Indian women gathers in traditional attire outside UK Parliament to extend support to PM Modi's success in LS polls The Indian women in the UK gathered in traditional attire in front of the UK Parliament on Saturday, showcasing cultural pride and extending political support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the general elections. These women from diverse diasporas, representing regions including, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Odisha, were participating in the ongoing grand celebration of democracy in India in their own unique ways. The slogans Ab ki baar 400 paar and Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi echoed through Parliament Square as the passionate Indian women proudly waved BJP flags. The enthusiastic display of support by these women reflected their pride in India's progressive journey and their desire for it to continue under the leadership of PM Modi and his party. The Overseas Friends of BJP UK (OFBJPUK) issued a statement on Sunday, emphasising that PM Modi has elevated India's profile on the global stage, instilling a profound sense of pride in the Indian identity. This pride was also evident in the passionate speeches delivered by the participating women in their regional languages, urging their fellow Indians back home to support the BJP in the 2024 elections. These women believe that their voices can make a significant difference in shaping India's future. One of the highlights of the event was a heartfelt poem recital, Saudhand Mujhe Iss Mitti Ki, by a woman from Prime Minister Modi's constituency, Varanasi. Moreover, a Tamil woman spoke about PM Modi's historic visit to Jaffna--the first by an Indian Prime Minister--and discussed the current government's Neighbourhood First policy, which has played a pivotal role in helping Sri Lanka overcome economic turmoil, the statement read. The women further emphasised PM Modi's vision of a developed India by 2047, highlighting that women's empowerment is a crucial pillar of this vision. (ANI)
London, May 19 : The Indian women in the UK gathered in traditional attire in front of the UK Parliament on Saturday, showcasing cultural pride and extending political support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the general elections. These women from diverse diasporas, representing regions including, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Odisha, were participating in the ongoing grand celebration of democracy in India in their own [] The post Indian women gathers in traditional attire outside UK Parliament to extend support to PM Modis success in LS polls appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bifurcation blues: 10 years later, several issues remain unresolved between AP, Telangana The Economic Times
Bifurcation blues: 10 years later, several issues remain unresolved between AP, Telangana
After a decade, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana still face unresolved issues post-bifurcation, including asset division and power bill dues. Hyderabad's transition to Telangana on June 2 as per the AP Reorganisation Act 2014 remains complex. Challenges persist in dividing Schedule 9 and Schedule 10 institutions, influenced by the Sheela Bhide panel's recommendations and disputes over employee transfers.
10 years later, issues including Hyderabad remain unresolved between AP, Telangana
Hyderabad: It has been ten long years since bifurcation, but several issues such as division of assets, power bill dues, are still unresolved between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana even as Hyderabad would cease to be the common capital of the two states from June 2. Hyderabad would belong solely to Telangana, according to Andhra Pradesh 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 .
Bifurcation blues: 10 years later, several issues remain unresolved between AP, T'gana
Bifurcation blues: 10 years later, several issues remain unresolved between AP, T'gana It has been ten long years since bifurcation, but several issues such as division of assets, power bill dues, are still unresolved between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana even as Hyderabad would cease to be the common capital of the two states from June 2. Hyderabad would belong solely to Telangana, according to Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014. According to official sources, the division of various institutions and corporations, listed in Schedule 9 and Schedule 10 of the Act, between the two states, has not been completed as there was no consensus over several issues. According to the AP Reorganisation Act, as many as 89 government companies and corporations are listed in the Ninth Schedule. They include state-run companies and corporations like Andhra Pradesh State Seeds Development Corporation, Andhra Pradesh State Agro Industrial Development Corporation and Andhra Pradesh State Warehousing Corporation. The 10th Schedule of the Act includes 107 training institutions/centres like AP State Co-operative Union, Environment Protection Training and Research Institute, AP Forest Academy, Centre for Good Governance and Andhra Pradesh Police Academy. Though an expert committee headed by retired bureaucrat Sheela Bhide gave recommendations on bifurcation of Schedule IX and X institutions, the matter remained unresolved. The two states have also been caught in a row over payment of dues for supply of power post bifurcation. Transfer of employees is one of the issues which is waiting for final resolution. The Telangana Non-Gazetted Officers' Union Central - Hyderabad president M Jagadeeshwar told PTI on Sunday that they submitted a memorandum to Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on May 18 urging the government to bring back the leftover (144) Telangana employees allotted to AP during state bifurcation. These employees have been working in AP since 2014. Another example is the disagreement between the two states over assets of the state-run Road Transport Corporation. A senior official of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) told PTI that AP sought a share in assets of the corporation located in Hyderabad and that the TSRTC has denied and disagreed on it. The TSRTC feels that these assets belong to it as per the definition of 'headquarters' given by the Sheela Bhide panel. CM A Revanth Reddy had instructed the officials to settle amicably the pending transfer and repatriation of employees to Andhra Pradesh. He had told the officials to resolve the issues where there is reconciliation between the two states and to act in such a way to protect the interests of Telangana over other pending matters. The Telangana government had proposed to conduct a meeting of the state cabinet on May 18 to discuss, among others, the pending issues between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and other related matters. However, the cabinet meeting could not be held as the requisite nod from Election Commission, in view of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha elections, was not received till May 18 night. CM Revanth Reddy has now decided to hold the cabinet meeting after obtaining the EC's approval. It was fulfilment of a decades-long demand when Telangana came into existence on June 2, 2014 following the passage of Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation bill in Parliament in February, 2014, during the previous UPA regime. Hyderabad has been made the common capital of the two states for a period of 10 years beginning June 2, 2014. As per the AP Reorganisation Act, the bustling metropolis of Hyderabad, would be the capital of Telangana alone from June 2, 2024. Though Hyderabad is the common capital for the two states till June 2, 2024, the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat and almost the entire state administration shifted to Amaravati in AP in 2016 when TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu was the chief minister. Naidu had planned to develop a greenfield world-class capital in Amaravati. At a review meeting held on May 15 on state bifurcation issues, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy told officials to take over, after June 2, buildings like the Lake View government guest house in Hyderabad which were given to Andhra Pradesh for a period of 10 years. The row over Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi was resolved in March this year with the Centre making land allocation to the two states. The Centre had held a meeting with senior officials from both the states in the National Capital in March on bifurcation issues.
Three transgenders found dead in Andhra Pradeshs Kurnool
Kurnool: Three transgenders were found dead under suspicious circumstances near Kurnool town on Sunday. Local residents found two bodies in a lake at Gargeyapuram near the town and informed the police. Police later found another body on the lake bund. No injuries were found on the bodies of the deceased. The bodies were shifted to 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 .
Andhra May 13 violence: SIT visits police stations in Palnadu, Tirupati
Amaravati: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Sunday continued its investigation into poll-related violence in Andhra Pradesh. A group of SIT members visited Narsaraopet town of Palnadu district, one of the districts which witnessed violence on polling day (May 13) and the following days. SIT members investigated the I Town police station and analysed the 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 .
After CM Jagan, TDP chief Naidu to take a break with foreign tour
Amaravati: After Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, its now the turn of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu to fly abroad for a break after polling for Assembly and Lok Sabha elections concluded in the state. While Jagan Mohan Reddy left for a two-week-long foreign tour on Friday, former 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 .
As post-poll violence flares up in Andhra Pradesh, EC acts sweeping suspensions, SIT probe ThePrint
Andhra Pradesh: Fire breaks out in bus on Tirupati-Renigunta national highway, no casualties reported A private bus travelling from Tirupati to Srikalahasti caught fire on the Tirupati-Renigunta National Highway on Saturday night. All the passengers were evacuated in time and no casualties were reported. In the visuals, fire officials were seen dousing the flames. A fire broke out in a private bus travelling from Tirupati to Srikalahasti, on Tirupati-Renigunta National Highway last night. All the passengers were evacuated in time and no casualties were reported, said officials. Further information is awaited. (ANI)
Tirupati: 2-day international conference begins in Mohan Babu University - The Hans India
Tirupati: 2-day international conference begins in Mohan Babu University The Hans India
Video: Narrow escape for 12 passengers as bus from Bengaluru catches fire in AP
Hyderabad: A private sleeper bus travelling from Bengaluru to Amalapuram caught fire near Renigunta, Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday night, May 19. According to reports, 12 passengers were on the bus during the accident and were swiftly evacuated due to the drivers swift response. Narrow escape for around 12 passengers after a pvt travels 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 .
YVU professor Dr K Lalitha on a mission to promote mental health awareness
KADAPA: Through her advocacy, counselling services, and academic contributions, Dr K Lalitha, an Associate Professor of Psychology at Yogi Vemana University (YVU), has been making significant strides in promoting mental health awareness and well-being in Kadapa and beyond. The stalwart counsellor, Dr Lalitha, has been providing counselling for mental health issues for over 15 years. With a robust academic background including an MSc and PhD in Psychology from Sri Venkateswara University, along with PG diplomas in Gerontology and Counseling, Dr Lalitha is striving to understand and address the societal changes leading to mental health challenges. In light of the rising concerns surrounding mental well-being, she emphasises the impact of factors such as industrialisation, urbanisation, and the pervasive influence of technology on mental health. Recent tragic incidents underscore the urgency of the matter, prompting Dr Lalitha to stress the importance of seeking counselling and professional help at the onset of mental health issues. Beyond her academic pursuits, Dr Lalitha serves in various capacities including coordinator of Womens Cell, director of Counselling and Guidance Cell, and coordinator of the Social Incubation Centre at Yogi Vemana University. She extends her expertise to Central Jail, Kadapa, and the Psychology Centre at CP Brown Library, demonstrating her commitment to community well-being. An active participant in seminars, conferences, and webinars, Dr Lalitha aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and strategies for addressing them. Her contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic further exemplify her commitment towards supporting mental health across the State. Recognised for her exemplary work, Dr Lalitha has received numerous awards, including the Mid career Women Gerontologist Award (Varanasi) and the Andhra Pradesh Scientist Award 2017 for her contributions in the field of Social Science. Her research interests, spanning elderly mental health and cognitive ageing, underscore her multifaceted approach to addressing mental health challenges in society.
An architects vision for inclusivity
VISAKHAPATNAM: In an earnest effort to address the often overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the built environment, architect Kavya Poornima Balajepalli has emerged as a beacon of change. Apart from confronting personal adversity, Kavyas commitment to foster inclusivity has propelled her to spearhead the initiative Poornamidam, which delves into the intersectionality of architecture, environment, and disability. In simple words, she is working to make public spaces more accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities. Kavya believes that the architecture and environment can play a key role in achieving inclusivity. By studying how buildings and outdoor spaces are designed, she wants to find ways to make them easier to use for the differently-abled. Her goal is to create a World where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy public places without any barriers. A graduate in architecture, she was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension in 2017, leading to vision loss in both eyes. Undeterred by her condition, she has dedicated herself to advocating for universal accessibility in public spaces. Currently pursuing the NCPEDP-Javed Abidi Fellowship on Disability, Kavya focuses on data-driven research and advocacy for universal accessibility in leisure, recreational, and cultural spaces. One of her projects is working on universal accessibility at Rushikonda Blue Flag Beach. She advocates for the inclusion of universal design in the architecture curriculum, recognising educations role in fostering inclusivity. Kavyas research at the beach revealed accessibility gaps, prompting her to present her findings to local, national, and international Blue Flag authorities. As a result, Blue Flag is revising its architecture curriculum to incorporate proper infrastructure for the disabled. Reflecting on her work, she emphasised the significance of integrating disabled perspectives into architectural design to ensure inclusive public spaces for all. While many support disabled individuals superficially, true change stems from systemic improvements, she noted. Kavyas endeavours have garnered recognition on both national and international platforms, including presentations at G20 India, the Global Disability Youth Summit, and UN India, among others. Her initiatives, such as We All Belong and Its Our Beach Too, spotlight universal accessibility while advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Empanelled as a committee member in the District Level Committee on Disability in Vizag, Andhra Pradesh, she actively engages in grassroots efforts to bring about a systemic change. She is also the driving force behind IIH Warriors India, an online support group for individuals with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Collaborating with institutions like the Harvard Law School on a project concerning persons with disabilities and UN India-NIUA, Kavya has contributed to seminal works on climate-resilient and accessible architecture and gender and disability inclusion in urban development. She emphasised her utilisation of architectural expertise to promote universal accessibility and disability inclusion. I firmly believe in (Aano Bhadra Krtavo Yantu Vishwatah), drawn from the Rig Veda, translating to Let Noble Thoughts Come to Us from Everywhere, ensuring that we Leave No One Behind.
Andhra Pradesh: Woman rejects love proposal, attacked - The New Indian Express
Andhra Pradesh: Woman rejects love proposal, attacked The New Indian Express
Butcher kills pregnant stray dog in Guntur district
GUNTUR: A butcher brutally murdered a pregnant street dog near Chillies Restaurant at Inner Ring Road on Friday night in Guntur city on Saturday. According to sources, the accused who works at a meat shop stabbed the dog with a knife multiple times. When a passer-by, Sumanth, tried to intervene, the butcher ignored him and continued his cruel act. Based on a complaint, Nallapadu police registered a case and launched an investigation. Meanwhile, a video of the incident went viral and several animal protection organisations and activists condemned the heinous act and demanded strict action against the accused without fail. Responding to the incident, Andhra Pradesh State Animal Welfare Board and founder secretary to Help for Animals Society, Tejovanth Anuponju, emphasised that it is imperative to note that animal cruelty is linked to other forms of violence. Research indicates that perpetrators of domestic violence, rape, and murder often have a history of animal abuse. In the present case, it is evident that the accused has become desensitised through the illegal slaughter of goats and hens. I request a through investigation into the matter and stringent action against the culprits, he added.
No nod from ECI, Telangana cabinet meeting put off
HYDERABAD: The state Cabinet meeting, scheduled to be held on Saturday, was postponed as no approval came from the Election Commission of India (ECI) till late in the evening. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy decided five days ago to hold a Cabinet meeting to discuss certain crucial matters pertaining to the state. Accordingly, the government had sought ECI permission as the model code of conduct is in force. After the postponement, the chief minister said that if the ECI nod was not received before Monday, if necessary, he will go to Delhi along with ministers and seek permission from the commissioners of the election panel. On Saturday, the chief minister and all his Cabinet colleagues waited in the Secretariat from the afternoon till 7 pm and left as there was no sign of ECI permission coming. Along with the chief secretary, officials of various departments also sat with their fingers crossed in the Secretariat. In the meantime, Revanth held a review meeting on the irrigation department. As per the agenda, the Cabinet was scheduled to discuss waiver of farm loans, paddy procurement, Kharif crop planning and other related issues. The CM reportedly expressed his displeasure over lack of response from the ECI as the Cabinet wanted to discuss urgent matters relating to welfare of farmers. As the state is set to celebrate its 10th formation day on June 2 and Hyderabad will no longer be the common capital, he also wanted to discuss the issues pertaining to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act in the Cabinet meeting.
Recruitment racket busted in Vizag
VISAKHAPATNAM: The Visakhapatnam Cyber Crime Police have busted a criminal network led by consultancy agents who exploited unemployed youth by promising lucrative data entry jobs and big overseas opportunities. These agents, operating from the Gajuwaka area, deceitfully recruited around 150 individuals for supposed computer system operator roles in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Bangkok. However, these positions were fronts for engaging in cybercrime on behalf of Chinese companies. The scam was uncovered following a complaint from a victim named Botcha Shankar, who managed to escape and reported the crime on the cybercrime helpline. Chukka Rajesh, a 33-year-old former fire safety manager from Gajuwaka, emerged as a central figure in this scheme. The police arrested Rajesh along with his sub-agents Sabbavarapu Kondalarao and Mannena Gnaneshwar Rao. Explaining the gangs modus operandi, Police commissioner A Ravi Shankar on Saturday said that after working in the Gulf countries until 2019, Rajesh returned to India, where he was contacted by an individual named Santosh from Cambodia in March, 2023. Santosh claimed to need 30 workers with computer skills and good English for jobs in Cambodia. He instructed Rajesh to collect hefty fees from each recruit, promising to handle their flight and visa arrangements. Unbeknownst to the recruits, they were being sent to commit cybercrimes. The fraudsters sent 27 individuals in three batches to Cambodia, where they were coerced into cybercrime under harsh conditions. The operation, which included other agents like Arya, Umamahesh, and Habib, involved collecting Rs 1.20 lakh to Rs 1.50 lakh, claiming it covered job placement fees and related expenses, from the recruits. They were sent to Bangkok on visiting visas. From Bangkok, recruits were taken to the Cambodian border, where they obtained Cambodian visas. The police detailed that the victims were then sold to Chinese companies for $2,500 to $4,000, with the agents receiving a commission of Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 per recruit. In Cambodia, these companies confined the workers, forcing them to execute various cybercrimes and retaining the majority of the profits. The victims of this extensive scam hail predominantly from regions around Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Rajahmundry, Anantapur, Palasa, Tuni, Anakapalli, Telangana, and Kolkata, according to the police. The nefarious activities coordinated by this network are part of a larger trend of cybercrimes by Chinese nationals, with substantial amounts of money illicitly transferred out of India. Police advisory Stay informed Verify authenticity of calls Refrain from transferring money based on unsolicited calls Use 1930 helpline to report cybercrimes for recovery of lost funds Man loses Rs 1.3 cr In this year alone, around 12 cases related to FedEx courier scams were registered, involving Rs 5,93,92,375. The 1930 helpline helped freezing Rs 1,04,68,708. On April 20, a businessman from Visakhapatnam lost Rs 1,30,30,639 to a FedEx courier scam. Calling the cybercrime helpline enabled the recovery of Rs 85,70,923.
Kondaveedu Shiva temple renovation works begin
GUNTUR: The ancient Shiva temple at Kondaveedu hilltop, which has been in dilapidated condition for several years, will soon reopen for devotees. Kondaveedu Fort Development Committee convenor Sivareddy, along with other officials, laid the foundation for the temples reconstruction on Saturday. Built during the Reddy Rajas era, the Shiva temple and the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple were renowned in medieval times but had fallen into ruin over the centuries. In 2010, the State government ordered their reconstruction as part of the Kondaveedu development project. However, due to inadequate transportation to the hilltop, work only began in 2017 after a ghat road was built. The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed progress. Recently, endowments and forest department officials have expedited the work, allowing the redeveloped Narasimha Swamy temple to open for public darshan in February. K Sivareddy stated that with the Narasimha Swamy temples completion imminent, they aim to finish the Shiva temples reconstruction on schedule. These temples, already a major tourist attraction, will enhance devotional appeal and provide a holistic experience for visitors. Sivareddy also mentioned that the temples would be associated with the Trikoteswara Swamy temple in Kotappakonda for maintenance.
Andhra Pradesh: Works of Adventure Park expedited - The New Indian Express
Andhra Pradesh: Works of Adventure Park expedited The New Indian Express
Heavy rains lash parts of Andhra Pradesh, more showers likely
VIJAYAWADA: Moderate to heavy rains lashed isolated parts of West Godavari, Parvatipram Manyam, Palnadu, Prakasam, Sri Satya Sai, Alluri Sitarama Raju, YSR, Annamayya and Nellore districts on Saturday. The highest rainfall of 8.75 cm was reported in Yelamanchili of West Godavari district, followed by 6.7 cm in Paravathipuram of Parvathipuram-Manyam district, and 4.25 cm in Dachepalli of Palnadu districts. Daytime temperatures continued to dip below the 40-degree Celsius mark in most places in Andhra Pradesh due to overcast sky conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at isolated places across AP on Sunday and Monday.
Andhra Pradesh: SIT launches inquiry into post-poll violence
VIJAYAWADA: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta as per the directions of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to probe the violence on the day of polling and the aftermath in the State, launched its investigation on Saturday. Headed by Inspector General of Police (IG) rank officer Vineet Brijlal, the 13-member SIT would conduct a through probe into the violence that erupted in Palnadu, Anantapur and Tirupati. Divided into four teams, ACB SP Rama Devi, ACB Additional SP Sowmyalatha, Srikakulam ACB DSP Ramana Murthy, CID DSP P Srinivasulu, Ongole ACB DSP Valluri Srinivasa Rao, Tirupathi ACB DSP Ravi Manohara Chary, Inspectors V Bhushanam, K Venkat Rao, Rama Krishna, Srinivas, Moin, N Prabhakar and Siva Prasad, visited the places where the incidents of violence reported, and examined the FIRs registered pertaining to the riots and arson. The four teams visited Macherla, Narasaraopet, Chandragiri and Tadipatri and collected information pertaining to group clashes and violence. According to sources, one team of SIT visited Sri Padmavathi Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam (SPMVV) in Tirupati and launched a probe into the post-poll violence that occurred on May 14. The teams also reviewed the status of investigation of the cases registered and visited the scenes of offence. As part of the investigation, the SIT is set to collect the CCTV footage, media clippings and other evidence in the violence-hit places and the attacks on polling stations in Macherla and Narasaraopet constituencies. After reviewing the cases, the SIT teams will submit their preliminary investigation reports to Vineet Brijlal on Sunday. The teams are likely to visit the violence-hit places again on Sunday. Earlier in the day, Vineet Brijlal held a meeting with all the 13 SIT members and gave necessary instructions to complete the investigation within the stipulated time. Meanwhile, the DGP directed the SIT chief to submit a detailed report to the ECI based on which action will be initiated against the perpetrators of violence and errant officials for dereliction of duties.
Ensure foolproof security at strong rooms at all levels: CEO to officials
VISAKHAPATNAM/SRIKAKULAM: Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena inspected strong rooms at Andhra University in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. He directed officials to ensure foolproof security at strong rooms at all levels. He was accompanied by District Collector A Mallikarjun and City Police Commissioner A Ravishankar. EVMs of all Assembly segments in Visakhapatnam and that of the Lok Sabha constituency have been stored in the strong rooms in Andhra University. He interacted with the officials, enquired about the security, and verified entries in the log book. He also directed the district election officer to review the security at the strong rooms from time to time. The Election Commission of Indias guidelines need to be implemented in their entirety, the CEO said. Later, Meena inspected the strong rooms at Sri Sivani Engineering College in Srikakulam, along with District Collector Manazir Jeelani Samoon and SP GR Radhika. He inspected the seals on the strong rooms, CCTV cameras and the three-tier security arrangement. He ordered the security personnel not to allow any unauthoried persons.
Andhra Pradesh: No diversion of funds to clear bills, asserts Special Chief Secy
VIJAYAWADA: In the wake of TDP allegations that the State government is diverting funds to clear the bills of contractors close to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the Finance Department issued a statement furnishing details of funds released from May 14 to 18. The Special Chief Secretary of Finance Department in a release on Saturday, said that the department is functioning strictly in conformity with the guidelines of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the directives issued by the Election Commission of India from time to time, in respect of all its activities, including the clearing of bills. The allegations that the government has selectively cleared the bills of unnamed contractors or made payments only to the contractors at the cost of welfare schemes are incorrect and baseless, he asserted. According to the details furnished by the Special Chief Secretary, Rs 7,546.34 crore payments were made between May 14 and 18. Further, he elaborated on the payment for DBT schemes, which included YSR Aasara, input subsidy to farmers, Cheyutha, EBC Nestham, Jagananna Vidya Deevena and YSR Kalyana Kanuka. It is evident that the major share of expenditure i.e. around (78%), is made for DBT schemes and more than (99%) of expenditure for other than works expenditure, he said. It may be noted that contrary to allegations of payments amounting to Rs 4,000 crore being made to a few select unnamed contractors, in reality, a meagre payment of Rs 7.01 crore was made towards works relating to courts and others, he explained. The aforesaid expenditure and the clearance of bills were made following the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Finance Code and the Model Code of Conduct, he averred.
Justice league: Telangana High Court rejects plea to release Rs 3 crore seized by cops
Justice CV Bhaskar Reddy of the Telangana High Court has dismissed a writ petition filed by Neena Kamlesh Shah seeking quashing of an FIR (216 of 2023) registered on October 15, 2023 by the SHO, Waddepally police station, Nalgonda district and return the Rs 3.04 crore seized by the police. Citing Section 102 of the Cr.PC that allows police officers to seize property suspected to be stolen or linked to an offence, senior counsel for the petitioner argued that the seizure of the cash was unauthorised as the police did not follow the required procedure under this Section and did not deposit the cash in court. In response, the Government Pleader for Home said that the seizure and release of the cash followed the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the Election Commission of India under Article 324 of the Constitution. The cash was deposited with the Income Tax department, which issued a notice under Section 131 of the Income Tax Act to the parties involved, seeking an explanation for the source of the cash. The parties did not comply with the notice, leading to the cash being treated as unexplained money, the GP said. PIL challenging conversion of forest land rejected A bench of the Telangana High Court has dismissed a PIL filed by the Forum for a Better Hyderabad challenging the conversion of forest land for non-forest purposes in Raviryal village and Mamidipally Kancha, Hyderabad. The petitioner contended that the Forest department of government of undivided AP acquired approximately 15,965 acres from the Nizam on February 23, 1956. On June 25, 1965, through GO 1,720, the government declared 4,408 acres of this land as a forest block under Section 4 of the Andhra Pradesh (Telangana Area) Forest Act. This was followed by GO 253 on April 6, 1972, which notified 4,067 acres as forest land under the AP Forest Act, 1967. Counsel for the petitioners argued that the land remains forest land under the ownership of the Forest department of Telangana. They claimed that 6,468 acres had been illegally converted for non-forest use in violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and the Supreme Courts directives in the TN Godavarman Thirumulpad vs. Union of India case. Appearing for the state, the AAG contended that the petition suffered from delays and laches. He pointed out that no notification under Section 19 of the Hyderabad Forest Act, 1355 Fasli, was issued to declare the land as a reserve forest. After considering the arguments, the court concluded that the private respondents were bona fide purchasers who developed the land for IT purposes, with the area designated as an SEZ.
No Cabinet berth for Anantapur Urban MLA
ANANTAPUR: Anantapur Urban Assembly constituency is the nerve centre of politics in Anantapur district as it is the district headquarters. However, the urban constituency, which provided political stalwarts to the State, and faced 17 elections, has failed to get a cabinet berth so far. Though influential leaders emerged from this constituency irrespective of the party, none have made it to the State Cabinet, much to the disappointment of the people of Anantapur Urban. For reasons not known, no party that came to power in the State, took the initiative to make Anantapur MLA a minister. The constituency was represented by the Congress, TDP, and Communist parties since it came into existence in 1962. In the 17 elections, the Congress won nine times, CPI twice, CPM once, TDP thrice and YSRC twice. In Andhra Pradesh, the Congress, TDP and YSRC had formed governments, but none of these parties induct Anantapur MLA into the Cabinet. When YS Rajasekhara Reddy became the Chief Minister, the talk was that Anantapur MLA B Narayana Reddy would get the Cabinet berth. However, this was not to be the case owing to political equations. In 2019, Ananta Venkatarami Reddy of YSRC won the election from Anantapur Urban and everyone expected that he would make the cut. However, it did not happen. In the Cabinet reshuffle, again hopes of Venkatarami Reddy becoming the minister raised. But, it did not happen, much to the disappointment of Venkatarami Reddy. One of the reasons for Anantapur MLA not being part of the government was that for nearly half of the 17 elections held, the seat went to the opposition. Another unique distinction of those representing Anantapur Urban is that they got elected to both the Assembly and the Lok Sabha. Five such leaders are D Narayana Swamy, Anantha Venkata Reddy, Tarimella Nagi Reddy, P Anthony Reddy and Ananta Vankatarami Reddy.
Pilgrim rush resumes at Tirumala post polls
TIRUMALA: The pilgrim rush to the ever-bustling Tirumala resumed immediately after the general elections in Andhra Pradesh. The hill shrine has witnessed a reduced activity for more than a month, as the people are directly or indirectly busy with the election process not only in the State but across the country. During this period many devotees who had booked darshan, Arjitha Seva tickets, or held free tokens were notably absent, with official sources reporting between 10,000 to 22,000 no-shows. Prior to the elections, even the hundi collections were lower, with the maximum collections ranging between Rs 2 crore to Rs 2.5 crore up to May 13. However, post-elections, both footfall and collections saw a significant increase. On May 14, nearly 75,783 devotees had darshan and the hundi collection was Rs 3.08 crore. On May 15, as many as 81,930 pilgrims visited and the collection was Rs 3.9 crore. The numbers dwindled to around 76,369 devotees on May 16 with hundi collection at Rs 3.63 crore. On May 17, the Parakamani staff halted counting after the hundi collection reached Rs 3.63 crore, with a footfall of 71,510. On Saturday, an auspicious day marking the beginning of the annual Padmavathi Pranaya Utsavam, the flow of pilgrims increased further. A total of 50,199 people had darshan, with the authorities expecting that the number would surpass 80,000 by midnight. Under the direction of TTD executive officer (EO) AV Dharma Reddy, officials monitored the situation hourly and reported to the EO. Police and vigilance teams actively managed the outside rush from the E&C toll gate and the bus stand area to the queue complex, with additional summer arrangements already in place.
Double glory for Andhra Pradesh while Telangana takes 3rd spot in TS EAPCET - The New Indian Express
Double glory for Andhra Pradesh while Telangana takes 3rd spot in TS EAPCET The New Indian Express
Andhra Pradesh: Govt staff raise concern over high invalidation rate of postal ballots
VIJAYAWADA: Even after the end of Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh, employees are voicing out their concerns over the complexities of the postal ballot process, which they believe is causing a significant number of ballots to be invalidated. They are increasingly worried about their votes being not counted, as evidenced by the high invalidation rate in previous elections with 16% in 2014 and 20% in 2019. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the State with the highest voter turnout in the general elections so far, with a cumulative polling percentage of 81.86 and the winning chances of the candidate may be with slender margin votes. Hence, the postal ballots whose turnout is nearly 95 per cent, is expected to play a key role in determining the fortunes of candidates. Leaders of various employee unions, during the exercise of their franchise through postal ballots, pointed out that the existing system, unchanged since 1956, requires employees to follow a lengthy and intricate procedure involving multiple steps and stringent verification process. This includes having the postal ballot recognised by a gazetted officer, filling of declaration form, and properly sealing the ballot in multiple covers, all of which contribute to frequent errors and subsequent invalidation of votes. Despite being called a postal ballot, employees cast their votes at designated polling booths. Speaking to TNIE, Municipal Teachers Federation of Andhra Pradesh State president Somarouthu Ramakrishna emphasised, The current method, which has been in use for decades, poses significant difficulties for our employees who actively participate in the election process. In the 2019 Assembly elections, 59,000 votes out of 2,00,000 postal ballots were declared invalid due to the cumbersome procedure. According to the Election Commission, 4,97,718 postal ballots were cast in the State. The deadline for these ballots to reach the Election Commission through the postal department is June 3. As of May 9 (the last date for employees on election duty), as many as 4,44,218 votes were cast by State government employees, 13,700 by senior citizens above 85 years old, 12,700 by voters with special needs, and 27,100 by other emergency service workers. The union urged the Election Commission of India by writing a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner to simplify the postal ballot process by considering the vote in the small cover as a valid postal vote and extending the deadline for casting postal ballots till June 3. Postal ballot will be rejected in case of... Non-signing of the declaration form by the employee Not entering the serial number of the ballot paper in the declaration form Absence of attestation by a gazetted officer on declaration Form-13B Improper sealing of the voted postal ballot Putting both the postal ballot and the declaration form in the same cover Marking either above or below the candidates symbol instead of on the symbol
Go to Pak if you want Muslim quota: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to Lalu Prasad
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticizes RJD's Lalu Prasad for advocating 'reservation to Muslims,' suggesting he go to Pakistan. Sarma emphasizes reservation based on religion is unconstitutional. He cites examples from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh where such measures affected backward classes.
Andhra Pradesh: Vizag Police bust cybercrime racket, arrest three
Cases were registered against the three local agents for human trafficking, extortion, wrongful confinement, and criminal conspiracy
Telangana: Reviving sparrow songs in rural Nirmal
ADILABAD: While the chirps and chatter of birds used to provide a background score to the lives of people, especially in rural areas, across the erstwhile Adilabad district, the distinct drop in the number of sparrows has alarmed nature lovers. An once ubiquitous presence in the porches of households and on branches of trees, sparrows have now become a rare sight, bemoan locals. However, the Nirmal Mandal Samikya has launched the Back to Roots initiative to bring the olden days back apart from adding a stream of income for local tillers. Earlier, farmers would hang a small bundle of paddy from the balconies, windows and cattle sheds so that sparrows could feed on it, especially during the summer. It is also believed that waking up to the chirps of sparrows in the morning helps bring wealth into the household. Speaking to TNIE , District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) project officer P Vijaya Laxmi says they greenlit the initiative in April to ensure that the birds do not die from want of food and water, especially during the summer season. Birds can even use other parts of the crop to build nests, she explains. I watched a few YouTube videos where farmers in states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and even some parts of Andhra Pradesh are using this system to feed the birds, especially sparrows, the project officer adds. Residents place paddy bundles around the windows in Nirmal district Vijaya Laxmi explains that farmers growing different crops are told to grow paddy in a small patch of land. After the harvest, I offer training at the Samikya office on how to pack the paddy. It is then placed near the balconies or on the exterior of houses in sheds, she says, adding that the bundles are in good demand and have been selling for `500 each. New market sensation Meanwhile, locals have started using these bundles as thoranam (traditional decorations) at the entrance of houses. Some have even placed special orders for housewarming events. Residents of Nirmal have welcomed the initiative and supporting it with their wallets. They feel that this would help the Samikya generate some revenue and in turn, help the local populace apart from adding to the fauna of the area. It must be noted that sparrows also serve as a marker for lead pollution in soil and other contaminants. Such is the craze of the paddy bundles that many were used to decorate themed polling stations in Mudhole and Lokeshwaram mandals. Several of these polling stations saw 100% voter turnout, says Vijaya Laxmi. In the near future, the DRDA plans to sell the bundles to other markets and consumers online.
Four candidates score a perfect 100 in JEE Main 2024 Paper 2: Check list of toppers here
The National Testing Agency revealed the JEE Main 2024 Paper 2 topper's list, highlighting exceptional achievers from Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, and Telangana, across various categories and papers.
Hyderabad: It has been ten long years since bifurcation, but several issues such as division of assets, power bill dues, are still unresolved between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana even as Hyderabad ...
Jaw broken, girls harassed: Indian students in Bishkek live in fear
HYDERABAD: Locked inside his university hostel at Kyrgyzstans capital Bishkek, where the gates were shut and the lights were turned off by the administration so they could stay safe, a Telangana-based medical student, Fayzan, told TNIE on Saturday that although the violence was temporarily curbed, a mob had openly sent out a warning to the Indians and Pakistanis that there would be another attack in the night. India advises its students in Bishkek to stay indoors after mob violence On the night of May 17, an angry mob of locals entered two universities in the capital city, broke the windows of the hostels and targeted foreign nationals, especially Indian and Pakistani nationals. They attacked foreign students and misbehaved with girls. An acquaintance suffered a broken jaw and a few others sustained minor injuries, said Fayzan. Following the mob violence, the Indian embassy released a statement that the situation is presently calm and advised all students to stay indoors and contact the Mission in case of any problems. However, many Indian students that TNIE had contacted expressed fear as locals were circulating hate messages on TikTok and other social media platforms. The driver of a taxi I had previously travelled in sent me a video of the mob violence and threatened to beat me as well, said a student from Uttar Pradesh. While students living in university hostels shared that there were local police and Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) deployed outside the campus, those living in private accommodations do not have the same kind of security. Students living in flats have been asked to not step out of their accommodations. In case of an emergency, they have been advised to carry their visas and passports, said a student from Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, who did not want to be named. However, that does not make any difference. The mob does not look into the passports before attacking, his friend added. The violence, which started following an alleged altercation between the locals and Egyptians on May 13, has led to a series of incidents where foreign nationals have been targeted. While university officials are ensuring that the students in campus are safe, those living outside the campus are demanding police security and provision of essentials, said Dr Apurva, the national convenor of the All Indian Medical Students Association Foreign Medical Students Wing (AIMSA-FMSW). Another member of the AIMSA-FMSW, Dr Vasundhara said, We are concerned as we have been unable to reach out to a few of the Indian students. We are trying to keep in touch with as many students as possible and check in on their safety. Amidst the tense situation, the student from Uttar Pradesh told TNIE, A couple of Indian students who stay elsewhere in the country, have left Kyrgyzstan fearing violence. They are not in Bishkek, but are afraid and have taken the road to leave the country. Even as the students are expecting that the situation would most likely be back to normal in a few days, they insist, Only if the Indian government and agencies take a major action or put pressure on the Kyrgyzstan government, will the situation change. Else, we are worried that this might repeat.
Video: Andhra Doctor Saves 6-Year-Old's Life By Giving CPR Along The Road - NDTV
Video: Andhra Doctor Saves 6-Year-Old's Life By Giving CPR Along The Road NDTV
Video: Andhra Doctor Saves 6-Year-Old's Life By Giving CPR Along The Road
A doctor in Andhra Pradesh came to the rescue of a six-year-old boy and saved his life after he suffered a cardiac arrest earlier this month.
Andhra Pradesh: Man kills pregnant stray dog in Guntur, stabs her multiple times - India TV News
Andhra Pradesh: Man kills pregnant stray dog in Guntur, stabs her multiple times India TV News
Andhra Pradesh HORROR: Butcher Kills Pregnant Dog, Stabs It Multiple Times - India.com
Andhra Pradesh HORROR: Butcher Kills Pregnant Dog, Stabs It Multiple Times India.com
Voter turnout less than my expectations in Central Kashmir: JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah
Voter turnout less than my expectations in Central Kashmir: JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) Chief Farooq Abdullah expressed concern over the low voting percentage in Central Kashmir, saying that he expected around 70 per cent polling percentage in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Speaking to ANI on Saturday, the JKNC chief said, I expected the percentage to be 70 per cent. I don't know the reason why it was so low. People are so eager to express themselves and send their representatives to the Parliament. Our children are taking drugs. An entire generation is in danger. The percentage is less than my expectations. It should have been 70 per cent, Abdullah further said. Jammu and Kashmir recorded low voter turnouts at 38.49 in the recently concluded fourth phase of Lok Sabha polls. The fourth phase of polling for Lok Sabha polls on May 13 in 96 constituencies saw a voter turnout of 69.16 per cent, the Election Commission said on Friday. It said 69.58 per cent of male voters, 68.73 per cent of female voters, and 34.23 per cent of third-gender individuals exercised their franchise. Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest voter turnout, with a total voter turnout of 80.66 per cent. West Bengal recorded the second-highest voter turnout at 80.22 per cent. Apart from Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar also recorded relatively low voter turnouts at 58.22, and 58.21 per cent, respectively. Voting was held in 96 Lok Sabha seats in the fourth phase, out of which 25 were from Andhra Pradesh, 17 from Telangana, 13 from Uttar Pradesh, 11 from Maharashtra, eight each from Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, five from Bihar, four each from Jharkhand and Odisha, and one from Jammu and Kashmir. The voting in Baramulla is set for May 20 while the Anantnag-Rajouri seat will vote on May 25. In the electoral battleground of Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir, the upcoming Lok Sabha elections for Phase 5 present a compelling tripartite contest. Omar Abdullah, representing the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), faces off against Fayaz Ahmad Mir of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Sajjad Gani Lone from the Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference (JKPC), allied with the NDA. Notably, the BJP is not contesting from any of Jammu and Kashmir's three Lok Sabha seats--Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag. In the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BJP had six candidates in the fray in Jammu and Kashmir but failed to win a single seat in Kashmir. Voting for the Udhampur and Jammu seats concluded on April 19 and 26 respectively while in Srinagar, voting was concluded on May 13. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. (ANI)
Andhra: Butcher stabs pregnant stray dog to death in Guntur
Andhra: Butcher stabs pregnant stray dog to death in Guntur A butcher in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district allegedly killed a pregnant street dog by stabbing it with a knife multiple times, police said on Saturday. According to Circle Inspector Suresh Kumar, the incident pertains to Friday (May 17). A butcher killed a pregnant stray dog with a knife around midnight on Friday. The incident was reported to the Nallapadu police, police said. According to witnesses, the accused, who works at a meat shop in the area, repeatedly stabbed the pregnant dog with a knife and killed it. Nallapadu police have registered a case of animal cruelty based on a complaint lodged by locals and initiated a probe into the alleged incident. Further details are awaited. (ANI)
NRI doctor detained at airport before Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's flight to London The Times of India
Andhra: Butcher stabs pregnant stray dog to death in Guntur - ANI News
Andhra: Butcher stabs pregnant stray dog to death in Guntur ANI News
TS EAPCET results out, Andhra Pradesh boy tops engineering stream - The Times of India
TS EAPCET results out, Andhra Pradesh boy tops engineering stream The Times of India
Modakondamma fest postponed - The Times of India
Modakondamma fest postponed The Times of India
Officials visit district jail and womens prison in Kurnool
EC appoints news SPs for three districts in State - The Hindu
EC appoints news SPs for three districts in State The Hindu
APSRTC MD Warns of Fake WhatsApp Number
Vijayawada : The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) Managing Director (MD), Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, issued a public alert on Saturday regarding a fake WhatsApp number impersonating him. An imposter has been using Rao's photo as their WhatsApp display picture and making calls using the number 7033400216. The MD has lodged a complaint with Vijayawada Cyber Crime Police. Rao urged all public officials and citizens to be cautious of calls and messages from this fraudulent number. He advised everyone to refrain from responding to any communication originating from 7033400216 and to block the number immediately.
EC Bans Sale of Loose Petrol, Diesel in AP
Vijayawada : Election authorities in Andhra Pradesh have banned loose sale of petrol and diesel in bottles, containers and drums up to June 10 as part of implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Following the ban, fuel will be filled at petrol pumps only in the fuel tanks of vehicles. The measure has been taken in the wake of AP witnessing violence during the polls on May 13 and also after the polls. Petrol bombs have been hurled mainly in Macherla area of Palnadu. Authorities have also seized loose petrol stocks in the area. Election authorities have thus decided to initiate several steps to check such kind of violence. Accordingly, following a directive from chief electoral officer Mukesh Kumar Meena, district collectors have ordered managements of petrol bunks not to sell petrol and diesel in bottles, drums and other containers. They have warned that any lose sale will lead to cancellation of the license. AP has nearly 3,500 petrol bunks, which sell 9,00010,000 kilolitres of diesel and 5,0006,000 kilolitres of petrol per day in the state. Petroleum dealers maintain that they sell diesel in containers to several industrial units, including aquaculture farms, to operate their machinery. Similarly, the fuel is also sold to hospitals, public / private offices, commercial complexes and heavy earth moving machines, so that they can operate without any interruption. AP Federation of Petroleum Traders general secretary P. Ravi Kumar said, We will follow the directions of the election authorities on sale of petrol and diesel. However, we intend to request them to permit sale of diesel in loose quantities, so that certain industries and establishments can run. Curbs on fuel sales till June 10 come in the wake of counting of votes in the assembly and parliamentary general elections on June 4. Results are to be announced thereafter. Political party that secures a majority of seats will then stake claim to form the government. Election authorities have thus imposed curbs on sale of fuel till June 10.
Third Eye: Family vacation after voting, not on stage, not in party, time to resume work at party
It has been an eventful year for former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Now that the busy campaign for assembly and parliamentary elections and voting has come to a conclusion, Naidu is getting ready to embark on a trip to Europe with his entire family.
VMC begins de-silting work on drains ahead of onset of monsoon
VMC Commissioner urges denizens to ease the workers burden by not throwing plastic and other solid waste into the drains
NETA NATTER | REVANTH BRINGS BACK 18-HOUR WORK DAYS
Bureaucrats in Telangana state are being kept on their toes by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy who is fast being viewed as a workaholic with him making it clear that it is 18 hours of work a day or else. After the hectic election campaign, there were some in the Secretariat who hoped that Revanth would take a break of sorts but that was not to be. Taking just a single days break on May 14, after polling ended on May 13, the Chief Minister was back at work on May 15 and the hopes among bureaucrats and officials in the Secretariat that since the election code will be in force until counting of votes on June 4, the Chief Minister could probably go easy, were dashed with Revanth back to holding review meetings with several departments each day. This was enough to force some bureaucrats who had scheduled vacations to cancel their plans and return to work, with several recalling how Revanth, at his very first meeting with district collectors, police superintendents and secretaries of all departments in December last, made it clear that he would work 18 hours a day and expected the same from officials. KTR GETS A FACE FULL OF CONFETTI Politicians are tough nuts to crack. Very little fazes them, given the aplomb with which they confront their opponents, or issues, whether such issues are based on facts or not. But even these tough guys sometimes are forced to throw in the towel. For BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao, such a moment came during a campaign rally in Huzurabad for BRS Karimnagar candidate B. Vinod Kumar. It wasnt some tougher guy who did this to KTR but a paper confetti gun operator who, in his enthusiasm, kept blasting away load after load of pink paper strips aimed at him. This finally forced KTR to beg the person doing so to stop, saying, He gave himself this job of repeatedly blasting in my face. Please stop, I am begging you, and I promise that you will be paid your charges. ELECTIONS USHER IN THE BLACK MAGICIANS For most part, elections, particularly ones with long-drawn campaigns, can get tiring, especially for those in the fray. With victory being the ultimate price, the point becomes that winning is all that matters and there is never any dearth of mumbo jumbo allegations doing the rounds. And so it turns out that the hot topic in Tadepalligudem is that the two contenders in the fray, belonging to the YSRC and the Jana Sena, resorted to invoking unseen forces using black magic to weaken each other. Whispers did the rounds after Jana Senas Bolisetty Srinivas would find himself out of steam at the end of the day and that this was attributed to YSRCs Katta Satyanarayana unleashing some black magic on his opponent. So, it was the turn of gossip-mongers to say that when Satayanarayana began exhibiting the same symptoms at the end of the day during the campaign that the same forces were somehow used against him by the Jana Sena candidate. For all one knows, it could just have been the hot summer sun that laid a couple of leaders in AP low during the campaigning but gossip is a hard mill to put brakes on to. TWO STATES, TWO ELECTIONS DOES NOT EQUAL TWO VOTES Two states, two votes? It is possible that this was a reason why the turnout of voters in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad was poor, rued BJP state president and Union minister G. Kishan Reddy the other day. His reasoning was that since Andhra Pradesh also went to polls to pick a new Legislative Assembly the same day, people who were voters in that state left for Andhra Pradesh, leaving their votes unused in Telangana. But when it was pointed out that having two votes in two places is illegal, Kishan Reddy sought to extricate himself with a long-winded explanation of how Andhra Pradesh voters may have gone to their native places to watch the polling trends as they have voting rights in the twin cities and Telangana state. CONTENDERS MOMENTS OF UNEXPECTED DRAMA The local election season has turned into a spectacle for the community, with Pithapuram district in AP taking the lead in entertainment value. Both candidates vying for leadership in Pithapuram have inadvertently become the stars of the show. Pawan Kalyan, representing the Jana Sena and contesting from Pithapuram, made headlines when he requested a printout from election officials after casting his vote, resulting in a viral video of the incident. Similarly, Vanga Geeta, YSRC contender from Pithapuram, had her own moment of unexpected drama when a stranger approached her to advocate voting for the glass symbol of the Jana Sena. Geeta was not stumped at this but these interactions have gone viral with video clips doing the rounds furiously. YSRCS HOPES GETTING DASHED SLOWLY Pre-poll bluster has a shelf life. Once the voting is over, leaders have nothing more to say to one another and have little to do other than twiddle their thumbs and wait for the results. Two such leaders in Andhra Pradesh minister R.K. Roja and former minister P. Anil Kumar Yadav who constantly made news before the voting on May 13, have gone silent despite their established image as rabble-rousers for their party. While Yadav hasnt said much other than claiming that the police helped the TD voters during polling, and Roja alleging that her own YSRC workers worked against her in Nagari constituency, these two have, for now, appear to have decided to lie low, given the popular perception that their party, the YSRC, may not have found favour among voters this time round. Contributions from Avinash P. Subramanyam, Neeraj Kumar, Laxmi Pranathi, Vadrevu Srinivas, Balu Pulipaka.
AP Exit Polls Awaited With Excitement on June 1
Exit polls have predicted rout for Congress in the assembly polls to Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh when counting of votes takes place on Sunday. Exit polls have predicted rout for Congress in the assembly polls to Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh when counting of votes takes place on Sunday. Vijayawada: June 1 is the day on which the last phase of the 2024 general elections will be held in India. On the day, several organisations are expected to release their exit polls. In Andhra Pradesh, people are already receiving anonymous calls seeking details about their choice in the May 13 polling. Recorded voices are giving them numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate whether they have voted for YSRC, Telugu Desam or another, not necessarily in this order. Incidentally, majority of pre-poll surveys gave an edge to YSRC in the 2024 elections. Several surveys, after the formation of Telugu Desam, BJP and Jana Sena alliance, favoured the opposition alliance. The rank and file of YSRC are on cloud nine with the statement of Chief Minister and YSRC president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy regarding re-registering a landslide victory in the 2024 elections, surpassing the 2019 mammoth tally of 151 MLA and 22 MP seats. The statement of Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a boost to the ruling party candidates, leaders and cadres, who had been at the crossroads due to the claim of opposition TD, BJP and JS alliance that it will win 160 seats. In the 2019 elections, India Today-Axis My India exit poll predicted that YSRC would win between 130 and 135 seats. It turned out to be close to the actual results. Other predictions varied significantly. INSS Media forecast a TD victory with 118 seats. I-News and LRG-FLASH also presented diverse outcomes. In the last seven days, several exit polls have been conducted regarding the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, revealing varied insights. For the assembly elections, majority of pre-poll surveys are giving an edge to YSRC, while others are favouring the TD alliance. In the process, the political atmosphere is heating up in the state. However, many are waiting for the June 1 exit polls, so that they could have a better picture of what could be the result on June 4.
Light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Puducherry, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Lakshadweep until May 23.
Six killed in car accident in Andhra Pradesh - The Week
Six killed in car accident in Andhra Pradesh The Week
Sale of petrol, diesel in bottles and cans banned in Palnadu district
Orders to remain in force till the Model Code of Conduct ends on June 6
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.
Soldiers, borders safe under Modi: Anurag Thakur
Soldiers, borders safe under Modi: Anurag Thakur India's borders and its soldiers are safe under the BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur said on Saturday and alleged that the Congress' ''hand'' is always with foreign powers. Thakur made the remarks while campaigning in the Chintpurni and the Jaswan-Pragpur assembly segments of the Hamirpur Lok Sabha constituency, from where he is seeking a fifth consecutive victory. He said, ''Our Army became stronger, its morale was boosted and the borders were strengthened under Modi's rule while nothing was safe during the Congress regime.'' Hitting out at the grand old party while referring to its election symbol, Thakur said, ''The Congress' 'hand' is always with foreign powers. It handed over thousands of acres of Indian land to the enemies and even today, when our soldiers are showing their bravery in Doklam, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is meeting with Chinese officials.'' He also attacked the Congress over the 2016 surgical strike. Thakur said, ''When our Army entered Pakistan and killed the terrorists, these people were demanding proof. Even today, when elections are around the corner, these people are saying that India's nuclear weapons should be abolished.'' India had conducted the surgical strike in September 2016 across the Line of Control as a response to a terror attack on an Army base in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector. Thakur added that even ''our daughters'' are today holding AK-47s and have the courage to ''bury'' enemies. He noted that there used to be direct interference by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir and every day there were reports of terror incidents and stone pelting but the Modi-led government removed Article 370 and instilled peace and tranquillity in the Valley. As a result, stone pelting has completely stopped and the terrorists are counting their last breaths, the minister claimed. Thakur also hit out at the state's Congress government. He alleged that the Congress formed the government in Himachal Pradesh by making false promises. Now, during the Lok Sabha elections, it is once again trying to cheat women by making them fill forms to get Rs 1,500 per month. ''Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had openly said after coming to power that 'we have formed the government by defeating 97 per cent Hindus','' Thakur claimed. ''Do they intend to cut the reservation meant for SCs, STs and OBCs and give it to Muslims, along the lines of Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh?'' The BJP leader said that 10 years ago, the country uprooted a ''corrupt and chaotic'' government and replaced it with an honest one. In these 10 years, Modi gave his 100 per cent and worked to live up to the hopes and aspirations of the people and today India has earned its place in the ''top five'', Thakur said. All this happened with the power of the public's vote, he asserted.
T'gana cabinet meet deferred for want of EC nod
T'gana cabinet meet deferred for want of EC nod The planned meeting of the Telangana cabinet could not be held on Saturday as the Election Commission did not give its nod in view of the poll code. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and his cabinet colleagues, who waited for a green-light from the EC till 7 PM to conduct the meeting left the Secretariat as it was not received. The chief minister has now decided to conduct the cabinet meeting after the EC gives its approval. He also decided to go to Delhi ''if necessary'' to meet the poll body if the permission for cabinet meeting is not received by Monday, an official release said. The government had prepared a heavy agenda for the cabinet meeting, including farm loan waiver, paddy procurement, crop plan for the coming Kharif season and other issues concerning farmers, it said. However, these key issues could not be discussed as no response was received from the EC on conducting the cabinet meeting, Revanth Reddy said. The chief minister had also decided to discuss crucial issues, including celebration of 'Telangana formation day' on June 2, the pending issues between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in view of the completion of 10 years of state formation and also the pending issues of Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 in the proposed cabinet meeting today, the release added.
TDP demands arrest of MLAs Pinnelli, Chevireddy and Kethireddy for stoking violence on polling day
The call data records of a few police officers should be examined in view of the suspicion that they are a part of the conspiracy to create unrest, and enable the YSRCP to win the elections, says Varla Ramaiah
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.
IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year - The Hindu
IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year The Hindu
ECI seizes cash, liquor and other material worth about 302 crore since March 1 in Andhra Pradesh
It includes cash of 85.32 crore and liquor costing 43.17 crore; cash of 114.41 crore seized in Telangana
ECI seizes cash, liquor and other material worth about 302 crore since March 1 in Andhra Pradesh
It includes cash of 85.32 crore and liquor costing 43.17 crore; cash of 114.41 crore seized in Telangana
ECI seizes cash, liquor and other material worth about 302 crore since March 1 in Andhra Pradesh The Hindu
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.
NDA will emerge victorious in Andhra Pradesh, claims C.M. Ramesh
NDA will emerge victorious in Andhra Pradesh, claims C.M. Ramesh - The Hindu
NDA will emerge victorious in Andhra Pradesh, claims C.M. Ramesh The Hindu
APERC allows private firms to bid for Intra-State Transmission Projects costing over 250 crore
Commission issues a regulation to this effect a couple of days ago by increasing the initially proposed 100-crore threshold limit after objections were raised by stakeholders
APERC allows private firms to bid for Intra-State Transmission Projects costing over 250 crore The Hindu
Kadapa SP conducts review meeting with officials on counting duty
No processions or victory rallies will be permitted from June 1 to 6 due to the counting process, he says
IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh this year
More rain is in store for the State from May 22; temperatures may rise from May 25, but we will not see April-like heat, says IMD Amaravati Director
CPI State secretary demands probe into sand mining scandal - The Hindu
CPI State secretary demands probe into sand mining scandal The Hindu
CPI State secretary demands probe into sand mining scandal
Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner denies political angle in family attack case at Kancharapalem The Hindu
Nannaya University suspends academic, non-academic activities till June 6
Nannaya University suspends academic, non-academic activities till June 6 - The Hindu
Nannaya University suspends academic, non-academic activities till June 6 The Hindu
Special Investigation Team launches probe into poll-related violence in A.P.
Action comes after ECI nod to the State govt.s proposal to go for a SIT a couple of days ago
Special Investigation Team launches probe into poll-related violence in Andhra Pradesh - The Hindu
Special Investigation Team launches probe into poll-related violence in Andhra Pradesh The Hindu
Sri Lankan golden-backed frog rediscovered after 200 years in India at KoundinyaWildlife Sanctuary
The rediscovery provides evidence of a historicland bridge between India and Sri Lanka during the late Pleistocene period or the Ice Age, says Bharath Bhupathi from the Zoological Survey of India
Kurnool Collector holds meeting on preparedness ahead of counting day
G. Srijana emphasises the importance of following the ECI guidelines for the counting process
Why Andhra is offering huge pay hikes to medical educators? - South First
Why Andhra is offering huge pay hikes to medical educators? South First
New government needs to look into the issues of construction industry: CREDAI
Builders unable to reduce cost of construction as cement prices has gone up to 350 per bag and steel available at a price close to 70,000 per tonne, says CREDAI vice-president K. Subhash Chandra Bose
Go to Pakistan and then give reservations...: Assam CM slams RJD chief Lalu Yadav
Go to Pakistan and then give reservations...: Assam CM slams RJD chief Lalu Yadav Opposing the idea of providing reservations to Muslims, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday hit out at RJD chief Lalu Yadav over his advocacy forcomplete reservation for Muslims and suggested Lalu Yadav to move to Pakistan and then give reservations there. Addressing a public rally in Raghunathpur, Siwan, on Saturday, the Assam CM said that no reservations will be made on the basis of religion. Few days back I saw the statement of Lalu Yadav, where he said that 'Muslims should get reservations'. Do Hindus don't deserve to get reservations? Babasaheb Ambedkar gave us the Constitution. In the Constitution, it is mentioned that SC, ST, and OBC should get reservations. There will be no reservations on the basis of religion. I want to say this, Lalu Yadav, if you want to give reservations to Muslims, then I will buy you the tickets to Pakistan, go to Pakistan and then give reservations there. It will never happen in India. There is no law on this. Yeh Sapna bhi aap mat dekho (don't dream of this), Assam CM said. Citing examples from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the Assam CM alleged that such measures came at the expense of other backward classes. Karnataka's decision to grant reservations to Muslims was done after robbing the reservations of Backward classes, he said. The Assam CM asserted that to bring the entire Jammu and Kashmir to India, the Bharatiya Janata Party needs 400 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. One part of Kashmir is in Pakistan. Give 400 seats to Modi ji and we will get Kashmir from Pakistan. We closed 700 madrassas in Assam and no one raised their voice against it. Why? Because this is a new India...Aaj mullah banane ka dukaan khulne nahi dunga. Doctor , engineer, banane ka kaam karunga...We need 400 seats so that we can bring the Uniform Civil Code, construct the Krishna Janambhoomi temple, construct the Gyanvapi temple and stop reservation to Muslims. That's why we need 400 seats, he said. Earlier on May 7, former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav came out in support of the Muslim quota, saying that they should get the reservation. Speaking to reporters, the former CM said, Muslims should get reservations (reservation toh milna chahiye Musalmano ko, pura'...). The 40 seats in Bihar are undergoing polls in all seven phases. In 2019, the BJP-led NDA swept the state by winning 39 out of 40 seats, while Congress won just one seat. RJD, a formidable force in the state, failed to open its account. The Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance), the opposition coalition in Bihar, including Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress, and Left parties, recently announced that the RJD, its largest constituent, will contest 26 out of the state's 40 Lok Sabha seats. As part of the NDA, BJP and JD(U) will contest on 17 and 16 seats, respectively. Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) will contest five seats, and Jitan Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and the Rashtriya Lok Morcha will contest one seat each. The voting in Siwan will be held in the sixth phase of the elections on May 25. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. (ANI)
Five of family killed in accident
Edited screenshot shared as Times Now exit poll predicting TDP win in Andhra Pradesh
Fact-Check The Verdict: FakeAs per ECI guidelines, no exit poll results have been released for the 2024 Lok Sabha and concurrent Assembly elections. The screenshot is edited. Claim ID: 2beeb625 What is the claim? A screenshot, purportedly showing an exit poll by the Indian news channel Times Now, has gone viral on social media. This []
Heavy to very heavy rainfall to continue over south Peninsular India till May 23: IMD
Heavy to very heavy rainfall to continue over south Peninsular India till May 23: IMD Heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely to continue over south Peninsular India till May 23 with extremely heavy falls during May 19-21, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Southwest Monsoon is very likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea, some parts of Southeast Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands around May 19, the IMD said. It further said that a cyclonic circulation lies over south interior Tamil Nadu and neighbourhood in low and mid-tropospheric levels. A trough runs from south Chhattisgarh to South Interior Karnataka and another trough runs from Marathwada to a cyclonic circulation over south interior Tamil Nadu in lower tropospheric levels. As per the IMD, under the influence of the cyclonic circulation, fairly widespread to widespread light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) is likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, Kerala and Mahe, Lakshadweep, south Karnataka and Isolated to scattered light/moderate rainfall accompanied with thunderstorm, lightning & gusty winds (30-40 kmph) over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Telangana and Rayalaseema during next 7 days. The IMD has also predicted isolated heavy rainfall very likely over Coastal Karnataka from May 19-22, South Interior Karnataka from May 21-22, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema on May 18 and Lakshadweep from May 18-21. Isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala and Mahe on May 18 and 22 and South Interior Karnataka during May 18-20. Isolated extremely heavy rainfall also very likely over Tamil Nadu and Kerala during May 19-21, it added. Isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds is very likely over Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Madhya Pradesh on May 18 and 19. Further, according to an IMD release, a cyclonic circulation lies over northeast Assam and the neighbourhood in lower tropospheric levels. The IMD said that under the influence of the cyclonic circulation, scattered to fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds very likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim during the next seven days. Isolated heavy rainfall likely over Sikkim during May 18-20, Arunachal Pradesh on May 18-19, Assam and Meghalaya during May 18-20, Nagaland, Manipur on May 18. Isolated very heavy rainfall also likely over Meghalaya on May 19 and 20, it said. The IMD also said strong surface winds very likely to prevail in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan during the next five days. (ANI)
Fake exit poll image claims victory for TDP in Andhra Pradesh elections - Hindustan Times
Fake exit poll image claims victory for TDP in Andhra Pradesh elections Hindustan Times
Watch: Andhra doctor performs CPR on electrocuted 6-year-old boy, saves his life The Indian Express
