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Engineering Student Held for Sexually Harassing School Girl in Thane

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Engineering Student Held for Sexually Harassing School Girl in Thane 2

Police have arrested an 18-year-old engineering student for allegedly sexually harassing a school girl in Maharashtra’s Thane city, an official said on Friday.

The alleged crime was committed on Wednesday morning when the Class 9 student was on her way home.

The accused hugged the school student and touched her inappropriately, said the official, citing the FIR.

After learning about the harassment, the girl’s mother approached the Wagle Estate police station.

A case was registered against the engineering student under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 75 (sexual harassment) and 78 (stalking), and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, said the official.

Sub-inspector Atul Jagtap said the accused, who is doing his internship, was subsequently arrested.

26/11 Mastermind Tahawwur Rana Lands in NIA Net: 18-Day Custody Begins in High-Security Probe

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26/11 Mastermind Tahawwur Rana Lands in NIA Net: 18-Day Custody Begins in High-Security Probe 4

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday secured 18-day custody of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, following his extradition from the United States. The agency aims to interrogate Rana in-depth to unearth the entire conspiracy behind the brutal 2008 attacks that left 166 dead and over 238 injured.

Rana was produced before the NIA Special Court at Patiala House in New Delhi after his arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Thursday evening. He was formally arrested and later escorted under heavy security—led by Delhi Police SWAT teams—to the NIA headquarters at the CGO Complex, where he will remain in a high-security cell.

In a statement, the NIA said Rana’s detailed interrogation is crucial to exposing the full extent of the plot that led to the deadly assault on Mumbai. His extradition follows years of diplomatic efforts and legal battles, including the dismissal of his final plea by the US Supreme Court.

The extradition was the result of coordinated efforts by India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs, working alongside American authorities. Rana was flown from Los Angeles to New Delhi on a special flight accompanied by senior NIA and NSG officials.

This major breakthrough marks a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of justice for the victims of one of the worst terror attacks in its history.

More Than a Power Couple: The Unbreakable Bond of Michelle and Barack Obama

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More Than a Power Couple: The Unbreakable Bond of Michelle and Barack Obama 6

In a world that constantly watches, speculates, and at times intrudes, Michelle and Barack Obama have stood tall as one of the most powerful, resilient, and admired couples in American history. Their union, which spans over 32 years, is not just a marriage but a symbol of balance between love, ambition, service, and strength. Together, they’ve not only raised two remarkable daughters but also carried the weight of a nation’s expectations with grace and authenticity.

Michelle Obama, a woman of immense intellect and unwavering integrity, has always been a force unto herself. An independent thinker, a deeply grounded individual, and a woman of unshakeable values, she has never needed a spotlight to shine. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, she built her own path in the legal and nonprofit world long before stepping onto the global stage. As a young attorney at Sidley Austin, she met a promising intern named Barack Obama. What began as professional mentorship evolved into one of the most iconic partnerships of our time. Though they were different—he, introspective and idealistic; she, pragmatic and driven—they came together through shared purpose and mutual respect.

Michelle’s contributions as First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017 were not ornamental—they were transformative. She launched nationwide initiatives like Let’s Move!, Let Girls Learn, Reach Higher, and Joining Forces, reshaping dialogues around health, education, military families, and female empowerment. She took on the role not just with poise but with a mission — to uplift others, especially women and girls, and to challenge the norms that once tried to confine her. Her speeches, presence, and advocacy weren’t just politically significant; they were emotionally resonant, speaking directly to hearts across the globe.

Through it all, the Obamas were never just an image of perfection. They were—and are—real. Michelle has always been candid about the challenges in their marriage, especially during the taxing years of Barack’s presidency. In her bestselling memoir Becoming, she opened a window into the emotional weight she carried—moments of loneliness, exhaustion, and deep introspection. They weren’t immune to the friction of work-life balance, arguments, or moments of drifting. But what made their story compelling was not perfection—it was persistence. The commitment to “date nights”, to communication, and to holding on when things got hard—that’s where their strength lay.

In recent times, when rumours of separation began to swirl, sparked by Michelle’s absence from a few public events, tabloids and social media ran wild with speculation. Her non-appearance at occasions such as former President Donald Trump’s second inauguration or the funeral of President Jimmy Carter became fodder for gossip, fuelling headlines about possible divorce proceedings. But Michelle, ever composed and commanding, finally addressed the noise — and in doing so, reminded the world of what true personal power looks like.

In an interview that silenced the frenzy, she spoke openly about choosing herself, her well-being, and her time. After decades of carrying immense public responsibility, she is now in a chapter where she can breathe, reflect, and prioritise—not just as a former First Lady, but as Michelle, the woman, the mother, the wife. Her daughters are grown, and with that shift comes the gift of re-evaluating life. She made it clear that her reduced public visibility was not a sign of discontent but rather an act of self-care and conscious living. And yes, her family—her marriage—remains a central, sacred part of her life.

Even as she steps back from some of the political limelight, Michelle remains deeply engaged with the causes close to her heart—from girls’ education to advocacy work and public service. She continues to speak, to inspire, to write, and to lead. Her voice, deliberate and strong, still shapes conversations on what it means to be a woman of substance in today’s world.

The whispers of divorce never aligned with the legacy of love, struggle, and growth that Michelle and Barack Obama have shared in plain view for over three decades. Her clarification wasn’t just a rebuttal to rumours—it was a profound message to anyone watching: prioritising yourself, your peace, and your family isn’t retreat—it’s power.

Michelle Obama remains a pillar of strength, grace, and authenticity—a role model not just for her titles or accolades, but for her humanity. In her, countless women see the possibility of being everything—intelligent, strong, nurturing, assertive, and deeply self-aware. In Barack, we see a man who admires and supports his partner with unwavering respect. Together, they have weathered storms, grown through challenges, and emerged not just intact—but extraordinary.

They are not just America’s power couple—they are a beacon of hope, resilience, and truth in an often chaotic world.

“Conduct a Caste Census Now”: Chhagan Bhujbal Turns Up Heat on Centre Over OBC Quota

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"Conduct a Caste Census Now": Chhagan Bhujbal Turns Up Heat on Centre Over OBC Quota 8

Senior NCP leader and OBC face of Maharashtra, Chhagan Bhujbal, on Thursday lent strong support to the demand for a nationwide caste census, reigniting the ongoing debate around caste-based reservations in India. Speaking to reporters, Bhujbal emphasized the persistent legal hurdles faced by the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in securing their rightful share in governance and policy.

“We should get our reservation. Even now, the issue of our quota in local self-governing bodies is stuck in the Supreme Court,” said Bhujbal, who represents the Yeola assembly constituency in Nashik district.

“Conduct a caste census,” he asserted, underlining the need for accurate data to ensure fair distribution of opportunities based on population demographics.

His statement aligns with the longstanding demand of the opposition Congress party, which has been pushing for a caste census to better structure welfare and reservation schemes. As calls for caste-based data grow louder, Bhujbal’s remarks mark a clear stance from a key leader in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

“Jobless and Betrayed”: Bengal Teachers Launch Hunger Strike After SC Job Axe and Police Crackdown

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"Jobless and Betrayed": Bengal Teachers Launch Hunger Strike After SC Job Axe and Police Crackdown 10

A fresh wave of unrest has erupted in West Bengal as a section of teachers who lost their jobs following a Supreme Court judgment have launched a relay hunger strike, protesting not only their termination but also alleged police brutality during demonstrations. The protest began Thursday outside the West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) office in Salt Lake, where teachers have also staged an overnight sit-in at the commission’s Acharya Sadan building.

These teachers were among the 25,753 teaching and non-teaching staff whose appointments made through a 2016 SSC recruitment drive were annulled after the Supreme Court on April 3 upheld a Calcutta High Court verdict, which described the entire recruitment process as “vitiated and tainted.”

One of the protesting teachers told reporters, “We’ve started a relay hunger strike with one teacher, and more will join. We’ll soon decide our next course of action.”

The teachers also condemned the police action at the District Inspector of Schools office in Kasba, South Kolkata, where their colleagues were allegedly lathi-charged, kicked, and shoved during a peaceful demonstration on Wednesday.

The dismissed educators insist that their jobs were unjustly taken away due to the SSC’s failure to distinguish between fraudulent candidates and those who were legitimately selected. Their anger is now turning into a symbolic hunger protest, calling out what they describe as systemic injustice and government apathy.

Mumbai Faces Water Crisis as Tanker Association Halts Supply Over BMC Crackdown on Private Wells

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Mumbai Faces Water Crisis as Tanker Association Halts Supply Over BMC Crackdown on Private Wells 12

Mumbai’s water supply system has been thrown into disarray as the Mumbai Water Tanker Association (MWTA) announced an indefinite suspension of services on Thursday, protesting the civic body’s stringent regulations and notices issued to private well owners. These wells are the primary source of water for over 1,800 registered tankers that collectively supply around 350 million litres daily (MLD) to various parts of the city, including high-demand zones like South Mumbai.

MWTA spokesperson Ankur Sharma revealed that the decision comes in response to new requirements imposed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which include mandatory land ownership or lease documents, installation of digital flow meters, adherence to BIS standards, daily water intake measurement, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Central Ground Water Authority.

“Implementing these norms in a city like Mumbai is next to impossible without government relaxation. Until then, the supply remains suspended,” Sharma said, adding, “We have shut down our trade.”

Despite efforts by Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar—who wrote to the Jal Shakti Board urging leniency—well owners continue to receive enforcement notices. The MWTA has also approached the Chief Minister’s Office seeking urgent intervention to resolve the crisis that now looms over the city’s water supply.

Broad-Daylight Shooting Rocks Mumbai: Man Shot at Chembur Signal by Bike-Borne Attackers

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Broad-Daylight Shooting Rocks Mumbai: Man Shot at Chembur Signal by Bike-Borne Attackers 14

In a chilling incident that sparked panic in Mumbai’s Chembur area, two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on a 50-year-old man at the Diamond Garden signal on Wednesday evening. The victim, identified as Sadruddin Khan, sustained injuries and was rushed to Zen Hospital, where doctors reported his condition as stable.

According to the Chembur police, Khan was on his way to his residence in Belapur, Navi Mumbai, when the attackers approached and fired at him in the middle of traffic. The brazen shooting in broad daylight at a busy city junction has alarmed locals and triggered a full-fledged investigation.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who fled the scene immediately after the attack. Police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and questioning potential witnesses as part of the ongoing probe.

Delhi Court Halts Probe Order Against Kapil Mishra in 2020 Riots Case Till April 21

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Delhi Court Halts Probe Order Against Kapil Mishra in 2020 Riots Case Till April 21 16

A Delhi court on Wednesday stayed, until April 21, the magisterial court’s order for further investigation into the alleged role of Law Minister Kapil Mishra in the 2020 Delhi riots, providing temporary relief to the BJP leader.

The decision came after Mishra challenged the lower court’s order, which was based on a complaint by Mohammad Ilyas, who had alleged that Mishra, along with his associates and with police complicity, incited violence in Kardampuri on February 23, 2020. The incident was linked to the unrest that erupted following the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests.

Special Judge Kaveri Baweja stayed the probe order and issued a notice to the complainant, directing him to respond by April 21. The judge also asked for the records from the court of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate.

Senior advocate P. K. Dubey, representing Mishra, argued that the magisterial order overstepped the jurisdiction of the Special Court designated for such matters. He stressed that as a public figure, Mishra was under constant reputational threat due to the ongoing legal shadow.

Delhi Police, represented by Special Public Prosecutor Amit Prasad, supported Mishra’s position, stating that no evidence linked him to the riots and that the allegations were part of a larger attempt to falsely implicate him. The police maintained that Mishra’s role had already been examined in the broader conspiracy case, with no culpability found.

The magistrate had previously ruled that a cognizable offence appeared to exist and had called for further investigation. However, with the latest stay, the legal proceedings against Mishra will remain paused until the next hearing.

Centre Gears Up for 26/11 Justice: Special Public Prosecutor Appointed Ahead of Tahawwur Rana’s Arrival

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Centre Gears Up for 26/11 Justice: Special Public Prosecutor Appointed Ahead of Tahawwur Rana's Arrival 18

The Centre has appointed a special public prosecutor to lead the trial against Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, as India prepares to receive him following his extradition from the United States. Rana is expected to arrive in the country on Thursday.

In a late-night notification, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs named advocate Narender Mann as the special public prosecutor to conduct the trial and all related proceedings for the NIA case RC-04/2009/NIA/DLI, which pertains to the deadly 2008 Mumbai attacks that claimed 166 lives.

The appointment, made under Section 15 of the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008 and Section 18(8) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, will see Mann represent the National Investigation Agency (NIA) before Special NIA Courts in Delhi and before appellate courts, for a period of three years or until the trial concludes, whichever comes first.

The move signals the government’s intent to push ahead with the long-delayed prosecution of Rana, whose role is linked to Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the key conspirators in the attacks. With the extradition imminent, India is now prepared to intensify legal proceedings in one of its most high-profile terror cases.

After 16 Years, the Mask Falls: Tahawwur Rana’s Extradition Marks a Major Breakthrough in 26/11 Mumbai Terror Case

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After 16 Years, the Mask Falls: Tahawwur Rana's Extradition Marks a Major Breakthrough in 26/11 Mumbai Terror Case 20

After nearly sixteen years, the chilling conspiracy behind one of the most horrific terror attacks in modern history—the 26/11 Mumbai attacks—is again in the spotlight, as a key accused, Tahawwur Rana, edges closer to being brought to justice in India. His story is one woven with deception, hidden motives, and a deep, disturbing connection to terror networks that shook the world on the evening of November 26, 2008.

Once a doctor in the Pakistani Army, Tahawwur Hussain Rana later migrated to Canada and became a citizen. On the surface, he was a businessman, running an immigration consultancy named “First World Immigration Services”. But behind this benign façade lay a sinister purpose. His immigration agency, as investigations would reveal, was nothing more than a cover to facilitate and coordinate terror activities—particularly in India.

Rana’s story is deeply intertwined with that of his childhood friend, David Coleman Headley. The two first met as young boys at Cadet College Hasanabdal in Pakistan’s Attock district, where they forged a bond that would later evolve into a deadly alliance. Headley, a U.S. citizen of Pakistani origin, would go on to become the man who scouted Mumbai’s targets before the attacks, conducting detailed reconnaissance while posing as a business agent under the guise of Rana’s immigration firm.

In 2006, Rana helped Headley set up a Mumbai branch of his company—this became the operational ground zero for the recces of targets that would later be devastated in the coordinated attacks. Headley sent e-mails back to Rana during this time, seeking directions and sharing observations. Indian investigators, in their 2023 supplementary chargesheet, highlighted how Rana stayed at a five-star hotel in Mumbai from November 11 to November 21, 2008—just days before the carnage unfolded. On November 26, ten Pakistani terrorists stormed key locations across Mumbai, launching a 60-hour siege that claimed 166 lives, including those of six Americans, and wounded hundreds more.

In 2009, following mounting evidence, Rana was arrested in the United States. He was charged with providing material support to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and helping orchestrate the Mumbai attacks. A U.S. court found him guilty, and while Headley turned approver and offered detailed testimony, Rana maintained his innocence. Yet, the net around him continued to tighten. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India, in collaboration with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), continued to pursue his extradition.

Over the years, justice began catching up with others involved in the conspiracy as well. Hafiz Saeed, the founder of LeT and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, and widely considered the mastermind behind the attacks, was sentenced in April 2022 by a Pakistani anti-terrorism court to 31 years in prison on various terror financing charges. He is currently incarcerated in Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail. Sajid Mir, identified as the chief planner, was convicted in June 2022 and handed a 15-year prison term for terror financing in Pakistan. Operational commander Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, too, was sentenced in January 2021 to five years in prison for similar charges.

Meanwhile, David Headley, who had struck a plea bargain with U.S. authorities, was sentenced in 2013 to 35 years in an American federal prison. Another major player, Abdul Rehman Makki—brother-in-law to Hafiz Saeed and a senior LeT figure—died of a heart attack in December 2024 while being treated in a Lahore hospital.

Back in the U.S., the legal battle over Rana’s extradition saw several twists. In early March 2025, Justice Elena Kagan of the U.S. Supreme Court denied his plea seeking a stay on the extradition. Though he filed another application before Chief Justice John Roberts, the process had already gained irreversible momentum. Earlier, in February 2025, former President Donald Trump announced that his administration had approved Rana’s extradition to India, calling him “one of the plotters and very evil people of the world,” and adding that “he will now face justice in India.”

With the “surrender warrant” confirmed, Indian authorities are preparing to bring Rana back. A team of RAW and NIA officials is en route to the U.S. to complete formalities and escort him home. Special high-security cells in Delhi and Mumbai have been readied, although the NIA will likely begin questioning him at its headquarters in the capital. He is expected to be lodged in Tihar Jail under strict security protocols.

As this chapter nears a crucial turning point, the wheels of justice turn slowly but surely. Tahawwur Rana’s impending extradition stands not only as a critical milestone in the long and painful pursuit of justice for the victims of 26/11 but also as a grim reminder of the global networks and cold calculations that fuel such attacks. For India, it is a moment charged with memory, grief, and long-awaited accountability.