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 24. Aries March 21 – April 20Consciously network regularly as this brings results in the form of new clientele. Go back to a hobby.Cosmic tip: Don’t face imaginary spectres that have no place in reality. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Re-read emails to spot an embarrassing mistake. Regular networking maybe a chore, but it does help the business. Cosmic tip: Don’t be naively gullible, believing all that’s told. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Capabilities are finally recognised by those who matter at work. Life can be full of challenges, but you are adequately prepared for them.Cosmic tip: Be on your guard even though the worst is over. Cancer June 22 – July 23Have the wisdom to know what can be changed in the circumstances and what has to be endured. Cosmic tip: Acknowledge all that is positive in life, not taking anything for granted. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Having regrets is a waste of time and energy when more fruitful work could be completed (choices were made according to situations prevalent at the time). Cosmic tip: Be optimistic about the future. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Life improves with each passing day. The important mindset is to have faith in the Higher Power. A karmic soulmate connection is revealed.Cosmic tip: Work through karma in the best way possible. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22A serious occasion in the morning needs a mindset of reverence and faith. Stay with a diet as advised by your doctor/dietician.Cosmic tip: Keep inner strength in mind even when having fun. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Older Scorpios may want to take up further studies for the sheer love of it. A karmic cycle of socialising is enjoyable for a while.Cosmic tip: Keep plans malleable, considering results and effects. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22A reconciliation is surprising and completely unexpected (you had given up hope actually).Cosmic tip: Don’t be in a rush to follow up with an idea immediately. Allow it to germinate for a while first. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Keeping promises has been a part of your personality, but this time you want to avoid it.Cosmic tip: Keep in mind that life is a solitary experience in the larger journey. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Deal with people in a positive manner. A trip looked forward to is cancelled due to it being important to be in town.Cosmic tip: Continue making conscious and willing positive karmas. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Make sure your spouse/partner feels appreciated and nurtured, to maintain this loving closeness.Cosmic tip: Take life as it evolves, being willing to see another point of view or changing plans if required.
24 March,2026 02:49 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseIn a rare show of unity, India’s top telecom operators — Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea — have jointly written to the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), raising concerns over its latest tender for in-building solutions (IBS) on the city's first underground metro rail network, Aqua Line 3, offering to buy out the infrastructure to expedite the resumption of mobile connectivity. The letter comes in the backdrop of MMRCL terminating its earlier IBS contract with Saudi Arabia-based Advanced Communications and Electronics Systems Company (ACES) and floating a fresh tender on March 20, 2026. In a letter, a copy of which is with mid-day, they have flagged commuter inconvenience and the urgent need for seamless connectivity, the telcos said Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd (RJIL) has already sought right-of-way (ROW) permissions to deploy IBS infrastructure across Metro stations and tunnels. They added that all telecom service providers are aligned in supporting a single-network approach to ensure uninterrupted mobile services. The operators stated they will not issue any “comfort letter” to IBS vendors under the new tender, alleging that MMRCL is attempting to impose “exorbitant” ROW and space charges. They argued that the reserve price quoted in the tender — around Rs 1,000 per sq ft for largely unusable station areas — is significantly higher than premium commercial rentals in Mumbai, which range between Rs 250–300 per sq ft in prime locations like Nariman Point. The telcos warned that such pricing is not in line with the principle of “just compensation” and could delay telecom infrastructure rollout in an operational metro system. Instead, they have proposed that Right of Way (ROW) permission be granted to RJIL, allowing either fresh IBS deployment or utilisation of the network already created by ACES, enabling faster restoration of mobile services. The operators have urged MMRCL to scrap the current tender in the interest of public convenience and ensure immediate steps to restore seamless connectivity for Mumbai Metro commuters. When contacted, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) did not respond till the time of going to the press.
23 March,2026 08:45 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarSeveral parts of Mumbai have been experiencing excessive heat. With a sharp rise in temperatures on Monday, the inland pockets of Mumbai recorded significantly higher temperatures. As per the India Meteorological Department, among the highest readings, Ram Mandir in Mumbai recorded the maximum temperature of 39.0 degrees Celsius on Monday, making it one of the hottest locations in the city for the day. Suburban areas also experienced intense heat, with Vikhroli recording 37.6 degrees Celsius and Vidyavihar at 36.8 degrees Celsius. Dahisar and Chembur reported maximum temperatures of 35.4 degrees Celsius and 35.6 degrees Celsius, respectively, while Byculla registered a relatively lower 34.2 degrees Celsius. While the temperatures in South Mumbai’s Colaba recorded a maximum temperature of 34.9 degrees Celsius, with relative humidity at 57 per cent. No rainfall was reported in the area. Suburban weather station at Santacruz logged a higher maximum temperature of 36.5 degrees Celsius, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 42 per cent. Weather experts attribute the temperature variation to Mumbai’s coastal geography, where sea breeze tends to moderate temperatures in southern parts like Colaba, while inland and eastern suburbs experience more intense heat. The rising temperatures have led to discomfort among residents, especially during the afternoon hours, with heat stress becoming a growing concern. Officials have advised citizens to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours. IMD issues yellow alert Earlier during the day, IMD had also said that Mumbai on Monday was likely to experience clear skies and heatwave conditions were very likely to prevail in the suburbs, the weather agency also issued a yellow alert. A weather bulletin also stated that hot and humid conditions were very likely in 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 rain and thunderstorms on March 23. Districts including Ahilyanagar, Pune, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Latur and Dharashiv were likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light-to-moderate rainfall and gusty winds (30-40 km/h) at isolated places.
23 March,2026 08:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a temporary disruption in water supply across parts of Bandra West, Khar West, and Santacruz West due to ongoing work to commission a newly laid 750 mm diameter main water pipeline. The connection work is scheduled to begin at 11:00 PM on Saturday, March 28, and will continue until 5:00 PM on Sunday, March 29, spanning approximately 16 hours. Pipeline to improve Pali Hill reservoir supply According to the civic body, the new pipeline has been laid at the junction of Ramdas Naik Marg, Swami Vivekanand Road, and R.K. Patkar Road in Bandra West. The project aims to improve water supply levels to the Pali Hill reservoir and strengthen distribution in the surrounding areas. Water supply to be hit in several areas During the shutdown period on Sunday, March 29, several areas in the H-West ward will face a complete water cut, while others will experience low water pressure. Areas with complete water supply shutdown (March 29): Entire Khar West and Santacruz West, along with parts of Bandra West, including Bazar Road, Jain Mandir Road, and D’Monte Road, will not receive water during their regular morning supply hours (4:00 AM to 8:30 AM). Several areas in Bandra West — including Hill Road, Perry Road, Manuel Gonsalves Road, St. Andrews Road, St. Paul Road, Dominic Road, R.K. Patkar Road, New and Old Kantwadi, Ranwar Village, Waroda Road, Carter Road, Pali Mala Road, Chimbai Village, Shirley Village, Rajan Village, Mala Village, and Pali Village — will face a shutdown during their regular supply window between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Areas with low water pressure (March 29): Areas such as Khar Danda Koliwada, Dandpada, Chuim Gaothan, parts of Gazdhar Bandh, and some parts of Khar West will receive water at reduced pressure during the evening supply hours (5:30 PM to 10:00 PM). Disruption to begin from Saturday night Additionally, certain areas along Dr. Ambedkar Road, Pali Gaothan, Pali Hill, and parts of Bandra and Khar West will experience a water supply shutdown on the night of Saturday, March 28, between 10:00 PM and 1:00 AM. Civic advisory issued The BMC has urged residents in the affected areas to store adequate water in advance and use it judiciously during the disruption period. As a precautionary measure, citizens have also been advised to boil and filter drinking water for the next four to five days. The civic body has appealed for public cooperation while the essential infrastructure work is carried out.
23 March,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Thane Municipal Corporation on Monday announced a 24-hour water supply shutdown in multiple parts of the city on Friday, March 27. As per the official statement, the water cut has been announced due to ongoing infrastructure work linked to an elevated road project. The official statement issued by the civic body further highlighted that the disruption is necessitated by pipeline work being undertaken by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority. The project involves the construction of an elevated road stretch from Anand Nagar to Saket. During the course of construction, an existing 813 mm diameter rising main pipeline supplying water to the Indira Nagar pumping station was affected. Reason for water cut As part of the rectification and upgrade process, MMRDA has laid a new 900 mm diameter pipeline, covering 520 metres of the total required 2,200 metres. To enable the transition from the old pipeline to the new one, authorities will carry out interconnection work, which requires a temporary suspension of the water supply. The shutdown will begin at 9:00 AM on Friday, March 27, and continue for 24 hours until 9:00 AM the following day. According to the official statement, areas that will face complete water disruption include Indira Nagar, Sathe Nagar, Ambewadi, Dawale Nagar, Savarkar Nagar, Lokmanya Nagar (Pada No. 2, 3 and 4), Chaitti Nagar, Perera Nagar, Jhanje Nagar, Srinagar, Kisan Nagar, Shivtekdi, Shanti Nagar, Kailas Nagar, Bhatwadi, Warlipada, Rupadevi Pada, Ramnagar, C.P. Talav, the Yeoor area, and nearby localities. Thane Municipal Corporation has further informed that once supply resumes, water pressure is likely to remain low for the next one to two days as the system stabilises itself. The civic body has also appealed to residents to use water sparingly and cooperate during the scheduled shutdown to ensure smooth completion of the infrastructure upgrade work. Fire breaks out in Thane residential building. In a different scenario, a fire broke out in a flat at Shree Siddhivinayak Residency in Naupada, Thane (West), on Sunday evening. The blaze, which involved an AC outdoor unit and a washing machine, was quickly extinguished by fire brigade teams. No injuries were reported, though household items and electrical wiring were damaged. According to the Disaster Management Cell of Thane Municipal Corporation, the incident occurred around 5:09 pm at Shree Siddhivinayak Residency, a ground-plus-seven-storey building located near the railway quarters at B Cabin. The fire erupted in Room No. 201 on the second floor, owned by Prafulchandra Ramakant Dandekar, and involved an air conditioner outdoor unit and a washing machine.
23 March,2026 07:24 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant step towards inclusive education, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in collaboration with the Mumbai Suburban District Collector’s Office and Samarth Bharat Vyaspeeth, has launched the city’s first “Signal School” initiative aimed at bringing homeless, migrant, and out-of-school children into the formal education system. School set up under Chembur flyover The Signal School, inaugurated by Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Monday, has been established under the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road flyover near Amar Mahal in Chembur. The initiative builds on similar projects successfully implemented in Thane and Nerul by the Samarth Bharat Vyaspeeth. Mayor Tawde expressed optimism that the initiative would not only transform lives but also become a point of interest for visitors to Mumbai in the future. Focus on holistic development The school goes beyond basic education, offering facilities such as vocational training, small-scale industry exposure, culinary training, robotics, science, and computer labs. Activity-based learning materials tailored for the initiative were also unveiled during the inauguration. Officials highlighted that the model is designed to address not just educational gaps, but also the social, economic, and psychological challenges faced by children living on the streets or under flyovers. Bringing children into the mainstream Speaking at the event, Mayor Tawde noted that integrating out-of-school children into mainstream education is a challenging task but essential for long-term social development. She praised the organisation’s efforts, stating that similar initiatives over the past two decades have helped produce professionals, engineers, and sportspersons. She added that the BMC will conduct a survey across Mumbai to identify locations where such schools are needed, particularly near traffic signals and flyovers, and ensure proper arrangements, especially during the monsoon season. Support needed from all sections Emphasising the importance of collective responsibility, the Mayor called for support from government bodies, civic authorities, and society at large to sustain and expand such initiatives. She also urged parents to enrol their children in these schools. Backing from administration and government Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Education) Dr. Prachi Jambeikar stated that the project, supported financially by the Mumbai Suburban District Collector and backed by the BMC, aims to provide education, nutrition, technological exposure, and mental support to vulnerable children, enabling their transition into municipal schools. Samarth Bharat Vyaspeeth CEO Bhatu Sawant noted that migrant and nomadic families often lack access to flexible education systems, making initiatives like Signal Schools crucial. He added that financial assistance through the District Planning Fund helped set up the infrastructure, including containers used for classrooms. The inauguration ceremony was attended by civic officials, public representatives, local citizens, students, and parents, marking a collaborative step towards inclusive and accessible education in Mumbai.
23 March,2026 06:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAhead of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday said the cure rate of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DRTB) patients in the city has doubled over the past eight years, reaching 81 per cent, reflecting improvements in diagnosis, treatment and patient support systems. According to the BMC’s Health Department, Mumbai recorded a total of 54,390 tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2025, of which 48,835 patients were city residents. Of the total cases, 40 per cent were extra-pulmonary TB, 6 per cent were paediatric cases, and 8 per cent were drug-resistant TB cases. This year’s World Tuberculosis Day theme, “Yes! We can end TB! Led by countries. Powered by people,” underscores the importance of strong government leadership and community participation in eliminating the disease. Enhanced diagnostics and infrastructure The civic body said significant efforts have been made to strengthen diagnostic facilities across Mumbai. Currently, health centres are equipped with 45 CBNAAT machines and 34 portable TruNAAT devices, enabling free and accurate detection of TB and rifampicin-resistant TB. Additionally, the Central TB Division is set to provide four PathoDetect machines for advanced detection of TB and resistance to key drugs. At present, two such machines are operational at Sir J.J. Hospital and the Intermediate Reference Laboratory (IRL) at GTB Hospital. In 2025 alone, nearly two lakh molecular (NAAT) tests were conducted. The Culture and Drug Susceptibility Testing (DST) laboratory at GTB Sewri TB Hospital has been upgraded to an IRL, while a new TB laboratory has been made operational at Kasturba Hospital. Focus on targeted care and advanced treatment Under the ‘Differentiated TB Care’ initiative, which identifies high-risk patients and ensures tailored treatment, as many as 19,172 patients have been registered. For drug-resistant TB patients, free treatment is being provided through 31 specialised DRTB clinics. The BMC has also introduced an advanced six-month BPaLM treatment regimen. By December 2025, 1,093 patients had begun this treatment, with 89 completing it successfully. In a move towards precision medicine, the civic body has also piloted the use of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to better understand drug resistance patterns. A study involving 2,500 samples has been completed and is expected to be incorporated into the programme following central approval. Large-scale screening and preventive measures Under the National TB Elimination Programme, the Centre’s “TB-Free India Campaign” launched in 2025 saw extensive screening efforts in Mumbai. A total of 13.08 lakh high-risk individuals were screened, and 1,24,774 suspected patients underwent X-ray examinations. To improve early detection, 24 handheld X-ray machines have been deployed, with 19 currently operational across 16 suburban hospitals and GTB Hospital. An additional 24 machines have been introduced through CSR initiatives. During 2025–2026, over 74,000 X-rays were conducted. Preventive strategies have also been strengthened. The Cy-TB test is being used to detect infections even in asymptomatic individuals. In 2025, 13,311 high-risk individuals were screened, of whom 1,961 tested positive and 1,655 were started on preventive treatment. Nutritional support and community outreach The BMC highlighted the importance of nutritional support in TB recovery. Under the Nikshay Mitra initiative, patients receive monthly nutrition kits for six months. Over the past two years, 1,48,867 ration kits have been distributed under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana. To mark World Tuberculosis Day 2026, the civic body will conduct an extensive awareness campaign across all 26 municipal wards. Activities will include hoardings, awareness drives at BEST bus stops, health talks, street plays and jingles over a week-long period. Symptoms not to be ignored The BMC urged citizens to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, weight loss, night sweats, loss of appetite, chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, or swelling in the neck. Residents have been advised to visit the nearest BMC dispensary, health post or “Aapla Dawakhana” for free testing and treatment.
23 March,2026 06:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe case against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat has deepened, with Nashik Police registering two additional FIRs related to alleged sexual exploitation, even as investigators uncover what they describe as elaborate methods used to deceive followers, reported news agency PTI. Two fresh cases of alleged exploitation According to police officials, one of the new cases involves the alleged rape of a seven-month pregnant woman between November 2023 and December 2025 at Kharat’s office in Canada Corner, reported PTI. The victim has alleged that Kharat lured her with promises of performing rituals to ensure the birth of a healthy child. In another case, a woman claimed she first approached Kharat in 2013 regarding her marriage, but continued to face exploitation even after getting married. Following the end of her marriage, Kharat allegedly contacted her again, promising remarriage and continuing the abuse, reported PTI. With these additions, a total of three cases have now been registered against Kharat at Sarkarwada police station. Probe uncovers ‘deception tactics’ Investigators said Kharat allegedly used various methods to intimidate and manipulate followers, reported PTI. Among the findings, police claim he used props such as a 20-foot remote-controlled snake and fake tiger skin to instil fear and project supernatural powers. In another alleged fraud, he reportedly purchased tamarind seeds at low prices and sold them as “precious gems” after polishing, at significantly inflated rates, reported PTI. Key evidence gathered Police have seized CCTV DVRs from multiple locations linked to Kharat, including his farmhouse in Mirgaon, bungalow in Tikde Colony, and office in Canada Corner. Sources told PTI that a former employee had installed cameras to gather evidence, which was later handed over to investigators. Video surfaces during probe A video showing Kharat during police questioning has surfaced online, drawing public attention to the case as it continues to unfold. CM assures strict action Speaking in the state Assembly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the police acted proactively in arresting Kharat and indicated that more victims may come forward as confidence in the investigation increases. Case triggers wider scrutiny The expanding probe has intensified political and public scrutiny, with calls for accountability extending beyond the accused to include those who may have enabled or supported his activities. (With inputs from PTI)
23 March,2026 06:06 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentThe Congress and the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) staged a joint protest in Nagpur on Monday, demanding clarity from the Centre over the so-called “Epstein Files” controversy and criticising the government’s position on the ongoing West Asia conflict, reported news agency PTI. Protest march halted before RSS headquarters The protest march began at Samvidhan Square and was intended to proceed to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters. However, participants halted at Morris College Square, where they raised slogans against the Central government, the BJP, and the Sangh Parivar. Congress questions Centre over ‘Epstein Files’ Addressing the gathering, Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal questioned the Centre’s silence on the alleged references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the “Epstein Files,” reported PTI. He urged the RSS to seek an explanation from the Prime Minister and demanded greater transparency on the issue. Sapkal also linked the matter to India’s foreign policy, alleging that the government is aligning too closely with the United States amid the Iran conflict. VBA raises concerns over economic policies VBA chief Prakash Ambedkar criticised the Centre’s broader policies, alleging that they are adversely affecting the country’s economy and public sector, reported PTI. He claimed that issues such as a weakening rupee and challenges in the banking system reflect deeper economic concerns, reported PTI. Ambedkar also questioned India’s strategic positioning, alleging that the government is following the United States’ lead in global matters, reported PTI. Call for discussion with RSS The protest organisers said they intended to engage with the RSS on issues such as the India-US relationship, trade policies, and their impact on farmers and the economy. They urged the organisation to take a clear stand on national interest issues. Criticism over West Asia stance Both Congress and VBA leaders criticised the Centre’s approach to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, arguing that India should adopt a more independent and transparent position. Political tensions rise The protest reflects growing political tensions, with opposition parties seeking accountability on both domestic and international issues. PNG supply to restaurants, eateries in Maharashtra increased by 20 pc: Minister Meanwhile, the supply of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to commercial establishments in Maharashtra has been increased by 20 per cent, state Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal has said, offering relief to restaurants and eateries. (With inputs from PTI)
23 March,2026 05:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bombay High Court on Monday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police to carry out a comprehensive verification of all hawkers and their assistants across the city, including those suspected to be illegal immigrants, reported news agency PTI. Court orders identity verification drive A bench of Justices A S Gadkari and Kamal Khata instructed authorities to verify the identity of all individuals engaged in hawking activities or working as helpers, reported PTI. The court specifically said that verification should include persons alleged to be non-Indian nationals, including suspected Bangladeshis. “If any person is found to be an illegal immigrant, appropriate action shall be taken in accordance with law, including repatriation,” the court stated, reported PTI. Action on illegal hawkers The Bombay High Court also directed the BMC to conduct a detailed inspection of all vendors operating on roads and footpaths to ensure compliance with regulations, reported PTI. Authorities have been asked to determine whether stalls obstruct pedestrian movement or vehicular traffic and take necessary action. Only eligible hawkers allowed The court noted that approximately 99,000 individuals have already been identified as eligible to carry out hawking activities in Mumbai. It directed that only these authorised hawkers be permitted to operate, strictly in accordance with prescribed guidelines. “All others shall be removed forthwith,” the bench said, underlining the need for strict enforcement, reported PTI. Focus on public convenience The directions came while hearing a batch of petitions highlighting the issue of unauthorised hawkers occupying public spaces, leading to inconvenience for pedestrians and traffic congestion. The court emphasised that public roads and footpaths must remain accessible and safe for citizens. Civic body, police to coordinate The BMC and Mumbai Police have been tasked with jointly implementing the directives, ensuring both regulatory compliance and law enforcement. Wider implications The order is expected to lead to a large-scale verification and enforcement drive across Mumbai, potentially impacting thousands of vendors and informal workers. (With inputs from PTI)
23 March,2026 04:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe 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 correspondentADVERTISEMENT
