Voting Concludes for 29 Maharashtra Corporations; Massive Fire Guts 4 Shops in Surat

Bhaskar English brings you the biggest updates from Gujarat and around the world. Here are the top news headlines of the day:

Voting was held today in 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra. According to the State Election Commission, 41.08% voter turnout was recorded by 3:30 PM. The results of the elections are expected to be declared on Friday. The elections are a significant event, showcasing the democratic process and the active participation of the citizens in shaping their local governance.

On the night of Uttarayan (January 14), a fire broke out in Mota Varachha, Surat, causing significant panic. The blaze started in a tin shed just 20 feet from a petrol pump near A.R. Mall. The fire brigade contained the fire after hours-long operations, averting a major disaster. The prompt action of the fire department and the quick response of the local community played a crucial role in controlling the fire and preventing any loss of life.

During Uttarayan on January 14, a tragic incident occurred in Surat when three family members on a motorcycle were struck by a kite string on a 70-foot-high flyover, resulting in fatalities. Similar kite string-related accidents were reported across districts including Rajkot. The incident has raised concerns about the safety measures during the festival and the need for stricter regulations to prevent such accidents in the future.

The Supreme Court on Thursday began hearing a case related to the IPAC raids, filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the West Bengal government and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The ED has sought a CBI investigation against Mamata and West Bengal police officials. This case highlights the ongoing legal and political tensions between the central and state governments.

Ahmedabad’s culinary scene is set to expand with the opening of a unique 24-hour vegetarian restaurant at Ambli station. The restaurant, which will offer a premium railway coach experience without the need for travel tickets, is expected to attract food enthusiasts and railway enthusiasts alike. The city already has iconic dining options like Patang Hotel, Kankaria floating snack boats, food-on-wheels buses, plane-themed restaurants, and hanging eateries, making it a hub for innovative dining experiences.

The Gujarat High Court issued notices to the state government, AMC, and police over a contempt plea alleging willful disobedience of Supreme Court demolition guidelines, in connection with the AMC’s demolition of a house in Bapunagar. The case has raised questions about the adherence to legal procedures and the accountability of local authorities in such actions.

Amid ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, America is preparing to increase its military presence around Iran. The USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, has reportedly departed from the South China Sea towards the Middle East. This move underscores the growing tensions in the region and the potential for further escalation.

In Maninagar, Ahmedabad, a young man was allegedly lured under the pretext of a compromise over an old rivalry and stabbed to death on Uttarayan night near Kankaria Football Ground. Police from Kagdapith and Maninagar are tracing and seeking to arrest the accused. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for stricter law enforcement to prevent such crimes.

In Gandhinagar’s Santej area, a 42-year-old man died by suicide after prolonged mental and physical harassment by his in-laws. His brother alleged abetment, and a case has been registered against six people. The incident has brought to light the issue of domestic abuse and the need for better support systems for victims.

Suryakumar Yadav's fan Faizan Ansari has filed a ₹100 crore defamation case against actress Khushi Mukherjee on January 13 after she made allegations against the Indian T20I captain. In an earlier interview, Mukherjee had claimed that Suryakumar ‘used to message me a lot’. The case has garnered significant media attention and highlights the legal battles that can arise from personal disputes in the public eye.