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Category: India

  • Omar Abdullah To Take Oath As Jammu And Kashmir Chief Minister On October 16 |

    Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha invited Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah and his council of ministers to take the Oath of Office at SKICC on October 16.

    In a letter issued by the LG from Raj Bhawan, he stated, “I am pleased to invite you to form and lead the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. As previously discussed, I shall administer the Oath of Office and Secrecy to you and to those recommended by you for induction as members of your Council of Ministers at SKICC, Srinagar, on 16th October 2024 at 11:30 am”

    The letter further added, “I take this opportunity to wish you a highly productive tenure and success in your endeavors in the best interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

    The letter also stated, “I have received a letter dated 11th October 2024 from Dr. Farooq Abdullah, President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, informing me that you have been unanimously elected as the Leader of the Legislature Party.”

    It stated, “I have received letters from Tariq Hameed Karra, President of the J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, GN Malik, Secretary of CPI(M), Shri Pankaj Kumar Gupta, National Secretary of the Aam Aadmi Party and Independent MLAs, including Payare Lal. Sharma, Satish Sharma, Ch. Mohd. Akram, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, and Muzafar Iqbal Khan, offering support for the formation of the Government led by you.”

    Omar Abdullah wrote on

    Earlier, Omar had met LG Manoj Sinha on Friday and presented letters of support while staking his claim for government formation in J&K. He informed reporters that the oath ceremony would take a few days, as the LG office needed to send the documents to Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi and then to the Home Ministry. The President of India, Draupadi Murmu, issued a notification late yesterday evening to end the President’s Rule in J&K, paving the way for the new government to take charge of the UT.

    The recently concluded Assembly polls, held after a decade, resulted in a divided mandate—the National Conference swept Kashmir with 42 seats while the BJP maintained an upper hand in the Jammu region by winning 29 seats.

  • Baba Siddique Murder: NCP Leader Buried With State Honors In Mumbai — Updates |

    Baba Siddique Murder: Former Maharashtra minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique was laid to rest on Sunday night with the state honors in the presence of a large number of people and political leaders amid tight security.

    Mumbai Police accorded a guard of honor to Siddique amid rain at Bada Kabrastan in the Marine Lines area. The former minister’s funeral procession began from his Bandra residence, Maqba Heights, after Namaaz-e-Janaza was offered. His mortal remains draped in the Tricolour were taken in an ambulance to the final destination via the sea link, a distance of 17 km.

    VIDEO | Baba Siddique laid to rest with full state honor at Bada Qabrastan in Mumbai. (n/2)

    (Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz)#BabaSiddique pic.twitter.com/KUYkbzyvZa — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 13, 2024

    Baba Siddique was tragically murdered outside his office in Nirmal Nagar, Mumbai, on Saturday. He sustained two gunshot wounds to his chest and was immediately rushed to Lilavati Hospital for emergency treatment. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.

    Dr. Jalil Parkar from Lilavati Hospital provided details, stating, “Baba Siddique was admitted around 9:30 PM. Upon arrival, his pulse and blood pressure were unrecordable, and the ECG showed a flat line. We shifted him to the ICU, but unfortunately, he passed away shortly after.”

    3 Arrested In Murder Case So Far

    The Mumbai police have arrested three people in the Baba Siddique murder case so far. A court in Mumbai on Sunday remanded one of the two prime accused in the case to police custody till October 21.

    The other accused involved in the case has been sent for a medical test to determine his age status. While Gurmail Singh has been given police custody for a week, the other accused, Dharamraj Kashyap was sent for an ossification test to determine his true age, a lawyer assisting the court said.

    The court had directed to present the second accused again after conducting his ossification test. According to the Mumbai police, the court asked for an ossification test of the accused, Dharmaraj Kashyap, as his lawyer claimed that he was a minor, as reported by news agency ANI. The test was carried out, and it was proved that he was not a minor. He was produced in court, and the court has granted police custody till October 21.

    #UPDATE | Baba Siddique murder case The Court asked for an ossification test of the accused, Dharmaraj Kashyap, as his lawyer claimed that he was a minor. The test was conducted and it was proved that he was not a minor. He was produced in the court and the court has granted… https://t.co/ymrv5pkMgl — ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2024

    Meanwhile, the Mumbai police made another arrest in the case. The police arrested a 28-year-old man from Pune who, along with his brother, “enlisted” two of the three alleged shooters in the case, an official said on Sunday, as reported by news agency PTI.

    Police called the man, Pravin Lonkar, a “co-conspirator” and stated that they are on the lookout for his brother Shubham Lonkar. This is the third arrest in the case. According to the crime branch official, Pravin and Shubham “enlisted” two alleged shooters, a UP resident and Shivkumar Gautam.

    Baba Siddique murder case Pravin Lonkar, the 28-year-old brother of Shubham Lonkar, has been arrested from Pune. He is one of the conspirators who, along with Shubham Lonkar, enlisted Dharmaraj Kashyap and Shivkumar Gautam in the plot. Further investigation is underway: Mumbai… — ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2024

    While Gautam is on the run, police have arrested the UP resident and another alleged shooter, identified as Gurmail Baljit Singh (23). The official said police went to Pune looking for Shubham Lonkar but did not find him there. They then nabbed his brother Pravin for his alleged involvement in the crime, he said.

    Police have recovered two bullets, and 28 live bullets were recovered from the two apprehended shooters. Police have set up 15 teams that have fanned out of Maharashtra, and a probe is on to identify who provided logistical support to the shooters, officials have said.

    The Mumbai Police are verifying a social media post attributed to a purported member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, owning up to the murder of Siddique. The crime branch is also probing various angles, including a possible contract killing, business or political rivalry, or threat over a slum rehabilitation project, according to officials.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • NCP Leader Baba Siddique Dies After Being Shot At In Mumbai, 2 Arrested |

    Baba Siddique Death: Senior NCP leader Baba Siddique passed away after being fired upon by unidentified people in Mumbai on Saturday. The incident took place near the office of his son, Zeeshan Siddique. At least two people related to the firing incident have been taken into custody. According to Mumbai Police, a 9.9 mm pistol was used in the firing.

    Following the incident, Siddique, 65, was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon admission. The Nirmal Nagar police station has registered an FIR, and the Crime Branch-CID has joined the investigation.

    #UPDATE | Senior NCP leader Baba Siddique passes away: Lilavati Hospital https://t.co/P0VWePWldd — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2024

    Briefing about the incident, Additional CP Paramjit Singh Dahiya said, “Around 9:30 pm, this incident happened in Nirmal Nagar. Baba Siddique was admitted to Lilavati Hospital after this incident. Police have arrested two accused. Crime Branch Mumbai is investigating the entire matter.”

    #WATCH | Baba Siddique firing Additional CP Paramjit Singh Dahiya says, “Around 9:30 pm this incident happened in Nirmal Nagar. Baba Siddique was admitted to Lilavati Hospital after this incident. Police have arrested two accused. Crime Branch Mumbai is investigating the entire… pic.twitter.com /FtbTil7Iko

    — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2024

    Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed grief over Siddique’s death and called the incident extremely unfortunate. Speaking to reporters, he said that two people have been arrested and the third accused is absconding.

    “This is an extremely unfortunate incident and I spoke to the doctors and police. Two people have been arrested, the accused are from UP and Haryana. The third accused is absconding. We have given instructions to Mumbai Police that strict action should be taken against those who take law and order into their hands…I am sure that Mumbai police will soon arrest the third accused…Strict action will be taken against the accused,” Shinde said.

    #WATCH | Baba Siddique firing Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says, “This is an extremely unfortunate incident and I spoke to the doctors and police. Two people have been arrested, the accused are from UP and Haryana. The third accused is absconding. We have given instructions to… pic. twitter.com/NpJ8h11XMy — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2024

    Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, which were held earlier this year, Siddique made headlines after he left the Congress and the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance to join Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP.

  • India-Maldives Ink Currency Swap, Unveil Vision Document: Key Outcomes Of Muizzu’s Visit |

    India and the Maldives took significant steps to reinforce their bilateral relations, signing a currency swap agreement and agreeing to further development cooperation. The pact aims to address the Maldives’ financial crisis, with a focus on infrastructure development across the island nation.

    Major Projects Announced

    During Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s five-day state visit, he held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Key agreements included the construction of ports, road networks, schools, and housing projects. India also handed over 700 social housing units in Hulhumale, built with the help of EXIM Bank’s buyer’s credit facilities.

    Launch of RuPay Card and Economic Support

    In a significant move, the RuPay card was launched in the Maldives, marking a step towards deeper financial integration between the two nations. Modi also announced a $400 million support package to help the Maldives tackle its ongoing financial challenges. Additionally, a currency swap agreement worth Rs 3,000 crore was inked, designed to stabilize the Maldivian economy.

    Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership

    The two sides agreed on a “Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership.” This strategic document outlines areas of cooperation, including economic development and security in the Indian Ocean Region. Both leaders emphasized that this partnership is people-centric and future-oriented, aimed at enhancing stability.

    Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects

    Several infrastructure projects were inaugurated, including the newly redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport. Both nations also agreed to expedite the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which includes building a new commercial port on Thilafushi Island to alleviate congestion at Male’s port. They also explored collaboration on developing transshipment facilities and bunkering services at Ihavandhippolhu and Gaadhoo islands.

    Boost to Aviation and Tourism

    India will assist in developing the Hanimaadhoo and Gan airports, among others, with the goal of transforming them into economic hubs. The two leaders also discussed creating an ‘Agriculture Economic Zone’ and tourism investments in Haa Dhaalu atoll. A fish processing and canning facility at Haa Alifu atoll will also be set up with Indian help.

    Discussions on Free Trade Agreement

    Modi and Muizzu decided to initiate discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to further boost economic ties. The prime minister described the Maldives as a close friend and a key player in India’s neighborhood policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.

    President Muizzu, who had previously championed an ‘India out’ campaign, has since softened his position. He sacked ministers critical of India and Modi, signaling a desire to rebuild relations. The ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhawan, and Muizzu’s visit to Rajghat to pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi, symbolized this warming of ties.

    Continued Indian Support Amid Financial Crisis

    To aid the Maldives’ struggling economy, India agreed to roll over a $50 million Treasury Bill for another year, offering crucial budgetary support. This move is expected to stabilize the Maldivian economy, which has been under severe strain.

    With Inputs From PTI

  • IAF’s Chennai Air Show Turns Tragic As 3 Spectators Die, Over 200 Hospitalised.

    IAF Air Show: The air show of the Indian Air Force (IAF), which was held in Chennai to celebrate the 92nd anniversary of the IAF, turned tragic after at least three spectators died and more than 200 others were hospitalized due to dehydration, authorities. said, according to media reports.

    Those who lost their lives following the incident were identified as Srinivasan (48) from Perungalathur, Karthikeyan (34) from Thiruvottiyur, and John (56) from Korukuppet, as per an India Today report.

    They were admitted to hospitals due to several issues, including dehydration, but doctors said that the actual cause of death can only be determined after postmortem test results are available. Though the air show on the sandy Marina Beach attracted a plethora of people, several thousand people who converged on the idyllic shore found it extremely hard to return home after the event.

    Following the tragic incident, Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief K Annamalai expressed deep shock over the incident. “The loss of five lives cannot be passed off as an accident,” Annamalai said. He further stated that the administration failed to provide basic safety measures and transportation arrangements. Criticizing Chief Minister MK Stalin, he accused him of neglecting public safety in favor of political promotion.

    “I was very shocked to know that 5 people died due to crowding and more than 200 people were injured and were admitted to the hospital for treatment during the air adventure program held by the Indian Air Force at Chennai Marina Beach. The only reason for this is that the DMK government has not taken care of the safety of the public without providing basic facilities and adequate transport arrangements for the public,” the BJP Tamil Nadu unit chief said in a post on

    “The fact that Chief Minister Stalin did not even make the arrangements for his self-promotions for an event attended by lakhs of people shows the utter failure of his administration. The loss of 5 lives cannot be passed off as an accident. The DMK government is fully responsible for this as it neglected even the basic arrangements I strongly condemn Chief Minister Stalin and the DMK government for ruling only for his family and without any concern for the lives of the people, which has caused the death of 5 people and the. The Chief Minister must be answerable to the public,” he said.

    IAF Air Show Deaths: Ambulances Stuck In Traffic Snarl, Teaming Crowds Face Difficulty

    The Lighthouse metro station nearby and the Chennai MRTS railway station at Velachery, which serves as the closest junction connecting Chintadripet near the Marina, were swarmed by a huge number of people, and many found it difficult to even get a foothold to stand on the platform. .

    Despite this, many risked journeying while others had to miss the train. The bus stop at Anna Square, in close proximity to the aerial display venue, overflowed with people.

    “Nearly a dozen people swooned on the Marina due to a near stampede-like situation and also because of the hot weather, and they were treated at a government facility,” a senior police official said, as quoted by news agency PTI. The police had to step in to clear the traffic to allow three ambulances to reach the hospital, he said.

    (With PTI Inputs)

  • Jammu & Kashmir Elections 2024: BJP-NC Post Poll Alliance Likely In J&K? Here’s What Farooq Abdullah Says |

    Jammu And Kashmir Elections: As Jammu and Kashmir braces itself for the result of Assembly elections, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah said that his party will never form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to form the next government in the valley. He said that the people have voted against the saffron party, so there is no possibility of any alliance with them.

    The former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister asserted that any political entity that chooses to collaborate with the BJP invites the risk of disappearing from the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. “The vote in favor of the National Conference is a vote against the BJP,” he stated.

    Abdullah exuded confidence in the decision made by the voters and urged everyone to be patient as the results are awaited. “We cannot expect anything definitive until the results are declared, at which point it will be clear who has succeeded and who has not succeeded in these elections,” he remarked while commenting on the upcoming exit polls later today.

    In addition to his party’s prospects, the National Conference chief also expressed optimism for the Congress party in the ongoing Haryana assembly elections, stating that voters disillusioned with the current administration are likely to support Congress.

    The Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir were held for the first time after the abrogation of Article 370. The elections took place in three phases. The counting of votes is set to take place on October 8.

    Jammu And Kashmir Polls: Exit Poll Predictions

    TV-Today C-Voter has projected 40-48 seats for the National Congress-Congress alliance and 27-32 for the BJP, with the PDP likely to secure 6-12 seats.

    Dainik Bhaskar’s survey forecasts 35-40 seats for the NC-Congress, 20-25 for the BJP, and 4-7 for the PDP.

    People Pulse predicted that NC-Congress will secure 46-50 seats and 23-27 for the saffron party, with the PDP winning 7-11 seats.

    Republic TV’s Gulistan News projection suggests NC could win 28-30 seats, Congress 3-6, PDP 5-7, and others, including independents, 8-16 seats.

  • ‘India Can Play Active Role To De-Escalate Conflict In Region’: Iran Envoy On West Asia Conflict |

    Iranian Ambassador to India Iraj Elahi on Friday said India as a “big power” and “voice” of the Global South can play an “active role” in the de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia. His remarks during an exclusive interview to PTI Videos comes in the backdrop of the escalation in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and the Israel-Hamas war.

    Asked if Iran has reached out to other countries, Elahi said Iran is in close contact with Russia and China, but not in direct contact with India. But Iran “invited India”, as well as other countries who have influence, to use it and ask Israel to de-escalate, he said.

    “We believe that the region needs peace and stability. We, as Iran, want a powerful region, instead of a powerful country. Peace and stability is the precondition for the development of a country…

    “But we cannot be indifferent to what is happening in Palestine… The ongoing bloodshed in Palestine is something we cannot ignore or neglect,” the Iranian envoy said.

    On the recent military operations from the sides of Iran and Israel, he said, “According to our assessment, launching missiles at Israeli military bases and intelligence installations was intended to send a clear message to Israel. We believe this strike successfully hit the territory. ” “The commander of the highest forces has said explicitly that any attack on Iranian interests and infrastructure will receive a strong response from Iran. We will retaliate very strongly,” he also said.

    On ties with India, the ambassador said India is a close friend of both Iran and Israel.

    “But our relationship goes back 2,000 years, whereas India and Israel’s relationship is not that old. India, as a big power and a voice of the (Global) South, can play an active role in the de-escalation of the region,” Elahi said. Iran hopes that “India uses its influence and capabilities for de-escalation”, he said.

    The ambassador noted that Iran is a vast country between two bodies of water.

    “In the south of Iran, we have a coastline of more than 4,000 kilometers. Chabahar Port is in the southeast of Iran, and it is very far from the Mediterranean and West Asia.

    “The international corridor is not under danger, and the connectivity, which is the backbone of India-Iran relations, is safe,” he said.

    The envoy also reiterated that Iran is “safe” for Indians, Iranians and other nationals.

  • Delhi: AAP Leader Saurabh Bhardwaj Detained By Cops While Protesting To Reinstate Bus Marshals.

    New Delhi: Delhi Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bharadwaj and other party members were detained by police on Thursday while protesting at Chandgiram Akhara in Delhi, demanding the reinstatement of marshals in buses.

    While being detained, Saurabh Bhardwaj said, “We are with the bus marshals. They are poor. They have been removed as part of a conspiracy. Arvind Kejriwal will get them reinstated.” The bus marshals have been protesting for getting reinstated after Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena terminated their services in October last year.

    Earlier in the day, Saurabh Bharadwaj, joining the protest, said that they are waiting for BJP to join them in holding discussion with the LG on the issue. Speaking to ANI, he said, “We are not here to fight. On 26th September, it was decided at the Delhi Assembly that on October 3rd, all MLAs and Ministers of AAP and BJP would go to meet (Delhi) LG and we would sign whichever paper we were asked to sign and they (bus marshals) would be appointed. We have come here today and we are waiting for BJP.”

    The AAP official handle on “Aam Aadmi Party MLAs have joined the protest of Bus Marshals and supported the demand for their reinstatement. LG sahab should reinstate these bus marshals soon so that they can also celebrate the festival happily with their children and family,” the AAP stated.

    Last month, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, who was a cabinet minister at that time, wrote a letter to Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena, requesting him to restore the jobs of bus marshals. In her letter addressed to LG Saxena on Wednesday, Atishi said, “These Bus Marshals were primarily deployed through the pool of Civil Defense volunteers of Government of NCT of Delhi.

    Surprisingly, 8 years after the implementation of this scheme and its successful functioning, in a completely unseen move, their salaries were suddenly stopped on your orders. Their callout duties were ended on frivolous grounds, thus putting the Bus Marshal Scheme in a limbo.’

  • DNA: Sacred City Tirupati Turns Into Liquor Hub, Naidu Govt Issues 227 Licenses |

    The city of Tirupati, known as a major pilgrimage site, is at the center of this controversy. Reports indicate that over 200 licenses for alcohol shops have been issued in the Tirupati district, making it the highest in the entire state of Andhra Pradesh.The controversy over alcohol sales comes after recent scandal involving adulterated ‘prasadam’ (holy offerings) at the Tirumala. Temple, which sparked nationwide outrage.

    In today’s news show DNA, our host, Anant Tyagi analyzed an issue that’s stirring significant debate: Why is alcohol being sold in places of worship?

    DNA: Questions on Prasad, ruckus on liquor. Will Dharmanagari become a den of alcoholics?

    Liquor vends will open on a large scale in Tirupati, why most liquor vends in the pilgrimage city? #DNA #Tirupati #TirupatiControversy #TirupatiRow @Anant_Tyagii pic.twitter.com/Nkfcrv4jRb — Zee News (@ZeeNews) October 2, 2024

    YSR Congress MP M Gurumurthy has accused the Chandrababu Naidu-led government of attempting to turn Tirupati into a “liquor hub.” In an He questioned the rationale behind allowing 227 liquor licenses in a place steeped in tradition and spirituality.

    “Will the protection of Sanatan Dharma be ensured by opening these 227 liquor shops?” Gurumurthy asked, expressing his outrage at the government’s decision. He further pointed out that while the state government has claimed to uphold the purity of Tirupati, the opening of alcohol shops contradicts this commitment.

    However, this issue extends beyond just one pilgrimage site. A reality check across various religious towns in India shows a troubling trend where state revenues rely heavily on alcohol sales and licensing. From a religious and health perspective, alcohol is often viewed as sinful, yet its economic significance frequently overshadows spiritual beliefs.

  • Zee Exclusive: Analyzing BJP Leader’s Proposal To Serve Cow Urine At Garba Events |

    A provocative suggestion by a BJP leader in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has sparked a heated debate across the country. BJP’s district president, Chintu Verma, has advocated serving cow urine (gomutra) at Garba events to ensure only Hindus participate. Verma claims this measure would prevent non-Hindus from attending Garba celebrations. However, his statement has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. “We will protect our Hindu traditions, and those who are Hindus will not hesitate to drink gomutra,” Verma said.

    In today’s DNA news show, Zee News analyzed if are Hindus to willing to drink cow urine before participating in Garba? and how effective it will be to stop hooliganism.

    DNA: Cow urine plan to stop ruckus in Garba. How effective is the cow urine model in Garba?

    If you go to play Garba, will you give cow urine first? #DNA #Garba #Gomutra #CowUrine @Anant_Tyagii pic.twitter.com/rKpJpjNRv1 — Zee News (@ZeeNews) October 1, 2024

    Reactions ranged from skepticism to outrage, with some questioning the practicality and morality of using cow urine as a litmus test for Hindu identity. The opposition Congress party has condemned Verma’s statement, labeling it an attempt to polarize communities. To validate Verma’s claim, a BJP spokesperson went as far as consuming cow urine publicly.

    Chintu Verma argues that requiring cow urine consumption will prevent non-Hindus from participating. “If you are a Hindu, drinking cow urine is not a question,” he stated confidently. In light of his remarks, we asked several Hindus if they would be willing to drink cow urine before entering a Garba venue.

    This proposal comes in response to various incidents over the years, where disturbances during Garba celebrations have been reported. From unruly behavior to stone-pelting incidents, organizers are seeking ways to ensure safety and maintain the sanctity of the events.

    As we reflect on this proposal, consider how you would feel if your local Garba event required you to drink cow urine for entry. We posed this question to individuals from various cities, seeking their opinions on the matter.