Police have launched an investigation after 18 laptops valued at over Rs 12.6 lakh were allegedly stolen from a courier company’s godown in Maharashtra’s Thane district, officials said on Monday, reported news agency PTI. The laptops were part of a consignment meant for delivery to Chennai and Bengaluru and had been stored at the company’s warehouse in the Bhiwandi area. According to police, the theft occurred over a prolonged period between September 11 and September 25 last year, reported PTI. During this time, unidentified persons allegedly tampered with the sealed boxes, removed the laptops and refilled the cartons with dummy material to avoid detection, an official from Narpoli police station said. The theft surfaced after the shipment failed to reach its destinations, prompting a verification of the consignment. "On inspection, it was found that 18 laptops worth rs 12,61,730 were missing," the official said, reported PTI. Following a complaint filed by the warehouse manager, an FIR was registered on January 30 against unknown persons under relevant sections of law. Police said they are scrutinising the role of courier company staff involved in handling the consignment and are also examining transport and delivery records as part of the probe. Theft accused escapes from police lock-up in Thane Meanwhile, a man arrested in connection with a theft case managed to escape from police custody at a station in Maharashtra’s Thane district, officials said on Monday, reported news agency PTI. The incident occurred at Navghar police station on Sunday morning. The accused, identified as Abdul Wajidli Maniyar, a resident of Azad Nagar in the Bhayander area, had been taken into custody late Saturday night for his alleged involvement in a house theft in the Navghar locality, reported PTI. According to police, Maniyar fled from the lock-up around 9.19 am while routine cleaning work was being carried out inside the police station premises. A search operation has been launched to trace the absconding accused, officials said. Police have also begun an internal inquiry to determine how the escape took place and to examine whether there was any negligence or lapse in security arrangements, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
02 February,2026 11:58 AM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra's newly appointed Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Sunetra Pawar visited Karad in Satara district on Monday and paid tributes at the memorial of the state's first chief minister Yashwantrao Chavan. This marks her first official tour since assuming office on Saturday. After reaching Karad from Baramati (in Pune district) in the morning, Sunetra Pawar paid floral tributes at 'Pritisangam', the memorial of Yashwantrao Balwantrao Chavan, whom NCP founder Sharad Pawar regards as his mentor. Pawar family’s long association with Chavan’s legacy Her late husband, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, also frequently invoked Chavan and his ideologies. Several dignitaries were present on the occasion, including Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makarand Patil, State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar, MPs Sunil Tatkare and Nitin Patil, former MP Srinivas Patil, former MLA Balasaheb Patil, District Collector Santosh Patil, Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi, Karad Municipal Council President Rajendrasingh Yadav, and office-bearers of various organisations. Political observers noted that the visit continues the long-standing association of the Pawar family with Yashwantrao Chavan’s legacy. The late former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar had frequently visited Pritisangam and often cited Chavan’s ideology as a guiding force behind his public life. Those present recalled his close emotional and ideological bond with the memorial. Sunetra Pawar to visit Phaltan later in the day Later in the day, Sunetra Pawar is slated to visit Phaltan in Satara district to meet the family of Ajit Pawar's Personal Security Officer Vidip Jadhav, who was killed along with him in the air crash in Baramati last week. Earlier, Rohit Pawar had visited the family and announced support for the education of Jadhav’s children. Ajit Pawar and four others died in the plane crash on January 28. State’s first woman Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar became the state's first woman deputy CM on January 31. Speaking after assuming office, Sunetra Pawar said Ajit Pawar had dedicated his life to farmers, labourers, women, youth and marginalised sections, and that she would carry forward his vision with commitment and integrity. She added that while his untimely demise was a personal loss, the strength derived from public service and the people of Maharashtra would guide her efforts towards building a just, equitable and developed state.
02 February,2026 11:17 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA tree caught fire near Ram Mandir, Gandhinagar, Kopri, Thane (East) early today, prompting an immediate response from the Disaster Management Cell and local firefighting unit. As per the Disaster Management cell, “Kopri Fire Station reported that the incident occurred at approximately 07:10 am. A team comprising one fire engine, one rescue vehicle, and personnel from the Disaster Management Cell in a utility vehicle reached the scene promptly.” No injuries reported The firefighters successfully extinguished the fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident. The authorities further confirmed that the situation is now completely under control. The Disaster Management Cell urged residents to remain vigilant and report any similar incidents promptly to prevent potential hazards. Fire breaks out in Govandi hutments; no injuries reported A Level-I fire broke out in the Govandi area of eastern Mumbai on Friday morning, officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. According to the BMC’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the fire was reported at around 10:01 am from New Gautam Nagar in Sonapur Lane, Bhim Wadi Road, near Jijamata Mandir in Govandi. Fire officials said the blaze was confined to electrical wiring, electrical installations, furniture, household articles, ceiling fans and false ceilings in around eight to ten hutments. Firefighting teams were immediately rushed to the spot along with police personnel, staff from the concerned electricity distribution company and a 108 ambulance. The fire was brought under control and completely extinguished by 1:10 pm, officials said. No injuries have been reported in the incident. A garbage heap catches fire near a railway track in Thane In another incident, a heap of garbage accumulated in a drain next to a railway track caught fire in Maharashtra's Thane city on Friday, officials said. No one was injured in the blaze that occurred near the Kalwa railway station in the evening, they said. Teams from the fire department, disaster management cell, and railway police rushed to the spot and initiated firefighting operations. "Preliminary information suggests that garbage dumped in the drain caught fire. Firefighting and cooling operations were immediately initiated to prevent the flames from spreading further," said officials from the disaster management cell. Efforts to fully extinguish the blaze continued late in the evening, with personnel ensuring that there was no risk of re-ignition.
02 February,2026 11:07 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDays after Ajit Pawar’s wife was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the opposition has now started to slam the decision. The Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday said that Sunetra Pawar inherits a complex legacy. While Ajit Pawar was known for his administrative prowess and control over the Finance and Planning ministries, Sunetra's effectiveness remains to be seen. The Thackeray camp, in their daily editorial ‘Saamana’, claimed that NCP’s future is now extremely uncertain, describing it as a "boat without a navigator" in a storm, currently propelled by "Fadnavis’s engine", as reported by news agency IANS. Saamana, while slamming the NCP and the BJP, stated, “With the BJP aiming for a solo victory in the 2029 Assembly elections, Sunetra Pawar faces the monumental task of proving she is not merely a ‘Gungi Gudiya (silent doll)’ but a leader capable of maintaining her party’s independent identity. Sunetra Pawar inherits a complex legacy.” The editorial further added, “While Ajit Pawar was known for his administrative prowess and control over the Finance and Planning ministries, Sunetra's effectiveness remains to be seen. As the political dust settles, the prevailing sentiment remains: politics has truly become wicked." According to the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s mouthpiece, the state of Maharashtra had not yet recovered from the shock of Ajit Pawar's demise when the political manoeuvres of Amit Shah and Devendra Fadnavis delivered a second blow. Saamana also highlighted that the public sentiments regarding the timing of Sunetra Pawar’s swearing in are mixed, as she took the oath even before the fire of Ajit Pawar’s funeral pyre had cooled. It added, “While some expressed pride that Maharashtra has gained its first female Deputy Chief Minister, others noted that this position was not earned through personal merit. The question haunting Maharashtra is, at whose behest did this development occur? Sharad Pawar responded calmly, stating he was unaware of the ceremony and noting that Sunetra Pawar's party is independent and now managed by leaders like Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare,” as cited by IANS. "According to NCP Minister Hasan Mushrif, Sunetra Pawar was hurriedly appointed to the leadership role to prevent party workers and MLAs from getting scattered following Dada’s (Ajit Pawar) death.” Slamming NCP and BJP’s ideology, it mentioned, “The NCP is allied with the 'Sanatani' ideology of the BJP; holding a celebratory oath ceremony while the family is still in mourning (Sutak) does not fit within the framework of Hindutva. There is an ongoing dispute between Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. Sunetra Pawar was reportedly elevated to the "sub-throne" by some members specifically to prevent the party from falling entirely under Patel's control, as per IANS. Shiv Sena (UBT) claims the NCP merger was on the cards The Thackeray camp further asserted that Ajit Pawar actually held respect and affection for Sharad Pawar, and a process to merge the two NCP factions had begun. A final decision was due after the Zilla Parishad elections, but Ajit Pawar passed away before it could happen. Leaders like Patel and Tatkare oppose the merger, which aligns with the agenda of Amit Shah and Fadnavis. “It is predicted that the BJP intends to contest the 2029 Assembly elections entirely on its own. Before then, many MLAs from the Shinde and Ajit Pawar factions may defect to the BJP.” The Saamana further added, “To move beyond being a "ceremonial" figure, Sunetra Pawar must demonstrate Ajit Pawar's legendary work ethic, capacity for public outreach, and the 'magic' of not bowing too easily before the BJP. If she chooses to work effectively rather than being a 'silent doll', she may become an obstacle for Patel, Tatkare, and Bhujbal.” (With inputs from IANS)
02 February,2026 11:06 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has achieved a major construction milestone on Metro Line 4 with the successful launch of three massive steel spans at Bhandup West during overnight operations. The steel spans, weighing a combined 325 metric tonnes, were installed with the support of eight heavy-duty cranes and 12 multi-axle vehicles. The complex operation was executed with high precision and careful coordination to minimise disruption in the densely populated area. "As Mumbai slept, Metro Line 4 achieved an impressive breakthrough. Three massive steel spans weighing a total of 325 metric tonnes were successfully launched at Bhandup West," MMRDA said in a post on X. मुंबई रात्रीच्या अंधारात विसावलेली असतानाच मेट्रो मार्गिका ४ ने एक महत्त्वपूर्ण टप्पा यशस्वीपणे पार केला. भांडुप पश्चिम येथे एकूण ३२५ मेट्रिक टन वजनाचे ३ भव्य स्टील स्पॅन्स यशस्वीरीत्या लॉन्च करण्यात आले.८ हेवी ड्युटी क्रेन्स आणि १२ मल्टी-अॅक्सल वाहनांच्या सहाय्याने हे स्टील… pic.twitter.com/WqtncR7GqH — MMRDA (@MMRDAOfficial) February 1, 2026 MMRDA said the task was completed smoothly with the cooperation of multiple agencies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), BEST, Bhandup Traffic Police, Bhandup Police, as well as local residents and shopkeepers. Owing to seamless inter-agency coordination, the operation—initially planned over four nights—was completed within just two nights. Around 35 engineers, more than 100 skilled workers, 70 traffic wardens and over 25 police personnel were deployed to ensure the work progressed efficiently with minimal inconvenience to the public. "With the successful launch of these steel spans, yet another important milestone has been achieved in the construction of Metro Line 4," MMRDA said in a post on X. Metro Line 4, which will connect Wadala to Kasarvadavali, is expected to significantly improve east–west connectivity and ease traffic congestion in Mumbai’s suburban corridors. Maharashtra cabinet approves 35-km Metro Line 8 project to link Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Cabinet’s Infrastructure Committee approved a 35-kilometre Metro Line 8, also known as the Gold Line, connecting Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, reported the PTI. The project is estimated to cost over Rs 22,000 crore, with a total outlay of Rs 22,862 crore, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office. The corridor will feature 20 stations, including six underground and 14 elevated stations. Land acquisition for the project is expected to cover 30.7 hectares, costing around Rs 388 crore. The 35-km route will include 9.25 km underground, from Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 to Ghatkopar East, while the remaining 24.63 km will be elevated, stretching from Ghatkopar West to Navi Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 on the Metro Gold Line.
02 February,2026 10:43 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA memorial of late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will be set up on the premises of Vidya Pratishthan, the Baramati-based educational institution founded by the Pawar family, a close associate has said, reported news agency PTI. Ajit Pawar (66) and four others were killed in a plane crash near the airstrip at Baramati airport in Pune district on January 28. Kiran Gujar, a close aide of Ajit Pawar and confidant of the Pawar family, on Sunday said the memorial has been planned on the Vidya Pratishthan premises where his last rites were performed, reported PTI. "Today, Sharad Pawar saheb, before heading to Mumbai, visited the venue of the last rites along with Pratibha Pawar and instructed me, and the trustees of Vidya Pratishthan, to chalk out a plan for Ajit Dada's memorial," Gujar told PTI. Discussions will be held with the trustees to finalise the design and structure of the memorial in the coming days, he added. Ajit Pawar was a prominent political figure in Maharashtra and had played a key role in the development of Baramati, which has long been considered the Pawar family's political stronghold. Amid merger speculation after Ajit Pawar's death, Tatkare says NCP will continue to be in NDA Meanwhile, NCP Maharashtra president and Lok Sabha MP Sunil Tatkare on Sunday said his party will continue to be a part of the BJP-led NDA, asserting that the organisation will move forward on the ideology and path laid down by the late Ajit Pawar, reported PTI. His statement came amid claims that February 12 had been fixed as the date for the announcement of the merger between the NCP and NCP (SP), more than two and a half years after the Sharad Pawar-founded party split following Ajit Pawar's switch over to the ruling Mahayuti. "Whatever people may say, our stand is clear. We will take forward the party and the ideology given by Ajitdada. We are firm on this position," Tatkare told reporters at the NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) state office in Mumbai. "We are with the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) and will remain with the NDA. This was a well-thought-out decision taken by Ajitdada," the Raigad Lok Sabha MP said, reported PTI. The decision to align with the ruling National Democratic Alliance was taken collectively under Ajit Pawar's leadership, Tatkare said, emphasising he had never taken any political decision without the late leader's consent. Referring to criticism over the "haste" in having Sunetra Pawar sworn in as deputy chief minister just days after Pawar's death, Tatkare said the Constitution gives everyone the right to express their views, but stressed that the decision was taken in the interest of Maharashtra and to strengthen the NCP. "There is nothing wrong in her taking the oath to stabilise Maharashtra and to fulfil Ajit Pawar's vision of a developed state," he said, reported PTI. Tatkare said the decision on the party's Rajya Sabha candidate was an internal matter of the NCP and praised the BJP for maintaining cordial relations within the NDA. "The BJP has always cooperated with us and treated its allies with respect," he said, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
02 February,2026 10:40 AM IST | Baramati | mid-day online correspondentSeveral districts across Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region recorded above-normal maximum temperatures over the past 24 hours, while night temperatures remained largely stable, according to weather observations recorded till 8.30 am on Monday. Day temperatures across the region ranged between 30 degrees Celsius and 33.4 degrees Celsius, staying marginally to appreciably above seasonal averages at most locations. Brahmpuri reported the highest maximum temperature at 33.4 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Amravati at 33.2 degrees Celsius and Akola at 32.5 degrees Celsius. Maximum temperatures in Nagpur, Wardha, and Yavatmal hovered around 31–32 degrees Celsius, remaining slightly above normal. Minimum temperatures showed limited variation, with most stations reporting values between 11 degrees Celsius and 17 degrees Celsius. The lowest minimum temperature was recorded at Yavatmal (11.2 degrees Celsius), which was significantly below normal, while Buldhana registered the highest night temperature at 17.2 degrees Celsius. Minor falls in minimum temperatures were observed at a few locations, including Akola, Washim, and Gondia. Relative humidity levels at 8.30 am ranged from 61 per cent to 90 per cent, with Bhandara reporting the highest humidity, indicating moist morning conditions in parts of eastern Vidarbha. No rainfall was recorded across the region during the last 24 hours up to 8.30 am, with dry weather prevailing in all reporting stations. Visibility conditions during the morning hours were generally moderate, ranging between 2 km and 10 km. Reduced visibility of 2–4 km was noted at locations such as Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, and Gondia, while other stations reported clearer conditions with visibility extending up to 10 km. The overall weather pattern suggests stable and dry conditions across Vidarbha, with slightly warmer-than-normal days and cool to mild nights continuing over the region. Smog blankets Mumbai as air quality remains in 'moderate' zone Meanwhile, Mumbai began Monday, February 2, 2026, under a veil of cold and haze, with smog engulfing several neighbourhoods and sharply cutting down visibility. The murky conditions once again drew attention to the city's deteriorating air quality, an issue that has lingered since the start of the winter season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mostly clear weather through the day, with temperatures likely to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. Although temperatures have remained relatively steady over the past few days, pollution levels have been anything but consistent, triggering growing health concerns among residents. Data from the Sameer app showed Mumbai's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 138 on Monday morning, categorising it as 'moderate'. Pollution levels varied across the city, with Bandra Kurla Complex recording an AQI of 141, Borivali East 134, Byculla 161, Andheri East 146, Chembur 120, Colaba 131, and Deonar 160. Ghatkopar registered an AQI of 164, Kandivali East 124, Malad West 160, Mazgaon 115, while Mulund West reported the highest reading among key locations at 169.
02 February,2026 10:07 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai began Monday, February 2, 2026, under a veil of cold and haze, with smog engulfing several neighbourhoods and sharply cutting down visibility. The murky conditions once again drew attention to the city's deteriorating air quality, an issue that has lingered since the start of the winter season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mostly clear weather through the day, with temperatures likely to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. Although temperatures have remained relatively steady over the past few days, pollution levels have been anything but consistent, triggering growing health concerns among residents. Data from the Sameer app showed Mumbai's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 138 on Monday morning, categorising it as 'moderate'. Pollution levels varied across the city, with Bandra Kurla Complex recording an AQI of 141, Borivali East 134, Byculla 161, Andheri East 146, Chembur 120, Colaba 131, and Deonar 160. Ghatkopar registered an AQI of 164, Kandivali East 124, Malad West 160, Mazgaon 115, while Mulund West reported the highest reading among key locations at 169. Delhi-NCR wakes up to dense fog with AQI in moderate to poor categories Meanwhile, several parts of the Delhi-National Capital Region woke up to dense fog on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the moderate to poor categories, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As per CPCB data, AQI levels were recorded at 242 in Anand Vihar, 222 in Bawana, 157 at Burari Crossing, 217 in Chandni Chowk, 158 at DTU, 240 in Dwarka Sector-8, 132 at IGI Airport (T3), 141 at IIT Delhi, 194 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, 116 at Lodhi Road, 232 at R.K. Puram, 207 in Patparganj, and 208 in Sonia Vihar. The Delhi-adjacent areas witnessed misty conditions in the early morning hours. Air quality in Ghaziabad remained in the ‘poor’ category, with an AQI of 259 recorded in the morning, according to CPCB data. In several parts of Delhi and NCR, visibility dropped to below 50 metres, severely affecting vehicular movement on major roads and highways. Officials stated that visibility conditions were likely to deteriorate further in the coming hours due to persistent fog. Major transit hubs, including the Indira Gandhi International Airport and several railway stations, reported delays as shallow to moderate fog continued well past sunrise. Commuters travelling on the DND Flyway and the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway were advised to drive cautiously, use fog lights, and maintain low speeds amid hazardous conditions. Delhi’s weather is expected to change in the coming days. From February 3, skies are likely to gradually clear. However, another western disturbance is expected to affect north-west India from the night of February 5, potentially bringing cloud cover and drizzle towards the end of the week. Morning fog is expected to persist for the next six days. During the first week of February, maximum temperatures may gradually rise to around 24-25 degrees Celsius, bringing a mild sense of warmth during daytime hours. North India, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is also expected to witness notable weather changes as two western disturbances move across the region in quick succession, possibly leading to light rainfall in parts of north-west India later this week.
02 February,2026 09:36 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn an unusual political development, corporators from long-time rivals Congress and the BJP have come together in Malegaon Municipal Corporation ahead of the mayoral and deputy mayoral elections, a move that could significantly alter the balance of power in the civic body, sources told PTI. Three Congress corporators and two from the BJP have formed an independent bloc named Bharat Vikas Aghadi, positioning themselves as potential kingmakers in the 84-member corporation where no party commands a clear majority. According to sources, Congress councillor Ejaz Beg will head the newly formed group, reported PTI. Mayor, deputy mayor yet to be elected; behind-the-scenes talks intensify While results of the Malegaon municipal elections are already out, the mayor and deputy mayor are yet to be elected, keeping political negotiations in full swing. With the ruling combination still uncertain, behind-the-scenes discussions and cross-party talks have intensified. Despite sharp ideological differences at the state and national levels, Congress and BJP leaders at the civic level have chosen to collaborate, setting aside rivalry to act collectively in the corporation, sources added. Islam Party largest but short of majority, needs allies for mayor’s post The Islam Party has emerged as the single largest party with 35 seats, followed by the AIMIM with 21, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena with 18, the Samajwadi Party with five, Congress with three seats and the BJP with two. However, the Islam Party will need backing from other groups to secure the mayor’s post. Mayor’s post reserved for woman; Nasreen Shaikh frontrunner Adding to the political suspense, the mayor’s position has been reserved for a woman from the general category. Political circles suggest that Islam Party chief and former MLA Asif Shaikh is expected to take the final decision on the party’s candidate, with his sister-in-law Nasreen Shaikh considered a frontrunner. As per civic rules, a special meeting of the corporation must be convened within eight to twelve days of the reservation announcement to elect the mayor and deputy mayor. AIMIM rules out alliance; BJP’s past local tie-ups spark controversy The emergence of the Congress-BJP bloc has also triggered speculation that the Islam Party could receive indirect support during the voting process, particularly in the election of the deputy mayor. Meanwhile, the AIMIM has secured 125 seats across 13 of Maharashtra’s 29 municipal corporations, including 21 in Malegaon. AIMIM leader and former MP Imtiaz Jaleel claimed that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had sought his party’s support in several civic bodies, including Malegaon, reported PTI. Jaleel said AIMIM had clearly conveyed at the local level that it would not align with either the BJP or Shiv Sena, and asserted that the party would not support Shinde’s faction in Malegaon under any circumstances, reported PTI. Notably, following the declaration of civic poll results last month, BJP’s local units forged surprise alliances with Congress and AIMIM in Ambernath and Akot municipal councils, respectively. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis later said such tie-ups were unauthorised and violated party discipline. (With inputs from PTI)
02 February,2026 08:53 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhat appeared on social media as a feel-good story of wildlife rescue has taken a dark turn on the ground. Chhattisgarh Police on Friday busted a Rs 2.6 crore ganja trafficking racket under Operation Nishchay, allegedly led by a man who projected himself online as a snake rescuer and wildlife conservationist. Wildlife experts in Maharashtra have now demanded a thorough probe to determine whether the influencer, known as ‘Sarpamitra Akash Jadhav’, was also involved in the illegal capture, supply or trafficking of snakes and other wild animals in the state. Experts seek wider probe Advocate Pawan Sharma, founder and president of RAWW (Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare), told mid-day that the illegal exchange of snake species has been prevalent among certain “sarpamitras” and snake handlers for decades. “There has been information in the past about king cobras and other protected species being brought to Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai, according to Forest Department sources,” Sharma said. “It is no secret that wildlife trafficking has long been linked with other organised crimes such as narcotics, arms smuggling, hawala operations and underworld networks. These syndicates operate in a highly sophisticated and low-profile manner. There is an urgent need for a multi-jurisdictional task force with proper infrastructure and manpower to curb such crimes,” he added. Sharma said a detailed investigation across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region would likely reveal more links and individuals involved. Odisha angle flagged Mumbai-based wildlife enthusiast Anand Mohite also called for an in-depth probe into possible wildlife trafficking. “I have spoken to senior police officials in Chhattisgarh and requested them to examine the king cobra trafficking angle as well. The ganja seized in this case was allegedly routed from Odisha, and king cobras are also reportedly trafficked from the same region,” Mohite said. About the case Police seized 520 kg of ganja and arrested nine persons from Odisha and Maharashtra, uncovering a well-organised supply chain that used multiple routes and local contacts to transport drugs across state borders. The key accused, Akash Jadhav of Ahilyanagar district in Maharashtra, had built a large online following through snake rescue videos. Investigators allege that he played a central role in coordinating drug consignments being sent from Odisha to Maharashtra while maintaining a public image of wildlife conservation. The case surfaced following specific intelligence inputs about a major drug shipment headed for Maharashtra. Acting on the tip-off, teams from the Anti-Narcotics Task Force and Mahasamund district police intercepted the network, leading to the seizure of narcotics worth approximately Rs 2.6 crore. Police said the racket had been active for at least a year and had moved several consignments during this period. Further investigation is underway to identify additional links.
02 February,2026 07:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavWith Stds X and XII board examinations around the corner, the Maharashtra State Board has clarified administrative procedures for exam day. Earlier, the board had proposed a ‘centre exchange’ system, where invigilators from one school would oversee exams at another centre to ensure a copy-free environment. Now, exchanges will happen only at centres which currently don’t have the necessary CCTV surveillance. The decision follows concerns raised by teachers and principals’ association members, who said sending educators to unfamiliar schools for supervision could be impractical. Many also highlighted the strain of commuting, particularly when they have lectures to conduct after their board duties. Tanaji Mane, chairman of the Maharashtra Principals’ Association, said, “Nearly 90-95 per cent of exam centres already have CCTV cameras. The remaining schools couldn’t install them due to budget constraints, but should be fully equipped by next year. Exchanging centres for such a small number of schools is unnecessary.” As reported earlier by mid-day, the association had met board officials in January to voice concerns over centre exchanges, CCTV requirements, and added duties for custodians. Clarifying the same, the board officials wrote to division heads last week, stating: “Instead of replacing all employees at all examination centres, only those at centres without CCTV cameras should be replaced. Ensure appropriate planning for the February-March 2026 exams and submit a report of the action taken.” Speaking with mid-day, board chairman Trigun Kulkarni said, “As per reports, many more centres are gearing up with camera surveillance ahead of the exams; however, those who don't manage to do it this year won't be allocated as board exam centres for the next year. These centres are also to store the surveillance data from cameras and drones, and funds have been allocated to the district officers for the same. Examinations held for the five main subjects and sensitive board centres are to be monitored closely.” This year, the Std XII HSC examinations are to begin on February 10, while the Std X SSC exams are slated to commence on February 20.
02 February,2026 07:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Aditi AlurkarADVERTISEMENT
