjay Raut ignited a political discussion by attributing terrorism and extremist ideologies to socioeconomic factors like unemployment, poverty, and inadequate education. He criticized attempts to associate terrorism with specific religions or political affiliations, emphasizing that it transcends such boundaries. Raut stressed the importance of education for all communities, asserting that it is crucial for national and societal advancement.
Railway Board chief inspects stations in Nashik for Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027
Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar inspected key stations in Nashik to review preparedness for Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027. The focus was on cleanliness, passenger amenities, and infrastructure upgrades. A high-level meeting with state officials emphasized inter-agency coordination and timely project execution.
Air India Express flight returns to Bengaluru airport due to technical issue
According to a spokesperson from Air India Express, the aircraft executed a precautionary landing after circling in the air to burn fuel and reduce its weight. The manoeuvre was carried out in line with standard safety procedures
If you are a true Indian: SC slams Rahul Gandhi for insulting Indian Army
During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi had allegedly said, Chinese troops are thrashing Indian Army soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh, referring to the December 9, 2022, face-off in the Tawang sector
Marine fish catch drops 2 per cent; Gujarat tops chart
KOCHI: The traditional fishermen and mechanised trawlers caught 3.47 million tonnes of marine fish in 2024, according to the data released by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi on Monday. The overall fish catch recorded a slight decline of 2% compared to the previous year. Gujarat retained the top slot in fish landings with 7.54 lakh tonnes, followed by Tamil Nadu (6.79 lakh tonnes) and Kerala (6.10 lakh tonnes). As per the annual marine fish landing estimates, the Indian mackerel remained the biggest marine resource, recording a total catch of 2.63 lakh tonnes, followed by oil sardine with 2.41 lakh tonnes. The landing of major species such as Indian mackerel, threadfin breams, oil sardine, ribbonfishes, non-penaeid shrimps and cephalopods recorded a decline in 2024 compared to the previous year, while landings of lesser sardines, penaeid shrimps, anchovies and tunnies increased. While the West Coast region suffered an overall decrease in landings, the East Coast showed an increasing trend, with exceptions in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Maharashtra registered the highest growth of 47% compared to the previous year. West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Odisha also recorded notable increases of 35%, 20% and 18% respectively. However, states like Karnataka, Goa, and Daman and Diu experienced a significant decline in landings. The marine resources research institute monitored around 2.5 lakh fishing trips, offering an in-depth view into nationwide effort and productivity. Mechanised fishing vessels reported an average catch of 2,959 kg per trip, while motorised crafts used by traditional fishermen managed 174 kg per trip. Non-motorised vessels recorded a modest 41 kg per trip. The CMFRI report pointed out that cyclonic storms such as Dana, Fengal, Remal, and Asna significantly impacted fishing activities, contributing to the overall decline. Increased heatwave days in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala further disrupted fishing operations. Kerala recorded a marginal decrease of 4% in the marine fish catch in 2024 compared to the previous year. The total fish landing in the state was 6.10 lakh tonnes. Indian oil sardine topped the list of most caught species in the state with 1.49 lakh tonnes, registering a slight increase of 7.6%. Indian mackerel (61,490 tonnes), penaeid shrimp (44,630 tonnes), anchovies (44,440 t) and threadfin breams (33,890 tonnes) were the other major contributors to Keralas total marine catch. Indian mackerel saw a decline of 16% in landings. The year witnessed very low landing and higher landing of oil sardine in different quarters. The year saw an unusual fluctuation in oil sardine landings in Kerala. A severe scarcity in the first quarter led to prices escalating to Rs. 350-400 per kg. However, from September onwards, as landings surged exceeding one lakh tonne in the last quarter, prices dropped sharply to Rs. 20-30 per kg. Compared to 2023, souther districts of the state (Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam) recorded a decline, while northern districts (Malappuram to Kasaragod) registered an increase in the landings. The Fishery Resources Assessment, Economics and Extension Division of the CMFRI estimated the annual marine fish landings of the country through its online data collection system.
Two minor siblings die after snakebite in Chhattisgarh home
The siblings, a 14-year-old and an 8-year-old, were asleep on the floor of their house when a snake bite occurred, he said. They were immediately taken to a civil hospital in Ramanujganj, but tragically, both were declared dead
Rajya Sabha adjourned till August 5 in tribute to member Shibu Soren
In recognition of his towering legacy and lifelong service, the House was adjourned until Tuesday, allowing members time to reflect on the passing of a man who helped shape the destiny of Jharkhand and gave voice to generations of tribal citizens
Plea against MNS, Raj Thackeray: SC asks petitioner to move Bombay HC
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday asked a petitioner to move the Bombay High Court with his plea accusing Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray of hate speech and inciting violence against the north Indian community. A bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran asked Sunil Shukla, national president of the Uttar Bhartiya Vikas Sena, the reason of not moving the high court with his grievances. Is the Bombay High Court on vacation? he CJI asked, prompting Shukla's lawyer to withdraw the plea. The bench, without expressing any opinion on the merits, allowed the petitioner to withdraw the plea and move the high court. Shukla's plea alleged the Maharashtra government and the police didn't respond to his repeated requests to register criminal cases against MNS cadres who have resorted to violence, threats to life and harassment against him, in the past. His advocacy for the rights of north Indians had made him a target for threats, harassment, and physical intimidation by the MNS and its affiliated groups, the plea added. On March 30, the plea said, during a Gudi Padwa rally, Raj Thackeray delivered an inflammatory speech which incited violence against north Indians for speaking Hindi. The petition said the speech was broadcast, and led to violent attacks on Hindi-speaking employees at multiple locations in Mumbai, including Powai and D-Mart in Versova. Prior to such speech too, the petitioner received serious threats, including a chilling message on Twitter that openly incited his murder, and over 100 anonymous phone calls threatening his life. On October 6, 2024, a group of approximately 30 individuals affiliated with MNS attempted to ransack the office premises of the petitioner's political party, the petitioner said. Shukla claimed despite several written complaints to the Maharashtra chief minister, DGP and police commissioner besides the Election Commission of India, no FIR was registered.
Vacated MHADA building collapses in Byculla; no injuries reported
In the early hours of Monday, a partially vacated MHADA building in Byculla West, behind Madanpura Post Office, collapsed. The Mumbai Fire Brigade reported the incident, noting that the G+3 structure, already classified as dilapidated and vacated by MHADA, had its rear portions collapse on Sunday. By Monday morning, the entire building had collapsed, with no reported injuries.
Plea against Raj Thackeray, MNS: SC asks petitioner to move Bombay HC
The Supreme Court addressed a plea against Raj Thackeray concerning alleged hate speech. The court advised the petitioner, Sunil Shukla, to seek recourse at the Bombay High Court. Shukla accuses Thackeray of inciting violence against North Indians. He claims inaction by Maharashtra authorities regarding his complaints. Shukla alleges threats and attacks following Thackeray's speech.
M K Stalin backs Mamata against Delhi Police over `Bengali language` controversy
In the face of this assault on non-Hindi languages, Mamata Banerjee stands as a shield for the language and people of West Bengal said M. K. Stalin
Delhi: Rickshaw driver killed as DTC Devi bus collides with multiple vehicles
According to police, the bus driver allegedly suffered a medical emergency due to which the vehicle lost control. The bus hit six to seven vehicles before colliding with the auto-rickshaw
Why Are There Protests In Maharashtra Over The Transfer Of Elephant Mahadevi To Vantara?
Elephant Mahadevis relocation to Vantara in Gujarat was backed by medical evidence, official inspections, and SC orders. Yet, the move has triggered protests across Maharashtra
Fake Passport Racket Busted: Akola Emerges As Key Hub For Afghan Network
In a twist to the recently busted inter-state fake passport racket, the communally sensitive city of Akola in Maharashtra has emerged as the fourth major hub of an Afghan-led network operating across Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh.
22 stranded in Rishikesh forest rescued safely by SDRF and forest team
To ensure public safety, SDRF officials remain on high alert in the flood-affected area, actively assessing potential threats along with local administration working in close co-ordination to ensure public safety
Shibu Soren passes away: President Murmu, PM Modi and others offer condolences
Fondly known as Guruji or Dishom Guru in his home state, Shibu Soren played a pivotal role in the tribal rights movement and was instrumental in the creation of Jharkhand as a separate state
Chaos in Varanasi as city gets flooded after heavy rains
Heavy rainfall in Uttar Pradesh has led to flooding in Varanasi, with the Ganga River`s water level rising alarmingly. Boat services have been suspended, roads are waterlogged, and relief operations are underway. CM Yogi Adityanath has deployed ministers to affected districts and urged strict monitoring and swift aid distribution.
Woman Slapped During Childbirth, Treated Inhumanely At Maharashtra Hospital; Newborn Dies
The pregnant woman was left unattended for hours despite severe pain, the family members have alleged, demanding action against those responsible for egligence.
Businessman and BJP functionary Dilawar A Chaugle wants Padmashree for the Grand Mufti
Mumbai businessman Dilawar A Chaugle has urged the central government to award the Padmashree to Sunni cleric Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar, the Grand Mufti of India, for his intervention in suspending the execution of Malayali nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen.
BHOPAL:Eastern Maharashtras third largest city -- the communally and politically sensitive Akola has emerged as the fourth major link of the recently busted inter-state fake passport racket allegedly run by an Afghan man from Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh. Sohbat Khan, the alleged mastermind of the racket , is revealing key details during questioning by the Madhya Pradesh Police's anti-terrorism squad (ATS). As per sources privy to the probe, Sohbats questioning has revealed that a place of worship in Akola district of Maharashtra was a common meeting place of Afghans living in India. It was in Akola, where Sohbat possibly came in contact with Akbar and Iqbal, two other Afghans, who have been illegally living in West Bengal and have managed to get fake Indian passports with the help of the alleged racket operated by Sohbat and local contacts in MPs Jabalpur district. When the first three arrests were made in the case, there were just three cities/states on our radar, including Jabalpur (MP), West Bengal and Chhattisgarh. But Sohbats grilling and the disclosure of Akola in Maharashtra playing an important part in his linkages with Afghan men living illegally in India, has made eastern Maharashtras communally sensitive city too a part of our investigations, a senior cop associated with the probe told TNIE on Monday. Sources added that before coming to Jabalpur in around 2010, Sohbat had lived in parts of Maharashtra also, including Nagpur and Akola. So far six arrests have been made in the case by the MP ATS. While four of the arrests, including Sohbat Khan, his two key aides Dinesh Garg (a forest guard working at the district collectorates election cell), Chandan Thakur (who claims to be an advocate) and Mahendra Kumar Sukhdan have been arrested from Jabalpur, two others Akbar and Iqbal (both Afghans living illegally in India) have been arrested by the ATS from West Bengal, including Howrah. Ongoing investigations by the MP Polices ATS, have revealed that Khan had not only managed to get his Indian passport made with fake documents in 2020, but was helping other Afghan youths living illegally in West Bengal and Chhattisgarh get Indian passports made with fake address proofs and birth certificates of Jabalpur district. The probe has so far revealed that Khan, who has been living in Jabalpur since 2010 and had married a local girl also, had managed to first get a driving licence made with the help of fake address proof and birth certificate which showed him as a permanent resident of MPs cultural and judicial capital. In 2020, he managed to get an Indian passport with the help of the same fake documents, with whose help he had secured Aadhar, PAN and voter ID cards. Along with his aides Garg, Sukhdan and Thakur, Khan subsequently started using the same modus operandi to help other Afghans (living illegally in India, particularly West Bengal and Chhattisgarh) in getting Indian passports. So far the MP ATS sleuths have found evidence about the racket having succeeded in getting Indian passports for three Afghans, including Akbar and Iqbal, who are now in the MP police custody. The same racket was also helping 15-17 other Afghans in getting the Indian Passport, by showing all of them residents of MPs Jabalpur, using fake documents and related Aadhar manipulations.
Teenager Jumps To Death From Hill In Maharashtra After Mother Refuses To Buy Phone For Him
Such instances have been reported lately in Maharashtra, where teenagers have died by suicide after the parents denied their request to buy a phone.
Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand advocated for a living cow's presence during the new Parliament building's inauguration, emphasizing its blessing. He urged Maharashtra to establish a cow felicitation protocol and proposed Ramadhamscow sheltersin each constituency, rewarding caretakers financially. He supported declaring the cow as Rashtramata and demanded a complete ban on cow slaughter, criticizing the government's Amrit Kaal celebrations amidst ongoing slaughter.
Press freedom in Bangladesh worsens under Dr Mohammad Yunus, says Rights Group
The report also accuses Dr Yunus of weaponising state institutions to stifle dissent. The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), which had not been used against journalists under Hasina, reportedly issued notices to 107 journalists over the past year
Jammu and Kashmir: Security forces neutralise another terrorist in Kulgam
Security forces neutralised one terrorist in Kulgams Akhal Devsar area, continuing anti-terror ops in South Kashmir. The joint operation by the Army, CRPF, JK Police, and SOG follows Operation Mahadev, which earlier eliminated top Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders involved in the Pahalgam attack.
Maharashtra Teen Jumps To Death From Hill As Mother Refuses To Buy Phone
The boy, identified as Atharva Gopal Tayde, was asking his mother to buy him a phone for days. However, she refused every time.
Former US soldier suspected of killing four in Montana remains at large
Authorities believe 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown killed four people on Friday morning at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana, about 120 kilometres southeast of Missoula in a valley hemmed in by mountains
Seven dead, eleven injured in prison riot in Mexicos Veracruz; order restored
Videos from the city of Tuxpan showed columns of smoke emerging from the prison on Saturday, while footage published on social media showed inmates with burns
Israel: Mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus found near Netanya
The carrier mosquitoes were caught in the green basins in Bat Hefer, located in the Emek Hefer Regional Council near Netanya. In addition, the Ministry of Health reported one patient who was confirmed to have the disease in the central region
Himachal Pradesh monsoon fury: Mandi, Kullu among worst-hit districts
The SDMA on Sunday released its latest landslide monitoring report, highlighting risk levels across 22 locations in districts like Mandi, Kangra, Shimla, and Solan, based on real-time monitoring inputs
As Zelenskyy announces prisoner swap, Ukrainian drone hits Russian oil depot
More than 120 firefighters attempted to extinguish the blaze, which was caused by debris from a downed drone striking a fuel tank, Krasnodar regional Governor Veniamin Kondratyev said on Telegram
Pakistan orders mass expulsion of legal Afghan refugees
The Ministry of Interior issued a Special Regulatory Order (SRO) on July 31, declaring PoR cards expired as of June 30, effectively criminalising the stay of all Afghans still in Pakistan under this category
Ukrainian drone attack sets Russian oil depot in Black Sea ablaze
More than 120 firefighters attempted to extinguish the blaze, sparked after debris from a downed drone struck a fuel tank. Russia temporarily stopped flights at Sochis airport
Israeli forces shoot over 20 Palestinians seeking food in Gaza
Southern Gazas Nasser Hospital said they had received bodies from near multiple distribution sites, including eight from Teina, about three km away from a distribution site in Khan Younis
Bangladeshs ICT commences legal proceedings against Sheikh Hasina
The prosecution also named Hasinas two top aides former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullaah Al Mamun as the co-accused in the case
Uttar Pradesh: 11 killed as SUV falls into canal in Gonda district
Station House Officer (SHO), Itiathok police station, Krishn Gopal Rai, said the victims were going from Sihagaon village to offer holy water at the Prithvinath Temple in Khargupur when the accident occurred near Belwa Bahuta.Rai said the SUV was carrying 15 people, including the driver
EC abusing power: Opp demands discussion on voter list revision
EC says no party in Bihar approached it for inclusion or removal of names from draft electoral roll; the opposition has been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the Bihar Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
Bullet train corridor work in Gujarat on fast track, to be completed by 2027
NEW DELHI: The railways has accelerated work on the bullet train corridor between Vapi and Sabarmati in Gujarat, aiming to complete it by December 2027. A target has also been set to finish the entire projectfrom Maharashtra to the Sabarmati sectionby December 2029. The country will also be heading to Lok Sabha elections the same year. According to a recent update shared with the Lok Sabha by the Ministry of Railways, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project, spanning 508 km, is currently under execution with technical and financial aid from Japan. The bullet train route will pass through Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, with 12 stations planned at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Billimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati. Construction work at these stations is progressing at full pace. The railways added that the total estimated cost of the project now stands at `1,08,000 crore, with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funding 81%. The remaining 19% is being financed through equity contributions from the Ministry of Railways (50%), and the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat (25% each). As of 30 June 2025, a cumulative expenditure of Rs 78,839 crore has been incurred on the project. The Railways acknowledged that delays in land acquisition in Maharashtra had affected the project timeline up until 2021, but all civil contracts have now been awarded. Out of a total 28 tender packages, 24 tender packages have been awarded. Till now, 392 km of pier construction, 329 km of girder casting and 308 km of girder launching have been completed. The work of the under-sea tunnel (21 km approx.) has also started, railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently informed Parliament. He further added saying that detailed project reports (DPRs) are being prepared by National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), to meet growing passenger demands, and to expand High Speed Rail (HSR) network in India beyond the MAHSR corridor. Vaishnaw also said that the MAHSR project involves an affordable fare-structure keeping in mind the socio-economic conditions of clientele.
The population of Bangladeshi Muslims residing here is most likely nowhere near the figure cited by government, as evidenced by the low number of illegal immigrants caught in countrywide police raids
A child rights body cant be headless for so long
Under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, each State Commission must have a full-time chairperson and six appointed members, serving a term of three years
Being David in a world of Goliaths
August 2 was observed as Anglo-Indian Day. This columnist, also from the community, raises a toast to this micro minoritys rich, complex heritage and salutes its great contribution to Indian society
MNS workers vandalise bar in Panvel hours after Raj Thackerays speech; 15 persons booked
Following a fiery speech by MNS president Raj Thackeray condemning dance bars in Raigad, MNS workers allegedly vandalized Night Riders The Bar in Panvel. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows individuals destroying furniture and liquor bottles.
Residents of Ghatkopar railway police colony seek timely redevelopment
