Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

Godrej Properties has gained a reputation and philosophy of innovation and excellence to the real estate industry. At Nagpur, Godrej has made state-of-the-art luxury apartments housed in Nagpur’s tallest towers situated in the heart of the city. Each apartment is carefully crafted to provide the owners with the best of amenities and comforts while providing ample personal space for a family. The best of safety and security features are also provided.

However, there was a theft in one flat that was not even occupied by the owners. According to the owner Manoj Agrawal, the 1750 square feet luxury flat situated in Godrej Anandam Colony was purchased at around Rs one crore. The builders Godrej Infrastructures Private Limited had handed over the possession of the flat in the month of October.

Manoj Agrawal the victim of theft while speaking to Nagpur Today claimed that he and his family had performed the puja (house-warming ceremony) somewhere around October 2, 2014. Since the flat was yet to be furnished and interior decorations yet to be completed, the owner Manoj had locked the house and was continuing to live in his old house in Wardhaman Nagar. Manoj Agrawal is said to be running a Tea Powder business named Shivam Tea Company.

Two days back i.e. February 2, 2015, his new neighbour Sonkunwar of Godrej Anandam Colony visited his house to invite him to the house-warming ceremony which was scheduled on February 11, 2015. However, before leaving, he asked Manoj if he is getting his furniture and other fittings done in his house. When Manoj denied saying that he does not have time to supervise the work so he is not getting the work done now, his neighbor Sonkunwar claimed that why is his door open for the past 4 days?

Manoj came to check his Flat No-206 and found the main door open. On entering the flat, he claims that all the doors of all the rooms were open (which he had shut before leaving the flat). He also found that his bathroom and the toilet were regularly used for many days.

Unfortunately, he found the octo-metallic idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi) stolen. Manoj claimed that these two idols were gifted by his In-laws for the house-warming ceremony. Thee idols were octo-metallic and costed around Rupees 18000 to 20,000/-. He immediately called the Security Supervisor Ankit who had allegedly claimed that guarding his house is not their work.

Irked by this, he claimed that he had called on Police No 100. When he did not get any response, he called the Police Control Room. The police control room asked Manoj to register a complaint with Ganeshpeth Police Station. Manoj then called up Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinash Kumar who assured him of prompt action. Within a few minutes, the cops came and inspected the flat. After that they asked Manoj to lodge a First Information Report (FIR) with the Ganeshpeth Police Station.

Manoj Agrawal told Nagpur Today that he has paid the complete cost and has cleared all the payments. He claimed that he has paid an additional amount of Rs 3, 50,000/- (Rupees three lakhs fifty thousand) towards Security arrangements as a one-time maintenance charge. He said that even after making this payment and Godrej Infrastructures Private Limited installing Closed Circuit Tele-Vision (CCTV) surveillance systems and Security Guards, how does such a theft take place. These keys are Godrej Locks Duralock keys which are rust proof stainless steel body, with advanced 14 pins ultra technology which gives high security. No other keys can be used to open the lock. Using any other key will damage the lock or the original key. When neither the lock nor the key is spoilt, it simply means that a spare or master key was used to open the lock.

Nagpur Today spoke to the Security Chief Chandrakant Tiwari, an Ex-Serviceman whose office is at the Main-Gate. He claimed that Manoj Agrawal is lying. According to him Godrej Infrastructures Private Limited hands-over the flats to the owners after receiving all the payments. The Company then hands-over a set of 35 keys for each lock in the house. These keys are usually with the owner and the company does not retain any keys with them. Many owners give the keys to workers of Carpenters, Interior-Decorators, Architects, Pundits (for Puja) etc. These new workers often do not know how to operate these locks. Though it appears as if the door is locked, it is not locked unless one hears a distinct click.

The Security Chief also claimed that Manoj Agrawal had initially claimed that the idols were made of Plaster of Paris while later when the cops arrived he conveniently changed the version and claimed that the idols were Octo-metallic. The idols were so small that one can carry them in their pockets. The Security Chief also claimed that the CCTVs have been installed only 2 days ago and the other paraphernalia is not yet connected to provide footage.

However, Manoj Agrawal lodged a FIR with Ganeshpeth Police Station with a motive that if a complaint is lodged and police takes cognizance of the same and takes action against the Security Guards, in future when everybody comes to stay in these flats will be safe and their property will be secure.

Mysterious theft in flat at Godrej Anandam Colony

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Maharashtra government will soon impose a ban on tobacco consumption at public places, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today.

“Cancer caused by consumption of tobacco, gutkha, paan masala and cigarettes affects not only that individual, but an entire family is destroyed,” he said.

“Consumption of tobacco at public places will be banned and necessary steps taken in this regard,” Fadnavis said after visiting the Tata Memorial Hospital here on World Cancer Day.

The incidence of cancer is the same as it was 20 years ago. That is why there is a need to create awareness about it, he said.

It is seen that sale of tobacco and paan masala is on the rise in the vicinity of educational institutions. A ban on their sale will be enforced with the help of Home and education departments, he said.

“Punjab government has levied hefty taxes on tobacco. It is not yet clear what the impact of the heavy taxes has been. We will also consider it after the impact becomes clear,” the Chief Minister said.

Devendra Fadnavis: Maharashtra govt to ban tobacco consumption at public places

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

A two wheeler showroom located near Ashok Chowk on Great Nag Road here caught fire due to short circuit in electic meter installed at the showroom. The fire engulfed the electric wires including the meter, however no loss of vehicles kept in the showroom was reported. The incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday. Two fire tenders were pushed into service immediately after the security guards in the showroom called up the fire department whose timely action averted major accident.

Sources informed the electric meter was installed near the showroom’s workshop where many two-wheelers were parked.
It was a major tragedy averted, said sources.

File Pic

Fire at two-wheeler showroom at Great Nag Road; Major accident averted

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Appeal to all Publishers and Book-sellers to put-up stalls

Nagpur.

Books, like friends, should be few and well chosen. It is always said “We are known by the company we keep.” Similarly we are identified by the books we read. Books like friends have a very strong influence on our character. It is always advised in almost all the religious scriptures that reading good books with good values have a positive impact on the person and that is reflected by our behavior which is what makes the world a better place to live.

The Rajya Sanskruti Sahitya Mandal (State Literature and Culture Association), The District Information Office, Education Officer of Secondary Education-Zilha Parishad, District Library jointly are organizing a Nagpur Book Fair at the Amrut Bhavanam, Andhra Association, North Ambazhari Road.

Those interested in hosting a Stall at the venue will have to contact District Librarian R C Nallavade, District Library, Panchasheel Square, Beside Tilak Patrakar Bhavan.

Nagpur Book Fair on February 26, 27 and 28

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

A two wheeler showroom located near Ashok Chowk on Great Nag Road here caught fire due to short circuit in electic meter installed at the showroom. The fire engulfed the electric wires including the meter, however no loss of vehicles kept in the showroom was reported. The incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday. Two fire tenders were pushed into service immediately after the security guards in the showroom called up the fire department whose timely action averted major accident.

Sources informed the electric meter was installed near the showroom’s workshop where many two-wheelers were parked.

It was a major tragedy averted, said sources.

Fire at two-wheeler showroom at Great Nag Road; Major accident averted

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

Often the driver is blamed for rash driving or for drunk driving whenever an accident occurs. It is true in most cases too. However, the exception proves the rule. In a freak accident that occurred a few feet before the VNIT Gate No 4 (Main Gate), the front-right-tyre of a Tata Vista car just burst. The driver tried desperately to control the vehicle that was screeching away. However, a few feet after the main gate of the VNIT, the car toppled over.

The Tata Vista Car bearing RTO registration number MH-31 EA 9672 owned by Manoj Jaiswal a businessman having a daily needs shop in Hill Top, Verma Layout. The driver of Manoj Jaiswal identified as Shrikant aged 25 years and a resident of Deeksha Bhoomi area.

On-lookers claim that the car was in a considerable speed and when the car reached a few feet before VNIT Main Gate (Gate No 4), the front-right-tyre burst causing the vehicle to go out of control. The driver desperately tried to control the vehicle so that other road users do not get hurt. However, when the car reached a few feet after VNIT Gate, the car toppled over.

The onlookers and youngsters rushed forward and turned the car straight. The driver was extricated from the car and rushed to Padole Hospital, Swalambi Nagar Square. The driver is said to have sustained injuries to his spinal column and knees. However, his injuries are not critical, opined some on-lookers who had rushed him to Padole Hospital.

Providentially, no life was lost nor did any other road user get hurt in the mishap. The police officials of Rana Pratap Nagar Police Station arrived at the spot and coordinated the post-mishap proceedings.

Tata Vista car turns turtle after right front tyre burst

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

Veteran pro-Vidarbha leader Jambhuwantrao Dhote also known as the “Lion of Vidarbha” led a Group of Commercial Sex Workers and Social Activists and officials of NGOs to Sitabuldi Police Station to protest against the relentless raids on the city’s red-light area Ganga Jamuna on February 4, 2015.

Social activists and officials of NGOs from different organizations had decided to join hands to hold an ‘Akrosh Sabha’ or protest meeting against the relentless raids on the city’s red-light area Ganga Jamuna by Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinash Kumar had initiated the action around a fortnight ago against the flesh trade racketeers followed by raids by the Lakadganj police.

The meeting was held at Vidarbha Marathi Sahitya Sangh at Jhansi Rani Square chaired by Vidharbha Veer Jambuwantrao Dhote as he is fondly known had formed the ‘Amrapali’ organization more than two decades ago to launch a similar stir when police had tried to compel Ganga Jamuna residents to refrain from engaging in flesh trade. A sizeable numbers of residents of Ganga Jamuna which included around 500-600 Commercial Sex Workers and Transgenders (Hijra) attended the meeting.

While speaking to media personnel, Veteran pro-Vidarbha leader Jambhuwantrao Dhote said that the BJP Government had made the life of common man miserable and now they are not even sparing the Commercial Sex Workers. He claimed that these Commercial Sex Workers were somehow earning a livelihood by selling their bodies, now are bereft of any food or shelter for the past so many days. He also claimed that earning their livelihood by selling their bodies is their ‘Constitutional right’.

Jambhuwantrao Dhote claimed that all these Commercial Sex Workers tie Rakhi on my wrist on every Rakhshabandan Day. So it is my duty to protect them and their interest.

Jambhuwantrao Dhote also declared that the police atrocities over Commercial Sex Workers will not be borne quietly for long. He claimed that today they have staged an agitation at Sitabuldi Police Station tomorrow we’ll stage an agitation at the office of Commissioner of Police and after that we’ll stage an agitation in Chief Minister’s residence. We shall not move from Chief Minister’s house till he orders or grants permission to re-start of Ganga Jamuna.

Jambhuwantrao Dhote stages protest against police raids on Ganga Jamuna

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur:  The additional 50 MBBS seats in Indira Gandhi government medical college and hospital (Mayo Hospital) have been once again given protection by the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court. In coming academic year, the court has directed Central government not to act on recommendations on the Medical Council of India (MCI) on issue of these additional seats. Due to this, total 150 MBBS seats in Mayo Hospital will remain as it is.
Since the government was unable to provide necessary facilities, the Medical Council of India had recommended the Central government not to give new permission to additional 50 seats in Mayo. This was brought to the notice of the high court by amicus curie Adv Jugalkishor Gilda.

The court had asked the State government to file reply on this issue. Accordingly, dean of Mayo hospital Prakash Wakode filed an affidavit in the court and gave information about lacuna cited by the Medical Council of India and measures taken. In its report, the Medical Council of India had mentioned various issues like vacant posts of professors in various departments, availability of four X-ray machines, shortage of beds etc. After completion of new building of hospital, many of these problems will be solved. This building is scheduled to be completed up to December 31, 2015, informed Dr Wakode.

Judges duo Bhushan Gavai and Mrudula Bhatkar after considering above facts, passed orders.

HC slams MCI

The Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court has slammed the Medical Council of India. Last year the high court had asked the state government to file affidavit about making available facilities and had given protection to additional seats. The Medical Council of India had moved the supreme court against this decision. The Supreme court had dismissed MCI’s petition.

Still after this, the Medical Council of India recommended to the Central government to reduce MBBS seats in the Mayo hospital. This is contempt of court. The government has given assurance to remove deficiencies up to December 2015. Due to this there is no question of cancelling approval to additional seats even before this period ends.

The court will take serious steps against the Medical Council of India in future if any attempt to reduce even one seat is made, the high court warned the Medical Council of India.

HC protects 50 addl MBBS seats of Mayo, slams MCI

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Stating that while international price of Crude oil has come down from  $115 to $ 51, which amounts to 60% price reduction but in India prices haven’t come down proportionately the Consumer Forum of Mumbai has earnestly requested CM Fadnavis to intervene and bring down prices of food and essential commodities in Maharashtra.

They have pointed out that if not 60% diesel prices in India too have come down 25% in the last 6 months or so yet this benefit to Transporters and traders hasn’t been passed on to the consumer at all. The Forum  says that whenever diesel and petrol had become dearer these merchants, traders and shop keepers immediately hiked up prices of all goods – then why haven’t they passed on the benefits of price reduction to people too?

Prices of essential goods ( food grains, vegetables , groceries etc. ) and services are still very high and getting dearer causing a lot of hardship to common people the Forum complains. Whole sellers and traders must be checked and if necessary forced to bring down prices it has been suggested.

This definitely seems the ‘Winter of our discontent’. “Where are achche din?” Consumers are left wondering.

Consumer forum complains to Fadnavis about continued high prices

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Dreaded global terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) may have invited sharp criticism from world leaders for their dastardly act of beheading journos and provoking young recruits to wage jihad, but many college girls in Nagpur have some different views on ISIS. To start with, Nagpur Today visited few city colleges and asked the happening studious girls what ISIS is, and there comes some really interesting replies…

Must Watch : How Nagpur girls replied to question – What Is ISIS?

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Low pressure and limited water supply for next 3-4 days

Nagpur: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Orange City Water (OCW) have jointly taken up a realignment of inlet pipe work at Tajbagh ESR on Thursday, Feb 5. The inlet pipeline at Tajbagh ESR was suddenly displaced from its original positions resulting in heavy leakages at ESR premises. The emergency repair work has been started on war footing and will take almost 24-hours more to complete.

Due to these works, the areas receiving water supply from Tajbagh ESR may receive low pressure and limited water supply for next 3-4 days.

The areas to remain affected are as follows:
Chitnis Nagar, Azad Colony, Adarsh Nagar, Shivangi Society, Tajbagh slum, Sindhiban, Sai nagar, Auliya nagar, Dighori old Basti, Shivsundar Nagar, Radheshwar Nagar, Yogeshwar Nagar, Harpur Nagar, Pawansut Nagar, Dhanvantri Nagar, Shivsundar Nagar, Beldar Nagar, Telephone Nagar, Sarvshree Nagar, Vaibhav Nagar, Smuti Nagar, Kirti Nagar, Pragati Colony, Gausiya Colony, Rahul Nagar, Gajanan Nagar, Saint Tukdoji Nagar, Ramkrushna Nagar, Yasin plot, Nirala society, Mahananda nagar.
On Thursday, MLA from South Nagpur and NMC Water Supply Committee Chairman Mr. Sudhakar Kohle, OCW CEO Mr. Sanjoy Roy, Deputy Director (O&M) Mr Rajesh Kalra jointly visited the site and inspected the works being carried out. Mr Sudhakar Kohle and Sanjoy Roy have appealed residents of these areas to co-operate with NMC-OCW during the said works. Further they have also appealed vigilant citizens if they find any water leakages they can inform or register

OCW-NMC starts ‘emergency’ pipeline repair works on Tajbagh ESR

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

BJP and Shiv Sena will set up a high- power committee for better coordination between the two major saffron partners in the government within a week, Maharashtra BJP President Raosaheb Danve said here today.

Both partners, particularly the BJP, felt that such coordination is essential in the wake of periodic outbursts against the government by the Sena and counter-attack by a few BJP leaders, Danve told reporters here. Danve, who is here to interact with party workers in the region, said the committee would comprise five to six members from both the parties.

“I had a detailed discussion with Sena leaders, Subhash Desai and Anil Desai in this regard and both the parties agreed for such a formula to ensure smooth functioning of the government,” Danve said

He refused to give the name the members of the proposed committee,. “Just wait for another week, you will get the details,” he quipped.

Danve said the state BJP would enroll about one crore members of the party from the state by March 31, which was the target given to it.

Similarly, the BJP, on a nationwide basis, would soon have a total membership of 10 crores.
The BJP chief would be touring the entire state of Maharashtra and later announce the State Executive Committee. Danve, who is also the Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, said in keeping with the tradition of ‘one-man, one-post’, he would resign from the central cabinet well before the commencement of the Budget session.

No tiff between CM-Revenue Minister
He also claimed that there was no dispute between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse. He said both have better understanding of things and anybody’s absence in the meeting does not necessarily indicate any debate. Raosaheb Danve also pointed out that nobody questioned Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar’s absence in the meeting, whereas issue is being made out of the other case.

Soon we will have BJP-Shiv Sena coordination panel: Raosaheb Danve

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Case registered in Panchpaoli Police Station.

Nagpur: The criminal intent starts from very minor age seems to have proved true when five minors threatened a property dealer that they would kidnap his son if he does not pay protection money of Rs 5 crores. The five minors have been booked by the Tehsil Police Station on February 4, 2015.

Representational pic

Property Dealer Mohaddin Ansari alias Mannu Seth Jan Mohammed a resident of Mominpura Graveyard road, lodged a case against these minors in Tehsil Police Station. Mohaddin Ansari has two sons. The younger of the two is named Aman.

According to police sources, Mohaddin Ansari told the police officials that he received a phone call from these minor accused threatening to kidnap his younger son Nishant alais Aman if he does not pay protection money of Rs 5 crores. The minor accused also claimed that they will kill his son too.

The Tehsil Police then registered a case under sections 387, 120(B) and 34 of Indian penal Code and started a search for these minors.

Just two days ago, the luck ran out on these minors and they were apprehended by the cops, before they could translate their evil plans.

These minor accused were caught by the cops two days earlier when they were going on a two wheeler. When these minors were questioned, the reply of these minors shook the cops. The main kingpin or the master-mind who had planned the kidnap is a 17-years-old student of XIIth class. His parents had separated after a divorce on years back.

The accused was living alternately with either of his parents. The rift in the family and the separation had made this boy a vagrant. His crime-life began with stealing two-wheelers. He had succeeded in stealing three two-wheelers too. However, he could not find any buyers for the stolen two-wheelers. When his endeavour to earn money from stealing two-wheelers remained a distant dream, he started mulling over some crime that can yield rich returns. When he was still mulling over the plan to commit some crime that will help him earn big amount, his eyes fell on the property dealer Mohaddin Ansari. He knew that Mohaddin has properties worth crores. He also knew that Mohaddin Ansari loved his sons a lot and will be ready to do anything for them. He then thought that if one son is kidnapped, then he could definitely become rich with the ransom amount.

The master-mind went along with two of his friends (also vagrants) to make an initial survey of the house. However, he soon returned back when he noticed the CCTV cameras right from the entrance to the living room. However, these minors went back the second time.

When these minor accused found out that there is one hour left for the younger son of the builder to come out, they were fooling around in front of his house. Unfortunately for them, just at that very moment, the police officials in the Police-Patrolling vehicle noticed them. They immediately apprehended them and started questioning them. When they found out the reason behind their presence in that area and the plan to kidnap, it really shook the cops. Had the cops ignored the minors, some untoward incident is sure to have occurred. Alertness and swift action by the cops saved the young boy from being kidnapped and killed.

Five minors booked for threatening to kidnap property dealer’s son and demanding Rs 5 crores

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

Jambuwantrao Dhote while addressing the residents of red-light area Ganga Jamuna, said that he has listened to the woes mentioned by the residents and other people living in the area. He claimed that the atrocities of the police won’t last long. He said that they are the original residents and owners of the houses in Ganga Jamuna. They have every right to stay there. He termed the police action as thoroughly illegal.

He said that those very leaders and politicians who had come with folded hands and asked for votes have now turned against them after they have come to power. He said that some of the residents have informed him that when the wife of Union Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari had come to their area, she was formally welcomed and felicitated. However, now she is also not ready to redress their problems.

Jambuwantrao Dhote claimed that (based on what was told to him by the Female Sex Workers of Ganga Jamuna) the education of the small children of the residents of this area is suffering because of the police action. He claimed that the residents of Ganga Jamuna too have a right to live and continue the age-old profession. Nobody can prevent them from doing so because it is Constitution right given to every citizen to choose any career or profession.

Jambuwantrao Dhote claimed that BJP and Shiv Sena are perpetrating sheer atrocities on the residents of Ganga Jamuna. He claimed that they have spoken to a few Lawyers who will be filing a petition in the High Court against the police action. He said that he and a few leaders from the area will meet the Commissioner of Police K K Pathak, Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinash Kumar and try and find an amicable solution. Failing which, they will then approach the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He said that they will also approach Central Minister Nitin Gadkari. We’ll remind them of the promise made before the elections. If they do not get their grievances redressed amicably, then they will have to resort to Hunger strike.

He told the residents of the area that they will certainly get justice. He added that the media is with them. He claimed that the Builders lobby are trying to acquire their land so that they could build big shopping malls in the area between Itwari and Wardhaman Nagar. He added that the residents of neighbouring areas who are out to oust them from this place have been coerced by money or threat to demand the ouster of the residents of Ganga Jamuna.

While speaking exclusively with Nagpur Today, Jambuwantrao Dhote said that these agents of law are breaking the law by heaping atrocities on the residents of Ganga Jamuna. He claimed that these residents are also citizens and have every right to live and pursue their profession. Those whom they voted should now do justice to them. These mothers and sisters living in these areas too have a right to live.

Jambuwantrao Dhote claimed that they will approach Commissioner of Police, Chief Minister and Central Ministers and discuss amicably. If not they will Gherao the Chief Minister.

Jambuwantrao Dhote claimed that builders with affinity with BJP are behind this action. He claimed that Advocate Janburkar, Adv. Kishore Lambat and Adv. Sudhir Voditel have been contacted to represent their case in the High Court.

Comrade Kukde and other social activists accompanied Jambuwantrao Dhote during his visit to Ganga Jamuna.

Jambuwantrao Dhote to continue tirade against police atrocities at Ganga Jamuna

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

The narrow lanes and by lanes that constitute Nagpur’s ill known ‘red light area’ Ganga Jamuna are silent and lifeless even at 12 noon. Hameeda bai is sitting outside her tiny shop displaying colorful packets of chips, snacks, biscuits and stationary for children like note books, pens and pencils. There is not a customer in sight.

“This has been the condition for almost three weeks now. I used to have sales of Rs. 300/ to 400/ everyday. We are a family of 7 subsisting on this shop and live here only in a small rented place behind. We came here from Raipur area some years ago – there is no one to go back to there. If matters continue like this where will we all go, how will we survive?” Hameeda asks.

There is Ramesh who has a pan shop; he also sells condoms. The shop is closed, shutters down.

“If there are no customers, no business why should I open the shop? I have admitted my wife to hospital for cancer treatment just 5 days ago. They ask me to buy costly medicine and get it – but without any income how will I buy them? My wife’s life is in God’s hands now” he says in despair.

Meena runs a tea shop – even today it is doing some ‘business’ – the only place where there is sign of life. She is making tea in kettles  – on a stove. ( And serving it to journalists like us and some other people who are gathering around).

“Police has been coming to my shop for years and drinking tea – without ever paying for it” she says. “And two days ago they threatened me, asked me to close my tea shop and even took away my cylinder. They said they will charge me under the Essential Commodities Act, I don’t know under what crime…but I don’t care anymore. We are used to living hand to mouth. If necessary we will starve for some days” she says matter of factly. But after we have had our tea – which we ordered hoping to do some business and ‘help her out’ she refuses any payment firmly.

“You have come to help these women. Please do all you can…” she requests us.

There is a sudden commotion at the other end of the lane. Two policemen, constables probably, emerge from a inside a house pushing out a young man. They are wielding lathis and they lash the man in our presence. They run after him, hitting him till he runs away.

“Did you see that?” Ask a group of 5-6 women gathered in front of the house. “They beat us like that too even if we venture to go to the market to buy vegetables or anything for our children. It’s not just women police, even men hit us with their lathis and give us bad ‘gaalis’”.

“Till last month, they were our main exploiters. Each of these men had a favourite woman… a ‘rakhel’. They use us extort money from us and then abuse us too. If you do a DNA test, more than half the children you see around will be ‘b——-s’ of these very policemen.” Says an elderly woman in disgust.

You do see a lot of children – many more than I had expected to see. Of all ages , boys as well as girls. And surprisingly you see a lot of men too, many of them quite young. I see a man in his thirties carrying a little baby.

“Who are you and what are you doing here?” I ask.

“I was born here and have lived here all my life – since I was also a baby like this” he says. He also does some petty  business in the same area. His wife is a ‘normal home staying woman’ he says. Whose offspring he is, one can guess. No need to ask.

Not 50, not 70 or 80, I learn that Ganga Jamuna is almost 150 years old according to some old residents. From the complexion and the language of the women you realize most of them are not local.

“Yes, most of these women are from far off states like U,P, M.P., Karnataka, Chattisgarh and Orrissa. “says Hemlata Kolhe who is with the Red Cross Society and has lived and worked here for many years. Surprisingly quite a few of them are from Gwalior. They form the ‘Gwalior Gharana’ where traditionally women go into this ‘business’ I am told.

“When we set up the Red Cross dispensary here to fight AIDS, V.D., T.B. and other diseases these women are prone to, many women were HIV infected. All of them died. Since we have begun creating awareness about AIDS and teaching them protection they are more careful. Now the incidence of AIDS has come down quite a bit. Among the 1400 or so ‘Sex workers’ who live here, about 95 are HIV positive. Many of them have TB as well. TB and AIDS are like brothers – you have one, you are sure to contract the other”.

Hemlata tries to teach me a lot of jargon (abbreviations) used in her line of work.

TI is target Intervention.

KP is key population.

FSW is female Sex worker.

MSM is Male sex (with) male.

Then there are also non brothel sex workers, rural sex workers, migrant labour  who are the susceptible group etc. etc.

And proof that  State Governments have knowledge of what goes on here and has gone on for a long time is the presence of Govt. posted officers too who work with Red Cross and other NGOs to check AIDS among this population. There is government run Society called Maharashtra State Aids Socy and Amit Tembhurne is an officer with them.

He agrees with Hemlata that if the population of sex workers concentrated here is disturbed they will disperse throughout the city,  will get disorganized and will spread AIDS and VD else where . In places where organizations like thei’s can’t monitor their check ups, counsel them and treat them.

“HIV affected women need check ups every six months. They need to renew their medicines and we monitor them to see if any of them is developing AIDS. Also TB patients need consistent treatment for 2 – 3 years. If they discontinue it in middle, they get infected by a more drug resistant bacteria and then it is always fatal”. Hemlata informs me.

Hemlata and her team are quite  the Activists and totally devoted to the cause of these women , For Hemlata specially they are like her wards, her children almost. (Though she looks surprisingly young and spritely. Also very spirited). Apart from medical treatment and counseling, she tries to be their lawyer, their spokesperson and their guardian too.

After the first  police raid around the 15th of last month she held a meeting on the 19th. She sought advise from Senior Bureaucrats, retired IAS officers and then took appointment with the Jt. Commissioner of police. She has been following it with DCP Abhinash Kumar too. She visits each and every woman who has been injured in police ‘action’ – often she is the one who takes them to the hospital and then goes to visit them at home too.

She is ever ready to help anyone from the media, but wary about sharing anything with any politician or such.

“Who can say who will turn against them if it suits them?” She asks.

“During elections all of them come to canvass here and ask for votes. This is a good ‘vote bank’ for all parties since altogether about 2000 + voters live here.”

“Another time Society and local leaders remember us is around any Puja time – Ganpati puja, Durga puja everything.” They tell me.

“Tab kam se kam Rs. 1000/ ka reciept phad ke jante hai” ( They take at least Rs. 1000/ from us ).

“Now where are they? Why don’t they come and help us out? We haven’t had a square meal in so many days” Meera laments.

Yes – all their names are such. There are lots of Meeras, Radhas, Sitas,Durgas and such names.

But their Gods have deserted them – or have never been with them in the first place.

When asked to speak in front of Jambuwantrao Dhote, some comrades and some NCP workers Radha says simply

“We were not children of well to do or even well meaning parents. Otherwise why would we be here?”

Another says ” punish us banish us, but spare our children, Let them go to school. My ten year old son was thrown out of the local school yesterday because I could not pay Rs. 600/ for his exam fee. They say not to bring him back till I don’ t pay. With no business happening, how do I bring the money” says Vimla.

The final word belongs to Sita.

“If the politicians and police find us such a blemish on society why don’t they marry us and take us home?” She asks.

“Forget us. Are they even willing to marry our innocent daughters?”

“Bai logon ko bhagao…gandagi hatao” Nagpur Police on a rampage in Ganga Jamuna

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has given the state administration two weeks time to file a reply regarding progress in the infamous Honey Singh case. The court has asked the police to submit a written affidavit on the progress of first information report (FIR) filed against the bollywood singer. The affidavit has to be filed before February 18, directed the court.
During an earlier hearing, the judicial magistrate first class (JMFC) had issued a ‘proclamation’ against the offender after efforts to trace him by the cops bore no fruits. The JMFC court had also ordered blocking of five computer links of the obscene songs of Honey Singh. A copy of this order was forwarded to the cyber law branch of the Electronic and Information Technology department in New Delhi to block the link.
It may be noted here that on the basis of complaint lodged by a vigilant citizen Anandpal Singh Jabbal, Pachpaoli police had registered offences under sections 292, 293 of the Indian Penal Code and sections 67, 67-A of the Information Technology Act against the Punjabi rap singer.
Honey Singh has been in the controversy for singing vulgar songs. According to Jabbal, the songs rendered by Honey Singh are not in good taste and can have a damaging effect on the youth of the country.
Jabbal Singh had lodged a complaint against Honey Singh about six months ago. However, the Pachpaoli police did not act on the complaint nor had taken any action against him. Jabbal then made a complaint to the commissioner of police, but he too failed to act in the matter, it was learnt.
Jabbal then lodged a complaint with the court of Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC), which too failed to intervene in the matter and rejected his application. Jabbal then knocked the doors of the High Court and filed a criminal writ petition against Honey Singh in the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court. After the high court reprimanded the police, an FIR came to be registered against the famed singer.
The high court now wants to know the progress in the FIR made by the police.

HC asks state to inform about progress in Honey Singh case

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

‘Explore the heart of India’

Harmandeep Singh Anand, MD, and Rishiraj Singh Anand, joint MD, and Gulshanpal Singh Anand, Chairman of Jagsons Travels Pvt. Ltd, share details on Global Panorama Showcase 2015 and give insight into the industry

A project conceptualised in the year 2007, it took almost six years for Jagsons Travels to organise Showcase Jagsons, which became a success in 2013, and got rechristened as Global Panorama Showcase (GPS) in 2014. The vision of GPS has been conceived with the intention of educating the buyers from central India who normally are left behind and do not get the much needed information. This year will be the second edition of GPS and as an event organiser the third event for the company.

The theme for GPS-2015 is ‘Explore the heart of India’, this year’s Global Panorama Showcase is to be held at Hotel Centre Point, Ramdaspeth, Nagpur from February 8-10, 2015. The event has received confirmed table bookings from 120 exhibitors, while about more than 350 buyers are expected to attend the event. Jagsons Travels is hosting close to 120 buyers from central India and the remaining are from other parts of India. Tourism Malaysia is the major Country partner for GPS 2015 and Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is the State partner. About 12-14 tourism boards are participating at GPS 2015 which include: Malaysia, Spain, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Bulgaria, Canada, Indonesia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Oman, New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland amongst others. Lavasa is Smart City Partner for the event.

Apart from these destinations, the event will also have local and international hotel chains, airlines, DMCs, cruise liners, travel insurance provider, visa service providers and other ancillary service providers participating as well. “The main focus of GPS is to meet, network, educate and empower the agents from tier II and tier III cities of Central India and give them a larger exposure to available products and services to cater to their clientele in a much professional and organised manner. The workshops are interactive and allow the participants to ask questions relating to destinations, products and visas that will help them in creating itineraries and explaining to their customers better,” says Harmandeep Singh Anand, Managing Director, Jagsons Travels and Hon. Secretary General, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI).

Unique aspect
The unique aspect of GPS 2015 is that the first day is open for B2C interactions, while the next two days are an exclusive B2B event day. “Jagsons Travels Pvt. Ltd. have tied-up with York University in Canada who are the Global education partners. FansonStands.com is the Sporting events partner. The Technology partners include InterGlobe Technology Quotient and Travelport and Global Destination Partners Outbound Marketing and OM Tourism. TrawellTag-Cover More is our Travel assistance partner while Indigo Airline is the Airline partner. Ms.Madhu Saliankar of EntReps Solutions is Marketing Partner for the event. Jagsons Travels Pvt. Ltd. are also organising post familiarisation tours to Pench National Park and stay at Tathastu, which is the post tour partner for the media and hosted buyer group,” mentions Anand.

Gulshanpal Singh Anand, Chairman of Jagsons Travels Pvt. Ltd. opines, “Earlier for anything or event related to the travel industry we had to depend on the bigger cities, but now we are providing a platform through Global Panorama Showcase 2015 for the travel fraternity to showcase the products and get educated with the latest trends and products in the market. Our main motivation is to equip and educate the agents locally so that they are at par with their counterparts from metros and other major cities. Ever since we have started organising GPS we have tried to bring all the best of suppliers in the travel fraternity under one roof. Besides this, now with the growing middle-class spending capacity and interest to visit new destination, Nagpur as a market has a lot of potential for growth.”

On the challenges of the travel industry, Rishiraj Singh Anand, joint MD opines, “With more number of travel agents entering into the market, the environment has become quite competitive and hence for survival in the market, it is imperative that travel agents focus on upgrading their knowledge on various products and skills, as well as look at serving ancillary services while keeping a close watch on the changing dynamic trends in the market.”

With Nagpur being the Tiger capital of India, inbound tourism to the state has been increasing considerably. Moreover Nagpur being well-known as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination, there are many other surrounding areas and new destinations in the state which are offering unique experiences to travelers. The growth potential of the state is enormous in terms of tourism development and attractions.”

Global Panorama Showcase 2015

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Meet Chandrashekhar More, the man who helped Maharashtra State win back the 1st Prize for the Republic Day tableau after 20 years. The tableau which displayed the rich Maharashtrian Tradition “Wari” at the Rajpath. After receiving the award at National level, yesterday he got felicitated by the State for his contribution.

Though his national claim to fame is through this achievement, this man has achieved so much in such young age that many can only dream of achieving. He has done art direction for almost 2000 ad films (a great feat to achieve in itself), many block busters and even produced one himself. He is the art director who worked for the production houses of Farhan Akhtar, Amir Khan and Shahrukh Khan on Films like Rock On, Delhi Belly and Happy New Year, etc.

Nagpur Today spoke with him on his career, projects and of-course the Republic Day Tableu in an exclusive interview.

NT : So as you have said in other interviews, is this really your childhood dream?
Shekhar : Yes definitely, I used to watch it on television when I was a child and dreamed of having my own creation displayed there someday. But the dream got even stronger when I did an assignment while studying in J J School of Arts. It was to create a tableau for Republic Day Parade. It was as hypothetical assignment but it really stuck in my mind since then.

NT: And now you turned your dream into reality. But how did it happen? How did you got the job?
Shekhar: Maharashtra Government approached me with the regarding this project. And I thank Sanjay Patil, Director, Archaeology Department for the same. They told me that this subject was rejected earlier so this time we projected it in detail explaining that this is an only phenomenon in the world where lakhs of human beings walk hundreds of kilometer together in sync with music and camaraderie. We explained that this is not a religious or superstitious activity and has a vastness which is parallel to none in the world.

NT: When did it all started? And what was the approval process?
Shekhar: It started 4.5 months ago and we had total 6 meetings with Union Defense Ministry in Delhi. For the 3 meetings, I went with drawings and for later 3, I had prepared 3D model and then the actual model of the tableau.

NT: How did you prepare this final design? What studies you did and what procedures you followed?
Shekhar: When I started studying it, I got overwhelmed by the immensity and expanse of it. “Wari” is nothing but an enormous caravan of people walking. And I wanted to show that grandness and enormity through my creation. For that I actually stayed at Pandharpur and witnessed their cloths, musical instruments and the euphoric atmosphere there.

NT: Then you used the outcome of your studies in then design? Which unique points of “Wari” you incorporated in your design?
Shekhar: I studied many references for many days. Through which I noticed that this “wari” or caravan goes through so many different terrains and as Maharashtra is famous for its mountain ranges, I wanted to depict that also. So I included a “Ghaat” in the design with varying sizes of statues to show how we see people at different levels of Ghaat at different size. At the top of that mountain, I placed statues of Namdeo-Tukaram-Dnyaneshwar Maharaj.

While the “Wari” is in progression, they perform 6 “Ringan” (circles/rounds) at different places. I included one such “Ringan” in the design. In a “Ringan”, horses take rounds of the Warkaris in middle who do chants of “Namdeo-Tukoba-Dhyaneshwar Maharaj”. This is very important tradition without which the “Wari” is incomplete so that was must to include in the design.

Then I included the main temple as the Wari concludes on the banks of Chandrabhaga river and the temple is hard to miss in Pandharpur. Then the front portion had a face of a typical Marathi Woman carrying the holy “Tulasi” (Basil) Plant on her head.

NT: I heard that Woman’s Statue was replica of your own mother’s face?
Shekhar: Yes. From childhood, I am watching my mother who is a typical Marathi Woman so I thought who better I can find to model the statue after? It is my tribute to my mother.

NT: Was there anything technically new or unique in this tableau?
Shekhar: Yes. Generally there is only 1 rotating part on any tableau but on this one I had 3 rotating parts. The statues of “Namdeo-Tukoba-Dhyaneshwar Maharaj” at the back were rotating in 360 degrees so that everyone can see them as they are the main saints. In the middle part, it had a horse who which was circling around the live performers. And the Woman’s statue at the front was also rotating in a 45 degrees. So having 3 custom made rotating motors were the unique design element in this tableau.

“Chandrashekhar is an inspiration to youngster”, said Actor Umesh Mitkari,
“I have seen him from childhood and witnessed his journey from hardships of life till success he enjoys today.
I want to stress that he can be a role model for youngsters and explain them that there are many careers in Film Industry than Acting or Directing. People who have craft and skill can learn from the way he got educated in art and shaped his career. He is an idol.”

NT: And there were many statues too…
Shekhar: Yes, There were 250 statues in total which were created with a lot of details which was not visible on television. That was also a unique point.

NT: What is your unforgettable memory during the period when you were creating the tableau?
Shekhar: Yes. The memory I will always cherish is the time I spent at the Rashtriya Ranga Shala ground which was under military security. My 60 people team was there for many days and I used to visit 3 times a week. Till now I had read or heard about the variety of art and culture in India. But there I got to witness the unity in diversity myself as every state was making its tableau. And every evening, artist from different state used to perform their own art and it was great to see that.

NT: You were watching it on television or live at the RajPath? What was the reaction of people when Maharashtra tableau arrived?
Shekhar: I was at the Rajpath and we got tremendous responsive when it arrived and it got standing ovation from Dignitaries from Maharashtra and thunderous applause from everyone.

NT: So this response was just to your design?
Shekhar: No. I won’t say that. It was for the overall package. The dance performers around it, Ajay-Atul’s song “Mauli” which is a hit number from Marathi Movie “Lai Bhari” starring Riteish Deshmukh, all this came together so well that the cumulative effect was mesmerizing for everyone.

NT: As you mentioned the Dance performers, there was “Lezim” Troop from Nagpur and they won 1st prize too.
Shekhar: Yes. Those dancers were terrific and they did give the best performance that day.

NT: Can you share some information about your background and how you got into this industry?
Shekhar: My father was a painter working with many art directors in the film industry. I used to visit him to deliver lunchbox at R. K. Studio and was fascinated with that magical world. So I decided to work in this industry only and got admission in J. J. School of Art. As soon as finished it, I joined Yunus Pathan as assistant and after working 4-5 works with him, I started working independently. Then I did more than 2000 ads and then movies started with “Rock On!”, then Delhi Belly and many other movies including the recent one ie “Happy New Year”.

NT: Any unforgettable memory in you vast career which you would like to share? Anything where you triumphed the unfavorable situation or something like that?
Shekhar: Actually everyday is a challenge and I wonder why it is so. Even after doing so many projects, there is some or other challenge everyday waiting to be resolved. And I give credit to my team that it always helps me get through any challenges which come in the work. Recently I did a set for Shahrukh Khan’s “Raees” where around 600 people worked on that set which was a great challenge in teamwork.

NT: Did computer changed your working style? Do you use special software tools for your work?
Shekhar: Yes, Computers and specially Internet helps a lot in researching a subject. Earlier we had to depend on books for that. As far the software tools are considered, each task demands different tools like Coral Draw, AutoCad, 3D Max, Maya and Photoshop.

NT: So what is your next dream? What do you want to achieve next?
Shekhar: I want to be a successful producer in Marathi Film Industry and wish to produce many unforgettable movies.

NT: Marathi only? Not Hindi? Why so?
Shekhar: Yes, Marathi only. Because I love my mother-tongue and I am proud of Marathi Language.

NT: Getting 1st prize is in itself is big achievement but both your design and the “Lezim” performers were the only 2 photographs which were included on the white house website as “Photo of the day”. People who visit White house website are from around the world and of certain stature. So how does it felt when you heard that yours is the only tableau included on the white house website?
Shekhar: It is an out of the world feeling which can not be expressed in words. It amused me and made me wonder how my art has reached every nook and corner in the world from a tiny little corner in Chembur. I am thankful to to everyone in this journey who helped me and worked with me.

Interviewed By Prashen H. Kyawal

“Republic Day tableau helped my art reach every nook and corner of the world” Says Chandrashekhar More

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur.

Hemlata Kolhe belonging to Red Cross Society has been a busy women since the police raids on Ganga Jamuna began.
Taking advise from Satish Tripathi, retired Chief Secretary of the state who runs Setu Charitable Trust now she sought appointment with the highest ranking police officers who were ready to meet with her and her team.

She was granted appointment with Anup Kumar Jt. C.P. The meeting was held on the morning of January 27th. He categorically denied any intention of shutting down Ganga Jamuna area and evicting the women who live there. Many of them owners of their own houses and others tenants of these women only.

He said their only intention was to prevent exploitation of minors and other women who were being forced in to the trade. So all the police wanted the women who own their houses is to give information to police about their tenants, as they are legally obliged to do. This notice – but only one page, not the second giving detailed information on what is to be done – was stuck on the houses of many women. Their non compliance was used to get into their houses and evict the tenants.

She was also asked to see DCP Abhinash Kumar for more discussions about this area and the police raids.

According to Hemlata’s account – which has been recorded meticulously and filed properly – the DCP had another version and a different intention altogether.

He stated firmly that it was his intention to “Close down Ganga Jamuna and stop this dirty trade”.

“I will not allow prostitution in my area” he says. He has been advising the women to seek employment like being house maids.
He says he will have their sons employed in companies in MIDC like Mahindra and Mahindra.

But the women aver that no one will employ them as domestic help once their past is known. Either that, or they will be exploited there too. As far as jobs for their men folk go, they welcome the move but ask that till such a thing happens they have to work to earn and feed their family.

“And why evict us from our homes?” They ask.

Nagpur Today team came across many ‘patrolling teams’ of police who were roaming around with lathis during the afternoon.

“Why are you patrolling this area like this?” We asked. “Is there a curfew? Is a dreaded dacoit lose? Are you afraid of a riot happening?”

They had no reply and quickly went back to the police chowki which is a stone’s throw away from this basti.

We went to the chowki and asked the lady police inspector why the patrolling. We were told it was a normal activity.

“How are your police entering the houses? Do they have the arrest warrants to do so?” We asked.
“And for what crime are you pulling out men and beating them up?”

Her reply was that they ‘must have suspected some wrong doing’ so they entered. “May be there was a minor girl inside”.

“Did you find one” we asked. “And if not, why did your patrol beat the man?”

On that she clammed up. “Ask my superiors. I do what I am told to do” she says.

Exploiters turn to assault; Is this Police action legal?

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Youth suicide is when a young person, generally categorized as someone in the age group of 15–25, deliberately ends their own life. In India, one-third of suicides are young people 15–29. In 2002, 154,000 suicides were recorded in India. Some of the causes of suicides are so petty that one really wonders about the lack of guts to face any type of failures. Two youth committed suicide in separate incidents in the city on February 5, 2015.

Representational Pic

Suicide by hanging

In the first case, a young man committed suicide by hanging himself in his bedroom. According to police sources, the deceased is identified as Rahul Selote aged 27 years and a resident of Gopal Nagar 3^rd Bus Stop, hung himself with a nylon rope in his bedroom. Since the deceased left no suicide note, the exact cause of the suicide could not be known.

Based on the complaint of the elder brother of the deceased Pritesh Selote, the Rana Pratap Nagar Police Station registered a case of accidental death and is investigating further.

Suicide by poison

In the second incident, another youth committed suicide by consuming poison. According to police sources, the deceased is identified as Subham Angde aged 20 years and a resident of Vakilpeth, Hajari Wadi had consumed poison in his house. However, he started feeling the effects of the poison soon. When his condition started deteriorating, his family members and relatives rushed him to Government Medical College and Hospital. The doctors tried their level best to revive him, but during the course of treatment, the youth died.

On the basis of the complaint of their relatives, Imambada Police Station registered a case of accidental death and is investigating into the cause of death, since this youth too did not leave any suicide note.

Two youths commit suicide