The renaming of the cities Aurangabad and Osmanabad was agreed by the Maharashtra state cabinet on Wednesday. Both places will now be called Sambhaji Nagar and Dharashiv, respectively. Additionally, DB Patil International Airport will now be known as Navi Mumbai Airport. Today's Maharashtra cabinet meeting resulted in the choice.

During the cabinet meeting, the Congress, a junior partner in the MVA government, demanded that the city of Pune be renamed Jijau Nagar after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's mother and that the Mumbai Trans Harbour link between Sewree and Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai be given the name of the late A R Antulay, a former chief minister.

The Shiv Sena, which leads the ruling MVA coalition and is facing a rebellion by the majority of its MLAs, made its decision on the contentious matter of renaming the historically significant city of Aurangabad in central Maharashtra.

Uddhav Thackeray, the chief minister, presided over the cabinet gathering. The BJP had frequently reminded the Sena of its own previous demand to rename Aurangabad, which took its name from Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, when the Shiv Sena broke from its alliance with the BJP and joined forces with the Congress and NCP to create the MVA administration. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-maharashtra-political-crisis-updates-supreme-court-to-hear-shiv-senas-urgent-petiton-against-floor-test-today-492829">LIVE Maharashtra Political Crisis: BJP set to stake claim in Maharashtra</a>

Owaisi's AIMIM slams Uddhav Thackeray

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, has denounced the Uddhav Thackeray administration's intention to rename Aurangabad. The Shiv Sena leader made the choice, according to the party, since he had lost power. The action was described as "a superb example of cheap politics" as well.

Imtiaz Jaleel, an AIMIM MP from Aurangabad, remarked, "They made this choice when they started to lose power. I would want to inform Uddhav Ji that names can be changed but history cannot be altered. You're a fantastic example of dishonest politics. Only people can determine whether Aurangabad will keep its current name ".

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The renaming of the cities Aurangabad and Osmanabad was agreed by the Maharashtra state cabinet on Wednesday. Both places will now be called Sambhaji Nagar and Dharashiv, respectively.

The renaming of the cities Aurangabad and Osmanabad was agreed by the Maharashtra state cabinet on Wednesday. Both places will now be called Sambhaji Nagar and Dharashiv, respectively. Additionally, DB Patil International Airport will now be known as Navi Mumbai Airport. Today's Maharashtra cabinet meeting resulted in the choice. During the cabinet meeting, the Congress, a junior partner in the MVA government, demanded that the city of Pune be renamed Jijau Nagar after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's mother and that the Mumbai Trans Harbour link between Sewree and Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai be given the name of the late A R Antulay, a former chief minister. The Shiv Sena, which leads the ruling MVA coalition and is facing a rebellion by the majority of its MLAs, made its decision on the contentious matter of renaming the historically significant city of Aurangabad in central Maharashtra. Uddhav Thackeray, the chief minister, presided over the cabinet gathering. The BJP had frequently reminded the Sena of its own previous demand to rename Aurangabad, which took its name from Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, when the Shiv Sena broke from its alliance with the BJP and joined forces with the Congress and NCP to create the MVA administration. LIVE Maharashtra Political Crisis: BJP set to stake claim in Maharashtra Owaisi's AIMIM slams Uddhav Thackeray The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, has denounced the Uddhav Thackeray administration's intention to rename Aurangabad. The Shiv Sena leader made the choice, according to the party, since he had lost power. The action was described as "a superb example of cheap politics" as well. Imtiaz Jaleel, an AIMIM MP from Aurangabad, remarked, "They made this choice when they started to lose power. I would want to inform Uddhav Ji that names can be changed but history cannot be altered. You're a fantastic example of dishonest politics. Only people can determine whether Aurangabad will keep its current name ". 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: Maharashtra renames Aurangabad, Osmanabad, several other places

In India, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray has stepped down from his post. Uddhav Thackeray's resignation coming after days of political crisis in the state.

India: Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray resigns ahead of floor test

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Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 29) announced the US reinforcements of NATO forces in Europe at a bilateral meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 29) announced the US reinforcements of NATO forces in Europe at a bilateral meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. Amid the monkeypox outbreak, the New York health department began offering vaccines to gay and bisexual men. The New York department said all over 18 who have had multiple or anonymous partners in the last 14 days were eligible for the vaccine. Click on the headlines to read more: 'We're stepping up': Joe Biden announces US military air, sea, land reinforcements in Europe Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 29) announced the US reinforcements of NATO forces in Europe at a bilateral meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. The leaders of NATO nations have gathered in the Spanish capital, Madrid, for a summit to discuss the transatlantic ties. https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-us-begins-offering-vaccines-to-gay-and-bisexual-men-492995 Amid the monkeypox outbreak, the New York health department began offering vaccines to gay and bisexual men. The New York department said all over 18 who have had multiple or anonymous partners in the last 14 days were eligible for the vaccine. EU countries reach deal on climate laws after late-night talks EU countries clinched deals on proposed laws to combat climate change early Wednesday, backing a 2035 phase-out of new fossil fuel car sales and a multibillion-euro fund to shield poorer citizens from CO2 costs. After more than 16 hours of negotiations, environment ministers from the European Union's 27 member states agreed their joint positions on five laws, part of a broader package of measures to slash planet-warming emissions this decade. 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If Putin was a woman, he wouldn’t have invaded Ukraine: UK PM Boris Johnson Asserting that the Russian war on Ukraine is a “perfect example of toxic masculinity”, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has claimed that Vladimir Putin would not have invaded Ukraine if he were a woman.Terming the invasion as "crazy, macho", the UK prime minister called for "more women in positions of power". Serena Williams' Wimbledon dream ends: A look at 23 Grand Slams won by tennis great Serena Williams' Wimbledon dream came to an early end on Tuesday (June 8) as she went down fighting against France's Harmony Tan in the first round after making her comeback to a singles competition for the first time in almost a year. Williams was far from her best against Tan, who defeated her 7-5 1-6 7-6(7) in a gruelling encounter which lasted over three hours. Though her Wimbledon dream is over this year, the tennis great hasn't yet given up on chasing a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam. Here is a look at the 23 singles Grand Slam titles that Williams has won so far in her illustrious career. In a first, ISRO's 'POEM' will remain stable in space and facilitate science experiments If a friend is going on a long drive in a half-occupied car and you hitchhike with him, it saves you the huge cost and makes better use of the available resource. Similarly, there are small scientific payloads (hitchhikers) from Indian start-ups and others, who are hitchhiking on ISRO's to-be-launched PSLV- C53 mission (the half-occupied vehicle going on a long drive). However, this time around ISRO is not just performing the role of orbiting the hitchhiking payloads, but will also provide a stabilized orbiting platform for them. This new experiment by ISRO is known as 'POEM' or PSLV Orbital Experimental Module. WION explains how 'POEM' works and what it is meant to do. 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The proceedings of disqualification of the rebel Shiv Sena MLAs in Maharashtra have been put on hold before the Deputy Speaker of the state Assembly till July 11 by the Supreme Court on Monday. This seems to be a relief for the 39 rebel MLAs. The apex court has also asked for responses from the state government and others on the pleas, which have questioned the legality of the notices seeking disqualification of these lawmakers. The vacation bench, which comprised of Justices Surya Kant and J B Pardiwala, also declined to pass any interim order on a plea by senior advocate Devdutt Kamat, who was appearing for Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, that in the meantime, there should not be any floor test in the Assembly. The state government can always approach it if there is any illegality, the court said. &nbsp;

The top court has also directed the MVA government to protect the 'life, liberty, and property' of the 39 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs and their family members. The MLAs are headed by minister Eknath Shinde. The rebels may also file their replies to the disqualification notices till 5:30 pm on July 12, it said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-crisis-legal-battle-begins-between-eknath-shinde-rebels-and-shiv-sena-492138" hreflang="en">Maharashtra political crisis: Legal battle begins between Eknath Shinde rebels and Shiv Sena</a>

"Meanwhile as an interim measure, the time granted by the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly to the petitioners or other similarly placed Members of the Legislative Assembly to submit their written submissions up to today by 5.30 pm is extended till July 12, 2022." &nbsp;

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The top court has also posted the matter for the next hearing on July 11. It also wants the status quo to continue till it balances the competing claims made by rival Sena camps. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The proceedings of disqualification of the rebel Shiv Sena MLAs in Maharashtra have been put on hold before the Deputy Speaker of the state Assembly till July 11 by the Supreme Court on Monday.

The proceedings of disqualification of the rebel Shiv Sena MLAs in Maharashtra have been put on hold before the Deputy Speaker of the state Assembly till July 11 by the Supreme Court on Monday. This seems to be a relief for the 39 rebel MLAs. The apex court has also asked for responses from the state government and others on the pleas, which have questioned the legality of the notices seeking disqualification of these lawmakers. The vacation bench, which comprised of Justices Surya Kant and J B Pardiwala, also declined to pass any interim order on a plea by senior advocate Devdutt Kamat, who was appearing for Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, that in the meantime, there should not be any floor test in the Assembly. The state government can always approach it if there is any illegality, the court said. The top court has also directed the MVA government to protect the 'life, liberty, and property' of the 39 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs and their family members. The MLAs are headed by minister Eknath Shinde. The rebels may also file their replies to the disqualification notices till 5:30 pm on July 12, it said. Also Read: Maharashtra political crisis: Legal battle begins between Eknath Shinde rebels and Shiv Sena "Meanwhile as an interim measure, the time granted by the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly to the petitioners or other similarly placed Members of the Legislative Assembly to submit their written submissions up to today by 5.30 pm is extended till July 12, 2022." WATCH WION LIVE HERE The top court has also posted the matter for the next hearing on July 11. It also wants the status quo to continue till it balances the competing claims made by rival Sena camps. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian SC stays rebel Shiv Sena MLAs’ disqualification proceedings in Maharashtra till July 11

The Supreme Court is due to hear the plea of Maharashtra Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde on disqualification notice against him and 15 rebel MLAs. The notice has been served by Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal. The matter will come up for hearing around 12:30 pm on Monday (June 27). A vacation bench of Justices Surya Kant and JB Pardiwala will hear the cases.&nbsp;

There are two petitions, one from Shinde and the other by rebel MLAs. The petitions challenge the disqualification notice and appointment of Ajay Chaudhary as leader of the legislative party. The move to disqualify has been termed by the rebel camp as 'illegal and unconstitutional'. The petition seeks a stay on the disqualification notice.

The rebel camp has sought directions to the deputy speaker to not take action on the notice

The Shinde camp claimed the move was illegal since disqualification can happen only for matters in the assembly and not for skipping a party meeting.

The Eknath Shinde camp has also challenged the appointment of Ajay Choudhary as the Shiv Sena Legislature Party leader by the Thackeray camp. They have also asked the court to direct the Maharashtra government to provide security to their families.

Shinde and a sizeable chunk of Shiv Sena's strength in the assembly are camping in a hotel in Guwahati, thousands of kilometres away from Shiv Sena's power base.

Shinde in his plea stated that the Deputy Speaker has lost his position as the MVA government has been reduced to a minority and in such a situation, he has no authority to invoke provisions of the Members of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 1986, and send notices to him and 15 other MLAs, which form part of the breakaway group of 38 Sena legislators.

Shinde in his petition said, "It is common knowledge that the current government in Maharashtra, led by the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, has lost the majority in the House as 38 of the members of the Shiv Sena Legislature Party have withdrawn their support thus bringing it below the majority in the House. However, the MVA government continues to misuse the office of the deputy speaker to ensure that they remain in power by whatever means."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Supreme Court is due to hear the plea of Maharashtra Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde on disqualification notice against him and 15 rebel MLAs. The notice has been served by Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal.

The Supreme Court is due to hear the plea of Maharashtra Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde on disqualification notice against him and 15 rebel MLAs. The notice has been served by Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal. The matter will come up for hearing around 12:30 pm on Monday (June 27). A vacation bench of Justices Surya Kant and JB Pardiwala will hear the cases. There are two petitions, one from Shinde and the other by rebel MLAs. The petitions challenge the disqualification notice and appointment of Ajay Chaudhary as leader of the legislative party. The move to disqualify has been termed by the rebel camp as 'illegal and unconstitutional'. The petition seeks a stay on the disqualification notice. The rebel camp has sought directions to the deputy speaker to not take action on the notice The Shinde camp claimed the move was illegal since disqualification can happen only for matters in the assembly and not for skipping a party meeting. The Eknath Shinde camp has also challenged the appointment of Ajay Choudhary as the Shiv Sena Legislature Party leader by the Thackeray camp. They have also asked the court to direct the Maharashtra government to provide security to their families. Shinde and a sizeable chunk of Shiv Sena's strength in the assembly are camping in a hotel in Guwahati, thousands of kilometres away from Shiv Sena's power base. Shinde in his plea stated that the Deputy Speaker has lost his position as the MVA government has been reduced to a minority and in such a situation, he has no authority to invoke provisions of the Members of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 1986, and send notices to him and 15 other MLAs, which form part of the breakaway group of 38 Sena legislators. Shinde in his petition said, "It is common knowledge that the current government in Maharashtra, led by the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, has lost the majority in the House as 38 of the members of the Shiv Sena Legislature Party have withdrawn their support thus bringing it below the majority in the House. However, the MVA government continues to misuse the office of the deputy speaker to ensure that they remain in power by whatever means." (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.

Maharashtra political crisis: Legal battle begins between Eknath Shinde rebels and Shiv Sena

Assam ministers Ashok Singhal and Pijush Hazarika on Sunday visited the luxury hotel in Guwahati, where dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde is camping with other MLAs from Maharashtra, and held a series of discussions with them, sources said.

This is the third time in two days that Singhal, the Assam Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, has met the dissidents. On Saturday, he went to the hotel twice and held discussions with Shinde and the other rebel MLAs.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while returning from the airport after assessing the flood situation in Silchar, stopped for a few minutes at Gotanagar area on the NH-37, where the Radisson Blu hotel is situated.

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>

His convoy stopped on the opposite side of the Radisson Blu and he greeted the journalists, who have been reporting from outside the closed gates of the hotel. He then left the place.

A source told PTI that Hazarika, the Parliament Affairs Minister of Assam, went to the hotel in the morning and was there for about two hours.

"Singhal reached the hotel around 11 am. Hazarika had left before Singhal went," he added.

Some security personnel of Hazarika waited outside when he was holding the meeting with the Shinde camp.

Singhal's SUV along with his security was seen entering the hotel after Hazarika's convoy left the place.

It is, however, not immediately known what Singhal and Hazarika discussed with the rebel Shiv Sena legislators and Independent MLAs from the western state.

Another source close to the development said that Singhal had gone to the hotel on Saturday afternoon as well as in the night and held discussions.

When contacted, Singhal confirmed to PTI that he went to the hotel on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, but declined to share details. He did not mention the Saturday night's visit.

A close associate of the minister said, "He went there to meet an MLA whom he knew."

Hazarika remained unavailable for comments.

Significantly, these meetings took place hours after 16 dissident Shiv Sena MLAs were sent disqualification notices.

The BJP, which once had an alliance with the Shiv Sena, has so far brushed its hands off from the present political turmoil in Maharashtra.

Despite sending a party MP and an MLA to receive the Maharashtra legislators at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport in Guwahati on June 22, Chief Minister Sarma claimed that they arrived here as guests on their own.

The Assam Police has taken over the security from the private guards of the hotel and is not allowing anyone to enter the premises.

The Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat on Saturday issued 'summons' to 16 of the rebel Shiv Sena MLAs, including Shinde, seeking written replies by the evening of June 27 to the complaints seeking their disqualification.

After receiving the summons, the Shiv Sena MLAs have been huddling inside the hotel Since Sunday morning, sources said.

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>

"They are discussing various options to respond to the notices. The current political situation is being deliberated in the meeting," another source said.

In what seems to be an apparent bid to topple the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra, dissident legislators of Shiv Sena, which heads the ruling coalition, are camping in Guwahati, around 2,700 km away.

Assam ministers Ashok Singhal and Pijush Hazarika on Sunday visited the luxury hotel in Guwahati, where dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde is camping with other MLAs from Maharashtra, and held a series of discussions with them, sources said.

Assam ministers Ashok Singhal and Pijush Hazarika on Sunday visited the luxury hotel in Guwahati, where dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde is camping with other MLAs from Maharashtra, and held a series of discussions with them, sources said. This is the third time in two days that Singhal, the Assam Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, has met the dissidents. On Saturday, he went to the hotel twice and held discussions with Shinde and the other rebel MLAs. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while returning from the airport after assessing the flood situation in Silchar, stopped for a few minutes at Gotanagar area on the NH-37, where the Radisson Blu hotel is situated. Also read | What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis? His convoy stopped on the opposite side of the Radisson Blu and he greeted the journalists, who have been reporting from outside the closed gates of the hotel. He then left the place. A source told PTI that Hazarika, the Parliament Affairs Minister of Assam, went to the hotel in the morning and was there for about two hours. "Singhal reached the hotel around 11 am. Hazarika had left before Singhal went," he added. Some security personnel of Hazarika waited outside when he was holding the meeting with the Shinde camp. Singhal's SUV along with his security was seen entering the hotel after Hazarika's convoy left the place. It is, however, not immediately known what Singhal and Hazarika discussed with the rebel Shiv Sena legislators and Independent MLAs from the western state. Another source close to the development said that Singhal had gone to the hotel on Saturday afternoon as well as in the night and held discussions. When contacted, Singhal confirmed to PTI that he went to the hotel on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, but declined to share details. He did not mention the Saturday night's visit. A close associate of the minister said, "He went there to meet an MLA whom he knew." Hazarika remained unavailable for comments. Significantly, these meetings took place hours after 16 dissident Shiv Sena MLAs were sent disqualification notices. The BJP, which once had an alliance with the Shiv Sena, has so far brushed its hands off from the present political turmoil in Maharashtra. Despite sending a party MP and an MLA to receive the Maharashtra legislators at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport in Guwahati on June 22, Chief Minister Sarma claimed that they arrived here as guests on their own. The Assam Police has taken over the security from the private guards of the hotel and is not allowing anyone to enter the premises. The Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat on Saturday issued 'summons' to 16 of the rebel Shiv Sena MLAs, including Shinde, seeking written replies by the evening of June 27 to the complaints seeking their disqualification. After receiving the summons, the Shiv Sena MLAs have been huddling inside the hotel Since Sunday morning, sources said. Also read | Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp "They are discussing various options to respond to the notices. The current political situation is being deliberated in the meeting," another source said. In what seems to be an apparent bid to topple the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra, dissident legislators of Shiv Sena, which heads the ruling coalition, are camping in Guwahati, around 2,700 km away.

Maharashtra politics: Assam BJP ministers meet rebel Shiv Sena MLAs at Guwahati hotel

Maharashrtra, India's richest state is in a political crisis. As the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition tries to control the damage caused by the rebellion, the rebel camp led by Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde appears to be getting stronger. As reported by news agency ANI, another Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande has joined the rebel camp. Shinde has claimed that he now has support from 38 Shiv Sena MLAs.

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut has meanwhile expressed confidence that the MVA government will win floor test in the state assembly. He regarded steps taken by rebel MLAs as wrong and expressed confidence that the MVA government will complete five-year tenure in the office.

He further added that Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar are in constant touch.Raut had earlier urged rebel MLAs to return to Mumbai and discuss their issues with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. He had also claimed that the Shiv Sena is ready to "consider exiting out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) if this is the will of all the MLAs" but with a condition that the rebel MLAs will have to convey the message directly to CM Uddhav Thackeray and discuss the issues with him.

Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirat has claimed that Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP),alliance partners of Shiv Sena, were trying to eliminate Shiv Sena and prior to the rebellion, rebel MLA had tried to warn Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray about it.

Notably, the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has filed a petition before the Deputy Speaker of the state assembly seeking the cancellation of membership of 12 rebel MLAs including Eknath Shinde for "not attending" the legislative party meeting held on Wednesday.

Apart from Shinde, Shiv Sena has sought disqualification of Prakash Surve, Tanaji Sawant, Mahesh Shinde, Abdul Sattar, Sandeep Bhumare, Bharat Gogawale, Sanjay Shirsat, Yamini Yadhav, Anil Babar, Balaji Devdas and Lata Chaudhari.

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Maharashrtra, India's richest state is in a political crisis. As the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition tries to control the damage caused by the rebellion, the rebel camp led by Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde appears to be getting stronger.

Maharashrtra, India's richest state is in a political crisis. As the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition tries to control the damage caused by the rebellion, the rebel camp led by Shiv Sena MLA Eknath Shinde appears to be getting stronger. As reported by news agency ANI, another Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande has joined the rebel camp. Shinde has claimed that he now has support from 38 Shiv Sena MLAs. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut has meanwhile expressed confidence that the MVA government will win floor test in the state assembly. He regarded steps taken by rebel MLAs as wrong and expressed confidence that the MVA government will complete five-year tenure in the office. He further added that Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar are in constant touch.Raut had earlier urged rebel MLAs to return to Mumbai and discuss their issues with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. He had also claimed that the Shiv Sena is ready to "consider exiting out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) if this is the will of all the MLAs" but with a condition that the rebel MLAs will have to convey the message directly to CM Uddhav Thackeray and discuss the issues with him. Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirat has claimed that Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP),alliance partners of Shiv Sena, were trying to eliminate Shiv Sena and prior to the rebellion, rebel MLA had tried to warn Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray about it. Notably, the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has filed a petition before the Deputy Speaker of the state assembly seeking the cancellation of membership of 12 rebel MLAs including Eknath Shinde for "not attending" the legislative party meeting held on Wednesday. Apart from Shinde, Shiv Sena has sought disqualification of Prakash Surve, Tanaji Sawant, Mahesh Shinde, Abdul Sattar, Sandeep Bhumare, Bharat Gogawale, Sanjay Shirsat, Yamini Yadhav, Anil Babar, Balaji Devdas and Lata Chaudhari. 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 ×

Maharashtra crisis: Another MLA joins Eknath Shinde's rebel camp

Chief Minister of Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 22) told rebel MLAs of his party Shiv Sena that he was ready to resign from the post if they wanted but urged them to come forward to discuss. Maharashtra is the richest state in India. The politics of the major state is witnessing a turmoil due to rebellion within the governing coalition orchestrated by Eknath Shinde, an influential leader in Thackeray's own party and cabinet. Thackeray even said that he was ready to step down from the post of Shiv Sena chief. He even promised that MLAs could tell him freely if they wanted him to resign and that he would keep their names secret.

Shinde, along with rebel MLAs, are currently holed up in Guwahati city in Assam, more than 2000 kilometres away from Shiv Sena's political base of Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra.

During his Live online address, broadcast from official government handles as well as party handles, Thackeray said that he was not after any post. He mentioned Eknath Shinde by name once during the speech.&nbsp;

"If you do not want me to be chief minister I will step down," he said, "But why aren't you and why didn't you tell me in person before this?"

Thackeray repeatedly urged rebel MLAs to discuss their grievances with him in person or even by phone.

Thackeray&nbsp;met&nbsp;Sharad Pawar this evening. Sharad Pawar, chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) was instrumental in hammering out the three-way coalition between Shiv Sena- NCP and Congress and is said to have staked in past, his formidable political might to ensure that the Maharashtra government does not fall. However, the present crisis is widely perceived to be a huge political roadblock in the way of the coalition.

Hours after Thackeray's address, Eknath Shinde took to Twitter and posted in Marathi.

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३. पक्ष आणि शिवसैनिक टिकविण्यासाठी अनैसर्गिक आघाडीतून बाहेर पडणे अत्यावश्यक. 
 
४. महाराष्ट्रहितासाठी आता निर्णय घेणे गरजेचे.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HindutvaForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HindutvaForever</a>
— Eknath Shinde - एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) <a href="https://twitter.com/mieknathshinde/status/1539619637520105473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Here is the translation of his tweets

'1. For last two and a half years, the MVA coalition government benefitted only the parties. Common Shiv Sainik was crushed

2. Shiv Sena and Shiv Sainiks&nbsp;were&nbsp;made to suffer systematically while other parties flourished.

3. The unnatural alliance must be abandoned if the party is to sustain.

4. There is a need to act for the betterment of Maharashtra'.

Uddhav Thackeray left his official chief ministerial residence 'Varsha' late on Wednesday. During his online address, he had given hints of such a move but had also suggested that it would be symbolic and would not mean that he had resigned. He and his family left for their private residence.

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Chief Minister of Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 22) told rebel MLAs of his party Shiv Sena that he was ready to resign from the post if they wanted but urged them to come forward to discuss.

Chief Minister of Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 22) told rebel MLAs of his party Shiv Sena that he was ready to resign from the post if they wanted but urged them to come forward to discuss. Maharashtra is the richest state in India. The politics of the major state is witnessing a turmoil due to rebellion within the governing coalition orchestrated by Eknath Shinde, an influential leader in Thackeray's own party and cabinet. Thackeray even said that he was ready to step down from the post of Shiv Sena chief. He even promised that MLAs could tell him freely if they wanted him to resign and that he would keep their names secret. Shinde, along with rebel MLAs, are currently holed up in Guwahati city in Assam, more than 2000 kilometres away from Shiv Sena's political base of Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra. During his Live online address, broadcast from official government handles as well as party handles, Thackeray said that he was not after any post. He mentioned Eknath Shinde by name once during the speech. "If you do not want me to be chief minister I will step down," he said, "But why aren't you and why didn't you tell me in person before this?" Thackeray repeatedly urged rebel MLAs to discuss their grievances with him in person or even by phone. Thackeray met Sharad Pawar this evening. Sharad Pawar, chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) was instrumental in hammering out the three-way coalition between Shiv Sena- NCP and Congress and is said to have staked in past, his formidable political might to ensure that the Maharashtra government does not fall. However, the present crisis is widely perceived to be a huge political roadblock in the way of the coalition. Hours after Thackeray's address, Eknath Shinde took to Twitter and posted in Marathi. ३. पक्ष आणि शिवसैनिक टिकविण्यासाठी अनैसर्गिक आघाडीतून बाहेर पडणे अत्यावश्यक. ४. महाराष्ट्रहितासाठी आता निर्णय घेणे गरजेचे.#HindutvaForever — Eknath Shinde - एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) June 22, 2022 × Here is the translation of his tweets '1. For last two and a half years, the MVA coalition government benefitted only the parties. Common Shiv Sainik was crushed 2. Shiv Sena and Shiv Sainiks were made to suffer systematically while other parties flourished. 3. The unnatural alliance must be abandoned if the party is to sustain. 4. There is a need to act for the betterment of Maharashtra'. Uddhav Thackeray left his official chief ministerial residence 'Varsha' late on Wednesday. During his online address, he had given hints of such a move but had also suggested that it would be symbolic and would not mean that he had resigned. He and his family left for their private residence. 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: Ready to resign, but let's discuss, Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray tells rebels

Maharashtra is in a political crisis. The richest state in India with country's financial capital Mumbai as its capital is witnessing a major tug-of-war that may even result in Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's government collapsing. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), as the three-way coalition is called, has been jolted by a coup masterminded by Shiv Sena strongman Eknath Shinde.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Crisis: What do the numbers say?

The MVA coalition came to power after 2019 state elections. This was the seat tally when election results were declared

BJP: 105 seats 
Shiv Sena: 56 seats 
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP): 54 seats 
Congress: 44 seats

Though the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the single largest party in the legislative assembly it could not form a government as Shiv Sena, NCP and the Congress came together to form MVA alliance and the government.

Eknath Shinde, a Shiv Sena MLA and CM Uddhav Thackeray's party colleague was inducted in the state cabinet. Shinde has now masterminded the coup within Shiv Sena and is holed up in Guawahati, a city 2000 kilometres away from Shiv Sena's power base in Maharashtra.

On June 23, Shinde did a show of strength in Guwahati with 42 rebel MLAs in Guwahati. With this number,&nbsp;it appeared that Shinde had made a serious dent into Shiv Sena's tally in the Maharashtra assembly.

Current situation in Maharashtra

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has not resigned yet. He made an online address on June 22 and urged rebel MLAs to come forward for discussion. He said that he was ready to leave his post if party wants. In a symbolic gesture, Thackeray left his official chief ministerial residence late on June 22.

Have the rebels won? Is it final?

As of Thursday evening (June 22), no. But the rebel camp appears strong. The number of MLAs joining the rebellion is steadily increasing. Meanwhile, two&nbsp;rebel MLAs have&nbsp;come back to Mumbai from Guwahati and declared&nbsp;support for Uddhav Thackeray.

Political manoeuvers are ongoing. Uddhav Thackeray met NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday. Pawar is an influential politician who hammered out the three-way alliance that formed MVA government against great odds

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Maharashtra is in a political crisis. The richest state in India with country's financial capital Mumbai as its capital is witnessing a major tug-of-war that may even result in Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's government collapsing.

Maharashtra is in a political crisis. The richest state in India with country's financial capital Mumbai as its capital is witnessing a major tug-of-war that may even result in Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's government collapsing. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), as the three-way coalition is called, has been jolted by a coup masterminded by Shiv Sena strongman Eknath Shinde. Maharashtra Crisis: What do the numbers say? The MVA coalition came to power after 2019 state elections. This was the seat tally when election results were declared BJP: 105 seats Shiv Sena: 56 seats Nationalist Congress Party (NCP): 54 seats Congress: 44 seats Though the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the single largest party in the legislative assembly it could not form a government as Shiv Sena, NCP and the Congress came together to form MVA alliance and the government. Eknath Shinde, a Shiv Sena MLA and CM Uddhav Thackeray's party colleague was inducted in the state cabinet. Shinde has now masterminded the coup within Shiv Sena and is holed up in Guawahati, a city 2000 kilometres away from Shiv Sena's power base in Maharashtra. On June 23, Shinde did a show of strength in Guwahati with 42 rebel MLAs in Guwahati. With this number, it appeared that Shinde had made a serious dent into Shiv Sena's tally in the Maharashtra assembly. Current situation in Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has not resigned yet. He made an online address on June 22 and urged rebel MLAs to come forward for discussion. He said that he was ready to leave his post if party wants. In a symbolic gesture, Thackeray left his official chief ministerial residence late on June 22. Have the rebels won? Is it final? As of Thursday evening (June 22), no. But the rebel camp appears strong. The number of MLAs joining the rebellion is steadily increasing. Meanwhile, two rebel MLAs have come back to Mumbai from Guwahati and declared support for Uddhav Thackeray. Political manoeuvers are ongoing. Uddhav Thackeray met NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday. Pawar is an influential politician who hammered out the three-way alliance that formed MVA government against great odds 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 ×

What is happening in Maharashtra, India's richest state that's in political crisis?

Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena leader and Chief Minister of Maharashtra, tested positive for Covid-19 on Wednesday, adding to the political turmoil facing the Maha Vikas Agadhi (MVA) government. This occurred shortly after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, who tested positive for the virus, was admitted to the HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in south Mumbai.

Kamal Nath, the observer for the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in the state, told reporters that he was unable to meet with Thackeray because the CM had tested positive for the infection. He added that of the 44 Congress MLAs currently serving in the House, 41 had already attended the party meeting and three more were on their way. Next, he claimed, Sharad Pawar, the head of the NCP, would meet with Nath. 
&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: "Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray has tested positive for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>," says Congress Observer for the state, Kamal Nath. <a href="https://t.co/wl22yJkXXt">pic.twitter.com/wl22yJkXXt</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1539509071534903296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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With Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and at least 40 MLAs, as he claims, camping in Guwahati after being moved from a resort in Surat early on Wednesday morning, the existence of the MVA alliance-led government in Maharashtra is in jeopardy.

Only 18 of the Sena party's 55 MLAs attended a meeting Thackeray threw for them on Tuesday afternoon at his official residence, Varsha. 
&nbsp;

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Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena leader and Chief Minister of Maharashtra, tested positive for Covid-19 on Wednesday, adding to the political turmoil facing the Maha Vikas Agadhi (MVA) government.

Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena leader and Chief Minister of Maharashtra, tested positive for Covid-19 on Wednesday, adding to the political turmoil facing the Maha Vikas Agadhi (MVA) government. This occurred shortly after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, who tested positive for the virus, was admitted to the HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in south Mumbai. Kamal Nath, the observer for the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in the state, told reporters that he was unable to meet with Thackeray because the CM had tested positive for the infection. He added that of the 44 Congress MLAs currently serving in the House, 41 had already attended the party meeting and three more were on their way. Next, he claimed, Sharad Pawar, the head of the NCP, would meet with Nath. #WATCH | Mumbai: "Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray has tested positive for #COVID19," says Congress Observer for the state, Kamal Nath. pic.twitter.com/wl22yJkXXt — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2022 × With Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and at least 40 MLAs, as he claims, camping in Guwahati after being moved from a resort in Surat early on Wednesday morning, the existence of the MVA alliance-led government in Maharashtra is in jeopardy. Only 18 of the Sena party's 55 MLAs attended a meeting Thackeray threw for them on Tuesday afternoon at his official residence, Varsha. 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.

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray tests Covid positive amid political crisis in state

Government in western Indian state of Maharashtra was widely considered to be in trouble after one of the key ministers in the coalition reportedly went incommunicado. Eknath Shinde, the minister, reportedly had taken at least 11 MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) with him. This sparked wide speculation that the state government, led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, was in danger of falling.

As Shinde is yet to spell out his stand, Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil ruled out any link of his party to the ongoing political developments but also said the BJP would "definitely consider" a proposal if it comes from Shinde to form a government.

The current Maharashtra government is a three-way coalition between Shiv Sena, the Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which rules central government in India forms the Opposition in Maharashtra.

In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, Shiv Sena has 55 MLAS, NCP (53), Congress (44), Bahujan Vikas Agahdi (three), Samajwadi Party, AIMIM and Prahar Janshakti Party two each. MNS, CPI-M, PWP, Swabhimani Paksha, Rashtriya Samaj Party, Jansurajya Shakti Party and Krantikari Shetkari Paksha have one MLA each. There are 13 independent MLAs.

Sharad Pawar, former union minister and influential figure in forming the ruling coalition said that this was an attempt to pull down state government.&nbsp;

He also said that Uddhav Thackeray will handle the situation which is an internal matter of the Sena.

As Sena struggled to quell the unrest, party MP Sanjay Raut claimed that contact has been established with Shinde, who he described as a "loyal Shiv Sainik of Balasaheb Thackeray".

The sudden disappearance of Shinde and some party MLAs prompted Chief minister Uddhav Thackeray to call an urgent meeting with party legislators and leaders at 'Varsha', his official residence, in Mumbai.

Government in western Indian state of Maharashtra was widely considered to be in trouble after one of the key ministers in the coalition reportedly went incommunicado.

Government in western Indian state of Maharashtra was widely considered to be in trouble after one of the key ministers in the coalition reportedly went incommunicado. Eknath Shinde, the minister, reportedly had taken at least 11 MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) with him. This sparked wide speculation that the state government, led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, was in danger of falling. As Shinde is yet to spell out his stand, Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil ruled out any link of his party to the ongoing political developments but also said the BJP would "definitely consider" a proposal if it comes from Shinde to form a government. The current Maharashtra government is a three-way coalition between Shiv Sena, the Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which rules central government in India forms the Opposition in Maharashtra. In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, Shiv Sena has 55 MLAS, NCP (53), Congress (44), Bahujan Vikas Agahdi (three), Samajwadi Party, AIMIM and Prahar Janshakti Party two each. MNS, CPI-M, PWP, Swabhimani Paksha, Rashtriya Samaj Party, Jansurajya Shakti Party and Krantikari Shetkari Paksha have one MLA each. There are 13 independent MLAs. Sharad Pawar, former union minister and influential figure in forming the ruling coalition said that this was an attempt to pull down state government. He also said that Uddhav Thackeray will handle the situation which is an internal matter of the Sena. As Sena struggled to quell the unrest, party MP Sanjay Raut claimed that contact has been established with Shinde, who he described as a "loyal Shiv Sainik of Balasaheb Thackeray". The sudden disappearance of Shinde and some party MLAs prompted Chief minister Uddhav Thackeray to call an urgent meeting with party legislators and leaders at 'Varsha', his official residence, in Mumbai.

India: Maharashtra government seen to be in danger as key leader 'not reachable'

The southwest monsoon arrived in Maharashtra on Saturday, two days later than its usual date of arrival, covering central parts of the state and the Konkan region, an official of the India Metrological Department (IMD) here said.

Monsoon normally arrives in Konkan by June 9.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-predicts-no-major-relief-from-heatwave-till-june-15-in-north-warns-east-of-heavy-rainfall-486629">IMD predicts no major relief from heatwave till June 15 in North, warns East of heavy rainfall</a>

"The southwest monsoon has arrived in parts of Konkan and central Maharashtra", the official said.

"It will bring some showers in the state with downpour in some areas of Konkan. The regions where heavy showers are likely to be witnessed have been alerted as well", she&nbsp;further added.

Watch |&nbsp;Record-breaking heat waves in India, temperature reaches 49°C in Delhi

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"The conditions are favourable for the advancement of monsoon over Maharashtra for the next 48 hours", she said.

"If the conditions remain favourable, the monsoon system will progress further", she added.&nbsp;

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The southwest monsoon arrived in Maharashtra on Saturday, two days later than its usual date of arrival, covering central parts of the state and the Konkan region, an official of the India Metrological Department (IMD) here said.

The southwest monsoon arrived in Maharashtra on Saturday, two days later than its usual date of arrival, covering central parts of the state and the Konkan region, an official of the India Metrological Department (IMD) here said. Monsoon normally arrives in Konkan by June 9. Also read | IMD predicts no major relief from heatwave till June 15 in North, warns East of heavy rainfall "The southwest monsoon has arrived in parts of Konkan and central Maharashtra", the official said. "It will bring some showers in the state with downpour in some areas of Konkan. The regions where heavy showers are likely to be witnessed have been alerted as well", she further added. Watch | Record-breaking heat waves in India, temperature reaches 49°C in Delhi "The conditions are favourable for the advancement of monsoon over Maharashtra for the next 48 hours", she said. "If the conditions remain favourable, the monsoon system will progress further", she added. 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.

Southwest monsoon arrives in Maha after two-day delay

The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements,&nbsp;Indian media reports said citing local administration.

In a bid to increase work productivity and to avoid daily wage loss, they are getting hysterectomies which have long lasting adverse effects on their health and can lead to hormonal imbalance, calcium deficiency and constant body ache, among other things.

Women living in this district are mostly cane cutters who migrate to the sugar belt of western Maharashtra during the cane cutting season.

Since the husband and wife counted as one unit in the rigourous process of cane cutting, if either of the two takes a break for a day, the couple has to pay a fine of 500 Rupees (US$6.99) per day to the contractor for every break.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-accuses-us-of-performing-surgeries-on-women-without-consent-334497">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico accuses US of performing surgeries on women without consent</a>

Due to poverty, women get married early in the Beed district and remove their uterus after having two or three children.&nbsp;

Hysterectomy ensures that menstrual periods do not hinder work therefore 50 per cent of the women in the district have already undergone this procedure.

Given the skewed sex ratio, rampant sex determination, female foeticide, malnutrition and tradition of giving a disturbing name to girls, the state Women and Child Development Department has gone into mission mode to save girls in Beed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-uk-built-surgical-robot-has-completed-1000-surgeries-successfully-346898">Also read |&nbsp;This UK-built surgical robot has completed 1,000 surgeries successfully</a>

The department has developed and is implementing a people-centric awareness programme with the help of local civil society organisations.

Creating quality engagement with the community, and especially the women and girls, is the core driving factor in all these measures.

The district occupies an area of 10,693 km&nbsp;and has a population of 2,585,962 of which 17.91 per cent were urban.

Beed has been notorious for its discrimination against the girl child. From 2001 to 2011, child sex ratio (calculated as the number of girl per 1000 boys in the 0-6 year age group) dropped from 894 to 807.

Families that make ends meet solely by working as agricultural labour have an obvious preference for sons.

"We found that due to early marriage and repetitive child berths women in the area face several health issues including infections etc. and instead of getting the right treatment for such health issues, the women tend to go for hysterectomy to end the health issues once and for all,” said Dr. Neelam Gorhe, deputy speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements, Indian media reports said citing local administration.

The women living in the Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed due to poverty and rudimentary living arrangements, Indian media reports said citing local administration. In a bid to increase work productivity and to avoid daily wage loss, they are getting hysterectomies which have long lasting adverse effects on their health and can lead to hormonal imbalance, calcium deficiency and constant body ache, among other things. Women living in this district are mostly cane cutters who migrate to the sugar belt of western Maharashtra during the cane cutting season. Since the husband and wife counted as one unit in the rigourous process of cane cutting, if either of the two takes a break for a day, the couple has to pay a fine of 500 Rupees (US$6.99) per day to the contractor for every break. Also read | Mexico accuses US of performing surgeries on women without consent Due to poverty, women get married early in the Beed district and remove their uterus after having two or three children. Hysterectomy ensures that menstrual periods do not hinder work therefore 50 per cent of the women in the district have already undergone this procedure. Given the skewed sex ratio, rampant sex determination, female foeticide, malnutrition and tradition of giving a disturbing name to girls, the state Women and Child Development Department has gone into mission mode to save girls in Beed. Also read | This UK-built surgical robot has completed 1,000 surgeries successfully The department has developed and is implementing a people-centric awareness programme with the help of local civil society organisations. Creating quality engagement with the community, and especially the women and girls, is the core driving factor in all these measures. The district occupies an area of 10,693 km and has a population of 2,585,962 of which 17.91 per cent were urban. Beed has been notorious for its discrimination against the girl child. From 2001 to 2011, child sex ratio (calculated as the number of girl per 1000 boys in the 0-6 year age group) dropped from 894 to 807. Families that make ends meet solely by working as agricultural labour have an obvious preference for sons. "We found that due to early marriage and repetitive child berths women in the area face several health issues including infections etc. and instead of getting the right treatment for such health issues, the women tend to go for hysterectomy to end the health issues once and for all,” said Dr. Neelam Gorhe, deputy speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Women in Beed district of Maharashtra are getting their wombs removed

More than two years on all pandemic-related restrictions including the mandatory wearing of mass will be lifted in the Indian state of Maharashtra. All curbs will be lifted in the state from April 2, the decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by CM Uddhav Thackeray.

Indian state of Maharashtra lifts all covid-19 curbs

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains keen on hosting the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in India this year. The Indian cricket board has been making all the efforts to stage the league in the country and is continuously assessing the COVID-19 situation in India. With the number of cases going down across many states, the BCCI is optimistic about conducting the full season in India this year.

IPL had to be moved to the UAE completely in the year 2020 owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Last year, the tournament kick-started in India and the first phase of matches were played in the country before a COVID-19 outbreak across the camps of several teams forced BCCI to postpone the season and conduct the second phase of the league in the UAE once again.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19, BCCI has reportedly decided to host the entire league stage of IPL 2022 in Maharashtra. As per a report in the Times of India, BCCI is keen on conducting the league stage matches across four venues in the state, followed by the playoffs in Gujarat. The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune are likely to be the four venues to host the IPL 2022 league stage.

The playoff matches will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. There are going to be a total of 70 matches in the IPL 2022 league stage after the introduction of two new teams - Lucknow Super Giant and the Ahmedabad franchise this year.

"As of now, the Board is mulling organising the league stage in Maharashtra, and the playoffs in Ahmedabad," a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mikyo-dorji-first-player-from-bhutan-to-register-for-ipl-auction-reveals-ms-dhonis-message-for-him-watch-448714">Mikyo Dorji, first player from Bhutan to register for IPL auction, reveals Dhoni's message for him - WATCH</a>

The BCCI is also planning to allow 25 per cent crowd at the venues for the matches in IPL 2022. A final call on whether or not to allow&nbsp;fans to attend matches will be taken at a later stage considering the COVID-19 situation in the country. The state government authorities are also keen on having crowds at the stadiums for this year's IPL.

"If the number of positive cases aren’t high around that time, the state government authorities are likely to allow around 25% capacity crowds for this year’s IPL,” a Maharashtra government politician said.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru on&nbsp;February 12 and 13 where hundreds of top players from across the globe will go under the hammer. IPL 2022 is likely to get underway from the final week of March or the first week of April.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains keen on hosting the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in India this year. The Indian cricket board has been making all the efforts to stage the league in the country and is continuously assessing the COVID-19 situation in India.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains keen on hosting the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in India this year. The Indian cricket board has been making all the efforts to stage the league in the country and is continuously assessing the COVID-19 situation in India. With the number of cases going down across many states, the BCCI is optimistic about conducting the full season in India this year. IPL had to be moved to the UAE completely in the year 2020 owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Last year, the tournament kick-started in India and the first phase of matches were played in the country before a COVID-19 outbreak across the camps of several teams forced BCCI to postpone the season and conduct the second phase of the league in the UAE once again. To reduce the risk of COVID-19, BCCI has reportedly decided to host the entire league stage of IPL 2022 in Maharashtra. As per a report in the Times of India, BCCI is keen on conducting the league stage matches across four venues in the state, followed by the playoffs in Gujarat. The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune are likely to be the four venues to host the IPL 2022 league stage. The playoff matches will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. There are going to be a total of 70 matches in the IPL 2022 league stage after the introduction of two new teams - Lucknow Super Giant and the Ahmedabad franchise this year. "As of now, the Board is mulling organising the league stage in Maharashtra, and the playoffs in Ahmedabad," a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Also Read: Mikyo Dorji, first player from Bhutan to register for IPL auction, reveals Dhoni's message for him - WATCH The BCCI is also planning to allow 25 per cent crowd at the venues for the matches in IPL 2022. A final call on whether or not to allow fans to attend matches will be taken at a later stage considering the COVID-19 situation in the country. The state government authorities are also keen on having crowds at the stadiums for this year's IPL. "If the number of positive cases aren’t high around that time, the state government authorities are likely to allow around 25% capacity crowds for this year’s IPL,” a Maharashtra government politician said. The IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where hundreds of top players from across the globe will go under the hammer. IPL 2022 is likely to get underway from the final week of March or the first week of April.

BCCI set to host IPL 2022 in Maharashtra and Gujarat; 25 percent crowd likely - Report

Passengers arriving from the UAE have been exempted from the mandatory seven-day home quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state.

Travellers will also no longer need to take a PCR test on arrival.&nbsp;

These directions will be enforced with effect from midnight January 17, 2022, Mumbai city’s civic agency, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, said in a statement.

To contain the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in the city, special SOPs for monitoring of international travellers arriving from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai in Mumbai were issued under circular No. MGC/F/5819 Dated 29.12.2021,” reads the issued on Sunday.

“As per these SOPs, 7-day home quarantine and on arrival RT-PCR test was made mandatory for such passengers. These directives are now revised as below: 1). No special SOPs henceforth will be applicable for passengers coming from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai 2). Guidelines applicable to international travellers arriving from ‘Countries other than Countries at-risk’ will be made applicable to travellers arriving from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-covid-19-peaking-in-india-nation-logs-271202-new-cases-positivity-rate-at-1628-445138" hreflang="en">Is COVID-19 peaking in India? Nation logs 2,71,202 new cases today</a>

On Sunday, Maharashtra recorded 41,327 fresh coronavirus positive cases, 1,135 less than the day before, and 29 deaths, the state health department said.

The overall caseload in the state now stands at 72,11,810 and the death toll at 1,41,808.

On Saturday, the state had recorded 42,462 new cases and 23 fatalities.

Also, eight new Omicron cases came to light in the state during the day, raising the tally of such infections to 1,738.

A total of 932 Omicron patients have fully recovered so far in Maharashtra. Coronavirus case fatality rate in the state is 1.96 per cent while the recovery rate is 94.3 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Passengers arriving from the UAE have been exempted from the mandatory seven-day home quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state. Travellers will also no longer need to take a PCR test on arrival.

Passengers arriving from the UAE have been exempted from the mandatory seven-day home quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state. Travellers will also no longer need to take a PCR test on arrival. These directions will be enforced with effect from midnight January 17, 2022, Mumbai city’s civic agency, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, said in a statement. To contain the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in the city, special SOPs for monitoring of international travellers arriving from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai in Mumbai were issued under circular No. MGC/F/5819 Dated 29.12.2021,” reads the issued on Sunday. “As per these SOPs, 7-day home quarantine and on arrival RT-PCR test was made mandatory for such passengers. These directives are now revised as below: 1). No special SOPs henceforth will be applicable for passengers coming from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai 2). Guidelines applicable to international travellers arriving from ‘Countries other than Countries at-risk’ will be made applicable to travellers arriving from United Arab Emirates (UAE) including Dubai," it said. Also read | Is COVID-19 peaking in India? Nation logs 2,71,202 new cases today On Sunday, Maharashtra recorded 41,327 fresh coronavirus positive cases, 1,135 less than the day before, and 29 deaths, the state health department said. The overall caseload in the state now stands at 72,11,810 and the death toll at 1,41,808. On Saturday, the state had recorded 42,462 new cases and 23 fatalities. Also, eight new Omicron cases came to light in the state during the day, raising the tally of such infections to 1,738. A total of 932 Omicron patients have fully recovered so far in Maharashtra. Coronavirus case fatality rate in the state is 1.96 per cent while the recovery rate is 94.3 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE passengers exempted from 7-day quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state

India reported nearly 180,000 cases, as the country begins administering precautionary doses to priority groups. Fresh Covid 19 cases rose by 13% from yesterday.

India: Maharashtra has the highest Omicron cases followed by Delhi

India's second most populated state Maharashtra has introduced new restrictions as cases continue to surge in the region. The state has announced a night curfew from 11pm to 5am, starting from January 10.

India's second most populated state Maharashtra has introduced new restrictions as cases continue to surge in the region. The state has announced a night curfew from 11pm to 5am, starting from January 10. In addition to that, the government has also shut schools and colleges till February 15. Swimming pools, gyms, spas, beauty salons, zoos, museums, and entertainment parks will remain closed. Haircutting salons and malls will operate only at 50 per cent capacity. The restrictions were announced after the state recorded 41,434 fresh Covid cases. Omicron cases in the state have now crossed the 1,000 mark with 133 new cases of Omicron being recorded today. Also read | Covaxin booster offers long-term protection against severe Covid infection: Bharat Biotech As per the new restrictions which have been imposed, there will be no movement in groups of 5 or more from 5am to 11pm. Also, maximum 50 people will be allowed at wedding events, and 20 at funerals. Not just Maharashtra but several other Indian states have also imposed restrictions as cases continue to increase drastically. Indian Capital has imposed a weekend curfew in the region. Also, the southern state Karnataka decided to impose weekend curfew and extend the night curfew for two weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian state Maharashtra imposes new restrictions; night curfew from Jan 10

A shocking and little disturbing "monkeys vs dogs" story has gone viral on social media as it has been reported that monkeys allegedly killed more than 250 puppies in Beed, a district in Indian state Maharashtra.

A shocking and little disturbing "monkeys vs dogs" story has gone viral on social media as it has been reported that monkeys allegedly killed more than 250 puppies in Beed, a district in Indian state Maharashtra. Media reports have mentioned that the incident happened in Beed's Majalgaon after some dogs mauled an infant monkey to death in a village called Lavool, which is around 10 kilometres away from Majalgaon. ALSO READ | Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave Viral Version As per the media reports, a group of monkeys killed around 250 puppies in an act of revenge. Media reports stated that the incident happened after some stray dogs were said to have mauled an infant monkey to death. Reports added that the monkeys are taking revenge by killing small pups by throwing them from heights, such as trees or buildings. Monkeys have reportedly started attacking small kids in the area. ALSO READ | Rare sighting: Barn owl shows up in Indian state, gets rescued Fact Check There's no confirmation that the dogs have actually attacked or killed any infant of monkey. The reports are based on hearsay rather than evidence. Although, the ground report has confirmed that monkeys have been taking the pups to the rooftops of building in the area, but no one can confirm that they threw the puppies from heights. It has been understood that monkeys left the pups on rooftops alone and they might have died of hunger. Locals have said that they are terrorised by the monkeys and they do not go on the rooftops often. The can be a possible reason why the puppies were left unnoticed and died. Some incidents have happened of monkeys taking the puppies on the trees, from where the canines might have fallen and died. The reports have mentioned that the locals have contacted forest department officials to get rid of monkeys by catching them. However, the authorities have failed to do so.

Fact Check: Did monkeys really kill puppies in revenge after dogs mauled one of their infants?

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The&nbsp;Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander&nbsp;registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh.

In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred.

With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament.

Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-we-cancel-sa-tour-aakash-chopra-reacts-after-rohit-sharmas-injury-adds-to-team-indias-woes-436825">Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes</a>

Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-is-not-18-19-dilip-vengsarkar-bats-for-csk-stars-selection-in-odi-squad-for-sa-tour-436623">'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour</a>

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India.

"He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh. In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred. With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament. Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year. ALSO READ | Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India). ALSO READ | 'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India. "He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Team India calling? Ruturaj Gaikwad banging national selectors' doors with 4th ton in Vijay Hazare Trophy

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend.

The incident took place in Ladgaon village in rural area of the district around 12:30 pm on Sunday. Police suspect that mother and son even took a selfie with the severed head.

The accused, Shobhabai Mote and her 18-year-old son were unhappy about Kirti's (19) decision of marrying her friend Avinash (21). Kirti stayed with Avinash in latter's house in Ladgaon. She was two-months pregnant.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Mote along with her son went to Kirti's house on a bike. Kirti, who was working in field, was delighted to see them and ushered them inside.

Once in the house, Kirti's brother attacked her from behind while their mother held her feet. Media reports quoting police officials have said that there is a suspicion that mother-son duo took selfie with Kirti's severed head. The phone has been sent for forensic analysis to retrieve the images.

At the time of Kirti's murder, her husband Avinash was resting in the house not anticipating such a situation.

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend.

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend. The incident took place in Ladgaon village in rural area of the district around 12:30 pm on Sunday. Police suspect that mother and son even took a selfie with the severed head. The accused, Shobhabai Mote and her 18-year-old son were unhappy about Kirti's (19) decision of marrying her friend Avinash (21). Kirti stayed with Avinash in latter's house in Ladgaon. She was two-months pregnant. On Sunday, Mote along with her son went to Kirti's house on a bike. Kirti, who was working in field, was delighted to see them and ushered them inside. Once in the house, Kirti's brother attacked her from behind while their mother held her feet. Media reports quoting police officials have said that there is a suspicion that mother-son duo took selfie with Kirti's severed head. The phone has been sent for forensic analysis to retrieve the images. At the time of Kirti's murder, her husband Avinash was resting in the house not anticipating such a situation.

India: Teenager kills pregnant sister with sickle, mother helps

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing. This happened amid concerns over Omicron, the new variant of SARS-CoV2.

Of those who have come from South Africa and other countries, three have been discovered in Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivali, Mira-Bhayandar, and Pune, while a fourth was found in Mira-Bhayandar. Two other passengers from Nigeria were located in Pimpri-Chinchwad, a corporation located near Pune.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-experts-studying-scientific-reports-on-need-for-covid-booster-dose-says-govt-433030" hreflang="en">Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt</a>

"Currently, there are six passengers who arrived from South Africa or other high-risk countries in the state who have tested positive. The samples of all of them have been sent for genetic sequencing and their contact tracing exercise is underway. All these passengers, although tested COVID-19 positive, are either asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic," the health department said.

As of November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) dubbed the coronavirus detected in South Africa and some other countries as Omicron.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-threat-covaxin-maker-bharat-biotech-studying-if-vaccine-works-against-variant-433020" hreflang="en">Omicron threat: Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech studying if vaccine works against variant</a>

'Variant of Concern' classification has also been given to the Omicron variant, according to experts, it is possible that the virus takes on some distinctive characteristics due to its genetic modification.

Although this new variant appears to have increased the transmissibility of infection, it is still unclear whether or not it will cause severe disease and whether it will evade immunity. Additional information should become available in the next few weeks.

Maharashtra has imposed a seven-day quarantine on travellers from 'at-risk' countries arriving in the state due to concerns over the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

Watch |&nbsp;India issues travel advisory for international passengers over Omicron variant

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-issues-travel-advisory-for-international-passengers-over-omicron-variant-432825/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday night issued the guidelines, an official said. 
The list of at-risk countries is announced by the Union government.

The countries listed as 'at-risk' are the European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel.

An RT-PCR test will also be administered to passengers from these countries on the second, fourth, and seventh days following their arrival, according to new guidelines from the authority.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-covishield-work-against-omicron-it-will-be-clear-in-2-3-weeks-says-serum-institutes-poonawalla-433016" hreflang="en">Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla</a>

Furthermore, those passengers who do not test positive will also be home-quarantined for seven days before they can be tested again.

"If they are found positive this time around, their samples too will be sent for genomic sequencing," the health bulletin said.

In accordance with the Centre's guidelines, RT-PCR tests will be performed on five per cent of passengers arriving from countries that are not listed, and any positive samples found will be sent for genomic sequencing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing.

Maharashtra's state health department reported on Tuesday that six passengers arriving from South Africa and other high-risk countries tested positive for Coronavirus and their samples are being sent for genome sequencing. This happened amid concerns over Omicron, the new variant of SARS-CoV2. Of those who have come from South Africa and other countries, three have been discovered in Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivali, Mira-Bhayandar, and Pune, while a fourth was found in Mira-Bhayandar. Two other passengers from Nigeria were located in Pimpri-Chinchwad, a corporation located near Pune. Also read | Indian experts studying scientific reports on need for Covid booster dose, says govt "Currently, there are six passengers who arrived from South Africa or other high-risk countries in the state who have tested positive. The samples of all of them have been sent for genetic sequencing and their contact tracing exercise is underway. All these passengers, although tested COVID-19 positive, are either asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic," the health department said. As of November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) dubbed the coronavirus detected in South Africa and some other countries as Omicron. Also read | Omicron threat: Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech studying if vaccine works against variant 'Variant of Concern' classification has also been given to the Omicron variant, according to experts, it is possible that the virus takes on some distinctive characteristics due to its genetic modification. Although this new variant appears to have increased the transmissibility of infection, it is still unclear whether or not it will cause severe disease and whether it will evade immunity. Additional information should become available in the next few weeks. Maharashtra has imposed a seven-day quarantine on travellers from 'at-risk' countries arriving in the state due to concerns over the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Watch | India issues travel advisory for international passengers over Omicron variant The State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday night issued the guidelines, an official said. The list of at-risk countries is announced by the Union government. The countries listed as 'at-risk' are the European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Israel. An RT-PCR test will also be administered to passengers from these countries on the second, fourth, and seventh days following their arrival, according to new guidelines from the authority. Also read | Will Covishield work against Omicron? It will be clear in 2-3 weeks, says Serum Institute’s Poonawalla Furthermore, those passengers who do not test positive will also be home-quarantined for seven days before they can be tested again. "If they are found positive this time around, their samples too will be sent for genomic sequencing," the health bulletin said. In accordance with the Centre's guidelines, RT-PCR tests will be performed on five per cent of passengers arriving from countries that are not listed, and any positive samples found will be sent for genomic sequencing. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's Omicron scare: 6 passengers test coronavirus positive, Indian state releases new guidelines

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday.

It is not confirmed whether the patient was carrying the Omicron variant of coronavirus, which was identified as the variant of concern by the WHO, the official said.

The man had travelled from Cape Town to Dombivali on November 24.

"He underwent a COVID-19 test which returned positive," the official added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-spreads-rapidly-india-revises-guidelines-for-international-travellers-432700">Also read |&nbsp;As new variant spreads rapidly, India revises guidelines for international travellers</a>

The man didn't come in contact with anyone after returning from South Africa, Dr Pratiba Panpatil, Medical Officer, KDMC, told reporters.

The patient is currently admitted at the Art Gallery isolation centre of the KDMC, the official said.

"The KDMC health department is on alert. We are prepared to deal with the new variant," Dr Panpail added.

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday.

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday. It is not confirmed whether the patient was carrying the Omicron variant of coronavirus, which was identified as the variant of concern by the WHO, the official said. The man had travelled from Cape Town to Dombivali on November 24. "He underwent a COVID-19 test which returned positive," the official added. Also read | As new variant spreads rapidly, India revises guidelines for international travellers The man didn't come in contact with anyone after returning from South Africa, Dr Pratiba Panpatil, Medical Officer, KDMC, told reporters. The patient is currently admitted at the Art Gallery isolation centre of the KDMC, the official said. "The KDMC health department is on alert. We are prepared to deal with the new variant," Dr Panpail added.

Indian man returning from South Africa tests positive in Maharashtra; strain not confirmed

As many as 26 bodies of Naxals of CPI (Maoist) have been recovered from the forest area of Gadchiroli in Maharashtra following an encounter of C-60 elite force of Maharashtra police with Naxals on Sunday.

26 bodies of Naxals recovered from Gadchiroli

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