The Ajit Pawar-led National Congress Party (NCP) leader Baburao Chandere was booked by the Pune Police in Maharashtra for allegedly assaulting a senior citizen over a land dispute, a police official said on Sunday, reported the PTI. A video of the incident which took place in Sus Gaon in Pune district on Saturday, went viral on social media platforms. In the video, Baburao Chandere, a former Pune Municipal Corporation standing committee chairman, can be seen arguing with real estate developer Vijay Raundal near a parked luxury car, accosting him and then subjecting him to a body slam, resulting in the senior citizen falling to the ground on his back, according to the PTI. Baburao Chandere allegedly trespassed on Raundal's land, after which an argument broke out. Chandere has been booked for assault, criminal intimidation and other offences under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions, the Bavdhan police station official said. When the media asked NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar about the incident, he said his party would not tolerate such behaviour. Ajit Pawar said that he had tried to call Baburao Chandere for an explanation this morning but could not get through and was told by a kin that he was out somewhere, the news agency reported. MNS workers beat up college principal for inappropriate behaviour with women colleagues Meanwhile, in an another incident, the principal of a college of Ram Nagar area in Thane district of Maharashtra was allegedly thrashed by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers for his alleged lewd behaviour with women colleagues, reported the PTI. A video of the incident went viral on social media. MNS Thane city chief Ravindra More said that his colleagues beat up the principal after his harassed colleagues approached the party. He said that they have submitted a complaint to Srinagar police for further action against the principal. The principal of a college in Thane city and its three management officials were booked on Saturday for allegedly sexually harassing their female teachers, police said. A case has been registered against the accused under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for sexual harassment, indulging in obscene acts and songs, criminal intimidation and intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
26 January,2025 07:54 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentThe Gadchiroli Police in Maharashtra on Sunday celebrated the 76th Republic Day, honoring police heroes and community progress in the district, the officials said. The Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm across Gadchiroli district on January 26. An event also took place at the Gadchiroli Police Headquarters, where Superintendent of Police, Nilotpala, led the celebrations. The day was filled with inspiring activities, honors, and announcements, reflecting the commitment of the police force and the community. During the Republic Day ceremony, six brave police officers were promoted for their exceptional service. Five police naik (constables) were promoted to the rank of police constable, and one police constable was elevated to the rank of assistant sub-inspector. The officials were recognised for their courageous work in fighting against Maoist insurgents in the region. Nilotpala presented them with flowers in appreciation of their dedication. Following the ceremony, the Superintendent of Police held a meeting with the families of martyrs to listen to their concerns and offer support. At the Gadchiroli Police Headquarters, Republic Day celebrations also included a flag-hoisting ceremony by Gadchiroli’s Minister of State, Ashish Jaiswal. The event featured a colorful procession and thrilling demonstrations by the police, showcasing their skills and discipline. A cultural program was also organized to celebrate the day. Republic Day was celebrated in all police sub-divisions, posts, and police stations throughout the district with great enthusiasm. One of the most significant events took place in Pengunta, a remote, Maoist-affected area. For the first time, the Republic Day was celebrated here with a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by around 150-200 locals. Despite the area's challenges, residents participated in the event, showing their support for peace and unity. To mark the occasion, cricket and volleyball matches were organised for the community, providing an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate. Another key development on Republic Day was the establishment of a new police beat in Konasari, under the jurisdiction of post Ashte. Due to an increase in population and concerns about law and order in the area, a new police presence was needed. The new beat will help ensure safety and prevent crime in the region. The flag-hoisting ceremony was held at Konasari, with the presence of police officers, local leaders, and respected community members.
26 January,2025 07:52 PM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentKonkan Railway in Maharashtra continues to operate cross border railways with renewed vigour as it has signed a fresh contract valued at Rs 23.80 crore with Nepal Railways for the operation and maintenance of Diesel Electric Mainline Unit (DEMU) train services on the cross-border railway system between the Jayanagar-Bijalpura section. The Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) marked a significant milestone on Republic Day, celebrating 26 years since the inauguration of its completed track. The occasion was made even more special with the announcement of impressive financial accomplishments and exciting new projects, reinforcing the railway’s continued commitment to growth and modernisation. A Year of Progress In 2024, Konkan Railway reached remarkable milestones, both in terms of operational achievements and revenue. The railway reported a revenue of Rs 1,793 crore from traffic and Rs 2,361 crore from projects, underscoring its critical role in India’s transport infrastructure. In addition, 2024 saw the introduction of new train services aimed at enhancing connectivity across the region. Notably, the Bandra (T) - Madgaon Jn. Bi-Weekly Express and the Secunderabad - Vasco Da Gama Bi-Weekly Express were launched, expanding options for passengers. Passenger service also saw significant growth, with 19,957 trains operated on the Konkan route, marking an 8 per cent increase over the previous year. A rise in coaching revenue, which reached Rs 1,069.58 crore, further highlights the growing demand for rail travel in the region. Special trains, including 304 Ganpati Specials, contributed an additional Rs 4.77 crore in earnings, marking a notable 16.17% growth compared to the previous year. Global Partnerships and Cross-Border Ventures One of the standout announcements during the Republic Day celebrations was the signing of a Rs 23.80 crore contract with Nepal Railways. This agreement will support the operation and maintenance of Diesel Electric Mainline Unit (DEMU) train services on the cross-border railway system between Jayanagar and Bijalpura, extending Konkan Railway’s reach beyond India’s borders and fostering international cooperation. Sustainability and Innovation Konkan Railway has also made strides in sustainability and modern technology. The railway is actively transitioning to electric traction, with 85-90 per cent of its trains now operating on electric power, resulting in savings of approximately Rs 279.14 crore on fuel costs. The successful installation of solar plants with a combined capacity of 660 kW has further contributed to reducing energy costs, saving Rs 55.13 lakh in 2024 alone. Technology and passenger experience have been enhanced with the introduction of dynamic QR code scanners at stations, streamlining the ticketing process. Furthermore, the launch of the Rail Arcade at Madgaon Railway Station has been a welcome addition for travelers, featuring modern food stalls, regional delicacies, and a travel booking office. Employee Celebrations and Recognition The Republic Day celebrations also featured a series of activities and competitions for employees and their families. Fancy dress, mobile photography, and drawing contests were held across various KRCL locations, including Ratnagiri and Karwar. The prize distribution ceremony recognized the talent and spirit of the workforce, with Chairman and Managing Director Santosh Kumar Jha applauding their continued dedication to Konkan Railway’s growth. Future Prospects Looking ahead, Konkan Railway will focus on its expansion plans, the officials said. They said that the completion of over 100 km of track renewal projects, including Complete Track Renewal (CTR) and Through Weld Renewal (TWR), has significantly improved track integrity and safety. Additionally, new electrical works valued at Rs 1,056 crore are set to further strengthen the railway’s infrastructure. In education and training, the Konkan Railway Academy, along with other specialised institutes, continues to offer a wide range of programs, training over 400 students in 2024 alone.
26 January,2025 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarThe BJP on Sunday accused AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal of orchestrating hoax calls to mislead voters across constituencies, including the New Delhi constituency, claiming that their were "cancelled" by the BJP. Addressing a press conference, BJP MP Parvesh Verma played an audio recording of one such call, in which a person was heard saying, "Your vote has been cut by the BJP. AAP will ensure you get your vote back," and urged the receiver to support the Aam Aadmi Party. "Hoax calls are being made to the public, saying that BJP will end all AAP schemes. This is a blatant lie," he said. He also wondered how "confidential voter data" was accessed by the party. "Other than the Election Commission of India, this data is not provided to anyone. How did Kejriwal get the voters' contact list? This must be inspected," Verma said. The BJP's New Delhi candidate for the Assembly election also alleged the AAP of distributing Rs 500 wrapped in a calendar in the slum areas. He claimed three people were arrested in this regard. There was no immediate reaction from the AAP on the allegations, nor from Delhi Police. He said he has filed a complaint with the Election Commission and his party demands an investigation into the matter. BJP leader and party spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi, who was also present at the press conference, welcomed the US Supreme Court's decision to extradite to India Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. "Under Modi's leadership, the government remains committed to fighting terrorism. The decision to hand over Tahawwur Rana to India is a welcome one for all of us," Trivedi said. Trivedi accused the AAP and Congress of supporting activities that indirectly shield terrorism. "Atishi's parents were among those seeking a 'shama yajna' (forgiveness ritual) for Afzal Guru," he alleged, referring to the mastermind of the 2001 Parliament attack. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 January,2025 05:41 PM IST | New Delhi | PTITo celebrate India's 76th Republic Day, a grand Tiranga Yatra was organised in Uri of Jammu and Kashmir, showcasing a vibrant display of unity and national pride, ANI reported. As per ANI, the march commenced from NS Bridge and concluded at the Kalapahar Brigade Auditorium, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 500 participants. Among them were students from the Army Goodwill School in Uri, government schools from across the district, teachers, civil administration representatives, and local residents. The event served as a powerful tribute to India’s democratic values and cultural heritage, symbolised by the tricolour waving high in the hands of participants. The Yatra highlighted the spirit of unity and patriotism, reflecting the resilience and pride of the people of Uri. Across the country, similar celebrations infused citizens with the spirit of patriotism. In Delhi, President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns. The parade also featured Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was the chief guest, further emphasising India's international ties. According to ANI, this year’s Republic Day focused on 75 years since the Constitution's enactment, underscoring the theme of “Jan Bhagidari” (people’s participation). Around 10,000 special guests, including outstanding performers in various fields and beneficiaries of government schemes, were invited to witness the iconic parade. The celebrations also showcased tableau from 16 states and Union Territories, along with 10 Central Government ministries, under the theme “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Progress). PM Modi paid homage at the National War Memorial at India Gate, honoring India’s brave martyrs before the parade began, ANI reported. The Tiranga Yatra in Uri stands as a testament to the nation’s collective spirit, with every corner of the country reaffirming its commitment to the ideals of democracy and unity on this historic occasion. Mumbai: Let's celebrate spirit of democracy that makes our nation strong, says Devendra Fadnavis on Republic Day 2025 Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan and CM Devendra Fadnavis extended good wishes to the people on the occasion of Republic Day 2025 on Sunday. Devendra Fadnavis in a post on X said, "Greetings to everyone on Republic Day! Let's celebrate the spirit of unity and democracy that makes our nation strong." Greetings to everyone on Republic Day! Let’s celebrate the spirit of unity and democracy that makes our nation strong.प्रजासत्ताक दिनाच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा! जय हिंद!#HappyRepublicDay #RepublicDay #RepublicDayIndia #RepublicDay2025 #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/DhrNfKUTQe — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) January 26, 2025 The governor unfurled the national flag at the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai and Fadnavis unfurled the tricolour at the CM's official residence 'Varsha' to mark the occasion. The Republic Day 2025 parade will be held at the Shivaji Park in Mumbai. (With Agency inputs)
26 January,2025 05:14 PM IST | Baramulla | mid-day online correspondentBJP president J P Nadda claimed on Sunday that India, as the "mother of democracy" and a republic, represents the world, as he called for strengthening the country's constitutional values. Speaking at a Republic-Day event held at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters here, Nadda said under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the vision of "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) has become a medium to uplift most of the downtrodden people in the society, embodying the spirit of "Antyodaya", according to a statement issued by the party. "Let us all collectively pledge to strengthen and uphold the nation's constitutional values. It is our duty to leave no stone unturned in making India a developed nation and ensure that every citizen contributes to this grand journey," Nadda said. He unfurled the national flag at the BJP office and was joined by several party leaders on the occasion. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 January,2025 04:42 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIAAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said the Delhi Assembly polls was not just a contest for the national capital but the entire country. The election pits two contrasting ideologies -- one focused on welfare of the general public and the other on benefiting a select group of wealthy individuals -- against each other, he said. "This election is about deciding how taxpayers' money should be spent. One ideology, represented by the BJP, uses public funds to waive loans worth thousands of crores for its close associates. The other, our AAP model, focuses on providing free electricity, education, health care and transport to benefit the common man," Kejriwal said at a press conference. Criticising the BJP-led Centre, the former Delhi chief minister alleged that it had waived debts amounting to Rs 10 lakh crore of 400-500 industrialists during the past five years. "The BJP model gives people's money to its friends as loans and then writes off those loans in two to three years. In contrast, the AAP model provides direct benefits to the public, including welfare schemes worth nearly Rs 25,000 per month for each household in Delhi," he said. Kejriwal also accused the saffron party of planning to end all welfare schemes initiated by AAP if it gains power in Delhi. "The BJP has already clarified it will stop free electricity, free bus rides (for women), and other benefits provided by the Delhi government. I ask the people, will they be able to bear this cost if the BJP is elected?" he said. Kejriwal also lashed out at the BJP for labelling welfare measures as "freebies", alleging that the saffron party was trying to create guilt among the middle class while itself offering massive concessions to big businesses. "When the BJP waives loans worth thousands of crores for its friends, is that not a freebie?" he asked. Elections to the 70-member Delhi Assembly will be held on February 5 and the votes counted on February 8. AAP is seeking a third consecutive term in office while the BJP is attempting to regain power in the national capital for the first time since 1998. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 January,2025 04:34 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIThe Border Security Force (BSF) apprehended a Pakistani national near the India-Pakistan border in Gujarat's Kutch district in the early hours of Sunday. The incident coincided with heightened security measures undertaken for Republic Day celebrations, PTI reported. BSF personnel detected suspicious movements near the border fencing in the Kutch area and conducted a search operation. The individual, identified as Khawar, a resident of Badin district in Sindh province of Pakistan, was subsequently detained, the BSF said in an official statement. "In view of the Republic Day (on Sunday), the BSF has launched special operations along the international border," it said, emphasising the heightened vigilance in border areas, PTI cited. This incident follows a similar operation nearly two weeks ago when BSF troops apprehended another Pakistani national attempting to infiltrate India from the Harami Nala area of Kutch district. As per PTI, the BSF has been intensifying its security measures along the border to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the safety of the nation during significant events like Republic Day. The 76th Republic Day parade began on the Kartavya Path on Sunday with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute. Parade Commander and General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar led the parade, followed by Parade Second-in-Command and Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, Major General Sumit Mehta. Winners of the highest gallantry awards, including the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashok Chakra, followed the parade commander. BSF, Bangladesh’s BGB hold high-level meeting The Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) held a sector commander-level coordination meeting on Wednesday at the Sonamasjid border outpost in Bangladesh. The meeting aimed to ensure peace and cooperation along the Indo-Bangladesh border, according to the BSF South Bengal Frontier. The meeting was led by BSF Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Malda Sector Tarun Kumar Gautam, and Commander of the BGB Rajshahi Sector Colonel Mohammad Imran Ibne Rouf. Battalion commanders and staff officers from both forces also participated. According to the BSF South Bengal Frontier, the meeting focused on key issues related to border management, including enhancing cooperation, addressing illegal activities, and preventing unauthorised movement near the border. Both sides agreed on the importance of resolving border-related issues through dialogue and consensus and expressed concern about the spreading of rumours and exaggeration of border disputes in some sections of the media and committed to addressing these matters. (With inputs from Agencies)
26 January,2025 04:33 PM IST | Kutch | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate on Sunday reiterated that the government will not discontinue the Re 1 crop insurance scheme despite recommendations to shut it down, reported the PTI. Speaking to the media in Maharashtra's Nandurbar, Manikrao Kokate confirmed that while some adjustments will be made, the scheme will continue in its current form to support farmers. The crop insurance scheme was introduced in the 2023 budget by the then-finance minister and Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. Under the scheme, farmers can get crop insurance for just Re 1. Before the scheme, farmers had to pay the company 2 per cent of the insurance premium.The scheme, however, faced criticism after a review brought to light over four lakh bogus applicants. "This scheme is for the benefit of farmers, and while some changes are necessary, it will not be closed," the minister said, as per the PTI. He further confirmed that compensation for crop losses was distributed to some farmers, and investigations into other cases were ongoing. Manikrao Kokate had earlier said that there were only two to three per cent irregularities in the Re 1 crop insurance scheme for farmers, but no corruption was involved in its implementation, according to the PTI. Asked about the 14.95 per cent fare hike by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation, Manikrao Kokate said, "The cabinet will discuss this matter, and once it is finalised, it will be officially approved," the PTI reported. The minister also indicated that a resolution would be reached soon regarding the ongoing dispute over district guardian ministers for Nashik and Raigad. BJP's Girish Mahajan and NCP's Aditi Tatkare were appointed guardian ministers for Nashik and Raigad, respectively, but the appointments were put on hold. He said discussions would be held on the matter once Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis returns from Davos. Meanwhile, earlier Kokate had said that there were only two to three per cent irregularities in the Re 1 crop insurance scheme for farmers, but no corruption was involved in its implementation. Talking to reporters on Thursday night, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader had said irregularities in the scheme do not mean there was corruption involved in it. "The crop insurance scheme is not mired in corruption, but saw only 2 to 3 per cent irregularities. Facing irregularities does not mean there is corruption," Kokate said. (with PTI inputs)
26 January,2025 04:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar on Sunday unfurled the national flag on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day in Pune, ANI reported. Extending his greetings, Pawar said, "On the occasion of Republic Day, I extend my wishes to all the citizens in Maharashtra and India. I also congratulate all the Padma awardees and President Medal awardees from Maharashtra." As per ANI, Pawar speaking while rising Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases announced, "The treatment for this issue is very expensive. After discussions with officials from the district administration and municipal corporation, we have decided to provide free treatment to affected citizens. Those from Pimpri-Chinchwad will be treated at YCM Hospital, while patients from Pune Municipal Corporation areas will receive treatment at Kamla Nehru Hospital. For citizens from rural areas, free treatment will be provided at Sassoon Hospital in Pune." Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GS) is a rare physical condition characterised by sudden numbness and weakness in muscles. He further added, "The injections used for treatment are priced around Rs8,000, but private facilities charge nearly Rs20,000. To address this, we made these decisions today and will take additional measures after returning to Mumbai." As per ANI, while addressing concerns about NCP- SP Chief Sharad Pawar's health, Ajit Pawar stated, "During the VSI event, Pawar Sahab had difficulty speaking due to chest congestion. Despite suggestions from me, Jayant Patil, and others to take rest, he insisted on attending a programme in Kolhapur. However, his health deteriorated there, and he returned to Mumbai. Doctors have now advised him to rest for four days, which he is following." Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate, paying tribute to the bravehearts who gave their lives for the country. President Murmu then unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini. Notably, this year, India invited Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to be the chief guest at the Republic Day ceremonies. This year's Republic Day commemorates 75 years after the Constitution's establishment and focuses on "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation). (With ANI inputs)
26 January,2025 03:09 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentIndonesian President Prabowo Subianto lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and commitment towards alleviating poverty and helping the marginalised while affirming that he himself learnt a lot from him in the few days, reported news agency ANI. The Indonesian President, who is on his first state visit to India, said he is proud to be in India and further wished "prosperity, peace, and greatness" for the people of India in the coming years. Speaking at the special banquet, Subianto said, "I am very proud to be here (in India)...I am not a professional politician, I am not a good diplomat, I say what is in my heart. I came here for a few days but learned a lot from Prime Minister Modi's leadership and commitments...His commitment to alleviating poverty, helping the marginalized, and helping the weakest part of your society, is an inspiration for us," reported ANI. "I would like to wish the people of India prosperity, peace, and greatness in the coming years. I would like to see Indonesia and India continuing to be close partners and friends," he added. Subianto will grace the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartvya Path in the national capital on Sunday. The Rashtrapati Bhavan in a statement said that Murmu recalled that 75 years ago, then Indonesian President Sukarno attended India's Republic Day as the Chief Guest. President Droupadi Murmu received President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in his honour. She thanked President Subianto for accepting the invitation to grace India’s Republic Day celebration as Chief Guest. She recalled that 75 years… pic.twitter.com/mOsEUaNhQj — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 25, 2025 President Prabowo was received by President Droupadi Murmu at the special banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday. President Murmu thanked President Subianto for accepting the invitation to grace India's Republic Day celebration as Chief Guest. She recalled that 75 years ago, President Sukarno of Indonesia was Chief Guest on our very first Republic Day in 1950. This is a reflection of the long-standing ties and strong democratic traditions between India and Indonesia.
26 January,2025 12:15 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
