Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: In what could be mentioned as a major crack down of gangs involved in burglaries and vehicle lifting, the Cops of MIDC and Hingna Police Station have unraveled the gangs and their modus operandi. The members of both the gangs involved in burglaries and vehicle lifting have been nabbed. While speaking exclusively with Nagpur Today, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1) Deepali Masirkar claimed that surprisingly one major cause of concern that has come to fore is that many minor are getting involved in crime or criminal activities. Both the gangs had the involvement of minors.

Gang of three involved in vehicle lifting and burglary apprehended by MIDC Police Station

Based on the directions of senior police officials to unravel the cases of burglary and vehicle thefts, three squads were constituted by MIDC Police Station. While one squad went through the old records and tried to match the modus operandi, the second squad used to get information through informants and the third squad including beat-marshals used to patrol the streets. The cops of MIDC Police Station received a secret tip off that one person is trying to sell some stolen goods.

On the basis of information, the cops lifted one accused identified as follows

• Kiran Vittal Bhure aged 21 years and a resident of Indira Mata Nagar,
• Karan Arjun Walmik aged 21 years and a resident of Indira Mata Nagar and
• Akash alias Baka Satish Sahare aged 22 years and a resident of Indira Mata Nagar as well.

These accused are said to have committed burglaries in MIDC area, Amar Nagar, Jaitala etc. These accused were lifted for questioning and during the course of intense questioning, the accused confessed to have committed burglaries and lifted two-wheelers. They confessed to have committed crimes registered under Crime No 2784/16, Crime No 2867/16 and Crime No 2929/16 under Sections 452 and 457 of Indian Penal Code.

The cops recovered a Samsung LED-TV, a silver chain, a Sharp TV and cash of Rs 7000/- in all goods worth Rs 50,000 was received from the accused. Some of the other gang members are still absconding. Many goods which they had disposed is yet to be recovered from them. These accused claimed that they had sold the stolen gold ornaments to a person in Balaghat (MP). The accused have also confessed to have committed a burglary in a house situated under the jurisdiction of Rana Pratap Nagar Police Station.

The cops have also recovered three motorcycles which were lifted by the accused. The three motorcycles recovered is said to be worth Rs 90,000/-. In all the cops of MIDC Police Station have received stolen goods and motorcycles worth Rs 1, 40,000/- (Rupees One lakh forty thousand) from the accused.

The above investigation and unraveling of the case was done under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1) Deepali Masirkar, Assistant Commissioner of Police Rajratna Bandsod by Senior Police Inspector Sunil Mahadik, Police Inspector Ravindra Raul, Assistant Police Inspector P Shirurkar, API Godbole, API Kale, NPC Vinod Kamble, PC Sushil and Vicky.

Gang including a minor involved in series of vehicle lifting and burglaries nabbed by cops of Hingna Police Station

Painstaking and systematic investigation resulted in the unraveling of another gang involved in vehicle lifting and burglaries in the city. Three accused have been lifted for questioning while the main accused is said to be absconding.

While speaking to media personnel, In-Charge of Hingna Police Station Senior Police Inspector Hemantkumar Kharabe said that for the last two-three months, the number of cases especially vehicle lifting and burglaries seemed to be on the rise.

Commissioner of Police K Venketesham had come down heavily upon the officers of the Hingna Police Station. Under the able guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1) Deepali Masirkar, the senior cops of Hingna Police Station started renewing the network of informants and the patrolling work etc. The cops of the Detective Branch also started working hard towards cracking the cases.

On a secret tip off that one worker in a shop in Hingna area was often found missing for a few days every now and then. The cops noticed that his absence is often corresponding to the day a crime of burglary or vehicle lifting occurs in the city.

Taking this lead, the cops lifted the shop-owner Raju Saudagar from their house. The main accused Manoj Buddheshwar Narnawre aged 18 years and resident of Sillewani, Police Station Lindori, Tehsil Pandurna District Chhindwara  (MP) is said to be working in his shop only.

During initial questioning, the accused confessed that they had committed burglaries in 3 places and had lifted 7 motorcycles. The accused said that they used to sell the stolen goods including gold ornaments to Golu alias Javed Sohail Sheikh Ramzan aged 25 yeats and resident of Ward No 122 Gafur Colony, Saunsar Distict Chhindwara (MP). The cops then picked Golu Sheikh from Saunsar. Both the accused were subjected to intense questioning. In the course of questioning it came to fore that the son of Raju Saudagar’s son aged 17 years (a minor) was also involved in the vehicle lifting burglaries. The minor accused is said to be the one who used to break open the lock and used to push the two-wheeler to a distance of 100 meters after which they used to drive off.

The cops recovered the parts of a Honda Motorcycle from them. The stolen goods from Sub Post Office of Hingna including 2 Computers, two CPUs, a tab of Lenovo brand, computer connecting wires and a black saree in one parcel was siezed. The goods stolen from a motor-rewinding shop owned by Billore including 4 kilograms of copper wire, 21 water-cooler pump-sets, a bundle of black wires and immersion water motor wires were also siezed. The goods stolen from a Pan kiosk including Cigarettes and Beetle nuts were also siezed. The cops seized goods worth Rupees 68203/- (Rupees Sixty Eight Thousand two hundred and three) from the accused. Many other goods are still to be recovered.

The two accused have been sent to Hingna Police Station on PCR till December 6, 2016 by Judicial Magistrate First Class Justice Deshmukh of Hingna Court. The minor accused has been remanded to Juvenile Justice Court. The main accused Manoj Buddheshwar Narnawre is still absconding.

The entire investigation and subsequent arrest was performed under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1) Deepali Masirkar, Assistant Commissioner of Police Rajratna Bandsod, by Senior Police Inspector Hemant Kumar Kharabe, Second In-Charge Police Inspector Barapatre and the Chief of DB Squad Police Sub Inspector Sunil Bandegaonkar. NPC Mangesh Gawai, Nilesh Wasankar, Vishal Bhaisare, Ajay Yadav, Vinod Kamble, PC Vikrant Deshmukh and WPC Shubhangi Dhawde.

Video : Cops of MIDC and Hingna Police Station nabs gangs involved in burglaries and vehicle lifting

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Many citizens would have seen this family of four including two daughters, mother and father who are seen setting up a tight rope with the help of four bamboos and the kids performing on the tight rope.

Tightrope walking or funambulism is the skill of walking on a thin wire or rope. One usually can see this skill performance in circus. However, in a circus, the performer has a safety wire attached to his belt which prevents his falling down and incurring grievous injuries to their head. Various other safety measures like a trained artist keeps walking below the artist to catch him if he or she falls down while performing the tightrope walking in a circus.

However, this is not true in these street performers. Small children are trained and made to perform on the tightrope. While the father and the elder brother of sister playing a drum and banging a plate, the mother goes about to nearby shops and on-lookers to collect money. The child holds a big bamboo to manage his or her balance.

One can see these street performers on many squares including Coffee House Square, Laxmi Bhavan Square, Shankar Nagar Square, Bajaj Nagar Square where people who come for shopping watch the show and pay some money.

Often some very socially conscientious people go about lodging complaint about a small boy used by a tea vendor to serve tea to customers. Whenever, some labour officer from the Labour Commissioner’s Office or official of Woman and Child Welfare Department go to nab the accused tea-vendor, often it is noticed that the small kid is none other than his own kid. In order to save paying some other boy, these vendors use their own children and thereby saving some money.

Does this not amount to Child labour?

By Samuel Gunasekharan

Does this not amount to child-labour?

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: “Water separates people of the world, wine unites them” said Rajesh Rasal, “passionate” wine maker, and one of the chief guests at the inauguration of the 4th wine festival organized by Nagpur Wine Lovers’ club at Woods, in C.P. club last night.

Other dignitaries of the wine world present for this exciting, annual event were Arjunsinh Mohite-Patil, M.D. of Fratelli Wines pvt. ltd. – the fastest growing wine company of India, Yatin Patil, the current President of the All India Wine Producers Association and Rajesh Borse, Secretary of the association.

Present on the dais was also Nagpur’s own Sharad Phadnis, Founder President of the Nagpur Wine Lovers club and the main person behind the wine festival which has become a major event for all Wine producers of India.

The inauguration ceremony was followed by some exciting fire shows displayed by members of Mix O flair, an institute for studies of beverage making started by Nikhil Deshpande, CEO in Nagpur.

There were also a number of Nagpur hospitality joints like Cilantro- for some lovely sea food, Bawa, for Parsee food, Chickhanz and TJ’s cafe serving hot ‘appetizers’ and main course also to go with wine.

Though foreign wines, notably French and Italian, are also available in India, this event is focused on the Indian Wine manufacturers to encourage the fast growing indigenous wine industry.

“Of the 90 or so wineries of India, 80% are situated in Maharashtra, and out of these maximum are in Nasik District.” Informed Arjunsinh Kolte Patil, a scion of the well known politician’s family of NCP and also M.D. of Fratelli. Fratelli, Arjun’s own company is in Solapur District though.”The other – 20% wine companies are in the Banglore area. So basically only two states produce wine in India. Selling wine all over the country is a difficult task with very high trade barriers. Since wines and spirits’ taxation is a state subject manufacturers selling outside their state are treated as ‘exporters’ and have to pay prohibitive Excise duty and sales tax in other states.”

What is more worrisome for the wine industry is that sales tax on wines is not going to be part of GST, so this high taxation and ‘export’ barriers will continue.

“Since maximum wine is grown in Maharashtra and wine is a 100% agri produce, as it is made from grapes, we hope the state government intervenes to make national distribution easier” was the hope expressed by many wine experts present.

Speaking on the occasion Sharad Phadnis said that there was huge scope for this industry in India, especially in our state. It is an industry growing at an annual rate of 25%.

Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Banglore – and now even Nagpur, can be counted as major cities where wine is consumed.

“There are less about 90 manufacturers in India, whereas China has 800 wineries – though weather in large parts of China is not suitable for growing grapes. An advanced country like France, which is the leading wine maker of the world, has over 14,000 wineries!
Yet, our industry has come a far away in the last 2 decades. Wines made by companies like Sula, Grover Zampa and Fratelli have won many international awards and are on par with the better wines of the world” said Sharad.

The Nagpur wine lovers club under Sharad’s stewardship is educating Nagurians on the benefits of responsible wine consumption which can have health benefits unlike consumption of hard liquor which is harmful. The reason is simple – hard liquor is chemically distilled alcohol while wine is grape juice fermented. Red wine is grape wine with skin while white wine is without skin, that is why the difference in colour and also why red wine is considered healthiest.

All this information is imparted and people educated about wine drinking as an activity of the club. Membership of Nagpur Wine lovers Club has grown from the initial 11 members to 214.

Life membership is available for Rs. 15,000 for men and Rs. 11,000 for ladies.

The wine festival is open till tonight, i.e. Sunday the 4th.

4th Nagpur wine festival begins with a pop and fizz!

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: The Opposition Party NCP will be boycotting the customary tea party held on the eve of Assembly’s Winter Session this year said the Leader of Opposition of NCP Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil on December 4, 2016.

Former Minister of  Agriculture and Marketing, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Dhananjay Munde, Vijay Waddatiwar, Sanjay Jayant P Patil, Hemant Takle and Jogendra Kawade addressing the media personnel on the eve of Winter Session of Assembly in Ravi Bhavan.

While venting their anger on the ruling party and the manner in which many issues raised by them from time to time have not been redressed. Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil said that during the Winter Session of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, they will play the role of opposition to the word.

He alleged that during their tenure of two years and three months, the condition of farmers, Backward Classes, Tribal, and Minority Community have been ignored and the present ruling party has played the role of opposition of any development of these communities.

The loan waiver of farmers, restructuring of their loans, free seeds to farmers, compensation of the losses incurred due to natural calamities including floods, rains, hailstorms etc and farmer’s suicide have not been redressed by the ruling party.

Nearly 30000 to 40000 workers are rendered unemployed by this demonetization of currency. Many industries have suffered due to the demonetization.

The farm produce is not getting adequate prices. The demonetization has also affected the prices of essential commodities causing problems and looting of common man.

Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil claimed that the ruling party has cheated out by not according reservations to many communities including Muslim community and Dhangar Community.  He went on to say that the present government has not done justice to the Malnourished and poor children too. So much so, that the state government has not even claimed the allocated funds from the Central Government.

The black money which the government claims to have recovered should be used for loan waivers of farmers.

Opposition Party NCP to boycott customary tea party held on the eve of Assembly’s Winter Session

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

• CM claims the crime rate much lower than the corresponding period last year based on figures quoted by National Crime Records Bureau

Nagpur: The present government is capable of resolving the issues. With proper pro-active debate and deliberations made in the general interest of the masses, many issues could be resolved.  This was said by Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis when he welcomed media personnel to the Winter Session of State Legislative Assembly -2016. CM Devendra was addressing the media personnel at the customary tea party hosted by CM on the eve of Winter Session-2016.

CM’s reaction to opposition
While reacting to the boycott of the opposition to his tea party, CM Devendra Fadnavis said that he wished that the opposition joins hands in raising people-centric issues and to work hand in hand to resolve them instead of simply making allegations.

While reacting to the statement of the opposition “Government is like cartoon characters “Pokemon” and “Doremon” or even their statement of “Mungerilal Key Haseen Sapne”, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the opposition has just displayed their immaturity. On a lighter vein, he too made a statement from the Jungle Book Cartoon show.

Implementation of many schemes
While speaking about the backward areas like Vidarbha and Marathwada, he said that the government is striving to reach all government schemes to the citizens. However, many of these implementing of the schemes have not remained only to discussion stage but has been implemented.

Achievement Report to be presented in house
He claimed that we will present our report of all our achievements in the last two years and will also inform the house about our plans for development and progress of Maharashtra in the next three years. The state government is indeed working with enthusiasm towards the progress of the state.

Farmer’s issues
While speaking about the farmers’ issue, Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the Kharif Crops have been good. The present trend displays that as compared to last year, there is a significant rise of 25 %. He added that Bazaar Samiti did face some problems in the initial 2-3 days (after demonetization), however, they were resolved and all payments of farmers have been made through banks.

While speaking about the rabbi crops, he claimed that the work of sowing is going in full steam. Initially there were some problems of farmers finding it difficult to buy seeds, fertilizers and other goods which are in-puts for farming, the government organized a meeting with bankers and registered dealers of seeds, fertilizers etc and gave directives to all the procurement of seeds and fertilizers through banks. The things are smoothened now. Fadnavis claimed that 95% work of sowing has already been finished.

Demonetization
While speaking about the effects of demonetization, CM Fadnavis claimed that the state has taken pro-active steps to defuse the effects of demonetization. He thanked the people of the state for supporting the move to demonetize the currency since they knew that it is for the good of the country and for the citizens at large. The citizens realized that a new system has been established for the better good of the nation.

Morchas
While speaking about the Maratha morcha, he said that they will raise the issue in the house and debate and deliberate on the issue. While answering to a question on the morcha, he said that the debates have to be made with an attitude to bring about a solution and not just to create a ruckus and confusion. He went on to add that the issues of Dalits, OBCs etc he will ensure that no issue are pending and that some pro-active decision will be taken in the house. However, he urged all political parties to come forward and discuss and deliberate with an intention and attitude of common good and in the interest of the masses.

He added that some issues especially of reservations are in the Court. The Maharashtra government will submit its well studied and researched recommendations in the Court on December 5, 2016.

Law and Order
While speaking about the crime rate in the city and the state, he claimed that the state has done pretty well as compared to other states. While answering to a question of the increasing crime in the city, Fadnavis claimed that based on the figures shown in National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports, it shows that the crime rate has come sizably down as compared to the corresponding period last year. CM Devendra went on to add that as far as the cases of Ashram Shala, Sexual assaults in Balwadi etc, they have already initiated investigations into the matter and accused will not be spared.

Good response to DBT
CM Devendra claimed that the attempt of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to change the mechanism of transferring subsidies launched by Government of India to the beneficiaries account has received very good response. The middlemen have thus been removed successfully. The government is mooting a move to implement the DBT in all government schemes and in all departments.

In conclusion, CM Devendra Fadnavis said that the State Government has been doing a good work and for the first time all the decisions are taken after debate in the house. He urged the opposition too to come forwards and debate and discuss the issues in the common interest of the masses.

While answering to a question of how certain banks deducted the loan amount from all those farmers who had gone to convert the demonetized currency to new notes, he said that they too came to know about this and immediately have directed the banks to abstain from deducting the loan amount from the farmers coming to convert the demonetized currencies.

While answering another question on irrigation scams, CM claimed that many cases are pending in the court and new cases shall also be registered in future.

Chief Minister calls opposition immature

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Union minister Nitin Gadkari’s daughter, Ketki Gadkari tied the knot on Sunday with long time friend Aditya Kashedikar. The wedding, held in Nagpur, was attended by a large number of dignitaries including ministers Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu; BJP president Amit Shah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, yoga guru, Baba Ramdev and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Ketki Gadkari is the youngest daughter of Nitin Gadkari and her husband, Adiya Kashedikar currently works with Facebook.

According to a recent news report, fifty chartered flights were arranged to fly down guests to the wedding ceremony. However, Gadkari rubbished these reports on Sunday calling them “mischievous and incorrect.”

Gadkari’ daughter ties knot at glittering ceremony

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: The major fire accident at Nitika Pharmaceuticals in Nagpur that killed 2 labourers may witness more deaths as nine of the 20 workers, who sustained burn injuries are in a critical condition. Doctors said the chances of survival of these workers are bleak, which may increase the death toll in the case that stands at one.

Nitika Pharma Tragedy : Death toll may multiply as 9 workers very critical

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: The demand for separate Vidarbha state is likely to rock winter assembly session of Maharashtra, starting in Nagpur from Monday. Opposition, which has been sitting on the issue to be raised for the longer time may hardpress the demand this time.

Deputy leader of opposition in assembly Vijay Wadettiwar has planned to bring a private member bill demanding separate Vidarbha state. Both houses witnessed ruckus over the issue during monsoon session after MP Nana Patole moved the similar bill in Lok Sabha.

“When I first introduced it in 2014, the government deliberately did not allow it to be discussed. It was obvious that BJP is not serious about granting statehood after winning the polls on its plank. They’ve mislead the people of Vidarbha by making hollow promises. Ironically, it was chief minister Devendra Fadnavis who led the fight for separate state then, now why have they backtracked,” he asked.

The Bramhapuri MLA also accused BJP-Sena government of neglecting Vidarbha region by conducting just two weeks winter session. “When we were in power, the ruling legislators used to demand a month long session in Vidarbha to discuss problems pertaining to this region. In fact, they dominate Business Advisory Committee (BAC), due to more number of members. Still, they’re not serious,” he said.

He further accused the government of protecting contractors of irrigation scam, as they had direct or indirect links with the BJP. “Many BJP MPs and MLA are allegedly involved in the scam. The Mendhegiri Committee clearly recommended action against all contractors, but no progress has been made, as it would expose the saffron party,” he said.

Accusing the government of neglecting Gondwana University (GU), the former minister in Congress-led government pointed out that nothing was done for its development, even after five years of its formation. “GU failed to move beyond 10-acre land handed over by Nagpur University. It’s also facing funds crunch. It was the brainchild of a senior minister, still it failed to get 400 acre land. The government is neglecting Dalits and tribals for whom the university was formed,” he said.

State Assembly Session : Opposition to push bill for separate Vid once again

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Even as the workers at Nitika Pharmaceuticals are yet to settle over the shock of tragedy which killed their two co-workers, it turned out that the tragedy happened due to the wrong orders passed by factory management. It is learnt that the wood-fired boilder which exploded on Friday, was suddenly raised to 200 degrees despite knowing the fact that it takes several days to reach that temperature.

Alleging this fact a labourer who survived the incident sheer negligence of senior officials for the accident. He said, “Two days before the incident, the boiler had been taken up for cleaning. After the cleaning, it takes several days for the boiler to gradually reach a temperature of 300 degree, which is the temperature maintained to keep it stable. However, on the command of high-ranking officers of the Pharmaceutical, the boiler was directed to hit 200 degree right on the first day.”All the labourers working inside the factory could sense the risk, but their complaints were rejected by the higher authorities, he said.

Raut added, “On the night of the incident, I had just reached the factory to attend the night shift when the FBD, containing hot raw material, connected to the boiler exploded. The machine was at the rear end , and I was at front side of the building, wearing my uniform. The temperature became unbearable inside the building. I was feeling like I was on fire.”

“My vision was burred and I couldn’t think of anything but getting myself out of the building. I immediately covered my face with my palm and ran towards the front gate. I was the first one to get out of the disaster. Fortunately, I was wearing my uniform at that moment, which protected my body to a large extent. Also, I was in the front side of the building, so I escaped easily,” he said.

It was a nightmare for the people in the middle part of the building. Most of them were not wearing the uniform. While they were running towards the front side, the boiler suddenly exploded, raining down burning wood upon them. Many were seriously injured, while their way to the gate was also blocked. It took another 15 minutes for all the workers to escape the building, Raut added.

Raut said, “We all waited outside the front gate till everyone came out. The crowd drawn to the scene by the noise of the explosion called an ambulance, which took us to Indira Gandhi Government Medical College.”
He lamented, “None of us would have seen this day, had the company used the machines rationally. Our labour union had submitted memos to the manager and vice president many times but no action was taken.” Raut revealed that the factory had caught fire thrice earlier, but the company did not even call the firemen. The labourers took it upon ourselves to douse the fire, he added.

He later said, “The factory is nothing but a money making venture, where the owner couldn’t care less about our safety. The gloves used by us should be changed every other day, but the management forces us to use the same ones for at least 15 days or until a pair gets torn .”

Nitika Pharma Tragedy : Mgmt upped boiler’s temp despite risk!

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Everyone who entered the Vidhan Sabha Premises excluding the MLAs ad Ministers were subjected to thorough check and frisking before they could enter the premises.

The Dog Squad of Bomb Detection and Destruction Squad from Usmanabad were pressed into service. The Black Labrador Dog named Jia smelt the entire premises before the arrival of the MLAs, Ministers and officials.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Smirthna Patil was personally present on the square to co-ordinate the vehicles movement and the parking arrangements.

The number of security personnel who were seen in the premises were more as compared to the last year.

Tighter security at Vidhan Bhavan

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: With the threat perception conveyed by the intelligence department, all vehicles were stopped at the gate. All the Ministers including the Chief Minister, MLAs and other senior officials had to walk all the way to the Vidhan Sabha building on the December 5, 2016, the first day of Winter Session of Legislative Assembly-2016.

There were two gates for the entry, one near Reserve Bank of India square for Chief Minister and other Ministers while MLAs had to enter from the main near Meeta Neem Durgah.

Even the parking of the vehicles too differed. The arrangement of vehicles of VVIPs was made hit opposite to the Meeta Neem Durgah, while the vehicles of all ministers were made near the Samvidhan Square. The arrangement for the vehicles of MLAs and other senior officials was made at Kasturchand Park Grounds.

Though it was a long walk, all the ministers including the Chief Minister walked the entire stretch without any cribbing. When Ajit Pawar entered, while answering to the question of having to walk, he said that when it comes to security issue, whichever political party is in government, everybody should adhere to the rules.

Long walk marks start of Nagpur Winter Session of Legislative Assembly-2016

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: The Winter Session of Legislative Assembly-2016 began today the December 5, 2016. The usual debates, Question hour etc has not been scheduled for the first day of Winter Session of Legislative Assembly-2016 held in the Vidhan Sabha Sabhagruh. Under Rule-97, Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Haribhau Bagade advocated the discussion on demonetization.

The working of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly started at 11 am. As soon as the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly started, the Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Haribhau Bagade said that he denies all the demands under Section-97. However, he permitted Leader of Opposition Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil to speak. Vikhe Patil while addressing the house said that farmers and farm produce has been adversely affected due to demonetization. He claimed that the move to stop corruption and to root out the mobility of black money is certainly welcomed. However, lack of proper planning, study or research before implementation of the demonetization has caused poor people and common man to experience harrowing experience for the past 3 weeks.

He also pointed out that no one involved in having black money is seen standing in the queues for withdrawing money from ATMs. Standing in the queues of ATMs had claimed the lives of 60-70 common citizens. Some citizens lost their lives because hospitals refused to accept demonetized currencies. Leader of Opposition Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil raised the question that who should be booked under Section 302 of Indian Penal Code for the loss of so many lives?

Due to the rule which prevents the farmers from withdrawing money from District Banks, 90% famers are in distress.

NCP Leader Ajit Pawar claimed that the common man is paying a heavy price due to demonetization. He demanded that instead of stopping District Banks from continuing their business, they should initiate investigation of other banks involved in corruption. Ajit Pawar went on say that due to limited cash being loaded in ATM machines, the cash exhausts within 2-3 hours. On one hand 125 crores of Indian population does not have cash, while on the other hand bundles of newly launched Rs 2000 is found on dead terrorists. This is really an issue worth giving thought to. That is why, all the other issues should be set aside and debates and deliberations should be held in the house about demonetization.

Senior MLA Ganvantrao Deshmukh said that the queues in front of ATMs have not reduced at all. The common man is unable to utilize the money deposited by them in District banks. The State Government should answer and should also inform the house about the steps taken by the Central Government.

The State Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar rose up to answer the questions raised by the Opposition party. Mungantiwar claimed that the demonetization of old currencies have been a historic decision. Nobody has opposed the decision. The State Government has made arrangements to reach new notes to every corner of the state. The State has also deployed officials, police officials and even a helicopter to transport new currencies to every corner of the state. The Government has made arrangements to reach notes to every place including a remote place like Sironcha.

When the issue will come up for discussion, various corrective measures will be taken after deliberations and suggestions from both the Opposition and ruling party. He said that after a detailed study, whatever is feasible will be implemented. Members of the opposition created ruckus in the house, surprised with the answer. The members of the opposition wanted a detailed discussion in the house. The members of the opposition had also gheraod the Speaker of the house. However, ignoring the ruckus, he went ahead with the points in the agenda and finished the session.

Meanwhile the Chairman of the house announced that for the successful running of the house some members (all MLAs) of the ruling and opposition party have been introduced including Yogesh Sagar, Sudhakar Deshmukh, Virendra Jagtap, Hanumant Dolas and Sanjay Raibulkar. The members of the opposition party left the house and went out.

As soon as the official work got over and when the condolence meet started, all the members of the opposition returned to the house.

During the condolence meet, Chief Minister and all the ministers and MLAs including the Ruling and Opposition party paid rich tributes to the members of the house who had passed away including Former Cabinet Minister Jaivantiben Mehta, MLA Ram Gopal Aswale, MLA Narsingh Rao Patil, MLA Baburao Kokate-Adaskar, MLA Ashok Sable, MLA Mahadeo Patil, MLA Manohar Tayde, MLA Chunnilal Singh Raghuvanshi, MLA Tatya Rao Jadhav and MLA Bimal Tai Borade.

The Chairman of the Legislative Assembly declared the end of the government work of December 5, 2016 and stated that the work will resume at 11 am on December 6, 2016.

– RAJEEV RANJAN KUSHWAHA

Discussions on demonitization features the first day of Winter Session of Legislative Assembly-2016

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: On October 17, 2016, Justice B P Dharmadhikari and Justice A S Chandurkar of the Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court had directed the transfer of the investigation into the Eknath Nimgade murder case to the Central Bureau of Investigation since the State Police appeared to be helpless in this case.

Based on the directives of the Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court, the officials and sleuths of Central Bureau of Investigation arrived in the city to probe the murder of Eknath Nimgade on December 5, 2016.

According to reliable sources, a team had visited the spot where the crime occurred.

It could be mentioned here that on September 6, 2016, Senior citizen and an architect Eknath Nimgade was shot dead in a lane adjacent to CA Road. The way Nimgade was murdered shook the entire city.

Apart from police personnel of Tehsil Police, cops of Crime Branch of Nagpur Police too had strived hard and had left no stone unturned in the probe. However all their efforts seemed to be an effort in-vain? The main perpetrator or the people behind the murder could not be ascertained.

Eknath Nimgade’s son who had his doubts about the probe conducted by crime branch had filed a petition and a plea to transfer the case to CBI. Accordingly the Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court had considered his plea and had transferred the case to CBI.

The results of the probe conducted by CBI will alone unravel the perpetrator or perpetrators behind the murder of Eknath Nimgade.

CBI team arrives at Nagpur to probe Nimgade murder case

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: A fresh start of the city’s public transport system was inaugurated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Surface Transport Nitin Gadkari on December 5, 2016. The Star Bus public transport which was perpetually embroiled in controversies was changed and four companies were given charge to run the city bus service in Nagpur city. Apart from this Buses run of Ethanol fuel was also flagged off.

The Public Transport system now run under the title of Apli Bus Pariyojana (Our Bus Service) will have 195 buses of which 55 buses will be Ethanol fueled Green Bus (manufactured by Scania). A mobile app too was launched on the occasion.

The 145 Red buses and the 55 Green buses will be equipped with GPRS System which will help the passengers and NMC authorities to know the exact location of the bus. The Star Bus public transport system was given to one company and the NMC authorities and the citizens of the city had to face a lot of problems.  In order to avoid unnecessary problems, this time round the NMC authorities have decided to give the contract of public transport to four companies.

On the occasion of the inauguration, Union Minister for Public Transport Nitin Gadkari said that pollution is cause of concern for the nation. The pollution caused by the vehicular smoke emulsions causes a lot of problems. The very pollution caused by smoke emulsions from vehicular fuel burning had caused a lot of problems for the citizens of Delhi. The citizens of Delhi had found it difficult to even breathe. The combustion of diesel and petrol causes poisonous gases including Sulphurous gas. Bio-fuel like Ethanol, Methanol and Electric powered vehicles are not only the solution to dealing with the problem of pollution but also the future of the nation. Ethanol is a gas that is produced from Sugarcanes and combustion of Ethanol fuel causes least amount of pollution. The farmers will be directly benefitted from the use of Ethanol. Now a technique has also been created to make Ethanol from the husk of grains. In order to reduce the pollution, the Central Government is investing in a scheme worth Rs seventy thousand crores for a low polluting fuel called Euro-6 Petrol and Diesel will be made available to the masses. This fuel will be available to the citizens by the year 2020.

The Nagpur Municipal Corporation running Ethanol fueled buses will prove to be a milestone. Gadkari also suggested that the buses run by Diesel should be run by CNG bio-gas.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis while speaking on the occasion lauded the efforts of NMC and said that for the first time in the country, the public transport is going to be run Smart and Green. This sector will become a model for the rest of the states. The Green Buses shall serve the people of the city as well as benefit the farmers. He went on to add that the Integrated Transport System will also benefit the citizens of the Nagpur city. The model Public Transport System started by NMC will be implemented in the rest of the states as well, CM Fadnavis added.

NMC’s Apli Bus Pariyojna flagged off

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

• The staff for manning Nagpur Central Jail increases: 32 more guards to join Nagpur Central Prison
• Parole period reduced from 90 days to 60 days: Furlough period too reduced from 28 days to 21 days

Nagpur: The dream of making Nagpur Central Prison in the level of Israel Prison may take time, but as of now, the number of security personnel manning the Central Prison has been increased. The authorities of Nagpur Central Prison learnt their lesson immediately after the jail break where 5 prisoners managed to escape from the jail. The poor security arrangements came to fore during the probe into the jail break.

Additional Director General of Prisons Dr Bhushan Kumar Upadyay addressed media personnel at the office of DIG Prisons on December 5, 2016. He spoke on various issues relating to the prisons. He said that there was an approval of 150 staff. However, the jail administration was managing with a staff of 100 personnel. There was a deficit of 50 prison staff and the jail administration had to face many problems because of the low number of security personnel.

Now the Home Ministry has approved the deficit number of security staff and the remaining 50 staff has already been recruited and vacant positions have been filled. The jail administration has enhanced the approved strength from 150 to 182. This enhanced strength excludes the approved number of personnel approved by the Home Ministry. This year an additional 32 security personnel will be joining the Nagpur Central Prisons.

While speaking on certain important issues of prisoners, he said that an important decision has been taken by the prison department. This includes the reduction in Parole period from 90 days to 60 days and reduction of Furlough period from 28 days to 21 days. Deputy Inspector General of Prisons Yogesh Desai too was present at the press meet.

Chief Minister to inaugurate Bandiwan Kala Rajani: Seven prisons to present their skills.

ADGP Dr Bhushan Kumar Upadhyay said that the Bandiwan Kala Rajani-2016 titled “Andhere Sey Ujala Ki Oar” (From Darkness to Light) will be presented by jail inmates on December 7, 2016, from 6:30 pm onwards. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will be inaugurating the programme.

The inmates of Nagpur Central Prison, Amravati Central Prison, Morshi Open Prison, Aurangabad Central Prison, Nashik Road Central Prison, Yerwada Central Prison and Gadchiroli Open Prison. The programmes presented by the prison inmates include Drama, Qawwali, Dance, Mimicry, Lawni, Patriotic songs etc.

Many prominent personalities will be present for the programme.

93 prisoners from 7 Central Prisons in the state will be participating in the programme. The participant jail inmates include 84 male inmates and 9 female inmates. 31 male jail inmates and 1 female inmate from Nagpur Central Prison will be participating in this event.

Dr Bhushan Kumar Upadyay claimed that he was impressed by the dance rehearsal of an inmate named Kodape. He claimed that Kodape really dances well. This time round, during the programme, the prisoners will be relating about their living arrangements through a teacher. Dr Upadhyay claimed that such programmes are organized for the reformation and rehabilitation of the jail inmates. These programmes also help in bringing about a new hope in the minds of the jail inmates.

A programme was organized for the first time in the year 2005. However, for some reason, the prison department stopped the programme from the year 2006. The programme was revived in the year 2015. The prison inmates will be presenting the programme in a song and drama style. A rehearsal for this programme has been going on for the past 4 months in all the seven prisons. These prison inmates have assembled in Nagpur Central Prison and are rehearsing for the programme.

The Bandiwan Kala Rajani programme will begin with a dance number titled “Shri Ganesh Naman”.

Approved vacant posts in Nagpur Central Prison be filled soon: ADG Prisons Dr Upadhyay

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: On the first day of the Maharashtra assembly winter session beginning in Nagpur an conclave was held in Chitnavis centre for an ‘academic’ discussion on effects of demonitization which saw participation of leaders of all political parties.

Speakers who spoke on the subject were: Professor Dr. Khandewalle, known economist of Nagpur, Jayant Patil former finance minister of Maharashtra , Neelam Gorhe, Shiv Sena leader, Sanjay Nirupam of Congress, Ashutosh of Aam Aadmi Party and Sudhir Mungantiwar, Finance Minister of Maharasthra who was supposed to set the ball rolling with the first speech but arrived late so spoke last.

Dr. Khandewalle said that demonitization is an extra ordinary action that should be taken only in a case of extreme emergency and no such situation existed in India in November. But an emergency has been created now by the way the action has hit small manufacturing units and migrant labour.

Neelam Gorhe, said that though on the 9th November Shiv Sena president had welcomed the move he soon took a press conference at which he was very critical about the insufficient home work done which was resulting in hardships for common people.

She said there are three categories of people in India: First the educated middle class which has credit and debit cards and bank accounts which they use extensively, second is the rich class which can potentially have black money, but mostly in the form of land or gold and third the informal sector. She pointed out that the third category which mostly dealt in cash was completely destroyed by demonitization and the educated middle class which suffered very little, doesn’t care. This is a very dangerous situation where one segment of society is completely indifferent to the misery of another. She cited the example of a widow in UP who was pregnant and delivered her baby while standing in the line for money. She was trying to draw cash from the 2 lakhs compensation she had received after her husband’s accidental death.

Ashutosh said that Modi’s decision was neither for the stated reasons of curbing corruption or fighting the bane of counterfeit currency; it was purely a gimmick to draw attention away from all his failings of 2 and half years. After fighting the costliest election of 2014, where the source of funding has not been disclosed, Modi had to show some results.

Sanjay Nirupam of Congress minced no words in saying 4 groups had helped convert black money after demonitization – Builders, CAs, Jewellers and banks themselves. (He quoted the example of Axis bank). The government had changed decisions on implementation of note bandi 125 times he said.

Jayant Patil gave a studied talk on how India’s parallel economy, also called grey economy had been keeping money in circulation. With this money suddenly removed from the markets, economy was bound to suffer. “The adverse effects will be seen within 6 months” he said.

Mungantiwar who arrived late and was the last to speak could not put up a convincing rejoinder.
He faced a hostile crowd of listeners who shouted “Shame, Shame” when he tried to make light of people’s sufferings.

The tide seems to be turning finally as daily one reads more horror stories regarding victims of endless queues.

This NDA government very different from Vajpayee’s govt. does not take allies into confidence, alleges Shiv Sena leader Neelam Gorhe

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Investigations accelerated in the deadly fire that broke out at Nitika Pharmaceuticals claiming 2 lives and injured 19 others. Police have arrested managing director along with two senior managers of the company, however all the three were later granted bail by the court.

The managing director Ravleen Khurana was arrested along with senior manager (operations) Deepak Rathod and senior manager (maintenance) Prashant Subhedar on Monday morning. The bail was furnished with a personal bond of Rs15,000 each.

Senior police inspector GM Mujawar from Yashodhara Nagar police station informed that that the trio was booked under section 304-A (causing death by negligence), 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) read with section 34 of the Indian Penal Code.

Mujawar said that the offence was registered on the basis of a complaint lodged by Ashish Pankule after his brother Sandip succumbed to burn injuries sustained in the devastating fire that took place on Friday night.

Subsequently, the police also approached the Nagpur Municipal Corporation, its fire department and Nagpur Improvement Trust and sought their opinion, said Mujawar. Already, the police have sought expert opinion by approaching directorate of industrial safety (DIS) and health and joint directorate (boilers).

Nitika Pharma Tragedy : MD, 2 Sr. Managers arrested, granted bail

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: It is said that justice denied is justice delayed. But it equally holds true when a poor is not able to afford the fees of lawyer to get justice. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has expressed concern over this crucial fact of the justice system, where in, the lawyers charge hefty sum as their fees, leaving the poor debarred from the court process. Eventually they could not fight their case. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat has appealed to all the lawyers to atleast charge reasonably seeing the condition of the client, so that they are not deprived of justice. Common man should not face difficulties in getting justice.

Addressing a convention of Akhil Bhartiya Adhivakta Parishad Vidarbha Region held at Smruti Mandir Parisar, Reshimbagh he said that “The main objective of lawyers should be to ensure justice to all.” He said, “In other countries judicial processes had been in existence since ancient times. However, in our country it was established during the British Raj.”

Earlier on Saturday, delivering the Arvind Agashe memorial lecture organized by Krishnadas Kakamauli Samadhi Seva Mandal, Bhagwat said that “India is not only a country but also an entity whose basis was the soul. “Bharat is not a geographical entity. People live here who have been following certain rules and practices since centuries.”
Bhagwat said that Indians in other countries may have forgotten their mother tongue but have not forgotten their culture.

“Large number of Indians have settled in Mauritius. They still want to visit their native villages at least once in life. Indians settled in Caribbean countries still recite Hanuman Chalisa and plant tulsi trees in their homes,” he added.

He said that other countries do not have this quality. “In spite of Declaration of Independence of United States which every citizens pledges allegiance to, the country is vertically split today between supporters of Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Brexit has once again highlighted the divide between various geographical regions of United Kingdom,” he added.

Commenting on future of India, Bhagwat said that if somebody had said 30 to 40 years ago that India had a bright future, most people would not have believed him. “However, now even the common people believe that India has a place in the sun. Other countries too accept that India has a bright future,” he further said.

Earlier, Sadgurudas Maharaj expressed his views on the future of India.

RSS appeals lawyers to charge less from poor

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: In a blatant misuse of power, the NMC’s Education Department officials got the tender of Rs 22 lakh awarded to a company having its office in Ganeshpeth, without going in for tender process. As a saving grace, the civic officials have used the guise of rate contract system. The tender was meant for installing CCTV cameras in 25 selected NMC-run schools.

As per the norms, the tender should be floated for any project having this much of budget. On the contrary, NMC officials ditched the rules to pick their pet contractor. Going further, the contractor has installed cameras worth over Rs 13 lakh and the bills for the same have been submitted to NMC’s education department.

An expert pointed out that the cost of coaxial cables mentioned in the bills has been quoted far beyond the prevailing market rates. Moreover, the stock book is also not managed properly. A detailed probe along with social audit has been demanded from NMC Commissioner.

Sources alleged that NMC’s education department has been resorting to ineffective means of improving the quality of education in its schools. However the poor infrastructure and ignorant teachers have been the major hurdles in the way of achieving the goal.

Last month the education department has decided to install CCTV cameras in 25 schools in order to improvise the quality education. However critics felt that such a facility was not at all required. But keeping aside the cause, the officials gave the nod to the work.

Norms Violation : NMC Eduction Deptt awards Rs 22 lakh work without tender!

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Though Jayalalithaa was very successful at it, and ‘ruled’ over Tamil Nadu for over 15 years in diferent stints, she abhorred politics. In fact, she was a very reluctant actress as well. Given a choice, she would have loved to be either a lawyer or an academician.

She recalls her happiest day as being the one when she passed out of school and was unanimously chosen by all teachers and the head mistress as the “best outgoing student the school had had”. She was brilliant academically and always topped in every subject.

In an interview with Simi Garewal she confessed that being an actress’ daughter was not easy. Her mother Sandhya was moreover not a leading lady. Having entered films as a necessity, Sandhya began acting when she was widowed at the age of 20 and had to look after two children, her parents and also her siblings.

These were the very reasons why Jayalalitha herself had to go into the film world at the age of 16 soon after she passed out of school. She had won a scholarship to go to college which had to be returned since she became an actor instead.

“I fought and rebelled for 3 days… but what can a child of 16 do against her elders’ wishes? Specially after my mother explained the financial condition of the family to me and how she was not getting offers any longer but still had to look after her parents, her sister’s children and my own brother who was still studying – I was left with no choice but to comply.”

She became an instant hit and was a natural and spontaneous actor. She ruled the roost as Tamil Nadu’s leading heroine as long as she remained in films.

Influence of MGR on her life

She was 16 and he was over 44 when they first acted together. When her mother died when Jaylalitha was only 23, she says she was like ” a babe in the woods, blindfolded”.

She did not know how to write a check, how much her producers paid her or how much they paid their servants at home. She had always lived like the child of a millionaire with no care in the world. And always been very beholden to her mother whom she idolized completely.

“I never felt satiated with my mother’s love – I never had enough time with her, ever” .

When her mother died unexpectedly, MGR occupied the space vacated by her.

“He became everything to me. A parent, a partner a friend philosopher and guide.” But the beautiful lady and C.M.of Tamil Nadu was also frank enough to admit that ” she had never experienced unconditional love in her life. I don’t think it exists – in books, in songs, in films… but not in real life.”

MGR made her his political apprentice but he did nothing to smoothen her succession in AIDMK after his death.

“I was an unusual heir. In Asia, only daughters and wives have succeeded their fathers/ husbands in politics. I was neither” she says candidly.

Proving herself as the sole and unquestioned leader of the party was the most harrowing and difficult time of her life, she says.

“I was vilified, abused – mentally and physically – but the process made me stronger. I can say honestly now that I am never one to pick a fight. But if a fight comes my way, I do not run away. I give back as good as I get or worse.”

The fighter with ‘take no prisoners’ attitude was a very shy, tongue tied and ‘ultra sensitive person’ in life.

“But once in public life, I learnt to control my emotions completely. I have never lost my temper or cried in public” she confessed.

Her critics have flayed her as an autocrat, an arrogant politician, a megalomaniac even – but time will tell how intelligently and even compassionately she ruled over her state.

Specially her vision to save the girl child makes Tamil Nadu the most ‘girl friendly’ state in the country today. People actually celebrate when they get a daughter because of the state largesse they receive as a result.

Like her mother, she died young. She had to – no one can succeed so spectacularly in a field that they hate without having to pay a price for it.

“Given a choice, I would run away into the Himalayas and become a hermit. At heart, I am a hermit” she said.

Rest in peace now Jayalalitha, woman supreme. May you finally be happy.

When asked to sing her favourite song she had hummed this one ” Aaja sanam madhur chandani me hum, mil jaye to ajjayegi bahar…lagata nahi hai dil yahan. “

… Sunita Mudaliar -Associate Editor

Jayalalithaa – a reluctant politician and a feminist to the core