Kyrgyzstan Crisis: What Indian and Pakistani Students Need to Know

Kyrgyzstan Violence: Key Information on the Situation and Responses Overview of the Violence In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, foreign students, including those from India and Pakistan, are facing threats from locals amid ongoing mob violence. This unrest primarily targets international students and has raised significant concerns. India's Advisory to Students On May 18, India advised its students in Bishkek to remain indoors following reports of mob violence aimed at South Asian students. The Indian embassy in Kyrgyzstan has described the current situation as calm. The embassy is in contact with Indian students, advising them to stay safe and keep in touch. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also urged students to maintain regular communication with the embassy. Causes of the Violence The violence erupted after a viral video on social media showed a fight on May 13 between Kyrgyz students and foreign students, mainly from Pakistan and Egypt. Locals viewed this incident as a violation of their hospitality. As a result, on May 17, Kyrgyz locals protested, accusing officials of being too lenient towards the foreign students involved. Police had detained three students related to the incident. The violence quickly escalated, with mobs targeting hostels housing international students from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. India's Response External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar posted on social media, monitoring the situation and advising students to stay in touch with the embassy. The Indian Embassy reassured that it is monitoring the situation, advising students to stay indoors and providing a 24/7 contact number (0555710041) for any issues. Statements from Kyrgyz Authorities On May 18, the Kyrgyz foreign ministry stated that law enforcement had acted quickly to detain those involved in the incident, and the situation is now under control. The ministry reported no serious injuries among the participants and urged media and diplomatic missions to avoid spreading unverified information. Health and Safety Updates The Kyrgyz health ministry reported that four Pakistani students received first aid and were discharged, while one remains under treatment for injuries. Police in riot gear were deployed in parts of Bishkek due to large crowds gathering after the fight on May 13. Indian Student Population in Kyrgyzstan Approximately 15,000 Indian students are studying in Kyrgyzstan, many pursuing MBBS degrees due to the affordability and quality of medical education. Degrees from Kyrgyzstan universities are internationally recognized, including by the World Health Organization (WHO). A recent advisory from India described Kyrgyzstan as safe and friendly towards Indian nationals. Pakistan's Response Pakistan's Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Hasan Zaigham, advised Pakistani students in Bishkek to stay indoors until the situation normalizes. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Federal Minister Amir Muqam to visit Bishkek to assist Pakistani students. They are traveling on a special plane to provide support. Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry also issued a demarche to Kyrgyzstan regarding the situation. Update on Pakistani Students Ambassador Zaigham confirmed no deaths among Pakistani students. A special flight carrying 180 Pakistani students landed at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on May 18. The situation in Bishkek remains tense but reportedly calm. Both India and Pakistan are closely monitoring the situation and taking measures to ensure the safety of their students. The Kyrgyz authorities are working to control the violence and maintain public order. Pakistan Mulls Extension of USD15.5 Billion Chinese Energy Debt Amid IMF Talks NIA Files Chargesheet Against Amaan Salim Shaikh: Key Figure in Visakhapatnam Espionage Case 3 Killed in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir as Security Forces Respond with Firing and Teargas

3 Arrested For Luring Indians Into Fake Jobs In Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand

The Visakhapatnam police said it busted a cybercrime racket and arrested three consultancy agents for allegedly luring unemployed youths and sending them to Chinese-operated cybercrime rings in countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand.

Burma Camp Attack Personal Dispute: CP

Visakhapatnam : Commissioner of police Dr A. Ravi Shankar said the Burma camp attack was purely personal and had nothing to do with politics. Addressing a press conference in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, the commissioner confirmed that the altercation was not politically motivated but rather a result of ongoing tensions between two families. It may be recalled that a violent altercation in the Burma camp between two families on Wednesday drew significant attention after one family claimed they were attacked for their political affiliations. However, police investigations have revealed that the incident stemmed from a personal dispute, not political rivalry. S. Nooka Ratnam, known as Neerisha, along with her mother Dhana Lakshmi and siblings Ramya and Manikanta, alleged that they were targeted by individuals associated with the opposition party due to their support for the TD-BJP-JS alliance. Following these accusations, the police initiated a case against five individuals, including Lokesh and his relatives Kanaka Ratnam and Aasha. Leaders from the BJP and Jana Sena extended their support to the victims, fueling initial speculations of political interference in the incident. Additional police personnel, including a sub-inspector and four constables, were deployed in the Burma camp area to prevent any untoward incidents following the spread of false rumours linking the incident to political parties. Meanwhile, the MLA candidate of Visakhapatnam North K.K. Raju, under whose jurisdiction the incident took place, said the polling went off peacefully due to good policing. He said the Opposition parties were trying to thrust the blame on the YSRC but the people were aware of the truth.

AP Police bust human trafficking racket, 3 held

AP Police bust human trafficking racket, 3 held Three people were arrested here on Saturday on human trafficking charges, police said and added that they allegedly took people to Cambodia where ''Chinese operators'' forced them to carry out cyber crimes and ponzi scams. Chukka Rajesh, S Kondala Rao and M Jnaneshwar Rao have also been held for taking up to Rs 1.1 lakh from people on the pretext of provident them jobs in Southeast Asian countries, police said. ''In March 2023, Rajesh came in touch with Santosh from Cambodia who was looking for 30 system operators with good English communication skills and computer knowledge for jobs in Cambodia,'' police said in a statement. It was on the advice of Santosh that Rajesh took money from people, it said and added that in March last year 27 job aspirants were dispatched to Cambodia. Under this racket, around 150 people, all youngsters, from various places had been trafficked to Cambodia. They would be ''sold off to Chinese operators engaging in cyber crime for up to USD 4,000'', police said. In the statement, police said that ''after coming under the control of these Chinese operators, the youth would be made to sit in dark rooms to forcibly carry out cyber crimes, and any rebellion would be met with severe persecution and starvation''. Police discovered the racket after a victim managed to escape and called the Visakhapatnam Police cyber helpline 1930 to spill the beans. Police released the names of 67 persons who are currently under the clutches of the Chinese operators in Cambodia.

A Whale of a Time Awaits Visitors at Vizag Zoo

The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. Visakhapatnam: Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) has started acquiring a host of exotic animals, including Bengal fox, Himalayan black bear and scarlet macaws, making for a top-notch experience for its visitors. On top of this, IGZP has taken up several other initiatives like installing benches, recreational areas for children and a new animal adoption policy to augment the zoo's finances. IGZP recently welcomed a pair of giraffes from the Kolkata Alipore Zoological Garden. These tall herbivores - a two-year-old male and a four-year-old female - are currently in quarantine under the supervision of zoo doctors. Additionally, four Asian water monitor lizards, scarlet macaws have also been brought to the zoo. New enclosures have been constructed for Bengal fox, Himalayan black bear, hippopotamuses, Indian mar, stamp tailed musk, Asian brown parrots, and more. Spanning across 625 acres, the IGZP in the Seethakonda Reserve Forest in Visakhapatnam offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts. It is surrounded by the picturesque Eastern Ghats on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on the fourth. The park is home to 77 animal species, totalling 835 individuals; this includes carnivores, small mammals, reptiles, ungulates, and birds. Rare endemic and exotic trees and shrubs with water bodies add to the natural beauty. The geography helps in hosting diverse fauna amid two hillocks. The adjoining Kambalakonda Eco Tourism Park, itself, is home to several rare animals. Domestic and foreign tourists are patrons of the Visakhapatnam Zoo. To increase footfall, new cafeterias have been set up. There are ample recreational facilities for children as well. Resting benches and platforms have been placed along all enclosures for the benefit of tourists. In an interesting development, the zoo management has laid down the rules for persons interested in adopting animals. Visitors who adopt animals in the zoo will get tax exemptions under 80G (5) of the IT Act, 1961. Donors who make a contribution of Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000 can avail themselves of free entry into the zoo for five persons once a year. Donors who contribute Rs 30,000 or more will get a t-shirt, cap, and free entry to participate in all the events held at the zoo. Donors will also receive authorised adoption certificates.

29,543 appear for EAPCET engg stream

Kakinada: The AP EAPCET-2024 engineering stream online examination, conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada (JNTU-K), commenced on Saturday in the state. The APEAPCET-2024 chairman and the JNTUK vice-chancellor G.V.R. Prasada Raju, reported that the examination was held in only one session on Saturday. Out of 31,386 registered candidates, 29,543 appeared for the exam, marking an attendance rate of 94.13 per cent. In Kakinada district, 1,060 students attended the exam out of 1,113 registered, registering a 95.24 per cent attendance rate. Visakhapatnam district recorded the highest number of attendees, with 3,576 candidates appearing. In NTR district, 3,513 students attended, followed by 2,268 students in Tirupati and 2,157 candidates in Guntur districts. Anakapalli district had the lowest number of registered candidates, with only 95 students appearing for the exam.

TD to lose three seats in Vizag: Babji

Visakhapatnam : In a controversial statement, former TD leader and former MLA Gandi Babji said the TD would lose three seats in Visakhapatnam district. Talking to media persons in the Visakhapatnam TD office recently, Babji said the party might lose Visakhapatnam North, Visakhapatnam West, and one more in the district, which he did not name. NDA alliance candidate and former BJP floor leader P. Vishnu Kumar Raju is contesting against YSRC candidate K.K. Raju. Former CBI officer V.V. Lakshminarayana is also in the fray from Visakhapatnam North. Raju lost to TDs Ganta Srinivasa Rao in the 2019 elections. Babji also said the party might lose Visakhapatnam West, where senior TD leader P.V.G.R. Naidu (Ganababu ) is contesting against YSRCs Adari Ananda Kumar. TD state president K. Atchannaidu did not react to Babjis prediction. I am not aware of such videos circulating on social media; I will find out, said K. Atchannaidu, who is contesting from Tekkali for the third time. Refusing to make any comment, P. Vishnu Kumar Raju said Babji might have expressed his personal opinion and could not guess on what basis he might have said. Visakhapatnam West candidate P.V.G.R. Naidu said he was yet to see the video clipping. TD sources said there were discussions going on in the party to find out what made him make this statement. Out of seven Assembly segments, TD won in four constituencies in the 2019 elections. On March 14, Babji, who was incharge for Visakhapatnam South constituency resigned from the party after a segment was allotted to MLC Vamsi Krishna Yadav, who recently joined Jana Sena, quitting YSRC. Babji has been working in the constituency for the last two years, hoping to get the ticket. Babji, while in Congress, won from the Pendurthi constituency in 2004 defeating Bandaru Satyanarayana Murthy of TD. He lost to Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, who was then in the Praja Rajyam Party in 2009. He joined YSRC and lost to Bandaru Satyanarayana Murhty in 2014. He joined TD before the 2019 elections and became district president.

Vizag Police Bust SE Asia Slave Job Racket

Visakhapatnam Police (Photo: Twitter) Visakhapatnam Police (Photo: Twitter) Visakhapatnam: Visakhapatnam police have busted a gang that offered jobs to unemployed men and women in southeast Asia promising lucrative salaries. However, they ended up working for Chinese companies that forced them to commit cybercrimes. Briefing media here on Saturday, Vizag police commissioner Ravi Shankar Ayyanar said the recruiters attracted men and women from Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Rajahmundry, Anantapur, Palasa, Tuni, Anakapalli and Kolkata, promising them jobs abroad as data entry operators with lucrative salaries and good living conditions. Once they agreed, the men and women ended up being sent to countries like Cambodia, Myanmar and Bangkok. There they ended up working for Chinese companies, which trained them for 710 days and forced them into engaging in cybercrimes at an average salary of $600 per month. Any resistance invited severe punishment, including torture and deprivation of food and water. Ayyanar disclosed that approximately 5,000 people from Andhra Pradesh had fallen victim to this scam over the past two years. The illegal racket came to light after Botcha Sankar, an ex-Navy employee, filed a complaint through the 1930 cybercrimes helpline. Sankar's complaint had been based on the account of a victim, who had managed to escape. Following the complaint, Visakhapatnam police arrested Chukka Rajesh, the ringleader, and his associates Sabbavarapu Kondala Rao and Mannena Gnaneshwar Rao, both from Gajuwaka area. Police investigation revealed a complex network of agents, including Santosh, Arya, Umamahesh and Habib, who facilitated the trafficking. The victims went to Cambodia on tourist visas. These got converted into business visas once they joined Chinese companies.

Vizag police bust human trafficking racket being operated from Cambodia, arrest three local agents

Over 150 youngsters from the city stuck in that country, total count from other parts of A.P. and Kolkata could go up to 5,000; victims lured by promising data entry operators and forced to commit cyber crimes in India, says city police chief

Heavy rain forecast for state in last week of May

Visakhapatnam : A low pressure area is likely to form over southwest Bay of Bengal around May 22. It is likely to move initially northeast-wards and concentrate into a depression over central parts of Bay of Bengal around May 24. It is too early to assess its path and forecast whether it will intensify into a deep depression and cyclone. But the system will bring in heavy rains throughout the last week of May over north coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema, said senior scientist at IMD Amaravati Dr. S. Karunasagar. A source said conditions are favourable for further intensification of the system. However, as there are dissimilarities between models and forecasts, it would be difficult to say further without more clarity. Karunasagar said the system is likely to propel the southwest monsoon towards the Kerala coast. The monsoon might touch Kerala on June 1 as per the usual schedule and Rayalaseema in Andhra Pradesh on June 5 or June 6. Currently, a trough from south Chhattisgarh to Comorin area is running to south interior Karnataka across Telangana and Rayalaseema 3.1 km above mean sea level. The cyclonic circulation over Rayalaseema and adjoining north Tamil Nadu extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level has become less marked. Under these two systems, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty wind with speed reaching 3040 kmph are likely at isolated places over north coastal and south coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema from Sunday to May 22.

Financial aid for retired home guards

Visakhapatnam: The Anakapalli district police presented financial assistance to a retired home guard on Saturday. M. Ramalingam, who previously served at the Paderu police station, received a cheque for `3,86,240 from district police chief K.V. Muralikrishna. The funds represent a one-day duty allowance voluntarily contributed by home guards across Visakhapatnam. Muralikrishna hailed Ramalingam for his commendable service and dedication during his service. Furthermore, the Anakapalli district police announced a new initiative for the home guards working in Anakapalli and Alluri Sitarama Raju districts. The district police will also contribute one days allowance to support any home guard in Visakhapatnam who either loses their life in the line of duty or retires.

AP students among toppers in Telangana EAPCET 2024

Visakhapatnam : Telangana announced its Engineering, Agriculture and Pharmacy Common Entrance Test (EAPCET) 2024 results on Saturday.A distinct feature of the results is that students of Andhra Pradesh are among toppers in both the engineering as well as agriculture and pharmacy categories. In the engineering stream, S. Jyotiraditya of Srikakulam-Palakonda secured the first rank, Harsha of Kurnool second, Sai Yashwant Reddy of Kurnool fifth, and Dhanukonda Srinidhi of Vizianagaram the 10th rank. In agriculture and pharmacy stream too, AP students remained stellar. Praneetha from Madanapalle claimed the first tank, Radhakrishna from Vizianagaram second, Saket Raghav from Chittoor fourth, Vadlapudi Mukesh Chaudhary from Tirupati-Vengamambapuram seventh, and Divya Teja from Sri Satyasai District-Balijapet the 10th rank. Telangana EAPCET 2024 witnessed a significant turnout with 99,890 candidates registering for the agriculture and pharmacy exam, and 2,06,472 for the engineering exam. Girls performed better than boys in both the streams with a qualifying percentage of 90.18 in agriculture and pharmacy, and 75.85 in engineering, compared to boys percentage of 88.25 and 74.38 respectively.

Voter turnout low in Srikakulam; migration main concern

Visakhapatnam: Generally, rural voters are enthusiastic about voting. However, this time, in Srikakulam district, a rural area, 4,35,049 voters did not exercise their right to vote. Voters in the district cite various reasons for this, but the main reason appears to be migration. Some others prioritised their livelihood over participating in the democratic process. Despite efforts by officials to raise awareness at the grassroots level through banners and posters promoting the right to vote, the voting turnout in rural areas of Srikakulam has been low. Pankajam, a Palasa voter, says, My husband travelled to Saudi Arabia for a construction worker's job. He had come for our daughter's wedding. Now, he can't come back again to vote. Appalanarasammas eldest son works as an unorganised labour in Pedagantyada. He and his family are registered voters in Baruva, a village near Sompeta. However, due to financial constraints, they could not travel to Baruva to vote. Furthermore, nearly 600 voters did not cast their vote in the Bhavanapadu port project area due to some controversies involving forced land acquisition and compensation. Additionally, many voters couldnt travel from Hyderabad to Srikakulam on time due to inadequate transportation facilities. The total number of voters in Srikakulam district is 1,875,934, including 739,852 women, 701,016 men and 17 transgenders. Of these, 1,440,885 people exercised their right to vote, while 4,35,049 did not. The highest number of people who did not vote was in the Srikakulam constituency, with 81,385 voters abstaining. Additionally, 36,010 voters did not vote in Amadalavalasa, 51,716 in Palasa, 46,055 in Tekkali, and 62,269 in Pathapatnam. In Ichapuram, 78,964 voters did not vote, while 40,929 in Etcherla and 37,723 in Narasannapeta also chose not to exercise their right to vote.

CEO inspects strong rooms in Vizag

Visakhapatnam : Chief electoral officer Mukesh Kumar Meena inspected the strong rooms on Saturday where the EVMs are kept on the premises of AU Engineering College. In this context, the CEO emphasised the importance of following security standards and taking strong actions to ensure the safety of the rooms. District officials have been advised to maintain high alertness. He said that any untoward incident should be avoided. District election officer and collector Dr A. Mallikarjuna and police commissioner Dr A. Ravi Shankar accompanied him when he examined the strong rooms in Vizag. They inspected the EVMs of seven Assembly constituencies and the Visakhapatnam Parliament seat. Mukesh Kumar Meena carefully observed the locks and seals of the doors. The officials were asked to monitor CCTV cameras. After the inspection, he signed the log book. The collector has been advised to ensure three-fold security and continuous monitoring of the EVMs. He emphasised that all necessary precautions should be taken in accordance with the rules of the EC. Joint collector K. Mayur Ashok, ROs, and AROs of their respective constituencies were also present.

Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner denies political angle in family attack case at Kancharapalem - The Hindu

Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner denies political angle in family attack case at Kancharapalem The Hindu

Chief Electoral Officer tells officials to ensure round-the-clock security at AUCE strongroom in Vizag

Adhere to the Election Commission of India guidelines in this regard, and never allow any unauthorised persons near the area, says Mukesh Kumar Meena

Telangana: Live-in partner dupes man of Rs 16 lakh in Karimnagar

Hyderabad: A businessman was conned of Rs 16 lakh by his live-in partner in Karimnagar recently. Nagaraj Yugi, a resident of Thimmapur village and mandal in Karimnagar district of Telangana, went to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu a year ago for studies. He met Kamala Sandhya Priyanka, a native of Visakhapatnam. Both of them were in a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

YSRCP Picks A Date for CM Jagan Swearing-in

Vijayawada: A poster posted by the YSRCP on its twitter account on Saturday afternoon asking the cadre to gear up for celebrations after the party's victory after completion of counting on June 4 drew attention of everyone especially among politicians. The poster posted with hastags - #YSRCPWinningBig and YSJaganAgain generated much curiosity among politicians not only in YSRCP but in the NDA alliance parties comprising BJP, TDP and Jana Sena. In the poster with the photo of Chief Minister, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy amid the background of Visakhapatnam RK beach and apartments on the main road, the YSRCP said the party was going to register a massive victory in the elections and gear up for celebrations. Jagan Mohan Reddy will take oath as the Chief Minister for the second consecutive time in Visakhapatnam on June 9, the poster read. During his election campaign also, Jagan Mohan Reddy said he would take oath as the Chief Minister after winning elections. The party cadre became jubilant on seeing the poster on Twitter and responded positively in support of the party.

At Andhra Pradeshs Visakhapatnam, This Region Is Famous For Its Buddhist Site

Thotlakonda is a hill on the sea coast and was an ideal attraction for the Buddhist monks to build a monastery here.

Indian Students Elected To Leadership At Silicon Valley College In USA

New York: In a remarkable achievement, twin brothers Priyam Tated and Pratham Tated from Visakhapatnam, India, have been elected to prestigious positions at San Jose City College (SJCC) in California, USA. Priyam Tatedhas been elected as thePresidentof the student governing body at SJCC. Pratham Tatedhas been elected as theStudent Trusteeof the same governing body. This [] The post Indian Students Elected To Leadership At Silicon Valley College In USA appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

YSRC goons attacked Burma Colony family, police claim false: Vishnu

VISAKHAPATNAM: Former BJP MLA and Visakhapatnam North Assembly constituency NDA candidate P Vishnu Kumar Raju on Friday alleged that the attack on a family in Burma Camp was orchestrated by the YSRC. He dismissed the police statement that the altercation was due to a personal dispute, alleging that YSRC goons targeted the victims for voting for the NDA. Accompanied by the victims, Raju addressed the media on Friday, condemning the ongoing violence in the State. Raju criticised Kancharapalem police for their inept handling of the incident, accusing them of misleading the public and failing to conduct a thorough probe. On the night of May 15, victim Dhanalakshmi, her son Manikantha, and a pregnant woman named Ramya, were assaulted by a gang of six who invaded their house. Despite the severity of the attack, which included 23 cuts inflicted on Dhanalakshmi, Raju claimed the police misrepresented the incident and did not adequately address the victims complaints. The former MLA said they would take the matter to the notice of the City Police Commissioner and the Election Commission, expressing distrust towards local law enforcement authorities, and demanded an impartial investigation into the incident. Nazir of TDP and Pasupuleti Usha Kiran of JSP echoed Rajus concerns, questioning the polices quick dismissal of the assault. Victim Nukaratnam denied any prior disputes with the attackers, attributing the violence solely to their voting. She accused Kancharapalem police of corruption, expressing fear for their lives and stating that they could no longer stay in Burma Camp. Dont politicise attack: Minister Denying any political motive in the Burma Colony attack, Education Minister Botcha Satyanarayana said everyone should avoid spreading unfounded rumours and creating unrest in the peaceful region of North Andhra for selfish gains

Poetic justice as man freed after shoddy probe gets 12-year jail in another drug case in TN

CHENNAI: The proverbial long arm of the law has eventually caught up with Virugambakkam-based vegetable seller-turned-ganja peddler L Ravi (64). Seven-and-a-half years after a trial court acquitted him in a ganja case, the investigation of which was messed up by Chennai police, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) managed to secure a 12-year sentence for Ravi and three others on May 9 in another case filed in 2019. Ravi and four others were acquitted in December 2016 after the Choolaimedu police failed to prove his role in the seizure of 60 kg ganja, with the trial court picking up holes in the documentation of the investigation procedures. However, the NCB was able to prove his role beyond doubt before Principal Judge of the NDPS Special Court C Thirumagal, in the September 20, 2019 seizure of 303 kg ganja at Karanodai toll plaza on the GNT Road on the outskirts of Chennai. The investigators nabbed M Manogaran (38), a native of Madurai and M Vijayakumaran (50), and T Chandran from Theni when they were travelling from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh to Madurai via Chennai with the ganja consignment loaded in an SUV. It was later found that the vehicle had a fake registration number plate. They had stopped at the toll plaza and were handing over 25 kg of the cannabis to Ravi when the NCB sleuths apprehended them. A search at Ravis home later also yielded 250 gm of ganja. According to NCB, the ganja operation was funded by Madurai resident P Ramesh, a restaurateur-turned-money lender facing losses in his business, akin to Ravi, who shifted to ganja peddling as he didnt earn enough from selling vegetables. NCB said Manogaran befriended Ramesh while working as a painter at his restaurant and spoke about his ganja business. Ramesh agreed to Manogarans proposal to pump money into the business and lent a few lakhs of rupees on a profit-sharing basis for ganja trafficking. In fact, the prosecution noted Ramesh earned a profit of Rs 2 lakh on an investment of Rs 5 lakh within a gap of 15-20 days. While NCB produced phone records to prove an active connection between the five accused, the court accepted their evidence of financial transactions between Manogaran and Ramesh, despite the latters counsel rejecting the charge of him funding the illicit trafficking. NCB also contended that Ramesh gave his debit card and arranged the SUV for transporting the narcotics from Vizag to Madurai, after Manogaran ratted him out in his voluntary statement before the agency. The charges against Chandran abated as he died before completion of trial. Manogaran, Vijayakumaran, Ravi and Chandran were slapped with a 12-year sentence by the court.

YSRC will win 34 seats in N. Andhra alone: Botsa

Visakhapatnam: Minister Botsa Satyanarayana on Friday declared that the ruling YSRC will win 34 seats in north Andhra alone. Speaking to media, he sought to predict that YSRCP will win close to 175 seats in entire Andhra Pradesh. Oath-taking ceremony of Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as Chief Minister will be in Visakhapatnam on June 9. Very soon, we will announce the time and location, Satyanarayana declared. He maintained that the newly formed YSRC government will petition the court to designate Visakhapatnam as the executive capital, based on the public's verdict. Replying to a question, he said only minor incidents of violence had occurred in Visakhapatnam. But opposition parties are attempting to exploit them for political gain. The minister called on political parties to refrain from promoting violence. YSRC does not condone violence. Everyone is responsible for maintaining peace in Visakhapatnam, especially when Jagan Mohan Reddy is set to begin his rule from the port city, he remarked. Replying to another question, he pointed out that Telugu Desam has postponed the partys Mahanadu, as it is suffering with low confidence. Satyanarayana said as a political leader, he wants a stable government at the centre. But for the sake of Andhra Pradesh, we want the party at the centre to depend on the support of YSRC, he stated.

ECI finally releases APs poll percentage

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. (PTI File Image) Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. (PTI File Image) Vijayawada: Election Commission of India has finally released details of poll percentage recorded in Andhra Pradesh, which witnessed polling in its 175 assembly and 25 parliamentary constituencies on May 13. According to the figures released by ECI on Friday, AP has registered the highest poll percentage of 81.86 in the country, 80.66 per cent through EVMs and 1.2 per cent through postal ballots. This is the highest poll percentage recorded in a state during the last four phases of polling. The poll percentages released Lok Sabha constituency-wise are Amalapuram (SC) 83.85, Anakapalle 82.03, Anantapur 80.51, Araku (ST) 73.68, Bapatla (SC)- 85.48, Chittoor (SC) 85.77, Eluru 83.68, Guntur 78.81, Hindupur 84.79, Kadapa 79.57, Kakinada 80.30, Kurnool 76.80, Machilipatnam 84.05, Nandyal 80.61, Narasapur 82.59, Narasaraopet 85.65, Nellore 79.05, Ongole 87.06, Rajahmundry 80.93, Rajampet 79.09, Srikakulam 74.43, Tirupati 79.10, Vijayawada 79.37, Visakhapatnam 71.11 and Vizianagaram 81.05. Thus, among all the parliamentary constituencies of Andhra Pradesh, Ongole recorded the highest 87.06 per cent polling, while Visakhapatnam registered the lowest polling percentage of 71.11.

Special trains from Vizag to clear for summer rush

Visakhapatnam: The Railways has launched special trains to clear the summer rush, a release said on Friday. Train No. 06507 SMV BengaluruKharagpur special train will leave SMV Bengaluru at 3.50 pm on Fridays from May 24 to June 14 which will reach Duvvada the next day at 12 noon and depart at 12.02 pm to reach Kharagpur in the early hours of the next day at 2.45 am (four trips). In the return direction, the train will leave Kharagpur at 2 pm on Mondays from May 27 to June 17 which will reach Duvvada the next day early hours at 2.38 am and depart at 2.40 am and to reach SMV Bengaluru at 7.50 pm. Similarly, Train No. 06585 SMV Bengaluru-Howrah Summer Special will leave SMV Bengaluru at 00.30 am on Fridays from May 31 to June 14 which will reach Duvvada at 7.25 pm and depart at 7.27 pm to reach Howrah at 10 am next day. (three trips) In the return direction, the special train will leave Howrah at 1.05 pm on Saturdays from June 1 to June 15 which will reach Duvvada at 3.03 am the next day and depart at 3.05 am and reach SMV Bengaluru at 8.10 pm. Train No. 06569 SMV Bengaluru-Guwahati special train will leave SMV Bengaluru on Sundays at 00.30 am from May 26 to June 9 which will reach Duvvada at 7.23 pm the next day and depart at 7.55 pm and reach Guwahati at 5.30 am on Friday. (Four trips) In the return direction the train will leave Guwahati on Wednesdays at 6 am from May 29 to June 12 which will reach Duvvada the next day at 3.08 pm and depart at 3.10 pm to reach SMV Bengaluru at 10 am on Monday. (Four trips)

AU engg college turns fortress

Andhra University Andhra University Visakhapatnam: The district administration has transformed the AU Engineering College campus of Andhra University into a fortress with stringent security measures due to the presence of a strong room containing EVM machines in one of the buildings. On Friday, district election officer and collector Dr A. Mallikarjuna, commissioner of police Dr A. Ravi Shankar, joint collector A. Mayur Ashok and other senior officials visited the strong room for the second consecutive day. They interacted with the officials, offering suggestions to the security personnel stationed there round the clock. The EVMs, arranged according to parliamentary and assembly segments, had their seals personally inspected by both the collector and the commissioner. Following this, they participated in a video conference addressed by the state chief election commissioner Mukesh Kumar Meena.

Visakhapatnam: Steel Employees Stage Dharna for Wages

Vizag Steel Plant entrance. (Photo: AFP/File) Vizag Steel Plant entrance. (Photo: AFP/File) Visakhapatnam: Steel plant employees led by the CITU staged a dharna in front of the work executive directors office on Friday demanding immediate release of wages. The union leaders later submitted a memorandum to the executive director. Honorary president of CITU, J Ayodhyaram, said that as per the company rules, the steel plant management should be paying wages by the seventh of every month. But, contrary to rules, the wage payments were irregular for the last three months. The salary bills total `90 crore a month. The unionists warned that the employees would launch a full-scale agitation if the salaries were not paid on time. JMS general secretary Varasala Srinivasa Rao said banks were slapping abnormal fines on EMIs for the delay in payment of instalments due to the irregular release of the wages. All the banks have declared health accounts as NPA and are pressing the employees for clearance of dues. The banks are waiving loans worth several crores in the case of big business, but are harassing the employees who just missed one or two EMIs, Srinivasa Rao said. Sources said the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd, for the first time in its 42-year-old history, found it difficult to pay salaries to its employees. The steel plant has 13,557 regular employees, including 9,154 non-executive cadre employees and 4,403 executive cadre employees. A senior officer of RINL said the management was paying salaries before the scheduled date till some time ago. However, due to the current non-movement of raw material from Gangavaram Port to the Steel Plant due to the employees strike, the regular business was affected. The problem has been solved and we will pay the salaries in a day or two.

Burma camp attack: Victims say they voted for NDA

Visakhapatnam: The attack on four members of a family in Burma Colony here turned political when the victims met BJP leader and assembly candidate for Vizag-North, Vishnu Kumar Raju, to complain that they were attacked because they voted for the NDA. As per the case, a gang led by local thug Lokesh attacked the family members with sticks and caused injuries to three persons on Wednesday night. The victims, S. Nooka Ratnam alias Neerisha, her mother Dhana Lakshmi, her siblings Ramya and Manikanta claimed that they were attacked by Lokesh and his relatives Kanaka Ratnam and Aasha as we voted for the TDP-BJP-JSP alliance. The police downplayed the political angle by stating that old rivalry led to the attack, they told the former MLA. Expressing the view that the police supported the YSRC goons in Vizag, Vishnu Kumar Raju stressed that political rivalry led to the attack on Nooka Ratnams family. The police utterly failed to control anti-social elements and protect the rowdy-sheeters. Vishnu Kumar Raju demanded that the police arrest rowdy sheeter Boggu Srinu and the other assailants. We will approach city police commissioner Ravi Shankar to alter the case as an instance of political rivalry instead of old enmity, and demand the arrest of all the accused. He alleged Lokesh, Bhaskar, Sai and Bholoak have been working under a senior YSRC leader. Minister Botsa Satyanarayana claimed there was no connection between the attack and politics. He asked the police not to spare anybody involved in the attack.

SCR Records Heaviest Footfall in Four Days

Hyderabad: A record 4.3 lakh unreserved passengers travelled from the city to different destinations from Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Kacheguda and Lingampally railway stations from May 9 to 12. According to officials from South Central Railway (SCR), a daily average of 1.05 lakh passengers travelled in general coaches, which is 52 per cent higher than the daily average of 68,800 unreserved passengers. In order to cater to the rush because of summer vacations, Lok Sabha elections and the weekend rush, SCR introduced more than 60 additional special trains between the two Telugu states from May 9 to 15. The special trains from the twin cities to Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Narsapur, Vijayawada, Nagersol and Machilipatnam, recorded more than 100 per cent occupancy. Special trains were also run to Khurda Road, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Cuttack (All Odisha), Bengaluru, Danapur, Gorakhpur, Agartala, Udaipur, Santragachi, Kollam, Jaipur and Rajkot. Around 41 additional coaches, including AC III tier, sleeper class and general second class coaches were added to the 40 regular trains to accommodate the additional rush of waitlisted passengers, said SCR officials.

Supply of coking coal from Adani Gangavaram Port to Visakhapatnam Steel Plant resumes

The imported coal was stocked at the port since April 12 due to strike by the workers

NIA files charge-sheet against one more in Pakistan-led Indian Navy spying case

In a supplementary document filed in the Special Court in Visakhapatnam, the anti-terror agency booked Amaan Salim Shaikh, a resident of Mumbai, under various sections of IPC and UA(P) Act

Police trying to portray the attack on three persons as a family dispute, alleges Visakhapatnam North Assembly BJP candidate

YSRCP activists attacked them for voting in favour of alliance, he says and seeks proper investigation into the incident

NIA Files Chargesheet Against Amaan Salim Shaikh: Key Figure in Visakhapatnam Espionage Case

Mumbai: T he National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against Amaan Salim Shaikh, a key figure in the Visakhapatnam espionage case, involving the leakage of classified defense information through a Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spying network. Shaikh, a resident of Mumbai, Maharashtra, was formally charged in the NIA Special Court, Visakhapatnam, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P) Act]. Shaikh is a crucial suspect in the conspiracy orchestrated by Pakistani agents to honey trap Indian Navy personnel and extract sensitive information about India's defense establishments. The investigation by the NIA revealed that Shaikh played a significant role in this espionage network, operating under the direction of a suspected Pakistani agent named Usman. Additionally, Shaikh allegedly received funds from other suspected Pakistani operatives, including Meer Balaj Khan and Alven, along with several other individuals, through cryptocurrency channels. These funds were purportedly used to execute tasks assigned by the Pakistani intelligence operatives. The NIA assumed control of the investigation from the Counter Intelligence Cell, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, on June 5, 2023. Previously, on November 6, 2023, the NIA had chargesheeted two other individuals in connection with this case. Further investigations are ongoing. EC Issues Notice to BJP Candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay for Remarks Against Mamata Banerjee Sarah Moin's Remarkable ICSE Success Despite Multiple Disabilities Swati Maliwal Case: FM Sitharaman Urges Kejriwal to Speak Out and Apologize

Uttarakhand CM Announces Master Plan for Char Dham Yatra

Dehradun: In response to reports of pilgrims facing challenges due to overcrowding during the Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced plans to develop a master plan for Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham to ensure smoother journeys for devotees in the future. Dhami, addressing the media, acknowledged the doubling of devotees participating in the Char Dham Yatra compared to previous years. He assured that efforts are underway to make all necessary arrangements to minimize difficulties encountered by devotees during the pilgrimage. The Chief Minister appealed to devotees to complete their registrations before embarking on the journey and emphasized the importance of adhering to this process. He expressed regret over the recent challenges faced by pilgrims due to overcrowding but assured that measures are being taken to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. Dhami also mentioned his personal involvement in addressing these issues, stating his directive to officials to resolve ground-level problems and his own visits to assess the situation firsthand. Highlighting the significant increase in tourist numbers this year, Dhami assured that steps are being taken to facilitate the completion of worship for every devotee. He reiterated the appeal for devotees to adhere to the registration process, emphasizing its importance in preventing difficulties for both pilgrims and the system. Meanwhile, authorities have cautioned pilgrims against attempting fraudulent registrations for the Char Dham Yatra. Uttarkashi Police issued a warning, stating that necessary action will be taken against those found engaging in such activities. They confirmed that the ongoing pilgrimage to Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham is progressing smoothly without disruptions. Dr. Vishakha Ashok Bhadane, SP Rudraprayag, urged all devotees to register themselves before visiting Shri Kedarnath Dham to ensure a hassle-free pilgrimage experience. The Char Dham Yatra, comprising visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, holds significant religious importance for Hindus. It is a pilgrimage to these four sacred sites, with char denoting four and dham representing religious destinations, according to the Uttarakhand tourism official website. Member of Himanshu Bhau Gang Killed in Delhi Police Encounter NIA Files Chargesheet Against Amaan Salim Shaikh: Key Figure in Visakhapatnam Espionage Case Sarah Moin's Remarkable ICSE Success Despite Multiple Disabilities

IMD Warns of Impending Heatwave Across Northern India

Lucknow: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning on Friday regarding an impending heatwave in several northern states including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh for the next five days. Additionally, it forecasted heatwave conditions in states like Madhya Pradesh and Bihar for the next four days. According to senior IMD scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar, temperatures soared as high as 45 degrees Celsius across various parts of the country in May. Dr. Kumar explained, From April until recently, continuous western disturbances influenced Northwest India, resulting in isolated rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, thereby keeping temperatures relatively moderate. However, in May, temperatures soared to 45 degrees Celsius in many regions. Presently, Rajasthan has already recorded temperatures at 45 degrees Celsius, with similar conditions prevailing in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Dr. Kumar further elaborated, A heatwave is anticipated in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh for the next five days, and in Madhya Pradesh and Bihar for four days. Subsequently, there may be mild thunderstorms, leading to a slight drop in temperatures. Addressing the southern states, Dr. Kumar stated, Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and South Karnataka over the next five days. In its weather advisory, the Met department highlighted the likelihood of heat to severe heatwave conditions over the plains of Northwest India and Bihar during the next five days. Furthermore, it indicated that heatwave conditions are expected to commence over East and Central India from May 18 onwards. The Met department also mentioned that a wet spell, accompanied by isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, is expected to persist over south Peninsular India until May 23. Uttarakhand CM Announces Master Plan for Char Dham Yatra Member of Himanshu Bhau Gang Killed in Delhi Police Encounter NIA Files Chargesheet Against Amaan Salim Shaikh: Key Figure in Visakhapatnam Espionage Case

NIA Charge Sheets Mumbai Man In Pak Conspiracy To Honey Trap Indian Navy Personnel

New Delhi, May 17: The NIA has charge sheeted Mumbai resident Amaan Salim Shaikh, a key accused in a conspiracy by Pakistani intelligence operatives to honey trap Indian Navy personnel to gather secret information on defence establishments, an official statement said on Friday. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The anti-terror agency filed a supplementary charge sheet on Thursday in a National Investigation Agency (NIA) special court in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, against Shaikh under different sections of Indian Penal [] The post NIA Charge Sheets Mumbai Man In Pak Conspiracy To Honey Trap Indian Navy Personnel appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

NIA chargesheets one more in Pak-led Indian navy spying case related to Vizag

Hyderabad: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) chargesheeted one more person in the Indian Navy spying case involving Pakistani intelligence operatives. Amaan Salim Shaikh is a key accused in the case RC-02/2023/NIA/HYD, involving a conspiracy by Pakistan agents to honey trap Indian navy personnel to gather secret information regarding the defence establishments. The anti-terror agency, which filed a supplementary chargesheet in NIA Special Court, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, has charged Amaan, a resident of Mumbai (Maharashtra), under various sections of IPC and UA(P) Act. NIA, which took over the case on 5th June 2023, found during investigation that Amaan was working for a suspected Pakistani agent, Usman, to further the anti-India conspiracy. He was also receiving money from other suspected Pakistani operatives, including Meer Balaj Khan, Alven and certain other individuals, through crypto channels for completing tasks assigned by the Pakistani intelligence operatives. NIA had earlier, on November 6, 2023, chargesheeted two accused persons in the case. Further investigations in the case, initially registered at Counter Intelligence Cell police station in Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, are continuing.

Mid-summer showers bring relief from heat in Andhra Pradesh

VISAKHAPATNAM: Heavy rain swept through isolated areas of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema, along with a few spots in Visakhapatnam and Anakapalle on Thursday. The downpour brought a significant drop in temperature, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid weather conditions. Among the notable rainfall figures, Ongole district recorded the highest precipitation with 50.5 mm, followed by Nandikotkur in Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district at 48.5 mm, and Konidela in Nandyal district at 47.25 mm. Payakaraopeta in Anakapalle district received 33.5 mm of rainfall, while Ainavilli in Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema district saw 21.5 mm, and Pedagantyada in Visakhapatnam district received 10.75 mm. Visakhapatnam experienced cool climatic conditions throughout the day, with light rainfall persisting until 10 am. Temperatures on Thursday remained below 40 degrees Celsius, with Kurnool recording 39.1Celsius, Anantapur at 38.6Celsius, Nandyala at 38Celsius, and Kadapa at 37.2Celsius. Notably, no mandal in the State reported a heatwave on Thursday. However, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority cautioned that 28 mandals, including 18 in Srikakulam district, six in Vizianagaram district, and four in Parvathipuram Manyam district, are likely to experience a heatwave on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted the continuation of lower tropospheric south-easterly winds over Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, leading to thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, SCAP, and Rayalaseema. This weather pattern is expected to persist for another four days until May 20. The mid-summer showers provided a welcome reprieve from the scorching heat in some parts of the southern State. Additionally, the IMD noted that the southwest monsoon is highly likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea, parts of the southeast Bay of Bengal, and the Nicobar Islands around May 19. Heatwave conditions likely in 28 mandals today The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority cautioned that 28 mandals, including 18 in Srikakulam district, six in Vizianagaram district, and four in Parvathipuram Manyam district, are likely to experience a heatwave on Friday

Secunderabad-Vizag Vande Bharat late by five hours

HYDERABAD: The Vande Bharat Express between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam, which was scheduled to depart at 3 pm was delayed by five hours on Thursday, according to the SCR. The train (No. 20834) was rescheduled to leave at 8 pm. Several passengers were seen expressing their disappointment over the decision on X, as they would not be able to reach their destinations in time. The train takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes to cover the journey between the two cities. It may be mentioned here that the second Vande Bharat Express between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam was virtually flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 12, 2024. Meanwhile, the SCR on Thursday announced additional coaches on multiple trains from Secunderabad, Lingampally and Vikarabad to Tirupati, Mumbai, Thiruvananthapuram, Visakhapatnam, among others, on a tentative basis. The coaches comprise 3 AC and sleeper coaches.

Andhra Premier League season 3 to begin on June 30

VISAKHAPATNAM: The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is gearing up for the third season of the Andhra Premier League (APL). Following the successful organisation of the previous two editions, ACA is set to continue the league with six teams. ACA secretary SR Gopinath Reddy confirmed the participation of six teams: the Bejawada Tigers, Uttarandhra Lions, Godavari Titans, Rayalaseema Kings, Vizag Warriors, and Coastal Raiders. A total of 19 matches will take place between these teams, hosted in Kadapa and Visakhapatnam districts. The league, set to commence on June 30, will feature a total of 19 matches, with seven hosted in Kadapa and 12 in Visakhapatnam. APL 2024 will follow the round-robin format in the group stage. A mini-auction was held in Visakhapatnam on Thursday, which saw 408 players selected across four categories, with six franchisees competing for talent. In a media conference, the ACA Secretary expressed the associations goal of elevating Andhra players to international prominence through the APL. He also outlined plans to expand the league to three locations across the State in future seasons, including Vizag, Kadapa, and Mangalagiri. Under the leadership of ACA President P Sarath Chandra Reddy, the organisation has successfully conducted the first two seasons of APL. The tournament will feature six teams comprising a total of 120 players, categorised with base prizes of Rs 1 lakh for category A, Rs 50,000 for category B, and Rs 25,000 for categories C and D. Additionally, ACA provided a platform for emerging cricketers through Rising Stars trials, resulting in seven players earning spots in the league. APL Season-3 matches will be telecast live on Star Sports Telugu and Star Sports First, with an estimated audience of around 30 lakh viewers. The association has implemented the latest software to store comprehensive player information, ensuring efficient management of the tournament. Amidst the anticipation surrounding APL Season-3, Nitish Kumar Reddys record-breaking auction bid has captured attention. The 20-year-old was hailed as a breakout star for the SunRisers in the ongoing IPL. He made history by fetching the highest price ever recorded in the leagues auction history. Representing the Marlin Godavari Titans, Nitish was acquired for a staggering Rs 15.60 lakh. Watching the proceedings unfold from his hotel room, Nitishs reaction to the news of his record-breaking acquisition quickly went viral on social media.

Jagan Mohan Reddy will take oath as CM in Visakhapatnam on June 9: Botcha Satyanarayana

VIJAYAWADA: Minister for Education Botcha Satyanarayana has said YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will be sworn in as the Chief Minister of the State in Visakhapatnam on June 9 after the election results are announced on June 4. Speaking to mediapersons in Vijayawada on Thursday, he asserted that the people want Jagan to continue as the Chief Minister as he is committed to the effective implementation of welfare schemes. Hence, they turned up in large numbers at the polling stations to give their massive mandate to the YSRC. Unable to digest the overwhelming support to Jagan and the YSRC, the TDP had resorted to violence. Though they are fully aware of their defeat, they claim that they will make it to the finish line. Under TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, the State did not achieve any development and there is not a single good thing to his credit despite being the Chief Minister thrice, he said. Hailing Jagans rule, Botcha said like nowhere in the country, the YSRC supremo set a new trend and implemented 99% of the promises made in the party election manifesto. He also brought in several reforms in key sectors to ensure comprehensive development of the State and its people. Our leader takes a decision after much thought and he never backs away from it. If any development programmes are not implemented, he clearly explains the reasons. Such courage is not visible among other leaders, he observed. Botcha alleged that the TDP had instigated violence and if the YSRC chief had retaliated in kind, the situation would have been different. But our leader asked all of us to maintain restraint, he said. Ridiculing the TDP chief for making tall claims without any substance, he said the people of the State are well aware of what Naidu did and what he didnt. People are not innocent to be misled again by TDPs Super Six. They have not forgotten Naidu going back on his promise of the SHG loan and farm loan waiver in 2014. We all have to bear Naidus claims till June 4, he said. The input subsidy and aid under Aasara and Vidya Deevena was released on May 14 and in two days, all the beneficiaries would receive it. This is the credibility of Jagan, which Naidu never has and will have, he added.

Higher charges at toll plazas on NH-16 putting financial burden on vehicle users

A car user who travels from Palasa and Visakhapatnam needs to cross three toll plazas en route and pay 340 in total

Special trains to Visakhapatnam

Special trains to Visakhapatnam - The Times of India

Special trains to Visakhapatnam The Times of India

Forest Officials Foil Illegal Trafficking of 1600 Turtles

Visakhapatnam : The forest officials intercepted a significant case of illegal wildlife trafficking involving the smuggling of approximately 1600 turtles on Thursday in ASR district. The operation unfolded at the forest check post in the Rampachodavaram mandal, where authorities apprehended two individuals in connection with the illicit transportation of these reptiles. During a routine inspection the forest department's vigilant team, led by range officer Karunakar discovered the turtles concealed in 30 bags inside a minivan . The turtles, valued at an estimated `3 lakhs, were being transported from Konaseema district Ramachandrapuram to Odisha through an illicit agency. Karunakar, a forest department officer, stated that the turtles were being transported to Odisha via Ramachandrapuram. We have arrested two individuals and registered a case. The investigation is ongoing.

39,886 appear for AP EAPCET entrance

Kakinada : As many as 39,886 of the total 44,107 candidates appeared for AP EAPCET-2024 test on Thursday, the first day, registering an attendance of 90.61 per cent. Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada (JNTUK) is conducting the test in the state. JNTUK vice chancellor and AP EAPCET-2014 chairman G.V.R. Prasada Raju said the examination is being held for the agriculture and pharmacy candidates on Thursday and Friday. For engineering stream, the examination will be from May 18 to May 23. AP EAPCET convener K. Venkata Reddy said in case students have any doubts, they may phone 0884-2359599, 0884-2342499 or visit helpdeskapeapcet@apsche.org . Visakhapatnam registered the highest attendance of 4,552 candidates, followed by 3,419 students in Kurnool.

Jagan to Start New Term as CM on June 9, Says Botcha Satyanarayana

Vijayawada : Minister Botcha Satyanarayana expressed optimism on Thursday that YSRC chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will take oath as Chief Minister for the second time in Visakhapatnam on June 9. Addressing the media here, the minister said that the high polling in the state reflected the aspirations of the people that Jagan Reddy should continue to rule the state for another term. He recalled that Jagan Reddy had asked the public to vote for his party if his government did good and he had promised to continue the reforms in education, medicine and administration. Satyanarayana said the Telugu Desam has lost its patience and started attacking the chief minister and the YSRC in cruel ways. We are going to win seats close to the target of 175, the minister said. Botcha Satyanarayana said the YSRC leaders showed patience even in the face of provocations and attacks from TD. It is not good to take the law into our hands as we must protect democracy and provide equal justice to all. The minister asked why people would vote for Chandrababu. Jagan Reddy has credibility, but does Chandrababu have that credibility? Because of Chandrababu's complaints, the funds of DBT schemes did not go to the beneficiaries. Now, after the polls, funds are being deposited for the welfare schemes, he said.

Jagan Winning; Oath as CM in Visakhapatnam: Amarnath

Visakhapatnam :Industries minister and YSRC candidate from Gajuwaka assembly constituency Gudivada Amarnath asserted that YSRC is poised for a sweeping victory. He went on to declare that Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will be sworn in as the CM in Visakhapatnam, which will become the executive capital of Andhra Pradesh. Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Amarnath maintained that no single party will secure a majority on its own at the national level. The party with the maximum number of seats will need the support of MPs belonging to YSRC, which will win the most seats in AP. The minister declared that the high voter turnout in AP is due to 85 per cent of the families in the state, which received the various benefits extended by the Jagan Mohan Reddy government over the last five years, turning up and voting for the YSRC. Amarnath said those who voted for the YSRC include farmers, middle class, women, and SCs, STs, BCs and minorities.

IMD predicts heavy rain and thunderstorms for AP

The Northeast Monsoon rains have ceased over Rayalaseema and the adjoining areas of Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Kerala's Mahe, south interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-Karaikal and Yanam since Sunday. (Representation image: DC) The Northeast Monsoon rains have ceased over Rayalaseema and the adjoining areas of Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Kerala's Mahe, south interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu-Puducherry-Karaikal and Yanam since Sunday. (Representation image: DC) Visakhapatnam: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a spell of significant rainfall across parts of Andhra Pradesh, from till May 20. The region would experience thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds during this period. The north and south coastal regions will experience light to moderate rainfall over the next four days. IMD has also provided an optimistic outlook for the timely arrival of the southwest monsoon over Andhra Pradesh. It is expected to commence between June 4 and 6. This year's onset aligns with the usual schedule, contrasting with last year's delay to June 11 over Rayalaseema. Additionally, the southwest monsoon is projected to advance into the South Andaman Sea, Southeast Bay of Bengal, and Nicobar Islands on May 19, followed by Kerala on June 1. In Visakhapatnam, a temperature of 31.7C with 003.7 mm of rainfall was recorded on Thursday, resulting in cool and rainy weather. However, some areas reported signs of drought. The forecast for the next five days indicates continued thunderstorms with lightning and strong gusty winds of 40-50 km/hour at isolated places across NCAP, Yanam, SCAP and Rayalaseema. These conditions are expected to persist on May 18. By May 19, the region will experience thunderstorms with lightning and slightly reduced gusty winds of 30-40 km/hour in isolated places over NCAP, Yanam, SCAP, and Rayalaseema. The same pattern of thunderstorms and gusty winds is projected to continue on May 20.

Srikakulam, Vizag Observe National Dengue Day

VISHAKHAPATNAM: Speakers on occasion of the National Dengue Day on Thursday in Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam districts advised people to focus on preventive measures, such as maintaining surroundings clean, to combat the disease. In Malkapuram area of Visakhapatnam, malaria inspector D. Ravi Kumar, who was the chief guest, highlighted the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in combating the disease. Quoting World Health Organisation, Ravi Kumar pointed out that dengue infections have surged globally, affecting 100-400 million people annually. This makes public awareness about the disease crucial, as nearly half of the world's population is at risk. He advised residents to eliminate standing water around their homes and use mosquito repellents to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases. Keeping our environment clean is essential for achieving a dengue-free Visakhapatnam, the malaria inspector emphasised. In Srikakulam, district medical and health officer Dr. B. Meenakshi flagged off a procession in the city to spread awareness about what causes dengue and preventive measures that can be taken. Dengue is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito. To prevent it, we must ensure that our environment is not conducive to mosquito breeding, she underlined.

Occupancy ratio in theatres falls below 20% as no big film released in AP

Vijayawada : Devoid of big-budget film releases in the summer season, single-screen theatres across Andhra Pradesh are losing money as the occupancy ratio fell below 20 per cent in the cinema halls. Due to lack of star-hero film releases, the footfall in the single screen theatres has drastically reduced. With limited options available, theatres are running small-hero films and the spectators are coming in mainly during the weekends, said Mutyala Ramesh, former secretary and current EC member of AP film chamber of commerce. The fall in occupancy ratio should be a wake-up call for all the major production houses, he observed, adding that the advent of OTT platforms has taken away the sheen of the exhibition business. He said, Summers are always a period of good business for cinema houses. But, the unavailability of big films in this season, coupled with the IPL cricket tournament and general elections, derailed the entertainment business completely. The single-screen exhibitors are facing financial constraints and incurring huge losses. The average occupancy ratio is below 20 per cent per show and the patronage for some shows is nil, forcing the theatre managements to cancel the entire shows, said RV Bhopal Prasad, the proprietor of Navrang theatre. The Covid-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the theatre business and from then on, the businesses didn't recover. He explained, A single screen theatre has to spend Rs 13,000 to Rs 14,000 per day and the income generated is less than Rs 3,000. Theatre owners are obliged to pay Rs 13,000 as rent for UFO and Qube operators, which is not viable for the cinema halls given the current dull season. Andhra Pradesh has more than 650 single screens, possibly the highest for any state. The advent of multiplex complexes in big cities like Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam has killed the single screen cinemas halls, Bhopal Prasad stated. B Hari, a resident of Vijayawada, said, I used to watch every newly released film on Fridays. However, with no prominent movie releases in the last few weeks, I have not visited any movie theatre.

Jack Leach To Return To Cricketing Action For Somerset In County Championship After Knee Injury Recovery

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Englands left-arm spinner Jack Leach will be returning to cricketing action for Somerset via their match against Kent in the County Championship on Friday, after recovering from a knee injury. Leach had a surgery after suffering a left knee injury while fielding to stop a boundary on the first day of Englands Test series opener against India in Hyderabad earlier this year. On day two of the match, Leach aggravated the injury, which meant he picked a swelling on the injured knee. It meant he was unable to bowl long bowling spells, though he did bowl 26 overs in the first innings. But Leach managed to bowl 10 overs in the second innings, and took out Shreyas Iyer as England secured a famous 28-run victory at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. He missed the next Test at Visakhapatnam and was expected to be fit in time for the third Test at Rajkot. But it was decided during Englands break from the series at Abu Dhabi that Leach wont take any part for England in the remaining three Tests and was sent back home for the surgery. Having Leachy back in the squad is a big boost for the group, but also for him. Its been a tough road back for him and hes worked incredibly hard. Hes an infectious character and hes got vast experience. Hes incredibly well respected and we saw today in practice that hes always got time for people. Were all looking forward to seeing him back in a Somerset shirt and enjoying his cricket, and well make a decision on whether that is this weekend tomorrow, said Somerset head coach Jason Kerr to the sides official website. Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes has been included in Durham's squad to face Lancashire in their county championship match on Friday. His last competitive cricket match was Englands fifth Test against India at Dharamshala in March. Stokes opted out of Englands title defence of Mens T20 World Cup, happening from June 1-29 in the West Indies and United States to focus on the County Championships before the start of home Test series against the West Indies in July. The decision will always be up to Ben Stokes. He has been through everything he needs to go through and we just needed to tick a few boxes with the ECB. For us, we always talk about playing against the best players in the competition, but to have one in your own team makes life a whole lot different. It will also lift the blokes. Some of them havent played with Ben for years, if at all. England cricket needs a fit Ben Stokes and what we see should be pretty impressive, said Durham head coach Ryan Campbell.

Third edition of Andhra Premier League to begin from June 30

Six teams will take part in the league; Visakhapatnam will host 12 of the total 19 matches; Star Sports Telugu and Star Sports First will telecast the matches live

Railways to run special trains between Chennai Egmore and Visakhapatnam - The Times of India

Railways to run special trains between Chennai Egmore and Visakhapatnam The Times of India

Andhra Pradesh records highest turnout of 80.66 per cent

VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh has recorded 80.66% polling, which is the highest than any other State that went to polling in the first four phases of elections in the country. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena said when 1.1% of the postal ballot is added, the total polling in the State comes to 81.86%. The highest polling in the Assembly constituencies happened in Darsi at 90.91%, while the lowest voter turnout was reported in Tirupati at 63.32%. In the Lok Sabha constituencies, the highest polling of 87.06% was reported in Ongole, and the lowest of 71.11% in Visakhapatnam. In 2014, the polling percentage in the State was 78.41%, which increased to 79.77% in 2019, and now in 2024, it rose to 80.66%, 1.1% through postal ballot and the total voting of 81.86% that is almost 82%, which has been the target the Election Commission of India (ECI) has been working for before the elections through various voter awareness programmes. Large turnout of voters on May 13 is a welcome sign of the democracy. We took every measure that every voter arriving at the polling station was able to exercise their franchise. There was a good turnout in the morning and it decreased a bit in the afternoon, but after 4 pm, a large number of voters turned up at the polling centres. At 6 pm., in as many as 3,500 polling stations, voters were in queues in large numbers to cast their votes. It took midnight at some places and the last polling station to complete the polling process was at 2 am on the next day, he explained. The CEO said the delay in voting was due to weather conditions, as heavy rains disrupted the polling for some time in Udayagiri, Konaseema, and some places in Uttarndhra. Under the supervision of election observers, all the EVMs were sealed and shifted to strong rooms. A total of 175 strong rooms for the Assembly segments were set up, he said. A total of 4.97 lakh people availed of the postal ballot, which includes those who opted for home voting (85 plus aged and persons with disabilities), government employees on election duty, and essential service personnel. On the occasion, he explained how the election officials had ensured that 2,000 voters belonging to Visakhapatnam came from Maharashtra region by train, but were delayed. The election officials coordinated with railway officials and ensured a green channel for the train they were travelling in and the train reached Vizag by 5.27 pm. This shows that the Election Commission of India is making every effort to ensure the voters can exercise their right to vote, he added. He also explained how the election commission has allowed the police officials from the State on duty in Maharashtra to avail their vote by giving special casual leave amending the existing rules.

Andhra Pradesh lost 1.31 kha of tree cover in 22 years

VISAKHAPATNAM: In over a period of around 22 years, Andhra Pradesh has lost 39.5 thousand hectares (Kha) of tree cover, emitting 20.7 metric tonnes (MT) of CO2 equivalents. As per reports by the Global Forest Watch (GFW), of the total, the State has lost 1.31 kha for tree cover to forest fires from 2001 to 2023. The year with the most tree cover loss due to fires during this period was 2009 with 189 ha lost to fires7.4% of all tree cover loss for that year. It is worth noting that, between May 1 and 15, Andhra Pradesh experienced a notable decrease in forest fire events, with 48 large fire incidents recorded and none currently active. This marks a decline from the 344 large fire events documented between April 1 and 15. Forests play a crucial role in the carbon cycle, acting as both absorbers and emitters of carbon dioxide. Tree cover loss doesnt always equate to deforestation, which specifically refers to the permanent removal of natural forest cover due to human activities. It encompasses various other factors, which includes natural disturbances leading to both temporary and permanent loss. Examples of tree cover loss include logging, fires, diseases, and storm damage. Between 2002 and 2023, Andhra Pradesh saw a substantial decline in its humid primary forest, losing 6.09 kha, which is about 16% of its total tree cover loss during this period. This loss resulted in a 3.9% reduction in the States overall humid primary forest area. Humid primary forests are essentially mature tropical forests that havent been completely cleared and regrown recently. In 2010, Andhra Pradesh boasted 979 Kha of natural forest, covering around 6.2% of its land. By 2023, this natural forest area had decreased by 2.89 Kha, leading to emissions of about 2.30 million MT of CO2. From 2013 to 2023, a striking 96% of tree cover loss in Andhra Pradesh happened within natural forest areas, amounting to emissions of 10.5 MT of CO2 equivalents. Notably, just two regions in Andhra Pradesh accounted for a whopping 76% of all tree cover loss between 2001 and 2023. East Godavari took the lead with 15.3 Kha lost, compared to the average loss of 3.04 Kha. In a contrasting trend, from 2000 to 2020, Andhra Pradesh managed to gain 194 Kha of tree cover region-wide, which constituted 10% of all tree cover gain in India during that period.

IGZP Holds Competitions To Promote Biodiversity.

The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. Visakhapatnam: Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Visakhapatnam, is hosting a series of competitions to create awareness about conserving biodiversity. The competitions are for students from Class 1 to post-graduates. They include essays on topics such as Why Trees Are Important? for 1st to 5th grade students, Pollinators: The Unsung Heroes of Biodiversity for 6th to 10th grade students, and Youth's Role in Biodiversity Conservation for intermediate to postgraduate students. Drawing and elocution competitions will also be held, IGZP curator Dr. Nandani Salaria said. The competitions will start on May 19 at 10:00 a.m. at the Zoo Bioscope, IGZP Visakhapatnam. Students may call 7893632900 for registrations.

NREGA fraud: Rs 29 lakh spent for road, yet patients taken to hospitals in doli

Visakhapatnam: The hilltop villages continue to face hardships despite huge spend of money for roads and other civic facilities under the MGNREGA schemes. For one, despite funds release, there is no road worth the name. Tribals have to take their family members in emergency situations to hospitals many kilometres away by 'Doli', day or night. Marri Kavya (21) of Jajulu Bandha, a hilltop village in Moolpet Panchayat, Koyyur mandal, Alluri Sitaramaraju district, has been ill for the past week. On Wednesday morning, her family members called for an ambulance, but there was no response. The young woman was suffering from extreme fatigue and stomach pain. When the medical officer was called, she could not do much. The family of Kavya's husband, Kamesh, made a Doli for her six-km journey to a hospital. Kavya on the Doli reached Arla village in Rolugunta mandal of Anakapalli district and was later admitted to the Buchimpeta Primary Medical Centre. The Jajulu Bandha hilltop village comprises 29 families of 140 inhabitants. When Deccan Chronicle sought an explanation from medical officer Dr M Lalitha, she said, We can only bring patients from Arla village to the hospital. There is no road for six kilometres. So the patient had to travel in a Doli. We, instead, send ANM and ASHA workers, who walk with patients. We are struggling to provide medical services due to lack of roads, she said. In 2021, the villagers of Jajula Bandha, Pitri Gadda and Neella Bandha collectively contributed `7 lakh to build a road from Arla to Jajula Bandha village. However, this mud road was washed away by heavy rains, making it impossible for autos and bikes to service the area. In 2023-24, a budget of `70 lakh was allocated under MGNREGA for constructing a 9-km gravel road from Arla village to Kumburla village, through Jajula Bandha village. The road construction work, initiated by the tribal community, continued for 28 days and bills of `29 lakh were generated. Despite this, the roads are still not ready for plying of autos and other vehicles. Is it fair to collect bills for an unconstructed road? Even today, we have to walk 6km to Arla village. Then we travelled about 20km by auto to cast our votes. Kamesh's words echo the kind of fraud in the execution of such civic works. The FTO report states that on May 2, a sum of `29 lakh was billed to contractor Paila Naga Venkataramana's account. The work ID number of these bills is 0203101403/RC/999905210604/GSB/including/CD/. The local inhabitants demand that the government conduct a thorough investigation into the funds fraud and the MGNREGA project director immediately start the road works.

Motorcycle catches fire in Kothavalasa

Visakhapatnam: A motorcycle suddenly caught fire at Gayatrinagar on the Kothavalasa-Vizianagaram road Wednesday afternoon. The fire burnt down the vehicle completely. According to information, I. Venkata Rao, a resident of Gayatrinagar, went to Gidijala on his two-wheeler to fetch drinking water. While returning, he noticed a small spark. He immediately pulled to the side and stepped down to inspect. By then, the spark turned into a fire. In no time, the vehicle got completely burnt down. Venkata Rao said, Luckily, the tank had only a little bit of petrol. If petrol had been more, the vehicle could have exploded.

Andhra Pradesh registers a polling percentage of 81.86, the highest so far in the country, says Chief Electoral Officer

This includes the 1.2% votes polled though postal ballots, essential service and home votes, says Mukesh Kumar Meena; Ongole Lok Sabha and Darsi Assembly constituencies record highest polling percentage, while Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency, with 71.11, registers the lowest

AP Registers Overall 81.86 % Voter Turnout: CEO Mukesh Kumar Meena

Amaravati: The total voting percentage for both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh is 81.86 per cent, as announced by Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena on Wednesday. This includes 80.66 per cent through EVMs and 1.2 per cent through postal ballots. Speaking to media persons, the CEO stated that polling continued after 6 PM in 3,500 polling stations and extended until midnight at one polling station in the state. The EVMs have been secured in 350 strong rooms across the state. The CEO further mentioned that the polling percentage has increased by 2.90% compared to the last elections, which recorded 79.77 per cent in 2019, while the 2014 elections had a turnout of 78.41 per cent. Darshi Assembly constituency recorded the highest poll percentage at 90.91%, whereas Tirupati Assembly constituency registered the lowest at 63.32%. Among the Lok Sabha constituencies, Ongole recorded the highest poll percentage at 87.06 per cent, while Visakhapatnam recorded the lowest at 71.11 per cent.

Voter Turnout Disparities in North Andhra

Visakhapatnam : The present elections in North Andhra Pradesh revealed a stark contrast in voter turnout between rural and urban areas. While rural coVoter turnout disparities in North Andhra nstituencies demonstrated robust participation, urban areas, particularly in Visakhapatnam, lagged behind. The highest voter turnout was in Etcherla, an impressive 87 per cent, followed by Srungavarapukota at 85.45 and Gajapathinagaram at 85.16. Other high-turnout constituencies included Yelamanchili (84.54), Madugula (84), Neelimarla (84.83), Narsipatnam (83), Cheepurupalle (82.90), Payakaraopet (81.75), Narsannapeta (80.50) and Bobbili (80.39). Urban areas here recorded the lowest turnouts. Visakhapatnam South was at the lowest at 63.42 per cent, followed by Paderu (ST) at 63.91, Visakhapatnam North at 64.63, Srikakulam 65.85, Visakhapatnam East 68.64, Visakhapatnam West 69.78, and Gajuwaka 69.83. Numerous factors contributed to the low turnout in the urban districts. Many voters reported that their names were missing from the electoral lists. Additionally, young voters were not comfortable with the long queues at polling stations and scooted from the scene. Technical issues exacerbated the situation. Malfunctioning of EVMs caused delays and confusion at several polling stations.

Results of APRS CAT, APRJC & DC CET out

VIJAYAWADA: Results for Andhra Pradesh Residential Schools Common Admission Test (APRS CAT-2024) and AP Residential Junior & Degree Colleges Common Entrance Test (APRJC & DC CET-2024) were officially announced by School Education Commissioner S Suresh Kumar, APREIS Secretary R Narasimha Rao on Tuesday. The entrance tests were held across all district headquarters in Andhra Pradesh to facilitate admissions into various academic programmes. The APRS CAT caters to admissions into Classes 5th to 8th in 38 General APR Schools and SC/ST category seats in 12 Minority APR Schools. APRJC & DC CET covered admissions for Intermediate 1st year in APR Junior Colleges and 1st year Degree in APR Degree College, Nagarjuna Sagar. For admissions to classes 5 to 8, a total of 3,770 seats were available, attracting 32,666 applicants. Of the total, 25,216 appeared for the exams. Notably, M Keerthi from Visakhapatnam district secured 1st rank in Class 5 with 99 marks out of 100. Similarly, P Someswara Rao, K Khagendra, and Y Megha Syam secured 1st ranks in classes 6, 7, and 8, respectively.

Andhra Pradesh: ED files complaint against ex-TDP MLA, 16 others

VIJAYAWADA: The Enforcement Directorate, Hyderabad on Tuesday filed its Prosecution Complaint (PC) against former MLA and TDP leader JC Prabhakar Reddy and others in the BS-IV vehicle scam. The PC was filed against a total of 17 people and entities before the Special Court for PMLA cases at Visakhapatnam under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. According to the ED, the Supreme Court had in March, 2017 ordered that vehicles that are not compliant with BS-IV emission norms shall not be sold or registered in India from April 1, 2017 onwards. The ED said JC Prabhakar Reddy, who runs a travel company, C Gopal Reddy and others purchased BS-III vehicles from Ashok Leyland Limited as scrap at a huge discounted rate in the name of their entitiesM/s Jatadhara Industries Private Limited and M/s C Gopal Reddy and Coand fraudulently registered them as BS-IV vehicles with the help of forged and fabricated documents. Majority of the fraudulent registrations were done in Nagaland while some were also done in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the ED said. The Andhra Pradesh police investigated the case based on a complaint by the transport department and found a money laundering aspect and wrote to the central agency which began the investigation. The investigation revealed that 50 such vehicles were registered in the name of M/s Jatadhara Industries Pvt Ltd and 104 vehicles were registered in the name of M/s C Gopal Reddy and Co. Most of these vehicles were further utilised by them in their transport business by plying them as BS-IV vehicles. Some such vehicles were also sold off by projecting them as BS IV vehicles, the ED said adding the proceeds of crime generated by owning, plying and selling these vehicles have been quantified as Rs 38.36 crore. The ED had earlier attached movable properties and immovable properties worth Rs 28.62 crore belonging to Prabhakar Reddy, Gopal Reddy and their family members. Investigation is under progress.

Andhra Pradesh: Ambati Rambabu demands re-polling in six booths in Sattenapalli segment

VIJAYAWADA: Minister for Water Resources Ambati Rambabu complained to the Election Commission of India about the violent incidents that took place in the Palnadu region and demanded re-polling in six polling booths under the Sattenapalli segment. Speaking to the mediapersons on Tuesday, he claimed that rigging took place in two polling booths each in Dammalapadu, Narnepadu, and Cheemalamarri, and requested re-polling after verifying the webcasting footage at those centres. Besides stating that the police department has failed to maintain law and order, Ambati observed that the last-minute transfers made by the Election Commission were the reasons for the situation. Recalling that the elections were held peacefully when YSRC was in opposition, the Minister alleged that the police did not responded over calls and reached the spot, where the violence took place, very late. He demanded the ECI to conduct a detail inquiry on the police failure during the polling. He cited the example of the attack on the vehicle of his son-in-law in Narnepadu as an example of the violence initiated by the TDP and the polices failure to control the situation. He further alleged that TDP leader Kanna Lakshminarayana followers resorted to rigging in Dammalapadu. I dont understand why a minister is put under house arrest and the rival is allowed to roam free, he asked. Asserting that YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will be the Chief Minister and YSRC will form the government, Ambati said, June 4 will clear the illusions that Naidu and Co are living in. Meanwhile, Minister for Education Botcha Satyanarayana and his wife Botcha Jhansi, who contested for the Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha seat, exuded confidence over the victory in the elections. Speaking to the mediapersons, Botcha said after June 4, a pro-poor government will form and Jagan Mohan Reddy will be sworn in as Chief Minister. He said out of frustration, TDP is resorting to violence, but YSRC has been maintaining restraint. People know Naidu means deceit and on June 4, the reality will be revealed, he added.

Andhra Pradesh: Rural areas record high voting, urban engagement sees slight rise

GUNTUR: While many urban constituencies in the State showed apathy, their voter turnout remained steady compared to the last elections. Although polling percentages in urban areas were lower than in rural areas, they still saw an increase compared to the 2019 elections. The zeal shown by the voters was quite noticeable this time in major urban areas including Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Guntur, Tirupati, and Nellore. The voters arrived at their respective polling stations even before 6.30 am and the rush was continued till the midnight in most of the segments. According to the poll percentage announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Voter Turnout App, 64.35 polling percentage was recorded in Guntur West. The constituency, comprising 26 divisions of Guntur city recorded only 65.84 in 2019. With various awareness programmes organised by the ECI and Guntur district administration, the poll per cent increased to 66.24%. However, the constituency recorded the lowest poll percentage out of the seven segments under the Guntur Lok Sabha constituency. On the other hand, the poll per cent in Guntur East constituency reported 70.20% in the present elections while it recorded 70.25% in the last polls. In Vijayawada Central constituency, the poll percentage surpassed the 2019 record of 65.95%, with reporting 72.88% in 2024 polls. Vijayawada West stood last in the LS segment with 68.55%, which is higher than 63.41% in 2019, Vijayawada East recorded 71.32%. Despite of the better participation in Vijayawada city constituencies, the three segments reported below 80 poll percentage in Vijayawada Lok Sabha constituency. Nellore Urban constituency also out performed with 70.20% which is way higher than 61% in 2019 elections. The constituency also comparatively performed well than the rural constituency which recorded only 66.18 poll per cent. Tirupati recorded only 59.95 poll per centage, the least in the district. Visakhapatnam East constituency reported 68.50 poll per cent which is higher than total poll percent of 64.73 in 2019. While Visakhapatnam South reported 58.9 per cent, the least in the district, 65.06 poll percentage is recorded in Visakhapatnam West, Visakhapatnam North recorded 61.52%.

Visakhapatnam: Zoo Park to conduct Summer Camp from May 21 - The Hans India

Visakhapatnam: Zoo Park to conduct Summer Camp from May 21 The Hans India

Araku: Araku records 73.68% polling despite rains | Visakhapatnam News - The Times of India

Araku: Araku records 73.68% polling despite rains | Visakhapatnam News The Times of India

IGZP Summer Camp From May 21

The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has initiated steps to bring 10 different species of wild animals and birds. Visakhapatnam: The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam will hold a summer camp for children aged between 5 years and 18 years from May 21 to June 1. The camp's first phase will be from May 21 to May 25 for the age group of 5 years to 10 years. The second phase will be from May 28 to June 1 for the age group of 12 years to 18 years. The highlights of the camp will include birdwatching, conducted in collaboration with Wildlife Conservation Through Research & Education (WCTRE), offering participants the chance to learn about rare bird species, zoo curator Nandini Salaria said in a statement on Tuesday. The camp will also feature a guided tour, which will educate attendees about the diverse animal species housed in the Vizag zoo. Children will also be shown the medical care provided to wild animals at the veterinary hospital in the zoo. The registration fee for the camp is Rs 500, which includes a special registration kit for each participant. For more details and to register, interested parties can contact 9440810213.

Railway's Preferential Treatment Helps Passengers Cast Their Votes

Vijayawada: A preferential treatment given by railway authorities to the Visakhapatnam-bound Nanded train (No. 20812) helped several passengers travelling between Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam to cast their votes on Monday. As per the schedule, the train was scheduled to reach Rayanapeta by 2.55 pm, Eluru-4.08pm, Tadepalligudem-4.48pm, Rajahmundry-5.38pm, Duvvada-8.35pm and Visakhapatnam by 9.10 pm. However, the train was running late by more than 8 hours after a delayed start in Nanded and reached Vijayawada late by nearly 8.25 hours. Following the media reports that the passengers travelling by train were being delayed for voting, the railway authorities decided to provide 'preferential treatment' to the train without causing a further delay. The railway authorities said that the scheduled train was delayed by several hours as it was diverted from its originating point in Amritsar due to ongoing farmers strike at Sambhu in the northern railway station. However, several voters later thanked the railway authorities for helping them reach their destinations early and cast their votes.

Some trains from Visakhapatnam to Guntur, Rajahmundry to be cancelled from May 15 for safety works

Students of Visakhapatnam schools shine in CBSE examinations

ED Files Money Laundering Case Against TD Leader in BS-IV Vehicle Scam

Hyderabad: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Hyderabad, has filed a prosecution complaint (PC) against TD leader J.C. Prabhakar Reddy and 16 accused and entities in the BS-IV vehicle scam before the special court at Visakhapatnam under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The court has taken cognisance of the chargesheet. The ED stated that the Supreme Court on March 29, 2017, had ordered that vehicles that were not compliant with BS IV emission norms should not be sold or registered in India from April 1, 2017. Prabhakar Reddy, C. Gopal Reddy and others purchased BS-III vehicles as scrap at a huge discount in the name of their companies, including Jatadhara Industries Pvt. Ltd and C. Gopal Reddy and Co., and fraudulently registered them as BS-IV vehicles by using forged and fabricated documents. The ED stated that a majority of the fraudulent registrations were done in Nagaland while some others were done in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Investigations revealed that 50 such vehicles were registered in name of Jatadhara Industries Pvt. Ltd and 104 to C. Gopal Reddy, the ED stated. Most of these vehicles were utilised by them in their transport business. They also sold some vehicles by claiming that they were in the BS IV category. The ED estimated the proceeds of crime generated by operating and selling these vehicles at `38.36 crore. Earlier, the ED had attached movable properties, including bank balances, cash, jewellery and receivables, and 68 immovable properties worth `28.62 crore belonging to Prabhakar Reddy, Gopal Reddy and their family members.

BS-VI vehicle scam: Hyderabad ED files prosecution complaint against 17

Hyderabad: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Hyderabad has filed a Prosecution Complaint (PC) against 17 accused persons in the BS-IV vehicle scam before the Special (PMLA) Court, Visakhapatnam under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. According to the ED officials, the Court has taken cognizance of the PC. The Supreme Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency records 71.11% polling

The highest and lowest polling percentages of 85.45 and 63.42 are recorded in S. Kota and Visakhapatnam South Assembly seats respectively

MSME Technology Centre organises placement drive in Visakhapatnam

MSME Technology Centre organises placement drive in Visakhapatnam - The Hindu

MSME Technology Centre organises placement drive in Visakhapatnam The Hindu

On Visakhapatnam's Beach Road, Why This Man Is A Sensation Among Tourists

Pradeep Ghosh has become a local sensation near the submarine on Beach Road in Visakhapatnam.

Gold rates in Visakhapatnam slashes, check the rates on 14 May, 2024 - The Hans India

Gold rates in Visakhapatnam slashes, check the rates on 14 May, 2024 The Hans India

Owner of Visakhapatnam salon offers free haircut to voters to raise turnout

VISAKHAPATNAM: In a bid to encourage voter turnout in the elections, a salon owner in Kancharapalem offered free haircut to people who exercise their franchise. M Radha Krishna, who has been running the salon for a decade, came up with the initiative as part of his commitment to social service. Krishnas salon has been involved in various charitable activities, including providing free haircut to children in orphanages and offering foot massage to devotees during the Simhachalam Giri Pradakshina. Explaining the inspiration behind the voter turnout initiative, Krishna recounted a conversation with a customer, who expressed his intention to skip voting. Talking to TNIE , he said, During a haircut session, a man mentioned he might not vote. I offered him a free haircut, and he agreed to cast his vote. That is when I realised I could motivate more people to exercise their franchise. Krishna emphasised the importance of civic responsibility, questioning, If not us, who will elect good leaders? If not us, who will instill the significance of voting in the younger generation? On Monday, Krishna opened his salon at 8 am, accommodating the influx of more than 10 people immediately. To manage the rush, he enlisted three additional staff members, totalling seven for the day. Reflecting on the days workload, Krishna noted, Even my staff did not mind the heavy workload but rather they enjoyed it. We did not just offer free haircut for the sake of it; we ensured each customer got the haircut of their choice. By Monday afternoon, over 70 people had availed themselves of the free haircut offer at Krishnas salon.

Transport facility arranged for tribal voters in Andhra Pradesh

VISAKHAPATNAM: District officials in Alluri Sitarama Raju district facilitated the transportation of tribal residents from remote hilltop villages to their respective polling stations to enable them to exercise their right to vote. Remote tribal villagers in ASR district plead for transportation facility This initiative came in response to The New Indian Express s reports highlighting the challenges faced by these communities, particularly the tribals of Kalyan Gummi village in Gumma Panchayat of Ananthagiri mandal, who had to travel nearly 70 kilometres, and the tribals of Dyatri, Madrebu, and Tunisibu villages, who had to cover nearly 30 kilometres to reach their polling stations. Araku Returning Officer and Paderu Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) Project Officer V Abishek took swift action upon receiving these reports, directing revenue officials to organise transportation for the affected tribals. Consequently, villagers from Madrebu in Pedakota Panchayat commenced their journey from Dayarthi village in Jeenabadu Panchayat to cast their votes at Pedakota polling station numbers 295 and 297. Similarly, tribals from Kalyana Gummi village travelled from Chintalapudi in Devarapalli mandal to Medaparthi Polling Station Number 286, utilising buses provided and arranged by the district administration. In response to this support, the tribals expressed gratitude to the ITDA Project Officer and other district officials for facilitating transportation, which allowed them to participate in the electoral process. Further, they conveyed optimism that authorities would address their longstanding need for improved road connectivity to their villages in the near future. Tribals of Buruga and Chinakonela hilltop villages carry elderly women to polling stations on Monday For tribal residents from remote hilltop villages and villages situated far away in Anantagiri, Muchinputtu, and Pedabayalu mandals, transportation arrangements have been made. Buses, jeeps, and cars have been provided to ensure their access to polling stations. In the case of Gumma Panchayat, where residents would have had to trek 16 kilometres downhill, they were instead directed to travel 2 kilometers to Devarapalli in Anakapalle, from where buses were arranged, the ITDA Project Officer said. He further mentioned that similarly for villages like Dayarthi and others, seven to eight jeeps were organised to shuttle voters to and from the polling stations. These jeeps transported one group of voters to cast their votes, dropped them off, and then returned to bring another group. Additionally, five jeeps were allocated for tribal residents from Bongaputtu and Kosaputtu villages in Lakshmipuram Panchayat who were voting for the first time. Furthermore, 10 jeeps were arranged for residents from Munchigputtu. These additional transportation facilities have played a crucial role in encouraging voters to participate in the electoral process, he added. However, despite these efforts, some tribals, like those from China Konela, and Buruga, were still faced with significant challenges. With no road access, these villagers had to trek 15 kilometres to reach their polling stations.They transported elderly residents using Dolis (makeshift stretchers). China Konela and Buruga, situated in Anantagiri mandal, house approximately 150 voters. The villagers emphasised the urgent need for government intervention to lay roads, underscoring the critical importance of infrastructure development for remote tribal settlements.

Two Visakhapatnam Voters Faint As EVMs Malfunction

Visakhapatnam: Chaotic scenes unfolded as two persons fell unconscious while waiting in queue lines at a polling booth in Thatichetlapalem, Visakhapatnam district on Monday. The unconscious persons were identified as Eswar Rao (30) and Chitti Babu (60). The incident occurred amid a three-hour-long halt in voting due to a technical glitch. Eyewitnesses said the electronic voting machines (EVMs) stopped working around 12:30 pm, leading to a standstill. Despite the prolonged delay, there was no official statement from the authorities. Many first-time voters and those with babies were seen leaving the polling booths frustrated. Tensions further escalated as voters began pushing and shoving each other, prompting police officials to intervene.

Jr NTR's Shirt, Bharati Sari Colour Hot Topics

Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam : As the parliamentary elections came to a close, social media platforms erupted with political commentary, live updates, heated arguments and memes. Netizens expressed outrage about Hyderabads BJP candidate Madhavi Latha obstructing Muslim voters. Many demanded her disqualification. One X user posted When such things are happening, why are the elections being held to fool the people? This is a shameful mockery of democracy!. On X, people commenting about the goings on. The platform was overloaded with pictures of voters showing their inked fingers, and urging people to vote. Facebook became a hub of political campaigns. Candidates used the platform to send last-minute messages and campaigns. YouTube saw a rush of election-related videos, ranging from campaign highlights to candidate analysis. Instagram nested well with the young population with satirical posts and memes about the elections. Pages posted memes and funny posters about political campaigns, but urged its followers to go out and exercise their right to vote. Public forum Reddit provided its users with detailed analysis of candidates from every candidate in the state. The platform guided voters through the election process, informed them about who their candidates are, and helped them vote. In AP,the social media landscape was taken over by an analysis of celebrities' wardrobe choices at polling booths. It all began when a post on the Actual India website featured Tollywood superstar NTR sporting a blue shirt while casting his vote. Some YSRC followers interpreted the blue attire as a subtle endorsement of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's party. Actor Mahesh Babu, was spotted wearing blue, a user tweeted, This is not a coincidence, this is confidence on Jagan. The hashtag #BlueWave soon started trending. Others started them. The trend reached new heights when a picture of Jagan Mohan Reddy's wife Bharathi surfaced, showing her wearing red and white. Jana Sena social media users implied that it was support for their party.

Superfast express upsets voting plans of some passengers

The train, scheduled to arrive in Visakhapatnam at 9.10 a.m. arrived around 5.20 p.m., dashing the hopes of some of the voters, who had to go to Palasa and Vizianagaram

Elderly Defy Odds to Vote in AP Elections

Visakhapatnam, Tirupati: Despite the sweltering heat and humidity, senior citizens in Andhra Pradesh turned out in large numbers to exercise their democratic rights during the recent state elections. The polling day witnessed a surge of seasoned voters who were determined to make their voices heard, even in the face of challenging weather conditions and obstacles. In Visakhapatnam division, where temperatures reached a high of 36.6 degrees Celsius, still the polling day witnessed a surge of seasoned voters braving the elements and obstacles to cast their votes for the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls on Monday. Despite scorching temperatures and serpentine queues, the elderly turned out in droves, inspiring the youth. The atmosphere at the polling stations was one of enthusiasm and determination, as senior citizens were majorly present in long queues before polling booths since morning. Among them was Laxman Reddy, a 92-year-old, who emphasized the importance of each vote in shaping the peoples future. A single vote can make a difference, he stated firmly. M Rama Rao, 87, a retired bank AGM, and his wife traveled from Chennai to the city to cast their vote. However, several challenges marred their voting process. Lilymargareddy, 75, lamented the lack of separate queues for the elderly and the absence of assistance from officials. I have been standing in the queue for over an hour, and the heat is making it difficult for me, she lamented. Similarly, Pita Era Amma, an 89-year-old physically handicapped voter, reached a polling booth as she had no knowledge about the home voting facility this time. Despite these challenges, the determination of elderly voters like Parvati Devi, 89, was commendable. I don't know if I'll be alive for the next elections, so I wanted to experience this once again, she shared, emphasizing the emotional significance she attached to her vote. Numerous senior citizens and individuals with disabilities in Tirupati city exemplified the spirit of democracy by promptly arriving at polling stations to exercise their right to vote, determining the course of governance for the ensuing five years. Undeterred by the scorching heat, they queued up and cast their ballots, conveying a powerful message to those abstaining from voting about the significance of each and every vote in the democratic mechanism. A. Rajeswari, a 71-year-old woman, articulated her motivation, stating, As uncertain as the future may be for me, I am driven by the desire to elect a government that will safeguard a brighter future for my two granddaughters. While the Election Commission has introduced home-voting, many elderly citizens remain unaware of this. The absence of dedicated assistance and facilities at polling stations added to the plight of the elderly. In the Visakhapatnam district alone, there are around 8,900 elderly voters, including 4,252 males and 4,658 females, along with 16,665 disabled persons. They deserved better care in the matter of exercising their franchise. Some elderly voters, like 71-year-old Mohan Reddy, said they had a hassle-free voting experience. The Meteorological Centre in Amaravati, Guntur District, has issued a weather advisory predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the next five days. The Southwest Monsoon is expected to advance into the South Andaman Sea, some parts of the Southeast Bay of Bengal, and the Nicobar Islands by May 19, 2024. The advisory highlights the likelihood of heavy rain at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP) and Yanam, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong gusty winds ranging from 40-50 kmph over NCAP, Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), and Rayalaseema.

Vizianagaram Villagers Beat Up Polling Officer

Visakhapatnam: Polling came to a halt for nearly two hours at Kotha Srirangarajapuram in Gajapatinagaram mandal of Vizianagaram district on Monday after villagers beat up polling officer Rambabu accusing him of being biased towards Telugu Desam Party. Upon receiving a distress call, police arrived at the scene and restored order and polling. Polling had been peaceful in the other areas of Vizianagaram district. The polling percentage recorded in Vizianagaram district assembly constituencies had been 70.87 until 5 p.m.

Vijayawada Stands 2nd in CBSE 12th and 10th Class Exams

Class 10th merit students celebrate their accomplishments at Manikonda on Tuesday. Image credit: R. Pavan Class 10th merit students celebrate their accomplishments at Manikonda on Tuesday. Image credit: R. Pavan Visakhapatnam: Vijayawada stood second while Trivandrum topped in CBSEs Class XII and Class X exam results conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). In the results released on Monday, Trivandrum topped Class XII exams with a pass percentage of 99.91. Vijayawada followed with 99.04 per cent. Chennai stood third with 98.47 per cent. Results revealed that girls outperformed boys by 6.40 per cent. Girls achieved a pass percentage of 91.52, while boys secured 85.12 per cent. In Class X exams too, Trivandrum topped the list with a pass percentage of 99.75. Vijayawada again stood second with a 99.6 pass percentage.

First-time Voters Show More Enthusiasm in AP State Elections

Visakhapatnam/Vijayawada/Kakinada: The debutants of democracy have stolen the spotlight in the Andhra Pradesh polls. With a staggering 9 lakh voters aged between 18 and 19, as many as 6,0007,000 new voters exercised their franchise in each constituency. The injection of fresh blood into the political spectrum promises to shake up the status quo, analysts note. Soon after casting their votes, several first-timers took to social media to share their inked index finger photos. The first-time voters had the luxury of casting two votes each for the assembly and parliament. These voters say they expect more employment opportunities, skill development training, encouragement to start-ups etc, and several of them aim to set up new units. They want governments to provide them interest-free loans and technical support to start their ventures. Lavanya, a 21-year-old MSc student, cast her vote for the first time with a clear agenda in mind. I am giving my first-time vote to form a new government that can provide more employment opportunities, she said. Vidya Roy, a second-year medical student, was excited about her participation in the electoral process for the first time. It was very easy to vote. The EVM machines showed us the party we voted for. The experience was great, she shared. Annadanapu Sravani, another first-time voter, acknowledged the convenience of voting with Aadhaar in lieu of a voter card but lamented the long waiting time. I was very excited to vote. The EVM process was easy, but the waiting process was too long, she remarked, underscoring the need for smoother logistical arrangements to accommodate the surge in young voters. Keerthana, a 20-year-old BTech student, emphasised the personal stakes involved in her voting decision. I have been benefited from schemes and want to make the government win so that many more can get benefitted, she said. Students like Kavya, Mounika and Likhita expressed their desire for a government that prioritises job creation and reforms in the education system. V. Srinivas from Vijayawada East constituency opted for the TD-JSP-BJP alliance candidate to bring about a change in government. Others, like V. Meghana, a techie working in Hyderabad, fulfilled their civic duty by casting their vote and encouraged fellow young voters to do the same. Siblings P. Manoj and P. Rohit felt elated to be voting for the first time and were pleased with the arrangements at the polling stations. G. Karthik, a student from Kakinada, travelled all the way here to cast his vote. V. Lavanya, a civil engineering graduate, highlighted the lack of minimum facilities and teaching staff in many private engineering colleges. She urged the government to ensure that college managements offer skill development centres without collecting extra fees. First-time voters in Tirupati and Chittoor districts exhibited great enthusiasm and embraced their civic duty passionately during the electoral process. Patnam Arya, influenced by his mother's teachings, highlighted the importance of voting as he proudly exercised his democratic right. However, the day faced challenges as Gayatri, another first-time voter, claimed her vote was fraudulently cast through impersonation at a polling booth in the Kuppam Assembly constituency. She lodged a complaint, leading to the authorities allowing her to cast a challenge vote. Some voters expressed their dissatisfaction with the candidates and opted for NOTA (None of the Above). They urged the government to curb corruption and protect natural resources and the environment. Many water bodies remain polluted, they stated.

Lactating Mothers at Polling Booths Face Problems

Visakhapatnam: From around 7 am, many elderly people and women formed queues outside the polling booths here to cast their votes for the assembly and LS polls on Monday. However, the EVMs did not work initially, causing a slow start to the polling process. The elderly were given priority in casting their votes. Lactating mothers also came to the polling booths with their infants and requested the police to allow them to vote along with the elderly. However, the police rejected the plea and explained to them that, as per election rules, only the elderly people and the disabled are given priority. Hence, several mothers who brought their small children along with them returned home without casting their votes. During a field report, a journalist from Deccan Chronicle encountered a lactating mother who, in the midst of her voting ordeal, had to make a phone call home to check on her one-month-old baby. Another mother told Deccan Chronicle, We thought we could vote early in the morning and go home. But we could not vote. After finishing household work, we need to feed our children and will later return to vote. A lactating mother arrived at the polling booth at around 8 am but had to return home without voting. She came back after a while and cast her vote. When asked about her determination to vote, she said she needed the welfare benefits for more years. Hence, she said, it was important to cast her vote. Many women waiting in the voting queues expressed their view that lactating mothers should also be given priority in voting. In many polling booths, drinking water facilities were inadequate. In one booth where 9,000 people were expected to vote, the benches for the elderly men and women were also insufficient.

Three tribal voters injured severely in accident

Visakhapatnam: Eighteen of the 35 tribal voters belonging to Velamamidi, Cheedivalasa, and Thatipelli hilltop villages in Anantagiri mandal of Alluri Sitarama Raju suffered injuries when the van in which they were travelling to Peddakota panchayat polling booth overturned near Kudia village in the agency area. Three of the injured Ulli Chinna, Ulli Endamma, and Ulli Iswaramma from Thatipelli village, are serious and fighting for their lives in the area hospital. Mandal secretary S. Nagulu has requested the government to provide the injured quality medical care. Three months ago, another van had overturned in the area leading to one death. Villagers are holding Anantagiri revenue officials responsible for the latest incident, as they have not taken corrective measures at the accident spot. A political party had arranged the ill-fated van on Monday, so that the voters could go to polling booth number 295 in Peddakota panchayat of Anantagiri mandal in Alluri Sitarama Raju district and exercise their franchise.