The Congress claimed on Wednesday that the BJP has publicly admitted to using its washing machine to import leaders in Maharashtra, and cited the example of Ravindra Waikar, Yamini Jadhav and Narayan Rane, who faced anti-graft probes and joined the ruling alliance in the state. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said this as he posed a few questions for Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his rallies in Maharashtra. “Why has the BJP diluted Adivasis’ forest rights in Maharashtra? Will the BJP’s washing machine ever stop spinning? Why has there been a three-fold increase in the death of construction workers in Maharashtra,” Ramesh asked in a post on ‘X’. Elaborating on what he said were “jumla details”, Ramesh said that in 2006, the decades-long struggle of India’s tribal communities came to an end when the Congress government introduced the historic Forest Rights Act. “This granted Adivasi and forest-dwelling communities legal rights to manage their own forests, and economically benefit from forest produce they collect. Last year, when PM Modi introduced the Forest Conservation Amendment Act, all of this progress was undone,” he alleged. “The new Act undermines the Forest Rights Act of 2006, doing away with provisions for the consent of local communities and other statutory requirements for forest clearance in vast areas. The intention, of course, is to hand over access to our forests to the prime minister’s corporate friends,” Ramesh said. Data also shows how the Mahayuti government has obstructed the implementation of the FRA, depriving millions of Adivasis of its benefits, he added. “Why have the BJP and their allies deprived Adivasis of their forest rights in Maharashtra,” Ramesh asked. He also claimed that the BJP has now publicly admitted to using its washing machine to import leaders in Maharashtra. 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
16 May,2024 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | AgenciesPrime Minister Narendra Modi and his security protocol for the roadshow in Ghatkopar for the North East Mumbai Lok Sabha constituency candidate Mihir Kotecha stopped public transport for over two hours, inconveniencing lakhs of daily commuters during the evening rush hour. The Metro gates at Ghatkopar shut before the scheduled shutdown of 6 pm, leading to further chaos. The security protocol asked the Mumbai Metro to pull down shutters at the extremely crowded Ghatkopar Metro station, shut down the arterial LBS road, and suspend BEST services, leading to extremely crowded and unruly scenes. Though originally, Metro services were supposed to be shut at Jagruti Nagar, one station short of the terminal Ghatkopar station, the chain effect led to chaos, eventually leading to the shutting down of shutters at other stations like Marol due to the increasing crowd. The Metro gates closed at Ghatkopar According to the advisory issued, it was informed that due to security reasons, metro services would be suspended between Jagruti Nagar and Ghatkopar Metro stations from 6 pm till further notice. Angry commuters “The gates shut at 5.30 pm itself, leaving us in the lurch,” commuter Sushmita Mehta said. Another angry commuter said, “Please ask the prime minister to sit at home and not disturb Mumbaikars like this. Such chaotic scenes due to his protocol will ensure that his party loses the elections.” “Politicians travel in cars. They do not understand the plight of the common man. All those trying to reach Ghatkopar suffered a lot. What is the need to do such a thing in rush hour?” commuter Nikita Mehta said. Karan Jotwani, Metro commuter (right) Harish Shah, commuter “Due to the road and Metro closure, there were hardships for lakhs of commuters like me. It is very unfair to shut both services like this at the same time,” commuter Harish Shah said. Karan Jotwani, a 45-year-old who runs a printing press in Marol and is a regular Metro commuter, said, “Due to shutting metro gates at Marol, it has led to complete chaos in traffic and alternate modes of transport are incapable of handling the load. Total collapse of the system.” Cranes for rescue site delayed “Two days after the billboard collapse, the site is still an active rescue site with bodies buried below. But on the other hand, Prime Minister Modi’s rally has been organised today from LBS Road, Ghatkopar West due to which the roads leading from Ghatkopar east to west have been completely blocked for traffic. As a result, cranes, excavators, and hydra expected to come to the rescue site were delayed,” alleged former corporator Rakhee Jadhav, president of Mumbai Regional NCP. “On one hand, the relatives of the innocent people who lost their lives are grieving, on the other hand, there is jubilation of Prime Minister Modi and his BJP. After such a serious accident, the said roadshow should have been postponed! However, this proves that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP stalwart leaders are insensitive towards the plight of the common people,” she said.
16 May,2024 07:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-daySpecial polling centres have been set up for the policemen in Mumbai, Thane and Mira Bhayander and Vasai Virar (MBVV) to cast their votes in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Six polling centers have been established for the six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai city. Police officers and personnel affiliated with the Mumbai Police Commissionerate will cast their votes on May 14, 15, and 16. Besides, a polling center has been designated in Thane City for the police officers and personnel of MBVV and Thane Commissionerate. Earlier, those from the police would vote through postal ballots. Sources revealed that strict instructions have been issued to all police personnel and senior officers have demanded a 100 per cent voting turnout. After casting their votes, the staff and officers are required to send a photo to their senior officer or the in-charge officer, who will then forward these photos to the senior police officials of the Mumbai police. During the third phase, police personnel living outside Mumbai were given a day’s leave to go to their villages and vote. However, not all police personnel could cover the long distances to their villages to cast their vote and return in one day. Police personnel who could not vote said that a postal vote was better suited for them. No matter where a person is posted, he can vote through postal ballots. Police personnel who voted at the aforementioned centers revealed that many of them prioritised Maratha reservation issues. They considered basic facilities like reservations, access to good housing, and admission to quality schools for their children. It was evident that they revered Balasaheb and have not forgotten his love and loyalty towards the Marathi people.
16 May,2024 07:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanIn Dharavi, the BJP and Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) have been trying to woo the local Tamil population, many of whom have been living in the area for generations. On Tuesday, the BJP’s star campaigner in Tamil Nadu and former IPS officer Annamalai was in Dharavi on 90-ft-road, opposite Kamaraj Memorial Tamil High School, asking for votes for the incumbent MP Rahul Shewale. He shared the stage with another local leader, BJP’s Captain Tamil Selvan, as well as ‘turncoat’ Ashok Chavan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Republican Party of India leaders. The primary theme of this rally was the issue of redevelopment. Chavan, whose speech was interrupted by the arrival of Annamalai and Tamil Selvan amidst cheers from the crowd, was presented as a prominent figure in the Maratha reservation movement. Wooing the crowd “There are vast communities in Dharavi who live in harmony. I want to tell every community here that they won’t be moved anywhere but given a house in Dharavi in the redevelopment project,” he said in Hindi. Before Chavan, Raju Waghmare, Shiv Sena (Shinde) spokesperson said, “Do not fall for things like BJP will do away with reservation. MLA Varsha Gaikwad and Congress have only scared people here. The development of Dharavi has gone for a toss.” CM Eknath Shinde tried to woo Tamil residents with the redevelopment plan. Pics/Kirti Surve Parade BJP’s Selvan roused the Tamil crowd prior to Annamalai “No one will be sent to Dharavi. People will receive their houses here. Congress does not want to lose on their slum votes, they know if people get houses in buildings then they will lose on their slum votes.” When Annamalai’s turn came to speak, the crowd erupted with claps. Many BJP workers in the back rushed to the front rows to capture a glimpse of him on their phone cameras; even blurred pictures worked. “I’m sorry I’m not able to speak in Hindi or Marathi but I request everyone to vote for Shewale,” Soon after Annamalai, Shinde took over the event and said, “Those who have opposed redevelopment need to remember that this is for the poor. Everyone who stays in Dharavi will get a house. Not a single person will be sent outside. This is our promise.” Voices of voters Ayar Dass, 54, said he and many like him suffered a lot during COVID-19 as the trains came to a halt. “The gas cylinder has been expensive. Everything has become expensive. Annamalai is from our state but so what, our needs matter. I will be changing my vote this time.” Dass said he is inclined to vote for Shiv Sena (UBT) but does not know about Shewale’s primary rival from South Central, Anil Desai. Mumbai Vizhithezhu Iyakkam, a local activist group in the area working on civic issues, estimates the Tamil-speaking population in Dharavi to be in lakhs. “Leaders from Tamil Nadu coming here to campaign is nothing new even Congress has done that. But there is no representation in Maharashtra politics, despite about 25 lakh language speakers in the state,” said Srithar Thamizhan, chief coordinator of the organisation. According to him, those like Annamalai have an audience of Tamil speakers but it fails to have any real influence. “Dharavi is driven by the issues here that impact everyone, not just the Tamil population. People want a better life, they want better education, they want jobs. Tamil population wants dedicated trains and comfortable travel to their home,” he said. Vennila Muthukumar, 19, is a student of accounting and finance who works part-time in an internet cafe. She is a first-time voter, her father works as a driver and her mother is a homemaker. “I don’t want to vote but I have to, that is my responsibility. I have not thought about issues yet but I like Rahul Gandhi because he talks about jobs and education.” Srinivasan Devendra, 66, said he has been living in Dharavi since birth, as did his parents. “We used to like Congress’s Eknath Gaikwad but we also like Rahul Shewale and leaders like Narendra Modi. He (Modi) does not eat money.” When asked if he knew of electoral bonds, his friend Nagalingam Nadar interrupted and said, “He took that money and gave it to the party but did not pocket it himself.” The two had their doubts about redevelopment. “We have been hearing this for decades now. No one will do anything real for Dharavi.” Many in Dharavi are like these two friends who have their doubts about redevelopment even as politicians continue to attempt to calm their fears. A Marathi speaker, Kavita Khandare, 45, wants the next government and the MP from South Central to raise issues of education for the youth of Dharavi. “My son is in Class 12. I want him to earn well and be respected, that only happens with education. Apart from that, I want someone to consider the lives of the poor and bring down rising prices.” Another first-time voter, 21-year-old Pawankumar Naik’s family hails from Karnataka but has lived in Dharavi for the last 20 years. “We like Varsha Tai. She has done a lot for us,” he said. As a young voter who holds a diploma in electronics, he wants the next government to create more higher education opportunities. “(Eknath) Shinde is new so let’s see what he says here,” Naik said. He had heard of Rahul Shewale but had not heard of Desai.
16 May,2024 07:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Eshan KalyanikarThe Mumbai North Lok Sabha constituency has become a hotbed of political activity and fierce competition as the elections approach. Known for its diverse population and dynamic electorate, Mumbai North is witnessing a high-stakes battle among major political players. The constituency, which spans key areas such as Borivli, Dahisar, Kandivali, and Malad, is gearing up for a showdown that could significantly impact the political landscape of Mumbai, and Maharashtra. In the fray are candidates from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC), each vying for the support of the constituency's 19 lakh voters. The BJP, which currently holds the seat, aims to retain its stronghold, while the Shiv Sena factions and Congress are determined to reclaim their influence in this politically crucial region. Political history and demography The Mumbai North Lok Sabha constituency has witnessed significant shifts in political allegiance over the decades. The constituency’s evolving demographic and socio-economic landscape continues to shape its political dynamics, making it a key area for understanding urban electoral trends in India. Established in 1952, the Mumbai North Loksabha constituency included the suburban areas of Mumbai, which were rapidly urbanising and expanding. Hawkers on a congested road in Borivli West. Pic/Satej Shinde From 1952 to the 1980s, INC had a stronghold over the constituency. Veteran Congress leader, late Murli Deora represented the Mumbai North Lok Sabha constituency in the mid-1980s. Legendary actor Sunil Dutt was one of the most notable MPs from Mumbai North. He represented the constituency from 1984 until 2004, barring one term when he contested from Mumbai North West. The 1990s marked a significant shift in Mumbai North’s political landscape. This period saw the emergence of identity politics based on regional pride and linguistic identity, with Shiv Sena championing the cause of the Marathi-speaking population. The early 2000s saw the BJP gaining prominence in Mumbai North, with senior leader Ram Naik playing a key role in the constituency's politics. In recent elections, the BJP has maintained a strong hold over Mumbai North, making the region its bastion. Ram Naik notably secured victory five times, establishing the party's dominance. However, the BJP faced stiff competition from actor Govinda, who represented Congress and won the seat at one point. Subsequently, Sanjay Nirupam also clinched victory for Congress but suffered a defeat in 2014, which BJP leaders attributed to a ‘Modi wave’. Vote share In 2014, BJP's Gopal Shetty triumphed over Nirupam by a significant margin. Shetty secured 6,64,004 votes compared to Nirupam's 217,422. The scenario remained almost identical in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, with Shetty winning the seat with a 71.40 per cent vote share, while Congress's Urmila Matondkar secured only 24.39 per cent of the votes. Electoral dynamics and voter base Mumbai North’s electorate is diverse, including a mix of middle-class families, slum dwellers, and a significant Marathi-speaking population. This diversity makes it a unique constituency where both, development issues and identity politics play significant roles. The constituency is a significant and diverse electoral region with a large voter base of approximately 19 lakh registered voters. It includes a mix of Marathi, Gujarati, North Indian, and Muslim communities, among others. Approximately 3.7 per cent of the population in this constituency belongs to the SC category, with 1 per cent classified as ST. Key issues of Mumbai North Voters in Mumbai North are focused on pressing local issues such as urban congestion, the menace of hawkers, the rise of slums in areas like Malvani, and the need for improved infrastructure and public services. Candidates are addressing these concerns through their campaigns, promising solutions that resonate with the everyday experiences of the residents. Shreyas Shinde, a student For instance, Dahisar faces severe traffic congestion, particularly at Dahisar Check Naka, a major entry and exit point to Mumbai. Traffic jams during peak hours cause long delays and pollution. Many residents also experience irregular water supply, with some areas relying on water tankers, especially during the summer months. There is also an increase in the number of slum settlements in areas like Ganpat Patil Nagar and Kandarpada. Borivli and Magathane suffer from severe overcrowding in both residential complexes and public transport. Rapid development has led to encroachment on green spaces, reducing the availability of parks and recreational areas for residents. During the monsoon season, Borivli often experiences flooding due to inadequate drainage systems. The existing infrastructure, including roads and public amenities, is under significant strain due to the growing population. The hawker menace around Borivli West station creates severe problems; three rows of hawkers on the roads outside the station make it difficult for pedestrians to walk and slow down vehicular movement. Footpaths between Dahisar West station and Borivli West station are encroached upon by sellers who have built makeshift huts on the pavements. Kandivali has also seen a rise in the number of slums, particularly in areas like Charkop, Damunagar, and Hanuman Nagar. These slums lack basic amenities such as sanitation, clean water, and healthcare. Major roads, including the Western Express Highway and Link Road, face frequent traffic bottlenecks, affecting commute times and increasing pollution. Malvani, a neighbourhood in Malad West, has a significant number of slum settlements. These areas struggle with poor living conditions, inadequate sanitation, and limited access to clean water. The proliferation of street vendors has led to encroachment on sidewalks and public spaces, causing further inconvenience to pedestrians and contributing to traffic congestion. Ineffective waste management practices have led to garbage accumulation, posing health risks and environmental concerns. Nishita Bhatia, Malad West resident Parts of Goregaon within Mumbai North are experiencing rapid urbanisation, leading to a strain on infrastructure and public services. Goregaon faces significant traffic congestion, especially near the railway station and on major roads during peak hours. Like Borivli, Goregaon also suffers from flooding during the monsoon season due to inadequate drainage systems. Meanwhile, construction activities and increased vehicular traffic have led to rising air and noise pollution in the area. Discussing the issues in Dahisar, Borivli, and Kandivali, local resident and environmentalist Harish Pandey, said, “One of the biggest issues in this constituency is the environment. The elected representative needs to be very sensitive towards environmental issues and protection. We have so many wetlands here, there is Sanjay Gandhi National Park which has sources of all rivers in the city, and two of the city's rivers, Dahisar and Poisar, are located in Mumbai North. The second issue is slums and encroachments. For example, rising encroachments in the city lead to an increase in slum settlements, such as those in Ganpat Patil Nagar destroying the mangroves. However, they have become a crucial vote bank. The bottlenecks at Dahisar Check Naka have made entering or exiting Mumbai a problem. Moreover, many old buildings in Dahisar and Borivli are not getting redeveloped due to restrictions on building heights. The government and civic body need to address this.” Pankaji Trivedi, a resident of Srikrishna Society in Borivli, expressed his concerns saying that while the Metro has started, there is no place for pedestrians to walk. “There are no proper roads below the Metro. Metro pillars are used for putting up posters, and many people litter even below the Metro stations. This goes unchecked, and only the common man suffers. The civic body and politicians do not restrict the mushrooming of slums. From Dahisar to Malad, footpaths are encroached upon, and no concrete measures are taken to address this. Are the pavements and footpaths made for pedestrians or hawkers? We vote and pay taxes, yet we get nothing in return. One has to either be very rich or very poor to survive in this city. Middle-class people always suffer, despite following laws and paying taxes,” Trivedi said. Nishita Bhatia, 21, a resident of Malad West, said she has witnessed numerous slums springing up haphazardly near her residence, leading to increased traffic congestion and chaos in the area. “The roads are perpetually in disarray, exacerbating the traffic situation. The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) areas are consistently overcrowded, with people packed into every available space. Also, the road infrastructure urgently requires enhancement as it poses significant risks to travellers due to potholes and unexpected speed breakers that become blind spots.” Meanwhile, Shreyas Shinde, 21, a student of M L Dahanukar College of Commerce highlighted another major issue concerning the slums opposite St. Don Bosco school. “Cigarettes are openly sold in the slums, often within 100 meters of the school grounds. Frequently, vendors don’t verify the age of buyers, resulting in school children openly purchasing cigarettes,” Shinde said. He added that makeshift shops are also cropping up on footpaths throughout Borivli, compelling pedestrians to move onto roads. “The makeshift vegetable market in Borivli, just outside the BMC market, renders the road impassable, causing autos and cars to reroute, sometimes causing us to miss trains and be late for college.” Major contestants BJP's candidate Piyush Goyal is a chartered accountant with a robust political background and has been serving as a minister of commerce at the Center. Goyal, who has been an MP in the Rajya Sabha since 2010, is contesting a direct election for the first time. Challenging him is Congress candidate Bhushan Patil, Mumbai Congress vice-president and a relative newcomer to electoral politics. Patil, who is in the construction business, is confident that his local roots and identity as a grassroots party worker in the region will work in his favour. Assembly segments of Mumbai North The constituency is divided into six assembly segments: Dahisar, Magathane, Borivli, Kandivali East, Charkop, and Malad West. Of these, five are held by the ruling alliance, while Malad West is with Congress. DahisarCovers areas like Dahisar East, Dahisar West, parts of Borivli East, and some surrounding localitiesSitting MLAManisha Ashok ChaudhariParty: BJP MagathaneIncludes parts of Borivli East, Magathane, and nearby regionsSitting MLAPrakash SurvePartyShiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) BorivliBorivli West and surrounding neighborhoodsSitting MLASunil RaneParty: BJP Kandivali EastIncludes areas such as Thakur Village, Lokhandwala Township, and parts of Kandivali EastSitting MLAAtul BhatkhalkarParty: BJP CharkopIncludes areas like Charkop, Kandivali West, and parts of Malad WestSitting MLAYogesh SagarParty: BJP Malad WestEncompasses Malad West, including areas like Marve, Malvani, and nearby localitiesSitting MLAAslam ShaikhParty:INC Distribution of voters Marathi 35-40%Areas with high concentrationBorivli, Dahisar, parts of Kandivali, and MaladEstimated voters6.65 lakh to 7.6 lakh Gujarati 20-25%Areas with high concentrationBorivli, Kandivali, and parts of MaladEstimated voters3.8 lakh to 4.75 lakh North Indian communities 20-25%Areas with high concentrationMalad, Kandivali, and DahisarEstimated voters3.8 lakh to 4.75 lakh Muslim 10-15%Areas with high concentrationMalad (especially Malvani), parts of Kandivali, and GoregaonEstimated voters1.9 lakh to 2.85 lakh Other communities 5-10%Estimated voters95,000 to 1.9 lakh
16 May,2024 07:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghThe Mumbai North East constituency comprises six Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) segments, including Mulund, Vikhroli, Bhandup West, Ghatkopar West, Ghatkopar East, and Mankhurd (Shivaji Nagar). It will witness a showdown between BJP’s sitting MLA Mihir Kotecha and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s former MP Sanjay Dina Patil. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chosen to conduct a roadshow in this constituency for its closeness with Thane and MMR. Key issues in a nutshell The key issues here are the two big dumping grounds in the constituency where garbage from the entire city is dumped affecting all residents’ health and welfare. The area also lacks multi-speciality hospitals and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. Relocating dumping grounds, addressing the pollution and sanitation problems, and the fiery issue of shifting project-affected people (PAPs) from various parts of the city, including Dharavi, to Mulund East are the prime issues here. Also, the salt land is opening up and besides the Metro rail car shed coming up at Kanjurmarg, more PAPs are likely to be shifted here. The area spanning Bhandup, Vikhroli, and Kanjurmarg was an industrial belt. It has rapidly changed into a residential area with huge towers, complexes, and colonies coming up, but with limited civic infra leading to problems of drainage and water. Constituency profile The constituency has nearly 46 per cent Marathi population and also consists of Muslim-populated Mankhurd-Govandi, Gujarati-Marwari dominated Ghatkopar, Marathi-speaking voters in Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup and a mixed population in Mulund. While the Uddhav Sena has been raking up the issue of Marathi vs Gujarati focused on removing dumping ground and PAPs saying no work done by sitting MP, the BJP MP has in his manifesto said he will work for development, promising a Mulund terminus, removal of dumping ground, and PAPs. Past election results In the Lok Sabha 2019 elections, Manoj Kotak of the BJP party who won, polled 5,14,599 votes and the runner-up was Patil Sanjay Dina of the NCP party. The margin of victory was 2,88,113 votes. In 2009, the BJP said Dina Patil had won as he had received support from the MNS, but this time, the MNS is with the BJP. Mulund Chetan Bordawekar, Mulund resident Residents of Mulund East have been fighting for the scrapping of the PAPs project. A project to shift all PAPs, including those from Dharavi, is in process. Residents of Mulund West have been asking for better traffic conditions and expediting Metro work, which has led to narrowing down roads. Vikhroli Vikhroli residents have been suffering due to the issue of the dumping ground which was located from Mulund to Kanjurmarg. It leaves a stench in the locality affecting normal life. Also, the Vikhroli-Kanjurmarg belt has remained underdeveloped and needs better infrastructure and upgrades at par with the growing residential towers here. Bhandup West Originally an industrial belt, now being bombarded with residential towers, the basic infrastructure here is skewed. It leads to problems of traffic and congestion on the streets. Ghatkopar West The narrow LBS road and incomplete works of the Metro add to the problems here. The key issue of upgrading the existing railway station of Ghatkopar, which is extremely crowded due to the integration of the Metro, has been a point of discussion among commuters. Also, the issue of improved connectivity is the need of the hour. Ghatkopar East Scores of building redevelopment issues are being faced by residents here in areas like Pant Nagar and areas like Ramabai Nagar which are looking for cluster development. Seamless movement of highway traffic and other infra issues also need attention. Mankhurd (Shivaji Nagar) The issue here again is the dumping ground, leading to health risks to the residents here. The issues of sanitation and pollution are other key factors which have been affecting residents here. The effects of the dumping ground have affected the lifespan of residents here with many of them affected due to improper living conditions. Voices Mario Jose Rodrigues, Vikhroli resident, vice chairman of Vikhroli unit of the Bombay Catholic Sabha Nauseating stench from Kanjurmarg dumping ground. Stench prevails from Vikhroli to Nahur on the eastern side. There is need to stop this daily nuisance which has led to health hazard and public nuisance Dhanashree Sanjay Prabhu, Mulund resident The government plans to add 40,000 to 50,000 people to Mulund. The population of Mulund east is around 150,000. Plus, these PAP indulge in illegal activities. It will be really unsafe for myself and my 11-year-old daughter. I want to run away from my city. All these PAP will be there with our children in schools, gardens, and tuition classes, which can affect their cultural, social, and educational life. In the evening, there is a huge traffic jam near the highways. This distance is barely 5 minutes, but it takes more than 45 minutes to enter the Mulund platform. Markets, hotels, and roads will explode in the future due to population. The current MP has cheated us by bringing the PAP here. Community-wise votersMarathi 46%Gujarati Marwari 12.15%North Indian 14.49%Christian 1.42%Muslim 17.60%South Indian 4.7%Other 3.44%
16 May,2024 07:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarThe southernmost part of south Mumbai, Cuffe Parade, Colaba and areas around congregated at the Radio Club’s Presidency Hall late Tuesday evening. The occasion was a meeting titled ‘Local Voices, Shared Visions’ with BJP’s Rahul Narwekar, speaker, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, and Guardian Minister (city) Deepak Kesarkar. The overarching message to the merchants and residents assembled there was to vote, not miss the ballot box opportunity by going on vacation on May 20. Infra eye Kesarkar attributed the “fast pace of development to the recent change” in government (in Maharashtra). He said, “We see the Coastal Road opening in phases, we also have the Trans Harbour Link. Soon you will be able to commute by Metro.” Having pointed to the infra speedometer, Kesarkar also claimed, “This is a city which has the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. We cannot forget the latter and hence we also have developments like ‘aapla dawaakhana’ for the treatment of the underprivileged, like slum dwellers. We are also concerned about the environment and have seen an improvement in air quality. That is the difference between the Delhi Government and the Maharashtra Government.” Burning coals The minister further spoke about certain Mumbai landmarks like the Mumbadevi Temple in south Mumbai. “We have Rs 220 crore earmarked for this upgrade and corridor. We have selected other landmarks too, like Haji Ali, Siddhivinayak Temple and the Gateway of India. We are planning amenities at the Gateway which will not hamper the view.” Kesarkar claimed it would be developed with a balance of heritage and beauty. He picked burning south Mumbai coals—the Mahalaxmi race course issue—insisting that a huge park, on the lines of Central Park will made and it will be world-class. “Today, the race course space is accessed mainly by morning walkers and racegoers. After this development, everybody will access it.” He also said the Hanging Gardens water reservoir will be repaired and the garden will be maintained. The minister also claimed that there are plans for more facilities for senior citizens, like in the West and centres that will generate women’s employment. “I also hear criticism that all the industries are leaving Maharashtra and going to Gujarat. That is not true. Put all the states that compete with Maharashtra and see their investments… all those will not add up to Maharashtra. Maharashtra is truly ‘Maha,” he said to cheers. Kesarkar added that South Mumbai candidate Yamini Jadhav is a “double graduate and will work for the constituency from the bottom of her heart”. Pressing the development button, he said, “Earlier we had 70 airports but today we have 140. We are looking at Mumbai’s original inhabitants—the Kolis—and there is an accent on making Koliwadas tourism magnets. We also have something called aspirational toilets which will be a part of the well-developed infrastructure. We must make Mumbai extremely beautiful, together with all of you.” Changing times Rahul Narwekar said that years ago, Indian youth would struggle for a visa to certain countries. “Today, Indians are preferred and welcomed at immigration counters with pride, dignity and honour. Like PM Narendra Modi said, this is the trailer and there is lots more to come.” Narwekar then switched to Mumbai-centric topics stating that “in the next three months, one will be able to go from Colaba to the airport in 25 minutes”, which brought forth shouts and loud applause from the SoBo attendees. He then stated, “In 10 years, we have become the fifth-largest economy and in 2027, we predict we will be the third-largest economy. This is the Indian aspirational society, one which aspires for more.” Narwekar had a few choice opinions on, “the pseudo seculars who earlier had destroyed the religious and social fabric. It made the majority feel it was a crime to be from the majority. I can say in the last 10 years, there has not been a major incident of communal violence in the country.” He then zeroed in on voting for candidate Yamini Jadhav, urging his audience to “vote for a candidate that represents the PM’s ethos”. “We need someone who is accessible and understands our concerns,” he concluded. Rs 220 crAmount earmarked for upgrade
16 May,2024 07:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharDo 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 May 16. Aries March 21 – April 20Appreciating all help given by the universe conversely brings you closer to your spouse/partner. Be appreciative.Cosmic tip: Don’t support someone who wants to initiate a conflict with two family members. Taurus April 21 – May 20A friend keeps getting in touch with you, but you know it’s pointless since it’s not possible to get a commitment.Cosmic tip: Remain within personal boundaries as this attitude works best for you. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Family life is so happy, but don’t share this with anyone (to avoid the evil eye). A complicated project is completed to your satisfaction.Cosmic tip: Work towards becoming a master of your craft. Cancer June 22 – July 23Destiny plays a major role in life, unless you’d rather live life according to ‘free will’. Don’t accept a lift with someone who has consumed alcohol.Cosmic tip: Enjoy this karmic cycle of socialising. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Working out a budget before the holiday helps manage finances in a practical manner. Sometimes it’s better to take an unconventional approach to an issue. Cosmic tip: Don’t allow anger to overflow. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Plans don’t pan out as expected, but this is a positive thing as now you aren’t under any kind of pressure. Life is so very good.Cosmic tip: Hold onto self-esteem in all situations. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Dealing with unfair opposition/ competition is something most people have to face at some time in their professional life.Cosmic tip: Nurture a mindset of learning from mistakes. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Not reacting through ingrained thoughts is a result of intense soul searching. Life-path chosen is excellent.Cosmic tip: Be grateful to God/the universe for giving opportunities to work through karmas. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Even after being so careful and distant, someone just refuses to take ‘no’ for an answer. Continue refusing till the person gets the message.Cosmic tip: Let go of negative thought patterns and behaviour. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A relative/friend in the habit of dropping in unannounced comes over again.Cosmic tip: Acknowledge an option being offered when faced with a sticky situation requiring immense amounts of diplomacy. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19A karmic cycle of giving back (figuratively) according to positive gifts received from the universe begins (don’t even consider taking a shortcut).Cosmic tip: Keep ego in check even though it’s a tough situation. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Considering all the differences with a spouse/partner, wanting to begin life by yourself isn’t fair to the person. Discuss issues to work out a compromise.Cosmic tip: Emotionally, place life on hold for now.
16 May,2024 07:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseThe National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), which is engaged in the search and rescue operation at the hoarding collapse site in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar, on Wednesday said the number of casualties going up in the tragedy cannot be ruled out as the chances of finding survivors are slim. Two teams of the NDRF along with the fire brigade and police have been working relentlessly for the last two days to rescue the people trapped under the billboard that collapsed on a petrol pump in the Chheda Nagar area of Ghatkopar on Monday evening. “So far, the search and rescue teams have pulled out 89 people from under the collapsed hoarding, of whom 14 were declared dead while 75 others were injured. Two more bodies have been located under the debris, but they are yet to be pulled out,” officials said. “Heavy machinery has been deployed for clearing and lifting the steel structure and girder of the billboard that collapsed on the petrol pump and a parking lot,” an NDRF official said. “The probability of more casualties cannot be ruled out, as the chances of finding people alive are slim,” he said. “Cutting and drilling equipment are not being used due to the presence of the petrol pump there. Also, fuel has leaked from damaged vehicles that were struck under the 120x120-feet billboard,” he said. “On Wednesday morning, a small fire broke out at the incident site during the operation, but it was immediately doused by the fire tenders deployed there,” another NDRF official earlier said. 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
16 May,2024 07:00 AM IST | Mumbai | AgenciesThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a notice to railway authorities, requesting that a structural audit of all 205 hoardings on land belonging to the Central and Western Railway be conducted. The notice also seeks the removal of 45 billboards on railway premises that exceed the approved size. Meanwhile, the civic body has started acting against illegal billboards across the city. “We have issued a notice to the railway authorities to conduct a billboard audit. We have also asked the authorities to remove 45 billboards which are larger than the approved size,” said Additional Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Joshi. The BMC’s licensing department had identified 250 billboards on railway property. Of these, 45 flout the size regulation. It has now sought a structural audit for billboards that are facing municipal property and roads. Gigantic billboards being taken down in Ghatkopar An official said, “Civic chief Bhushan Gagrani ordered ward offices to start auditing all billboards in the city. The survey will be completed soon. After that, immediate action will be taken.” Meanwhile, the civic body has started removing illegal billboards at Malad West. “There was an illegal hoarding over a sweet shop opposite Malad railway station. We have gotten rid of it,” said the official. The BMC has also started removing billboards located at the Ghatkopar railway police quarters opposite the petrol pump where Monday’s accident happened. “These hoardings are huge. It will take more days to remove them,” the official added.
16 May,2024 06:58 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentPrime Minister Modi, flanked by CM Shinde and Deputy CM Fadnavis, led a 2.5-km roadshow in Mumbai’s North East Lok Sabha constituency in Ghatkopar. Thousands thronged as the convoy traversed from Ghatkopar West to Ghatkopar East. “For the first time, we are seeing confidence in the country. I have already prepared a 100-day blueprint of the development agenda for my third term. My hard work will continue after June 4. This is not my confidence, but that of the people of India,” he said. He wanted to extend the 100-day period to 125-days, and wanted the youth to send him their innovative ideas of development which can be included in the blueprint, he said. People who came from far-off places waited for more than three to four hours for less than a minute’s glimpse of Modi. Dressed in a white kurta and grey jacket, Modi acknowledged the large crowds on both sides of the streets as he passed by. The route featured various welcome points where representatives of different communities, including the Muslim community, were seen welcoming him. PM Modi at waving at the crows during the road show. Pic/Shadab Khan Dance groups were stationed at intervals to greet him, and his cavalcade was preceded by a march of people. Flowers were showered on him from both sides, and the route was decorated with flowers and huge cut-outs of Modi and Balasaheb Thackeray. Seventy-two-year-old Usha Parmar came to Ghatkopar from Jogeshwari to get Modi’s glimpse. She struggled to find a space in the crowd to see him. “I reached here at 3.30 pm. I have been waiting since then. I don’t mind because I want to see him. He is like Hanuman, carrying the weight of the Sanjeevani mountain all alone, to heal our country and its people.” Parmar even argued with a policewoman who tried to push her behind the barricade. Ten-year-old Pankhuri Chhangur Chauhan, a student of DAV Public School in Nerul, came from Ulwe with her mother to see Modi. “I wish Modiji comes soon,” said the child while waiting in the crowd. When asked why she came, Pankhuri said, “I have written a small poem and want to show Modiji.” As soon as Modi’s vehicle passed, Pankhuri stood up, showing her poem and drawing. Inconvenience to commuters Prime Minister Modi’s roadshow caused major inconvenience to many people as LBS Marg was completely blocked for pedestrians trying to reach Ghatkopar railway station at Sarvodaya junction. This led to significant discontent among those returning home from work or planning to travel by train, who had no intention of attending the roadshow but were forced to wait for the VIP convoy to pass. The expected visit timing of Prime Minister Modi at this junction was around 6 pm, but a 1.5-hour delay exacerbated the issue, as the road was blocked as soon as the roadshow began. “How am I supposed to reach Ghatkopar station if the road is barricaded? VIP rallies are one thing, but they never think of how our lives are affected by it. I am running almost an hour late for an important meeting,” said Ritesh Khedekar, who wanted to cross Sarvodaya junction to reach Ghatkopar station. “I was supposed to reach Kandivli by 7.00 pm. Due to the roadshow, the metro was shut, and I am stuck here at Sarvodaya junction, unable to cross and reach the railway station. This is absolutely ridiculous. I did not even intend to attend the roadshow but was forced to wait here until the barricading was opened,” said Prashik Kamble. With Inputs from Prasun Choudhari
16 May,2024 06:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghADVERTISEMENT
