Voting is underway across Maharashtra in elections to 29 civic bodies, marking a key test for political parties at the local level.


Maharashtra civic polls: Battle for India's richest corporation underway in Mumbai 

Voting is underway across Maharashtra in elections to 29 civic bodies, marking a key test for political parties at the local level.

Maharashtra Civic Polls: Voting Held in 29 Bodies, Votes to Be Counted Jan 16

Maharashtra tops NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index 2024, followed by Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Check the top export-ready states and what drives their performance.

NITI Aayog Export Preparedness Index: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat lead India

India: Maharashtra Voting Underway In 29 Civic Bodies 

Voting in 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra began on Thursday (January 15, 2026) morning with spotlight on Mumbai, where the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is locked in an intense battle with the reunited Thackeray cousins for control of India’s largest and richest civic body.

Maharashtra: Voting Underway in 29 Civic Bodies | Mumbai Police Tighten Security Ahead of BMC Polls 

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has ignited a new row while campaigning for Maharashtra civic elections by stating that he dreams of the day when a hijab-clad woman will become the prime minister of India. Addressing a rally in Solapur, the AIMIM president said, “The constitution of Pakistan clearly states that a person belonging to only one religion can become the prime minister of the country. Baba Sahib’s (BR Ambedkar’s) constitution says that any citizen of India can become prime minister, chief minister, or mayor. It is my dream that a day will come when a hijab-clad daughter will become the prime minister of this country.”&nbsp;Targeting rivals, Owaisi added, “The hate that you are spreading against Muslims, this will not go on for long. Those who spread hate will come to an end. When love becomes common, then they will realise how people’s mind was poisoned.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Solapur, Maharashtra | AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi yesterday said,&quot; The constitution of Pakistan clearly states that a person belonging to only one religion can become the Prime Minister of the country. Baba Sahib&#39;s constitution says that any citizen of India can… <a href="https://t.co/5hIqToOxri">pic.twitter.com/5hIqToOxri</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2009874359331303722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“We may not be around to witness the day, but a day will come when this will be possible,” Owaisi further said to a thunderous applause. Owaisi’s remarks drew sharp responses from BJP and Shiv Sena leaders.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-wants-us-to-kidnap-netanyahu-after-maduro-capture-watch-1767982088543">Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif wants US to ‘kidnap’ Netanyahu after Maduro capture | Watch</a><h2>‘Go to Islamabad or Karachi’</h2>&nbsp;Maharashtra minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane retorted that those harbouring such dreams should go to Islamabad or Karachi.&nbsp;“Asaduddin Owaisi shouldn’t be so audacious in a Hindu rashtra. 90% of our population are Hindus. No woman wearing a hijab or burka can become the prime minister or mayor in Mumbai. Those aspiring to be one can go to Islamabad or Karachi. They have no place here,” said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-s-hands-stained-with-the-blood-of-iranians-some-rioters-want-to-please-him-says-khamenei-amid-death-to-america-chants-1767956396834">‘Trump’s hands stained with the blood of Iranians, some rioters want to please him,’ says Khamenei amid ‘Death to America’ chants</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Don’t try to become local version of Mamdani’</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>BJP leader Shehzad Poonawala also reacted to the comment and dared Owaisi to elect a burqa-clad woman or a ‘Pasmanda’ Muslim as the president of his party first.“Owaisi miya, there is no restriction in the Constitution on whether the Prime Minister should be someone wearing a hijab or not. Anyone can become Prime Minister, but first, win votes. Before dreaming of becoming Prime Minister, Owaisi miya, why don’t you first make a hijab-wearing woman, a burqa-clad woman, or at least someone from the Pasmanda community the president of your own party?” said Poonawala.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Delhi: BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala says, &#39;&#39;Owaisi Miya, there is no restriction in the Constitution on whether the Prime Minister should be someone who wears a hijab or not. Anyone can become Prime Minister, but first, win the votes. Before dreaming of becoming Prime… <a href="https://t.co/ROFUedD0Ux">pic.twitter.com/ROFUedD0Ux</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://twitter.com/ians_india/status/2009875965913252268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Stop this lecture on secularism...Don’t try to become a version of (Zohran) Mamdani here. In Maharashtra, especially in BMC, only a Hindu-Marathi will become the mayor,” the BJP spokesperson asserted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-khamenei-is-looking-to-go-someplace-says-trump-as-protests-intensify-in-iran-1767963290206">‘Khamenei is looking to go someplace,’ says Trump as protests intensify in Iran</a>&nbsp;Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh also slammed the AIMIM chief.“Owaisi, if you have ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’ in your mind, then listen carefully: because of the Congress party’s mistakes and its politics of appeasement, whatever happened in the past will not be allowed to happen again in this country. There will be no second Pakistan formed here. The Constitution will prevail, and the rule of law will be enforced,” said Singh.&nbsp;<h2>‘No vacancy for the PM’s post,’ says Shiv Sena</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC said there is “no vacancy for the Prime Minister’s post”.“Asaduddin Owaisi, there is no vacancy for the Prime Minister’s post. Narendra Modi’s popularity is known to one and all,” Shaina said adding that leadership should be based on performance and popular mandate, not caste, creed, or community.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-family-rift-sorted-maharashtra-dy-cm-ajit-pawar-says-both-ncp-factions-together-now-1767985188657">‘Family rift sorted’: Maharashtra Dy CM Ajit Pawar says both NCP factions ‘together’ now</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘India’s PM will always be a Hindu’: Assam CM Himanta</h2>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Reacting to AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s reported remark, “I want to see a hijab-clad woman becoming the PM of the country,” Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma (<a href="https://twitter.com/himantabiswa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@himantabiswa</a>) says, “Constitutionally, there is no bar on anyone becoming the Prime Minister. But India is a Hindu… <a href="https://t.co/eA2XHaaHN3">pic.twitter.com/eA2XHaaHN3</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2009903604333719575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reacting to the statement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised Owaisi, asserting that India is a Hindu nation and that the country’s Prime Minister will always be a Hindu. However, Sarma acknowledged that constitutionally there is no restriction on anyone becoming Prime Minister.

BJP leader Shehzad Poonawala dared AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi to elect a burqa-clad woman or a ‘Pasmanda’ Muslim as the president of his party first. He also asked Owaisi to stop lecturing on secularism and not to try becoming a local version of (Zohran) Mamdani.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has ignited a new row while campaigning for Maharashtra civic elections by stating that he dreams of the day when a hijab-clad woman will become the prime minister of India. Addressing a rally in Solapur, the AIMIM president said, “The constitution of Pakistan clearly states that a person belonging to only one religion can become the prime minister of the country. Baba Sahib’s (BR Ambedkar’s) constitution says that any citizen of India can become prime minister, chief minister, or mayor. It is my dream that a day will come when a hijab-clad daughter will become the prime minister of this country.” Targeting rivals, Owaisi added, “The hate that you are spreading against Muslims, this will not go on for long. Those who spread hate will come to an end. When love becomes common, then they will realise how people’s mind was poisoned.”

BJP leader Shehzad Poonawala dared AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi to elect a burqa-clad woman or a ‘Pasmanda’ Muslim as the president of his party first. He also asked Owaisi to stop lecturing on secularism and not to try becoming a local version of (Zohran) Mamdani.

Owaisi shares dream of hijab-clad PM; BJP says, ‘Don’t try to become local Mamdani’

A massive fire broke out at Pacific Chemical Company in Kharpudi MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) area in Badlapur yesterday evening at 6.50 PM. The fire is under control. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far.

Maharashtra fire break-out: a massive fire broke out at Pacific chemical company in Badlapur 

Maharashtra gears up for municipal elections across 29 corporations, including BMC, on January 15, 2026, with BJP and Congress leaders reportedly aligning for local polls amid internal party tensions. 

BJP-Congress Pact Rocks Maharashtra Municipal Polls

Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan has remained firm in his stance following the backlash over his comments about Operation Sindoor, saying that he has ‘nothing to apologise for’. The former Chief Minister of Maharashtra stirred controversy earlier this week during a speech in Pune, where he claimed that India had suffered a defeat on the very first day of Operation Sindoor, which was launched in May in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.&nbsp;Chavan, in an interview with NDTV, stood by his words, saying, “I won't apologize… I haven't said anything wrong, and I don’t need to. There's no reason for an apology.” He emphasised that he had made no incorrect statement and didn’t want to add more on the matter at this point. Chavan had said that Indian fighter jets were downed by Pakistani forces on May 7, marking the first day of Operation Sindoor. He added, “On that day, we were completely defeated. The aerial engagement that lasted for 30 minutes led to the destruction of our aircraft. The Indian Air Force was grounded and no aircraft could take off from bases like Gwalior, Bathinda, or Sirsa due to the high risk of being shot down by Pakistan."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-shocker-man-kills-wife-daughters-over-not-wearing-burqa-buries-bodies-at-home-says-police-1765968660507">Uttar Pradesh shocker: Man kills wife, daughters over not wearing Burqa; buries bodies at home, says police</a>&nbsp;This military operation followed Indian airstrikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, during which India claimed to have neutralizsd over 100 terrorists. The three-day conflict concluded on May 10 when Pakistan requested a ceasefire.<h2>BJP hits back at Prithviraj Chavan</h2>The BJP has strongly criticised Chavan's remarks. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla led the charge, accusing Congress and its leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, of displaying an "anti-army" mentality by not acting against leaders making such statements. Poonawalla told news agency ANI, “Insulting the Army has become a hallmark of the Congress… Rahul Gandhi has made similar comments, and that reflects his mindset. Congress does nothing to address these statements.” In response, the Congress distanced itself from Chavan’s comments. Sukhdeo Bhagat, a Congress MP from Jharkhand, expressed the party's unwavering support for the Indian Army and the government’s fight against terrorism. He remarked to NDTV, "Prithviraj Chavan can reveal his sources, but Congress stands by the Army. We fully support the government's actions against terrorism and Pakistan."

Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan stands by controversial remarks on Operation Sindoor, refuses apology

Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan has remained firm in his stance following the backlash over his comments about Operation Sindoor, saying that he has ‘nothing to apologise for’. The former Chief Minister of Maharashtra stirred controversy earlier this week during a speech in Pune, where he claimed that India had suffered a defeat on the very first day of Operation Sindoor, which was launched in May in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. Chavan, in an interview with NDTV, stood by his words, saying, “I won't apologize… I haven't said anything wrong, and I don’t need to. There's no reason for an apology.” He emphasised that he had made no incorrect statement and didn’t want to add more on the matter at this point. Chavan had said that Indian fighter jets were downed by Pakistani forces on May 7, marking the first day of Operation Sindoor. He added, “On that day, we were completely defeated. The aerial engagement that lasted for 30 minutes led to the destruction of our aircraft. The Indian Air Force was grounded and no aircraft could take off from bases like Gwalior, Bathinda, or Sirsa due to the high risk of being shot down by Pakistan." Also Read: Uttar Pradesh shocker: Man kills wife, daughters over not wearing Burqa; buries bodies at home, says police This military operation followed Indian airstrikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, during which India claimed to have neutralizsd over 100 terrorists. The three-day conflict concluded on May 10 when Pakistan requested a ceasefire. BJP hits back at Prithviraj Chavan The BJP has strongly criticised Chavan's remarks. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla led the charge, accusing Congress and its leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, of displaying an "anti-army" mentality by not acting against leaders making such statements. Poonawalla told news agency ANI, “Insulting the Army has become a hallmark of the Congress… Rahul Gandhi has made similar comments, and that reflects his mindset. Congress does nothing to address these statements.” In response, the Congress distanced itself from Chavan’s comments. Sukhdeo Bhagat, a Congress MP from Jharkhand, expressed the party's unwavering support for the Indian Army and the government’s fight against terrorism. He remarked to NDTV, "Prithviraj Chavan can reveal his sources, but Congress stands by the Army. We fully support the government's actions against terrorism and Pakistan."

Prithviraj Chavan defends his remarks on Operation Sindoor, asserting India was ‘defeated on day 1’. His comments have sparked criticism from BJP, while Congress have distanced itself from it

Lionel Messi meets Sachin Tendulkar at the Wankhede Stadium. Sachin gifts Messi an Indian cricket jersey with his name on it. Messi also meets Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian football team captain.

Footballing legend Lionel Messi meets cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar in Wankhede Stadium

A doctor, who was allegedly raped multiple times by a police officer and mentally harassed by another individual for the past five months, died by suicide at a government hospital in Maharashtra's Satara.

Maharashtra Doctor Suicide Case: Congress' Rahul Gandhi Accuses Govt of Shielding Criminals

A doctor, who was allegedly raped multiple times by a police officer and mentally harassed by another individual for the past five months, died by suicide at a government hospital in Maharashtra's Satara.


Maharashtra: Woman doctor dies, names police sub-inspector for 'repeated rape'

Maharashtra has begun large-scale preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027, set to take place in Nashik, with a strong focus on technology-driven crowd management and infrastructure upgrades. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired a high-level review meeting in Mumbai, and directed departments to speed up the pending work, including the Nashik Ring Road and land acquisition for the Sadhu Gram tent city.&nbsp;CM called the Kumbh Mela a symbol of India’s faith and tradition, assuring that the Godavari River will remain clean throughout the event. He also instructed that sewage, sanitation, and transport facilities must be completed before the gathering begins.<h2>AI and digital tools to manage massive crowds</h2>For the first time, Maharashtra will introduce an advanced “Digital Kumbh” initiative. This includes the use of artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for crowd management, surveillance, and real-time coordination.&nbsp;According to the Chief Minister’s Office, a seven-member technical committee has been formed to design and oversee these solutions. AI-based systems will help monitor crowds, predict congestion points, and it will provide real-time updates to police and emergency teams.&nbsp;The state will also work with telecom operators to ensure strong mobile connectivity during the 21-month-long event, which is expected to draw millions of devotees. Lessons from Prayagraj’s 2025 Kumbh have guided this more data-driven approach, aiming to prevent overcrowding and improve visitor safety.&nbsp;<h2>Rs 6,000 crore investment for infrastructure</h2>The Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 will involve one of the largest-ever public infrastructure pushes in Maharashtra. According to officials, tenders worth Rs 4,000 crore have already been issued for roads, water supply, and sanitation works, while another Rs 2,000 crore is being planned.&nbsp;A total of Rs 1,000 crore has been set aside for land acquisition in Tapovan, covering 268 hectares to build the Sadhu Gram, where religious sects will stay during the event. The Nashik Municipal Corporation has proposed a 50:50 compensation model for landowners half in cash and half through transfer of development rights (TDRs).&nbsp;Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Dada Bhuse, and Girish Mahajan, attended the review meeting, signalling the scale and priority of the project.&nbsp;<h2>A 21-month spiritual and cultural spectacle</h2>The upcoming Kumbh Mela will begin on 31 October 2026 with a flag-hoisting ceremony and continue until 24 July 2028 making it one of the longest Kumbh Melas in history.&nbsp;Three major Amrit Snans (holy baths) will take place in August and September 2027, drawing millions of pilgrims, ascetics, and tourists from across India and abroad.&nbsp;Officials say the 2027 event will be a blend of faith and technology, combining traditional rituals with modern systems designed to ensure safety, cleanliness, and smooth movement across Nashik city.

Maharashtra is preparing for kumbh mela 2027 in nashik with big investments, digital crowd control using ai, and upgraded infrastructure. 

Maharashtra has begun large-scale preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027, set to take place in Nashik, with a strong focus on technology-driven crowd management and infrastructure upgrades. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired a high-level review meeting in Mumbai, and directed departments to speed up the pending work, including the Nashik Ring Road and land acquisition for the Sadhu Gram tent city. CM called the Kumbh Mela a symbol of India’s faith and tradition, assuring that the Godavari River will remain clean throughout the event. He also instructed that sewage, sanitation, and transport facilities must be completed before the gathering begins. AI and digital tools to manage massive crowds For the first time, Maharashtra will introduce an advanced “Digital Kumbh” initiative. This includes the use of artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for crowd management, surveillance, and real-time coordination. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, a seven-member technical committee has been formed to design and oversee these solutions. AI-based systems will help monitor crowds, predict congestion points, and it will provide real-time updates to police and emergency teams. The state will also work with telecom operators to ensure strong mobile connectivity during the 21-month-long event, which is expected to draw millions of devotees. Lessons from Prayagraj’s 2025 Kumbh have guided this more data-driven approach, aiming to prevent overcrowding and improve visitor safety. Rs 6,000 crore investment for infrastructure The Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 will involve one of the largest-ever public infrastructure pushes in Maharashtra. According to officials, tenders worth Rs 4,000 crore have already been issued for roads, water supply, and sanitation works, while another Rs 2,000 crore is being planned. A total of Rs 1,000 crore has been set aside for land acquisition in Tapovan, covering 268 hectares to build the Sadhu Gram, where religious sects will stay during the event. The Nashik Municipal Corporation has proposed a 50:50 compensation model for landowners half in cash and half through transfer of development rights (TDRs). Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Dada Bhuse, and Girish Mahajan, attended the review meeting, signalling the scale and priority of the project. A 21-month spiritual and cultural spectacle The upcoming Kumbh Mela will begin on 31 October 2026 with a flag-hoisting ceremony and continue until 24 July 2028 making it one of the longest Kumbh Melas in history. Three major Amrit Snans (holy baths) will take place in August and September 2027, drawing millions of pilgrims, ascetics, and tourists from across India and abroad. Officials say the 2027 event will be a blend of faith and technology, combining traditional rituals with modern systems designed to ensure safety, cleanliness, and smooth movement across Nashik city.

Maharashtra is preparing for Kumbh Mela 2027 in Nashik with big investments, digital crowd control using AI, and upgraded infrastructure.&nbsp;

AI-powered crowd control and surveillance planned for 21-month Kumbh Mela in Maharashtra

Maharashtra reels under relentless heavy rains that have caused widespread flooding and devastation across multiple districts. At least eight people have lost their lives due to rain-related incidents, including drowning and building collapses. Hundreds of houses have been destroyed, and the loss to agriculture is devastating. 


Maharashtra:  Floods Devastate Marathwada Region

Thousands of devotees gathered in Mumbai to witness the grand 2025 visarjan of Lalbaugcha Raja, as the 69-foot Ganesh idol was immersed with chants, music, and vibrant celebrations.


Lalbaugcha Raja visarjan 2025: Mumbai bids farewell to 69-ft Ganesh idol with grand ceremony 

Join us as India bids farewell to Lord Ganesha on September 6 with vibrant processions and rituals across India. We break down the history, traditions, and meaning behind this spectacular festival finale. 


India: Ganeshotsav celebrations end with nationwide immersion rituals 

In India's Maharashtra, tens of thousands of people are on the move, marching to the state capital Mumbai. Belonging to the Maratha community, they are demanding reservations allowed to the other backward classes or the 'OBC' category.


Maratha quota protest in India's Maharashtra set to end, protesters claim victory 

Lord Ganesha’s birthday holds a special place in the hearts of His devout followers. It is marked with bringing Ganpati idols into homes and large murtis in sarvajanik pandals. 


India chants 'Ganpati Bappa Morya' 

A special NIA court in Mumbai announced its verdict on Thursday in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, nearly 17 years after the tragic incident. The court gave a verdict that a blast took place in Malegaon, but failed to prove that a bomb was placed in that motorcycle. Additionally, the court also concluded that the injured people were not 101 but only 95, and there was manipulation in some medical certificates, as per the news agency ANI report.&nbsp;All seven accused were acquitted of all charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and other charges by the Special NIA court, including Sadhvi Pragya, a former Member of Parliament from Bhopal, and Lt Col Prasad Purohit. The court, in its verdict, said that the prosecution failed to prove the case and the accused deserves the benefit of the doubt.<h3>What is the 2008 Malegaon blast case?</h3>The incident occurred during the holy month of Ramzan, just before the Navratri festival on September 29, 2008, when an explosive device attached to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque at the Bhikku Chowk in Maharashtra's Malegaon. The site where the blast took place was a communally sensitive town located around 200 km from Mumbai.&nbsp;The NIA conducted the probe into the case in 2011 and has sought "commensurate punishment" for the accused. It also pointed out that the intention of the accused was to strike terror in a section of the Muslim community, according to a report by the news agency PTI. It was claimed by the ATS that the blast was conspired by individuals linked to right-wing Hindu extremist groups.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malegaon-blast-case-all-accused-including-sadhvi-pragya-singh-acquitted-by-nia-court-1753941419638">Malegaon blast case: All accused, including Sadhvi Pragya Singh acquitted by NIA court</a><h3>Who were the key accused?</h3>There were a total of seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, including BJP leader and former MP Pragya Thakur, Lt Col Prasad Purohit, Major (retired) Ramesh Upadhyay, Ajay Rahirkar, Sudhakar Dwivedi, Sameer Kulkarni, and Sudhakar Chaturvedi.&nbsp;According to a report in NDTV, BJP leader and former MP Sadhvi Pragya and Lt Col Purohit were the most prominent and controversial accused in the case among the seven on trial.&nbsp;Sadhvi Pragya was arrested in October 2008, as the motorcycle used in the blast was registered in her name. The Maharashtra ATS accused her of being part of a larger conspiracy to target Muslim-dominated areas in response to previous terror attacks.&nbsp;In addition, Lt Col Purohit was also accused of providing logistical and material support to a radical Hindu group named Abhinav Bharat. The probe agency claimed that Purohit helped in arranging explosives and was part of meetings where the blasts were reportedly planned.<h3>What were the charges against them?</h3>Before being transferred to the NIA in 2011, the case was initially probed by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The trial in the case began in 2018 after the court put charges against the seven acquitted.&nbsp;The charges against them are the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) sections 16 (committing a terrorist act) and 18 (conspiring to commit a terrorist act) and various Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections, including 120(b) (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), 307 (attempt to murder), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt), and 153(a) (promoting enmity between two religious groups), as per PTI report.&nbsp;Amid the trial, the prosecution presented 323 witnesses and eight defence witnesses, of whom 37 turned hostile. Multiple pieces of evidence were submitted, including over 10,800 exhibits and over 400 articles seized during the investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The blast was done during the holy month of Ramzan, when an explosive device attached to a motorcycle exploded near a mosque at the Bhikku Chowk in Maharashtra's Malegaon.

A special NIA court in Mumbai announced its verdict on Thursday in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, nearly 17 years after the tragic incident. The court gave a verdict that a blast took place in Malegaon, but failed to prove that a bomb was placed in that motorcycle. Additionally, the court also concluded that the injured people were not 101 but only 95, and there was manipulation in some medical certificates, as per the news agency ANI report. All seven accused were acquitted of all charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and other charges by the Special NIA court, including Sadhvi Pragya, a former Member of Parliament from Bhopal, and Lt Col Prasad Purohit. The court, in its verdict, said that the prosecution failed to prove the case and the accused deserves the benefit of the doubt. What is the 2008 Malegaon blast case? The incident occurred during the holy month of Ramzan, just before the Navratri festival on September 29, 2008, when an explosive device attached to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque at the Bhikku Chowk in Maharashtra's Malegaon. The site where the blast took place was a communally sensitive town located around 200 km from Mumbai. The NIA conducted the probe into the case in 2011 and has sought "commensurate punishment" for the accused. It also pointed out that the intention of the accused was to strike terror in a section of the Muslim community, according to a report by the news agency PTI. It was claimed by the ATS that the blast was conspired by individuals linked to right-wing Hindu extremist groups. Also read: Malegaon blast case: All accused, including Sadhvi Pragya Singh acquitted by NIA court Who were the key accused? There were a total of seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, including BJP leader and former MP Pragya Thakur, Lt Col Prasad Purohit, Major (retired) Ramesh Upadhyay, Ajay Rahirkar, Sudhakar Dwivedi, Sameer Kulkarni, and Sudhakar Chaturvedi. According to a report in NDTV, BJP leader and former MP Sadhvi Pragya and Lt Col Purohit were the most prominent and controversial accused in the case among the seven on trial. Sadhvi Pragya was arrested in October 2008, as the motorcycle used in the blast was registered in her name. The Maharashtra ATS accused her of being part of a larger conspiracy to target Muslim-dominated areas in response to previous terror attacks. In addition, Lt Col Purohit was also accused of providing logistical and material support to a radical Hindu group named Abhinav Bharat. The probe agency claimed that Purohit helped in arranging explosives and was part of meetings where the blasts were reportedly planned. What were the charges against them? Before being transferred to the NIA in 2011, the case was initially probed by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The trial in the case began in 2018 after the court put charges against the seven acquitted. The charges against them are the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) sections 16 (committing a terrorist act) and 18 (conspiring to commit a terrorist act) and various Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections, including 120(b) (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), 307 (attempt to murder), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt), and 153(a) (promoting enmity between two religious groups), as per PTI report. Amid the trial, the prosecution presented 323 witnesses and eight defence witnesses, of whom 37 turned hostile. Multiple pieces of evidence were submitted, including over 10,800 exhibits and over 400 articles seized during the investigation.

The blast was done during the holy month of Ramzan, when an explosive device attached to a motorcycle exploded near a mosque at the Bhikku Chowk in Maharashtra's Malegaon.

What is 2008 Malegaon blast case: Who were the key accused now given clean-chit by NIA court

Over 14,000 males had registered as women under the Maharashtra government’s flagship Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana by using forged documents to avail the Rs 1,500 monthly assistance meant for economically disadvantaged women. The anomaly was detected in the Ladki Bahin Yojana besides several others, during a verification exercise. The verification, conducted by the Department of Information and Technology, flagged lakhs of entries where beneficiaries were found ineligible but continued to receive financial support under the scheme.The Maharashtra government has now suspended 26.34 lakh beneficiaries from its flagship scheme after the verification exercise revealed large-scale irregularities. While some were availing benefits of multiple government schemes, more than two members of the same families were also found receiving benefits.&nbsp;<h2>WCD minister seeks data from all departments</h2>&nbsp;Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare issued a statement on Sunday, saying her department had sought data from all state departments to verify the eligibility of applicants under the scheme.“Some beneficiaries were found to be availing of multiple government schemes. In other cases, families had more than two members receiving benefits. Shockingly, there were also instances where male applicants had been granted funds under the scheme,” Tatkare said.&nbsp;After the verification, disbursement of funds to 26.34 lakh such accounts has been temporarily stopped from June 2025.The minister clarified that this was a precautionary suspension and that district collectors had been tasked with conducting a detailed review to determine the eligibility of the beneficiaries under the scheme. “Those found genuine will have their benefits restored,” Tatkare said.The Opposition has targeted the government after the revelation that 14,298 men had availed of benefits under the scheme for women.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Money disbursed to wrongful beneficiaries will be recovered’</h2>&nbsp;Responding to the criticism, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said the state would recover the amounts disbursed to the wrongful beneficiaries and would take legal action if they failed to cooperate.“This scheme was launched with a sincere intention to support poor women. It was never meant for men. Misuse will not be tolerated,” Pawar said.The Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana was launched in August 2024 by the Eknath Shinde-led Maha Yuti Government ahead of the Assembly polls and offered a monthly dole to women aged between 21 and 65 years whose families earn less than Rs 2.5 lakh annually.&nbsp;The scheme gained traction across the state especially in the run-up to the Assembly elections and was said to have led to victory of the Mahayuti.During the campaigning for Assembly elections, Mahayuti leaders had also promised to raise the amount to Rs 2,100.

About 26 lakh ineligible beneficiaries, including over 14,000 men, have been barred from Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin scheme. Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said the state will recover the amount disbursed to ineligible beneficiaries and take legal action if they do not cooperate.

Over 14,000 males had registered as women under the Maharashtra government’s flagship Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana by using forged documents to avail the Rs 1,500 monthly assistance meant for economically disadvantaged women. The anomaly was detected in the Ladki Bahin Yojana besides several others, during a verification exercise. The verification, conducted by the Department of Information and Technology, flagged lakhs of entries where beneficiaries were found ineligible but continued to receive financial support under the scheme. The Maharashtra government has now suspended 26.34 lakh beneficiaries from its flagship scheme after the verification exercise revealed large-scale irregularities. While some were availing benefits of multiple government schemes, more than two members of the same families were also found receiving benefits. WCD minister seeks data from all departments Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare issued a statement on Sunday, saying her department had sought data from all state departments to verify the eligibility of applicants under the scheme. “Some beneficiaries were found to be availing of multiple government schemes. In other cases, families had more than two members receiving benefits. Shockingly, there were also instances where male applicants had been granted funds under the scheme,” Tatkare said. After the verification, disbursement of funds to 26.34 lakh such accounts has been temporarily stopped from June 2025. The minister clarified that this was a precautionary suspension and that district collectors had been tasked with conducting a detailed review to determine the eligibility of the beneficiaries under the scheme. “Those found genuine will have their benefits restored,” Tatkare said. The Opposition has targeted the government after the revelation that 14,298 men had availed of benefits under the scheme for women. ‘Money disbursed to wrongful beneficiaries will be recovered’ Responding to the criticism, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said the state would recover the amounts disbursed to the wrongful beneficiaries and would take legal action if they failed to cooperate. “This scheme was launched with a sincere intention to support poor women. It was never meant for men. Misuse will not be tolerated,” Pawar said. The Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana was launched in August 2024 by the Eknath Shinde-led Maha Yuti Government ahead of the Assembly polls and offered a monthly dole to women aged between 21 and 65 years whose families earn less than Rs 2.5 lakh annually. The scheme gained traction across the state especially in the run-up to the Assembly elections and was said to have led to victory of the Mahayuti. During the campaigning for Assembly elections, Mahayuti leaders had also promised to raise the amount to Rs 2,100.

About 26 lakh ineligible beneficiaries, including over 14,000 men, have been barred from Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin scheme. Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said the state will recover the amount disbursed to ineligible beneficiaries and take legal action if they do not cooperate.

Over 14000 men in Maharashtra get money under Ladki Bahin Yojana for women; Dy CM Ajit Pawar promises action

A speeding truck rammed into 18-20 vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway on Saturday afternoon, reportedly killing a woman and injuring 18 others. The incident took place in the Raigad district of Maharashtra.&nbsp;The cars that were rammed by the container included luxury vehicles like BMW and Mercedes. According to reports, the truck's brakes had failed.&nbsp;The victims of the crash were admitted to a private hospital in Navi Mumbai, and one of them died during treatment. A police officer told the media that the driver was arrested. He wasn't under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The pile-up caused a five-km-long traffic snarl near the Lonavala-Khandala ghat section.&nbsp;The video of the aftermath of the crash showed that some of the vehicles were completely crushed, and others were severely damaged. Many passengers were seriously injured.&nbsp;The accident took place on a slope, making it impossible for the driver to stop the truck.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Major accident on Mumbai - Pune expressway this afternoon! Almost 15-20 vehicles crashed 🙏 Travel safely in the ghats!! <a href="https://t.co/MUHjgUUg4k">https://t.co/MUHjgUUg4k</a> <a href="https://t.co/gYp6lcFkxS">pic.twitter.com/gYp6lcFkxS</a>&mdash; Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) <a href="https://twitter.com/rushikesh_agre_/status/1949073422954471790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;"The driver of the container trailer truck lost control of the vehicle after brake failure. It hit at least 20 vehicles, including luxury cars like BMW and Mercedes, resulting in serious injuries to 19 people. They were admitted to a private hospital in Navi Mumbai," an official told NDTV.&nbsp;The police are investigating the accident.

A speeding truck rammed into 18-20 vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway on Saturday afternoon, reportedly killing a woman and injuring 18 others. 

A speeding truck rammed into 18-20 vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway on Saturday afternoon, reportedly killing a woman and injuring 18 others. The incident took place in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. The cars that were rammed by the container included luxury vehicles like BMW and Mercedes. According to reports, the truck's brakes had failed. The victims of the crash were admitted to a private hospital in Navi Mumbai, and one of them died during treatment. A police officer told the media that the driver was arrested. He wasn't under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The pile-up caused a five-km-long traffic snarl near the Lonavala-Khandala ghat section. The video of the aftermath of the crash showed that some of the vehicles were completely crushed, and others were severely damaged. Many passengers were seriously injured. The accident took place on a slope, making it impossible for the driver to stop the truck.

Maharashtra accident: The cars that were rammed by the container included luxury vehicles like BMW and Mercedes.

Maharashtra: Truck's brakes fail, rams 20 vehicles on highway; aftermath video

In a shocking incident, the body of a 40-year-old man in Mumbai's Nalasopara was found buried inside his house, 15 days after he went missing. Vijay Chavan's wife, Chaman, and her lover, Monu, are also missing. Initial investigation revealed that the couple&nbsp;had planned the victim's murder several days ago and had dug up a pit nearly two weeks before. They also took out the money, which he had received from an insurance policy.&nbsp;The matter came to light on&nbsp;Monday. The victim's brothers had been trying to contact him for 15 days. However, since their calls went unanswered, they visited his house, where Chaman told them that he had gone out for work. Last week, the woman left the house with her seven-year-old son.&nbsp;On Monday, the brothers visited the house and found Chaman missing. They also found some new tiles in the house. They dug open the pit in which they found the victim's rotting body.&nbsp;Chaman had dug a 3.5-foot-deep and 6-foot-long pit in their house, reported NDTV, adding the tiles were laid at an expense of Rs 1200.&nbsp;Vijay had received Rs 6 lakh as an insurance police a month ago. She used his phone to access his bank account and later withdrew an unknown assign.&nbsp;"They (brothers) called him, but his phone was switched&nbsp;off. Hence, they came down to his house and enquired with his wife, who told them her husband had gone out for some work. They called her on July 19 to find out if Chouhan had returned home, but her phone was switched off," said a police officer.&nbsp;The police suspect that the wife and her alleged paramour had killed the man and eloped. They suspect another person from the same locality was involved in the crime.

In a shocking incident, the body of a 40-year-old man in Mumbai's Nalasopara was found buried inside his house, 15 days after he went missing. 

In a shocking incident, the body of a 40-year-old man in Mumbai's Nalasopara was found buried inside his house, 15 days after he went missing. Vijay Chavan's wife, Chaman, and her lover, Monu, are also missing. Initial investigation revealed that the couple had planned the victim's murder several days ago and had dug up a pit nearly two weeks before. They also took out the money, which he had received from an insurance policy. The matter came to light on Monday. The victim's brothers had been trying to contact him for 15 days. However, since their calls went unanswered, they visited his house, where Chaman told them that he had gone out for work. Last week, the woman left the house with her seven-year-old son. On Monday, the brothers visited the house and found Chaman missing. They also found some new tiles in the house. They dug open the pit in which they found the victim's rotting body. Chaman had dug a 3.5-foot-deep and 6-foot-long pit in their house, reported NDTV, adding the tiles were laid at an expense of Rs 1200. Vijay had received Rs 6 lakh as an insurance police a month ago. She used his phone to access his bank account and later withdrew an unknown assign. "They (brothers) called him, but his phone was switched off. Hence, they came down to his house and enquired with his wife, who told them her husband had gone out for some work. They called her on July 19 to find out if Chouhan had returned home, but her phone was switched off," said a police officer. The police suspect that the wife and her alleged paramour had killed the man and eloped. They suspect another person from the same locality was involved in the crime.

Mumbai murder: Chaman had dug a 3.5-foot-deep and 6-foot-long pit in their house

Deep pit, tiles, insurance money: How wife, lover planned Mumbai man's murder

A man in Maharashtra's Palghar was found buried inside his own house by his brothers. The police suspect that the victim&nbsp;was murdered by his wife and her paramour, who were missing. The man's brother uncovered the crime as they noticed that the victim's wife was missing from their home, and new tiles were laid out. The police are searching for the couple.&nbsp;The wife of the victim has been identified as Chaman Devi. Monu Sharma, her neighbour, is her alleged paramour. They have been missing, and the police are searching for them. The victim was Vijay Chouhan, a resident of a housing society in the Gangnipada area of Nallasopara, a suburb of Mumbai.&nbsp;Pelhar police station's senior inspector, Jitendra Vankoti, said the victim's two brothers wanted to meet him on July 10 as they needed to borrow money from him to purchase a new house. As their calls went unanswered for several days, they visited the man's house. They found the wife was missing.&nbsp;"They called him, but his phone was&nbsp;switched off. Hence, they came down to his house and enquired with his wife, who told them her husband had gone out for some work. They called her on July 19 to find out if Chouhan had returned home, but her phone was switched off," he said.&nbsp;They inspected the house. They found that new tiles had been laid out on the floor. Suspecting foul play, they removed the tiles to find their brother's rotting body inside the floor.&nbsp;"When they inspected the house, they found new tiles on the floor. Suspecting something fishy, they removed the tiles only to find a foul smell emanating from the floor," the police officer said.&nbsp;They informed the police, who exhumed the body in the presence of senior officials, including doctors and forensic experts. The highly decomposed body was sent for an autopsy.&nbsp;The police suspect that the wife and her alleged paramour had killed the man and eloped. They suspect another person from the same locality was involved in the crime. A case was registered against the two suspects.

A man in Maharashtra's Palghar was found buried inside his own house by his brothers. The police suspect that the victim was murdered by his wife and her paramour, who were missing.

A man in Maharashtra's Palghar was found buried inside his own house by his brothers. The police suspect that the victim was murdered by his wife and her paramour, who were missing. The man's brother uncovered the crime as they noticed that the victim's wife was missing from their home, and new tiles were laid out. The police are searching for the couple. The wife of the victim has been identified as Chaman Devi. Monu Sharma, her neighbour, is her alleged paramour. They have been missing, and the police are searching for them. The victim was Vijay Chouhan, a resident of a housing society in the Gangnipada area of Nallasopara, a suburb of Mumbai. Pelhar police station's senior inspector, Jitendra Vankoti, said the victim's two brothers wanted to meet him on July 10 as they needed to borrow money from him to purchase a new house. As their calls went unanswered for several days, they visited the man's house. They found the wife was missing. "They called him, but his phone was switched off. Hence, they came down to his house and enquired with his wife, who told them her husband had gone out for some work. They called her on July 19 to find out if Chouhan had returned home, but her phone was switched off," he said. They inspected the house. They found that new tiles had been laid out on the floor. Suspecting foul play, they removed the tiles to find their brother's rotting body inside the floor. "When they inspected the house, they found new tiles on the floor. Suspecting something fishy, they removed the tiles only to find a foul smell emanating from the floor," the police officer said. They informed the police, who exhumed the body in the presence of senior officials, including doctors and forensic experts. The highly decomposed body was sent for an autopsy. The police suspect that the wife and her alleged paramour had killed the man and eloped. They suspect another person from the same locality was involved in the crime. A case was registered against the two suspects.

Maharashtra murder: The wife of the victim has been identified as Chaman Devi. Monu Sharma, her neighbour, is her alleged paramour.

'New tiles, missing wife': How relatives uncovered Maharashtra man's murder

Work pressure claimed another life in India's Maharashtra as a manager at a nationalised bank in Baramati died by suicide. His suicide note didn't blame any person but cited work-related stress. The deceased has been identified as Shivshankar Mitra, a chief manager at the branch of the bank, who had resigned due to health issues and workload earlier this month. He was on his notice period.&nbsp;Shivshankar Mitra asked all the staff at work to leave and said he would shut down the branch himself. He died by suicide after the security guard also left the premises. He had asked a bank employee to get a rope for him. CCTV footage shows him hanging himself inside the bank at around 10 pm.&nbsp;The suicide was revealed after Mitra's wife came to the office around midnight. She alerted the bank staff after she saw that the lights were on, but he wasn't responding to her calls.&nbsp;&nbsp;The police said his suicide note blamed work pressure but not any individual. He quit on July 11.&nbsp;The police have registered a case and are investigating what drove him to take the extreme step.&nbsp;The incident comes months after an employee at Ola's artificial intelligence unit, Krutrim, died by suicide due to what he called a toxic work culture and work pressure. The employee was identified as Nikhil Somwanshi.&nbsp;Last year, 26-year-old Anna Augustine, an EY (Ernst &amp; Young) employee in Pune, died, allegedly due to work pressure.&nbsp;If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a&nbsp;suicide prevention hotline.



Work pressure claimed another life in India's Maharashtra as a manager at a nationalised bank in Baramati died by suicide. His suicide note didn't blame any person but cited work-related stress.

Work pressure claimed another life in India's Maharashtra as a manager at a nationalised bank in Baramati died by suicide. His suicide note didn't blame any person but cited work-related stress. The deceased has been identified as Shivshankar Mitra, a chief manager at the branch of the bank, who had resigned due to health issues and workload earlier this month. He was on his notice period. Shivshankar Mitra asked all the staff at work to leave and said he would shut down the branch himself. He died by suicide after the security guard also left the premises. He had asked a bank employee to get a rope for him. CCTV footage shows him hanging himself inside the bank at around 10 pm. The suicide was revealed after Mitra's wife came to the office around midnight. She alerted the bank staff after she saw that the lights were on, but he wasn't responding to her calls. The police said his suicide note blamed work pressure but not any individual. He quit on July 11. The police have registered a case and are investigating what drove him to take the extreme step. The incident comes months after an employee at Ola's artificial intelligence unit, Krutrim, died by suicide due to what he called a toxic work culture and work pressure. The employee was identified as Nikhil Somwanshi. Last year, 26-year-old Anna Augustine, an EY (Ernst & Young) employee in Pune, died, allegedly due to work pressure. If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline.

Work-pressure suicide: Shivshankar Mitra asked all the staff at work to leave and said he would shut down the branch himself.

'Work pressure': Bank manager who resigned due to work-linked stress dies by suicide; asked employee to get him a rope

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