Delhi Man Declares Living Son Dead To Claim Rs 2 Crore Insurance, Case Filed

A father falsely declared his son dead and obtained a fake cremation certificate to claim a term insurance amount of Rs 2 crore, DCP Dwarka said on Monday. An FIR has been registered against the accused.

DCP Dwarka Ankit Singh said, "In Najafgarh, on March 5, 2025, we received a PCR call of a man reporting his son's bike accident. Father Satish said that his son Gagan was dead and had been cremated. The case was suspicious. ACP Najafgarh asked for a detailed report. The Investigation Officer inquired thoroughly. It was revealed that there was no accident and there was no CCTV footage of one bike hitting another bike."

He further added that even local informers were unaware of any such accident.

"The caller was interrogated. The father said that his son met with an accident and was taken to a rural health centre. From there, he was taken to a private hospital. After his death, he was cremated in Hapur. He also showed a cremation certificate. During interrogation, it was revealed that the father had got his son's term insurance of Rs 2 crore done before 3 months. He orchestrated a plan with an advocate called Manmohan," he further said.

He revealed that the accused was under financial distress due to outstanding loans and debts.

"His financial condition was not good. The advocate supported him. The advocate suggested him to get false documents from a private hospital," he added.

An FIR has been registered in the case.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/8NOE6zx

"Learn From South": Raj Thackeray Weighs In On Language Row, Cites MK Stalin

The language battle from Tamil Nadu has found resonance in Maharashtra, with Raj Thackeray, the chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, saying the state ought to learn from the southern states about opposing the three-language structure of the National Education Policy and the alleged imposition of Hindi.

"Have you seen the southern states? Have you seen Tamil Nadu? See how they have opposed Hindi language,' said Mr Thackeray., whose party had long stood for Maratha pride and advocated the use of the language across the state.

"What is going on in Maharashtra? We are the ones who do not react... Every state's language should be respected," he said, urging his party workers to ensure that Marathi is spoken in Mumbai. 

Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had claimed that 25  Indian languages, including Marathi, had suffered because several states adopted Hindi. 

His son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, had even given a list of languages that are on the verge of dying out for lack of use. 

The DMK insists that its opposition to the three-language policy is based on this. The National Education Policy, the party has alleged, is meant to enforce a cultural homogenization that will rob India of its diversity and the southern states of their distinct cultural identity.  

The state has argued that its current two-language formula - Tamil and English -- serves it well and underscored that it is the second-largest contributor to the country's economy.

The BJP has also argued the National Education Policy  has a bouquet of languages other than Hindi for the third option and insisted that it does not force a student to study Hindi. The party has also maintained that the third language will help people travelling to other states. 

Madhya Pradesh, another BJP-ruled state, meanwhile plans to offer additional optional languages including Bengali, Marathi, Telegu, Tamil Gujarati and Punjabi in colleges.

While it is an ambitious plan, there is no word on faculty recruitment or on minimum enrolment required to roll this out. 

Inder Singh Parmar, the Higher Education Minister of Madhya Pradesh, said this will bring about "a hub of linguistic diversity".

The DMK has kept up the pressure on the Central government, demanding the release of funds withheld for not accepting the National Education Policy.

The education system in Tamil Nadu is number one in India. But they want to kill Macaulay model of education and go back to the Vedic system of education, said DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan. 
 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/cO4FuNt

Key Accused Involved In Sending Man To US Via 'Dunki' Route Arrested

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested a key accused involved in sending a man illegally to the US via the 'dunki' route.

Gagandeep Singh alias Goldie of West Delhi's Tilak Nagar was arrested in Delhi.

The victim, who hails from the Tarn Taran district of Punjab, was deported back to India earlier this month, NIA said in a statement. He was sent to the US via the infamous Dunki route in December 2024, it said.

The term 'dunki,' which is believed to have originated from the word "donkey," refers to an illegal pathway that immigrants take to enter countries like the US without proper documentation. Their risky and arduous travel is usually facilitated by a human trafficking syndicate.

The victim in this case had paid around Rs 45 Lakh to the accused agent for the illegal immigration, as per his complaint.

The victim was deported to India by the US authorities on February 15. He filed a complaint against the agent after the deportation.

The case was originally registered by the Punjab Police and taken over by the NIA on March 13.

NIA investigations revealed that Goldy, who did not possess any licence or legal permit or registration for sending people abroad, had used the "donkey route" and sent the victim to the US via Spain, Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico.

"Donkers/associates of Goldie had even beaten up and exploited the victim, besides snatching the dollars he was carrying, during the arduous journey, NIA investigations further revealed," the statement read. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/a2eXPHh

Delhi Box Bed Murder Case Cracked, 2 Arrested, Say Police

A day after a woman's decomposed body was found in a box bed in a flat in Delhi's Shahdara, police said they have cracked the case with the arrest of the house's owner and one of his accomplices. 

Officials said they got a call on Friday informing them about a foul smell emanating from a flat in Satyam Enclave in Vivek Vihar. When a police team reached the spot, they found the house locked and blood marks near the back door. After opening the door, the decomposed body of a 35-year-old woman was found in a bag inside the storage area of a bed. 

A team formed to investigate the murder began looking for the owner of the house, 65-year-old Vivekanand Mishra. He was caught near Surajmal Park, Anand Vihar.

Officials said Mishra confessed to murdering the woman, Anju aka Anjali, who was from Ludhiana, and revealed the names of his two accomplices, Abhay Kumar Jha alias Sonu and Ashish Kumar.

After Mishra was arrested, Sonu, who had come to Delhi to dispose of the body and was staying in a hotel in Paharganj, tried to flee to Bihar. The police team found out he was travelling on the Magadh Express and arrested him at the Aligarh station with the help of the Government Railway Police (GRP).

Murder Plan

Interrogation and call details revealed that the plan to kill Anjali was hatched by Mishra and Sonu. On March 21, Sonu and the other accomplice, Ashish, brought Anjali from Ludhiana to Delhi, where she was murdered. 

Officials said Mishra searched online for methods of disposing of a body using chemicals. He had also looked for open manholes and drains of the Delhi Jal Board, indicating that the killers had already planned to destroy the evidence after the murder.

The police are now looking for the third accomplice, Ashish, and are trying to figure out the motive for the murder.  

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/DieacfC

21-Year-Old Man Rams Car Into Cab On Mumbai Flyover; 2 Killed

A taxi driver and a female passenger were killed when a rashly driven car collided with a black-and-yellow cab on a flyover in Dadar area of Mumbai on Saturday, police said.

Police detained 21-year-old man who was at the wheel of the car from the spot. Prima facie, he was driving in a rash and negligent manner, an official said.

The two who died included the cabbie and a passenger Rekha Parmar (55).

The incident occurred on Elphinstone Bridge around 1:15 PM when the car driven by Priyanshu Bandre (21) was headed towards Dadar railway station, a police official said.

According to police, Bandre lost control of the car, causing it to swerve from the northbound lane to the southbound lane of the bridge and collide with the cab.

Police registered a case against Bandre and further investigations are being conducted, the official added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/WAnJUIE

Haryana To Give Backward Class Quota In Panchayats, Urban Local Bodies

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that the state government has decided to give reservations to the backward classes in Panchayats and urban local bodies in Haryana.

CM Nayab Singh Saini attended the civic felicitation and Holi Milan function organized by the Saini community in Jaipur rural on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters, Nayab Singh Saini said, "I am happy that we recently made a reservation for the backward classes in Haryana. For a long time, there was a demand here that the limit should be increased, and in Haryana. As soon as I took responsibility for this, I decided to increase it. I am also happy that our government has decided to give reservations to the backward classes in Panchayats and urban local bodies in Haryana."

"We have implemented many schemes for women in Haryana like opening separate women stations for women and implementing Lakhpati Didi Bhima Sakhi scheme. We have purchased 100 percent crops of farmers on MSP. We have provided a bonus by transferring money directly to the farmer's account at the rate of 2000 rupees per acre. We have provided Rs 1350 crores in the direct account of farmers. Haryana government is bearing all the expenses for dialysis of kidney patients after March 8," he further said.

He further said that the state government has played a crucial role in women's empowerment.

"We have provided gas cylinder at Rs 500 for women empowerment," he said.

He further said that politics is not just a way to gain power but the aim should be to serve the society.

"The history of the Saini community is of struggle, sacrifice and love. Our ancestors' contribution in the Indian freedom struggle has been invaluable. Our community has always played a leading role in education, agriculture and nation building. Today Saini community is making its presence felt in every field," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/tUDXuaR

'Saw NRI Man Hitting Saif Ali Khan': Actor Amrita Ladak On Hotel Brawl Case

Bollywood actor Amrita Arora Ladak on Saturday deposed as a witness before a court here in the case concerning Saif Ali Khan, who was accused of attacking an NRI businessman and his father-in-law at a five-star hotel in 2012.

The actor was part of the group that had gone for dinner with Khan at the hotel when the alleged incident took place on February 22, 2012.

She told the court that the hotel had allotted a separate enclosure to them, and they were dining there and having a good time.

In the meantime, the complainant came there and began shouting and abusing them, she said.

"We saw someone barging into our enclosure and, in a very loud, aggressive voice, told us to shut up and keep quiet. We all got shocked at what was happening," she said, adding that actor Khan immediately stood up and apologised.

The man then left and they continued with their dinner, she said.

After a while, when Khan excused himself to go to the washroom, they heard loud voices, one of them being that of the Bollywood actor, Ladak told the court.

Moments later, they saw the man barging into their enclosure and hitting Khan, Ladak deposed.

Everyone then intervened and separated the two. That's when the man started abusing them and threatening them with "dire consequences", she added.

Khan was with Kareena Kapoor, her sister Karishma, Malaika Arora Khan, Amrita Arora Ladak and a few male friends at the hotel when the brawl broke out with NRI businessman Iqbal Sharma.

According to police, when Sharma protested the raucous chatter of the actor and his friends, Saif allegedly threatened him and subsequently punched Sharma in the nose, fracturing it.

The NRI businessman also accused Saif and his friends of hitting his father-in-law Raman Patel.

However, Saif had maintained that Sharma made provocative statements or rather used abusive language against women with him and this led to the ruckus.

Saif and his two friends - Shakeel Ladak and Bilal Amrohi - have been charge-sheeted under section 325 (assault) of the Indian Penal Code.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/OL6wQsD

India Can't Change "Fanatical, Bigoted Mindset" Of Pakistan: S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, speaking in Lok Sabha on Friday, highlighted incidents involving attack on minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The minister said New Delhi is tracking "very closely" the treatment of minorities in Pakistan and making its position "well known", but the country cannot change the "fanatical and bigoted mindset" of a neighbour.

Replying to a supplementary query during the Question Hour, S Jaishankar pointed to 10 incidents involving attacks on Hindus in Pakistan in February.

Seven of these incidents are related to abduction and forced conversion, two other cases linked to abduction, and one to "police action" against students celebrating Holi, S Jaishankar said.

The external affairs minister said India also takes up such cases at the international level.

Responding to another supplementary question, he said, "Like in Pakistan, we track the welfare and well-being of minorities in Bangladesh as well ... In 2024, we had 2,400 incidents relating to attacks on minorities and in 2025, 72 incidents ... I have taken it up with my counterpart there. The foreign secretary also took it up when he visited Bangladesh. This continues to be a matter of concern for our government." BJP's Nishikant Dubey pointed out that there had been four agreements between India and Pakistan, including the Nehru-Liaquat Pact of 1950 to ensure protection of minorities, and sought to know whether these agreements need to be redone, and if India will raise the matter at the United Nations forum.

Responding to this, S Jaishankar said, "We have responded to the situation of minorities in different ways. Many of the agreements that the honourable member has referred to, do not apply anymore in reality, because there were commitments made by Pakistan for protection of its minorities, which it did not live up to".

"So, while we are raising our voice and exposing the attacks on minorities, if there are minorities who come to India, we take a sympathetic view of them. We have given them long-term visas. From 2014, we have granted 50,019 visas for minorities who came from Pakistan," he said.

On Pakistan, the external affairs minister informed the House that there were also three cases related to atrocities against members of the Sikh community. In one case, a Sikh family was attacked; in another, a Sikh family was threatened for reopening an old Gurdwara, and yet another case involved the abduction and conversion of a girl from the Sikh community, he said.

The minister added that two other cases involved members of the Ahmediya community, and another case in which a Christian person of unstable mind was charged with blasphemy.

Responding to a query on whether India plans "tough action" on the lines of earlier prime minister Indira Gandhi's stance against Pakistan, S Jaishankar said New Delhi is making its position "well known" but "we as a government and a country cannot change the fanatical and bigoted mindset of a neighbour." "Even Indira Gandhi could not do it," he observed.

In a written response to Lok Sabha the same day, the external affairs minister said the Government of India has regularly come across "reports of atrocities" committed against members of the minority communities in Pakistan.

He was asked whether the government was aware of the "heinous crimes" being committed continuously against the minority communities in Pakistan.

"The Government of India has regularly come across reports of atrocities committed against the minority communities in Pakistan, including various incidents of intimidation, persecution, killing, abduction, forced conversions and forced marriages," S Jaishankar said.

He was also asked if the government has taken, or proposes to take, any steps at international level to provide security to the minority communities in Pakistan and to protect their religious places.

The minister said India has on several occasions highlighted the condition of minorities and "violation of their human rights in Pakistan" at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

"It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to discharge its constitutional obligations towards its citizens, including those from the minority communities. Based on the reports of atrocities against minorities in Pakistan, the Government of India has, from time to time, taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan and asked it to take steps to protect and promote the safety, security and the well-being of its minority communities," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/1yw5Y9H

Ashwini Vaishnaw Justifies Police Action Against Kunal Kamra

Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday justified the summons issued to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra for references to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, asserting that it should be done if it is required by the law of the land.

Kunal Kamra kicked up a major political storm in Maharashtra by making caustic remarks against Eknath Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, in his show recorded at a studio in Mumbai a few days ago.

Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Information and Broadcasting Minister, was speaking at an interactive session at the Times Now Summit here.

"If the law of the land requires it, it should be done," he said when asked if summoning of Kamra by the police was "too extreme" an action.

Ashwini Vaishnaw said while the Constitution granted citizens certain rights, they were accompanied by some safeguards.

"We have to work within the framework of the Constitution as a society. Freedom of speech and expression is well laid out. Everybody respects it. The Constitution has also laid certain safeguards on it and those safeguards are as important as the rights," Vaishnaw said.

The minister said if everyone followed the safeguards, the society would work in a harmonious way.

"What is right in the western society might not be right in our society. There are different cultural contexts to everything," Ashwini Vaishnaw said.

Kunal Kamra, without taking Eknath Shinde's name, targeted the Deputy CM over his political career, including the 2022 rebellion against the then chief minister Uddhav Thackeray which brought down the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

Shiv Sena workers vandalised the studio where the stand-up comic performance was held.

The Mumbai Police has registered an FIR against Kunal Kamra for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Eknath Shinde on a complaint received from a Shiv Sena MLA.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/hL26lgM

3 Cops Killed In Action, 2 Terrorists Shot Dead In J&K Encounter: Sources

Three police personnel have been killed in action during an encounter with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, sources said on Thursday. Two of the terrorists have also been shot dead while three to four terrorists are still holed up.

Five security personnel have also been injured and are undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Teams from the Army, the National Security Guard, the Border Security Force, Police, the Special Operations Group, and the Central Reserve Police Force had been carrying out searches in the area for the past four days. There was an exchange of fire on Sunday and a local resident had informed the police on Tuesday that two men in army uniform had asked her for water while they were having food in the area.

"Contact has been re-established with militants in the forest area of Juthana under police station Rajbagh in Kathua," an official told news agency IANS, adding that there had been no exchange of fire since Sunday.

The operation was supported by helicopters, drones, bulletproof vehicles, and sniffer dogs and security agencies had questioned several people and picked up three suspects. On Tuesday, the forces had recovered two grenades among other material.

The tracksuits found among a large cache of ammunition and other materials in the Sanyal forests were identical to those worn by the four Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) terrorists killed in the Assar forests and Doda in June and August last year, the IANS report said. 

Sunday's Gunfight

The operation, led by Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, was launched on Sunday evening in the Hiranagar sector. The Special Operations Group of the J&K Police had received intelligence about terrorists hiding inside a ''dhok'' (enclosure) in a nursery in Sanyal village, roughly 5 km from the International Border with Pakistan, officials said. 

The hiding terrorists opened fire and a gunfight followed, lasting over half an hour. 

The terrorists are believed to have inflitrated into India on Saturday. 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/oNvVCUP

On Misleading Ads Issue, Top Court Deadline To States To Deal With Complaints

Observing that misleading advertisements could cause great harm to the society, the Supreme Court on Wednesday set a two-month deadline for the states and union territories to create a grievance redressal mechanism to deal with complaints against such ads.

Issuing a slew of directions to curb misleading advertisements, a bench of Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan said they could cause great harm to the society and that it was essential to stop them and save the ignorant masses.

The state governments, the court said, should create mechanisms for members of the public to lodge complaints against objectionable advertisements prohibited under the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, 1954.

The 1954 act is more than 70 years old and there is no implementation in its true letter and spirit, it said.

"We direct the states governments to create proper grievance redressal mechanisms within a period of two months from today and give adequate publicity to the availability at frequent intervals." The mechanism could entail complaints being lodged on a toll-free number or through an email.

The top court directed the states to sensitise the police machinery on implementation of the provisions of 1954 act.

"We direct the states, UTs to appoint gazetted officers who are authorised to exercise powers under Section 8 of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Ac for search, seizure, etc.," it said.

As soon as complaints were received through the grievance redressal mechanism or otherwise, the same would be immediately forwarded to the officer concerned for action, the court said.

"If the officer finds that there is a contravention of the 1954 Act he will set the criminal law in motion by lodging a complaint with the police station so that first information reports can be registered." The court also directed its registry to share the order copy with the National Legal Services Authority for sensitisation programs on the 1954 Act.

The Centre was directed to ensure creation of a dashboard for display of actions against misleading advertisements within three months.

Clamping down on misleading advertisements, the top court on May 7, 2024 directed that before an advertisement was permitted to be issued, a self-declaration would be obtained from the advertisers on the lines of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994.

The issue arose when the top court was hearing a plea filed in 2022 by the Indian Medical Association(IMA) alleging a smear campaign by Patanjali and yoga guru Ramdev against the Covid vaccination drive and modern systems of medicine.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/L5eRfC6

"Time We Re-Wrote What Black Means": Kerala Bureaucrat To NDTV

Kerala Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan, who triggered a long overdue conversation online about colorism after facing the brunt of it, told NDTV today that she had deleted her post and then restored it after being asked to by a number of people. "It is high time we re-wrote what black means," she said, "because unless we claim its beauty it will just be absence of colour," she added. 

The Chief Secretary had posted her response after being at the receiving end of comments that juxtaposed her skin colour against her work to imply there was something wanting.

It was "interesting", Ms Muraleedharan told NDTV. While she has been used to comments about her dark skin since a young age, and comparison of her tenure with that of her husband -- former Kerala Chief Secretary V Venu. 

"It was interesting to see both of them brought together under one colour paradigm," she told NDTV in an exclusive interview. 

The third dimension there, she added, was that of gender. In her post on Facebook, the 1990-batch IAS officer had said she heard a comment on her performance as Chief Secretary: "that it is as black as my husband's was white".

She said she had initially deleted her post because of the "overwhelming response".

"But people called up to say as a Chief secretary what she said was important and brings out an issue that needs to be discussed," she added. 

Ms Muraleedharan said the common perception about black was what she had absorbed -- so much so that as a four-year-old, she had asked her mother to put her back in the womb and "bring me out again, all white and pretty".

That perception changed only when she saw herself with the eyes of her grown up children. Today, she said, "I dig black".

"Black is the all-pervasive truth of the universe. Black is that which can absorb anything, the most powerful pulse of energy known to humankind. It is the colour that works on everyone, the dress code for office, the lustre of evening wear, the essence of kajol, the promise of rain," she wrote.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/a8vPxUh

India, China Review LAC Status In Beijing. Here's What They Agreed On

India and China held a high-level meeting in Beijing today where both sides discussed the boundary issue is great detail. This was the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination or WMCC on India-China Border Affairs.

Representatives from both nations reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control or LAC. They also agreed on the early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra.

The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the foreign ministry. The Chinese delegation was led by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Beijing and New Delhi assured each other of making "substantial preparations" for the next meeting of their Special Representatives or SRs on the boundary question that is set to be held in Delhi this year.

After the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs or MEA said that discussions were held in a "positive and constructive atmosphere" and both sides "comprehensively reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control".

It further said that "The two sides explored various measures and proposals to give effect to the decisions taken during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives on the India-China boundary question in Beijing in December 2024 and to advance effective border management."

Beijing and New Delhi also agreed to "maintain and strengthen" both diplomatic and military mechanisms in place to address issues along the LAC.

After the meeting, Mr Das, who led the Indian delegation, paid a courtesy visit to China's Assistant Foreign Minister, Hong Lei.

Since October last year, when PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia's Kazan, there has been an effort by both countries to return to the pre-2020 situation along the LAC in order to improve ties.

As recently as March 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during an interview to podcast host Lex Fridman, expressed optimism about India's relationship with China. He emphasised the importance of Beijing and New Delhi learning from each other and understanding one another. PM Modi spoke about the importance of rebuilding trust, enthusiasm, and energy.

During the 3-hour-long interview, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the ancient cultural and civilizational ties between India and China. He had noted that there was never a conflict between the two ancient neighbours in its several millenia-old history. He advocated for healthy competition between the two nations, but emphasised that competition should never turn into conflict.

China had welcomed PM Modi's "positive" remarks, saying that a "dragon-elephant dance" cooperation is the only correct choice for the two neighbours. "Let me stress that in the 2000-plus years' history of interactions, the two countries have maintained friendly exchanges and both the countries learned from each other, contributing to civilisational achievements and human progress," the spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry had said.

(Inputs from PTI and ANI)
 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/FcOehzD

"Will The Law Equally Deployed Against...": Kunal Kamra On Studio Vandalism

Comedian Kunal Kamra condemned the demolition of a studio in Mumbai where supporters of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde barged in and protested against his jokes on Mr Shinde.

Mr Kamra in a post on X said an entertainment venue is merely a platform and has no power or control over what he says or does, so attacking a venue is "senseless".

"An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian's words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes, because you didn't like the butter chicken you were served," Mr Kamra said.

Referring to what he called "political leaders threatening to teach" him a lesson, Mr Kamra said the right to freedom of speech and expression is "not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich even though today's media would have us believe otherwise".

"Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system," the comedian said.

He said he is willing to cooperate with the police and courts for any lawful action taken against him. However, he raised a question, "... Will the law be fairly and equally deployed against those who have decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke? And against the unelected members of the BMC, who have arrived today at Habitat, without prior notice, and tore the place down with hammers?"

Mr Kamra said he may opt for Elphinstone bridge or any other structure that needs to be demolished as his next show's venue.

The bridge he referred to saw a stampede in September 2017, killing 23 people. Before the tragedy happened, Mumbaikars had been raising concern over the condition of the bridge and asked the authorities to demolish the old bridge and make a new one. One post on X (then Twitter) a year before the incident tagged the Prime Minister and the then Railway Minister and it turned almost prophetic.

Mr Kamra also criticised people who have been constantly calling his number.

"To those who are busy leaking my number or calling me incessantly: I am sure you've realised by now that all unknown calls go to my voicemail, where you will be subjected to the very song that you hate," he said. "To the media faithfully reporting this circus: Remember that press freedom in India ranks at 159. I will not apologise. What I said is exactly what Mr Ajit Pawar (1st deputy CM) said about Mr Eknath Shinde (2nd Deputy CM). I don't fear this mob and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down," the comedian said.

My Statement - pic.twitter.com/QZ6NchIcsM

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 24, 2025

The action against the studio by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) came a day after Habitat Studio and Unicontinental hotel where it is located were ransacked on Sunday night by Shiv Sena workers.

A temporary shed and other structures comprising the studio, which was created in the basement of the hotel, has been razed, a civic official said.

"It was removed as there is no civic permission to create a studio in the basement. The BMC will check the hotel to see if everything is as per the allowed plan," the official said.

Earlier on Monday, Habitat Studio announced they were shutting down after Shiv Sena workers vandalised their premises.

In an Instagram post, the studio said they were "shocked, worried and extremely broken by the recent acts of vandalism targeting us."

Habitat Studio is the same venue where the controversial 'India's Got Latent' show was filmed. It also led to a huge controversy in February.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/4mJPKRk

"Accused Not Freed": Disha Salian Father's Lawyer On Sushant Singh Case Closure

The recent filing of closure reports by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the death cases of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput (SSR) has sparked fresh debates and controversies.

Advocate Nilesh C Ojha, representing Disha Salian's father, has responded strongly to the CBI's move, asserting that a closure report does not automatically exonerate the accused and that further investigation can still be ordered.

Speaking exclusively to IANS, Mr Ojha emphasised that the closure report filed by the CBI in the cases related to Sushant Rajput does not mean that the accused are off the hook.

"First of all, there has been no authentic statement from CBI on the closure report. Even after a closure report is submitted, it does not imply that the accused are freed. There is always the possibility that the court could reject the report if it finds it unsatisfactory or if further evidence emerges. The court could order further investigations, issue fresh charge sheets, or even issue arrest warrants against the accused, as seen in cases like the Aarushi Talwar murder case," he said.

Mr Ojha further clarified that he had not yet seen the closure report and that the CBI had not provided any official or authentic statement regarding its findings.

He cited examples of previous high-profile cases, such as that of Justice Nirmal Yadav, where the courts had ordered further investigations after rejecting closure reports.

"The court may not accept the closure report if it finds the investigation incomplete or unsatisfactory. In such cases, a fresh charge sheet may be filed, or even arrest warrants could be issued," he added.

Addressing the ongoing political debates surrounding the case, Mr Ojha firmly rejected the notion that political motivations were driving the case.

"While politicians may have their own agenda, this case is about seeking justice for Disha Salian and Sushant Singh Rajput, not political gains. The legal process should remain independent and focused on finding the truth, not influenced by political dynamics," Mr Ojha added.

He also detailed the legal steps taken by Disha Salian's father in his fight for justice. According to Mr Ojha, Disha's father had filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in September 2023, prompting the Maharashtra government to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by December of the same year.

Mr Ojha further pointed out that despite the SIT's formation and Disha's father's statements in support of reopening the case, there was a significant delay in action from the authorities.

"In January 2024, a formal complaint was filed by Disha's father, which included evidence and sought to register a case of gang rape and murder against individuals such as Aditya Thackeray. However, the complaint was delayed for many months, and despite submitting substantial evidence, the case was not registered," Mr Ojha added.

The advocate highlighted key unanswered questions in the case, which he believes require urgent attention.

"Disha Salian's father is demanding answers to four crucial questions: Was Aditya Thackeray's mobile tower location linked to the incident? Was he in the vicinity at the time? Why was a false post-mortem report created? And why were witnesses reportedly threatened?" he said.

Mr Ojha stressed that these unresolved issues point to serious manipulations in the investigation and the need for transparency and accountability.

He also noted that the original claims made by the police, such as the narrative of Disha Salian's death by falling from the 14th floor without any visible injuries, raise doubts.

"When the post-mortem report shows no fractures or blood loss, it raises serious questions about the authenticity of the investigation. The authorities must look into these discrepancies," Mr Ojha concluded.

Sushant (34), popularly known as SSR, was found dead at his Bandra residence on June 14, 2020, sparking a major controversy. The investigation was later handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation. His postmortem report, conducted at Mumbai's Cooper Hospital, stated the cause of death was asphyxia.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/5wCrOvY

AC Compressor Blast Kills 3 Children, Woman In Haryana's Bahadurgarh

An explosion in a house in Haryana's Bahadurgarh on Saturday claimed the lives of three children and a woman, while a man sustained serious injuries. The blast was reportedly caused by an air conditioner compressor explosion at the house, where the victims were living on rent.

The intensity of the explosion caused significant damage, leading to panic in the area. Neighbours alerted authorities and police, along with fire brigade teams, rushed to the spot. Visuals from the house showed smoke billowing out and some parts still on fire.

Officials are probing the exact cause of the blast to determine whether it was due to a technical malfunction or other factors. The injured man has been hospitalised and further investigation is underway.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/0y2TcwO

"Rhea Chakraborty Went Through Untold Miseries": Lawyer On Closure Report

Actor Rhea Chakraborty's lawyer Satish Maneshinde today thanked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after it filed a closure report in the death case of Sushant Singh Rajput.

Mr Maneshinde, a senior lawyer at the Bombay High Court, in a statement said the CBI has thoroughly investigated every aspect of the case from all angles and closed it.

He blamed false narrative on social media and electronic media as one of the reasons why Rhea Chakraborty went through "untold miseries" and even spent 27 days in jail "for no fault of hers".

The CBI gave its findings before a special court in Mumbai, which will decide whether to accept the report or order further probe. The CBI absolved everyone - including Rhea Chakraborty, her parents, and brother - named in two first information reports (FIRs) filed in the case.

Sushant Singh Rajput was found dead in his Mumbai apartment on June 14, 2020. He was 34. The CBI took over the case from the Bihar Police, which filed an abetment to suicide case based on a complaint by his father in Patna, KK Singh.

In its conclusive medico-legal opinion to the CBI, forensic specialists at AIIMS dismissed claims of "poisoning and strangling" made in the case.

"The amount of false narrative in social media and electronic media was totally uncalled for. Due to the pandemic, everyone was glued to TV and social media in the absence of anything happening in the country. Innocent people were hounded and paraded before the media and investigative authorities," Mr Maneshinde said in the statement.

"I hope this does not repeat in any case... Rhea Chakraborty [had to] undergo untold miseries and was behind bars for 27 days for no fault of hers until Justice Sarang V Kotwal released her on bail. I salute her and her family for having kept silent and yet suffering the inhuman treatment they were meted," the senior lawyer said.

"... I must say nothing deterred us from carrying out our legal duties. Today I can share that I'm proud to have defended a fauji family pro bono and that should rest with the kind of speculative narration about my fees. I also thank a large section of the media for having supported me and Rhea's cause and her fight for justice," he said.

During the course of investigation, the CBI recorded the statements of Rhea Chakraborty, and others in Sushant Singh Rajput's close circle, and also collected the actor's medical records.

In his complaint to the Bihar Police, Sushant Singh Rajput's father alleged that Rhea Chakraborty and her family members misappropriated his son's money. She refuted the allegations many times.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/DmBGs2X

Supreme Court Judges Visit Manipur, Open Free Legal Aid, Medical Camps

Manipur witnessed a historic event with the visit of five judges of the Supreme Court where Justice BR Gavai, who is also the Executive Chairman of NALSA, virtually inaugurated free legal services camps, free medical camps, and four legal aid clinics from Churachandpur district.

Justice Gavai was accompanied by other Supreme Court judges Justices Vikram Nath, MM Sundresh, KV Viswanathan, and N Kotiswar Singh.

Manipur High Court Chief Justice D Krishnakumar, high court judge and MASLSA Executive Chairman Justice A Bimol Singh, high court judge Justice A Guneshwar Sharma, and high court judge Justice Golmei Gaiphulshillu were also part of the programmes.

The medical camps held at 106 relief camps covered all the 290 relief camps by joining relief camps that are nearby together. Some 400 doctors and 800 supporting staff worked at the medical camps.

The four legal aid clinics were inaugurated at LMS Law College, Nongpok Sanjenbam, Thongkhong Laxmi Bazar in Imphal, and Somdal village in Ukhrul.

The chief secretary, director general of police, judicial officers, senior lawyers, members of the Bar, district administration officials, representatives of departments, etc attended the inauguration.

Justice Gavai said the Constitution guarantees all citizens access to justice in a speedy and affordable manner. To fulfill this, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) reaches out to the remotest areas of the country, he said.

A just society is built on principles like accessibility to justice, healthcare, and opportunities that empower individuals, Justice Gavai said, adding internally displaced people who are among the most vulnerable face significant challenges in rebuilding their lives.

"It is our moral and constitutional duty to ensure that they are not left behind in this process," Justice Gavai said.

The legal services institutions will play a crucial role in ensuring that displaced people get their rightful entitlements. The special legal aid clinics set up by MASLSA within the displaced communities will offer free legal assistance, empowering people to seek justice and protect their rights, Justice Gavai said.

He assured displaced people that legal services institutions stand with them in their journey towards rebuilding their lives.

"Our country is a true example of unity in diversity. Manipur is going through a difficult time but with the assistance of everyone, the legislative, the executive and the judiciary, these difficulties will be over soon," Justice Gavai said.

The Supreme Court judges distributed sanad of 41 newly enrolled lawyers from Churachandpur and study materials to the re-enrolled students. Relief material comprising jumbo box, mosquito nets, emergency lamps and milk powder for infant and children, buckets, mugs and diapers were also distributed to displaced people in Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/QMZiXAb

"Our Hope Is...": After Trudeau Exit, India Recalls "Licence To Extremists"

Days after Mark Carney replaced Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister of Canada, India, on Friday, recalled "the downturn in India-Canada relations". New Delhi squarely blamed the "licence given to extremists" under Justin Trudeau for the strained ties, hoping to rebuild them after the change in Canada's leadership.

Justin Trudeau's ouster was complete last week when Canada's ruling Liberal Party replaced him with a new prime minister. An entirely new Cabinet was sworn in on March 14. Both Ottawa and New Delhi now hope to rebuild ties, which currently are at a historic low.

On a question regarding Canada at a weekly press briefing, India's Ministry of External Affairs today said that "The downturn in India-Canada relations was caused by the license that was given to the extremist and secessionist elements in the country", adding that "Our hope is that we can rebuild our ties based on mutual trust and sensitivity."

#WATCH | Delhi: On India-Canada relations, MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "The downturn in India-Canada relations was caused by the license that was given to the extremist and secessionist elements in the country. Our hope is that we can rebuild our ties based on… pic.twitter.com/on36QS3aYr

— ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2025

Shortly before taking oath as Prime Minister, Mark Carney had also expressed his keenness to build on ties with "like-minded countries" and had called the chance to rebuild ties with India as an "opportunity" he would like to work on.

"What Canada will be looking to do is to diversify our trading relationships with like-minded countries - and there are opportunities to rebuild the relationship with India. There needs to be a shared sense of values around that commercial relationship, and once I am the prime minister, I look forward to the opportunity to build that," he had said.

DOWNTURN IN INDIA-CANADA TIES UNDER JUSTIN TRUDEAU

Ties between India and Canada saw a sharp decline after a surge in incidents of radicalisation and extremism by rogue elements of 'Khalistani' separatist groups, which Justin Trudeau permitted, describing them as "free speech" and "freedom of expression". Effigies of a former Indian prime minister were allowed to be burnt, the Indian flag desecrated and disrespected, Indian Embassy and Consulate staff and premises being threatened and attacked openly, and audio and video clips of India-declared terrorists openly threatening hijacks and attacks on Indian soil, are just a few examples of what happened.

Last year, Justin Trudeau had also attended an event where 'Khalistan' slogans were raised as he addressed the gathering. On multiple occasions, Mr Trudeau had, "without a shred of evidence", accused India of orchestrating the killing of 'Khalistani' separatist and designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Justin Trudeau's government had also designated the Indian High Commissioner and other embassy officials as "persons of interest" in the investigation over the Nijjar case. He was later declared a "persona non grata" by Trudeau's government, after which New Delhi recalled the then incumbent high commissioner over Canada "going too far". In a tit-for-tat move, India sent Canadian high commission officials packing home as ties came to a near-standstill.

Later, when Mr Trudeau admitted publicly that he had "no hard evidentiary proof" of the involvement of Indian government officials in the killing of Hardeep Nijjar, New Delhi responded by saying that "The responsibility for the damage that this cavalier behaviour has caused to India-Canada relations lies with Prime Minister Trudeau alone."

For months, India had repeatedly urged Ottawa to "stop providing criminal and secessionist elements a safe haven" in Canada.

"Celebration and glorification of violence should not be a part of any civilized society. Democratic countries which respect the rule of law should not allow intimidation by radical elements in the name of freedom of expression," India's foreign ministry had said.

Blaming Justin Trudeau for catering to a vote bank, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said last year that "By allowing political space to 'Khalistani' separatist elements, the Canadian government (led by Justin Trudeau) is repeatedly showing that its vote bank is more powerful than its rule of law."

"India respects and practices freedom of speech, but that does not equate with freedom to threaten foreign diplomats, extend support to separatism or allow political space to elements advocating violence and terror," he had said.
 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/hsKBUTz

Woman Who Accused Maharashtra Minister Of Harassment Arrested For Extortion

A woman who had accused Maharashtra minister Jaykumar Gore of harassment has been arrested for allegedly trying to extort Rs 3 crore to settle the matter, police said on Friday.

Mr Gore, a BJP leader who represents the Man assembly constituency in western Maharashtra's Satara district, is the minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

The woman, whose identity was not disclosed, was arrested from Satara by the local crime branch, an official said.

"She had demanded Rs 3 crore to end the case related to her allegations against Jaykumar Gore. She was caught red-handed while accepting Rs 1 crore of the total amount. Police are questioning her," the official said.

The Opposition has been demanding Mr Gore's resignation over allegations of harassing the woman and sending her objectionable photos, while the minister has dismissed the charges asserting that he was acquitted by a court in the case long ago.

A case under section 354 (molestation) of the Indian Penal Code was registered against him in 2017, but the trial court acquitted him in 2019, the BJP leader said, adding that the court also ordered that the material seized during the probe be destroyed.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, meanwhile, asked why money was being paid to the woman in the first place, and what was its source.

"Rs 3 crore is a huge sum. Why was Rs 1 crore given to the woman? What did she have in her possession that required that she be paid money? From where did Rs 1 crore come from? If you are so clean, you could have ignored (her alleged threats)," Pawar said, speaking to reporters at the legislature complex in Mumbai.

The minister has moved a breach of privilege motion against Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and Rohit Pawar, accusing them of defaming him by raking up the old case.

Tushar Kharat, a journalist with a local news channel, was held earlier this month for allegedly making derogatory remarks against an aide of Mr Gore. Police also booked him in a case of attempt to extort Rs 5 crore from the minister.

The Satara police had arrested Kharat, the editor of Lay Bhari, a YouTube channel, from Mumbai.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/Nd3mkvb

Video: UP Woman's Holi Celebrations With Lover, 11 Days After Cement Murder

Just 11 days after killing her husband, chopping up his body and leaving it to rot in a cement-lined drum, Muskaan Rastogi was playing Holi with her lover Sahil Shukla in Manali, laughing and posing for a video as if nothing had happened. 

In the video from Holi, which was celebrated on March 14, Muskaan and Sahil can be seen smiling at the camera with their faces covered in colour. They sway lightly, their cheeks pressed against each other while Sahil, who appears to be high, makes some happy gestures with his right hand. Music can be heard in the background and other people can also be seen, indicating that they were celebrating the festival with a group.  

The couple had visited Shimla and Manali after the murder and another video from their Himachal Pradesh trip has surfaced in which Muskaan is seen feeding Sahil a piece of cake before saying "happy birthday" and kissing him. Some photos from the trip also show Muskaan walking in the snow. 

Muskaan and Sahil have been arrested for killing her husband - and Sahil's friend - former Merchant Navy officer Saurabh Rajput in Meerut on March 3 after drugging him. After killing Saurabh, they chopped up his body into 15 pieces and then dumped it in a drum which they sealed with cement with the intention of disposing of it in a place where it couldn't be found. Police said they have confessed to the murder.

Multiple Attempts

Muskaan and Saurabh had a love marriage in 2016 and she began an affair with his friend, Sahil, some time later. Saurabh found out about the affair in 2021, after their landlord had spotted Muskaan and Sahil in an "objectionable" position and had also filed for a divorce, but was convinced by his family to stay with his wife. 

Saurabh, who had been working at a bakery in London since 2023, had returned to Meerut on February 24 to celebrate the sixth birthday of his and Muskaan's daughter. Muskaan had been planning his murder for months and had already purchased two knives, telling the shopkeeper she would use them to cut chicken. She had also pretended to have anxiety so she could visit a doctor and access the pills she would need to make him unconscious before killing him.

Muskaan had also created a Snapchat account and made Sahil, who was into drugs, believe that his dead mother was speaking to him from beyond the grave. She later used this method to convince Sahil that they needed to kill Saurabh. 

Superintendent of Police (Meerut City) Ayush Vikram Singh said Muskaan and Sahil attempted to kill Saurabh on February 25 but failed to do so. They then drugged him and stabbed him to death on March 3. 

The murder had come to light after Muskaan and Sahil returned from their trip. Muskaan had told her mother that she and Sahil had killed Saurabh because they thought he would "stop their drug sessions".

(With inputs from Shyam Parmar)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/W4C5yrJ

PM Modi Urges Gujarat's Bharwad Community To Adopt Natural Farming

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged Gujarat's Bharwad community to adopt natural farming and plant trees as part of the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign.

He also urged the community, which is mainly into cattle rearing, to contribute towards making India a developed nation by 2047.

PM Modi was virtually addressing the community members who had gathered in large numbers at Bavaliyali Dham in Dholera taluka of Ahmedabad to attend a religious event.

"We have given immense pain to our Mother Earth as we kept drawing water and then dumped poisonous chemicals into it. Now, it is our responsibility to make it healthy again and cow dung can help revive Earth. I urge you all to adopt natural farming and serve Mother Earth," he said.

He appealed to the community to ensure their cattle receive vaccine shots, provided free of cost by the Centre, against foot-and-mouth disease.

"We have to build Viksit Bharat in the next 25 years and I need your community's support for it. And I firmly believe that the first step is to make our villages developed," said the PM.

He informed the community members that the Kisan Credit Card, which was earlier issued to farmers only, is now being extended to cattle rearers too, enabling them to avail loans at low interest rates.

"We also run Rashtriya Gokul Mission for the conservation of indigenous bovine breeds. You should take advantage of these schemes. I also urge you to plant a tree under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign," said the PM in his address.

He called Bavaliyali Dham a place of faith, culture and religion.

PM Modi appealed to the community to "change as per circumstances and make their daughters learn (to operate) computers".

Earlier in the day, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel had visited Bavaliyali Dham and attended the religious programme organised by the Bharward community.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/5MkCR4i

CBI Names Indrani Mukerjea's Daughter As Witness In Sheena Bora Killing Case

The CBI on Thursday submitted to a special court here its second list of witnesses in the Sheena Bora killing case, which included accused Indrani Mukerjea's daughter Vidhie Mukerjea.

The list mentioned 125 individuals the agency proposes to examine as prosecution witnesses in the case.

This is in addition to the first list submitted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) last week which named 69 witnesses.

Last week, Indrani Mukerjea, one of the prime accused in the case, had sought clarity from CBI on whether Vidhie had been dropped as a witness, so she could meet her.

When Indrani was granted bail, one of the conditions imposed on her was that she should not meet any of the witnesses in the case.

Vidhie is Indrani's daughter from her first marriage to Sanjeev Khanna, also an accused in the case.

Sheena Bora, Indrani's daughter from an earlier relationship, was allegedly strangled to death by Indrani, her driver Shyamvar Rai, and her former husband Khanna.

Her body was then burned and disposed of in a forest in Raigad district.

The crime came to light in 2015 when Rai, who later turned approver in the case, revealed details following his arrest in another case.

Former media executive Indrani and Khanna were arrested in August 2015, and Peter Mukerjea, Indrani's ex-husband and media baron, was arrested three months later. All the accused are currently out on bail.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/MBUEquJ

New Zealand PM Visits Indian Navy's Indigenous Destroyer INS Surat

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Navy Chief Rear Admiral Garin Golding on Thursday visited the latest indigenously built destroyer of the Indian Navy INS Surat at the Naval Dockyard here.

Luxon was welcomed aboard by Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. The visiting dignitories were given an in-depth briefing on the warship's intricate design, cutting-edge technologies and formidable capabilities, a Navy release said here.

INS Surat, a guided missile destroyer designed by the Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders was commissioned in January this year.

The New Zealand Prime Minister's visit coincides with the Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Te Kaha's visit to Mumbai from March 20 to 24. In addition, Commodore Rodger Ward, Commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, is also visiting the headquarters of the Western Naval Command.

"These visits mark a significant step towards furthering the relationship between the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Indian Navy," the release said.

As part of the ship visit, Golding called on Vice Admiral Singh and discussed strategic naval engagements, which was followed by a briefing on the command's role.

He also held discussions with the Admiral Superintendent of Dockyard regarding technical support for HMNZS Te Kaha's upcoming visit in April 2025.

On departure, the ship is scheduled to undertake a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) with the Indian Navy, enhancing operational coordination and showcasing a shared commitment to maritime collaboration, the release said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/sMNPc27

Amid Criticism Over Hosting Miss World, Revanth Reddy's Formula E Retort

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, in face of BJP attack over the decision to hold the 72nd Miss World pageant in the state, struck back with references to the alleged corruption in the Formula E race hosted by the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi government.

"In Formula E case, Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao misused government funds. Don't know what problem he has with Miss World competition," Mr Reddy said. 

A corruption case was lodged against Mr Rao - former minister and leader of Bharat Rashtra Samithi - last year in connection with alleged irregularities in the Formula E car race in Hyderabad. He has been accused of misusing government funds and his authority as the Municipal Administration and Urban Development minister. 

A Miss World pageant in Hyderabad will generate tourism and lead to revenue for hotels and transport industry, the Chief Minister said, pointing out that people from 140 nations will stay in Hyderabad for nearly a month. 

The Chief Minister said black money is being pumped into social media by political opponents "for mudslinging this government".

The announcement of Telangana's hosting of Miss World 2025 has sparked massive criticism. The opposition parties have questioned the government's financial priorities and whether public funds should be allocated to an international beauty pageant.

The government has said it would involve pay for only half the event's cost, amounting to approximately Rs 27 crore, and not the 200 crore figure bandied about by the Opposition. This too, it said, will come from sponsorships.

The government is hoping that high profile event put Hyderabad - known so far for its IT industry -- on the global tourism map, showcasing its infrastructure, roads and the airport. 

The Miss World event will begin on May 7, with the opening and closing ceremonies, including the grand finale, taking place in Hyderabad on May 31.  Several of the participants, including the reigning Miss World, Krystyna Pyszkova, are already in Telangana and have participated in the pre-launch event.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/WRdi9Cy

Madhya Pradesh Boat Capsize: Bodies of 6 Victims Recovered, 1 Still Missing

The authorities on Wednesday recovered the bodies of six persons, including three children, who drowned after a boat carrying them capsized in Matatila dam in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri district, while search was on to trace a teenage girl, police said.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when the boat was carrying 15 persons to a temple located on the island in Matatila dam under Khaniyadhana police station limits, police officials said.

While eight persons were rescued with the help of villagers, seven others went missing in the water, they said.

Pichhore's Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) Prashant Sharma said the rescue operations were carried out throughout the night and the bodies of six missing persons were recovered till Wednesday afternoon.

Search for a 15-year-old missing girl named Kumkum is still on, he said.

The bodies of six, identified as Kanha (7), Shiva (8), Chayna (14), Ramdevi (35), Leela (40) and Sharda (55), were recovered, he said.

Talking to PTI, Ramdevi, a survivor, said water started gushing into the boat from the bottom, causing it to tilt on one side within no time.

She said although she did not know how to swim, she just started moving her hands in the water out of desperation, and a boat arrived in time to save her.

Ramdevi said that she was pulled into the boat which came to rescue the victims.

Talking to reporters from the site of the incident, Shivpuri district collector Ravindra Kumar Chaudhary said efforts were made by rescuers to trace the victims at night, but the bodies were recovered on Wednesday.

"People go to the temple located on the island in the dam to offer prayers, especially during the Holi and Rang Panchmi festivals," he said.

"The boat involved in the incident was a small, wooden boat. The incident could have been caused either due to water entering the boat or its imbalance," he said.

The administration will take steps to prevent such incidents from happening in the future, the collector said.

Those who rescued eight persons will be awarded, he said.

On Tuesday night, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced a financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the dead.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/N5pDSFu

Chhattisgarh Journalist Was Killed For Road Construction Fraud Report: Cops

Freelance journalist Mukesh Chandrakar was killed for reporting irregularities in road construction work in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district and the murder was planned by a contractor along with his two brothers and a supervisor, as per a charge sheet filed on Tuesday.

To mislead the police, the accused dumped the journalist's body into a septic tank and covered it with a fresh concrete slab.

The 1,200-page charge sheet was filed in a court in Bijapur district.

It named contractor Suresh Chandrakar, (his brothers) Ritesh Chandrakar and Dinesh Chandrakar, and Mahendra Ramteke, Bijapur Additional Superintendent of Police Mayank Gurjar said.

Suresh Chandrakar was the main accused who planned the journalist's murder after he reported irregularities in the Nelasnar-Mirthur-Gangaloor road construction work executed by Suresh and his associates, police said.

The four accused were charged under sections 103 (murder), 238 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false information to screen offender), 61 (criminal conspiracy), 239 (intentional omission to give information of offence by person bound to inform), and 249 (harbouring offender) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), said Gurjar, heading the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Gurjar said the digital and physical evidence was carefully examined during the investigation and included in the case diary.

"We will try to ensure that all four accused get the harshest punishment from the court," he added.

Mukesh Chandrakar, 33, went missing on January 1 this year. Two days later, his body was found dumped in a septic tank on a property owned by Suresh Chadnrakar in Bijapur town.

The investigation led to the arrest of Suresh, his brothers Ritesh and Dinesh, and supervisor Mahendra Ramteke within 72 hours (after the body was recovered).

The journalist worked as a freelancer for NDTV and ran a YouTube channel, 'Bastar Junction'.

Giving brief details of the charge sheet, police in a statement said that the contractor Suresh Chandrakar, his two brothers, and the supervisor, had planned the murder.

"The news related irregularities in the Nelasnar-Mirthur-Gangaloor road construction work done by Suresh and his associates became the main reason for the murder.

"To mislead the police, the accused had dumped the body into a septic tank and covered it with a fresh concrete slab," police stated.

The police promptly arrested all the four accused within 72 hours. The forensic team completed the investigation based on scientific and technical evidence, police said.

A total of 72 witnesses were included in the witness list, as per the release.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/Flht2GZ

Class 10 Student Raped By Samajwadi Party Leader During Board Exam: Cops

A class 10 student was allegedly raped by a teacher at a school in Ghazipur district when she went to take an exam, police on Monday said.

According to police, the accused is the national vice president of the Samajwadi Party Teachers' Wing.

Superintendent of Police Omvir Singh told PTI on Monday that based on a complaint filed by the girl's uncle, an FIR was lodged late Sunday night against the politician, Janardan Yadav.

Yadav was booked for rape under the BNS and provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The victim is a 16-year-old native of a village in the Karimuddinpur Police Station area.

According to the complaint, on March 1, the girl had gone to the school to take her Math Board exam, when Yadav lured her into a room under the pretext of helping her and then raped her.

He also threatened her with grave consequences if she told anyone about the incident.

Scared, the victim did not tell anyone what happened for a long time until she did upon persistent questioning. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/szyh7pj

Video: Medical Students Dance To Loud Music At Hospital, Perform Stunts

A probe was ordered after videos of medical students in Gujarat's Valsad purportedly celebrating their annual functions with loud music on the college-cum-hospital premises went viral, officials said on Sunday.

Video clips doing rounds of social media also showed some students performing dangerous stunts by jumping out of two cars on the Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society (GMERS) Medical College and Hospital campus.

GMERS dean Dr Kamlesh Shah said students were allowed to organise the celebrations on a football ground near the hospital, but they prima facie violated the direction.

સિવિલ હોસ્પિટલમાં નિયમોના ધજાગરા

વલસાડ સિવિલ હોસ્પિટલના કમ્પાઉન્ડમાં વિદ્યાર્થીઓના જોખમી સ્ટંટ...હોસ્પિટલ હોવા છતાં ડીજે ના તાલે ભાવી તબીબો ઝુમ્યા#Valsad #Doctor #CarStunt pic.twitter.com/EQyFCHD3QO

— Jay Acharya ( Journalist ) (@AcharyaJay22_17) March 16, 2025

He said a committee would investigate the matter, and action would be as per the findings.

"Students had submitted a proposal to college authorities for organising annual programmes. They were allowed to celebrate at a football ground in front of the college building on the condition that patients at the hospital and residents of nearby areas won't be inconvenienced," Dr Shah told media persons.

The permission was granted for four days from March 15 to 18, he said.

Video clips showed students playing loud music near the hospital building and dancing to the tunes of the DJ on the campus.

Some students purportedly performed stunts by jumping out of the sunroof of a car. Videos also showed at least six students from two cars jumping out of the windows and performing stunts.

GMERS is a Gujarat government body responsible for establishing and managing medical colleges and hospitals. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/TQaAvp0

UP Woman Beaten Up By In-Laws, Son Forcibly Taken Away Over Dowry: Cops

A woman was beaten up, her three-year-old son was forcibly taken away from her as she was thrown out of her house in Uttar Pradesh's Bhadohi allegedly for not paying dowry, police said on Saturday.

Months after the incident that is alleged to have happened in October last year, a case was registered against the woman's husband, mother-in-law, father-in-law, brother-in-law and sister-in-law on Thursday, they said.

Shamshin Rahbar (24), a resident of Gopiganj in Bhadohi district, married Mohammad Saif alias Golu from Kaushambi district in 2020. They have a young child named Ata Ahmed.

She has alleged in her complaint that she faced various kinds of harassment to pay a dowry amount of Rs 5 lakh.

In October last year, the in-laws allegedly snatched her son from Shamshin's lap and beat her badly and threw her out of the house, the woman said in her complaint. She then went to her maternal home in Gopiganj.

SHO of the women's police station, Seema Singh, said a case was registered on the complaint of Shamshin on March 13 against her husband Mohammad Saif, father-in-law Firoz alias Dullar, mother-in-law Shahnaz Bano, brother-in-law Shahrukh and sister-in-law Muskan.

The case has been lodged under sections 85 (husband or relative of the husband of a woman subjecting her to cruelty), 351(2) (criminal intimidation), 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace) of the BNS and under the Dowry Prohibition Act. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/dk5OymG

Punjab Leader Seen Scaling Gate To Evade Shooters, Was Killed Minutes Later

A Shiv Sena leader was chased and shot dead by the three bike-borne men in Punjab's Moga late Thursday night. A chilling CCTV video shows how he tried to evade the shooters just minutes before he was killed.

Mangat Rai alias Manga, who was the Moga district president of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, had stepped out of his house on a scooter to buy milk when he was attacked. He dodged several bullets fired at him before ultimately being killed.

The first shot was fired around 10 pm, but it missed him and hit an 11-year-old boy who was crossing the area. Manga immediately fled the area on a two-wheeler.

In the CCTV footage, the Shiv Sena leader was seen trying to climb a locked gate to elude his attackers. The men, however, find him, and one of them fires at him, but the bullet misses him. He was then fired at by another man. The next frame shows the men appearing to flee the scene when they spot an approaching car. Rai was also seen running away. This time, however, the attackers gain on him and shoot him dead.

The attackers, in a video shared on Instagram, have claimed responsibility for the murder. They alleged they were upset with Mangat Rai because he used to threaten them and extort money.

The police, meanwhile, have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against six suspects.

"It is a case of personal rivalry. An FIR for murder has been registered against six suspects named by the family of the victim. They will be arrested soon," said Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Gandhi.

Some outfits and family members of the victim blocked the Ferozepur National Highway, demanding the arrest of the accused. Slogans were raised against the AAP government, alleging a complete breakdown of the law and order situation in Punjab.

The agitators said the protest would continue until the culprits were arrested and the family was given a government job and financial assistance and that until then, Mangat Rai's last rites would not be performed.

Earlier, Mr Rai's daughter said that her father eft the house at around 8 pm on Thursday to get milk. "At 11 pm, someone informed us that my father was shot dead. We want justice and will do whatever we have to do for that," she said.

In another incident on the same night, three motorcycle riders entered a salon in Bagiana Basti around 9 pm on Thursday for a haircut and fired two shots at the owner, Devender Kumar. One bullet hit Kumar in the leg, and he was taken to Moga Civil Hospital for treatment and later referred to another hospital, police said.

Mangat Rai's shooters claimed this attack as well saying Kumar was targetted due to personal rivalry.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/FcJqzt3

Farmer Leader Rakesh Tikait In Car Crash, Says Seatbelt Saved Him

Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait survived a car crash on Friday when an animal jumped in front of his vehicle, damaging its front, in Uttar Pradesh. 

Mr Tikait's car was crossing Muzaffarpur Mirapur Bypass in UP when a Nilgai, also known as blue bull, appeared from nowhere and rammed the vehicle. Upon impact, the airbags broke open, saving the passengers. 

"It happened around 7:20 pm. A nilgai rammed the car. At the time we did not understand anything. It happened in a flash. We saw that the airbags had enveloped us," said the Bharatiya Kisan Union leader, the face of farmer protests, who escaped without any injury.

Mr Tikait also underlined the importance of seatbelts and safe driving.

"Everyone should wear a seat belt. We should always wear a seatbelt. While driving, the speed of vehicle should be less than 100," said Mr Tikait.

 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/OX25LlH

Manipur's 5-Day Yaoshang (Holi) Begins, Celebrations Muted This Year Too

Manipur's Meitei community began their five-day celebration of Yaoshang, or Holi as it is known in the state, with the burning of straw huts built at the Shri Govindaji temple complex and a few other areas. Yaoshang is one of the biggest festivals of Manipur's Meitei community.

Due to the ethnic hostilities, the festival of colours has been restricted to religious and community sports activities associated with the carnival.

A gathering of people marked the occasion in the Mantripukhri area, where festivities kicked off with traditional rituals and music. Due to law and order issues, no amusement and entertainment events, including cultural dances, were not organised by civil society groups.

A Meitei priest said besides the ethnic violence, thousands of people displaced from their homes and villages and staying in relief camps since May 2023 are unable to organise festival-related events.

Manipur is famous for its varied sports and cultural activities. Holi here is not celebrated only by playing with colours, but by organising sporting events across the state.

#WATCH | Imphal, Manipur | The five-day Yaosang festival kicks off in Imphal as devotees gather for Holika Dahan at the Shree Shree Govindajee Temple in Imphal East District. pic.twitter.com/wmPxjOOoaH

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2025

During Manipur's unique Holi (Yaoshang), local clubs and communities organise sports meets in different parts of the state, setting the stage for an action-packed and joyful festival. But all these are being done in a low key due to the circumstances.

The sports meet feature a wide range of games including full marathons, half marathons, athletics, football matches, and indoor games.

Participants range from young children to senior citizens, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere. During Yaoshang, children walk from door-to-door in their neighbourhood, give blessings to adults, and in return, they receive money.

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh also made his first public appearance after his resignation on February 9 to greet people on Yaoshang.

"Heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur on the joyous occasion of Yaoshang. This festival of colours and harmony symbolises unity, joy, and the rich cultural heritage of our state. May the celebrations bring happiness, good health, and prosperity to all. Wishing everyone a safe and blessed Yaoshang," he said in a post on X.

The 'Yaoshang Mei Thaba' ceremony at my residence today was a beautiful reminder of the light that unites us. The flames symbolize the victory of good over evil, filling the air with hope and celebration.

Thankful to everyone who joined in, making the evening even more special.... pic.twitter.com/VdxzfRAyZp

— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) March 14, 2025

Mr Singh took part in the celebrations, lighting the traditional Holi pyre, a significant event that symbolises the onset of the festival in the state.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/wxBTnKW

Promotes Secessionist Sentiments": N Sitharaman Slams DMK's Rupee Move

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman was the last to weigh in today on the DMK's move to replace the rupee symbol with the Tamil letter (Ru), but with the sharpest barb. The move, she said, "signals a dangerous mindset that weakens Indian unity and promotes secessionist sentiments under the pretence of regional pride" and is a "completely avoidable example of language and regional chauvinism". She also questioned why the DMK had not made its reservations known earlier. 

The state's ruling DMK had replaced the Devnagari rupee symbol (Re) in promotional material for the state budget - due on Friday morning -- making a point amid the blazing row over what it calls "imposition of Hindi" by the Centre through its mandatory three-language policy in schools.

Result -- since morning, the party has drawn massive political backlash.  State BJP chief K Annamalai, pointing out that rupee symbol accepted by the nation has been drawn dram by the son of a former DMK MLA, tagged the state's ruling party "stupid".

Former Governor, the BJP's Tamilisai Soundarajan, alleged the swap "is against the Constitution" and challenged Mr Stalin to change his name to a Tamil alternative.

In the evening, the finance minister put in her response with a lengthy post on X. 

Accusing the DMK of "utterly disregarding the creative contribution of a Tamil youth", she said, "All elected representatives and authorities are sworn under the Constitution to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of our nation. Removing a national symbol like 'Rs' from the State Budget documents goes against that very oath, weakening the commitment to national unity".

The DMK government has reportedly removed the official Rupee symbol 'Rs' from the Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 documents, which will be presented tomorrow.

The DMK government has reportedly removed the official Rupee symbol '₹' from the Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 documents, which will be presented tomorrow.

If the DMK (@arivalayam) has a problem with '₹', why didn't it protest back in 2010 when it was officially adopted under the...

— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) March 13, 2025

"The Rupee symbol '₹' is internationally well-recognized and serves as a visible identity of India in global financial transactions. At a time when India is pushing for cross-border payments using UPI, should we really be undermining our own national currency symbol?" she added,

"If the DMK has a problem with '₹', why didn't it protest back in 2010 when it was officially adopted under the @INCIndia-led UPA government, at a time when the DMK was part of the ruling alliance at the Centre?" she also questioned.

The DMK has claimed that the use of 'Ru' only is meant to prioritise Tamil and express their love of language. "There is nothing illegal about it... this is not a 'showdown'. We prioritise Tamil, that is why the government went ahead with this," said DMK leader Saravanan Annadurai. 

In an election year, the DMK has opened two fronts against the BJP-led Centre - the three-language policy which the Centre wants Tamil Nadu to implement, and delimitation. Both, the DMK has argued, are ruses to establish the domination of the north - through language and culture and politics.  

The Centre has pointed out that Hindi is just one language in the 22-language bouquet of the Education Policy. Union minister Amit Shah has conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurance that the south will not lose a single seat through delimitation. 

The row, though, continues to snowball. 

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/FItMRHl

Man Posing As Oman Ambassador Arrested In Ghaziabad, Mercedes Seized

He identified himself as an envoy of Oman. And sought protocol and services from cops everywhere he went. The police finally busted him in Uttar Pradesh.

A black Mercedes car, one identity card and 46 visiting cards were recovered from his possession at the time of his arrest from UP Gate in Ghaziabad.

The man, who has been identified as Krishna Shekhar Rana, 66, is a resident of Amar Colony in Delhi.

The fake envoy has been charged under the relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Trans Hindon Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Nimish Patil said.

According to DCP Patil, Rana was a professor of Zoology at Agra. He also owns Krishna College of Science and Technology in Agra and a resort in Rajasthan.

After retirement, the accused was the Appraisal Authority in the Union Environment Ministry from 2015 to 2018, where his job was to give environmental clearances. The police have not yet received a reply from the Environment Ministry.

The police officer said during interrogation, the accused claimed to be the vice chancellor of four universities.

"KS Rana, who claimed to be the High Commissioner of  Oman, has been arrested. Upon interrogation, it became clear that he used to work for an NGO, India GCC Trade Council. He was a trade commissioner but misused his position and identified himself as a High Commissioner," said officer Patil.  

Asked how the cops busted him, the officer said they found the documents submitted by him for police protocol services to be suspicious.  

He sent a letter to Ghaziabad Police for protocol services. And protocol services were extended to him. The documents submitted by him were found to be suspicious. Based on that, he was questioned and he confessed that he was a trade commissioner and not a High Commissioner," said the officer.

To get protocol services and the government privileges was his motive, said the officer.

(With inputs from Pintu Tomar)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/ntiwvem

What Is Slowing India's Rocketship In Space Economy? New Report Says...

A lack of a solid legal framework around the governance and use of space technology remains a huge challenge as India seeks to become a frontline spacefaring nation, a new report has said.

'Unlocking India's Space Economy', released on Wednesday at the Bharat Space Conclave - 2025 in New Delhi and prepared by EY (formerly Ernst and Young) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) says "regulatory and policy constraints" remain as there is "no comprehensive Space Activities Act". The 50-page report highlights that there are "gaps" in liability and insurance relating to space activities in India and points to "multi agency overlaps" which could slow down decision making in this fast-changing sector.

The report also identifies other challenges hindering growth, which include "high dependency on imported space-grade components" and India's reliance on "limited launch sites" - all rocket launches take place only from the Satish Dhawan Space Center at Sriharikota and a second launch port in Tamil Nadu is still a few years away.

The document highlights that India has captured just about 2% - roughly $8.4 billion - of the global space market while China has already cornered 13% - $80 billion - and the USA remains the world leader at $250 billion and 40% of the global share.

An earlier report by the Indian government estimated that India can grow its space economy to about $44 billion by 2033. Today, there are over 250 private space startups and, alongside the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), they are all trying to secure a sunny spot in the space economy, which is estimated to be worth $1.8 trillion by 2035.

Fostering Innovation

The report by FICCI and EY notes that a significant shift is underway, with India's space sector evolving from a government-led model to a commercially driven, innovation-led ecosystem. Satellite communication (SATCOM), projected to reach $14.8 billion by 2033, will play a critical role in expanding digital connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved regions. The increasing use of Earth Observation and remote sensing satellites, estimated to contribute $8 billion by 2033, is already transforming agriculture, disaster management, and climate resilience.

At the release ceremony, Dr Pawan Kumar Goenka, Chairman, Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (InSpace), said investment in the space sector could be well above Rs 50,000 crore in the next decade or so. He highlighted that 52 surveillance satellites will be launched, with 31 to be made by the Indian private sector, and it is estimated that 60 units of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 or the 'Bahubali' rocket will be made by India. This is in addition to the Rs 35,000 crore the government is infusing into ISRO for the Gaganyaan and Indian space station programmes. "India's space sector has moved at rocket speed," Mr Goenka emphasised.

The report also identifies the "funding gaps" and Pankaj Khurana, who led the study, said India invests just 0.07% of its GDP on its space budget compared to the US' 0.28%. So, the US spends four times more and, yet, gets nearly thirty times higher returns than India. Its economy, though, is also much bigger.

"A new space activities bill has already been drafted," Dr Goenka asserted, but said it was difficult to give a timeline because inter-ministerial and parliamentary consultation is a complex process. He also highlighted that no private sector company is being asked to take the mandatory liability insurance in the space sector. Giving an upbeat outlook, Dr Goenka added "No activity is being stopped in the absence of the space law."

Sharing his candid assessment, Mr Khurana said, "India's space journey is no longer a distant dream, it is an unfolding reality... but ambition must be matched with action."

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/M1Z3qvb

Cab Drivers Boycott Hyderabad Airport Trips Over Low Aggregator Fares

Cab drivers under the banner of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers' Union have launched a campaign boycotting trips facilitated by cab aggregator companies to the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on the city's outskirts, protesting against the "low fares" being charged.

TGPWU founder-president Shaik Salauddin said on Tuesday that the campaign has been underway on a large scale since it was launched two days ago.

He alleged that aggregator companies charge as little as Rs 300-Rs 400 for a trip from the city to the airport while claiming a 30 per cent commission.

The state government issued an order in 2022 setting the fare for pre-paid cabs operating at the airport at Rs 21 per km, he said.

There is a difference of about Rs 300-Rs 400 between the fares charged by aggregators and pre-paid taxis, he claimed.

The low fares have significantly affected drivers' earnings, he added.

Additionally, cab drivers often have to wait three to four hours at the airport for a return trip, he said.

Despite "repeated appeals to the government and the transport department for uniform and fair pricing for aggregator services", no decisive action has been taken, Salauddin claimed.

He urged the government to intervene immediately to regulate and standardise aggregator pricing policies.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/msh6Eno

'Foreigners Entered Myanmar Via Mizoram, Gave Military Training': Chief Minister

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday said his government is not opposing the Centre's decision to reimpose Protected Area Permit (PAP) in the state and regulate movement across the India-Myanmar border, amid security concerns.

He said Mizoram is being secretly used as a transit route by foreigners travelling to Myanmar, which has become a grave concern for the Centre.

During question hour in the state assembly, Lalduhoma said nearly 2,000 foreigners visited Mizoram between June and December last year, and many of them did not come as tourists and left the state unnoticed.

He alleged some foreigners crossed the Indo-Myanmar border and entered Chin Hills in the neighbouring country to give military training there.

"In the present geopolitics, the situation in our neighbouring country is being closely viewed by different countries, including China and the US. As this is the case, the situation of Mizoram being used by foreigners as a transit route has become a grave concern for the Centre, which prompted the reimposition of the Protected Area Permit in the state," the chief minister told the assembly.

He said Protected Area Permit has been reimposed in other states, which could potentially be used as transit routes by foreigners travelling to Myanmar.

Although the Mizoram government had initially opposed the decision, it later understood the essentiality of the permit as viewed by the Centre, he said.

The whole of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram, and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand are defined as protected areas.

In 2011, the Centre relaxed the PAP from Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram to boost tourism and exempted all foreigners except Afghanistani, Pakistani and Chinese from the PAP.

This relaxation was later extended for five years at a time, with the latest order issued in December 2022 and valid until December 2027.

However, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently reimposed the PAP in Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland to regulate the movement of foreigners, amid growing security concerns arising out of influx from neighbouring countries.

The MHA communicated to the chief secretaries of three northeastern states - Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland - notifying them of the decision to reinstate the Protected Area Regime (PAR) or PAP thereby lifting the relaxation after 13 years.

Lalduhoma said the state government felt the necessity of restricting movement across the India-Myanmar border and agreed with the Centre in the introduction of a new protocol to regulate cross-border movement under the Free Movement Regime (FMR).

On December 24 last year, the MHA announced a new protocol that reduced the FMR range from 16 km to 10 km.

Under the new guidelines, individuals crossing the border from India to Myanmar and vice versa will be given a border pass, which is valid for seven days. The border pass will be issued to those who live within a 10 km radius on either side of the border on the production of credentials, confirming their residence within the territorial limit.

Although Union Home Minister Amit Shah previously announced the FMR would be scrapped, an official notification has yet to be issued.

Lalduhoma said unrestricted movement under the FMR has certain disadvantages and brought many social evils in the state like rampant smuggling of drugs, arms and other crimes, including murder, which have become grave concern for the state.

Although the state government was in favour of free movement between ethnic Mizos of the two countries, it felt the necessity of regulating movement across the India-Myanmar border when the Centre did so, he said.

from NDTV News-India-news https://ift.tt/HqhCYLx