Mumbai | Ramesh Autade

A hunger strike has been launched at Azad Maidan in Mumbai by Jagdish Kumar Ingle, founder of the Non-7/12 Farmers' Association, demanding a detailed and independent investigation into a recent incident linked to Ajit Pawar.

Speaking to the media, Ingle said the public deserves clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident and urged authorities to constitute a high-level inquiry. He emphasized that all aspects of the matter should be examined impartially so that the facts can be established and presented before the public.

The farmers' organization has maintained that a transparent and independent investigation is necessary to dispel doubts and ensure public confidence in the inquiry process. According to Ingle, the demand is not aimed at drawing conclusions in advance but at ensuring that all relevant facts are thoroughly examined.

The organization also noted that no final findings have yet been announced by the official investigating agencies. As a result, no definitive claims can be made regarding the cause of the incident or any alleged wrongdoing until the inquiry is completed.

Members of the Non-7/12 Farmers' Association said they would continue their agitation through democratic means until their demand for an independent probe is addressed. The hunger strike at Azad Maidan is expected to continue until the authorities provide a response to the group's demands.

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Pune: In a recent visit to Chakan city and the MIDC area, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar conducted an inspection to address the ongoing traffic congestion. During this visit, he hinted at the formation of a new municipal corporation for Chakan and its surrounding regions to address local administrative and infrastructural issues.

At around 5:30 AM, Ajit Pawar, along with the District Collector and Police Commissioner, arrived in Chakan to assess the traffic situation. He engaged with local citizens directly, discussing possible solutions. Pawar assured the residents that efforts would be made to resolve the issues they have long faced due to the traffic congestion.

He further shared that the Pune-Nashik Expressway would be upgraded, and the road from Talegaon to Shikrapur would be widened to six lanes. Necessary funding for these improvements would be secured, Pawar confirmed. He also made it clear that, whether people liked it or not, establishing a municipal corporation for Chakan and the surrounding area was the only viable option to manage the region's development and governance moving forward.

This move is expected to bring more efficient administration and resolve some of the long-standing traffic and infrastructure challenges faced by the rapidly growing area.

Mumbai | Representative

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has hinted at action against Agriculture Minister Maanikrao Kokate, who is facing allegations of playing rummy on his mobile phone during the ongoing Assembly session. Pawar, leader of the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), confirmed that an inquiry is already underway by the legislature and a decision on Kokate's fate is expected by Monday or Tuesday in consultation with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Pawar stated that all parties in the ruling Mahayuti alliance have been instructed to ensure their leaders behave responsibly in speech and conduct. “No constituent party should bring disrepute to the alliance,” he asserted.

The controversy erupted after Rohit Pawar, MLA from the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), released a video allegedly showing Minister Kokate playing cards on his mobile during the session. The incident triggered sharp criticism from the opposition, targeting the ruling coalition.

Speaking to the media, Ajit Pawar revealed that Kokate had previously been warned twice for his controversial remarks. “This is the third such instance. We will have to take a decision,” he said, indicating that disciplinary action is on the cards.

Pawar clarified that he hasn’t personally met Kokate yet, but will do so early next week to hear his side. Kokate has reportedly denied playing rummy, and his explanation will be verified. “After listening to him, Chief Minister Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and I will jointly decide the course of action,” Pawar added.

He also acknowledged that the legislature has initiated an inquiry into the matter. The area in question falls under the jurisdiction of Speaker Rahul Narwekar and MLA Ram Kadam. “The outcome of the legislature’s investigation will also be crucial,” Pawar concluded.

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