Mumbai witnessed a tense hostage situation on Thursday when Rohit Arya, a YouTuber, allegedly took 17 children hostage at a studio in Powai. The incident unfolded as Arya had called the children for acting auditions, allowing around 80 to leave while locking the others inside. Panic ensued when residents spotted children peering out of the studio windows, prompting immediate action from the police.

After hours of negotiation, police stormed the premises and rescued all the children unharmed. However, during the operation, Arya was injured in an exchange of gunfire with the police and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.

Authorities are investigating the motives behind Arya's drastic actions. Reports suggest that he was frustrated with the Maharashtra government over unpaid dues related to a school development project he claimed to have designed, titled "Majhi Shala, Sundar Shala." Arya had previously expressed his grievances through protests and a hunger strike, alleging that the government had used his ideas without giving him due credit or compensation.

In a video released before the incident, Arya stated he was not seeking money but wanted answers from officials regarding his claims. He had previously accused the government of disowning his contributions to various educational initiatives, including the "Swacchta Monitor" concept.

Former Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar acknowledged Arya's contributions and expressed that the matter should have been resolved through dialogue. The police recovered air guns and chemicals from the scene, and the children were safely returned to their guardians after the rescue operation. A heavy police presence remains at the site as investigations continue into the incident and Arya's motives.