<p>At least 31&nbsp;people, including 16 infants have lost their lives&nbsp;in a government-run hospital in western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is being alleged that shortage of medicine was the cause. The deaths occurred at Shankarrao Chavan Government Medical College and Hospital in Nanded.</p>

<p>Dr Shyamrao Wakode, dean in-charge of the Medical College claimed that the deceased were suffering from various ailments including snake bites, arsenic and phosphorus poisoning.</p>

<p>"Around 12 children died in the last 24 hours...12 adults also died due to various ailments (snake bites, arsenic and phosphorus poisoning etc.). Due to transfers of various staff, there was some difficulty for us...We were supposed to buy medicines from the Haffkine Institute but that also didn't happen....Also, patients come from far off to this hospital and there were many patients whose sanctioned budget also got disturbed..." he said.</p>

<p>Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan, who hails from Nanded, said that besides these deaths, another 70 patients who were referred to the hospital from other private hospitals in Nanded district are 'critical'.</p>

<p>"Around 24 people's death has been reported at the Dr Shankarrao Chavan Medical College and Hospital and therefore I have come here and met the Dean. The situation is concerning and serious. The government should take this up and provide immediate help...Around 70 other people are critical. Replacement of a lot of nurses who were transferred has not been given,” Chavan told ANI news agency.</p>

<p>Later, he wrote on X, "Death toll continues in Nanded. 7 more patients unfortunately died in Government Medical College Hospital since yesterday. 4 children are also included in the dead. The state government should determine the responsibility."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="mr">नांदेडमध्ये मृत्यूचे थैमान सुरूच.<br />
शासकीय वैद्यकीय महाविद्यालयाच्या रुग्णालयात कालपासून आणखी ७ रुग्णांचा दुर्दैवी मृत्यू. मृतकांमध्ये ४ बालकांचाही समावेश. राज्य सरकारने जबाबदारी निश्चित करावी.</p>
— Ashok Chavan (@AshokChavanINC) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshokChavanINC/status/1709052924507344973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The senior leader from Indian National Congress also said that all required help and resources should be given because the situation is ‘concerning’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 24 hours, 24 deaths have been reported at Nanded government Hospital and Medical College (GMCH). Out of these, 12 are infants who were referred here by some local private hospitals. The remaining deaths are of adults for various reasons," Dr Dilip Mhaisekar, Director, Medical Education and Research, Maharashtra, told PTI.</p>

<p>"A three-member expert committee from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) district has been formed with a mandate to submit a report by 1pm on Tuesday. I am personally visiting the hospital to review the situation," he informed.</p>

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At least 31 people, including 16 infants have lost their lives in a government-run hospital in western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is being alleged that shortage of medicine was the cause.

At least 31 people, including 16 infants have lost their lives in a government-run hospital in western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is being alleged that shortage of medicine was the cause. The deaths occurred at Shankarrao Chavan Government Medical College and Hospital in Nanded. Dr Shyamrao Wakode, dean in-charge of the Medical College claimed that the deceased were suffering from various ailments including snake bites, arsenic and phosphorus poisoning. "Around 12 children died in the last 24 hours...12 adults also died due to various ailments (snake bites, arsenic and phosphorus poisoning etc.). Due to transfers of various staff, there was some difficulty for us...We were supposed to buy medicines from the Haffkine Institute but that also didn't happen....Also, patients come from far off to this hospital and there were many patients whose sanctioned budget also got disturbed..." he said. Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan, who hails from Nanded, said that besides these deaths, another 70 patients who were referred to the hospital from other private hospitals in Nanded district are 'critical'. "Around 24 people's death has been reported at the Dr Shankarrao Chavan Medical College and Hospital and therefore I have come here and met the Dean. The situation is concerning and serious. The government should take this up and provide immediate help...Around 70 other people are critical. Replacement of a lot of nurses who were transferred has not been given,” Chavan told ANI news agency. Later, he wrote on X, "Death toll continues in Nanded. 7 more patients unfortunately died in Government Medical College Hospital since yesterday. 4 children are also included in the dead. The state government should determine the responsibility." नांदेडमध्ये मृत्यूचे थैमान सुरूच. शासकीय वैद्यकीय महाविद्यालयाच्या रुग्णालयात कालपासून आणखी ७ रुग्णांचा दुर्दैवी मृत्यू. मृतकांमध्ये ४ बालकांचाही समावेश. राज्य सरकारने जबाबदारी निश्चित करावी. — Ashok Chavan (@AshokChavanINC) October 3, 2023 × The senior leader from Indian National Congress also said that all required help and resources should be given because the situation is ‘concerning’. "In the last 24 hours, 24 deaths have been reported at Nanded government Hospital and Medical College (GMCH). Out of these, 12 are infants who were referred here by some local private hospitals. The remaining deaths are of adults for various reasons," Dr Dilip Mhaisekar, Director, Medical Education and Research, Maharashtra, told PTI. "A three-member expert committee from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) district has been formed with a mandate to submit a report by 1pm on Tuesday. I am personally visiting the hospital to review the situation," he informed. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: 31 people, including infants, die within a day in Maharashtra hospital

Following the deaths of seven more patients, the number of fatalities at a government hospital in the Nanded district of Maharashtra has risen to 31. There were sixteen adult and fifteen pediatric patients that passed away at the hospital.

Maharashtra sees 24 deaths in 24 hours; hospital dean blames medicine & staff shortage

Maharashtra: 24 patients, including 12 newborns die in state-run hospital

Floods brought by torrential rains left a scene of destruction in Indian city of Nagpur on Sunday. As roads turned into rivers, heavy rains forced residents living in low-lying areas to evacuate to safety.

India: Heavy rains turn roads into rivers in Nagpur

In Nagpur, Maharashtra, multiple low-lying areas have been inundated by persistent rain and cloudburst, leading Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to order the district administration and police to furnish the requisite aid to the impacted individuals. A minimum of 140 individuals have been relocated to safer areas from areas that were flooded.

Maharashtra: Heavy rain floods several areas in Nagpur

Maharashtra: Heavy rain floods several areas in Nagpur | India

<p>The death toll rose to seven&nbsp;after a&nbsp;lift collapsed in a building in Thane city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, on Sunday (September 10) evening, said the civil officials.</p>

<p>One of the&nbsp;labourers who was pulled out alive&nbsp;succumbed to injuries, on Monday (Sep 11), reported news agency PTI, citing a&nbsp;civic official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The local police said that they have launched&nbsp;an investigation into&nbsp;the incident which took place in Thane’s Balkum area and led to the death of six workers on the spot while two others were said to be seriously injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to officials, the 40-storey recently completed building, Runwal Eirene, was undergoing waterproofing work on the roof.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The tragic incident transpired when the lift’s rope broke while the workers were descending after completing their work. Eyewitnesses immediately alerted the Balkum fire brigade, and Balkum Fire Brigade Station Officer Omkar Vaiti swiftly arrived at the scene with a team,” said Yasin Tadvi, who heads the disaster management cell of Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The TMC official later said that the lift involved in the incident was a construction one and not a regular one. He added, that after one of the supporting cables of the construction lift snapped, it plunged and landed some three levels underground in the parking area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident occurred around 5:30 pm (local time), said the official in Thane. “It was immediately not clear how the lift cable malfunctioned,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former local councillor Sanjay Bhoir also reportedly responded to the incident, rushed to the accident site, assisted in the rescue operation, and pulled out some workers trapped in the elevator.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the victims</strong></h2>

<p>The deceased workers have been identified as Mahendra Choupal (32), Rupesh Kumar Das (21), Harun Sheikh (47), Mithlesh (35), and Karidas (38). However, another labourer was not identified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the injured workers,&nbsp;identified as Sunil Kumar Das (21)&nbsp;succumbed to injuries after he was rushed to the hospital on Sunday night&nbsp;Tadvi, said on Monday.</p>

<p>The TMC official also said it was not yet clear how the lift cable malfunctioned.</p>

<h2><strong>Case filed</strong></h2>

<p>A case has been registered against the contractor under the Indian Penal Code (IPC&nbsp;sections 304(2) (rash and negligent act), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), senior police inspector Uttam Sonawane from Kapurbawdi police station told PTI.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The death toll rose to seven after a lift collapsed in a building in Thane city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, on Sunday (September 10) evening, said the civil officials.

The death toll rose to seven after a lift collapsed in a building in Thane city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, on Sunday (September 10) evening, said the civil officials. One of the labourers who was pulled out alive succumbed to injuries, on Monday (Sep 11), reported news agency PTI, citing a civic official. What happened? The local police said that they have launched an investigation into the incident which took place in Thane’s Balkum area and led to the death of six workers on the spot while two others were said to be seriously injured. According to officials, the 40-storey recently completed building, Runwal Eirene, was undergoing waterproofing work on the roof. “The tragic incident transpired when the lift’s rope broke while the workers were descending after completing their work. Eyewitnesses immediately alerted the Balkum fire brigade, and Balkum Fire Brigade Station Officer Omkar Vaiti swiftly arrived at the scene with a team,” said Yasin Tadvi, who heads the disaster management cell of Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC). The TMC official later said that the lift involved in the incident was a construction one and not a regular one. He added, that after one of the supporting cables of the construction lift snapped, it plunged and landed some three levels underground in the parking area. The incident occurred around 5:30 pm (local time), said the official in Thane. “It was immediately not clear how the lift cable malfunctioned,” he added. Former local councillor Sanjay Bhoir also reportedly responded to the incident, rushed to the accident site, assisted in the rescue operation, and pulled out some workers trapped in the elevator. About the victims The deceased workers have been identified as Mahendra Choupal (32), Rupesh Kumar Das (21), Harun Sheikh (47), Mithlesh (35), and Karidas (38). However, another labourer was not identified. One of the injured workers, identified as Sunil Kumar Das (21) succumbed to injuries after he was rushed to the hospital on Sunday night Tadvi, said on Monday. The TMC official also said it was not yet clear how the lift cable malfunctioned. Case filed A case has been registered against the contractor under the Indian Penal Code (IPC sections 304(2) (rash and negligent act), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), senior police inspector Uttam Sonawane from Kapurbawdi police station told PTI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Death toll rises to 7 after lift collapses in high-rise in Maharashtra’s Thane

Students of a government school in Bhiw Dhanora village, located in Maharashtra's Aurangabad district, are compelled to cross a river using makeshift thermocol rafts daily to attend classes.

Maharashtra: Students use thermocol raft to reach schools in backwaters of Jayakwadi dam

Maharashtra recorded just 40 percent of the normal rain in August, triggering concerns about an impending drought, with 11 districts receiving 32 to 44 percent less rainfall this monsoon between June and end of August, according to agriculture department data.

India: Maharashtra stares at agri crisis, drought with 40% rain in August

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Hyundai Motor Co's&nbsp;Indian unit will buy automaker General Motors'&nbsp;Talegaon plant in the western state of Maharashtra, a move that will allow the U.S. automaker to exit the country as well increase Hyundai's annual production.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">Through its Sriperumbudur facility outside Chennai city and now the Talegaon plant, Hyundai aims to increase its cumulative production capacity to one million units per year, it said on Wednesday. The company had a production capacity of 820,000 units in the first half of this year.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The South Korean firm said it intends to upgrade the existing infrastructure at the Talegaon unit and start manufacturing in 2025. The plant currently has an annual production capacity of 130,000 units.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">Hyundai, India's second-biggest carmaker by sales, did not mention a deal value.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">This deal will allow the US&nbsp;automaker&nbsp;to exit India. GM stopped selling cars in the country in 2017 after years of dwindling sales but its complete exit from the market has been marred by complications, including legal tussles with workers and failure to find a buyer for the plant.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">In 2019, GM agreed to sell the plant to China's Great Wall Motor&nbsp;but talks&nbsp;collapsed&nbsp;after the companies failed to obtain regulatory approvals amid New Delhi's scrutiny of Chinese investments.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">Last week, Hyundai&nbsp;said&nbsp;it plans to launch more electric vehicles (EVs) under the Hyundai and Kia brands in India, in a sign that it is betting big on the world's third-largest auto market.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">It plans to&nbsp;invest&nbsp;$2.45 billion to beef up EV production in the country and is bullish on the local appetite for EVs.</p>

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Hyundai Motor Co's Indian unit will buy automaker General Motors' Talegaon plant in the western state of Maharashtra, a move that will allow the U.S. automaker to exit the country as well increase Hyundai's annual production.

Hyundai Motor Co's Indian unit will buy automaker General Motors' Talegaon plant in the western state of Maharashtra, a move that will allow the U.S. automaker to exit the country as well increase Hyundai's annual production. Through its Sriperumbudur facility outside Chennai city and now the Talegaon plant, Hyundai aims to increase its cumulative production capacity to one million units per year, it said on Wednesday. The company had a production capacity of 820,000 units in the first half of this year. The South Korean firm said it intends to upgrade the existing infrastructure at the Talegaon unit and start manufacturing in 2025. The plant currently has an annual production capacity of 130,000 units. Hyundai, India's second-biggest carmaker by sales, did not mention a deal value. This deal will allow the US automaker to exit India. GM stopped selling cars in the country in 2017 after years of dwindling sales but its complete exit from the market has been marred by complications, including legal tussles with workers and failure to find a buyer for the plant. In 2019, GM agreed to sell the plant to China's Great Wall Motor but talks collapsed after the companies failed to obtain regulatory approvals amid New Delhi's scrutiny of Chinese investments. Last week, Hyundai said it plans to launch more electric vehicles (EVs) under the Hyundai and Kia brands in India, in a sign that it is betting big on the world's third-largest auto market. It plans to invest $2.45 billion to beef up EV production in the country and is bullish on the local appetite for EVs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hyundai Motor's unit to buy General Motors' India Talegaon plant in Maharashtra

Multiple unexplained deaths in 24 hours at a government hospital india's state of Maharashtra have created a stir. Reports say eighteen patients died at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj hospital in thane district between Saturday and Sunday.

India: Mysterious deaths at a government hospital in Thane, Maharashtra under scrutiny

<p>An unusually strong monsoon season is lashing parts of India, with some regions getting inundated with water and some left to deal with ensuing threats like landslides and power and communication blackout.</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a fresh alert of heavy rains across the country’s West Coast Friday (July 28), including Maharashtra and Goa. The IMD also predicted heavy showers for several northeastern states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya.</p>

<h2><strong>Floods in Telangana</strong></h2>

<p>Telangana has been experiencing heavy rainfall, leading to floods in low-lying areas and disruptions in road connectivity.</p>

<p>Following heavy rains, eight people were swept away in the floodwaters of a rivulet in the Mulugu district of Telangana.</p>

<p>Their bodies were discovered and reported by the police on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Monsoon batters country's financial capital Mumbai</strong></p>

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<p>Due to the rain's intensity, hundreds of tourists on their way to Mutyala Dhara waterfall in Mulgu were stranded.</p>

<p>Overflowing streams blocked the road, but fortunately, all 80 tourists were safely rescued by the Mulugu Superintendent of Police Gaush Alam and his men.</p>

<h2><strong>Floods in Maharashtra</strong></h2>

<p>In the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, thunderstorms with lightning and heavy rainfall are expected over the next four days. There's a warning for residents of several villages about the possibility of flooding due to water discharge from nearby dams.</p>

<p>The Regional Meteorological Centre, Nagpur, issued a 'yellow' alert for various districts in the region for the next few days, and an 'orange' alert for specific areas on Friday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/india-rain-alert-imd-weather-forecast-till-august-2-1690541092109"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India Rain Alert: IMD Weather Forecast Till August 2</strong></a></p>

<p>Chandrapur district in Maharashtra has experienced incessant rain, leading to the opening of three gates of the Irai Dam.<br />
The ongoing heavy rainfall has resulted in four more rain-related deaths across Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 101 since June 1.</p>

<h2><strong>Flood-like situation in Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>Parts of Delhi and the national capital region also experienced heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting light to moderate rainfall for the day in Delhi and its adjoining areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Regional Weather Forecasting Centre (RWFC) in Delhi issued a list of specific places likely to receive rain on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the RWFC said, “Light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of few places of Delhi, NCR (Noida, Dadri, Greater Noida, Faridabad) Rewari, Bawal, Nuh (Haryana) Hapur, Gulaoti, Siyana, Sikandrabad, Bulandshahar.”</p>

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An unusually strong monsoon season is lashing parts of India, with some regions getting inundated with water and some left to deal with ensuing threats like landslides and power and communication blackout.

An unusually strong monsoon season is lashing parts of India, with some regions getting inundated with water and some left to deal with ensuing threats like landslides and power and communication blackout. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a fresh alert of heavy rains across the country’s West Coast Friday (July 28), including Maharashtra and Goa. The IMD also predicted heavy showers for several northeastern states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. Floods in Telangana Telangana has been experiencing heavy rainfall, leading to floods in low-lying areas and disruptions in road connectivity. Following heavy rains, eight people were swept away in the floodwaters of a rivulet in the Mulugu district of Telangana. Their bodies were discovered and reported by the police on Friday. Watch: India: Monsoon batters country's financial capital Mumbai × Due to the rain's intensity, hundreds of tourists on their way to Mutyala Dhara waterfall in Mulgu were stranded. Overflowing streams blocked the road, but fortunately, all 80 tourists were safely rescued by the Mulugu Superintendent of Police Gaush Alam and his men. Floods in Maharashtra In the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, thunderstorms with lightning and heavy rainfall are expected over the next four days. There's a warning for residents of several villages about the possibility of flooding due to water discharge from nearby dams. The Regional Meteorological Centre, Nagpur, issued a 'yellow' alert for various districts in the region for the next few days, and an 'orange' alert for specific areas on Friday. Also read: India Rain Alert: IMD Weather Forecast Till August 2 Chandrapur district in Maharashtra has experienced incessant rain, leading to the opening of three gates of the Irai Dam. The ongoing heavy rainfall has resulted in four more rain-related deaths across Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 101 since June 1. Flood-like situation in Delhi Parts of Delhi and the national capital region also experienced heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting light to moderate rainfall for the day in Delhi and its adjoining areas. The Regional Weather Forecasting Centre (RWFC) in Delhi issued a list of specific places likely to receive rain on Saturday. In a statement, the RWFC said, “Light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of few places of Delhi, NCR (Noida, Dadri, Greater Noida, Faridabad) Rewari, Bawal, Nuh (Haryana) Hapur, Gulaoti, Siyana, Sikandrabad, Bulandshahar.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India floods: Maharashtra and Telangana to receive more heavy rainfall, situation grim in Delhi 

While the death toll in Maharashtra as Landslide has now risen the landslide was reported last week.

Over a hundred people were trapped in Raigad landslide

<p>Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23). This comes as nearly 60 people are still missing, said the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the landslide</strong></h2>

<p>The landslide occurred in Raigad district’s Irshalwadi village on July 19 amid torrential rains in the region at around 11:00 pm (local time). The village is situated on a hill slope under Khalapur tehsil which is located around 80 kilometres from the Indian financial capital city of &nbsp;Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irshalwadi village is said to be home to at least 225 people out of which, more than 80&nbsp;managed to escape.</p>

<h2><strong>Search and rescue operations called off</strong></h2>

<p>At least 228 people have been affected by the landslide, according to state minister Uday Samant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-death-toll-from-landslide-in-maharashtra-climbs-to-22-618326">&nbsp;India: Death toll from landslide in Maharashtra climbs to 26</a></strong></p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, Samant, who is also the guardian minister of Raigad, said that the decision to call off the search and rescue operations was taken after consulting the district administration and other concerned authorities, as well as local residents.</p>

<p>According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the debris by the NDRF and other social organisations who were engaged in relief and rescue work for four days now. However, nobody was found from the debris on Sunday, reported the Indian media citing officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the bodies of 12 men, 10 women and four children are yet to be identified, according to the officials. They added that nine members of a family had perished in the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The landslide also caused around 17 of the 48 houses in the village, which is at least an hour away from a motorable road, to be fully or partially buried due to the debris, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Indian minister Samant has said that those affected will be given houses by the City and Industrial Development Corporation. He added that in a bid to avoid future tragedies, five villages will be rehabilitated and a total of 20 villages will be surveyed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Maharashtra CM to ‘adopt’ children</strong></h2>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will “adopt” the 22 children who have lost their parents due to the Irshalwadi landslide, said the state’s legislative council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-police-receive-call-about-rdx-laden-tanker-going-from-city-to-goa-with-two-pak-nationals-618625">Mumbai police receive call about RDX-laden tanker going from city to Goa with two Pak nationals</a></strong></p>

<p>The &nbsp;Shrikant Shinde Foundation, an NGO run by the CM’s son and member of parliament Dr Shrikant Shinde, will adopt and bear their education and other expenses till they attain adulthood. “Several children who were at the ashram schools have lost their parents. These children are in the age group of 2 to 15 years,” said Dr Shinde, in a statement on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Taking this into consideration, Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation has decided to support all the children who have been orphaned in the Irshalwadi landslide.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23).

Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23). This comes as nearly 60 people are still missing, said the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) official. About the landslide The landslide occurred in Raigad district’s Irshalwadi village on July 19 amid torrential rains in the region at around 11:00 pm (local time). The village is situated on a hill slope under Khalapur tehsil which is located around 80 kilometres from the Indian financial capital city of Mumbai. Irshalwadi village is said to be home to at least 225 people out of which, more than 80 managed to escape. Search and rescue operations called off At least 228 people have been affected by the landslide, according to state minister Uday Samant. ALSO READ | India: Death toll from landslide in Maharashtra climbs to 26 Addressing a press conference, Samant, who is also the guardian minister of Raigad, said that the decision to call off the search and rescue operations was taken after consulting the district administration and other concerned authorities, as well as local residents. According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the debris by the NDRF and other social organisations who were engaged in relief and rescue work for four days now. However, nobody was found from the debris on Sunday, reported the Indian media citing officials. Additionally, the bodies of 12 men, 10 women and four children are yet to be identified, according to the officials. They added that nine members of a family had perished in the disaster. The landslide also caused around 17 of the 48 houses in the village, which is at least an hour away from a motorable road, to be fully or partially buried due to the debris, as per media reports. Meanwhile, Indian minister Samant has said that those affected will be given houses by the City and Industrial Development Corporation. He added that in a bid to avoid future tragedies, five villages will be rehabilitated and a total of 20 villages will be surveyed. Maharashtra CM to ‘adopt’ children Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will “adopt” the 22 children who have lost their parents due to the Irshalwadi landslide, said the state’s legislative council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, on Saturday. ALSO READ | Mumbai police receive call about RDX-laden tanker going from city to Goa with two Pak nationals The Shrikant Shinde Foundation, an NGO run by the CM’s son and member of parliament Dr Shrikant Shinde, will adopt and bear their education and other expenses till they attain adulthood. “Several children who were at the ashram schools have lost their parents. These children are in the age group of 2 to 15 years,” said Dr Shinde, in a statement on Twitter. He added, “Taking this into consideration, Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation has decided to support all the children who have been orphaned in the Irshalwadi landslide.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Death toll rises to 27 in Maharashtra landslide, rescue efforts called off with many still missing

At least, Twenty-six people have died and more than hundred are still trapped after a massive landslide hit a village in the western Indian state of Maharashtra.

Deadly landslide in Maharashtra’s Raigad claims at least 26 lives

Deadly Landslide hits Khalapur in Maharashtra: Over 26 dead, dozens trapped

<p>At least five people lost their lives and many others were feared trapped after a mountain village was hit by a landslide in India's western state of Maharashtra after the region was soaked by incessant rain, said the state officials on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>The landslide took place in the middle of the night in Irshalwadi, a small mountain village around 60 km from Mumbai, stated media reports citing officials.</p>

<p>"A total of 48 families lived there. Around 75 people have been evacuated and five people have died so far," said Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Twitter.</p>

<p>According to initial reports, around 100 people have been trapped under the debris and efforts are being made by the rescue workers to find survivors in heavy rain as relatives of the victims wait at the base of the mountain for news of their safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/destruction-havoc-loss-of-lives-why-monsoon-rains-turned-furious-in-north-india-613924">Destruction, havoc, loss of lives: Why have monsoon rains turned ferocious in North India?</a></p>

<p>"The problem here is that at some places the rubble is almost 20 to 30 feet deep and it has to be manually removed," said an unidentified rescue official, while speaking to ABP Majha channel.</p>

<p>Speaking to The Indian Express, Industries Minister Uday Samant said that search operations are going on and 75 people have been rescued so far.</p>

<p>“The incident occurred at 10:30 in the night at a place adjoining Irsalgad in Raigad district. It is a very remote inaccessible area which is hampering rescue attempts. As of now 4 people have died and 25 people have been rescued. More people are feared to be trapped and NDRF and district administration is making attempts to rescue people,” said Minister Samant.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Around 15-20 houses buried under debris&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The NDRF informed that the landslide has buried more than 15-20 houses under the debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Of the total 40 houses in the village, 17 have been affected. We have deployed four teams to conduct the rescue operations. The debris at some of the places is 10 to 29 feet deep. It is difficult to bring heavy machinery to this place. It is a 2.8 km trek to reach the spot and we have to remove the debris manually which is likely to take a lot of time. While we are facing difficulties, we will continue our operations till we retrieve the last person,” said SB Singh, Commandant of the fifth battalion of the NDRF, speaking to The Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maharashtra's Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who was present at the site, while speaking to the reporters said that the officials were not able to figure the exact number of people trapped.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Flood Threat: Delhi has recorded 112% above-average rainfall this year</strong></p>

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<p>Across the Indian state of Maharashtra, schools were closed due to incessant rains, trains were disrupted and roads were flooded.</p>

<p>On Thursday, all the colleges and schools were closed in the financial capital of Mumbai. The officials suspended some train services on Wednesday after the city was lashed by the rain.</p>

<p>More than 100 mm of rain was recorded by several districts in the state on Wednesday as more heavy showers have been predicted in the next 24 hours, as per the weather department.</p>

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At least five people lost their lives and many others were feared trapped after a mountain village was hit by a landslide in India's western state of Maharashtra after the region was soaked by incessant rain, said the state officials on Thursday (July 20).

At least five people lost their lives and many others were feared trapped after a mountain village was hit by a landslide in India's western state of Maharashtra after the region was soaked by incessant rain, said the state officials on Thursday (July 20). The landslide took place in the middle of the night in Irshalwadi, a small mountain village around 60 km from Mumbai, stated media reports citing officials. "A total of 48 families lived there. Around 75 people have been evacuated and five people have died so far," said Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Twitter. According to initial reports, around 100 people have been trapped under the debris and efforts are being made by the rescue workers to find survivors in heavy rain as relatives of the victims wait at the base of the mountain for news of their safety. ALSO READ | Destruction, havoc, loss of lives: Why have monsoon rains turned ferocious in North India? "The problem here is that at some places the rubble is almost 20 to 30 feet deep and it has to be manually removed," said an unidentified rescue official, while speaking to ABP Majha channel. Speaking to The Indian Express, Industries Minister Uday Samant said that search operations are going on and 75 people have been rescued so far. “The incident occurred at 10:30 in the night at a place adjoining Irsalgad in Raigad district. It is a very remote inaccessible area which is hampering rescue attempts. As of now 4 people have died and 25 people have been rescued. More people are feared to be trapped and NDRF and district administration is making attempts to rescue people,” said Minister Samant. Around 15-20 houses buried under debris The NDRF informed that the landslide has buried more than 15-20 houses under the debris. “Of the total 40 houses in the village, 17 have been affected. We have deployed four teams to conduct the rescue operations. The debris at some of the places is 10 to 29 feet deep. It is difficult to bring heavy machinery to this place. It is a 2.8 km trek to reach the spot and we have to remove the debris manually which is likely to take a lot of time. While we are facing difficulties, we will continue our operations till we retrieve the last person,” said SB Singh, Commandant of the fifth battalion of the NDRF, speaking to The Indian Express. Maharashtra's Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who was present at the site, while speaking to the reporters said that the officials were not able to figure the exact number of people trapped. WATCH | Flood Threat: Delhi has recorded 112% above-average rainfall this year Across the Indian state of Maharashtra, schools were closed due to incessant rains, trains were disrupted and roads were flooded. On Thursday, all the colleges and schools were closed in the financial capital of Mumbai. The officials suspended some train services on Wednesday after the city was lashed by the rain. More than 100 mm of rain was recorded by several districts in the state on Wednesday as more heavy showers have been predicted in the next 24 hours, as per the weather department. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Five dead, some trapped, in landslide in Maharashtra after heavy rain

Another active phase of India's southwest monsoon has begun. This is responsible for the majority of the rainfall in India. And as of now, heavy rainfall is enveloping the western states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Northeastern states, including Assam, are also experiencing heavy flooding.

India: heavy rainfall in Maharashtra, Gujarat

Sugarcane growers in India's top producing states are worried scanty rainfall during the crop's crucial growth period could trim yields and reduce sugar output in the upcoming season, farmers and industry as per reports.

India: Low rains may hit sugarcane yield, farmers anxious

<p>The Indian state of Maharashtra’s anti-terrorism squad (ATS) filed a chargesheet against Pune city-based Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar who was allegedly lured by a Pakistani agent using the alias ‘Zara Dasgupta,’ reported PTI&nbsp;on Saturday (July 8).&nbsp;The DRDO scientist shared sensitive details about India’s missile systems as well as the country’s drone and robotics programmes with the female Pakistan-based intelligence operative, according to the charge sheet.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the ATS find&nbsp;about the case?</strong></h2>

<p>Kurulkar was arrested on May 3, on espionage charges while the charge sheet by the authorities in Maharashtra was submitted a week ago. The ATS has claimed that Kurulkar engaged in conversations with ‘Zara Dasgupta’ about Indian missile systems and other classified defence projects.</p>

<p>The now-former director of the DRDO (Engineers), the 60-year-old&nbsp;Kurulkar is currently in judicial custody. According to the ATS, Kurulkar and ‘Zara Dasgupta’ were in contact via WhatsApp and also via voice and video calls. In the chargesheet, the anti-terrorism squad claimed to have found “explosive” chats between the scientist and the Pakistani agent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-espionage-case-who-is-pradeep-kurulkar-honey-trapped-scientist-accused-of-spying-589120">India | DRDO espionage case: Who is Pradeep Kurulkar? Honey-trapped scientist accused of spying</a></strong></p>

<p>‘Dasgupta,’ who had claimed to be a United Kingdom-based software engineer, allegedly befriended Kurulkar by sending him obscene messages and videos. It was only after the investigation, that it was found that her IP address was tracked to Pakistan, said the ATS in the nearly 2000-page charge sheet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Kurulkar, who was attracted to her, stored the classified and sensitive information of DRDO on his personal phone and then allegedly shared it with Zara,” the chargesheet said, as quoted by PTI. The ATS also found chats which showed Kurulkar sharing his personal as well as official schedules and locations with her which he was not supposed to share with anyone.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did they discuss?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the charge sheet, Kurulkar chatted with the Pakistani agent about classified information regarding the BrahMos Launcher, Drone, Unmanned Combat Vehicles (UCV), Agni Missile Launcher and Military Bridging System, among other things.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ATS also alleged that the Pakistani agent created multiple fake accounts to engage with Kurulkar two of which were under the names Zara Dasgupta and Juhi Arora. In his messages, the DRDO scientist spoke about, “BrahMos, Agni 6, Rustom (a medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned air vehicle), surface to air missiles, unmanned combat air vehicles, drone projects”.</p>

<h2><strong>About the case</strong></h2>

<p>The DRDO scientist was arrested, back in May, on allegations of espionage. In an official statement, he was accused of misusing “his post thereby compromising sensitive government secrets, which could pose a threat to India’s security if it falls into the hands of the enemy nation.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-vivek-raghuvanshi-ex-navy-commander-turned-journalist-accused-of-spying-593425">Who is Vivek Raghuvanshi, ex-Navy commander-turned-journalist accused of spying?</a></strong><br />
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According to the ATS, the two were in contact from June 2022 to December 2022. It was not until DRDO initiated an internal probe after his activities were found to be suspicious, Kurulkar blocked Dasgupta’s number in February, earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a forensic analysis of Kurular’s phone, experts at the DRDO also found malware and reported it to ATS. The DRDO scientist is currently in Pune’s Yerwada jail.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The Indian state of Maharashtra’s anti-terrorism squad (ATS) filed a chargesheet against Pune city-based Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar who was allegedly lured by a Pakistani agent using the alias ‘Zara Dasgupta,’ reported PTI on Saturday (July 8).

The Indian state of Maharashtra’s anti-terrorism squad (ATS) filed a chargesheet against Pune city-based Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar who was allegedly lured by a Pakistani agent using the alias ‘Zara Dasgupta,’ reported PTI on Saturday (July 8). The DRDO scientist shared sensitive details about India’s missile systems as well as the country’s drone and robotics programmes with the female Pakistan-based intelligence operative, according to the charge sheet. What did the ATS find about the case? Kurulkar was arrested on May 3, on espionage charges while the charge sheet by the authorities in Maharashtra was submitted a week ago. The ATS has claimed that Kurulkar engaged in conversations with ‘Zara Dasgupta’ about Indian missile systems and other classified defence projects. The now-former director of the DRDO (Engineers), the 60-year-old Kurulkar is currently in judicial custody. According to the ATS, Kurulkar and ‘Zara Dasgupta’ were in contact via WhatsApp and also via voice and video calls. In the chargesheet, the anti-terrorism squad claimed to have found “explosive” chats between the scientist and the Pakistani agent. ALSO READ | India | DRDO espionage case: Who is Pradeep Kurulkar? Honey-trapped scientist accused of spying ‘Dasgupta,’ who had claimed to be a United Kingdom-based software engineer, allegedly befriended Kurulkar by sending him obscene messages and videos. It was only after the investigation, that it was found that her IP address was tracked to Pakistan, said the ATS in the nearly 2000-page charge sheet. “Kurulkar, who was attracted to her, stored the classified and sensitive information of DRDO on his personal phone and then allegedly shared it with Zara,” the chargesheet said, as quoted by PTI. The ATS also found chats which showed Kurulkar sharing his personal as well as official schedules and locations with her which he was not supposed to share with anyone. What did they discuss? According to the charge sheet, Kurulkar chatted with the Pakistani agent about classified information regarding the BrahMos Launcher, Drone, Unmanned Combat Vehicles (UCV), Agni Missile Launcher and Military Bridging System, among other things. The ATS also alleged that the Pakistani agent created multiple fake accounts to engage with Kurulkar two of which were under the names Zara Dasgupta and Juhi Arora. In his messages, the DRDO scientist spoke about, “BrahMos, Agni 6, Rustom (a medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned air vehicle), surface to air missiles, unmanned combat air vehicles, drone projects”. About the case The DRDO scientist was arrested, back in May, on allegations of espionage. In an official statement, he was accused of misusing “his post thereby compromising sensitive government secrets, which could pose a threat to India’s security if it falls into the hands of the enemy nation.” ALSO READ | Who is Vivek Raghuvanshi, ex-Navy commander-turned-journalist accused of spying? According to the ATS, the two were in contact from June 2022 to December 2022. It was not until DRDO initiated an internal probe after his activities were found to be suspicious, Kurulkar blocked Dasgupta’s number in February, earlier this year. During a forensic analysis of Kurular’s phone, experts at the DRDO also found malware and reported it to ATS. The DRDO scientist is currently in Pune’s Yerwada jail. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Honey-trapped DRDO scientist shared details about Indian missile systems with Pakistani agent

<p>At least 10 people were killed and&nbsp;26 others were injured after an accident involving a truck and several other vehicles occurred in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Dhule district on Tuesday (July 4), said the police, as per media reports. It was earlier reported that at least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The accident occurred around 10:45 am (local time) when a container truck hit four vehicles and then rammed into a roadside restaurant on a highway in Dhule. The truck was said to be travelling towards Dhule from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh’s Indore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place near Palasner village on the Mumbai-Agra highway in Dhule which is some 300 kilometres away from the state capital. The news agency PTI reported that the brakes of the truck failed, following which its driver lost control of the wheels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users.&nbsp;Viewer discretion is advised.&nbsp;</strong></em><br />
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | CCTV visuals of the accident in which at least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured after a container truck hit four vehicles and then rammed into a hotel on the Mumbai-Agra Highway in Maharashtra's Dhule district on Tuesday. <a href="https://t.co/GpgiaB9XjB">pic.twitter.com/GpgiaB9XjB</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1676149571477463040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Subsequently, the multi-axle truck hit two motorcycles, a car and another container from behind before ramming into a hotel and overturning. This comes after the police had earlier speculated that a brake failure apparently led to the accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency report, citing RTO officials, also said the truck had hit a motorcycle a few kilometres ahead of the site of the accident and the driver was apparently speeding in panic.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the victims?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the police, the victims include those waiting for the bus near the roadside restaurant, although the officials did not specify if they were injured or killed. The truck driver and his assistant, who are reported to be residents of Chittorgarh in the Indian state of Rajasthan, were killed in&nbsp;the accident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, two women and a 17-year-old teenager were among the deceased, said the police. Those injured were taken to nearby hospitals in Shirpur and Dhule by the local police of which one of them was said to be in critical condition, while the status of other victims was not&nbsp;known. The identities of the victims were also not&nbsp;immediately known.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Very sad’: Maharashtra deputy CM expresses deepest condolences</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis called the incident “very sad” and expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The deputy CM also said that he wishes for a speedy recovery of those injured and that his administration will provide any help needed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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At least 10 people were killed and 26 others were injured after an accident involving a truck and several other vehicles occurred in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Dhule district on Tuesday (July 4), said the police, as per media reports.

At least 10 people were killed and 26 others were injured after an accident involving a truck and several other vehicles occurred in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Dhule district on Tuesday (July 4), said the police, as per media reports. It was earlier reported that at least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured. What happened? The accident occurred around 10:45 am (local time) when a container truck hit four vehicles and then rammed into a roadside restaurant on a highway in Dhule. The truck was said to be travelling towards Dhule from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh’s Indore. The incident took place near Palasner village on the Mumbai-Agra highway in Dhule which is some 300 kilometres away from the state capital. The news agency PTI reported that the brakes of the truck failed, following which its driver lost control of the wheels. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. VIDEO | CCTV visuals of the accident in which at least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured after a container truck hit four vehicles and then rammed into a hotel on the Mumbai-Agra Highway in Maharashtra's Dhule district on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/GpgiaB9XjB — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 4, 2023 × Subsequently, the multi-axle truck hit two motorcycles, a car and another container from behind before ramming into a hotel and overturning. This comes after the police had earlier speculated that a brake failure apparently led to the accident. The news agency report, citing RTO officials, also said the truck had hit a motorcycle a few kilometres ahead of the site of the accident and the driver was apparently speeding in panic. What do we know about the victims? According to the police, the victims include those waiting for the bus near the roadside restaurant, although the officials did not specify if they were injured or killed. The truck driver and his assistant, who are reported to be residents of Chittorgarh in the Indian state of Rajasthan, were killed in the accident. Additionally, two women and a 17-year-old teenager were among the deceased, said the police. Those injured were taken to nearby hospitals in Shirpur and Dhule by the local police of which one of them was said to be in critical condition, while the status of other victims was not known. The identities of the victims were also not immediately known. ‘Very sad’: Maharashtra deputy CM expresses deepest condolences In a statement, the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis called the incident “very sad” and expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The deputy CM also said that he wishes for a speedy recovery of those injured and that his administration will provide any help needed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: At least 10 killed, 26 injured after truck hits four vehicles, rams into hotel in Dhule

The political scenario in the Indian state of Maharashtra took a dramatic twist when a top leader from the state's opposition party became a part of the ruling Coalition.

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra's new deputy CM

<p>In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pawar, along with dozens of other party leaders, joined the state government earlier today, and will now share the post along with incumbent Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. However, after he was sworn in, Ajit Pawar clarified that he had not left NCP and joined the state government as the Nationalist Congress Party.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Sunday?</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, on Sunday, Ajit Pawar, the leader of the opposition in Maharashtra, called an urgent meeting of the NCP MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) amid reported rumours of him being unhappy that he was not chosen as the party’s state unit chief. Reportedly, he had also offered to resign as the opposition leader to take up the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-crisis-another-mla-joins-eknath-shindes-rebel-camp-491360">Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp</a></strong></p>

<p>Hours later it was announced that NCP leader and Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar will be sworn in as the deputy CM of Maharashtra. At least 30 other MLAs&nbsp;have joined Ajit Pawar out of which around eight ministers – Chaggan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmobaba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, and Anil Patil – were also sworn in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian state has witnessed a fourth oath-taking ceremony in less than three years amid political turmoil. Additionally, this is the 5th time that Ajit Pawar has been sworn in as the deputy CM, the most number of times a politician has been appointed for the post since it was first created in 1978.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Triple engine’ government of Maharashtra: Shinde</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and&nbsp;Shiv Sena welcomed Pawar with open arms. “Ajit Pawar always followed developmental politics,” said the incumbent Maharashtra CM Shinde.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Now we have one Chief Minister and two deputy Chief Ministers…I welcome him in the government and now the double engine government will become triple engine government. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar’s experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.” &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/once-an-auto-driver-eknath-shinde-is-now-the-man-of-the-moment-in-indian-politics-493329">India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment</a></strong></p>

<p>Shinde&nbsp;had once led a similar move against his party Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray, whose faction is now known as Shiv Sena UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), when he left with dozens of ministers and joined hands with BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Joined government as NCP’: Ajit Pawar</strong></h2>

<p>Following the oath-taking ceremony, the newly inducted Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, “Talks have been ongoing for quite some time, and there will be a cabinet expansion. We need to prioritise the development of Maharashtra. We made the decision to join the Shinde-Fadanvis government with almost all NCP MLAs.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said the expansion of Maharashtra’s cabinet begins today and more ministers will be inducted soon. “Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-blow-to-uddhav-thackeray-eknath-shinde-faction-to-get-shiv-sena-name-rules-election-commission-563139">Big blow to Uddhav Thackeray: Eknath Shinde faction is real 'Shiv Sena', rules election commission</a></strong></p>

<p>Ajit Pawar also said if NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland, why can’t they do the same for Maharashtra and its people? “Some MLAs could not be contacted as they are out of the country, but I spoke to all of them and they agreed with our decision,” said Ajit Pawar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newly appointed deputy CM also went on to praise the Indian PM and said, “The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision.” However, Pawar also went on to clarify that “We have joined the government as the Nationalist Congress party and will fight any and every election in the name of the NCP.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, state minister Chhagan Bhujabal said, “We have joined the government as its third party. A few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as NCP.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-happening-in-maharashtra-indias-richest-state-in-political-crisis-490979">What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What about Sharad Pawar’s next move?</strong></h2>

<p>NCP leader, Sharad Pawar, who was in the city of Pune, Maharashtra when Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in Mumbai, spoke about how he is “happy” that some of his colleagues have decided to join the NDA government.</p>

<p>He added that there was supposed to be a meeting on July 6 to discuss important issues&nbsp;and some changes that were to be made within the party, but some people in the party have decided to take a “different stand”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about Ajit Pawar’s move, the NCP chief said, “This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that he received calls from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others but “I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan (former Maharashtra CM) and will hold a public meeting.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-names-praful-patel-daughter-supriya-sule-as-partys-working-presidents-602895">India: NCP chief Sharad Pawar names Praful Patel, daughter Supriya Sule as party's working presidents</a></strong><br />
<br />
About the position of the&nbsp;leader of the opposition, the NCP chief said he would sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to "assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again."</p>

<p>He added, "MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders." Pawar also said action will be taken against Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare who “did not follow their responsibilities.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state.

In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state. Pawar, along with dozens of other party leaders, joined the state government earlier today, and will now share the post along with incumbent Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. However, after he was sworn in, Ajit Pawar clarified that he had not left NCP and joined the state government as the Nationalist Congress Party. What happened on Sunday? Earlier, on Sunday, Ajit Pawar, the leader of the opposition in Maharashtra, called an urgent meeting of the NCP MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) amid reported rumours of him being unhappy that he was not chosen as the party’s state unit chief. Reportedly, he had also offered to resign as the opposition leader to take up the post. ALSO READ | Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp Hours later it was announced that NCP leader and Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar will be sworn in as the deputy CM of Maharashtra. At least 30 other MLAs have joined Ajit Pawar out of which around eight ministers – Chaggan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmobaba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, and Anil Patil – were also sworn in. The Indian state has witnessed a fourth oath-taking ceremony in less than three years amid political turmoil. Additionally, this is the 5th time that Ajit Pawar has been sworn in as the deputy CM, the most number of times a politician has been appointed for the post since it was first created in 1978. ‘Triple engine’ government of Maharashtra: Shinde Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena welcomed Pawar with open arms. “Ajit Pawar always followed developmental politics,” said the incumbent Maharashtra CM Shinde. He added, “Now we have one Chief Minister and two deputy Chief Ministers…I welcome him in the government and now the double engine government will become triple engine government. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar’s experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.” ALSO READ | India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment Shinde had once led a similar move against his party Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray, whose faction is now known as Shiv Sena UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), when he left with dozens of ministers and joined hands with BJP. ‘Joined government as NCP’: Ajit Pawar Following the oath-taking ceremony, the newly inducted Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, “Talks have been ongoing for quite some time, and there will be a cabinet expansion. We need to prioritise the development of Maharashtra. We made the decision to join the Shinde-Fadanvis government with almost all NCP MLAs.” He also said the expansion of Maharashtra’s cabinet begins today and more ministers will be inducted soon. “Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later.” ALSO READ | Big blow to Uddhav Thackeray: Eknath Shinde faction is real 'Shiv Sena', rules election commission Ajit Pawar also said if NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland, why can’t they do the same for Maharashtra and its people? “Some MLAs could not be contacted as they are out of the country, but I spoke to all of them and they agreed with our decision,” said Ajit Pawar. The newly appointed deputy CM also went on to praise the Indian PM and said, “The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership.” He added, “We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision.” However, Pawar also went on to clarify that “We have joined the government as the Nationalist Congress party and will fight any and every election in the name of the NCP.” Similarly, state minister Chhagan Bhujabal said, “We have joined the government as its third party. A few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as NCP.” ALSO READ | What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis? What about Sharad Pawar’s next move? NCP leader, Sharad Pawar, who was in the city of Pune, Maharashtra when Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in Mumbai, spoke about how he is “happy” that some of his colleagues have decided to join the NDA government. He added that there was supposed to be a meeting on July 6 to discuss important issues and some changes that were to be made within the party, but some people in the party have decided to take a “different stand”. Speaking about Ajit Pawar’s move, the NCP chief said, “This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies.” He also said that he received calls from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others but “I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan (former Maharashtra CM) and will hold a public meeting.” ALSO READ | India: NCP chief Sharad Pawar names Praful Patel, daughter Supriya Sule as party's working presidents About the position of the leader of the opposition, the NCP chief said he would sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to "assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again." He added, "MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders." Pawar also said action will be taken against Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare who “did not follow their responsibilities.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra

<p>After a bus fire claimed the lives of 25 passengers in Buldhana district of India's Maharashtra state, about 430 km northeast of New Delhi, instances of public apathy during the tragic accident have emerged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One survivor recounted to the Press Trust of India&nbsp;how he and a few others managed to escape the burning vehicle by breaking the rear window.</p>

<p>The accident occurred on the Samruddhi Expressway when a private passenger bus going from Nagpur to Pune collided with a pole around 1:30 am on July 1.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-25-people-charred-to-death-eight-injured-after-bus-catches-fire-on-maharashtra-expressway-610728">India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured after bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway</a></strong></p>

<p>Among the 33 passengers on board, 25 lost their lives in the ensuing fire, according to the police.</p>

<p>"A tyre of the bus burst and the vehicle hit a pole and caught fire immediately. The blaze spread in no time," the survivor said.</p>

<p>"The passenger seated next to me and I managed to escape by breaking the rear window," he said.</p>

<p>The survivor mentioned that the police and fire brigade arrived promptly at the accident site.</p>

<p>A local resident stated that four to five passengers managed to escape by breaking one window of the bus.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Former Tata Sons Chairman Cyrus Mistry dies in a road accident in Maharashtra</strong></p>

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<p>"The people who crawled or jumped out of the bus later told us that they sought help from other vehicles on the highway as people were getting burnt, but nobody stopped," he added.</p>

<p>"Many accidents take place on this route at Pimpalkhuta. We were called for help and when we went there, we saw the horrible situation. The tyres had fallen apart," a local resident said.</p>

<p>"People inside were trying to break the windows and crawl out. We saw people getting burnt alive...The fire was so intense that we could not do anything. We were in tears...," he said.</p>

<p>"Had the vehicles passing by the highway stopped for help, more lives could have been saved," he added.</p>

<p>The police reported that eight survivors of the bus tragedy were promptly transported to a nearby hospital and are now safe.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government&nbsp;has announced a sum of ₹2 lakh&nbsp;as compensation for the families of the victims.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>

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After a bus fire claimed the lives of 25 passengers in Buldhana district of India's Maharashtra state, about 430 km northeast of New Delhi, instances of public apathy during the tragic accident have emerged.

After a bus fire claimed the lives of 25 passengers in Buldhana district of India's Maharashtra state, about 430 km northeast of New Delhi, instances of public apathy during the tragic accident have emerged. One survivor recounted to the Press Trust of India how he and a few others managed to escape the burning vehicle by breaking the rear window. The accident occurred on the Samruddhi Expressway when a private passenger bus going from Nagpur to Pune collided with a pole around 1:30 am on July 1. Also read | India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured after bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway Among the 33 passengers on board, 25 lost their lives in the ensuing fire, according to the police. "A tyre of the bus burst and the vehicle hit a pole and caught fire immediately. The blaze spread in no time," the survivor said. "The passenger seated next to me and I managed to escape by breaking the rear window," he said. The survivor mentioned that the police and fire brigade arrived promptly at the accident site. A local resident stated that four to five passengers managed to escape by breaking one window of the bus. Also watch | Former Tata Sons Chairman Cyrus Mistry dies in a road accident in Maharashtra × "The people who crawled or jumped out of the bus later told us that they sought help from other vehicles on the highway as people were getting burnt, but nobody stopped," he added. "Many accidents take place on this route at Pimpalkhuta. We were called for help and when we went there, we saw the horrible situation. The tyres had fallen apart," a local resident said. "People inside were trying to break the windows and crawl out. We saw people getting burnt alive...The fire was so intense that we could not do anything. We were in tears...," he said. "Had the vehicles passing by the highway stopped for help, more lives could have been saved," he added. The police reported that eight survivors of the bus tragedy were promptly transported to a nearby hospital and are now safe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has announced a sum of ₹2 lakh as compensation for the families of the victims. (With inputs from PTI) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: 'Nobody stopped' as people burnt; survivors, locals recount horror of Maharashtra accident

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