Nagpur : The 18th December was observed as “Minorities Rights Day” by Central India Group of Institutions functioning under the ageis of Mehmuda Shikshan Mahila Gramin Vikas Bahuddeshiya Sanstha’s Nagpur in its College Campus at Lonara today,

Former Cabinet Minister Dr. Anees Ahmed served as the program’s chief guest and gave a briefing to the audience about the event’s importance to Indian citizens’ fundamental rights with special reference to cultural and educational rights. Ahmed also raised apprehensions about the Articles 15, 29 and 30 of the Indian Constitution, which safeguard minorities’ rights by guaranteeing that they can preserve their language, script, and culture and that they can be admitted to schools without facing discrimination on the basis of caste, race, religion, language, or sex. He also mentioned that minorities have the freedom to create and manage the schools of their choosing and to teach their children in their native tongue. Ahmed also told the audience that we all want the government to uphold the constitution and forbid discrimination against minorities.

S.M. Rajan, Director of Central India College of Law. Mrs. Pallavi Bhave Principal Central India College of Law, Mr. Tushar Meshram, Director, Skill Development, Dr. Sayyad Sajauddin Gulab (Principal, Central India College of Pharmacy), Mr. Madankumer Kadwe (Principal CIIP), Mrs. Arfa sultana (Principal, AMCES IOP), Mr. Syed Abdul Majeed MSMGVBS sanstha’s representative, Dr. Yasmin Siddiqui.

Principal of Central India Adhyapak Mahavidyalaya, Dr. Swati Raut, Principal of Central India College of Education and Dr. Seema Chikhale, Principal of Central India Women’s College of Education, B.Ed. (SNDT) College, Dr. Sumati Deodhar, Principal Central India Nursing the College were prominently present on the occasion. Dr. Sayyad sajauddin underscored his significant contributions to secular education and social emancipation proclaimed the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious, and Linguistic Minorities.

The programme was conducted by Prof. Iftesham Ansari, Central India College of Pharmacy and vote of thanks was proposed by Asst Prof. Charlete Paul Central India Nursing College, Large number of students and staff were present on the occasion.

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Nagpur: A domestic gas cylinder explosion rocked a house near the NMC Isolation Hospital in the Imamwada area, leaving a couple and their two children seriously injured. The injured family members were rushed to the Medical Hospital for treatment, with one of them reportedly in critical condition, according to the Imamwada Police. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening at around 7:30 PM, causing panic among neighbors who immediately rushed to the scene.

The injured couple has been identified as Surendra Pal and Rama Pal. Police reports indicate that Surendra Pal lived near the Isolation Hospital with his wife, their 11-year-old daughter, and 13-year-old son. On the evening of the incident, Rama Pal was cooking dinner when a sudden gas leak led to an explosion in the cylinder. At the time, Surendra Pal and the children were in the kitchen having their meal. The explosion triggered a massive fire in the kitchen, leaving all four family members injured.

Neighbors, alarmed by the loud blast, hurried to assist the family and informed authorities. All four injured individuals were admitted to Ward 4 of the Medical Hospital for treatment. One of the injured is reported to be in critical condition. Police are investigating the cause of the gas leak and ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent such incidents in the future.

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Nagpur: Nagpur recorded the lowest temperature in the Vidarbha region on Wednesday, with the mercury plummeting to a chilly 9.2°C. The city also registered a relative humidity of 70%, adding to the winter chill.

Other districts across Vidarbha reported similarly cold conditions. Gondia experienced a low of 9.6°C, while Wardha and Bhandara recorded 10°C each. Akola was slightly warmer, reporting a minimum temperature of 10.9°C.

This marked drop in temperatures across the region indicates the arrival of colder winter conditions, bringing a distinct nip to the air.

7-Day Weather Forecast for Nagpur

– Thursday: Clear skies, low of 10°C, high of 27°C
– Friday: Sunny, low of 9°C, high of 28°C
– Saturday: Mostly sunny, low of 10°C, high of 28°C
– Sunday: Partly cloudy, low of 11°C, high of 27°C
– Monday: Clear skies, low of 12°C, high of 26°C
– Tuesday: Sunny, low of 12°C, high of 27°C
– Wednesday: Partly cloudy, low of 13°C, high of 26°C

Stay tuned for more updates on Nagpur’s weather and keep your sweaters handy as winter sets in!

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Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the memorial of Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), in Nagpur on Thursday morning. The leaders paid tributes to Dr. Hedgewar and later paid respects at the memorial of M.S. Golwalkar, the second Sarsanghchalak of the RSS.

Accompanying them were State Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe, and several legislators from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction.

The delegation also interacted with RSS office-bearers, who provided an overview of the Sangh’s philosophy and activities. The visit coincides with the ongoing winter session of the Maharashtra state legislature in Nagpur.

This gesture highlights the continued ties between the state leadership and the RSS, as well as their recognition of the organization’s historical figures.

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Nagpur: Amid the ongoing winter session of the Maharashtra state legislature, a gathering of ruling alliance MLAs was held at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur’s Reshimbagh. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and other BJP and Shiv Sena MLAs participated in the intellectual session organized by the RSS.

However, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was notably absent, continuing his pattern from last year when he avoided attending a similar event at the RSS headquarters.

NCP MLA’s Presence Draws Attention
In a surprising turn, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLA Raju Karemore, associated with Ajit Pawar’s faction, attended the event. His presence at the RSS headquarters has sparked political speculations. When questioned by reporters, Karemore clarified, “I came here on my own initiative. There were no instructions from the party regarding this visit.”

He further mentioned that he had not discussed this event with Ajit Pawar or any other NCP MLAs, adding that he was unaware of whether others from the party would attend.

Shinde Highlights RSS Ties
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also attended the session, emphasizing his long-standing connection with the RSS. Speaking to the media, Shinde said, “This is not my first visit to Reshimbagh. I have been here many times before. My association with the Sangh started during my childhood. Later, I joined Shiv Sena and imbibed the teachings of Balasaheb Thackeray and Anand Dighe. The philosophies of the RSS and Shiv Sena are aligned.”

The session and the contrasting attendance of alliance leaders have reignited discussions about the dynamics within Maharashtra’s ruling coalition and the NCP’s internal strategy.

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Prof. Ram Shankar Shinde was unanimously elected as the Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council through a voice vote held in the Council today. The announcement was formally made in the House by Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe.

BJP MLA Ram Shinde has been unanimously elected as the Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Following the commencement of today’s session, Ram Shinde officially took his place as the Chairman, marking the beginning of his tenure in this prestigious role.

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Nagpur: Amid the presence of the entire State Government and big bosses in Nagpur for the Winter Session of the State Legislature, the Second Capital was rocked by a daring armed robbery on Wednesday night. A gang of five armed dacoits targeted a house in Jagdamba Nagar, Kapil Nagar, and made off with gold and cash worth ₹11.20 lakh, including ₹6 lakh in cash.

The Pandey family of Maa Jagdamba Nagar in Mhasala village on the outskirts of Nagpur fell victim to the audacious heist. The gang, speaking Hindi, broke into the first-floor drawing room by bending the window grills. Once inside, they looted 28 tolas of gold, silver ornaments, and cash. The masked dacoits also took the house owner, Rajesh Chhedilal Pandey (60), hostage at knifepoint in his own SUV, seizing all mobile phones in the house. They later abandoned the car along with the phones, releasing Pandey about 5 km away near Hanuman Dam, behind the Koradi temple.

Remarkably, the dacoits refrained from taking the ornaments worn by Rajesh’s wife Kiran or daughter Shivani. Even the jewellery Rajesh himself was wearing was left untouched. The family noted the gang’s peculiar behaviour, including avoiding eye contact and even offering Rajesh a glass of water when he appeared panicked. The gang used two kitchen knives to threaten the family and carried an iron rod, presumably used to bend the balcony window grills.

A well-planned operation

Police suspect the gang had insider information about the family’s financial standing, as the dacoits specifically demanded the keys to two cupboards in the bedroom where valuables were stored. The gang even attempted to dismantle a sofa, suggesting they believed additional valuables were concealed inside. The family’s CCTV cameras were rendered useless as the recording device was taken by the dacoits.

After the gang left, Kiran and Shivani rushed to a relative’s house to seek help. Meanwhile, Rajesh, upon being released, alerted the police with assistance from a truck driver. The Nagpur police, already on high alert for the Assembly session, were shaken by the incident but relieved that no injuries occurred. Senior police officials have since instructed all stations to heighten vigilance and monitor suspicious activity closely.

The investigation

Zonal DCP Niketan Kadam stated that multiple teams have been deployed to crack the case. “We are working on several clues and suspect the involvement of local burglars within the gang,” he said. Investigators are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and coordinating with neighbouring police jurisdictions.

Details of the loot

The stolen items include:

• ₹6 lakh in cash

• Gold jewellery:

o 40-gram Rani Haar (₹1.20 lakh)

o 35-gram Mangalsutra (₹1.05 lakh)

o 15-gram gold necklace (₹45,000)

o Two gold bracelets weighing 60 grams (₹1.80 lakh)

• Silver jewellery worth ₹15,000

• Several electronic items, including the CCTV DVR

An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the IPC. Police are exploring the possibility that the gang is part of a well-organized network targeting affluent homes. However, no arrests have been made yet.

Community in fear

The daring heist has left not only the Pandey family but also the entire neighborhood in fear. Residents are questioning the security measures in place, especially with the heightened presence of government officials in the city.

This incident has highlighted vulnerabilities in the city’s law enforcement, even as Nagpur hosts critical Winter Session. The police’s ability to swiftly resolve the case will be under intense scrutiny as they race to apprehend the culprits and restore public confidence.

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Nagpur: In a decisive move to tackle the growing influence of Naxal overground workers in urban areas, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday introduced the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The legislation aims to provide a targeted legal framework to counter the activities of urban sleeper cells linked to Naxals.

While tabling the Bill, Fadnavis highlighted the urgent need for preventive measures against the unchecked growth of urban sleeper cells. “The urban sleeper cells of Naxals are multiplying rapidly, especially in metropolitan areas. This necessitates swift and decisive action to prevent further destabilization,” he stated. The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s intent to strengthen mechanisms against overground workers and sympathizers of Naxal organizations, who he described as “equally dangerous” as the banned groups themselves.

Need for specific legislation

Currently, the State’s actions against such individuals rely on provisions under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). However, Fadnavis explained that these laws have limitations. “While the UAPA addresses terrorism, its provisions often do not cover the activities of overground workers or Naxal sympathizers,” he said. Moreover, there have been instances where the Supreme Court struck down the applicability of UAPA provisions in anti-Naxal actions, underscoring the necessity of a specialized legal tool.

Learning from other states

Fadnavis noted that Maharashtra would join six other Naxal-affected states—Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand—that have enacted similar legislation. These states have used their Public Security Acts to ban 48 frontal organizations linked to Naxals, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted laws. “Anti-Naxal Operations teams in Maharashtra have long sought specific legislation to counter activities in urban areas. This Bill addresses their demand,” he added.

Key provisions and implications

The proposed Bill outlines measures for identifying and dismantling urban sleeper cells and monitoring organizations that may act as fronts for Naxal ideologies. It also seeks to empower law enforcement with enhanced tools for investigation and prosecution while maintaining constitutional safeguards to prevent misuse.

Fadnavis reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting the constitutional framework. “This legislation is a proactive step toward securing urban spaces from the influence of Naxalism and ensuring peace for Maharashtra’s citizens,” he concluded.

Trying to assuage the feelings of the Opposition benches and civil society at large, Fadnavis stated that the State Government itself is going to send the draft of the Act to Joint Select Committee which comprises members of both Houses of State Legislature, for its total scrutiny. Even civic societies and organisations that fear curbing of freedom of speech by the State or crackdown on dissent using the provisions of Special Act, would be able to present their side before the committee, he said.

“Till now it was thought that the Maoists movement was limited to remote jungle areas, but now their modus operandi has changed over the years and Urban Naxal pose a grave threat to the Constitution scheme of arrangement. It is well known that in absence of any specific legislation to counter the urban sympathisers, the movement has infiltrated various civil society movements and activity trying to build support espousing the cause of Maoists.”

The Chief Minister said the stated idea behind bringing the Special Public Safety Act is to empower police to crackdown on ‘safe houses’ and ‘urban dens’ of the Maoist network in the cities. The Bill mentions that Naxal organisation activities are fomenting unrest amongst citizens. Especially their united front are propagating their ideology or armed rebellion among common masses which threatens to undermine Constitutional mandate and is aimed at disrupting public order. Due to lacunae in the present laws, the Naxals were getting away in courts which struck down applicability of UAPA in anti-Naxal operations, saying terrorism and Naxalism are not the same.

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Nagpur: Raising concerns over the deteriorating cleanliness in Nagpur, BJP MLA Pravin Datke on Wednesday called for the immediate cancellation of waste management contracts awarded to AG Enviro and BVG by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), citing shoddy work.

Speaking in the Assembly, Datke emphasized the urgent need for corrective action to address Nagpur’s mounting garbage crisis. He highlighted several issues with the operations of the two waste management companies.

“Nagpur, once ranked among top in cleanliness, has now fallen to 27th place due to the companies’ poor performance. Their vehicles often skip rounds, garbage piles up in public areas, and no chemical treatment is carried out at the Bhandewadi waste management centre,” he said.

The Nagpur Central MLA further criticized the lack of accountability, pointing out that complaints lodged with Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Chaudhary had not resulted in any action against the companies. He urged the state government to cancel the contracts and adopt a decentralized approach by assigning the responsibility of waste management to different companies across the city’s ten zones. “The environmental degradation caused by this negligence is alarming. The government must act swiftly to ensure effective waste management,” Datke demanded.

Datke further said, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have personally looked into it and attracted the attention of Dr Chaudhari but no step was taken. This is very serious and can impact people’s health. People are experiencing foul smells, noticed Datke. He asserted, “Considering the seriousness, both contracts should be scrapped. In Nagpur we have 10 zones so responsibility should be distributed among these many zones. This will surely improve the situation of garbage collection in Nagpur, Datke pointed out.

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde visited the memorial of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh founder Dr K B Hedgewar in Nagpur on Thursday morning and paid tributes to him.

They also paid respects at the memorial of MS Golwalkar, the second Sarsanghchalak of the RSS.

State assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar, council’s deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe and various other legislators of the ruling BJP and Shinde-led Shiv Sena also paid homage at the memorials of Dr Hedgewar and Golwalkar.

They also met with the Sangh office-bearers who gave them a brief introduction of the RSS.

The winter session of the state legislature is currently underway in Nagpur.

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Nagpur: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has proposed a 14.95% hike in bus fares starting next year to fund improvements in services, upgrade bus terminals, and expand its fleet. The announcement was made by MSRTC Chairman and Minister Bharat Gogawale during a press conference at Vanamati, Dharampeth, Nagpur, on Wednesday.

Speaking after the 306th board meeting of the corporation, Gogawale emphasized the urgent need to address passenger grievances and enhance the overall travel experience. “Our aim is to redevelop aging bus stations, add new facilities, and replace old buses to meet growing demand,” he stated.

Focus on passenger comfort

Acknowledging the influx of women passengers due to the ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme, Gogawale highlighted an increase in ridership across MSRTC’s 14,000-bus network. However, he admitted that aging vehicles have been a persistent issue. To resolve this, the corporation plans to induct 3,500 new buses, with 2,200 vehicles being sourced from Ashok Leyland Limited by January 2025, and 1,310 additional buses being acquired on a rental basis over the next three months.

Infrastructure overhaul

The minister also announced plans to revamp bus stations through redevelopment projects, some of which will be executed on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) basis. “Ganeshpeth Main Bus Station in Nagpur is set to become one of Vidarbha’s most attractive transit hubs,” he said. He also noted that work on 183 bus stations across Maharashtra, initiated under former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in collaboration with the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), is gaining momentum.

Revenue strategies

The fare hike proposal is part of a broader strategy to stabilize MSRTC’s financial health and meet the demands of an expanding passenger base. Gogawale stressed the importance of reinvesting in infrastructure and services to ensure sustainable operations.

When asked about the future of MSRTC-owned land at the Mor Bhavan terminus in the heart of Nagpur, Gogawale deferred to Vice-President Madhav Kusekar, indicating potential plans for its utilization.

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Nagpur: An enduring appeal of Marathi music filled the air with ‘Abhijaat Marathi’ staged on the sixth day of the ongoing Khasdar Sanskrutik Mahotsav (KSM) 2024 at Ishwar Deshmukh College of Physical Education Ground in Nagpur on Wednesday. The presentation showcased trinity of classical Marathi music, dance and literature.

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways; Kanchan Gadkari, President of Sanskar Bharti; Sudhir Gadgil, MLA; Amar Mahadik, MLA; Padma Shri Dr Vikas Mahatme, former Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha; Dhananjay Bapat, Director of Tarun Bharat; Sandeep Bharambe, Editor of Navrashtra; Ajay Sancheti, former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha and other dignitaries were prominently present on the occasion.

‘Abhijaat Marathi’ proved to be a memorable addition to the Khasdar Sanskrutik Mahotsav. The artists Ajit Parab, Mugdha Vaishampayan, Sawni Ravindra, Sankarshan Hade, Anand Ingle, Bhargavi Chirmule, Nandesh Umap presented and honoured the works of great Marathi poets and litterateurs Sant Dnyaneshwar, Charvak, Sant Eknath, Sant Tukaram, G D Madgulkar, PL Deshpande, and V V Shirwadkar (Kusumagraj).

They presented several dance musical acts including Om Namoji Aadhya, Mogra Fulala, Powada extolling the greatness of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Abhanga, Gondal –a ritual of praising the Goddess, Geet-Ramayan, film songs, and Lavani. The programme concluded with a poem ‘Labhale Amhaas Bhagya Bolto Marathi’ of Kavivarya Suresh Bhat.

The entire presentation was narrated by Girija Oak Godbole, Sankarshan Karhade, and the script was by Hrishikesh Joshi. Shyam Deshpande and group including Shweta Garge, Vijay Borikar, Prof Prashant Pandavkar, Jayant and Prashant Upgade, Chhaya Wankhede, Vaishali Upadhye, Madhavi Palsokar, Seema Saraf, Ashwini Lule, Pratiksha Pattalwar, Nidhi Ranade, Akanksha Charbhai, Manisha Kulkarni, Saurabh Killedar, Abhijeet Borikar, Shridhar Korde, Gajanan Ranade, Yogesh Hivarale performed songs based on devotion during the first session of the day.

The proceedings of the day was conducted by Balasaheb Kulkarni and Renuka Deshkar. Prof Anil Sole, President of Organising Committee, Ashok Mankar, Dilip Jadhav, Prof Rajesh Bagdi,Treasurer, Dr Deepak Khirwadkar, Ashish Vandile, Sanjay Gulkari, were also present.

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Nagpur: Dr. K.H. Govind Raj, the Principal Secretary of Maharashtra’s Urban Development Department, reviewed the various development projects of Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Nagpur Smart City on Tuesday, 17th December. He also inspected the ‘Command Control Center’ developed by Nagpur Smart City for the Nagpur Police. Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravindra Singhal, NMC Additional Commissioner Mrs. Anchal Sood Goyal, Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Lohit Matani, Dr. Ashwini Patil, and NMC Additional Commissioner Mr. Ajay Charthanakar were present during the inspection.

Dr. Govind Raj first visited the Atal Bihari Vajpayee City Operation Center, located on the sixth floor of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Administrative Building at the NMC headquarters. He was briefed about the various operations being managed from the City Operation Center, including solid waste management, public transportation (Aapli Bus), the Integrated Traffic Management System, and the handling of civic grievances.

Dr. Sheel Ghule, General Manager of the E-Governance Department of Nagpur Smart City, shared details about the ‘Nagpur Safe and Smart City Project.’ He informed Dr. Govind Raj that 3,600 CCTV cameras have been installed across the city. Some of these cameras are temporarily out of service due to ongoing development projects. The Smart City initiative also includes smart parking and Wi-Fi facilities. The CCTV cameras help in curbing crime in the city. Additionally, 4,000 cameras from Metro, malls, and other marketplaces have been integrated into the system. Dr. Ghule also mentioned a demand for installing 2,000 additional cameras at 350 new locations across Nagpur.

Additional Commissioner Mr. Ajay Charthanakar provided information on the Integrated Traffic Management System, which is being developed by Keltron and is expected to be completed next year. This system will play a significant role in improving Nagpur’s traffic management. He also mentioned that the tracking of waste collection vehicles, Aapli Bus, fire department vehicles, and sewerage network operations is being managed from the City Operation Center.

Dr. Govind Raj was also briefed on the ‘Command Control Center’ set up for the Nagpur Police, which utilizes advanced software like ‘SIMBA’ for tracking criminals. This software enables the police to identify criminals based on voice and facial recognition, as explained by Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Lohit Matani.

On the occasion NMC Deputy Commissioner Mr. Vijay Deshmukh, Dr. Gajendra Mahalle, Smart City company secretary Ms. Bhanupriya Thakur, Executive Engineer Mr. Rajesh Dufare, Rajesh Rathod, Swapnil Lokhande, and other officials were present.

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Nagpur: Bharatiya Janata Party MLC Ram Shinde was on Thursday elected unopposed as Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. The Council Chairperson’s post was lying vacant since July 7, 2022, after NCP leader Ramraje Naik-Nimbalkar’s term ended.

With Shinde’s election, the presiding officer’s post in both Houses of the State Legislature is with the BJP which is part of the Mahayuti coalition along with the NCP and Shiv Sena. Last week, BJP MLA Rahul Narwekar was elected unopposed as Speaker of the 15th Maharashtra Legislative Assembly during the ongoing Winter Session here.

On Thursday, MLCs Shrikant Bhartiya, Uma Khapre and Shivajirao Garje proposed Shinde’s name for the post of chairperson, which was seconded by Manisha Kayande, Amol Mitkari and Gyaneshwar Mhatre.

Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe announced Shinde’s election as new chairperson. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his deputies Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve then escorted Shinde to his official chair. Congratulating Shinde, Fadnavis praised his work as a minister, and said he is a grassroots leader who is a good orator. The Chief Minister also expressed confidence that Shinde will excel in his new role.

Eknath Shinde said the new Chairperson will do justice to all members. Deputy CM Pawar said the post carries a lot of responsibility, and expressed confidence that Shinde will play his role very well. Leader of Opposition Danve also congratulated Shinde while noting that the Opposition supported his candidature because of his nature and his style of functioning.

Shinde, 56, became a member of the Upper House of the Maharashtra Legislature on July 8, 2022. Before that, he had served as a minister in the then Devendra Fadnavis government during 2014-19. He lost to NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar in Karjat Jamkhed assembly seat in the November 20 State Assembly polls by a narrow margin.

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Nagpur: A significant administrative decision was taken for Nagpur city during the ongoing winter session of Maharashtra. Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis has approved the promotions of officials in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). The proposal for promotions, submitted by the Municipal Commissioner and Administrator, Dr. Abhijeet Chaudhary, was approved by the state government. This decision has been welcomed with enthusiasm by the officers and staff of NMC.

With the approval from the state government, 45 officers in the NMC have received promotions. Among them, Assistant Commissioner/Ward Officer, Mr. Ganesh Rathod, has been promoted to Deputy Commissioner. A total of nine Deputy Engineers have been promoted to Executive Engineers, 34 Junior Engineers have been promoted to Deputy Engineers, and Mrs. Sadhana Sayam, a Principal (Secondary School), has been promoted to Education Officer (Secondary).

The Maharashtra Government’s order of 10th May 2023 approved the comprehensive staffing structure for Nagpur Municipal Corporation, consisting of 17,981 posts. Under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, a Promotion Scrutiny Committee was constituted under the chairmanship of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Abhijeet Chaudhary. In the meeting held on 24th September 2024, the committee recommended the promotion of eligible officers to the designated posts. Following this, the committee’s recommendations were submitted to the state government for approval, and the state government has now granted promotions for the designated posts.

In response to the approval, the Municipal Administration Department issued an order confirming the promotions. Accordingly, one Assistant Commissioner/Ward Officer has been promoted to Deputy Commissioner, nine Deputy Engineers to Executive Engineers, 34 Junior Engineers to Deputy Engineers, and one Senior Teacher (Secondary) to Education Officer (Secondary), totaling 45 promotions. This large-scale promotion of officials has created an atmosphere of excitement and joy in the Municipal Corporation, and the officers and staff have expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister and the government.

List of Officials Promoted:

Ganesh Rathod (Assistant Commissioner/Ward Officer) – Promoted to Deputy Commissioner
V.Y. Jungare (Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
N.S. Bobde ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
S.R. Gajbhiye ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
Pravin Kotangle ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
Prashant Sonkusale ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
R.J. Dupare ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
Manoj Gadre ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
Girish Likhar ( Deputy Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Civil)
Rajesh Gurmule ( Deputy Engineer, Mechanical) – Promoted to Executive Engineer (Mechanical)
Shweta Arun Dandekar (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Vaijayanti Vishnu Ade (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Abhijit Yashwant Netam (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Y.G. Khandate (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Raju B. Gautam (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Ravi Z. Mange (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Vijendra V.H. Sahare (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Devendra M. Bhovate (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Kishore A. Mathurkar (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Vivek Telrandhe (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Javahar Nayak (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Prashant S. Waghmare (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Sanjay G. Ingale (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Jagdish M. Bawnkule (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Manoj M. Rangari (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Sanjay Gujar (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Rahul A. Deshmukh (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Pramod G. Mokade (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Sarang Pimpalkar (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Gajanan H. Warade (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
A.R. More (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Manoj Sangidwar (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Pushpa Joge (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Narendra Totewad (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Prashant Nehare (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Rajesh Wankhede (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
R.N. Jivatode (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Sanjay Padole (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Prashant Sapate (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Umesh Madne (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Pradeep Sarpate (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Deepak A. Meshram (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Purushottam Phalke (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Abhijit Bhure (Junior Engineer, Civil) – Promoted to Deputy Engineer (Civil)
Sadhana Sayam (Principal, Secondary) – Promoted to Education Officer (Secondary)

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Nagpur: A teenage girl committed suicide by pouring tarpin oil on herself after her parents opposed her marriage with her boyfriend. The incident occurred under the limits of Kondhali Police Station near Nagpur.

The deceased has been identified as Khushi (16). She was studying in class 11 (Commerce branch) at Adarsh Junior College, 8th Mile near Nagpur.

According to police, Khushi was in a romantic relationship with Sahil Kudmate, a 24-year old man from Khadgaon, Wadi. Sahil had given her a mobile phone, which she kept hidden from her parents. They used the phone to stay in touch. A few days ago, Khushi’s relatives discovered the phone. They found a photo of Khushi and Sahil on the phone. They informed Khushi’s parents, who tried to persuade her to end the relationship. However, Khushi insisted on marriage with Sahil.

When she threatened to harm herself if the marriage did not happen, her parents took her to the Kondhali police station. When police spoke to Khushi, she told them that she would only marry Sahil. The police spoke with her and then sent her home. Later that day, Khushi’s parents left her with her aunt and returned to the police station. Khushi sent her aunt away and then set herself on fire by pouring tarpine oil on herself. She died from the burns.

Neighbours noticed smoke coming from the house and broke down the back door to get inside. They found Khushi dead inside. A neighbour alerted Kondhali police. Police officers and Khushi’sparents arrived at the house. They were deeply saddened after learning about Khushi’s death. Police sent Khushi’s body to the hospital for post-mortem.

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Nagpur: The Legislative Council witnessed uproar on Thursday as opposition MLC Anil Parab objected to Deputy CM Eknath Shinde’s reply on the Governor’s speech, saying Shinde was using the floor of the House for political remarks.

Shinde, without taking any names, kept on making sarcastic swipes at Uddhav Thackeray. While Thackeray is also an MLC, he was not present in the House today.

These sarcastic comments by Shinde on Uddhav finally seemed to have gotten to Shiv Sena UBT legislators, leading to Parab taking objection. Parab said, “The Deputy CM is supposed to speak on the Governor’s address. Reply to that topic, but he’s not doing that.”

Shinde established who he was targeting in his speech by mentioning Uddhav’s “courtesy meet” with CM Devendra Fadnavis in Vidhan Bhavan on Tuesday.

Shinde said, “People who were criticising using the harshest words during the poll campaign then took a bouquet and met someone.” The photo of Uddhav offering a bouquet to Fadnavis went viral on social media, leading to political speculations as well.

Shinde took on Uddhav again, saying, “It was said “tu raahseel nahi tar mi raahnar” (either I’ll be left standing or you). This statement was made by Uddhav during a public rally in reference to Fadnavis.

“The way some people change colours will put a chameleon to shame,” said Shinde.

He added, “Some people said Rs 1500 per month for Ladki Nahin is too less. What happens in Rs 1500 nowadays, they asked. The problem is, people born with a silver spoon will never know the value of Rs 1500.”

And then, taking his comments a bit further, Shinde said, “Some people get the throne as part of legacy, not brains.”

When the opposition tried to rile up Shinde by saying that the CM chair was snatched away from him, Shinde said “In 2022, Fadnavis was Dy CM and I was CM. Now it’s my turn to return the favour. I said to Fadnavis, “you become CM and I’ll be your deputy.”

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Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a petition filed by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Amol Kirtikar challenging the victory of rival Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Waikar in the Lok Sabha elections.

Kirtikar had lost to Waikar of Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena in the Mumbai North-West constituency by a narrow margin of 48 votes in the parliamentary elections held earlier this year.

The Uddhav Sena leader alleged discrepancies in the elections and sought the High Court’s intervention to set aside Waikar’s election, declaring it “null and void”. Kirtikar also requested to be declared duly elected from the constituency.

In his plea, the Sena (UBT) leader also alleged significant lapses by election officials overseeing the counting process, which he claimed had impacted the poll outcome.

MP Waikar, through advocate Anil Sakhare, filed an application seeking the dismissal of Kirtikar’s election petition on the grounds of non-maintainability. The court had reserved its order on the matter on December 11.

On Thursday, Justice Sandeep Marne allowed Waikar’s application, thereby dismissing the election petition. The detailed order will be made available later.

During the hearing, Justice Marne identified tendered votes as the primary issue of contention. Tendered votes are allowed when a voter discovers that their vote has already been cast by someone else. Such voters can still cast a ballot if they possess a voter ID and voter slip.

Advocates for Kirtikar, Pradip Patil and Amit Karande, argued that while 333 tendered votes were recorded, 120 were missing and uncounted. They also alleged irregularities, including the denial of seating for counting agents and unauthorised mobile phone usage in the counting centre, though they acknowledged that tendered votes were the main grievance.

Kirtikar had also requested a recount, which was denied. Waikar’s advocate contended that the petition lacked specific averments and failed to establish how the tendered votes favoured the petitioner.

While Waikar secured 4,52,644 votes, Kirtikar garnered 4,52,596 votes.

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Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has expressed strong disapproval of the increasing number of temple-mosque disputes emerging across India. Speaking at a lecture titled ‘India – The Vishwaguru’ in Pune on Thursday, Bhagwat cautioned against attempts to stir communal tensions in the wake of the Ram Temple’s construction in Ayodhya.

Bhagwat noted that some individuals, emboldened by the Ram Mandir project, are seeking to position themselves as “leaders of Hindus” by instigating new disputes over religious sites. “After the construction of the Ram Mandir, some people think they can become leaders of Hindus by raising similar issues in other places. This is not acceptable,” he said, adding that such actions disrupt societal harmony.

Call for Unity and Harmony
The RSS chief emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive society, stating that India’s tradition has long been one of coexistence and mutual respect. “Every day, a new matter is being raked up. How can this be allowed? This cannot continue. India must show the world that we can live together in harmony,” Bhagwat remarked, without naming specific incidents.

His comments come amidst several legal petitions demanding surveys of mosques to investigate potential temple structures beneath them. The Supreme Court recently issued a nationwide directive barring courts from entertaining such cases, reinforcing the need to avoid fueling communal conflicts.

‘Country Runs Per Constitution’
Bhagwat further addressed the historical context of communal divides, tracing them back to British-era policies that exacerbated tensions between communities. He stated, “It was decided that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya should be given to Hindus, but the British created a rift between communities. This sense of ‘algavwad’ (separatism) eventually led to the creation of Pakistan.”

Highlighting the importance of the Constitution, Bhagwat reiterated that India is now governed by democratic principles where elected representatives run the government. “The days of hegemony are gone,” he asserted.

A Message Against Dominance
Bhagwat questioned the narrative of “majority versus minority,” advocating for equality and coexistence. “Everyone is equal here. The tradition of this nation allows all to follow their own forms of worship. The only requirement is to live in harmony and abide by the rules and laws,” he said.

His remarks underscore the RSS’s stance on unity and its rejection of efforts to provoke division under the guise of religious leadership. The comments come at a critical juncture when religious site disputes have resurfaced as a contentious issue in the country.

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Nagpur: Living up to his famous declaration, “I shall return,” Devendra Fadnavis resumed office as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and delivered his first speech in the State Assembly during the Winter Session in Nagpur on Thursday.

In his address, Fadnavis confidently tackled a range of topics, countering the Opposition while offering assurances to the citizens of Maharashtra. He emphasized that caste considerations were irrelevant to the people of the state, who had chosen him as their leader without hesitation or prejudice.

“We dismantled the Opposition’s fake narrative factory during the campaign for State Assembly elections,” he declared, striking a defiant tone.

No scheme will be halted, assures CM

Fadnavis sought to reassure the House, stating, “I want to assure everyone here: No scheme will be discontinued. The December installment for the ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme will be deposited immediately after the Winter Session concludes.” While reaffirming that no new conditions would be imposed on beneficiaries, he highlighted instances of fraud, such as people opening multiple accounts to claim undue benefits, and pledged to address these issues responsibly.

He reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling promises made to farmers, youth, and the underprivileged, asserting that the administration would prioritize their welfare.

Personal challenges and public sympathy

Reflecting on the past five years, Fadnavis stated that he and his family were relentlessly targeted. “Perhaps it’s a record in Maharashtra that six to seven people spoke against me from morning to evening. But I thank them because their criticism only generated public sympathy for me,” he remarked.

He credited his governance, which was inclusive and beyond caste or religious lines, for earning public trust. “The elections have demonstrated that the caste considerations that dominate politicians’ minds do not influence the people’s hearts,” he added.

Historic electoral victory and unwavering resolve

Fadnavis credited the Mahayuti for achieving an unprecedented milestone: securing over 50% of votes in the last 30 years. “I once said I’m like a modern Abhimanyu who can break through any ‘Chakravyuh’ (complex challenges). Despite attempts to trap me from all sides, I’ve emerged victorious, thanks to my party and the team working with me,” he asserted.

Quoting a poetic line, Fadnavis added, “आंधीयो मे भी जो जलता हुआ मिल जाएगा, उस दिए से पुछ लेना मेरा पता मिल जाएगा”’ (“In storms, if you find a lamp still burning, you’ll know it’s mine.”)

Witty remarks on Ajit Pawar and Nana Patole

Beginning his speech by thanking both Deputy Chief Ministers, Fadnavis humorously commented on Ajit Pawar’s position. “Dada, people call you the permanent Deputy Chief Minister, but I wish you all the best to become Chief Minister someday,” he quipped.

In a light-hearted exchange with Opposition leader Nana Patole, Fadnavis responded to Patole’s comment, “I’m still here,” by saying, “You were the last one to speak.” When corrected by the Opposition, he chuckled and replied, “Alright, let it be. If you want, whisper it in my ear, and I’ll answer.”

Acknowledging PM Modi’s vision

Fadnavis also referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaign slogan ahead of the elections, “एक है, तो सेफ है” (“If we are united, we are safe”) which emphasized societal unity as the key to progress. He credited the slogan and the leadership of BJP State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule for the alliance’s sweeping victory.

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