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Devendra Fadnavis Likely to Return as Maharashtra CM; Eknath Shinde’s Son Rumored as Deputy

The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), known as the Mahayuti in Maharashtra, secured a resounding victory in the state assembly elections over a week ago, but the new government has yet to take the oath of office. The spotlight now falls on BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, whose name has reportedly been finalized for the chief ministerial post.

Government Formation Updates

The legislature party is expected to elect Fadnavis as its leader in a meeting scheduled for December 2 or 3. The oath-taking ceremony will take place on December 5 at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. The Mahayuti alliance clinched 230 out of 288 assembly seats, with the BJP securing 132, the Shiv Sena winning 57, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP grabbing 41 seats.

Outgoing CM Eknath Shinde supports BJP’s decision on Maharashtra’s next chief minister, pledging full backing from himself and Shiv Sena.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders have dismissed rumors about Shrikant Shinde, Eknath Shinde’s son, becoming the deputy CM.

Tensions Within the Alliance

As the alliance prepares to form the government, internal friction has surfaced. Shiv Sena MLA Gulabrao Patil criticized the inclusion of Ajit Pawar’s NCP in the Mahayuti alliance, arguing that the Shiv Sena could have won 90–100 seats had it contested without the NCP. His remarks drew sharp criticism from NCP spokesperson Amol Mitkari, who urged Patil to exercise caution with his statements.

The BJP-led alliance won Maharashtra’s elections on November 23, and focus shifts to Fadnavis and Mahayuti leaders forming the government.

Mumbai Police Constable Suspended for Sharing Postal Ballot Image Online

A Mumbai police constable, Riyaz Pathan, has been suspended for violating voting secrecy rules during the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections. Pathan, who cast his postal ballot at a facilitation center in Byculla, clicked a photo of his ballot paper and shared it with a friend in Satara. This image subsequently went viral, prompting a formal complaint from election officials in Satara.

The incident led to the registration of a case under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Representation of the People Act, which mandate strict confidentiality in voting. Investigations revealed that Pathan disregarded explicit guidelines prohibiting the use of mobile phones at polling centers. Following the inquiry, Mumbai Police suspended him.

In a similar case last month, another constable, Ganesh Shinde, was suspended for sharing his postal ballot image online. These incidents highlight growing concerns about breaches of voting confidentiality despite rigorous measures by the Election Commission, including setting up postal voting centers with strict protocols.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of maintaining voting integrity, with further investigations underway to ensure adherence to election norms.

Bandish Bandits 2 Trailer: A Harmonious Blend of Love, Loss, and Legacy

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The much-awaited trailer for Bandish Bandits 2 is finally here, promising a captivating blend of love, loss, and the enduring power of music. The series, which originally premiered in 2020, returns with a new season that delves deeper into the lives of its beloved characters.

The trailer opens with a poignant revelation: the demise of Naseeruddin Shah’s character, a pivotal figure in the show. This loss sets the stage for a compelling narrative that explores themes of legacy, family, and the challenges of preserving tradition in a rapidly changing world.

Ritwik Bhowmik and Shreya Chaudhry reprise their roles as Radhe and Tamanna, respectively. The trailer hints at a deepening of their romantic relationship, as well as the challenges they face in balancing their personal ambitions with their musical heritage.

The series also introduces a new character, played by Divya Dutta, who is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the story. Returning cast members like Sheeba Chaddha, Atul Kulkarni, Rajesh Tailang, and Kunaal Roy Kapur will continue to contribute to the rich tapestry of the show.

Beyond the personal journeys of its characters, Bandish Bandits 2 promises to explore broader issues such as the impact of reality television and gender roles in the music industry. The series remains committed to showcasing the beauty and power of Indian classical music, while also addressing contemporary themes.

The cast and crew of Bandish Bandits 2 are excited to share the second chapter of this musical journey. Ritwik Bhowmik and Shreya Chaudhry expressed their enthusiasm for reprising their roles and delving deeper into the complexities of their characters.

With its captivating storyline, talented cast, and stunning musical score, Bandish Bandits 2 is poised to be another resounding success.

Young IPS Officer Dies in Tragic Accident

A promising young IPS officer, Harsh Bardhan, met with a tragic end on Sunday evening. The 26-year-old officer, a 2023-batch Karnataka cadre IPS, was on his way to his first posting in Hassan district when the fatal accident occurred.

The accident took place near Kittane in Hassan taluk. The police vehicle Bardhan was traveling in reportedly suffered a tire burst, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle subsequently crashed into a house and a tree, resulting in severe injuries to the officer. Despite immediate medical attention, Bardhan succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of the young officer. He offered his condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged the tragic loss of a promising career.

In another unfortunate incident on Monday, a private bus met with an accident in the Sira area of Tumkur district. The accident resulted in the deaths of three passengers and injuries to over 20 others. The bus was returning from Goa when it hit a road divider early Monday morning.

Local authorities, including the Tumkur Superintendent of Police, have initiated an investigation into the accident to determine the exact cause. Further details are awaited

Vikrant Massey Takes a Break, Cites Need to Recalibrate

Vikrant Massey, the talented actor known for his powerful performances in films like “12th Fail” and “Sector 26,” has announced a much-needed break from the world of cinema. The actor, who recently faced online harassment and death threats following the release of his latest film, “The Sabarmati Report,” has decided to prioritize his well-being and spend some time with his family.

“The Sabarmati Report,” a thought-provoking film that delves into the aftermath of the tragic Godhra train burning incident of 2002, has garnered significant attention but also brought its share of controversy. Despite the backlash, Massey remained steadfast in his commitment to truth and justice, even in the face of online abuse.

Taking to social media, Massey expressed his gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support over the years. He acknowledged the immense love and appreciation he has received, especially for his recent successes. However, he emphasized the need to step back, recharge, and recalibrate before returning to the screen.

As the actor embarks on this much-deserved break, his fans eagerly await his return to the silver screen. His dedication to his craft and his ability to bring complex characters to life have made him a beloved figure in the Indian film industry.

Kerala Man Arrested for Stealing Rs.1 Crore and Gold from Neighbour’s House

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KANNUR: Kerala police on Monday solved a week-old burglary case involving the theft of Rs.1 crore in cash and 300 sovereigns of gold from a prominent trader’s home in Kannur district. A local man, identified as 30-year-old Vijesh, has been arrested in connection with the crime.A police team arrested Vijesh, a local welder, on Saturday and recovered the stolen money and gold from under his cot.

The police cracked the case with the help of CCTV footage and fingerprint evidence collected from the crime scene. The CCTV visuals revealed that the accused returned to the crime scene the day after the theft, raising suspicions that the perpetrator was someone familiar with the household. In addition, the police found a chisel inside the house, and fingerprints from the scene matched those of the accused.

The theft occurred while the victim, Ashraf, a rice trader, and his family were away attending a wedding in Madurai on November 19. The family discovered the robbery upon returning home on November 24 and immediately filed a complaint with the police. According to a relative, the family had locked the valuables, including the cash and gold, in a cupboard, with the key placed in another room.

Police investigations suggest that the burglars entered the house by cutting the iron grill of the kitchen window. CCTV footage showed three individuals scaling the compound wall to gain access. Following this, the police launched a thorough search, collecting crucial evidence from the scene, including fingerprints.

This case highlights a growing trend in Kerala, where burglary incidents linked to interstate gangs have surged. While 192 such cases were reported in 2021, the number increased significantly to 519 in 2023, with 1,325 arrests made in connection with these crimes. However, recovering stolen gold remains a major challenge for the police.

Mamata Banerjee Announces West Bengal’s Recognition by UNESCO as Leading Heritage Tourism Destination

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Monday that UNESCO has recognized the state as a top destination for heritage tourism, underscoring its role in generating significant employment opportunities for thousands of young people.

Addressing the state assembly, Banerjee highlighted the state’s major progress in promoting religious, heritage, and tea tourism. She stated, “UNESCO has recognized Bengal as a premier destination for heritage tourism. We have implemented various initiatives to enhance and preserve our heritage sites. Additionally, we are focusing on religious tourism by improving iconic places of worship, such as the Dakshineshwar and Kalighat temples.”

Banerjee emphasized that these efforts reflect the state’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while contributing to the growth of its tourism sector and creating new job opportunities.

PM Modi to Watch ‘Sabarmati Report’ Film in Parliament Complex

New Delhi: In an intriguing development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to watch the film Sabarmati Report on Monday evening, a move that has captured the attention of both political and cinematic circles. Officials confirmed that the screening will take place at the Balyogi Auditorium in the Parliament Library Building, a location typically reserved for official functions and gatherings. The Prime Minister will be joined by members of Parliament and other dignitaries at the special screening.

The film, which stars actor Vikrant Massey in a pivotal role, is directed by Dheeraj Sarna. Sabarmati Report explores the truth behind the controversial Godhra fire on February 27, 2002, which killed 59 people returning from Ayodhya. The tragedy shocked the nation and sparked widespread violence and political debate.

Sabarmati Report aims to shed light on the events surrounding the fire and the aftermath. While many focus on the political and social impact of the incident, the film uncovers lesser-known details and questions various theories. Its portrayal has sparked significant interest, especially amid ongoing discussions about communal tensions and the politics of the Godhra tragedy.

Audiences have praised Vikrant Massey for his portrayal of a central character in the film, highlighting its intensity and depth. The actor, known for his roles in films like Lootera and Chhapaak, plays a character caught in the turmoil of the aftermath of the tragedy. Directed by Dheeraj Sarna, the movie navigates the sensitive subject with a focus on the human stories behind the larger political narrative.

PM Modi’s decision to watch the film highlights the significance of the Sabarmati Express incident in Indian political history. The fire has been a point of contention, influencing Gujarat’s politics and debates about the state’s response, especially since Modi was the Chief Minister at the time.

While the film’s narrative has sparked interest with its critical take on the event, it also opens a platform for discussing how people remember, retell, and represent such events in public consciousness. The choice of the Parliament complex for the screening, a symbol of India’s political heart, suggests that the Prime Minister is open to engaging with the film’s portrayal of a complex and sensitive moment in the country’s history.

This screening is expected to spark further debate about the political, social, and historical implications of the Sabarmati Express incident and could start conversations about how people view the event in today’s political climate.A select group of MPs is likely to attend the screening, offering policymakers and the public a rare opportunity to reflect on the incident through the lens of cinema.

The Prime Minister’s attendance at the screening might offer an opportunity for a broader national conversation about the event’s legacy and its continuing significance in the Indian political narrative.

Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer Issues Legal Warning Over EVM Tampering Allegations

MUMBAI: Maharashtra’s Chief Electoral Officer, S Chockalingam has warned of strict legal action against individuals spreading allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) tampering during the recent state elections. This response follows claims by opposition parties, particularly the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), regarding voting irregularities, including unexplained voter turnout spikes in constituencies like Karad South and anomalies in the Nanded by-election.

Controversies and Counterclaims

In the Nanded by-election, the Congress party’s Lok Sabha victory juxtaposed its loss in six assembly segments within the same constituency, raising questions about voter behavior. Similarly, Karad South saw an unexpected rise of over 40,000 votes within six months, further fueling doubts. Opposition leaders have called for an investigation, citing potential discrepancies in electoral processes.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde refuted the allegations, accusing the opposition of misleading voters and questioning the validity of their selective claims. Shinde emphasized that robust administrative safeguards ensure EVM integrity, with no connectivity to external networks that could compromise results. The returning officer for Mumbai North West affirmed these safeguards, dismissing reports of tampering as baseless.

Legal and Administrative Actions

Amid these allegations, an incident involving unauthorized mobile phone use at a Goregaon counting center resulted in legal proceedings against an individual linked to the ruling party. Election officials reiterated that such incidents, though concerning, do not compromise the credibility of the EVMs or the electoral process.

As the political discourse intensifies, the Election Commission’s firm stance underscores the importance of maintaining public confidence in India’s democratic system while addressing opposition concerns through transparent investigations.

Source: Web Team, C6N

Devendra Fadnavis Likely to Lead Maharashtra Again Amid Alliance Speculations

MUMBAI: Devendra Fadnavis is set to return as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with BJP leaders confirming his name for the top post. The decision, taken after extensive deliberations within the Mahayuti alliance comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, marks a key milestone in the state’s political landscape. The official BJP legislature party meeting to endorse Fadnavis is scheduled for December 2 or 3, according to senior party sources.

Outgoing CM Eknath Shinde expressed support for the BJP’s decision, affirming that he and his Shiv Sena faction stand united with the alliance’s choice. The coalition is set to deliberate further on cabinet positions, including the possibility of Shrikant Shinde, Shinde’s son, assuming the Deputy CM role, and the Shiv Sena securing the Home portfolio.

Despite the unity showcased by the Mahayuti leadership, internal tensions have surfaced. Some Shiv Sena and NCP leaders have expressed dissatisfaction with seat-sharing and ministerial allocations. Notably, Shiv Sena leader Gulabrao Patil and BJP’s Raosaheb Danve have made statements reflecting the complexities within the alliance.

The oath-taking ceremony is slated for December 5 at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to attend. However, uncertainty persists regarding whether only the CM and Deputy CMs will be sworn in, or if the full cabinet will take their oaths as well.

The BJP’s decisive leadership in securing 132 seats in the recent assembly polls, complemented by its allies’ victories, positions the Mahayuti government for a strong tenure. As the alliance fine-tunes its power-sharing dynamics, Maharashtra awaits the formal beginning of this significant political chapter.

Source: Web Team, C6N