Category: India

The men opted for the restricted route, which was closed using railings, to exit the train. Instead of usually stepping down on the railway platform as the train halted there, they switched to the other side and alighted with great difficulty. In the few seconds of the train’s scheduled halt at the railway station, nearly half a dozen of people managed to riskily pass through the railings.

An undated video from the Mumbai Local train service showing people not alighting on the railway platform but getting down on a restricted space, that too in a dangerous manner, has surfaced online. It shows men travelling on the second class coach of the transport leaving the footboard to hold the fence of the railway station.

Despite the route being restricted with some railings, they attempted to squeeze themselves into the fairly available space to exit the premises.

They appeared to be in a struggle to use a shortcut avoiding long walk on railway platform. Train passengers (said to be at the Dadar) alighted the transport to not step on the station platform but the little space around the stairs connecting the FOB. They did so in a risky manner by squeezing themselves through the railings installed there.

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Endorsing the film, Sharma said that this film must be watched for this reason as well that only a deep critical study of the past can help us understand the present and provide guidance for the future.

The Rajasthan government has declared the film The Sabarmati Report, based on the Godhra incident, tax-free in the state. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced this on social media, stating that the decision was meaningful and aimed at promoting awareness about a significant period of history.

“Our government has taken a meaningful decision to make the film The Sabarmati Report tax-free in Rajasthan. This film depicts that horrific period of history, which certain selfish elements attempted to distort to fulfill their own interests. The film effectively exposes the reality of the system at the time and refutes the false, misleading narratives that were propagated. This heart-wrenching incident has been presented with utmost sensitivity in the film,” CM Sharma said on X (formerly Twitter).

Endorsing the film, Sharma urged people to watch it, emphasizing its importance for a critical understanding of the past. “A deep, critical study of the past helps us understand the present and provides guidance for the future,” he added.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/rajasthan-govt-declares-film-the-sabarmati-report-on-godhra-incident-tax-free

Participant Bunty Banerjee found herself under the fire for joking about the heinous rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Comedian Samay Raina’s show India’s Got Latent has been in headlines ever since a contestant made fun of Deepika Padukone’s depression. The comedian, also one of the judges, faced social media heat over his casual reaction to the joke on mental health. But the controversy doesn’t seem to end anytime soon. The same participant has now garnered attention for poking fun at another sensitive issue, the Kolkata rape-murder case.

Participant Bunty Banerjee found herself under the fire for joking about the heinous rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident led to nationwide protests seeking justice from the administration. In a video that has now gone viral, the participant could be heard saying, “Whenever there’s a tense situation, the Bengali in me sleeps and Bihari wakes up.”

The standup comedian introduced herself as a Bengali who was born and brought up in Bihar. She performed in the show’s latest episode in the presence of judges including Samay Raina, comedian Tanmay Bhat, producer-actor Raghu Ram, neurologist Dr Sid Warrier, and Balraj Singh, the owner of Habitat (the show’s venue).

Bunty Banerjee went on to ask the audience, “Any Bengalis in the house,” adding, “See, sab so rahe hain. Nahi. Thak gaye honge na candle march karte karte (Bengalis are sleeping! Let them. Must be tried by holding candle march protests).” This statement led the panel to burst into laughter.

However, the matter did not go down well with the social media community who heavily trolled the standup comedian for making fun at such a serious matter of national importance. The video was shared on X with a caption, “She cooked the whole community.”

A user reacted to the video and said, “So this lady, claiming to be a comedian, at one point of her show,mocks depression and at another point ,ridicules Bengalis for holding candlelight marches to protest heinous crimes. It’s appalling that people think such cringeworthy behavior deserves applause. The joke’s on them.”

Source: https://www.news18.com/viral/after-deepika-padukone-indias-got-latent-participant-jokes-on-kolkata-rape-murder-case-9127428.html

A report in The Globe and Mail claims India’s NSA and external affairs minister were aware of a plot to assassinate Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India on Wednesday dismissed a Canadian media report as a “smear campaign” that claimed that the Indian prime minister was aware of an alleged plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023,
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023,
External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal criticised the report, which quoted an unnamed Canadian official, labelling the claims as “ludicrous statements” deserving outright rejection.

“We do not normally comment on media reports. However, such ludicrous statements made to a newspaper purportedly by a Canadian government source should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve,” he said.

Jaiswal said that smear campaigns like this only worsen the already strained ties between India and Canada. He was addressing media queries about the report published in the Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail.

The report, published in The Globe and Mail, cited inputs from a senior national security official and alleged that India’s national security advisor (NSA) and external affairs minister were also aware of the purported plot.

Nijjar was gunned down outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023, and Canadian authorities arrested and charged four Indian nationals for the murder.

India has consistently stated that Canada has failed to provide any evidence supporting its allegation of Indian government involvement in Nijjar’s killing.

The Indian side has repeatedly said Canada has not provided any evidence to back up its allegation that Indian government agents were linked to the killing of Nijjar, already designated a terrorist by New Delhi.

India-Canada relations deteriorated sharply last month after Canada accused Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma and other diplomats of involvement in the murder.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-slams-canadian-media-report-over-killing-of-hardeep-nijjar-ludicrous-smear-campaign-101732148060332.html

Prosecutors also said the Adanis and another executive at Adani Green Energy, former CEO Vneet Jaain, raised more than $3 billion in loans and bonds by hiding their corruption from lenders and investors.

Gautam Adani, the billionaire chair of Indian conglomerate Adani Group and one of the world’s richest people, has been indicted in New York over his role in an alleged multibillion-dollar bribery and fraud scheme, U.S. prosecutors said on Wednesday.

Authorities said Adani and seven other defendants, including his nephew Sagar Adani, agreed to pay about $265 million in bribes to Indian government officials to obtain contracts expected to yield $2 billion of profit over 20 years, and develop India’s largest solar power plant project.

Prosecutors also said the Adanis and another executive at Adani Green Energy, former CEO Vneet Jaain, raised more than $3 billion in loans and bonds by hiding their corruption from lenders and investors.

According to an indictment, some conspirators referred privately to Gautam Adani with the code names “Numero uno” and “the big man,” while Sagar Adani allegedly used his cellphone to track specifics about the bribes.

Adani Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside business hours in India, where the charges were announced early Thursday morning.

India’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Lawyers for the defendants could not immediately be identified.

Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and Jaain were charged with securities fraud, securities fraud conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy, and the Adanis were also charged in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission civil case.

The other five defendants were charged with conspiring to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, a U.S. anti-bribery law, and four were charged with conspiring to obstruct justice.

None of the defendants is in custody, a spokesperson for U.S. Attorney Breon Peace in Brooklyn said. Gautam Adani is believed to be in India.

Built empire

The 62-year-old Adani is worth $69.8 billion according to Forbes magazine, and one of the few billionaires formally accused in the United States of criminal wrongdoing.

His fortune makes him the world’s 22nd-richest person, and second-richest in India behind Reliance Industries Chair Mukesh Ambani, Forbes said.

Adani grew up in India’s Gujarat state, and dropped out of school at age 16.

He founded Adani Group in 1988 as a commodities trading firm, and built a business empire that has included airports, shipping ports, power generation, energy transmission and mining companies.

The charges were announced hours after Adani on Wednesday raised $600 million by selling 20-year “green” bonds.

They also came nearly two years after U.S. short-seller Hindenburg Research accused Adani Group of using offshore tax havens improperly, which the company denied.

Hindenburg’s January 2023 report sparked an approximately $150 billion meltdown in Adani Group stocks.

Adani planned investments, congratulated Trump

Others who were criminally charged on Wednesday include Ranjit Gupta and Rupesh Agarwal, respectively a former CEO and former chief strategy and commercial officer of Azure Power Global, which authorities said agreed to pay some of the bribes.

The remaining criminal defendants worked for Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec, a Canadian institutional investor, and included Cyril Cabanes, who was also an Azure director. He was also charged with wrongdoing by the SEC.

All of the defendants are Indian citizens apart from Cabanes, a dual French-Australian citizen who has lived in Singapore, prosecutors said.

According to court records, a judge has issued arrest warrants for Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani, and prosecutors plan to hand those warrants to foreign law enforcement.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/us-charges-gautam-adani-over-alleged-250-million-bribe-plot-101732156932458.html

Following US SEC charges of bribery against Gautam Adani, opposition parties criticise PM Narendra Modi and call for a JPC investigation.

As billionaire Gautam Adani faces charges in the US for alleged bribery and fraud, the Opposition on Thursday intensified its attack on the Centre over its alleged links with the Adani Group.

Gautam Adani has been charged in the US with allegedly paying $250 million in bribes to Indian officials between 2020 and 2024 to secure favourable terms for solar energy contracts. The scheme, prosecutors said, could have earned Adani’s group over $25 billion in profits.

Congress demands JPC probe
Reacting to the charges, the Congress called for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into alleged scams involving Adani’s conglomerate. The party also demanded the appointment of a “new and credible” Sebi chief to investigate Adani’s financial dealings and compliance with securities laws.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) actions highlight the failure of Indian institutions to investigate the group. “The indictment vindicates Congress’s demand since January 2023 for a JPC into the Modani scams,” Ramesh wrote on X.

He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of shielding Adani and claimed Congress’s “Hum Adani Ke Hain Kaun” (HAHK) series had exposed the businessman’s alleged fraud and his ties with the PM.

The fact that it has taken a foreign jurisdiction to properly investigate Adani only shows how Indian institutions have been captured by the BJP, and how decades of institutional development have been undone by greedy and power hungry leaders, the Congress leader said in another post.

“All of this is consistent with a long record of fraud and criminality carried out with impunity with the obvious protection of the Prime Minister,” Ramesh charged.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/adani-indicted-opposition-seeks-probe-into-us-charges-vindicates-congress-s-demand-101732161829288.html

Smoking accounts for 46 per cent of cases of COPD, followed by outdoor and indoor pollution which account for 21 per cent COPD cases and occupational exposure to gases and fumes account for 16 per cent cases

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third largest killer after heart problems and cancer worldwide. Many people mistake their increased breathlessness and coughing as a normal part of ageing. They may not notice the symptoms in the early stages of the disease, and COPD can develop for years without noticeable shortness of breath, says Dr Sonal, pulmonologist at Livasa Hospital, Mohali.

She adds that the symptoms are visible in the more developed stages of the disease as COPD is a progressive form of lung disease ranging from mild to severe, and it affects nearly 63 million people in India, which is about 32 per cent of the world’s COPD population.

Dr Suresh Kumar Goyal, senior pulmonologist, adds that COPD causes more deaths than AIDS, TB, malaria and diabetes all put together. Its prevalence is around 5.5 per cent to 7.55 per cent in India, and recent studies suggest the prevalence rate of COPD in males is as high as 22 per cent and 19 per cent in women.

“COPD is an incurable and progressive condition, which inflames airways in lungs and destroys air sacs. The long-term effects of COPD result in an enlargement of the right side of the heart,” maintained Dr Ranjeet Kumar Gone, consultant, internal medicine.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/lung-disease-copd-pulmonary-disease-condition-symptoms-9680815/

During the summit, PM Modi proposed seven key pillars to strengthen ties between India and ‘CARICOM’. PM Modi explained the framework, “In the future, to strengthen our ties, I want to make a statement, it is based on 7 key pillars.”

The talks majorly focused on areas such as trade, technology, and tourism, among others. PM Modi became the first Indian head of state to visit Guyana in more than 50 years.

During the summit, PM Modi proposed seven key pillars to strengthen ties between India and ‘CARICOM’.

PM Modi explained the framework, “In the future, to strengthen our ties, I want to make a statement, it is based on 7 key pillars.”

“These 7 pillars are ‘CARICOM’. C stands for capacity building, through scholarship, training and technique, India has been helping in the capacity building of CARICOM countries, for the next 5 years, we will add 1,000 slots to the ITEC scholarship… for CARICOM, we will work to make forensic centres… with CARICOM friends, India is ready to work in parliamentary training also,” he added.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-modis-caribbean-outreach-india-proposes-7-pillars-for-cooperation-with-caricom-puts-focus-on-5ts-article-115510601

Badrinath Nagar Panchayat initiated a post-Yatra cleanup, collecting 1.5 tonnes of waste after hosting 47 lakh pilgrims.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, a vocal proponent of cleanliness at Char Dham shrines, applauded the efforts. The municipality disposed of 110 tonnes of inorganic waste collected during the Yatra season.

On November 18, the sacred thrones of Uddhav, Kuber, and Shankaracharya began their winter journey from Badrinath Dham. Accompanied by an army band and rights holders, the palanquins departed for their designated locations, halting overnight at Pandukeshwar. Uddhav Ji and Kuber Ji will stay at the Yogadhyan Temple for winter worship, while Shankaracharya Ji’s throne has been placed in the Narsingh Temple at Joshimath. According to the scriptures, worship will continue for six months by humans and six months by gods.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/badrinath-launches-cleanup-drive-after-hosting-47-lakh-pilgrims-collects-1-5-tonnes-of-waste-article-115510908

The PIB, in a post on X, said that the central government has not made any such decision to raise the retirement age of central government employees.

The post claims that the Government of India has raised the age of retirement of central government employees to 62 years.

However, the claim was found to be false as the Indian government has made no such decision. The Press Information Bureau of the Government of India checked the viral claim and clarified the post doing rounds on the internet was fake.

The PIB, in a post on X, said that the central government has not made any such decision to raise the retirement age of central government employees.

Moreover, in August 2023, the government confirmed in the Lok Sabha that there is no proposal under consideration to change the retirement age of central government employees.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on August 9 said there is no proposal under consideration to change the retirement age of Central Government employees.

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, Mr. Singh said 122 government officers have been given compulsory retirement in the last three years under different provisions of service rules.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/did-centre-raise-age-of-retirement-to-62-years-fact-checking-viral-claim-article-115473769

Model Sannati Mitra shocked viewers with a towel dance video at Delhi’s India Gate to celebrate International Men’s Day.

A Kolkata model shocked Instagram users after she shared a video of herself dancing in a white towel in front of Delhi’s India Gate. Sannati Mitra, who claims to be the 2017 winner of Miss Kolkata pageant, had previously featured in a controversial photo along with two other women wearing cleavage-baring tops at a Durga Puja pandal.

Mitra, along with Hemoshree Bhadra, who says she won the Miss Kolkata 2016 title, had become the target of social media trolling for her outfit which many deemed inappropriate for a religious event.

The new video by the model-influencer has raised eyebrows as she is seen dancing in a white towel and slippers while lip-syncing to a song from hit Bollywood movie Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. A large crowd of tourists, which included children, can be seen watching in shock as she twirls and even opens the towel to bare herself. Interestingly, Mitra’s video seems to be a recreation of Kajol’s dance sequence in the film where her character dances in a towel in her room. (Also read: Amity University student’s dance is viral for ‘nudity’, internet sees no problem)

Take a look at the video here:

The video was shared with a caption wishing a Happy International Men’s Day. “Happy International Men’s day. May you all continue to inspire and motivate others with your courage, kindness and empathy,” she wrote.

The video has garnered over 200,000 views in just two hours and most users slammed her. Many of them called her out for using “cheap tactics” to get more views while others sought legal action against her for “obscene” dance in a public space.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/kolkata-model-dances-in-towel-at-india-gate-for-international-mens-day-video-sparks-outrage-101732027817541.html

PM Modi and President Lula addressed various bilateral issues reiterating India’s resolve to collaborate with Brazil in critical sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday engaged in bilateral talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The leader expressed robust support for Brazil’s ‘Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty’ initiative during their talks.

In their discussions, the two leaders addressed various bilateral issues reiterating India’s resolve to collaborate with Brazil in critical sectors such as energy, biofuels, defence, and agriculture.

Modi, who arrived in the Brazilian city on Sunday after concluding a two-day trip to Nigeria, complimented Lula on various efforts of Brazil during their G20 Presidency.

“We took stock of the full range of bilateral ties between our nations and reaffirmed our commitment to improving cooperation in sectors like energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture and more,” Modi said in a post on X after talks with Lula.

PM Modi thanked Brazilian President Lula for hosting G20 Summit

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Prime Minister Modi thanked President Lula for successfully hosting the G20 Summit.

“PM assured India’s full support to Brazil’s initiative of ‘Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty’. Discussions focused on exploring opportunities for greater cooperation in renewable energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture, healthcare, and digital technology,” he said in a post on X.

On Monday, Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome from President Lula at the G20 Summit venue.

From Brazil, Modi will travel to Guyana at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. It will be the first-ever visit of an Indian prime minister to Guyana in more than 50 years.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/pm-modi-meets-president-lula-extends-support-to-brazils-hunger-poverty-cause-101732025581192.html

Two bikers died and almost three dozen people were injured in multiple accidents due to dense fog in western Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday morning.

Two bikers died and almost three dozen people were injured in multiple accidents due to dense fog in Noida and other parts of western Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday morning, said officials.

The worsening air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas led to low visibility, triggering a series of crashes, especially on national highways. Visuals of many such accidents also surfaced on the internet.

On the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, multiple crashes were reported with a broken-down truck, leaving several injured. They were rushed to Saifai Medical College, while one person was admitted to Shikohabad Hospital.

A victim of the accident described the scene, saying “We couldn’t see anything. Our car hit another vehicle, and then three or four more cars crashed into ours.”

In a separate road accident caused by low visibility, a truck collision on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway triggered a chain reaction. A bus travelling from Panipat to Mathura then crashed into the stationary trucks, injuring about a dozen passengers who were quickly taken to the hospital, reported NDTV.

Near Agra, six vehicles reportedly collided on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway after a pick-up truck broke down near Nasirpur. The stalled vehicle was not visible due to dense fog, leading to a pile-up of SUVs and other cars.

Two Bikers Killed
A speeding truck, whose driver claimed low visibility, rammed a bike on National Highway-34 in Bulandshahr, killing Mansharam, a Mainpuri resident. Later, the police detained the truck driver who admitted to speeding despite knowing the visibility conditions.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/western-up-noida-dense-fog-road-accident-bikers-killed-several-injured-latest-updates-9125240.html

A mountain collapse in the Democratic Republic of Congo revealed massive copper reserves while leading to a discussion on colonialism.

A mountain collapse in the Democratic Republic of Congo revealed massive copper reserves while leading to a discussion on colonialism. Footage of the dramatic mountain collapse has gone viral online, sparking many jokes about protecting the copper deposits from foreign invaders.

According to Al Jazeera, the mountain collapsed in the mineral-rich Katanga region of DR Congo. Viral footage of the event shows hundreds of people gathered together to watch the collapse. People closest to the site of the collapse were seen running for cover as boulders tumbled down.

Watch the video below:

About Congo’s copper reserves

Copper is one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most valuable natural resources. The country has immense copper reserves, primarily located in the Katanga region (now Haut-Katanga Province), which is part of the Central African Copperbelt, the largest and richest mineral belt in the world.

DR Congo is home to some of the world’s largest high-grade copper deposits. Katanga’s copper is known for its high quality and relatively low production costs, making it highly competitive on global markets. The area also has other valuable reserves like cobalt, uranium, tin, and zinc.

The DMRC has recorded its 25 highest passenger journeys since August this year, the statement added. It emphasised that the more people opt for the metro over private vehicles, the greater the reduction in vehicular emissions, which will help improve the air quality of the city and its surrounding areas.

The ridership on November 18 surpassed the previous record of 77.49 lakh passengers, set earlier in August this year. Among the metro lines, the Yellow Line, which runs from Millennium City Centre in Gurugram to Samaypur Badli in Delhi, saw the highest traffic, with a record 20.99 lakh commuters using the service.

The surge in metro travel has put spotlight on the growing reliance on public transport amid ongoing air quality concerns and the disruption caused by the DTC strike.

The Blue Line followed closely with 20.80 lakh passengers, while the Red Line recorded 8.56 lakh commuters, 8.15 lakh in Pink Line and 7.93 lakh in Violet Line.

The Magenta Line saw 6.19 lakh passengers, followed by the Green Line with 4.12 lakh commuters, 81,985 in Airport Line, 57,701 in Rapid Metro, and 50,128, in the Grey Line, as per the data.

Thick grey haze continued to choke Delhi for the third consecutive day on Tuesday, with pollution levels remaining alarmingly high at 488 in the ‘severe plus’ category.

To encourage more people to use the metro in this scenario, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is running 60 extra trips on weekdays, offering more capacity than usual, an official statement said.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/delhi/delhi-metro-records-highest-ever-daily-ridership-on-nov-18is-pollution-the-reason-behind-it-article-115469986 

Uttarakhand Police arrested a man allegedly threatening famous YouTuber, Sourav Joshi and demanding Rs 2 crore as extortion

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/youtuber-sourav-joshi-gets-receives-rs-2-cr-threat-letter-from-bishnoi-gang-man-arrested-from-uttarakhand-article-115459917

The Sabarmati Report Making An Impact! Vikrant Massey Met The Chief Minister Of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath!

The Sabarmati Report has been receiving tremendous love and support from all corners. The film has made a significant impact on audiences, bringing to light one of the most crucial incidents in India’s history and revealing truths that have never been seen or heard before. As the film continues to create waves, the lead actor, Vikrant Massey, recently met the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath.

Yes, The Sabarmati Report is leaving no stone unturned in making its presence felt across the nation. While the film continues to garner love and support from all corners, the lead actor, Vikrant Massey, was seen visiting the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath. This is yet another example of the film’s impact and a well-deserved recognition for such a crucial incident in our India’s history.

Taking to his social media, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath shared the picture with the actor and wrote –

“आज लखनऊ स्थित सरकारी आवास पर फिल्म अभिनेता श्री विक्रांत मैसी ने शिष्टाचार भेंट की।”

Source: https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/the-sabarmati-report-making-an-impact-vikrant-massey-met-the-chief-minister-of-uttar-pradesh-yogi-adityanath/673c6e9ae4bfc703345e912c

The train, which will run on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), will be a significant development for the region, offering a direct rail link between the national capital and the Kashmir Valley.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express connecting Kashmir to Delhi in January 2025, according to the Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh.

About The Rail Service

The train, which will run on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), will be a significant development for the region, offering a direct rail link between the national capital and the Kashmir Valley.

Although Air India assured passengers of accommodations, several travelers reported delays and confusion in receiving hotel arrangements and meals.

Over 100 flyers of an Air India flight bound for New Delhi were stranded in Phuket, Thailand, for four days due to a technical issue with the aircraft. Many passengers took to social media to share their ordeal and claimed that they did not receive adequate support from the airline during the prolonged delay.

According to an India Today report, the flight was scheduled to take off on the night of November 16. Due to the technical issue, it was initially delayed by six hours.

After waiting for hours, the passengers were allowed to board the plane. However, an hour after boarding, the flight was abruptly canceled, and all passengers were asked to deboard. Following the initial delay and hours of waiting, the cancellation further escalated the situation.

The airline issued a statement acknowledging the cancellation and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the flyers.

“While our staff on the ground made an effort to minimize their inconvenience, providing all on-ground assistance, including hotel accommodation and meals, some of the guests were also re-accommodated on alternatively available flights. Passengers were also offered options for full refunds on cancellation and complimentary rescheduling. At Air India, the safety and security of our passengers and crew is the top priority,” Air India said in its response.

However, social media posts by passengers tell a different story. One passenger claimed in a post that there were no timely updates from the airline about the situation.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/over-100-air-india-flyers-stuck-in-phuket-for-4-days-airline-company-responds

The Union Home Ministry has decided to deploy 50 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces to Manipur to manage the escalating violence and volatile situation in the state.

AFSPA Clamped Down In Violence-Hit Jiribam

This comes days after the central government reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station areas, including violence-hit Jiribam.

The northeastern state has been on edge following fresh violence after clashes between the Meiteis and the Kukis. The conflict, which began over a year ago, has led to widespread unrest.

Jiribam Deaths Spark Fresh Protests 

Last week, the abduction and murder of six individuals — three women and three children — by suspected insurgents from Jiribam district, sparked further outrage. Their bodies were found in Assam five days later.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/manipur-violence-centre-to-deploy-50-additional-companies-of-capf-central-armed-police-force-amit-shah-security-meet-article-115418809 

The CCI found that the 2021 WhatsApp policy update was on a ‘take- it-or-leave-it’ basis, thereby constituting an imposition of unfair condition under the Competition Act, 2002.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Monday imposed a penalty of ₹213.14 on Mark Zuckerberg owned Meta (formerly Facebook) for abusing its dominant position in relation to implementation of WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy.

A press release issued by CCI said that it has issued cease-and-desist directions to Meta and WhatsApp and has also asked it to implement certain behavioural remedies.

“The Commission also issued cease-and-desist directions and also directed Meta and WhatsApp to implement certain behavioural-remedies within a defined timeline,” the press release stated.

In January 2021, WhatsApp had informed users about updates to its terms of service and privacy policy, effective from February 8, 2021. The notification stated that users must accept the new terms to continue using the platform. Unlike the previous privacy policy from August 25, 2016, which allowed users to opt out of data sharing with Facebook, the updated policy made data sharing with Meta mandatory.

Users were required to accept these terms, including the expanded scope of data collection and sharing to maintain access to WhatsApp.

The CCI received information regarding the WhatsApp’s violative policy and launched an investigation.

It concluded that Meta Group, through WhatsApp, was in a dominant position in the market for messaging apps through smartphones in India and in a leading position in online display advertising in India.

The CCI found that the 2021 WhatsApp policy update was on a ‘take- it-or-leave-it’ basis thereby constituting an imposition of unfair condition under the Competition Act, 2002.

According to the commission, the policy compels all users to accept expanded data collection terms and sharing of data within the Meta Group without an option to opt out of it.

“Given the network effects and lack of effective alternatives, the 2021 update forces users to comply, undermining their autonomy, and constitutes an abuse of Meta’s dominant position. Accordingly, the Commission finds that Meta (through WhatsApp) has contravened Section 4(2)(a)(i) of the Act,” the order said.

With respect to data sharing, CCI found that Meta violated the law for the following reasons:

(a) sharing WhatsApp users’ data between Meta companies for purposes other than providing WhatsApp Service creates an entry barrier for Meta’s rivals to compete with them, thus denying them market access.

(b) Meta has engaged in leveraging its dominant position in the OTT messaging apps through smartphones to protect its position in the online display advertising market .

In the light of this, CCI directed WhatsApp not to share data collected on its platforms with Meta company or its products for five (5) years.

By way of remedial measure, the WhatsApp has been directed to include a detailed explanation in its policy regarding the user data shared with other Meta Companies.

“This explanation should specify the purpose of data sharing, linking each type of data to its corresponding purpose,” the order assed.

Furthermore, WhatsApp was directed not to make data sharing a pre-condition for users to avail its services in India. The data sharing here would mean data collected for the purpose of advertising.

“In respect of sharing of WhatsApp user data for purposes other than for providing WhatsApp Services, all users in India (including users who have accepted 2021 update) will be provided with:

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/cci-imposes-21314-crore-penalty-on-meta-for-abuse-of-dominant-position

Giving details on Monday, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said IFFI will be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw along with the latter’s colleague in the ministry L Murugan.

Panaji: The 55th edition of the prestigious International Film Festival of India will kick off on November 20 in Goa, with one of the key events being Oscar winning composer AR Rahman paying tribute to late Lata Mangeshkar as part of a ‘memorial talk” on the legendary singer.

Giving details on Monday, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said IFFI will be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw along with the latter’s colleague in the ministry L Murugan.

“AR Rahman will pay tribute to Lata Mangeshkar as part of the ‘Lata Mangeshkar Memorial Talk. More than 270 films will be showcased during the festival at six venues in Panaji, Porvorim and Ponda. There will be more than 180 international films from 81 countries. The festival will see 15 world premieres, 40 Asian premieres and 106 Indian premieres,” Sawant told reporters.

“Swatantrya Veer Savarkar will be opening film in the Feature film category. The masterclasses will be held from November 21-27,m 2024 with four sessions in a day at Kala Academy. Saavat, a Konkani film directed by Shivam Harmalkar and Santosh Shetkar, is the only Goan film selected in the non-feature film category of the Indian Panorama,” the CM added.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/iffi-to-start-in-goa-on-november-20-composer-rahman-to-pay-tribute-to-legend-lata-mangeshkar-3281587

The decision came as Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was invoked in the National Capital Region, which includes the two western Uttar Pradesh districts.

Noida/Ghaziabad: The district administrations of Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar (Noida) on Monday night ordered the suspension of physical classes till Class 12 in all schools and said studies will continue online due to poor air quality in the region.

The decision came as Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was invoked in the National Capital Region, which includes the two western Uttar Pradesh districts.

“In view of this, all schools of the District Gautam Buddh Nagar are directed to adhere to action enlisted under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan. Accordingly, it is directed that all schools shall discontinue physical classes from Pre-School to Class 12 till November 23 and conduct classes in online mode only,” District Magistrate Manish Kumar Verma said in an order.

Ghaziabad District Magistrate Indra Vikram Singh issued similar instructions, citing severe pollution levels.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/delhi-pollution-online-lessons-for-noida-ghaziabad-students-after-official-suspension-of-physical-classes-till-class-12-3281846

Manipur is again on the boil with violence escalating not only among the warring groups but also against seats and symbols of power. Mobs have attacked Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s ancestral house and the houses of many ministers and MLAs. Violence runs through a chain of incidents in the state with attacks and counter-attacks between the Meiteis and the Kukis, and it is spreading and intensifying by the day.

Manipur is again on the boil with violence escalating not only among the warring groups but also against seats and symbols of power. Mobs have attacked Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s ancestral house and the houses of many ministers and MLAs. Violence runs through a chain of incidents in the state with attacks and counter-attacks between the Meiteis and the Kukis, and it is spreading and intensifying by the day.

The spreading violence has had political consequences. The National People’s Party (NPP) which has seven MLAs has withdrawn support to the Biren Singh government, citing its “complete failure” in resolving the crisis. The withdrawal of support does not pose a threat to the government as it has a majority in the House though it shows distrust in the government, by a close ally. But there is opposition to Biren Singh even from within the BJP. A number of MLAs, including those from the Kuki side, have distanced themselves from the government. It has been clear, ever since the present phase of unrest and violence started last year, that Biren Singh is part of the problem in the state, but the Central government has been shielding him.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/editorial/missing-in-manipur-serious-political-intent-3281834

The Sena UBT leader shared a picture of the post on his X account and slammed the user for spreading the fake news. He also said that the post reflects the ‘disgusting mentality of the BJP’s ecosystem’ and divide and rule. Thackeray further tagged ECI and Mumbai Police demanding action against the user and those who are trying to spread hate in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray strongly criticised a post on X made by a user, Mr Sinha, stating that the Waqf board has claimed Siddhivinayak temple of Mumbai. The post consists of a picture of the Siddhivinayak temple in Dadar along with a Ganpati photo. It was captioned, “Enough is enough! They’re getting out of hand. They need to be stopped…”

The Sena UBT leader shared a picture of the post on his X account and slammed the user for spreading the fake news. He also said that the post reflects the ‘disgusting mentality of the BJP’s ecosystem’ and divide and rule. Thackeray further tagged ECI and Mumbai Police demanding action against the user and those who are trying to spread hate in Maharashtra.

The absolutely disgusting mentality of the bjp’s ecosystem. Divide and rule. Lie and try to win.

“The absolutely disgusting mentality of the bjp’s ecosystem. Divide and rule. Lie and try to win. Will the Election Commission of India and Mumbai Police ever act and arrest such disgusting hate creators and Maharashtra haters? Don’t play with our sentiments and emotions in Maharashtra for your votes,” wrote Thackeray in his post.

According to CAQM, the air quality index (AQI) of the national capital was recorded at 441 (Severe)at 4pm on Sunday.

With pollution reaching alarming levels, the Centre’s panel monitoring Delhi-NCR air quality has announced to impose stage-4 restrictions under Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Monday, November 18.

The air quality in the capital remained in the “severe” category for a past five days despite restrictions under GRAP, prompting authorities to impose stringent anti-pollution measures. The new set of restrictions would come into force from 8am on Monday.

The decision was taken by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

According to CAQM, the air quality index (AQI) of the national capital was recorded at 441 (Severe)at 4pm on Sunday. It has been gradually increasing further and has already reached Severe+ category, as the AQI clocked 447, 452 and 457 at 5pm, 6pm, and 7pm on Sunday, respectively.

No Physical Classes for Students, Barring Class 10 and 12: Atishi

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced that physical classes will be discontinued for all students, apart from Class 10 and 12 till further orders.

There is a photo of a gravestone in Jiribam, taken on a November evening when the winter sunlight is a soft yellow. Three children are seen standing around the gravestone, on which the name of their mother has been etched with an epitaph…

One of the worst cycles of the Meitei-Kuki ethnic violence in Manipur since May 2023 began on November 7 in Jiribam district, 220 km from the state capital Imphal, on the interstate border with Assam. At least 19 people have died, including 10 Kuki men who the police have called “militants”, in less than two weeks. The Kuki tribes claim the 10 men were “village volunteers”.
This multi-ethnic district, where a National Highway akin to a lifeline for Manipur passes through to reach Assam (and hence the rest of the country), had been violence-free for over a year until June, when the body of a Kuki teen was found in a river.

Kuki civil society organisations had alleged a Meitei armed group killed the teen and dumped him into the river. Then the body of a Meitei man was found, allegedly killed by a Kuki armed group in a retaliatory strike.

In both the cases and the many thereafter that shattered whatever semblance of peace Jiribam had, the police have not conclusively found the accused. All that remained were videos on social media, voice messages on WhatsApp groups, photos, screenshots, etc that claimed they were what really happened among the many ‘truths’ competing for takers. While some of these viral content can be cross-checked to a high level of accuracy, most are simply unverifiable.

Real people died, but narratives went on gliding smoothly through the airwaves.

November 7 Attack On Hmar Village

The macabre murders of six members of a Meitei family – including an infant, a two-year-old boy, and an eight-year-old girl – by suspected Kuki militants in Jiribam appeared to be the closing of the cycle of violence that began on November 7, when a woman from the Hmar tribe, mother of three little children and school teacher, was allegedly raped, shot in the leg, killed and set on fire by suspected Meitei militants in Jiribam’s Zairawn village.

Senior police officer KK Pandya said Anil Methania’s father had filed a complaint and a case of accidental death had been registered.

A first-year student of a Gujarat-based medical college has died allegedly after he was made to stand for three hours as part of a ragging exercise by seniors. Anil Methania was among several first-year students enrolled in GMERS Medical College and Hospital in Dharpur Patan this year. It is alleged that third-year students at the hostel made them stand for three hours at a stretch for an “introduction”. “Introduction” or “intro” is a word frequently used for ragging activities on residential campuses during which seniors harass freshers.
It is alleged that after standing for three hours, 18-year-old Anil collapsed and became unconscious. He was hospitalised and he recorded a statement with police that he was made to stand for three hours. He died soon after. The body has been sent for autopsy and its report is likely to provide more information on the cause of death.

Anil’s cousin Dharmendra said the family stays in Gujarat’s Surendranagar district — over 150 km from the college in Patan. “We received a call from the college yesterday and were told that Anil collapsed and has been hospitalised. When we reached here, we came to know that third-year students ragged him. We want justice,” he said.

Hardik Shah, the dean of the medical college, said, “As soon as we came to know that he had collapsed, we hospitalised him. He told police that he was ragged and made to stand for three hours. We have informed the cops and the family and will try to take strict action.”

Senior police officer KK Pandya said the student’s father had filed a complaint and a case of accidental death had been registered. “The autopsy has been conducted and the medical report has been asked to submit a report on the incident. Based on the findings, we will take further action,” he said. Asked about the ragging angle, the senior officer said, “We have asked for detailed information from the college on this point too.” News agency PTI later reported that 15 senior students have been named in the FIR.

Alongside Mr. Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Joe Biden will be among the leaders attending the Rio de Janeiro summit on November 18-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brazil on Monday (November 18, 2024) on the second leg of his three-nation visit, during which he will attend the G20 Summit.

Vikas Yadav, accused in a high-profile “murder-for-hire” case and on the FBI’s “most wanted” list, has been granted personal exemption from court citing grave threats to his life.

Yadav claimed he was being subjected to “continuous surveillance by inimical elements who are trying to trace the applicant at all possible places, leaving no option for the applicant but to ensure his safety in the confines”. He further described the threat to his life as “clear, present, and grave”.

The application also argued that Yadav’s physical appearance in court would endanger his life, stating that “appearance of the applicant before the court is likely to annihilate the applicant”. Even attendance through video conferencing was deemed unsafe, as “the location might be detected by electronic technology”, the application said.

Murder-For-Hire Case

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/fbis-most-wanted-vikas-yadav-granted-exemption-from-court-hearing-cites-grave-threat-to-life-article-115388415

A passenger travelling in train number 20666 in Tirunelveli-Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat Express found an insect in a sambar served with breakfast on a train from Madurai on Saturday.

A video showing black insects floating in the sambhar drew widespread criticism. The matter escalated when Congress MP Manickam Tagore shared the video, raising serious concerns about hygiene standards on the premium Vande Bharat trains.

“Dear @AshwiniVaishnaw ji, live insects were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai Vande Bharat Express Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC’s accountability. What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains?”

What Railways Said

The Railways also extended an apology to the passenger and promised stern action against the licensee. According to officials, the Onboard Manager, Chief Catering Inspector (CIR), Chief Commercial Inspector (CCI) and Assistant Commercial Manager (ACM) inspected the food supplied by the Tirunelveli base kitchen managed by Brindavan Food Products.

The investigation revealed that the insect was found stuck to the lid of the casserole container, appearing uncooked, suggesting possible post-preparation contamination. Officials apologised to the passenger, promised stern action against the licensee, and offered an alternate meal at Dindigul station, which the customer declined.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/shocking-video-vande-bharat-passenger-finds-insect-in-sambar-railways-hits-caterer-with-hefty-fine-article-115384389 

“The reasoning assigned by the trial Court for awarding capital punishment are quite strange. The trial Court has quoted a verse from Mahabharata, which we feel to be an unwarranted exercise,” the Court said.

The Bombay High Court recently questioned the “strange” reasons that underpinned a trial court’s decision to award the death penalty in a multi-murder case, including an “unwarranted” invocation of the Mahabharata [State of Maharashtra vs Haribhau Telgote].

The Division Bench of Justices Vinay Joshi and Abhay Mantri also criticised the trial court for relying solely on statistical data on murders to award the death sentence, instead of prioritising the specific facts of the case before it.

The High Court emphasised that each criminal trial is unique, with its own characteristics and distinctions, requiring an individualized assessment.

“The reasoning assigned by the trial Court for awarding capital punishment are quite strange. The trial Court has quoted a verse from Mahabharata, which we feel to be an unwarranted exercise. More interestingly in paragraph no.344 of the decision, the trial Court has reproduced some crime data regarding State of Maharashtra of last 10 years … On the basis of said statistical data, it has been expressed that such incident of committing 4 murders in a single incident are rare and therefore, falls in the category of rarest of rare case. According to us, the said approach of the trial Court is erroneous, as on the basis of some statistical data, without returning to the facts of this case, the category cannot be decided … The approach (of the trial court) is wholly erroneous,” the November 13 ruling said.

The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court made these observations while hearing an appeal filed by a family —parents and their son —convicted of killing four members of their maternal family over a land dispute.

The case revolved around a longstanding dispute over 29 acres of ancestral agricultural land. The accused, Haribhau Telgote (66), his wife Dwarkabai Telgote (55), and their son Shyam Telgote (35), were convicted by the Sessions Court in May 2024 for the premeditated murders of Dhanraj Charhate, his sons Shubham and Gaurav, and his brother Baburao.

In June 2015, Dwarkabai, who had been embroiled in a land partition lawsuit against her brothers, had sown cotton on a contested parcel of land. When Dhanraj objected, a verbal altercation ensued. Dwarkabai allegedly called her husband and sons, who arrived armed with deadly weapons. The attack that followed left four family members dead.

The Additional Sessions Judge imposed the death penalty, categorizing the case as falling under the category of “rarest of rare.”

The accused filed an appeal before the High Court, arguing that the death penalty was disproportionate.

The Bombay High Court, while referring to the Supreme Court’s rulings in Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab and Machhi Singh v. State of Punjab, reiterated that the death penalty is reserved for cases where the crime’s brutality is unparalleled, and whether the convict shows no prospects of reformation.

Applying this test, the High Court eventually commuted the death penalty awarded to two of the accused, while acquitting one accused.

The two persons (Haribhau Telgote and his son, Shyam Telgote) whose conviction was confirmed were sentenced to life imprisonment by the High Court instead of imposing the death penalty. The Court found that while the crime was brutal, it did not meet the stringent “rarest of rare” standard.

The Court acquitted Dwarkabai Telgote, concluding that there was insufficient evidence to prove her active participation in committing murder.

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/bombay-high-court-trial-court-mahabharata-death-sentence

Investigators attribute the vast difference between frozen and recovered money to the absence of a centralised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for recovering frozen money.

Bengaluru: Of the Rs 1,242 crore lost by Bengalureans to cybercrimes in the first eight months of this year, banks have frozen Rs 513 crore, or a little over 40%. However, investigators have managed to recover only Rs 111 crore.

Investigators attribute the vast difference between frozen and recovered money to the absence of a centralised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for recovering frozen money.

When a victim reports a cybercrime within the ‘golden hour’ and the bank freezes the recipient account, the victim must obtain the local court’s permission to defreeze the account and reclaim the money.

But there’s a catch. 

“If the same bank account is used in another cybercrime, investigators probing that specific case also freeze the same account. If the victim in that case also gets the court permission, it puts the bank in a dilemma about whom to return the money to,” a senior police officer explained.

While some banks release the money to the victim who gets the court permission first, many banks do not defreeze the account at all, he added.

A top police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, acknowledged the issue and said they were exploring legal ways to solve it.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/cybercrimes-catch-22frozen-accounts-and-recovery-woes-3280456

“My chappal caught fire and I burned my foot. Then my salwar caught fire. I removed my salwar and discarded it. At that time, my mind was virtually not working,” she told PTI Videos.

Jhansi: Nurse Megha James was on duty when the fire broke out at the Jhansi hospital and she threw herself headlong into the rescue efforts, playing a hero’s role by saving several babies.

Even when her salwar got burned, she refused to give up and was able to evacuate 14-15 babies with others’ help.

Nurse Megha James On The Fire

“I had gone to take a syringe to give an injection to a child. When I came back, I saw that the (oxygen) concentrator had caught fire. I called the ward boy, who came with the fire extinguisher and tried to put it out. But by then, the fire had spread,” James said.

In the now-viral clip, Dolly Chaiwala was being interviewed by a senior journalist, who posed a series of seemingly routine questions. However, Dolly’s deadpan and sassy replies turned the ordinary exchange into an internet spectacle.

Dolly Chaiwala, the internet sensation known for his ‘tapri-style’ tea, has once again gone viral on social media this time for his cheeky response during an interview with a senior journalist from news channel News24. A video of the interaction has gone viral, leaving netizens laughing and giving their take on Dolly chaiwala’s quirky personality.

In the now-viral clip, Dolly Chaiwala was being interviewed by a senior journalist, who posed a series of seemingly routine questions. However, Dolly’s deadpan and sassy replies turned the ordinary exchange into an internet spectacle.

Towards the end of the interview, the journalist asked Dolly about his famous encounter with billionaire Bill Gates, questioning how serving tea to Gates made him an internet sensation. With a straight face, Dolly retorted, “You should talk to my assistant for more details.”

Watch the interview here:

The 50-year-old actor, known for her performances in films like Indian and Annamayya, had sparked public outrage after she made offensive remarks against Telugu people.

South actor Kasthuri Shankar was arrested by Chennai Police in Hyderabad for her alleged controversial remarks against Telugu community during an event in Tamil Nadu.

Following the rejection of her anticipatory bail by the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, which deemed her remarks “unwarranted,” police had been searching for her after she went missing from her home in Chennai and turned off her mobile phone.

The 50-year-old actor, known for her performances in films like Indian and Annamayya, had sparked public outrage after she made offensive remarks against Telugu people. While speaking at a public event in Tamil Nadu, she had said that Telugu people were descendants of the courtesans who had served kings in ancient times.

According to a report, the Egmore police in Chennai filed a complaint against the GodFather actor under four provisions of the Bharat Nagrik Suraksha Samhita.

Her remarks drew fire from BJP national co-in charge of Tamil Nadu Dr Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy, who demanded an apology. Her comments hamper the cordial atmosphere among the people of Tamil Nadu and were against the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), the BJP leader had told news agency PTI.

After facing backlash, the actor had expressed regret for her statements, claiming they were misinterpreted. Taking to X, Kasthuri shared her official statement which read, “I never intended to insult or disrespect my Telugu extended relatives. I apologise for any unintentional ill feelings.”

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/actress-kasthuri-shankar-accused-of-anti-telugu-remarks-arrested-in-hyderabad-9122939.html

Internet services were also suspended in seven districts of Manipur as fresh protests erupted against the killing of six people.

A mob on Saturday attempted to storm the private residence of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in Imphal, leading security officials to fire tear gas shells to disperse the crowd outside the property.

Sources confirmed that Singh, who was not at his residence during the incident, is currently at his office and is safe.

Curfew imposed in Imphal

This latest incident comes after the Manipur government imposed a curfew in Imphal and suspended internet services in seven districts earlier today, following protests in the capital city demanding justice for the murder of three people in Jiribam district.

The protests turned violent when demonstrators stormed the residences of two ministers and three MLAs in Imphal.

Officials reported that a mob attacked the residence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan in Lamphel Sanakeithel, and also targeted the house of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister L. Susindro Singh.

In the Sagolband area of Imphal West district, protesters gathered outside the residence of BJP legislator RK Imo, the son-in-law of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, demanding an “appropriate response” to the killings and urging authorities to “arrest the culprits within 24 hours.”

Meanwhile, protesters who had gathered at the residence of independent legislator Sapam Nishikanta Singh in Tiddim Road, Keishamthong constituency, attacked the office of a local newspaper owned by the legislator after being informed that he was out of state. The mob also damaged temporary structures outside the building.

Imphal West District Magistrate Th. Kirankumar issued an order imposing the curfew from 4:30 pm on Saturday in response to the violence.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/manipur-violence-curfew-declared-in-imphal-protesters-target-mlas-houses-cm-biren-singh-latest-news-9122734.html

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the members of the Indian community received Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Abuja airport on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja on Sunday, marking his maiden visit to Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour that will also include stops in Brazil and Guyana. He became the first Indian PM to visit the west African nation in 17 years.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed PM Modi at Abuja airport. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister for Federal Capital Territory, presented PM Modi with the ‘key of the City’ of Abuja.

Taking to X, PM Modi thanked President Tinubu. “Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations,” PM Modi tweeted.

The Indian community, gathered at Abuja airport, welcomed PM Modi. “Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!” PM Modi further tweeted.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pm-modi-lands-in-nigeria-president-tinubu-receives-him-at-abuja-airport-2634588-2024-11-17

For the Indian legal profession to truly uphold justice, it must, first and foremost, address the injustices within its ranks.

The Indian legal profession frequently receives accolades as a keeper of justice, equality and fairness. Still, there is a deep-rooted, dark side to this prestigious business: it is a male-dominated field where young women are systematically sexually harassed – a fact that is not much of a surprise to anyone who has practised law in India.

Though it may seem hard to reconcile the two ideas, the space of the courtroom is also the breeding ground for predatory behaviour. This unwritten rule makes the profession that much more inaccessible to women. Sexual harassment is the “hidden dirty secret” of the legal profession, according to Indira Jaising, a prominent lawyer and the first woman to serve as Deputy Attorney General of India.

Jaising has directly experienced the appalling behaviour directed towards women in the exalted chambers of the Supreme Court. Her own first-hand story, coupled with those of many other female lawyers and judges who have suffered similar fates, serves as a potent reminder that at the heart of our nation’s highest court, women are not safe from the kind of predatory behaviour that is all too common in many societies around the world.

We want to think that the courtroom and the chambers of the judges are places where justice is rendered and that the behaviour of all who work within these sacred spaces is governed by the highest standards. The Supreme Court is the jewel in the crown of our nation’s governance. Women should feel free to work within its shiny, protective walls and not fear that there are phoenixes among them who will ensnare them in a web of sexual predation.

This problem has its origins in the legal profession’s institutional weaknesses, particularly in its reporting mechanisms, which are not nearly as robust as they ought to be to instil confidence among reporting parties. A profession that is rather unsupportive of mothers will also largely be a profession that is asking its members to work in a rather repressive and secretive culture.

Young associates and interns who have recently begun their careers in law are particularly susceptible to the predatory advances of their superiors in areas that should be their bastions of confidence and empowerment. And when young women in law are forced to navigate the male-dominated minefield of sexual harassment, it robs the industry – both now and in the future – of the diverse perspectives and problem-solving capabilities that are essential to its integrity and growth.

Over the past few years, there have been limited attempts to tackle the crisis. The Supreme Court in 2021 banned a clerk found guilty of sexual harassment from the court for three months. Unfortunately, this alone does not do nearly enough to guarantee the safety of women in such a vulnerable profession. What we need, first and foremost, is a concerted effort by the legal industry to stop this ridiculous, pervasive problem in its tracks.

The first step is to put in place undemanding pathways for reporting. The second is a strong system of support for those choosing to use these pathways. These pathways and support systems should be the norm across all work sectors, not just the legal field. And accountability – zero tolerance for this kind of behaviour at every level. Our institutions have a long way to go before they reach that state.

Now is the moment to illuminate the insidious problem that darkens the Indian legal profession. Young lawyers and legal interns have the right to feel empowered, respected and safe as they pursue their dreams of working in the judiciary. There have been some attempts to address sexual harassment in India’s legal profession, but an overhaul of the legal system is necessary for lasting change to occur. The key facet of this overhaul is creating a strong, enforceable framework that runs through the entire legal system. While the Supreme Court has taken some steps, these reforms are too isolated to make a real impact.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/columns/the-hidden-crisis-sexual-harassment-in-indias-legal-profession

Developed jointly by three Japanese companies, these antennas are currently fitted on Mogami class frigates of Japan Maritime Self Defence force.

New Delhi, Nov 16: India has concluded its first military technology transfer pact with Japan with the two countries signing a “memorandum of implementation” for “co-development and co-production” of UNICORN mast for naval ships to increase their stealth features.

The agreement was inked at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, an Indian Navy spokesperson said here on Saturday, noting that Bharat Electronics Ltd Bengaluru would be the nodal Indian partner in the project.

The unified complex radio antenna (UNICORN) is a mast with integrated communication systems that help improve the stealth characteristics of ships.

Developed jointly by three Japanese companies, these antennas are currently fitted on Mogami class frigates of Japan Maritime Self Defence force.

Unlike the conventional masts, UNICORN consolidates various antennas that are attached to multiple points on a mast into a single support column in order to reduce its radar signature and improve stealth.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com//india/india-japan-ink-first-military-technology-transfer-pact-for-development-of-unicorn-mast-for-naval-ships-3279587

Fire in Jhansi’s NICU led to the tragic death of 10 newborns, with reports highlighting ‘faulty’ fire alarms and ‘expired’ extinguishers.

Following the fire accident at Jhansi hospital that killed 10 newborns, a “defective alarm system” and “expired fire extinguishers” were discovered, according to a media report. A fire broke out at a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi on Friday night.

Families of the victims told News18 report that the lives of the 10 newborns could have been saved if the fire extinguishers were working properly.

Even the fire safety alarms were not functioning properly during the tragic incident, which delayed the hospital evacuation, the report mentioned.

According to the reports citing a man, identified as Kripal Singh Rajput, who came to see his grandson, every single bed in the infant ward was accommodating six children each, there were 18 beds in total

During his visit to the hospital, the fire broke out, and he rescued 25 newborns.

However, the government has dismissed allegations of safety lapses. UP Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak denied media reports claiming that the medical college had expired fire extinguishers.

“All firefighting equipment in the medical college was completely fine,” PTI reported quoting Pathak. He said a fire safety audit was conducted in February and a mock drill in June.

Several visuals of the accident emerged where alarmed patients and their caretakers along with police officials could be seen aiding the rescue operations.

The minister confirmed the cause of the fire saying, “The fire broke out due to a short circuit. Health Minister and state Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak reached there at night. 10 children had died there. The rest of the children are safe.”

Source : https://www.livemint.com/news/from-expired-fire-extinguishers-to-faulty-fire-alarms-what-caused-jhansi-hospital-fire-11731761032578.html

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for fog in the National Capital today in view of the worsening AQI levels. The AQI in the city continues to remain under the “severe” category, showing no improvement in the air quality levels. Read more to know the complete AQI and weather details of Delhi.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 417 under the “severe” category as of 4 PM on November 16, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The CPCB also revealed that AQI levels in key areas of Delhi continued to remain in the severe category on Sunday (November 17). Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 458, Ashok Vihar recorded an AQI of 466, and Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 423—all categorised as “severe.”

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert on Sunday for the National Capital in light of the worsening air quality. The maximum temperature today is expected to reach 29 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to drop to 15 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity fluctuated between 79 percent and 94 percent.

Delhi Weekly Weather Forecast
The city is expected to witness a foggy atmosphere in the coming week. On November 18, November 19, and November 20, moderate fog is predicted. The maximum temperature is expected to range between 27 degrees C and 28 degrees C, while the minimum temperature is likely to range between 13 degrees Celsius and 14 degrees Celsius. Later, on November 21 and 22, the national capital is expected to experience dense fog. The maximum temperature is projected to oscillate between 28 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius , while the minimum temperature is forecasted to remain between 13 degrees Celsius and 14 degrees Celsius.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/delhi/delhi-chokes-under-smog-as-aqi-remains-in-the-severe-category-imd-issues-fog-alert-article-115374665

In a joint operation between the Mumbai Police and Punjab Police, 22-year-old Akashdeep Karajsingh Gill, a resident of Pacca Chisti village, Tehsil Fazilka, District Fazilka, was apprehended for allegedly being an associate of Lawrence Bishnoi in the Baba Siddique murder case.

In the case of NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) leader Baba Siddique’s murder, another accused has been arrested near the Indo-Pakistan border in Pacca Chisti village, Punjab. In a joint operation between the Mumbai Police and Punjab Police, 22-year-old Akashdeep Karajsingh Gill, a resident of Pacca Chisti village, Tehsil Fazilka, District Fazilka, was apprehended for allegedly being an associate of Lawrence Bishnoi in the Baba Siddique murder case.

With this arrest, the total number of accused arrested in connection with the murder rises to 24. According to sources, Gill was allegedly kept in contact with Anmol Bishnoi and received instructions from him to pass on to the shooters.

According to the police, The joint operation was conducted in Fazilka Tehsil, highlighting effective inter-agency collaboration. The accused is being brought to Mumbai on transit remand for further legal proceedings.

Meanwhile, Punja police posted arresting information on ‘X’ stating, “In a major breakthrough, Anti-Gangster Task Force, Punjab (AGTF), in a joint operation with Maharashtra Police has apprehended one person, Akash Gill resident of Fazilka in connection with the Murder of Baba Siddiqui at Mumbai. Preliminary investigation reveals the arrested accused is an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang and was providing logistical assistance to the shooters involved in the Murder of Baba Siddiqui. The accused has been handed over to Mumbai Police.”

Further mentioned, ‘United in our commitment to seamless cooperation, PunjabPoliceInd and Maharashtra Police have successfully executed an inter-state operation. This highlights our unwavering dedication to public safety and justice, strengthening security across state boundaries.’

The police revealed that the accused’s involvement was uncovered during the interrogation of previously arrested suspects, prompting a team to be dispatched to Punjab. The accused was presented before a court in Punjab and is now being transferred to Mumbai on transit remand. “Singh will be presented before a local court in Mumbai on Sunday,” according to the police.

On October 12, a 66-year-old NCP leader was shot dead by three assailants near the Bandra office of his son, MLA Zeeshan Siddique. According to Crime Branch sources, the lead shooter, Shiv Kumar Gautam, remained at the scene for nearly 20 minutes after the attack.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/baba-siddique-murder-case-22-year-old-akashdeep-gill-arrested-near-indo-pak-border-24th-accused-nabbed-in-joint-mumbai-punjab-police-operation

Questions have been raised over the hospital’s safety measures, as witnesses claim fire alarms did not activate during the blaze.

Ten newborn babies have died after a fire swept through a neonatal intensive care unit at a hospital in northern India.

The fire, which also injured 17 other babies, spread quickly through the ward in Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi city late on Friday, where 49 infants were being treated, according to state deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak.

He said seven of the babies killed had been identified, with the authorities working to identify the remaining three.

“Seventeen of the injured are receiving treatment in different wings and some private hospitals,” Mr Pathak said.

He said the cause of the fire was not yet known.

“We will identify those responsible for this tragedy and take strict action. The government stands with families during this difficult time,” he added.

Eyewitnesses said rescue efforts began about 30 minutes after the fire started, and that the ward was already engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived.

Rescuers had to break through the windows to reach the babies.

Questions have been raised over the hospital’s safety measures, because parents of the babies and witnesses claim fire alarms did not activate during the blaze, according to The Associated Press.

Mr Pathak also said the hospital’s fire safety systems were last inspected in February, followed by a mock drill in June.

One of the parents whose baby died in the incident told the AP: “If the safety alarm had worked, we could have acted sooner and saved more lives.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the “heart-wrenching” incident.

Source : https://news.sky.com/story/india-fire-in-neonatal-ward-kills-10-newborn-babies-13255023

The Thane Crime Branch Unit One has arrested three men for allegedly possessing five country-made revolvers and four live cartridges worth Rs 1,85,000 in the Shil-Daighar area of Thane.

The Thane police have seized 15 weapons and 28 live cartridges worth Rs 7 lakh, and destroyed 18 illegal liquor sites in the city. They have initiated efforts to maintain law and order and peace in society. The police have also launched an operation to apprehend those involved in the illegal sale of arms.

The Thane Crime Branch Unit One has arrested three men for allegedly possessing five country-made revolvers and four live cartridges worth Rs 1,85,000 in the Shil-Daighar area of Thane. The accused have been identified as Shivkumar, Papilkumar, and Rahul alias Mohammad Guljar Khan. A case has been registered against them at Rabodi Police Station.

The Bhiwandi Crime Branch unit has arrested two individuals for allegedly possessing two country-made revolvers and two live cartridges worth Rs 1,70,600. The accused have been identified as Shrikant Datta Waghmare and Noor Mohammad Ansari.

The Wagale Estate Crime Branch arrested Sumit Pawar for allegedly possessing one country-made revolver and seven live cartridges worth Rs 1,12,000.

The Kalyan Crime Branch has arrested Deepak Koli for allegedly possessing three country-made revolvers and seven live cartridges worth Rs 75,000.

The Ulhasnagar Crime Branch has booked Ganesh Londhe and Bhagwan Yadav for allegedly possessing two country-made revolvers and two live cartridges worth Rs 51,000.

The Anti-Extortion Cell has booked a case against Abdul Kalam for allegedly possessing two country-made revolvers and one live cartridge worth Rs 50,000.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/thane-police-seizes-15-weapons-28-cartridges-worth-7-lakh-18-illegal-liquor-sites-destroyed-amid-election-season

The Court based its decision on Section 40 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 as well as relevant advisories issued by the Central government.

The Kerala High Court recently held that a person residing in or having their place of business in a State can get their vehicles registered at any registering authority of the same State. [Sabeer A v. State of Kerala & Ors]

Justice Dinesh Kumar Singh held so in light of Section 40 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (MV Act) as well as relevant advisories issued by the Central government.

“Considering the language implied in Section 40 of the MV Act and advisory issued by the Central Government, it is evident that the jurisdiction is in respect of the State and not in respect of the registering authority for registering the motor vehicle. A person residing in a State or having a place of business in a particular State can get the motor vehicle registered by any of the registering authorities of that State,” the Court said in its judgment.

The judgment was passed on a petition moved by the owner of a vehicle seeking an order to the Attingal Regional Transport Authority (RTO) to complete the registration process and issue the necessary certificate for his vehicle.

Even though he was issued a temporary registration certificate by the Attingal RTO, he was told to approach the Kazhakootam RTO as he wasn’t residing in the jurisdiction of the Attingal RTO.

Before the High Court, the petition argued that following the 2019 amendment to Section 40 of the MV Act, every owner of a vehicle is entitled to get it registered within the State of his residence from any registering authority.

The Government Pleader representing the State, however, argued that the amended provision indicates that the residence or the place of residence where the vehicle is normally kept has to be within the jurisdiction of the registering authority.

The Court noted that Section 40 of the MV Act reads as follows:

40. Registration, where to be made. – Subject to the provisions of section 42, section 43 and section 60, every owner of a motor vehicle shall cause the vehicle to be registered by [any registering authority in the State] in whose jurisdiction he has the residence or place of business where the vehicle is normally kept.

It also observed that the phrase “any registering authority in the State” was inserted instead of “registering authority” by the 2019 amendment. From this, the Court concluded that the jurisdiction mentioned is with regard to the State and not specific registering authorities.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/vehicle-registered-at-any-rto-in-state-residing-in-kerala-high-court

India strongly asserted that bringing in elements of any new goal outside the Paris Agreement’s mandate is unacceptable, and ruled out any scope for negotiating the 2015 accord

India at COP29 drew attention to the devastating impacts of climate change on the Global South and called on developed nations to realise and fulfil their responsibility for stronger climate action.

Intervening on behalf of Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs) at the High-Level Ministerial on Climate Finance at the UN Climate Summit in Baku, India pushed for at least $1.3 trillion every year till 2030 to be mobilised by the developed countries through grants, concessional finance and non-debt-inducing support.

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This support must address the changing needs and priorities of the developing countries, without imposing any growth-restricting conditions on the provisions of finance, it emphasised.

Delivering the statement, India’s lead negotiator at COP29, Naresh Pal Gangwar, additional secretary in the ministry of environment, forests and climate change (MoEFCC), said this is vital for advancing towards COP30, where all parties are expected to submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). “What we decide here will enable all of us, particularly those in the Global South, to not only take ambitious mitigation action but also adapt to climate change. This COP is historic in this context,” he added.

NCQG not an investment goal

Making its focus clear on the New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQG) on climate finance which is currently under negotiation, India asserted that it cannot be changed into an investment goal when it is a unidirectional provision and mobilisation goal from the developed to the developing countries.

India also stressed that bringing in the elements of any new goal outside the Paris Agreement’s mandate is unacceptable, and ruled out any scope for negotiating the accord. “The Paris Agreement is clear on who is to provide and mobilise the climate finance – it is the developed countries,” it stated.

The statement also made it clear that the developed nations must take the lead in climate action in view of their historical responsibilities and differences in capacities, underscoring the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. “The context of different national circumstances, sustainable development goals and poverty eradication, particularly with respect to the Global South, should not be lost sight of,” it added.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/cop29-india-pushes-for-1-3-trillion-annual-climate-finance-stronger-action-by-developed-nations-9121767.html

The boat came under the radar near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), after which it was brought to Porbandar.

In a massive drugs bust, a boat carrying over 700 kg of methamphetamine, simply known as meth, has been caught off Gujarat’s Porbandar after an overnight mid-sea operation. Eight persons on board the vessel who claimed to be Iranians have been arrested, officials said.

They are being questioned to find out the source of the drugs and where such a big consignment was headed, officials said. While there is no standard way to peg its actual value, it’s suspected to be worth around ₹ 2-5 crore.

The seizures were made as part of Operation Sagar Manthan, a joint operation by the officials from the Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and the federal anti-drugs agency Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) led to the seizure.

The boat came under the radar near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) – which separates the international waters, after which it was brought to Porbandar.

Further searches are on for suspected vessels and more inbound consignments of drugs as officials keep an eye on the sea routes for smuggling of narcotics.

Officials are also questioning the suspects to find out details about the drug consignment.

It’s also under investigation if Pakistan was the source of the drugs. Several reports have accused Pakistan of pushing drugs across the border to fund their terror activities.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/iranian-boat-with-500-kg-drugs-caught-off-gujarat-after-overnight-mid-sea-operation-7025075

Patani alleged that the conmen misled him by introducing an accomplice as an “officer on special duty” to reinforce their claims.

Jagdish Singh Patani, retired deputy SP and father of actor Disha Patani, was allegedly defrauded of ₹ 25 lakh by a group of five individuals who promised him a high-ranking position in a government commission, police here said on Friday.
An FIR was registered at Bareilly Kotwali police station on Friday evening.

Kotwali police station in-charge D K Sharma said, “A case has been registered against Shivendra Pratap Singh, Diwakar Garg, Acharya Jayaprakash from Juna Akhara, Preeti Garg, and one unidentified person for cheating, criminal intimidation, and extortion.” “Efforts are underway to arrest the accused and take strict action,” Sharma added.

Jagdish Patani, a resident of Bareilly’s Civil Lines area, alleged that Shivendra Pratap Singh, whom he knew personally, introduced him to Diwakar Garg and Acharya Jayaprakash, according to the complaint.

The accused claimed to have strong political connections and assured Patani of securing a position as chairman, vice-chairman, or a similar prestigious post in a government commission.

After gaining Patani’s trust, the group allegedly took ₹ 25 lakh from him –” ₹ 5 lakh in cash and ₹ 20 lakh through transfers to three different bank accounts. When no progress was made over three months, the accused promised to return the money with interest, the complaint stated.

However, when Patani demanded his money back, they began issuing threats and behaving aggressively, police said.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/actor-disha-patanis-father-duped-of-rs-25-lakh-fir-filed-7030599

The woman’s alleged rape and murder, a mother of three, led to a series of violent clashes in Manipur’s Jiribam district since November 7.

The autopsy report of a 31-year-old tribal woman, who was killed in Manipur’s conflict-torn Jiribam district, revealed signs of third-degree torture before she was allegedly raped and her house was set on fire, reported.

The FIR registered by the police in Jiribam quotes her husband alleging that she was “brutally raped” by armed militants from the Imphal Valley. The miscreants also plundered her house and set 17 homes ablaze in the Zairwan village that night, the report said.

An autopsy performed on the woman’s body by Assam’s Silchar Medical College could not ascertain if the woman was raped, as her charred remains ruled out any chances of collecting a vaginal smear.

The Times of India report notes that the woman was found with 99% of her body, even bone fragments, charred. The autopsy notes “a wound in the back of right thigh” and a “metallic nail embedded in the medial aspect of the left thigh.” The report also noted that “the right upper limb, parts of both lower limb, and the facial structure are missing.”

The autopsy findings reveal that the woman was alive when she was subject to brutal torture. After torturing her, the militants allegedly raped her and set her home on fire.

The Manipur Police said her remains were sent to Silchar instead of the state capital, Imphal, as it was “very much inconvenient to transport the body by road via National Highway-37 due to ongoing ethnic crisis” in the northeastern state.

The Kuki-Zo tribal organisations condemned the woman’s killing as “barbaric” and called for security forces to identify the killers. The Indigenous Tribes Advocacy Committee called for intervention from the Centre to safeguard the people of the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribes. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITFL) warned of more unrest if the killers were not arrested.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/manipur-mother-of-3-tortured-before-being-set-on-fire-in-jiribam-finds-autopsy-report-101731546880183.html

It has done away with the mandatory setting up of examination centres within 10 kilometers of bus station, railway station and government treasury.

The state government has relaxed examination centre norms for the Combined State / Senior Subordinate Service (Preliminary) Examination-2024, commonly known as (PCS Pre).

It has done away with the mandatory setting up of examination centres within 10 kilometers of bus station, railway station and government treasury.

The fresh government order, a copy of which is with HT, came after the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) accepted protesting students’ demand and decided to revert to the system of holding the PCS (prelim) exam in one day instead of two days.

However, the new order still means that only government-run and government-aided secondary schools will be made examination centres as no exemption has been given in this regard as compared to an earlier order issued on June 19.

The new GO issued on Thursday makes clear that it will be ensured that examination centres are made only in the institutions located on the main road. Principal secretary (appointment and personnel) M Devraj issued instructions in this regard on Thursday and sent the order to the chairmen of the recruitment commissions and boards of the state.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/pcs-prelims-no-longer-necessary-to-set-up-exam-centres-within-10-km-of-bus-railway-stations-101731610963975.html

Dehradun accident: Police seek expert advice on legal steps after an accident that killed six, including three women, with one person seriously injured.

The family members of six students killed in a road accident in Dehradun are yet to file a complaint with the police, which may lead to the authorities taking action, The Times of India reported.

Police are seeking advice from experts about possible legal steps, as the initial investigation suggests that the truck driver was not at fault. The accident claimed six lives, including three women and three men, while one person was seriously injured.

Inspector KC Bhatt from the Cantt police station said they are waiting for a complaint from the families before they can register a case, the report added.

“We have not received any complaint from the family members of the victims that could warrant case registration,” ToI quoted Bhatt as saying.

Dehradun accident: What happened?
Six people were killed, and another critically injured, in the severe car accident in Dehradun early Tuesday morning. The accident took place around 1.30am at ONGC Chowk, where a speeding Innova car crashed into the rear of a container truck, leaving the car in a wrecked state, police said.

According to Circle Officer (City) Neeraj Semwal, the six deceased-three men and three women, all under 25 years of age, died on the spot. A seventh passenger, identified as 25-year-old Siddhesh Agrawal, survived but is in critical condition at Synergy Hospital.

Initial investigation suggests that the container truck driver was not at fault, as the speeding multi-utility vehicle (MUV) collided with the truck’s rear left section, a known blind spot in large vehicles.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/dehradun-accident-6-students-killed-no-complaints-filed-yet-police-seek-advice-on-legal-action-what-happened-101731631367505.html

The current system has roots in 1958 when the East India Company transferred the dominion to the British crown, he said. He said the objective of the civil servants then was to go slow and delay implementation because the native population was to be kept under control.

Speaking at a media event, he said that the government should look beyond the present system where the candidates appear for the highly competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) by giving an examination in three or four subjects.

The selected candidates should be taken to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy Of Administration in Mussoorie for training in specialized sectors such as agriculture, defence or manufacturing. He said it would be a departure from the current practice of creating general administrators.

“Maybe Prime Minister Modi, who has done a brilliant job so far in terms of accelerating our economy, may want to look at whether we need more managers in the government rather than administrators,” Narayan Murthy said.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/infosys-founder-narayana-murthy-wants-pm-to-hire-civil-servants-from-b-schools-heres-why-article-115319821

Justice M Nagaprasanna passed the interim order on a petition filed by Surya seeking quashing of the FIR registered against him by the Haveri police following his post on social media platform X.

The Karnataka High Court Thursday issued an interim stay on the investigation against BJP MP Tejasvi Surya in an alleged case of spreading fake news regarding the suicide of a farmer in Haveri district in Karnataka.

Justice M Nagaprasanna passed the interim order on a petition filed by Surya seeking quashing of the FIR registered against him by the Haveri police following his post on social media platform X.

“The Petitioner is a parliamentarian. The allegation is under section 353(2) of the BNS that was 505(2) of the IPC, the earlier regime. The allegation is in terms of a suo motu complaint by the police inspector. His counsel contends the tweet was deleted and takes us through an interview given to the media by the deceased’s father after the tweet was deleted. His response would somehow, vindicate the petitioner’s position although the tweet has been deleted. All this prima facie would not become an offence under section 505 (2) of IPC as is held by Apex court,” the High Court said while staying the FIR and further proceedings against Surya until December 4, the next date of hearing.

Senior Counsel Aruna Shyam, who appeared for Surya, read out Surya’s post and said that Surya had made the post based on a “news report.”

In the post, Surya had said,

“A farmer in Haveri commits suicide after finding his land taken over by Waqf! In their haste to appease minorities, CM Siddaramaiah and Minister B. Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan have unleashed catastrophic effects in Karnataka that are becoming impossible to contain with every passing day”.

Shyam further said that after the police clarified that the man had committed suicide two years ago as he was burdened with loans and debts, Surya had deleted the tweet.

However, the State government opposed Surya’s plea asking the Court to consider if such post was not “promoting enmity between two groups” and having a bad effect on the society prima facie?

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/karnataka-high-court-stays-fir-tejasvi-surya-tweet-linking-farmers-suicide-wakf-board

The petition asked the Court to direct the Central government to ensure WhatsApp’s compliance with the new IT Rules and ban the app’s operations if it refuses to comply.

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) petition seeking directions to the Central government to ban the operations of WhatsApp for its refusal to comply with the new Information Technology Rules (IT Rules) [Omanakuttan KG v WhatsApp Applications Services Private Limited and ors].

A Bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Aravind Kumar passed an order to this effect today.

The petitioner, one Omanakuttan KG, had earlier moved the Kerala High Court seeking directions to the Central government to ban WhatsApp if it does not comply with the orders issued by government authorities.

Omanakuttan filed the plea after WhatsApp moved the Delhi Court challenging the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021(IT rules).

The Kerala High Court in June 2021 dismissed that PIL for being ‘premature’.

This prompted the present PIL before the Supreme Court.

Before the High Court, the petitioner had submitted that WhatsApp had claimed before the Delhi High Court that it is not amenable to IT Rules, 2021 because the end-to-end encryption of the app prevents it from tracing origins of messages.

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/supreme-court-rejects-pil-to-ban-whatsapp

The representation, submitted with video evidence, said that Daljit Dosanjh had already sung songs promoting alcohol, drugs, and violence during a live show in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi last month, the notice pointed out.

Hyderabad: Ahead of Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh’s concert scheduled for Friday in Hyderabad, the Telangana government has issued a notice to the organisers stating that songs promoting alcohol, drug, and violence shall not be sung at the event.

Diljit’s concert here was part of his Dil-Luminati Tour to 10 cities across India. Based on a representation from a resident of Chandigarh, the notice has been issued by the District Welfare Officer of the Department of Welfare of Women and Children, Disabled and Senior Citizens, Rangareddy.

The notice bars Daljit Dosanjh from singing songs promoting alcohol, drugs, and violence during his live show planned at Cyberabad on November 15. The notice also restricted the singer from using children on stage during his show. The notice further said loud sounds and flashing lights during the concert are harmful for the children.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/telangana/no-songs-promoting-drugs-violence-at-concert-diljit-dosanjh-gets-notice-from-telangana-government-3277667

To fulfill PM’s dream project hundreds of workers working at freezing temperatures in Kedarnath.

Kedarnath Dham is experiencing increasingly cold temperatures, with nighttime lows dropping below zero. Despite the harsh winter conditions, reconstruction work in Kedarnath—part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream project—continues at full speed, aiming for completion by the end of this year.

This includes building bridges, a hospital, and the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) building, along with improvements to the Kedarnath-Gaurikund trekking route.

With the increase in cold, night-time temperatures in Kedarnath have dropped to as low as -4°C, and morning temperatures remain chilly. Vinay Kumar, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) in Guptkashi in the Kedarnath division said over 700 workers are engaged along the temple route, pushing to complete critical infrastructure projects.

“The project is likely to be completed by the end of the year and therefore additional workforce have been deployed to meet the target,” he said.

These projects form part of the second phase of reconstruction in Kedarnath, which involves the construction of buildings, bridges, sewer lines, and a sewage treatment plant (STP). The new three-story hospital and the BKTC building are nearing completion, among other key facilities that are set to be finished within the year.

Since the Kedarnath Dham temple gates closed on November 3, construction has intensified, with horses and mules transporting several quintals of building materials daily up the trekking route.

Alongside the buildings, a new sewer line is being laid from the temple path to connect surrounding structures. Near the base camp, work on the sewage treatment plant is also in its final stages.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/uttarakhand-reconstruction-efforts-accelerate-in-kedarnath-amid-freezing-nights-700-workers-push-for-year-end-completion

Mild force used as students wanted to disrupt ‘Punjab Vision: 2047’ event, says UT senior superintendent of police Kanwardeep Kaur. A student leader claims the protesters were not aware of the presence of the chief minister at law auditorium.

A group of protesting students, seeking elections to Panjab University’s (PU) senate, had a clash with cops during a march near the PU Student Centre here on Wednesday morning.

The police said the protesters were heading towards the law auditorium where the ‘Punjab Vision: 2047’ event, in presence of Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann, was being held whereas a student leader claimed the protesters weren’t even aware that the CM was present there. An FIR has been registered but no arrest has been made so far, the police said.

According to UT senior superintendent of police (SSP) Kanwardeep Kaur, leaders and followers of various student organisations, who were staging a sit-in in front of the vice chancellor’s (VC) office, started moving towards the venue of the CM’s event at about 11.45 am in a “pre-planned manner without intimating the PU authorities”. “Near the Student Centre, they began running towards the venue to disrupt the event,” she said.

The police said the protesters were urged to stop but they reached near the Student Centre’s parking area near the venue to disrupt the event. “Finding no other option to control them, the local police and the university security used mild force and made them sit in the parking area,” the SSP said.

The police further mentioned that the protesters were being led by Sandeep, Rimaljit Singh, Avtar, Navjot, Gurvinder, Sara and Monika of different student organisations.

The FIR has been registered under Sections 223 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and 132 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the Sector 11 police station. It was not immediately known who all were named in the FIR.

Meanwhile, Archit Garg, vice president of the Panjab University Campus Students’ Council, claimed that the protesters were not aware about the presence of the CM in the law auditorium. He said the students had planned in advance to take out the march as a mark of symbolic protest from the VC office chowk to the VC’s house via Sector 14 market. “The route was blocked so we marched towards the AC Joshi Library. We went to the Student Centre from there. We had to take a turn from the road outside the law department’s parking but PCR vehicles suddenly stopped in front of us and cops began hitting students without issuing warning,” he claimed. He also said that no female cop was present.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/chandigarh-seeking-senate-elections-10-students-hurt-during-clash-with-cops-at-panjab-university-101731520087292.html

The footage shows the man making his way across the gap, using the pipe as a makeshift bridge to reach the other side. Due to the lack of a proper bridge over the stream, villagers are forced to risk their lives by walking across an iron pipe.

A video has shed light on the plight of villagers in Kalluru of Nirmal-Kuntala district in Telangana where a man is crossing a stream, Sudda Vagu, by sliding through a pipe from one end to the other.
The footage shows the man making his way across the gap, using the pipe as a makeshift bridge to reach the other side. Due to the lack of a proper bridge over the stream, villagers are forced to risk their lives by walking across an iron pipe.

The video shows the lack of basic infrastructure in many parts of Telangana, where people still rely on traditional and risky methods to travel from one village to another.

The situation is particularly severe in the Kalluru-Pata Burugupalli area of Nirmal-Kuntala.

Despite changes in the local government and representatives, the bridge over the Sudda Vagu has not been rebuilt since the previous one collapsed due to heavy rains.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/telangana-news/video-man-slides-down-pipe-to-cross-collapsed-bridge-in-telangana-7011252

A seven-year-old boy, who went for surgery on his left eye at a hospital in Greater Noida, had his right eye operated on.

In a case of medical negligence, a seven-year-old boy, who went for surgery on his left eye at a hospital in Greater Noida, had his right eye operated on. The incident took place at the Anand Spectrum Hospital in Sector Gamma 1 on November 12.
According to the boy’s father, Nitin Bhati, they had taken him to the hospital as his left eye was watering often. After examination, the doctor, Anand Verma, told them that there was a plastic-like object in his eye – which could be cured by operation.

The operation cost ₹ 45,000, officials said.

The doctor conducted the operation on the boy, Yudhisthir, on Tuesday.

Upon reaching home, the boy’s mother noticed that the operation was done on the wrong eye. Following this, his parents confronted the doctor, but he and his staff misbehaved with them, the police said.

The family created a ruckus at the hospital and filed a complaint with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Gautam Buddha Nagar.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/cities/7-year-old-goes-for-surgery-greater-noida-doctor-operates-on-wrong-eye-7015593

According to Rajasthan police, the incident took place in Samravata village of Deoli-Uniyara during a protest by supporters of an independent candidate.

A major violence broke out in the Deoli-Uniara assembly constituency in Rajasthan’s Tonk district after Independent candidate Naresh Meena allegedly slapped sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Amit Chaudhary at a polling station on Wednesday.

The incident, which took place in Tonk district’s Samravata village, led to violence, arson, and clashes between police and supporters of Meena, who is running as an Independent candidate in the poll-bound constituency.

Ajmer range inspector-general of police Om Prakash confirmed that 60 people were arrested following the chaos that ensued after the alleged assault.

“There was a ruckus, stone pelting, and arson incident in Samravata village late last night when police tried to apprehend Naresh Meena, Independent candidate for Deoli-Uniara assembly constituency by-polls in Tonk district after he allegedly physically assaulted SDM Amit Chaudhary at a polling booth yesterday,” he said.

“Many vehicles were set on fire and vandalised. So far, 60 people have been arrested in this case,” Prakash told news agency ANI.

Naresh Meena’s response

Independent candidate Meena told news agency PTI that the district collector and SP were responsible for the entire episode. “All 60 people who have been arrested are innocent. If anyone should be punished, then it should be me,” he said.

In response to the incident, Meena had taken to social media platform X earlier, stating, “Main theek hu… na dare the na darenge, aage ki ranniti bata di jayegi (I am fine… I am not scared and will never be, will inform about further plans).”

The woman’s alleged rape and murder, a mother of three, led to a series of violent clashes in Manipur’s Jiribam district since November 7.

The autopsy report of a 31-year-old tribal woman, who was killed in Manipur’s conflict-torn Jiribam district, revealed signs of third-degree torture before she was allegedly raped and her house was set on fire, The Times of India reported.

The FIR registered by the police in Jiribam quotes her husband alleging that she was “brutally raped” by armed militants from the Imphal Valley. The miscreants also plundered her house and set 17 homes ablaze in the Zairwan village that night, the report said.

An autopsy performed on the woman’s body by Assam’s Silchar Medical College could not ascertain if the woman was raped, as her charred remains ruled out any chances of collecting a vaginal smear.

The Times of India report notes that the woman was found with 99% of her body, even bone fragments, charred. The autopsy notes “a wound in the back of right thigh” and a “metallic nail embedded in the medial aspect of the left thigh.” The report also noted that “the right upper limb, parts of both lower limb, and the facial structure are missing.”

The autopsy findings reveal that the woman was alive when she was subject to brutal torture. After torturing her, the militants allegedly raped her and set her home on fire.

The Manipur Police said her remains were sent to Silchar instead of the state capital, Imphal, as it was “very much inconvenient to transport the body by road via National Highway-37 due to ongoing ethnic crisis” in the northeastern state.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/manipur-mother-of-3-tortured-before-being-set-on-fire-in-jiribam-finds-autopsy-report-101731546880183.html

The earthquake occurred at 10:43 am in the Afghanistan region and the tremors were felt in the Kashmir Valley.

The quake occurred at 10:43 am in the Afghanistan region, officials told PTI.

The tremors were felt in the Kashmir Valley, causing panic among the people as they rushed outdoors.

The 2005 Kashmir Earthquake, which struck on October 8, 2005, was one of the most devastating seismic events in the region’s history. With a magnitude of 7.6, its epicentre was located near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), but it caused widespread destruction across Jammu and Kashmir in India. The earthquake claimed over 80,000 lives in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, while the death toll in Jammu and Kashmir was also significant, with hundreds of people killed and thousands more injured.

Earlier in November, a minor earthquake struck near Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, at a depth of approximately 10 jm, causing weak tremors felt by residents in surrounding areas. According to the Richter scale, the quake recorded a magnitude of 4.3.

Tremors were felt in several locations, including Ranchi and Taimad, prompting residents to evacuate their homes. The tremors lasted around five seconds and were strongest near the epicentre, in the east of Chandil. Despite noticeable shaking in nearby areas, including Jamshedpur and Chakradharpur, no immediate damage or injuries were reported.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/earthquake-of-magnitude-5-2-strikes-jammu-and-kashmir-article-115244587

ED is conducting raids 13 locations in Ahmedabad, three in Surat, two premises in Malegaon, Nashik, and five in Mumbai, it said.

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday said that multiple raids across several locations are ongoing in relation to an alleged cash-for-votes case, news agency

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/ed-raids-ongoing-in-gujarat-maharashtra-over-alleged-cash-for-votes-case-3275980

Dev Deepawali is celebrated annually on Kartik Purnima. The celebrations this year will be held on November 15.

Varanasi: Laser shows depicting the history of Kashi, stories of saints and seers, and the significance of the Ganga River’s “decent to earth” will captivate visitors arriving for the Dev Deepawali celebrations here, officials said on Thursday.

Dev Deepawali is celebrated annually on Kartik Purnima. The celebrations this year will be held on November 15.

A blend of tradition and modern technology, the 25-minute 3D laser shows will run four times a day at 5.30 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm, and 8.45 pm. It will feature 24 high-powered projectors, creating vivid images of Kashi’s religious and cultural evolution on the ghats’ historic buildings, they said.

“The grand celebration will feature the iconic Deepmalas and the renowned Ganga Aarti but the highlight will be the immersive multimedia experience that brings to life the rich spiritual and mythological history of Kashi,” Divisional Commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma said.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/3d-laser-shows-to-enthral-visitors-at-dev-deepawali-celebrations-in-kashi-3275914

Complementing DRDO on the successful launch, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said this paves the way for future indigenous cruise missile development programmes

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday (November 12, 2024) conducted the maiden flight-test of a Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM), with a range of 1,000 km, from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha from a mobile articulated launcher. This is a new variant of the Nirbhay LRLACM with improved features, officials confirmed.

The Defence Acquisition Council had approved procurement of the LRLACM of over 1,000 km range in July 2020.

During the test, all sub-systems performed as per expectation and met the primary mission objectives. The missile performance was monitored by several range sensors like Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System and telemetry deployed by ITR at different locations to ensure complete coverage of the flight path.

“The missile followed the desired path using way point navigation and demonstrated its capability to perform various manoeuvres while flying at various altitudes and speeds. The missile is also equipped with advanced avionics and software to ensure better and reliable performance,” DRDO said in a statement.

The missile has been developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru along with contribution from other DRDO laboratories and Indian industries. Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited, Bengaluru are the two Development-cum-Production-Partners for LRLACM and they are engaged in the missile development and integration, DRDO said.

“LRLACM is a Defence Acquisition Council-approved, Acceptance of Necessity-sanctioned, Mission Mode Project. It is configured to launch from ground using mobile articulated launcher and also from frontline ships using universal vertical launch module system,” DRDO stated.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-carries-maiden-test-of-land-attack-long-range-cruise-missile/article68861163.ece

Lawrence Bishnoi first grabbed headlines when he publicly threatened to kill Bollywood actor Salman Khan in 2018.

Lawrence Bishnoi, the alleged mastermind behind the killings of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique and Punjabi singer-politician Sidhu Moose Wala, was arrested for the first time about 13 years ago when he set fire to some vehicles in Chandigarh after a fight with a student leader.
Bishnoi, who was involved in student politics at Panjab University back then, was in police custody for a day, former Chandigarh inspector Amanjot Singh told NDTV on Tuesday.

A son of a police constable in Punjab, he was only 18 when he set vehicles parked outside Sector 11 in Chandigarh on fire, the officer said.

“He was very innocent at that time. When the police used to arrest him, he sometimes called the officials uncle or sir,” Mr Singh said.

“He did whatever his party leadership told him,” Mr Singh said, adding that he “never thought” that Bishnoi would become “such a big gangster”.

Mr Singh, who arrested the 31-year-old dreaded gangster numerous times, said that when Bishnoi was arrested for the sixth time, he had said that the “police of 7-8 states will search” for him.

Lawrence Bishnoi first grabbed headlines when he publicly threatened to kill Bollywood actor Salman Khan in 2018, accusing him of allegedly poaching two blackbuck antelopes – a revered animal for Rajasthan’s Bishnoi community to which he belongs.

During a court appearance in Jodhpur, Bishnoi said, “We will kill Salman Khan. Everyone will know once we take action.”

Incidentally, Baba Siddique, who was shot dead by three persons in Mumbai last month, was known to be Salman Khan’s close friend.

Bishnoi is also the prime accused in the murder of Sidhu Moose Wala, who was shot dead in Punjab in 2022.

“Lawrence Bishnoi Transformed In Jail”
Mr Singh said that Lawrence Bishnoi initially worked on his party leadership’s instructions but later “transformed” in the jail.

“Initially, he kept working on his party leadership’s instructions. But when he kept going to jail, his transformation happened very fast. He came in contact with big gangsters and his influence kept increasing,” he said.

“When he kept going to jail, some prisoners who had committed major crimes felt that there was something special about Bishnoi. They then started using him,” Mr Singh said.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/when-gangster-lawrence-bishnoi-was-arrested-for-the-first-time-7006586

Russia’s first deputy Denis Manturov said two-way trade between India and Russia has grown more than five-fold in the past five years.

India is confident of achieving commerce worth $100 billion with Russia before the target date of 2030 though the two sides need to address constraints to ensure trade is more balanced, external affairs minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday.

The two sides have seen “perceptible progress” in tackling challenges to trade, especially issues related to payments and logistics, but there is “still some work to be done”, Jaishankar said while co-chairing a meeting of the main body that oversees bilateral trade and technical cooperation with Russia’s first deputy prime minister Denis Manturov.

Jaishankar’s remarks built on his comments at the India-Russia Business Forum in Mumbai on Monday about the need to address the imbalance in bilateral trade. India has run up a trade deficit of almost $57 billion with Russia, largely due to massive purchases of Russian crude since 2022. In July, the two sides set a target of ramping up trade to $100 billion by 2030.

India is confident about achieving this trade target well before 2030, Jaishankar said in his opening remarks at the meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation (IGC-TEC) as the two economies are complementary and benefit from “trust and confidence built over many years”.

While growth in bilateral trade, currently estimated at $66 billion, is impressive, the two sides have some way to go in tackling challenges, Jaishankar said.

“Our goal is that [trade] needs to be more balanced and that will require addressing current constraints and undertaking greater facilitative efforts. Making it easier to do trade should be accompanied by progress in negotiations on the India-Eurasian Economic Union FTA,” he said.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-to-achieve-100-billion-trade-with-russia-well-before-2030-target-jaishankar-101731422314727.html

Mallikarjun Kharge had attacked Yogi Adityanath’s attire during an election rally on Sunday.

BJP leader and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday reacted to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent attack on him, saying the latter should be angry at the Hyderabad Nizam whose “Razakars burnt your village”.

“These days Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is unnecessarily getting angry at me. He is furious. Kharge ji, don’t get angry at me, I respect your age. If you want to get angry, get angry at the Hyderabad Nizam. The Hyderabad Nizam’s Razakars burned your village, brutally killed Hindus, and burnt your respected mother, sister, and your family members. Present this truth before the country that whenever they will be divided, they will be divided in the same brutal manner,” he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

On Sunday, Kharge made an indirect reference to Yogi Adityanath, saying some people who “live in the guise of sadhus” have become politicians.

The Razakars were a paramilitary force formed by the erstwhile Nawab of Hyderabad before Independence to resist its integration with India.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/yogi-adityanath-attacks-mallikarjun-kharge-be-angry-at-razakars-who-burnt-your-village-101731410675975.html

The Supreme Court will decide on the issue of framing a pan-India guidelines to regulate “bulldozer” action by authorities.

The Supreme Court will deliver its verdict on Wednesday, November 13, on pleas seeking to stop authorities’ “bulldozer” action against accused persons as a punitive measure. The top court will decide on framing pan-India guidelines to prevent the“illegal” demolition of homes and other properties.

On October 1, the court extended its interim order, asking authorities to stop demolition drives until further orders were received. The interim order did not apply to unauthorised constructions, including religious structures on roads and footpaths. The court also remarked that “public safety” is paramount, and no religious structure, be it a temple, dargah, or gurdwara, in the middle of the road can obstruct the public.

During the hearings, the court observed that being accused or convicted of a crime was no grounds for authorities to initiate bulldozer action against homes and shops.

“We are a secular country… Whatever we lay down… we lay down for all citizens. There cannot be a particular law for a particular religion. Unauthorised constructions belonging to members of any community have to go, no matter their religion or faith,” remarked Justice Gavai orally in court.

The top court also noted the existence of different laws for municipal corporations and nagar panchayats and said they were only concerned about misuse of the municipal laws. While deliberating on framing pan-India guidelines, the court also suggested an online portal for awareness.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/supreme-courts-key-verdict-on-bulldozer-justice-today-what-happened-in-hearings-101731458773470.html

Calm winds prevailed across the region and continued to prevent the dispersion of pollutants deteriorating the air quality to the higher end of the “very poor” category

A “dense fog” blanketed Delhi for the first time this season on Wednesday dipping visibility to zero at the Delhi airport even as calm winds prevailed across the region and continued to prevent the dispersion of pollutants deteriorating the air quality to the higher end of the “very poor” category.

An average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 361 (very poor) was recorded at 8am compared to 334 (very poor) at 4pm on Tuesday. Only Ayanagar out of the 36 monitoring stations recorded a severe average AQI of 417 at 8am. Lodhi Road (268) and Aurobindo Marg (275) recorded “poor” air quality. Overall, this was the 15th consecutive day of “very poor” air quality.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) classifies AQI between 0-50 as “good”, 51 and 100 as “satisfactory”, 101 and 200 as “moderate”, 201 and 300 as “poor”, 301 and 400 as “very poor”, and over 400 as “severe”.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials said the visibility at the Delhi airport (Palam) was 100 metres at 6am before dipping to zero at 8:30am. “This is the first dense fog for Delhi this season. Visibility was zero at the Delhi airport (Palam) at 8:30am and the runway visual range was 125 metres. Similar fog was reported across northwest India with zero visibility reported at Amritsar and Hindon airports, 150 metres at Deoghar airport, and around 200 metres at Chandigarh and Gorakhpur,” said an IMD official.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/dense-fog-blankets-delhi-visibility-dips-to-zero-at-palam-101731469904125.html

Himachal Pradesh Cyber Police have issued a warning advising residents to be cautious of messages from unknown numbers, especially those containing attachments.

As the wedding season peaks, many people are receiving invitations via WhatsApp, a convenient and cost-effective method compared to traditional paper cards. However, this growing trend has caught the attention of cybercriminals who are exploiting it to launch a new type of scam. A harmless-looking wedding invitation sent to your phone could be the gateway to a serious cyber attack that could compromise your entire phone and personal data.

According to officials from Himachal Pradesh Police, scammers are now sending malicious wedding invitations through WhatsApp in the form of APK files. When unsuspecting recipients download these files, their phones are infected with malware that allows cybercriminals to gain full access to their devices. Once the malware is active, hackers can send messages from the infected phone, steal personal data, and even extort money without the owner’s knowledge.

How the Scam Works

The scam typically begins with a WhatsApp message from an unknown number, claiming to be a wedding invitation. The message includes a file attachment that appears legitimate but is actually a harmful APK file. Once the recipient downloads the file, an application is secretly installed on the phone. This malicious app can access sensitive data, monitor activities, and even hijack the phone’s functions.

Despite being within the warranty period, Marwar Motors allegedly charged the farmer for each repair. When the tractor broke down for the fifth time, a frustrated Jeetu parked it outside the agency and set it ablaze

In a shocking incident in Rajasthan’s Dholpur, a farmer set his tractor on fire outside the Marwar Motor Agency, the dealership from which he had purchased it. The farmer, frustrated with persistent issues with the tractor, reportedly paid for repairs four times despite it being under warranty.

According to sources, Jeetu, son of Bhikam Singh Thakur and a resident of Dholpur district, bought a new tractor from the Marwar Motors’ Dholpur agency around one-and-a-half years ago. However, the tractor suffered constant malfunctions like damage in the clutch plate, emitting black smoke, and engine issues.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/frustrated-with-repeated-repairs-dholpur-farmer-sets-tractor-ablaze-outside-motor-agency-9118455.html

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that it has framed the “Menstrual Hygiene Policy for School-Going Girls,” which was approved by the Union Health Ministry on November 2, 2024, in response to a PIL seeking free sanitary pads and better facilities for female students.

A recent video from the Indian Army’s Leh based 14 Corps showcases their unwavering dedication, as they transport a 1,200 kg air defense gun to a high-altitude post.

An old adage – when going gets tough, tough gets going – fits well on Indian m n in olive – guarding one of the most challenging and difficult frontiers of the world.

Here Is The Video:

This video demonstrates remarkable dedication and resilience of Indian soldiers deployed along LAC.

See how under challenging circumstances these soldiers climb upto high altitude post with heavy weaponry and logistic.

The Army is bracing for another challenging winter in Ladakh, one of the most challenging military deployments in the world, as the winter sets in. Despite patrolling agreement and disengement between India and China, this sector remains highly guarded.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/braving-the-extreme-indian-soldiers-in-ladakh-gearing-themselves-for-another-harsh-winter-video-article-115218906

DRDO on Tuesday conducted the maiden flight-test of Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).

Here’s The Video: 

The missile followed the desired path using way point navigation and demonstrated its capability to perform various manoeuvres while flying at various altitudes and speeds. The missile is also equipped with advanced avionics and software to ensure better and reliable performance.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/long-range-land-attack-cruise-missile-successfully-test-fired-off-odisha-coast-by-drdo-video-article-115223702

Rahul Chaudhary, a native of Meerut district and an English graduate, was growing a variety of cannabis in planters in his flat on the 10th floor with a sophisticated cultivation setup, they said.

Noida: A Greater Noida resident was arrested on Tuesday after he was found illegally cultivating cannabis inside his apartment in a housing society, police said on Tuesday.

Rahul Chaudhary, a native of Meerut district and an English graduate, was growing a variety of cannabis in planters in his flat on the 10th floor with a sophisticated cultivation setup, they said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Greater Noida) Saad Miya Khan said 80 ganja plants along with over 2 kg of cannabis were seized from the apartment of the accused.

He had been cultivating cannabis for about six months. He was inspired by web series and crime dramas to get into the illegal cultivation of the contraband in his apartment, the DCP said.

Chaudhary was held near the P-3 roundabout in the Beta-2 area by the local Beta-2 police station officials along with those from Ecotech-1 police station and in coordination with the Anti-Narcotics Team of the district, Khan said.

Police then raided his residence, Flat No. 1001, Tower 5, Parsvnath Panorama, and seized approximately 2.070 kg of cannabis and 163.4 grams of high-grade ‘OG’ cannabis.

“The accused was utilising advanced aeroponic techniques, which he learned through online resources, to cultivate cannabis in a fully controlled environment.

“He had invested in specialised equipment to regulate temperature, lighting and humidity within the flat, creating ideal conditions for growing cannabis without soil,” DCP Khan told reporters.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/greater-noida-80-ganja-plants-2-kg-cannabis-seized-from-apartment-one-arrested-3273324

Addressing a press conference at the Manipur Press Club today, the convenor of the organization, Thokchom Sujata, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and unrest in the region.

The powerful women’s organization Imagi Meira in Manipur has once again called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and bring about a permanent solution to the ongoing crisis and violence.

Addressing a press conference at the Manipur Press Club, the convenor of the organization, Thokchom Sujata, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and unrest in the region.

Sujata highlighted the deteriorating situation in Manipur, with innocent civilians falling victim to the ongoing conflict. “In the past week, the situation has turned even more volatile, with civilians, including a woman farmer, being killed in Bishnupur district, and two others sustaining injuries in Imphal East. Additionally, two civilians have been killed, and seven, including minors and women, remain missing in Jiribam district,” she said.

The organization has long been urging both the state and central governments to take decisive action to resolve the conflict. Sujata emphasized that the lack of response from authorities has been deeply disheartening for the people of Manipur. She drew attention to the grave humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, stressing the urgent need for intervention.

“We have repeatedly appealed to the government, but the failure to address the issue continues to be a matter of great concern. It is frustrating to see that despite our efforts, the authorities have not taken concrete steps,” Sujata said.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/manipur-womens-group-imagi-meira-urges-pm-modi-to-act-for-lasting-peace-amid-escalating-state-violence

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken a significant step to curb stubble burning by issuing orders to ensure the imposition of revised Environmental Compensation (EC) in cases of stubble burning instances.

In a stricter move to curb air pollution, the Haryana government has doubled the fine for stubble burning, now for two acres of land the farmers will have to pay an environmental compensation fee of ₹ 5,000 up from ₹ 2,500 and the fine collection so far stands at ₹ 1.65 lakh.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Babu Lal said, “In Kaithal district, 172 cases of stubble burning have been identified so far and 67 cases were uncertain but we have registered cases on 93 of them. The fine collection so far stands at ₹ 1.65 lakh. According to the new rules, the fine for land up to 2 acres has been doubled from ₹ 2500 to ₹ 5000.”

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken a significant step to curb stubble burning by issuing orders to ensure the imposition of revised Environmental Compensation (EC) in cases of stubble burning instances.

The directive was issued on November 7, 2024, and is addressed to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change press release.

According to the notification of the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Delhi region and adjoining areas (imposition, collection and utilization of environmental compensation for stubble burning) Amendment Rules, 2024 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide Notification No. G.S.R. 690(E) dated November 6, rates of EC for stubble burning have been revised.

Under the revised rules from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, farmers with less than two acres who earlier paid ₹ 2,500 will now have to pay ₹ 5,000, the release mentioned.

Whereas, farmers having an area of land of two acres or more but less than five acres who used to pay ₹ 5,000 earlier will now have to pay ₹ 10000 as per the amended rules. Farmers having an area of land of more than five acres who used to pay ₹ 15,000 will now have to pay ₹ 30,000.

The Commission through its order issued on November 7, has authorized all Nodal and Supervisory Officers appointed by the respective governments in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, NCR areas of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to impose fines and collect Environmental Compensation from farmers causing air pollution by stubble burning, as per the revised rates. This order is required to be implemented by the respective state governments with immediate effect.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/haryana-doubles-fine-for-stubble-burning-rs-1-65-lakh-collected-in-fines-6996831

Ministry of Defence said that the ‘Antariksha Abhyas’ is a three-day exercise. “It is being conducted by the Defence Space Agency of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff from 11 to 13 November,” the ministry said.

India has initiated its first-ever space exercise called ‘Antariksha Abhyas – 2024’ which is being hosted by the Defence Space Agency.
Ministry of Defence said that the ‘Antariksha Abhyas’ is a three-day exercise. “It is being conducted by the Defence Space Agency of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff from 11 to 13 November,” the ministry said.

It added that ‘Exercise Antariksha Abhyas’ is a first-of-its-kind and is expected to help secure national strategic objectives in space and integrate India’s space capability in military operations.

At the ‘Antariksha Abhyas 2024’, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan said: “Space, once considered the final frontier is now the critical enabler of India’s defence and security apparatus. With its rich legacy of space exploration and growing military capabilities, India is well positioned to navigate the challenges posed to space-based capabilities”.

Highlighting that space was becoming increasingly congested, contested, competitive and commercial, the CDS impressed upon the military leadership to secure our national interests in space by fostering innovation and developing cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art systems in collaboration with DRDO, ISRO and Academia.

Ministry of Defence said that this space exercise aims to provide an enhanced understanding of space-based assets and services and to gain an understanding of operational dependency on space segments between stakeholders.

In addition, it intends to identify vulnerabilities in the conduct of operations in the event of denial or disruptions of space-based services. It will have participants from the Defence Space Agency and its allied units along with personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indias-first-ever-space-exercise-antariksha-abhyas-begins-in-delhi-6996620

At least 1o militants were killed in an encounter with the security forces in Manipur’s Jiribam district.

SC notice to Centre on plea for robust policy for establishing a mandatory age verification system at all points of alcohol sale across country. Direct mandatory biometric age-match checks at liquor vends, bars, pubs and other watering holes, says PIL.

This could be a major development which may pave way for addressing the growing concerns of underage drinking and alcohol-related accidents especially involving children and under-aged youth which is on a steep rise and brought into sharp focus through incidents like Pune Porsche case.

CADD a non-governmental organization that has been working for 23 years in preventing alcohol-related tragedies.

Plea sought directions to implement a robust policy for establishing a mandatory age verification system at all points of alcohol sale, creating a uniform framework for alcohol regulation across states, and reducing and preventing the increasing menace of drunken driving.

The petition highlights the stark disparity in legal drinking age across different states in India.

While Goa permits alcohol consumption from the age of 18, Delhi maintains a higher threshold at 25 years.

This variation extends to other states as well – Maharashtra prescribes 25 years, while Karnataka and Tamil Nadu allow drinking at 18.

Senior Advocate P B Suresh and Vipin Nair Advocate-On-Record appeared for the PIL Petitioner.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/age-be-mandatorily-verified-when-youth-appearing-to-be-under-25-buys-liquor-sc-agrees-to-examine-article-115198237

The Enforcement Directorate is probing a large syndicate operating across Jharkhand and West Bengal that is facilitating the illegal infiltration.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday launched raids in 17 locations across Jharkhand and West Bengal in connection with a money laundering probe involving illegal infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals, people familiar with the development said.

The federal agency had in September filed a PMLA case based on an FIR lodged at Bariyatu police station in Ranchi over the trafficking of some Bangladeshi and Rohingya girls from the neighbouring country into Jharkhand. It is alleged that the girls had obtained identity documents, including Aadhaar, in Hindu names.

ED is probing a large syndicate operating across Jharkhand and West Bengal that is facilitating the illegal infiltration.

Illegal infiltration has become a poll issue in Jharkhand in this year’s assembly elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in September, accused the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led coalition government in the state of “supporting” Bangladeshi and Rohingya infiltrators for vote bank politics, and alleged that the tribal population is “rapidly decreasing” in Santhal Parganas region as these illegal migrants are establishing control over the panchayat system.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/bangladeshi-infiltration-ed-conducts-raids-in-jharkhand-and-west-bengal-101731382284481.html

The division bench of High Court comprising senior judges Dinesh Mehta and Vineet Kumar Mathur had given orders on the application moved by Asaram.

Self proclaimed godman Asaram who is serving life imprisonment in the rape case of a minor has been granted parole for 30 days for treatment at a private Ayurvedic hospital located at Bhagat Ki Kothi in Jodhpur. He was brought by ambulance on Sunday night and admitted to the hospital.

The division bench of High Court comprising senior judges Dinesh Mehta and Vineet Kumar Mathur had given orders on the application moved by Asaram. He has been granted parole for treatment for the second time in 11 years. Earlier, he was out of jail for 7 days in August when he was taken to Maharashtra.

Asaram’s counsels had sought permission for treatment for an indefinite period until the doctor discharges him from the hospital.

Government counsel Additional Advocate General Deepak Chaudhary argued for permission of 30 days. After hearing the arguments of both the parties, the High Court granted parole to Asaram for treatment for 30 days.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/rajasthan-asaram-bapu-granted-30-day-parole-for-medical-treatment-at-jodhpur-ayurvedic-hospital

The people who witnessed the shameful act of the police constable were stunned by his actions and few people began recording a video of the incident. The police constable showed no sign of embarrassment, despite being filmed by the people present at the spot.

A shameful video has come to the fore tarnishing the image of the Uttar Pradesh Police. A person can do anything under the influence of alcohol without taking into consideration the consequences of their actions. A similar video has hit the internet in which a constable shocked the passersby as he unzipped his pants and urinated in front of them in the middle of the road in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

The people who witnessed the shameful act of the police constable were stunned by his actions and few people began recording a video of the incident. The police constable showed no sign of embarrassment, despite being filmed by the people present at the spot. The video has gone viral on social media and the video is an embarrassment for the entire police department in the state.

The incident occurred outside Shaheed Nagar Police Outpost in Agra’s Sadar Police Station area on Monday morning at around 8 AM. The video of the incident is doing rounds on social media and the internet users are slamming the police constable for his shameful act in the middle of the road and in front of a crowd. The constable has been identified as Bablu Gautam who is stationed at Shaheed Nagar Police Outpost.

It is being reported that the constable was off-duty at the time of the incident. However, he can be seen in the video, wearing the uniform, urinating in the middle of the road without even wearing his shoes. He is seen urinating without any hesitation on the road even while the vehicles are passing close by and also the people recording the video.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/viral-video-drunk-constable-unzips-and-urinates-in-middle-of-road-outside-police-station-in-agra-suspended

A Delhi government report reveals that nearly a quarter of all deaths in the capital in 2023 were due to infectious diseases like cholera and tuberculosis.

Infections Cause 24 of Delhi Deaths in 2023

Witnesses reported that the man, appearing to be intoxicated, climbed the high-tension pole near a metro station and began dancing, despite the dangers of the live wires. A large crowd quickly gathered at the scene, some urging him to come down, while others recorded the incident on their phones.

In a bizarre turn of events, a man was seen dancing atop a high-voltage electric tower in Noida’s Sector 113 on Sunday afternoon. The shocking incident, which occurred around 1:30 pm, prompted a swift response from the police, fire services, and power department officials.
Witnesses reported that the man, appearing to be intoxicated, climbed the high-tension pole near a metro station and began dancing, despite the dangers of the live wires. A large crowd quickly gathered at the scene, some urging him to come down, while others recorded the incident on their phones.

Emergency services worked tirelessly to bring the situation under control. After around two hours, the man finally descended the pole with the help of police and fire personnel. He narrowly avoided serious injury when he made contact with the electric wires.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/city/noida/watch-young-man-climbs-high-voltage-electric-tower-in-noida-dances-on-top-of-it-article-115150344

S Jaishankar said while a lot of countries are nervous about the US, following the return of Donald Trump as President, India is not one among them.

“Yes, there is a shift. We are ourselves an example of the shift… if you look at our economic weight, you look at our economic ranking, you look at even Indian corporates, their reach, their presence, Indian professionals, which I spoke about. So no question there is a rebalancing,” S Jaishankar said in response to a question on the reset in the global power dynamic that was playing out amid the shift in the balance of power from the west to the east.

“And to my mind, it was inevitable,” he said, adding, “because once these countries after the colonial period got their independence, they started making their own policy choices, then they were bound to grow.”

“The part which is not inevitable is that some grew faster, some grew slower, some grew better, and there the quality of governance and the quality of leadership came in. So, there is, in a sense, therefore, the constant and the variable.”

“There is a trend towards a more diverse, multipolar world. But there is also, you know, a period when countries really surge ahead. I mean, it’s like what happened in the corporate world as well.”

He, however, said the industrialised economies in the West cannot be ignored and remain prime investment targets.

“But do remember one thing, the older, the western economies, the older industrialised economies, they have not gone away. They still count, they are still prime investment targets. They are big markets, strong technology centres, hubs for innovation. So let’s recognise the shift, but let’s not get carried away and kind of overstate it and distort our own understanding of the world,” the minister said.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/why-india-isnt-nervous-about-donald-trumps-return-eam-jaishankar-explains-article-115158818 

The company stated that the delivery partner did not work on Diwali, and his income figures reported in the video do not reflect the actual earnings.

Online food delivery platform Zomato has responded to a viral video in which a delivery person claimed to have earned only Rs 300 while fulfilling orders on Diwali. The Meerut-based Zomato agent claimed that he worked six hours on Diwali, delivering a total of eight orders. This incident sparked a wider conversation about the working conditions of delivery partners during festivals.

Following the criticism, Zomato issued a clarification on the social media platform, labelling the video “inaccurate and disturbing.” The company stated that the delivery partner did not work on Diwali, and his income figures reported in the video do not reflect the actual earnings. Zomato emphasised that they prioritise competitive earnings for their delivery partners, especially during festive times.

“Recent articles around one of our delivery partners from Meerut earning Rs 300 for working more than 6 hours on the day of Diwali were inaccurate and disturbing to us. Our delivery partners are at the heart of our service, and we ensure they are offered great earning opportunities to appreciate their hard work and dedication, especially during festivals,” Zomato wrote in a post on X.

The company added that the delivery partner did not work on Diwali. “He worked for 6 hours on 30th October (he did not log in on the day of Diwali, as mentioned in the news articles). He delivered 10 orders and cumulatively earned Rs 695. On the same day, a lot of delivery partners who devoted an average of 10 hours in Meerut earned between Rs 1200-Rs 1300, “ the post read.

In the tweet, the food delivery giant also stated, “Misreported figures and narratives can impact the livelihood, motivation, and dignity of individuals working in these roles. We request everyone to avoid spreading misinformation.”

Zomato delivery agent, Ritik Tomar shared an Instagram Reels, narrating how he relentlessly worked on Diwali to deliver food orders. Starting his shift at 5 PM, Ritik showed his surroundings decked up with decorations and lights as he went from one delivery to the next.

Source: https://www.news18.com/viral/zomatos-refutes-delivery-agents-viral-claim-that-he-earned-only-rs-300-on-diwali-night-9114810.html

Officials of the state who carry out or sanction such unlawful action must be proceeded against for disciplinary action, the top Court said.

“Justice through bulldozers” is unknown to any civilized system of jurisprudence and simply unacceptable under the rule of law, the Supreme Court recently said while criticizing the trend of punitive demolition of constructions in the country [In Re Manoj Tibrewal Akash] .

The Bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stressed that the State must follow due process of law before taking action to remove illegal encroachments or unlawfully constructed structures.

“Justice through bulldozers is unknown to any civilized system of jurisprudence. There is a grave danger that if high handed and unlawful behaviour is permitted by any wing or officer of the state, demolition of citizens’ properties will take place as a selective reprisal for extraneous reasons. Citizens’ voices cannot be throttled by a threat of destroying their properties and homesteads,” the top court said.

The observations have been made in one of the last judgments written by CJI Chandrachud before his retirement.

Citizens’ voices cannot be throttled by a threat of destroying their properties and homesteads. The ultimate security which a human being possesses is to the homestead.
Supreme Court of India
The Court made the observations in a case where a senior journalist wrote a letter to the top court in 2019 complaining that his ancestral residential house was demolished without notice by authorities in Uttar Pradesh.

While the authorities claimed that the house was on a road which was notified as a national highway, the journalist said demolition was a reprisal for a newspaper report that contained allegations of wrongdoing in relation to the road’s construction.

Finding the entire process followed by the State to be high handed, the Court directed the State of Uttar Pradesh to pay ₹25 lakh compensation as an interim measure to the victim.

Such high-handed and unilateral action by the State government cannot be countenanced, the Court said as it went on to comment on what has come to be known as “bulldozer justice” – where the authorities demolish the properties of those alleged to be involved in criminal offences.

The Court said while the law does not condone unlawful occupation of public property and encroachments, the ultimate security which a human being possesses is his house.

It went to explain that there are municipal laws and town-planning legislation which contain adequate provisions for dealing with illegal encroachments.

The safeguards which are provided in the laws must be observed, the Court stressed.

Calling “bulldozer justice” unacceptable, the top court called for action against officials who carry out or order such punitive action.

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/bulldozer-justice-simply-unacceptable-civilised-system-supreme-court