Delhi Tops World's Most Polluted Cities List, Kolkata & Mumbai Also Among Top 10
While Delhi sits at the very top, Mumbai has been ranked 5th, and Kolkata holds the 8th spot, highlighting the widespread nature of Indias pollution crisis
Delhi remains under toxic haze for 2nd day; AQI 'very poor'
Delhi continues to be engulfed in a toxic haze for the second consecutive day after Diwali.
Delhis Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa is pushing back against the Aam Aadmi Party's allegations linking Diwali celebrations and the Hindu community to the capital's air pollution crisis. Sirsa argues that Diwalis contribution to the pollution problem is negligible, countering that broader systemic failures are the real culprits at play.
Delhi Air Turns Toxic After Diwali As Firecrackers Offset Gains From Fall In Farm Fires
Local sources dominated the pollution load, even as stubble burning incidents in Punjab fell sharply from 1,510 last year to 415 this year---a remarkable reduction of 72.5%
London University Professor Deported From Delhi Airport Over Visa Violations
A professor associated with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London was deported from the IGI Airport over alleged violation of visa conditions, sources said on Tuesday.
Delhis Air Quality Remains Very Poor After Diwali
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in the RK Puram area of southwest Delhi stood at 380
India upgrades mission in Kabul to embassy status
NEW DELHI: India has restored its Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of a full-fledged embassy, signalling a renewed phase of engagement with Afghanistan. The External Affairs Ministry announced the decision on Tuesday, confirming that the upgrade is effective immediately. In keeping with the decision announced during the recent visit of the Afghan Foreign Minister to India, the Government is restoring the status of the Technical Mission of India in Kabul to that of Embassy of India in Afghanistan with immediate effect, the MEA said in an official release. The move follows a meeting between Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Indias External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi earlier this month. Security concerns surrounding the Indian mission in Kabul were a key focus of their discussions.
Speaker appoints lawyer to assist panel probing Justice Varma graft case
NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has appointed advocate Karan Umesh Salvi as a consultant to assist the judges inquiry committee investigating allegations of corruption against Justice Yashwant Varma. On August 12, the Speaker initiated the process to impeach Justice Varma from his position as a High Court judge. A Committee was formed to investigate the discovery of cash at Justice Varmas official residence. The Committee has been constituted under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 and comprises the Supreme Courts Justice Aravind Kumar, Madras High Court Chief Justice Madan Mohan Srivastav and Senior Advocate BV Acharya. The panel was set up following a motion supported in the Lok Sabha for initiating impeachment proceedings against Justice Varma. Salvis role as consultant will be to support the Committee in legal research, coordinate the proceedings and preparation of the final inquiry report. The findings will be submitted to the Lok Sabha and on the basis of the report, further action could be recommended including potential impeachment. A fire incident at Justice Varmas residence in the national capital in March, when he was a judge at the Delhi High Court, had led to the discovery of several burnt sacks of banknotes in the outhouse. He was subsequently repatriated to the Allahabad High Court, and an in-house probe ordered by the-Supreme Court Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna had indicted him. Last month, two lawyers Rohan Singh and Sameeksha Dua were also appointed as consultants to assist the three-member committee constituted to investigate the grounds for the removal of Justice Varma.
10 months on, NMC yet to act against 30 doctors for sponsored foreign trips
NEW DELHI: The National Medical Commission (NMC) is yet to take any action against 30 doctors who accepted free trips to Monaco and Paris worth `1.91 crore last year, despite the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) recommendations that action should be taken against them for violating professional misconduct. As per rules, the NMCs Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB), which regulates professional conduct and promotes medical ethics, needs to dispose ofthe complaint within six months. However, in the case of the 30 doctors, who according to the government-appointed committee took luxurious trips under the guise of attending medicalconferences, neither their names have been revealed nor has any action been taken. It has been ten months since the committee under the DoP reprimanded AbbVie Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd. for violating the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) by sponsoring trips to Monaco and Paris for 30 doctors. According to the norms, a doctors license can be suspended if they are found guiltyof violating the code of ethics. On December 23, 2004, the apex committee for Pharma Marketing Practices, Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, had directed NMC to take action against the 30 offending HCPs (healthcare professionals) as per Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. Speaking with this paper, RTI activist, Dr KV Babu said, The MCI ethics regulations 8.7(ii) stipulates that once the EMRB receives the complaint, it should be decided within a period of six months. However, in the case of the thirty doctors, where there is an allegation of professional misconduct, EMRB is still sitting over it. This is despite the apex committee for pharma marketing practices recommending NMC to take action against the thirty doctors last year on December 23 for violation of ethics regulations, the Kerala-based ophthalmologist said. In its order, the committee also directed the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to evaluate the tax liability of AbbVie Healthcare India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of AbbVie Inc.,and take action in accordance with the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Delhi AQI peaks at 380 under 'very poor' in several areas, smog intensifies post-Diwali
Delhi's air quality plunged into the 'very poor' category two days after Diwali, with AQI reaching 345 due to festive emissions and stagnant air. Authorities have activated Stage II of the GRAP, imposing stricter pollution control measures across Delhi-NCR as experts warn of further deterioration.
Bihar assembly polls: OBCs, upper castes get bigger pie
NEW DELHI: In what can be described as a shifting electoral equation, particularly after Bihars caste census last year, both the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan have altered their candidate selection strategies for the forthcoming Assembly elections. The NDA, composed of the BJP, JD(U), LJP, HAM, and RLM, and the Mahagathbandhan, led by RJD, are focusing more on fielding candidates from OBC and upper-caste communities, while also providing representation to Muslims and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). The politics of projecting themselves as champions of OBC causes, while addressing upper-caste concerns, appears to be central to this electionmore overtly than in previous cycles. The RJD, which until the previous election had positioned itself as a party for non-upper castes, has this time included a significant number of upper-caste candidates, particularly Bhumihars. Bihar: At least 30 rebels give NDA, Opposition a headache Upper-caste representation has slightly increased, with 15 candidates including three Brahmins, six Bhumihars, and six Rajputs. As part of its effort to present itself as a party for all communities, the RJD has fielded 77 OBC candidates. However, a majority of 53 of them are Yadavs, indicating the partys strong base among that community. It has also given 18 tickets to Muslimsthe highest among all partiescompared to five from the JD(U) and one from the LJP. Scheduled Castes have been given 20 tickets, EBCs 12, and Scheduled Tribes one. The Koeri community, part of the OBC category, has 14 candidates in the fray. In 2020, the RJD had fielded 58 Yadavs and 13 upper-caste candidates. The BJP, as part of the NDA, has focused heavily on upper-caste candidates, allotting 49 seats to Rajput and Bhumihar candidates. The JD(U), the second key NDA partner, has taken a more balanced approach, giving 22 seats to upper-caste candidates and fielding 37 OBC candidatesseven more than the BJPs 30 OBC candidates. On the rationale behind this strategy, a senior JD(U) leader said, OBCs cannot be taken as second fiddle in the politics of the state. Their electoral strength plays proportionately a more decisive role than the others. Stage set for first phase of polls, 1.3K in fray for 121 seats Almost all three main partiesBJP, JD(U), and RJDhave prioritised OBCs and a consolidated number of upper-caste candidates, signalling a refreshed approach to social engineering in Bihar. While the RJD has slightly reduced its Yadav candidates from 58 in 2020 to 53 this time, it has given third priority to Scheduled Castes and ensured representation for EBCs, Muslims, and upper castes. Another noticeable aspect is womens representation. The RJD has fielded 24 women candidates, leading all parties. The BJP-JD(U) combine has 13 women candidates, and the LJP has five, bringing the NDA total to 18. This election shows a clear change in Bihars caste politics. Parties are focusing on balancing OBC and upper-caste interests while also giving attention to other communities. The candidate lists of both alliances reflect an effort to include multiple social groups, showing that caste calculations remain an important factor in the states elections.
Stage set for first phase of polls, 1.3K in fray for 121 seats
PATNA: In all, 1,314 candidates are left in the fray for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, scheduled on November 6. This phase covers 121 seats and will mainly see a direct contest between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition INDIA bloc. Eighteen districts are covered in this phase, with Muzaffarpur, Kurhani, Mahnar, and Bahadur seeing the highest number of contestants. Election Commission sources said 1,690 candidates had filed nominations between October 10 and 17, but 135 were rejected for technical reasons. The last day for withdrawal of nominations was on October 20. The phase will test the popularity of Bihar CM Nitish Kumars JD(U) and Lalu Prasads RJD. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary (Tarapur) and Vijay Kumar Sinha (Lakhisarai), along with Opposition Leader Tejashwi Yadav (Raghopur), will be among the top leaders facing voters. The maximum number of 20 candidates each are in the fray in Kurhani and Muzaffarpur, while Alauli and Parbatta have the fewest, with five each. In Patna, 149 candidates are in the fray, with nine withdrawals. Paliganj has the highest competition with 14 contestants. Bhagalpur has 102 nominees, with Nathnagar seeing 21. Mahnar in Vaishali has 18 candidates, while Bahadur has 17. Key candidates include JD(U) state president Umesh Kushwaha from Mahnar and RJDs Bhola Yadav, a close aide of Lalu Prasad. Health Minister Mangal Pandey is contesting from Siwan, while Nitin Nabin, a former minister, is in the fray from Bankipur. Former Union Minister Ram Kripal Yadav will face RJD MLA Ritlal Yadav, seeking re-election from jail. Shashank Shekhar, IIT Delhi alumnus, is contesting Patna Sahib on a Congress ticket against BJPs Ratnesh Kushwaha. Other notable contestants include Bhojpuri actor Khesari Lal Yadav (RJD), folk singer Maithili Thakur (Alinagar), Mohammad Shahabuddins son Osama Sahab (Raghunathpur), and ministers Vijay Kumar Chaudhary (Sarairanjan), Shravan Kumar (Nalanda), Jibesh Mishra (Jale), Sanjay Saraogi (Darbhanga), and Ratnesh Sada (Sonbarsa).
Delhi Under Toxic Haze As AQI Slips To Very Poor, CM Says Working Proactively On Artificial Rain
AQI around Akshardham touched 360, falling in the Very Poor category.
Bhopal Diary | BJPs new executive body after Bihar polls
The long wait for the state BJPs new executive body is likely to end after the Bihar Assembly elections. More than 110 days after second-time legislator and former MP Hemant Khandelwal was elected as the ruling partys new state president, his team is yet to be formed. According to sources, the list of the possible faces in the new state BJP executive is already ready, however the state leaders await clearance from the national leadership, which is currently occupied with the all-important Bihar Assembly polls. The list may finally be approved by Delhi soon after Bihar polls. Corrupt retired officials under MP police lens Two raids by the states anti-corruption watchdog -- the Lokayukta Special Police Establishment (SPE) at the premises of two retired state government officials could have opened the floodgates of similar searches at the premises of other superannuated officials. Sources say there may be more such officials on SPEs radar, based on inputs about them having amassed massive wealth disproportionate to their income sources. Over the last few days, SPE unearthed unaccounted assets running into crores. State Congress chief booked over protest Protest by Congress workers and farmers led by state party chief Jitu Patwari outside the residence of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan over farmers issues in Bhopal, has led to the registration of an FIR against Patwari. On October 15, Patwari had carried a sack of paddy on his shoulder, while walking to Chouhans residence, along with around 50 party workers and farmers. He had managed to reach the destination, despite police action. The union minister stepped out to meet the protestors and invited them inside for discussions. However, some hours later, an FIR was registered against Patwari at the TT Nagar police station. Anuraag Singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com
Notification for SIR in Bengal likely after CEC meeting on Wednesday, Thursday
Kolkata: The official notification for the special intensive revision (SIR) in West Bengal is likely to be announced soon after the crucial meeting of the Chief Election Commission Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar with the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states in New Delhi this week, officials said on Tuesday. The meeting with the CEOs of 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 .
Physical relations cannot be equated with rape, says Delhi HC
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has acquitted a man convicted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, ruling that the phrase physical relations used by the prosecutrix was too vague to constitute proof of rape or penetrative sexual assault. Observing that the prosecution had failed to prove the essential ingredients of 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 .
Delhi AQI: 2 days after Diwali, city choked by thick smog; air quality remains 'very poor'
Delhi choked on thick smog two days after Diwali, with air pollution levels soaring to 'very poor'. AQI reached 345, with some areas hitting 380. Transport and industrial emissions are major contributors. Residents are reporting breathing issues and eye irritation, highlighting a persistent problem exacerbated by choices like firecrackers.
After two days of Diwali, Delhi's AQI has crossed the 300 mark, and the air quality has become 'hazardous'. A thick layer of smog has blanket the national capital, leaving Delhites choking due to air pollution.
Delhi Pollution: Health Symptoms You Must Not Ignore, And When Should You Seek Medical Help?
An annual crisis in Delhi-NCR between October and February, the heavy smog caused by air pollution exacts a devastating toll on the health of residents
You Heard It Right! 23 Of 26 Monitoring Stns Exceeded Standard Decibel Levels
Amid blame game over Delhi pollution, AAP says BJP defaming Punjab farmers
Crackers push pollution levels by 8x,contribute to 40% of citys foul air
Festive cheer: s 30cr liquor sold in Noida in 3 days, a 20% increase
SC set 2-hour window, but NCR set its own rules on Diwali night
Over 200 treated for burns at hosps, many kids among them
Haze hotspots: 7x sectors in Noida, Ipuram in Gzb
2 shot dead as neighbours fight over water drainage
Cracker sparks burn down 3 shops, 6 bikes
Sparks fly, 26-year-old stabbed to death by 4
Wind, temperature rescue Delhi after pollution soars up to 100 times prescribed limit
Several missing data points in official data on air pollution for the intervening night between Monday and Tuesday; Actual air pollution will be more than recorded due to missing data, say expert; Activists question authenticity of data
Measures beyond agriculture needed to clean Delhi air, says new study
Syndrela-Divyanshi rise to World No. 1
6 Indian girls in top 100 for first time New Delhi, Oct 21: Syndrela Das and Divyanshi Bhowmick have achieved a historic milestone by climbing to the No. 1 spot in the latest ITTF Under-19 Girls Doubles World Rankings, released on Tuesday. The Indian duo topped the global standings with 3910 points, ahead of Chinese []
As Pollution Peaks, Many Stns Go Blank
NDMC intensifies efforts to combat pollution, to procure new cleaning machines
Sirsa: Conditions not feasible yet for cloud seeding
More Power To Delhi Bomb Squads: Teams Armed With Tech & Training
After Taliban minister's visit, Kabul embassy restored
India has upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to an embassy, signaling a significant step in bilateral engagement following the Taliban foreign minister's visit. This move aims to expand economic cooperation and India's role in Afghanistan's development. The Taliban will also send diplomats to New Delhi, even as India maintains its stance on recognition and inclusive governance.
Residents complain of festive waste, MCD claims it has deployed entire workforce
The SSC has extended the last date for Delhi Police Constable (Executive) 2025 applications to October 31, 2025. A total of 7,565 posts are available for male and female candidates. Eligibility requires Class 12 pass and age 1825 years. Selection includes CBT, PET, PMT, and medical tests. Apply online at ssc.gov.in before the deadline. Salary ranges from Rs 21,70069,100.
A day after, political fireworks explode as city gasps for breath
As AAP highlights BJP govt.s firecracker mismanagement, ruling party accuses Oppn. of forcing farmersin Punjab to burn stubble to worsen Delhi air on Deepavali; pollution levels shoot up above 100 times WHO limits in several parts
Stopped from bursting crackers, man kills uncle in Noida
5 cos look to build univs near Noida airport, seek land
YEIDA set to sign pact with Japan agency for medical device park
Youth dies after tumbler placed on bomb explodes
New types of ideological wars emerging within society: Rajnath
New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said while there is instability on the borders, new types of crime, terrorism and ideological wars are emerging within society. Laying a wreath at the National Police Memorial here on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Singh also said that the military and police function on different []
Delhi 5-Year-Old Kidnapped, Murdered By Father's Driver, Cops Say Revenge Killing
A five-year-old boy was kidnapped and murdered with bricks and a knife by a driver who worked in his father's transport business in Delhi's Narela area on Tuesday, with police suspecting that it was an act of revenge.
Use Of Term 'Physical Relations' Not Enough To Prove Rape: Delhi High Court
Mere use of the term physical relations without supporting evidence is insufficient to establish rape or aggravated penetrative sexual assault, the Delhi High Court has held.
Boy kidnapped, hit by bricks, stabbed to death
DDA to hold weekly camps for housing conversion cases in Delhi
Judge raps prosecution for mishandling 2020 riots case, refers matter to Delhi Police chief
Firemen remain on their toes even as distress calls dip 15%
Delhi HC holds wife has right to reside in matrimonial home despite husband being disowned
HC: Externment orders must not deprive liberty without evidence
Entrepreneur accuses Delhi airport customs officials of rude conduct, shares viral video
The clip, which has now gone viral, has sparked a debate on passenger treatment and professional conduct.
12 loaded wagons of freight train derail near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh
NEW DELHI: Twelve loaded wagons of a freight train derailed near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday night, disrupting traffic on the Delhi-Mumbai route, officials said. No one was injured in the incident that occurred between Vrindavan Road station and Ajhai station, which comes under the Mathura-Palwal section of Agra Rail Division, at 8:24 PM, they said. As per preliminary information, 12 wagons are derailed, which have obstructed the down main line, UP main line, and third line. There is no report of any injury to any of the train's crew, an official said. These obstructions will severely impact train movements on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Kota route, he said.
UDAN to be extended beyond 2027; will develop 120 new destinations
NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha on Tuesday announced that theRegional Connectivity Scheme known popularly as UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) will be continued beyond 2027 and its nework will extend to 120 new destinations. Taking part in the ninth anniversary celebrations of UDAN at Delhi on Tuesday, Sinha said, The scheme will be continued beyond April 2027 through an Expanded UDAN framework, focusing on connectivity with hilly, North-Eastern, and aspirational regions, and the development of around 120 new destinations. UDAN, implemented by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, was launched on October 21, 2016, under the National Civil Aviation Policy to make flyingflying accessible and affordable for all.It was launched witha 10-year vision,to connectTier-2 and Tier-3 citiesthrough a market-driven yet financially supported model. UDAN is not just a scheme; it is a catalyst for change and a testament to Indias commitment to making air travel inclusive, sustainable and an integral part of our development journey, said an official release from the Civil Aviation Ministry. So far, over 1.56 crore passengers have travelled on board the 3.23 lakh flights operated under it. The Secretary added, It has been a transformational initiative aimed at making air travel affordable and accessible to the common citizen. The first UDAN flight, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 27, 2017 between Shimla and Delhi, marked a new era in regional aviation connectivity. Under the scheme, 649 routes have been operationalised as on date connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports, including 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. To support airline operators and regional infrastructure, the Government has disbursed more than Rs. 4,300 crore as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and invested Rs. 4,638 crore in airport development under RCS, the release said. A key recent initiative has been the introduction of Comprehensive Guidelines for Seaplane Operations in August 2024, and the launch of the UDAN 5.5, a special bidding round for seaplanes and helicopters. Under this round, Letters of Intent have been issued for 150 routes connecting 30 water aerodromes across various coastal and island regions. An official said that Indias aviation network extended to just 74 airports in 2014 and in the decade lasting until 2024, it had doubled. UDAN strengthenedregional tourism, healthcare access, and trade, catalysing economic growth in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, he said. UDAN has an airfare cap to ensure affordability. The scheme is aCollaborative Governancebetween the Centre, States, Airport Authority of India (AAI), and private airport operators.
Delhi Govt Bureaucrats to Get 'Leadership' Training at Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev's Centre
The programme has been devised by Sadhguru and is conducted by trained instructors
Deepavali fireworks worsen Delhis air quality
16 cities record very poor air quality; pollution readings point to violation of SC norms on use of green firecrackers; Dharuhera in Haryana records worst air quality nationally
Delhi govt looks to launch Yamuna cruise service by November last week
The Delhi government is preparing to launch its ambitious Yamuna cruise project by the last week of November. This new service aims to rejuvenate the river and boost tourism. The cruise will operate between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, a stretch with good water quality. Initially, one boat will carry 90 passengers, offering snacks.
Goods train derails in Mathura; Delhi to Agra, Jhansi routes suspended; rescue teams on way
DEHRADUN: The lingering haze from Diwali fireworks has plunged Uttarakhand's air quality into a dangerous zone, with the state capital, Dehradun, recording 'severe' pollution levels on Tuesday morning. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and AQI India, Dehradun registered an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 261. This severe reading was mirrored across the state, with Haridwar and Kashipur also reporting significantly poor air conditions. Monitoring stations in Dehradun revealed shocking figures. PM2.5 concentrations peaked at 184 micrograms per cubic meter, while PM10 levels surged to 230 micrograms per cubic meter - exceeding far beyond the safe limits. Despite clear daytime skies, cold air and low wind speeds are trapping pollutants near the surface, explained an environmental analyst. This is creating a health hazard, especially for those with respiratory issues. The pollution crisis extended beyond Dehradun. Haridwar recorded an average AQI of 182, and Roorkee hit 176, both falling into the 'unhealthy' category. Rudrapur and Kashipur remained in the 'poor' range with AQIs above 150. Rishikesh, the spiritual town, saw its AQI hover around 179 on Monday evening, marking a volatile trend after fluctuating between 153 and a low of 63 earlier this month. While acknowledging the poor readings, state officials highlighted Uttarakhands performance relative to other major north Indian cities. A government spokesperson noted that Delhi recorded an AQI of 351 ('very poor'), Lucknow 250, Patna 226, and Bhopal 235 on the same Diwali day. Uttarakhand's cities have performed better overall, demonstrating our commitment to cleaner air, the spokesperson stated. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasised a long-term vision. Our goal is to ensure clean air not just during festivals, but year-round. This years results prove that real change is possible through innovation, awareness, and collective participation. Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB) Chairman, RK Sudhanshu, credited recent interventions for mitigating the worst effects. This year's cleaner Diwali is a result of collective effort, Sudhanshu stated. Drone-based water sprinkling, new mechanical sweeping machines, and intensive awareness campaigns in schools have shown a concrete impact. Specifically, drone-based water sprinkling helped control PM10 levels in Dehradun. Furthermore, the deployment of mechanical sweeping machines - procured under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in collaboration with the CPCB - significantly reduced road dust in Dehradun and Rishikesh.
Deported Hindi Scholar Francesca Orsini Was Blacklisted Since March For Visa Violation: Sources
Francesca Orsini, SOAS Professor Emerita, was denied entry into India at Delhi airport despite valid visa
Angmos surveillance raises question on personal freedoms of NSA detainees family members
Sonam Wangchuks wife told the Supreme Court that she was accompanied by security personnel, her meetings supervised, not allowed to meet anyone in Jodhpur and was taken to the railway station, constantly surveilled in Delhi, among other infringements of her fundamental rights as a free citizen of India
Delhi court grants bail in NDPS case, cites doubts over recovery procedure
Man shot at by grandsons over property dispute in central Delhi
Assault on traffic cop in 2020: Court denies relief to MP Chandolia
Yamuna cruise likely to start by year-end
'Green' Crackers Failed. Delhi Suffers Worst Post-Diwali Air In 5 Years
Despite a 77.5 per cent drop in stubble burning, i.e., agricultural waste - normally a significant reason for air pollution in Delhi during the winter - AQI in the national capital plummeted to a five-year post-Diwali low Tuesday morning.
Delhi: Indian govt deports global Hindi scholar Francesca Orsini
Hyderabad: Globally renowned Hindi scholar Francesca Orsini, a professor of emeritus at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, on Monday, October 20 was barred from entering India at the Delhi airport despite holding a valid e-visa, The Wire reported. She received notice that she would be deported immediately. The scholar 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 .
Bihar Polls: ECI says print advertisement on voting date or day before needs pre-certification
NEW DELHI: Ahead of assembly polls in Bihar, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday issued an order to ensure a fair campaign environment. As per the order, no party, candidate, organisation or person shall publish any advertisement in print media on poll day and one day before the poll day, unless the contents are pre-certified by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee. The ECI in the order said, The ECI has announced the schedule for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of Bihar, 2025, and the by-elections for eight Assembly constituencies. The dates of polling have been fixed for November 6 and November 11. In order to ensure a fair campaign environment, no political party, candidate, organisation, or person shall publish any advertisement in print media on the poll day and the preceding day unless the contents are pre-certified by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) at the State or District level, it said, adding that for Bihar, the restricted days are November 5 and 6 for Phase I and November 10 and 11 for Phase II. ECI cracks whip on uncertified political ads ahead of Bihar polls Applicants seeking pre-certification for political advertisements in print media must submit their applications to the MCMC no later than two days before the intended publication date. To facilitate timely clearance, as committees at both the State and the District levels have been activated to review and pre-certify advertisements and ensure decisions are made promptly, the ECI said. Meanwhile, it said, As on October 21, 2025, 650 complaints have been lodged using the C-Vigil App in the Bihar elections and the bye-elections-bound States/UT. Of these, 649 have been disposed of and 612 complaints (94%) of the complaints were resolved within 100 minutes. According to the ECI, 824 flying squads have been deployed across Bihar to ensure that the complaints are attended to within 100 minutes, as people at large and political parties are empowered to report MCC violations using the C-Vigil App on ECINET. Giving details on the seizure data, the poll panel said, till date, over Rs 71.32 crores worth of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies have been confiscated through a coordinated approach involving multi-enforcement agencies across different States/UTs. Bihar polls: ECI says liquor, drugs, freebies worth over Rs 33 crore seized after MCC invoked
A 29-year-old woman experienced sudden paralysis after a simple sneeze, revealing a massive slipped disc compressing her spinal cord. Initially dismissed as minor discomfort, her symptoms escalated rapidly, leaving her unable to walk. Dr. Ubaidur Rahman, orthopedic and sports surgeon at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, shared the case on Instagram to warn about ignoring subtle body signals. The incident highlights the importance of timely medical attention and listening to ones body.
Over 150 Cases Registered in Delhi For Bursting Crackers Beyond Allowed Hours, Illegal Sale
SC-Mandated Time Limits Flouted as Police Crack Down on Illegal Sale and Use of Firecrackers Across Delhi During Diwali
If the companies wish to clear their remaining stock, it should be done only in supermarkets, and even then, the label must not mention ORS, says Sivaranjani Santosh
Woke up to Delhi's AQI touching 447: Vaani Kapoor shares concern on toxic air
Woke up to Delhi's AQI touching 447: Vaani Kapoor shares concern on toxic air
Punjab youths duped by travel agent stranded in Kazakhstan; families appeal for help
CHANDIGARH: Seven youth from various villages in Ropar district, Punjab, are stranded in Kazakhstan after allegedly being duped by a travel agent who promised them high-paying jobs and better work opportunities. The youths have now sent out SOS messages to their families, pleading for help to return safely to India. Sources allege that a local travel agent from Anandpur Sahib sent these youths to Kazakhstan about a month and a half ago under the pretext of offering them driver jobs. However, upon arrival, they were forced into hard labour under inhumane conditions. The youths claim they were promised stable employment and decent living conditions but were instead pushed into exploitative and unsafe situations. It is reported that the youths are being made to carry heavy loads over long distances in mountainous terrain and live in cramped metal containers, lacking adequate food and safety measures. A video showing the group working as manual labourers in snow-covered areas of Kazakhstan has gone viral on social media, drawing attention to their plight. Sources also revealed that the parents of the stranded youths have met Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and requested the state government to take swift action to bring their children back. Speaking to a local newspaper over the phone from Kazakhstan, one of the stranded individuals, Harvinder Singh, described the harsh conditions he and his companions are facing. He said they left for Kazakhstan on September 16 after paying Rs 1.5 lakh per person to the travel agent, who promised them driver jobs. In addition, they spent around 7080 US dollars each as visa fees. The travel agent only provided us with flight tickets at the last moment, after holding onto our passports for quite some time. Just before departure, he made us sign an agreement and had it attested, Singh alleged. He further stated that they were initially stopped at Delhi airport for not having return tickets, after which the agent arranged them, allowing the group to board the flight. Upon arrival, they discovered their visas were for labour work, not driving. We were given ten days of training and then forced to repair old vehicles and do manual labour, not the driving jobs we were promised. We were told we would earn $450 per month plus tips, but the reality is entirely different. Now, the company is demanding Rs 50,000 per person and asking us to buy our own return tickets if we want to leave. We cant afford that, Singh said. He added that they are nearly out of money and have contacted Ajayvir Singh Lalpura, the BJP district president of Ropar. Their families have filed complaints with the Punjab Police, and the travel agent has now promised to arrange return tickets. There are many others from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar working under similar inhumane conditions here on an infrastructure project. There are hardly any medical facilities, and we face language barriers since we dont speak the local languagethere's only one translator to assist us, Singh added. Those reportedly stranded include Manjeet Singh, Amarjit Singh, Hardeep Singh, Avtar Singh, Harvinder Singh, and others. Expressing concern over the situation, BJP Ropar district president Ajayvir Singh Lalpura said, These eight youths contacted me recently, pleading for help to return to India. They are living in appalling conditionsin small containers, without proper food, rest, or medical care. Their families have also filed complaints against the travel agent. I will raise the issue with the Union Government to ensure their safe return.
We admit with pride that our government has given people the opportunity to celebrate Deepavali in the traditional way, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, on Tuesday, accused the Aam Aadmi Party of forcing Punjab farmers to burn stubble, which raises pollution levels in the national capital. The minister, who addressed a press conference.
Renowned Hindi scholar Francesca Orsini denied entry at Delhi airport despite valid visa
Francesca Orsini, a renowned Hindi scholar, was denied entry at Delhi Airport and sent back despite holding a valid visa, The Wire reported. On Monday evening, immigration officials at Delhi Airport stopped Francesca Orsini upon her arrival. Despite possessing a valid five-year e-visa, she was informed that she would be deported immediately and instructed to make travel arrangements for her return. No official reason was provided for the denial of entry; Orsini said she was simply told she was eing deported. Orsini, best known for her 2002 book The Hindi Public Sphere 19201940: Language and Literature in the Age of Nationalism , arrived in Delhi late on October 21 via Hong Kong after attending an academic conference in China. She had planned to visit friends during her trip and had last travelled to India as recently as October 2024, The Wire report said. Francesca Orsini has dedicated her life to the study of Hindi language and literature. She is Professor Emerita at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, where she served with distinction for many years. Orsini is possibly the fourth scholar who has been denied entry into India despite holding a valid visa, The Wire pointed out. Reacting to the incident, historian Ramachandra Guha wrote on X, Professor Francesca Orsini is a great scholar of Indian literature, whose work has richly illuminated our understanding of our own cultural heritage. To deport her without reason is the mark of a government that is insecure, paranoid, and even stupid. The visceral hostility of the NDA government to scholars and scholarship is something to behold. A government ideologically committed to Hindi has banned Francesca Orsini. You can't make this up, Historian Mukul Kesavan wrote on X. Shocking that Francesca Orsini, a friend and renowned scholar of Hindi has been stopped from entering India despite valid papers. Her visits to India have been entirely for scholarly purposes. This is a direct attack on scholarship, said academic and writer Apoorvanand. Francesca Orsini has done more for Hindi than many so called lovers of Hindi. To not allow entry to a true lover of language and literatures of this region, someone who has always told its stories with care, is deeply concerning and heartbreaking, said Aakriti Mandhwani, associate professor, Shiv Nadar University. Orsini is a literary historian working primarily with Hindi and Urdu materials. She is interested in exploring how multiligualism worked and continue to work within the literary cultures of South Asia. Currently, she is giving finishing touches to a book on the multilingual literary history of Awadh from the 15c to the early 20c.
One police personnel killed every 46 hours last year: IB Chief
NEW DELHI: Every 46 hours, a police personnel was killed last year a total of 191 lives lost in 365 days in the line of duty, said Tapan Deka, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), on Tuesday while paying homage on Police Commemoration Day. Since independence, a total of 36,684 police personnel have lost their lives in the line of duty, he added. Deka was speaking after paying homage to the police officials killed in the line of duty on Police Commemoration Day, at the National Police Memorial in Delhi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was also present at the occasion, paid homage to the police officials who had lost their lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through social media platform X, conveyed his message to the police personnel. On Police Commemoration Day, we salute the courage of our police personnel and recall the supreme sacrifice by them in the line of duty. Their steadfast dedication keeps our nation and people safe. Their bravery and commitment in times of crisis and in moments of need are appreciable. On Police Commemoration Day, we salute the courage of our police personnel and recall the supreme sacrifice by them in the line of duty. Their steadfast dedication keeps our nation and people safe. Their bravery and commitment in times of crisis and in moments of need are Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 21, 2025 The IB chief said, On this day, October 21, 1959, 10 CRPF personnel, led by Karam Singh, DCIO of the Intelligence Bureau, laid down their lives while guarding the India-China border, facing an armed Chinese contingent... Since then, we have celebrated this day every year as Police Commemoration Day. He added that on this day, various programmes are organised in state capitals, districts, and even at the police station level to pay tribute to all departed colleagues. At the national level, a joint memorial parade is held here today by the BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, NSG, Assam Rifles, RPF, NDRF, and Delhi Police, he said. IPS officer Tapan Deka, from the 1988 batch, said that the Prime Minister, during the Directors General of Police Conference in 2019, had suggested that several commemorative events be organised by various central forces at the National Police Memorial from October 22 to 30, with the participation of families of departed colleagues.
Minister Blames Punjab for Delhi Pollution
The minister claimed that while AAP leaders condemned the Delhi CM, the BJP and Sanatan Dharm followers over festival celebrations, the real reason behind the worsening air quality was large-scale stubble burning in Punjab
This veteran actor is tired of auditioning, here's why
Veteran actor Paresh Ganatra, who has appeared in over 3,000 TV episodes and films such as Aankhen, Welcome, Khichdi The Movies, and Delhi Belly, recently opened up about his dissatisfaction with the auditioning process.
New Delhi to host 2-day global rice conference from Oct 30
Organised by IREF in collaboration with Apeda, Kribhco is the main sponspor of the event
Industrial leasing boom: Indias top 8 cities see 28% rise; Delhi-NCR leads
India's industrial and warehousing leasing hit a record 37 million sq ft from January to September 2025, a 28% jump driven by strong demand in Delhi-NCR. Bengaluru and Hyderabad also saw significant activity. This surge is fueled by logistics providers and quick commerce, with businesses prioritizing efficient, modern facilities for supply chain resilience and expansion.
Rajnath Singh warns of rising ideological wars, sophisticated crimes
NEW DELHI:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday emphasised the shifting landscape of countrys security challenges, noting that while the nation grapples with border instability, society faces a new surge in sophisticated crimes, terrorism and ideological wars. Speaking on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Singh underscored the critical need to balance external and internal security []
Over 250 Burn Cases Reported in Delhi Hospitals During Diwali Celebrations
After the Safdarjung Hospital, 55 burn cases were reported at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), 37 at the Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital, 16 at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital and 15 at the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital.
Delhi's Air Quality Index has shown a significant recovery when stacked against past records, even amidst the smoke from Diwali celebrations. Bharatiya Janata Party's Praveen Khandelwal has credited the proactive policies under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for this positive shift.
Use of term 'physical relations' without evidence not sufficient to establish rape: Delhi HC
NEW DELHI: Mere use of the term physical relations without supporting evidence is insufficient to establish rape or aggravated penetrative sexual assault, the Delhi High Court has held. The court's observation came while allowing a man's appeal challenging his conviction and 10 years imprisonment in a rape case and acquitting him of the charges. In the peculiar facts and circumstances of this case, the use of the term 'physical relations', unaccompanied by any supporting evidence, would not be sufficient to hold that the prosecution has been able to prove the offence beyond reasonable doubt. The appellant's conviction under Section 376 IPC and Section 6 of the POCSO Act is unsustainable, Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri said in a judgment passed on October 17. The court, which termed it an unfortunate case, said it was bound to decide the matter on its own merits. It said the child victim and her parents repeatedly stated that physical relations were established however, there was no clarity as to what was meant by this expression. No further description of the alleged act has been given. Unfortunately, no questions have been put to the victim by the prosecution or trial court to gain some clarity as to whether the essential ingredients of the offence the appellant was charged with, have been made out or not, it said. The court was dealing with a case registered in 2023 in which the 16-year-old victim had alleged that her cousin established physical relations with her on the false pretext of marriage for more than a year in 2014. The man challenged his conviction and the high court allowed his appeal saying that the prosecution's case hinged only on the oral evidence being the testimony of the child victim and her parents and that there was no forensic evidence on record. The court said the expression physical relations was not used or defined either under the IPC or POCSO Act. The judge said it was not explained as to what the child victim meant by the term physical relations and whether it fulfilled the ingredients of penetrative sexual assault. If it appears that the testimony of the child witness is lacking in essential details, it is the statutory duty of the court to ask certain questions to discover or obtain proper proof of the relevant facts and to first satisfy itself as to the competence of the child victim to testify and thereafter to ensure that the complete testimony is brought on record, it said. Justice Ohri said if the prosecution was not doing their part in the requisite manner, the courts cannot remain a mute spectator and have to take a participatory role in the trial.
Before and After: Delhi's Days of Clear Air End as AQI Spikes Post Diwali
The AQI in several parts of the city crossed 350 on Diwali night, and remained high on Tuesday morning.
Delhi pollution: BJP makes BIG claims, accuses AAP for forcing Punjab farmers to...
Amid alarming air pollution, the BJP-led Delhi government is set to use artificial rain through cloud seeding between October 24 and 26 to curb the deteriorating air quality after Diwali, according to the source. Even Delhi environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that the pilots have completed successful trial flights over the targeted area, they are waiting for the right cloud conditions and the India Meteorological Department's approval to use the artificial rain.
