Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has demanded the cancellation of Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi’s membership from the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly over his remarks on Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. According to ANI, Sawant strongly condemned Azmi’s statement, stating that glorifying Aurangzeb amounts to insulting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Speaking to ANI, Sawant said, “His membership from the Legislative Assembly should be cancelled. You should understand that glorifying Aurangzeb means insulting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. What could have been the reason for this statement?” He further alleged that the statement was a deliberate distraction from ongoing controversies in Maharashtra. “In Maharashtra, there was a demand for the resignation of those ministers who were involved in corruption and misconduct... Someone must have told him (Abu Azmi) to make such a statement to divert attention. BJP is an expert in misleading. It is a conspiracy of BJP,” Sawant asserted. According to ANI reports, Sawant accused Azmi of attempting to divert public attention from pressing issues and claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was behind the controversy. Despite widespread criticism of Azmi’s statement, he found support from Samajwadi Party Chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. Yadav questioned the basis of Azmi’s suspension, stating that it violated freedom of expression. “If the basis of suspension starts getting influenced by ideology, then what difference will there be between freedom of expression and subjection? Whether it is our MLAs or MPs, their fearless wisdom is unmatched. If some people think that by 'suspension' one can rein them in, then this is the childishness of their negative thinking,” Yadav remarked, as per ANI reports. The controversy erupted after Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar suspended Abu Azmi for the entire duration of the ongoing budget session on Wednesday. The decision followed Azmi’s remarks in the Assembly, where he reportedly stated that Aurangzeb was not a “cruel administrator” and had built many temples. He further claimed that the battle between Aurangzeb and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was about state administration rather than religious conflict. As per ANI reports, a proposal was presented in the Maharashtra Assembly against Azmi’s remarks, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil arguing that the statement had damaged the dignity of the House. The Speaker subsequently approved the proposal, leading to Azmi’s suspension for the duration of the budget session. Azmi’s comments have triggered widespread political debate, with various parties reacting strongly to his views. The issue continues to be a focal point of political discourse in Maharashtra, as the state grapples with multiple political and governance challenges.
07 March,2025 09:36 AM IST | MumbaiThe Konkan Housing and Area Development Board, a regional division of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), has initiated the tender process for the sale of land designated for schools and multispecialty hospitals in Shirdhon and Khoni, Kalyan Taluka, Thane district, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), ANI reports. According to ANI, the Chief Officer of the Konkan Board, Revati Gaikar, has invited eligible applicants, including individuals, companies, public charitable trusts, registered societies, educational institutions, healthcare organisations, partnership firms, trusts, and joint ventures, to participate in the bidding process. Interested applicants must submit their tenders through the official website https://mahatenders.gov.in by 18th March 2025. As per ANI, the housing project in Shirdhon, located at Survey No. 86 and 95 in Kalyan, Thane, has been meticulously designed to establish a model residential township. The development consists of 7,141 housing units for the economically weaker section (EWS) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and 528 units for the low-income group (LIG) under the MHADA housing scheme. Of these, 1,905 units have already received occupancy certificates, while the remaining units are undergoing the certification process. Additionally, approval has been granted for the construction of 11,023 new LIG units under the MHADA scheme. ANI reports that the project’s layout plan includes two plots measuring 765.64 square metres and 596.87 square metres reserved for multispecialty hospitals, as well as two plots of 3,033.25 square metres and 2,768.67 square metres designated for schools and playgrounds. The development is well-connected, with access to water and electricity supply, and is further enhanced by the proposed Virar-Alibaug Multimodal Corridor, which passes through the site, improving connectivity and transport facilities. Furthermore, the project includes various amenities, such as a multipurpose clubhouse with a community hall and gymnasium, commercial shops, landscaped gardens, and other community-centric facilities. Given these advantages, the available plots for educational and healthcare infrastructure are expected to be highly beneficial for prospective buyers. At Khoni, as per ANI, the construction of 5,060 EWS units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) has been completed, with 4,048 units already granted occupancy certificates. The process of handing over possession is currently underway. Additionally, 2,114 LIG units are under construction. The project is situated near the Katai-Badlapur Pipeline and has access to water and electricity supply, ensuring a well-equipped living environment. ANI reports that MHADA has planned various amenities within the Khoni project, including a community hall, gymnasium, 60 commercial shops, office spaces, a hospital, and gardens. The layout plan designates a 2,464.60 square metre plot for a school, complemented by an adjacent playground. Given that the development consists of 7,174 housing units, a sufficient number of students is anticipated for the proposed educational institution. Considering these factors, the Konkan Board has extended an invitation to eligible applicants to take part in the tender process for the available school and hospital plots in both Shirdhon and Khoni. (With inputs from ANI)
07 March,2025 09:18 AM IST | MumbaiMumbaikars, brace for another scorching spell as meteorologists warn of fresh heatwave. After a brief dip in temperatures, the mercury is set to soar again, reaching 37°C–39°C along the coastal belt and 39°C–41°C in the interiors of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), particularly Thane and Navi Mumbai. With temperatures already climbing, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Ratnagiri from March 9 to March 11. Officials from IMD’s Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai attribute the spike in daytime temperatures to strong easterly winds. Private meteorologists and weather enthusiasts predict that peak temperatures will likely be recorded between March 7 and 11. This pattern mirrors late February, when similar heatwave conditions prompted the IMD to issue alerts on February 25, 26, and 27. However, temperatures dropped slightly in the following days, dipping by 2–3°C. On Wednesday, the IMD’s Santacruz observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 37.4°C, up from 36.8°C on Tuesday. The Colaba observatory registered 33.4°C, which was 2.2°C above normal and slightly higher than Tuesday’s 33.1°C. “With rising temperatures and heatwave alerts in place, residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure,” an IMD official said. Experts weigh in Rajesh Kapadia, climatologist, Vagaries of Weather: “As western disturbances pass, Mumbai, Konkan, and Interior Western Maharashtra are experiencing warm to hot days and cooler nights, with a diurnal temperature range exceeding 20°C. While this is typical for early March, the unusual factor is that it has persisted since late February, when such conditions are rare.” Mumbaikars trying to protect themselves from the heat. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi Kapadia issued a heatwave alert for Maharashtra, warning that temperatures will rise to 37°C–39°C in coastal areas, while interiors like Thane and Navi Mumbai may hit 39°C–41°C. Pune is expected to hover around 36°C until the weekend, rising to 39°C–40°C next week. Mahesh Palawat, VP, Meteorology & Climate Change, Skymet Weather: “Temperatures will rise from March 7 and 8, triggering heatwave conditions. Over the last 24 hours, temperatures dropped by 2–3°C across Maharashtra, thanks to northerly winds. However, a fresh western disturbance will disrupt this pattern, intensifying the heatwave, especially in Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Telangana. Dry, hot winds will persist, delaying the cooling sea breeze and making the weather hotter and more humid across Maharashtra and Goa.” Rushikesh Agre, independent weather enthusiast ("Mumbai Rains" on X): “Mumbai and its suburbs are set for one of the hottest spells of 2025 from March 6–11, likely breaking February records. Suburban areas could exceed 40°C.”
07 March,2025 08:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for March 7. Aries March 21 – April 20Some may apply for 2 days leave to complete personal work. A friend needs counselling. Cosmic tip: Work systematically but without any stress as this karmic cycle is one of gentle forward movement. Taurus April 21 – May 20Be aware about what you think, as reality is created via thoughts. Confidence levels increase as decisions have family support. Cosmic tip: Harvest karmas sowed a long time ago. This works to your advantage. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Dealing with a complex issue is resolved with patience and an exchange of ideas. Regularly get enough sleep at night.Cosmic tip: Take it in your stride if a plan nosedives at the last minute. Cancer June 22 – July 23Check an email for accuracy before clicking on ‘send’. An assignment may be required a day earlier.Cosmic tip: Don’t allow yourself to be swept away in a flood of charm and complimentary words. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Finance is highlighted (a raise in salary, making investments, selling property and maintaining balance between income and expenditure). Cosmic tip: Be appreciative about recognition and praise received. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Some Virgos have reached a crossroads in their professional life. Moving ahead, make decisions very, very carefully. Cosmic tip: Bring clarity to thoughts by discussing a matter with someone trustworthy. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22A change of planetary positions affects career and relationships. Cosmic tip: Wait till the universe waves its magic wand, bringing clarity in a simple manner. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22One financial issue takes a couple of days to be sorted. Cosmic tip: Control what you actually want to say, as against what you do finally speak. You will be glad about it later on. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Experiencing true love is a surprise for some. This in turn makes you introspect how karma actually works. Don’t worry as long as you incur positive karma. Cosmic tip: Sleep with a peaceful mind. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Making it quite clear the person has no business being rude to you quietens them down immediately. Cosmic tip: Believe in Divine intervention when faced with a situation not of your making. Have faith. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19A relationship going through an insecure period recovers. Career or business is moving ahead satisfyingly. Cosmic tip: Remain motivated at work since you experience an important karmic cycle. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Travel, either short/ long distance begins a karmic phase of projects getting completed. A trip makes you anxious. Don’t be.Cosmic tip: Be careful about the topic chosen for discussion when meeting relatives.
07 March,2025 08:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseA police sub-inspector (PSI) from Ganeshpuri police station under Thane Rural Police is facing a departmental inquiry over allegations of forging a remand copy in a gutka-related case and demanding Rs 12 lakh in extortion. The PSI, who has since been transferred to the traffic control room, allegedly included the names of unrelated individuals in the case and sent them a forged remand copy to extort money. mid-day has obtained copies of both the original and the allegedly forged remand orders. According to the original remand copy, dated January 27, under Ganeshpuri police station, a case was registered against four individuals, with three—Samshad Ahmed and Mohammad Vasim Khan from Uttar Pradesh, and Asif Shaikh from Bhiwandi, Thane—shown as arrested. The fourth accused, identified as Guddu, was listed as absconding. In the forged remand copy, while the names of the three arrested individuals remain the same, seven additional names were included as absconding. These are Shabir Khan from Govandi, Nipul Shah from Vapi, Tejas Patil from Bhiwandi, Guddu from Vapi, Vais Zuber Khani, Arman Mirza, and Bilal Ansari—all three from Bhiwandi. The other details in both remand copies remain unchanged, including the seized gutka, valued at R29 lakh. Both documents also state that the three arrested accused were remanded to police custody for five days, from January 27 to February 7. However, while the original remand copy includes an attached order stamped by a judge from the Bhiwandi court, the forged version lacks any such official stamp. Both copies were signed by PSI Umesh Rothe and Assistant Police Inspector Sandipan Sonawane. S K Ali, an advocate representing Vais Zuber, said, “The fake remand copy was sent to my client via a friend in connection with an FIR registered at Ganeshpuri police station. It was forwarded by PSI Rothe and is fabricated and doctored. He then started demanding around R2 lakh per person, amounting to R12 lakh in total. This is a clear case of extortion and blackmail, with the officer forging the remand copy.” Ali added, “What happened is illegal and is causing torment to innocent people. The police officials responsible should be punished for abusing their power.” In a legal letter sent to multiple officials, including Dr D S Swami, Superintendent of Police, Thane (Rural), Ali wrote, “Upon proper inquiry, it was found that PSI Rothe had intentionally and deliberately fabricated the remand application with ulterior motives to extract and extort money from our client.” PSI Umesh Rothe did not respond to mid-day’s messages and calls. However, Dr D S Swami, Superintendent of Police (SP), Thane (Rural), confirmed that Rothe has been transferred to the traffic control room as a punishment, along with a stoppage of his salary increment. “There is an ongoing departmental inquiry covering both the extortion allegations and the forged remand copy. Once the findings are in, stringent action will be taken, as such behaviour is neither encouraged nor tolerated,” Dr Swami told mid-day.
07 March,2025 08:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya IyerA thick layer of white toxic foam was seen floating again on the Pavana River near Kejudevi Bandara in Thergaon, triggering alarm among residents on Tuesday night. The city's environmentalists and locals expressed concern over the river pollution. The sight of the foamy, chemical-laden water made the river appear like an icy stream rather than an urban water body, highlighting the growing pollution crisis in the industrial twin town. A few months ago, mass fish deaths were reported, with the municipal corporation attributing the cause to fertilisers mixing with the water. However, despite various clean-up drives and promises of action, the pollution continues. Residents complain that calls to the civic body’s environment department go unanswered, leaving them with no choice but to raise their voices through protests and social activism. Anil Shrimant Ghodekar, a core committee member of the Thergaon Social Foundation and a local resident, said the pollution problem has persisted for four to five years. “The frequent pollution in these areas is due to untreated sewage from the municipal corporation and industrial wastewater being directly discharged into the river. The Pavana has lost its natural essence and has essentially turned into a sewer. The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and its officials are solely responsible for this crisis,” Ghodekar said. “Simply removing water hyacinths and installing a few cleaning machines at select locations does not mean the river is being revived. From Kejudevi Bandara to Morya Gosavi Ghat, severe pollution is visible. Further downstream, untreated sewage is being openly released, turning the river into a stagnant pool of filthy water,” he added. In an effort to push for stronger action, local activists have created a WhatsApp group called PCMC Rivers Revival to coordinate their efforts. “We will launch major protests to restore this river to its sacred, life-giving form,” Ghodekar said. Shubham Pande, founder of World for Nature, said his team receives five to six rescue calls daily for large animals entering human settlements in search of clean water. “Water pollution is increasing human-animal conflicts. Every year, thousands of fish die in the Pavana and Indrayani rivers due to contamination. Around 25 fish species have already vanished,” Pande said. Officials from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and PCMC have yet to provide a long-term solution. MPCB Deputy Regional Officer Manchak Jadhav said his department had not received any complaints about the foam at Kejudevi Bandara but would investigate. “There are multiple reasons for toxic foam formation. While no major industries are located near the Bandara, several nullahs discharge directly into it. Increased use of household detergents, which are not treated in sewage plants, also contributes. Changes in water flow and atmospheric conditions sometimes exacerbate the problem,” Jadhav said. PCMC’s Chief Engineer and Head of the Environment Department, Sanjay Kulkarni, confirmed that a team had been sent to inspect the site. “Last time, we had to shut down a laundry that was releasing chemical-laden wastewater into the river, causing toxic foam. We are investigating this latest incident,” he said.
07 March,2025 08:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Archana DahiwalThe Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) outbreak in Pune has shown a significant decline, bringing relief to residents and health authorities. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has reported no new cases in the last four days, indicating that containment efforts and preventive measures have been effective. Dr Vaishali Jadhav, assistant health officer of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), said, "No new cases under PMC jurisdiction from the last couple of days, especially from the second week of February." The first Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) case in Pune was reported on January 9. The number of cases increased to double digits, with the highest number of cases recorded on January 20. The first suspected GBS case was hospitalised on January 9. The peak period was from January 18 to January 24, during which 77 cases were reported. The number of new cases declined by the last week of January. Water ATMs had been set up to allow locals to purchase RO water As per the health report of PMC, Pune alone has reported 140 suspected GBS cases, with 119 confirmed GBS cases through diagnostic tests (NCV/CSF/EMG). As per the health department report, there were 17 active cases under treatment in Pune city. Among them in the general ward: four patients, ICU with oxygen support: three patients, ICU with ventilator support: 10 patients (Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital: six, Navale Hospital: three, Sassoon Hospital: one), 114 patients have been discharged so far. There were nine suspected GBS-related deaths reported under PMC. The most affected age group: 16–45 years (66 cases), children (0–5 years): three cases, elderly (above 60 years): 16 cases, male patients: 98, female patients: 42.The outbreak was initially linked to contaminated water in several areas, including Nandedgaon, Kirkatwadi, Nandoshi, Dhayari, and DSK Vishwa. However, stringent water quality management and containment measures have helped control the spread. Rohini Dangad, 9, who was admitted at YCM hospital In light of the steady decline in cases, the PMC has decided to discontinue financial aid for GBS treatment from March 1, which was initially introduced to support affected patients. The PMC had introduced financial aid under the urban poor scheme, covering up to R2 lakh for affected patients from hotspot areas and R1 lakh for others. However, as the rate of new infections has dropped, the administration decided to halt financial assistance from March 1, stating that providing continuous aid for sporadic cases throughout the year is not feasible. As per the civic health officials, Rs 49 lakh has been disbursed to 35 Patients so far since January 14; among it, Rs 24 lakh has been disbursed to 12 patients under the urban poor scheme, and Rs 25 lakh has been distributed among 25 other patients at Rs 1 lakh each. The PMC health department has confirmed that containment efforts will continue, and monitoring of water quality and sanitation measures will remain in place to prevent future outbreaks.
07 March,2025 08:00 AM IST | Pune | Archana DahiwalExpressing concerns over the “deteriorating” quality of education in Urdu-medium schools, the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Minority Commission, Pyare Zia Khan, has proposed converting all Urdu schools in the state into semi-English institutions. Khan suggested teaching Maths and Science in English in all Urdu-medium schools from Std I as well as making Marathi a compulsory subject and providing computers in all Urdu schools, introducing Information Technology education from primary to higher secondary levels, training Urdu-medium teachers in modern teaching methodologies. The Engish proposal has faced strong opposition from various groups, who argue that it interferes with the autonomy of these schools and violates constitutional provisions. Minority Commission Chairman Pyare Zia Khan at the meeting Khan recently convened a meeting in Nagpur with intellectuals from the minority community, education representatives, lawyers, and Urdu school teachers to discuss the challenges facing Urdu-medium institutions.“Many students in Urdu-medium schools struggle to even write their names correctly, which is a matter of grave concern. Compared to other institutions, these students lag behind in competitive exams, and the number of those pursuing higher education is significantly low,” Khan said. He further pointed out that over 90 per cent of Urdu schools in Maharashtra are in extremely poor condition. “Many schools have hired unqualified teachers, and several irregularities are affecting the education of minority students,” he added. Reactions to proposal The Akhil Bhartiya Urdu Shikshak Sangh has opposed the conversion of Urdu medium schools into semi-English schools, citing that it will be a great injustice to Urdu medium students. Sajid Nisar Ahmed, founder, Akhil Bhartiya Urdu Shikshak Sangh (right) Shaikh Taufiq Yunus, an Urdu school teacher Speaking to mid-day, Akhil Bhartiya Urdu Shikshak Sangh founder Sajid Nisar Ahmed said, “Article 350A of the Constitution of India mandates that states and local authorities provide primary education in the mother tongue for children from linguistic minority groups. The Right to Education Act of 2009 also emphasises that, as far as possible, the medium of instruction should be in the child’s mother tongue. Furthermore, Section 29(f) of Chapter V under the Right to Education Act, 2009, explicitly states that 'the medium of instruction shall, as far as practicable, be in the child’s mother tongue. In light of this, we strongly oppose any interference in the name of converting our schools.” Shaikh Taufiq Yunus, an Urdu school teacher, said, “There are valid reasons why schools of different mediums exist—it is the result of our hard work and dedication. If they genuinely want to convert our schools, why not engage directly with school management and teachers to understand how we run these institutions and what challenges we face? Has the chairman interacted with students of Urdu-medium schools or their parents to understand their perspective? Instead of making arbitrary decisions, they should provide us with the necessary funds based on our actual needs. Consulting a few so-called experts will not help. We strongly oppose this proposal.” Uzra Shaikh, a former student of an Urdu-medium school in South Mumbai who is now pursuing her graduation, said, “Some may see this as government interference, but even if it is, I believe that if it benefits minority and Muslim students, schools should welcome it with an open mind. I may not be familiar with the legal provisions or constitutional sections, but I do understand that if schools are modernised, both students and teachers will ultimately benefit.”
07 March,2025 07:57 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghChief minister Devendra Fadnavis and state BJP President and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule reiterated that everyone should learn and speak Marathi. On Thursday, speaking in the Legislative Assembly, the chief minister stated that respecting other languages is important but while doing so, one has to respect Marathi. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav brought to notice of the House Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Suresh ‘Bhaiyyaji’ Joshi’s statement that those coming to Mumbai need not learn the Marathi language. “The government has been talking about Marathi pride. The Mahayuti government has even made it mandatory to use the Marathi language for communication in all its offices and semi-government institutions. But, the language has been insulted and the government needs to explain its stand on the same,” Jadhav said. Devendra Fadnavis, chief minister Jadhav was referring to media reports quoting the RSS leader as stating at a public event in the city that it was not necessary to learn Marathi as Mumbai did not have a single language. He cited the example of Ghatkopar where the dominant language is Gujarati. Joshi, in a later clarification, claimed that his remarks were misconstrued. Fadnavis responds Replying to Jadhav, Fadnavis said, “I have not heard Bhaiyyaji Joshi’s statement. I obtain information before making any statement on this.” Elaborating on his government’s stand, Fadnavis stated that everyone in the state should learn and speak Marathi. The CM further clarified that his government respected other languages as well. “If one respects his or her language, they will do the same to another language too,” Fadnavis added. The language row was raised in the Legislative Council, too, by Congress leader Bhai Jagtap and Anil Parab of the Shiv Sena (UBT). “How can one tolerate insult to Marathi,” Jagtap asked. Replying to the issue, Bawankule claimed that Joshi’s statement seemed to have been presented in the wrong manner. Stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had granted classical language status to Marathi, Bawankule said, “Everyone in Maharashtra should know Marathi.” Reacting to Bawankule’s reply, Parab complimented the government. “But will the government condemn those who have insulted the Marathi language,” Sena (UBTs) Anil Parab asked. Estranged Thackerays on same page Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, speaking with the media, claimed Joshi’s statement revealed a hidden agenda of the BJP to divide Mumbai. “The BJP should now book Joshi for his anti-Marathi statement,” he added. MNS chief Raj Thackeray, Uddhav’s estranged cousin, also came down heavily on Joshi, stating, “The BJP’s state unit should clarify whether they endorse such a statement”. Daring Joshi to make similar statements in Chennai and Bengaluru, he added, “MNS condemns such statements. The Marathi manoos will not forget this. I will speak on this issue on Gudi Padva [March 30].”
07 March,2025 07:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarAllegations of BJP leader, state cabinet minister and MLA Jaykumar Gore harassing a woman—raised by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and Rohit Pawar of the NCP-SP—have reached the state legislature. An irked Gore, on Thursday, moved a privilege motion in response to the accusations levelled against him by Raut, the executive editor of Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamana, Pawar and a YouTube channel. The motion has been accepted by Rahul Narwekar, speaker of the Legislative Assembly. The previous day, Raut, Pawar and the channel had mentioned a case of a woman complaining of harassment by Gore. Refuting the charges, Gore, who holds charge of the rural development and panchayat raj department in the Mahayuti government, moved a breach of privilege motion against Raut, Pawar and the channel for maligning his image. During the discussion over the motion, Gore claimed in the Assembly that the case in question was an old one. “The case was tried before the court and I was acquitted,” he said. The latest statements by the Opposition camp are nothing but an attempt to malign my image, the minister added. Participating in the discussion, BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar suggested that a decision on the motion should be taken at the earliest. “A decision should come before the ongoing state budget session concludes [on March 26],” the former BJP minister said. Taking cognisance of the concerns raised by Gore and other members of the Assembly, Narwekar accepted the motion. “The motion will be forwarded to the privilege committee for further action on the same,” the speaker said. Meanwhile, Rohit Pawar, grandnephew of NCP chief Sharad Pawar, told mid-day on Vidhan Bhavan premises that he had only voiced the complaint of the woman. “A woman had been talking about harassment. As a public representative, I just reiterated concerns raised by the complainant,” he stated.
07 March,2025 07:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarThe operation to capture the young male tiger from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal (southwest of Nagpur) has been ongoing for the past two months. This tiger, which travelled approximately 500 kilometres to reach Solapur and Dharashiv districts, is displaying unusual behaviour, making the capture effort more challenging. Typically, after a kill, a tiger remains near the site to feed at regular intervals. However, this tiger kills an animal but does not return to feed, leaving the darting team waiting for an opportunity to tranquilise it. The presence of human settlements, farmlands, and difficult terrain is further complicating the operation. Officials from the Maharashtra Forest Department confirmed that despite continuous efforts, capturing the tiger has been difficult due to the challenging landscape and nearby villages. The tiger has been primarily roaming along the boundary of the Dharashiv and Solapur districts. The forest department staff and officials involved in the operation Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Dharashiv, BA Pol, said, “The forest department team and members from RESQ CT are taking all possible measures to safely capture the animal, but the difficult terrain and human settlements in the area make darting it extremely challenging.” Live camera traps, about 10-12 in total, have been deployed to monitor the tiger’s movements. Tuhin Satarkar, director of Wildlife at RESQ CT, said, “The terrain is very challenging, so we have to wait for the right moment when the tiger moves into an area where we can safely retrieve it before it wakes up. While we are aware of its movement zones, we must be extremely patient and seize the right opportunity.” Once captured, the tiger will be relocated to Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, located 300 kilometres from Mumbai and spanning Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Ratnagiri districts. Researchers have identified it as the cub of tigress T22 from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, born in 2022. In Solapur, some farmers recently reported an increase in cattle attacks, prompting the forest department to install camera traps. To their surprise, the footage revealed the presence of the male tiger. This marks the first recorded sighting of a tiger at Yedshi Ramalinga Wildlife Sanctuary in Dharashiv district, Marathwada.
07 March,2025 07:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavADVERTISEMENT
