Excise Policy Case: Delhi High Court Refuses to Halt Trial Against Arvind Kejriwal 2
The Delhi High Court declined to stay the trial proceedings against former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal in connection with alleged irregularities in the 2021-22 Delhi Excise Policy. Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri also sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding Kejriwal’s plea challenging a trial court’s order that took cognizance of the chargesheet.
Kejriwal argued that the special court took cognizance without sanction for prosecution, required as he was a public servant at the time of the alleged offense. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, countered that the necessary sanction had been obtained and sought time to file a reply.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on December 20. While Kejriwal requested an urgent stay, the High Court refused, stating that proceedings could not be halted at this stage.
The case stems from allegations of corruption and irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy implemented in November 2021 and later scrapped in September 2022. Both the CBI and ED allege that undue favors were granted to license holders during the policy’s implementation.
Kejriwal, who had previously been granted interim bail by the Supreme Court in the money laundering and related CBI cases, continues to challenge the proceedings, asserting that the charges are baseless and politically motivated.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday demanded the immediate arrest of billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani after US prosecutors accused him of paying $250 million in bribes to Indian officials. Gandhi alleged that Adani had violated both Indian and American laws, calling for a detailed investigation and the removal of SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch for allegedly protecting him.
The Adani Group denied the allegations, calling them baseless and asserting compliance with all laws. The conglomerate also stated it would explore all legal remedies to address the charges.
Gandhi mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s slogan “Ek hain to safe hain,” accusing the government of shielding Adani. He emphasized that Adani would remain untouched due to the Prime Minister’s protection, despite the magnitude of the allegations. Reiterating his call for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe, Gandhi stated the opposition would raise the issue during the Winter Session of Parliament.
He further warned that retail and small investors could suffer significant financial losses due to Adani’s alleged activities. Comparing Adani’s situation to swift action taken against others for lesser charges, Gandhi questioned why Adani remains free despite facing allegations of corruption on such a massive scale.
Describing the situation as a deep-rooted nexus involving politics, finance, and bureaucracy, Gandhi promised to expose and dismantle what he termed a “negative cycle” harming India. He concluded by urging accountability across all states, irrespective of the ruling party, to ensure justice is served.
Maharashtra Elections: Moderate Voter Turnout in Thane, CM Shinde's Constituency at 59.85% 6
Thane district witnessed a voter turnout of 56.05% in the Maharashtra assembly elections, with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s constituency, Kopri-Pachpakhadi, recording a slightly higher turnout of 59.85%, according to updated figures released by district authorities on Thursday.
Highlights of Voter Turnout
Thane District: 56.05% overall turnout across its 18 assembly constituencies.
Highest Turnout: Bhiwandi Rural with 69.01%.
Lowest Turnout: Ambernath at 47.75%.
Palghar District: A stronger participation with 65.95% voter turnout across its six constituencies.
Highest Turnout: Vikramgad with an impressive 77.75%.
Lowest Turnout: Vasai at 60.46%.
Extended Voting in Palghar
In Palghar district, voting extended until 9 PM on Wednesday in some constituencies, indicating a strong turnout even in the later hours.
Statewide Overview
Voting for all 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra was conducted from 7 AM to 6 PM on Wednesday, with certain areas seeing extended hours due to high voter participation.
District Election Officers Ashok Shingare (Thane) and Govind Bodke (Palghar) provided the official data, underscoring the varied participation levels across the constituencies.
Gautam Adani Faces $250 Million Bribery, Fraud Charges in US Over Solar Contracts 8
Billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani and key associates are facing charges from US prosecutors in connection with an alleged $250 million bribery scheme aimed at securing favorable terms for solar energy contracts in India. These contracts, prosecutors claim, could yield profits exceeding $2 billion.
The indictment, filed in the Eastern District of New York, accuses Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and former executives of Adani Green Energy Ltd., including ex-CEO Vneet Jaain, of engaging in securities fraud, conspiracy, and wire fraud. The charges extend to allegations that the Adani Group concealed these bribes from US banks and investors who financed its projects.
Bribery Allegations and Concealment
Between 2020 and 2024, the defendants allegedly paid $250 million to Indian government officials to secure solar energy contracts. According to court documents, Adani and his co-conspirators, including Ranjit Gupta and Rupesh Agarwal of Azure Power Global, orchestrated the payments through elaborate means.
Some conspirators reportedly referred to Gautam Adani using code names like “Numero Uno” and “The Big Man.” The indictment revealed that Sagar Adani allegedly used his personal cellphone to track bribery specifics and handled sensitive communications, which US prosecutors obtained through judicially authorized searches.
Global Implications
The case has significant international ramifications, as Adani Green Energy raised $175 million from US investors, while Azure Power’s stock traded on the New York Stock Exchange. These ties to US markets brought the case under the jurisdiction of US anti-fraud and anti-corruption laws.
The charges also implicate three former employees of the Canadian pension fund CDPQ, a shareholder in Adani-linked firms. The employees allegedly obstructed the investigation by destroying emails and providing false information to authorities.
Adani Group’s Response
The Adani Group has not issued an official statement regarding the allegations, but it has previously denied similar accusations. This latest turmoil follows a $150 billion market value wipeout triggered by allegations of “brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud” by Hindenburg Research in January 2023.
Legal and Financial Fallout
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has also filed a civil case against the Adanis, seeking penalties and bans on holding officer or director positions in US-listed companies. Additionally, federal charges under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act target five other individuals involved in the alleged bribery.
This indictment puts Adani and his conglomerate under intense scrutiny, potentially jeopardizing one of the world’s largest solar energy projects while reigniting questions about corporate governance and corruption in international markets.
Maharashtra Assembly Elections: Early Voting Updates and Highlights 10
Maharashtra’s electoral roll has expanded significantly to 97.02 million voters from 89.83 million in 2019, when voter turnout was 61.44%. By 9 AM on polling day, the state had recorded a 6.61% voter turnout across its 288 constituencies, despite reports of technical issues at several polling stations. In Kannad, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, voters boycotted the election over unresolved local grievances.
Key Personalities Cast Votes
Prominent leaders, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, voted in Nagpur. Other notable figures who exercised their franchise included Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Mumbai BJP Chief Ashish Shelar, Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora, and Ashok Chavan. Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, accompanied by his family, voted in Bandra and urged citizens to participate in the democratic process. Bollywood actors Akshay Kumar and Rahul Bose, as well as senior bureaucrats like former Chief Electoral Officer S Chockalingam, also cast their votes across Mumbai polling stations.
Regional Turnout Trends
The Maoist-affected Gadchiroli district saw the highest turnout at 12.33% within the first two hours, boosted by its polling stations’ early closure at 3 PM. Conversely, Osmanabad in Marathwada reported the lowest turnout at 4.85%. Mumbai city and suburban districts registered turnouts of 6.25% and 7.88%, respectively.
Leaders Urge Voter Participation
Sachin Tendulkar called on voters to ensure their participation, emphasizing the smooth arrangements at polling booths. Nitin Gadkari lauded the state government’s performance, highlighting advancements in infrastructure and irrigation, and encouraged citizens to vote for development.
With a growing electorate and active participation from leaders and citizens alike, the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections continue to see robust early engagement despite localized disruptions.
Heated Clash in Maharashtra Elections: Shiv Sena Leader Allegedly Threatens NCP Candidate 12
A tense confrontation unfolded on Wednesday afternoon at Gurukul College campus in Nandgaon, Maharashtra, when Sameer Bhujbal, an NCP leader and independent candidate, arrived with police to investigate alleged bogus voting. The incident quickly escalated into a heated exchange between Bhujbal’s camp and supporters of Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) MLA Suhas Kande.
In the midst of the altercation, Kande allegedly issued a death threat to Bhujbal, declaring in Marathi, “Tujha murder fix aahe aaj” (your murder is fixed today). The threat, captured on video, has caused an uproar. Bhujbal has since filed a legal complaint against Kande, and the police are processing the case.
The confrontation underscores the growing tensions within Maharashtra’s ruling alliance. Kande, a prominent Shiv Sena leader, defeated Pankaj Bhujbal, Sameer’s cousin, in the 2019 elections. Sameer Bhujbal, despite holding the position of Mumbai president for the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), is contesting the election as an independent candidate, adding to the volatile political dynamics.
Responding to the allegations, Kande claimed the situation was misrepresented. He alleged that Bhujbal’s supporters had tried to prevent sugarcane cutters from voting, which led to the scuffle. “I did not name Sameer Bhujbal. I only warned those fighting to stop, as it would result in someone’s death,” he stated.
The incident, captured on video and currently under investigation, reflects the intensifying rivalries ahead of Maharashtra’s high-stakes elections.
AR Rahman and Saira Banu Announce Separation After 29 Years of Marriage 14
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, have announced their decision to part ways after 29 years of marriage. In a joint statement released late Tuesday through Saira’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, the couple cited emotional strain as the reason for their separation, despite their deep mutual love. They acknowledged that the tensions in their relationship had created an irreparable gap.
Rahman, who married Saira in 1995, shares three children with her — Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen — all of whom are following in his musical footsteps. The announcement has drawn widespread attention, with the family expressing sadness over the development.
Early Wednesday, Rahman took to social media to reflect on this challenging moment in his life. “We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter,” he wrote.
The couple’s decision marks the end of nearly three decades of partnership, leaving fans and well-wishers offering their support and respecting their request for privacy.
Allegations of Bitcoin Misappropriation Spark Controversy Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Elections 16
Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Supriya Sule and Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole have filed complaints with the cyber police and the Election Commission of India (ECI) against former IPS officer Ravindranath Patil and the BJP. The complaints come in response to allegations of Bitcoin misappropriation tied to a 2018 cryptocurrency fraud case, reportedly used to fund the ongoing Maharashtra Assembly elections.
Patil accused Sule, a Baramati MP, and Patole of misusing Bitcoins to influence the electoral process. The BJP amplified these claims by releasing voice notes allegedly implicating the two leaders. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi further publicized the allegations in a press conference.
Dismissing the claims, Sule called them baseless and politically motivated. She stated on X, “False information is being spread to manipulate voters a night before polling. We have filed complaints with the ECI and Cybercrime Department against these fabricated allegations.” Sule also challenged the BJP to a public debate to address the accusations. Patole echoed her sentiments, denying the allegations outright.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar acknowledged the audio clips, stating that the voices resembled those of Sule and Patole. However, he assured that a thorough inquiry would reveal the truth. On the other hand, Yugendra Pawar, NCP (SP) candidate and Ajit Pawar’s nephew, defended Sule, expressing disbelief in her involvement.
As the controversy unfolds, it has added tension to the high-stakes Maharashtra Assembly elections, with implications for the credibility of both the accusers and the accused.
High-Stakes Showdown in Maharashtra: Allegations, Defections, and Election Drama 18
As Maharashtra hurtles toward a critical election, a political firestorm has engulfed the state, with BJP veteran Vinod Tawde and Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) leader Hitendra Thakur locked in a battle of accusations and counter-claims. Tawde, long embroiled in controversies and estranged from BJP heavyweight Devendra Fadnavis, has found himself at the epicentre of fresh allegations of voter bribery. In Virar, BVA workers alleged that Tawde was caught red-handed with Rs 9.93 lakh in cash, sparking chaos. Thakur, claiming Tawde also possessed Rs 5 crore in cash and incriminating diaries listing names for monetary distribution, led the charge, insisting the BJP was attempting to buy its way to victory.
The situation spiralled as Election Commission officials intervened, confirming the cash seizure, while BVA workers accused Tawde of orchestrating clandestine meetings at a hotel where CCTV cameras had mysteriously been disabled. Kshitij Thakur, MLA from Nalasopara and son of Hitendra Thakur, seized a diary allegedly listing a Rs 15 crore distribution plan and demanded answers about Tawde’s presence in Virar after campaigning had officially ended. Adding fuel to the fire, the BVA alleged the hotel gates were locked during Tawde’s meeting, heightening suspicions of covert activities.
Amid the uproar, Suresh Padvi, the BVA candidate for the Dahanu Assembly seat, defected to the BJP, pledging support to their candidate Vinod Mendha. The defection, announced in the presence of Palghar BJP president Bharat Rajput, delivered a major blow to the BVA’s campaign, raising questions about whether it was linked to the Virar cash scandal. The drama peaked when a joint press conference involving Tawde, Thakur, Kshitij, and BJP candidate Rajan Naik was abruptly halted by Election Commission officials, citing electoral code violations.
The BVA has since demanded stringent action, raising concerns about election fairness, particularly in webcasting across critical polling booths. In the Nalasopara constituency, where Thakur faces BJP candidate Sneha Dube, the BVA alleged discrepancies in the management of polling booths and requested comprehensive inspections. Meanwhile, Tawde reportedly telephoned Thakur to apologize for his presence in Virar, but tensions remain high.
This political storm comes against the backdrop of a fiercely contested election. The BJP, accused by opponents of flooding the campaign with money and offering pre-election handouts like the Ladli Behan Yojana, is determined to maintain its dominance, while the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising Congress, the NCP, and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, is fighting for a strong comeback. The campaign has seen the involvement of heavyweights, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in a bid to sway voters across the state.
As polling takes place on November 20 for all 288 assembly seats and the results are counted on November 23, the stakes could not be higher. The BJP’s aggressive campaigning, allegations of electoral misconduct, and defections have raised the political temperature, leaving Maharashtra bracing for an election outcome that could reshape its political landscape. Whether the BJP’s cash-laden campaign or the MVA’s bid for resurgence will prevail remains to be seen, but this election has already set a new benchmark for high-stakes political drama.
Tawde Cash for Votes Scandal: Rs 9.93 Lakh Recovered from Palghar Hotel, BJP Denies Allegations 20
In a high-stakes development ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Palghar district authorities reported the recovery of Rs 9.93 lakh cash and incriminating documents from a Virar hotel. Allegations have surfaced that the money was being distributed to influence voters.
Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) chief Hitendra Thakur accused BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde of orchestrating the disbursement of Rs 5 crore in the region to sway voters. Thakur claimed Tawde was present at the hotel during the incident. A video circulating on social media showed BVA workers confronting Tawde outside the premises.
Denying the allegations, Tawde asserted he was in Nallasopara to provide guidance on election procedures. He challenged opposition parties to verify his activities, labeling the claims as baseless.
Palghar District Collector and Election Officer Govind Bodke stated that the election department had received complaints from BVA activists regarding cash distribution at the hotel. Acting on the complaints, a search operation was conducted by the returning officer, senior police officials, and the joint police commissioner, leading to the seizure of the cash and documents.
In a recorded statement, Bodke confirmed the registration of cases for violations of the model code of conduct, possession of cash, and holding unauthorized press conferences. The identities of those implicated remain undisclosed as investigations continue.
This incident has intensified the political rivalry in the region, with both sides exchanging accusations as the election approaches.
