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India among top global AI markets but smaller cities lag: OpenAI report

OpenAI has identified India as one of the most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) markets in the world. The country performs strongly in areas like coding, data analysis and complex reasoning, reported IANS. According to the company, India ranks among the top five countries globally in terms of thinking capability usage per person, based on how users engage with advanced features on ChatGPT Plus. India is also emerging as one of the fastest-growing AI developer ecosystems. The report highlighted that usage of the company’s Codex platform saw a four-fold increase in just two weeks after its launch in February 2026. This rapid growth shows the increasing interest and adoption of AI tools among developers and professionals in the country. Usage remains concentrated in major cities Despite the strong growth, AI usage in India is not evenly distributed. It is largely concentrated in a few urban centres. The top 10 cities account for nearly 50 per cent of AI users, even though they represent less than 10 per cent of the population. Cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi and Chennai are leading hubs for advanced AI use. Among them, Delhi-NCR has the highest penetration of ChatGPT users, as per IANS. The report highlighted a significant gap in AI adoption between major cities and smaller regions. In advanced use cases, data analysis usage is up to 30 times higher, coding usage is four times higher while Codex developer usage is nine times higher in leading cities. This shows that while India has strong AI capabilities, access and usage remain uneven. What is the solution to this? Expanding AI access is key solution. Experts believe that the next challenge is to expand AI benefits beyond early adopters in major cities. Oliver Jay, Managing Director (International) at OpenAI, said, “The central question now is how quickly the benefits of AI can extend beyond early adopters and leading cities to the wider population. Closing this gap will require expanding access, building skills, and enabling more meaningful use across the country, an effort shaped in large part by India’s young, fast-adopting population,” reported the news agency. Beyond major cities, AI is already being used in practical areas such as education and healthcare, showing its potential to improve everyday life. These emerging use cases highlight how AI can benefit a broader population if access is expanded. (With IANS Inputs)

15 April,2026 07:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pic/Special Arrangement

CISF barrack complex inaugurated at PM Museum in Delhi to boost readiness

A newly constructed barrack complex for personnel of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was inaugurated at the Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library (PMM&L) on Tuesday, marking a significant step towards enhancing both operational readiness and personnel welfare. The facility was inaugurated by CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan in the presence of PMM&L Chairman Nripendra Mishra and Director Ashwani Lohani. Senior officials, including IG (NCR Sector) S. K. Mallick and DIG (CGBS) G. Sivakumar, along with other dignitaries, were also present on the occasion. Modern Infrastructure to Improve Living Conditions The newly developed complex features air-conditioned accommodation for 55 personnel, a well-equipped mess with adequate dining capacity, and an integrated armoury. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency while ensuring improved living standards for CISF personnel deployed at the site. Strengthening Security at a Key National Institution The Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library, a landmark institution of national importance, was entrusted to CISF for security duties in 2022. The establishment of the barrack complex reflects the government’s continued focus on strengthening security infrastructure while prioritising the welfare and morale of security personnel. Commitment to Welfare and Capacity Building Officials noted that such welfare-oriented initiatives play a crucial role in boosting motivation and preparedness among CISF personnel tasked with safeguarding critical national assets. The CISF expressed its gratitude to the government for facilitating improved amenities that contribute to both operational readiness and overall well-being of the force.

15 April,2026 07:14 PM IST | New Delhi | Vinod Kumar Menon
A significant number of students have achieved high marks. Representational Pic/File

CBSE declares Class 10 results, 93.7 pc students pass; Pune records 96.66 pc

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Wednesday announced the results for the Class 10 board examinations. According to the officials, 93.7 per cent students who took the exams have passed with Trivandrum and Vijaywada topping the list with 99.79 pass percentage. The Pune district in Maharashtra have recorded 96.66 per cent. They said that Chennai and Bengaluru reported 99.58 and 98.91 pass per cent, respectively, followed by Delhi which recorded 97.45 per cent. The results have been released for students across the country, the official said. Pass percentage sees marginal rise This year, the overall pass percentage stood at 93.70 per cent, showing a slight increase from last year’s 93.66 per cent. Over 24.71 lakh students appeared for the examination, which was conducted across 8,074 centres. Girls outperform boys According to an official statement, the girls once again performed better than boys in the exams. The girls’ pass percentage was recorded as 94.99 per cent and boys’ pass percentage was reported lower by 1.3 percentage points. It once again continued the trend of girls outperforming boys in CBSE board results. Region-wise pass percentage High scorers and merit A significant number of students achieved high marks-  - 55,368 students scored above 95 per cent - 2,21,574 students scored above 90 per cent These figures highlight strong academic performance among candidates. Compartment category numbers drop The statement said that over 1.47 lakh students have been placed in the compartment category this year. It noted that this number is slightly lower compared to last year, indicating a modest improvement. From this academic year, CBSE introduced a two-edition system for Class 10 board exams. Students were required to appear for the first edition, the results of which have now been declared. Availability of docs For regular students in India: The official statement said that this year, performance of the students in the main examinations will be made available in their DigiLoker account and the final result will be declared after the conduct of Second Board Examinations. The grading will also be calculated by combining the result of both Main and Second Board Examinations. It said that to avoid the problem of accessing the DigiLocker, CBSE has provided the PIN to the schools in advance, to be given to the candidates ahead of the result declaration. Students can log in to their DigiLocker either by using their PIN or with their Aadhaar number. Further, the board will supply Printed Mark sheets cum Passing Certificates to the students through their schools only after second Board Examinations. For regular students in foreign countries: Foreign students can also get their digital documents on their emails through the CBSE DigiLocker page. Their Printed Marksheets cum Passing Certificates will be supplied through their schools. For private students: The private students will also be provided electronic documents in their DigiLocker which could be accessed through their Aadhaar number.Except for the students of the Regional Office, Delhi East and Delhi West, printed documents will be sent to the address given in the examination form. For the students of Delhi East and Delhi West, printed documents will be available at the examination centre from where they have appeared in the examinations. No merit list As per the earlier decision of the board to avoid unhealthy competition amongst the students, no merit list is declared by the CBSE. The official statement said that the board does not award first, second or third divisions to its students. However, the board will issue the merit certificate to top 0.1 per cent of students who have scored the highest marks in the subjects. The Merit certificate will be made available in the Digi-Locker of the student concerned after second Board exams.

15 April,2026 06:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Minister Sanjay Shirsat said that such steps help preserve regional identity while ensuring better communication. File Pic/X

Maharashtra minister backs Marathi mandatory rule for taxi and auto drivers

Maharashtra Minister for Social Justice Sanjay Shirsat on Wednesday supported the Marathi mandatory rule for taxi and auto drivers in state, citing respect for local language and cultural respect. According to the IANS, speaking on the issue, Shirsat said that people working in any state should learn and use the local language. He gave examples of other states, stating that in West Bengal people use Bengali, while in Karnataka the local language is widely used in daily life and business. Identity and culture of states The minister emphasised that every state has its own identity, culture and language, which should be respected by residents and workers alike, as per the IANS. He pointed out that in Mumbai, many shops already display signboards in Marathi, reflecting the state’s cultural identity. Support for govt decision Shirsat said the Maharashtra government’s move is in line with practices followed across the country and should not be seen as controversial. He added that such steps help preserve regional identity while ensuring better communication between service providers and the public. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra: Minister Sanjay Shirsat says, "The decision in Maharashtra requiring auto-rickshaw drivers to speak Marathi is welcome. Wherever you live, you should know the language of that state—there is nothing wrong in that. If you go to West Bengal,… pic.twitter.com/w8rYUYghUL — IANS (@ians_india) April 15, 2026 Marathi mandatory for drivers in Maharashtra from May 1 Maharashtra government on Tuesday announced that Marathi will be mandatory for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in state from May 1. The mandatory rule comes into effect from May 1 which is observed as Maharashtra Day, officials said. The decision was announced by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. An official statement said that the state transport department will carry out a special inspection drive through 59 regional and sub-regional offices. Officials will check whether drivers can read and write Marathi. Those who fail to meet the requirement may face cancellation of their licences. Rule already exists According to Sarnaik, knowledge of the local language has always been a rule while issuing licences to drivers. However, complaints have increased in recent years, especially in cities such as Mumbai, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Passengers have reported that many drivers are unable or unwilling to communicate in Marathi. Emphasis on respect for language Sarnaik said that learning the local language is a responsibility for anyone working in a particular region. He added that while people should take pride in their mother tongue, they must also respect and learn the language of the state where they earn their livelihood. The government has warned that the drivers who do not comply with the rule will have their licences cancelled, the statement said. It said that the transport officials who issue licences without proper checks may also face strict action. "The move aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers and promote the use of Marathi in daily life," the officials said. (with IANS inputs)

15 April,2026 05:05 PM IST | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Maharashtra) | mid-day online correspondent
The complaint was lodged by the working president of a stone crushers’ association. Representational Pic/File

Akola additional collector booked for demanding money; he denies allegations

An additional collector in Akola district of Maharashtra has been booked for allegedly extorting money from a stone crusher owner and threatening other businessmen, a police official said on Wednesday, reported the PTI. The additional collector, Pramod Rahul Gaikwad, has denied all allegations. FIR registered An FIR was registered against Gaikwad at the MIDC police station on Monday. The case has been filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as the Prevention of Corruption Act, as per the PTI. The officials said that an investigation was underway. Allegations by stone crusher association The complaint was lodged by the working president of a stone crushers’ association. According to the complaint, Gaikwad allegedly demanded Rs 15,000 per month from the complainant. He also allegedly sought Rs 5,000 each from other association members, the PTI reported. The complainant further claimed that Rs 15,000 was paid to the official.  Officials said that he is accused of threatening action against businesses if payments were not made, the news agency reported. Complaints The Akola District Mining and Crusher Entrepreneurs' Association had previously raised similar concerns against the official, prompting further scrutiny. Following the allegations, the state government has reportedly placed Gaikwad on compulsory leave. However, the officer has strongly denied the charges, calling the allegations baseless, the news agency reported. Beed remand home superintendent caught taking bribe Meanwhile, in an another incident, a superintendent of a government-run remand home in Maharashtra’s Beed district was allegedly caught taking a Rs 30,000 bribe from a private security guard to facilitate official work, the ACB said on Tuesday. The ACB’s Jalna unit caught Kapil Bhimrao Kamble (43), a junior security officer and superintendent of the remand home, while accepting the bribe in the Palwan Chowk area on Monday evening, an official said, the PTI reported.  The action was taken based on a complaint filed by a security guard, who alleged that after joining duty at the remand home, the accused demanded Rs 45,000 to facilitate official work, including forwarding attendance reports to the company and assisting in the issuance of his employment order. The accused official has been taken into custody, and a case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act, the official added. (with PTI inputs)

15 April,2026 04:50 PM IST | Akola (Maharashtra) | mid-day online correspondent
S Jaishankar stresses safe shipping routes in AZEC Plus talks. Pic/X

EAM S Jaishankar calls for secure maritime trade at AZEC Plus meeting

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday participated in the 'AZEC Plus' meeting where he underlined India's strong commitment to safe and unimpeded transit passage of maritime shipping. Jaishankar said that India stands ready to work with like-minded partners to develop supply chain resilience. In a post on X, he said, "Participated in the 'AZEC Plus' meeting convened by Japan to discuss supply chain disruptions in the energy markets. Underlined India's strong commitment to safe and unimpeded transit passage of maritime shipping. Attacks on merchant shipping are completely unacceptable. Global growth demands that energy markets are not constricted. As a major energy consumer, India will work with like-minded partners to develop supply chain resilience." Participated in the ‘AZEC Plus’ meeting convened by Japan to discuss supply chain disruptions in the energy markets.Underlined India’s strong commitment to safe and unimpeded transit passage of maritime shipping. Attacks on merchant shipping are completely unacceptable. Global… pic.twitter.com/wsiQokYU5e — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 15, 2026 The summit echoed similar views from regional partners. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who also attended the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit, said that Malaysia remains committed to strengthening regional cooperation to ensure stable, sufficient and resilient energy supply. In a post on X, he said, "I participated in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit on Energy Resilience at the invitation of the Government of Japan. I thank Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for convening this timely meeting. Recent developments in West Asia, particularly affecting the Strait of Hormuz, remind us that stable energy supply is critical to ensure economic resilience and safeguard the wellbeing of our people." Saya telah menyertai ‘Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit on Energy Resilience’ atas jemputan Kerajaan Jepun. Penghargaan dirakamkan kepada Perdana Menteri Jepun, Sanae Takaichi, atas penganjuran sidang tergempar pada waktu yang amat kritikal ini, khususnya… pic.twitter.com/eTIh1mSWjH — Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) April 15, 2026 "Malaysia remains committed to strengthening regional cooperation through AZEC to ensure stable, sufficient and resilient energy supply. As an energy producer, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), Malaysia will continue to play a constructive role in supporting regional energy security, while diversifying energy sources including renewable energy and strengthening our energy system in line with national development priorities," he added. These high-level talks occur against a volatile backdrop in the Gulf region. Following a deadlock in US-Iran peace talks, the UKMTO announced that maritime access restrictions are now being enforced. These measures affect Iranian ports and coastal areas, spanning the Arabian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz. The urgency of these diplomatic engagements is underscored by the commencement of a US-led blockade of all Iranian ports. This follows President Trump's announcement of a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime artery through which a fifth of the world's global crude supply typically passes. (ANI) This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

15 April,2026 04:34 PM IST | New Delhi | ANI
Lok Sabha MP Akhilesh Yadav. (File pic)

Akhilesh Yadav backs women’s reservation bill, targets BJP agenda

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday said that his party supports the women's reservation bill. Yadav, on the other hand, also alleged that the BJP was pushing it with a "hidden agenda" that sidelines backwards-class women and avoids a caste-based census. As reported by news agency PTI, Akhilesh’s remarks come a day before the three-day special sitting of Parliament during which the women's quota and delimitation bills will be taken up.  Furthermore, the BJP in Uttar Pradesh is also pushing for awareness among the masses on the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, more commonly known as the Women's Reservation Act. While taking it to social media handle X, the Samajwadi Party leader said, "We support women's reservation but oppose the BJP's deceitful move, which is being carried out as part of a conspiracy." Akhilesh further alleged that the ruling party and its allies were silent on providing adequate representation to women from Other Backward Classes (OBCs), who form a significant share of the population. The former UP CM also alleged, "The BJP and its associates are silent on the largest section of the population -- backward class women," as cited by news agency PTI.  Akhilesh Yadav terms the Women Reservation Bill a “Major Conspiracy” Questioning the timing and urgency behind the move, Yadav claimed, "The haste being shown in the name of amendment is actually aimed at avoiding a census because if a census is conducted, caste-wise data will also have to be shared and caste-based reservation would follow." The Kannauj Lok Sabha MP also termed it "a major conspiracy" to deny rights to backward communities by rejecting delimitation based on census data and said political parties should be allowed flexibility to implement reservation based on proportional representation. He also added, "This is a secret plan by 'secret people' against democracy, which cannot be accepted unless there are reforms in the process," as per PTI.  Earlier on Wednesday, Akhiesh also alleged that the BJP's "haste" over the women's reservation bill indicated political desperation. The Lok Sabha MP said that the party was attempting to avoid a nationwide census, which could lead to demands for caste enumeration and expanded reservation, something the BJP and its allies were unwilling to concede. Referring to the SP's 'PDA' (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) plank, he said the "A" also represents "aadhi abaadi" (half the population), meaning women, and alleged the bill was part of a larger design to dilute their rights. Akhilesh Yadav cites issues related to rising inflation and economic pressures Akhilesh further alleged that rising inflation and economic pressures had disproportionately affected women, impacting household budgets and access to essentials. He also cited issues related to education and employment, claiming that women were among the worst-affected under the current dispensation. He said the government should engage directly with women from affected regions, including workers and families, before pushing such legislation, adding that the concerns of ordinary women must be addressed for any policy to be meaningful. (With inputs from PTI)

15 April,2026 03:56 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Funding talks begin as Air India posts steep FY26 loss. Representational Image

Air India seeks fresh funds from Tata Group, Singapore Airlines

Air India has recorded a significant financial setback, reporting an annual loss of more than Rs 22,000 crore for the financial year ending March 31, 2026. The loss is higher than earlier internal estimates, highlighting the challenges the airline faced throughout the year, reported IANS. The airline is currently in discussions with its key shareholders to secure additional funding. While the exact amount of capital infusion is not yet decided, reports suggest that the expected support may still fall short of what the airline needs. Fundraising talks with key shareholders The airline has approached its major stakeholders, including Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, for financial support. These talks come at a crucial time as Air India continues its transformation journey under Tata Group ownership. According to reports, the airline is exploring ways to stabilise its finances and continue operations smoothly despite mounting losses. The situation has been further complicated by leadership developments. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has announced plans to step down later this year, creating some uncertainty during a critical phase for the airline, as per the news agency. What affected the Airline's performance? A series of external factors played a major role in the airline’s poor performance. One of the key issues was the closure of Pakistani airspace for Indian carriers. This forced Air India to take longer routes to destinations in Europe and the United States, increasing fuel costs and travel time. Additionally, a tragic crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in June, which resulted in more than 240 deaths, had a severe impact on operations. The incident led to reduced services on both domestic and international routes. Global geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East, also affected the airline. The region accounts for about 16 per cent of Air India’s total capacity, and disruptions there impacted flight schedules and routes. Flights to Europe and North America were further affected, adding to operational difficulties at a time when jet fuel prices were already rising. The ripple effects of Air India's loss The airline’s financial struggles have also affected Singapore Airlines, which holds a 25.1 per cent stake in Air India following the merger with Vistara in 2024. Its earnings have reportedly been impacted due to Air India’s declining performance. Despite efforts to improve operations and restructure the airline, the current situation highlights the scale of challenges Air India faces. As one report noted, the airline is seeking fresh funds, but “the planned support may fall short of the airline’s overall requirements,” reported the news agency. The coming months will be crucial as the airline works to secure funding, manage leadership changes, and navigate ongoing global uncertainties. (With IANS Inputs)

15 April,2026 03:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Police said that the investigation is continuing in the matter. Representational Pic/File

Amravati: 19-year-old accused of sexually exploiting 180 girls; probe launched

A 19-year-old teenager has been arrested in Amravati district of Maharashtra for allegedly sexually exploiting at least 180 minor girls and recording hundreds of obscene videos, police said, reported the IANS. The accused, Mohammad Ayan, a resident of Paratwada in Amravati, has been remanded to seven days of police custody, officials said, adding that a detailed probe has been launched into the entire case, the news agency reported. Investigators said the accused allegedly targeted minor girls through a so-called 'love trap', luring them via social media platforms. He is accused of taking victims to cities including Mumbai and Pune, where objectionable videos were allegedly recorded, according to the IANS. Police said that these videos were then allegedly used to blackmail victims and force them into sexual crimes. Some of the content is also suspected to have been circulated online and a probe was underway to identify the origin of it, the news agency reported. SIT demand According to the IANS, the case gained attention after Anil Bonde submitted a memorandum to Superintendent of Police Vishal Anand, demanding strict action. Bonde had warned of protests if a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was not formed to probe the matter. Digital evidence and wider probe Police have seized the accused’s mobile phone, which reportedly contains several objectionable videos now under examination. The Cyber Cell was analysing whether the material was shared with others or circulated through a wider criminal network, reported the IANS. Four additional suspects have also been detained for further investigations in the case. Public outrage and protests The case reportedly sparked widespread anger in Paratwada and nearby areas, with protests breaking out across the region. A complete shutdown was observed in the town, while heavy police deployment was put in place to maintain order. Protests also spread to Achalpur following reports of online circulation of the videos, as per the IANS. Action against encroachments Meanwhile, the civic authorities have taken action against alleged encroachments linked to the accused. In the presence of Pravin Tayade, illegal structures associated with the accused were demolished. Officials said that the additional portions of his property have been identified as encroachments, and a 30-day eviction notice has been issued. Police said the investigation is continuing to determine the full extent of the alleged crimes and identify all those involved. (with IANS inputs)

15 April,2026 02:41 PM IST | Amravati | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image/Pixabay

India office vacancy slips to 13.8 pc in Q1 amid surging demand

Office vacancy across India’s top eight cities averaged 13.85 per cent in Q1 2026, slipping below the 14 per cent threshold for the first time since the pandemic driven by sustained occupier demand and a sharp moderation in new supply, a report said on Wednesday.  The report from commercial real estate services firm Cushman; Wakefield said vacancy declined by about 48 basis points quarter‑on‑quarter and around 191 basis points year‑on‑year in Q1 2026. It also marked the eleventh consecutive quarter of compression. New completions across the top eight cities stood at 8.8 million square feet (MSF), down 43 per cent QoQ and 18 per cent YoY, largely due to delays in project completions, the report said. Notably, Bengaluru (35 per cent), Delhi NCR (25 per cent) and Chennai (18 per cent) accounted for the bulk of new supply, while Pune, Hyderabad and Kolkata recorded no completions, resulting in faster absorption of available vacant stock across several established office locations. Net absorption stood at 11.51 MSF in Q1 2026, reflecting a 28 per cent QoQ and 24 per cent YoY decline. The moderation was largely on account of softer fresh leasing following a strong end to 2025, along with slower supply completions, which limited the physical realisation of pre‑committed demand during the quarter. “Gross leasing volume stood at around 22 MSF in Q1 2026, a 13 per cent increase over the same period last year, reflecting a robust demand across sectors," said Anshul Jain, Chief Executive – India, SEA, MEA & APAC Office and Retail, Cushman; Wakefield, Global Capability Centres, accounting for around 40 per cent of take up remain a key driver, reinforcing India’s role in long-term portfolio strategies, Jain added. The firm forecasted around 61 MSF of new supply to come into the market in 2026, dominated by premium Grade A+ stocks, leading to ease in vacancy levels. However, strong absorption and pre-commitment trends are likely to keep overall vacancy broadly stable, even as rental momentum remains firm, Jain said. Bengaluru continued to operate at sub‑8 per cent vacancy (7.81 per cent) in Q1 2026, with select micro‑markets witnessing vacancy levels as low as 2 per cent. Mumbai moved into single‑digit vacancy at around 9 per cent and prime business districts below 3 per cent. Other markets within the top eight cities, including Chennai, Pune and Kolkata, also continued to see a reduction in vacancy rate during the quarter. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

15 April,2026 02:31 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
Representational image. File pic

Teen held for sharing obscene videos of minors in Amravati; MP demands SIT probe

Police have arrested a 19-year-old youth in Maharashtra's Amravati district for allegedly sharing objectionable photos and videos of several women and girls online, officials said on Wednesday. Following the arrest of the accused, Rajya Sabha MP Anil Bonde, who hails from Amravati, demanded a probe into the matter by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), as per PTI.  The accused has been identified as Ayan Ahmed Tanvir Ahmed, a resident of Paratwada in the Amravati district, officials said, adding that he was taken into custody on April 11 after obscene pictures and videos featuring him with some women and girls went viral on social media. Obscene videos of minor girls circulated online “Prima facie, the victims seem to be minors. The accused allegedly lured them, took obscene photos and videos against their will, and uploaded them on social media to defame the victims,” the Paratwada police said. It said, “We have seized the accused's mobile phone and are examining it for evidence", as cited by PTI.  Furthermore, a case has been registered against the accused under Section 294 (sale, distribution of obscene content) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Sections 8 (punishment for sexual assault) and 12 (sexual harassment) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and provisions of the IT Act. The officials also asserted that none of the victims has yet approached the police in the matter.  While the police have already initiated the investigation, they have appealed to the victims and their families to come forward and cooperate in the case, assuring them that their identities will be protected. Officials further highlighted that strict legal action would be initiated against the accused.  MP Anil Bonde demands SIT probe Speaking to the media, Rajya Sabha MP Bonde claimed that some other people are also involved in the case and demanded a probe into it by the SIT and cyber personnel. MP Bonde also claimed that a gang had created Snapchat and WhatsApp groups (for such offences) and said the police should seize the accused's mobile phone and trace his conversations with associates. (With inputs from PTI)

15 April,2026 01:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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