Top News / The Times of India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to vote in large numbers as the first phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began. He particularly called upon young and first-time voters to participate. This election marks a significant milestone, being the first since the region's special status was revoked in 2019, with heightened security measures.
The opposition INDIA bloc, comprising Congress, DMK, and communist parties, has declared a bandh in Puducherry on Wednesday to protest against the AINRC-BJP government's increased power tariffs. They argue that pre-paid meters and privatizing power distribution will harm farmers and result in unfair pricing. Former chief minister V Narayanasamy warned of further protests if demands are not met.
Finance and education minister Atishi has been chosen as the new leader of AAP's legislative party, making her Delhi's eighth chief minister. Outgoing CM Arvind Kejriwal resigned following his release from jail. Atishi will lead until the assembly elections scheduled for February 2025, continuing Kejriwal's vision for Delhi.
Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena announced the resumption of land mutation based on inheritance for agricultural land in over 174 urban villages in Delhi. The process begins with camps set up in villages starting Friday. This decision impacts lakhs of residents who were denied this right since 2010 due to urbanization.
Dooru in Anantnag district, renowned for its literary heritage, is now politically significant as J&K prepares for assembly elections after a decade. AICC general secretary Ghulam Ahmad Mir of the NC-Congress alliance faces competition from PDP's Mohammad Ashraf Malik and Independents. The increased electorate of 116,749 voters may impact the election outcome.
Resident doctors in New Delhi have agreed to resume duties after reaching an agreement with CM Mamata Banerjee. The Supreme Court has instructed the state to enhance security at government hospitals and establish safety audits, grievance redressal systems, and internal committees for handling sexual harassment complaints within two weeks.
The Supreme Court voiced concern over a CBI report highlighting serious flaws in how Kolkata Police handled evidence in the RG Kar Hospital rape and murder case. The court assured that justice would be pursued, with CBI investigating possible tampering and additional suspects. Senior doctors linked the crime to financial irregularities.
The Supreme Court took issue with a West Bengal health department advisory suggesting that women doctors work only 12-hour shifts and avoid night duties after a woman doctor's rape-murder. The court stressed equal opportunities and security for all professionals, urging the state to amend the circular in line with gender equality principles.
Kapil Sibal appealed to the Supreme Court to cease live streaming its suo motu proceedings on a sensitive rape-murder case, expressing concerns about reputational harm. Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud maintained that public transparency is crucial and assured protection for lawyers facing threats due to their involvement in the case.
Residents and organizations in Shimla are calling for the demolition of an allegedly illegal mosque in Kasumpti due to concerns about gatherings of unidentified non-locals. Former deputy mayor Rakesh Sharma led a delegation to submit a memorandum to the deputy commissioner. Similar protests over illegal mosques have occurred recently in Sanjauli and Mandi.
PM Modi's three-day visit to the US starts on Sept 21 with his participation in the Quad Summit hosted by President Biden. He will address the UNGA Summit of the Future on Sept 23 and meet with US-based CEOs and Indian community members to enhance collaborations in advanced technologies such as AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, and biotechnology.
Union health minister J P Nadda urged hospitals to adopt digital technology for healthcare data management, highlighting its role in ensuring data security and accessibility. He noted the government's efforts in promoting telemedicine and e-health services. NABH introduced new digital health standards, with 275 hospitals applying for certification, aiming to enhance healthcare efficiency.
PM Narendra Modi addressed criticism from Congress and opposition parties regarding his visit to CJI D Y Chandrachud's residence for Ganpati puja. He likened their disapproval to the British's disdain for Ganesh puja during India's freedom struggle, highlighting its historical role in fostering unity against divisive strategies.
The Supreme Court collegium has revised its July 11 recommendations for appointing chief justices to seven high courts following sensitive information from the Union government. Justices Suresh Kumar Kait, G S Sandhawalia, and Tashi Rabstan have been reassigned to different high courts. The other recommendations made on July 11 remain unchanged.
Congress criticized Union home minister Amit Shah's statements on Manipur, asking why PM Modi has not visited the state since it erupted on May 3, 2023. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the absence of a full-time governor and chief secretary, as well as the inactivity of BJP's office in Imphal.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has instructed railways to speed up converting 40,000 normal rail bogies to Vande Bharat standards for better passenger safety and comfort. She also emphasized phased implementation of the Kavach system and timely completion of capital expenditure targets, while railway officials updated her on ongoing projects.
The Supreme Court has granted bail to Sunil NS, known as Pulsar Suni, who is the main accused in the 2017 actor assault case involving actor Dileep. Arrested in February 2017, Suni's extended imprisonment and the anticipated lengthy trial process influenced the court's decision to release him on bail.
Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri criticized Rahul Gandhi's statements about the Sikh community during his US visit, comparing them to a 'Jinnah-like' mindset. Puri accused Gandhi of promoting a divisive narrative and highlighted the 1984 anti-Sikh violence as a time when the community faced severe threats.
Union home minister Amit Shah revealed that the Centre is actively engaging with Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur to resolve ethnic tensions. Measures include fencing the Indo-Myanmar border, terminating visa-free travel with Myanmar, deploying CRPF teams strategically, and initiating dialogues aimed at restoring peace in the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the Waqf Amendment Bill, designed for managing and protecting Waqf properties, will soon be introduced in Parliament despite facing opposition. He also confirmed plans to resume the census process and implement 'one nation-one election' within the current government term.
Isro's Gaganyaan mission progresses with a temporary ground station at Australia's Cocos Islands. The Australian Space Agency collaborates for tracking and emergency support. Joint satellite projects and climate initiatives are underway, reflecting deepening space cooperation between India and Australia.
The Department of Atomic Energy in India will soon see its first 500MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor near Chennai become critical. This reactor is part of India's closed-fuel cycle nuclear program. Additionally, new nuclear power units have started operations in Gujarat and Rajasthan, with a new fuel complex being commissioned in Kota.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for their criticism of his participation in Ganesh Utsav at Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's residence. He underscored the festival's historical role in uniting people during India's freedom struggle and accused Congress of employing divisive tactics reminiscent of British colonial rule, warning against societal hatred.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gift auction commences on September 17 and lasts until October 2. The online auction showcases over 600 items, including sports memorabilia and cultural artifacts, with proceeds going to the Namami Gange Project. Items are priced between Rs.600 and Rs.8.26 lakh, making it accessible for a wide audience.
The rift between Swati Maliwal and AAP escalated after Atishi was named CM Kejriwal's successor. Maliwal criticized Atishi, calling her a 'dummy CM' and alleging her parents supported Afzal Guru. AAP leader Dilip Pandey suggested that if Maliwal disagrees with the party, she should resign from Rajya Sabha and seek a BJP ticket.
The Supreme Court has instructed the CBI to provide an update on its investigation into financial irregularities at R G Kar Medical College, where a trainee doctor was raped and murdered. The court also ordered Wikipedia to remove the victim's name and refused to halt live streaming of proceedings despite threats against women lawyers.
Union home minister Amit Shah outlined Modi 3.0's achievements as the National Democratic Alliance celebrated 100 days in office. He cited political stability and ongoing projects worth Rs 15 lakh crore. Shah also addressed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and detailed financial assistance to farmers under PM Kisan Samman Yojana.
US Congress leaders have condemned the vandalism at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in New York's Melville, describing it as an act of bigotry and hate. They urged that the incident be investigated as a hate crime to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences. The Indian consulate also strongly disapproved of the act.
Mukesh Kumar, a 23-year-old from Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested after pretending to be dead on a busy road for an online video. His prank involved lying under a white sheet with cotton in his nostrils. The act caused public disturbance and drew widespread criticism on social media for being insensitive and attention-seeking.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 74, receiving birthday wishes from BJP and NDA leaders who praised his leadership. Tripura CM Manik Saha and Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde extended their greetings. On his birthday, PM Modi will be in Odisha to launch projects including 26 lakh PM Awas houses and the Subhadra Yojana for women's financial assistance.
During a renewable energy summit in Gandhinagar, PM Modi emphasized that India is viewed globally as a key player for the 21st century. He outlined India's ambition to become the third-largest economy by 2047 and its commitment to green energy sources including solar, wind, nuclear, and hydro power to achieve sustainable development.
Union Education Minister writes about the Subhadra scheme to be launched by PM Narendra Modi, on his birthday, describing it as a significant step towards women empowerment in Odisha. With a budget of Rs 55,825 crore over five years, the scheme provides annual financial assistance to eligible women.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed that sensational remarks against institutions could be harmful and lead to unnecessary political debates. At the Samvidhan Mandir inauguration in Mumbai, he indirectly referenced SC Justice Ujjal Bhuyan's criticism of CBI's actions concerning Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, urging caution in such matters.
The National Medical Commission (NMC) has launched the process to create the National Medical Register (NMR), a centralised database of practising doctors in India. Linked with Aadhaar IDs, it will include essential details and ensure authenticity. The NMR aims to provide comprehensive data on over 13 lakh doctors for various medical institutions and authorities.
An MP government audit report reveals that cheetahs were not part of the original Kuno management plan, which was intended for relocating Gir lions. The report highlights rule violations and fund misallocation, raising concerns about conservation efforts and financial management at Kuno National Park. Activist Ajay Dubey has called for a probe into these issues.
An Army Major and his fiancee faced legal trouble after a confrontation at Bharatpur police station in Bhubaneshwar. They alleged abuse by police when seeking action against hooligans. Police denied mistreatment, claiming the couple was drunk and uncooperative, leading to the womans arrest and damage to property.