The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has decided to consider a formal request from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a prime land parcel at Nariman Point. The central bank has sought the land parcel for its offices. The Request for Proposal (RFP) for property development at this premium location, issued on October 3, 2024, via the CPPP Portal, was widely disseminated through publications in prominent national and international newspapers. MMRC also conducted outreach through roadshows in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi in the months of October and November last year. After receiving RBI’s proposal, the MMRC Board convened to deliberate on the matter. The board has now approved the consideration of the central bank's request, leading to the cancellation of the tender associated with the land parcel. MMRCL allots 1.3-lakh square feet commercial space across 27 Mumbai Metro-3 stations Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) awarded 1.3 lakh square feet of retail commercial space at 27 Mumbai Metro Line-3 stations. These spaces, offered through an open tender process, cater to diverse commercial segments, including office food & beverage (F&B), retail, banking ATMs, and vending machines. The available spaces include 40,000 square feet large floor plates to smaller kiosks of about 100 square feet. The commercial spaces are strategically located in high footfall areas of the metro stations and attracted prominent bidders across various sectors. Major retail players such as Tata Trent, India Retail & Hospitality, Naman Group Rozeus Retail, Mystical Group and individual brands like Amar Tea, Warna Sahakari, Delicia Foods, and Chitale Bandhu participated in the bid. The response underscores the attractiveness of the location, the exclusivity of large spaces, and the high anticipated ridership once the metro line is fully operational. The annual lease rentals from this transaction would offset the O&M cost and JICA loan repayments. The Non-Fare Box Revenue (NFBR) transactions are being facilitated by Auctus Advisors. “By maximising revenue from non-fare sources, we can keep ticket fares in check, ensuring that the metro remains affordable and accessible to a larger segment of the public. This is critical to making public transport in Mumbai more sustainable and promoting its use. As more and more passengers opt for environment-friendly modes of transportation, we will contribute to decongesting the city and improving Mumbai's liveability ranking," said Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director, MMRCL, on the development.
21 January,2025 12:52 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDo 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 January 21. Aries March 21 – April 20Feeling unsure about a situation is understandable, as you too, don’t have much experience in this subject.Cosmic tip: Take charge of a new project, teaching two team members as it progresses. Taurus April 21 – May 20Those starting a new (small) business could use social media to create awareness about it.Cosmic tip: Don’t complicate what you know is the truth even if others don’t believe, or want to believe. GeminiMay 21 – June 21An irritable mood in the morning gives way to feeling God’s in his heaven and it’s all right with the world (your world).. Cosmic tip: Maintain a balance in mind, body and soul. Cancer June 22 – July 23Unbudgeted expenses are a surprise. Singles in a new relationship need to keep it to platonic friendship for now. Cosmic tip: Follow up with decisions taken, not allowing anyone to fall back into indecision. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Destination for a business meeting is changed yet again (you are both so busy). Some Leos have the option of a lateral move within the organisation. Cosmic tip: Be a guiding light for a friend. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Those who work on consignment basis have plenty of work coming in. This is a relief. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Stay far away from conflicts, arguments or trying to prove a point. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Mentally walking away from a situation for which there is a solution, but is unacceptable to some, is best.Cosmic tip: Hold on to this peace of mind achieved after so much soul searching. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Wanting only what you consider right leaves no room for negotiation, which in turn makes a situation worse. Cosmic tip: Do have eyesight checked if headaches are present by the end of the day. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Working long hours till quite late in the evening will eventually take a toll on health. You need to negotiate for shorter working hours. Cosmic tip: Consciously switch off from work problems once home. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Study a contract from overseas in great detail, taking professional advice if needed. Cosmic tip: Reveal the faint light at the end of the tunnel to a friend who hasn’t considered one option. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19There’s so much you want to experience today, that it’s a tussle with where to begin. Work is no longer a chore.Cosmic tip: Enjoy time alone without feeling guilty about appreciating your own company. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20The universe opens up blocked paths and hurdles being faced last year. Just retain focus and follow your dreams. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Cosmic tip: Resist temptation. Don’t complicate life.
21 January,2025 12:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseOn the occasion of the centenary celebrations of Seth Gordhandas Sundardas Medical College and King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan called for a united national effort to eliminate Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), akin to the country’s success in eradicating polio. Speaking at the event on Monday, Bachchan expressed his commitment to support the medical field as a goodwill ambassador in the fight against NASH. "I am proud to contribute to this cause and spread awareness about liver diseases. It is crucial that we address and treat these diseases at the earliest. I am hopeful that just as we have successfully eradicated diseases such as polio, we will also eliminate diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease," he emphasised. The actor also unveiled a handbook on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Additionally, a special booklet celebrating KEM Hospital’s 100-year legacy was also released. The occasion saw the launch of the first ‘Nash Clinic’ by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) at KEM Hospital. The clinic will aim to raise awareness and offer specialised care for patients suffering from NASH, a form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that has been on the rise due to modern lifestyle changes. The outpatient department (OPD) dedicated to this cause will be operational every Friday at 1.30 pm in the hospital, under the guidance of gastroenterologist Dr Akash Shukla. The new NASH OPD is part of KEM Hospital’s broader mission to address modern health challenges. With the launch of this clinic, the hospital hopes to make significant strides in diagnosing and treating liver diseases among the population. Bachchan also spoke about the rapid advancements in medical technology, highlighting how these changes have revolutionised treatment and increased life expectancy, recalling his own life-saving experiences, such as the treatment he received after his accident during the film 'Coolie' and for other medical conditions like tuberculosis and liver disease. "I owe my survival to the remarkable doctors and medical technology that has developed over the years," said Bachchan, adding, "It is essential that we as a society do not ignore any disease and seek timely medical consultation." During the event, Bachchan was felicitated by Bhushan Gagrani, the Commissioner and Administrator of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Additional Deputy Commissioners Anita Darshi and Rajinder Batra as well as Assistant Commissioner General Lal Vishwas Bains, among others, were also present at the event. Bachchan also praised the medical community’s efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic. "The work being done by doctors for humanity, especially during the pandemic, is invaluable," he stated. As the institution enters its second century of service, Bachchan expressed his hope that KEM Hospital will continue to serve the people with dedication and compassion for another 100 years. "The spirit of service must continue through KEM Hospital, reaching every corner of society," he said.
20 January,2025 10:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar on Monday accused Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) of "hypocrisy" for political gain over the issue of illegal immigration of Bangladeshis in the Saif Ali Khan attack issue, news agency PTI reported. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader’s stinging attack came a day after police arrested a Bangladeshi national for allegedly stabbing the actor at his residence in Bandra last week. The Shiv Sena (UBT) had targeted the Devendra Fadnavis-led state government over the Saif Ali Khan attack case and had questioned the state's ability to ensure security for people and celebrities in Mumbai. Shelar, who heads the Mumbai BJP unit, dared Thackeray to confront West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over the illegal immigration of Bangladeshis and her opposition to the deployment of the BSF on the border, PTI stated. "Illegal immigration of Bangladeshi citizens does not occur in states like Assam and Tripura, where the BJP is in power. It is happening in Mamata Didi's West Bengal. Why Uddhav Thackeray has not confronted her about this illegal immigration? She opposes the deployment of the Border Security Forces in her state," Shelar stated on his social media handle X. The IT and Cultural Affairs Minister said Bangladeshi infiltrators have already reached Bandra (West) and it would not be long till they reach Bandra (East). "So, stop this hypocrisy for political gain," he said in his post. The Bandra (West) and Bandra (East) assembly constituencies in Mumbai are represented by BJP leader Shelar himself and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Varun Sardesai, respectively. महाराष्ट्रात ! चमत्कार !!भोंदू हिंदुत्ववाद्यांचे ऐका नवे फुत्कार !!◆बांग्लादेशी घुसखोरबांद्रयापर्यंत आले म्हणून उबाठाचे "छोटे आणि मोठे" आज केंद्रीय गृहमंत्री अमितभाई शाह यांच्या नावाने बोटं मोडत आहेत...?◆वरुन आम्ही हिंदुत्व सोडले नाही म्हणून नेहमीच्या फुसक्या सोडायला पण… — Adv. Ashish Shelar - ॲड. आशिष शेलार (@ShelarAshish) January 20, 2025 "Witness the situation in Maharashtra, observe the new outbursts of pseudo-Hindutvavadis. Bangladeshi infiltrators have made their way to Bandra, yet the Thackeray faction's leaders are busy blaming Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Additionally, they continue to make their usual hollow claims about not abandoning Hindutva," Shelar added in his post. The police have arrested Shariful Islam Shehzad Mohammad Rohilla Amin Fakir, who changed his name to Vijay Das, a week after he allegedly stabbed the actor inside his apartment during a burglary bid in Mumbai, PTI stated. (With inputs from PTI)
20 January,2025 08:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Mumbai-Pune Expressway will experience a traffic block for three days, from January 22 to January 24, 2025, to facilitate the installation of girders for a new bridge near Dongargaon/Kusgaon (at kilometre marker 58/500). This work is being undertaken by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). According to a press release issued by MSRDC, the scheduled work will be carried out daily from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM during this period. As a result, traffic heading towards Pune from Mumbai on the Pune-bound carriageway will be diverted. The diversion route includes the Expressway exit at kilometre marker 54/700, leading to Varsoli Toll Plaza (on National Highway 48) and further routed via Dehu Road towards Pune. Traffic management plan Mumbai to Pune Traffic: Vehicles travelling from Mumbai to Pune during the block period will be diverted through the designated alternative route.Pune to Mumbai Traffic: The Pune-bound carriageway for vehicles travelling towards Mumbai will remain operational as usual.Resumption of Traffic: After 3:00 PM each day, traffic heading from Mumbai to Pune will resume on the regular Pune-bound carriageway of the Expressway. Advisory for travellers Commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconvenience. Those travelling to Pune during the block period must use the diversion route as outlined. For assistance during the traffic block, motorists may contact the following helpline numbers: Mumbai-Pune Expressway Control Room: 9822498224Highway Police Department: 9833498334 Key details of the block Dates: January 22, 23, and 24, 2025Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM dailyAffected Stretch: Kilometre marker 58/500, Dongargaon/Kusgaon, Pune-bound carriagewayDiversion Point: Kilometre marker 54/700 via Varsoli Toll Plaza and Dehu Road Commuters are requested to cooperate with the traffic management measures implemented by MSRDC and the Highway Police during this period to ensure smooth execution of the planned work.
20 January,2025 06:59 PM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentWestern Railway has announced major blocks on the nights of 24th/25th January 2025 (Friday/Saturday) and 25th/26th January 2025 (Saturday/Sunday) for the rebuilding of the southern abutment of Bridge No. 20 located between Mahim and Bandra stations. The blocks will necessitate significant alterations to train schedules on these dates. The blocks will be as follows: 24th/25th January 2025: From 23:00 hrs to 08:30 hrs on UP & Down Slow lines and 00:30 hrs to 06:30 hrs on the Down Fast line. 25th/26th January 2025: From 23:00 hrs to 08:30 hrs on UP & Down Slow and Down Fast lines and from 23:00 hrs to 07:30 hrs on the UP Fast line. According to a press release issued by Shri Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer, Western Railway, the execution of this critical work will impact suburban and long-distance services. The detailed repercussions are as follows: Impact on Suburban Services – 24th/25th January 2025 (Friday/Saturday): The last Slow service towards Virar will depart from Churchgate at 23:58 hrs. All Slow services departing Churchgate after 23:00 hrs on Friday will operate on the Fast line between Mumbai Central and Santacruz, bypassing stops at Mahalaxmi, Lower Parel, Prabhadevi, Matunga Road, Mahim, and Khar Road. Similarly, after 23:00 hrs, Slow services departing from Virar, Bhayandar, and Borivali will operate on the Fast line between Santacruz and Mumbai Central, skipping the same intermediate stations. Services between Churchgate and Dadar will run on Fast lines during the block period. Select services between Goregaon and Bandra on Western & Central Railways will operate on Harbour lines. On the morning of 25th January, Slow and Fast services originating from Virar, Nallasopara, Vasai Road, Bhayandar, and Borivali will run only up to Andheri. The first Fast train service for Churchgate after the block will depart Virar at 05:47 hrs, reaching Churchgate at 07:05 hrs. The first Down Fast line service post-block will depart from Churchgate at 06:14 hrs. The first Down Slow line service post-block will leave Churchgate at 08:03 hrs. On Friday/Saturday, approximately 127 suburban services will be cancelled, and 60 services will be partially cancelled. Impact on Suburban Services – 25th/26th January 2025 (Saturday/Sunday): During the block, services between Churchgate and Dadar will operate on Fast lines. Both Slow and Fast services originating from Virar, Nallasopara, Vasai Road, Bhayandar, and Borivali will terminate at Andheri during the block period. Select services between Goregaon and Bandra on Western & Central Railways will be diverted to Harbour lines. The last local train on the UP Fast line will be the Virar-Churchgate service departing Virar at 22:07 hrs, while the last service on the UP Slow line will be the Borivali-Churchgate train departing Borivali at 22:22 hrs. The last local train on the Down Fast line will be the Churchgate-Borivali service, leaving Churchgate at 22:33 hrs, while the last Down Slow line train will be the Churchgate-Bhayandar service departing Churchgate at 22:26 hrs. These services will be extended to Virar. The first train after the block on the Down Fast line will depart from Churchgate for Virar at 08:35 hrs, while the first train on the Down Slow line will be a Churchgate-Borivali service departing at the same time. On the UP Fast line, the first service after the block will be the Virar-Churchgate train, departing Virar at 07:38 hrs, and the first service on the UP Slow line will depart Virar at 07:35 hrs. On Saturday/Sunday, approximately 150 suburban services will be cancelled, and 90 services will be partially cancelled. Cancellation of long-distance trains: 12267 Mumbai Central–Hapa Duronto Express (25th January 2025) 12268 Hapa-Mumbai Central Duronto Express (26th January 2025) 12227 Mumbai Central–Indore Duronto Express (25th January 2025) 12228 Indore-Mumbai Central Duronto Express (26th January 2025) Short termination/origination of trains: 09052 Bhusaval–Dadar Special (25th January 2025) – Short terminates at Borivali. 12927 Dadar–Ekta Nagar Superfast Express (25th January 2025) – Short originates from Borivali. 19003 Dadar–Bhusaval Khandesh Express (26th January 2025) – Short originates from Borivali. 19015 Dadar–Porbandar Saurashtra Express (26th January 2025) – Short originates from Borivali. 22946 Okha–Mumbai Central Saurashtra Mail (25th January 2025) – Short terminates at Borivali. 12902 Ahmedabad–Dadar Gujarat Mail (25th January 2025) – Short terminates at Palghar. 59024 Valsad–Mumbai Central Passenger (26th January 2025) – Short terminates at Borivali. 59045 Mumbai Central–Vapi Passenger (26th January 2025) – Short originates from Borivali. 12904 Amritsar–Mumbai Central Golden Temple Mail (24th January 2025) – Short terminates at Andheri. 19016 Porbandar–Dadar Saurashtra Express (24th January 2025) – Short terminates at Borivali. Rescheduling and regulation of trains: 20901 Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar Vande Bharat Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 06:15 hrs. 20901 Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar Vande Bharat Express (26th January) – Rescheduled to 08:15 hrs. 22953 Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Gujarat Superfast Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 06:40 hrs. 22953 Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Gujarat Superfast Express (26th January) – Rescheduled to 08:15 hrs. 12928 Ekta Nagar–Dadar Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 23:25 hrs. 14707 Lalgarh–Dadar Ranakpur Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 10:00 hrs. 12962 Indore–Mumbai Central Avantika Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 19:40 hrs. 12956 Jaipur–Mumbai Central Superfast Express (25th January) – Rescheduled to 16:30 hrs. 12268 Hapa–Mumbai Central Duronto Express (25th January) – Regulated by 45-50 minutes. 12952 New Delhi–Mumbai Central Rajdhani Express (25th January) – Regulated by 20-25 minutes. Passengers are requested to take note of these changes and plan their journeys accordingly.
20 January,2025 06:42 PM IST | MumbaiA woman and her teenage son have been taken into custody for allegedly killing her husband during a domestic altercation in Nagpur. The incident occurred in Ingole Nagar under Hudkeshwar police station limits, and police have described it as an outcome of sustained domestic abuse and violence. According to officials, the 50-year-old woman and her minor son (exact age withheld) were repeatedly subjected to physical and verbal abuse by the 57-year-old victim, who was described as an alcoholic with a history of domestic violence. The situation escalated on Sunday evening when a heated argument between the family members took a tragic turn. During the altercation, the son reportedly pushed his father, causing him to fall and sustain a nose injury. Matters worsened as the confrontation intensified, leading to the boy using a towel to strangle his father. The woman allegedly assisted her son in the act, said police officials. After committing the crime, the duo attempted to conceal their actions by stuffing the body into a sack and planning to dispose of it. The son sought assistance from a friend, but the friend, upon realising the gravity of the situation, informed the police. Following this tip-off, officers from Hudkeshwar police station conducted an investigation and recovered the victim's body. The woman was subsequently arrested, and her son detained in connection with the murder.
20 January,2025 06:23 PM IST | MumbaiMaharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis congratulated the Indian Men's and Women's for registering victories in the inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 in Delhi on Sunday. Indian Men’s Kho Kho Team Makes History with Inaugural World Cup Victory!The celebration doesn't stop here!Congratulations to the Indian Men's Kho Kho team for their spectacular win over Nepal, clinching the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup title! 🇮🇳A special mention to… pic.twitter.com/oXIKlBXlR4 — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) January 19, 2025 Expressing happiness over this memorable victory, CM Fadnavis said that the captain of the women's team, Priyanka Ingale, and the skipper of men's team, Pratik Waikar, have achieved a unique feat to make Maharashtra proud. From Tradition to Triumph! 🇮🇳🏆✨Women’s Team Wins First-Ever Kho Kho World Cup!What an incredible achievement!Heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Women’s Team for clinching the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup!This remarkable victory reflects their unmatched skill,… pic.twitter.com/xlqrUCjabb — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) January 19, 2025 "The sons and daughters of Maharashtra have made India proud in the first World Cup. The captain of the world champion women's team, Priyanka Ingle, as well as players Ashwini Shinde, Reshma Rathore, and Vaishnavi Pawar, and the men's team captain Pratik Waikar, along with Suyash Gargate, Aniket Pote, Aditya Ganpule and Ramji Kashyap are to be commended for this historic achievement," CM Fadnavis said. The coaches of both the teams coach, Shirin Godbole and Prachitai Waikar, as well as physiotherapist Dr Amit Rawhate, have also played a big role in this victory, Fadnavis said. "All of them have brought unforgettable laurels for the country with their teamwork. Along with the hard work of the players, the support of their families is also important in this achievement. Heartiest congratulations to all of them and best wishes to the players for their future endeavours," Fadnavis tweeted. PM Modi hails Indian men's, women's teams for Kho Kho 2025 World Cup win Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated the Indian women's and men's teams on winning the Kho Kho 2025 World Cup title and said it was a great day for Indian sports. The Indian men's team beat Nepal 54-36 in the final to win the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025. Earlier in the day, the women were also crowned the champions after defeating Nepal in the final. On a memorable night at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in the national capital, the men's and women's teams produced a masterclass of speed, strategy and skill, dishing out a clinical show. "Congratulations to the Indian women's team on winning the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup! This historic victory is a result of their unparalleled skill, determination and teamwork," Modi said in a post on X. (With PTI inputs)
20 January,2025 06:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of the ongoing station redevelopment work at Ahmedabad station, Western Railway (WR) has decided to change terminals of a few trains which are originating and terminating from Ahmedabad station to Vatva/Maninagar station on temporary basis with effect from Thursday. According to a press release issued by Chief Public Relations Officer of WR, Vineet Abhishek, the details of these trains are as under: Trains short-terminating at Vatva station:1. Train No. 12933 Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Karnavati Express will short terminate at Vatva station at 8.50 pm.2. Train No. 19417 Mumbai Central–Ahmedabad Express will short terminate at Vatva station at 2.45 am.3. Train No. 19035 Vadodara–Ahmedabad Express will short terminate at Vatva station at 8.35 pm.4. Train No. 69101 Vadodara–Ahmedabad MEMU will short terminate at Vatva station at 9.35 am.5. Train No. 69113 Vadodara–Ahmedabad MEMU will short terminate at Vatva station at 10.55 pm. Trains short-originating from Vatva station :1. Train No. 69116 Ahmedabad–Anand MEMU will short originate from Vatva station at 11.10 pm.2. Train No. 69130 Ahmedabad–Anand MEMU will short originate from Vatva station at 6.35 pm. Trains short-originating from Maninagar station:Train No. 19036 Ahmedabad–Vadodara Express will originate from Maninagar station at 6.35 pm. Over 150 Western Railway officials, staffers participate in Mumbai Marathon 2025 The Mumbai Marathon 2025 on Sunday saw participation from over 150 Western Railway officials and staffers, an official statement said. It further stated that Ashok Kumar Misra, the General Manager of Western Railway, participated in the 10-km run of this mega sporting event and completed the race successfully. Several senior officers of WR also participated in various categories of the race like Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km, Dream Run etc. According to a press release issued by Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, Vineet Abhishek, WR’s General Manager, Ashok Kumar Misra was an inspiration to the entire WR team and motivated them to give their best. Misra led the WR team from the forefront in 10 km event of the race. He was joined by several other senior officials.
20 January,2025 05:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has withdrawn its contentious decision to include a "caste category" section on hall tickets for class 10 and 12 students, following widespread criticism from various quarters. The Board issued a circular on Saturday night announcing the removal of the category and stating that revised hall tickets would be issued shortly. The decision came after a significant public outcry, with students, education experts, and activists criticising the move as unnecessary and divisive. According to critics, including civil rights groups, the inclusion of caste details on hall tickets was unwarranted in an academic context and raised concerns about the potential for discrimination. Facing mounting pressure, the Board stated, "After considering public sentiments, the caste category section has been withdrawn from hall tickets for HSC (Higher Secondary Certificate) and SSC (Secondary School Certificate) examinations. Revised hall tickets for class 10 will be available from January 20 (Monday), while updated tickets for class 12 will be issued from January 23." Earlier, the MSBSHSE had defended its decision, explaining that the caste column was introduced to ensure accurate and updated records in the general registers maintained by schools and colleges. These registers often include details such as caste for administrative and scholarship purposes. However, the reasoning failed to appease stakeholders, who questioned the timing and necessity of the move. The Board’s decision to revoke the category has been welcomed as a step in the right direction. Commenting on the matter, a senior education official stated, "The Board has taken into account the feedback received and acted swiftly to prevent further distress to students and parents." Students and schools have been advised to download the revised hall tickets from the official websites once they are available. The MSBSHSE reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth examination process while addressing public concerns. This year’s SSC and HSC examinations are scheduled to begin in February, and the Board is expected to take extra measures to avoid controversies or disruptions in the lead-up to the exams. The episode has also sparked a wider conversation on the relevance of caste information in academic systems, with several activists calling for a broader review of practices that might perpetuate caste-based divisions in education.
20 January,2025 05:44 PM IST | MumbaiJustice Alok Aradhe, the newly appointed Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, will be formally sworn into office on Tuesday evening. The oath-taking ceremony will be presided over by Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan at Darbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, in Mumbai at 7 PM. Justice Aradhe, who has had an illustrious career in the judiciary, succeeds outgoing Chief Justice D. K. Upadhyaya. Known for his sharp legal acumen and commitment to judicial reforms, Justice Aradhe's appointment has been welcomed by legal circles and public officials alike. Justice Aradhe has previously served in various capacities, including as Acting Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, earning a reputation for upholding justice and ensuring speedy case resolutions. His extensive experience across multiple states positions him well to lead the judiciary in Maharashtra. No protective orders for hawkers: Bombay HC The Bombay High Court has taken a firm stance on the issue of hawkers in the city. During a hearing on a suo motu petition addressing the problem of illegal hawking, the division bench, comprising Justice S M Sonak and Justice Kamal Khata, made it clear that no protective orders would be granted in favour of hawkers. While specifically refusing protection, the bench also discussed potential solutions.” The court also discussed potential solutions, suggesting, “Condition some other places. Let there be some more areas and see if a model can be applicable to curb (illegal) hawking. We are looking into the larger issue right now.” During the hearing, the lawyer representing the BMC referenced a Supreme Court decision related to the Town Vending Committee elections. He argued that without the formal establishment of this committee, neither the BMC nor the state government can develop a comprehensive scheme to regulate hawking. Justice Khata raised concerns about the enforcement of rules against hawkers, pointing out, “A shopkeeper goes to the BMC and complains about hawkers blocking his shop; the BMC and police have to take action. What is the citizen to do if no action is taken?” This remark highlighted the frustration of shop owners dealing with the daily disruption caused by hawkers encroaching on footpaths and shopfronts. Petitioners echoed these concerns, stating that despite multiple complaints, neither the BMC nor the police have adequately addressed the issue of illegal hawkers. In response, the BMC's counsel asserted that the civic body was actively seizing goods and monitoring areas with high levels of hawking activity. The court acknowledged that although the Town Vending Committee elections had been conducted as per its previous order, the results had yet to be declared due to a stay by the Supreme Court. This delay, the BMC indicated, would prevent the finalisation of a regulatory scheme by the previously set deadline of September 20. Plea for a task force to combat illegal hawking A petitioner proposed the formation of a task force to address illegal hawking. The petitioner sought a direction from the court to establish a task force for lodging complaints would be immensely beneficial. “The task force would focus on action against illegal hawking activities, responding to citizens’ complaints within 30 minutes.” In response, Justice Sonak said, “If we issue multiple directions, they (BMC and state) will do nothing, and it will only create more chaos for us (court).” The bench said it will address this issue step by step, focusing on the broader goal of curbing illegal hawking.
20 January,2025 05:38 PM IST | Mumbai | Nimesh DaveADVERTISEMENT
