4 Detained With Ganja Worth Rs 22.75 lakh
The consignment was intercepted while being transported from Odisha to Pune in Maharashtra.
Mumbai-Jodhpur Air India flight returns to bay due to operational problem
Pawar Declines Support for NDA VP Candidate, Slams Radhakrishnan over Soren Arrest
Mr. Fadnavis had contacted Mr. Pawar and Mr. Thackeray on Thursday night, urging them to back Mr. Radhakrishnan, who is a voter from Mumbai and currently serves as the Governor of Maharashtra.
Foreign student enrolment rate on a rise at Mumbai University
Results out for Maharashtras 4th round FYJC admissions, 5th and final round dates announced
BEST to operate special overnight buses for Ganeshdevotees in Mumbai
Mumbai Metro lines 2A and 7 set new daily ridership record
Rahul calls Modi vote chor, questions PMs silence on election fraud charge during Bihar visit
PATNA: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modis silence over alleged vote theft in Maharashtra, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka, saying the Prime Minister had failed to answer his questions on the issue. Responding to Modis remarks on the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls during his visit to Gaya in Bihar, Rahul alleged that the Prime Minister was deliberately silent on the contentious matter. The SIR is an attempt by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP and the EC to steal your votes. They are trying their best to snatch your voting rights. The 'vote chor' came to Gayaji, but he did not say even a word on his government's attempt to steal votes with the help of the EC, Gandhi said during his Vote Adhikar Yatra in Bhagalpur. The truth is that the Prime Minister, along with the Election Commission of India and the Bharatiya Janata Party, are bent on destroying democracy and the Constitution, and snatching away the votes of the people, he said. Rahul accused Modi of seeking to dismantle the constitutional principle of one person, one vote. He cited the example of a Congress supporter whose name was deleted from the electoral rolls during the first phase of the revision exercise. With SIR, the Modi government, in collusion with the Election Commission of India, was disenfranchising people who are supporters of Congress or RJD, the Lok Sabha LoP said. Vote Chori is an attack on the Constitution of India. The INDIA bloc will not allow the BJP to steal voting rights of the people of Bihar, he added. Speaking at a rally in Bihar, Modi in an indirect reference to SIR said, There is one more threat -- that of infiltrators (ghuspaithiye) that our nation faces, which I also spoke about in my Independence Day speech. They cannot be allowed to partake of the resources of our country. I have, therefore, called for a demography mission. But the Congress and the RJD want to protect these infiltrators for the sake of their vote bank politics. The allusion was to one of the stated objectives of SIR being the removal of names of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar from the electoral rolls. The EC, which has ordered the exercise in Bihar ahead of assembly polls, has made it clear that SIR will be undertaken across the country in due course. However, the INDIA bloc has been alleging that the exercise in Bihar was aimed at helping the BJP-led NDA in assembly polls through wrongful deletion of names of voters. During a stopover near Nathnagar in Bhagalpur, Rahul introduced a former Agniveer, Amarnath Jaiswal, who had suffered a serious hand injury and lost a finger in the line of duty. Jaiswal was discharged from the Army within two years, without any of the benefits that a regular soldier would have received in such circumstances. Rahul said the Modi government had closed avenues for the youth, calling the Agniveer scheme ill-advised and pointing to Jaiswals plight as an example of how recruits were left without support after service, even in cases of disability. He also said the government had crippled small and medium businesses through demonetisation, compounding unemployment. On the sixth day of his Yatra, the march passed through Bhagalpur, where large crowds gathered, chanting 'Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhor' in reference to alleged electoral fraud in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Nirupam: Uddhav-Raj Alliance Wont Impact Mumbai Politics
Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam on Friday said the alliance between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray will have no impact in Maharashtra
7 years after shocking Oval Maidan stabbing, Mumbai court acquits both accused
Maharashtra Man Reports Wife Missing, Then Disappears; Naphthalene Balls Lead To Her Buried Body
According to the police, the husband had filed a missing persons report for his wife at a local police station a few days ago
Shobhaa De | Romancing The Monsoon: Mumbai Smiles In Deluge!
Mumbaikars do care! But there are many Louis XVs in Mumbai and in Maharashtra, and a few Madame Pompadours too! The deluge is behind us. But questions remain
MMRDA fines contractor for poor quality work on new flyover
PM Modi to visit Japan and China from Aug 29 to Sept 1
Following the Japan visit, PM Modi will travel to China from August 31 to September 1 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. He will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, to be held in Tianjin
Fatal gas leak: Boisar pharma company chairman among 4 booked for culpable homicide
TikTok website sparks speculation of return after accessibility, netizens react
The Indian government and the ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, are yet to release any official statement regarding the short-video platform`s website being active in India
Maharashtra's Opposition parties refuse BJPs appeal to back CP Radhakrishnan in V-P polls
MUMBAI: Maharashtra's Opposition parties NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) have rejected the BJPs proposal to support NDA candidate CP Radhakrishnan in the vice president elections on September 9. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, tasked with reaching out to regional opposition parties , said he had spoken to Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray to seek support. Vice President candidate CP Radhakrishnan was the governor of Maharashtra, and he is also a voter of Mumbai, so it is a pride for each Maharashtrian to have him in the vice president election, Fadnavis said. I called both Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray and conveyed the message and feeling. Pawar told me that the INDIA bloc has its candidate, so his party is unable to support, while Uddhav told me that he will consult with his party leaders and inform me. We are positive, he added. Pawar later confirmed the phone call but reiterated his opposition . CP Radhakrishnan does not belong to our ideology; therefore, there is no question of supporting him, he said. CP Radhakrishnan is the same person who, when he was governor of Jharkhand, allowed Chief Minister Hemant Soren to be arrested on the Governors office premises by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Soren had requested that the ED wait until he stepped out of the Governors office before arresting him, but a sitting chief minister was arrested inside the Governors premises. How can we support such a person who helped central agencies arrest an Opposition chief minister? Radhakrishnan misused his office and power to arrest Soren, Pawar added. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also criticised the BJP. BJP leaders broke our party and even toppled the Uddhav Thackeray-led government, and now the BJP wants our support for the NDA candidate for the vice president elections. BJP should have some morality before seeking our support for the vice president election, he said. You will destroy our party and expect us to support you in the election. This is not possible. We, both NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) are with the INDIA bloc candidate in the vice president election, Raut added. Radhakrishnan, the incumbent governor of maharashtra, is a seasoned BJP leader from Tamil Nadu with an RSS background, is the BJP-led NDA's consensus candidate for the vice-presidential elections, while the opposition INDIA bloc nominated former Supreme Court Judge and the first Lokayukta of Goa, Justice B. Sudershan Reddy its candidate .
Over 100 LGBTQ+ films to stream online at South Asias biggest LGBTQ+ film festival
KASHISH 2025 Online Film Festival is set to stream over 100 LGBTQ+ films globally from August 15 to September 15. Presented by the KASHISH Arts Foundation, the festival aims to amplify the visibility of queer films and filmmakers, making these stories accessible to a wider audience, including students, educators, and closeted individuals.
After scrutiny of nominations, direct contest between NDA, opposition for VP's post
The vice-presidential election on September 9 will be between C P Radhakrishnan and B Sudershan Reddy. Both candidates' nominations are valid. Radhakrishnan is a BJP leader from Tamil Nadu and current Maharashtra governor. Reddy is a former Supreme Court judge from Telangana. The election is viewed as an ideological battle. Radhakrishnan has political and administrative experience.
PM did not utter a word on 'vote chori' during visit to Bihar: Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of attempting to steal votes through the Election Commission during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. He criticized Modi's silence on alleged irregularities in Maharashtra, Karnataka polls, and the Manipur issue. Gandhi asserted that the BJP is dismantling the Constitution and depriving people of their rights.
Court accepts closure report in Islam Gymkhana members molestation case
Four-year-old girl drowns after falling into water bucket in Mumbai
Mumbai rains: Vasai animal shelter housing 91 strays, floods, 2 dogs and 3 cats die
Fadnavis hits back at Congress, says party caught in its own web over vote theft row
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis slams Congress, citing BJP MLA Atul Bhosales claims that relatives of Prithviraj Chavan had voted in multiple places during the 2024 Assembly election
Farmers, fishermen cautioned as Krishna water levels increase
Water discharge from Maharashtra crosses 2.4 lakh cusecs at the inter-State border gauge at the Kallol barrage
BMC to introduce professional safety licence for officers for high-rise construction sites in Mumbai
Bombay high court rejects plea for more time for bakeries to switch to cleaner fuel
BJP and NDA allies MPs meet V-P nominee Radhakrishnan at gathering today
NEW DELHI: Ahead of the Vice-Presidential election, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs and those from other National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies met on Friday with the NDA's Vice-Presidential candidate and Maharashtra Governor, CP Radhakrishnan, at the residence of Union Minister Prahlad Joshi. The gathering resolved to ensure a resounding victory for the NDA's nominee on September 9. The MPs from both Houses, representing various states including Uttarakhand, conveyed their best wishes for his success in the upcoming election, expressing hope that his tenure would add a new golden chapter to the history of the countrys second-highest constitutional post. According to sources, the MPs and the Vice-Presidential candidate had wider interaction with each other. Notably, this meeting took place amid speculation that the opposition is attempting to influence the outcome of the Presidential election through cross-voting. Following his meeting with BJP and allies MPs, NDA V-P nominee CP Radhakrishnan also visited the residence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, accompanied by BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde, as part of his election canvassing. Anil Baluni, MP from Uttarakhand, along with other MPs from the state met with CP Radhakrishnan and reiterated their commitment to securing a grand victory for the NDA nominee in the upcoming Vice-Presidential election. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also met with Radhakrishnan, honoured him, and extended the TDP's support. CP Radhakrishnan: Rise of a tested, trusted swayamsevak and BJPs V-P candidate As part of the series of pre-election interactions, the NDA nominee also visited the residence of BJP National President JP Nadda. Nadda honoured Radhakrishnan with a shawl and a Himachali cap, expressing confidence that his victory in the Vice-Presidential election would be a grand one. The Congress-led Opposition has fielded former Supreme Court Justice B Sudershan Reddy as the INDA bloc's nominee. The election for the constitutional post is scheduled to be held on September 9, where the NDA holds an advantage in both Houses of Parliament. Radhakrishnan's nomination was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the day of filing. PM Modi had said, The NDA family is confident that he (Radhakrishnan) will be an outstanding VP and will enrich our journey towards national progress. Meanwhile on Friday, the Rajya Sabha secretariat said that the Returning Officer for the Vice-Presidential Election, 2025 and Secretary-General of Rajya Sabha received a total of 68 nomination papers, filed by 46 candidates. Out of these 68 nomination papers, 28 nomination Papers filed by 19 candidates were summarily rejected in terms of section 5B (4) of the presidential and vice-presidential elections Act, 1952. It said that 40 nomination papers of 27 candidates were taken for scrutiny on August 22 and nomination papers were rejected under provisions of Section 5B(1)(b) or 5B(1)(b) and 5C of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Election Act, 1952 during the scrutiny. However, the nomination papers of CP Radhakrishnan and B Sudershan Reddy were found valid.
NDAs VP pick not aligned with our ideology, told Fadnavis can't accept his support plea: Pawar
MUMBAI: Nationalist Congress Party (SP) president Sharad Pawar on Friday said Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had called him up to seek support for NDAs vice-presidential candidate CP Radhakrishnan, but he expressed his inability to accept the request. Talking to reporters here, Pawar said the BJP-led NDA's candidate was not aligned with the ideology of his party and other members of the Opposition. The Rajya Sabya MP, whose party is a constituent of Opposition bloc INDIA, pointed out that the coalition's candidate, B Sudarshan Reddy, a former Supreme Court judge, has already filed nomination for the September 9 poll. Opposition candidate Sudarshan Reddy has already filed his nomination. Even though we have fewer numbers than the NDA, we are not worried, the NCP (SP) chief stated. The former Union minister maintained the Opposition has unanimously decided to field Reddy as its candidate for the countrys second-highest constitutional office whose occupant is also the ex-officio chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. All Opposition votes will go to Reddy. It knows its strength. Were not expecting any surprises, Pawar said. Amit Shah accuses opposition's VP candidate Justice Reddy of 'aiding' Naxalism The NDA candidate is not aligned with our ideology. When he was the Jharkhand governor, a case was filed against Chief Minister Hemant Soren. When Soren went to meet the governor, he was arrested at Raj Bhavan. It was a glaring example of the misuse of power, and it is not appropriate to expect support for such a candidate. Therefore, I expressed my inability to accept the chief ministers request, Pawar said. Fadnavis on Thursday sought the support of Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray, another key figure in the INDIA bloc, for Radhakrishnan. Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had said besides Fadnavis, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also called Thackeray, urging him to extend support to the NDA pick. Meanwhile, the NCP (SP) questioned why Fadnavis had made phone calls to people whose party he was esponsible for breaking to seek support in the Vice-Presidential election. On what moral grounds did Mr Devendra Fadnavis make phone calls to people whose party he was responsible for breaking? Mr Fadnavis had said, 'I not only came back (in power), but returned after breaking two parties', NCP (SP) spokesperson Clyde Crasto said in statement. The spokesperson was apparently referring to splits in the Shiv Sena (2022) and the NCP (2023). Those who claim to be invincible seem to have once again lost their morality for the hunger of power, Crasto opined. Is Mr Fadnavis worried that the BJP and NDA will not garner enough votes to elect their Vice-Presidential candidate? Is he also worried that there will be cross-voting against their candidate? the NCP (SP) spokesperson asked. The NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) are part of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra along with the Congress. The three parties are also constituents of the INDIA bloc at the national level.
'Shameless To Play With Enemies:' Samajwadi Party Calls For Boycott Of India-Pakistan Asia Cup Match
Pakistan Asia Cup: As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025, where India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash, the Samajwadi Party (SP) on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Narendra Modi government, declaring its opposition to the match as the political and security atmosphere was not conducive for sporting ties, and calling it a shameless act to play with enemies. Speaking to IANS, SP's Maharashtra unit chief Abu Asim Azmi said: There is match-fixing going on between Prime Minister Modi and Pakistan. When the sindoor of 26 women vanished after the terror incident, people demanded action, but instead, a ceasefire was announced. Now, when a cricket match is being organised, it feels suspicious. The people of India will not tolerate this. The government must give a clarification. He added that while he personally favoured peace between the two nations, Pakistans continued acts of terror made such sporting engagements unacceptable. I want friendship with Pakistan, but how can we play cricket with a country that keeps attacking us? Such matches should be completely boycotted, he added. SP leader, S.T. Hasan, also strongly opposed the upcoming match. We do not support playing a match with Pakistan. The wounds from the recent Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent people were killed, are still fresh. Our daughters and families suffered immensely. How can we sit and cheer for a cricket match against those responsible? Matches are meant for friends, not enemies. To play against Pakistan is nothing less than shameless, Hasan told IANS. He recalled that India had recently engaged in a military standoff with Pakistan, which he said proved the hostile intentions of the neighbour. We taught Pakistan a good lesson then, so why should we now shake hands with them on a cricket field? If Pakistan really wants to build trust, it must guarantee an end to terrorism. It should ensure there are no more attacks, and if any terrorist act occurs, both our intelligence agencies should cooperate to bring the culprits to justice. Only then should cricket or any sporting ties resume, Hasan added. Hasan also directly attacked the government, saying: Right now, the atmosphere is not right. If India goes ahead and plays Pakistan, it will be a disgrace for our nation in front of the entire world. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports recently issued fresh guidelines on sporting engagements with Pakistan. The government reiterated that while India will not host Pakistan or tour the country for bilateral matches, Indian athletes and teams can participate in multi-nation tournaments where Pakistan is also a participant. This clears the way for Indias fixtures in the upcoming mens Asia Cup in September and the womens ODI World Cup in October. However, the ministry left one critical question unanswered: whether Indian athletes will be allowed to compete in multilateral events hosted in Pakistan itself. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports recently issued fresh guidelines on sporting engagements with Pakistan. The government reiterated that while India will not host Pakistan or tour the country for bilateral matches, Indian athletes and teams can participate in multi-nation tournaments where Pakistan is also a participant. This clears the way for Indias fixtures in the upcoming mens Asia Cup in September and the womens ODI World Cup in October. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The match will mark the first cricketing face-off between the two nations since cross-border hostilities escalated following the Pahalgam terror attack in April. Article Source: IANS
Telangana DCA Seizes Medicines Shipped To Maharashtra Illegally
Antibiotics, analgesics, anti-ulcer drugs, antifungal drugs and cough syrups were seized during the raid
Sharad Pawar rejected Devendra Fadnavis's request to support NDA's Vice Presidential candidate CP Radhakrishnan, citing ideological differences and Radhakrishnan's alleged misuse of power as Jharkhand Governor during Hemant Soren's arrest. Pawar emphasized that his party cannot support individuals who do not uphold democratic principles. Fadnavis had sought support from Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray, highlighting Radhakrishnan's position as Maharashtra Governor.
Roads in Mumbai will be pothole-free before Ganesh festival: BJP Ministers
BMC has received some 8,000 complaints of potholes so far, said Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, who is also the Guardian Minister for the city.
No Hanuman Temples, No Maruti Cars: This Maharashtra Village Worships A 'Demon'
Nandur Nimba Daitya village in Maharashtra has a unique tradition of worshipping a daitya and avoiding all references to Lord Hanuman.
Congress Indulges In 'Vote Theft', It Stands Exposed: D Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis slammed the Congress over its vote theft allegations, claiming that a BJP MLA from Satara district has exposed how the opposition party itself indulges in such fraudulent means.
Ganesh Chaturthi Gets State Festival Tag In Maharashtra
In a meeting held by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, it was announced that this year's Ganesh Festival will be celebrated as a Mahayuti Government's State Festival.
Mumbai Police busts Rs 60.82 crore cyber fraud racket, 12 held
Mumbai Police have busted a cyber fraud racket worth Rs 60.82 crore, arresting 12 people, including a couple, for duping victims nationwide. The gang used 943 bank accounts and multiple SIM cards to carry out frauds involving digital arrests, online shopping and share trading.
Air India Mumbai-Jodhpur flight aborts take-off due to operation issue, details inside
An Air India flight, operating from Maharashtra's Mumbai to Rajasthan's Jodhpur, returned to the bay due to an operational issue, a spokesperson said.
PM Modi launches projects worth over Rs 13,000 crore in Bihar
PM Modi launched several key initiatives, including -- inauguration of the 600 MW Buxar Thermal Power Plant, built at a cost of approximately Rs 6,880 crore. The plant is expected to significantly bolster power generation capacity, improve energy security, and cater to rising electricity demands in the region
Maharashtra govt to grant 25,000 each to 1,800 bhajani mandals for Ganesh festival
Ashish Shelar announced that the Maharashtra government will provide 25,000 to 1,800 bhajani mandals. This grant aims to help them purchase musical instruments. The initiative is in anticipation of the upcoming Ganesh festival, starting August 27. Online applications will be accepted from August 23 to September 6. Shelar encouraged all bhajani mandals to apply and benefit from this scheme.
Amit Shah accuses opposition's VP candidate Justice Reddy of 'aiding' Naxalism
KOCHI: Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah on Friday accused the Congress-led alliance's Vice-President candidate Justice B Sudershan Reddy of supporting Naxalism, saying if he had not delivered the Salwa Judum judgement, extremist Left movement in the country would have ended before 2020. He was speaking after inaugurating the Manorama News conclave organised by Malayala Manorama group here on Friday. Shah said that, with the Congresss choice of candidate for the Vice-President post, the partys chances of winning in Kerala have further diminished. Sudershan Reddy is the person who helped Naxalism. He gave Salwa Judum judgment. If the Salwa Judum judgement had not been given, the Naxal terrorism would have ended by 2020. He is the person who was inspired by the ideology that gave Salwa Judam judgment, Shah said, referring to 2011 SC judgement on Salwa Judum, during a question answer session as part of the conclave. In December 2011, Justice Reddy of the Supreme Court ruled that using tribal youths as Special Police Officers--whether called 'Koya Commandos', Salwa Judum, or by any other name--in the fight against Maoist insurgents was illegal and unconstitutional. He also ordered that they be immediately disarmed. Shah said Kerala has faced the brunt of Naxalism. People of Kerala will certainly see that the Congress party, under the pressure of Left parties, is fielding a candidate who supported Naxalism and used a pious forum like the Supreme Court, the Home Minister said. INDIA bloc VP candidate: Jurist behind many landmark rulings and ex-chairman of Telangana caste census committee The ruling NDA has picked Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan, a seasoned BJP leader from Tamil Nadu with an RSS background, as its vice-presidential candidate . Shah responded to a question regarding the three recently introduced bills in Parliament, which the BJP describes as anti-graft legislation. There is nothing further to address on this matter. I have asked the people of the country in Parliament: do they want the Prime Minister to run the government from jail? What kind of debate is this? It is a question of morality. Now they are asking why it was not included in the Constitution earlier. When the Constitution was drafted, it was not anticipated that people who had been to jail would continue to hold elected office, he said. The Home Minister referred to the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal on graft charges while he was Chief Minister of Delhi, and to his refusal to resign after being jailed. Now, there was an incident where a Chief Minister ran the government from jail. So, should the Constitution be amended or not? There was also a BJP government in power, but we never faced such a situation, Shah said, indicating that if Kejriwal had resigned following his arrest, this new bill would not have been introduced. He also took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, claiming that the Congress leader had torn up an ordinance introduced by the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government in 2013, which sought to provide relief to MPs and MLAs who had been disqualified or convicted of a crime. At the time, the ordinance was brought in to help Lalu Prasad by Manmohan Singh. Rahul Gandhi, in the name of morality, tore up a cabinet-cleared copy of the ordinance in public. The same Rahul Gandhi is now seen embracing Lalu ji at Gandhi Maidan, Shah said. Regarding the 'vote theft' allegation, the Home Minister maintained that after Rahul joined the Congress leadership, he saw constitutional matters with doubt. On the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), a major overhaul of the electoral roll conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, Shah accused the Congress of creating unnecessary controversy over the exercise. He claimed that the Congress had the opportunity to raise objections at the constituency, district, and state levels, but had not submitted any complaint on SIR so far. Regarding the implementation of SIR in other states, he said that it was for the Election Commission to decide. The EC has decided to conduct SIR across the country. In Bihar's voters' list, there were 22 lakh people who had died. There is a possibility that bogus votes would be cast. So, should their names be removed or not? It is a matter of common sense, he said.
CM Fadnavis says, `Congress itself indulges in vote chori
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on Friday countered Rahul Gandhis vote chori allegations, citing BJP MLA Atul Bhosales claim that former CM Prithviraj Chavans family members voted in multiple places. Fadnavis said Congress stands exposed and urged Gandhi to respond, while also seeking support for NDAs vice-presidential candidate
An 18-year-old boy committed suicide and ended his life by jumping into well in Devalne village in Yeola taluka of the district.
India Recorded At Least 84 Heatstroke Deaths in 2025 Summer: Study
Maharashtra reported the highest number of deaths at 17, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Telangana with 15 each: Study
7.5-magnitude earthquake jolts rocks South Atlantic, tsunami advisory issued
The temblor happened at 11:16 pm local time in Argentina about 710 kilometres southeast of Ushuaia, Argentina, in the Drake Passage, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake had a preliminary depth of 10.8 kilometres
Congress itself indulges in 'vote theft'; it stands exposed, alleges Fadnavis
MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday slammed the Congress over its vote theft allegations, claiming that a BJP MLA from Satara district has exposed how the opposition party itself indulges in such fraudulent means. Talking to reporters here, Fadnavis said BJP MLA Atul Bhosale has exposed how family members and associates of former CM and senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan were involved in voting in more than one place. Bhosale defeated Chavan from the Karad South assembly constituency in the November 2024 state polls. The Congress stands exposed. Our MLA (Bhosale) has clearly shown how the Congress is indulging in vote theft. It is up to Rahul Gandhi to respond to this revelation, he said. Earlier this month, Gandhi made allegations of vote chori in elections, accusing the Election Commission of India (ECI) of colluding with the ruling BJP. He claimed that the poll body has not performed its duty of enforcing the 'one man, one vote' principle. The Congress leader cited data from the 2024 Lok Sabha polls to claim that more than 1 lakh votes were stolen through five types of manipulation in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment of the Bangalore Central Lok Sabha seat in Karnataka. Replying to a question about the upcoming vice-presidential elections, Fadnavis said he has spoken to Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar and sought their support to NDA candidate C P Radhakrishnan. Election for the post of vice-president is non-partisan. There is no whip. I told them that since they espouse the Marathi and Maharashtra asmita (pride), they should support him. Radhakrishnan is Maharashtra Governor and a registered voter in Mumbai, he said. ECI discredited, its G2 puppeteers decisively defeated: Congress after SC directive on Bihar SIR Uddhav Thackeray said he will discuss the matter with others, while Sharad Pawar said since the Opposition had also fielded its candidate, he would go with the opposition, he said. On the criticism against NCP MP Sunetra Pawar, wife of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, over her participation in an RSS event in Delhi, Fadnavis asked, Is RSS a banned organisation? I am proud to be an RSS swayamsevak (volunteer) as it has taught me nationalism and all inclusive development, he said. Talking about Raj Thackeray's meeting with him on Thursday, he said Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief made some good suggestions about traffic and the government will try to implement it. When there are heavy rains with severe intensity in a short span of time, infrastructure will be impacted, he said, adding that his government was working to improve the system. Bihar SIR: SC allows voters to submit claims with Aadhaar or 11 documents; criticises parties for inaction
ED conducts raids across 9 places in J-K in connection with land grabbing case
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at nine locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with land-grabbing and corruption linked to custodian properties of PoK evacuees. Officials, including patwaris and naib tehsildar, are under probe for illegal land transfers, forgery, and collusion with land mafias, according to the ED and ACB
Father Kills 17-Year-Old Daughter Over Marriage Refusal, Ends Own Life In Maharashtra
Syed Shaker in Hingoli killed his 17-year-old daughter for refusing marriage to a relative's son, then took his own life. Hingoli police registered a murder case under BNS.
Akshay Bardapurkar, the Planet Marathi founder, faces charges. Mulund Police filed an FIR against him and others. The charges include forgery and fraudulent loan transactions. Film producer Soumya Vilekar filed a petition. She alleges a fabricated partnership deed was used to secure loans. Loans from Axis Bank and Deutsche Bank are under scrutiny.
SC permits voters excluded under SIR in Bihar to submit claims with Aadhaar
Expressing concern over the lack of initiative from political parties in filing objections regarding the exclusion of nearly 65 lakh voters, the apex court instructed the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Bihar to implead all major political parties in the proceedings
Illegal quarrying in Maharashtras Ambernath goes unchecked for over a decade
Environmentalists and residents raise alarm over ecological damage, safety hazards and massive revenue losses
Forgery case on founder of OTT platform
Akshay Bardapurkar, the founder of Planet Marathi OTT platform, along with three others, has been booked by Mulund police for allegedly forging documents and cheating a film producer of Rs 85 lakh. The FIR was registered following a Bombay High Court order based on a petition alleging fabrication of a partnership deed to secure bank loans.
Karnataka CM in Assembly: 20 stampedes took place in BJP-ruled states
The stampedes he referred to include the one that had taken place in Ratangarh in 2013, Haridwar in 2021, Sehore in MP in 2023, and Hathras in UP, in which 121 people were killed in 2024
Bihar: PM Modi slams RJD and Congress over 130th Constitution Amendment Bill
During a public rally in Bihar, PM Modi launched a strong attack on the RJD and Congress, accusing them of corruption and opposing the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill. He highlighted illegal immigration concerns, pledged infrastructure projects, and announced 16,000 pucca houses in Magadh, emphasizing jobs and development for locals.
4-year-old girl drowns in water bucket at Mumbai home
In Mumbai, Aakriti Yadav, a four-year-old girl, tragically drowned at her Malad East home. The incident occurred on August 19 when she fell headfirst into a bucket of water. Her family was filling water due to limited supply. A family member discovered her and rushed her to the hospital. Doctors pronounced Aakriti dead.
Politics among reasons why justice eluded Dabholkar, Malegaon victims: Borwankar
She referred to an article written by former Mumbai Police Commissioner Julio Ribeiro in an English daily in Punjab, in which he mentioned that ex-Mumbai Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare had told him he was facing political pressure from a Delhi-based leader in the Malegaon blast case
IMD Issues Red Alert for Gujarat, Goa and Coastal Maharashtra; Heavy Rains Forecast Across Multiple States Newsonair
Animal lovers hail Supreme Court`s revised verdict on stray dogs
Animal welfare groups and shelter owners have hailed the Supreme Courts revised order on stray dogs, calling it a relief and a win for animal rights. The ruling allows release of sterilised dogs, bans public feeding, and directs MCD to create feeding zones, while aggressive or rabid dogs will remain confined for safety.
Brazil Police accuse Bolsonaro of taking USD 5 million, suspect money laundering
The AP had accesInvestigators say Brazil`s financial watchdog suspects it has a case of money laundering involving Bolsonaro, who in early September will face the verdict and sentencing phase of his trial over an alleged coup plots to the documents, which were sent to the country`s Supreme Court
Donald Trump hints at letting Ukraine fight back amid peace talks
This comes after Russia launched its largest drone and missile attack on Ukraine in more than a month, just days after a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump in Alaska
Parliament security breach: Man scales wall to enter Parliament building
A major security breach at Parliament in New Delhi was foiled on Friday after a man scaled the wall near Rail Bhawan and entered the complex. CISF personnel immediately caught the intruder near the Garuda Gate of the new Parliament building. The accused has been arrested, questioning is underway, and security has been tightened.
PM Modi discusses peace efforts in Ukraine, West Asia with French President Macr
The attack came days after US President Donald Trump held a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska in pursuit of a ceasefire agreement
Car bomb, helicopter attack in Colombia kill 13, including police officers
Petro said on X that eight police officers died in the helicopter attack and noted that the aircraft was transporting personnel to an area in Antioquia, in northern Colombia, to eradicate coca leaf crops, the raw material for cocaine
UN envoy warns of renewed violence in Syria a month into fragile ceasefire
Syria is grappling with deep ethnic and religious divisions following the ouster of Syria`s autocratic President Bashar Assad in December, which brought an end to decades of Assad family rule
SC modifies Order: Sterilised, vaccinated stray dogs to be released back
The Supreme Court has revised its order on Delhi-NCR stray dogs, directing that dogs kept in captivity be released after sterilisation and immunisation, except rabid or aggressive ones. The court banned street feeding, instructed MCD to create dedicated feeding zones, and sought a national policy on stray dog management.
Fatal gas leak at Palghar pharma unit: Four company officials booked for culpable homicide
A nitrogen gas leak at Medley Pharma in Maharashtra's Palghar district resulted in the death of four workers and injuries to two others. Police have registered a case against four senior employees of the company under culpable homicide charges.
Kerala to set up yarn bank to tackle coir fibre shortage, safeguard jobs of two lakh workers
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant intervention to revive Keralas struggling coir sector, the state government has announced the formation of a yarn bank to tackle the acute shortage of coir fibre. Industries and Coir Minister P. Rajeeve said the project, with an allocation of Rs 5 crore, is intended to ensure a steady supply of fibre to units across the state and safeguard the livelihoods of more than two lakh workers, nearly 80 percent of them women. The yarn bank will be jointly managed by the Kerala State Coir Corporation Ltd and the Kerala State Co-operative Coir Marketing Federation Ltd (Coirfed). It will stockpile coir fibre for a year, enabling small and large units to access raw material at affordable rates. Government sources added that the final decision on the location of the yarn bank will be taken shortly, but officials confirmed that it will be established in a region with large-scale coir activity to maximise impact. The announcement comes at a crucial time. Keralas traditional coir industry, which once stood as a global leader, is reeling under the pressure of scarce raw material and soaring fibre prices. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, there are about 9,000 registered coir product manufacturing units in Kerala, with about 80 per cent concentrated in Alappuzha and the rest in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram. Most of these earlier units depended on fibre sourced locally from Vaikom and Thiruvananthapuram. However, in recent years, fibre extraction in these areas has dwindled, forcing manufacturers to rely heavily on supplies from Tamil Nadu. Over the past 18 months, the cost of fibre has skyrocketed. A year ago, Vaikom coir cost Rs 40 a kilogram. Now it is sold at Rs 5060, but even at that rate it is hard to get. The Anjuthengu coir fibre, once priced at Rs 100Rs 120, is now unavailable even at Rs 180 Rs 200, said Maheshan, who runs a spinning unit in Kollam. The crisis has also weakened Keralas export performance despite rising international demand for coir products such as mats, pith, geotextiles, and other products. In 202324, Indias coir exports were valued at Rs 1,285.11 crore, reaching more than 100 countries, including the US, Australia, EU nations, China, and Japan. But Keralas contribution during the same period was a mere Rs 10.05 crore, according to records from the Directorate of Coir Development. In India, apart from Kerala, coir industries are dominant in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, Odisha, Assam, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Sources said that any delay in setting up the yarn bank will only strengthen these states, which are already posing tough competition to Kerala in the international market. Exporters warn that unless fibre prices are stabilised, Keralas presence in the sector will shrink further. We can adjust for up to a 10 per cent rise in raw material costs. But if it crosses 2030 per cent, exporters shift to Tamil Nadu or Andhra Pradesh, said Manoj Kumar, an exporter from Cherthala. The fallout has been severe on workers, particularly women in Alappuzhas cooperative spinning units, who are now struggling to find steady employment. Many workers are leaving for construction and daily-wage jobs, as there is no guarantee of work in coir anymore, said Sumathi, a worker in the spinning sector. Ironically, this Onam, Keralaonce proudly known as the land of coconutsis grappling with two coconut-related crises. On one hand, soaring coconut oil prices have forced the government to intervene to ensure an affordable supply in the market. On the other hand, the shortage of coconut fibre has put thousands of coir workers on the brink of losing their livelihood. Government sources said efforts are underway to address both troubles simultaneously, with the yarn bank expected to provide a long-term solution for the coir industry. With this initiative, the state government hopes to restore stability to the coir sector, ensure raw material security, protect exports, and safeguard the future of over two lakh workers in one of Keralas oldest traditional industries. Export data of Coir products 2019-20 : Rs 14.25 crore 2020-21 : Rs 14.13 crore 2021-22 : Rs 17.31 crore 2022-23 : Rs 16.40 crore 2023-24 : Rs 10.05 crore Source: Directorate of Coir Development, Govt of Kerala
Pakistan SC grants bail to Imran Khan in May 2023 violence cases
Khans PTI hailed the ruling, but would not be released due to his conviction in the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan, 72, had filed a petition for bail in a Lahore anti-terrorism court in the cases related to the riots
Israel Defense Forces says 10 terrorists in Gaza killed in hand-to-hand combat
Meanwhile, the IDF announced that since the renewal of ground operations of the IDF troops in Gaza, there has been an elimination of 2000 terrorists, strikes on approximately 10,000 terror targets and establishment of control corridors so as to create conditions to intensify pressure on Hamas
Not all giraffes belong to the same species, finds new study
New data and genetic studies have led a task force of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to split the tallest mammal on land into four groups: Northern giraffes, reticulated giraffes, Masai giraffes and Southern giraffes
FBI most wanted woman arrested in India for sons murder
The arrest of Cindy Rodriguez Singh, 40, was the fourth Top 10 Most Wanted capture in seven months, FBI Director Kash Patel said; he credited law enforcement partners in Texas, the US Justice Department, INTERPOL, and authorities in India for their coordination leading to Singhs arrest
Russia launches massive aerial barrage on Ukraine: 574 drones, 40 missiles fired
Kyiv says clarity on security guarantees from US, other allies will come soon; the attack mostly targeted western regions of the country, killing at least one person and injuring 15 others
Group of Ministers accept Centres proposal of two-slab GST
Panel also accepts proposal to remove the 12 and 28 per cent tax slabs; the Centre has also proposed a 40 per cent rate for five to seven select goods
Speaker irked by disruptions as Monsoon session concludes
NEW DELHI: The Monsoon session of Parliament, the fifth one of the 18th Lok Sabha which saw unprecedented protests over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar, came to a close on Thursday with the presiding officers of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha expressing anguish over the continuous and planned disruptions leading to the total washout. As both Houses were adjourned sine die on Thursday in what was one of the frostiest Monsoon sessions, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in his concluding address said that the public has great expectations from the representatives, and therefore, they should utilise their time in the House for serious and meaningful discussions on issues of public interest and important legislations. While the productivity of the Lok Sabha was pegged at 31%, the Rajya Sabha saw 39%. Out of total 120 hours, the Lok Sabha held discussions only for 37 hours. In the Rajya Sabha, discussions took place for 41 Hours 15 minutes only. The session was marked by continuous disruptions on SIR, the abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhanakhar from Vice-President post, an ugly scuffle between the NDA and INDIA members and the impeachment proceedings of High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma among others. The highlight of the session, a two-day special debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor saw high-voltage debates. Except for the 16-hour debate, the House failed to transact any business in the month-long session, which began July 21. Most part of the session was dominated by the protests held by Opposition parties inside and outside Parliament on alleged vote theft and alleged poll rigging by the Election Commission. While the Opposition stuck to their demand for a debate on SIR, the government refuted their demand citing that the exercise is part of the the poll panels administrative action and functioning. The protests also led to high drama in the streets after several top Opposition leaders, including LoP Rahul Gandhi, were detained by the Delhi Police after they took out a march to the EC headquarters in the capital. Another key takeaway is how SIR brought together the Opposition parties in the session to fight against the government unitedly. From the Congress, TMC, AAP and the CPM, more than 25 parties came together to corner the Modi government on SIR and other issues in the session. The session also saw unprecedented events such as the sudden resignation of Dhankhar, citing health reasons. Though there is no official word on the reason behind the resignation, sources say that it is linked to Dhankars acceptance of a notice sponsored by the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha to impeach Justice Varma, who is embroiled in alleged corruption charges. Another takeaway is a three-member committee set up by Birla to probe charges against Justice Varma. Thus, the Speaker has set the ball rolling for the impeachment of the Allahabad High Court judge after admitting a multi-party notice for his removal. The session has also set the stage for a high-stakes election for the vice-presidential elections, in which the NDA and the Opposition fielded candidates from the South. While the NDA picked Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan as its nominee, the Opposition has fielded former SC judge B Sudershan Reddy who hails from Andhra Pradesh. Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025 The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Manipur Appropriation (No.2) Bill, 2025 The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025 The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2025 The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025 The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Income-Tax Bill, 2025 The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Indian Ports Bill, 2025 The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025 The Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025
Election Commission appoints senior IAS officers as observers for V-P election process
NEW DELHI: Ahead of the polling of votes to elect the next Vice-President scheduled on September 9, the Election Commission (EC) on Thursday appointed two senior officers of the rank of Additional Secretary as Observers to oversee the poll process. With both ruling NDA and the Opposition having named their respective nominees for the vice-presidential elections, the battle lines are now drawn between Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan, the NDA nominee, and Justice (Retd) B Sudershan Reddy fielded by the INDIA bloc. Friday was the last day for filing nominations, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until August 25. The Vice-Presidents chair fell vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon session on July 21, citing health reasons. Officers appointed by the EC as Observers for the electoral process are Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj and D Anandan, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Finance. Additionally, Nitin Kumar Shivdas Khade, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, has been placed on the reserve list. Earlier on Friday, Reddy filed his nomination papers for the vice-presidential elections and described it as a moment of honour, and pledged to discharge the role with impartiality, dignity, and steadfast commitment, if elected. He filed the nomination in the presence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, besides other leaders of INDIA bloc partners. Radhakrishnan had filed his nomination on Thursday in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, besides a host of leaders belonging to other parties in the ruling NDA alliance.
Everytime it rains too much, Mumbai gets split in two on one side are untouched SoBoites and on the other are suburbanites who struggle through flooded roads, stalled public transport and leaking homes
We must fight to ensure our open spaces are preserved
The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) at the Mahalaxmi race course is all set to get a new club on the premises. The Clubs chairman has stated in a letter that these are exciting times for the club, with a new club house with a host of sporting facilities and rooms coming up soon
Mumbai weather: High humidity, windy and rain expected today
Mumbai is set for a wet and breezy Thursday with persistent moderate showers and temperatures hovering between 26.3C and 28.2C. High humidity and strong winds are expected. The city faces a week of continuous heavy rainfall, with Saturday predicted to bring the heaviest downpour at 37.8 mm.
IITBs hyperlocal forecast aids BMC during flooding
Cidcos Navi Mumbai sees water shortage due to delay in water scheme project
FAIMA launches toll-free mental health helpline for doctors across India
The initiative, led by Maharashtra doctors Dr. Sajal Bansal from Nagpur and Dr. Akshay Dongardive, FAIMAs president from Mumbais Nair Hospital, involves 50 psychiatrists and offers free assistance 20 hours a day.
Thane city to soon see launch of pod taxi project: Minister
Maha counter to US tariff: 100 tweaks to boost biz
Monorail halts again due to overcrowding, 50 deboarded
An Open Letter to the Ganesh pandals all across Mumbai
Illegal stay: Court rejects bail plea of Bdeshi national
Infant survives 35-min CPR after pneumonia-induced cardiac arrest
