Wonderland for legislators, babus in broke Maharashtra

So what if the state owes its debtors more than Rs 83,000 crore? In these ‘‘stressful days’’, it’s important that l...

So what if the state owes its debtors more than Rs 83,000 crore? In these ‘‘stressful days’’, it’s important that legislators get a place to unwind.

Well, bureaucrats, too, especially when both groups have laid claim to a plot of prime land to build a club for themselves on beside the World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade.

The blueprint, obtained by The Indian Express, reveals all manner of luxuries. The estimated value of the land alone is Rs 36 crore.

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Never mind the mandarins in Mantralaya thought it right to draw Rs 5 crore for the five-star gymkhana from the Contingency Fund meant for drought, calamities and more.

Never mind that they passed the Bill drawing the money within a couple of minutes without any discussion. The legislators had contended that it was necessary to have a gym for their relaxation and recreation. Never mind that they did not pass a Bill to give legal status to the Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority, that came before them the same day.

A decade ago, a body of bureaucrats had staked claim on the same plot before the legislators noticed it. Now, the government has advised both to share the gymkhana. The 288 MLAs, 78 members of the legislative council, former legislators, sitting and former Maharashtra MPs and IAS officers will be eligible for membership.

Sushila Karki: Nepal’s first woman CJ — and now potentially its first woman PM

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Nepalese jurist Sushila Karki, known for her anti-corruption stance, is a strong contender for interim prime minister. Despite lacking political experience, she has gained support from Gen Z protesters. The recent protests were triggered by a social media ban, but issues of corruption, economy, and joblessness have been simmering. Karki could make history as Nepal's first female prime minister.

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