The controversy surrounding self-styled godman Ashok Kharat intensified on Monday, with Opposition parties in Maharashtra demanding strict action not only against him but also against ministers and officials allegedly linked to or protecting him. Opposition seeks wider probe beyond godman Leaders from the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) raised the issue in the state Assembly, calling for those in positions of power who supported Kharat to be named as co-accused, reported IANS. Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar moved an adjournment motion, demanding resignations of ministers and action against officials allegedly involved in shielding the accused. Though the motion was rejected by Speaker Rahul Narwekar, Wadettiwar was allowed to speak on the issue, reported IANS. Allegations of administrative collusion Wadettiwar described the case as deeply concerning, citing allegations of sexual exploitation and fraudulent activities by Kharat under the guise of religious practices, reported IANS. He further claimed that senior officials, including members of the IAS, IPS and Revenue departments, may have attempted to delay or prevent action against the godman. According to him, reports suggest that certain officials even held meetings to ensure no immediate action was taken against Kharat. ‘Blow to Maharashtra’s progressive image’ The Congress leader said the incident reflects poorly on Maharashtra’s legacy of progressive thought, adding that the growing influence of superstition in politics is a matter of concern, reported IANS. “It is unfortunate that those who take an oath on the Constitution are seen associating with such individuals,” he said. Demand for resignations, suspension of officers Wadettiwar stressed that merely forming a Special Investigation Team would not be sufficient, and called for immediate suspension of officials found complicit, along with resignation of ministers linked to the controversy, reported IANS. He also demanded examination of call detail records (CDRs) of all those allegedly connected to the case. Support from other opposition leaders Former Assembly Speaker and Congress MLA Nana Patole echoed the demand for stringent action, while Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav said the controversy has dealt a serious blow to the state’s progressive identity, reported IANS. Both leaders urged the government to ensure that no individual involved is spared. Govt assures action Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that a probe has already been ordered into the matter and assured that appropriate action will be taken against Kharat. Political pressure mounts The case has triggered a major political storm in Maharashtra, with the Opposition pressing for accountability at multiple levels and questioning the alleged nexus between politics and self-styled godmen. (With inputs from IANS)
23 March,2026 03:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Monday launched a sharp attack on the alleged nexus between politics and superstition, expressing concern over the “moral decline” reflected in the Ashok Kharat controversy. ‘Disturbing shift from reformist legacy’ In a strongly worded post, Raj Thackeray questioned how a state known for its progressive and reformist traditions is witnessing the rise of self-styled godmen with alleged political patronage. He drew a contrast between Maharashtra’s historical icons such as Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Tukaram and Gadge Baba, and the current situation where leaders are allegedly seeking guidance from controversial figures. अशोक खरात प्रकरणातले हिडीस तपशील वाचून, शब्दशः गरगरल्यासारखं झालं. अवघ्या काही दिवसांपूर्वी १९ मार्च २०२६ ला आमच्या पक्षाच्या गुढी पाडवा मेळाव्यातून, महाराष्ट्राला किती सशक्त परंपरा लाभली आहे आणि या महाराष्ट्राने किती अद्वितीय माणसं या देशाला दिली आहेत याचं सादरीकरण केलं होतं.… — Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) March 23, 2026 “To see modern leaders abandon rational thought and fall at the feet of such individuals is not just unfortunate, but alarming,” he said. Questions on political conduct Thackeray highlighted what he termed a “tragic paradox,” pointing out that several legislators who supported laws against superstition are now allegedly linked to such practices. He said this reflects a deeper erosion of values, where the pursuit of political power has overtaken commitment to rationalism and public responsibility. Allegations of power-driven behaviour The MNS chief also flagged a broader pattern in politics, including intense competition for electoral tickets, fear of losing positions, and increasing reliance on so-called “miraculous” interventions. He alleged that some bureaucratic elements may be enabling such practices to remain close to centres of power. Raises questions over timing of probe While acknowledging Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ statement that the government exposed the case, Thackeray questioned the timing of the investigation. “If the government claims credit for uncovering the case, it must also answer how such activities continued undetected,” he said, raising concerns over possible intelligence lapses. Warns against political misuse Thackeray also cautioned that the case should not be used as a political tool to target rivals. He expressed apprehension that the investigation could lose momentum once political objectives are achieved, and urged authorities to ensure accountability for all those involved. Appeal to media and public Calling on the media to remain vigilant, he urged journalists not to allow the issue to fade without a thorough probe. He also appealed to citizens to make informed electoral choices, warning that continued support for such practices could harm the state’s future. Call to uphold progressive identity Thackeray concluded by reiterating the need to preserve Maharashtra’s progressive ethos and promote rational thinking among the younger generation. He emphasised that the state must reject superstition-driven politics and uphold the values established by its social reformers.
23 March,2026 03:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA new service Maharashtra’s public transport system is set to begin with the launch of the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service. The service will be inaugurated on March 24 at the Vidhan Bhavan premises by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, officials said on Monday. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar will also be present at the event, along with other senior leaders, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said. According to the minister, around 3,000 modern ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses will soon be added to the fleet of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation. This move is expected to strengthen the state’s public transport system and improve passenger services. He said the new buses represent a blend of tradition and progress, bringing modern technology into a system that serves millions daily. Honouring Rajmata Jijau An official statement said that the buses have been named after Rajmata Jijau, as a tribute to her role in shaping the values of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Officials said the name reflects respect for Maharashtra’s rich history and cultural heritage. The ST corporation has earlier introduced services with historic names such as Shivneri, Shivshahi, Shivai, Yashwanti and Hirkani. Key Features of the New Buses The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses are equipped with several modern features to improve comfort and safety- - 3×2 seating layout with a total of 56 seats - Higher capacity compared to existing buses - CCTV cameras for security - GPS tracking system - Panic button for emergencies - Public announcement system - Electronic route display boards These features aim to provide a safer, smarter and more comfortable travel experience, officials said. Focus on busy routes The new buses will mainly operate as shuttle services between two major cities on high-traffic routes. This is expected to reduce travel time for passengers and ease pressure on existing transport services, the statement said. The first batch of 50 buses will be deployed in Nagpur, where the service will begin. Boost to public transport Officials believe that the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service will not only improve transport facilities but also reflect pride in Maharashtra’s heritage. The initiative is expected to make public transport more efficient, safe and passenger-friendly across the state.
23 March,2026 03:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe special sitting of the Maharashtra Legislative Council was adjourned till 12 noon on Monday after Mahayuti ministers accused the Satara police of manhandling them and demanded action against erring officials. Cracks surfaced within the ruling Mahayuti alliance over the Satara Zilla Parishad elections, with two key allies levelling serious allegations against the administration. Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena minister Shambhuraj Desai and Ajit Pawar-led NCP minister Makarand Patil accused the Satara police of manhandling ZP members and preventing them from casting their votes. Allegations raised in Council The controversy is significant as both factions are part of the BJP-led government under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio, bringing the police under his direct purview. The issue escalated in the Council, where both Desai and Patil raised the matter strongly. Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe took cognisance of the issue and directed the CEO and District Collector to preserve CCTV footage related to the incident. BJP minister counters claims However, BJP minister Jaykumar Gore countered the allegations, stating that the version presented in the House was not accurate. Meanwhile, minister Uday Samant and Desai clarified that they had not named any party or the BJP. “We are with the BJP as an ally. Our objection is not with our ally, but with the police department and officials,” Desai said, urging Council Chairman Ram Shinde for justice. In his response, Ram Shinde said the debate could continue indefinitely and adjourned the proceedings of the Council till 12 noon. CM orders inquiry Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered an inquiry into alleged misconduct of the Zilla Parsihad President election in Satara. On Monday, speaking in the state legislative assembly, Fadnavis said, “We will conduct a detailed inquiry and take appropriate action against those found guilty in connection to this case.” Earlier in the day, the issue was raised in the state legislative council too. Deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, in fact ordered suspension of Satara SP Tushar Doshi in connection to this incident.
23 March,2026 02:42 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarHundreds gathered at Azad Maidan in south Mumbai on Monday as Dhangar activist Deepak Borhade continued his indefinite hunger strike for a week now. Activist Deepak Borhade had last week travelled to Mumbai to launch an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan. The protest is aimed at demanding the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. Borhade, in an interview to a news channel has called on community members, activists and his supporters from across the state and country to reach Azad Maidan in large numbers and join the protest. He also appealed to his supporters to join him in his protest. Speaking to the media earlier, Borhade had said that the community has been fighting for reservation for the past twelve years. He had said that although several promises have been made by the government, the demand has not yet been fulfilled. Borhade also said that he was invited to the Vidhan Bhavan for discussions during the ongoing Maharashtra Budget Session 2026 and during the meeting, he strongly raised the demand for the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the ST category before the Chief Minister. Supporters gather at Azad Maidan He begin his hunger strike at Azad Maidan last week on Monday, March 16. As days past, several activists and his supporters began gathering at Azad Maidan. Members of the Dhangar community were on Monday seen to gather in large numbers at Azad Maidan to extend support to Borhade. Borhade had earlier ended a hunger strike in Jalna on September 17 last year after reportedly receiving assurances from the government. Borhade alleges promises not kept In an interview to a news channel, he said, "those promises were not kept." He also mentioned that on January 21, when he was preparing to travel to Mumbai for a similar protest, he was stopped by the police in Jalna. This time, he urged the authorities not to put any pressure or restrictions on the protest. In January, Borhade had sought permission to organise a peaceful protest for the Dhangar reservation, but the court, refusing an urgent hearing.
23 March,2026 02:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government has claimed that it was behind the arrest of self-claimed Nashik godman captain Ashok Kharat, who has been arrested for allegedly sexually exploiting women. Fadnavis highlights preventive action Speaking in the state legislative assembly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that in this case, the action was proactive. “Though action has been taken now, preparations had been underway earlier. Even before the arrest of the accused, we had used a complaint from another district to issue a Look-Out Circular (LOC) to prevent Kharat from fleeing,” Fadnavis, who also heads the Home Department, said. SIT formed to probe case Last week, Kharat was arrested by Nashik Police, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case. CM flags psychological manipulation concerns Speaking further on the issue, the CM mentioned that misleading women into believing in some special powers and subjecting them to such psychological manipulation are very serious concerns involved in this case. “On Tuesday, I will make a detailed statement in this case,” the CM added.
23 March,2026 01:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarMaharashtra has increased the supply of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to restaurants and other commercial establishments by 20 per cent, offering much-needed relief to the hospitality sector grappling with fuel shortages, reported news agency PTI. State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal announced that the revised supply will come into effect from March 23 and continue until further notice. Relief for struggling hospitality sector With the latest increase, total PNG supply to the commercial sector will now reach 50 per cent. Restaurants, eateries and food businesses across Maharashtra had been severely impacted due to disruptions in cooking gas supply following geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Several establishments were either forced to scale down operations or temporarily shut due to fuel shortages. Gradual increase in supply Officials said the state had initially increased PNG allocation to 20 per cent after the crisis began, followed by a 10 per cent hike, reported PTI. The latest 20 per cent boost is aimed at stabilising operations in the food and hospitality sector, which had been seeking urgent government intervention. Impact of global conflict The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has disrupted global energy supply chains, particularly affecting shipments through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical route for oil and gas imports. This has led to shortages of commercial cooking gas in India, directly affecting businesses dependent on LPG and PNG. Industry concerns addressed Hotel and restaurant associations had raised concerns over the possibility of a complete halt in commercial gas supply, warning that it could lead to widespread closures, reported PTI. They had urged the government to ensure at least partial supply rather than a total suspension. Alternative fuels not viable Minister Bhujbal acknowledged that switching to alternatives like kerosene would require major infrastructure changes and could pose safety and operational challenges for businesses, reported PTI. Government balancing supply priorities The move comes as part of broader efforts to balance domestic and commercial energy needs while ensuring essential services continue to function smoothly. The increase in PNG supply is expected to ease pressure on eateries and help restore normalcy in the sector in the coming weeks. (With inputs from PTI)
23 March,2026 01:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA political storm erupted in Maharashtra on Monday after Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe directed the state government to suspend Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi over alleged manhandling and chaos during the Zilla Parishad president election last week, reported news agency PTI. Directive issued over alleged police misconduct Gorhe issued the direction during a special sitting of the Legislative Council, stating that strict action was necessary against officials involved in the incident, reported PTI. “I am directing the government to suspend the Satara SP and others who manhandled voters and ministers,” she said, expressing concern over the handling of the situation, reported PTI. Ministers allege manhandling during polls The issue was raised in the House by Shiv Sena member Hemant Patil, who alleged that senior leaders, including state minister Shamburaj Desai, NCP leader Makarand Patil and MLC Shashikant Shinde, were manhandled by police personnel during the election process, reported PTI. Both Desai and Makarand Patil demanded immediate suspension of the SP, accusing the local police of acting unfairly during the high-stakes contest. Controversial Zilla Parishad election outcome The controversy stems from the election held on Friday for the post of Zilla Parishad president in Satara, where BJP’s Priya Shinde emerged victorious. The result surprised many as the Shiv Sena-NCP combine was believed to have the numerical advantage, but the BJP managed to secure the post by a narrow margin. Demand for inquiry into incident Gorhe also pointed out that the government should have initiated an inquiry into the incident earlier, noting that no such action had been taken so far, reported PTI. Her remarks underscored concerns about administrative accountability and the need for transparency in the conduct of local body elections. Heated exchanges in House The issue triggered sharp exchanges between members of the ruling alliance, including the BJP, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, and the NCP faction led by Sunetra Pawar, reported PTI. The ruckus highlighted internal tensions within the Mahayuti alliance, which currently governs Maharashtra. Political implications The episode has intensified political friction in the state, with opposition leaders raising questions about law enforcement neutrality and the fairness of the electoral process. (With inputs from PTI)
23 March,2026 01:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the growing influence of self-styled godmen in Maharashtra, saying the trend is eroding the state’s progressive legacy, in a strongly worded editorial published in its mouthpiece Saamana, reported news agency IANS. Editorial targets ‘godman culture’ in politics Referring to the controversy surrounding self-proclaimed astrologer Ashok Kharat, the party said the episode has exposed how political leaders and officials are increasingly turning to superstition for power and influence. The editorial claimed that Maharashtra’s political landscape is shifting away from rational and progressive values towards what it described as a “culture of superstition,” reported IANS. Allegations against political figures The article alleged that several prominent political figures, including senior ministers and officials, had visited Kharat’s ashram seeking guidance. It further claimed that some leaders participated in occult practices aimed at gaining political advantage, raising concerns over the influence of such beliefs in governance, reported IANS. Criticism over Women’s Commission controversy The editorial also criticised the former chairperson of the State Women’s Commission, stating that her resignation does not address the deeper systemic issues highlighted by the controversy, reported IANS. It alleged that stronger action could have prevented harm to victims linked to the case. Call for accountability beyond individuals The Shiv Sena (UBT) argued that responsibility should not be limited to Kharat alone, but should extend to those who supported or associated with him, reported IANS. The editorial said such associations reflect a broader problem within the political system. Reference to reformist legacy Drawing a contrast with Maharashtra’s social reformers, the party cited figures such as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Dr B.R. Ambedkar and poet Bahinabai Choudhari, who promoted rational thinking and social reform, reported IANS. It said the current trend of reliance on superstition undermines these ideals. Concerns over governance and values The editorial suggested that the growing dependence on rituals and occult practices reflects a lack of confidence among leaders and a shift away from merit-based governance, reported IANS. It also questioned whether such practices align with the state’s long-standing identity as a hub of progressive thought. Political fallout continues The controversy surrounding Kharat, who has been arrested on serious allegations, continues to have political repercussions, with opposition parties demanding wider accountability. The Shiv Sena (UBT) said the issue has caused significant damage to Maharashtra’s progressive image and called for a return to rational and constitutional values. (With inputs from IANS)
23 March,2026 12:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai on Monday was likely to experience clear skies and heatwave condition was very likely to prevail in the suburbs, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) stated while issuing a yellow alert for the city. The weather department predicted that the temperatures were likely to touch 38 degrees Celsius on March 23. Such conditions are typical during this time of the year when humidity remains moderate and skies stay largely cloud-free. According to a weather bulletin, the maximum temperature in Mumbai was expected to be reach 38 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may settle at approximately 22 degrees Celsius on Monday. The weather is likely to remain warm during the afternoon hours, it said. Yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane and Palghar The IMD has predicted hot and humid weather conditions for Mumbai and its adjoining areas on Monday, March 23 and issued a yellow alert for the city, Thane and Palghar areas. A weather bulletin stated that hot and humid conditions were very likely at isolated pockets in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar. A similar alert has also been issued for parts of Maharashtra including Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg. Thunderstorm, rain in parts of Maharashtra Meanwhile, according to the IMD, some parts of Maharashtra were very likely to witness rains and thunderstorm on March 23. Districts including Ahilyanagar, Pune, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Latur and Dharashiv were likely to witness thunderstorm accompanied with lightning, light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) at isolated place. A yellow alert has been issued for these districts for Monday, March 23. AQI in Mumbai Despite the rising heat, Mumbai’s air quality has improved over the past 24 hours. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Sameer app, Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was on Monday recorded 'Satisfactory' at 10:05 pm and stood at 89. A health impact message stated, "Minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people." AQI recorded in parts of the city Bandra Kurla Complex: 112 (Moderate) Borivali East: 80 (Satisfactory) Byculla: 101 (Moderate) Malad West: 98 (Satisfactory) Shivaji Nagar: 106 (Moderate) Colaba: 96 (Satisfactory) Meanwhile, the air quality was recorded as 'Satisfactory' in Thane which reported an AQI at 92 on Monday morning. In Kalyan AQI was recorded at 98 (Satisfactory), and in Navi Mumbai at 114 was in 'Moderate' category.
23 March,2026 10:58 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA fire broke out at a closed pizza shop in Mumbra area in Thane district of Maharashtra on Monday morning, officials said, adding that no injuries were reported in the incident. The incident took place around 7.13 am near a company premises opposite the local fire station. The civic officials said that that no one was injured in the incident. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) the shop was shut at the time, which helped prevent any casualties. Fire brigade rushed to spot Following the information regarding the blaze, the firefighters from the Mumbra fire station rushed to the spot with one rescue vehicle and one fire engine. They managed to bring the blaze under control and fully extinguish it. Officials said the fire caused damage to equipment inside the shop, including a fryer machine and electrical wiring. The extent of the financial loss is yet to be assessed. Situation under control The fire has been completely put out and the situation is now under control, authorities said. Further details were awaited. Woman dead after fire breaks out at Goregaon East building Meanwhile, in an another incident, a 72-year-old woman died after a fire broke out in a high-rise residential building in Goregaon East on Sunday evening. According to the MFB, the blaze was reported at 7:22 pm at the Lakshya Chandi Building in Gokuldham Colony, near the district court in Goregaon. The fire was initially confined to the sixth floor of the ground-plus-24-storey building. As soon as the fire incident was reported, firefighting operations were swiftly launched, with multiple agencies, including the fire brigade, police, Adani electricity staff, 108 ambulance services, and local ward teams, mobilised to the spot. The fire was initially classified as a Level-I (minor) incident at 7:47 pm but was later escalated to Level-II at around 8:25 pm as a precautionary measure. During the rescue operation, one woman was evacuated by fire personnel and rushed to a trauma care hospital in a private vehicle, where she lost her life. The woman who has been declared dead has been identified as Indu Tarkeshawar Singh (72). Officials further said that the fire was confined to a specific portion of the building and was brought under control after sustained efforts. The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be determined, and an investigation is underway.
23 March,2026 10:24 AM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
