Do 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 19. Aries March 21 – April 20Discard what you know is not right, consciously making wise choices. Delayed payments come in.Cosmic tip: Don’t allow yourself to be manipulated in a calculated manner. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Life is good. You hope it continues remaining just so. Collecting all relevant information is why your assignments are so perfect.Cosmic tip: Stay clear of giving advice which may be misunderstood, and you blamed later. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Saving a relationship may have been challenging, but it was worth working towards a new beginning based on love and mutual respect.Cosmic tip: Take each day as it evolves in your stride. Cancer June 22 – July 23Appreciate it when friends encourage having a broader perspective instead of focusing on one or two angles. Positive karma incurred spotlights finances.Cosmic tip: Keep the mind peaceful. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Making a decision is kept on hold, about which you are glad in retrospect as circumstances might have blown it out of proportion. Cosmic tip: Nurture a relationship with love and tenderness. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23A colleague reveals truths about a conversation for which you weren’t present, attending a training programme. Cosmic tip: Listen to intuition. Something wonderful is going to manifest. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Combining a holiday with work may not work out as expected, as focus is divided between both. An important assignment is still being negotiated for the final ‘go ahead’.Cosmic tip: Appreciate this unexpected gift. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Be ultra careful when making a big investment because of so many scams happening. Legal papers are signed. Cosmic tip: Focus on good qualities, being tolerant of small irritating ones. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Fast action is required today. Changing some pre-sleep routines help go to sleep quicker.Cosmic tip: Stay away from an unnecessary argument (both are right with their own perspective). Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A last-minute change of programme is annoying, but thinking of it as something inevitable makes it easier to accept. Cosmic tip: Do take good care of yourself. Avoid taking good health for granted. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Life appears to be in a slow-moving karmic cycle, but at the unseen level there’s plenty of activity, about which you get to know later.Cosmic tip: Go for a walk every day if possible. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20People are more accepting of boundaries you’ve set, so meeting them is no longer annoying. Cosmic tip: Go with the flow, accepting thoughts emerging, which magically manifest regularly.
19 March,2026 03:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseThe Maharashtra government has written to the Centre seeking custody of Anmol Bishnoi, reiterating that Mumbai will not be allowed to slip back into gang wars at any cost. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that the Mumbai Police require the custody of Anmol, brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, in connection with a few cases. The CM noted that the fugitive gangster was extradited from the United States last year and is currently under investigation by central agencies. “The Mumbai Police want custody of Anmol in connection with a few cases. Accordingly, the state has written to the Government of India for his custody, and we are confident of securing it,” Fadnavis added. In February this year, unidentified assailants opened fire, discharging a few rounds at filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence in Juhu. The issue of a threat to celebrities’ lives was raised in the legislative council by Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Milind Narvekar. Fadnavis praised the Mumbai Police for the manner in which they handled the case and arrested the accused in connection with the firing incident. The CM also noted that such incidents can be unsettling for celebrities but assured them that the Mumbai Police provides them with necessary security cover. Narvekar mentioned that he is satisfied with the reply and action taken by the CM in connection with the firing at Shetty’s house. Bishnoi’s key aide on the run While Pravin Lonkar, the brother of Shubham Lonkar, who is a key aide of Lawrence Bishnoi, has been arrested in connection with the firing outside Shetty’s residence, Shubham is currently absconding and is believed to be outside India. “We will trace Shubham and ensure his arrest,” Fadnavis said No return to gang war Mumbai was once known for gang-related violence, and the police had to carry out several encounters to curb this menace. On Wednesday, Fadnavis assured the members of the council that at any cost, Mumbai will not be allowed to slip back into gang wars. Who is Anmol Bishnoi? Anmol Bishnoi is the brother of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. He was arrested by the National Investigation Agency on November 19, 2025, upon his deportation from the United States. He is accused of running terror operations from abroad, including coordinating the attack outside actor Salman Khan's home and being involved in the murder of Sidhu Moosewala.
18 March,2026 10:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarShiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav on Wednesday said Maharashtra's Konkan region has a huge potential to generate significant foreign exchange through fisheries, fruit cultivation and tourism, and called for a non-political approach for a long-term development of the coastal belt, news agency PTI reported. During a debate in the legislative assembly over development of Konkan, Jadhav, who represents the Guhagar Assembly Constituency in Ratnagiri district, referred to the coastal region as the "dollar land". Proposal for fishermen board, processing units to raise coastal incomes The state has a coastline of around 720 kilometres, which can be leveraged to boost fisheries exports, he said, and stressed the need for processing units for mangoes, cashews, coconut, and betel nuts to increase farmers' income. He also called for the establishment of a dedicated board for fishermen to provide financial support during the monsoon season (when fishing is banned) and to ensure land ownership rights for their homes. Jadhav emphasised the need to develop tourism infrastructure, including logistics hubs and tourist facilities, to attract foreign visitors. He also urged timely disbursement of government subsidies to cashew growers and appealed to all stakeholders to set aside political differences and work collectively for Konkan's growth. Highlighting tourism as the third key pillar, Jadhav said Konkan's natural beauty, beaches and historical legacy can attract international tourists if infrastructure and facilities are improved. He called for strengthening tourism development mechanisms and creating employment opportunities for the local youth. Jadhav seeks dedicated authority, infrastructure push for Konkan development The former minister also referred to past committees and development plans for Konkan, stating that several recommendations remained unimplemented. Jadhav demanded a comprehensive development push for the region, including a dedicated development authority, improved road connectivity such as coastal highways, expansion of airports like Chipi, and financial support for horticulture and fisheries sectors, reported PTI. He further stressed the need for a single nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of schemes and better coordination across departments. Calling for a non-political approach, Jadhav urged all stakeholders to work together for Konkan's long-term development, stating that the region has the capacity to become one of the most prosperous areas in Maharashtra if its resources are properly utilised, reported PTI. (Inputs from PTI)
18 March,2026 09:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of the large ‘Padwa Melava’ organised by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena at Shivaji Park, Dadar West, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, the Mumbai Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory to prevent congestion on key routes across the city. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Dr Dipali Dhate, will remain in force from 1 pm to midnight. No parking zones The following roads will have a complete ban on parking: SVS Road (from Siddhivinayak Mandir Junction to Yes Bank Junction) Keluskar Road (North & South), Dadar MB Raut Marg Pandurang Naik Marg (Road No 5) Dadasaheb Rege Marg Lt Dilip Gupte Marg (Shivaji Park Gate No 4 to Shitaladevi Temple Junction) NC Kelkar Marg (Gadkari Chowk to Hanuman Temple Junction) Traffic diversions and alternate routes Vehicular traffic on the above stretches will be regulated and diverted: SVS Road traffic will be diverted via SK Bole Road – Agar Bazar – Portuguese Church – Gokhale Road – LJ Road Raja Badhe Chowk to Keluskar Road (North) via LJ Road – Gokhale Road – Steelman Junction Lt Dilip Gupte Marg (south-bound) via Raja Badhe Junction – LJ Road Gadkari Chowk to Keluskar Road via MB Raut Marg Parking instructions for participants Organisers and attendees have been directed to use designated drop-off and parking points: Western and northern suburbs (via Western Express Highway): Drop passengers on Senapati Bapat Road (Matunga Railway Station to Ruparel College stretch). Parking at Reti Bandar (Mahim), Indiabulls Finance Centre PPL Parking, Kamgar Maidan, Senapati Bapat Road and Kohinoor PPL Parking (Shivaji Park) for light vehicles Eastern suburbs (Thane/Navi Mumbai via Eastern Express Highway): Drop at Dadar TT Circle and park at Five Gardens (Matunga) and RAK 4 Road South Mumbai and city areas: Drop at Ravindranath Natya Mandir (Veer Savarkar Road) or Dadar TT Circle (BA Road) and proceed to Indiabulls PPL Parking, Aappasaheb Marathe Marg, Five Gardens or RAK 4 Road Designated parking spots Senapati Bapat Marg, Kamgar Maidan, Indiabulls Finance Centre (Elphinstone), Kohinoor PPL Parking (Shivaji Park), Aappasaheb Marathe Marg, Five Gardens (Matunga), Reti Bandar (Mahim) and RAK 4 Road. The police have advised commuters to plan their travel in advance, use public transport wherever possible, and follow instructions of traffic police personnel on duty. Police have appealed to MNS supporters and the public to cooperate for the smooth conduct of the event.
18 March,2026 09:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major step towards bridging the gap between academia and industry, the University of Mumbai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Confederation of Indian Industry to establish a state-of-the-art ‘Education-to-Employment (E2E) Career Lounge’ at its Vidyanagari campus. As per the statement from Mumbai University, “The initiative aims to enhance student employability by equipping them with industry-relevant skills, hands-on experience, and direct access to career opportunities.” They also added, “The lounge will function as a comprehensive platform offering career counselling, skill development, job assistance, and placement support under one roof.” The project is aligned with the Government of India’s National Career Service (NCS) initiative under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, focusing on creating a seamless transition from education to employment for students. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Vice-Chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni, Registrar Dr Prasad Karande, CII Executive Director Sougata Roy Choudhury, along with other senior officials and academic leaders. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Kulkarni highlighted the urgent need to integrate education with industry demands in line with the National Education Policy. He noted that the initiative would ensure students move beyond theoretical knowledge and gain practical exposure, industry insights, and clear career direction. Saugata Roy Choudhury, Executive Director of the CII, emphasised, “This initiative would focus on providing students with up-to-date information regarding emerging technologies, various industrial sectors, and career opportunities.” He further added that, through the involvement of industry experts, students would receive guidance grounded in real-world, practical experience. E2E career lounge to serve as an effective career hub for students The ‘E2E Career Lounge', being established within the University of Mumbai campus, is poised to serve as an effective career hub for students. Through direct interaction with the industry, skills training, and placement guidance, students will be able to achieve a seamless transition from their academic journey into the professional realm. This initiative will foster a strong nexus between education and industry, thereby facilitating the creation of bright career opportunities for students. The initiative will be coordinated by the Career Training and Placement Cell of the University of Mumbai. With this initiative, the University of Mumbai aims to significantly boost students’ confidence, employability, and adaptability in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven job landscape.
18 March,2026 08:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGudi Padwa is the vibrant traditional New Year festival celebrated by Marathi and Konkani Hindus on the first day of the Chaitra month (March–April), marking the arrival of spring and the new harvest. It symbolises victory, prosperity and new beginnings, and is marked by hoisting a “Gudi” flag, creating rangolis, and enjoying festive sweets like puran poli. The Gudi itself represents victory, often associated with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya or the triumph of King Shalivahana. Marathi families wake up early, take an oil bath, and hoist the gudi outside their homes, windows or doors. Many also consume a mixture of neem leaves and jaggery, symbolising acceptance of both bitter and sweet experiences in life. Streets fill with processions and traditional dances such as lezim, while homes are decorated with lights and colourful rangolis. According to DrikPanchang, Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19. In Mumbai, the city comes alive with vibrant energy. Streets are adorned with colourful rangolis, homes are decorated with mango-leaf torans, and gudis are proudly hoisted outside houses and windows. Families prepare festive delicacies like puran poli and shrikhand. Across the city, communities organise grand Shobha Yatras, traditional lezim performances, bike rallies (often led by women), and cultural programmes. On this day, the spirit of Maharashtra shines at its brightest in Mumbai, drawing huge crowds to public celebrations. Here are Mumbai’s hotspots to witness the festive spirit of Gudi Padwa 2026 1. Girgaon and Chowpatty Considered the heart of Gudi Padwa festivities in South Mumbai, the famous Girgaon Shobha Yatra begins early in the morning around 7 am from the historic Phadke Wadi Ganpati Mandir. One of the biggest highlights is the iconic bike rally, where hundreds of women ride through the streets dressed in traditional nauvari sarees, phetas, and sunglasses. A striking feature each year is women riding Royal Enfield motorcycles in formation. The procession proceeds toward Girgaon Chowpatty, accompanied by the thunderous beats of the Girgaon Dhwaj Pathak. For photographers and culture enthusiasts, this is one of the best locations to experience the festival. 2. Shivaji Park, Dadar Dadar transforms into a vibrant celebration hub, especially around the iconic Shivaji Park. The area hosts one of the city’s grandest processions, featuring elaborate floats, cultural performances, rangoli-lined streets, festive lights, and showers of flowers. Groups carrying copper kalash topped with flags add to the traditional charm, while powerful dhol-tasha beats echo through the area. You will see people in traditional attire, lively folk dances, and community gatherings throughout. Spacious and family-friendly, it offers a comfortable viewing experience, and many locals consider Dadar the cultural heart of Mumbai during Gudi Padwa. 3. Thane Thane also hosts massive Swagat Yatras and processions. Streets are decorated with rangolis and banners, while dhol-tasha performances and traditional dances energize the atmosphere. The Talao Pali area sees lively marches and cultural programs. For those in the suburbs seeking a festive experience without the intense South Mumbai crowds, Thane offers grand celebrations with a strong local flavour. 4. Dombivli While Girgaon is the heart of South Mumbai celebrations, Dombivli is widely regarded as the birthplace of the grand Shobha Yatra tradition. On Gudi Padwa morning, the entire town seems to pause as people pour onto the streets to celebrate together. The procession here goes far beyond a simple parade it becomes a powerful cultural expression, uniting generations in a vibrant display of heritage and pride. Beginning near the Ganesh Mandir close to the railway station, the procession draws thousands of participants and features massive floats depicting scenes from Marathi history. Renowned dhol-tasha pathaks among the finest in the region create an electrifying atmosphere that resonates through the streets. If you want to witness the scale of community participation, Dombivli is a must-visit. Easily accessible via the Central Railway line, the celebrations here are intense, spirited, and unforgettable. Sacred places such as Mumbadevi Temple and Walkeshwar Temple hold special pujas and offer blessings on Gudi Padwa. These are ideal for those seeking a peaceful, spiritual start to the day before joining the lively street festivities. Planning to head out? Crowds begin gathering early in the morning, as processions usually start between 8 am and 10 am. Wear comfortable footwear, stay hydrated by carrying water, and choose modest, festive attire. Public transport or app-based cabs are recommended, as traffic congestion is common during the celebrations. Many venues feature food stalls serving festive favourites like puran poli and modaks. It is also wise to check local updates closer to the date, since timings and routes may change slightly. Traffic Alert for 2026 Road closures: Key routes in Girgaon especially JSS Road and in Dadar, including NC Kelkar Marg, are typically closed to vehicular traffic between 7 am and 12 pm due to processions. Travel tip: Avoid private vehicles if possible. The Mumbai Local is the fastest and most reliable way to travel get down at Charni Road Railway Station for Girgaon or Dadar railway station for the Shivaji Park area to bypass roadblocks and reach the celebrations smoothly.
18 March,2026 07:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday alleged irregularities in mangrove replanting efforts linked to the Versova–Bhayandar Coastal Road project and demanded an immediate halt to the felling of mangroves in north Mumbai, reported news agency PTI. Raising the issue in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Thackeray called for greater transparency and scrutiny of the compensatory afforestation being carried out for the project. Demand for joint inspection by House panel Thackeray urged the formation of a joint committee of legislators to conduct on-ground inspections of sites where mangroves are proposed to be cut, as well as areas where authorities claim to have undertaken replantation, reported PTI. He said such a visit would help verify whether the compensatory measures cited by the government are genuine and adequate. Allegations of misleading information The former environment minister alleged that officials from the Forest Department were providing misleading information regarding mangrove plantations, reported PTI. He claimed that inaccurate data may have been presented before the Bombay High Court, as well as to the state government and civil society groups, regarding the status of afforestation efforts. Call for inquiry into afforestation claims Thackeray demanded the appointment of an independent inquiry commission to investigate the alleged discrepancies. He said claims of replanting and compensatory afforestation were being used to justify the proposed cutting of around 45,000 mangroves for the coastal road project, reported PTI. He also cited concerns raised by environmental groups, which have questioned the credibility of the afforestation data presented by authorities. Suggests alternative project alignments Highlighting the ecological sensitivity of mangrove ecosystems, Thackeray suggested exploring alternatives such as tunnels or changes in project alignment to minimise environmental damage. He stressed that development projects should not come at the cost of critical coastal ecosystems. Importance of mangrove conservation Thackeray emphasised the vital role mangroves play in protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance, reported PTI. He urged the government to prioritise conservation and ensure that any infrastructure development complies with environmental safeguards. The issue is expected to see further debate, with calls for a detailed review of the project’s environmental impact and mitigation measures. (With inputs from PTI)
18 March,2026 06:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) on Wednesday announced the deployment of 150 additional buses across key routes in Mumbai on Sunday, March 22. The decision has been taken anticipating the surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Ramzan, Eid, and Baravi Eid celebrations. While Ramzan Eid will be observed on Saturday, March 21, BEST expects a significantly higher commuter turnout on Sunday, March 22, marking Baravi Eid. An official statement from BEST noted, “To ensure smooth travel and reduce congestion, the additional services will operate from 2:00 pm onwards on select high-demand routes.” According to BEST officials, the move also comes in view of large gatherings expected at prominent locations such as Gateway of India, Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan, Mohammed Ali Road, Haji Ali Dargah, Bandra Bandstand, and Juhu Beach, among others. From the Dharavi depot, 10 extra buses will operate on routes connecting Mahim, Bandra, Sion, and Trombay, improving access between central and eastern suburbs. The Kala Killa depot will run services towards Bhayander, while Kurla Depot has deployed six additional buses linking Kurla, Santacruz, and Nerul. In the western suburbs, Majaas Depot will operate 10 extra buses on key routes connecting Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan, Andheri, Thane, and Airoli. Similarly, the Bandra, Santacruz, and Oshiwara depots will enhance services connecting major hubs such as Juhu Beach, Gorai, and Goregaon. The Dindoshi and Magathane depots will improve connectivity to Bhayander, Airoli, Thane, and Borivali, while the Malad, Malvani, and Gorai depots will cater to heavy weekend crowds heading towards coastal destinations such as Madh Jetty and Marve Beach. BEST urges commuters to opt for public transport In its statement, BEST also noted that these additional services are strategically planned to handle both intra-city and suburban travel demand, especially for passengers visiting religious sites and popular public spots during Baravi Eid. With a grand total of 150 additional buses, BEST aims to significantly ease travel congestion and provide reliable public transport access across Mumbai’s extensive network during one of the busiest festive weekends. An official statement from BEST further urged the commuters to make maximum use of the enhanced bus services for a convenient and hassle-free travel experience during the festive period. The initiative is part of the civic transport body’s efforts to strengthen public transport infrastructure during major festivals and public events in the city.
18 March,2026 06:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major push to promote sports among youngsters, BMC Mayor Ritu Tawde on Wednesday announced a Rs 5 crore amount to be distributed in the Mayor’s Cup Sports Competitions to be held in 2026–27. As per the officials, the announcement was made during a high-level review meeting at the BMC headquarters in Mumbai. The meeting was organised to discuss preparations for the 2025–26 edition of the tournament. It was attended by key civic leaders, including Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi, Opposition Leader Kishori Pednekar, Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, and representatives from various sports associations across the city and suburbs. Addressing the gathering, Mayor Tawde highlighted the growing concern of excessive screen time among children, stating that increased mobile usage has distanced youth from outdoor activities. Tawde further emphasised that the Mayor’s Cup would play a crucial role in encouraging children to return to sports and physical fitness. Tawde also highlighted, “This tournament is being organised for the first time after the COVID-19 period. We aim to make it larger, more inclusive, and beneficial for budding athletes.” She also added that maximum facilities and amenities would be provided to participating teams. Grounds to be made available at concessional rates In a significant relief for participants, the Mayor announced an extension of the preparation period from three to four months, following requests from sports associations. She also assured that BMC’s sports grounds would be made available more easily and at concessional rates, while issues related to infrastructure and ground conditions would be resolved on priority. According to the official statement, the BMC is also considering allowing the use of educational institution grounds for the tournament, further expanding the availability of venues. Tawde also suggested involving local corporators to scale up the event and increase community participation. Deputy Mayor Ghadi stressed the need to revive traditional sports, noting that modern competitive pressures have sidelined indigenous games. “Through the Mayor’s Cup, we must promote traditional sports and support athletes who keep these games alive,” Ghadi said. Echoing similar sentiments, BEST Committee Chairperson Trishna Vishwasrao said the Mayor’s Cup, a tradition since 1976, continues to inspire and nurture sporting talent across Mumbai. Municipal Commissioner Gagrani also offered guidance during the meeting, emphasising coordinated efforts to ensure the smooth execution of the tournament. With enhanced funding and broader participation planned, the Mayor’s Cup Sports Competitions are expected to emerge as a major platform for grassroots sports development in Mumbai.
18 March,2026 06:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026, considered significant in balancing environmental protection, fiscal discipline and industrial growth, was unanimously passed in the state legislature on Wednesday. The Bill seeks to curb rising air pollution by increasing the environmental tax on old and polluting vehicles, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said. As per the revised structure, the environmental tax for two-wheelers has been increased from Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000, for petrol vehicles from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000, and for diesel vehicles from Rs 3,500 to Rs 7,000. The tax will be levied as a one-time charge for a period of five years. The revised tax regime is expected to generate additional annual revenue of over Rs 160 crore for the state. The funds will be utilised for road safety measures, modern transport infrastructure, ATS systems and training initiatives. Crane tax capped at Rs 30 lakh; push for EV adoption, job creation Providing relief to the industrial sector, the government has also capped the motor vehicle tax on crane vehicles at Rs 30 lakh. This move is expected to boost investment in the construction and infrastructure sectors. The Bill is also likely to encourage citizens to shift towards Bharat Stage (BS)-VI and electric vehicles, thereby strengthening the state’s environmental policy. Additionally, it is expected to generate employment opportunities, particularly in rural and tribal areas. Importantly, the Bill will not impose any additional burden on the state’s consolidated fund and is instead expected to aid revenue growth. Members across party lines welcomed the legislation, which was passed unanimously, marking a significant step towards the state’s overall development, Sarnaik added.
18 March,2026 05:57 PM IST | MumbaiAn alleged acid attack on a Class 6 girl student in Sangamner of Ahilyanagar district triggered a political storm in the Maharashtra legislature on Wednesday, with the Congress accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order, reported news agency PTI. The incident was raised in both the Assembly and the Legislative Council, drawing strong reactions from opposition members. Incident outside school shocks legislators Minister of State for Home Pankaj Bhoyar informed the House that the attack took place outside D.K. More Janta Vidyalaya in Sangamner, reported PTI. Calling the incident “serious and unfortunate,” he said the police have been directed to carry out a thorough investigation. He added that authorities are examining how the accused accessed acid, noting that such substances are available in school laboratories, reported PTI. Govt plans preventive measures Bhoyar said the police are working on measures to prevent such incidents in the future, including the formation of a committee to study the issue and recommend safeguards. He assured the House that the investigation is ongoing and that appropriate action will be taken. Congress slams govt over law and order Congress legislature party leader Vijay Wadettiwar strongly criticised the government, alleging a deterioration in law and order and rising crimes against women and minor girls, reported PTI. Raising the issue through an adjournment motion, he demanded an immediate discussion and questioned why the accused had not yet been arrested. He also alleged lapses in policing, claiming inefficiency and corruption had emboldened criminals. Demand for better medical treatment Congress leader Nana Patole urged the government to shift the injured girl to Mumbai for advanced medical care at no cost, reported PTI. He said the victim has suffered serious facial injuries that could have long-term consequences and described the incident as a reflection of administrative failure. Speaker seeks detailed report Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar took note of the seriousness of the issue and directed the government to present a detailed statement in the House at the earliest, reported PTI. Victim undergoing treatment Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, who is also the guardian minister of Ahilyanagar district, informed the Assembly that the girl is currently undergoing treatment at the Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences in Loni, reported PTI. He added that the trust managing the institute will bear the full cost of her treatment. Public concern over safety The delay in arresting the accused has raised concerns among citizens and the victim’s family, with opposition leaders pressing for swift action. The incident has once again brought the spotlight on women’s safety and the need for stricter enforcement and preventive measures in the state. (With inputs from PTI)
18 March,2026 05:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
