Category: India

The Madras High Court on Monday questioned the continued usage of the term “Gender Identity Disorder” to describe the state of persons who identify themselves as transgender or part of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.

Justice Anand Venkatesh opined that it is inappropriate to use such terms since it presumes that LGBTQIA+ persons are suffering from a disorder, when their sexual orientations and gender identities are natural.

“(Even) big countries are trying to say there is nothing like that (LGBTQ+ identities) … Somehow impression is given it (LGBTQ+ identities) is a disorder. Why would you use this language – ‘Gender Identity Disorder’? it shows the mindset. Whereas what we are trying to do is tell the whole world, there is no disorder (in people being part of LGBTQ+ community). Nature has decided to create someone this way,” he said.

He added that if the society’s mindset does not change to accept such people as natural, all other efforts will ultimately go to waste.

“You can bring any change in curriculum, but if you continue to say these persons are suffering from “Gender Identity Disorder”, all of this is waste, because fundamentally we are not changing (our mindset)” the judge said.

The Court also criticised the National Medical Commission (NMC) for dragging its feet when it came to introducing changes to its regulations and the curriculum in medical schools to do away with outdated notions about the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Bench was told today that the NMC had failed to implement several proactive suggestions made by an expert committee on this issue.

“(Scientific institutions at the level of NMC) are assuming such persons are suffering from “Gender Identity Disorder”! And these are persons who are supposed to be looking at facts as facts,” Justice Venkatesh said.

The Court was also told that the NMC was yet to amend its regulations to classify conversion therapy as professional misconduct as the revised regulations introduced in 2023 were yet to be notified.

The judge proceeded to suggest that the existing regulations from 2004 be amended for now, so that conversion therapy is treated as misconduct.

“2004 regulations are in force. Therefore, till the new regulations come into force, steps can be taken to amend the existing regulations and to incorporate conversion therapy as professional misconduct,” the Court said.

The order was passed on a case that began in 2021 with a lesbian couple’s plea for protection in the face of opposition from their parents to their relationship.

Over time, Justice Venkatesh broadened the scope of the case and issued several directives for the welfare of LGBTQIA+ persons, including the legal recognition of LGBTQIA+ relationships, the need to revamp the curriculum in medical colleges to tackle queerphobia and a proposal to have a State policy for the welfare of the LGBTQIA+ community.

During today’s hearing, the State informed the Court that it was proposing to have two policies – one for the welfare of transgender and intersex persons and another for others who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/dont-refer-gender-identity-disorder-madras-high-court

The incident has sparked widespread concern among travellers, who are now questioning the reliability of airport equipment.

A passenger flying IndiGo from Chandigarh to Delhi recently reported a discrepancy at the airport check-in counter. When weighing his luggage, the scales at two different counters displayed different readings for the same bag, raising concerns about the accuracy of the equipment. The passenger explained that he initially suspected an issue because his bag felt lighter than the weight displayed on the machine. When he expressed his concerns to the IndiGo staff member at the counter, she suggested that he weigh his bag on a different belt. However, when he did so, the second scale also showed a different reading, further fueling his suspicions.

The passenger documented the incident and shared it on social media, where the video quickly went viral. “Chandigarh Airport. 30th Jan, ’25. Around 16:00 hrs @indigo.6e Counter. Same Bag. Two counters. Two different weights. 2.3 KGs difference,” Daksh Sethi wrote on Instagram along with the video.

He further added, “Can these machines be easily manipulated? I hope this is a rare case and a technical glitch. I generally felt that my bag wasn’t as heavy as it showed, so the lady at the counter asked me to check it on the other belt. And to my surprise, it showed a different number! These little things break our trust in the system. I hope this is taken up very seriously.”

Watch the video here:

The incident has sparked widespread concern among travellers, who are now questioning the reliability of airport equipment and the potential implications for baggage handling and fees. One user wrote, “This has happened with me and my husband almost 3 times in the last 5 years.”

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indigo-flyer-finds-different-weights-for-same-bag-at-chandigarh-airport-airline-responds-7621360 

The woman has told police that she was fed up with Iqbal’s blackmailing.

In a chilling case of murder, a woman in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly allegedly choked a man to death while getting intimate with him. The woman has told police that Iqbal had been blackmailing her into sexual acts and she was left with no choice. The 32-year-old woman was arrested in the murder case yesterday, two days after Iqbal’s body was found near his home.

The woman told police that Iqbal was a Zari Zardosi artisan who visited homes in her village. This was how they got acquainted with each other and exchanged numbers. They would talk often over the phone. One day, Iqbal asked her to visit him at his place. The woman has said that Iqbal forced her into getting intimate with him. When she warned him that she would tell her husband, Iqbal told her that he had call recordings and he would destroy her home.

“I have little children so I endured this. He blackmailed into getting physical with him multiple times. I was tired of this. On Wednesday, Iqbal went to drop his wife at her parents’ home. I spoke to him while he was on his way back and told him I wanted to meet,” she has said, according to a police statement.

Iqbal gave the woman two pills to put her husband to sleep. “Around 8 pm, I served tea to my husband. I had put the pills in his cup. Soon after, he went to sleep while browsing his phone. Around 11.40 pm, I spoke to Iqbal over the phone and he asked me to come over. He said he was alone at home,” she said.

The woman has told police that she was fed up with Iqbal’s blackmailing. “While going to his place, I thought that either I would die or I would kill him. We were talking to each other when he started getting intimate with me. I held his hands apart and sat on his chest. Then I kept one hand on his mouth and choked him with the other. Once I was convinced that he was dead, I dragged his body to the staircase and returned home. I was so upset with Iqbal. I had no other choice because I wanted to protect my family,” she has said, according to the police statement.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bareilly-murder-i-was-tired-of-blackmail-up-woman-chokes-man-to-death-during-sex-7621455

The heightened measures have been put in place for the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan in the wake of a stampede at Sangam on Mauni Amavasya.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday said it has put into place a special crowd management plan named ‘Operation Eleven’ for the ‘Amrit Snan’ on Basant Panchami at Maha Kumbh. The ‘Amrit Snan’ on Basant Panchami will take place on Monday.

According to a statement, the plan, devised under “strict instructions” from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, ensures a “one-way traffic route” for devotees and smooth movement on pontoon bridges. To prevent overcrowding at the Triveni ghats, additional police forces have been deployed and barricades have been increased.

The heightened measures have been put in place as part of the state government’s “zero-error” programme for the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan in the wake of a stampede at Sangam on Mauni Amavasya which claimed at least 30 lives and left 60 pilgrims injured who had gathered for a holy dip on one of the most auspicious bathing dates at the Kumbh.

The key measures under Operation Eleven:

1. Strict enforcement of the one-way route — A one-way traffic system will be strictly enforced on Basant Panchami Snan day to ensure the smooth movement of devotees. Traffic diversions will be in place on major routes to control congestion and pontoon bridges will remain accessible. Additional police forces and barricades will be stationed at bathing ghats to regulate crowd movement.

2. Enhanced security at key locations — Security has been tightened on the New Yamuna Bridge with an additional Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) unit led by a senior officer deployed to control traffic from Naini to Sangam. Two motorcycle patrol squads will be on continuous duty and bridge railings have been reinforced to prevent accidents.

3. Special monitoring at Shastri Bridge — To regulate traffic from Jhunsi to Sangam, one PAC company and a senior officer have been stationed at Shastri Bridge, along with two mobile patrol squads.

4. Crowd control at Tikarmafi Turn — A Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) unit under the supervision of a senior officer has been deployed to manage crowds at Tikarmafi Turn. Traffic from Jhunsi will be diverted via Katka Tiraha, Giraffe Chauraha, Chhatnag Turn and Samudrakup Turn for smooth movement.

5. Special arrangements at Phaphamau and pontoon bridges — At Phaphamau Bridge and pontoon bridges, two motorcycle patrol squads will monitor crowd movement and PAC personnel will be deployed at entry and exit points.

6. Railway stations and bus movement regulation — At Jhunsi railway station, a PAC unit led by a senior officer has been stationed, with reinforced barricades at entry and exit points. Railways is coordinating to increase train frequency for pilgrims.

7. Special bus operations in Jhunsi — A temporary bus station at Saraswati Dwar will facilitate travel to Gorakhpur and Varanasi. Additional buses will be stationed at Jhunsi overnight, with shuttle services between Andawa, Saraswati Dwar and Sahso to ensure smooth transport for devotees.

8. Enhanced security at Prayag Junction — Three Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), along with police forces and two PAC companies, have been deployed at Prayag Junction. Strong barricades have been set up at Yudhishthir Chauraha to control traffic from the IERT Flyover. Adequate signage has also been installed for pilgrims.

9. Crowd management at GT Jawahar and Harshvardhan Chauraha — To regulate traffic at Medical College Chauraha and Balson Chauraha, senior officers, police personnel and PAC units have been stationed. Diversions will be in place from Balson via Bakshi Bandh to Nagvasuki. Pilgrims will be guided from Stanley Road Chauraha via Lajpat Rai Road, Mandalayukta Office Tiraha, Bharat Scouts, Mazar Chauraha and IERT parking to reach the fairgrounds.

10. Additional security and traffic control measures — Additional traffic police and security forces have been deployed at Andawa and Sahso Chauraha, with nine motorcycle patrol squads monitoring the area. Cranes will also be available to handle any emergencies.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-operation-eleven-to-manage-crowd-during-basant-panchami-amrit-snan-after-stampede-at-sangam-in-prayagraj-7621185

A complaint was filed against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi before a court in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district for her ‘poor thing’ remark on President Droupadi Murmu.

Sudhir Ojha, a Muzaffarpur-based lawyer, filed a complaint on Saturday against Gandhi seeking registration of an FIR against her for allegedly disrespecting the country’s highest constitutional authority.

Ojha also named Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as co-accused and sought legal action against them as well.

“Sonia Gandhi has insulted President Murmu by making the ‘poor thing’ remark. It’s a disrespect to the highest constitutional authority in the country. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are co-accused in it. A case should be registered against them under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS),” Ojha told reporters after filing the complaint before the CJM court in Muzaffarpur.

The court will hear the matter on February 10.

After the President’s joint address to Parliament ahead of the Budget session, Sonia Gandhi was asked by reporters outside the House about Murmu’s nearly hour-long speech.

“The President was getting very tired by the end… she could hardly speak, poor thing,” Sonia Gandhi, the former Congress chief, was heard saying in clips in what appeared to be a reference to how long the address was.

Rahul Gandhi described the speech as “boring” in one of the clips. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was also present there.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan had, later, released a statement, calling the remark “unacceptable” and saying that Murmu was not tired. Rashtrapati Bhavan condemned the remark, without naming Sonia Gandhi.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/bihar/complaint-against-sonia-gandhi-in-bihar-court-for-remark-on-president-murmu-3385304

At least six people died, two were injuries, and several remain missing after a vehicle carrying 14 people plunged into a canal in Haryana’s Fatehabad late on Friday night, officials said.

According to Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jagdish Chandra, “The 14 people were returning after attending a wedding ceremony in Punjab’s Fazilka when the vehicle they were travelling in plunged into a canal in Fatehabad.”

He said that out of the 14 people, 6 bodies were recovered, 2 were alive and the rest 6 were missing.

“We rescued 3 people at night, one of them succumbed at night itself and the rest of the two are alive. We have recovered 5 more bodies. The bodies have been identified. NDRF and SDRF teams are carrying out the search and rescue operations. Six bodies have been recovered and six people are still missing,” SDM Chandra told reporters.

“The deceased have been identified by their families. Among the deceased include a 1.5-month-old infant and a 10-year-old girl, a man and a woman,” he added.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/tragic-accident-in-haryana-6-dead-several-missing-after-vehicle-plunges-into-canal-in-fatehabad-search-operation-underway

In a first, the Rashtrapati Bhavan has allowed a CRPF officer to host her wedding ceremony in its complex on February 12. CRPF Assistant Commandant Poonam Gupta, who led the CRPF’s all-women contingent during the 74th Republic Day Parade, was given permission by President Droupadi Murmu because she was highly impressed by the conduct and service of the person getting married, according to reports.
The CRPF officer is currently posted as a PSO at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, according to reports.
According to media reports, President Murmu has arranged for the ceremony at the Mother Teresa Crown Complex in Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The reports suggest that the wedding will involve only a limited number of relatives and friends who would be proofed before entry.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday met the victims of the Maha Kumbh stampede at a hospital here.

He inquired about their well-being from the doctors and directed the medical staff to provide them with the best possible care, an official statement said.

Thirty people were killed and 60 others were injured during a stampede in the Maha Kumbh early January 29.

“The state government is concerned about all the devotees. There will be no shortage in their treatment and comfort,” Yogi Adityanath was quoted as saying in the statement.

Yogi Adityanath also directed the hospital administration to ensure the safe return of the injured to their home towns.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-yogi-adityanath-meets-injured-in-hospital-7613364

Weeks after a 15-year-old schoolboy in Kerala’s Kochi died by suicide, his mother has alleged that brutal ragging crushed her son and pushed him toward death. In a statement posted on Instagram, Rajna PM alleged that her son, Mihir Ahammed, was beaten up, verbally abused and forced to lick the toilet seat.

Police have registered a case of suicide, but Mihir’s mother has said she had written to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s office and the Kerala police chief and sought an immediate and impartial probe into her son’s death. Mihir died by suicide on January 15 after he jumped from their 26th-floor flat in Kochi’s Thripunithara, barely an hour after he returned from school.

Teen’s Mother Seeks Justice

“After his death, my husband and I began gathering information to understand why Mihir took such a drastic step. Through conversations with his friends, schoolmates, and by reviewing social media messages, we uncovered the horrific reality of what he endured. Mihir was subjected to brutal ragging, bullying, and physical assault by a gang of students at school and on the school bus,” his mother said.

“The evidence we gathered paints a chilling picture. Mihir was beaten, verbally abused, and forced to endure unimaginable humiliation even on his last day. He was forcibly taken to the washroom, made to lick a toilet seat, and had his head pushed into the toilet while it was flushed. These acts of cruelty broke him in ways we cannot fathom.”

Mihir’s mother said he was bullied for his skin colour. “They didn’t end the cruelty even after his death. A shocking chat screenshot reveals the extent of their cruelty. They messaged ‘fxxk ni*ga he actually died’ and celebrated his death,” she wrote.

Big Charge Against School

Rajna PM said Mihir’s friends had started an Instagram page titled ‘Justice for Mihir’ to amplify their demand for justice. “However, the page has now been deleted, and there are reports that the school is intimidating students to suppress the truth. When I approached the school authorities with evidence and demanded accountability, they only informed me that the information was forwarded to the police. I strongly believe they are attempting to cover up these incidents to protect the school’s reputation,” she said. The teen’s mother said she has approached the Chief Minister’s office and DGP for immediate action. “I fear delays in gathering digital evidence may allow the culprits to erase their tracks.”

Ms Rajna said she had also flagged the incident to the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. According to a Mathrubhumi report, the child rights body’s chairman has confirmed that the panel has taken note of the teen’s tragic death. She has also alleged that the school’s vice-principal harassed Mihir.

Kerala Education V Sivankutty has ordered a thorough investigation into the chilling incident, Mathrubhumi has reported.

Celebrities Speak Out

Top actors have spoken out against the ragging culture and mourned the loss of a young life. Samantha Ruth Prabhu said the news had “absolutely shattered” her. “It’s 2025. Yet, we’ve lost another bright young life, snuffed out because a few individuals, filled with hate and venom pushed someone to the brink!”

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kochi-ragging-suicide-mihir-ahammed-made-to-lick-toilet-seat-teen-dies-by-suicide-mother-alleges-ragging-7614832

Following the increase in GBS cases in Nanded, Kirkatwadi, Dhayari, and other localities on Sinhgad Road, the Pune Municipal Corporation has been collecting water samples from borewells and wells for investigations.

Pune: The number of suspected deaths in Maharashtra due to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare nerve disorder, have risen to four, while the tally of cases recorded in the state so far stood at 140, health officials said.

A 36-year-old man died due to “trauma to the respiratory system due to pneumonia” at Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital in the neighbouring Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation limits on Thursday.

The fourth suspected victim was a 60-year-old man from the Dhayari area off Sinhgad Road here who died on Friday.

The man was admitted to the hospital on January 27 following loose motions and weakness in the lower limbs. He died due to cardiac arrest, according to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) health department.

According to state health officials, of 140 suspected patients, 98 were diagnosed as confirmed GBS cases.

“A total of 26 patients are from Pune city, 78 from newly added villages in the PMC area, 15 from Pimpri Chinchwad, 10 from Pune Rural, and 11 are from other districts,” said the official release.

No fresh case was reported on Friday.

Most of the cases recorded in the state are from Pune and surrounding areas.

A total of 160 water samples from different parts of Pune city were sent to the Public Health Laboratory for chemical and biological analysis, and samples from eight water sources were found contaminated.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/maharashtra/suspected-gbs-deaths-in-maharashtra-rise-to-4-case-tally-at-140-ecoli-found-in-water-sample-3383394

Addressing a public meeting in Timarpur in support of BJP candidate Surya Prakash Khatri, Saini said Kejriwal has failed to fulfil his promise of cleaning the Yamuna River.

New Delhi: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday accused AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal of defaming his state of birth by levelling false allegations that the BJP government has mixed “poison” in the Yamuna water being supplied to Delhi.

Addressing a public meeting in Timarpur in support of BJP candidate Surya Prakash Khatri, Saini said Kejriwal has failed to fulfil his promise of cleaning the Yamuna River.

“Kejriwal has defamed his own state of birth Haryana by making these false allegations. He is resorting to cheap politics to cover up his failure in fulfilling his promises to the people of Delhi,” he said.

Kejriwal was born in Bhiwani district of Haryana.

Earlier in the day, Saini visited the Yamuna Ghat in Wazirabad and presented water samples from both Haryana and Delhi.

He stated that in Delhi, polluted water is being dumped into the Yamuna.

“We supply clean water to Delhi through the Yamuna, but due to mismanagement, the Delhi government is polluting it. When the same water reaches Faridabad, its quality is significantly compromised, raising the risk of serious health issues like cancer,” Saini said.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/haryana/delhi-assembly-elections-2025-yamuna-poisoned-remark-kejriwal-defaming-his-state-of-birth-haryana-says-cm-saini-3383348

Although India has taken steps to reduce its reliance on the US dollar, country’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had earlier clarified that India has “no interest” in weakening the US dollar. In December 2024, then Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das had clearly stated that India was not pursuing “de-dollarisation”.​​

Since assuming office earlier this month, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned BRICS nations of 100 per cent tariffs if they attempt to replace US dollar as the global reserve currency with an alternative currency.
Earlier today, Trump said that the US requires a commitment from the BRICS nations that they will “neither create a new currency, nor back any other currency to replace the mighty US dollar.” “There is no chance that BRICS will replace the US Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America!” the US President posted on Truth Social.
What Is BRICS?
BRICS, formed in 2009, is the only major international group of which the United States is not a part. BRICS consists of ten countries- Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.

BRICS was established on the premise that already-existing international organisations were overly dominated by western powers and fail to serve the agenda of developing nations. The BRICS group has become a major political force in the last two decades, with member nations hoping to increase their sway in the global order.

The prices of 19kg commerical gas cylinders has been reduced by Rs 7, hours before Budget 2025.

New Delhi: The oil marketing companies on Saturday revised the prices of commercial LPG gas cylinders and reduced the prices of 19 kg commercial LPG gas cylinders by Rs 7 with effect from today. In Delhi, the retail sale price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder is Rs 1797 from today.
This comes as national awaits for the Union Budget 2025-26, the first for the Modi 3.0 government and a record eighth one for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

In Kolkata, the price of a 19-kg LPG cyclinder has been reduced from Rs 1911 to Rs 1904. The current rate of a commerical LPG cylinder in Mumbai is Rs 1,749 and Rs 1,959 in Chenna, as per the IOCL webiste.

This comes after a reuction in the price of commercial LPGs on January 1. The rate of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) was cut by 1.5%, or Rs 1,401.37 per kilolitre, to Rs 90,455.47 per kl in Delhi.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/prices-of-commercial-lpg-gas-cylinders-slashed-by-rupees-7-on-budget-day-2025-nirmala-sitharaman-article-117810812

PM Narendra Modi evoked the Hindu goddess of wealth and said he was praying that Lakshmi be especially generous towards the poor and the middle classes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hinted at the possibility of a generous Budget for the poor and middle classes. Evoking the Hindu goddess of wealth, Modi said he was praying that Lakshmi be especially generous towards the poor and the middle classes. To be sure, he also spoke about the need for prudence and achievement.

The Prime Minister’s remarks a day before the third Modi government will present its second full Budget hinted towards the Budget with something out of the ordinary for the poor and the middle classes. Normally, the middle class is a constituency seen as being most invested in income tax rates, which comes under the direct purview of the Budget.

Income tax slabs in India have not been changed much since 2020 and there has been a growing clamour for doing so on account of two reasons. Inflation has meant that higher slabs now kick in at much lower real incomes than what was the case earlier. Also, the slowdown in the economy — India’s GDP growth went down from 8.2% in 2023-24 to an expected 6.4% in 2024-25 — has necessitated the need for policy efforts to boost consumption.

It remains to be seen whether Modi’s remarks lead to some big-bang announcement for the poor such as the restoration of LPG subsidies — the Bharatiya Janata Party and many opposition parties have been making this promise in almost all state elections — or an increase in government’s existing welfare programmes which are support income (such as PM-KISAN) or asset generating (such as PMAY or Jal Jeewan Mission).

To be sure, the government will also need to be mindful of its fiscal consolidation imperative while delivering on these expectations, which is perhaps what Modi endorsed when talking about Lakshmi’s relation to prudence. “I can say with confidence this Budget session will infuse new confidence, and energy in attaining our goal of Viksit Bharat [developed India],” said Modi outside the Parliament ahead of the Budget Session. He called innovation, inclusion, and investment the basis of the roadmap for economic activities.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/modi-hints-at-special-provisions-for-poor-middle-classes-in-budget-101738302377968.html

Cylinder blasts: The blasts can be heard in the video which was shot from 2-3 km away from the spot.

A series of blasts were heard after a massive fire broke out in a truck carrying gas cylinders at Bhopura Chowk on Delhi-Wazirabad Road in the Thana Teela Mod area of Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh. The fire department received the alert at 4:45 am, and eight fire engines have been deployed to contain the blaze.

Watch video here

In the video, recorded from a distance of 2-3 km from the accident site, loud blasts can be heard as a massive fire engulfs a truck loaded with gas cylinders at Bhopura Chowk.

According to Chief Fire Officer Rahul Kumar, fire brigade officials and employees were on the spot but as the cylinders continued to explode, the fire brigade personnel are not able to reach the truck. “The sound of the cylinder blast can be heard for several km in the vicinity,” added CFO Rahul Kumar.

“Around 4.35 am we received information regarding a fire broke out in a truck laden with LPG cylinders. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot. The police vacated the nearby houses. The fire had spread to 2-3 houses and some vehicles. The fire has been completely doused. No causality has been reported,” he said.

Source: https://www.indiatvnews.com/uttar-pradesh/blasts-after-truck-carrying-lpg-cylinder-catches-fire-in-ghaziabad-bhopura-chowk-sound-of-explosions-heard-from-several-km-videos-latest-updates-2025-02-01-974033

The decision came following the controversial appointment of Mamta Kulkarni, a former Bollywood actress with a checkered past, as Mahamandaleshwar.

Rishi Ajay Das, the founder of Kinnar Akhada, has expelled both Mamta Kulkarni and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi from the Akhada.

The decision comes in the wake of the controversial appointment of Mamta Kulkarni, a former Bollywood actress with a checkered past, as Mahamandaleshwar.

Tripathi had allegedly appointed Kulkarni without the founder’s consent, an act that has sparked considerable outrage.

According to a press release issued on January 30, 2025, Rishi Ajay Das noted, “As the founder of Kinnar Akhada, I am hereby relieving Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi from his position as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada, effective immediately. His appointment was made with the goal of promoting religious activities and uplifting the transgender community, but he has deviated from these responsibilities.”

The controversy revolves around an agreement Tripathi entered into with Juna Akhada in 2019, which Ajay Das claims was allegedly done without his approval. He further alleged that the contract between the two Akhadas was legally invalid due to the lack of his consent and signature.

Moreover, Ajay Das accused Tripathi of undermining the tenets of the Kinnar Akhada by allowing Mamta Kulkarni to join and take on the prestigious role of Mahamandaleshwar despite her past involvement in criminal activities.

Ajay Das explained that Mamta Kulkarni’s appointment was particularly concerning because she had a criminal history.

“By giving such a person the title of Mahamandaleshwar, what kind of guru are you offering to Sanatan Dharma? This is a question of ethics,” he wrote.

The founder emphasized that this appointment was not only unethical but also a betrayal of the Akhada’s religious values.

The expulsion of both individuals has ignited debates within the spiritual community, with the President of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad, Mahant Ravindra Puri, speaking out in support of Tripathi and Kulkarni.

Puri challenged the legitimacy of Ajay Das’s decision, saying, “I want to ask, who is he (Rishi Ajay Das) to expel Laxmi Narayan Tripathi?”

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/mamta-kulkarni-laxmi-narayan-tripathi-expelled-from-kinnar-akhada-7602749

The Congress general secretary said that while AAP leaders talked about Modi’s ‘Rajmahal’ and BJP leaders about Kejriwal’s ‘Sheesh Mahal’, none of them spoke about the real issues of the people.

Launching a blistering attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday said there was no difference between the two as both were “cowards and corrupt”.

Addressing a public meeting at Mustafabad, Priyanka Gandhi said while Modi kept blaming India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Kejriwal blamed Modi. However, neither took any responsibility.

The BJP’s politics has always been one of creating divisions, she said in the constituency, which had been hit by riots in 2020.

The Congress general secretary said that while AAP leaders talked about Modi’s ‘Rajmahal’ and BJP leaders about Kejriwal’s ‘Sheesh Mahal’, none of them spoke about the real issues of the people.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/priyanka-gandhi-vadra-slams-pm-modi-kejriwal-calls-both-cowards-and-corrupt

A police officer was suspended after a video went viral showing him allegedly mixing ash into the food served at a Bhandara (community feast) for devotees at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
“Soraon station in-charge Brijesh Tiwari has been suspended after a video went viral in which he was seen dumping soil in a food vessel at a ‘Bhandara’,” said Kuldeep Singh Gunawat, DCP Ganganagar.
A video went viral on social media in which a police officer, later identified as Soraon station-in-charge Brijesh Tiwari, is seen adding ash to the food being prepared over a stove.

Social media users had tagged DCP Ganganagar in the viral video, seeking strict action against the officer.

In response, the official account of DCP Ganga Nagar replied: “Taking cognizance of the matter, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Ganga Nagar) has suspended the Soraon SHO based on a report from ACP Soraon. Departmental proceedings are underway.”
This comes a day after tragic stampede broke out at Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagaraj. At least 30 people were killed and 60 injured in the pre-dawn stampede at the Sangam area of the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday, as millions of pilgrims jostled for space to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, one of the most auspicious days of the Hindu calendar.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/prayagraj-police-officer-suspended-for-mixing-ash-in-bhandara-food-at-maha-kumbh-mela-article-117763694

The event was organised by the Union health ministry to highlight India’s progress in the fight against NTDs, with a special focus on Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL).

New Delhi: India reaffirmed its commitment to eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) by illuminating the iconic India Gate on Thursday in vibrant hues of purple and orange on World NTDs Day.

This symbolic act is part of a global movement to light up iconic landmarks across the world to raise awareness about NTDs and emphasise the importance of collective action to combat these debilitating diseases.

The event was organised by the Union health ministry to highlight India’s progress in the fight against NTDs, with a special focus on Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL).

LF, which threatens 404 million people in India, damages the lymphatic system and can lead to the abnormal enlargement of body parts, causing pain, and severe disability.

The VL or Kala-Azar, which is at the cusp of elimination in India, can cause severe debility, malnutrition and loss of ability to work.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/india-gate-illuminated-to-mark-world-neglected-tropical-diseases-day-3381274

Amit Shah launched a book on Narendra Modi in Delhi and said India would be the world’s 3rd largest economy in the world by 2027. He said even Modi’s staunchest critics would note his achievements.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that India’s history will be divided into three phases which include before and after Narendra Modi’s era.

The Home Minister who launched a book on Narendra Modi in Delhi also said that India would be the world’s 3rd largest economy in the world by 2027.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah said that the past 10 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure have marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. He emphasized that whenever India’s history is rewritten, even Modi’s staunchest critics will acknowledge these 10 years in golden letters.

“India’s history in three parts. First is before & after independence. Second is before & after emergency. Third is before & after Narendra Modi,” he said after launching book Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade.

While talking about economy, Shah said that previous government maintained India at 11th number as largest economy but Modi brought India from 11th to 5th.

“PM Modi brought India from 11th to 5th largest economy in 10 years.” He further predicted that “We will be the world’s 3rd largest economy in 2027. We can’t imagine missions like Chandrayaan and Spadex,” Shah said.

While giving data about efforts made to give better life to public, Shah said, “7 crore poor Indians given houses, toilets, water, 5 kg food, health insurance cover. 25 crore people driven outside poverty, 80 crore get free ration.”

“PM Modi is the 1st leader after Mahatma Gandhi to speak about Safai. Despite early criticism, the government’s focus on building toilets led to 1.5 crore houses given toilets by PM Modi,” Shah said.

He further said that in 2014, India entered a new era, receiving a stable government after three decades, leading to success in every part of the country. Shah mentioned that this transformation has been interpreted in various ways, with a foreign newspaper even writing that while India attained independence on August 15, 1947, it was under Modi’s leadership in 2014 that the country truly gained freedom from colonial influences.

Home Minister also said, “Every house in India has access to electricity, In this country, there are 2500 villages that now have electricity.”

Amit Shah also appreciated India’s way of tackling Covid-19. “No one thought India could face Covid-19 like it did. We made vaccine 1st because the process to make it started 1st in India.”

“PM made an appeal for lockdown and every Indian supported his decision. In India, Centre, state governments, and all Indians united in fight against Covid-19.” Amit Shah said.

Amit Shah asserted that PM Modi has set a clear target for India to become a fully developed nation by 2047. He remarked that what started as the Prime Minister’s resolution has now become the collective aspiration of 130 crore Indians. He expressed confidence that India’s youth will be the driving force behind making the country the number one global power by 2047. He added, Modi Ji recognizes that if every Indian takes a single step forward, the country will advance by 130 crore steps.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/indian-history-will-be-decided-in-3-phases-one-would-be-before-after-modi-era-amit-shah-9208780.html

Several of Rakhi Sawant’s fans also reacted to Dodi Khan’s video and questioned him for hurting the Indian actress’ sentiments.

Rakhi Sawant is heartbroken and upset since Pakistani actor-businessman, Dodi Khan, has refused to marry her. On Thursday night, Dodi Khan uploaded a video on his Instagram handle to clarify that he is not going to tie the knot with Rakhi. Reacting to the same, Rakhi dropped a teary-eyed and several broken-heart emojis in the comments section.

Several of Rakhi’s fans also reacted to Dodi’s video and questioned him for hurting the Indian actress’ sentiments. “Pehle Bina soche propose q Krna tha,” one of the fans wrote. “Awww that’s so sad, who cares about people, you and Rakhi should marry regardless of media and live a happy life, people will always criticize,” added another.

For the unversed, in his video message, Dodi Khan clarified that even though he proposed to Rakhi for marriage, they are not going to tie the knot. He praised Rakhi, talked about the hardships she faced in the past and mentioned that it was because of her bravery that he liked her a lot.

“Hello India and Pakistan, this is Dodi Khan. A few days ago, on social media, you saw a video of mine in which I had proposed Rakhi Sawant. I proposed her because I know her very well. When I started knowing her, I felt she is a person who loves god a lot. She has seen a lot of ups and downs in her life, she lost her parents but was with them when they were ill. A guy came in her life, you all know what he did to her. She has come out of a lot of trauma. She accepted Islam, went for Umrah, and changed her name to Fatima. I liked that a lot that’s why I proposed to her,” Dodi said in Hindi.

“But, I think that this is not acceptable to people because I have received a lot of messages and videos, and I cannot tolerate it. So, Rakhi ji, you are my very good friend, and will always be. You might not be able to be my bride, but I promise you that you will become the daughter-in-law of Pakistan. I will make you get married to one of my brothers,” he added.

Source : https://www.news18.com/movies/rakhi-sawant-heartbroken-as-dodi-khan-refuses-to-marry-her-heres-what-bigg-boss-fame-says-9208870.html

Two female officers from the Indian Navy touched a new milestone on Thursday as they crossed Point Nemo – the most remote location on Earth – aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, passed through Point Nemo at 12:30 am IST on Thursday during the third leg of their journey from Lyttelton, New Zealand, to Port Stanley, Falkland Islands. Notably, Point Nemo, located in the South Pacific, is the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility – the most remote location on Earth, situated approximately 2,688 kilometres from the nearest landmass.

This event marks a significant milestone in the Navika Sagar Parikrama II mission, a circumnavigation journey undertaken by the two officers as part of India’s naval exploration initiative, the Indian Navy said in a statement, as per ANI. “#INSVTarini charts through the world’s most isolated waters! Lt Cdr Dilna K & Lt Cdr Roopa A cross Point Nemo – the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility. A testament to resilience, courage & the spirit of adventure,” the Indian Navy wrote on X.

During their passage, the two officers collected water samples from the area, which will be analysed by the National Institute of Oceanography. These samples are expected to provide valuable data on oceanic conditions, including marine biodiversity and the chemical composition of the water, contributing to ongoing oceanographic research, the Navy statement said.

Navika Sagar Parikrama II represents a continuation of India’s efforts to support scientific exploration and collaboration. As the officers continue their journey, they will progress toward their next destination, Port Stanley, further advancing the objectives of the mission, it added.

The two officers from the Indian Navy embarked on a mission to circumnavigate the world on October 2, 2024. They began their journey aboard INVS Tarini from Goa. They reached Lyttelton Port in New Zealand on December 22, completing the second leg of the expedition. The crew then departed from Lyttelton earlier this month for the longest stretch of the journey, heading to Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. The distance of this leg is about 5,600 nautical miles.

INSV Tarini’s passage through Point Nemo was achieved entirely under sail, which makes it a noteworthy accomplishment in terms of maritime navigation. The vessel’s crossing through this isolated point highlights the challenges of navigating such remote and difficult waters.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/2-indian-navy-women-officers-cross-point-nemo-earths-most-remote-location-7600117

The budget session of the Parliament today began with President Droupadi Murmu addressing the joint sitting of the two Houses. It was followed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabling the Economic Survey.

Here Are some Points On Budget Session:

1. The Budget Session commenced with President Murmu addressing the joint sitting of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
2. After President Murmu’s address, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey 2024-25.
3. The document, prepared by a team led by Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran, provides an official assessment of the economy’s performance in the ongoing financial year.
4. The Economic Survey also lists the nation’s challenges and provides a roadmap for reforms and growth.
5. The government has listed 16 Bills, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, besides the financial business for the Budget session.
6. Some of the other key bills listed for the session include the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, The Railways (Amendment) Bill, The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, and The Immigration and Foreigners Bill.
7. On Saturday, Ms Sitharaman will table the first full Budget of the Modi 3.0 government amid expectations of tweaking income tax slabs.
8. The first part of the Budget session will conclude on February 13 before breaking for recess to examine the Budget proposals.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/budget-session-begins-today-with-president-droupadi-murmu-address-nirmala-sitharaman-to-table-economic-survey-in-parliament-10-points-7600197

A tribunal of the Delhi High Court has confirmed the extension of a five-year ban imposed on pro-Khalistan separatist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) founded by US-based lawyer Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, citing a slew of subversive activities carried out by the outfit.

The activities include threats to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and, very recently Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

According to a report by Indian Express, Rajnath Singh’s landline received a recorded voice message on July 22, 2024, alleging that Sikhs were under extensial threat due to the Indian government, and warned Members of Parliament to ‘stay home if they did not want to experience the Khalistan referendum.’

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on July 10 last year extended the five-year ban imposed on SFJ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 for its relentless anti-India activities.

The Delhi High Court tribunal, consisting of Justice Anoop Kumar Mendiratta, was constituted on August 2 to adjudicate whether or not there is sufficient cause for extending the declaration of SFJ as an unlawful association. The tribunal on January 3 issued an order confirming the extension of the ban on SFJ for five more years with effect from July 10. The order was made available on Wednesday.

The government submitted before the tribunal that the indulgence of SFJ in activities prejudicial to the internal security of India and public order has the potential to disrupt peace, unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of India.

The tribunal was told that the activities of the banned organisation are in close association with other separatists, terrorists and radical elements within the country. The SFJ continues to support the ideology of secession, violent forms of extremism and militancy in Punjab to carve out a so-called state of ‘Khalistan’ out of the territory of of India, the tribunal was also told.

The SFJ has been extending threats even to constitutional functionaries like the prime minister of India, home minister, external affairs minister, chief ministers of states, NSA and the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) chief, the government submitted.

Further, the Ministry of Home Affairs stated, “Pannun had instigated the protesting Indian farmers to arm themselves and fight the Indian forces and stated that the weapons would reach them from across the border. SFJ has also claimed to have prepared a list of children of police officers and politicians who are studying in foreign countries to take revenge, if its activists are tortured,” according to IE.

The government also told the tribunal that Pannun targeted the Indian missions and diplomats abroad and has been trying to provoke the Sikh soldiers of the Indian Army to mutiny through social media.

Even during the pendency of proceedings before the tribunal, the SFJ targeted former Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma, alleging his involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

Further, a reward of $500,000 was offered to anyone who can track Verma’s movements in India, which reflects that SFJ and its protagonist Pannun have scant regard for the Indian Constitution and have affronted sovereign authorities of India, it said.

It was also submitted before the tribunal that intelligence reports manifest that SFJ and Pannun were also involved in an agenda against India through an online campaign, the so-called ‘Referendum 2020’, to carve out an independent political entity ‘Khalistan’.

The intelligence reports also revealed that SFJ organised a convention in Geneva for its ‘Referendum 2020’ in which it announced the beginning of voter registration for Sikhs in all the countries except India with the launch of a web portal.

Around 25 websites were launched for registration of voters from Punjab and SFJ announced to carry out door-to-door voter registration in Punjab and to pay a monthly stipend of Rs 7,500 for the execution of this registration.

Appeals were issued to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) members, panchayat members and sarpanches to support the voter registration process and they were threatened not to leak out any information to the police, the tribunal has been told.

The intelligence agencies further reported that SFJ had made attempts to incite the Indian Sikh Jathas travelling to Pakistan for pilgrimage to access its websites.

SFJ was also undertaking the recruitment of underprivileged Sikh youths to carry out pro-Khalistan propaganda and conduct terrorist acts in lieu of money. Such elements were found to be receiving instructions and support from Pakistan’s ISI handlers, they said.

The government submitted that the evidence on record reveals that SFJ was directly involved in activities targeting the G-20 Summit 2023 which was held in Delhi. An open letter was issued to the foreign ministers of participating countries, seeking their support for ‘Khalistan Referendum’, it said.

Further, Pannun released an audio message provoking Kashmiri Muslims to leave the Kashmir valley and to come to Delhi and block Delhi during the G-20 Summit.

Pannun promoted the SFJ’s call to boycott travelling by Air India from November 1-19, 2024 and the banned organisation repeatedly threatened India’s political leaders, government officers including police, diplomats, judiciary and even their family members and relatives abroad.

SFJ has been found colluding with the Punjabi and Sikh gangsters abroad, who are working as ground-level mobilisers to propel its secessionist campaign.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/rajnath-singh-other-major-leaders-threatened-by-pannuns-sfj-reveals-modi-govt-as-delhi-hc-upholds-5-year-extension-of-ban-on-the-organization-3378542

The city’s air quality worsened to ‘very poor’ on Wednesday morning because of mist, smog and low wind speed, prompting CAQM to impose Grap-3 restrictions with immediate effect, reports Kushagra Dixit
Grap-3 bans construction activities and plying of BS-3 diesel and BS-4 petrol cars across Delhi-NCR.
The air quality index (AQI), on a scale of 0 to 500, was measured at 349 at 11 am, which further worsened to 360 at 3 pm and 379 at 6 pm, with many areas, including Bawana, Anand Vihar, Okhla, Punjabi Bagh, Rohini, Vivek Vihar and Wazirpur, badly hit. The average AQI in the city was 365, worsening from 276 a day earlier. The forecast suggests AQI will hover within ‘very poor’ range in the coming days.

Source : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/grap-3-back-as-delhis-air-worsens-to-very-poor/articleshow/117709038.cms

Archaeologists have found a 13-cm-long iron knife broken in three parts in the ongoing excavation site in Marungur in present day Cuddalore district days after chief minister MK Stalin announced with scientific proof that the Iron Age began from Tamil Nadu, minister Thangam Thennarasu said.

“While iron arrowheads and nails were recovered previous excavations, the recent discovery of a knife indicates that inhabitants of ancient civilisations mastered the art of iron,” Thennarasu (minister of finance who holds additional charge of archaeology) said in a post on X. The knife weighed 23 grams. It was found on Tuesday.

On January 23, Stalin announced that carbon dating of artefacts unearthed from recent archaeological excavations in the state have established that the usage of iron dates back to at least 5,300 years ago – which experts have said is the oldest available date in India and possibly the world. He released the findings in a report compiled by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) which was validated by US’s Beta Analytics Lab and 10 archaeological experts from across India.

Thenarasu said on Tuesday that the iron knife was found at a shallow depth of 257 cm from one of the trenches dug at Marungur archaeological site. “The recent discovery of an iron knife has confirmed that this is a historically significant archaeological site…Copper coins, agate, glass beads, and rouletted pottery from the Rajaraja Chola period were discovered from the site in the past,” he said.

The Iron Age, when the discovery of iron smelting technology helped revolutionise agriculture, war and construction, is considered to have begun around 1400 BCE – 1500 BCE in India, and helped catalyse larger settlements and cities. Stalin’s announcement pushed back the date by more than two millennia and suggested that Tamil Nadu might have been among the first places on earth to have begun using molten iron.

Releasing carbon dating results from international institutions, the CM said: “The reports pointed to the use of iron in the region to the beginning of 4th millennium BCE.” Before the announcement, the advent of the Iron Age in India was considered to be the painted grey ware culture in the northern Gangetic plains in around 1,500 BCE.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/iron-knife-recovered-from-ongoing-excavation-site-in-cuddalore-minister-101738176873537.html

Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishad on Wednesday triggered a controversy after he allegedly called the Mahakumbh mela stampede a “minor incident”. At least 30 people died, while over 60 others were injured as millions of pilgrims jostled for space to take a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, one of the most auspicious days of the Hindu calendar.
The incident was a “minor occurrence” given the massive scale of the event, he said.
“Jaha itne bade bade ayojan hote hain, toh choti moti kahin koi ghatnayein ho jaati hain,” (in such large gathering, such minor mishaps are inevitable), said Nishad.

Nishad, who is the chief of the Nishad Party and the fisheries minister in the Yogi Adityanath government, emphasised the challenges of managing such a large crowd.

Asked about Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s allegation of mismanagement in Mahakumbh, the minister replied, he would not want to comment on it.
Akhilesh Yadav had on Wednesday demanded Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should take moral responsibility and resign from the post.
Mahakumbh stampede kills 30
The pre-dawn stampede took place after the crowd broke barricades and jumped to the other side, crushing those waiting there. Over 90 injured were rushed to the hospital, of whom 30 died,” Maha Kumbh DIG Vaibhav Krishna said.
The officer said 25 of the deceased have been identified. Four of them are from Karnataka and one each from Assam and Gujarat.
Among those injured, 36 are undergoing treatment at the hospital and the rest have been sent with their families.
Over seven and half crore devotees took a dip Wednesday, officials said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences to the devotees who lost their family members in the stampede, describing the tragedy as “extremely saddening”.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a three-member judicial commission, comprising Justice Harsh Kumar, former DG VK Gupta and retd IAS VK Singh to look into the reasons behind the stampede. He also announced an ex gratia of Rs 25 lakh each for the kin of the deceased.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/up-minister-sanjay-nishad-choti-choti-ghatnaye-remark-on-mahakumbh-stampede-that-left-30-dead-sparks-row-article-117713718

The Indian government has cleared a proposal to procure ammunition for Pinaka multi-launch rocket systems at a cost of Rs 10,200 crore, according to a report by PTI.
Earlier on January 13, Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi had said that two Pinaka contracts, one for high explosive pre-fragmented ammunition and another for area denial munitions, are set to be inked before end of the current fiscal.
The two types of ammunition are being procured for around six Pinaka regiments that the Army plans to deploy to bolster its combat prowess along the northern frontier with China.

The city known for its biting cold conditions experienced a mild winter peak this season, with January’s lowest temperature at 4.8℃, well above the sub-2℃ lows seen in recent years

Bright, sunny days are signalling the retreat of Delhi’s peak winter, which has passed with no cold wave or cold days this January. The city known for its biting-cold conditions experienced one of the mildest winter peaks this year, with January’s lowest temperature at 4.8℃ recorded on the 9th — well above the sub-2℃ lows seen in recent years.

The night temperatures hovered over 6 to 11℃ for most days of the month, with 15 to 25℃ during the day.

This stood in stark contrast to last year when the national capital experienced five cold wave days when mercury dipped to 3.3℃. In 2023 too, Delhi remained under the grip of a chilling cold wave for eight days with the season’s lowest at 1.4℃. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) declares a cold wave when the minimum temperature drops below-normal by at least -4.5℃ to -6.4℃ consecutively for two days.

SUNNIER DAYS, TEMPERATURES TOUCHING 25℃

This year, there were sunnier days and clear skies, especially after January 18 when the day temperatures gradually started rising and remained above-normal by at least 4 to 6℃ from January 19-22. The mercury is currently settling around 25℃ — nearly 2-3℃ above-normal in the city, while it is slightly below-normal during the night.

“We are clearly observing a rising trend in day temperatures,” said Dr Shyam Das Kotal, senior scientist at the Regional Meteorological Centre, Delhi. This also follows IMD’s earlier prediction of fewer cold waves over North India this winter due to the changing global conditions and above-normal monthly minimum temperatures during December-February.

The average monthly night-time temperatures were evidently higher than last January, rising from 6.5℃ to 8.4℃ so far following the long-term trend of higher minimum temperatures being observed by meteorologists in recent years. The impact of warming is being more experienced during the winter months, they highlight.

A MILD WINTER: LA NIÑA SIGNAL

It is a La Niña year, when the temperatures over the equatorial Pacific Ocean become cooler in December, influencing the weather worldwide. India normally witnesses a harsh winter during this period but since La Niña formed later than usual and remained weak, it has failed to cause conventional winter impacts. This, in India, means not milder winter conditions.

Meanwhile, with the peak of winter clearly on retreat in Delhi, the sharp chill is also fading out with a steady rise in temperatures. The weather remained clear over the past one week, until January 29 when shallow fog enveloped the city once again and nights became cooler.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/gone-too-soon-delhis-peak-winter-retreats-with-no-cold-waves-this-january-9207535.html

The NIA has submitted the names of the officers to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and also informed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)

A team of four officers from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is set to travel to the United States on Thursday, January 30, to bring back 26/11 Mumbai attack convict Tahawwur Rana after the US Supreme Court cleared his extradition to India.

According to a report by The Indian Express, the NIA has submitted the names of the officers to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and also informed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

A source from the Union Home Ministry told the publication that the NIA team is currently “coordinating with the US authorities and the NIA team is awaiting final confirmation” from the MEA regarding their travel.

The team, which includes officers of the ranks of Inspector General (IG) and Deputy Inspector General (DIG), will oversee Rana’s return to India.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Prisons Department has started making arrangements for his detention at Tihar Jail. Once in India, Rana will be held in a high-security ward, where his cell will be equipped with CCTV cameras to monitor his activities around the clock.

“His cell will have CCTV cameras and they will monitor all his activities 24×7. His cell will have an inbuilt toilet and bathroom facility,” another source from the Tihar Jail told the publication.

Who is Tahawwur Rana?

Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is accused of being involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that killed 166 people. He had been linked to Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, who was one of the masterminds behind the attack.

Rana’s extradition was cleared after his legal challenges were rejected by US courts, including the US Supreme Court, which turned down his petition on January 21.

Authorities say that at least 30 people have died and a further 60 were injured in a crowd crush at the massive Kumbh Mela festival in India.

The world’s biggest religious festival and humanity’s largest gathering, the event attracts millions of Hindu pilgrims to sacred riverbanks in India.

In a bizarre incident, the residents of Noida and Meerut were surprised to see mysterious posters with the words “Sorry Bubu” pasted on main roads and public places. No one knows who is apologising and to whom, and the spelling of “Babu” is also incorrect. There are many posters being put up from Noida to Meerut. However, the person who put up these posters remains to be a mystery.

Posters Spotted in Noida

In Noida, around 30-40 such posters were seen near the Botanical Garden Metro Station on a foot overbridge (FOB). A video of these posters went viral on social media, attracting public attention. The police suspect that it could be the act of a mischievous person and have started investigating the matter.

Interestingly, apart from the words “Sorry Bubu”, there was no additional information on the posters. Two cartoon characters were drawn on them, but since the spelling was incorrect, the police are finding it difficult to solve the mystery.

Posters Also Found in Meerut

A special MCOCA court on Wednesday issued open-ended warrants against gangsters Anmol Bishnoi, Shubham Lonkar and Yasin Akhtar, after observing that they played active roles in the murder of MLA Baba Siddique.

The prosecution had on Tuesday approached the special MCOCA court seeking warrants against them as the trio have been untraceable.

Siddique, 66, was killed on October 12 near his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra. So far, police have arrested 26 suspects in connection with the murder. The police last month submitted a charge sheet against them claiming that the murder was ordered by Bishnoi, who is heading the gang.

Public prosecutor Wajeed Shaikh contended that Bishnoi gave instructions to the arrested accused for the murder of Siddique through Snapchat, and also provided financial help. The prosecution also pointed out that the court had sent an extradition request for Bishnoi to the United States in connection with firing at the house of Bollywood actor Salman Khan.

Besides, for Akhtar, the prosecution pointed out that he was in contact with arrested accused and shooters Dharmraj Kashyap, Gurmel Singh and Shivakumar Gautam through Snapchat and Instagram and WhatsApp. While for Lonkar the prosecution pointed out several financial transactions with the arrested accused and said he was an active member of the gang.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/baba-siddique-murder-case-special-mcoca-court-issues-open-ended-warrants-against-gangsters-anmol-bishnoi-shubham-lonkar-and-yasin-akhtar

Noting the success of the Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India has immense possibilities in the concert economy and urged the state governments and the private sector to invest in creating the necessary infrastructure and skills for hosting live events.

Addressing the ‘Utkarsh Odisha, Make in Odisha Conclave’ in Bhubaneswar’s Janata Maidan, he said that in the last 10 years, the demand for live events has increased.

“A country that has such a rich heritage of music, dance and storytelling and a huge pool of youngsters who are big consumers of concerts, there are many possibilities in the concert economy. You have witnessed that in the last 10 years, the demand and trend for live events have increased. Over the last few days, you must have seen the beautiful pictures of Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad. This proves that there is a massive scope for concerts in India,” he said.

“Big artistes from around the world are attracted to India. I expect the state and the private sector to focus on developing necessary infrastructure and skills for the concert economy,” he added.

The PM said that next month, India will host the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) for the first time, and showcase the country’s creative power to the world.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/odisha/you-mustve-seen-pictures-of-coldplay-pm-modi-urges-states-private-players-to-develop-infra-for-concerts-3376238

With only a few weeks left before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the official broadcasters have released a new promotional video featuring former India captain MS Dhoni. In the video, Dhoni is seen sitting in the ice tub and discussing how all matches of the Champions Trophy 2025 will be a do-or-die contest. The former Team India skipper also mentions needing DRS (Dhoni Refrigeration System), to view all the action.

What happened when India last won Champions Trophy?

The last time India won the ICC Champions Trophy was back in 2013 under MS Dhoni’s leadership. The rain-soaked final against England saw India emerge victorious by 5 runs. MS Dhoni became the first captain to win a T20 World Cup (2007), Cricket World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013).

This cemented his place among the greatest international cricket captains. Besides winning the trophy, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ravindra Jadeja were included in the 2013 Champions Trophy Team of the Tournament.

About ICC Champions Trophy

In a historic milestone, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday launched its 100th mission. The ISRO successfully launched GSLV-F15 carrying the NVS-02, an advanced navigation satellite, dron Sriharikota. It would aid in providing terrestrial, aerial and maritime navigation and precision agriculture, among others.

It was the first launch under ISRO Chairman V Narayanan’s leadership after he assumed office on January 16 this year and also the space agency’s maiden mission this year.

Narayanan said he was extremely happy to announce that ISRO’s first venture in 2025 was a success.

The satellite was “precisely injected into the required (GTO) orbit. This mission is the 100th launch which is a very significant milestone,” he said in his address after the successful launch.

“In this mission, the data has come; all vehicle systems are normal,” Narayanan added. The 50.9 tall Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket with an indigenous cryogenic upper stage lifted off from the second launch pad at a prefixed time of 6.23 am on Wednesday.

The satellite is the second in the series of the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). It aimed to provide accurate position, velocity and timing to users in the Indian sub-continent as well as to regions about 1,500 km beyond the Indian land mass.

Earlier on May 29, 2023, the GSLV-F12 mission which successfully carried NVS-01, the first of the second generation navigation satellites.

Among the key applications of the NVs-02 satellite are terrestrial, aerial and maritime navigation, precision agriculture, fleet management, location-based services in mobile devices, orbit determination for satellites, Internet-of-Things (IoT) based applications and emergency and timing services, ISRO said.

NavIC is providing two types of services, namely, Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and Restricted Service (RS). NavIC SPS provides a position accuracy of better than 20 m (2σ) and a timing accuracy of better than 40 ns (2σ) over the primary service Area.

NavIC comprises five second-generation satellites–NVS-01/02/03/04/05 envisaged to augment NavIC base layer constellation with enhanced features for ensuring continuity of services.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/proud-milestone-isro-completes-100th-mission-with-successfully-launch-of-advanced-navigation-satellite-nvs-02-video

India on Tuesday night strongly rejected “insinuations” made against it in a report by a Canadian commission that investigated allegations of foreign meddling in the elections held in the North American country. It is in fact Canada which has been “consistently interfering” in India’s internal affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
“We have seen a report about alleged activities on purported interference. It is in fact Canada which has been consistently interfering in India’s internal affairs,” the MEA said.
“This has also created an environment for illegal migration and organised criminal activities,” it said in a statement.

“We reject the report’s insinuations on India and expect that the support system enabling illegal migration will not be further countenanced,” it added.

Earlier the Canadian government in a report claimed that China and India tried to interfere in Canada’s elections.
The report claimed that while China was the “most persistent and sophisticated foreign interference threat to Canada,” India has become the “second most active country engaging in electoral foreign interference in Canada,” according to the CTV news.
New Delhi was suspected of using proxy agents to provide “clandestine financial support” to candidates from three political parties in a federal election, Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail reported.
“Like the PRC (People’s Republic of China), India conducts foreign interference through diplomatic officials in Canada and through proxies,” Justice Marie-JosÃe Hogue, who is the head of the commission of inquiry, wrote. “A body of intelligence indicates that proxy agents may have, and may continue to be, clandestinely providing illicit financial support to various Canadian politicians in an attempt to secure the election of pro-India candidates or gain influence over candidates who take office.”
The commission was set up by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September, 2023, with Justice Marie-JosÃe Hogue as its head.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/india-rejects-canadia-hogue-commissions-report-on-election-interference-in-fact-justin-trudeau-consistently-article-117653729

Mahakumbh News: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath appealed people to ‘not pay attention to rumours’ amid reports that several people have been killed.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath appealed people to “not pay attention to rumours” amid reports that several people have been killed in “stampede-like situation” during Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Both CM and the saints urged devotees to observe self-discipline and take holy bath only at the nearest ghat.

“Avoid going to Sangam Nose, follow the instructions of the administration,” Yogi Adityanath added. Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, meanwhile, had put their ‘amrit snan’ (royal bath) on hold in view of the situation.

“Due to the excessive crowd, we had put our snan on hold. Now that the crowd has reduced and the ghats meant for our snan are being vacated, so it seems that all Akharas will be able to do snan today… Our processions will be carried out as usual according to our tradition but will be at a smaller scale,” Ravindra Puri, president of the akhara, said.

Yoga guru Ramdev took a symbolic holy dip in Uttarakhand’s Haridwar. “We have taken a holy dip today keeping the injured persons in our prayers and wishing for their early recovery. We did a symbolic ‘snan’ today and prayed for the well-being of the people,” he said.

According to Akanksha Rana, special executive officer for the festival, a stampede-like situation arose at the Maha Kumbh Mela after a barrier broke. Authorities have not confirmed the number of casualties. Rana said early Wednesday that “several people” had been injured and taken to hospital but that officials were still assessing the extent of the damage.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/dont-listen-to-rumours-cm-yogi-amid-reports-of-deaths-at-maha-kumbhs-stampede-like-scenes-9206196.html

Many people are feared dead following a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela on Wednesday. The incident occurred during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya Shahi Snan at Sangam. Confirming the development, Prayagraj Mela Pradhikaran OSD Akansha Rana said, “A stampede-like situation occurred at Sangam Nose after a barrier broke.” Rana also stated that some people were injured but assured that “nothing is serious.”

A video posted by news agency PTI showed an ambulance at the mela site. According to the latest reports from the BBC, security personnel have reached the scene of the stampede. As per the Uttar Pradesh government’s estimate, 10 crore people are expected to visit the Maha Kumbh Mela today. This year, a rare celestial alignment called ‘Triveni Yog’ is occurring after 144 years, further amplifying the spiritual significance of the day.

Along with other security officials, teams of NDRF and NSG have reached the confluence, or Triveni, and are urging people to leave the area after taking a holy dip. The latest visuals posted by news agency ANI show injured devotees being taken to the Maha Kumbh hospital located in Sector 2.

Source : https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/maha-kumbh-2025-stampede-during-mauni-amavasya-shahi-snan-in-prayagraj-many-feared-dead-12922124.html 

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad president Mahant Ravindra Puri on Wednesday said that due to the stampede-like situation at Maha Kumbh, the seers have called off their Mauni Amavasya’s Amrit Snan.

A stampede-like situation broke out at Sangam earlier on Wednesday at the Sangam, where several people, including women and children, suffered injuries.

“You would’ve seen what happened in the morning, and that’s why we have decided to… All of our saints and seers were ready for the ‘snan’ when we were informed about this incident. That’s why we have decided to call off our ‘snan’ on ‘Mauni Amavasya’,” Mahant Ravindra Puri told PTI Videos.

Source : https://www.ptinews.com/detail/national/Akharas-call-off-Mauni-Amavasya–Amrit-Snan–after-near-stampede-at-Maha-Kumbh–Mahant-Ravindra-Puri/2243773

Maha Kumbh isn’t just a place where one seeks to be closer to the divine and atone for one’ sins by dipping in the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati but it is also a place where new unions are made.

The same stands true for a couple who has found love across continents. Penelope from Greece and Siddharth from India decided to get married at none other than the auspicious pilgrimage at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

This Maha Kumbh is a special one as it only comes every 144 years.

According to a report by NDTV, Siddharth claimed that they decided to perform this sacred ceremony at Maha Kumbh because it is currently the best place in the “whole universe” for its divine nature.

Penelope’s kanyadaan was performed by Swami Yatindranand Giri, Mahamandaleshwar of the Juna Akhara along with bride’s mother and other relatives.

Siddharth told news agency ANI, “We are very grateful just to get married to each other, she is really special.

“When we decided on it, we wanted to do it in the most authentic manner which would be simple yet divine, and for that, we chose Prayagraj, Maha Kumbh, this specific date (January 26).

“We know that at this point of time that this is probably the best place not just in the country or in the world but the universe where all forms of divinity, pilgrimages everything is present here. You meet such great souls. We meet Maharaj ji (Swami Yatindranand Giri) and get his blessings and this is such a pleasure for the heart and the soul.”

Siddharth also said that Sanatan Dharma is an “ancient window to the world” and marriage, an important institution had to be performed in a ‘Vedic’ way.

Penelope called this experience “magical beyond words”. She said she had never experienced an Indian wedding before and now she experienced one as a bride. She said she is looking forward to embrace a new culture.

She also said that when Siddharth gave her the option of marrying in Greece or India, she chose India as it was the more ‘divine’ option in her opinion.

There are some things that have been changing over the years, like weddings are just another opportunity to party and get drunk and for us it was more divine. It was very nice to see a different perspective, a spiritual way,” she said.

Penelope said she was earlier associated with Buddhism, the bride said she realised that “everything comes from ‘Sanatan Dharma’.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/maha-kumbh-2025-indian-man-marries-greek-girlfriend-at-mela-calls-it-best-place-in-whole-universe-to-get-hitched-3375094

At least five people were killed and at least 20 were injured after a watchtower collapsed during the ‘Laddu Mahotsav’ organised by the Jain community in Baghpat’s Baraut city in Uttar Pradesh. According to DM Asmita Lal, 6-7 police personnel are also among the injured.
Baghpat SP Arpit Vijayvargiya, said that the watchtower collapsed during the ‘Laddu Mahotsav’ program injuring about 20-25 people. “2-3 people are seriously injured, who are undergoing treatment…” the SP added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognisance of the incident and directed the officials to immediately reach the spot and expedite the relief work, the Chief Minister’s Office said, reported PTI.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/baghpat-laddu-mahotsav-watchtower-collapse-uttar-pradesh-20-injured-several-critical-cm-yogi-adityanath-article-117617670 

Uniform Civil Code was implemented in Uttarakhand on Monday, unifying the laws for marriages, divorce and other civil matters. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the process of registration of your marriage.

The Uniform Civil Code was implemented in Uttarakhand on Monday in what was a massive move by the Pushkar Singh Dhami government towards fulfilling its poll promise of bringing the law in the state.

The newly launched UCC portal, ucc.uk.gov.in, lets the residents of the state to register online for several services relating to marriage and live-in relationships.

The government has made the registration process simple and user-friendly.

Steps To Register On UCC Portal:

Visit ucc.uk.gov.in – the government’s official portal for UCC.

• Click on ‘Apply Now’ button to initiate the registration process.
• Enter your Aadhaar number or virtual ID for authentication.
• Give no-objection on three aspects which are slated mandatory.
• Provide the OTP you received on your registered mobile number.
• Submit the required details to complete the registration process.
• Notably, CM Dhami became the first person to register his marriage using the UCC portal on Monday.

Residents who prefer offline registration can use their mobile numbers instead of Aadhaar. An OTP will be sent to the provided mobile number to complete the registration process.

Significant Features Of UCC Portal

The portal provides a host of features, making it a vital resource for accessing legal information and services with ease and efficiency.

One of its standout features is the availability of UCC law in both Hindi and English, ensuring broader accessibility for users. The platform facilitates the registration and dissolution of live-in relationships, offering a streamlined process for such legal matters.

Users can also download and verify certificates directly through the portal, eliminating the need for lengthy offline procedures. To enhance inclusivity, the portal is accessible in 23 languages, catering to diverse linguistic groups and ensuring a user-friendly experience for all.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/uttarakhand-cm-dhami-first-to-register-marriage-under-ucc-heres-how-you-can-do-it-online-9204853.html

Amid a growing war of words over Yamuna’s water quality, Delhi Jal Board CEO Shilpa Shinde on Monday denied Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal’s claim that the Haryana government had released “poison” into the river.

Calling the allegations “factually incorrect, without basis, and misleading,” Shilpa Shinde, in a letter to Delhi chief secretary Dharmendra, underscored the potential harm such claims could pose to interstate relations and public confidence.

Earlier in the day, Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP-led Haryana government of polluting the raw water supply to Delhi, comparing it to “biological warfare” and warning it could result in mass casualties in the capital.

Delhi chief minister Atishi, in an earlier press conference, accused Haryana of deliberately discharging industrial waste into the Yamuna.

Shinde’s letter clarified that the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) routinely monitors water quality and adapts its treatment processes as needed.

“During winter, ammonia levels in the Yamuna naturally increase due to reduced flow and the mixing of untreated sewage or industrial waste upstream. DJB’s water treatment plants are designed to handle ammonia levels up to 1 ppm and even higher concentrations, such as 6.5 ppm at present, through dilution with water from the Carrier Lined Channel and Delhi Sub-Branch,” the letter said.

Shinde pointed out that the lower water flow in winter amplifies the effect of untreated sewage upstream. However, she said that the Haryana government has begun addressing the problem, including the installation of pipelines to adhere to the National Green Tribunal’s directives.

The DJB CEO requested the chief secretary to refer the issue to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, emphasising that such “fear-mongering statements” would not only mislead Delhi residents but also damage relations with Haryana, an important upstream state.

The chief secretary has forwarded Shinde’s note to the lieutenant governor, drawing attention to its impact on interstate relations.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/factually-incorrect-without-basis-delhi-jal-board-ceo-dismisses-arvind-kejriwals-poison-in-yamuna-claim-101738023624758.html

The ongoing Maha Kumbh mela has witnessed a great surge of devotees looking to experience the holy dip at Triveni Sangam, as over 15 million people, including 1 million Kalpawasis took a dip at the confluence of the Ganga, and Yamuna rivers till 10 PM on Monday.

According to a statement released by the Uttar Pradesh government, over 140 million people have taken the holy dip since the commencement of the event on January 13.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took a holy dip at the Sangam Triveni in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Mr Shah was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Baba Ram Dev and other saints and sages.

Till now, several Union Ministers, including Rajnath Singh and various leaders have visited Maha Kumbh and have taken a dip at the Triveni Sangam.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju shared his experience of taking the holy dip, while also interacting with various devotees.

Speaking to ANI after the dip, he said, “Maha Kumbh is connected to the faith of crores of people. Taking a dip in the holy waters here is a significant moment in my life. Crores of pilgrims are visiting Prayagraj and all of them are saying that the arrangements here are really good. I congratulate UP CM, his team and the whole administration for making such arrangements here.”

The religious congregation has also witnessed an extraordinary influx of devotees from around the world.

Antonio, a pilgrim from Italy, has finally fulfilled his decade-long dream of attending the Kumbh Mela in India.

“I feel fantastic,” Antonio exclaimed while adding, “There’s a lot of blessings in this place. I was looking forward to this. I wanted to visit for over 10 years. And finally, I’m here.”

Antonio’s fascination with India’s spiritual heritage began years ago. He had previously undertaken a 2,000-kilometer pilgrimage on foot, known as a “padh-yatra,” which deepened his understanding and devotion to Indian saints.

Esther, a pilgrim from Spain, has found herself immersed in the spiritual energy of the Kumbh Mela. Initially, she felt overwhelmed by the large crowds, but as the day progressed, her experience transformed. “I’m feeling great right now,” Esther said.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/prayagraj-maha-kumbh-over-15-million-devotees-take-holy-dip-at-sangam-on-january-27-7574494

In a series of successful joint operations, Indian Army including Assam Rifles in coordination with Manipur Police and other security forces, recovered 35 weapons, ammunition and warlike stores from both hill and valley regions in the districts of Thoubal, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur, Churchandpur, Imphal West, Noney, Jidribam and Kakching in Manipur.

Acting on specific intelligence, the Indian Army, in coordination with Assam Rifles and Manipur Police launched a joint operation in Lungkhongjang ridge North of Bungte Chiru village in Bishnupur district and recovered one modified sniper rifle, five 9 mm pistols, two single barrel rifles, grenades, ammunition and war like stores.

Based on specific inputs, Indian Army launched another operation in near Khuga river and fringes of Dampi Ridge located at border areas of Bishnupur and Churachandpur districts in collaboration with CRPF and Manipur Police and recovered one 9mm Sub Machine Gun, one .303 rifle, one pistol, one single barrel breach loaded gun, one country made mortar, one grenade launcher, grenades ammunition and war like stores.

In Tengnoupal district, Assam Rifles on receiving specific intelligence of attempts of infiltration on 20 January 2025 along the Indo-Myanmar Borde near Yangoupokpi, laid ambushes along the likely infiltration route, and apprehended a cadre. On questioning the arrested individual stated his affiliation with the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL).

An intelligence-based operation of presence of arms and ammunition launched by Assam Rifles in general area Maohing, Noney District on 20 Jan 25 resulted in recovery of a 9mm country made pistol, one .303 rifle, one improvised projectile launcher, grenades, ammunition and war like stores.

On 23 Jan 25, intelligence based joint operations was conducted by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police in general area of Ngamukhong Fungi Ching (Leingangpokpi) in Thoubal District, which resulted in recovery of one country-made pistol, one single-bore country-made rifle, ten No. 36 hand grenades ammunition and war like stores.

On the same day, Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with Manipur Police including Commando Teams, launched in the area between Heirok and Wangjing in Thoubal district, apprehended two KCP(PWG) cadres along with two 9mm pistols, ammunition and war like stores.

In Jiribam district a cordon and search operation launched by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police in general area between Zairawn and Uchatol in Jiribam district on 23 Jan 25 resulted in recovery of one carbine, one single barrel gun, grenades and ammunition.

In Chandel district, the Assam Rifles conducted a successful operation on 24 January 2025 between Gamngai and Pheijang and recovered one 9mm Pistol, one locally made Mortar (Pompi), one Improvised Explosive Device (IED, (approx 1 kg), grenades, ammunition and ear like stores.

On the same day in Imphal West district, Assam Rifles, along with Manipur Police launched a joint search operation in the general area of Potsangbam Khullen Hill Range in Imphal West District and recovered, one self-loading rifle, one carbine machine gun, one .32 caliber country-made pistol, two 51mm mortars, grenades and ammunition.

In Kakching district, Assam Rifles in a joint operation with Manipur Police launched an intelligence based joint operation in the general area Thangjao Mamang Ching, on 25 January 2025 and recovered one Modified .303 Sniper Rifle, Airgun Rifle, Grenades, ammunition and war like stores.

On the same day in Imphal West District, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police launched a joiunt search operation in general area Sekmai (Tendongyan) and recovered one .303 rifle, one 9mm pistol, one .32 caliber pistol, hand grenades and ammunition.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/35-weapons-ammunition-seized-from-manipur-in-army-assam-rifles-joint-ops-7575285

A man in Maharashtra, who was suspected to have Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) died in the Solapur district today while the number of cases of the immunological nerve disorder crossed 100 in Pune.

This is reportedly the first death in Maharashtra due to GBS. The 40-year-old man, a native of Solapur, had come to Pune, where he is suspected to have contracted the disease.

The Union health ministry has sent a team to Pune’s Sinhgad area, where the outbreak is currently concentrated.

Symptoms Of GBS

GBS is a neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. This is part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord. The onset of GBS is quite sudden and unexpected.

The first symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome include weakness or tingling sensations. They usually start in the legs and can spread to the arms and face, states the World Health Organization.

Many people have back pain or pain in the arms or legs. A nervous system exam usually reveals a loss of all deep tendon reflexes.

For some people, these symptoms can lead to paralysis of the legs, arms, or muscles in the face. In approximately one third of people, the chest muscles are affected, making it hard to breathe, WHO said.

The ability to speak and swallow may become affected in severe cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Patients with GBS need immediate hospitalization and the symptoms can develop over a few days or a few weeks, with the greatest weakness occurring within the first couple of weeks after symptoms appear, states Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ndtv-explainer-symptoms-of-guillain-barre-syndrome-and-how-to-prevent-it-7573284

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (local time) prime minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States in February.

“He (PM Modi) will visit the US sometime in February,” news agency Reuters quoted Donald Trump as saying.

Trump’s statement followed his telephonic conversation with PM Modi, their’ first since the Republican was sworn in for a second term on January 20.

The call came against the backdrop of buzz in diplomatic circles about the Indian side working on an early meeting between the two leaders.

Meanwhile, President Trump also noted he discussed immigration with PM Modi, and said India will do ‘what is right’ when it comes to taking back ’illegal immigrants.’

The US leader’s pledge to crackdown on illegal immigrants in the United States is believed to have played a crucial role in his return to the White House, four years after he lost as the incumbent to Democrat Joe Biden.

Prime minister Narendra Modi’s previous US visit came in September last year, as he went there for the fourth Quad Leaders’ summit, hosted by then-President Joe Biden, and also attended by prime ministers of fellow Quad states: Anthony Albanese of Australia and then-prime minister Fumio Kishida of Japan.

Additionally, PM Modi addressed the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar represented the Indian government at Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington D.C.

White House on Trump-Modi call

According to a White House statement, President Trump and PM Modi had a ‘productive call,’ with a discussion on how to ‘expand and deepen’ cooperation between the two countries.

There was also a discussion on plans for a possible US visit for PM Modi, as per the statement.

India and China on Monday decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, stopped since 2020. The decision was made at the meeting between foreign secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.

“The relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements. They also agreed to hold an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism to discuss resumption of provision of hydrological data and other cooperation pertaining to trans-border rivers,” a statement by the ministry of external affairs stated.

Both sides also agreed in principle to resume direct flights. India and China also agreed to promote and facilitate people-to-people contacts, especially between media and think tanks.

“The two sides took stock of the extant mechanisms for functional exchanges. It was agreed to resume these dialogues step by step and to utilize them to address each other’s priority areas of interest and concern. Specific concerns in the economic and trade areas were discussed with a view to resolving these issues and promoting long-term policy transparency and predictability,” the MEA added.

Vikram Misri on 2-day visit to China

Vikram Misri is on a two-day visit to Beijing for a meeting of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism between India and China.

The MEA said that the resumption of this bilateral mechanism flows from the agreement at the leadership level to discuss the next steps for India-China relations, including in the political, economic, and people-to-people domains.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-china-decide-to-resume-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-direct-flights-101737987066123.html

The Supreme Court has ordered the police to not use WhatsApp or other electronic modes as an alternative or substitute mode to serve notice to the accused under Section 41A of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) or Section 35 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

Section 41A, CrPc or Section 35, BNSS provides for the issuance of notice to accused, whose immediate arrest may not be required, to appear before the police or at such other place as may be specified.

The Bench of Justice MM Sundresh and Justice Rajesh Bindal ordered all the States and Union Territories to issue a Standing Order to their respective police departments asking them to issue such notices only through the prescribed mode of service under the CrPC or BNSS.

“It is made amply clear that service of notice through WhatsApp or other electronic modes cannot be considered or recognised as an alternative or substitute to the mode of service recognised and prescribed under the CrPC, 1973/BNSS, 2023,” the Court ordered.

The Court passed the direction in the Satendar Kumar Antil case in which it has previously passed landmark directions to prevent unnecessary arrests of accused or suspects. Since then, the Court has been monitoring the implementation of its orders.

The top court was recently informed that Haryana government has permitted police to serve Section 41A. CrPC or Section 35, BNSS notices through WhatsApp, e-mail, SMS or any other electronic mode.

On January 21, Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, the amicus curiae in the Satendar Kumar Antil case, had flagged that the police should not be allowed to circumvent the mandate of Section 41A, CrPC or Section 35, BNSS in this manner, by serving notices through WhatsApp or other electronic modes instead of following the normal mode of service.

It was also submitted that the top court earlier had upheld a Delhi High Court ruling that the notice served through WhatsApp or other electronic modes is not contemplated as a mode of service under the CrPC.

The Court accepted the submission and issued an order directing the police to strictly comply with the directions issued by it.

Further, the Court directed that notices to witnesses must also only be served through the modes prescribed under the CrPC or BNSS.

“All the States/UTs must issue an additional Standing Order to their respective Police machinery to issue notices under Section 160 of CrPC, 1973/Section 179 of BNSS, 2023 and Section 175 of CrPC, 1973/Section 195 of BNSS, 2023 to the accused persons or otherwise, only through the mode of service as prescribed under the CrPC, 1973/BNSS, 2023,” it ordered.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/whatsapp-cannot-be-used-as-a-substitute-by-police-to-serve-notice-to-accused-supreme-court

Gangster Anmol Bishnoi had ordered the shooting of NCP leader Baba Siddique for his “association with Dawood Ibrahim and involvement in the 1993 Bombay blasts”, alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam said in his confessional statement to the police. He also claimed he was asked to kill Baba Siddique or his son Zeeshan Siddique and promised Rs 10-15 lakh to carry out the crime.

The shooter’s confession was a part of the chargesheet filed in connection with the October 12 murder of Baba Siddique, 66, a former Maharashtra minister. Siddique was shot dead by three assailants outside his son’s office in Mumbai’s Bandra East area.

India Today TV accessed the detailed confession, which outlines the intricate planning, financial incentives and connections to the Bishnoi gang’s masterminds, including wanted accused Anmol Bishnoi and Shubham Lonkar.

Gautam confessed that he and his associate, Dharmaraj Kashyap, were promised Rs 10-15 lakh to kill Baba Siddique and potentially Zeeshan Siddique.

Introduced to the gang through mutual contacts, Gautam described how he became entangled in the plot, orchestrated using Snapchat for communication and funded through bank transactions.

The murder was meticulously planned over several months, with reconnaissance missions conducted at Siddique’s residence and office.

“One day, Shubham Lonkar told the shooter that he and his brother worked for the Bishnoi gang. In June 2024, Shubham Lonkar (Shubbu) told me and Dharmaraj Kashyap that if we did a job at his behest, we could be paid Rs 10-15 lakh. When I asked about the work, Shubham told us we were to kill a man named Baba Siddique or his son, Zesshan Siddique. But he didn’t give any further details,” Gautam said.

“After a few days, Shubham Lonkar reminded us about the murder and asked us if we were scared. Then, Dharmaraj Kashyap and I told him we would do the work and asked for the money,” he added.

Gautam disclosed that weapons were supplied by Bishnoi gang members based in Mumbai, and fake identity cards were provided to facilitate their movements.

His confession detailed the gang’s strategy to inspire confidence in the shooters. Bishnoi, Lonkar and their aides frequently communicated via Snapchat, motivating them and assuring financial and logistical support.

The shooters practiced with the supplied firearms in a secluded forest near Khopoli before carrying out the attack.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/anmol-bishnoi-gangster-baba-siddique-murder-shot-dead-dawood-ibrahim-mumbai-blasts-connection-2671098-2025-01-28

The Entrepreneurship Cell IIT Bombay, Asia’s largest student-run non-profit promoting entrepreneurship, has announced “E-Summit ‘25 – Pursuit of Eminence.” Taking place on February 1-2, 2025, this milestone 20th edition of Asia’s largest business conclave aims to bridge the gap between today’s leaders and tomorrow’s innovators, bringing together visionaries, startups, and thought leaders under one roof.

One of the key highlights is the Ten Minute Million (TTMM), India’s first-of-its-kind on-the-spot funding platform. Startups will pitch their ideas to 16 investors in just 10 minutes before an audience of over 3,500, competing for funding of up to INR 3.5 million. The event will feature inspiring leaders like Nandan Nilekani, Anupam Mittal, Sonam Wangchuk, and Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guruji), alongside 120+ speakers sharing invaluable insights.

The Startup Expo offers innovators a chance to exhibit their products to over 50,000 attendees, while Seed Stars provides opportunities for mentorship, networking, and funding. Tech enthusiasts can compete in I-Hack, a mega challenge with over INR 6 lakh in prizes for data science and development tracks.

Participants can also engage in Entre-MUN, a Model United Nations forum designed to foster leadership and debate global challenges. Workshops on Ethical Hacking, Android Development, Marketing Analytics, and Data Science provide hands-on skill-building.

For students, exciting competitions like IPL Auction, Bid-n-Build, Fish Tank, and Corporate Duel offer the chance to win prizes of up to INR 1 lakh. Aspiring entrepreneurs can explore career opportunities at the internship and job fair, while finance enthusiasts can participate in a virtual stock market simulation.

E-Summit ‘25 is a platform for innovation, learning, and collaboration. With countless speaker sessions, competitions, and interactive events, this two-day extravaganza at the iconic IIT Bombay campus is an unmissable experience for entrepreneurs, students, and visionaries alike.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/e-summit-2025-pursuit-of-eminence-at-iit-bombay-to-feature-visionary-speakers-startup-funding-and-global-competitions

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto graced the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartvaya Path on Sunday. Before the Jan 26 event, President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in his honour where her Indonesian counterpart shared his views on India-Indonesia relations. A light moment of laughter was witnessed during his speech when he said that he recently got done the sequencing of his DNA and found he has “Indian DNA”.
“…A few weeks ago I had my genetic sequencing test and my DNA test and they told me that I have Indian DNA,” Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto said while talking about the country’s connections to India. The joke left everyone at the table in splits with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, sitting beside Subianto, enjoying the pun-intended part of the speech.

“Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing…” Subianto further said, while expressing his love for Indian music.

He added that both countries have a long, ancient history together. “We have civilizational links, even now a very important part of our language comes from Sanskrit. Many names of Indonesia are actually Sanskrit names and in our daily life, the influence of ancient Indian civilization is very strong. I think it’s also part of our genetics…” the Indonesian President added.
Subianto became the second Head of the Government of Indonesia to have attended the event, the first being Sukarno, Indonesia’s first President who was part of India’s first Republic Day celebration on Jan 26, 1950.
Subianto, who is on his first state visit to India, said he is proud to be in India and wished “prosperity, peace, and greatness” for the people of India in the coming years.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/i-have-indian-dna-indonesian-president-remark-leaves-pm-narendra-modi-in-splits-watch-republic-day-article-117587842

Uttarakhand is all set to create history on Monday as it readies to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) becoming the first state to do so. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had said that all preparations to implement the law were done, and the enforcement would begin a day after Republic Day, i.e. on January 27.
In an official statement, the CM had said that officials concerned have been apprised of the Act, new laws and regulations. He said that the UCC will bring about uniformity in society and ensure equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens.
The Uniform Civil Code is mentioned as one of the Fundamental Duties in the Constitution and has been a long-pending promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Code will see its maiden implementation in the hill state of Uttarakhand.

“UCC is just an offering made by our state in the great ‘yagya’ being performed by the Prime Minister to make the country a developed, organised, harmonious and self-reliant nation,” the Chief Minister had said.
It was one of the promises the party made during the 2022 state assembly elections. The saffron party secured its second consecutive victory, a first in Uttarakhand since its formation in 2000.

A man who was detained from a train in Chhattisgarh as a suspect in the actor Saif Ali Khan case, but was let off after the ‘real attacker’ was caught, has said his life is in ‘complete disarray’ following police action.

Akash Kanojia, a driver with a tour company which works with Western Railway in Mumbai, was detained on January 18 by the Railway Protection Force after a tip-off from Mumbai Police. Saif Ali Khan was allegedly stabbed by an intruder in the wee hours of January 16 at his apartment in a residential society in the upscale Bandra locality of India’s financial and entertainment capital.

On January 19, Mumbai Police arrested a Bangladeshi national, Shariful Islam Shehzad, from Thane near Mumbai. Kanojia was subsequently released.

The actor underwent a surgery and was discharged on January 21.

‘One mistake of Mumbai Police…’

Slamming Mumbai cops, Kanojia said his family was left ‘shocked’ and ‘in tears’ after news channels began flashing his pictures as the ‘main suspect.’

Delhi Police have issued an advisory for the rehearsals of Wednesday’s Beating Retreat, a ceremony which concludes the Republic Day festivities.

According to the advisory, Vijay Chowk, where Beating Retreat is held, will remain closed for general traffic from 2 pm to 9.30 pm on both Monday and Tuesday (January 27 and 28).

Traffic restrictions in Delhi

Traffic will be restricted on Rafi Marg (between round about Sunehri Masjid and round about Krishi Bhawan), Raisina Road (from round about Krishi Bhawan towards Vijay Chowk), beyond round about Dara Shikoh Road, round about Krishna Menon Marg, and round about Sunehri Masjid towards Vijay Chowk, and Kartavya Path (between Vijay Chowk and ‘C’-Hexagon), the advisory said.

It suggested the following alternative routes for motorists and general public: Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point, Safdarjung Road, Kamal Ataturk Marg, Rani Jhansi Road, Minto Road, etc.

Diversions

(1.) Buses coming from Shanti Path, Vinay Marg, Sardar Patel Marg, and moving towards Central Secretariat and Connaught Place will take Panchsheel Marg, Simon Bolivar Marg, Vande Matram Marg, round about Shankar Road, and Sheikh Mujilbur Rehman Road.

Coldplay’s much-anticipated performances in Ahmedabad have left fans buzzing with excitement, marking the band’s biggest-ever concerts in India. Thousands of concertgoers flew into Gujarat to experience the British band’s spectacular shows at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The performances, part of their Music of the Spheres World Tour, were nothing short of a visual and musical extravaganza. Fans were mesmerised by the high-energy atmosphere, grooving under a stunning confetti of lights, which transformed the nights into unforgettable moments.

A concert in the sky: IndiGo joins the celebration

The magic of Coldplay’s performance didn’t just stay at the stadium—it also took off mid-air! A now-viral video shows IndiGo Captain Pradeep Krishnan engaging with excited passengers on a Pune-Ahmedabad flight, many of whom were headed to the concert. The Captain jokingly asked, “How many of you are going to the Coldplay concert? How many of you have two extra tickets?” This lighthearted moment sparked cheers and laughter from the thrilled travellers.

The fun didn’t stop there. Passengers recreated Coldplay’s famous sky full of stars moment by switching on their phone flashlights, turning the dimmed cabin into a pre-concert celebration in the sky. It was a spontaneous and joyous tribute to the band that left everyone on board in high spirits.

A two-year-old child survived a fall from the 13th-floor flat of a high-rise in Dombivali in Thane thanks to the alertness of a man, with a video of the act going viral on social media and drawing widespread praise from netizens who hailed him as a real-life hero.

The incident took place last week in Devichapada locality and the child sustained only minor injuries, officials said.

In the video, Bhavesh Mhatre can be seen running to catch the child, and though he failed to grasp her completely, his action broke the fall and lessened the impact of the child hitting the ground.

Eyewitnesses said the child fell while playing on the balcony of her 13th-floor flat.

“She slipped, was hanging precariously for some time at the edge of the balcony, and then fell,” an eyewitness said.

Bhavesh Mhatre said he was passing by the building and didn’t think twice before moving forward since he was determined to save the child’s life.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/toddler-survives-fall-from-13th-floor-balcony-due-to-mans-quick-thinking-7565303

It was the warmest Republic Day for Delhi in eight years on Sunday, January 26, with the maximum temperature settling at 23.7 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which has forecast that mercury is expected to rise further in the city.

The warmest Republic Day in Delhi before this one was in 2017 when the city had recorded a maximum temperature of 26.1 degrees Celsius, as per figures mentioned in a news agency PTI report.

The clear skies made the Republic Day Parade fly-past a breathtaking sight, which is not usual as foggy conditions reduce visibility at this time of the year generally.

However, Delhi’s minimum temperature on Sunday was 7.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below normal and a slight drop from 8.6 degrees Celsius on Saturday and 9.8 degrees Celsius on Friday.

Why is Delhi so warm in January?

Over the years, Delhi’s temperature on January 26 has fluctuated significantly. While the long-period average (LPA) maximum for the day since 1991 is 22.1 degrees Celsius, recent years have been cooler with the mercury settling at 20.6 degrees Celsius in 2024, 17.3 degrees Celsius in 2023 and 16.4 degrees Celsius in 2022.

The IMD has cited dry northwesterly winds and clear skies as the reasons for consistent above-normal maximum temperatures in Delhi.

“Despite a recent western disturbance bringing some rain and snow to parts of northwest India, the maximum temperature in Delhi has remained relatively unaffected due to bright daytime sunshine,” PTI quoted as saying vice president of private weather monitoring agency Skymet, Mahesh Palawat.

Temperatures to rise further in Delhi

A fresh western disturbance is expected to impact the region starting January 28, leading to a further rise in both maximum and minimum temperatures, Palawat said.

He said the disturbance will shift wind patterns, reduce wind speeds and bring cloud cover, which will “trap heat at night and cause night temperatures to rise”.

According to the IMD, the minimum temperature could increase to 9-11 degrees Celsius by the weekend while the maximum will hover between 24-26 degrees Celsius.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on Monday to participate in the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

Shah will also take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

“The grand gathering of Sanatan Dharma, Maha Kumbh, which gives the message of equality and harmony to the whole world, is not only a pilgrimage site but also a confluence of the country’s diversity, faith and knowledge tradition. I am excited to take a dip and worship at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj tomorrow and meet revered saints,” he wrote on ‘X’ in Hindi.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/maha-kumbh-2025-union-home-minister-amit-shah-to-take-holy-dip-at-sangam-on-jan-27

Vicky Kaushal’s upcoming film ‘Chhaava’ has run afoul of Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Uday Samant, who called for a ban on its release due to what he described as objectionable content.

‘Chhaava’ is based on the life of Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, the period film is slated to hit theatres on February 14, 2024.

Samant has taken exception to a dance sequence in the movie, questioning its historical authenticity and calling for it to be deleted.

“The movie made by Vicky Kaushal shows Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje dancing. The director should cut this part. This movie should be shown to historians and scholars. If they raise objections, we will not let it be released,” he told news agency ANI on Sunday.

While acknowledging the filmmakers’ effort to bring the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to a wider audience, Samant made it clear that historical accuracy must be maintained.

“Such efforts are necessary to make the world understand the history of Chhatrapati. However, many have expressed their opinions that there are some objectionable scenes in this film,” the Minister said in a statement.

Samant called on the filmmakers to consult historians and remove any controversial content before release. He warned that the film’s release would be blocked unless the suggested changes are made.

“Our position is that this film should not be released without first showing it to experts and knowledgeable people. Anything that will harm the honour of the Maharaj will not be tolerated,” he stated.

This isn’t the first time that a film based on a historical figure has run into controversy prior to its release. In 2018, ‘Padmaavat’ faced severe backlash from Rajput groups, particularly the Karni Sena, for allegedly distorting facts about Queen Padmavati. Following violent protests, the Deepika Padukone-starrer was allowed to be released after certain changes were made.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/vicky-kaushal-chhaava-uday-sawaqnt-wont-allow-release-objectionable-scenes-2670584-2025-01-27

On India’s 76th Republic Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated his commitment to cleanliness by picking up litter on Kartavya Path, promoting the ‘Swachh Bharat’ initiative and the concept of plogging. This act, witnessed by thousands, served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining clean public spaces through collective efforts.
The gesture came as PM Modi received Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Known for championing cleanliness drives, the Prime Minister has consistently highlighted plogging and community-led efforts in achieving a cleaner India. In his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address last November, he praised a plogging group cleaning Ganga ghats in Kanpur.
The Ministry of Defence also organised a large-scale plogging drive across 400 locations during December’s Swachhta Pakhwada initiative.

The national capital is on high alert on Republic Day as over 70 companies of paramilitary forces and more than 70,000 police personnel are deployed across the city, police said.

A six-layered security protocol involving 15,000 security personnel will be deployed in New Delhi district alone.

“Installation of more than 2,500 CCTV cameras equipped with data-based facial recognition and video analytics. Anti-drone systems covering a four kilometres radius to detect and deactivate aerial threats. Snipers on rooftops and sealing of over 200 buildings along the parade route, with residential windows facing the route also secured,” a police officer said.

Restrictions on traffic movement, especially in central Delhi, was clamped in the city from Saturday.

Another senior police officer said state and central security forces were working in real-time coordination for the Sunday celebrations.

About 15,000 security personnel with focussed roles and responsibilities are deployed at the main operational area of Kartavya Path.

Commandoes, quick reaction teams, PCR vans, anti-sabotage checks and SWAT teams are deployed at strategic locations along Kartavya Path and all around the city, he said.

“We have divided the New Delhi, Central Delhi and North Delhi districts, where the parade will take place, into different zones to ensure security. Each zone is headed by the DCP or additional DCP-level officers,” said the officer.

Booths for missing persons, helpdesks, first-aid kiosks and where the visitors can deposit their vehicle keys before the parade have been set up.

According to traffic police, the parade will start from Vijay Chowk and proceed towards the Red Fort. There will be a related function at the National War Memorial, India Gate.

The parade will pass through Vijay Chowk, Kartavya Path, C-Hexagon, Subhas Chandra Bose roundabout, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Netaji Subhas Marg and Red Fort.

No traffic movement has been allowed on Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate from 6 pm on Saturday. Restrictions will continue till the parade is over.

No cross-traffic will be allowed on Kartavya Path at Rafi Marg, Janpath, Man Singh Road from 10 pm on Saturday till the end of the parade.

C-Hexagon-India Gate will be closed for traffic from 9.15 am on Sunday till the parade crosses Tilak Marg.

Source :https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/70000-cops-guard-delhi-on-republic-day-high-alert-sounded-3373293

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday greeted people on India’s Republic Day, wishing that the occasion strengthens efforts towards preserving the ideals of the Constitution.

“Happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity and unity,” Modi said in a post on X.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/may-this-occasion-strengthen-efforts-towards-preserving-ideals-of-constitution-pm-modi-on-republic-day-3373318 

The Uniform Civil Code will be implemented in Uttarakhand on January 27, making it the first state to implement such a law that will bring uniformity in society while ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said.

In a statement, he said all preparations to implement UCC, including getting approval of the rules for the implementation of the Act and training of officials concerned, have been completed.

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Act was notified on March 12, 2024, after presidential assent.

Dhami said the UCC will bring about uniformity in society and ensure equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens.

“The Uniform Civil Code is just an offering made by our state in the great ‘yagya’ being performed by the prime minister to make the country a developed, organized, harmonious and self-reliant nation,” he said.

The Uttarakhand chief minister said, “Under the UCC, an attempt has been made to bring uniformity in all laws related to personal civil matters that discriminate on the basis of caste, religion and gender.” The UCC has been on the BJP’s agenda nationally for many years. But the party’s government in Uttarakhand became the first to take a concrete step towards implementing it just before the Lok Sabha elections last year. Now, the UCC Act of Uttarakhand might serve as a template for other BJP-run states to enact similar legislation.

Implementation of UCC was a major commitment of the BJP in the run-up to the 2022 assembly polls in Uttarakhand which saw the party storm to power for a second consecutive term.

The state cabinet recently approved the rules and regulations for UCC’s implementation and authorised the chief minister to decide a date for it. Dhami had ushered in the new year with a promise to implement it in January itself.

“We are celebrating 2025 as the silver jubilee year of statehood to Uttarakhand. It is going to be a year of big achievements. We have kept our promise of bringing a UCC. We will implement it in January,” Dhami said on New Year’s Day.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttarakhand/ucc-to-be-implemented-in-uttarakhand-on-january-27-says-chief-minister-3373309

India’s ambition to be a semiconductor production hub is gathering momentum with the announcement of its first semiconductor fab in 2024 and growing Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facilities. With investments exceeding Rs. 1.26 lakh crore, the country is turning into an irresistible destination for the global investments in the semiconductor market.
Valued at USD 41.2 billion presently, the Indian semiconductor market is set to maintain a CAGR of 19 percent, propelled by a surge in demand from automotive, electronics, telecommunications, and renewable energy sectors. The forthcoming Union Budget 2025 can provide a platform to assist in carrying the momentum forward and help create a roadmap for sustainable competitiveness.

With the surge in fares for the ongoing Maha Kumbh, eight in 10 fliers said they have paid excessively high fare once or more in the past 12 months, according to a LocalCircles survey.

Air fares to Prayagraj and Banaras in Uttar Pradesh have reported to have risen 300% to 600% as pilgrims flock in large numbers to take a dip in the Ganges during the ongoing Mahakumbh. Consumers are reporting airfares for Delhi to Prayagraj between Rs 20,000 – 30,000 and for Delhi to Varanasi between Rs 20,000 – 40,000. Many fliers have been trying alternate airports as flights to Prayagraj sell out. This is against the around Rs 5,000 for a one-way trip to these cities under normal circumstances.

The survey received over 30,000 responses from airline passengers located in 304 districts of India. While 61% respondents were men, 39% respondents were women. Around 41% respondents were from tier 1, 29% from tier 2 and 30% respondents were from tier 3, 4, 5 and rural districts.

THE SURVEY

The survey first asked air travelers, “How many times have you paid excessively high (1.5 times of standard fare or higher) airfare in the last 12 months?”

Of the 15,226 who responded to this question, 41% stated “1-2 times”; 36% stated “3-5 times”; 2% stated “6 times or more”; 16% stated they “have never paid excessively high fare in the last 12 months” and 5% of respondents did not give a clear answer.

6 IN 10 WANT GOVT TO INTRODUCE CEILING/UPPER LIMIT

Given the air travellers’ concerns, the survey asked, “What should the ceiling on airfares be so profiteering by airlines does not take place?”

Of the 15,095 who responded to the question 50% stated “2X of standard fare”; 10% stated “3X of standard fare”; 22% stated “there should be no ceiling / upper limit to what an airline can charge for a particular segment” and 18% of respondents did not give a clear answer.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/amid-mahakumbh-surge-8-in-10-fliers-say-they-paid-high-airfares-at-least-once-in-past-12-months-9202264.html

In a record-breaking operation, approximately 80,000 kilograms of narcotics seized over the past year from seven districts of Madhya Pradesh were destroyed in a cement factory in Neemuch district. The massive haul of drugs, including opium, smack, MDMA, ganja, hashish, and other substances, was confiscated in 456 cases from police stations across Ujjain, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Ratlam, Agar-Malwa, Dewas, and Shajapur districts.

On Thursday morning, 22 trucks loaded with the seized drugs arrived at the Neemuch cement factory. Following a meticulously planned operation, the process of burning the narcotics began at 7 am and continued until 11 pm The drugs were incinerated at an extreme temperature of 1400 degrees Celsius in the cement factory’s furnace, ensuring their complete destruction.

“Such a large quantity of drugs destroyed at one time in one location is a record in itself,” remarked SP Ankit Jaiswal, highlighting the significance of the operation in the state’s fight against narcotics.

The entire process was conducted under the supervision and clearance of scientists from the Pollution Control Board. Remarkably, not a single particle of smoke escaped the facility, and the operation adhered to strict safety and environmental standards.

“A committee under the DIG of the Ujjain and Ratlam range, along with the Pollution Control Board, monitored the operation to control harmful gases,” said Harishankar Sharma, a scientist involved in the process.

The narcotics included 10 different types of substances, with 168 kilograms of opium among them. Interestingly, the heat generated during the incineration was utilised as “green fuel” by the factory to power its production processes, reducing the need for coal.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/rs-8600-crore-drugs-destroyed-in-record-operation-at-madhya-pradesh-cement-factory-7559229

A snow leopard in a Ladakhi dress, a ‘tiger’ wearing a dhoti-kurta holding a traditional instrument and a few other animals and birds representing different regions of India and its diversity feature in a special doodle by internet giant Google to mark the 76th Republic Day.

The colourful artwork, which borrows an element of surrealism, depicts the six letters of ‘GOOGLE’ artistically woven into the theme, giving the appearance of a ‘wildlife parade’.

Republic Day 2025

India will showcase its military might and vibrant cultural heritage on the Kartavya Path here on Sunday as it completes 75 years as a Republic.

Sixteen tableaux from different states and Union Territories, and 15 from central ministries, departments and organisations will roll down the ceremonial boulevard as part of the celebrations. The Madhya Pradesh tableau will depict the Project Cheetah and the Kuno National Park.

A description of the doodle on Google’s website says, “This doodle celebrates India’s 76th Republic Day, an occasion marked by national pride and unity.” The artwork was illustrated by Pune-based guest artist Rohan Dahotre. The animals portrayed in the parade represent different regions of India, it says.

About The Doodle

The doodle depicts a snow leopard wearing a traditional dress of the Ladakh region and walking on two feet while holding a ribbon in hand. Next to it, a tiger, again standing on two feet has been depicted, holding a musical instrument. A peacock in flight and an antelope in traditional attire walking with a ceremonial staff in hand are among the other animals portrayed walking in the doodle.

The annual Republic Day Parade, which is well attended and widely watched, covers several kilometres on the Kartavya Path to the India Gate. Attendees enjoy colorful, grand floats, and cultural performances from across the country, along with marches and formations by different contingents of the nation’s armed forces.

The Aam Aadmi Party has entered the Delhi battleground with its image bruised by corruption allegations and the novelty factor diminished.

Fighting a BJP that is dreaming of capturing power in the capital after a gap of 27 years and a Congress that is seeking to restore its past glory, AAP knows that 2025 is a ‘do or die’ battle and not as easy as it was in 2015 or 2020 when they dusted the opponents to irrelevance. Its campaigner-in-chief Arvind Kejriwal is crisscrossing Delhi, announcing ‘guarantees’, seeking the support of various caste groups, attending campaign rallies and trying to put the BJP on the back foot.

Knowing well that it cannot bank on ‘freebies’ alone, AAP has reached out to new allies – from ‘Sanatan’ practitioners to Sikh Granthis, Jats, Aggarwals, auto-drivers, washer-people, sanitation workers, students, slum-dwellers to RWAs and middle-class – as a dent has appeared in its voter-base.

AAP was in disarray a few months back with its top leaders in jail on corruption charges and doubts lingering in the minds of cadre. Some left for greener pastures while some waited for clouds to clear. In the last four months, it has tried to regain control and stabilise itself, with several manoeuvers.

Kejriwal, who did not vacate his chair while in jail to scuttle the emergence of any other power centre in AAP, quit as chief minister within days of walking free on bail in September, in what was seen as a smart move to deflect any discussion on his continuance.

Atishi was chosen as a “temporary” successor. Minister Kailash Gahlot walked out of AAP accusing Kejriwal of moving away from ideals. One of Kejriwal’s close aides Swati Maliwal fell out of his favour after she warmed up to his opponents following one of his aides allegedly assaulting her.

Unfazed by the setbacks and other leaders found wanting in managing the party’s affairs when he was behind bars, Kejriwal took the command and steered AAP back on track. AAP soon re-energised one lakh office bearers at the grassroots and deployed 5,000-member women squads as a first step.

MLAs were given the task of reaching every voter’s doorstep. AAP became the first to announce candidates after wooing some influential leaders from other parties while benching around two dozen sitting MLAs to minimise anti-incumbency.

As AAP changed gears, its opponents unleashed a campaign centred around ‘Sheesh Mahal’ or lavish spending on refurbishing the chief minister’s official residence and liquor scam.

At the same time, AAP faced a renewed challenge from its I.N.D.I.A. ally Congress with Rahul Gandhi leading the charge to make the Delhi battle a triangular fight. Dalit groups and minorities too have reservations about AAP, which has never shied away from flaunting its Hindutva credentials.

A narrative pushed by the saffron camp that a fresh Kejriwal term would end up as another five years of confrontation with the BJP-led Centre and stagnation of development has also triggered some concerns for the AAP.

At another level, AAP is also sharing its apprehensions about the “manipulation” of electoral devices – it has complained about deletions from electoral rolls and applications for the addition of unprecedented numbers of voters from BJP MPs’ residences.

AAP is leaving no opportunity to attack the BJP – it has picked up Ramesh Bidhuri’s sexist comments, Parvesh Verma’s comments on Punjab registration vehicles, and alleged distribution of cash and articles – while ignoring Congress as an insignificant force in the capital.

With its governance record of 10 years, a slew of new guarantees aimed at Dalits, priests, elderly and youth among others and a carefully crafted victim card, can AAP overcome the BJP’s bid to end its power drought and the Congress’ hope for a resurgence even at the cost of an ally?

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/elections/delhi/delhi-assembly-elections-2025-aap-in-a-do-or-die-battle-3372287

India on Friday said it is opposed to illegal immigration and would be ready to take back Indians staying illegally in the US provided their nationality is verified.

The comments by External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal came as the Trump administration is preparing to implement a mass deportation programme targeting illegal immigrants living in the US.

Jaiswal said at a media briefing that New Delhi would take back Indians who have either overstayed in the US or any other country or are without papers.

He was responding to a question about reports that the US Department of Homeland Security has identified around 18,000 illegal immigrants from India.

India is opposed to illegal immigration because of its links to several forms of organised crime, Jaiswal said.

“We will take them back provided documents are shared with us so that we can verify their nationality, that they are indeed Indians,” he said.

At the same time, he said, it would be “premature” to talk about the number of illegal Indian immigrants staying in the US.

In his campaign speeches for the presidential election, Donald Trump promised a radical shift to tighten Washington’s immigration policy and vowed to carry out the “largest” domestic deportation operation of undocumented immigrants in American history and review the existing refugee programmes.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/opposed-to-illegal-immigration-india-amid-trumps-push-for-deportation-of-undocumented-immigrants-3372000

Stargazers are in or a treat as six planets – Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus – are set to align in the night sky today, January 25, offering a spectacular view. The six planets will form an astronomical alignment known as the “planetary parade”. This celestial spectacle has been visible for most of the month, beginning around January 18, and will continue through early February. However, tonight all the six planets will meet up together on the same side of the sun in a wide arc above Earth and most of them will be visible to the naked eye under clear night skies.

According to NASA, such events, especially those involving four or more planets, are noteworthy and do not occur annually. Moreover, what makes this event extraordinary is the number of visible bright planets, including Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Venus, which doesn’t happen every year.

Planetary Parade: What is it? 

According to Space.com, the planets in our solar system orbit the sun essentially along a line across the sky in a plane called the ecliptic. For that reason, planets in our Earthly sky always appear somewhere along a line. These events, while commonplace, are often referred to as planetary alignments.

Astronomers say that while tonight’s event might be overhyped as some type of “rare alignment,” it’s actually a regular occurrence in our night sky. But what could be noteworthy for stargazers is the six planets that will be visible – including four with the naked eye. Such an event is commonly known as a “planet parade,” though NASA noted that the moniker is not a technical astronomical term.

Planetary Parade: When and how to see the alignment 

The best time to catch the event is about 45 minutes after sunset. The four planets – Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn – will be visible to the naked eye just after the sun goes down, but Uranus and Neptune will require a telescope. NASA stated that after dark, Venus and Saturn will be visible in the southwest. Jupiter will shine brightly overhead, and Mars will rise in the east.

The alignment will last for up to three hours, until Venus and Saturn dip below the horizon. Venus will be the most visible and brightest of these planets. Mars will look like a bright lightbulb because of its red colour. Saturn will appear as a tiny dot in the western sky, while Jupiter will also be similar but in the southern sky. Uranus and Neptune can be seen as tiny, bright dots but will not be visible to the naked eye due to their distance from the other planets in the alignment.

Planetary Parade: Visibility in India 

The planetary alignment will be visible across India. Most cities will be able to witness this rare event. Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are visible to the naked eye. However, you will need a telescope to see Neptune and Uranus, as they are faint.

The Pathani Samant Planetarium in Bhubaneswar has made elaborate arrangements for visitors, PTI quoted an official as saying. Visitors will be able to witness the rare event on all days, except Monday, from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm.

The Tamil Nadu Science and Technology Centre (TNSTC) is also organising a special night sky observation at Kotturpuram-based Periyar Science and Technology Centre from January 22 to 25.

Moreover, to offer the public an opportunity to witness this remarkable phenomenon, the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), under the Department of Science and Technology of Gujarat, has also organised a series of public observation programs.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/science/planetary-parade-2025-how-and-where-to-see-this-rare-celestial-event-in-india-7554825

Pakistan’s notorious spy agency ISI has secretly sent four top members to Dhaka, raising a red flag in New Delhi. Acknowledging the development, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday that India is keeping a very close watch on the developments in its immediate neighbourhood, especially ones that having a bearing on its national security. “Appropriate action” will be taken, if required, the foreign ministry said.

Pakistani spy agency ISI’s Director General of Analysis Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar and other senior officials are reportedly visiting Bangladesh at the moment. The visit comes close on the heels of a Bangladeshi military delegation visiting Rawalpindi and meeting the army, air force, and navy chiefs.

“We keep an eye on all activities around the country and in the region, as well as all activities affecting our national security, and the government will take appropriate steps,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to a question on fast-growing military engagement between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

ISI OFFICIALS IN DHAKA

According to a report in the Hindustan Times, less than a week after a Bangladeshi military delegation toured Pakistan, meeting all three service chiefs, Rawalpindi has sent four senior officers, including a two-star General of the ISI to Dhaka. The report, which attributes the development to unnamed sources familiar with the matter, states that Major General Shahid Amir Afsar, who is the Director General of Analysis in the ISI, and has served as Pakistan’s defence attache in Beijing, is part of the delegation.

The six-member Bangladeshi delegation which visited Rawalpindi – the town where Pakistan’s military headquarters is based – was led by Lt. Gen. SM Kamrul Hasan, the Principal Staff Officer of the Bangladesh Armed Forces Division. Pakistan Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir reportedly met them for extensive talks. The Bangladeshi delegation stayed in Pakistan between January 13 and January 18.

Just three days later – on January 21, Rawalpindi secretly dispatched a senior delegation to Dhaka. This was the first time in nearly two decades that the ISI officially went to Bangladesh. A senior official from Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Forces Intelligence or DGFI received them at the airport upon their arrival aboard an Emirates Airlines flight routed via Dubai.

The ISI team is being given a detailed tour of several military establishments in Bangladesh and is reportedly being informed about Dhaka’s military capabilities and preparedness.

In the midst of these visits by either side, the Pakistan Army’s media wing – the Inter-Services Public Relations or ISPR released a statement, in which it wrote that the meeting between Lt Gen SM Kamrul Hasan of Bangladesh and Pak Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir “underscored the importance of a stronger defence relationship, emphasising that the enduring partnership between the two brotherly nations must remain resilient against external influences.”

WHEN ISI ACTIVITY WAS STOPPED IN BANGLADESH

When Sheikh Hasina was the prime minister, all activities by Pakistan’s ISI was brought to a grinding halt due to its covert activities and political interference in Bangladesh, as well as its support for extremist elements. Under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, several people were caught and prosecuted for their involvement and collusion with the ISI during the 1971 Bangladesh War.

Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni, now known as Yamai Mamta Nandgiri, has been inducted as the Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada at the Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj.

Former Bollywood actress Mamta Kulkarni was formally inducted as the Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada at the Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj on Friday. She has been given the spiritual name Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri. Acharya Mahamandleshwar of Kinnar Akhada, Laxmi Narayan, said, “Kinnar Akhada is going to make Mamta Kulkarni (former Bollywood actress) a Mahamandleshwar. She has been named as Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri. As I am talking here, all the rituals are underway.”

According to Laxmi Narayan, Kulkarni has been associated with the Kinnar Akhada for the past one and a half years. “She has been in touch with Kinnar Akhada and me for the last one and a half years… She is allowed to perform the character of any devotional figure if she wants as we do not prohibit anyone from performing their art,” he said.
Visuals from the Mahakumbh showed the former actress in saffron attire, participating in spiritual activities, including her ‘Pind Daan’ at Sangam Ghat. Speaking to reporters, Mamta Kulkarni expressed her devotion, saying, “…This was the order of Mahadev, Maha Kaali. This was the order of my Guru. They chose this day. I didn’t do anything.”

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/mamta-kulkarni-is-yamai-mamta-nandgiri-former-actress-joins-kinnar-akhada-at-mahakumbh-as-mahamandleshwar-article-117531543

“There are two players involved in this conspiracy to kill Kejriwal ji — the BJP and the Delhi Police. They are both conspiring to end Kejriwal’s life. Attacks have been attempted on him one after the other,” Delhi Chief Minister Atishi claimed.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday accused the BJP-led central government and the Delhi Police of conspiring to “kill” Arvind Kejriwal. The party urged the Election Commission to reinstate his security cover, which was previously provided by the Punjab Police but later withdrawn.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Atishi on Friday accused the Delhi police of being part of a conspiracy to kill the politician.
“There are two players involved in this conspiracy to kill Kejriwal ji — the BJP and the Delhi Police. They are both conspiring to end Kejriwal’s life. Attacks have been attempted on him one after the other,” she told PTI.
“In October (last year), an attack was made on Kejriwal in Vikaspuri. Upon investigation by us, it was found that the attackers were BJP workers, but police took no action,” Atishi alleged.
She further said “Kejriwal was next attacked on November 30 in Malviya Nagar when we went out for a public event. There were attempts to manhandle and assault him.”
“The next attack was on January 18 in the New Delhi assembly constituency, stones were pelted on his car. When we went to investigate on social media (not Delhi Police), it was identified that all attackers belonged to the BJP. Again, a collusion of BJP and Delhi Police came in front, as no investigation was done and no action was taken on the attackers. Yesterday, he was attacked on Hari Nagar but Delhi Police didn’t stop them. In Kali Bari, where he was going for a campaign in his constituency, BJP workers were brought there were lathis and stones to attack him. Sanjay Singh had to go and stop that attack but Delhi Police didn’t come,” she added.
On Thursday, Kejriwal alleged that some cadres of the opposition candidate entered his public meeting in Hari Nagar and attacked his car.
“Today in Hari Nagar, the police allowed the opposition candidate’s men to enter my public meeting and then attacked my car. All this is happening on Amit Shah’s orders. Amit Shah has made the Delhi Police the personal army of the BJP,” Kejriwal said on X.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/is-arvind-kejriwal-being-targeted-aaps-atishi-makes-explosive-claim-bjp-delhi-police-two-players-article-117525201

Beijing assured that the dam will not adversely affect downstream nations, including India and Bangladesh.

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday raised concerns about China’s plan to construct the largest hydropower dam in eastern Tibet, warning that it could be used by the northern neighbour as a water bomb.

He drew attention towards the Chinese plan to construct the hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, near the Indian border, which can generate 60,000 MW of power. The river enters Arunachal Pradesh as Siang and becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam before flowing into Bangladesh.

“If China uses it as a water bomb, it will completely affect the Adi tribe (who reside in the Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh) and millions in Assam and as far as Bangladesh. It’s a matter of big concern,” said Khandu while addressing the reporters on the sidelines of the inaugural function of a seminar titled ‘Environment and Security’ in the state Legislative Assembly complex.

Noting that the project would have a devastating effect on Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, he said that any sudden releases of water from the dam could cause severe flooding downstream in the northeastern states.

He added that it was more worrying since China is not a signatory of global treaties on water.

“The mighty Siang or the Brahmaputra river would dry up during winters disrupting life in the Siang belt and the plains of Assam,” he warned.

“China’s construction of the world’s largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River poses significant risks to the water security, ecology, and livelihoods of millions of people downstream in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Bangladesh. The potential disruption of water flows, flooding, and ecosystem degradation could have far-reaching consequences on us,” he added.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/chinas-mega-dam-project-sparks-concern-arunachal-cm-issues-water-bomb-warning-9201120.html

A roof collapsed following a blast at an ordnance factory in Maharastra’s Bhandara killing five people.

At least five people died following a blast at an Ordnance factory in Bhandara, Nagpur in Maharashtra on Friday morning. Several people are feared to be trapped after a roof collapsed due to the blast. PRO Defence Nagour said that the rescue and medical teams have been deployed for survivors and rescue is underway.
Collector Bhandara Sanjay Kolte said that after the explosion at the Ordnance Factory Jawahar Nagar Bhandara, firefighters and ambulances were dispatched to the spot. He said that a roof collapsed which is being removed with the help of JCB.
A total of 12 people are reported to be there, out of which 2 people have been rescued, he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed pain over the incident. “Deeply saddened to know about the blast at Ordnance Factory at Bhandara, Maharashtra…The rescue teams are deployed at the site. All efforts are being made to provide assistance to those who are affected,” he added.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said there were reports that 13 to 14 workers were trapped after the roof collapsed in the explosion in the ordnance factory in Bhandara district.
“According to the preliminary information received so far, unfortunately, one worker has died. Five workers have been safely evacuated. The District Collector and the Superintendent of Police are at the spot and all kinds of help are being provided,” he added in an X post.
“SDRF and Nagpur Municipal Corporation teams have also been called for rescue operations and they will arrive soon. The district administration is involved in rescue operations in coordination with the defence forces. Teams have also been kept ready for medical assistance. I pay my heartfelt tributes to the one person who has lost his life in the incident,” the Chief Minister added.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/bhandara-ordinance-factory-blast-in-maharashtra-roof-collapse-several-feared-trapped-dead-article-117512041

For Raeesa Bi, the latest turn in the four-decade tale of the world’s worst industrial accident conjures up old ghosts. Sitting on a beat-up wooden chair in her small ramshackle home, the 68-year-old victims’ rights activist rattles off the names of all the people she knew who have died since that dreadful December night. It is a long list, and includes fellow activists, neighbors and several members of her own family — all victims, directly or indirectly, of the gas leak in Union Carbide’s pesticides factory in Bhopal, India.

“My anger is with the government. They made all the decisions,” says Raeesa. “We got little compensation, we are still standing in courtrooms for justice and we still don’t get the right medical treatment.”

It doesn’t surprise Raeesa (“Bi” is an honorific; she doesn’t use a surname) that it has taken this long for the government of India’s Madhya Pradesh state, of which Bhopal is the capital, to start clearing some of the toxic waste from the factory site — or that the effort has already been stalled by fresh controversy over the removal process. Along with corporate culpability, residents say governmental apathy and administrative incompetence have attended the tragedy from the very beginning.

Raeesa is resigned about the consequences, especially for victims from poor families. “The people who have died or will die are always like us,” she says.

The state government plans to incinerate 337 metric tons (743,000 pounds) of waste on the outskirts of Pithampur, an industrial town 200 kilometers (124 miles) away from Bhopal. But protests have erupted there among residents who are unconvinced that enough has been done to ensure their safety.

Raeesa can relate to their anxiety. She recalls in grim detail the events of Dec 3, 1984, when a malfunction at the pesticides factory, operated by Union Carbide’s Indian subsidiary, released more than 40 tons of methyl isocyanate gas. While the town slept, the gas began to move downwind, enveloping the slums around it. As people woke up vomiting and coughing, panic broke out. Thousands took to the streets in an attempt to outrun the smoke, inadvertently inhaling more gas.

The next morning, the streets were littered with bodies: More than 3,500 people died, and hundreds of thousands were exposed to the toxic chemicals. “We could not find coffins for our dead. People were transporting the dead in their arms or on beds to the cemeteries,” Raeesa remembers. “There was no one to stand at funerals because so many were dead.”

After the tragedy, more victims would be added to the death toll, many due to inadequate medical treatment. Raeesa would lose two daughters, her husband and her father-in-law over the next four years, even though she spent every rupee she could scrounge up on medicines and daily transportation to hospitals.

In 1989, India’s Supreme Court reached a settlement for $470 million (equivalent to $1.2 billion today) with Union Carbide, and mapped out the distribution of relief based on the level of injury or impairment. The settlement amount was to be spread over a highly conservative estimate of 40,000 cases, including deaths. Raeesa says she received the equivalent of $15,000 in 1990, and a second tranche of $16,500 some 20 years later.

In contrast, DuPont de Nemours Inc. and Chemours Co. agreed to a $4 billion settlement in 2015 to resolve about 3,600 lawsuits for the use of harmful chemicals in the US.

For decades, victims and activists in Bhopal have demanded that they be provided satisfactory monetary compensation, especially for those who developed health issues years after the leak. They also want the plant site cleaned up and the people responsible for the accident held accountable. But the authorities have moved slowly, and often with half-measures.

The clean-up is a good example. Activists say the 337 metric tons of waste slated for incineration is a fraction of the waste in the abandoned factory. It doesn’t include chemicals that, according to a report by India’s government, were dumped in landfills on the site. According to a 2004 Amnesty International study, waste leached into the ground, contaminating the groundwater.

“The government has failed in assessing the magnitude of the disaster and its impact,” says N D Jayaprakash, co-convener of the Coalition for the Support of Bhopal Gas Victims, which advocates on behalf of local residents.

The state government did not respond to Bloomberg’s requests for comment. In a Jan 2 press conference, Madhya Pradesh’s chief minister, Mohan Yadav, defended the disposal plan, saying the waste was “not at all harmful,” and accusing the opposition Congress Party of exaggerating the dangers for political purposes.

Aqeel Ahmed was 4 years old at the time of the leak and lived within the exposure radius. When he was 25, doctors told him one of his kidneys was so shriveled that it wasn’t even showing up on scans; the other was failing. He has been on dialysis since 2006, a cost he can ill afford. “My family and I are financially ruined,” Ahmed says.

Rahilla Khan, 40, lives across the street from the site. She is due to have surgery to remove cysts in her uterus, joining a long list of women born around the time of the leak who have had to undergo the procedure. “The government has done nothing for 40 years,” she says. Officials “come and make speeches on the anniversary of the leak, but they do nothing.” Her family received 25,000 rupees (worth around $1,500 at the time) as compensation.

In 2001, Dow Chemical Co, the largest US chemicals maker, bought Union Carbide for nearly $10 billion and issued a statement that all liabilities had been settled in the Bhopal case.

Responding to Bloomberg’s enquiries, a Dow spokesperson said via email: “It is important to recognize that The Dow Chemical Company never owned or operated the plant; it was owned and operated by Union Carbide India Limited. Union Carbide Corporation (which itself was a separate company from UCIL) did not become a subsidiary of [Dow Chemical] until more than 16 years after the tragedy, and 12 years after the $470 million Bhopal settlement agreement — paid by Union Carbide Corporation and UCIL — was approved by the Indian Supreme Court. The plant site today is under the control of the Madhya Pradesh government.”

In 2010, a Madhya Pradesh court convicted seven employees of Union Carbide’s Indian subsidiary to two years in prison. They appealed to a higher court and were granted bail for the same amount that Khan’s family received as compensation 40 years ago; the convictions continue to be challenged in a higher court.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/madhya-pradesh/survivors-of-bhopals-toxic-gas-leak-await-a-cleanup-40-years-later-3370672

The murder investigation of a 35-year-old Hyderabad woman, whose husband allegedly killed her and boiled her body parts to dump into various locations, has encountered a roadblock as no body part has been recovered by the police yet.

While the police were corroborating technical and scientific evidence, they were yet to find the body parts of the deceased, The Indian Express reported.

“We cannot go by mere claims. We are collecting all technical and scientific pieces of evidence. The case is under investigation,” Commissioner of Police G Sudheer Babu told the publication.

The victim’s husband Gurumurthy, a retired Army jawan from Andhra Pradesh, claimed that he killed his wife, dismembered her body, boiled the parts and disposed of them in a lake at Jillelaguda on the city’s outskirts.

Ever since Gurumurthy’s confession, the Hyderabad Police has corroborated forensic and technical evidence to establish his claims and find out what exactly happened to his wife P Venkata Madhavi.

Despite the confession, no arrest has been recorded in the case as of Thursday evening. However, police took the suspect into custody.

The suspect, who is now working as a security guard, told the police that he committed the murder in a fit of rage, and the investigators believe he did everything possible to avoid getting caught.

“As of now, we don’t have any reasons to believe it was a premeditated crime. It seems like the result of a petty quarrel. We are questioning the suspect and we have not recovered any body parts. We do not have enough clues,” Deputy Commissioner of Police Ch Praveen Kumar told indianexpress.com in the evening.

Meanwhile, the police have recovered a pressure cooker, water heater, and knives.

Husband confesses to horrific details of wife’s murder

During the police interrogation, Gurumurthy revealed that he hit Madhavi against a wall after a heated argument, which led to her immediate death.

He then chopped off her body using kitchen knives and initially boiled the parts to destroy any sign of the murder. The accused claimed to have cooked her body parts in a pressure cooker for five to six hours and used a mortar and pestle to grind the bones.

The publication reported, quoting unnamed sources, that the flesh, along with powdered bones, was then thrown into different localities, including the nearby lake.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/hyderabad-murder-probe-hits-roadblock-as-cops-struggle-to-find-womans-boiled-body-parts-101737682258678.html

2025 Oscar Nominations List:The highly anticipated 2025 Oscar nominations were officially revealed on January 23 at 7 PM IST. Hosted by Bowen Yang, Rachel Sennott, Sian Heder, and Eric Roth, the announcement took place at the Academy’s prestigious Samuel Goldwyn Theater. The event was live-streamed on Disney+ Hotstar, Oscar.com, Oscars.org, and the Academy’s social media platforms, and was also broadcast on ABC’s Good Morning America.

Initially scheduled for January 17, the announcement faced delays due to the LA wildfires, which disrupted the voting schedule. To address these challenges, the Academy extended the voting period and canceled the traditional Oscar Nominees Luncheon, ensuring fairness and prioritizing safety.

Here is the complete list of the 2025 Oscar nominees:

Best Picture

Anora

The Brutalist

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Dune: Part Two

Emilia Pérez

I’m Still Here

Nickel Boys

The Substance

Wicked

Best Director

Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez)

Sean Baker (Anora)

Brady Corbet (The Brutalist)

Refuting perceptions of roadblocks to bring back the remains held in an urn in a Buddhist temple in Renkoji in Japan, widely believed to be that of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a section of descendants of the national hero claim they have documentary evidence to prove that the temple authorities have always been more than willing to hand over the ‘ashes’ to India.

The demand to bring back the remains and conduct DNA tests to affirm whether they indeed belong to one of the tallest figures of India’s freedom struggle has been an abiding wish of a significant bulk of Netaji admirers who seek closure to one of India’s longest persisting enigma: whether Bose perished in the aftermath of a fatal Japanese military aircraft crash in present-day Taiwan, on August 18, 1945.

Reports of as many as 10 national and international enquiries probing Netaji’s disappearance on that fateful day, now available in the national archives in New Delhi, have confirmed Bose’s death at a hospital in the Japanese military airfield in Taihoku, now Taiwan, as a result of the severe burn injuries he suffered in the crash.

An exception to those committees’ findings was that of the Commission chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Manoj Kumar Mukherjee, the last of the probe panels constituted by the Union government, which submitted its report in November 2005 and concluded that Bose “is dead”, though he “did not die in the plane crash, as alleged”.

“The ashes in the Japanese temple are not of Netaji,” the Commission had further concluded. The Indian government had rejected the findings of the Commission.

The confusion over the alleged “lack of cooperation” from the Renkoji temple priests, some descendants of Netaji maintained, could have arisen from the Mukherjee Commission report which blamed the “Temple authorities’ reticence” in allowing commission-designated experts to physically inspect and collect “potentially less charred bone pieces from the casket lying in their custody” for conducting DNA tests.

Speaking to PTI on the eve of Netaji’s 128th birth anniversary, Chandra Kumar Bose, the leader’s grand nephew, said, “The PMO and the Indian government must respond to the numerous letters sent by Prof Anita Bose Pfaff, Netaji’s daughter and other members of the Bose family regarding arrangements to bring Netaji’s remains to India, which is lying in a foreign country.” “Netaji wanted to return to Independent India, but he could not as he sacrificed his life fighting for India’s freedom. It is an act of sacrilege that his remains continue to lie in Japan. There is conclusive evidence that the remains are of Netaji in 10 enquiry reports.

“However, if the government feels the remains are not of Netaji, then a statement must be issued to this effect. Mere silence is an insult to the memory of this great leader,” he added, drawing attention to the cold and solitary locale of Renkoji where the remains lie preserved for nearly eight decades.

Madhuri Bose, grand-niece of Subhas Bose, maintains that Reverend Mochizuki, head priest of the Renkoji temple as well as successive governments of India and Japan were “at the time entirely supportive of DNA testing on the remains and… certainly took no actions to deny access to the remains.” In her foreword to the recently published book, ‘From Shadows To Light: The Truth of Netaji’s Mortal End’, authored by Bose researcher Sumeru Roy Chaudhury, Ms Madhuri alleged that certain parts of the translation from Japanese of the original letter from the temple authorities which was included in the Mukherjee Commission report were “inexplicably missing”.

The missing part “is a clear reaffirmation of his firm commitment to a DNA testing process, expressed as follows: My father (the first Reverend Mochizuki) used to tell me when he was alive that the remains should be returned to India. I felt that if I accepted the proposal for DNA testing and the remains would eventually be returned to India, my father’s soul and spirit could finally be at rest,” Ms Madhuri wrote.

“Many of us in the family are convinced that Netaji succumbed to his injuries in 1945,” she told PTI, “Those who feel otherwise are free to pursue their theories but they must bring conclusive proof for the same.” Surya Kumar Bose, the eldest son of Netaji’s nephew Amiya Nath Bose, who paid multiple visits to the Renkoji temple and spoke to its current priests, also confirmed the willingness of the authorities to cooperate for scientific tests on the remains.

“In my last visit in 2019, I met the current head priest and the widow of the priest who met Justice Mukherjee. They were consistent in their willingness to hand over the remains for testing,” he said.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/netajis-family-renews-plea-to-bring-back-ashes-in-urn-at-japan-temple-7544207

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs issued notices to cab aggregators Ola and Uber as Centre sought clarification on reports of alleged differential pricing based on the type of mobile device used to book rides.

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs issued notices to cab aggregators Ola and Uber as Centre sought clarification on reports of alleged differential pricing based on the type of mobile device used to book rides.

The action by Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) comes after reports that Ola and Uber appeared to charge different fares for the same service, depending on whether a user was booking on an iPhone or an Android device. The CCPA has asked both the companies to explain their pricing methods and address concerns of potential discrimination and described the practice as “apparent differential pricing”.

In response to the order, Uber said, “We do not set prices based on a rider’s phone manufacturer. We look forward to working with the Central Consumer Protection Authority to clear up any misunderstanding.”

Earlier, a Delhi-based entrepreneur shared on social media platform X that the two ride-hailing apps were charging different prices for cabs after comparing fares across different devices and battery levels. The post gained traction as several users shared the same experience.

Uber denied that pricing is based on the type of phone used and the company said that fare differences can be due to variations in pick-up points, estimated time of arrival (ETA) and drop-off points.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/uber-ola-get-centres-notice-over-differential-pricing-based-on-smartphone-9199096.html

The death toll in the Jalgaon train accident has gone up to 13 with the recovery of a headless body along the railway tracks, police said on Thursday. Passengers of the Mumbai-bound Pushpak Express got off the train after hearing about fire spreading in the train. However, many were run over by the Karnataka Express heading from Bengaluru to Delhi on the adjacent tracks in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon.
Eyewitness, aboard Pushpak Express, recalled that the chaos started after people shouted that there is a fire. One of the injured admitted to the hospital, Hakim Ansari said, “People shouted that there is a fire. After that, everyone started running away. Pushak Express stopped because the chain was pulled. The injuries happened after the Karnataka Express came on the other track…”
Another injured, undergoing treatment at a hospital said, “We got off the train after everyone said that there has been a fire… We stopped the train and started running. Another train came from the other side and the people got it…”

Actor Rajpal Yadav has received death threats from Pakistan, Mumbai Police revealed on Thursday, adding that the sender posed as a member of Lawrence Bishnoi gang. According to the Police, the threat mail sent to Rajpal Yadav had photos of Baba Siddique and Sidhu Moosewala.
Amboli Police Station senior inspector Sadashiv Nikam said that the IP address of the sender has been traced to Pakistan. “Rajpal Yadav has received a threat email originating from Pakistan. The IP address (of the email sender) has been traced to Pakistan’s Punjab province, and we are investing the matter to get more details,” Nikam said.
“The sender of mail has posed as a member of Bishnoi gang. The mail also had photos of Baba Siddiqui and Sidhu Moosewala in attachment,” he added. An FIR has been lodged complaint by Rajpal Yadav and further investigation is underway, he said.

Jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi has been accused of being involved in the murder of both Sidhu Moosewala and Baba Siddique. Singer Shubhdeep Singh Sidhu, who was popularly known as Sidhu Moosewala, was shot dead in Punjab’s Mansa district on May 29, 2022.
A court in Punjab has framed charges against Bishnoi and 26 others in connection with Moosewala murder case. Meanwhile, prime accused Satinderjit Singh alias Goldy Brar, is yet to be arrested and charges have not been framed against him.
Former Maharashtra Minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique was shot at and grievously injured on October 12, 2024, near his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Nirmal Nagar in Mumbai’s Bandra area. The Congress-turned-NCP leader died some time later in nearby Lilavati Hospital.
According to the chargesheet filed by the Mumbai Crime Branch, Lawrence Bishnoi gang had plotted the plan to kill Siddique. The chargesheet named 26 arrested and 3 wanted accused, including Lawrence’s younger brother Anmol Bishnoi.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/threat-mail-to-rajpal-yadav-had-photos-of-sidhu-moosewala-baba-siddique-cops-reveal-shocking-details-article-117480077

The Madras High Court on Thursday issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police, the State government and some private firms on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking guidelines to regulate delivery partners of online aggregators such as Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto etc, and to ensure safety of customers receiving deliveries from such partners.

Justice P Velmurugan directed all respondent parties including the private aggregator firms to respond to the notices within four weeks.

The Court was hearing a PIL filed by one Nithyanantham, claiming that such delivery personnel did not have strict rules mandating the wearing of proper uniforms, displaying their ID cards etc. Thus, miscreants and criminals often take advantage of this and indulge in theft and other offences while posing as delivery partners, it said.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/pil-in-madras-high-court-claims-delivery-persons-uniforms-being-misused-by-criminals

After Yuzvendra Chahal and Manish Pandey, another indian cricketers marriage life is heading towards divorce. According to a Hindustan Times report, Indian cricket legend Virender Sehwag and his wife, Aarti Ahlawat, who tied the knot in 2004 in a grand ceremony hosted by former finance minister Arun Jaitley and are rumored to be heading for a divorce.

Reports further said that both are living separately and the strain in their relationship has grown due to various recent incidents, including the fact that they have unfollowed each other on Instagram. The couple have two sons, Aryavir, born in 2007, and Vedant, born in 2010

Virender Sehwag’s marriage life in trouble

The speculation intensified when Sehwag posted pictures from his Diwali celebrations which only included his son and mother, with his wife Aarti absent from the picture. Sehwag even shared a visit to Vishwa Nagayakshi Temple in Palakkad on Instagram two weeks ago without mentioning about Aarti. Sehwag is yet to make an official statement

In a horrific incident, a Pitbull brutally attacked a stray dog and severely injured the innocent animal in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad. The incident was caught on camera and the video of the incident is doing rounds on social media. It can be seen in the video that the Pitbull dog is mauling down the stray dog and the female owner of the dog is doing nothing to stop her pet. It seems she is letting her dog to attack and kill the stray dog. It is being claimed that the stray dog is a lactating mother with puppies.

Details About The Incident

The incident reportedly occurred in Chetananagar, Aurangabad and it was brought to light by a social media user on Instagram. The user claimed that a tragic pattern of cruelty toward stray dogs continues to unfold in the area, where a pitbull owned by a negligent pet owner attacked and killed a stray dog. Witnesses report that this is not an isolated incident. Many stray dogs have already lost their lives due to the owner’s irresponsible behaviour and apparent support for these attacks.

The video shows that a pitbull is mauling down a stray dog brutally. It can be seen in the video that the dog has ferociously attacked and severely injured the stray dog in the presence of her owner. The owner is seen standing near the pitbull while it is attacking the innocent animal and the woman did not even tried to stop the pitbull from injuring the lactating mother stray dog.

However, she is seen yelling at a man who tried to save the stray dog by throwing stone at the attacking animal. The woman turns to the man and asks him not to hit her dog with the stone.

Social Media Post

The video of the incident was shared by “@streetdogsofbombay” on Instagram with the caption, “No mercy for Stray life. Justice Needed for Stray Dogs in Chetananagar, Aurangabad. In Chetananagar, Aurangabad, a pitbull has once again attacked innocent stray dogs, all because the owner refuses to take responsibility. This isn’t the first time—many strays have already lost their lives because of this owner’s careless attitude. Despite multiple FIRs in the past, nothing has changed. The owner continues to get away due to political support.”

“How many more lives need to be lost before action is taken? These poor strays deserve love and safety, not fear and pain. This is not just neglect—it’s cruelty. We need your help to spread the word.”

“Please share this post and raise your voice to ensure the owner is held accountable. Let’s work together to stop this cruelty and protect innocent animals. They can’t speak, but we can speak for them.”

The social media post also informed, “One of our volunteers, in coordination with PETA India and the founder of APLA Aurangabad, is currently at the police station working to get an FIR registered.”

It further said, “The stray dog that was attacked is a lactating mother with puppies. She is currently in critical condition and has been admitted to the hospital.”

Repeated Attacks, No Accountability

It is being claimed in the viral post that despite multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) filed against the owner in the past, no concrete action has been taken against her. It is also being claimed that woman has political backing due to which action is not being taken against her.

A Call for Justice

The most recent attack claimed the life of a stray dog on the spot. This is not just a case of negligence, it is outright cruelty. These innocent animals, who already endure a difficult life on the streets, deserve compassion and protection, not fear and suffering.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/aurangabad-pitbull-ferociously-mauls-stray-dog-to-death-in-front-of-owner-repeated-attacks-spark-outrage-video

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was at his quippy best when asked about his prime front-row seat at Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States on January 20.

“Special Envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is naturally treated very well,” Jaishankar said with a smile during a press conference in Washington DC on Thursday.

The 70-year-old diplomat represented India at the swearing-in ceremony at the invitation of the US government and carried a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Trump. He described the gesture as a reflection of the Trump administration’s eagerness to bolster India-US ties.

“I would say, one, it was very clear that the Trump administration was keen to have India present at the inaugural itself, and they’re clearly prioritising the bilateral relationship,” Jaishankar said.

During his three-day visit to Washington, Jaishankar engaged in high-level meetings, including bilateral talks with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. He also participated in the first Quad ministerial meeting of the new Trump administration alongside counterparts from Australia, Japan, and the United States.

“Clearly there is an interest in taking the relationship forward,” Jaishankar said. “The Prime Minister had a very early phone call with President Trump, and I had come last month and made the initial contact with the NSA. So, it should give you a direction in which the relationship is going.”

Jaishankar said it was evident that the White House under Trump was willing to build on the foundation established during his first term, and that at present, there is a “very strong degree of trust” and “high level of convergence of interests” between India and the United States.

“Between us and the Trump administration, we approach the world both with a clear sense of our national interest belief,” he noted.

On regional cooperation, Jaishankar underscored the importance of the Quad, the four-nation bloc which got a new lease on life in 2017 when Trump was the US President.

“There’s a very strong sense that the current administration would reciprocate our desire as well to take the Quad further to intensify its activities,” he said.

Jaishankar said he also broached the issue of delays in US visa processing. “Ultimately, those visa delays do impact business, they do affect tourism. They constrain the people-to-people interactions, which is the foundation of our relationship,” he said.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/s-jaishankar-response-front-row-seat-donald-trump-swearing-in-india-us-relations-2668867-2025-01-23

Pratap Sarnaik to News18: “Currently, many motorists don’t invest in parking spaces. Instead, they park on roads, which not only causes traffic snarls, but also creates hurdles for emergency services such as ambulances and fire brigade.”

Pratap Sarnaik, Maharashtra’s transport minister, in an interview with CNN-News18, spoke about the new traffic policy — ‘no parking space, no vehicle registration’ — in the works. According to Sarnaik, the move could help end traffic woes and ensure smoother vehicular movement.

Sarnaik said traffic-related issues, particularly in urban regions such as the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), are on the rise, given the increase in population and surge in vehicle ownership.

“Maharashtra’s roads are under immense pressure due to the increasing population and easy access to vehicles facilitated by readily available loans from sellers and banks,” Sarnaik said. “The result is a traffic crisis across cities, with vehicles occupying streets and creating bottlenecks.”

THE NEW POLICY

The transport department is drafting a policy that would mandate vehicle buyers to provide proof of parking space before purchasing a vehicle.

Sarnaik said this measure aims to tackle indiscipline in parking, especially in congested urban areas. “Currently, many people, particularly those in smaller housing units, don’t invest in parking spaces. Instead, they park on roads, which not only causes traffic snarls, but also creates hurdles for emergency services such as ambulances and fire brigade,” said Sarnaik.

The minister acknowledged the unique challenges faced by residents of smaller homes, such as those living in chawls or one-bedroom apartments. To accommodate their needs, the policy would include provisions to obtain a clearance certificate from local municipal authorities. This certificate would verify that the buyer has access to designated parking zones or municipal parking facilities.

“We’re mindful of the fact that not everyone can afford large homes with dedicated parking spaces. However, we can’t compromise on discipline and public safety. These clearance certificates will ensure that vehicles are parked responsibly without encroaching upon public roads,” Sarnaik emphasised.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/no-parking-space-no-vehicle-maharashtra-transport-minister-on-how-it-is-a-way-out-of-traffic-snarls-for-motorists-9198114.html

External affairs minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday that India has always been open to the “legitimate return” of undocumented Indian immigrants to their home country, external affairs minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday, reported news agency PTI.

S Jaishankar also noted that the government was still in the process of verifying those from the US who could be deported to India and added that they had not determined a number yet.

“As a government, we are obviously very much supportive of legal mobility because we do believe in a global workplace. We want Indian talent and Indian skills to have the maximum opportunity at the global level. At the same time, we are also very firmly opposed to illegal mobility and illegal migration,” Jaishankar told reporters.

The minister said India had always maintained, with the US and other countries, that if any Indian citizen was present as an illegal immigrant, they were welcome to come back to their home country through legitimate processes.

He added that illegal immigration can be linked to other illegal activities which are damaging to the reputation of the country.

Earlier, it was reported that India was working with US President Donald Trump’s administration to deport 1,80,000 Indians in the US who are either undocumented, or have overstayed their visas.

“This position is not unique to the United States. I do understand that right now there is a certain debate going on, and a resulting sensitivity which is there, but we have been consistent, we have been very principled about it and that remains our position. I conveyed that clearly to Secretary (of State, Marco) Rubio,” said Jaishankar on the Trump administrations crackdown on immigration.

Jaishankar stated that, during bilateral talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he mentioned that it was in the mutual interest of both countries to find solutions which would legally aid mobility.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-says-india-open-to-legitimate-return-of-undocumented-indians-amid-trumps-immigration-crackdown-101737599802861.html

A 49-year-old man was shot dead by unidentified assailants on board the Howrah-Gaya Express as it was approaching a station in Bihar’s Lakhisarai district, officials said on Tuesday.

The deceased has been identified as Dharmendra Kumar (49), a resident of Lakhisarai.

“Some miscreants shot dead the passenger when the train was about to stop at Kiul junction in the evening. According to eyewitnesses, they jumped off the train after committing the crime,” Superintendent of Railway Police (Jamalpur) Raman Chaudhary told PTI.

The body has been sent for post-mortem examination and investigation is underway, he said.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/bihar/man-shot-dead-in-moving-train-in-bihars-lakhisarai-3366426