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Over 14 lakh voters removed in Chennai rolls after SIR, Stalin’s constituency sees 35% deletions​



www.thenewsminute.com

Over 14 lakh voters removed in Chennai rolls after SIR, Stalin’s constituency sees 35% deletions

Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.The Anna Nagar Assembly constituency in Chennai has the highest number of voter deletions, with 1
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In several Assembly constituencies in Chennai, 40% to 42% of voter names have been deleted.



The Anna Nagar Assembly constituency in Chennai has the highest number of voter deletions, with 1.18 lakh. Chief Minister MK Stalin’s constituency of Kolathur has 1.02 lakh deletions – one of the highest in Chennai.

Chennai district saw the highest number of voter deletions across Tamil Nadu. A total of 14.36 lakh have been left out of the draft electoral roll published on December 19.

Some other constituencies in Chennai that stand out are Velachery (40%), Thousand Lights (41%) and T Nagar (41%).

Chennai has 16 Assembly constituencies and has long been considered the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam’s (DMK) bastion in both general and Assembly elections.

For instance, Stalin has won the Kolathur Assembly constituency three consecutive times since it was carved out in 2011 following a delimitation process. In 2021, Stalin secured 1,05,522 votes out of 1,73,388 votes that were polled. Kolathur, at the time of the 2021 elections, had 2,81,128 people on its rolls.

Previously, the CM registered four wins in Thousand Lights.

Similarly, in the general elections, Chennai Central has remained a stronghold of the late Mursoli Maran and, later, his son and former Cabinet minister Dayanidhi Maran. The DMK has won in Chennai Central in 13 general elections since 1977.

The newly released draft electoral roll shows 5.47 lakh deletions in Chennai Central, 3.78 lakh deletions in Chennai North and 5.10 lakh deletions in Chennai South.

Constituency-wise breakdown

Chennai Central has six constituencies: Villivakam, Egmore, Harbour, Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, Thousand Lights and Anna Nagar.

Anna Nagar saw the highest voter deletions in Chennai Central with a voter deletion percentage of 42%. The number of voters has dropped from 2.8 lakh to 1.18 lakh.

Vilivakam also has a 42% voter deletion. The number of voters dropped from 2.44 lakh to 1.42 lakh.

In Velachery, 1.26 voters have been deleted. The number of voters dropped from 3.16 lakh to 1.89 lakh – a 40% reduction.

Thousand Lights has 97,082 voter deletions out of 2.38 lakh — another 41% drop.

Chennai North has five constituencies: Dr Radhakrishnan Nagar, Perambur, Kolathur, Royapuram and Thiru-vi-ka-nagar (SC).

Stalin’s Kolathur constituency saw the highest number of voter deletions in Chennai North, at 1.02 lakh. Perambur follows with 95,679 deletions out of 2.95 lakh.

Voter deletions in Dr Radhakrishnan Nagar are 72,574 out of 2.5 lakh. In Royapuram, there are 50,170 out of 1.97 lakh – the lowest number of deletions in all of Chennai (25%).

In Thiru-vi-ka-nagar, 58,199 voters were deleted out of 2.22 lakh, which is 26%.

Chennai South has five Assembly constituencies.

1.26 lakh voters were deleted in Velachery, followed closely by Virugampakam, which has 1.12 lakh voter deletions.

T Nagar has seen a 41% drop in voter numbers after 96,118 voters were deleted from a total of 2.35 lakh.

Mylapore has 88,000 voter deletions out of 2.69 lakh. In Saidapet, 87,134 voters were removed from the roll.
 

After Flower Pot Theft, New Video Shows People Fighting Over Samosas In Middle Of PM Modi's Speech In Lucknow | WATCH​



www.republicworld.com

After Flower Pot Theft, New Video Shows People Fighting Over Samosas In Middle Of PM Modi's Speech In Lucknow | WATCH

A video has surfaced showing people fighting allegedly over samosas during PM Narendra Modi's event at Rashtriya Prerna Sthal, Lucknow. Earlier, another video showed people stealing flower pots from the venue after the event ended.
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A video has surfaced showing people fighting allegedly over samosas during PM Narendra Modi's event at Rashtriya Prerna Sthal, Lucknow. Earlier, another video showed people stealing flower pots from the venue after the event ended.​


Lucknow: A video has surfaced showing men exchanging blows while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was delivering a speech at Lucknow's Rashtriya Prerna Sthal on Thursday. This comes after another bizarre video showed people stealing decorative flower pots from the venue following the PM's visit.
The incidents took place when PM Modi was on a visit to Lucknow to commemorate the 101st birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
The fresh video showed men engaged in a scuffle, holding each other's collars and shouting loudly. One of the men was seen falling on chairs as others slapped and kicked him.

Hilariously, the scuffle was taking place while the PM was addressing the crowd. In the video, PM Modi could be heard saying, "Beloved Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji", as men rained punches at each other.
The men were seen continuing their fight as PM Modi's voice could be heard in the background, mentioning other leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

After few moments and the intervention of some members of the public, the fight was brought to an end.
The footage showed chaos at the site with plastic chairs lying scattered on the floor.

As per reports, the fight had ensued over arguments over samosas and refreshments. It is alleged that refreshments were not served to some people in the crowd.

'5 Trillion Samosas On The Way'​

The video of the ‘samosa fight’ has gone viral on social media, attracting hilarious comments from netizens, one of whom said, “5 trillion samosas on the way.” Another quipped, “Samosa bhaichara, samosa brotherhood.”
Another joked, "Samosa aur chai important hai pehle." An X user commented, “Jab tak rahega samose me aalu, tab tak ladte rahenge raju aur kaalu.”

https://twitter.com/x/status/2004523730140295416

(One Nation One SamosaJust watched this Chaotic Video from a Modi event in Lucknow – ardent supporters throwing punches allegedly over Samosas!)



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Why Are India’s Delivery Workers Going on Strike This New Year’s Eve?​



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Why Are India’s Delivery Workers Going on Strike This New Year’s Eve?

India’s delivery workers have called a New Year’s Eve strike to protest long working hours, low earnings, lack of social security, and unsafe 10-minute delivery models, highlighting deepening distress in the gig economy.
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India’s delivery workers have called a New Year’s Eve strike to protest long working hours, low earnings, lack of social security, and unsafe 10-minute delivery models, highlighting deepening distress in the gig economy.​


New Delhi: From early mornings to late nights, delivery workers are constantly on the move, navigating congested roads, extreme weather, and tight deadlines to keep India’s cities running. While their work has become indispensable to everyday life, the conditions under which they operate have steadily worsened, pushing many of them to the edge.
It is this growing strain that led the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers to call for a strike on New Year’s Eve. The protest, which also affected deliveries during Christmas in some areas, is meant to draw attention to the daily hardships faced by delivery workers and the lack of action on their long-standing demands.

The precise number of delivery personnel in the nation is unknown. However, according to a 2022 NITI Aayog research, there were approximately 77 lakh gig workers in India in 2020–2021, including those working in app-based taxi services, fast commerce, and food delivery. This figure was projected to reach between 80 lakh and 1.8 crore by 2024.

What Pushed Workers to Strike​

Delivery workers claim that while pay is still poor, long hours and extreme work pressure have become the norm. Without adequate legal protection, many suffer from work insecurity, physical strain, emotional stress, and the ongoing risk of accidents.

These conditions are revealed by a 2022–2023 survey of 5,000 delivery and taxi workers in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Lucknow, which was carried out by the non-profit PAIGAM. The University of Pennsylvania and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers collaborated on the study.
According to the "Prisoners on Wheels?" survey, around 55% of delivery workers work 10–12 hours a day, while nearly 20% work 12–14 hours. In spite of this, roughly 64% make between ₹200 and ₹600 a day. After deducting costs like vehicle EMIs, maintenance, and traffic fines, over 34% of respondents stated their monthly income is less than ₹10,000.

Over 47% of workers do not receive performance-based incentives or a minimum wage guarantee, according to the report. Despite traveling 101–150 km per day, nearly half do not take even one day off. Approximately 49.8% reported that they only spend one to two hours each day relaxing or spending time with their families.
Safety and health continue to be a top priority. Workers are exposed to significant financial and medical risks in the event of an injury because the majority of delivery platforms do not provide health or accident insurance.

Anger Over 10-Minute Deliveries​

The 10-minute delivery model, which is supported by quick-commerce sites like Zepto, Blinkit, Instamart, and Flipkart Minutes, is a major cause of the walkout. Nearly 86% of delivery workers are against this method, claiming it makes them rush on the highways and raises the risk of accidents, according to the PAIGAM survey.

About the Strike and Its Impact​

According to unions, delivery employees from companies including Swiggy, Zomato, Instamart, Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, and Flipkart took part in the walkout. As a result, throughout Christmas, certain parts of Gurugram and other cities experienced disruptions to quick-commerce services.
According to the organization, the strike is a demand for basic social protection, safer working conditions, fair wages, and an end to delivery methods that endanger workers' lives. According to union leaders, the decision to go on strike was made after workers' repeated complaints failed to result in significant improvements.




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"Tamil Nadu Has Higher Debt Than UP": Row Over Congress Leader's Remark


Congress leader Praveen Chakravarthy's comments comparing Tamil Nadu's debt with Uttar Pradesh have drawn sharp reactions from DMK leaders.​


Chennai:
Remarks by a Congress functionary have triggered a political row in Tamil Nadu, putting the DMK-Congress alliance in an uncomfortable position ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Congress leader Praveen Chakravarthy's comments comparing Tamil Nadu's debt with Uttar Pradesh have drawn sharp reactions from DMK leaders.

Chakravarthy claimed that Tamil Nadu's outstanding debt is now higher than Uttar Pradesh's, calling the situation "alarming". The controversy comes just days after TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna hinted at a possible future alliance with the Congress, fuelling speculation about shifting political equations in the state.

In a post on social media platform X, Praveen Chakravarthy said that Tamil Nadu's debt has overtaken Uttar Pradesh's over the years and added that the state's interest burden is among the highest in the country. He also claimed that Tamil Nadu's debt-to-GDP ratio remains well above pre-COVID levels.

Praveen Chakravathy was saying this in response to DMK leader Kanimozhi's statement, where she had said that the DMK had transformed a debt-burdened Tamil Nadu into a developed and growth-oriented state.


Reacting sharply to Praveen Chakravathy's post, DMK leader MM Abdulla accused him of fear-mongering, asserting that the borrowings were for capital investment and asset creation. He said Tamil Nadu's economy had grown by nearly 39 per cent over the last five years, expanding into a Rs 17.3 lakh crore economy, and stressed the difference between "bad debt" and "productive investment".

Interestingly, the criticism was not limited to the DMK. Leaders from within the Congress also distanced themselves from Chakravarthy's comparison.

Congress MP Jothimani said comparing Tamil Nadu with Uttar Pradesh was unfair, highlighting Tamil Nadu's achievements in education, healthcare, industrial investment, social justice, and welfare delivery. She added that debt should be assessed alongside outcomes and long-term development indicators.

Meanwhile, the BJP has backed Praveen Chakravarthy's statement. BJP state president K Annamalai accused the DMK of distorting data and claimed that Tamil Nadu's debt had doubled during the DMK's tenure. He also questioned whether the public spat indicated deeper tensions within the INDIA alliance.

Earlier, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president Selvaperunthagai sought to calm speculation, stating that the DMK-Congress alliance remains intact and that seat-sharing talks would begin soon.

However, political observers note that the Congress may be exploring options, including the TVK, to strengthen its bargaining position ahead of the elections




@Rajdeep @cricketjoshila @Champ_Pal @Devadwal @uppercut @straighttalk @Vikram1989 @Varun @Romali_rotti @Bhaijaan @Cover Drive Six @rickroll @RexRex @rpant_gabba, @Romali_rotti @kron @globetrotter @Hitman @jnaveen1980 @Local.Dada @CrIc_Mystique @Van_Sri @nish_mate @SportsWarrior @kaayal
 

'Paid ₹4 Crore in Taxes, Yet…' Bengaluru Businessman Plans India Exit, Says 'Small Groups Are Targeted'​


Bengaluru businessman Rohit Shroff plans to leave India in 2026, citing heavy taxation and constant scrutiny of compliant taxpayers. He paid Rs 4 crore in taxes, yet sees no benefits or recognition.​


Bengaluru News: A Bengaluru-based entrepreneur has raised concerns about India’s taxation and compliance framework, saying it puts heavy pressure even on businesses that follow the rules. Rohit Shroff, founder of the Aflog Group, revealed that he plans to leave India in 2026 because, in his view, the system of doing business here is 'flawed'.
In a post on LinkedIn last week, Shroff said he had paid around Rs 4 crore in taxes over the past 18 months. He questioned why businesses that comply fully and pay taxes honestly still face constant suspicion. “In the last 12–18 months, across my businesses, in GST and income tax, I’ve paid over Rs 4 crore to a country that looks at its most compliant contributors with suspicion by default," he wrote.

Constant Scrutiny for Compliant Taxpayers​



Shroff stressed that less than 5 per cent of Indians pay direct income tax, yet this small group faces repeated scrutiny. Notices, clarifications, and audits often target the same compliant taxpayers over and over.

“This scrutiny is constant and layered," he said, explaining that both local GST authorities and national income-tax teams are involved. Despite this, businesses continue to comply, managing monthly GST filings, quarterly TDS payments, and annual income-tax returns.

No Tangible Benefits for Businesses​


According to Shroff, businesses receive no clear benefits for their compliance. He said that responding to notices and clarifications often costs more time and money than simply going along with the process.

As a result, many entrepreneurs choose to comply quietly, even though the process is complex and demanding. Shroff questioned the value of a system where compliance brings neither recognition nor reward.
Shroff argued that the system is designed to please the majority, not the small group of consistent taxpayers. He said tax-paying business owners are politically insignificant and therefore easy to burden.
“The system is designed to win the confidence of the majority, not to enable the minority that builds formally and pays consistently," he wrote.

Indians Succeed Abroad​

Shroff noted that many Indians succeed abroad because they are not held back by such systems. In contrast, he said India’s framework penalises growth rather than encouraging it.
“I’m done living the ‘building in India’ dream," Shroff wrote. “The goal for 2026 is simple: move out of the country and build elsewhere."
He added that his decision is not about patriotism but about reality, saying the system does not offer genuine ease of doing business.




Source:
www.timesnownews.com

'Paid ₹4 Crore in Taxes, Yet…' Bengaluru Businessman Plans India Exit, Says 'Small Groups Are Targeted'

Bengaluru businessman Rohit Shroff plans to leave India in 2026, citing heavy taxation and constant scrutiny of compliant taxpayers. He paid Rs 4 crore in taxes, yet sees no benefits or recognition., Bengaluru News, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com
 

‘Old’ Video, Fresh Trouble: Karnataka DGP Suspended as ‘Objectionable’ Clips Go Viral​



Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao was suspended after an allegedly inappropriate office video went viral, triggering fresh controversy and embarrassment for the state government.​


The Karnataka government on Tuesday placed senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police (DGP) of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE), under immediate suspension after videos allegedly showing him behaving inappropriately with a woman inside his office went viral.
In a detailed order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), the state cited the widespread circulation of the clips across news channels and social media platforms. The government noted that the visuals had caused “serious embarrassment” to the administration.

The suspension order stated, “WHEREAS, vide videos and news reports widely broadcast on public news channels and media platforms, it is observed that Dr K Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police, Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement, has acted in an obscene manner which is unbecoming of a Government Servant and also causing embarrassment to the Government.”

https://twitter.com/x/status/2013442783957115296

The government said it was prima facie satisfied that Rao’s conduct violated Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, which lays down standards of integrity and behaviour for officers.

A Familiar Name in Fresh Controversy​


This is not the first time Rao has found himself under scrutiny. He was earlier accused of helping his

was sent on compulsory leave. That order was later revoked, and he was transferred as DGP of the DCRE.
The latest controversy erupted after a video, reportedly stitched together from three separate clips, surfaced online on January 19, 2026. The footage allegedly shows the 1993-batch IPS office hugging and kissing a woman while in uniform inside his office.

The women, who visited the office on separate occasions wearing different outfits, are seen in close interactions with Rao while official tasks were being carried out.
After the video went viral, Rao met Home Minister G Parameshwara to explain his side. Speaking to reporters later, Rao claimed the video was eight years old, recorded when he was posted in Belagavi, and described it as a conspiracy to tarnish his image.
"I was there in Belagavi 8 years ago, I’ll speak to the advocate and take action, it’s shocking to me, it’s all fabricated and false, I have no idea about it. I don’t know when it was fabricated, an investigation has to be done about who’s spreading such a false thing," Rao said.




Dodgy indian, being dodgy again
 

Blast near Nalagarh police station in Himachal, windows of nearby buildings cracked, probe underway​



Police swung into action and barricaded the area. Baddi SP Vinod Dhiman said the blast took place at around 9:40 am, and the forensic team has collected samples from different locations.​


Shimla:
A major blast was reported near Nalagarh police station in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district on Thursday. No casualty was reported, officials said, adding that an investigation is underway to identify the cause of the explosion.

The impact of the blast that took place in a lane near the Nalagarh police station was so strong that the windows of nearby buildings -- including of an Army canteen 40 metres away from the spot -- were cracked.

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The loud sound of it was heard from a distance of up to 400-500 metres, locals said. Even 16 mm-thick glasses broke, and everything shook, an eyewitness, who was sitting nearby, said.

Police swung into action and barricaded the area. Baddi SP Vinod Dhiman said the blast took place at around 9:40 am, and the forensic team has collected samples from different locations.

He added that the cause and chemical involved would be known after the team's report. Talking to the media persons, he said that no email or threatening call was received and prima facie, no mischief involving explosives has been discovered.

CCTV footage is being scanned​

The he said. A lot of scrap was also piled up in this area, and an explosion from paint or other material is also a possibility, he said and instructed the scrap dealers not to be negligent.

Appealing to the people to report suspicious people or activity, the SP said that there is no atmosphere of panic in the area and there is "nothing to worry about".
 

"Demand For Fair Pay Is Just": Raghav Chadha's New Year's Eve With Gig Workers​


Amid the nationwide strike by gig workers, food delivery platforms Swiggy and Zomato rolled out higher incentives during peak hours and year-end days for its delivery partners.​



New Delhi:
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha spent the New Year's Eve with gig workers, who are holding a nationwide strike stressing their demands of fair pay, humane working conditions and social security.

"Spent New Year's Eve with Gig workers at Old Rajinder Nagar, who held a symbolic strike to make their voices heard," he wrote in a post on X.

Sharing photos of his meeting with gig workers associated with leading delivery and e-commerce platforms, including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy and Zomato, among others, Chadha said their demands are "legitimate and just".

Amid the nationwide strike by gig workers, food delivery platforms Swiggy and Zomato rolled out higher incentives during peak hours and year-end days for its delivery partners. "This protest was not about disruption, but about being heard. I stand with them in solidarity. I hope the management of platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy, Zomato, etc. listens and engages sincerely," the MP said in the post.


https://twitter.com/x/status/2006353442080686172

(
https://twitter.com/x/status/2006353442080686172
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Flagging the impact of the "10-minute delivery torture" on the workers' physical and mental health, Chadha had told IANS, "They are also humans, they are not robots or bonded labour. They are also someone's father, son, husband or brother."

Chadha had earlier raised concerns about the gig economy in Parliament.

The Gig and Platform Service Workers Union announced a nationwide strike on the New Year's Eve to collectively raise demands concerning the rights, welfare and dignity of gig and platform workers across India.


Source:



Sanghis below: do you think they should get a pay increase:

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India, Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations amid strained ties: Here's why this practice matters​


India and Pakistan have exchanged their annual list of nuclear installations for the 35th consecutive year under a pact that prohibits attacks on each other's atomic facilities. The exchange took place despite deep tensions and recent hostilities between the two countries.​



In a continuation of a practice that has now crossed three decades, India and Pakistan on Thursday exchanged their annual list of nuclear installations under a bilateral pact that bars either side from striking the other's atomic facilities. This routine but significant exchange came at a time when relations remain severely strained following the four-day military hostilities in May 2025 after the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.




According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the process was conducted simultaneously through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad. "India and Pakistan today exchanged, through diplomatic channels, simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad, the list of nuclear installations and facilities, covered under the agreement on the prohibition of attack against nuclear installations and facilities between India and Pakistan," the MEA noted.


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A three-decade-old nuclear safety arrangement​

The pact, signed on December 31, 1988 and operational since January 27, 1991, requires both countries to share these lists every year on January 1. The MEA highlighted that this was the 35th uninterrupted exchange since the first one on January 1, 1992. Over the years, the agreement has endured despite wars, terror attacks and major diplomatic breakdowns.

The agreement covers a broad spectrum of nuclear facilities including power plants, research reactors, fuel fabrication units, enrichment facilities, isotope separation plants, reprocessing units and storage sites containing large quantities of radioactive materials. These facilities are usually listed along with their geographical coordinates to ensure clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Why the annual exchange matters​

Security experts view this yearly ritual as a vital confidence-building measure that helps prevent accidental or escalatory strikes during crises. By officially listing sensitive nuclear locations, both sides aim to reduce the risks of miscalculation during high-tension military situations. Even a conventional attack on a nuclear site can trigger catastrophic environmental and humanitarian fallout, making this exchange central to nuclear risk management in South Asia. Significantly, the process has continued even during some of the most tense chapters in bilateral history such as the Kargil conflict, the 2001 to 2002 mobilisation, the 2016 Uri attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack followed by the Balakot air strikes.

Historical roots of the agreement​

The pact originated in the late 1980s when both India and Pakistan were edging toward overt nuclear capabilities but had not yet conducted their 1998 nuclear tests. Concerns about pre-emptive strikes or sabotage of nuclear infrastructure played a major role in shaping the negotiations. The agreement was among the earliest formal nuclear Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) between the neighbours and has survived despite the absence of broader progress on arms control.

Limitations that still concern analysts​

Although the pact prohibits attacks on nuclear installations, it does not limit nuclear weapons development or deployment. There are also no independent verification mechanisms beyond the annual list exchange. The agreement does not include missile bases, command and control sites or other strategic nuclear assets. Still, the consistent adherence to this agreement by both sides reflects a mutual understanding of the enormous risks posed by any strike, even unintentional, on nuclear facilities. More than three decades later, the pact remains a rare example of enduring nuclear risk reduction in an otherwise volatile geopolitical environment.



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Karnataka: One killed, four injured as balloon gas cylinder explodes near Mysuru Palace​


The explosion occurred near the Mysuru Palace while a gas cylinder was being used to fill gas balloons. According to the police, a large number of people had arrived for the exhibition due to the Christmas vacation.​



Mysuru:
A person was killed, and four others were injured in a balloon gas cylinder blast near Karnataka's Mysuru Palace on Thursday, said officials. As per the officials, the accident happened near the Jayamarthanda Gate of Mysore Palace at around 8:30 pm.

Woman among four injured sustained serious injuries​

The explosion occurred near the Mysuru Palace while a gas cylinder was being used to fill gas balloons. The impact of the blast caused panic in the area, as a large number of people had arrived for the exhibition due to the Christmas vacation.


The balloon vendor was killed on the spot after a gas cylinder used to fill balloons exploded. Four others were injured, including a woman who sustained serious injuries. All four injured individuals have been taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

What did the police say?​

Seema Latkar, Police Commissioner of Mysuru, said the incident occurred near Jayamarthanda Gate at around 8:30 pm, when a man selling helium balloons from a bicycle was filling balloons using a small gas cylinder. "The cylinder suddenly exploded, killing the balloon vendor on the spot. Four passers-by sustained injuries in the blast, she said, adding that police are investigating the matter," she said.

She said the deceased has not yet been identified and assured that details would be shared once the identification is confirmed. Of the injured, one person is in serious condition, while the others are undergoing treatment.

According to preliminary information, the injured include one person from Nanjangud and one from Bengaluru, while the details of the other two are being ascertained as they were initially unable to speak.

Police said the person from Bengaluru appeared to be a tourist on vacation, while the others are believed to be locals, though this is being verified.

"The injured have been identified as Manjula Lakshmi from Bengaluru, Manjula from Nanjangud, Kotreshi from Ranebennur, and Shahina from Kolkata, with police re-verifying their identities. The deceased vendor was a local resident, a man aged around 40 years. In total, five people were affected in the incident — one death and four injured, the police commissioner confirmed," the Commissioner added.


Source:
 

Palestine flag on cricketer's helmet sparks police probe into J-K Champions League; player, organiser summoned​


A Palestine flag on a player's helmet has sparked a major controversy in the Jammu Kashmir Champions League. Police have summoned cricketer Furqan Bhat and the league organiser for questioning as the incident undergoes detailed scrutiny.​



Jammu:
A fresh controversy has stirred the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir Champions League after a player was spotted wearing a helmet featuring the Palestine flag during a match in Jammu. The incident quickly caught public attention and has now prompted police action. According to initial details, cricketer Furqan Bhat of team JK11 Kings was seen using the helmet during a match against Jammu Trailblazers on Wednesday. The matter was immediately flagged and forwarded to authorities for verification. As per sources, Furqan Bhat has been called by the Jammu and Kashmir Police for questioning regarding the use of the helmet. Officials are reportedly trying to understand the intention behind it and whether any rules or laws may have been breached.

Organisers also summoned​

The controversy has widened as police have also summoned the organiser of the Jammu Kashmir Champions League. Investigators are seeking clarity on how the helmet was allowed on the field and whether proper checks were conducted ahead of the match.

League under tight scrutiny​

With the matter gaining traction, the entire league has come under the scanner of the Jammu Rural Police. Officials are currently verifying all relevant details and examining the circumstances that led to the incident. Police sources said that a thorough probe is underway and all individuals connected to the event are likely to be questioned to establish a clear picture.



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Income Tax department seizes Lucknow Lulu Mall's bank account for not depositing tax: Sources​


As per the sources, Lucknow's Lulu Mall had not paid the outstanding tax dues of Rs 27 crore on time. Due to this, the Income Tax department has seized the bank account of the Mall.​



New Delhi:
In a major development, the Income Tax Department has seized the bank account of Lucknow's Lulu Mall. According to the sources, Lulu Mall in Lucknow had outstanding tax dues of Rs 27 crore, which were not paid on time. Due to the failure to pay the tax on time, the Income Tax Department has seized the mall’s bank account.

Lulu Mall's manager faced rape and blackmail charges​

Lucknow's Lulu Mall was embroiled in controversy earlier this year in July. A female employee levelled rape, blackmail, and physical assault allegations against the mall's manager. Acting on a complaint, the police had arrested the accused and sent him to jail.

According to the complaint, the woman, who works at Lulu Mall, alleged that the manager spiked her cold drink with a sedative and sexually assaulted her. During the incident, he also recorded a video and later used it to extort money from her. When she refused to comply, he allegedly threatened to leak the video online.

M.A. Yusuff Ali is the founder and chairman of the UAE-based company.​

Notably, M.A. Yusuff Ali is the founder and chairman of the UAE-based Lulu Group International. The company operates hypermarkets and retail chains in many countries around the world, including India. The Lulu Group has a total of eight malls in India, five of which are located in Kerala alone. The Kerala malls are in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Kottayam. Three malls are in Karnataka's Bengaluru, Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow, and Telangana's Hyderabad. The Lulu Group operates its malls under the hypermarket brand. In addition to hypermarkets, the Lulu Group also runs several retail stores.

Expansion plans in Nagpur, Ahmedabad, and other cities​

Meanwhile, the Lulu Group is planning to expand its branches in several cities. Earlier in February, the Group shared details of its business expansion plans. As part of the expansion, the group is working on a new project in Nagpur, Maharashtra. Lulu Group Chairman Ali had said that the company is in the early stages of planning expansion in several cities, including Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Ahmedabad in Gujarat. The Lulu Mall planned in Ahmedabad will be among the largest shopping malls in the city.


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Massive fire breaks out in Delhi's Chandni Chowk, five fire tenders rush to spot​


Earlier in the day, three separate fire incidents were reported in Delhi, leaving one youth dead and his brother injured, officials said. No casualties were reported in the other two incidents, they said.​


New Delhi:
A massive fire broke out in a shop in Delhi's Chandni Chowk area on Friday night. Soon after receiving information about the incident, five fire tenders rushed to the spot to bring the flame under control. Earlier in the day, three separate fire incidents were reported in Delhi, leaving one youth dead and his brother injured, officials said. No casualties were reported in the other two incidents, they said.


The first incident was reported in northeast Delhi's Mustafabad area, where a 20-year-old youth was killed, and his elder brother was injured after a fire broke out on the ground floor of a four-storey building housing a repair shop. The Delhi Fire Services received the call reporting the fire at 6.24 am, following which five fire tenders were rushed to the spot. The two brothers were rescued and taken to GTB Hospital, where Junaid (20) was declared brought dead.

"A massive fire broke out in the Mustafabad area, killing Junaid (20) and injuring his brother, Sameer (23). Sameer was discharged after receiving treatment. We have formed a team to investigate the matter properly. Further action will be taken after reports," said the police officer.

Police have registered a case under sections 106(1) (causing death by negligence), 287 (negligent conduct with respect to fire or combustible matter) and 324(4) (mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

S​

The second incident was reported at 10.32 am from south Delhi's Munirka area, where eight electrical meters installed in a residential building caught fire. A fire tender was rushed to the spot, and the fire was successfully extinguished within about 10 minutes, officials said. No casualties were reported, and the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

Third fire incident in Delhi's Bindapur​

The third incident was reported at 10.57 am when a fire broke out at an e-rickshaw charging station in the Bindapur area of southwest Delhi. Upon receiving information, the fire department immediately dispatched two fire tenders.

"The fire was brought under control and completely doused within a short time, preventing it from spreading to nearby areas," a fire services official said. No casualties were reported, and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined, he added.




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Rajasthan SIR: Nearly 42 lakh voter names deleted in draft electoral rolls​


The Election Commission has released the draft electoral rolls of three states, including Rajasthan, and two Union Territories on Tuesday as part of the ongoing SIR.​



Jaipur:
Nearly 42 lakh voter names have been deleted from draft electoral rolls in Rajasthan during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR), State Chief Electoral Officer Naveen Mahajan said on Tuesday. Mahajan said that enumeration forms of 41.79 lakh voters out of a total 5.46 crore electors could not be collected.

5,04,71,396 electors submitted enumeration forms​

Among the deleted names, 8.75 lakh voters were deceased, 29.6 lakh had shifted or were found absent, while 3.44 lakh were enrolled at multiple locations. In addition, around 11 lakh voters will be issued notices seeking submission of relevant documents, he said.

"As on 16.12.2025, out of 5,46,56,215 electors, 5,04,71,396 electors have submitted their enumeration forms, reflecting overwhelming participation in the first phase of SIR," Mahajan said.

He said that Jaipur recorded the highest number of deletions.

Booth-wise lists to be displayed on notice boards​

Mahajan further said that booth-wise lists of electors whose names have not been included in the draft rolls will be displayed on notice boards at panchayat bhavans, urban local body offices, and other designated places. These lists will also mention the probable reasons for non-inclusion, allowing public access and verification.

He said that during the claims and objections period from December 16, 2025, to January 15, 2026, any elector or political party may file claims or objections for the inclusion of eligible electors or the deletion of ineligible names.

He said that the successful completion of this phase is the result of coordinated efforts of district electoral officers (DEOs), 199 electoral registration officers (EROs), 850 assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs), and booth-level officers (BLOs) deployed at 61,136 polling booths, supported by volunteers.

He added that field representatives of all eight major political parties, including their district presidents, actively participated in the process, with 1,04,713 Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties.


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Rajasthan govt set to amend 30-year-old two-child rule for panchayat, urban local body polls​


Rajasthan is preparing to strike down the two-child disqualification clause in local body and panchayat election laws. Drafts have been sent for legal vetting and will soon reach the Cabinet. The change will restore eligibility for many leaders across both major parties.​


Jaipur:
The Rajasthan government is preparing to bring an ordinance to amend the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act and the Rajasthan Municipalities Act in order to remove the provision that bars individuals with more than two children from contesting panchayat and urban local body elections. Officials confirmed that draft documents of the proposed ordinance have already been sent to the law department for vetting. Once the department clears the drafts, the proposal will head to the Cabinet for final approval.

Two child rule barred aspirants since 1995​

At present, the law prevents people who had a third child after November 27, 1995, from contesting various offices including panch, sarpanch, up-sarpanch, panchayat samiti member, zila parishad member, pradhan, zila pramukh, councillor, chairperson or mayor. The clause exists in Section 24 of the Rajasthan Municipalities Act along with corresponding sections in the Panchayati Raj Act.

Impact across party lines​

The proposed change is likely to benefit leaders in both the BJP and the Congress. Once the amendment kicks in, they will again become eligible to contest. Urban Development and Housing Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra recently said that elected representatives should not be subjected to discrimination due to the enforcement of the two-child rule.


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41 Naxalites lay down arms in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur; 32 of them carried Rs 1.19 crore bounty​



Thirty-nine of the surrendered cadres were associated with the South Sub-Zonal Bureau, including members from the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee, Telangana State Committee, and the Dhamtari–Gariaband–Nuapada divisions.​



Bijapur:
A total of 41 Naxalites, including 12 women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Wednesday. As per the officials, 32 Naxalites carried a combined reward of Rs 1.19 crore on their heads. The cadres turned themselves in before senior police officials.

Bijapur Superintendent of Police Jitendra Kumar Yadav said that the cadres laid down arms as they were impressed by the government's new surrender and rehabilitation policy and "Poona Margham" (rehabilitation for social reintegration drive of Bastar range police.

Who surrendered?​

Among the 41 surrendered Naxalites, four were members of PLGA (People's Liberation Guerrilla Army) battalion no.1 and different companies of Maoists, three of area committees, 11 platoon and area committee party members, two PLGA members, four militia platoon commanders, one deputy commander, six militia platoon members, and the remaining belonged to frontal outfits of outlawed CPI (Maoist).

Thirty-nine of these 41 cadres belonged to the south sub-zonal bureau of Maoists. They all were associated with the Dandakaranya special zonal committee, Telangana state committee, and the Dhamtari-Gariaband-Nuapada divisions of the banned outfit, the official said.

Rs 1.19 crore bounty on their heads​

The surrendered cadres declared their faith in the Constitution and vowed to lead a dignified and secure life within the democratic framework. Under the state’s rehabilitation policy, each of them received an immediate incentive of Rs 50,000.

Among the surrendered Maoists, nine cadres — Pandru Hapka alias Mohan (37), Bandi Hapka (35), Lakkhu Korsa (37), Badru Punem (35), Sukhram Hemla (27), Manjula Hemla (25), Mangali Madvi alias Shanti (29), Jairam Kadiyam (28), and Pando Madkam alias Chandni (35) — each carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh.

In addition, three cadres had a bounty of Rs 5 lakh each, 12 carried Rs 2 lakh each, and eight others carried Rs 1 lakh each.

790 Maoist cadres have quit violence since January 2024​

Yadav said the state government's rehabilitation policy has been encouraging Maoists to give up violence and return to the mainstream. He appealed to the remaining Maoists to abandon the path of violence.

"Maoists should shed misleading and violent ideologies and return to society without fear. The 'Poona Margham' drive ensures a secure, respectable, and self-reliant future for those who surrender," he said.

With this surrender, a total of 790 Maoist cadres have quit violence and joined the mainstream in the district since January 2024, the SP said.

During the same period, 202 Naxalites were killed in separate encounters and 1,031 cadres arrested in the district, he said.

More than 2,200 Naxalites, including top cadres, have surrendered in Chhattisgarh in the last 23 months, according to police.



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Gujarat bans rolling papers, smoking cons to prevent substance abuse, violators to be penalised​



The Gujarat Home Department said that social media posts, advertisements and other messages have been promoting the use of these products for consuming narcotic drugs, cigarettes, hookah products, and other addictive substances, which has contributed to increased drug use among young people.​


Ahmedabad :
The Gujarat government has issued an order to ban the sale, storage, distribution, advertisement, promotion and display of rolling papers, smoking cones, packaged rolling kits in the state. In the order, the state government said that the ban will come into effect immediately and applies to pan shops, tea stalls, retail grocery stores, and other outlets.

As per the order issued by the Home Department, the ban is imposed under Sections 163(2) and 163(3) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to prevent substance abuse among young people.

Objective of ban is to stop circulation of such products​

In the official order, the Home Department said that these products contain substances such as titanium dioxide, potassium nitrate, artificial dyes, calcium carbonate and chlorine bleach, which are harmful to human health. The whole objective of the ban is to stop their circulation and availability in the state.

The Home Department in the order said that social media posts, advertisements and other messages have been promoting the use of these products for consuming narcotic drugs, cigarettes, hookah products, and other addictive substances, which has contributed to increased drug use among young people.

Ban is imposed in interest of public health​

“These products are often used for the consumption of narcotic drugs, intoxicating substances, cigarettes, hookah products, and other addictive items,” the order stated.

The state government said that the ban is imposed in the interest of public health, safety, and order under Sections 143(2) and 143(3) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita. However, if anyone found violating the ban may face legal action under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code, 2023 (BNSS).



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9 killed, 32 injured in massive accidental blast at Nowgam police station in Srinagar | Video​


The blast occurred around 11:20 PM during the sampling of a large cache of ammonium nitrate–based explosives seized earlier from a terror module linked to JeM.​



Srinagar:
A powerful accidental explosion at the Nowgam Police Station on the outskirts of Srinagar late Friday night claimed nine lives and left 32 others injured, most of them police personnel and forensic experts. The blast occurred around 11:20 PM during the extraction and examination of explosives seized in a major terror module investigation.

According to reports, the FSL team, assisted by experts, was packing leftover packets of ammonium nitrate and other chemicals with reagents for safe disposal when the deadly explosion took place. The tragedy claimed the lives of nine individuals, including an inspector from the SIA team of J-K, three FSL team members, two Crime Branch J-K Police personnel (photographers), two officials from the Revenue Department and one civilian tailor.

Blast during handling of seized explosives​

Officials confirmed that the explosion took place while teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), Jammu & Kashmir Police, and a Tehsildar were inspecting a large cache of explosive material.

The explosives—primarily ammonium nitrate-based mixtures—had been recovered from Faridabad, Haryana, from the rented residence of arrested doctor Muzammil Ganaie.

Out of 360 kg of explosive substances seized from him, a significant portion was stored at the Nowgam Police Station as part of the ongoing case.

Nine dead, 32 injured as building suffers major damage​

Authorities evacuated the injured to multiple hospitals across Srinagar. The deceased, whose bodies were retrieved early Saturday morning, are yet to be formally identified and have been shifted to the Police Control Room, Srinagar.

The explosion severely damaged the police station building, destroyed vehicles parked on the premises, and triggered small successive blasts, delaying rescue operations by bomb disposal teams.

Night shattered by fire, smoke and shockwaves​

Video footage from the scene showed intense flames, charred police vehicles, shattered windowpanes in nearby localities such as Rawalpora, and thick plumes of smoke engulfing the area.

Residents reported hearing a massive blast followed by secondary explosions. Fire tenders, ambulances, and security forces—including the Army and CRPF Valley QAT—rushed to the spot.

J-K DGP Nalin Prabhat on incident​

J-K DGP Nalin Prabhat said, “"uring the investigation in FIR 162/2025 of PS Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals, and reagents were recovered from Faridabad on 9th and 10th November 2025. These were securely stored in the open area of Nowgam Police Station, and as part of the prescribed procedure, samples were being forwarded for forensic and chemical examination over the past two days by the FSL team. Due to the unstable and sensitive nature of the recovery, handling was done with utmost caution. However, around 11:20 PM last night, an accidental explosion took place. Nine people have lost their lives: one SIA officer, three FSL personnel, two Crime Branch photographers, two revenue officials, and one tailor. In addition, 27 police personnel, two revenue officials, and three civilians from nearby areas were injured and evacuated to hospitals. The police station building and adjacent structures suffered severe damage. The cause is under investigation, and J-K Police stand in solidarity with the families of the deceased."


https://twitter.com/x/status/1989556947453182100


How the investigation led to the explosive haul​

The chain of events began in mid-October when JeM-linked propaganda posters appeared on walls in Bunpora, Nowgam. Treating this as a serious threat, police registered a case on October 19 and formed a dedicated investigation team.

Initial arrests through CCTV analysis​

Meticulous frame-by-frame CCTV review led police to three suspects:

  • Arif Nisar Dar alias Sahil
  • Yasir-ul-Ashraf
  • Maqsood Ahmad Dar alias Shahid
All had prior cases of stone-pelting and were caught pasting posters.

Radical network of doctors and clerics uncovered​

Interrogation of the trio led to the arrest of Maulvi Irfan Ahmad, a former paramedic-turned-Imam accused of radicalising young medical professionals.

The probe then expanded to Al Falah University, Faridabad, where two doctors—Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie and Dr Shaheen Sayeed—were arrested. From their rented premises, nearly 360 kg of chemicals and explosives were seized.

Core leadership linked to Delhi Red Fort car blast​

Investigators believe the terror module was operated by a core trio:

  • Dr Muzammil Ganaie (arrested)
  • Dr Umar Nabi, driver of the explosives-laden car that blew up near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10, killing 12 and injuring 20
  • Dr Muzzaffar Rather, currently absconding.
Additionally, Dr Adeel Rather, brother of the absconding suspect, was arrested with an AK-56 rifle.

Across multiple raids, authorities seized over 2,900 kg of explosives, timers, detonators, and chemicals—revealing a vast network stretching across Srinagar, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

Official response and NIA takeover​

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the Nowgam blast probe. Forensic teams have collected DNA evidence, explosive residue, and structural samples to determine whether the detonation was caused by mishandling or unforeseen chemical instability.

Home Minister Amit Shah directed NIA, NSG, and forensic units to reach the site immediately. Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, visited the injured undergoing treatment.

Not a terror attack, say Police​

Jammu and Kashmir Police officials emphasised that the incident was an accidental blast and not a terror strike. The explosives had been recovered earlier during counter-terrorism operations.

A senior police officer told India TV that the ammonium-nitrate-based substances were extremely unstable, and while 120 explosive devices had been recovered, 8 remained to be neutralised when the mishap occurred.

A stark reminder of the risks of counter-terror work​

The tragedy highlights the intense risks security personnel face while defusing and examining large quantities of volatile materials. It comes amid heightened counter-terror operations following the Red Fort explosion and the unravelling of the “white-collar terror module.”

Investigations are ongoing, and further details are awaited.



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Nowgam police station blast: Govt confirms accidental explosion during handling of seized explosives​


The explosives, seized from Faridabad, were being examined as per SOPs when an accidental explosion took place at 11:20 PM, killing nine people and injuring 32 others.​


New Delhi:
In a deeply tragic turn of events, a massive accidental explosion inside the Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar late on November 14 claimed nine lives and left 32 people injured, including police personnel, forensic experts, revenue officials, and civilians. The blast occurred around 11:20 PM while teams were handling and examining a large cache of explosive materials seized during a major terror module investigation.

What Home Ministry said​

Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs (J-K Division), Prashant Lokhande, confirmed that the Nowgam Police Station blast occurred during routine but highly sensitive procedures linked to FIR No. 162/2025, in which a terror module had recently been cracked based on leads from a poster. He stated that a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals, and reagents recovered on 9–10 November from Faridabad was being safely stored in an open, secure area of the police station, while multiple agencies—including the Police, SIA, FSL, Crime Branch, and Revenue Department—were working together in a coordinated and scientific manner.


As per prescribed SOPs, samples from the seized materials had been under forensic and chemical examination for the past two days due to their sheer volume. Despite careful and expert handling owing to the unstable nature of the recovery, an accidental explosion occurred at 11:20 PM, killing nine individuals and injuring 27 police personnel, two revenue officials, and three civilians, who were immediately rushed for treatment.

Lokhande added that the blast caused severe structural damage to the police station and affected nearby buildings; while the cause is under investigation, he urged the public to avoid unnecessary speculation. He affirmed that the Government of India stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased in this hour of grief.


https://twitter.com/x/status/1989556947453182100

DGP Nalin Prabhat: Explosion occurred during FSL sampling process​

J-K DGP Nalin Prabhat also addressed the media, confirming that the blast happened while the FSL team was packaging leftover ammonium nitrate and reagents for safe disposal.

He reported the fatalities as:

  • 1 officer from the SIA,
  • 3 members of the FSL team,
  • 2 Crime Branch photographers,
  • 2 Revenue Department officials,
  • 1 civilian tailor assisting the team.
Additionally, 27 police personnel, two revenue officials, and three civilians were injured. Prabhat reiterated that the police station structure suffered extensive damage, and adjacent buildings were also affected. The cause of the accidental blast is being investigated.

LG Manoj Sinha expresses anguish​

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said he is deeply anguished by the loss of lives in the accidental blast at Nowgam Police Station, offering condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. In his message, he affirmed that the government stands in full solidarity with the affected families and is providing all possible assistance, adding that he has ordered a probe to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1989571841770320224

Blast during handling of 360 kg explosives seized in terror case​

Officials revealed that the explosion occurred during the inspection of explosives recovered from Faridabad, linked to arrested doctor Muzammil Ganaie.

Of the 360 kg of ammonium nitrate–based materials seized, a significant portion had been stored at Nowgam Police Station for forensic processing.

Sources said the FSL team was using chemical reagents to test and classify the seized explosives when the accidental ignition occurred.

A night of tragedy​

The explosion was so powerful that it shook surrounding neighbourhoods and left the police station in ruins. Rescue operations continued into the night, with teams rushing the injured to nearby hospitals.

Both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the J-K Police emphasised that the incident was purely accidental, occurring during procedural handling of seized materials, and urged against speculation.

Authorities have assured a high-level probe into the explosion and extended condolences to the families affected by this unprecedented tragedy.



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Bengaluru Power Cut: Electricity Outage To Hit Over 25 Locations For Next 5 Days - Check Affected Areas & Timings​


Bengaluru will face daily four-hour power cuts from February 4 to 9 due to urgent maintenance at the 66/11 KV HBR power station, BESCOM said. The scheduled outage, mainly affecting Hebbal and north Bengaluru, aims to strengthen power infrastructure and ensure reliable electricity supply.​



Bengaluru is set to face a scheduled power cut for five days, with no electricity from February 4 to February 9, as announced by the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM). The outages will occur daily for four hours, impacting several areas in the city, particularly around Hebbal and north Bengaluru.

According to a News18 report, the BESCOM stated that this maintenance is vital for enhancing the city's power infrastructure, which aims to ensure a more reliable electricity supply in the long term.

What's The Reason Behind​


The scheduled power cut is necessary due to urgent maintenance work at the 66/11 KV HBR power station, according to the BESCOM. It further said that this maintenance is vital for enhancing the city's power infrastructure.

However, this essential work will lead to prolonged disruptions in electricity supply, affecting residents, public and private offices, and commercial establishments.

Bengaluru Power Cut: Affected Areas​


The planned power cut will impact numerous localities throughout the maintenance period. According to reports, the following areas will experience outages:
  • Kavalbyrasandra
  • L.R. Bande Main Road
  • Gandhinagar
  • Chinnanna Layout
  • Ambedkar Layout
  • Anwar Layout
  • Cauvery Nagar
  • Ambedkar Medical College area
  • Sultan Palya
  • Ranka Nagar
  • Kanaka Nagar
  • KHB Main Road
  • Bhuvaneshwari Nagar
  • D.G.A. Halli
  • K.J. Halli
  • K.J. Colony
  • Adarsha Nagar
  • V. Nagenahalli
  • Periyar Nagar
  • Periyar Circle
  • Shampura
  • Kushal Nagar
  • Modi Road
  • Modi Garden
  • Doddanna Nagar
  • Muniveerappa Layout
  • Sugar Mandi
  • Salt Mandi
  • Muneshwara Nagar
Additionally, power supply issues are expected in areas such as Divya Shanti, Govindpur, Karle, Brindavan Nagar, Titan Garage, Bhairavi Apartments, Heggade Nagar, and surrounding localities during the five-day maintenance window.

Advisory for Residents​


In light of the upcoming outages, residents in the affected areas are advised to:
  • Plan their work schedules accordingly to minimise inconvenience
  • Charge all electronic devices, including mobile phones, laptops, and power banks, in advance
  • Utilise power backup systems where available
  • BESCOM has assured residents that electricity will be restored immediately after the completion of maintenance work each day.
Moreover, the residents are encouraged to take proactive measures to ensure their daily activities are minimally disrupted.
This includes ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, and other essentials, as well as considering the needs of those who rely heavily on electricity for medical equipment.


Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Bengaluru Power Cut: Electricity Outage To Hit Over 25 Locations For Next 5 Days - Check Affected Areas & Timings

Bengaluru will face daily four-hour power cuts from February 4 to 9 due to urgent maintenance at the 66/11 KV HBR power station, BESCOM said. The scheduled outage, mainly affecting Hebbal and north Bengaluru, aims to strengthen power infrastructure and ensure reliable electricity supply...
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‘Cancel Bihar Election Results’: Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party Moves Court Over ‘Rs. 10,000 Cash’​


Former poll strategist Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Bihar Assembly Elections, 2025 and seeking fresh polls in the state. The matter is likely to come up for hearing on Friday before a bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi.​


The Jan Suraaj party, floated by strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor, has challenged the results of the Bihar assembly elections in the Supreme Court of India and sought fresh polls. The party has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the direct transfer of Rs 10,000 to women voters in Bihar ahead of state polls, while the Model Code of Conduct was allegedly in place.
The JSP sought a direction to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to declare the result of Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 “null and void” and to hold fresh elections. A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi will hear the matter tomorrow.

The Jan Suraaj's writ petition filed through Advocate Aditya Singh under Article 32 seeks a declaration that the addition of fresh beneficiaries in the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, and payments made to them during subsistence of the Model Code of Conduct, was illegal and violative of Articles 14, 21, 112, 202 and 324 of the Constitution. The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana provides an initial financial grant of Rs 10,000 to women to launch small businesses and promote self-employment and women's empowerment in the state.

It seeks directions for the Election Commission to take action under Article 324 of Constitution of India and Section 123 of Representation of People Act (which deals with corrupt practices) against direct transfer of Rs. 10,000 to 25-35 lakh women voters in Bihar elections.

It also seeks to declare the deployment of 1.8 lakh women beneficiaries from Jeevika groups on the polling booth illegal.
It also sought a detailed guideline on freebies and Direct Benefit Transfer Schemes, saying that the Election Commission may fix a minimum time, preferably six months, to implement such schemes to ensure a free and fair election.
The BJP-led NDA retained power in the state, winning 202 of the total 243 seats, while the INDIA bloc bagged only 35, including six of the Congress. The Jan Suraaj Party failed to open its account in the assembly polls, with most of its candidates losing their deposits.



Source:
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‘Cancel Bihar Election Results’: Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party Moves Court Over ‘Rs. 10,000 Cash’

Former poll strategist Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Bihar Assembly Elections, 2025 and seeking fresh polls in the state. The matter is likely to come up for hearing on Friday before a bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Joymalya...
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Delhi’s Night Shelters In Crisis: 20,000 Beds on Paper, But Only Few Are Real - What's Happening?​


Delhi’s night shelters fall far short of official capacity claims, with many facilities operating at just a fraction of their listed beds. Locations like Motia Khan, Chabi Ganj, Yamuna Bazar, and Mori Gate highlight ongoing neglect, especially during winter.​



Delhi’s official records list 322 night shelters with a total capacity of nearly 20,000 beds. Yet the ground reality is starkly different. Many shelters are severely under-equipped; for instance, the Commercial Building in Motia Khan, meant to house 540 people, has just 15 beds available. Similar discrepancies exist across other shelters, highlighting the city’s struggle to provide adequate accommodation for its homeless population despite official figures suggesting otherwise.

Discrepancies in Shelter Capacity​


Many facilities, such as the Chabi Ganj community hall, are listed for 100 beds yet only have 38 available. The Chabi Ganj Community Centre claims a capacity of 280 but operates at a mere 6 per cent, housing only 18 individuals.

This mismatch continues at locations like Yamuna Bazar and Mori Gate, where shelters are far from their claimed capacities. This situation has persisted for the past two to three years, particularly during the winter months, highlighting ongoing neglect and misreporting by authorities.

Activists Call for Accountability​


Activists like Sunil Kumar Aledia have pointed out that the reported capacity of shelters is grossly inflated, with actual availability estimated to be around 6,500 to 7,000 beds.

"The alarming mismatch between the declared capacity and the actual beds available on the ground points to systemic misreporting and serious neglect of basic infrastructure," Aledia said. Indu Prakash Singh, a member of the state-level shelter monitoring committee, echoed these sentiments, demanding accurate figures and improved conditions for the homeless.

Government Response and Future Actions​


Government officials responded to these concerns, promising audits and corrective measures. However, there has been no clear explanation for why the reported capacity is so much higher than what is actually available.
With thousands of homeless individuals still sleeping on the streets, the need for transparency and accountability in shelter management has never been more urgent. As Delhi grapples with its homeless crisis, it is evident that the numbers on paper do not reflect the reality faced by many in the city.
The internationally accepted standard for homelessness suggests that around 1% of a city's population should be accommodated. With Delhi's population exceeding 20 million, the current shelter situation remains starkly inadequate.


Source:

www.timesnownews.com

Delhi’s Night Shelters In Crisis: 20,000 Beds on Paper, But Only Few Are Real - What's Happening?

Delhi’s night shelters fall far short of official capacity claims, with many facilities operating at just a fraction of their listed beds. Locations like Motia Khan, Chabi Ganj, Yamuna Bazar, and Mori Gate highlight ongoing neglect, especially during winter., Delhi News, Times Now
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Hate fo rdalit, BJP attacks gandhi-Vadra family over kharge's treatment in presser: shares jaira clip:

NEW DELHI: The BJP on Saturday targeted the Gandhi–Vadra family, alleging that "their hate for Dalit is so open." The charge from the saffron party came shortly after the Congress held a press conference in which party president Mallikarjun Kharge initially said he would not read the full note aloud and would instead circulate it to the media, before being interrupted moments later by the party's general secretary, who urged him to read it out.


https://twitter.com/x/status/2004864395143459052

(Be it Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi or Jairam Ramesh, their hate for a "DALIT" is so open! Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge clearly stated that he would not read the full note and would circulate it to the press instead.Within seconds, Jairam Ramesh cut in and directed him to read it out.And Kharge ji complied.This is how Gandhi - Vadra family treats their own President!)


Sharing a clip of the exchange, BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting Kharge. He wrote on X, "Be it Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi or Jairam Ramesh, their hate for a 'DALIT' is so open! Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge clearly stated that he would not read the full note and would circulate it to the press instead. Within seconds Jairam Ramesh cut in and directed him to read it out. And Kharge ji
complied. This is how Gandhi - Vadra family treats their own president!".

At the press conference, the Congress announced a nationwide protest against the Centre's decision to replace the rural employment scheme MGNREGA with what it called the VB G Ram G Act.

Following the Congress Working Committee meeting, Kharge said replacing a scheme named after Mahatma Gandhi
amounted to an insult to the Father of the Nation.

Meanwhile, leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the decision to scrap MGNREGA without consulting relevant ministers or even the Union Cabinet.


The LoP also pledged to oppose the move, saying, "As Kharge ji has said, we are going to resist it. We are going to fight it. And I'm confident that the entire opposition is going to be aligned against this action.



Source:
timesofindia.indiatimes.com

'Hate for Dalit': BJP attacks Gandhi-Vadra family over Kharge's treatment in presser; shares Jairam clip | India News - The Times of India

India News: NEW DELHI: The BJP on Saturday targeted the Gandhi–Vadra family, alleging that \"their hate for Dalit is so open.\" The charge from the saffron party ca.
timesofindia.indiatimes.com timesofindia.indiatimes.com
 

Atishi ‘Gone Missing’: Kapil Mishra Targets Arvind Kejriwal Over 'Silence', Gives 'Message' for Bhagwant Mann​


BJP leader Kapil Mishra accused AAP of silencing Atishi after the Guru Tegh Bahadur remark row, targeting Arvind Kejriwal’s “silence” and warning Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over alleged misuse of state machinery.​



Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra on Tuesday mounted a sharp attack on AAP leader Atishi over her alleged remarks related to Guru Tegh Bahadur, saying AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal should have publicly asked her to apologise instead of remaining silent.
Addressing a press conference in the national capital, Mishra accused the AAP leadership of attempting to suppress the controversy and misusing state machinery in Punjab to deflect attention from the issue. He described the matter as extremely serious and said the BJP would not stay quiet.


“On 6th January, a sin was committed in Delhi Assembly, when the Leader of Opposition used derogatory words during debate on 350 years of the sacrifice of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. Since that day, Atishi has gone missing; she has been ordered not to come before the media. To hide this sin, on orders of Arvind Kejriwal, the systems of the Punjab government and the Punjab Police are being misused,” Mishra alleged.


A Message to Bhagwant Mann​


He further appealed to the Punjab Chief Minister not to get involved in the controversy. “I want to tell Bhagwant Mann ji, don't become a party to this sin...The way Atishi has gone missing after this means that what she did was deliberate...We will not remain quiet on this issue. Arvind Kejriwal should have asked Atishi to apologise on this matter. I want to tell Atishi to come before the media,” he said.


The remarks come amid escalating political sparring between the BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party. On Sunday, AAP staged a large protest outside the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, alleging the circulation of a doctored video of Delhi Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Atishi. Several AAP MLAs and party leaders were detained by the police during the demonstration.
The protest was triggered after BJP leaders, including Kapil Mishra, shared a video that AAP claims was manipulated to insert words Atishi never spoke, allegedly to suggest disrespect towards Sikh Gurus.

Atishi Video​


Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj accused the BJP of attempting to inflame religious sentiments. “AAP workers are demanding an apology from CM Rekha Gupta. Demanding this, we have come here near the BJP office. It has been proven that BJP minister Kapil Mishra inserted false words in Atishi's video and attempted to vitiate religious harmony in the country. Action should be taken against them,” he said.
Adding a new turn to the controversy, a forensic report dated January 9 stated that the word “Guru” was not spoken by Atishi in the original audio. “Vide Forensic Report dated January 9, 2026, it has emerged that the word 'Guru' has not been uttered by Atishi in her audio as contained in the video clips being circulated on social media. Furthermore, there has been deliberate doctoring of the video to attribute words in the captions that were never spoken by Atishi,” the release said.
Police said further investigation into the matter is ongoing


Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Atishi ‘Gone Missing’: Kapil Mishra Targets Arvind Kejriwal Over 'Silence', Gives 'Message' for Bhagwant Mann

BJP leader Kapil Mishra accused AAP of silencing Atishi after the Guru Tegh Bahadur remark row, targeting Arvind Kejriwal’s “silence” and warning Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over alleged misuse of state machinery., Delhi News, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com
 

Massive Fire Breaks Out In Plastic Bag Factory in Delhi, 8 Fire Engines Rush To The Scene - VIDEO​


A massive fire broke out at a factory in Delhi’s Inderlok area on Monday, causing panic and prompting a large-scale rescue operation by seven fire engines.​


A massive fire broke out at a local factory in Delhi’s Inderlok area on Monday (February 16). The flames quickly escalated, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky and making the fire visible from a distance. Eight fire tenders were rushed to the spot after a call reporting the blaze was received at 11.37 am, an official of the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) said. The firefighters are still working to douse the flames, he said, adding that no one was injured in the incident.
The exact cause of the fire is still not known.

Being a densely populated area, controlling the situation posed a major challenge for authorities. Firefighters prioritised preventing the blaze from spreading to nearby buildings while also ensuring that anyone trapped inside the factory was safely evacuated.

Another fire incident on Monday was reported in Rajasthan, where at least seven workers reportedly burnt alive in the blaze at a chemical factory in Bhiwadi. More than 20 workers were present at the time of the incident. The fire broke out in Bhiwadi's Khushkhera-Karoli industrial area.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2023322876133400959

Additional District Magistrate Sumita Mishra said police came to know about the incident during a routine patrol following which a rescue operation was launched immediately.
Rajasthan Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedham said that the state government has directed a detailed investigation into the incident and assured strict action if any negligence is found. “Every aspect of the case will be examined,” he said, adding that the exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
Two critically injured persons have been referred to Delhi for advanced treatment, while several others sustained burn injuries. Rescue operations at the site have been completed.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also expressed grief over the tragedy and deputed Minister Sanjay Sharma to visit Bhiwadi immediately. The government said it has responded with full sensitivity to the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved families.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Massive Fire Breaks Out In Plastic Bag Factory in Delhi, 8 Fire Engines Rush To The Scene - VIDEO

A massive fire broke out at a factory in Delhi’s Inderlok area on Monday, causing panic and prompting a large-scale rescue operation by seven fire engines., Delhi News, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com


Hope no one dies or gets hurt / injured, below indians, keep us informed:

@Rajdeep @cricketjoshila @Champ_Pal @Devadwal @uppercut @straighttalk @Vikram1989 @Romali_rotti @Bhaijaan @Cover Drive Six @rickroll @RexRex @rpant_gabba, @Romali_rotti @kron @globetrotter @Hitman @jnaveen1980 @Local.Dada @CrIc_Mystique @Van_Sri @nish_mate @SportsWarrior @kaayal @saimayubera @JaDed @Prince of Dorne @Hikaru
 

Bhawant Mann refused political clearance for foreign trip​


The central government has denied political clearance to the delegation. No reason has been given. said AAP state general secretary and media in-charge Baltej Pannu.​


The ministry of external affairs (MEA) has refused political clearance to chief minister Bhagwant Mann and industries minister Sanjeev Arora for a proposed visit to the United Kingdom and Israel next month to invite business leaders to invest in Punjab.

Mann was to lead the state delegation comprising his cabinet colleague and senior officers as part of the state government’s international outreach efforts in the run-up to the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit to be held in Mohali from March 13 to 15. The delegation was planning to meet representatives of leading companies as well as other potential investors to promote Punjab and invite them to the summit.

“The central government has denied political clearance to the delegation. No reason has been given. Any new investment from these countries in Punjab would only be in the interest of the country,” said AAP state general secretary and media in-charge Baltej Pannu. Mann and Arora had earlier travelled to Japan and South Korea from December 1 to 10 last year to attract investments.

After returning from his foreign tour, Mann said on December 10 last year that leading Japanese and South Korean companies had evinced interest in exploring opportunities for fresh investment or expanding their existing projects in Punjab. Calling the visit a success, the CM highlighted two potential investments, including a ₹500 -crore expansion by Aichi Steel and a ₹300-400-crore expansion proposal by Toppan Holdings for its Punjab facility.

“The visit will prove to be a new milestone in Punjab’s industrial progress, putting the state on a high-growth trajectory. Several companies have assured their participation in the summit. We are expecting close to 250 firms from these two countries,” he said at a press conference, providing a day-wise account of meetings.

There was no immediate response from MEA officials on the matter.



Source:
www.hindustantimes.com

Bhawant Mann refused political clearance for foreign trip

The central government has denied political clearance to the delegation. No reason has been given. said AAP state general secretary and media in-charge Baltej Pannu.| India News
www.hindustantimes.com www.hindustantimes.com
 

Committee on digital arrests looks at fixing liability for citizens’ losses​



The committee also directed the RBI, DoT, and Ministry of Electronics and I.T. to examine compensation mechanisms.​



The Centre has constituted a high-level Inter-Departmental Committee to tackle digital arrest scams, with the panel deciding in its first meeting that victims should not bear losses attributable to negligence by banks, telecom providers or other regulated entities, the government informed the Supreme Court in a status report filed on Tuesday.

At the December 29 meeting, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) proposed splitting investigative responsibilities by monetary thresholds—state and Union territory agencies would handle cases below a specified limit with technical support from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, while CBI would take higher-value cases.

The committee also directed the Reserve Bank of India, Department of Telecommunications and Ministry of Electronics and IT to examine compensation mechanisms and suggest improvements.

The moves follow the Supreme Court’s suo motu cognisance of digital arrest scams, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to coerce money transfers. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant’s bench directed CBI to probe the scams, calling them organised and transnational.

The committee, chaired by the Special Secretary (Internal Security) in the Union ministry of home affairs, was constituted December 26 under Attorney General R Venkataramani’s guidance. It includes senior officers from multiple ministries, RBI, National Investigation Agency, Delhi Police and I4C, and will meet every two weeks.

Its terms of reference include examining enforcement challenges, considering recommendations from the court-appointed amicus curiae, identifying regulatory gaps and suggesting corrective measures.

Digital arrest scams have emerged as a major category within India’s cybercrime crisis, which saw over 2.2 million incidents and losses of ₹22,845 crore in 2024 — with 85% of cases involving online financial fraud, according to data tabled in Parliament.

The scams typically target elderly citizens and professionals through video calls, with fraudsters impersonating police, CBI or customs officials and keeping victims under psychological duress for hours or days while coercing large money transfers.

The court took cognisance October 17 after a 73-year-old Ambala woman wrote that fraudsters posing as CBI officials used fake Supreme Court orders to compel her to transfer over ₹1 crore. Through its president Vipin Nair, the Supreme Court Advocates on Record Association intervened, citing a similar case involving a woman advocate duped of more than ₹1 crore.

CBI told the committee during the December 29 meeting the scams are run by organised, transnational syndicates using sophisticated infrastructure and coordinated networks, with INTERPOL channels being used to dismantle modules. The chair directed I4C to share detailed case data with CBI to facilitate the threshold exercise. CBI also informed the panel it is organising a national cybercrime conference with I4C on January 10-11.

RBI said banks are governed by multiple advisories and master directions on fraud prevention and transaction monitoring. It said 23 banks have adopted the AI-based MuleHunter tool for detecting mule accounts and undertook to examine why others have not implemented it. The central bank is also finalising a standard operating procedure for freezing accounts in suspicious transactions, following Kerala High Court interim directions.

On proactive account freezing under Section 12AA of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, RBI said a Union finance ministry notification would be required, while CBI maintained banks could act on predicate offences like cheating and theft before invoking PMLA.

The Department of Telecommunications said draft rules under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, addressing negligent SIM card issuance and multiple SIMs to individuals, are under stakeholder consultation. Draft rules for regulating SIM boxes are at an advanced stage.

MeitY said consultations are underway on intermediary obligations, technical feasibility and compliance mechanisms. It acknowledged the need to strengthen the adjudication mechanism under Section 46 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, potentially through a national online portal.

MeitY convened a meeting with major IT intermediaries January 6, attended by amicus curiae senior advocate NS Nappinai and representatives of Google, WhatsApp, Telegram and Microsoft, to discuss platform-level responses to digital arrest scams.


A separate virtual meeting was held January 2 between the amicus curiae and representatives of I4C, RBI, DoT and MeitY to clarify recommendations on SIM issuance, bank liability, intermediary obligations and victim redress mechanisms.

The government said DoT and RBI submitted detailed inputs after the first meeting, but responses from other members are awaited. It sought at least one month from the Supreme Court to complete consultations and place a consolidated outcome before the court.

The matter was scheduled for hearing Tuesday but could not be taken up due to paucity of time



Source:
www.hindustantimes.com

Committee on digital arrests looks at fixing liability for citizens’ losses

The committee also directed the RBI, DoT, and Ministry of Electronics and I.T. to examine compensation mechanisms.| India News
www.hindustantimes.com www.hindustantimes.com



@Rajdeep @cricketjoshila @Champ_Pal @Devadwal @uppercut @straighttalk @Vikram1989 @Romali_rotti @Bhaijaan @Cover Drive Six @rickroll @RexRex @rpant_gabba, @Romali_rotti @kron @globetrotter @Hitman @jnaveen1980 @Local.Dada @CrIc_Mystique @Van_Sri @nish_mate @SportsWarrior @kaayal @saimayubera @JaDed @Prince of Dorne @Hikaru
 

Himanta Biswa Sarma flags concerns over demographic changes: 'Assam to have 40% Bangladeshi Muslims by 2027'​


In his remarks, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the eviction of infiltrators will continue in Assam to send a 'strong message' to Bangladesh. He also alleged that the Congress is supporting infiltrators.​


Guwahati:
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday once flagged concerns over demographic changes in Assam and said the Bangladesh-origin Muslim population in the northeast state will be around 40 per cent by the time the census report is released in 2027. Sarma was speaking at the core committee meeting of the Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In his remarks, the chief minister said the eviction of infiltrators will continue in Assam to send a 'strong message' to Bangladesh. He also alleged that the Congress is supporting infiltrators, adding that the grand old party is unaware of the fact that the Bangladeshi Muslims will 'takeover the state' if their population crosses 50 per cent.

"As per the 2011 census, there was 34 per cent Muslim population in Assam," Sarma said. "If we give away three per cent Assamese Muslims, then the Bangladeshi-origin Muslim population was 31 per cent in Assam. No census was conducted in 2021... When the census report comes out in 2027, the Bangladesh-origin Muslim population will be around 40 per cent."

Sarma's warning and Bangladesh leader's threat​

This is not the first time Sarma has raised concerns over demographic changes in Assam. Few days back, the chief minister had warned that the northeast state could become a part of Bangladesh if the number of immigrants increase by 10 per cent. Sarma was responding Bangladesh National Citizen Party (BNCP) leader Hasnat Abdullah's remarks, while speaking to reporters in Chabua on December 23.

"In Assam, 40 per cent of the population are Bangladeshi-origin people. If it increases 10 per cent more, we will automatically be included... That is why I have been shouting (about the issue) for the last five years," he said.

Several Bangladesh leaders have issued remarks against isolating India's northeast. Earlier this month, Abdullah extended support to separatist elements in the northeast and Dhaka would isolate the northeast if India tries to 'destabilise' Bangladesh. In his remarks, Abdullah claimed northeast is 'vulnerable' because of its huge dependance of on the 'Siliguri Corridor'.


Source:
 

"Is She Not A Woman?" AAP Hits Out At BJP Over Posters Criticising Atishi​


Delhi minister Kapil Mishra shared a poster of Atishi over her "disparaging" remark on Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur.​



New Delhi:
The BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) traded barbs over posters of Leader of the Opposition Atishi, triggering a fresh war of words inside and outside the Delhi Assembly.

Delhi minister Kapil Mishra shared a poster of Atishi over her "disparaging" remark on Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur, asking "Where is Atishi Marlena". The BJP also circulated another poster, showing Atishi's ears being stretched by two hands, accompanied by the slogan "Guru ka apmaan nahi sahega Punjab (Punjab will not tolerate the insult of gurus)".

Responding to the posters, AAP's Delhi unit president Saurabh Bharadwaj launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Mimicking her, Bharadwaj said he too could "speak in a heavy voice in the Assembly and cry" over being attacked as she is a woman Chief Minister. He added that Gupta seemed to have forgotten that she is not the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi, but the fourth.

Bharadwaj questioned the Chief Minister's silence over the posters targeting Atishi. "BJP is now showing posters where Atishi's ears are being stretched, but the Chief Minister is silent. Is Atishi not a woman?" he asked. He further alleged that for the past week, Atishi has been repeatedly targeted by a male minister and an online troll army, while the Chief Minister chooses to play the "woman card" only when it suits her.

The row began last week, when BJP MLAs staged a protest demanding the cancellation of Atishi's Assembly membership, alleging that the former Delhi chief minister made objectionable remarks in the House a day earlier. The next day, AAP accused Mishra of posting an "edited" and "fake" video clip of Atishi online.

A day later, the Punjab Police registered an FIR in connection with the alleged "doctored" video posted by Mishra on X. In response, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta issued notices to senior Punjab Police officers on Saturday, accusing them of "unwarranted interference with the property of the House". Meanwhile, protests intensified in Punjab, with Opposition parties demanding the arrest of Atishi over the purported remarks.


Source:
 

Massive Fire At Hyderabad’s Coaching Centres Hub, Rescue Operation Underway To Evacuate Students​


A massive fire broke out in a multi-storey commercial building in Hyderabad’s Ameerpet area, prompting a rescue operation to safely evacuate students and staff.​




A massive fire broke out in a multi-storey commercial building housing several IT coaching centres and shops, in Hyderabad's Ameerpet area on Friday (February 20). However, no casualties were reported. The fire, suspected to have been caused by electric short circuit, resulted in heavy smoke billowing from the premises. According to reports, which cited the Fire department officials, a distress call was received at 10.59 am. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters were rushed to the spot and the fire was brought under control in 30 minutes, officials said as per PTI.
According to officials, the fire originated on the ground floor of the building in the electrical panel shaft, after which thick smoke spread through the shaft to the upper floors, particularly the second floor where students were present.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2024744957094011172

Students and others in the building were safely evacuated by the police and officials. Ameerpet, a densely populated locality, is home to a large number of coaching centres offering software courses.
 
finalfantasy7 said:

Massive Fire At Hyderabad’s Coaching Centres Hub, Rescue Operation Underway To Evacuate Students​


A massive fire broke out in a multi-storey commercial building in Hyderabad’s Ameerpet area, prompting a rescue operation to safely evacuate students and staff.​




A massive fire broke out in a multi-storey commercial building housing several IT coaching centres and shops, in Hyderabad's Ameerpet area on Friday (February 20). However, no casualties were reported. The fire, suspected to have been caused by electric short circuit, resulted in heavy smoke billowing from the premises. According to reports, which cited the Fire department officials, a distress call was received at 10.59 am. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters were rushed to the spot and the fire was brought under control in 30 minutes, officials said as per PTI.
According to officials, the fire originated on the ground floor of the building in the electrical panel shaft, after which thick smoke spread through the shaft to the upper floors, particularly the second floor where students were present.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2024744957094011172

Students and others in the building were safely evacuated by the police and officials. Ameerpet, a densely populated locality, is home to a large number of coaching centres offering software courses.
Click to expand...
Forgot to add the below:

According to a report by The Hindu, Punjagutta Fire Station Officer, P Ramesh, said that nearly 60 to 80 students were present at an institute on the second floor of the building at the time of the incident. “Nearly 20 of them managed to step out on their own, while others were stranded on the second floor and were subsequently rescued by Fire department personnel with assistance from the locals” he said as quoted by The Hindu report.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2024755695048962298

Visuals from the location showed students huddled on the fourth-floor balcony as thick smoke and flames engulfed parts of the building. “Using ladders, we helped students climb down from balconies. Around 40 people were rescued while 20 others had already moved outside before the fire brigade arrived,” said P Ramesh said.
According to reports, senior official from SR Nagar police station confirmed that the fire has been controlled and no causalities were reported.



@Rajdeep @cricketjoshila @Champ_Pal @Devadwal @uppercut @straighttalk @Vikram1989 @Romali_rotti @Bhaijaan @Cover Drive Six @rickroll @RexRex @rpant_gabba, @kron @globetrotter @Hitman @jnaveen1980 @Local.Dada @CrIc_Mystique @Van_Sri @nish_mate @SportsWarrior @kaayal @saimayubera @JaDed @Prince of Dorne @Crying Out Loud
 
Bhaag Viru Bhaag said:
@MP2011 @Human786 @Rajdeep :inti

Click to expand...
Everyone knows that it was feku and motabhai's doing. Can you imagine a sitting CM being imprisoned for 6 months and minister Sisodia being jailed for 18 months. What kind of democracy is this?

And then sanghis shed fake tears on emergency imposed by Indira in '75. This feku kaal is worse than emergency as there is no end of it in sight for 12 straight years.
 

Why Markets Are In Red After Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget Speech​


The sharp fall came immediately after the Finance Minister announced higher Securities Transaction Tax (STT) rates on derivatives trading in the Budget. The move was aimed at curbing speculative trading in the high-volume futures and options segment.​



New Delhi:
The Indian equity markets witnessed a sharp sell-off on Budget day as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's fiscal roadmap for 2026-27 failed to match D-Street's high expectations.

The benchmark indices opened deep in the red, reflecting nervous sentiment on Dalal Street, which logged its worst budget day in six years. The Nifty 50 index slipped 2.96 per cent to 24571.75, while the BSE Sensex fell 2.88 per cent to 79,899.42, declining by 1,047.81 points or 1.27 per cent.

What's Behind The Nervous Sentiment?

1. Increase in STT for F&O

The sharp fall came immediately after the Finance Minister announced higher Securities Transaction Tax (STT) rates on derivatives trading in the Budget. The move was aimed at curbing speculative trading in the high-volume futures and options segment.

The announcement triggered intense selling, especially in stocks linked to trading, broking, and market participation, as investors reassessed the cost of trading in the derivatives segment. Budget day Live Updates here.

The hike in STT on futures and options (to 0.05 per cent from 0.02 per cent) marks a significant increase in costs for traders in the derivatives segment.

"STT on options premium and exercise of options are both proposed to be raised to 0.15 per cent from the present rate of 0.1 per cent and 0.125 per cent, respectively," Sitharaman said.

STT is a tax levied on the value of securities transactions carried out on recognised stock exchanges in India. It applies to trades in equities, equity mutual funds, and derivatives such as futures and options.

The tax is collected at the time of the transaction, irrespective of whether the investor makes a profit or incurs a loss.

"This is a meaningful jump, not a marginal tweak, and it is likely to have a direct dampening effect on F&O volumes, particularly among high-frequency traders, proprietary desks, and cost-sensitive strategies," Aakash Shah from Choice Equity Broking said.

"Overall, while the move may support near-term tax collections, it risks reducing liquidity and market depth in the derivatives segment, at a time when regulators are already seeking to balance speculation control with maintaining India's competitiveness as a global trading destination," he added.

2. Confusion Over Defence Budget

While markets expected a major push for the defence sector during the speech, the lack of an immediate large-scale announcement sent defence stocks into the red.

However, a document released by the Finance Ministry shortly after Sitharaman's speech clarified the figures: the defence budget has been pegged at Rs 7.84 lakh crore up from last year's allocation of Rs 6,81,210 crore. The total capital outlay stands at Rs 2,19,306 crore. The revenue expenditure has been put at Rs 5,53,668 crore, which includes Rs 1,71,338 crore for pensions.

3. Public Sector Banks Tumble

Shares of public sector banks (PSUs) tumbled after Sitharaman proposed setting up a high-level committee to review the banking and financial sector. This panel will conduct a comprehensive review of the entire banking sector, including banks and non-banking financial companies.

The sector was further dampened by the absence of an announcement regarding the expected hike in Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) limits.

4. Capex

Nirmala Sitharaman announced an increase in capital expenditure to Rs 12.2 lakh crore, aiming to sustain the momentum in infrastructure development and support economic growth. While this marks an 8.9 per cent rise from the Rs 11.21 lakh crore allocated in the previous financial year, it fell short of some aggressive analyst estimates.

According to Crisil, the Rs 12.2 lakh crore budget outlay is in line with expectations, albeit lower than the likely need.

5. Volatility in metals

The budget was presented amid volatility in metals.

MCX gold February futures fell 7.12 per cent to Rs 1,39,000 per 10 grams around 10 am on an intraday basis. Meanwhile, MCX silver March futures dipped 9 per cent to Rs 2,65,652 per kg.

"The sharp fall in gold and silver ETFs looks scary on the screen, but it's more of a sentiment shock than a story-breaker. Precious metals had run up sharply over the last year, and what we're seeing now is a mix of profit-booking, global volatility and reaction to macro cues. ETFs tend to exaggerate moves on such days, both up and down," said Akshat Garg, Head Research and Product, Choice Wealth.

Furthermore, there were no major surprises in January GST numbers and a weak rupee. The gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections reached Rs 1,93,384 crore in January 2026, from Rs 1,82,094 in January 2025.




Source:
 

‘Old’ Video, Fresh Trouble: Karnataka DGP Suspended as ‘Objectionable’ Clips Go Viral​



Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao was suspended after an allegedly inappropriate office video went viral, triggering fresh controversy and embarrassment for the state government.​


The Karnataka government on Tuesday placed senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police (DGP) of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE), under immediate suspension after videos allegedly showing him behaving inappropriately with a woman inside his office went viral.
In a detailed order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), the state cited the widespread circulation of the clips across news channels and social media platforms. The government noted that the visuals had caused “serious embarrassment” to the administration.

The suspension order stated, “WHEREAS, vide videos and news reports widely broadcast on public news channels and media platforms, it is observed that Dr K Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police, Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement, has acted in an obscene manner which is unbecoming of a Government Servant and also causing embarrassment to the Government.”

https://twitter.com/x/status/2013442783957115296

Government of Karnataka suspends DGP Director of Civil Rights Enforcement, Dr K. Ramchandra Rao, a 1993 batch Karnataka cadre IPS officer, with immediate effect, after his objectionable video went viral.

The government said it was prima facie satisfied that Rao’s conduct violated Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, which lays down standards of integrity and behaviour for officers.

A Familiar Name in Fresh Controversy​


This is not the first time Rao has found himself under scrutiny. He was earlier accused of helping his stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, in a gold smuggling case, following which he was sent on compulsory leave. That order was later revoked, and he was transferred as DGP of the DCRE.
The latest controversy erupted after a video, reportedly stitched together from three separate clips, surfaced online on January 19, 2026. The footage allegedly shows the 1993-batch IPS office hugging and kissing a woman while in uniform inside his office.

The women, who visited the office on separate occasions wearing different outfits, are seen in close interactions with Rao while official tasks were being carried out.
After the video went viral, Rao met Home Minister G Parameshwara to explain his side. Speaking to reporters later, Rao claimed the video was eight years old, recorded when he was posted in Belagavi, and described it as a conspiracy to tarnish his image.
"I was there in Belagavi 8 years ago, I’ll speak to the advocate and take action, it’s shocking to me, it’s all fabricated and false, I have no idea about it. I don’t know when it was fabricated, an investigation has to be done about who’s spreading such a false thing," Rao said.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

‘Old’ Video, Fresh Trouble: Karnataka DGP Suspended as ‘Objectionable’ Clips Go Viral

Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao was suspended after an allegedly inappropriate office video went viral, triggering fresh controversy and embarrassment for the state government., Bengaluru News, Times Now
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MP2011 said:
I agree. He played a big role in foisting feku on us.
Click to expand...
He was full on US prop. Straight out of Arab spring playbook after realizing that Pappu was toast. Has State department finger prints all over it. IIT graduate. Mr clean etc etc. didn't work out
 
Bhaag Viru Bhaag said:
@Human786 @MP2011 :inti

Click to expand...
It's given that feku will indulge in fakery and falsehoods. That's how he has been enjoying perks of power for over 25 years now. Entire sanghi ecosystem is built on lies since their inception a century ago.

Only regret is that his andhbhakts (several of them on this thread too) are perhaps oblivious of the fact that he is biggest liar ever and he did not hesitate even once to sell his mother off for a few extra votes. That's how power hungry this creature is.
 
 

'I Have Quit Congress': Navjot Kaur Slams Congress's Punjab Chief​


The former MLA accused Warring of selling the party for petty gains through an understanding with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab.​


Chandigarh:
Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu on Saturday said she has quit the party, while hitting out at its Punjab unit chief, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, for allegedly "damaging" the organisation and calling him "the most horrific, incapable, corrupt president ever".

Kaur was suspended by the Congress from its primary membership last month, after she sparked a political row with her "Rs 500 crore for the chief minister's chair" remark.

Kaur is the wife of former Punjab Congress chief and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu.

The former MLA accused Warring of selling the party for petty gains through an understanding with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab.

"RAJA WARRING, The most horrific, incapable, corrupt president ever. You saved yourself from jail by co partnering with CM to destroy Congress. You have sold the party for petty gains with a understanding with AAP.

"You had a suspension letter ready for me but what about nearly 12 senior Congress leaders who were busy in working with (Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh) MAJITHIA to harm NAVJOT. And you rewarded all of them with big posts for defeating NAVJOT," Kaur alleged in a post on X.

Targeting Warring, she said: "I have enough proofs to destroy you but I am not interested because I myself have quit Congress where no promising leader is heard." Kaur also accused Warring of planting people on her seat with an intention to ensure her poll defeat.

"Where is your action against senior leaders like (Bharat Bhushan) ASHU, (Charanjit Singh) CHANNI, (Rajinder Kaur) BHATTAL ji, Dr (Dharamvira) Gandhi ji and many more who have openly challenged you and your party? "You have just become a laughing stock and people are enjoying your reels. Stop disrespecting Congress leaders who love Navjot. You are more busy in destroying the party rather than making it win. Shame on you for not being sincere with your own party which is your mother party. You have done enough damage," she said.

Kaur caused a political furore last month with her claim that "one who gives a suitcase of Rs 500 crore becomes the chief minister".

Talking to reporters on December 6, Kaur had said her husband would return to active politics if the Congress declares him as the party's chief ministerial face in Punjab.

She had further said that they do not have money to give to any party but can transform Punjab into a "golden state".

"We always speak for Punjab and Punjabiyat.... But do not have Rs 500 crore which we can give to sit in the chief minister's chair," she had told reporters.

Asked if anyone had demanded money from them, Kaur had replied in the negative but said "one who gives a suitcase of Rs 500 crore becomes the chief minister".

After she was suspended by the party, Kaur had said she and her husband would always be with the Congress.

Kaur was elected as an MLA from Amritsar East in 2012 on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket. She had remained the chief parliamentary secretary. However, she joined the Congress subsequently.



Source:
 

Kota Building Collapse Death Toll Rises: Two Dead, 13 Injured as Three-Storey Structure Crumbles​


Two people died and 13 were injured after a three-storey building collapsed in Kota, Rajasthan, during construction work.​


Kota Building Collapse: Two people died on Saturday evening (February 7) after a three-storey building collapsed from top to bottom in Rajasthan’s Kota, media reports quoted the Kota Divisional Commissioner as saying. Several others were injured in the incident. Officials said 13 people rescued from the rubble were rushed to hospital for urgent medical treatment. Relief and rescue operations are still underway to ensure that no one remains trapped.
"Two deaths have been reported. We have the information on 13 injured. Our information is that some new construction was underway and collapsed from top to bottom. It could be due to negligence related to the quality of construction. Some local residents report that drilling was underway and that there were complaints about it. Further technical investigations into the causes will be conducted, and the results will be shared," the Kota Divisional Commissioner told reporters, quoted by news agency ANI.

Local MLA Sandeep Sharma, who visited the site after the incident, said, "There is a possibility that several people are trapped. The police and administration reached the site promptly, and rescue operations are underway. Some people have been pulled out."

https://twitter.com/x/status/2020187708006764741

Rajasthan Minister Madan Dilawar called it an “unfortunate incident” and said that he has spoken with the administration. "I have been told that there is one casualty. 5-7 people have been safely rescued. They have been taken to the hospital. Rescue and relief operations are underway," ANI quoted him as saying.
Meanwhile, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed his shock over the building collapse in Kota and extended his support to the affected families. He added that he is closely monitoring the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Birla held discussions with the District Collector and City SP, instructing them to speed up rescue operations and ensure that all injured individuals receive prompt and proper medical care.
He stressed the importance of coordinated action among all agencies. Birla’s Officer on Special Duty, Rajiv Dutta, is on-site to monitor and supervise the ongoing efforts.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams carefully clearing debris to search for survivors. Heavy machinery is being deployed, but officials emphasised that caution is being exercised to prevent further harm to those still trapped. The cause of the collapse is not yet known. Authorities said a thorough investigation will be conducted once the rescue work is complete. Residents have been urged to stay away from the area while emergency operations continue.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Kota Building Collapse Death Toll Rises: Two Dead, 13 Injured as Three-Storey Structure Crumbles

Two people died and 13 were injured after a three-storey building collapsed in Kota, Rajasthan, during construction work. , India News, Times Now
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LPG Supply Crunch Hits Restaurants in Mumbai, Bengaluru; Industry Warns of Shutdowns​


Hotels and restaurants in Mumbai and Bengaluru warn of possible shutdowns as commercial LPG supplies tighten amid global disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, prompting the government to prioritise household cooking gas.​



As the conflict in the Middle East drags on, the hospitality sector in metro cities is now seen to be facing a shortage of LPG cylinders. The restaurant associations in Maharashtra and Karnataka on Monday warned that eateries could shut down within days if supplies are not restored. Industry sources say the disruption is already affecting operations in Mumbai and Bengaluru, with hotels and restaurants struggling to secure cooking gas as global supply chains tighten due to the ongoing West Asia conflict following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.

LPG Shortage​


Restaurants in Mumbai and Bengaluru are facing a serious cooking gas shortage, with industry bodies warning that many establishments may soon be forced to shut if supplies are not restored quickly.

Industry representatives say the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has been spreading rapidly over the past few days.

Mumbai Restaurants Warn of Shutdown​


Vijay Shetty, president of the India Hotels and Restaurant Association told India Today the crisis could soon paralyse the restaurant industry in Mumbai.


“All restaurants in Mumbai will be shut in the next two days if this shortage continues,” Shetty said.
He added that the association has written to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and is also in touch with Maharashtra Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal.

“As of today, 10–20 percent of our members are facing problems. By tomorrow it will be 60 percent. By the day after tomorrow, it will be 100 percent impact on restaurants, forcing them to shut,” he said.

Commercial LPG Supply Nearly Stopped​


Restaurant owners say commercial LPG supplies have largely stopped since Sunday.
At the same time, deliveries of domestic LPG cylinders are also getting delayed. Many consumers are now waiting between two and eight days after booking a cylinder.
Annu Shetty, who runs Hotel Sagar in Mulund told the outlet that it has become extremely difficult to find commercial cylinders.
“We are not finding commercial LPG cylinders. At a few places it is available but a Rs 1,750 cylinder is being sold for Rs 1,950,” she said.

Bengaluru Hotels Also Raise Alarm​


The shortage has also begun affecting Karnataka.
The Bangalore Hotels Association warned that hotel operations in Bengaluru could be disrupted starting March 10 because commercial LPG supplies have suddenly stopped.
“Since the gas supply has stopped, the hotels will be closed from tomorrow,” the association said in a statement.
The association said the disruption would affect many people who depend on hotels for daily meals, including students, workers and medical professionals.
P C Rao said hotel owners may have no option but to suspend operations.
“Without gas, food and refreshments will not be available at the hotels starting tomorrow. Hotels will not open,” Rao said.
“We have spoken and sent communications to central ministers and also informed MPs from Bengaluru. Without gas, it will not be possible to prepare food, so the government should respond immediately.”

Government Prioritises Household LPG​


Government sources said oil marketing companies - Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum - have been asked to prioritise LPG supplies for households.
Officials said the waiting period between LPG bookings has been increased from 15 days to 25 days to prevent hoarding.
India is also looking at new suppliers to stabilise LPG imports. Possible sources include Algeria, Australia, Canada and Norway.
Oil companies have also been asked to increase LPG production and adjust their output to meet demand.

Centre Steps In to Stabilise Supply​


The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said it has taken steps to stabilise LPG supplies after global geopolitical tensions disrupted fuel supply chains.
In a statement, the ministry said oil refineries have been asked to increase LPG production and divert the additional output for domestic use.
“In light of current geopolitical disruptions to fuel supply and constraints on supply of LPG, the ministry has issued orders to oil refineries for higher LPG production and using such extra production for domestic LPG use,” the ministry said.
The government also said domestic household LPG supply is being prioritised. A 25-day gap between bookings has been introduced to stop hoarding and black marketing.
Imported LPG meant for non-domestic use is currently being prioritised for essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions.

Committee Formed to Review Commercial Supply​


The ministry has also formed a committee to review requests from restaurants, hotels and other industries that depend on commercial LPG.
The committee, which includes three executive directors from oil marketing companies, will assess the needs of affected sectors and allocate available LPG supplies accordingly. For sectors such as restaurants, automobiles and other commercial users, the committee will examine their requirements and try to manage the limited supply.



Source:
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LPG Supply Crunch Hits Restaurants in Mumbai, Bengaluru; Industry Warns of Shutdowns

Hotels and restaurants in Mumbai and Bengaluru warn of possible shutdowns as commercial LPG supplies tighten amid global disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, prompting the government to prioritise household cooking gas., Industry, Times Now
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LPG Crisis: Hotels Warn Of Shutdown; PM Modi Meets Oil, Foreign Ministers​


PM Narendra Modi met the the oil and foreign ministers Monday as the LPG crisis deepened across the country amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict​



Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with the Oil and Foreign ministers Monday as the LPG crisis deepened across the country, with hotels warning of an impending shutdown. The premier hotel body Federation of Hotels and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRA) said that the issue has become "extremely serious over the past week".
Pradeep Shetty, VP, FHRAI and Spokesperson of Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India), said, "The shortage of commercial LPG has become extremely serious over the past week, with intermittent disruptions escalating into a near complete halt in supply in several regions since yesterday. Following the 5th March notification by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, there has been considerable confusion among suppliers and distributors, many of whom have stopped supplying commercial LPG cylinders to hotels, restaurants and food service establishments."

https://twitter.com/x/status/2031294555426087135


He added, "We are already receiving reports of severe shortages from cities including Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad and Nagpur, while similar disruptions are being reported in States such as Delhi, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh."

He added, "We are already receiving reports of severe shortages from cities including Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad and Nagpur, while similar disruptions are being reported in States such as Delhi, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh."


Centre Invokes ESMA​

The Centre has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to ensure regular supply of cooking gas after a commercial LPG shortage linked to global energy disruptions amid the Iran–Israel conflict has left hotels and restaurants across cities like Bengaluru, Chennai and Mumbai staring at a shutdown. The order is to make sure that natural gas supply is regulated in such a way that the highest priority is given to piped natural gas for homes and CNG for vehicles.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2031245708146454880


According to sources quoted by news agency ANI, there will be "100% assured supply to domestic piped gas to homes and CNG for vehicles". The sources also assured "80% of the previous 6-month average supply to tea industries, manufacturing, and industrial consumers connected through the natural gas grid, 80% of the previous 6-month supply to industrial and commercial natural gas consumers, and 70% of the previous 6-month average supply to fertiliser plants."
The sources added that natural gas supply has been cut from refineries (35% cut) and petrochemicals. "India was getting 30% of its natural gas from Hormuz, and through this control order, priorities have been set for natural gas. India is purchasing natural gas from other routes to address the short supply."

https://twitter.com/x/status/2031274646604312965


In a major ripple effect due to the Iran-Israel-US war and the disruption it caused in key energy shipping routes in the Middle East, the hospitality sector in major cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai and Chennai is now facing a sudden shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, with restaurant associations warning that eateries could shut down within days if supplies are not restored.
The widening conflict in the Middle East disrupted fuel lifelines, including India's LPG supplies, the government has prioritised domestic cooking gas supplies to households. This has led to a supply crunch for hotels and restaurants which use market priced commercial LPG.
This comes after last week, the government increased the price of LPG cylinders, raising household cooking gas rates by Rs 60 and commercial LPG cylinder prices by Rs 115, citing supply pressures.

Karnataka CM Writes To Hardeep Puri​

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has written to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting his intervention to ensure adequate commercial LPG supply is made available to hotels, restaurants and commercial establishments and give directions to the Oil Marketing Companies to address the current supply constraints.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2031292928463966469

Bengaluru Hotels Warn of Closures​

The Bangalore Hotels Association on Monday (March 9) said that Hotels across Bengaluru are set to remain closed from Tuesday (March 10) after a disruption in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders, In a statement, the association said that the hotel industry will also face difficulties until the gas supply returns to normal. The Hotels Association added despite the oil companies assured that there would be no disruption in gas supply for 70 days, the sudden stoppage is a big blow to hotel industry across the city.
"The supply of gas cylinders for commercial use has been stopped from today. Since the hotel industry is classified as an Essential Service, the common people, senior citizens, students, medical, and other people who depend on it will face difficulties in their daily meals," the notice read, according to ANI news agency.


https://twitter.com/x/status/2031020637658263569

Association president PC Rao later said hotels would continue operating “till the last drop” of available gas stocks while urging the government to restore supply immediately.

https://x.com/ANI/status/2031228651870761265?s=20


Chennai Hotels Seek Urgent Government Intervention​


Hospitality industry leaders in Chennai have also raised concerns over the LPG shortage. The hotels’ association wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting urgent intervention to ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial cooking gas. Association president M Ravi said the food industry operates around the clock and supplies meals to hospitals, IT parks, college hostels, train passengers and business travellers. Any prolonged disruption could affect a large number of people who rely on restaurant food daily.



He also noted that banquet bookings and events at hotels could be impacted if gas supplies remain uncertain.

Mumbai Hospitality Sector Also Under Pressure​


The hospitality industry in Mumbai is also facing a growing crisis due to the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders. Industry estimates suggest that nearly 20% of hotels and restaurants have already suspended operations. Vijay Shetty, president of the India Hotels and Restaurant Association told India Today the crisis could soon paralyse the restaurant industry in Mumbai.
“All restaurants in Mumbai will be shut in the next two days if this shortage continues,” Shetty said.
He added that the association has written to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and is also in touch with Maharashtra Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal. “As of today, 10–20 percent of our members are facing problems. By tomorrow it will be 60 percent. By the day after tomorrow, it will be 100 percent impact on restaurants, forcing them to shut,” he said.
According to a report by NDTV, several well-known eateries in areas like Dadar, Andheri and Matunga have begun shortening their menus and reducing operating hours to conserve gas supplies. Slow-cooked dishes such as dal makhani and rava dosa are among the items being temporarily removed from menus.
Watch: Mumbai hotel owner seeks help



Some restaurants in Mumbai - from Nariman point to Mulund - have decided to change dishes on their menu, speeding up cooking processes and removing dishes that take a long time to cook, according to an Indian Express report.

Industry Bodies Raise Alarm​


National-level hospitality organisations have also flagged the issue. The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI) wrote to Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighting widespread disruption at the ground level. The association said several LPG distributors were withholding supplies, citing a government order issued earlier this month. FHRAI Secretary General Jaison Chacko requested the government to clarify that no restrictions apply to the hospitality sector and to ensure seamless distribution of commercial LPG cylinders.
Similarly, the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) said suppliers were unable to meet the industry’s gas requirements despite government assurances that there is no official ban on commercial LPG supply.



Government Response - Hardeep Puri Breaks Silence​


The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has said it has directed oil refineries to increase LPG production to meet rising domestic demand. The ministry also introduced a 25-day inter-booking period for LPG refills to prevent hoarding and black marketing.
Officials said imported LPG supplies are currently being prioritised for essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions. A committee of senior executives from oil marketing companies has also been set up to review supply requests from industries including restaurants and hotels.



Minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently said India’s energy supply remains stable and assured that there is “no room for anxiety,” adding that imports from routes outside the Strait of Hormuz continue without disruption.



Former Karnataka CM B Bommai Reacts​

Former Karnataka CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai says, "Petrol and diesel are under control, but LPG, which comes from Gulf countries, has been temporarily halted. I think it will be back in operation by next week... The government is working continuously. Because of this, Iran has granted passage to three ships carrying our country's oil. That is the goodwill of the PM Modi government... Whatever happens, they (the opposition) will link it to PM Modi. They are not thinking about the country... They want to play politics on everything..."

Karnataka DyCM DK Shivakumar: 'Discuss In Parliament'​

On reports of commercial LPG shortage, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, "The government should discuss this issue in Parliament. Because the government is not giving time to discuss this issue, all INDIA alliance MPs are protesting. What are they (govt) fearing? On the occasion of Women’s Day, gas prices were increased. No (BJP) MPs spoke about it or protested on this issue."

Shashi Tharoor Reacts​

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor reacted to reports of shortage of commercial LPG in Maharashtra and Karnataka, saying," This is a very serious problem which is happening due to the conflict in Iran...There is a shortage of availability, and also the prices are being hiked."

Samajwadi Party Reacts​

Samajwadi Party MP Afzal Ansari reacted to reports of commercial LPG shortage, saying, "The common people are fed up with this government's wrong decisions... When these people came, they were saying that there is a Rs 400 per cylinder in this country. Today, Rs 1200 per cylinder is not available. The people are disappointed with this... It is not just a matter of gas; everything is becoming expensive... In this difficult situation... the leaders are not ready to say anything." SP leader Dr Ashutosh Verma said, "The cost of the domestic cylinder has increased by ₹60, and the commercial cylinder by ₹115. We are facing issues with petrol availability. The barrels that used to come from the Strait of Hormuz had stopped. Who is responsible for this?"

India's LPG Consumption​

India consumed some 31.3 million tonnes of LPG annually. As much as 87 per cent of this is in the domestic sector i.e. household kitchens, and the rest in commercial establishments such as hotels and restaurants. Of this total requirement, as much as 62 per cent is met through imports. The US and Israel attack on Iran and Tehran's retaliation has shut the Strait of Hormuz - the conduit through which India got 85-90 per cent of its LPG imports from countries like Saudi Arabia.




Source:
www.timesnownews.com

LPG Crisis: Hotels Warn Of Shutdown; PM Modi Meets Oil, Foreign Ministers

A commercial LPG shortage linked to global energy disruptions amid the Iran–Israel conflict is affecting hotels and restaurants across cities like Bengaluru, Chennai and Mumbai, forcing some establishments to cut menus or shut operations., City, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com
 
 
Trump supporter and his former advisor Laura has been invited to India by the IndiaToday news group for their annual conclave. The same lady who is the author of all these tweets below. What's going on lol ? :unsure:

Screenshot 2026-03-12 233150.png
 
 

‘Withdraw 10-Minute Delivery’: Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon Delivery Staff Go on Nationwide Gig Workers Strike; 5 Key Demands Explained​


Gig workers have called a nationwide strike on December 31, demanding the withdrawal of 10-minute delivery, fair payouts, social security, and better working conditions.​


Gig workers have called a nationwide strike ahead of the New Year to press for their demands, impacting instant-delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto and Amazon. The delivery partners have assembled under the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) demanding that their five key demands are immediately accepted, Shaik Salauddin, Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) President told news agency ANI.
These gig workers across the country are raising issues that they believe are important for improving their working conditions and it also includes the removal of "10-minute delivery system".

The call for the protest was given by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU). The union’s founder and president, Salauddin, said the strike is being organised in response to what workers describe as unfair policies followed by platform-based companies. He added that several concerns raised by workers have remained unaddressed despite repeated appeals, news agency ANI reported.

Salauddin said gig workers have consistently raised their demands with platform companies, particularly seeking the restoration of an older payout structure. “Earlier, during festivals such as Dussehra, Diwali, and Bakrid, fair payments were made. That system must be implemented again regularly,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.

5 Key Demands of Gig Workers​


According to the union, five key demands have been placed before platform companies. These include the restoration of the earlier payout system, which workers say offered more stable and transparent earnings than the current model.
Secondly, they are also demanding the withdrawal of the 10-minute delivery system. Workers claim the fast-delivery model forces them to rush, increases stress, and puts their safety at risk on the roads.
Another major concern raised by the union relates to the blocking or deactivation of worker accounts. Salauddin alleged that delivery partners’ IDs are often suspended without clear reasons or proper communication, leaving workers without income and with no effective grievance redressal mechanism.
The union has also flagged the use of algorithms by platform companies, stating that these systems impact incentives and overall earnings, making incomes unpredictable and financially unstable for gig workers.
The fifth demand relates to the introduction of social security benefits, with the union calling for insurance coverage and welfare measures. It pointed out that gig workers continue to remain outside basic social protection despite their growing role in the workforce.
Salauddin said the union has decided to proceed with a flash strike on December 31 due to the lack of progress on these issues. He appealed to gig and platform workers across the country to participate in the protest peacefully, adding that the strike aims to draw the attention of companies and policymakers to the urgent challenges faced by gig workers.


Source:
www.timesnownews.com

‘Withdraw 10-Minute Delivery’: Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon Delivery Staff Go on Nationwide Gig Workers Strike; 5 Key Demands Explained

Gig workers have called a nationwide strike on December 31, demanding the withdrawal of 10-minute delivery, fair payouts, social security, and better working conditions., Industry, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com
 

Hyderabad Fire: 3 Dead in Nampally After Blaze Engulfed 4-Storey Building - VIDEO​


In Nampally, Hyderabad, a fire at a four-storey furniture shop led to the recovery of a woman's body, while rescue operations continue for five individuals, including two children, believed to be trapped in the building's basement. Firefighters and multiple agencies have been working for over 20 hours to locate the victims as thick smoke complicates efforts.​


Hyderabad: Three were found dead, including a woman, in a four-storey furniture shop fire in Nampally, where a fire broke out, officials said on Sunday.
Rescue operations have been underway for the past 20 hours to save five people who are feared to be trapped in the basement of the building after a major fire broke out on Saturday, officials said.

"One female body was retrieved from the building. The search and rescue for others are ongoing," a senior police official told PTI.

Multiple agencies, including police, fire, NDRF personnel and Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), launched rescue operations after the fire erupted on Saturday afternoon.

Efforts were underway to rescue those who are believed to be trapped, they said.


https://twitter.com/x/status/2015282171356107245

Although the fire was brought under control, thick smoke billowing out from the building made the operation difficult. Those who were trapped are the family members of a watchman and other workers.
Accommodation was provided in a basement for workers there.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2015279877759631848

Some of the family members of those trapped were worried about the safety of their kin and wanted the authorities to rescue them as soon as possible.

"We don't know the condition of the children. We have been waiting since yesterday to see our children, but there is no information," a family member told a TV channel on Sunday.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Hyderabad Fire: 3 Dead in Nampally After Blaze Engulfed 4-Storey Building - VIDEO

In Nampally, Hyderabad, a fire at a four-storey furniture shop led to the recovery of a woman's body, while rescue operations continue for five individuals, including two children, believed to be trapped in the building's basement. Firefighters and multiple agencies have been working for over 20...
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VIDEO: 60-Foot Temple Chariot Topples in Tamil Nadu During Mayana Kollai Festival, Many Injured​


Tamil Nadu Chariot Collapse: At least seven people were injured in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, when a 60-foot temple chariot collapsed during the Mayana Kollai festival last night.​


Tamil Nadu Chariot Collapse: At least seven people were injured in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, when a 60-foot temple chariot collapsed during the Mayana Kollai festival last night (February 16). Thousands of devotees had gathered to enjoy the festivities, but celebrations turned chaotic after the collapse. Police, rescue teams, and locals rushed to assist those caught in the accident. The situation is now under control.
As seen in videos, the remains of the chariot lay scattered across the road, affecting traffic in the area.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2023597948790337648


Tamil Nadu is currently celebrating Mayana Kollai festival, when they carry out a procession of a grand chariot or palanquin with the idol of the Goddess moves through the streets toward a local graveyard or crematorium. The festival takes place the day after Shivaratri, with varying legends surrounding its origins. Some say it marks Goddess Parvathi’s victory over the asuran sculpted at the graveyard, while others believe it commemorates her saving Lord Shiva from a curse by Goddess Saraswati.

“Food items offered are usually flung towards the goddess as part of the ritual called ‘Kollai,’” said S. Abirami, a local resident. “It is believed that whatever devotees pray for during Mayana Kollai will be fulfilled by the next year’s festival.” Many participants wore masks of the goddess and danced at the festival site, with the Anna Bridge overlooking the area packed with spectators.

Greater Height, Greater Risk​

The collapse may have been caused by the sheer weight of the decorated wood and metal, which can cause the central axle to snap or the wheels to buckle, especially if the chariot has not been maintained during the off-season. Due to rising competition, the chariots often reaches heights of 60 to over 100 feet. These structures are often narrow at the base but heavily decorated at the top, making them inherently unstable.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

VIDEO: 60-Foot Temple Chariot Topples in Tamil Nadu During Mayana Kollai Festival, Many Injured

Tamil Nadu Chariot Collapse: At least seven people were injured in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, when a 60-foot temple chariot collapsed during the Mayana Kollai festival last night. , Chennai News, Times Now
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MLA Blocked From Visiting Chattisgarh Village, Questions 'Maoist-Free' Claim​


The government claims that Maoist influence has been reduced to barely 10-15 per cent of the affected region and that the "final battle" is underway.


Raipur:
With the Centre's March 31, 2026, deadline to eliminate Maoism from India fast approaching, a fresh political storm has erupted in Chhattisgarh. The government claims that Maoist influence has been reduced to barely 10-15 per cent of the affected region and that the "final battle" is underway.

But on the ground, a single letter from the Bijapur Superintendent of Police has triggered uncomfortable questions. If Bastar is nearly Maoist-free, why are elected representatives being stopped from visiting their own constituencies?

The controversy began when Congress MLA Vikram Mandavi informed the police of his proposed visit to interior villages, including areas like Sandra-Belur in Bhopalpatnam, where security forces have already established camps. In response, the Bijapur SP's office issued a letter advising him to cancel or postpone the visit due to security concerns and possible Maoist activity.

Mandavi hit back sharply, questioning the government's repeated claims of near-total Maoist eradication.

"I am an MLA from Bijapur district. I want to visit Sandra Belur in Bhopalpatnam, where there are already police camps. However, the SP requested that I cancel the visit, citing Maoist activity," Mandavi said. "The BJP government claims Bastar is Maoist-free. What is the truth? The government should decide whether it is Maoist-free or not. Otherwise, why is the BJP preventing public representatives from visiting? The police are doing this at their behest."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has repeatedly asserted that Maoism will be eradicated from the country by the deadline. The state government has echoed this claim, describing the current phase as the "final battle" against Left-wing extremism. But the denial of permission to a sitting MLA has handed the opposition a potent political weapon.

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel took a swipe at the government on social media, asking pointedly, "If Maoist activities are still going on, what is the end of the situation? During our government, MLAs could visit without hindrance."

The BJP has dismissed the controversy as political theatrics. Party spokesperson Gaurishankar Shrivas defended the administration's decision, stating that the restriction was purely based on security considerations.

"The Congress MLA is a public representative of Chhattisgarh. His security is crucial, and therefore, he has been advised not to hold the event. It is wrong to link this to Maoism. The government has never claimed that all Maoists have been eliminated. Those remaining within the established boundaries will be eliminated, but such rhetoric only encourages Naxalism," Shrivas said.

However, political observers note that the optics are difficult to ignore. On one hand, the government projects confidence that Maoism has been cornered to a fraction of its former stronghold. On the other hand, it restricts the movement of a legislator, citing the very threat it claims is nearly extinguished.



Source:
 
Bengal Governor Ananda Bose quits ahead of Assembly polls; CM Mamata alleges possible ‘pressure’ from Amit Shah

Mamata says informed by Home Minister that T N Governor R N Ravi will replace Ananda Bose

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose resigned on Thursday (March 5), weeks ahead of Assembly elections in the state.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed “shock” at Ananda Bose’s resignation, and said that she had been informed by Home Minister Amit Shah that he would be replaced by R N Ravi, the Governor of Tamil Nadu.

Ravi, who has occupied the Raj Bhavan in Chennai since 2021, has had an intensely adversarial relationship with Chief Minister M K Stalin, and has clashed repeatedly with the elected government over legislation, policy, and protocol.

Sources said Ananda Bose has submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu. The Governor, who was in Delhi on Thursday evening, is said to have cited health issues as the reason for quitting.


Source:
 
Three dead in two separate incidents of fire in Delhi

Delhi Fire Services received a call around 4:38 pm on Wednesday regarding a fire at a tin shed in Sadar Bazaar that was being used as a godown, officials said. The shed was on the top floor of a building near Bara Tooti Chowk, they said.

Two persons were charred to death after a fire broke out at a plastic toy godown in Central Delhi’s Sadar Bazaar on Holi, police said. In a separate incident, a teenage girl died in a fire at a JJ cluster in Northwest Delhi’s Rohini, they said.

Delhi Fire Services received a call around 4:38 pm on Wednesday regarding a fire at a tin shed in Sadar Bazaar that was being used as a godown, officials said. The shed was on the top floor of a building near Bara Tooti Chowk, they said.

“Plastic toys caught fire at the four-floor building, which had a temporary structure on the terrace area,” a DFS official said.



Source:
 
Rahul Gandhi Meets Farmers On India-US Deal. "Stage-Managed," Says BJP

"Rahul Gandhi has once again rolled out a stage-managed, most artificial and fake narrative," Piyush Goyal said​


New Delhi:
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi met farmers at his parliament office and listened to their concerns over the India and US framework trade deal. Taking note of the meeting, the BJP called the meeting "stage-managed", "artificial" and "baseless" narratives and an attempt to mislead Indian farmers.

Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, met representatives of 17 major farmer unions from across India. The farm leaders expressed concerns that the deal would harm Indian farmers, particularly those growing corn, soyabean, cotton, fruits, and nuts.

They asked a nationwide movement to resist the deal and protect farmers' rights and incomes.

Calling Gandhi's claims "fake" and "fabricated", Union Minister Piyush Goyal said the meeting was aimed at confusing hardworking annadatas (farmers) and provoking sentiment against the government's economic policy.

"Mr Rahul Gandhi has once again rolled out a stage-managed, most artificial and fake narrative. This time, he is shooting from the shoulders of a few Congress party activists, who are pretending to be farmer leaders - in a completely artificial, and baseless conversation," Goyal said in a video post on X.

"Let me now do a reality check on Rahul ji's fakery and expose him and his friends for misguiding our innocent, hardworking annadatas, whose interests have been fully protected by the Modi government in the India-US trade deal," he said.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2022366226698444830

The India-US interim trade agreement focuses on reducing tariff barriers while balancing India's domestic agricultural sensitivities with the US's demand for market access. The US has agreed to reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from as high as 50 per cent to 18 per cent. This benefits Indian exports in textiles, leather, footwear, and pharmaceuticals.


The government has said 90-95 per cent of Indian farm products are excluded from the deal, protecting farmers' interests.



Source:
 

Indore Fire: Scrap Godown Blaze Turns Sky Black, Rs 30 Lakh Loss Estimated​


A massive fire at a scrap godown in Indore sent thick black smoke across the sky, causing losses estimated at over Rs 30 lakh.​


A massive fire broke out at a scrap godown in the Banganga area of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday, prompting a swift response from multiple fire stations. According to Fire Brigade Sub-Inspector Shiv Narayan Sharma, the godown contained plastic material, which intensified the blaze. “This is a scrap godown containing plastic. It was a massive fire, so we called fire vehicles from other stations as well. The situation is under control,” he said.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2035614079310807493


Firefighters rushed to the spot and worked to bring the fire under control, while additional units were deployed due to the scale of the incident. Staff quarters located adjacent to the godown raised concerns, but no immediate casualties have been reported.

The scrap godown belongs to a man named Aslam Gauri. He said the fire broke out suddenly and the exact cause is not yet known. He estimated that the losses due to the fire are around Rs 30–32 lakh.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2035614079310807493

https://twitter.com/x/status/2035615631937278129

The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, and further investigation is underway.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Indore Fire: Scrap Godown Blaze Turns Sky Black, Rs 30 Lakh Loss Estimated

A massive fire at a scrap godown in Indore sent thick black smoke across the sky, causing losses estimated at over Rs 30 lakh., City, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com


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2 Injured, Over 70 Rescued After Fire In Thane's Residential Building​


Thane Building Fire: The fire spread through the electric duct between the 10th and 13th floors, causing heavy smoke inside the building.​



Thane:
Two persons were injured and more than 70 trapped people rescued after a fire broke out in an electric duct of an 18-storey residential building in Maharashtra's Thane city early on Tuesday, an official said.

The blaze was reported at 4.14 am on the 10th floor of the Milan Hill building in Shastri Nagar locality, Thane Municipal Corporation's disaster management cell chief Yasin Tadvi said.

The fire spread through the electric duct between the 10th and 13th floors, causing heavy smoke inside the building.

Nearly 70 residents were trapped due to the smoke and were later rescued by the fire brigade and disaster management staff, the official said.

Two residents, aged 62 and 74, suffered burn injuries and were admitted to private hospitals, Tadvi said.

The fire caused damage to the electric duct and the main doors of two flats on the 10th floor, he said, adding the blaze was extinguished by 5.30 am.


The cause of the blaze was under investigation


Source:
 

Faridabad Chemical Factory Fire: 35 Rushed To Hospital - What Intensified the Blaze?​


A massive explosion-triggered fire at an industrial unit in Faridabad’s Sector 24 left 35 people injured, including two police personnel, after a suspected chemical drum blast.​


A massive fire broke out on Monday evening at a factory in Sector 24 of Faridabad, leaving more than 35 people injured, including two police personnel. The blaze spread rapidly and gutted a large portion of the premises before emergency teams could bring it under control. All of them were workers, except two, who were policemen involved in the firefight.
According to report by PTI, the factory carried out steel plate cutting using CNC machines. The fire broke out at around 4 pm when a spark landed in a drum filled with chemicals leading to a series of explosions. Workers initially attempted to control the flames, but a powerful explosion soon followed, causing the fire to spread across the facility within minutes.

https://twitter.com/x/status/2023401483820240979

35 People Injured In Faridabad Factory Blaze​

An eyewitness said that there were about 20-25 drums, which exploded one after another. Blasts reduced two-wheelers and cars parked within a 100-metre radius to smoldering skeletons. Several fire brigade were pressed into operation. The conflagration had been put out by the time this report was filed.

Of the injured who are mostly the workers of the factory, 12 were admitted to the Badshah Khan Government Hospital and the rest to private hospitals.

Meanwhile, the police launched an investigation and are questioning the factory owner.
In a similar incident, earlier in the day, a massive fire broke out at a local factory in Delhi’s Inderlok area, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky and making the fire visible from a distance. Eight fire tenders were rushed to the spot after a call reporting the blaze was received at 11.37 am, an official of the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) said. The firefighters are still working to douse the flames, he said, adding that no one was injured in the incident.



Source:
www.timesnownews.com

Faridabad Chemical Factory Fire: 35 Rushed To Hospital - What Intensified the Blaze?

A massive explosion-triggered fire at an industrial unit in Faridabad’s Sector 24 left 35 people injured, including two police personnel, after a suspected chemical drum blast., Gurugram News, Times Now
www.timesnownews.com www.timesnownews.com
 

'Nobody Will Hire Women': Supreme Court Turns Down Plea On Menstrual Leaves​


The petitioner wanted the Supreme Court to ensure that women, whether students or working professionals, are allowed leave during menstruation.​



New Delhi:
Mandatory menstrual leave for women could 'adversely impact (their) employment' because employers 'will not hire women if we make such a law', Chief Justice Surya Kant said Friday.

Such a law would also 'create a psychological fear or impression among working women... that they are 'less' than men', the Chief Justice argued this morning as the court heard a petition by a lawyer, Shailendra Mani Tripathi, seeking direction to states to frame paid menstrual leave rules.

"Creating awareness and sensitisation is different... but the moment you bring in a law mandating menstrual leave, nobody will hire them (women)," he said, warning the petitioner, "You don't know the mindset of employers. They will not hire women if we make such a law."

"Affirmative action in respect of females is constitutionally recognised. But look at the practical reality in the job market. The more unattractive the human resource, the less is the possibility of assumption in the market. Look at from the business model. Will any employer be happy with the competing claims of other genders?" Justice Joymalya Bagchi said.

Specifically, the petitioner wanted the Supreme Court to ensure that women, whether students or working professionals, are allowed leave during menstruation. But such pleas, the Chief Justice declared, are "made to create fear..."

"They will call women inferior (and say) menstruation is something 'bad' happening to them."

Senior Advocate MR Shamshad pointed out that in 2013 the Kerala government had granted menstrual leave for women students in all state-run universities. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had then said the decision was part of a "commitment to realising a gender-just society".

Shamshad also pointed out private companies made similar relaxations.

The Chief Justice, though, pointed out that these are voluntary measures. "The moment you say 'compulsory in law', nobody will give them jobs," he stressed, "Nobody will take them in judiciary or government jobs... their career is over. They will say 'you should sit at home...'"

In January the Supreme Court made a critical ruling on menstrual hygiene, recognising it as an 'integral part of a girl child's right to life, dignity, health, and education'.

A bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan said governments bear a positive obligation, under Article 21 of the Constitution, to protect girls' and women's right to health

The court also issued mandatory directions to all governments to ensure free sanitary napkins, functional gender-segregated toilets, and menstrual health awareness campaigns.


Source:


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