Shiv Sena district Moga President Mangat Rai Manga was killed by unidentified assailants on the night of March 13-14. The perpetrators, who followed Manga out of his home, opened fire, resulting in his death at Moga civil hospital. Police are searching for the suspects and considering a possible terrorism link.
A 42-year-old woman and her two daughters were found dead from suspected poisoning in their Delhi flat, likely due to financial distress. The mother had previously been jailed for murder, and the family faced ongoing economic hardships. Neighbours described them as reclusive and seldom interacted.
Delhi commuters may soon find relief from border jams and entry fees. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the road transport ministry plan to relocate toll collection points and introduce gantry-based tolling using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). The Supreme Court will be approached to modify rules on Environmental Compensation Charge (ECC), potentially reducing congestion at Delhi’s borders.
Pres. Droupadi Murmu approved an investigation into former AAP ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain for irregularities in constructing Delhi school classrooms. Alleged excessive costs and unfinished projects led to further inquiry. The ACB found discrepancies; the proposal was approved after scrutiny and forwarded to the Union home ministry for final clearance.
Yamuna’s water quality has significantly deteriorated, with a marked increase in faecal coliform levels. The decline is attributed to substantial sewage discharge and inadequate functioning of sewage treatment plants (STPs). Key locations show dangerously high levels of pollution, exceeding safety limits.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) Fresh & Fit Challenge brought an energetic vibe to Delhi as it successfully hosted the city finale
A man was arrested by Borivali Police for assaulting an acquaintance with a sickle over an old dispute. The attack occurred during a Holi Puja at Lotus SRA Society, where the victim, Mangesh Gasappa, was severely injured. The assailant, Akash Shinde, has been charged with attempt to commit murder.
A sessions court granted anticipatory bail to Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi, urging him to exercise restraint in interviews to avoid inciting violence. Azmi faced charges for remarks on Mughal ruler Aurangzeb that allegedly hurt Hindu sentiments. The judge noted the lack of video evidence and deemed Azmi unlikely to flee, setting bail conditions.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut criticized the BJP-led Maharashtra government, stating its rule is worse than that of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He held the BJP responsible for farmer suicides and distress among unemployed individuals and women. Raut responded to CM Devendra Fadnavis’s statement on the legal constraints regarding Aurangzeb’s tomb removal.
The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has announced a special amnesty scheme granting a 50% waiver on late payment penalties for property tax defaulters if dues are cleared in full by March 31. The civic body aims to collect Rs 900 crore in property taxes for the fiscal year 2024-25.
Satish Bhosale, a close aide of Maharashtra BJP MLA Suresh Dhas, was arrested in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh and brought to Beed by police. Bhosale faces several charges, including attempted murder and illegal construction on forest department land. He will be produced before the Shirur court after a medical examination. Authorities demolished his illegal residence in Shirur.
Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested for allegedly smuggling over 14 kg of gold after traveling to Dubai four times within 15 days. Her associate, Tarun Raju, was remanded to 15 days of judicial custody for his role in facilitating the purchase of the gold.
Sanapur and nearby Hampi, known for their vibrant Holi celebrations, have seen a significant drop in tourists following a gang-rape and murder incident. Over 400 tourists canceled their bookings, impacting the local business significantly. Police have enforced strict regulations on unregistered accommodations to enhance security.
A woman named Neha in Greater Noida was allegedly strangled to death by her father and brother for marrying someone from a different caste. They cremated her body swiftly. Neha’s husband, Suraj, alerted the police after learning about her death. The father and brother were arrested following the confession. An FIR has been registered for murder.
UP power and urban development minister AK Sharma instructed an uninterrupted power supply during Holi, ensuring prompt resolution of snags. Strict action is directed for transformer failures in summer. Public hearing for consumer issues and online applications for load enhancements are enforced. Vigilance on high line loss areas and addressing electrical theft are prioritized.
Despite earlier promises and a brief restart in repair work, Noida Link Road remains hazardous and incomplete. The repair halts are exacerbating conditions, causing dangerous new bumps and potholes. Commuters remain frustrated as delays continue, with officials now projecting completion by April.
The Child PGI in Noida has issued an advisory for Holi, highlighting the health risks posed by synthetic and chemical-based colours, especially for children. The advisory recommends using natural or herbal colours, wearing masks, and applying oil or moisturizer on the skin to prevent irritation and respiratory issues. Immediate medical attention is advised if severe symptoms occur.
A video of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon celebrating Holi at ISKCON Auckland has resurfaced online. Luxon, set to visit India from March 16-20, aims to enhance trade and investment ties. He will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and other leaders, emphasizing his admiration for India.
Karnataka High Court granted B.S. Yediyurappa interim relief by staying the summons in a POCSO Act case, requiring his appearance on March 15. The court emphasized a comprehensive investigation and quashing the charge sheet. Yediyurappa faces allegations of inappropriate touching and harassment but denies all charges, citing political motivations and readiness to face legal proceedings.