Category: India

A woman admitted to a government hospital in northeast Delhi in an “intoxicated and unconscious state” was sexually assaulted by another patient. The victim died during treatment on Wednesday, according to a report by the Hindustan Times (HT) citing police. However, as per officials citing initial observations, the death was not caused by the assault, it added.

The victim was admitted to Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital last week after she was found unconscious by her neighbours.

“Initial MLC stated she was unconscious and intoxicated. Further action depends on autopsy,” Ashish Mishra, DCP (northeast) told HT.

The hospital staff on Monday informed the police that she had been assaulted by a male patient in the same ward. She was later referred to GTB Hospital, where she died.

“We are awaiting the post-mortem report to ascertain the exact reason behind her death. We will take further action after that,” the police told HT.

The incident was reported to the New Usmanpur police station, which filed a case.

The police said that the accused, Mohammed Faiz, a resident of Kachchi Khajuri in Delhi, was arrested shortly afterwards.

Sexual assault victims kill accused in Odisha

Meanwhile, a group of women, allegedly sexually assaulted by a 60-year-old man over a period of time, killed him and burnt his body in Gajapati district in Odisha earlier this month, PTI reported, citing police. The police had arrested 10 people, including eight women, following the incident, which came into light after the man’s family filed a missing complaint.

“We came to know that the man was hacked to death and his body was subsequently burnt,” Mohana police station officer-in-charge Basant Sethi told PTI.

The incident occurred on June 3 after the accused had allegedly raped a 52 year old widow. The women, including victims of his previous sexual assaults, held a meeting and decided to kill him.

Source : https://www.livemint.com/news/world/cargo-ship-carrying-3-000-vehicles-including-800-evs-sinks-in-the-pacific-ocean-11750756626661.html

In Lucknow, a police inspector was caught on camera slapping an army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Anand Prakash Suman, during a road rage incident.

A police inspector was caught on CCTV slapping an army officer in an incident of road rage in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The cop was seen shouting at the officer, who is a Lieutenant Colonel, and later the policeman slapped him by forcing his hands inside the car. The police official also allegedly tried to run his car over the officer when the matter escalated. The Army official was reportedly with his wife and daughter when the incident took place.
Lieutenant Colonel Anand Prakash Suman later filed a complaint at the PGI police station and accused the inspector of slapping him and intentionally running his car over his foot. The incident took place on June 21, at around 9:40 am.
The CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced, in which the inspector is seen coming from the wrong side of the road in a car. He then tries to cross the intersection and moves his car in front of an oncoming four-wheeler.

Colonel Anand Prakash Suman turned from Telibagh intersection towards PGI road in his car. Just then, the police official’s vehicle came from the wrong direction and the Lt Colonel had to suddenly apply brakes. During this, an auto collided with his car from behind.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/cop-coming-from-wrong-side-slaps-army-officer-on-lucknow-road-then-tries-to-run-over-him-video-article-152147843

Himachal Pradesh saw severe flash floods across multiple districts, resulting in at least two fatalities and 20 are feared to be missing. Significant damage occurred in Kullu, with reports of missing individuals and destruction to homes, schools, and infrastructure, including a bridge.

Cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh have led to flash floods wreaking havoc in several districts of the state. At least two persons died while 20 are feared swept away as water levels reached dangerous levels on Wednesday. Two bodies were found from the Manuni Khad in Kangra district, while around 15-20 workers stationed at a labour colony near the Indira Priyadarshini Hydroelectric project site are feared swept away.
Officials said the workers were resting in temporary shelters near the site as the project work had been suspended due to rain. The floodwaters from Manuni Khad and nearby drains were diverted towards the labour colony, sweeping the workers away, they said, reported PTI.

Multiple teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local administration, gram panchayat, and the revenue department have reached the spot to carry out search and rescue operations. Dharamshala’s BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma said that about 20 workers were swept away in the incident.

The book, ‘The Emergency Diaries: Years that Forged a Leader’, chronicles the journey of how a young Narendra Modi contributed to the struggle during the turbulent Emergency era

The book, The Emergency Diaries: Years that Forged a Leader, describes how Prime Minister Narendra Modi managed to organised a number of clandestine meetings for the RSS, which was operating in secret during the Emergency.

The book was released on Wednesday, marking 50 years of Emergency, by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Published by BlueKraft Digital Foundation, it chronicles the journey of how a young Narendra Modi contributed to the struggle during the turbulent Emergency era – a dark period in India’s history when democracy stood suspended and resistance was both dangerous and essential.

In some excerpts of the book, it has been mentioned how the clandestine meetings of the Sangh were typically held at the homes of karyakartas. Modi meticulously selected the locations, ensuring that each house had a clear escape strategy in case of a police raid.

“I recall an incident from the Emergency days. The Sangh was operating secretly, and meetings were organised under the guise of Chandan ka Karyakram. We would inform each other about a Chandan ka Karyakram at a swayamsevak’s home, which meant gathering to plan Sangh activities over breakfast. Modi introduced us to these terms,” Nagar Bhai Chavda, a longtime volunteer of the Sangh, shares in the book.

According to an excerpt from the book, Modi instructed karyakartas on the necessary action during such raids, highlighting his thorough planning for any situation. For example, he would only stay in houses with two or more exit routes.

“My house had two doors, one at the front and another opening into the field. If the police ever came searching, Modi would exit through the back door unnoticed,” Prabhakar Vyas, recalling an incident from those days, is quoted in the book.

Piyush Gandhi, a retired government lawyer from Godhra, witnessed Modi’s attention to detail.

“During a secret meeting at a house with Modi present, the police received a tip-off and arrived. The host was anxious, but Modi remained calm and reassured everyone that the house was chosen carefully. He explained, ‘This house has four doors, so even if the police come through one or two, we can easily escape.’ One of the doors conveniently led to the local Sangh office,” Prabhakar Vyas, recalling an incident from those days, was quoted.

Prakash Mehta, another Sangh worker from Gujarat, said Modi would arrive at unusual hours of the morning and night. He confirmed that he was included in every secret Sangh meeting at his house during the Emergency.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/sangh-operated-in-secret-how-modi-organised-clandestine-meetings-during-emergency-ws-l-9404261.html

The Indian Army on Wednesday shared an “official movie” of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, stating that the “preparation is underway” against the enemies of the country in a “fiercer manner than before”.

The army said that it will strike again if the enemies dare to spread terrorism in India.

The 7-minute video titled “Taiyaari Abhi Jaari Hai” (Preparations are still underway) – shared on YouTube by the Western Command – began with the painful visuals of the Pahalgam terror attack that took place on April 22, killing 26 civilians in cold blood.

“Abhi ke liye ye aakraman bas paryapt hai, samaapt nahi. Taiyari abhi bhi jaari hai, aur ab ki taiyari Pehle se zyada bhaari hai. Tu kar ke dekh dobara zurrat, hum phir se ghar me ghus ke maarenge aur abki Pehle se zyada andar ghus kar Pehle se zyada maarenge (For now, this strike is enough — but it’s not the end. The preparation is still on, and this time, it’s heavier than before. Try crossing the line again — just once — and we’ll enter your home once more. But this time, we’ll go deeper… and hit harder than ever before),” the Army said in the video.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stringent warning to terrorists during a rally in Bihar was also a part of the movie, in which he said, “The terrorists who have carried out this attack will be given bigger punishment than they can ever imagine.”

The video pictured the preparation that was undertaken behind the scenes to carry out the May 7 Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in which over 100 terrorists were killed in precision strikes.

“Woh kaala din jab kuch ginte-chune aatankwadiyon ne khushiyo se bhare Pahalgam ko goliyon ki baarish mein doobakar, sindoor se saji zindagiyo ko tod kar rakh diya. Goliyon ki awaazon mein bikharte hue sindoor ki cheekhein sunayi de rahi thi (that dark day when a handful of terrorists turned the joyful land of Pahalgam into a shower of blood. Amid the sound of gunfire, the screams of shattered dreams and broken sindoor echoed through the valley),” the army said.

Describing Operation Sindoor, the army said that it was a challenge to India’s military might.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/well-strike-again-armys-warning-to-indias-enemies-in-new-op-sindoor-video-9404403.html

There’s no need to install any special app—just like scanning a menu at a coffee shop, you can scan the code directly with your phone’s camera

The central government is set to mandate QR codes on labels of vaccines, anti-cancer drugs, narcotics, and other pharmaceutical products despite industry pushback, according to News18.

The Drug Consultative Committee (DCC) agreed in its June 17 meeting to mandate barcodes or QR codes on labels of all vaccines, antimicrobials, anticancer drugs, and narcotics and psychotropic substances regulated under the NDPS Act. This decision comes despite resistance from some industry stakeholders who cited concerns about low scanning rates and high capital expenditure.

The move aims to enhance traceability, combat counterfeit drugs, and improve pharmacovigilance. QR codes are already present on 300 top-selling medicines in India.

For other critical medical products, the plan has been in the works for several months. It was discussed in the 90th and 91st meetings of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), where the proposal was deliberated and agreed upon. The panel mentioned that a draft notification had already been prepared on the matter, as per the minutes of the DCC meeting seen by News18.

However, it was decided to hold a stakeholder consultation and further deliberation in the DCC.

How to scan medical products

QR codes are already used on the packaging of several popular medicines in India, including brands like Shelcal, Calpol, Dolo, Allegra, and Meftal Spas, to verify their authenticity. No special app is needed; just like scanning a menu at a coffee shop, you can use your phone’s camera. If the link doesn’t display the correct product information or shows details differing from the label, it may indicate the medicine is counterfeit.

The move, previously on hold, has now been given the green light.

Resistance from some quarters

The exhibition was part of the the event — ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ — hosted by the Ministry of Culture at the Thyagaraj Stadium to mark 50 years since Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975.

Rare images of the notification of the proclamation of the Emergency, photos of blank editorials published in newspapers to protest press censorship and of several other documents drawn from archival repositories are part of a mega exhibition hosted here by the government to mark its 50th anniversary.

Besides, old black and white photos of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then as a young activist, and also when he had sported a turban to be in disguise in that era, have also been displayed.

The exhibition was part of the the event — ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ — hosted by the Ministry of Culture at the Thyagaraj Stadium to mark 50 years since Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah who attended the function as a chief guest, Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also saw the exhibits displayed on large panels at the venue.

On a blank wall carrying a hashtag #LongLive Democracy’, Shah signed in Hindi — ‘Vande Mataram 25.6.25’ before addressing a large gathering.

The exhibition is divided into three curated sections — ‘Bharat: Mother of Democracy’, showcasing India’s ancient and participative democratic traditions; ‘Dark Days of Democracy’, chronicling the events and consequences of the 1975 Emergency’; and ‘Strengthening Democracy in India’, featuring recent democratic reforms like electoral transparency, Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, Direct Benefit Transfer, and digital public grievance platforms.

Today marks the exact day on which the then Indira Gandhi government had clamped the Emergency following a series of tumultuous events in the 1970s that preceded it.

Close to midnight of June 25, 1975, President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed proclaimed the Emergency citing “internal disturbance”. It was lifted on March 21, 1977.

A photo of the notification of the proclamation of the Emergency has also been displayed, as also of the notification on the lifting of the Emergency.

The exhibition which also has digital display screens, begins with images of ancient emblems that symbolised the ethos of democracy.

Photos of rare clippings of newspapers carrying screaming headlines such as ‘President Declares Emergency’ have also been displayed.

One segment also portrays the demolition drive conducted in Turkman Gate area of Delhi and the mass sterilisation campaigns of the government.

Images of prison diary excerpts of various political prisoners, including Jayaprakash Narayan and actress Snehalata Reddy are also part of the exhibition, that includes paintings by few artists on the theme if the Emergency.

Commemorative events will be held across the country to mark the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency, the ministry had said on Tuesday.

“The solemn occasion will serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic values and constitutional rights,” it had said in a statement.

Underlining that the Emergency remains “one of the darkest chapters” in India’s post-independence history, the ministry said, “Fundamental rights were suspended, press freedoms curtailed, and democratic institutions were silenced.” In 2024, the government of India officially notified June 25 as ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ to ensure that this critical period is not forgotten and the sanctity of democracy is consistently upheld,” it said.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/emergency-anniversary-exhibition-modi-in-disguise-blank-editorial-on-show-3602871

Diesel cars above 10 years and petrol cars above 15 years will be refused fuel at petrol pumps from November 1 as the government steps up measures to curb rising pollution levels across the National Capital Region (NCR).

Noida’s Regional Transport Office (RTO) has announced that starting November 1, petrol and diesel will no longer be provided to vehicles that have crossed the permissible age limit—10 years for diesel and 15 years for petrol. This decision, implemented under the directives of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), is aimed at curbing rising pollution levels across the National Capital Region (NCR).

To enforce the ban, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will be installed at petrol pumps across Noida and Ghaziabad. These cameras will scan vehicle number plates and instantly verify their age through the transport department’s database. Vehicles found to be in violation will be denied fuel on the spot.

According to data from the Gautam Buddha Nagar Transport Department, nearly 2.08 lakh vehicles in the district fall into this restricted category. Notices are already being sent to owners of these vehicles, advising them to take appropriate action.

The RTO has urged owners to either get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to transfer their vehicle outside the NCR or surrender it to the department.

Authorities have warned that failure to comply may result in penalties and seizure. Following the implementation of the order on November 1, the transport and traffic departments are expected to face logistical hurdles, especially in identifying and managing violators.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/noida-regional-transport-office-petrol-diesel-cars-ghaziabad-petrol-pumps-anpr-2746278-2025-06-26

A video widely shared on social media has shocked many ramen fans, making them reconsider their favourite go-to meal. The video shows a warning label on the back of a ramen noodle packet that reads: “Warning: Cancer and Reproductive Harm.” The video was shared on Instagram by the user ‘omggotworms,’ who expressed surprise and concern over the label.

Are you a ramen lover? What would your reaction be if the packaging of your ready-to-cook snack came with a cancer and reproductive harm warning?

A video widely shared on social media has shocked many ramen fans, making them reconsider their favourite go-to meal. The video shows a warning label on the back of a ramen noodle packet that reads: “Warning: Cancer and Reproductive Harm.” The video was shared on Instagram by the user ‘omggotworms,’ who expressed surprise and concern over the label.

The video has triggered responses from Netizens on Instagram.

One of the users said,”Why the f are these openly sold? Why is it written so small.”(sic)

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/cancer-reproductive-harm-warning-on-your-favourite-ramen-noodles-pack-goes-viral-netizens-react-video

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on Wednesday imposed a total penalty of ₹25 lakh on the Bombay Stock Exchange Limited (BSE) following an inspection that revealed systemic failures in information dissemination and client code modification oversight.

The regulator’s primary concern centered on BSE’s system architecture that enabled paid clients and the Listing Compliance Monitoring (LCM) team to receive unpublished price-sensitive information before general investors could access it on the BSE website.

“I find that the system architecture of BSE did not ensure equal, unrestricted, transparent and fair access to information/data with regard to corporate announcements of listed companies to all persons as required under regulation 39(3) of the SECC Regulations,” the SEBI adjudicating officer ruled.

The investigation conducted for the period between February 2021 and September 2022 revealed that BSE’s load balancing system distributed access through multiple databases, creating timing disparities in information availability. In 98 out of 100 instances examined, the LCM received data before it was replicated to other databases, while in 6 out of 100 cases, paid subscribers received information before general website users could access it.

SEBI found this arrangement violated Regulation 39(3) of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Regulations, 2018, which mandates equal, unrestricted, transparent and fair access to all persons without any bias towards its associates and related entities.

“There is no plausible reason that LCM must get the data before general users of BSE website, especially when such information is prone to misuse by anyone who gets this information before general investors,” the order stated.

The second major violation involved BSE’s inadequate monitoring of client code modifications (CCMs). SEBI found multiple deficiencies including failure to formulate comprehensive policies for identifying frequent modifiers, inadequate review of broker error accounts conducted only once every three years, and allowing institutional-to-institutional client code modifications between unrelated entities without proper penalties.

“This shows weak supervision and monitoring by BSE when seen in the context of requirements of daily monitoring…This also shows laxity of BSE towards its supervisory functions…Clause 15.3.2.3 of the SEBI Master Circular dated July 05, 2021 has been clearly violated by BSE.”

Regarding institutional client code modifications, SEBI found,

“I find that such lack of due diligence on the part of BSE towards CCMs, which can be used with the mala fide purpose by brokers. Hence, in my view, BSE has violated provisions of SEBI circular dated October 26, 2004, January 03, 2011 and July 05, 2011 by not penalizing brokers.”

BSE’s legal team argued that the alleged defaults can be remedied by corrective measures and claimed that no loss was caused to the investors and no gain was made by BSE in relation to the allegations.

Counsel for BSE also stated that it had implemented corrective measures including creating time gaps in data dissemination to paid subscribers on September 13, 2023, modifying the load balancing system to prioritise general website access, and enhancing monitoring mechanisms for error account reviews.

However, SEBI’s adjudicating officer rejected BSE’s arguments, emphasising the exchange’s role as a first-level regulator.

“Being the first level regulator in the stock market and having been bestowed with primary duties…the role of stock exchanges as ‘the first layer of oversight’ is of much significance while handling material price sensitive information.”

The regulator firmly rejected BSE’s defense, delivering a scathing assessment:

“This case involves multiple acts of omissions, laxity and negligence with a certain amount of lethargic approach which cannot be allowed to be exonerated if the first level regulator having paramount duties of regulation and oversight shows such approach of lax regulation leaving visible scope for misuse of its systems.”

In a definitive ruling on BSE’s regulatory responsibilities, SEBI stated:

“Such duty, if allowed to be violated with impunity, will be a serious setback to the image and the prestige of the BSE and SEBI both.”

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/sebi-imposes-25-lakh-penalty-on-bse-find-out-why

Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday slammed Congress for the imposition of Emergency in 1975 and said, “We overcame a dark chapter like the Emergency because our nation never bows down to dictatorship”.

Addressing a programme on 50 years of Emergency at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in Delhi, Mr Shah said that the Emergency was imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as she saw a threat to her power, and there was no external danger or internal unrest.

“Today is the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Emergency… There may arise a question why something that happened 50 years ago is being discussed now… When 50 years of any national event are completed, good or bad, its memory fades away in society. If the memory of an event like the Emergency that shook the democracy fades away, then that is harmful to the nation,” he said.

“Today, we are the world’s largest democracy, and the reason we overcame a dark chapter like the Emergency is that our nation never bows down to dictatorship. The world has witnessed the birth of democracy on this soil. India is the mother of democracy,” he added.

Amit Shah said the first non-Congress government was formed in the country in the general elections held after the Emergency.

“At that time, no one would have liked the Emergency except for the dictators and the small group that benefited from it… They had an illusion that no one could challenge them, but after the Emergency, when the first Lok Sabha elections were held, for the first time after independence, a non-Congress government was formed and Morarji Desai became the Prime Minister,” he said.

“It is difficult to define the Emergency in a single sentence. I have tried to come up with a definition. The conspiracy to convert a multi-party democracy of a democratic country into a dictatorship is an Emergency,” he added.

He said the Modi government decided to observe June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas so that “the country remembers how a nation suffers when its leaders turn into dictators”.

“During the Emergency, so many drastic changes were made that it came to be known as a ‘mini-Constitution’. From the Preamble to the Basic Structure, everything was changed. The judiciary became submissive, and democratic rights were suspended. The nation can never forget. That is why PM Modi decided to observe June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas so that the country remembers how a nation suffers when its leaders turn into dictators,” he said.

He said the spirit of the Constitution cannot be upheld by the courts or Parliament alone; it is also the responsibility and right of every citizen.

“I believe Samvidhan Hatya Diwas should be observed collectively and consciously, so that the youth never forget how the Constitution was once silenced,” Amit Shah said.

He took a dig at opposition parties over their remarks against the government.

“Today, some people preach about the sanctity of the Constitution. But I want to ask — which party do you belong to? Remember the morning when Indira Gandhi announced the Emergency on All India Radio. Was Parliament consulted before this? Were the opposition leaders and citizens taken into confidence. Those who talk about protecting democracy today — were you the Rakshaks (protectors) of the Constitution back then, or its Bhakshaks (destroyers)? They claimed the Emergency was declared to protect the nation. But the truth is — it was declared to protect their own power,” he said.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/we-overcame-dark-chapter-like-emergency-as-our-nation-amit-shah-8752631

Train and road connectivity between the Assam towns of Haflong and Silchar has been severely disrupted following a landslide near the Jatinga-Lampur section. The landslide, reportedly triggered by ongoing road repairs, has forced the suspension of train services over the Lumding-Badarpur hill section and prompted a complete halt to vehicular movement along National Highway 27.

Train services to Tripura, Manipur and Southern Assam remain disrupted following the landslides.

Officials said that slope failure occurred downstream between the highway and the adjacent railway track due to repair work undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Soil and debris have slid onto the railway alignment, and water has begun flowing directly onto the tracks. With the site declared unsafe, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) halted train operations through the section on Monday evening as a precautionary measure.

The NFR’s Lumding Division has called on NHAI to immediately carry out protective measures and deploy technical experts to prevent further damage to the critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, railway teams have begun clearing the debris from the tracks.

Multiple trains have either been cancelled or short-terminated due to the disruption. Among the cancellations on June 23 are the Guwahati-Silchar Express, Rangiya-Silchar Express, Guwahati-Dullabcherra Express, and Silchar-Rangiya Express. Services cancelled for June 24 include the Dullabcherra-Guwahati Express and Naharlagun-Silchar Special.

Short-terminated trains include:

Silchar-Naharlagun Special at New Harangajao

Charlapalli-Silchar Express at Lumding

Kolkata-Agartala Garib Rath Express at Guwahati

Agartala-Anand Vihar Tejas Express at Badarpur

Lokmanya Tilak-Agartala Express at Guwahati

Sealdah-Silchar Kanchanjungha Express at Lumding

In response to the situation, the Dima Hasao District Administration has imposed a travel ban on the Haflong-Silchar stretch of NH-27 under Section 34(C) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, citing the risk of continued slope movement. Travellers have been advised to avoid the route until further notice.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/trains-halted-highway-closed-after-massive-landslide-in-assams-dima-hasao-8752620

Manohar Lal praised the Bihar government’s initiatives in the power sector, such as reducing aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses, installing 80 lakh smart meters and carrying out reforms in the sector.

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Tuesday said that a nuclear power plant and a 1,000 MW battery storage capacity unit would be set up in Bihar.

He praised the Bihar government’s initiatives in the power sector such as reducing aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses, installing 80 lakh smart meters and carrying out reforms in the sector.

“Bihar had demanded a nuclear power plant besides allocation of additional power to it to tide it over the situation in summer. We have asked states to set up at least one nuclear power plant in their respective states… We will help Bihar in setting up a nuclear plant in the state,” he said.

He, however, did not divulge the details as to where in the state the plant would be set up and what will be its capacity in terms of megawatt.

Mr Lal was speaking to reporters here after a one-day Eastern Region Power Ministers’ Conference where different aspects and problems relating to the power sector were discussed by states in the region.

He said that a 1,000 MW battery storage capacity unit will be set up in Bihar.

“We have given in-principle approval to the proposal,” the minister said, adding that it will depend on the generation of renewable energy.

Lauding the reforms carried out by the Bihar government in the power sector, the Union minister said, “Bihar has done a tremendous work in improving the distribution system. It deserves kudos for carrying out power sector reforms especially for reducing AT&C (aggregate technical & commercial) losses, besides installing a record 80 lakh smart meters.” Bihar was lagging behind in the power sector but it has done a considerably good job, he added.

The Union Power Ministry has agreed to the Bihar government’s demand for the supply of an additional 500 MW for the next six months, the minister said, while assuring adequate supply of power to states from the central quota if they face power shortage.

Stating that cyber security has become a big issue, the minister said that nefarious designs to thwart power supply systems failed during ‘Operation Sindoor’ and “our system remained intact”.

Giving the slogan of ‘power for all at all times’, the Union minister said, “We have become a power surplus country. We are not only meeting our requirements but also exporting surplus power to other countries.”

Last year, the peak power demand was 250 GW in the country and it was expected to increase to 270 GW this year but so far, the peak power demand has reached 242 GW, he said, adding that it is expected that the power may increase further by September.

“Today, we are meeting the demand of power supply in the country as we have surplus power. But 10 years ago, in 2013-14, there was a power deficiency in the country. There was 4.5 per cent power shortage in the country,” he said, while stating that India was, then, known as “power deficient” country.

The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Power and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik, Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Bihar Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav and Jharkhand Urban Development and Housing Minister Sudivya Kumar, among others.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/nuclear-power-plant-to-be-set-up-in-bihar-says-union-minister-manohar-lal-khattar-8752549

IFS officer Parveen Kaswan said she raised cubs that helped repopulate parts of Ranthambhore and other tiger reserves, and carried bloodline of Ranthambore.

Arrowhead(T-84), the legendary Ranthambore tigress, was cremated today. The majestic animal breathed her last on June 19 aged 11.

“Carried bloodline of Ranthambhore,” wrote Indian Forest Service officer and a popular internet personality, Parveen Kaswan, as he posted the last picture of the most photographed tigress on his official X handle.

“She raised cubs that helped repopulate parts of Ranthambhore and other tiger reserves. Strengthened gene pools and rewrote conservation,” he added.

How did Arrowhead lose her life?

Arrowhead was suffering from bone tumor before she succumbed to the disease on Thursday. It was the same day that her daughter Kankati (T-2507) was relocated to Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, officials from the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR) said.

Born with three other cubs in 2014 to T-19 Krishna, Arrowhead was sick for a long time. An autopsy report of hers had previously revealed that several organs of her body were damaged. “It is a disheartening coincidence that she passed away on the same day when her daughter is being shifted to Mukundra,” Ranthambore Tiger Reserve(RTR) field director Anoop KR said.

Arrowhead strengthened bloodline of Ranthambhore’

According to Field Director Anup K R, the tigress was born in February 2014. She was mostly seen in Zones 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the national park, with Nal Ghati and Rajbagh Lake being her primary territories.

Arrowhead gave birth four times and was the mother of 10 cubs. Six of them are alive. She gave birth for the last time in 2023.

She was sighted with two cubs, her first litter, on February 22, 2018. She gave birth to her second litter on January 2, 2019 and third litter on July 23, 2021. Kankati (T-2507) belonged to her fourth and last litter.

Arrowhead carried the unmatched legacy of Ranthambore tigresses

Arrowhead recently made it to the headlines after a video of her hunting a crocodile went viral. Netizens recalled the hunting prowess of Machhli, Arrowhead’s grandmother and one of the most photographed tigresses often referred to as the “Queen of Ranthambore” and “Crocodile Hunter”.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/ranthambore-bids-its-beloved-arrowhead-a-final-goodbye-101750780126291.html

The DGCA found that aircraft maintenance engineers were not taking mandatory safety precautions as specified in Aircraft Maintenance Manuals

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said on Tuesday it has uncovered safety violations during surprise surveillance checks at major airports, ordering airlines and airport operators to implement corrective measures within seven days as part of a comprehensive safety review of the country’s aviation sector launched after the deadly Air India crash in Ahmedabad.

The aviation regulator conducted intensive night and early morning surveillance operations at Delhi and Mumbai airports and found what officials described as systemic lapses across aircraft maintenance, ground operations, and airport infrastructure.

The enhanced oversight, initiated through an order issued on June 19 — a week after the Air India crash that killed at least 271 people — represents one of the most comprehensive safety assessments of India’s aviation ecosystem in recent years, with similar reviews planned for Hyderabad and Kolkata airports.

The surveillance revealed critical maintenance-related violations that directly impact flight safety, the regulator said in a statement. “At places, AMEs [aircraft maintenance engineers] were not attending to snag rectification; defect reports generated by the aircraft system were not found recorded in the technical logbook; several life vests were not properly secured beneath their designated seats,” the DGCA revealed.

AMEs are part of companies that run engineering and maintenance services. Typically, they are part of the airline but can at times include contractors. The regulator did not identify any specific provider.

During aircraft maintenance, inspectors discovered that prescribed work orders were not being followed. More seriously, unserviceable thrust reverser systems and Flap Slat Levers — devices used by pilots to extend or retract wing flaps and slats during takeoff and landing — were not properly locked as required by safety protocols.

The DGCA found that aircraft maintenance engineers were not taking mandatory safety precautions as specified in Aircraft Maintenance Manuals, creating potential hazards during maintenance operations.

Ground handling operations showed significant deficiencies, with essential equipment including baggage trolleys found in unserviceable condition. Line maintenance facilities were operating without proper tool control procedures, violating established safety protocols.

At the airport infrastructure level, inspectors found faded runway centreline markings that could impair pilot navigation during critical takeoff and landing phases. Rapid exit taxiway green centre lights were not functioning unidirectionally, potentially creating confusion for pilots during ground operations.

Concerningly, obstruction limitation data around airports had not been updated for three years despite numerous new constructions in airport vicinity areas. No surveys had been conducted to assess whether these structures posed collision risks to aircraft.

Multiple vehicles operating in sensitive ramp areas lacked mandatory speed governors. The DGCA immediately withdrew these vehicles by cancelling their Airport Vehicle Permits and suspended the drivers’ Airside Driving Permits.

The checks also uncovered problems with pilot training infrastructure. Inspectors found a flight simulator that did not match its corresponding aircraft configuration, with software that had not been updated to current versions — issues that could compromise the effectiveness of pilot training programs.

In a separate incident reported on Monday, an Air India aircraft scheduled to operate the Delhi-Kochi flight was grounded Saturday due to a missing Cabin Defect Log, taking off only after a new log was issued. The Cabin Defect Log is used to record technical issues found in aircraft cabin areas and is essential for regulatory compliance, allowing engineers to identify and address problems before takeoff.

The safety violations had immediate operational consequences. One domestic flight was held up due to worn tires and was cleared for departure only after required maintenance was completed, demonstrating the direct impact of the surveillance on flight operations.

A DGCA official confirmed that “findings during the surveillance revealed multiple cases where reported defects re-appeared many times on aircraft, indicating ineffective monitoring and inadequate rectification action on repeated defects.”

“All the findings observed during the surveillance have been communicated to the operators for taking necessary corrective actions within seven days,” the DGCA stated, indicating the urgency with which the regulator is treating the identified violations.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/airport-inspections-lift-lid-on-safety-gaps-101750791103177.html

Alaska’s Iliamna volcano last erupted in 1867, but its slopes often trigger seismic spikes due to falling rock and glacial ice.

A satellite image showing Alaska’s Iliamna Volcano “ready to rumble” has sparked renewed interest in the snow-covered peak, just as scientists recorded a spike in earthquakes on its slopes.

The image, taken on June 10 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on NASA and USGS’s Landsat 8 satellite, captured the volcano days before it saw an increase in seismicity around 4:30 am local time on June 15.

An increase in seismicity means frequently occurring small earthquakes, according to a report by US-based magazine Newsweek which first reported the development.

“Initially, the earthquake rate was nearly continuous, with several earthquakes per minute,” said the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) in a post on its website, “but this has since slowed to a rate of about one earthquake per minute”.

Despite the flurry of tremors, scientists say the activity is likely not linked to an impending eruption.

“This activity is likely not caused by volcanic unrest,” the AVO explained, “but is instead caused by avalanches thundering down the volcano slopes”.

Iliamna last erupted in 1867 but still generates seismic activity roughly once every two years. “Its murmurs tend not to be signs of volcanic unrest but rather the signature of avalanches large enough to register on nearby seismic and infrasound instruments,” NASA highlighted in a blog post on its page.

“Although steam plumes occur on its eastern flanks, there has been no historical volcanic activity at Iliamna,” the AVO added.

Source : https://www.news18.com/viral/satellite-catches-alaska-volcano-stirring-mid-rumble-with-earthquakes-hitting-every-minute-ws-kl-9402464.html

275 people died in the Air India Boeing Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, including 241 onboard and 34 on the ground, confirmed by the Gujarat health department.

As many as 275 people, 241 were on board Air India’s Boeing Dreamliner and 34 on the ground, including lost their lives in the plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12.

The Gujarat health department gave the official figure of casualties of the tragedy. The announcement of the death toll was delayed as authorities were verifying the DNA matches of those who lost their lives in the tragedy. Many bodies were charred beyond recognition as the aircraft burst into flames or were damaged on impact.

Health department officials confirmed that all bodies have now been recovered. Of these, 260 have been identified, primarily through DNA matching, while six were identified using facial recognition technology, NDTV reported.

The deceased include 120 men, 124 women, and 16 children. So far, 256 bodies have been handed over to their families, while the DNA identification process for the remaining remains ongoing.

The Ahmedabad civil hospital on Monday said 256 bodies have been handed over to their families, while the process to send three bodies of British nationals by flight is underway. The 259 victims included 199 Indians (180 passengers and 19 ground victims), seven Portuguese nationals, 52 British nationals and a Canadian, the release said.

Indian victims identified so far belonged to various parts of the country, including Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Diu and Nagaland.

The London-bound aircraft crashed into a B J Medical College’s hostel complex in Meghaninagar moments after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1.39 pm on June 12, killing 270 persons, including 241 on board. Only one passenger miraculously survived. Five MBBS students of B J Medical College were also killed.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/air-india-plane-crash-ahmedbad-275-killed-including-241-onboard-dreamliner-34-on-ground-official-toll-ws-l-9402210.html

After hosting a wedding reception for VIP guests, educator and YouTuber Faisal Khan, more popularly known as Khan Sir, hosted a reception for NEET and JEE students in Bihar’s Patna. A video of the same went viral.

A wedding that was held in secrecy, is now being followed up by multiple wedding receptions one after the other! Educator and YouTuber Faisal Khan- who is more popularly known as Khan Sir- tied the holy knot with wife A.S Khan- in absolute secrecy. The two got married during the India-Pakistan conflict, the announcement of which was made in late May. Khan Sir- rather casually- revealed his secret wedding in a video, which went viral. The teacher had also talked about hosting multiple receptions for his loved ones, students and fans. Cut to late June, it seems like the receptions have begun!
Recently, Khan Sir hosted a grand wedding reception for his VIP guests, followed by the latest reception that was reportedly hosted for NEET and JEE students- specifically boys. As per the educator’s interview with ANI, hosting all the students at once won’t be a possibility, due to which he is hosting a reception in phases.
The teacher further talked about JEE and NEET students being the ‘future of India’- followed by how he ensured that the students will ‘feel no shortage of anything’ at the event. A video of the same was shared online, which went viral in an instant.

“Today, a reception was held for the boys. It’s not possible to invite all students on one day. NEET and JEE students have been invited today. These students are the future of India. We will ensure they feel no shortage of anything,” the teacher was quoted as saying to ANI.

Reportedly, Khan Sir chose to marry in secrecy, as the country was actively in conflict with Pakistan at the time. “I did not tell you guys one thing, when the war was on, I got married,” the teacher was heard saying in the video, where he first revealed his secret wedding.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/viral/educator-and-youtuber-khan-sir-hosts-wedding-reception-for-neet-and-jee-students-faisal-khan-viral-video-article-152145747

Hours after US President Donald Trump’s claims of an Iran-Israel ceasefire, India on Tuesday said it stands ready to play its part to resolve the situation and insisted on “dialogue and diplomacy” as the way forward.
New Delhi said it remained “deeply concerned” about the overall situation, but welcomed reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.
“We have been following developments overnight relating to the conflict between Iran and Israel, including the US action against Iran’s nuclear facilities and Iranian retaliation against US military bases in Qatar,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

“While we remain deeply concerned about the prospects for overall and sustained regional security and stability, we welcome reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the role played by the US and Qatar in bringing it about,” it said.

New Delhi again called for resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
“We wish to reiterate that there is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy in order to address and resolve the multiple conflicts in the region,” the MEA said in a statement.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/no-alternative-to-dialogue-and-diplomacy-what-india-said-on-israel-iran-ceasefire-full-statement-article-152145269

Dalla is a designated pro Khalistani terrorist under UAPA and is presently hiding in Canada. India has asked Canada to extradite Dalla who is chief of Khalistan Tiger Force a proscribed terror outfit

In a major crackdown on organised crime syndicate, the Delhi Police has arrested a key aide of Arshdeep Singh Dalla who provided arms and weapons to the gang.
Dalla is a designated pro Khalistani terrorist under UAPA and is presently hiding in Canada. India has asked Canada to extradite Dalla who is chief of Khalistan Tiger Force a proscribed terror outfit
Accused – Ekamjot Singh Sandhu – is accused of running a gun trafficking for the syndicate and four semi-automatic pistols have been seized from his possession.

“Recovered pistols were meant for supplying to the members of the syndicate run by Paramjeet Singh @ Pamma Bhikhi in Punjab,” said Additional DCP (south east district) Aishwarya Sharma.

STF (southeast district) team led by inspector Shiv Kumar and head constable Rajesh had mounted surveillance after they received information that Delhi and Punjab gangsters were receiving weapons from Madhya Pradesh based arm suppliers.
“After efforts of more than a month, members of an interstate illegal firearm syndicate being run by the cadres of Arsh Dalla gang namely Babbu Dalema based in UAE and Paramjeet Singh aka Pamma Bhikhi were identified,” said Delhi Police in a statement on Monday.
Arshdeep Dalla gang has fierce rivalry with Lawrence Bishnoi gang which led to killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill in Winnipeg Canada in September 2023.
In May 2022, a Red Notice was issued notice against Arshdeep Dalla and he was declared an individual terrorist in January 2023. Six months later India asked Canada for his provisional arrest, but the request was declined. In October 2024, he was arrested by Ontario police in an unrelated shooting incident. India again requested for his extradition. A month later Ontario court released him on bail.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/terrorist-arshdeep-gill-aide-who-supplied-guns-arrested-by-delhi-police-article-152139144

Jammu and Kashmir police initiated an investigation following a viral video showing officers humiliating a theft suspect. The man was paraded half-naked, with hands tied, and a garland of shoes. The incident sparked outrage online, with many criticising the legality and ethics of the police’s actions.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have ordered a probe after a video went viral on social media, showing the cops of the Bakshi Nagar Police station parading a man, accused of stealing money, in a humiliating manner. The man was stripped of clothes to the waist, handcuffed and made to wear a shoe garland in full public view.
The accused was then made to sit on the bonnet of the police jeep, which was followed by cheers of joy from the public and police as they paraded him, and he kept his head down.
The video sparked sharp reactions on social media, with many questioning the legality and ethics of the police action and some even terming it “jungle raj”.

Jammu’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Joginder Singh condemned the incident and ordered a departmental inquiry into the matter.

As per a report in PTI, the accused is a resident of Kashmir and was allegedly under the influence of drugs when he was arrested. The cops had chased him after a man identified him as the thief who had stolen his Rs 40,000 a few days back.
The man then confronted the accused, who allegedly retaliated by attacking the man with a knife and injuring him, the SHO said.

He then tried to escape, after which cops began chasing him. The SHO said even local youths joined the chase. He said when he was caught, these people reportedly tied his hands with a rope and placed a garland of footwear around his neck.
Several bystanders raised slogans in support of the police team, who seemingly approved of the public shaming.
SSP, Jammu, Joginder Singh said the action of the police personnel was “unprofessional, unbecoming of the members of a disciplined organisation”, and calls for a stern departmental action.
“In order to ascertain actual facts, a preliminary enquiry is hereby ordered and entrusted to SDPO (Sub-divisional police officer) City North, Jammu, who will enquire into the matter and submit his findings to this office within a week’s time positively,” the SSP said in an order.
National Convener of the Jammu and Kashmir Students’ Association, Nasir Khuehami, strongly condemned the action.
“Police are not mobs. They are the custodians of the law. The duty of an SHO is to investigate, not adjudicate to uphold justice, not to dispense punishment through public spectacle,” he said on X.
Khuehami further said that “such crude displays of ‘instant justice’ erode public trust, delegitimise the institution, and push our democracy one step closer to the abyss of lawlessness.”
Some netizens tagged Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, DGP Nalin Prabhat and the National Human Rights Commission, demanding accountability.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/jammu-police-hands-tied-shoe-garland-accused-man-theft-paraded-semi-naked-by-cops-probe-ordered-article-152147345

A section of women working in the IT sector in Kerala has lamented that getting married and becoming pregnant could even put their jobs at risk.

Attending a public hearing organised by the Kerala Women’s Commission at Kozhikode on Monday, many women techies alleged that some firms even discourage women from taking maternity leaves.

Many employers also used to express concerns when women techies get married as they fear that it will affect the availability of the techie to work beyond the normal working hours. There is also a tendency among IT companies to deny promotions to married women.

Some employees pointed out that one worrying factor for the employers was the financial obligations involved while allowing maternity leave. Many companies did not want to bear that financial burden. There is an urgent need to address this issue, they said.

The women techies also alleged that some companies used to force pregnant employees to quit their jobs by imposing more work pressure on them instead of sacking them.

“There is a tendency among some companies to include pregnant women among the employees to be sacked citing poor performance. Many women who return after maternity leave used to face lack of due consideration from companies. There is also no menstrual leave for IT employees,” the women techies point out.

While many women stressed the need to make available service of counsellors at IT parks as many of them used to suffer unbearable mental pressure, many were even unaware of the internal complaints committees in companies.

Denial of overtime job salaries, security issues for women employees returning home after late working hours, unavailability of creches and after school care facilities were the other issues raised by the women.

Over 100 women techies took part in the public hearing that was attended by the Women’s Commission chairperson P Sathidevi. The commission will be submitting recommendations to the government to address the grievances raised by the women.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/kerala/getting-married-and-becoming-pregnant-a-cause-for-concern-says-keralas-women-techies-3600754

Neeraj had clinched victory in the prestigious meet with one throw remaining as his best effort of 85.29m remained unbeaten after six rounds, securing him yet another top podium finish this season. This is the second title for Neeraj within a month after he triumped in the Paris Daimond League meet a few days back.

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra won the javelin throw title in the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 meet with a best throw of 85.29 metres in the one-day competition on Tuesday.

Neeraj had clinched victory in the prestigious meet with one throw remaining as his best effort of 85.29m remained unbeaten after six rounds, securing him yet another top podium finish this season. This is the second title for Neeraj within a month after he triumped in the Paris Daimond League meet a few days back.

The 27-year-old Neeraj from Haryana produced his best effort on his third turn as he finished first, while Douw Smit of South Africa, with 84.12m, and Anderson Peters of Granada, with 83.63m, finished second and third, respectively.

Neeraj, who made history for India by winning the gold medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and bagged silver in Paris in 2024, had recently stood first in the Paris Diamond League and was looking to continue that winning streak in Ostrava.

He managed to do that, though the distance he achieved on Tuesday would disappoint him. Neeraj Chopra had a few weeks back had crossed the 90m mark and is hoping to achieve the feat once again.

But that did not happen on Tuesday, as he started with a foul in his first attempt. He managed 83.45 in his second attempt but made a grand comeback by throwing the spear to 85.29 in his third turn. That gave him the lead with Samit Douw in second position at 84.12m and Anderson Peters in third with 83.63.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/neeraj-chopra-strikes-gold-in-ostrava-golden-spike-meet-with-best-throw-of-8529-meters

The Andhra Pradesh High Court recently ruled that a trans woman in a heterosexual relationship cannot be deprived of her right to lodge a complaint of cruelty under Section 498A (husband or relative of husband of a woman subjecting her to cruelty) of Indian Penal Code (IPC) [Viswanathan Krishna Murthy vs The State of Andhra Pradesh and Another].

Justice Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa was dealing with a petition seeking quashing of charges Section 498A IPC and Section 4 of Dowry Prohibition Act against a husband and his family members, who were booked on complaint of a trans woman, who was originally a man.

“This Court makes it clear that, a transwoman, who is a transgender, being in heterosexual marriage, shall have protection under Section 498-A IPC,” the single-judge ruled.

The petitioners had argued that a trans woman cannot lodge a complaint under Section 498A of IPC against her husband or in-laws as she cannot be considered as a woman in complete sense.

However, the Court held that the argument that a trans woman cannot be regarded as a ‘woman’ merely because she is incapable of biological reproduction, is deeply flawed and legally impermissible

Such a narrow view of womanhood with reproduction undermines the very spirit of the Constitution, which upholds dignity, identity and equality for all individuals irrespective of gender identity, the Court observed.

“To deny a trans woman the status of a ‘woman’ for the purpose of legal protection under Section 498-A IPC solely on the ground of her reproductive capacity is to perpetuate discrimination and to violate Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution. Such a contention, therefore, deserves to be rejected at the outset,” it added.

In this regard, the Court referred to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Supriyo vs Union of India in which the top court ruled against recognising same-sex marriages.

“It is pertinent to note that despite denying legal validity to same-sex marriage, the Court unanimously directed the Union government to form a high-level committee under the Cabinet Secretary to examine and recommend measures ensuring equal rights for queer couples in areas such as adoption, healthcare, succession, pensions, and financial services. The Hon’ble Court’s clarification that transgender individuals in heterosexual relationships have the right to marry under the existing legal framework strikes at the very argument raised by the learned counsel for the Petitioners in the case on hand, who placed reliance on the said decision,” the High Court said.

Considering the matter on merits, the Court noted that the accused-husband knew that the complainant was a trans woman. It added that he loved her, lived with her for sometime and then married her at an Arya Samaj Mandir. It further found no allegation in the complaint to show that the accused had subjected her to cruelty.

“The only allegation against Accused No.1 is that, he left to his parents‟ house on 13.03.2019 and did not return to her. Further, she stated in her complaint that, on 27.04.2019 she received a message from the mobile of Accused No.1 cautioning her to go back otherwise, she would be killed. Further, except stating that at the time of marriage, the parents of Respondent No.2 gave dowry and gold and silver articles to Accused No.1, there is no iota of material to buttress the said allegation,” it said.

Except bald and omnibus allegations against petitioners, no prima facie case is made out, the Court concluded. Therefore, it proceeded to quash the proceedings against the accused.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/trans-woman-can-file-cruelty-complaint-against-husband-under-section-498a-ipc-andhra-pradesh-high-court

Several other airlines have also either cancelled, diverted or returned their flights to their origin airports over the tense situation in the Middle East.

Air India has cancelled all its flights over the Gulf region until further notice, hours after Iran launched a missile attack on the US air base in Doha. The airline has also halted operations to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe. “Amid the developing situation in the Middle East, Air India has ceased all operations to the region as well as to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe with immediate effect, until further notice,” it said in a statement.

Air India’s long-haul flights to Europe and North America overfly the Middle East, and the airspace curbs have disrupted its services.

The airline also informed that its India-bound flights from North America are diverting back to their respective origins, and others are being diverted back to India or rerouted away from the closed airspaces. “Air India is in continuous consultation with its external security advisors and is vigilantly monitoring the evolving situation. We will keep our passengers informed of any updates. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our number one priority,” it said.

The airline had earlier cancelled one of its Qatar flights scheduled from Cochin. Several other airlines have also either cancelled, diverted or returned their flights to their origin airports over the tense situation in the Middle East.

Air India Express diverted its Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned its flight, which was scheduled from Kannur. “We have no other flights bound for Qatar,” it said in a statement.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and will take all necessary precautions for the safety and security of our guests and crew, with inputs from the relevant authorities,” it added.

Air India Express operates 25 weekly flights to Qatar’s capital, Doha. It has direct services to Doha from Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram and Tiruchchirappalli.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/2-india-qatar-flights-cancelled-after-iran-attacks-us-air-base-in-doha-8743055

50 years since India’s Emergency, the dark chapter highlights the struggle for democracy against authoritarianism and the resilience of its people.

It has been 50 years since democracy in India was given a serious blow with the imposition of the internal Emergency, for the first time, on June 25, 1975. It is crucial to recognise the background of this dark chapter in the history of free India. Under the leadership of Jayaprakash Narayan, a legendry freedom fighter who never sought any office, students and young people in India were agitating for democratic, economic, and political reforms. The movement began in Bihar, and as a young student activist, I had the privilege of being an active participant. Soon, it evolved into a mass movement across the country starting with the Gujarat Nav Nirman Movement , followed by the Bihar Chhatra Sangharsh Movement.

Thereafter, a pliant President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmad, signed off on the decision to impose Emergency without cabinet approval. Regardless of all claims by Indira Gandhi, the stark fact was that it was done to save her own chair. What followed were shocking, systematic, and brazen attempts to undermine and destroy Indian democracy and turn India into a prison. Besides Jayaprakash Narayan, leaders such as Morarji Desai, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, LK Advani, Chandra Shekhar, George Fernandes, Arun Jaitley and many others were detained under maintenance of internal security act (MISA). We had already suffered long imprisonment under this draconian provision in Bihar during the student movement. In fact, I was forcibly lifted by many plainclothes policemen from outside my home and dumped into a jeep and locked under MISA. I suffered injuries in this process.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/the-dark-days-of-emergency-and-its-lessons-101750706720343.html

Malviya said no other state currently uses facial recognition technology for verification of candidates at an examination centre.

BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh Employee Selection Board (MPESB) is exploring use of Aadhaar-based facial recognition technology to verify the identity of candidates appearing for recruitment examinations.

“We will initially implement the facial recognition system on a pilot basis for a smaller examination. A dedicated software and system are being developed to enable examiners to conduct face recognition using tablets. After evaluating its the economic feasibility, efficiency and accuracy, we plan to replace the current fingerprint biometrics with face recognition technology,” said MPESB director Saket Malviya.

Malviya said no other state currently uses facial recognition technology for verification of candidates at an examination centre. “Therefore, MPESB is conducting a thorough analysis before full implementation,” he said.

Malviya said MPESB was collaborating with Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). “UIDAI is our only source for face recognition base data. The face recognition will be done using photo captured for Aadhaar card,” said a second official who spoke on conditions of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media.

The move to upgrade the verification system comes after investigators found multiple cases in the Constable Recruitment Exam 2023 where the thumbprints of the candidates stored in the UIDAI database were updated with thumbprints of person who was to impersonate them in the recruitment examination.

Under existing regulations, anyone can update 22% of their fingerprints multiple times. “This provision was exploited to enable solvers to fraudulently appear for candidates in the exams, the second official said.

Virendra Singh, deputy inspector general (DIG), selection and recruitment wing, said earlier this month that 20 FIRs had been registered and over a dozen people including two registered Aadhaar card updation kiosk operators had been arrested in connection with the MPSEB exam in 2023 to recruit 7,411 posts of constables in state police.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/mp-recruitment-body-to-try-facial-recognition-tech-to-verify-candidate-identity-101750696637768.html

AI Ahmedabad crash: Sources privy to the meeting chaired by Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said the board has initiated a safety overhaul, including an audit of all aircraft

In the wake of the recent runway mishap and Ahmedabad crash, the Air India (AI) board on Wednesday held a crucial internal meeting in Mumbai to assess operational risks and strategy. It was chaired by Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran.

Sources privy to the meeting confirmed that the board has initiated a major safety overhaul, including a comprehensive audit of all aircraft in the airline’s fleet.

On June 10, an Air India flight from Delhi to Ahmedabad skidded off the taxiway during landing amid heavy rain. While no lives were lost, the incident raised critical questions around safety compliance. On June 12, Air India’s London-bound plane crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner plane first hit the mess building of BJ Medical College Civil Hospital and then crashed into the Atulyam Hostel, where senior residents doctors stayed. Both buildings suffered heavy damage and casualties.

The fleet audit will be conducted based on international safety and security standards and will assess both technical health and operational readiness of each aircraft.

As first reported by News18, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had directed Air India to submit the complete health report of its aircraft fleet. Sources indicate that the airline is in the final stages of compiling this report and is likely to submit it soon.

In another significant decision, the board has constituted a high-level internal committee to monitor all aspects of Air India’s operations. This committee will be empowered to take final decisions on flight routes, frequency, and other business-related matters. A senior Air India source: “This is not just a cosmetic move. The committee has real authority to act swiftly in the interest of operational efficiency and passenger safety.”

To aid the ongoing investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into the Ahmedabad incident, the board also approved the formation of a coordination task force. This group will facilitate all support required by AAIB, ensuring smooth access to documents, technical data, and staff interactions during the investigation.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/ai-orders-aircraft-audit-forms-panel-to-monitor-ops-after-ahmedabad-crash-sources-exclusive-ws-l-9399395.html

A dispute over a seat on the Vande Bharat Express led to a violent assault involving a BJP MLA’s associates. The incident, caught on CCTV, occurred near Jhansi.

A passenger on a Vande Bharat Express train was thrashed after he allegedly refused to exchange seats with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Rajeev Singh from Babina in Jhansi.

The incident happened on the New Delhi-Bhopal Vande Bharat Express on the evening of June 19.

A CCTV video of the incident, widely shared on social media, showed a group of passengers attacking a man who was seated near the automated door of the compartment.

Later, Singh lodged a non-cognizable report (NCR) against the passenger.

In his complaint, Singh alleged that while travelling with his wife and son, a co-passenger behaved in an indecent manner. When objected to, the man allegedly misbehaved with his family and later called others at Jhansi station, who also behaved abusively.

According to initial accounts, the clash allegedly began when the passenger refused to vacate a seat upon being asked, allegedly by Singh or his supporters.

The passenger was later assaulted, with the attackers believed to be linked to the MLA.

Commenting on the matter, the Government Railway Police (GRP) said the altercation happened over changing seats and objectionable sitting posture inside the train.

The situation escalated at Jhansi station, where the passenger was allegedly assaulted by some individuals linked to the ruling party MLA.

Railway Superintendent of Police (Jhansi) Vipul Kumar Srivastava told reporters that the assaulted passenger had earlier indicated he would file a complaint after reaching Bhopal.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/vande-bharat-delhi-to-bhopal-train-cctv-video-bjp-mla-rajeev-singh-scuffle-with-passenger-9399307.html

The young engineer, hailing from Siwan district in Bihar, last contacted his family on June 19 and mentioned tensions in the region but did not foresee dangers that would follow

A 25-year-old engineer from Bihar, employed in Iran, has gone missing amid the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The disappearance has raised serious concerns among his family members, who are now urgently appealing to the Indian government for help in securing his safe return.

The young engineer, hailing from Siwan district in Bihar, last contacted his family on June 19, news agency IANS reported. According to his relatives, he mentioned growing tensions in the region but did not foresee the dangers that would follow. Since then, all attempts to reach him have been unsuccessful.

His anxious family has made repeated pleas to the Indian government, specifically asking for the intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). “We haven’t heard from him in days, and we are extremely worried,” his father told IANS. “Please help us bring him home safely.”

The engineer had been working on a project in Tehran for several months when the conflict began to intensify. His relatives are particularly concerned due to the volatile nature of the situation, which has led to widespread unrest and fears for the safety of foreign nationals, particularly in cities near military installations.

Concerns Over Safety Amid Growing Tensions

The escalating Iran-Israel conflict has made the region increasingly perilous for Indian nationals working in Iran. While the embassy in Tehran is actively monitoring the situation, the uncertainty surrounding the conflict has complicated efforts to reach missing citizens.

In addition to diplomatic appeals, local political leaders from Bihar have voiced their support for the family, calling on the central government to act swiftly. Siwan’s Member of Parliament, Sushil Kumar Modi, has promised to raise the issue in Parliament, urging the government to prioritise the safety of Indian workers in the region.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/bihar-engineer-goes-missing-in-iran-amid-rising-tensions-kin-seek-government-help-ws-bkl-9399693.html

Zepto has been stirring controversy over allegations of food safety violations and mistreatment of delivery partners.

Once hailed as a rising star in India’s quick commerce sector, Zepto is now facing serious scrutiny over food safety violations. Multiple reports have emerged of rotten groceries being delivered and unsanitary warehouse conditions, prompting the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration to suspend the company’s license.

Amid the growing controversy, a former Zepto employee has come forward, claiming to expose the “ugly truth” behind the company’s working process, further fueling concerns about its operations and commitment to consumer safety.

“I worked at Zepto for 3 years—and I can’t stay silent anymore,” a former employee wrote in a now-viral post. “Once, a customer ordered Greek yoghurt. We had only three left—all expired. Still, our store in-charge said, ‘Give it anyway.’”

“People think Zepto is hygienic. It’s not. The reality is disgusting. Every monsoon, our Pune store floods with gutter water—right where your groceries are packed. We’ve worked 9+ hours standing in that dirty water without shoes. Many of us fell sick, but no one got medical compensation. Fruits and vegetables come in damaged and rotting—we’re still told to pack and deliver them. Expired products are sent without hesitation,” the individual wrote in a Reddit post.

The employee strongly asserted that Zepto’s operations are not just unhygienic but also unethical, adding that the customers deserve to know the truth.

The post went quickly viral, sparking reactions from users. One wrote, “Blinkit and Bigbasket are way better than shady sites; I don’t know why customers order from them,” while another added, “Eggs are always spoiled when ordered online.”

In West Bengal’s Kaliganj, a bomb explosion resulted in the death of 13-year-old Tammana Khatun on Monday, shortly after the assembly byelection results were announced. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the incident and called for swift action against those responsible. One suspect, Akhtar Sheikh, has been arrested.

A girl was killed in a bomb explosion in Kaliganj in Naida district of West Bengal on Monday afternoon, prompting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to order police to take strict action against the culprits. The incident occurred after the byelection results of the Kaliganj assembly seat was declared.
One person identified as Akhtar Sheikh was arrested for his alleged involvement in the death of the girl in bomb explosion, an officer said.
Police, who later claimed that the girl was 13-year-old Tammana Khatun, alleged that the girl was hit by splinters of the bomb.

“The bombing took place between two local groups over a rivalry. There was a similar incident in 2023 and one of our officers was injured in that. The girl died probably after she was hit by splinters of bombs,” a senior police officer said.

The IPS officer said that forensic examination would confirm the type of bomb that exploded, leading to the death of the girl at Barochandgar under Kaliganj police station limits.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said police will take strict legal action against the culprits.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened at the death of a young girl in an explosion at Barochandgar. My prayers and thoughts are with the family in their hour of grief,” Banerjee posted on X.
“Police shall take strong and decisive legal action against the culprits at the earliest,” she added.
“The girl’s body has been sent for post-mortem. We are probing into the cause of the explosion,” the police officer said.
Locals claimed that the girl along with her mother was going to a nearby pond to take a bath when she was hit by a bomb hurled by some people who took out a rally to celebrate the TMC’s win in the bypoll.

Trinamool Congress candidate Alifa Ahmed on Monday won the bypolls to the Kaliganj Assembly seat by a landslide margin of 50,049 votes over her nearest BJP rival Ashish Ghosh, bettering the 2021 winning margin of her father Nasiruddin Ahmed, whose demise in February this year necessitated the elections to the seat in West Bengal’s Nadia district.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/west-bengal-bypoll-result-bjp-hits-out-at-mamata-banerjee-after-girl-dies-in-bomb-blast-in-kaliganj-article-152137160

The Axiom-4 mission, featuring Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, is now set to launch on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST, NASA announced, days after postponing the launch for the sixth time.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission will be launched on June 25 at 12:01 pm (IST), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said in a statement.
“NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are targeting 2:31 am. EDT, Wednesday, June 25, for launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 4,” it said.
The Axiom-4 mission saw several postponements due to multiple reasons, including weather and technical. The Axiom-4 mission will lift off from the Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida.

The crew, which includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, will travel to the orbiting laboratory on a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft after launching on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket. The targeted docking time is approximately 7 a.m. Thursday, June 26. NASA will provide more details and its coverage information shortly.

Other astronauts who will accompany Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India are Commander Peggy Whitson from the US, and Mission Specialists Slawosz Uzananski-Wisniewksi from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary.

The spacecraft was set for launch on Sunday, June 22, but the launch was postponed for the sixth time.
NASA will announce the new date in the coming days. The mission that will carry Shubhanshu Shukla and three more astronauts to space was previously set for launch on June 19, but was postponed to June 22.
“NASA and Axiom Space are postponing the launch of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station. As part of an ongoing investigation, NASA is working with Roscosmos to understand a new pressure signature, after the recent post-repair effort in the aft most segment of the International Space Station’s Zvezda service module,” NASA said in a statement.
The US space agency said the Cosmonauts aboard the space station recently performed inspections of the pressurised module’s interior surfaces, sealed some additional areas of interest, and measured the current leak rate.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-mission-launch-this-date-june-25-nasa-iss-indian-astronaut-article-152140093

In a major breakthrough, the NIA had on Sunday arrested two locals — Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar — for sheltering three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack.

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday said that it has gathered a substantial body of evidence regarding identities of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack. It said the details will be made public at an appropriate time.

The anti-terror agency is probing the April 22 terrorist attack, which killed 26 people — all except one tourists — in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

In a major breakthrough, the NIA had on Sunday arrested two locals — Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar — for sheltering three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack. The trio are associated with Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the NIA said.

The arrested duo were produced before a Jammu court on Monday and they have been remanded to five days’ custody, the NIA said in a statement.

“The NIA has gathered a substantial body of evidence regarding the identities of the terrorists. This includes victims’ accounts, video footages, technical evidence and sketches released by the Jammu and Kashmir Police. All this evidence is being carefully analysed. NIA has not reached any conclusions at this stage,” the statement said.

The identities and further details of the terrorists will be made public at an appropriate time, it added.

The NIA said certain media coverage related to the identities of the perpetrators is speculative and therefore misleading.

“Such reports circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms are regarding the sketches and identities of the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack…

“It is reiterated that, as stated in the official press release dated June 22, 2025, two accused persons have been arrested in connection with the attack. During their interrogation, they have disclosed details about the identities of the three armed terrorists involved,” the statement said.

Parvaiz and Bashir had knowingly harboured the three armed terrorists at a seasonal dhok (hut) at Hill Park before the attack, the NIA investigation revealed.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/jammu-and-kashmir/gathered-substantial-evidence-on-identities-of-terrorists-involved-in-pahalgam-attack-nia-3599347

The world’s most beautiful girl and India’s ultimate global pride Urvashi Rautela genuinely needs no introduction given the bonafide sensation that she is. Being the highest-paid Indian actress in the country and the youngest to be ever featured in Forbes Rich List, she continues to inspire innumerable people all over the globe, especially with her remarkable influence on social media with more than 100 million followers across all platforms. Fashion and elegance run in her DNA and that’s why, Urvashi Rautela is ahead by a fair margin from all her contemporaries when it comes to the vogue game.

When we talk about Urvashi Rautela and her classy vogue game, we absolutely cannot afford to miss out on her supremely alluring and amazing airport looks. While she always pulls off incredible avatars at the airport, two of her latest looks that surfaced online from her ‘chill out’ moments inside her lavish and classy jet are going viral all over when it comes to being the ultimate airport fashion diaries. What’s most interesting is that they are lavish not just by the looks of it but also immensely when it comes to the commercials involved. While her red hot bodycon, custom-made gown costs a sensational 27 lakhs, the other look in her black outfit which is a beautiful blend of corporate swag and elite fashion costs an incredible 30 lakhs. These are by far the most expensive airport looks ever pulled off by any Indian actress and well, when it comes to unleashing royal supremacy, there’s certainly no one better than Urvashi. Check out the looks here –

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/global-icon-and-superstar-urvashi-rautela-s-latest-airport-looks-worth-a-whopping-27-lakhs-and-30-lakhs-go-super-viral-on-the-internet-the-most-expensive-ever-in-history-by-any-indian-actress/68593f6d98e7b5da75cca2bd 

Dangeti Jahnavi from Andhra Pradesh, will travel to space in 2029. She is the first Indian to complete Nasa’s International Air and Space Program. Jahnavi is a STEM advocate and asteroid discoverer.

Dangeti Jahnavi from Palakollu in Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district is set to travel to space in 2029. A graduate in Electronics and Communication Engineering, Jahnavi holds the distinction of being the first Indian to successfully complete NASA’s prestigious International Air and Space Program.

Jahnavi has been selected to travel to the Titan’s Orbital Port Space Station, a US-based project slated for inauguration in the next four years.

The space enthusiast completed her undergraduate studies at Lovely Professional University in Punjab, after finishing her Intermediate education in her hometown of Palakollu. Her parents, Srinivas and Padmasri, currently reside in Kuwait for work.

Jahnavi is known for her active engagement in the field of STEM education and space outreach. She has delivered talks for ISRO’s educational programs and addressed students at premier institutions including National Institutes of Technology (NITs) across the country. She also regularly takes part in analog missions, deep-sea diving, and global conferences related to planetary science and sustainability in long-duration space travel.

Her contributions to the International Astronomical Search Collaboration led to a provisional asteroid discovery, based on data from the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS). She was also the youngest foreign analog astronaut and the first Indian chosen for Space Iceland’s geology training.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/andhra-pradeshs-dangeti-jahnavi-to-travel-to-space-in-2029-becomes-first-indian-to-complete-nasas-international-air-and-space-program-2745117-2025-06-23

Air India on Sunday said it will temporarily reduce 118 weekly flights operated with narrow-body planes on 19 routes and suspend services on three routes.
The announcement comes days after the Tata Group-owned carrier said it will cut international flights operated with wide-body planes by 15 per cent temporarily.
In a statement, the airline said it is going for “temporary cuts of less than 5 per cent to its overall narrow-body network”.

The phone conversation initiated by Pezeshkian came hours after the US bombed three major nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan — in Iran, bringing itself into the Israel-Iran conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday conveyed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian India’s “deep concern” over Iran’s conflict with Israel and called for immediate de-escalation of the situation through “dialogue and diplomacy”.
The phone conversation initiated by Pezeshkian came hours after the US bombed three major nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan — in Iran, bringing itself into the Israel-Iran conflict.
In a social media post, Modi said he expressed “deep concern” at the recent escalations and that dialogue and diplomacy is the way forward for the early restoration of regional peace. “We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations,” Modi said.

“Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability,” the prime minister added.

President Pezeshkian briefed PM Modi in detail and shared his perspective on the current situation in the region, especially the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.
The US attack on the Iranian nuclear facilities has triggered fears of a wider regional conflict, with many leading countries and blocs calling for restraint.
The PMO said Modi conveyed to the Iranian president that India was on the side of peace and humanity.
“In this context, the prime minister emphasised the need for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward. He reiterated India’s support for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability,” it said in a statement.
Modi thanked Pezeshkian for the continued support being extended for the safe return and repatriation of the Indian community, it said.
The two leaders reiterated the shared commitment to continue to work for strengthening bilateral cooperation in different areas including trade and economic cooperation, science and technology and people-to-people ties, the PMO said. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch.
Soon after American B-2 bombers struck the Iranian installations with “bunker buster” bombs, US President Donald Trump said the Iranian nuclear facilities were “completely and totally obliterated” and warned of more attacks if Iran does not agree on peace.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US has committed a “grave violation” of the UN Charter, international law and the nuclear non-proliferation treaty by attacking Iran’s “peaceful nuclear installations”.
The Iranian foreign minister said he is travelling to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences. Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behaviour,” he said.
Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, he said in a statement.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-modi-expresses-deep-concern-over-iran-israel-conflict-in-conversation-with-iranian-president-pezeshkian-article-152131152

Amit Shah assured the Maoists that he would wholeheartedly welcome them if they laid down arms and joined the mainstream.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that despite it being the monsoon season, the anti-Naxal operations will continue, also urging the Maoists to lay down arms and join the journey of development while ruling out any talks.

His remarks came while he was laying foundation stones for the National Forensic Science University (NFSU) campus and a Central Forensic Science Lab in Chhattisgarh’s Nava Raipur Atal Nagar.

“Every time during the rainy season, Naxalites used to get rest (as swollen rivers hamper anti-Naxal operations inside dense forest), but this time, we will not let them sleep during monsoon, and we will move further to achieve the target of 31/3 (2026 to eliminate Naxalism),” Shah said.

“Lay down arms and join the journey of development; no need for talks. Just give up armed struggle and join the mainstream,” he added.

Shah even assured that he would wholeheartedly welcome them if they laid down arms and joined the mainstream.

Whatever promises the Chhattisgarh government and the Centre have made to them will be fulfilled, and we will try to help you even more, he said.

Further speaking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to make India a developed country by 2047, he said, “It is not focused only on innovation, infrastructure, industrial and economic developments, but ensuring timely justice is also included and three new laws (Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam) will help in ensuring timely justice.”

Meanwhile, amid the ongoing anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh, a woman Naxalite carrying a bounty of Rs 8 lakh was killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Friday morning.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/rains-no-barriers-amit-shah-says-naxals-wont-sleep-easy-this-monsoon-9398489.html

As per the official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, a total of 28 Indians were on board the latest flight home.

India has brought back over 1,700 nationals from Iran as the conflict with Israel escalates. The latest flight carrying Indian nationals from Iran touched down in Delhi on Sunday night.

As per the official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, a total of 28 Indians were on board the latest flight home.

India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals stranded in Iran and Israel amid the growing conflict. Under this operation, around 1,713 Indians have been evacuated from Iran.

MEA Minister of State Pabitra Margherita received the latest flight. As per an ANI report, the flight carried Indians from states such as Bihar, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.

The Minister of State further stated that Indian will be carrying out three more evacuation flights for nationals stranded in Iran.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/operation-sindhu-over-1-700-indians-brought-back-from-iran-evacuations-from-israel-to-be-done-via-land-borders-101750640253085.html

The Kuki group ITLF on Saturday announced it called off an indefinite shutdown, and the reason for it was that “an amicable solution” with the district administration has been reached under the “tribal customary law”, news agency PTI reported

The Defence Ministry has strongly criticised the local media in Manipur for carrying “misinformation” that the army was involved in an “agreement” which led to a Kuki group agreeing to call off an indefinite shutdown in Churachandpur district.

The Kuki group Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) had called the indefinite shutdown over the death of a woman after a gunfight between, according to the police, security forces and “unknown armed miscreants” in Langchingmanbi village on June 19.

The security forces began a search operation after a farmer from the Meitei community was shot at by “an unknown armed miscreant” while working in a paddy field near the foothills in Bishnupur district’s Phubala, the police had said.

The security forces came under fire from “unknown armed miscreants” while they were combing through Langchingmanbi, Heichanglok, and the western areas of Phubala village, and the forces retaliated.

“During the crossfire, one woman from Langchingmanbi village was found dead with a bullet injury. She was later identified as Hoikholhing, wife of the village chief of Langchingmanbi,” the police said in a statement on June 19.

In protest over the death of the woman, the ITLF called the indefinite shutdown in Kuki-dominant Churachandpur district.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/army-not-involved-defence-ministry-flags-misinformation-in-manipur-reports-over-churachandpur-shutdown-8734527

In a post on X, the fact-check unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) debunked false claims circulating on social media regarding the use of Indian airspace by the United States. Several social media accounts alleged that Indian airspace was used by the U.S. to launch aircraft against Iran during Operation Midnight Hammer.

Amid rising global tensions and flood of misinformation on social, the Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) fact-check unit stepped in to debunk yet another false narrative this time involving India’s alleged role in a U.S. military operation against Iran.

In a post on X, the fact-check unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) debunked false claims circulating on social media regarding the use of Indian airspace by the United States. Several social media accounts alleged that Indian airspace was used by the U.S. to launch aircraft against Iran during Operation Midnight Hammer.

However, PIB clarified that the claim is completely false.

“Indian airspace was not used by the United States during Operation Midnight Hammer,” PIB stated, labeling the viral posts as fake.

Source :https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/fake-news-alert-pib-debunks-claim-that-us-used-indian-airspace-during-iran-strikes-in-operation-midnight-hammer

While Rajnath Singh will attend the meeting of defence ministers of member nations in Qingdao from June 25 to 27, NSA Ajit Doval will attend a meeting of national security advisers ahead of the SCO summit.

Amid rising tensions between US, Iran and Israel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval will be visiting China this week to attend several meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

While Rajnath Singh will attend the meeting of defence ministers of member nations in Qingdao from June 25 to 27, Doval will attend a meeting of national security advisers ahead of the SCO summit.

This visit would mark the first ministerial-level engagement between India and China since relations began improving after the October 2024 agreement to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The visit of both Singh and Doval coincides with the departure of the first batch of Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar, a significant pilgrimage site in Tibet.

The SCO meeting will focus on regional security cooperation, counter-terrorism, and connectivity among member nations. Rajnath Singh may also hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun on the sidelines of the SCO meeting.

The visit is seen as part of a broader effort by both sides to restore normalcy in bilateral relations after the military standoff in eastern Ladakh began in May 2020. On the other hand, Ajit Doval will engage in Special Representative-level talks with Chinese officials to further de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and work towards a boundary settlement.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rajnath-singh-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-china-lac-ajit-doval-nsa-meeting-2744695-2025-06-23

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday asserted that Pakistan or terrorists would “never dare” to orchestrate terrorist attacks given the “reaction” by India against the ghastly attack in Pahalgam.

He said that India and its armed forces are against the killings of civilians and, thus, targeted only terrorist outfits during Operation Sindoor.

“The way centre gave action to the reaction…people have also understood. Terrorists or Pakistan will not dare do this again. Our armed forces carried out a very precise attack on the terrorist outfits. We are always against killing innocents,” Shinde told ANI.

He said that even Pakistan has learned that it would get a strong response for its misadventures.

“We responded strongly during Operation Sindoor. Ab Pakistan bhi jaan gaya hai ki pehle ki tarah yeh Congress ka haath nahi hai, yeh Modi ka hathora (hammer) hai (Pakistan has also learned that this is not Congress’ hand, but Modi’s hammer),” Shinde said.

He further lauded the central government for sending seven multi-party parliamentary delegations across 32 countries to present India’s stand against terrorism.

“Our government sent seven delegations to 32 different countries to present India’s stand and its role (against cross-border terrorism). 32 countries have supported us,” the Maharashtra CM said.

Shinde, who came to flag off the Sarhad Shauryathon in Kargil’s Dras, said he was apprehensive about the marathon being organised, given the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, but was glad people showed up.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/congress-ka-haath-nahi-yeh-modi-ka-hathoda-hai-eknath-shinde-says-pakistan-wont-dare-praises-modi-govts-anti-terror-efforts-video

India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and fourth-biggest gas buyer, has enough energy supplies to meet requirements for several weeks and continues to receive supplies from several routes, Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said amid escalating tensions in the globe’s biggest energy supply regions.

In a post on X, the minister said the government has been “closely monitoring the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East since the past two weeks.” “Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi Ji, we have diversified our supplies in the past few years and a large volume of our supplies do not come through the Strait of Hormuz now,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz, which Iran is threatening to shut down following US strikes on its nuclear facilities, is an important transit for oil coming from the Middle East.

About 2 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil out of India’s total import of 5.5 million bpd transits through the narrow waterway. However, India has diversified sources — from Russia to the US and Brazil — which can readily fill any void.

Russian oil is logistically detached from the Strait of Hormuz, flowing via the Suez Canal, Cape of Good Hope, or Pacific Ocean.

Even the US, West African, and Latin American flows — though costlier — are increasingly viable backup options.

“Our Oil Marketing Companies have supplies for several weeks and continue to receive energy supplies from several routes. We will take all necessary steps to ensure stability of supplies of fuel to our citizens,” Puri said.

Global oil prices have jumped to their highest level since January after Israel struck Iran, in a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

Rates of the benchmark Brent crude were up more than 10 per cent to USD 77 a barrel.

India imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil needs and roughly half of its natural gas requirement. More than 40 per cent of the oil imports and half of gas imports come from the Middle East.

Despite the spike on Friday, oil prices are still more than 10 per cent lower than where they were at the same point last year. They are also well below over USD 100 a barrel rate seen in early 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/india-has-oil-supplies-to-last-several-weeks-continues-to-receive-energy-from-several-routes-union-minister-hardeep-singh-puri

A team of technical experts from the UK is expected to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram in the next couple of days to examine a stranded F-35B ‘Lightning’ stealth fighter jet of the Royal Navy, people familiar with the matter said on Saturday.

The jet, worth over $110 million and known to be one of the most advanced fighters, made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport on June 14.

The aircraft, part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group of the Royal Navy, reportedly had a problem in its hydraulic system.

The people cited above said a team of experts from the Royal Navy is arriving in Thiruvananthapuram to inspect the aircraft.

Few days ago, a maintenance team from the Carrier Strike Group inspected the aircraft but could not address the glitch, they said.

The Indian Air Force last week said it was providing all necessary support for the “rectification and subsequent return” of the aircraft.

The aircraft was undertaking routine flying outside Indian Air Defence Identification Zone with Thiruvananthapuram earmarked as the emergency recovery airfield, it said in a brief statement.

The HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group carried out military drills with the Indian Navy last week.

It is learnt that the aircraft could not return to the carrier on the night of June 14 due to bad weather and made the emergency landing at the Thiruvananthapuram airport.

The F-35B is the only fifth generation fighter jet with short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, making it ideal for operating from smaller decks, austere bases and ships.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/kerala/uks-110-million-f-35b-stealth-fighter-jet-stranded-in-kerala-for-a-week-3596943

The BJP also sharpened its counter-attack, with posters being put up across the state capital bearing the slogan ‘Mera baap chaara chor, mujhe vote do’ (my father stole fodder meant for cattle, vote for me).

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Saturday continued with his “pickpocket” jibe, claiming that a staggering Rs 20,000 crore has been spent on rallies addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bihar so far.

The BJP also sharpened its counter-attack, with posters being put up across the state capital bearing the slogan “Mera baap chaara chor, mujhe vote do” (my father stole fodder meant for cattle, vote for me), belittling the leader of the opposition who leads the INDIA bloc in the upcoming assembly polls.

The young leader, who had a day ago raised the hackles of the ruling NDA by alleging that exorbitant ticket fares of Vande Bharat made Modi look like a “pocketmaar” (pickpocket), used the expression again in a stinging social media post.

He alleged that rallies of Modi in Bihar, since 2014, have cost “Rs 100 crore each” and there have been “200 such public meetings” so far.

“So the total amount splurged during the period, which has also seen five elections (three Lok Sabha and two Vidhan Sabha), is Rs 20,000 crore…many such meetings have been organised by the government even though the objective has been, clearly, electoral,” the former Bihar deputy CM claimed.

Notably, Modi was in Siwan district on Friday, which was his fifth visit to the state this year, the second in less than a month, and said to be “51st” since taking over as the prime minister.

Yadav, who seemed to be in no mood to give up his tirade, alleged, “What should we call a person who cleverly uses public money on his own publicity…and pretends to be a man of integrity?… Of course, pocketmaar, not madadgaar (a helper of the people).” The BJP, which takes on the RJD in the assembly elections due in just a few months, retaliated with full force.

A day after BJP’s former state unit president and Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary had sought to berate Yadav by using the famous line from the blockbuster ‘Deewaar’ – Mera baap chor Hai (my father is a thief) – in an obvious dig at RJD supremo Lalu Prasad’s corruption taint, the party engaged in a “poster war”.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/bihar/rs-20000-crore-spent-so-far-on-pm-modis-rallies-in-bihar-tejashwi-yadav-3596545

The operation began on June 15 when police arrested Passang Doka, a resident of Transport Colony, Seppa, for the illegal possession of 5.01 kg of ganja, East Kameng Superintendent of Police Kamdam Sikom said.

Arunachal Pradesh Police have seized over 210 kg of ganja and arrested three persons in East Kameng district, a senior officer said on Saturday.

The operation began on June 15 when police arrested Passang Doka, a resident of Transport Colony, Seppa, for the illegal possession of 5.01 kg of ganja, East Kameng Superintendent of Police Kamdam Sikom said.

He said the seizure was made during a house search conducted in the presence of Seppa Executive Magistrate and Extra Assistant Commissioner Tashi Thongdok and independent witnesses.

A case was registered at Seppa police station under the NDPS Act.

During interrogation, Doka revealed that the contraband was sourced from Tsering Phuntso, a resident of Kalaktang area in West Kameng district, the SP said.

Based on this input, a police team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) Mibom Yirang, and other personnel proceeded to Kalaktang on June 18, under the supervision of the SP.

With assistance from police in Kalaktang and in the presence of Kalaktang Executive Magistrate and Extra Assistant Commissioner Pema Dorjee, Phuntso was nabbed near Rangthangzorpam village and a gunny bag containing suspected ganja was seized from his possession.

A follow-up search at the residence of Yeshi Wangdi in Rangthangzorpam led to the recovery of nine more gunny bags containing ganja. The total quantity of contraband seized in the operation was approximately 210 kg, estimated to be worth around Rs 60 lakh in the illegal market.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/arunachal-pradesh/210-kg-of-ganja-seized-3-arrested-in-major-drug-bust-in-arunachal-3596474

As part of Operation Sindhu, three charter flights – two from Iran’s Mashhad and one from Turkmenistan’s Ashgabat – have successfully brought back 827 Indian nationals so far.

With an Indian flag clutched tightly in one hand and a dazed look in her eyes, Mizban stepped out of the airport visibly anxious and overwhelmed. “We saw dead bodies. Heard blasts. Saw airstrikes,” she muttered, avoiding eye contact as she tried to make sense of the safety around her. “From Tehran to Qom to Mashhad, we were always on the move since the Iran-Israel conflict escalated. I’m just grateful to be home. If we’re called back by my university, we’ll have to decide carefully.”

Not far from her stood Zubeda, a single mother from Srinagar, holding a faded photograph of her son, a medical student in Tehran. “I only spoke to him once or twice during the crisis. He hid his fear to keep me strong. I want him to become a doctor, but not at the cost of living through war,” she said, while scanning every face stepping through the arrival gate at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on Saturday evening, as Mahan Air flight IRM071A touched down with 256 Indian students, most of them from the Kashmir Valley, who had been stranded in Iran since the country began trading missile strikes with Israel on June 13.

This marks the third chartered evacuation flight under India’s ongoing mission Operation Sindhu, launched to bring back citizens caught in the crossfire of escalating tensions in Iran, particularly around Tehran after Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Operation Rising Lion.

As part of Operation Sindhu, a total of three charter flights – two from Iran’s Mashhad and one from Turkmenistan’s Ashgabat – have successfully brought back 827 Indian nationals so far, including over 300 students, though the final count is still being verified. A fourth evacuation flight is scheduled to arrive in Delhi at 11:30 pm on Saturday, expected to push the total number of returnees past the 1,000 mark.

Junaid, whose younger brother and sister were among the evacuees, recalled, “She called from random numbers when she could. We were extremely worried as there was an internet shutdown and so we lost communication. The university buildings were close to bombed zones. My brother made it home yesterday, but we were terrified for my sister. She’s just in her third semester at college.”

Sumarah Rahman, another Kashmiri student, said, “We were terrified. Nights were filled with sirens and blasts. But now we’re home. God willing, we’ll go back when it’s safe to finish our studies.”

Ahabashi, a final-year student from Shasherf Bishti University, added, “Tehran changed overnight. The fear was real. If death had come, it would have come so far from home. But the Indian government stood by us, every detail was handled with care.”

From Tehran to Qom to Mashhad: A Risky Escape

The rescued students had first been moved from Tehran to Qom, 150 kilometers to the south, before being taken to Mashhad, from where chartered flights began the homeward journey. Despite its closed airspace due to ongoing conflict with Israel, Iran made a rare exception to allow India’s emergency evacuations.

India’s Deputy Chief of Mission in Tehran, Mohammad Javad Hosseini, confirmed, “Iran has been aiding evacuations despite its own crisis. It’s a gesture of goodwill.” He noted that the evacuation has included pilgrims and medical students, many of whom were spread across universities and seminaries in the region.

The Jammu and Kashmir Students’ Association issued a statement expressing gratitude. “We thank the Government of India for their relentless efforts and timely coordination with Iranian authorities. We remain committed to the safe evacuation of all remaining students, especially those from vulnerable and remote regions,” the statement read.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/saw-dead-bodies-blasts-indian-students-return-from-iran-future-uncertain-8726409

A victim of sexual assault cannot be compelled to continue her unwanted pregnancy, the Bombay High Court has said while allowing a 12-year-old girl to abort her 28-week pregnancy despite an adverse report from medical experts.

If forced to give birth to a child against her wish, the court would be depriving her of the right to decide the “path of her life”, it said.

A medical board, after examining the girl, had opined that the process of termination of pregnancy would be highly risky, considering the girl’s age and the stage of the growth of the fetus.

A bench of Justices Nitin Sambre and Sachin Deshmukh, however, held in its June 17 order that abortion will have to be permitted. “This court cannot force the victim to carry her pregnancy against her wishes, as in such an eventuality, the state would be stripping her of the right to determine the immediate and long term path of her life,” the HC said.

“We are equally required to be sensitive to the fact that a woman can become pregnant by choice irrespective of her marital status, however, in case of unwanted or incidental pregnancy the burden invariably falls on the pregnant woman/victim,” the court said.

The girl had been sexually assaulted by her uncle following which a case was registered against him. The girl’s father moved the high court seeking to terminate her pregnancy, the result of the sexual assault.

The court, while permitting the termination of pregnancy, said all safety protocol shall be followed during the procedure to ensure no complication arises. The procedure should be carried out by a medical team including a paediatric surgeon, the HC said.

Under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy is prohibited unless allowed by a court.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sexual-assault-victims-cannot-be-forced-to-continue-unwanted-pregnancy-bombay-high-court-101750517322734.html

DGCA directs Air India to remove its three senior officials from all roles related to crew scheduling and rostering.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday ordered immediate action against three senior officials of Air India following “serious and repeated violations” related to flight crew scheduling and rostering.

The lapses, voluntarily disclosed by the airline, revealed that flight crew were scheduled and operated despite not meeting mandatory licensing, rest, and recency norms.

The aviation regulator further ordered that internal disciplinary proceedings must be initiated against these officials without delay, and the outcome of such proceedings shall be reported within 10 days.

The letter issued by the DGCA also stated that the officials shall be reassigned to non-operational roles pending conclusion of corrective reforms in scheduling practices, and shall not hold any position involving direct influence over flight safety and crew compliance until further notice.

The regulator also stated that it has identified three officials as directly accountable, namely Choorah Singh, Divisional Vice President; Pinky Mittal, Chief Manager in the Directorate of Operations, Crew Scheduling; and Payal Arora, Crew Scheduling – Planning.

“Any future violation of crew scheduling norms, licensing, or flight time limitations detected in any post-audit or inspection will attract strict enforcement action, including but not limited to penalties, license suspension, or withdrawal of operator permissions, as applicable,” the order concluded.

The order came days after an Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, London, crashed minutes after takeoff, killing 241 people on board.

Following DGCA’s order, Air India responded saying that the airlines has acknowledge the the directive and have implemented the order.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/dgca-directs-air-india-to-remove-its-3-senior-officials-report-9396819.html

An Indian student, Zoya, sent a message to her father on June 13 mentioning an attack by Israel on Iran’s military base.

Amid the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, a flight with 290 Indian students landed in Delhi on Friday. The development came as Iran opened its airspace for the evacuation of nearly 1,000 Indians.

Of the students who landed on Friday, one was Zoya Rizwi from Noida. Zoya, who was received by an emotional father at the airport, had written to him on June 13, saying, “Papa, save me,” reported NDTV.

Recounting the current situation, she was quoted as saying by NDTV, “I got really scared. There was an attack close to the place I was staying.”

According to the report, in her message to her father on June 13, Zoya had mentioned an attack by Israel on Iran’s military base.

“They have attacked a military base. If I have ever said anything wrong to you, please forgive me. I am going to sleep now. You will know tomorrow if I am alive or not,” read her message.

She told the outlet about seeing bombings. “There was an attack close to the place I was staying,” she said.

Zoya also extended gratitude to the Indian government for helping the students.

“The Indian embassy helped a lot, they relocated us, first to Qom, then Mashhad… Then the airspace was opened, so we came here from Mashhad,” she said.

Syeda Farwa, another student who landed on Friday and hails from Jammu and Kashmir, also recounted seeing drone attacks while she was in Iran. She also added that she wants to go back when the situation gets better.

Meanwhile, as a part of Operation Sindhu, 256 more Indian students, majorly from Kashmir, landed at Delhi airport on Sunday.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/papa-save-me-noida-student-recounts-iran-bombing-horror-before-rescue-flight-to-india-9397511.html

The investigation was initiated based on a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Delhi government against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, former PWD Minister Satyendar Jain, and others.

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has conducted search operations at 37 locations across Delhi on June 18 in connection with the alleged Rs 2,000-crore “Delhi Classroom Construction Scam”. The searches were carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The investigation was initiated based on a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Delhi government against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, former PWD Minister Satyendar Jain, and others. The case pertains to alleged financial misappropriation in the construction of over 12,748 additional classrooms between 2015 and 2023 by the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Delhi government.

According to the ED, while the initial sanctioned requirement was for 2,405 classrooms, the project scope was arbitrarily expanded first to 7,180 and then to 12,748 rooms without proper approvals. This led to significant cost escalations of up to 49.03% during the Priority-I and Priority-II phases.

The agency alleged unjustified adoption of richer specifications recommended by M/s Babbar & Babbar Associates, along with duplicate and inflated works.

During the raids, ED said it recovered incriminating evidence from private contractors, including original departmental files of the Delhi government and rubber stamps of PWD officials.
Authorities also found 322 bank passbooks linked to mule accounts opened in the names of labourers, which were allegedly used to divert public funds.
“Furthermore, forged letterheads of various private contractors and shell entities, which were used to generate fake procurement records and fictitious purchase bills, were found and seized. Evidences relating to fake invoices submitted to GNCTD departments, showing inflated or entirely bogus claims was found and seized,” the ED said in the statement.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a major crackdown in connection with a bogus GST refund scam amounting to nearly Rs 100 crore, allegedly executed through fake export bills. The case, registered against the then Additional Commissioner of Customs, Patna, Ranvijay Kumar, and 29 others, involves several senior customs officials and private individuals.

On Friday, the CBI carried out coordinated searches across seven locations in Bihar and Jharkhand-two each in Patna and Purnea, and one each in Jamshedpur, Nalanda, and Munger.

During the raids, officials recovered seven gold bars weighing 100 grams each, several incriminating documents, and mobile phones linked to the case.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/central-bureau-of-investigation-raids-fake-gst-claims-case-ex-customs-officer-named-2744300-2025-06-21

A total of 74,550 animal bite incidents, including those involving strays and pet animals, have been recorded between January and May this year in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddh Nagar, the district bordering Delhi. Stray dogs account for the majority of these attacks.

According to the latest figures released by the health department, 52,714 people were bitten by stray dogs, while pet dogs were responsible for 16,474 bite cases. The remaining incidents include 3,833 attacks by monkeys and 1,179 by cats.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Tikam Singh confirmed the spike in incidents and said the health department was actively working with the chief veterinary officer and the Noida Authority to identify hotspots across the district.

“We have started the process of identifying hotspots in the district in collaboration with the chief vigilance officer and Noida Authority. Through hotspots, we are working towards prevention and control,” he said.

On average, the district, which falls in the National Capital Region, is witnessing approximately 15,000 animal bite cases per month, translating to nearly 500 cases per day.

Some cases of dog bites have been captured on CCTVs where dogs can be seen attacking children as well as adults. All the attacks seemed unprovoked.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/noida-records-over-70000-animal-bite-cases-in-five-months-maximum-by-stray-dogs-2744295-2025-06-21

The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) has detained two Uzbekistan women residing in Lucknow without passports and visas. In order to conceal their identities and avoid detection, both women underwent plastic surgery at a local clinic.

The two women, Holida and Nilofar, were detained by FRRO from a flat in Omaxe City located in the Sushant Golf City area. Both underwent plastic surgery at the clinic of Dr Vivek Gupta in Lucknow.

During interrogation, both women confessed that they had come to Lucknow two years ago. The surgery was conducted by Dr Gupta at his clinic on the instructions of Trijin Raj alias Arjun Rana for a huge sum of money.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/lucknow-uzbekistan-women-plastic-surgery-staying-without-passport-and-visa-detained-by-frro-2744340-2025-06-22

In an embarrassing turn for the Jammu and Kashmir government, a bus transporting students evacuated from war-hit Iran has broken down five times en route to Srinagar. After an exhausting journey that ended in Delhi, the students are now stranded on the Pathankot highway for over two hours due to repeated mechanical failures.

The bus is carrying 14 girls who had already travelled more than 2,000 km by road in Iran. After reaching Delhi by flight, they were supposed to reach Kashmir safely. But the repeated breakdowns caused serious difficulties and distress.

Earlier, students who were evacuated from conflict-hit Iran had criticised the Jammu and Kashmir government for poor travel arrangements from Delhi to their hometowns. They, however, thanked the central government for the rescue operation.

Disappointed with the condition of the bus, the students said they had expected better treatment after going through days of fear and hardship in Iran. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association shared a video on X showing the condition of the bus.

“After enduring a harrowing four-day journey from Iran via Armenia and Doha, Kashmiri students have reached Delhi, only to be dumped in SRTC buses, unlike students from other states who were received with proper airport facilitation, care, and connecting flights home,” the association said.

In response to the backlash, the office of then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said it had “taken note” of the students’ concerns and was working with the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation to arrange “proper deluxe buses” for their journey.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/iran-evacuated-kashmiri-students-stranded-srinagar-bus-breaks-down-five-times-pathankot-highway-2744228-2025-06-21

The Madras High Court has made it clear that is not necessary for a wife to get her husband’s permission and his signature while applying for a passport. The court added that such a practice does not augur well for a society that is moving towards women’s emancipation and was a kind of male supremacism.

“The practice of insisting for permission from the husband to apply for passport, does not augur well for a society which is moving towards woman emancipation. This practise is nothing short of male supremacism,” the court observed.

Expressing shock at the authority’s insistence, Justice Anand Venkatesh observed that insistence by the Passport Authorities showed the mindset of the society, which treated women like a chattel and as belonging to the husband after marriage. The court added that the woman does not lose her individuality after marriage and can always apply for a passport without the permission or signature of her husband.

“In the considered view of this Court, the application submitted by the petitioner seeking for passport has to be processed independently. It is not necessary for a wife to get the permission of her husband and take his signature before applying for a passport before the authority. This insistence made by the 2nd respondent shows the mindset of the society in treating woman who are married as if they are chattel belonging to the husband. It is quite shocking that the passport office is insisting for the permission of the husband and his signature in a particular form in order to process the application submitted by the petitioner for passport,” the court said.

The court was hearing a petition filed by a wife seeking direction to the Regional Passport Office to process her passport application. The wife had submitted that she got married in 2023 and had a daughter in 2024. While so, due to a matrimonial dispute, her husband had filed for dissolution of marriage, which was pending before the Sub-Court, Alandur.

The wife submitted that when she applied for a passport in April 2025, it was not processed, and when she enquired, she was informed that she should obtain her husband’s signature in Form J. Though the Regional Passport Office was informed about the matrimonial dispute, the wife was told that her application would be processed only after obtaining the signature. Against this, she had moved the present plea.

The court noted that when the relationship between the parties was in doldrums, by forcing the wife to get her husband’s signature, the authorities were insisting her to fulfil an impossibility.

Source : https://www.livelaw.in/high-court/madras-high-court/madras-high-court-hit-3-movie-unauthorised-adaptation-plea-notice-295423

An Indian man returning from Bangkok was caught carrying two live monkeys of different species in ventilated carry bags and seven tortoises in a cloth bag at the Chennai airport.

The passenger was arrested on Wednesday night and later sent to judicial custody by a court. The animals have been sent back to Thailand.

The import of such wildlife without authorisation is prohibited under the Customs Act, 1962, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) regulations governing international trade in endangered species.

The arrest reflects a worrying trend as the Chennai airport has been seeing several cases of exotic animals being smuggled in, mainly from Southeast Asian countries.

In August 2024, Customs officers caught a passenger from Bangkok trying to bring in 22 rare animals, including snakes, turtles, and flying monkeys. A few weeks before that, another passenger was found with 14 pythons, 30 blue iguanas, and four squirrels hidden in bags.

In 2022, there were 11 cases at the airport and the animals whose smuggling was attempted included albino porcupines, sugar gliders, tamarin monkeys and tortoises.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/flyer-smuggles-in-2-monkeys-7-tortoises-from-bangkok-caught-in-chennai-8720178

Prime Minister Narendra Modi declined a visit to Washington at the invitation of US President Donald Trump to attend the first anniversary of the BJP’s government in Odisha. During a phone call, PM Modi explained his commitment to the sacred land of Lord Jagannath. PM Modi also launched over Rs 18,600 crore in development projects while in Odisha, emphasizing infrastructure improvements.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he declined an invitation from US President Donald Trump to visit Washington in order to visit Odisha, the sacred land of Lord Jagannath. PM Modi is in Odisha to celebrate the first anniversary function of the BJP’s maiden government in the state. President Trump invited PM Modi during a phone call earlier this week after the US leader left the G-7 meeting mid-way amid rising hostilities between Israel and Iran.
Addressing a massive gathering in Bhubaneswar, PM Modi said: “A couple of days ago, I was in Canada attending the G7 Summit when I received a call from President Trump, who kindly invited me to visit Washington. While I expressed my gratitude for his thoughtful invitation, I explained that I needed to return to the sacred land of Mahaprabhu. With due respect, I graciously declined his offer.”
PM Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday – the first conversation between the two leaders after the pause in Operation Sindoor last month.

During the 35-minute phone call with President Trump, PM Modi set the record straight that Operation Sindoor – launched by India against terror sites in Pakistan – was “paused” following a request from Pakistan and not due to mediation or offer of a trade deal by the US. PM Modi made it clear that countries that support terrorism must face the consequences.

“PM Modi clarified that no topics related to trade were discussed in connection with Operation Sindoor. He asserted that India has never accepted third-party mediation and will not accept such mediation in the future,” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a statement on the PM Modi-President Trump phone call.
President Trump invited PM Modi, who was in Canada to attend the G-7 meeting, to visit the US on his return journey from Canada.
Indian officials had then said that PM Modi said he could not accept the invitation due to a pre-existing schedule. PM Modi invited President Trump to visit India for the Quad Summit, likely later this year.
PM Modi launched development projects worth over Rs 18,600 crore as he participated in the first anniversary function of the BJP’s maiden government in the state. These included 105 development projects unveiled under the “Odisha Vision Document”.
He also felicitated several people, including ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and others.
PM Modi, who visited Odisha for the sixth time since the BJP government was formed in the state in June 2024, launched the projects at a function at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-narendra-modi-on-why-he-refused-president-donald-trump-invite-to-the-us-article-152117133

This evacuation follows Iran’s decision to lift airspace restrictions for Indian flights. The recent operations, part of Operation Sindhu, have already facilitated the return of 110 students from Armenia. While many are grateful, concerns remain for those still stranded. The Iranian embassy expressed commitment to facilitate further evacuations, ensuring the safety of Indian citizens.

Three charter flights will land in Delhi tonight with about 1,000 Indian nationals, mostly students, from Iran. The evacuation was made possible after Iran lifted airspace restrictions in a special gesture for India. Another flight, carrying Indian nationals from Turkmenistan’s capital Ashgabat will also land in Delhi. The Indians returning on the flight had left Iran through a land border crossing.
This will be the second batch of Indians evacuated from Iran in view of the precarious security situation arising out of Iran-Israel hostilities. On Thursday, 110 Indian students arrived in New Delhi on a special flight from Yerevan, Armenia under Operation Sindhu – the massive evacuation exercise by India to bring back its nationals from Iran and Israel.
“We faced no issues till now,” said an Indian student after being evacuated from Iran.

However, their journey to their motherland was not easy.

Following directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), 500 out of 520 fuel stations in Delhi have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras.

Around 30 lakh out of 3.6 crore vehicles checked through a new system installed at fuel stations in Delhi were found without valid Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC), leading to fines worth Rs 168 crore, officials said on Friday.

Of the total, 4.9 lakh were overage or end-of-life (EOL) vehicles — diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years — which are highly polluting.

Following directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), 500 out of 520 fuel stations in Delhi have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras.

These cameras will help stop the sale of fuel to overage vehicles from July 1 by detecting them. Once identified, the system will alert the command centre and enforcement teams from the traffic and transport departments, who may then take action, including impounding the vehicles.

“The installation of cameras began in December. Since then, 3.6 crore vehicles have been screened. Among them, 4.9 lakh were EOL vehicles, and 25.92 lakh were running without valid PUCCs. This led to fines worth Rs 168 crore,” Virinder Sharma, Member (Technical), CAQM, said.

The system will be extended to five high-vehicle-density districts near Delhi – Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar and Sonipat – starting November 1. Camera installation in these areas will be completed by October 31.

CAQM officials made it clear that the rule applies to all EOL vehicles, regardless of where they are registered in India.

“Our directions do not say that only vehicles registered in Delhi will be denied fuel. Vehicles from outside Delhi-NCR also operate here and add to pollution. Some Delhi residents are registering vehicles in other states to avoid rules, and this must be discouraged,” Sharma said.

He added that EOL buses from any part of India will also be tracked through this system. Separate guidelines will be issued to limit their movement in Delhi-NCR.

To support enforcement, 100 teams made up of traffic and transport officials have been formed. Fuel stations found breaking the rules will face strict action under the law, Sharma said.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/cameras-at-delhi-pumps-detect-49-lakh-overaged-vehicles-25-lakh-without-pucc-3595988

The Delhi High Court on Friday ordered takedown of a YouTube channel operating in the name of Anjana Om Kashyap, anchor and Managing Editor (Special Projects) of Aaj Tak news channel.

Justice Prathiba M Singh passed the order on a suit filed by TV Today Network (owner of Aaj Tak) for a permanent injunction against impersonation and misuse of its intellectual property rights.

The Court was told that the YouTube channel by use of ‘Deepfake’ technology was creating false and fabricated news videos with the anchor being presented as reading the news on behalf of the news organization.

The Court in the interim order said the page appeared to be fake and thus the plaintiff (TV Today) has made out a case for interim injunction.

“Considering the identity of the defendant no 2, the missing P in the word Kashyap, it is clear that the same appears to be a fake page. Such fake YouTube pages and fake profiles being made using her goodwill, reputation and personality is contrary to law. Accordingly, the plaintiff has made out a case for interim injunction,” the Court stated.

Accordingly, it directed Google to take down the page within 48 hours. It also ordered disclosure of the Basic Subscriber Details of the YouTube channel owner.

“The identity of D2 is unknown and so it is directed that Google shall take down the YouTube channel within 48 hours and BSI details of the person who has put up this channel shall be disclosed in 2 weeks. Then the persons disclosed may be impleaded,” the Court directed.

It also directed Google to file details about the revenue earned by the fake YouTube page. Further, it said that in case further such pages are created, the URL shall be given to Google for takedown of the same.

Advocate Hrishikesh Baruah appearing for TV Today earlier submitted that the YouTube channel was being used to spread fake news and earn money.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/ed-tells-officials-to-seek-directors-approval-before-summoning-lawyers

The Indian students were rescued from Tehran as part of India’s Operation Sindhu. Approximately 1000 students will be brought back through Mahan Air’s chartered flights.

The first flight carrying 290 Indian students from Iran landed in Delhi on Friday night at around 11.40 pm under India’s evacuation program, Operation Sindhu. This rescue operation is being conducted through Mahan Air’s chartered flights from Mashhad to bring approximately 1,000 Indians back home.

While the first flight from Mashhad has already arrived, the second flight from Ashgabat is scheduled to land on Saturday morning at around 10 am. The third flight will land on Saturday evening.

“We consider Indians as our own people. Iran’s airspace is closed but because of this issue, we are making arrangements to open it for the safe passage of Indian nationals,” Mohammad Javad Hosseini, the deputy chief of mission at the Iranian embassy said at a media briefing.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/flight-carrying-indian-students-from-iran-lands-in-delhi-as-tehran-opens-airspace-for-evacuation-2743966-2025-06-20

The incident occurred during a search operation launched by security personnel in Langchingmanbi village, hours after a separate gun attack in Phubala, Bishnupur district, where Ningthoujam Biren, a 60-year-old Meitei farmer, was shot and injured by unidentified assailants while working in his paddy field.

An indefinite shutdown called by the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has brought daily life to a grinding halt across Churachandpur district and other Kuki-dominated regions of Manipur. The protest was launched in response to the killing of Hoikholhing, wife of the Langchingmanbi village chief. She was allegedly killed during a crossfire between security forces and armed militants on Thursday, June 19.

The incident occurred during a search operation launched by security personnel in Langchingmanbi village, hours after a separate gun attack in Phubala, Bishnupur district, where Ningthoujam Biren, a 60-year-old Meitei farmer, was shot and injured by unidentified assailants while working in his paddy field.

In a strongly-worded statement, the Kuki Inpi Youth Affairs, a youth wing of a Kuki organisation, alleged that “Hoikholhing was shot dead during a crossfire between Central security forces and armed Meitei militants.” The organisation blamed what it called the negligence of security forces and warned that the government must act to prevent a further rise in unrest.

The ITLF condemned the killing as a “grave injustice” and said the incident highlighted the ongoing failure of authorities to protect civilians in conflict-hit areas. “This is not just a tragic loss for one family, but a glaring example of the state’s breakdown in law and order,” the ITLF said in its statement.

In support of the shutdown, six Kuki civil society organisations have expressed solidarity and demanded a high-level investigation into the circumstances leading to Hoikholhing’s death. They also called for accountability and immediate justice for the victim’s family.

By Friday morning, Churachandpur town wore a deserted look, with bandh supporters blocking roads, including the strategic Tiddim Road (NH-150) that connects Imphal with Mizoram via Churachandpur. Markets, educational institutions, and government offices remained shut, though essential services such as pharmacies and medical facilities were exempted from the bandh.

This latest flare-up comes amid ongoing ethnic unrest that has plagued Manipur since May 3, 2023, when large-scale violence broke out between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The region remains heavily militarized, with additional state and central forces deployed in the wake of the recent incidents to maintain order.

Authorities have appealed for calm and reassured the public that investigations into both the Churachandpur and Phubala shootings are underway. However, with tensions running high and community trust in law enforcement eroding, the indefinite shutdown threatens to deepen the divide and prolong the instability gripping the state.

Meanwhile, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has urged the government to take immediate and firm action to address the rising threat perception faced by farmers during the current cultivation season.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kuki-woman-killed-in-crossfire-with-security-in-manipur-leads-to-indefinite-shutdown-2743995-2025-06-21

Bar & Bench has accessed the report of in-house committee constituted to probe the allegations of cash discovery at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma in March this year.

The committee comprising Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court GS Sandhawalia and Karnataka High Court judge Anu Sivaraman has made damning conclusions against Justice Varma and has rebuffed his claims that the episode was a set up to frame him.

Over the past eight years, the Uttar Pradesh Police have undertaken extensive operations against hardened criminals, resulting in the neutralization of 234 notorious offenders. These actions occurred during 14,741 encounters, which also led to the arrest of 30,293 criminals and injuries to 9,202.

Over the past eight years, the Uttar Pradesh Police have undertaken extensive operations against hardened criminals, resulting in the neutralization of 234 notorious offenders. These actions occurred during 14,741 encounters, which also led to the arrest of 30,293 criminals and injuries to 9,202.

During these operations, 18 police personnel lost their lives, and over 1,700 were injured while on duty. Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna reported that the Meerut zone recorded the highest number of encounters, with 4,183 operations leading to the arrest of 7,871 criminals.

In this zone, 2,839 criminals were injured, and 77 were killed. These operations also resulted in injuries to 452 police personnel, with two fatalities among officers. Meerut zone has thus emerged as a leading region in the state for police action against criminals.

The Varanasi zone documented 1,041 encounters, resulting in 2,009 arrests, 26 fatalities, and 605 injuries among criminals, with 96 police personnel also injured. The Agra zone ranked third, with 2,288 encounters, 5,496 arrests, 19 deaths, and 715 injuries, and 56 police personnel sustaining injuries.

Across other zones, the Lucknow zone saw 790 encounters with 15 criminals eliminated. Prayagraj reported 506 encounters leading to 10 deaths.

Bareilly zone recorded 1,962 encounters with 15 criminals killed, and Kanpur zone had 657 encounters resulting in 11 deaths. In Gorakhpur, 594 encounters led to the elimination of 8 criminals. Among police commissionerates, Lucknow led with 11 criminals eliminated in 126 encounters.

Gautam Buddha Nagar followed with 9 killings in 1,035 encounters. Varanasi and Agra commissionerates each recorded 7 eliminations (in 118 and 426 encounters respectively), Kanpur had 4 in 221, and Prayagraj saw 5 criminals killed in 126 encounters.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/uttar-pradesh-news-234-criminals-neutralised-in-14741-encounters-over-8-years-meerut-zone-leads-in-police-crackdown

Air India CEO assured that they are working with the aviation industry and waiting for the official investigation report to provide more information about the crash in which 241 out of the 242 passengers on board were killed after the plane crashed into the BJ Medical college’s boys hostel building.

Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson on Thursday said that the flight AI-171, which crashed shortly after taking off in Ahmedabad on June 12, was “well-maintained” and both the aircraft and its engines were regularly monitored, showing no issue before the flight.

In a wordy statement for its customers, Air India’s CEO informed that the plane had undergone its last major check in June 2023, while its right engine was overhauled in March of this year, and the left engine was inspected in April 2025.

“The plane was well-maintained, with its last major check in June 2023 and the next scheduled for December 2025. Its right engine was overhauled in March 2025, and the left engine was inspected in April 2025. Both the aircraft and engines were regularly monitored, showing no issues before the flight,” Campbell Wilson said.

Air India CEO assured that they are working with the aviation industry and waiting for the official investigation report to provide more information about the crash in which 241 out of the 242 passengers on board were killed after the plane crashed into the BJ Medical college’s boys hostel building.

Campbell Wilson further added that Air India has completed inspection on 26 Boeing 787 aircraft out of 33 of its aircraft as per the directions of Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) after the tragedy. He added that following the review of Air India aircraft, the DGCA has confirmed that our Boeing 787 fleet and maintenance processes fully meet safety standards.

“Arising from this tragedy, and as directed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on June 14, 2025, we have been conducting thorough safety inspections on our 33 Boeing 787 aircraft. So far, inspections have been completed on 26 and these have been cleared for service. The remaining aircraft are currently in planned maintenance and will have these additional checks done before being released into service. Following the review, the DGCA has confirmed that our Boeing 787 fleet and maintenance processes fully meet safety standards,” he said in the statement.

Air India CEO also raised the recent incidents of delays and technical issues and apologised for the inconvenience.

He further added that Air India has elected to continue enhanced pre-flight safety checks on Boeing 787 fleet as a “confidence-building mesure” while also noting that these checks may have impact on schedules.

“As a confidence-building measure, we have elected to continue enhanced pre-flight safety checks on our Boeing 787 fleet and, as an added measure, our Boeing 777 aircraft, for the time being. Given the time these additional checks will consume and the potential impact on schedules, we have decided to reduce our international widebody flights by around 15% starting June 20, 2025 through to at least mid-July. This will also allow us to have more backup aircraft ready to handle any unexpected issues,” he said.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/ahmedabad-plane-crash-aircraft-its-engines-showed-no-issues-before-flight-says-air-india-ceo-campbell-wilson

As the oil gas leak at an ONGC site in Assam well entered its eighth day, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri reviewed the site. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged urgent action amid local concerns.

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday said that well control operations are underway in full swing at the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) RDS 147 A site in Sivasagar, Assam, where a blowout at a crude oil well has led to a sustained gas leak for eight consecutive days that started on June 12.

Taking to X, Puri shared that the site is being handled by a Crisis Management Team comprising experienced blowout control specialists. He also thanked Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and state authorities for their prompt support in relief and evacuation efforts.

The Union Minister said the well is being continuously blanketed with water to prevent fire, and the released gas – 97% methane – contains no toxic substances.

“Being lighter than air, the gas is dispersing upwards and not accumulating on the ground,” he noted, adding that air quality near the well mouth remains within safe limits even within 50 to 100 metres.

Puri added that the gas pressure has decreased from 2600 psi to 500 psi, and measures like junk shot operations and pumping of kill fluids are underway. If these do not prove sufficient, capping of the well may also be considered.

The blowout occurred on June 12 at Well No. RDS 147 of Rig No. SKP 135 in the Rudrasagar oil field operated by SK Petro Services on behalf of ONGC. Chief Minister Himanta Sarma, who visited the site earlier this week, raised concerns over the pace of ONGC’s response. In a letter to Puri, he urged for a mission-mode approach, citing public perception of “inadequate urgency” from the company.

“Despite ongoing efforts, the well remains active and continues to leak gas. Over 330 families have been evacuated and are being supported by the state government with relief measures,” Sarma wrote, also announcing 25,000 aid per affected family.

ONGC later said its experts are working round the clock and are consulting with an international well control agency. Additional personnel have been brought in from other centres, and part of the gas is being diverted to a nearby production facility.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/union-minister-on-gas-leak-in-assam-ongc-well-blanketed-water-avoid-fire-2743387-2025-06-20

Citing SC precedents, the high court said a rape survivor’s statement, especially sexual assault cases concerning children, need not be corroborated if it inspires confidence

The Chhattisgarh High Court upheld the conviction and 20-year jail term to three men for the gangrape of a 13-year-old girl during a wedding celebration in Kondagaon district.

The bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru dismissed their appeals, observing that the trial court had rightly convicted them under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

“Any act of sexual assault or sexual harassment to the children should be viewed very seriously and all such offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment on the children have to be dealt with in a stringent manner and no leniency should be shown to a person who has committed the offence under the POCSO Act,” the division bench wrote in a headnote to the judgment.

The incident took place on April 26, 2019, when the girl and her friend stepped out of a crowded wedding venue in Makdi village to go to a nearby field. The survivor testified that four men dragged her away and took turns to rape her while keeping her friend restrained. She later identified the accused – residents of nearby villages. She had seen their faces in the light from their mobile phones, and was also helped by residents of Ambal village from where the groom’s party was visiting.

The day after the crime, she lodged a complaint with the Kondagaon police and, based on her statement, a case was registered under Sections 376D and 506 of the Indian Penal Code along with relevant sections of the POCSO Act.

The police carried out medical examinations of the survivor and the accused, seized clothing involved, and forwarded the biological evidence for forensic analysis. During the trial, the prosecution examined 12 witnesses, including the survivor, her family, her friend, medical officers, and the investigating officer.

The minor’s testimony was consistent and detailed. She clearly described the attack and identified the accused. Her medical report showed a torn hymen and vaginal injuries.

Forensic tests determined semen stains on her underwear and the undergarments of the accused. Doctors confirmed that all three accused were capable of sexual activity and fresh injuries were noted on two of them.

The defence, however, argued that the case was built solely from the girl’s version, pointing to alleged contradictions and claiming false implication. It questioned the absence of immediate corroboration, lack of injuries on the accused, and challenged the method used to determine the girl’s age.

But the court was not convinced by these arguments. Referring to school admission records, the court held that the girl was 13 years old at the time of the incident, with the case attracting the POCSO provisions. The defence had offered no proof to rebut this.

Citing Supreme Court precedents, the high court said a rape survivor’s statement, especially sexual assault cases concerning children, need not be corroborated if it inspires confidence.

“A girl or a woman in the tradition bound non-permissive society of India would be extremely reluctant even to admit that any incident which is likely to reflect on her chastity had ever occurred,” the court observed.

It added: “She would be conscious of the danger of being ostracised by society and when in the face of these factors the crime is brought to light, there is inbuilt assurance that the charge is genuine rather than fabricated.”

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/no-leniency-in-pocso-cases-chhattisgarh-hc-upholds-20-year-jail-term-for-minors-gangrape-ws-l-9394490.html

Shashi Tharoor said that while there may be occasional differences with “some elements of leadership,” they are best addressed privately.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor sought to downplay reports of internal friction within the party, asserting that while there may be occasional differences with “some elements of leadership,” they are best addressed privately.

“I have been loyal to the Congress for 16 years, and if there are any differences, they should be discussed behind closed doors with the people concerned,” he told NDTV.

Shashi Tharoor’s remarks come amid persistent speculation about his strained ties with sections of the Congress leadership, especially following his participation in the government-led Operation Sindoor outreach- a move that reportedly upset some within the party. More recently, questions were raised over his absence from the campaign trail during the Nilambur by-election in Kerala.

Clarifying his stance, Shashi Tharoor said he had not been invited but wished the Congress candidate well and had expressed support publicly. “I said I wished him all success. He is a friend of mine,” he said.

Shashi Tharoor maintained a conciliatory tone, saying, “This is hardly the time to discuss such matters,” adding that his focus remains on strengthening the party and serving the people.

Signs of a rift surfaced when Shashi Tharoor was excluded from the party’s recommendation list for all-party delegations to 33 nations after Operation Sindoor- a move widely seen as a signal of displeasure from the central leadership. After his government nomination to the Operation Sindoor initiative, he was accused by internal critics of endorsing the BJP’s narrative- charges he has strongly denied.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/shashi-tharoor-plays-down-congress-rift-says-differences-should-be-settled-behind-closed-doors-9394502.html

Pakistan Deputy PM Ishaq Dar has confirmed Indian strikes on Nur Khan and Shorkot airbases during ‘Operation Sindoor’, acknowledging deeper damage than previously admitted.

In yet another revelation regarding the attack on its airbases, Pakistan has confirmed significant areas in the country were hit during India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ targeting terror infrastructures there.

Pakistani Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, during a telecast on a local channel, confirmed that India struck the Nur Khan and Shorkot airbases during the retaliatory strikes.

Further, Dar also could be heard claiming that Saudi Prince Faisal bin Salman offered him to inform External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar that Pakistan was “ready to stop”, implying that Pakistan pleaded for support from Saudi Arabia and the United States.

This comes days after Pakistan, on June 4, admitted it suffered more damage than it had earlier acknowledged, during India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ on the intervening night of May 6 and 7.

At least eight more of Pakistan’s locations were struck and damaged in the Indian strikes, a confidential Pakistani dossier on its internal military Operation ‘Bunyan un Marsoos’ had revealed.

Meanwhile, taking a dig at the Shehbaz Sharif-led country, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s IT cell chief Amit Malviya wrote on X, “So now it’s official: Pakistan admits it was hit.”

“Pakistan admits it ran to both the US and Saudi Arabia, begging India to halt. Pakistan inadvertently admits that Trump wasn’t the only one lobbying India — even Riyadh was roped in,” Malviya wrote.

“From Balakot to Sindoor, Pakistan’s denials continue to collapse under truth bombs. A national security embarrassment for them, a strategic validation for India,” he added.

On Wednesday, India slammed Pakistan’s attempt to “mischaracterise” ‘Operation Sindoor’ and said that when a state harbours terrorists who massacre innocents, defensive action is not just a right, but a solemn duty.

“The world sees through Pakistan’s theatre of deception,” Counsellor at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva Kshitij Tyagi told the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva.

He pointed out that Pakistani terrorists turned a serene sanctuary in Jammu and Kashmir into a killing field on April 22, “carrying out a barbaric execution of 26 Indian tourists in Pahalgam in front of their families.”

India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The strikes triggered four days of intense clashes that ended with an understanding on stopping the military actions on May 10.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/pakistani-admits-nur-khan-shorkot-airbases-struck-indian-operation-sindoor-ishaq-dar-video-india-pakistan-conflict-9394593.html

The surge was driven primarily by a steep increase in holdings through local bank branches and other financial institutions.

Indian funds parked in Swiss banks more than tripled in 2024 to CHF 3.54 billion (approximately ₹37,600 crore), marking the highest level since 2021, according to data released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB). The surge was driven primarily by a steep increase in holdings through local bank branches and other financial institutions while personal customer deposits saw only a modest rise of 11% to CHF 346 million (around ₹3,675 crore), data showed.

Sharp Rebound After 2023 Decline

Over 150 pilgrims are stranded in Iran due to flight cancellations amid escalating conflict, prompting urgent appeals for help.

When Syed Ghazanfar Abbas, a former TTE in the railways, left home on May 25 with his son Sarwar Abbas and daughter Tathhir Fatima for pilgrimage to Iraq and Iran, the family was not only happy but also thanked the Almighty for this opportunity.

Syed Ghazanfar Abbas with his son Sarwar Abbas at airport while leaving for Iraq and Iran. (File photo)
Syed Ghazanfar Abbas with his son Sarwar Abbas at airport while leaving for Iraq and Iran. (File photo)
However, the situation is no longer the same in war-torn Iran and now the relatives of Abbas, a Rani Mandi resident, are a worried lot as the family was supposed to return to Delhi on June 13, but they are still stuck there.

Over 150 pilgrims from the district are stuck in Iran and their family members are awaiting their safe return.

Abbas’s younger brother Syed Zafar Abbas, an advocate in Allahabad High Court, said that unexpected war-like conditions have left the entire family in a lurch.

“My elder brother had left for pilgrimage to Iraq and Iran on May 25. When he reached Najaf in Iran via Iraq on May 29, he shared every information related to his well being. From Najaf, my brother reached Tehran via Kum on June 7. From there, he had a flight to Delhi on June 13,” he said.

However, he further informed, on the same day that conditions deteriorated between the two countries owing to which the flight was cancelled. Repeated attempts to contact his brother failed, but finally on June 15, he came to know that his brother’s family was safe. He further said that prayers were needed every minute as the situation in Iran was not at all good.

Syed Zafar Abbas said that the entire family and relatives were praying for the safe return of his brother and children.

Appeal made to the government

Before the war between Iran and Israel started, more than 150 pilgrims from the district had gone to Iran for haj. They were slated to return on June 13, but due to cancellation of flights, all the pilgrims are presently stuck in Iran.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/over-150-pilgrims-from-prayagraj-stuck-in-war-torn-iran-101750360152766.html

India has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop the medium weight deep penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth features to bolster its air power capability.

India has kick-started the process to implement an ambitious project to develop a fifth generation stealth fighter jet to boost its air power.

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), an entity that operates under the defence ministry, has invited Expression of Interest (EOI) for developing prototypes of the aircraft.

Under the project, the government plans to build five prototypes of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

India has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop the medium weight deep penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth features to bolster its air power capability.

AMCA along with the Tejas light combat aircraft are planned to be the mainstays of the Indian Air Force.

The ADA said the aim of the EOI is to shortlist Indian companies (owned and controlled by resident Indian citizens) who are technically capable of building the AMCA prototypes.

In an official note, it said the applicant may be a single company, joint venture or a consortium of companies.

It said reputed Indian companies having experience in the aerospace and defence sector with capability to absorb the design of AMCA will be shortlisted for the project.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-kick-starts-process-to-build-5th-generation-stealth-fighter-jet-amca-8711917

This also comes a day after the DMK’s student wing on June 18 protested in Madurai against the issue

The BJP was attempting to hide findings from Keeladi because of their hatred for Tamil pride, said TN chief minister and DMK president MK Stalin on Thursday, amid the controversy over Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officer Amarnath Ramakrishna’s report on the archaeological site and his transfer two days ago.

Describing ASI asking for additional evidence from Ramakrishna as a “blatant attack” on Tamil culture, Stalin in a letter to DMK cadre said that the party’s struggle on this issue will not stop.

Stalin added that the final report submitted in 2023 by Ramakrishna was based on scientific results obtained from laboratories in Pune, Bengaluru, Florida (US), and Italy, analysing artifacts from the Keeladi excavations.

Stalin questioned whether the BJP has evidence to prove the existence of a Saraswathi civilisation, which he said is imaginary. “The BJP-led Union government has demanded additional evidence on Keeladi over two years after a detailed report was submitted to the ASI in 2023,” Stalin said. “They are keen on suppressing Tamil cultural pride. This is a blatant attack on us.”

This also comes a day after the DMK’s student wing on June 18 protested in Madurai against the issue. “Tamils are Indians. However, neither the Prime Minister nor the BJP government acknowledge the significance of findings by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) that Iron Age in the state could go back to 5,200 years ago,” Stalin said. “The responsibility to protect and establish the glory of Tamil culture lies solely with the DMK and its allied forces. The slogans raised in Keeladi and Chennai are just the beginning. They will continue to echo until Delhi. The DMK’s struggle will not cease until the pride of Tamil culture is firmly established.”

Stalin’s remarks also come a day after the DMK’s student wing on June 18 protested in Madurai against the issue.

Almost a month after he refused to rework his voluminous report on the excavations at the archaeological site of Keeladi, Ramakrishna was transferred by the ASI on June 17. Ramakrishna, who was director, Antiquity and National Mission on Monument and Antiquity (NMMA), New Delhi, has now been transferred to Greater Noida as director of NMMA.

This comes amid the controversy surrounding his report on Keeladi. In May, ASI had challenged the dating and classification of key discoveries from Tamil Nadu’s Keeladi excavations, Ramakrishna to carry out extensive revisions to a report that underpins the state government’s, and of rival Dravidian parties’, claims about ancient Tamil civilisation.

ASI asked Ramakrishna—who led the first two phases of excavations at the politically sensitive site — to rework his 982-page findings submitted in January 2023. The central agency said two experts had vetted the report and suggested five corrections to make it “more authentic.”

In his response, Ramakrishna on May 23, defended his report, stating that the chronological sequence of Keeladi has been clearly explained in the voluminous report. He had relied on AMS dating of 23 artefacts, which established their age to be 300 CE to arrive at a chronological sequence of Keeladi to be between the 8th century BCE to 3rd century CE. In response to his letter, the ASI said that they regularly send reports to various subject experts to vet for publication.

The transfers come days after chief minister MK Stalin on June 13 said that the truth from the findings in Keeladi does not serve the script of the BJP and RSS and so they are dismissing the rigorously proven antiquity of Tamil culture.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-message-to-us-as-donald-trump-hosts-pakistan-field-marshal-asim-munir-at-white-house-osama-bin-laden-101750328971989.html

Regulator warns Air India over delayed checks on three planes

The planes had unverified emergency equipment, regulator says

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Some Air India aircraft also had outdated registration paperwork

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Airline also facing fallout from recent plane crash in India

By Aditya Kalra

India’s aviation regulator has warned Air India for breaching safety rules after three of its Airbus planes flew despite being overdue checks on emergency equipment, and for being slow to address the issue, government documents show. The warning notices and an investigation report – both reviewed by Reuters – were not in any way related to last week’s crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 plane that killed all but one of the 242 people onboard, and were sent days before that incident.

In the report, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation said spot checks in May on three Air India Airbus planes found that they were operated despite mandatory inspections being overdue on the “critical emergency equipment” of escape slides.

In one case, the watchdog found that the inspection of an Airbus A320 jet was delayed by more than a month before being carried out on May 15. AirNav Radar data shows that during the delay the plane flew to international destinations such as Dubai, Riyadh and Jeddah.

Another case, involving an Airbus A319 used on domestic routes, showed checks were over three months late, while a third showed an inspection was two days late.

“The above cases indicate that aircraft were operated with expired or unverified emergency equipment, which is a violation of standard airworthiness and safety requirements,” the DGCA report said.

Air India “failed to submit timely compliance responses” to deficiencies raised by the DGCA, “further evidencing weak procedural control and oversight,” it added.

Air India, which was taken over by the Tata Group in 2022 from the government, said in statement that it was “accelerating” verification of all maintenance records, including dates of the escape slides, and would complete the process in the coming days.

In one of the cases, Air India said, the issue came to light when an engineer from AI Engineering Services “inadvertently deployed an escape slide during maintenance”.

The DGCA and Airbus did not respond to Reuters queries.

Checks on escape slides are “a very serious issue. In case of accident, if they don’t open, it can lead to serious injuries,” said Vibhuti Singh, a former legal expert at the government’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.

The DGCA said in its report that the certificates of airworthiness for aircraft that miss mandatory checks were “deemed suspended”.

The warning notices and the report were sent by Animesh Garg, a deputy director of airworthiness in the Indian government, to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson as well as the airline’s continuing airworthiness manager, quality manager and head of planning, the documents showed.

An Indian aviation lawyer said such breaches typically attract monetary and civil penalties on both individual executives and the airline. Wilson told Reuters last year that global parts shortages were affecting most airlines, but the problem was “more acute” for Air India as its “product is obviously a lot more dated”, with many planes not refreshed since they were delivered in 2010-2011.

‘SYSTEMIC CONTROL FAILURE’

The Indian regulator, like many abroad, often fines airlines for compliance lapses. India’s junior aviation minister in February told parliament that authorities had warned or fined airlines in 23 instances for safety violations last year.

Around half of them – 12 – involved Air India and Air India Express, including in one case for “unauthorised entry into cockpit”. The biggest fine was $127,000 on Air India for “insufficient oxygen on board” during a flight to San Francisco. Last week’s crash, the causes of which are still being investigated, will further challenge Air India’s attempts to rebuild its image, after years of criticism from travellers for poor service. Air India’s Chairman N. Chandrasekaran on Monday told staff the crash should be a catalyst to build a safer airline, urging employees to stay resolute amid any criticism.

In its report, the DGCA also said several Air India aircraft checked by officials had outdated registration paperwork. Air India told Reuters all but one aircraft complied with such requirements and this “poses no impact” to safety.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/exclusiveair-india-warned-for-flying-airbus-planes-with-unchecked-escape-slides-101750384890932.html

Party leaders said that the PM’s visit to the poll-bound state is expected to bolster the NDA’s election campaign that will be hoisted on the planks of development and social justice

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to announce key infrastructure projects worth ₹5,000 crore for Bihar on his visit to Siwan on Friday, people familiar with the matter said, adding that the PM will also release ₹510 crore as the first installment of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) to 51,000 beneficiaries.

The PM, on his 51st visit to the state since taking office, is also scheduled to address a rally in Siwan, once a stronghold of the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Mohammad Shahabuddin, which has a sizeable Muslim, Dalit and Yadav population.

“The NDA government has ensured budgetary allocations for the state to fund a network of roads, railway lines, airports and avenues for employment and entrepreneurship,” a BJP functionary said requesting anonymity.

According to Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary, the PM’s latest tour is “the second in only 20 days and the fifth this year”, in an indication that the eastern province was high on the priority of the government.

“Altogether 22 projects worth ₹5,736 crore will be inaugurated on the soil of Siwan tomorrow when the PM will also disburse an amount of more than ₹51,000 crore towards the first installment of PM Awas Yojana to 53,666 homeless people. In addition, 6,684 urban poor families will get the keys to their new houses”, said Choudhary, a former state unit president of the BJP.

He added, “the PM will also flag off a new Vande Bharat train which will run between Pataliputra junction near Patna and Gorakhpur in adjoining Uttar Pradesh. Modi will also inaugurate the new Vaishali-Deoria railway line besides laying the foundation stone for 11 projects of the Amrit Bharat scheme and another four under the Namami Gange Pariyojana”.

Among the projects that the PM will lay the foundation stone for, include the ₹69-crore Bettiah Water Supply Project in West Champaran; the ₹19-crore Chapra Water Supply Project in Saran; the Motihari Sewarage Management Project in East Champaranthat which is pegged at ₹400 crore; the ₹138-crore Ara Water Supply Project in Bhojpur and a 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity in 15 grid substations in Bihar with Viability Gap Funding of ₹135 crore.

He will also inaugurate a sewage treatment plant and sewage network facilities in Digha Zone and Kankarbagh Zones of Patna; a 29-km Rail Line between Vaishali and Deoria and flag off the Vande Bharat Train between Patliputra and Gorakhpur in addition to inaugurating the first export locomotive to Guinea from Locomotive Factory in Marhowra in Saran.

Party leaders said that the PM’s visit to the poll-bound state is expected to bolster the NDA’s election campaign that will be hoisted on the planks of development and social justice.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-to-announce-projects-worth-5-000-crore-in-bihar-101750358650575.html

Customs said 24.96 kg of hydroponic weed – a high-grade, greenhouse-grown variant of cannabis – was concealed in vacuum-sealed packets inside the luggage of the accused

Customs seized hydroponic weed worth Rs 24.66 crore, smuggled from Thailand, at the Mumbai international airport. Three persons, including two passengers, were arrested in this connection, officials said on Thursday.

According to customs officials, two passengers arriving from Bangkok were intercepted on Wednesday (June 18) and a detailed check of their luggage uncovered 24.96 kg of hydroponic weed – a high-grade, greenhouse-grown variant of cannabis – concealed in vacuum-sealed packets. The consignment was valued at Rs 24.66 crore.

Officials said in a follow-up sting operation, a third person was arrested. The individual was meant to be the receiver of the contraband and was waiting outside the terminal.

All the three accused were booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. An investigation is underway to trace the broader network, which is suspected to be linked to an international drug syndicate, officials said.

DIAMONDS AND SAUDI CURRENCY SEIZED

Customs claimed to have foiled another attempt to smuggle diamonds worth crores and foreign currency on June 17. Officials said they intercepted an Indian national set to depart for Dubai via an IndiGo flight.

Acting on a tip-off, officers conducted a baggage and personnel search that led to the recovery of 50,000 Saudi riyals (approximately Rs 11.15 lakh), lab-grown diamonds weighing 406.90 carats valued at Rs 47.22 lakh, and natural diamonds weighing 245.30 carats worth Rs 1.23 crore.

According to the customs department, the diamonds – together weighing 652.20 carats and valued at Rs 1.70 crore – were hidden inside three pouches concealed within the passenger’s body cavity, while the foreign currency was stashed in a black sling bag.

The entire haul was seized under provisions of the Customs Act, and an investigation is on to identify the source and destination of the smuggled goods, officials said.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/hydroponic-weed-valued-at-rs-25-crore-smuggled-from-thailand-seized-at-mumbai-airport-3-arrested-ws-l-9394317.html

Upon his arrival at the hotel, PM Modi was greeted by enthusiastic Indian community members with chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a warm welcome upon his arrival in Croatia’s Zagreb, the first-ever visit by an Indian premier, on Wednesday.

Upon his arrival at the hotel, PM Modi was greeted by enthusiastic Indian community members with chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai,” along with cultural performances.

Additionally, a group of Croatian nationals, dressed in white, chanted the ‘Gayatri Mantra’ and other Sanskrit verses with PM Modi, highlighting the strong cultural ties between India and Croatia.

PM Modi shared the video on his X handle and said, “The bonds of culture are strong and vibrant! Here is a part of the welcome in Zagreb. Happy to see Indian culture has so much respect in Croatia…”

In another post, he shared a video capturing the highlights of his welcome in Zagreb, including vibrant cultural performances.

PM Modi said that Croatia’s Indian community has contributed to the Balkan nation’s progress and also remained in touch with their roots in India.

“In Zagreb, I interacted with some members of the Indian community, who accorded me an unforgettable welcome. There is immense enthusiasm among the Indian community here about this visit and its impact in making the bond between our nations stronger than ever before!” PM Modi said on X.

PM Modi arrived in Croatian capital of Zagreb on the last leg of his three-nation visit after wrapping up his landmark visit to Canada where he attended the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis. He had earlier visited Cyprus as part of the tour.

In a special gesture, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković received PM Modi at the airport.

“A short while ago, landed in Zagreb, Croatia. This is a special visit, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to a valued European partner. I am grateful to Prime Minister Andrej Plenković for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

Source : https://www.news18.com/world/pm-modi-welcomed-with-chants-of-gayatri-mantra-in-croatia-watch-9392723.html

Earlier this month, SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk’s company Starlink received a licence from the telecom department for providing satellite internet services in India

Days after Starlink secured a licence from India’s telecom department, Elon Musk took note of Union minister Jyotiraditya Scinidia’s meeting with SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell.

Musk reposted about the meeting, which took place on Tuesday (June 17), between Scindia and Shotwell. Earlier this month, his company Starlink received a licence from the telecom department for providing satellite internet services in India. This is being considered a key milestone that will take it closer towards launching commercial operations in the country.

Starlink is the third company after Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications to get a licence from the department of telecommunications to provide satellite internet services in India. A fourth applicant, Amazon’s Kuiper is still waiting for approvals.

After the meeting with Shotwell, Scindia said discussions centred around different opportunities for collaboration in satellite communications to power Digital India. “Had a productive meeting with Ms. @Gwynne_Shotwell, President & COO of @SpaceX, on India’s next frontier in connectivity. We delved into opportunities for collaboration in satellite communications to power Digital India’s soaring ambitions and empower every citizen across the country,” he wrote in a post on X.

He said satellite technologies are not only relevant, but transformative. “Ms. Shotwell appreciated the license granted to @Starlink, calling it a great start to the journey,” he added.

Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX — the American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company founded in 2002 by Musk, who is the world’s richest man. It provides high-speed, low-latency broadband internet worldwide using satellite technology and is aptly described by some as broadband beamed from the skies.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/elon-musk-notes-scindias-meeting-with-spacex-president-after-starlinks-india-licence-nod-ws-l-9392713.html

Air India to reduce international flights on widebody aircraft by 15 per cent till mid-July.

Days after the fatal crash in Ahmedabad, that claimed 270 lives, Air India has announced that it is reducing international flights on widebody aircraft by 15 per cent “until at least mid-July”. Notably, Air India operates three widebody planes – Boeing 787-8/9, Boeing 777 and A350.
The decision comes at a time when Air India is already witnessing operational disruptions, with at least 83 of its international flights being cancelled over the last six days after the fatal Ahmedabad crash.
On June 12, an Air India Boeing 787-8 plane, enroute from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed within moments of takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel airport in Ahmedabad.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump. This was the first conversation between Trump and Modi after the launch of Operation Sindoor last month.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited by United States President Donald Trump to visit the country on his return journey from Canada. However, PM Modi said that he cannot accept the invitation due to a pre-existing schedule.
PM Modi, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, held a 35-minute-long phone call with Trump. The two leaders were scheduled ro meet on the margins of the summit, but the meeting could not happen as Trump decided to cut short his visit citing tensions in West Asia, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said.
During the call, Trump invited PM Modi to visit the US on his return journey from Canada. However, PM Modi said he cannot accept the invitation due to a pre-existing schedule, Misri said.

Further, PM Modi invited Trump to visit India for the Quad Summit, likely later this year, to which he agreed.

During the call, PM Modi set the record straight that India had paused strikes on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor following a request from Islamabad and not due to mediation or offer of a trade deal by the US.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/what-did-pm-modi-say-on-donald-trumps-us-invite-no-it-wasnt-a-yes-article-152077655

The forest personnel on Wednesday dismantled six alleged unauthorised sheds erected inside the Attur-Kolli forest area of the Nagarahole Wildlife Range

The forest personnel on Wednesday dismantled six alleged unauthorised sheds erected inside the Attur-Kolli forest area of the Nagarahole Wildlife Range. This was in response to repeated resistance by tribal families who had occupied the land in early May and were reportedly obstructing forest department officials from accessing the site.

According to Nagarahole assistant conservator of forests (ACF) Ananya Kumar, members of the tribal community entered the forest on May 5 and felled nearly 42 saplings to clear space for new shelters. “Despite being served a notice on June 17 and given another chance on June 18 to voluntarily dismantle the new sheds, the encroachers blocked entry routes of officials,” Kumar said. “Forest staff, under heavy police cover, accessed the area through an alternative path and proceeded with the demolition.”

He said that claims by the tribal families that asserted ancestral links to the land could not be substantiated. “The tribals claimed that they were the original inhabitants of the forest and staying since decades. But the documents available with department and surveys conducted by NGOs and even Google Maps found no human inhabitant in the area earlier. According to the Forest Rights Act, the inhabitants should have constructed their huts and cultivated the land in the forest before December 13, 2005. But there were no signs of human living, and the tribals failed to provide any proof of it,” he said, adding that the sub-division level committee (SDLC) had already rejected their land rights petition.

He further said that while six new structures were demolished, six earlier sheds built in May were left untouched. Officials clarified that while the SDLC had turned down the land claims on May 22 this year, the applicants still have the right to appeal before the district level committee (DLC) within 60 days.

The eviction has sparked a backlash from tribal rights activists. JA Shivu, president of the Nagarhole Adivasi Jammapale Hakku Sthapana Samithi, said the affected families had long-standing ties to the forest and had only temporarily migrated for work. “We are not demanding any new rights from government, it is our right which is given by the Act under the Constitution but forest officials are suppressing our rights. We will take up agitation till our right is given,” he said.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/forest-officials-raze-illegal-sheds-of-tribals-in-nagarahole-wildlife-range-101750273246510.html

India and developing nations express disappointment over climate finance agenda exclusion in Bonn Talks, pledging to raise it at COP30 in Brazil.

India and several developing countries have expressed disappointment after a key climate finance discussion was excluded from the Bonn Climate Talks agenda, vowing to raise the issue at November’s COP30 summit in Brazil.

The dispute centred on Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement, which mandates that developed countries provide financial resources to assist developing nations with both mitigation and adaptation efforts. The debate over the 9.1 agenda item proposal led to a 30-hour delay before talks could begin.

“We are extremely disappointed with the reluctance of developed countries to discuss their legal obligations to provide finance to developing countries,” said Amandeep Garg, additional secretary at ministry of environment, forests and climate change, who represented the Indian delegation.

The Like Minded Developing Countries (LMDC) group and the G77 and China had proposed agenda items on both the legal obligation of wealthy countries to provide climate finance and another on unilateral trade measures. However, these were not adopted after the European Union and other developed nations refused to agree.

“Without enough affordable financial support, developing countries cannot address the challenges posed by climate change,” Garg said during his intervention at the agenda adoption session, backing the LMDC position. “This is completely unacceptable. We do not understand how this process can engage in article 9.1 without which climate action in developing countries cannot be taken in scale, scope and speed”

Garg added: “It has been 10 years of the Paris Agreement and still the items which are required to be discussed, we are not discussing them.”

Diego Pacheco, Bolivia’s negotiator and spokesperson for the LMDC group, warned that the issue would resurface at COP30. “Public finance from developed countries is a necessary condition for implementation of the Paris Agreement,” he said. “You can deny us the starting point but be rest assured, the LMDC will raise these items at COP30.”

The African Group also highlighted the implementation of Article 9.1 as critical to their region, emphasising the need to address resource provision for nationally determined contributions, national adaptation plans, and just transition measures.

EU negotiators said their “positions and motivations being mischaracterised” and urged parties to respect all positions in a constructive spirit.

The agenda was finally adopted on Tuesday evening after extensive behind-closed-doors consultations. Simon Stiell, the UN climate chief, acknowledged the difficulty of the negotiations whilst urging progress on mandated items.

“The past 30 hours have been hard and have not reflected the urgency that we face,” Stiell said. “Through cooperation and compromise, we have resolved the impasse. We must now move the work ahead.”

This year’s Bonn talks agenda includes discussions on Global Goal on Adaptation indicators under the UAE–Belém Work Programme, the UAE Dialogue on implementing global stocktake outcomes, the UAE Just Transition Work Programme, and the Baku to Belem roadmap to 1.3 trillion dollars.

Avantika Goswami, programme manager at the Climate Change Centre for Science and Environment, said the European Union and its allies had blocked the G77’s demand to discuss developed countries’ climate finance obligations. “The fight is not over, as the LMDC bloc and India have vowed to bring focus back to this at COP30,” she said.

The dispute comes as climate change appears to be losing prominence in some international forums. The International Institute of Sustainable Development noted that G7 statements following recent talks between leaders in Kananaskis omitted references to climate change, with only the chair’s summary making a passing reference to the issue.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-disappointed-after-talks-at-bonn-101750272887250.html

INS Arnala, the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, was commissioned into the Indian Navy, marking a milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding and maritime self-reliance.

INS Arnala, the first vessel in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) series, was formally commissioned into the Indian Navy on June 18, 2025. The commissioning ceremony took place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan.

The event was hosted by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, and was attended by senior naval officials, dignitaries, representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Larsen & Toubro Shipbuilding, and former commanding officers of the previous INS Arnala.

INS Arnala, named after the historic coastal fort in Maharashtra, is a 77-meter-long warship with a displacement of over 1,490 tonnes. It is the largest Indian naval ship powered by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion system. Designed for diverse roles, it is capable of sub-surface surveillance, interdiction, low-intensity maritime operations, and search and rescue missions.

The warship exemplifies India’s commitment to strengthening indigenous defence capabilities. Its design and construction are a product of domestic collaboration between Indian shipyards and naval engineers, highlighting India’s shift from a “Buyer’s Navy” to a “Builder’s Navy”. The commissioning highlights the Indian Navy’s role in achieving maritime self-reliance and supporting the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

In his address, General Chauhan lauded the Navy’s efforts in building indigenous capabilities and outlined the strategic value of such warships in India’s expanding maritime ambitions. He noted that with numerous ships under construction domestically — including capital warships and support vessels – India has become a significant force in global naval shipbuilding.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/ins-arnala-india-first-of-its-kind-shallow-water-submarine-hunter-commissioned-2742843-2025-06-19

A flight carrying 110 Indian students evacuated from war-hit Iran landed safely in Delhi on Thursday morning. Families expressed relief, and urged help for those still stranded in Tehran.

A special flight carrying 110 Indian students evacuated from war-hit Iran landed safely in Delhi, bringing relief to families waiting at the airport. Amongst those on board were 90 students from Jammu and Kashmir.

The students had earlier been shifted to Armenia as part of a government-coordinated evacuation effort.

Amaan Azhar, one of the evacuated students, expressed his emotions. Speaking to news agency ANI, he said, “I am very happy. I cannot express in words how happy I am to be finally able to meet my family. The situation in Iran is very bad. The people there are like us; there are small children who are suffering. War is not a good thing. It kills humanity.”

Families of the students welcomed their return, praising the Indian government’s efforts. A father who travelled from Kota, Rajasthan, said, “My son was doing an MBBS in Iran. He is returning via Armenia, on the special plane sent from India. I am happy that my son is returning home. I want to thank the Indian Embassy in Tehran for their efforts.”

He also appealed for help for students still stuck in Iran’s interior, particularly in Tehran, where evacuations remain difficult.

As the conflict between Israel and Iran escalates, India has stepped up efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens, especially students. The Indian Embassy in Tehran had issued an advisory on June 15 urging Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin to avoid unnecessary movement and stay connected through official channels for updates.

In response to New Delhi’s request, Iran assured safe passage through its land borders, given that its airspace remains shut. Students have been advised to exit through neighbouring countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/flight-carrying-110-indian-students-evacuated-from-iran-lands-in-delhi-2742844-2025-06-19

The Karnataka government informed the court that the film’s producer had voluntarily given an undertaking to the Karnataka High Court, agreeing not to release the film until the matter is resolved.

The Karnataka government has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating it has not imposed any restriction on the release of Kamal Haasan’s film in the state.

Responding after the Supreme Court criticised the delay in the film’s release, the state clarified that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce had merely issued a letter condemning Haasan’s remarks and sought an apology, but no official ban was enforced.

The government also informed the court that Raaj Kamal Films International, the film’s producers, had voluntarily given an undertaking to the Karnataka High Court. he producers also gave an undertaking not to release the film in Karnataka until issues with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce are resolved.

In an affidavit submitted by the Deputy Secretary of the Home Department (Law and Order), Vidhana Soudha, the Karnataka government has assured the Supreme Court that it will provide full protection and security if the producers of Kamal Haasan’s film decide to release it in the state. The security will extend to the cast, crew, producers, exhibitors and audience.

Earlier, on Tuesday, the Supreme Court had issued a notice over the alleged ban on Kamal Haasan’s Tamil film Thug Life in Karnataka, criticising groups threatening to stop its release over his reported remarks.

The court strongly stated that mob threats cannot dictate what is shown in theatres, saying, “You cannot threaten to burn down cinemas because you disagree. Respond with words, not violence.”

It stressed that if the film is cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), it must be allowed to release and people are free to watch it or not. The bench also questioned why the High Court asked for an apology.

“There is something wrong with the system when one person makes a statement and everyone gets involved. Why should the High Court say ‘express an apology’? That is not its role,” the court said.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/law-news/story/kamal-haasan-film-thug-life-ban-restriction-in-karnataka-government-in-supreme-court-2742857-2025-06-19

According to police sources, Sonam contacted the number registered under the name Sanjay Verma 112 times between March 1 and March 25. She used to have long conversations with the person on the other end, who turned out to be Raj Kushwaha, her boyfriend.

Sonam Raghuvanshi, arrested for the murder of her husband while on honeymoon in Meghalaya, made over 100 phone calls to a man named Sanjay Verma in the weeks leading up to her marriage. It has now come to light that Verma was a fake identity used by her boyfriend, Raj Kushwaha.

According to Indore Police sources, Sonam (24) contacted the number registered under the name Sanjay Verma 112 times between March 1 and March 25. Sonam used to have long conversations with the person on the other end, the sources said.

After Sanjay Verma’s name cropped up in connection with the case, Indore Police launched an investigation. The phone was found to be used by Kushwaha, accused of being the mastermind behind the killing of Sonam’s husband, Raja Raghuvanshi.

Sonam and Raja (29) got married on May 11 in Indore and left for their honeymoon on May 20. Just three days later, the couple went missing near Sohra, 65 kilometres from Shillong.

Raja’s decomposed body was recovered on June 2 from a 200-foot-deep gorge near Weisawdong Falls in Cherrapunji, where he had been hacked to death and dumped, police said.

A week later, the “missing” Sonam was arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur. During interrogation, she allegedly confessed to her husband’s murder and named Kushwaha and three hitmen — Vishal Chauhan, Anand Kurmi, and Akash Rajput — as co-conspirators. All four were arrested by Indore Police.

“Sonam was present at the scene and watched her husband die,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police Poonam Chand Yadav in an interview with India Today TV.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/fake-identity-112-calls-sonam-raj-kushwaha-megahalaya-honeymoon-raja-raghuvanshi-murder-2742868-2025-06-19

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Wednesday that Electors’ Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) will be delivered to voters within 15 days of an update in the electoral rolls – a move aimed at ensuring convenience and efficiency in service delivery and real-time tracking. Currently, it takes over a month for the EPIC to be delivered to voters.

Here’s how real-time tracking of EPIC works:

• Real-time Tracking: The system tracks EPICs from generation to delivery, keeping electors informed about the status of their cards.
• SMS Notifications: Electors receive SMS updates at each stage, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Dedicated IT Module: The ECI has launched a dedicated IT module on the ECINet platform, which integrates with the Department of Posts’ API for seamless delivery.
• Streamlined Workflow: The new system replaces the existing process, re-engineering the workflow to enhance service delivery while maintaining data security.

Here’s how to apply for a Voter ID card online:

1. Visit NVSP Portal: Go to the National Voters’ Services Portal (NVSP) website.
2. Sign Up: Click “Sign-Up” in the top right corner and enter your mobile number, email ID, and captcha code.
3. Create Account: Fill in your name, password, and confirm password, then request an OTP.
4. Verify OTP: Enter the OTP sent to your mobile and email to verify your account.
5. Log In: Log in to the portal using your mobile number, password, and captcha, then verify with an OTP.
6. Fill Form 6: Click “Fill Form 6” for new voter registration and enter your personal, relative, contact, and address details.
7. Upload Documents: Upload required documents and preview your application before submitting.
8. Submit Application: Review your details for accuracy and submit your application.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/voter-id-cards-to-be-delivered-within-15-days-heres-how-to-apply-and-track-online-8704628

Vishwas Kumar Ramesh shouldered the remains of his brother, who had been seated beside him on the Air India Ahmedabad-London Gatwick flight on June 12.

Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the devastating Air India plane crash, faced an agonising moment on Wednesday as he led the funeral procession of his brother, Ajay, in their hometown in Diu. Still bearing visible injuries with patches of bandages on his face, Vishwas shouldered the remains of his brother, who had been seated beside him on the ill-fated Ahmedabad-London Gatwick flight on June 12.

The tragedy claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members on board and 29 people on the ground.

Vishwas, a 40-year-old British businessman from Leicester, had been discharged from Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital on Tuesday evening. He and Ajay, both natives of Diu, were returning to London after visiting family in the Union Territory.

Dr Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent at the Civil Hospital, confirmed that Ajay’s remains were handed over to the family early Wednesday morning following a DNA test.

Vishwas, wrapped in white cloth and blue jeans, broke down multiple times. Mourners supported him as he struggled under the weight of his loss-both emotional and physical.

A video circulating on social media captured the heart-wrenching sight of Vishwas carrying his brother’s remains to the cremation ground in Diu, part of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

“Vishwas and his family members reached Bucharwada village Wednesday,” Sarpanch Dipak Devjibai told PTI.

His family members, including his parents and two brothers, travelled to Gujarat after the crash, Devjibhai said.

“His entire family was present in the funeral procession, which was taken out from Patelwadi to Koli Samaj crematorium,” he added.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college complex in Ahmedabad shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM last Thursday.

Vishwas’s miraculous survival has drawn international attention. A day after the crash, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited him in the hospital to check on his recovery.

Earlier in an interview with Doordarshan, Vishwas had recounted the terrifying moments, stating the aircraft had “stalled within seconds” of taking off for its nine-hour journey to London’s Gatwick Airport.

Vishwas, whose seat was 11A, was close to the emergency door on the left side of the plane.

He described his escape: “Luckily, the portion of the plane where I was seated fell on the ground floor of the hostel premises after the plane crash landed.

“When I saw the door was broken, I told myself I had a chance to escape. Eventually, I got out of the plane,” he recounted.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/air-india-ahmedabad-london-plane-crashs-sole-survivor-vishwas-kumar-ramesh-attends-brothers-cremation-8705127

The pump owners, in their petition, have contended that the private toilets in their establishments were meant for the emergency needs of the customers and cannot be left open for the general public.

The Kerala High Court has held that toilets in petrol pumps are not meant for use by the general public.

The ruling by Justice C S Dias came on a plea by an organisation representing petroleum traders and several pump owners objecting to the categorisation, by the state government and local bodies, of toilets in their establishments as public facilities.

The pump owners, in their petition, have contended that the private toilets in their establishments were meant for the emergency needs of the customers and cannot be left open for the general public.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kerala-court-says-toilets-at-petrol-pumps-not-for-general-public-use-8704276

In Hyderabad on Tuesday, Congress Nagarkurnool MP Mallu Ravi and Rajya Sabha member Anil Kumar Yadav, along with other Congress leaders, participated in a ‘Maha Dharna’ organized by the Shanti Charchala Committee (Peace Talks Committee) to protest the killings being conducted by the central government under Operation Kagar.

Hyderabad: The Congress has joined forces with various organisations to protest killings carried out under ‘Operation Kagar,’ India’s largest counter-insurgency operation aimed at eliminating Maoists.

In Hyderabad on Tuesday, Congress Nagarkurnool MP Mallu Ravi and Rajya Sabha member Anil Kumar Yadav, along with other Congress leaders, participated in a ‘Maha Dharna’ organized by the Shanti Charchala Committee (Peace Talks Committee) to protest the killings being conducted by the central government under Operation Kagar.

The Shanti Charchala Committee organized this demonstration to express strong objections against the Centre’s approach. The protest aimed to create public awareness about what organizers describe as inhumane actions taken under the guise of Operation Kagar and to send a clear message to the central government, committee members said.

The demonstration saw participation from leaders of the ruling Congress party, Left parties, BRS intellectuals, and representatives from various people’s organizations.

MP Mallu Ravi stated that the Indian government should immediately halt what he termed the genocide of tribals and the civil war being conducted under the name “Operation Kagar” in Bastar. He demanded implementation of rights granted to tribals under the PESA Act and the 5th Schedule of the Constitution, an immediate ceasefire declaration, and the initiation of peace talks with Maoists. He emphasized that problems can only be resolved through peaceful negotiations.

The protest programme passed a resolution demanding the Centre immediately stop Operation Kagar and initiate peace talks with the Maoists.

Earlier in the first week of June, TPCC chief B Mahesh Kumar Goud strongly criticized ‘Operation Kagar,’ calling it a move that undermines the spirit of the Constitution. Speaking at a round-table conference organized by the Peace Talks Committee in the city, he accused the Centre of committing excesses under the pretext of addressing law-and-order issues rather than exploring peaceful solutions to address Naxalism.

Reiterating the Congress party’s commitment to non-violence, Goud stated that the party condemns all forms of violence.

Participating in the Maha Dharna BRS MLC Dr Dasoju Sravan Kumar, came down heavily on the Central Government.

Calling it a blatant violation of human rights, Dr Sravan said, “To us, this is nothing but ‘Operation Corporate Grab.’ This is a premeditated assault—targeting Adivasis, their livelihood, their lands, and natural resources—disguised as a security operation.

This is a coordinated and systematic state aggression, and it stands in direct violation of the Constitution and of basic human decency.”

He added that BRS’s stand is clear and uncompromising. “Our leader K Chandrashekar Rao has already made the party’s position crystal clear at the Warangal Sabha—unconditional ceasefire and immediate dialogue. That remains the official position of the BRS Party.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/telangana/congress-joins-protest-against-operation-kagar-killings-in-telangana-3590604

Speaking to media persons here, state Health and Family Welfare Secretary Aswathy S said cholera was found in 10 per cent of the total samples sent from different areas for testing.

With 10 per cent of the samples testing positive for the deadly Vibrio Cholera virus, the Odisha government on Tuesday put all the 30 districts on alert against the spread of the water-borne disease which has so far claimed 11 lives and infected over 2,000 people across the coastal region.

The disease, which broke out in the form of diarrhoea in Jajpur district on June 9, has so far spread to other districts including Dhenkanal, Bhadrak, Keonjhar and Cuttack. Some other districts have also reported sporadic cases of diarrhoea while samples collected from Jajpur detected the cholera virus.

Speaking to media persons here, state Health and Family Welfare Secretary Aswathy S said cholera was found in 10 per cent of the total samples sent from different areas for testing.

About 300 people were affected by diarrhoea in these districts on Tuesday, besides the existing cases, she said.

The spread of the disease has prompted the state government to put all collectors on alert asking them to take preventive measures at least for a week.

Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling said, “The situation is under control and the government has been putting efforts to break the chain and stop the spread of the disease.” Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja held a meeting with the district collectors through video conferencing in the presence of health department officers here on Tuesday.

“We have issued instructions to all district collectors and district-level health officers to continue disinfection drives, cleanness activities, and mobilisation of Anganwadi & ASHA workers for at least a week,” Aswathy said.

However, the people with mild diarrhoea (early stage) have started visiting the hospitals, which is a positive sign, Aswathy said.

Massive awareness campaigns for maintaining personal hygiene and drinking safe water are underway in the rural pockets of the five districts, she said, adding, the situation will be reviewed every day at state and district levels.

The secretary further informed that the central team, which has been in Odisha for the past two days, again visited Jajpur district on Tuesday and they will have a meeting with Odisha government officials on Wednesday.

Stating that the disease did not outbreak from one source, she said, “Therefore, we have to disinfect all sources.” The cases of hospitalisation have come down. However, there is a possibility of re-infection. Therefore, people have been appealed to follow the health advisory of the government, Aswathy said.

Four state-level teams have been sent to the five districts to monitor the field-level activities.

About 220 diarrhoea patients are under treatment at different healthcare facilities in the worst-hit Jajpur district, said Collector P Anvesha Reddy.

The district administration has ordered the closure of street food vendors and roadside hotels in the affected areas. Public feasts and food events are allowed only with permission, officials said.

Hospitals are cleaned and disinfected every 30 minutes to stop the spread of infection.

The officials further informed that eight medical specialists and 20 more mobile health teams have been deployed at the hospitals in the affected area of Jajpur. With the deployment of the new mobile teams, 40 mobile health teams of NHM are currently working in the district.

Besides, 45 mobile health camps have been organised in the affected areas of Jajpur, they said.

Earlier in the day, Raids were conducted at several restaurants in Bhubaneswar, Jajpur and Cuttack to assess the standard of hygiene amid the diarrhoea outbreak in parts of the state, officials said.

A team led by Darpan’s tahasildar Manas Tripathy conducted raids at eateries, sweet shops and hotels in Barchana town in Jajpur.

“We are checking the hygiene and quality of food served in eateries. If stale food was found, we issued a warning to the owner. If they continue to serve unhygienic or stale food, we will seal their shop,” he said.

Similarly, the municipal authorities in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar have also started conducting raids after diarrhoea cases were detected in some pockets of the twin cities.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/odisha-alerts-districts-against-spread-of-cholera-death-count-at-11-so-far-8694249