Plagiarism case against Rangoon
Production-house Wadia Movietone Pvt. Ltd has taken the 'Rangoon' makers to court, alleging the character played by Kangana Ranaut is copyright violation of 'Fearless Nadia', a famous Australian stunt actor. Wadia claimed it holds rights to all material relating to her, whose films it had produced. However, Rangoon's lead counsel argued Fearless Nadia was not a character. Check-out what else is happening in Mumbai.
Sena, BJP emerge major winners in BMC polls
BJP emerged the winner in the much-talked-about BMC polls, increasing its seat share by 150% to grab 82 seats. Shiv Sena remained the largest party with 84. Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam offered to quit after the party's massive defeat, down from 52 in 2012 to 31. Rumours are afloat about a possible Sena-BJP post-poll alliance.
Schools left to clear up polling mess day after election
Many schools in Mumbai, used as polling centres, had to spend hours clearing up the mess a day after the elections, in the middle of classes and HSC exams. Rearranged benches weren't set back in their right places, rubbish littered the corridors and classrooms, and furniture was upturned. Students cleaned along with teachers, who allege previous complaints to the education department hadn't been resolved.
Shivaji statue off Mumbai coast threatens traditional communities
Mumbai's traditional Koli fishing-community might be the worst victims of the planned Rs. 3,600cr Shivaji statue, as it will destroy the breeding ground for a rich variety of fish - including prawns, crabs, and pomfret. Many say ferrying tourists to and from the statue in the sea will also disrupt wave patterns. The BJP has dismissed widespread environmental concerns, claiming a boost to tourism.
Increase rape victims' compensation to Rs. 10L: Bombay HC
The HC asked the government to increase compensation to rape victims from Rs. 3L to Rs. 10L. The directive came after an assistant government pleader defended Rs. 2L compensation to a 14-year-old rape survivor, saying it didn't involve an "aggravated form of rape". The victim, entitled to the latter 50% of the compensation upon filing of chargesheet, hasn't received it even after six months.
Maharashtra ATS probes WB 'pilgrims' gone missing in Saudi
A Mumbai tour operator approached Maharashtra anti-terror squad after 27 pilgrims from West Bengal, headed to Saudi Arabia, didn't reach their hotel three days after landing in the country. The agent had helped the pilgrims obtain a 45-day Umrah visa. Few days earlier, two pilgrims from WB went missing after reaching Baghdad. Police are investigating if the 27 went missing or took up jobs.
Savitribai Phule Pune University best varsity in state
In the National Assessment and Accreditation Council's latest ratings, the Savitribai Phule Pune University bagged an A+ and a 3.60 CGPA to replace Shivaji University, Kolhapur, as the best-rated varsity in Maharashtra. Among Pune colleges, the PE Society's Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce (3.26 CGPA) got an A rating, while the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (2.28 CGPA) received a B.
IPS officer removed after 'unauthorized leave' of 12 years
IPS officers Marie Lou Fernandes and Jyoti Belur have been removed from service and categorized as "deemed resigned", after being on 'unathorized leave' for over 12 years. Fernandes, on leave since 2005, had sought an extension saying she was pursuing her PhD in the US. She had forwarded her resignation in 2012, which wasn't accepted. Belur is an accused in a fake encounter case.