Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday urged the Centre to immediately implement the law providing 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reported the PTI. Speaking in Mumbai, the former Maharashtra Chief Minister said the issue of delimitation is not about any single party’s political future but concerns the future of the nation. Uddhav Thackeray said that the process of delimitation, or redrawing of constituencies, should be kept on hold for now as it is a matter of national importance requiring wider consultation and discussion. He stressed that the priority should be implementing women’s reservation before moving ahead with any boundary restructuring exercise. Parliamentary debate on women’s quota bill His remarks came on the day Parliament began a three-day special session to discuss bills related to amendments in the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, also known as the Women’s Reservation Act 2023. The proposals are aimed at implementing the quota by 2029 and setting up a delimitation commission for the process. Key bills introduced in LS The government introduced the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha after a division of votes. Two additional bills—the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—were also introduced. These aim to extend the women’s reservation framework to Union Territories including Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu and Kashmir. Proposed expansion of Lok Sabha As per the amendment proposal, the strength of the Lok Sabha may increase from 543 to a maximum of 850 seats following delimitation based on the latest census. The expansion is intended to operationalise the women’s reservation law before the 2029 general elections. Raut dismisses govt’s 'illusion' Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said that senior leaders have been given responsibility to bring parties together. He noted that Uddhav Thackeray shares good relations with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and has been asked to coordinate with her to ensure her party’s MPs attend the session and vote against the bill, reported the PTI. Uddhav Thackeray also joined a meeting of opposition leaders through video conferencing as part of these efforts, reported PTI. Raut claimed that the government believes MPs from states, such as West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry may skip the session due to elections in their respective states. Rejecting this, he said, “The government is under the illusion. All TMC and DMK MPs and members from Kerala will be in Parliament,” reported the news agency. (with PTI inputs)
16 April,2026 06:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) is planning to demolish the Wagle ward committee office building after the ground-plus-two structure was deemed “extremely dangerous”, an official said on Thursday. Proposal to be discussed on April 20 The building is around 30 years old, and a proposal to raze it and construct a new one will be taken up for discussion at the TMC general body meeting on April 20, he added, the PTI reported. Reconstruction cost estimated at Rs 15–20 crore The estimated cost of the reconstruction project is pegged between Rs 15 crore and Rs 20 crore, the official said. Building in poor condition, says report “Since the ground-plus-two-storey building of the Wagle Ward Committee Office has become extremely dangerous, an architect will be appointed to construct a new one. As per the latest assessment, the building is in very poor condition, with cracks in several columns and beams,” the agenda note tabled by the Public Works Department stated, the news agency reported. Temporary shift planned In the interim, the ward office is proposed to be shifted to an available administrative building at Kashish Park, it added. Thane residents affected by Satis Bridge project get alternative housing Residents affected by the Satis Bridge project in New Indiranagar, located in the Kopri area of Thane, have begun receiving alternative housing, with local authorities distributing keys to beneficiaries earlier this week. According to Thane Mayor Sharmila Pimpalolkar, the civic administration facilitated the relocation of affected families to housing units at Khewra Circle in Manpada following sustained coordination with state and central representatives. Key distribution ceremony held A formal key distribution programme was organised on Wednesday at Anand Ashram in Tembhinaka. Member of Parliament Naresh Mhaske handed over keys to a group of beneficiaries, while the remaining allottees received theirs from Mayor Pimpalolkar and other local representatives. Officials said 10 families were symbolically handed keys during the event, with the rest receiving them subsequently. (With PTI inputs)
16 April,2026 05:51 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Opposition has stepped up coordination efforts to ensure all its MPs are present in Parliament during voting on the delimitation exercise. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Sanjay Raut said that senior leaders have been given responsibility to bring parties together. He noted that Uddhav Thackeray shares good relations with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and has been asked to coordinate with her to ensure her party’s MPs attend the session and vote against the bill, reported the PTI. Uddhav Thackeray also joined a meeting of opposition leaders through video conferencing as part of these efforts, reported PTI. ‘Government under illusion’: Raut Raut claimed that the government believes MPs from states, such as West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry may skip the session due to elections in their respective states. Rejecting this, he said, “The government is under the illusion. All TMC and DMK MPs and members from Kerala will be in Parliament,” reported the news agency. He added that the opposition has already started working to ensure unity and full attendance. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Raut said that senior opposition leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, have been assigned coordination responsibilities. The Rajya Sabha MP added that Thackeray and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee share cordial relations, and therefore it was decided that Thackeray would speak to Banerjee to ensure that TMC MPs are present in Parliament and vote against the bill, asserting, “this bill won't be allowed to pass.” according to the PTI. Concerns over delimitation and women’s quota The debate comes as the government plans to introduce amendments to the women’s reservation law, also known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, during a special three-day Parliament session from April 16 to 18. Alongside this, three key bills were introduced: - The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 - The Delimitation Bill, 2026 - The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 These bills propose increasing Lok Sabha seats from 543 to a maximum of 850 to implement 33 per cent reservation for women before the 2029 general elections, based on delimitation using the 2011 Census. They also propose increasing seats in state and Union Territory assemblies., as per the PTI. Why is the opposition concerned over delimitation and women’s quota? Opposition parties, including the Congress, have criticised the move, saying the bills are being used to push delimitation under the cover of women’s reservation. Raut said the government lacks the required two-thirds majority to pass the bill and described it as a political move rather than a genuine effort for women’s empowerment, as per the news agency. The Congress also alleged that the intent behind the bills is “mischievous” and said they should be rejected in their current form. Opposition leaders have maintained that Parliament should not be “hijacked by flawed delimitation bills disguised as women’s reservation.” (With PTI Inputs)
16 April,2026 05:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government has stepped up efforts to position the state as a preferred investment destination, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighting a series of policy reforms aimed at accelerating industrial growth. Speaking at a meeting held at his official residence, Varsha, Fadnavis said recent investments by Shyam Steel Industry Group and JW Global Industry Group reflect growing investor confidence in the state’s business environment. He added that the government is actively facilitating the transition of investment proposals into operational industrial projects by streamlining approvals and reducing procedural bottlenecks. MoUs signal fresh investment inflow Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the state’s Industries Department and the two companies, marking a significant addition to Maharashtra’s investment pipeline. According to officials, the government has introduced several measures to fast-track project implementation, particularly for large-scale industrial ventures. These include simplified regulatory processes and coordinated support across departments to ensure timely clearances. Fadnavis noted that the state is also witnessing increasing interest in emerging sectors such as sustainable energy and advanced technology infrastructure. He pointed to ongoing initiatives in areas like green hydrogen, data centres, and nuclear energy as indicators of a broader industrial shift. Focus on clean energy and advanced sectors A key highlight of the new investments is the emphasis on clean and future-oriented energy solutions. The state has begun attracting investments in Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs), following policy support at the national level. Two agreements related to SMRs have already been signed, positioning Maharashtra among the early movers in this segment. JW Global India Private Limited has outlined a multi-sector investment plan in Maharashtra, with a total proposed outlay of approximately Rs 1.65 lakh crore. This includes a Rs 14,976 crore floating solar power and energy storage project at the Ujani Dam in Solapur district. The project is expected to generate around 500 permanent jobs. Beyond renewable energy, the company is also investing in artificial intelligence-based campuses, data centres, green hydrogen, and nuclear energy projects. These combined initiatives are projected to create nearly 3,000 jobs. Steel project to boost regional employment In the manufacturing sector, Shyam Steel Industry Group is set to invest Rs 10,000 crore in establishing a steel plant in Godpimpri taluka of Chandrapur district. The project is expected to generate over 8,000 jobs, providing a significant employment boost in the region. Officials said such investments are aligned with the state’s broader strategy to promote balanced regional development by encouraging industries to expand beyond traditional urban hubs. Government assures continued support Reiterating the government’s commitment, Fadnavis said Maharashtra would extend full support to investors across sectors and regions. He also called on more industry players to consider the state for future investments, citing improved ease of doing business and infrastructure readiness. Senior officials and industry representatives, including members of both investment groups and the state’s Industries Department, were present at the meeting.
16 April,2026 05:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Air Force (IAF) marked the 107th birth anniversary of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai. The event was attended by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh as the chief guest. The programme was conducted with patriotic fervour and ceremonial grandeur, drawing dignitaries, armed forces personnel and members of the public. Spectacular drills The commemorative event featured a range of aerial and ground performances. Pic/Defence PRO An official statement, issued by the Defence PRO on Thursday, said that the commemorative event featured a range of aerial and ground performances. NCC cadets presented aero-modelling demonstrations, offering a dynamic display of aviation enthusiasm and skill. The Air Warrior Drill Team delivered a synchronised performance showcasing discipline and precision, while the Indian Air Force Band from Headquarters South Western Air Command performed orchestral pieces that added to the ceremonial atmosphere. Tribute through displays The event included exhibits and informative displays. Pic/Defence PRO The programme also included digital exhibits and informative displays highlighting the life, service and achievements of Marshal Arjan Singh. These presentations provided visitors with insights into his distinguished military career and lasting legacy. Presence of senior officials A large number of senior defence officials attended the event, including Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Vice Admiral Rahul Vilas Gokhale, Additional Director General MV Pathak, Air Vice Marshal GS Bhullar and Major General Satinder Singh. Their presence added significance to the commemorative event. The programme saw active participation from veterans, serving armed forces personnel, NCC cadets, school students and members of the public. The strong turnout reflected the deep connection between the Indian Air Force and citizens. The event was supported by the state government and police authorities, ensuring smooth conduct. "The programme received active cooperation and support from the State Government and Police, ensuring its smooth and successful conduct. The large public participation, reflected the deep and enduring connect of the IAF with the nation's citizens," the officials statement said. The event was supported by the state government and police authorities, ensuring smooth conduct. Pic/Defence PRO Tribute to a legendary air warrior The commemorative ceremony paid homage to the exceptional service and leadership of Indian Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh. The event aimed to inspire future generations to uphold values of courage, discipline and dedication to the nation, the statement said.
16 April,2026 05:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has operationalised cremation facilities for small animals and birds at Deonar and Mahalaxmi, expanding access to such services across the city. The facilities, set up by the civic body’s Veterinary Health Department, became functional from April 1, 2026. According to Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi, the new units ensure that dedicated cremation services are now available across Mumbai city as well as in the eastern and western suburbs. “With these facilities in place, residents across all regions will have improved access to safe and organised cremation services for small animals,” she said. High Court directive and civic response The move follows directives issued by the High Court calling for the provision of proper cremation facilities for small animals. Civic officials said the initiative is aimed at ensuring scientific and environmentally compliant disposal of animal remains, while also addressing long-standing gaps in infrastructure. The administration, under Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide and Dr. Joshi, has been implementing measures related to stray and pet animal management. The addition of cremation facilities is part of a broader effort to strengthen veterinary public services in the city. Capacity and technology at facilities At the Deonar Abattoir, the newly operational incinerator can handle animals or birds weighing up to 500 kilograms. The unit runs on piped natural gas (PNG), which officials describe as a cleaner fuel option. Meanwhile, the Mahalaxmi facility—located within an animal hospital jointly operated by the BMC and Tata Trusts—has an incineration capacity of up to 50 kilograms and operates on electricity. Officials noted that a similar facility has already been functional in Malad since 2023. With the addition of Deonar and Mahalaxmi, all three regions—Mumbai city, eastern suburbs and western suburbs—are now covered by dedicated cremation infrastructure. Online booking and access The civic body has also introduced an online booking system to streamline access to these services. Residents can register through the Veterinary Health Department’s portal and select available time slots for cremation at their preferred facility. Civic officials said the digital system is expected to reduce delays and improve coordination, particularly in cases involving pet animals. Dr. Kalimpasha Pathan, head of the Veterinary Health Department, said residents can also seek assistance through a dedicated helpline. The civic body expects the facilities to ease logistical challenges faced by citizens while ensuring dignified and environmentally responsible last rites for animals.
16 April,2026 05:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentResidents affected by the Satis Bridge project in New Indiranagar, located in the Kopri area of Thane, have begun receiving alternative housing, with local authorities distributing keys to beneficiaries earlier this week. According to Thane Mayor Sharmila Pimpalolkar, the civic administration facilitated the relocation of affected families to housing units at Khewra Circle in Manpada following sustained coordination with state and central representatives. Key distribution ceremony held A formal key distribution programme was organised on Wednesday at Anand Ashram in Tembhinaka. Member of Parliament Naresh Mhaske handed over keys to a group of beneficiaries, while the remaining allottees received theirs from Mayor Pimpalolkar and other local representatives. Officials said 10 families were symbolically handed keys during the event, with the rest receiving them subsequently. Fear among residents after railway action The relocation follows recent action by railway authorities in the New Indiranagar area, which had created uncertainty among residents facing displacement due to the infrastructure project. Mayor Pimpalolkar said local representatives intervened to reassure affected families and pressed for timely rehabilitation. “Ensuring that residents are not left without shelter was a priority. Continuous follow-up with the state government helped secure alternative housing,” she said. Administrative coordination led to housing allocation The mayor attributed the outcome to coordinated efforts involving Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and MP Mhaske, along with local corporators. Housing units were eventually arranged at Khewra Circle through administrative processes, she noted. Several local representatives, including corporators and civic officials, were present at the event. Residents express relief Beneficiaries who received the keys welcomed the move, saying it brought much-needed clarity and relief after weeks of uncertainty. Local residents who attended the ceremony expressed appreciation for the intervention by elected representatives and the administration. 'Extremely dangerous' Wagle ward office to be razed, rebuilt by Thane civic body Meanwhile, the Thane Municipal Corporation plans to demolish the Wagle ward committee office building as the ground-plus-two structure has become "extremely dangerous", an official said on Thursday. The building is 30 years old, and a proposal to raze it and construct a new one will be taken up for discussion in the TMC general body meeting of April 20, he added. The estimated cost of the reconstruction project is pegged between Rs 15 crore and Rs 20 crore, the official informed.
16 April,2026 04:47 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentAmid the ongoing political uproar surrounding the Women’s Reservation Bill, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday reiterated his party’s clear and firm position, advocating for the immediate implementation of the legislation. Thackeray emphasised that the Women’s Reservation Bill had already been passed by Parliament in 2023, and therefore, there should be no further delay in enforcing the provision of 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative bodies. Demand for Immediate Rollout of 33 per cent Reservation Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Thackeray stated that the intent behind passing the bill must now translate into action. He underscored that women’s representation in governance cannot be postponed any longer, and called for swift execution of the constitutional mandate. “The bill has already been approved. Accordingly, 33 per cent reservation for women should be implemented immediately,” he asserted. Delimitation Issue Should Be Put on Hold Addressing the contentious issue of constituency delimitation, Thackeray urged that the matter be temporarily set aside. He described delimitation as a complex and far-reaching national issue that requires deeper deliberation. According to him, linking the implementation of women’s reservation with delimitation could unnecessarily delay a crucial reform aimed at enhancing women’s political participation. ‘Nation’s Future Above Political Interests’ Thackeray further stressed that the issue should not be viewed through the lens of partisan politics. He maintained that the broader national interest must take precedence over the political future of any individual party. “This is not about the political future of any one party, but about the future of the country,” he said, adding that the delimitation process demands extensive discussion and research before any decisions are made. Call for Wider Consultation on Delimitation Reiterating the need for a balanced approach, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader called for comprehensive consultations and studies on delimitation, given its potential implications on national unity and representation. A special three-day sitting of Parliament will be held from April 16 to 18, during which amendments to the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', commonly known as the Women's Reservation Act, mandating 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, will be brought for implementation in 2029. The amendments also seek to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 850 from the current 543 to "operationalise" the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise to be carried out based on the last published census.
16 April,2026 04:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA newborn baby girl was found dead in a pile of garbage in Bhiwandi town of Maharashtra's Thane district, police said on Thursday, the PTI reported. The mortal remains of the infant were discovered on the morning of April 14 by a powerloom worker, who immediately alerted the authorities, officials said. Infant sent for post-mortem "The police rushed to the spot and sent the remains of the infant to a government hospital for post-mortem and further medical procedures," an officer said, the news agency reported. Case registered under BNS Based on a complaint filed by the powerloom worker, a case was registered against unidentified persons under Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to the intentional concealment of a child's birth by secretly disposing of the body. Police probe underway The police are currently scanning records of recent births at nearby hospitals and checking CCTV footage in the vicinity to identify those responsible, the official added. 8-year-old boy dies after falling and drowning in an uncovered construction pit Earlier in March, an eight-year-old boy lost his life after falling into a water-filled construction pit in Malad East, police said. The incident was reported in the early hours of Friday by Bharatratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Hospital, where the child was taken. According to police, the incident took place around 8 pm on March 21 at Chagan Patel Chawl in Ambewadi, Kurar Village. The boy, identified as Divyansh Rajesh Mourya, had reportedly entered the site to retrieve a ball when he accidentally fell into a pit filled with water. The excavation work was being carried out by a private contractor. Personnel from the Mumbai Police rescued the child and rushed him to the hospital in Kandivali. However, he was declared dead on arrival by the attending medical officer. Officials from Kurar Village Police Station have registered the incident, and further investigation is underway. The victim's father, Rajesh Mourya, said, "We realised that my son was missing around 8 pm. I, along with my family and friends, searched for him across the neighbourhood multiple times. Knowing that this risky pit is there, I had checked the pit also, but due to the lack of light there, I couldn't see him the first time." He further added, "I finally found the body around 3 am at the pit. I just sat there, holding his lifeless body in my arms. My friends took him to the hospital, where they said that he died 2 hours ago. He wouldn't have lost his life if the pit had been properly covered and the building's and chawls' border had been fenced."
16 April,2026 04:13 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentA tribunal in Maharashtra’s Thane district has awarded Rs 86.62 lakh in compensation to a 29-year-old man who suffered life-altering injuries and 90 per cent functional disability in a 2021 road accident. Tribunal holds truck owner, insurer liable According to PTI, Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) member R V Mohite, in his judgment, held the owner of the truck and Iffco-Tokio General Insurance Company Ltd jointly and severally liable to pay the amount, along with 9 per cent interest per annum, to the claimant, Kunal Naresh Tandel. The tribunal delivered the ruling on April 9, and a copy of the order was made available on Thursday. Accident details Appearing for the claimant, his counsel, Sachin Mane, told the tribunal that the accident occurred on August 12, 2021, when Tandel, then a 24-year-old engineering student, was riding his motorcycle on the Vasai-Navapur Road in Thane district. A speeding truck rammed into him from behind, causing crushing injuries to his abdomen and legs. Mane represented the claimant, while advocates Abhimanyu Yadav and K V Poojari appeared for the truck owner and the insurance company, respectively. 90 per cent functional disability assessed While assessing the severity of Tandel's injuries, the tribunal made several significant observations regarding the victim's future. "The working capacity of the claimant has been reduced beyond the extent of disability assessed. Therefore, his functional disability is assessed at 90 per cent," the tribunal noted, the news agency reported. Medical findings and long-term impact Referring to the medical testimony of Dr Narendra Nana Nikam, who treated the victim, the tribunal observed: "The claimant suffered crushing injuries to the lower leg, abdomen, and lower back. Such injuries may lead to future complications such as instability, pain, difficulty in walking, soft tissue damage, disfigurement, and functional impairment." As per PTI, the MACT further highlighted the impact on the young man's personal life, stating, "The claimant underwent multiple surgeries at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai." Compensation breakdown According to the tribunal, the total award of Rs 86.62 lakh includes Rs 29.16 lakh for loss of income, Rs 11.66 lakh for future prospects, and Rs 10 lakh towards future medical expenses. It also awarded Rs 3 lakh for "loss of marriage prospects" and Rs 5 lakh for "cosmetic and structural disfigurement." Deposit and disbursement directions The tribunal directed that out of the total compensation, Rs 20 lakh be placed in a fixed deposit, with the remaining amount transferred to the claimant's bank account. (With PTI inputs)
16 April,2026 03:32 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentProtesting against a recent increase in rental charges for the use of theatres run by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), where Marathi plays are staged and cultural programmes are held, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) has demanded that the civic body reverse its move. Voicing concerns of producers and organisers, Amey Ghole, Sena group leader in the civic body, wrote a letter to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide in this regard. The BMC increases the rent by 10 per cent annually. On April 1, 2026, the rent payable by those organising shows was increased by Rs 3000 to Rs 4000. The issue was also raised by the Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Parishad (All India Marathi Theatres Council), which pointed out that this could lead to venues passing on the cost to customers, proving a threat to the survival of regional performance art and theatre. Expert Speak Raju Patodkar, Actor and writer‘Already, there is hardly any audience for Marathi plays. The target audience may or may not be able to afford expensive tickets. Even Rs 500 for a ticket is considered a huge amount. However, organisers have to bear different kinds of expenses, such as air-conditioning costs, to compete with other cinema houses. Rent varies depending on prime time show bookings, seating capacity, and whether or not it’s the weekend. Unlike earlier times, when shows would run for 25 weeks at a stretch, demand is low. Now, pulling off 25 shows is considered a huge success. In such times, it is necessary to ease the financial burden on organisers’ Voice of concern Amey Ghole, Shiv Sena leader‘It is crucial for the survival of Marathi theatre and performance art that rent should be rationalised. I have voiced the concerns of various organisers and written to the administration’ Popular theatres >> Ravindra Natya Mandir in Prabhadevi>> Shri Shivaji Mandir in Dadar>> Yashwant Natya Mandir in Matunga West>> Vishnudas Bhave Natyagruha in Vashi Rs 150 to Rs 500General price range of a Marathi play ticket
16 April,2026 03:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Eeshanpriya MSADVERTISEMENT
-1776333818240_d.png "Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut. File Pic")
