The Truth About Ozempic, Mounjaro & Wegovy in India | Dr Ambrish Mithal
GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are the most talked-about medicines in India, and the most misunderstood. In this Diabetes Awareness Month conversation, endocrinologist Dr Ambrish Mithal, group chairman, endocrinology and diabetes, Max Healthcare, Delhi, explains why a class of drugs used for type 2 diabetes for 20 years suddenly became a weight-loss phenomenon, and why he says they are far more than that. He covers benefits for blood sugar, heart, kidneys, fatty liver and sleep apnea, how GLP-1 reduces cravings and food noise, and the action on visceral fat, which is especially high in Indians. He also names who should avoid these drugs, what side effects to expect (nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea), why quick-fix use before an event is risky, how dose tapering and maintenance work, why results vary so much between patients, and why diet, protein and strength training still matter. His advice: use them under qualified medical supervision, and dont take your cues from influencers. This is general information, not medical advice. Consult your doctor.
It was precisely in this decisive trading period that the mega-rally of the INDI Alliance, led by Rahul Gandhi, put such a brake on the pace ... The post INDI Alliance Rally Hits Festive Economy Of Delhi: 2.5 Lakh Shops Affected, Traders Incur Loss Of Rs 11,000 Crore appeared first on OurVoice | WeRIndia - Analysis & Opinion .
On October 28, the Supreme Court made it clear that the ECI was in error to force pre-existing voters, deleted from the electoral rolls, to apply as new voters under Form 6 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960
OPINION: When institutions collide, the rule of law must prevail
Growing confrontation between the Delhi Police and the legal fraternity following the suspension of ACP Manasvi Vashishtha after protests by police personnel over an incident involving advocate Lalit Bansal at Shahdara Police Station
On October 28, the Supreme Court made it clear that the ECI was in error to force pre-existing voters, deleted from the electoral rolls, to apply as new voters under Form 6 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960
Delhi HC to hear lawyers' plea seeking action against suspended ACP, cops
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday agreed to hear on November 6 a plea by lawyers seeking action against suspended Delhi Police ACP Manasvi Vashishta and other officials for allegedly threatening advocates. The matter was mentioned before a bench of Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma for urgent listing. List it on Friday, the bench said. Initially, a group of lawyers urged the court to take suo motu cognisance of the issue. The bench, however, declined to initiate proceedings on its own and asked them to file a proper plea along with all available material. On Tuesday, the lawyers had told the court that remarks such as use of AK-47 and kale coat ke gunde (goons in black coats) had been made against advocates. The controversy stems from an October 23 incident at Shahdara police station, where advocate Lalit Bansal allegedly sustained a serious head injury during a scuffle. The incident was followed by a confrontation between lawyers and polic
Graded Response Action Plan Phase II Activated in Delhi-NCR Amid Deteriorating Air Quality
Delhi-NCRs air quality has plummeted, prompting the activation of Phase II of the Graded Response Action Plan to combat pollution. Graded Response Action Plan Phase II Activated in Delhi-NCR Amid Deteriorating Air Quality
Kumaraswamy's PRO Prajwal Prasad Appears Before CCB Over Sting Case
The mobile phone allegedly used to upload the sting operation videos targeting Siddaramaiah on social media was purchased in New Delhi and handed over to Prajwal Prasad at Kumaraswamy's official residence, according to police
Congress Takes Action Against Officials Absent from Rally, 83 Suspended
Congress suspends 83 officials for absence from a key rally in Delhi, emphasizing accountability within the party. Congress Takes Action Against Officials Absent from Rally, 83 Suspended
Nitesh Tiwari's much-anticipated film, Ramayana, is set to premiere on November 5 worldwide. Buzz surrounding the release is palpable, with advance ticket sales soaring to Rs 96.64 crore already. Boasting a stellar cast that includes Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi, the film's ticket pricing and show availability vary across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Read on!
NTPC plans to expand installed capacity to 149 GW by 2032, add 58 GW
State-owned power major NTPC Limited plans to increase its installed power generation capacity to 149 gigawatt (GW) by 2032, adding around 58 GW to its existing capacity of 91 GW, according to its Chairman and Managing Director Gurdeep Singh. The expansion will include capacity additions from various energy sources, including renewable energy, as the company looks to strengthen its generation portfolio and meet India's growing electricity demand. Speaking at the KPMG ENRich 2026 event in New Delhi, Singh outlined the company's expansion plans and highlighted its increasing focus on nuclear power generation as part of its long-term energy strategy. NTPC is also accelerating its plans in the nuclear energy sector. The company is targeting around 30 GW of nuclear power capacity as part of its broader capacity expansion roadmap towards 2037. Of the 250 GW capacity targeted for the year 2037, the plan of about 30 GW nuclear, Singh noted. As part of these plans, NTPC has completed feasibil...
Festive Decor Turns DLF Malls Into Destinations as Families Embrace the Season of Celebration
The festive season is no longer just about shopping. Increasingly, families are seeking destinations that bring together celebration, leisure and discovery, transforming a routine shopping trip into a memorable festive outing. Across Delhi NCR, DLF Malls is witnessing this evolution in consumer behaviour as shoppers gravitate towards vibrant, experience-led spaces where they can shop, dine, []
The Central Government has informed the Delhi High Court that the century-old Qadeemi Masjid, located within the Krishi Bhawan complex in New Delhi, will have to be removed to make way for the construction of Common Central Secretariat (CCS) Buildings 4 and 5 under the Central Vista redevelopment project, as reported in LawBeat. In a [] The post Incompatible With Secular Character Of Govt Property: Centre Tells Delhi High Court, Seeks Removal Of Qadeemi Mosque For Central Vista Project appeared first on The Commune .
Delhi Police Arrests Man for Selling Illegal Fireworks, Seizes 311.97 Kilograms
A man was arrested in Shahdara for selling illegal fireworks, with police seizing nearly 312 kilograms during a raid. Delhi Police Arrests Man for Selling Illegal Fireworks, Seizes 311.97 Kilograms
Owaisi challenges government on removal of Qadeemi Masjid in Delhi
The News Mill
Delhi Chief Minister Inaugurates Advanced IVF Centre at Sant Parmanand Hospital
New Delhi : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta today inaugurated an advanced In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Centre at Sant Parmanand Hospital, Civil Lines, New Delhi. The centre has been established with the objective of providing modern medical facilities, expert consultation and advanced treatment to couples facing infertility and other reproductive health-related challenges. The inauguration ceremony []
100-year-old Krishi Bhawan mosque must go for Central Vista project: Centre tells Delhi HC
The establishment or retention of a permanent religious structure... within the confines of a Central Government office complex is impermissible and incompatible with the secular character of Government property, the L&DO said
Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 4 (IANS) Pia Dandiya, the daughter of immigrants from Jaipur in Rajasthan, won Florida's 22nd Congressional District, becoming the second Indian American woman elected to the US House of Representatives, after Pramila Jayapal. Dandiya, a Democrat, defeated Republican businessman Casey Askar, according to projections by Decision Desk HQ and CBS News. NBC News showed a 'Projected winner' banner on the race, with Dandiya ahead by about 52 per cent to 48 per cent and about 99 per cent of the expected vote counted. NBC said the race shifted about 14 points towards Democrats compared with the 2024 presidential vote. Born and raised in Palm Beach County, Dandiya grew up in Jupiter, where her parents settled after emigrating from Jaipur in the 1980s. After moving to the US, her father, Dr Rohit Dandiya, continued his medical practice, while her mother, then 40, founded a Montessori school in Jupiter, initially established for Dandiya. Dandiya was raised with strong ties to her Indian heritage, and her parents sent her to India as a child to spend time with her cousins. Very early on, my parents would send me on a solo trip to India to spend time with my cousins. These trips were life-changing and played a pivotal role in shaping my identity. They helped me understand how different democracies function and gave me a sense of global inequality, she told New India Abroad in an August 2025 interview. After her freshman year at Harvard, she spent a summer teaching English to children aged seven to 17 in the slums of New Delhi with the Asha Cooperative Society. Teaching those underprivileged kids, I learnt what truly separates people from each other is not their potential, but their circumstances, she said. I was born and raised in this district by parents who came to this country in pursuit of the American dream, and I've dedicated my career to making sure that dream is within reach for more families, Dandiya said when the Indian American Impact Fund endorsed her in 2025. Dandiya studied government at Harvard and earned a master's in education from Boston University. She taught with Teach For America in Boston and, at 28, became the founding principal of Democracy Prep Endurance High School in Harlem, where about 86 per cent of students were low-income, and every graduate was admitted to college, according to her campaign. Around 86 per cent of students in my school lived below the poverty. But we promised them a brighter future: if they came to our school, 100 per cent of them would earn admission to college, she told New India Abroad. She was a White House Fellow in 2020, serving on the White House Domestic Policy Council and at the US Department of Education, and later led public-sector initiatives at Apple. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker appointed her to the state's P-20 Council. This was Dandiya's first run for office. She initially filed to run in the 21st District against Republican Brian Mast, then moved to the open 22nd District after Florida's mid-decade redistricting, and won the Democratic primary on August 18. The district leans Republican by registration, with about 1,85,000 Republicans, 1,46,000 Democrats and 1,50,000 voters with other affiliations, Florida Politics reported. Dandiya campaigned on the cost of living, corruption, healthcare, education and gun safety. South Floridians are fed up with the rising costs and performative politics coming out of Washington, she told Florida Politics. The race drew heavy money. Through October 14, Dandiya raised about $4.6 million, while Askar raised about $7.4 million, most of it from loans to his own campaign. Askar's self-funding reached about $6.8 million, Federal Election Commission records show. No Going Back PAC, a super PAC funded by MAGA Inc., reported spending about $6.5 million against her by October 24, according to FEC filings. House Majority PAC, the main Democratic super PAC for House races, spent about $7.9 million against Askar. Dandiya won endorsements from the Indian American Impact Fund and Serve America PAC, and from Wellington's Republican mayor, Michael Napoleone. I've always believed that the person matters more than the party, and Pia has earned my respect and my endorsement, Napoleone said. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg campaigned with her on October 26. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee said on X that she focused on the issues that matter most to South Florida -- addressing the affordability crisis and making sure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve the American Dream. Congratulations to @PiaforCongress for winning her election! I am so excited to welcome the third South Asian American woman (along with me and @aishabbwahab) to the House!!! Indian-American Representative Pramila Jayapal posted on X. Dandiya lives in Palm Beach Gardens with her husband, Navneet Alag, and their son, Sahib. Her win keeps the Indian-American Samosa Caucus in the House from shrinking in the new Congress.
Canva to eliminate 22 pc of jobs, centralise teams amid slowing growth: CEO
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Graphic design platform Canva will cut 1,271 jobs or about 22 per cent of its workforce as part of a major organisational overhaul aimed at positioning the company for long-term growth, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder Melanie Perkins said on Wednesday. In a note to employees published on Canva's official website, CEO Perkins described the move as the hardest moment in the company's 13-year history and said the company had decided to make significant changes to its structure, team locations and future skill requirements after months of deliberation. The restructuring will affect 1,271 employees globally through role changes, relocations to centralised hubs and job eliminations. Canva said some teams would be consolidated while others would see broader responsibilities as the company seeks to reduce organisational complexity. Perkins said Canva's growth had slowed for the first time in a decade and that rapid technological change was reshaping customer expectations and product development. Incremental adjustments would not be sufficient and that Canva needed to refound itself around smaller, more empowered teams, according to her. As part of the overhaul, Canva will combine its product, growth and platform functions into a single product organisation, reduce specialised roles and management layers, and increase in-person collaboration. Sydney will become the primary hub for more product teams, while most hybrid employees will be expected to spend two to three days a week in the office from January, according to the Canva CEO. To support affected employees, Canva said it would provide at least six months' salary, continued healthcare coverage where applicable, career transition assistance, extended employee support services and a $10,000 grant opportunity through a newly launched Canva Collective Fund for eligible departing staff. Perkins said the changes were designed to ensure Canva remains competitive in the coming decade, while acknowledging the impact on employees leaving the company.
New Delhi [India], November 3: NoBroker, Indias leading proptech platform, has renewed its focus on eco-smart cleaning, bringing what it describes as Indias first eco-smart cleaning technology to households that
Delhi Police Arrest Three for Gold Theft in Karol Bagh
Three suspects have been arrested in New Delhi for stealing gold jewelry valued at approximately 45 lakh from a jewelry shop. Delhi Police Arrest Three for Gold Theft in Karol Bagh
MP Youth Congress suspends 60 office-bearers for skipping Nov 1 rally in Delhi
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Nov 4 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Youth Congress has suspended 60 of its office-bearers, including nine district presidents, five state vice-presidents and 14 general secretaries, for remaining absent from the Congress's 'Vote Chori' rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on November 1. The disciplinary action was taken on November 3 in compliance with directions from the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) national leadership, which viewed the absence of the office-bearers from the rally as a serious act of organisational indiscipline. According to a notification issued late on Tuesday, all 60 office-bearers have been suspended with immediate effect until further orders. The suspended functionaries include 32 state secretaries, 14 general secretaries, five vice-presidents and nine district presidents. The district presidents facing action belong to Maihar, Agar, Neemuch, Burhanpur, Anuppur, Guna, Barwani, Chhatarpur and Bhind. The order stated that the action was being taken to ensure organisational discipline and compliance with directions issued by the national leadership. The development comes amid the Congress's nationwide campaign against alleged irregularities in electoral processes and voter lists. The party has been raising allegations of 'vote theft' and questioning the functioning of the Election Commission, particularly over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan was attended by senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, along with leaders of other Opposition parties. The Opposition used the rally to demand greater accountability from the Election Commission and raise concerns over alleged manipulation of electoral rolls. The Election Commission has maintained that the revision exercise is aimed at ensuring accurate electoral rolls by removing duplicate and ineligible entries. The suspension of the Madhya Pradesh Youth Congress functionaries comes at a time when the Congress is seeking to strengthen its campaign on electoral transparency through nationwide organisational mobilisation. The action has also brought the functioning of the party's state-level organisation and compliance with directions from its national leadership into focus.
Delhi Police has taken action against advocate Prashant Bhushan by filing an FIR for sharing a deceptive video purportedly from Sergey Lavrov, which harshly critiques India's oil imports from Russia. Confirmations from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Russian Embassy reveal the video is misleading. Concerns are rising that this could jeopardize India-Russia relations, with suggestions of involvement from Pakistani entities, as the SCO Civilisational Dialogue in Delhi approaches.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) The latest edition of NCERT Social Science textbooks for Class 9 has made a significant shift by introducing dedicated chapters on personal finance and entrepreneurship. These additions, highlighted by Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, aim to equip students with real-world financial knowledge and entrepreneurial skills from an early age. Sharing photographs of the textbook pages on X, Sanyal wrote: The economics segment of the recently introduced NCERT textbooks for Social Science (Grade 9, Part 2) now has a chapter on personal finance. Students are taught basics about fixed deposits, mutual funds, EMI, taxes, risk-return and so on. The idea is to provide them with useful life skills. The textbook introduces Chapter 5, titled Managing Your Personal Finances, which explains the importance of understanding money management and making informed financial decisions. The chapter introduces students to key aspects of personal finance, including saving, investing, protecting assets and paying income tax. It also encourages them to reflect on how they manage money received as pocket money or gifts, whether they spend it, save it or set it aside for future needs. Emphasising that financial planning should begin early, the chapter explains how money management becomes increasingly important as individuals grow older and take on greater financial responsibilities. Students are encouraged to understand their financial goals and risk tolerance before making investment decisions. The textbook also explains taxation, describing taxes as compulsory payments made to the government to finance public services. It introduces the two broad categories of taxes -- direct taxes, such as income tax, and indirect taxes, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The section on personal income tax explains that individuals earning above a specified income threshold are required to pay tax, while those below the prescribed limit are exempt. In another post on X, Sanyal highlighted Chapter 6, titled From Ideas to Startups, which focuses on entrepreneurship and introduces students to the fundamentals of starting and managing a business. There is also a chapter on entrepreneurship in the Grade 9 Social Science Part 2. It explains basics of profit & loss account, business plans and so. Most importantly, it presents risk-taking, innovation and business as a positive activity - quite different from how previous textbook portrayed it (with emphasis on hoarding and black-markets), he wrote. Sanyal also shared photographs from the chapter, drawing attention to its focus on business planning, innovation, risk-taking and entrepreneurial activities. Encouraging readers to explore the new material, he shared a link to the NCERT textbook and said: Those interested can go through the chapters for themselves.
Delhi Police arrest three in Karol Bagh gold theft case, recover jewellery worth Rs 45 Lakh
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Delhi Police have arrested three accused persons in connection with a gold jewellery theft case in Karol Bagh and recovered the entire stolen jewellery weighing approximately 400 grams, worth around Rs 45 lakh, an official said on Wednesday. According to the police, the accused executed the theft by impersonating traffic regulators and distracting the complainant before stealing the jewellery from a bag kept on his motorcycle. The incident took place on November 1, when the complainant visited Mahalaxmi Jewellers (firm name: Swastik), located in Beadonpura, Karol Bagh, to collect gold ornaments weighing approximately 400 grams. After collecting the jewellery at around 6 p.m., he kept it in a bag hanging behind his motorcycle and proceeded towards his office at Britannia Chowk. However, upon reaching his office, he discovered that the bag's chain had been opened and the jewellery was missing. Subsequently, an e-FIR was registered at Karol Bagh police station, and an investigation was initiated. Considering the seriousness of the case, a dedicated police team comprising SI Amit Yadav, ASI Jitender, Head Constable Avinash and Constable Hariom was formed under the supervision of the SHO, Karol Bagh, and the ACP, Karol Bagh. During the investigation, police examined CCTV footage from the surrounding areas, which revealed that three persons had jointly executed the theft near the intersection of Bank Street and Beadonpura. One of the accused posed as a traffic regulator and stopped the complainant's motorcycle, while another allegedly opened the bag and removed the jewellery. The third accused provided cover and facilitated the theft. Through extensive CCTV analysis, local intelligence and examination of criminal records, police identified two suspects. Acting on specific intelligence, the team apprehended them from the Anand Parbat area on November 3. During interrogation, they disclosed the involvement of their third associate, who was subsequently arrested from the same area. The arrested accused have been identified as Bharat (27), Kapil alias Rahul (33), both residents of Punjabi Basti, Anand Parbat, and Kavya Aryan Saini alias Bhanja (22), a resident of Than Singh Nagar, Anand Parbat. During interrogation, the accused admitted their involvement in the theft. Police said they used to target crowded and congested areas, impersonating traffic regulators to avoid suspicion. They would identify people carrying heavy bags and distract them while other members of the gang stealthily removed valuables, including cash, mobile phones and jewellery. Police said the accused resorted to such activities to sustain their livelihood and fulfil their personal needs. The entire stolen gold jewellery, weighing approximately 400 grams and valued at Rs 45 lakh, has been recovered. Police further stated that Kapil alias Rahul is a Bad Character (BC) of Anand Parbat police station and has 14 previous criminal involvements, including cases related to murder, robbery, theft and the Arms Act. Bharat is also a habitual offender with previous involvement in criminal cases, including murder and theft.
Delhi Police Files FIR Against Prashant Bhushan for Sharing Fake Video of Russian Foreign Minister
Delhi Police has registered an FIR against lawyer Prashant Bhushan for allegedly sharing a doctored video of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Delhi Police Files FIR Against Prashant Bhushan for Sharing Fake Video of Russian Foreign Minister
DDCA seeks venue change for India-Sri Lanka ODI over pollution concerns
The opening One-Day International between India and Sri Lanka slated to be played in the national capital on December 13 is likely to be moved out due to pollution and outfield revamp. With pollution at its peak in the months of November and December being a major factor, the Delhi and District Cricket Association has requested the BCCI to move the game out of Delhi also because of the outfield work currently underway at the Feroz Shah Kotla. A sand-based outfield is being laid and the work will go on for the next three months. Pollution is a major factor and then there is renovation work going on. So we have requested the BCCI to move the game out of Delhi, a DDCA source told PTI. India and Sri Lanka are scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is in December.
Delhi Air Quality Remains 'Very Poor' With AQI At 379
Punjabi Bagh recorded the worst air quality at 458, falling in the 'severe' category.
Two scrap collectors killed, 80 temporary shelters gutted in fire in J&K's Srinagar
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Nov 4 (IANS) At least two scrap collectors were killed, and nearly 80 temporary shelters were gutted in a blaze in Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar district. Officials said the two scrap collectors were killed after a massive fire engulfed temporary shelters in Durbal, Bemina, in Srinagar in the early hours. The fire broke out at around 12:23 a.m., engulfing approximately 80 makeshift shelters constructed from tarpaulin and wood. An empty poultry farm and a tipper were also damaged in the blaze, they said. Fire tenders from Fire Stations JVC and Rawalpora, along with additional reinforcements from Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters Batamaloo, were pressed into service to bring the fire under control, the officials added. Eye-witnesses said flames had spread across the entire area before the Fire and Emergency Services were called in to douse the blaze. After the fire was brought under control, two bodies were recovered from the debris. The deceased were both residents of Delhi. They were identified as Mohd Noor Alam (27), son of Abdal Wahab, living in Durbal; and Al Ameen (16), son of Mohd Rafi, living in Kupwara. Both were working as scrap collectors in Durbal, Bemina. The bodies were handed over to local police after completion of FSL proceedings. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Police have registered a case in this incident, officials added. Fire incidents occur more frequently in the Valley these days due to the dry weather. Human activities cause roughly 80 per cent to 95 per cent of all accidental fires, the officials have said. Unattended or improperly extinguished campfires are a leading trigger for blazes. Carelessly discarded cigarette butts tossed from vehicles or while walking, burning yard waste, trash, or agricultural/slash-and-burn fields that get out of hand, sparking from chainsaws, vehicles, or dragging tow chains on dry roads, and fallen power transmission lines, all these are major causes of accidental fires in Kashmir, especially during dry weather.
The Delhi Government's Food Safety Department on Tuesday seized and destroyed approximately 7,000 kg of unhygienic and foul-smelling khoya at Mori Gate Khoya Market as part of its intensified crackdown on food adulteration ahead of Diwali and other upcoming festivals. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the market on Tuesday and inspected the operation. As per the Chief Minister's Office, the CM sought details from officials about every aspect of the operation and ensured that the suspected food products did not enter the food supply chain and reach consumers under any circumstances. She said the government would not compromise on public health. Ensuring that people have access to safe and quality food during the festive season is one of the government's foremost responsibilities. Those involved in food adulteration, regardless of how influential they may be, will be brought within the ambit of the law and face strict action. The Food Safety Department's operation was aimed at preventin...
Noida food department destroys 400 kg contaminated rasgullas, seizes 450 kg boondi ahead of Diwali
Digital Desk | Noida, Nov 4 (IANS) The Food Department has intensified its crackdown on food adulteration ahead of Diwali, conducting raids at several sweet shops in Noida and Greater Noida and destroying 400 kg of contaminated rasgullas. During the inspections, food safety officers collected samples of seven food items from various sweet shops. According to the Food Department, around 400 kg of rasgullas, found infested with flies and contaminated, were destroyed, while 450 kg of boondi was seized after it was found unfit for human consumption. During the operation, officials also discovered sweets being prepared and stored in extremely unhygienic conditions at a sweet shop in Sector 62, Rasulpur, Nawada. Following the inspection, the department initiated action to suspend the shop's licence. Its business operations have also been suspended until the necessary improvements are made. On the instructions of the District Magistrate, the Food Department's special campaign will continue until Diwali. Officials have warned shopkeepers against selling adulterated sweets and directed them to pay special attention to the quality and hygiene of food products. Strict action will be taken against those found violating food safety standards. The crackdown comes amid intensified inspections by food safety authorities across several states ahead of the festival. On November 3, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the Mori Gate Khoya Market, where the Food Safety Department seized and destroyed around 7,000 kg of unhygienic and foul-smelling khoya during a crackdown on food adulteration. During the inspection, Gupta directed officials to ensure that suspected food products did not enter the market supply chain. On the same day, Haryana's food safety authorities destroyed around 50,000 kg of adulterated sweets and fake paneer during a statewide campaign. Meanwhile, 170 food samples failed laboratory tests, including 30 that were declared unsafe for human consumption. State Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said the government would not compromise on public health. In Uttar Pradesh, the Food Department also raided Gopaldoot Dairy near the Jyoti intersection on Agra Road in Mainpuri and seized approximately 90 kg of suspected adulterated desi ghee. The raid followed a tip-off about the alleged production and sale of fake ghee. Food adulteration cases often rise during major festivals such as Diwali and Navratri, when demand for sweets, dairy products and other festive food items increases significantly.
ECI Clears Form 6 Confusion for Voters Missing From Draft Rolls
The Commission also cited a Delhi High Court judgment dated October 14 to support its position. The post ECI Clears Form 6 Confusion for Voters Missing From Draft Rolls appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Haryana power discoms seek review of licence
Meanwhile, the HPEA and AIPEF have filed caveats before the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL), seeking to ensure that no ex-parte order is passed without hearing the State government and power engineers
NLMC puts HILs 5.119-acre Delhi land parcel up for sale at 829.69 crore
The proposed sale is part of the Centres efforts to unlock value from surplus and under-utilised assets of public sector enterprises
Many parts of Delhi reel under severe level air pollution
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was 379 (very poor) at 9 a.m. on November 4, 2026, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data
Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Delhi-NCR hold 61% of Indias FDE talent pool
A new report maps the distribution of specialised engineering professionals across technology hubs and employer categories, highlighting experience levels and talent gaps.
Fast Just Got Fastest: Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Driver Kimi Antonelli Is Formula 1
New Delhi: Kimi Antonelli is the Formula 1 World Champion. As the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team celebrates his title, STING is celebrating the energy behind the championship: the fans who have supported Kimi every step of the way. The title is Kimis, earned through talent and determination. But from his karting days to the []
Gold and silver prices declined in India on 4 November, ahead of Dhanteras and Diwali 2026. Check the latest retail rates of 24K, 22K gold and 999 fine silver across major cities, along with domestic and international market trends.
Toxic Air Quality Plagues Delhi-NCR as Temperatures Drop
Air quality in Delhi-NCR reaches alarming levels, with AQI surpassing 450, as temperatures begin to fall. Toxic Air Quality Plagues Delhi-NCR as Temperatures Drop
New Delhi: Oaksmith today announced the launch of Oaksmith Red, a distinctive international blended whisky that brings together aged Scotch malt whisky and aged American bourbon whisky through Japanese craftsmanship. Oaksmith Red is crafted for discerning adult consumers in India who choose with instinct and express their individuality. Built on the belief that lifes most []
No operational fatality in CRPF in 12 months; first in 47 years
New Delhi: Countrys largest paramilitary force CRPF has recorded a significant milestone with no operational fatality of its troops over the last one year, a development registered after 47 years, the force chief has said. CRPF Director General (DG) G P Singh said this on Sunday on X, adding the development was specially significant as []
CTI welcomes SC's remark on protests, lists five demands to protect Delhi traders
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), an apex body representing traders and entrepreneurs in Delhi, on Wednesday welcomed the Supreme Court's observation that 'occupation in the name of protest cannot be perpetual' and put forward five demands to protect traders and businesses from losses caused by protests and demonstrations. CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal said the remarks by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant had given voice to the concerns of nearly two million traders, five million employees and daily wage workers in Delhi. He said the court had rightly observed that the protest by one group should not deprive others of their rights. Goyal said CTI had consistently maintained over the past month that while everyone had the right to protest, others also had the right to conduct business and earn their livelihoods without disruption. Referring to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's submission before the Supreme Court that Jantar Mantar remained occupied for 17 days despite permission being granted for only one day, Goyal said the development highlighted the concerns repeatedly raised by the traders' body. He claimed that the indefinite occupation of Jantar Mantar had caused business losses amounting to Rs 3,000 crore in Delhi. He also questioned who would compensate traders for the overall losses, which he claimed had reached Rs 14,000 crore. Welcoming the Supreme Court's observation, CTI put forward five demands before the Delhi Police and the government. First, CTI demanded that Central Delhi be declared a no-protest zone until Bhaiya Dooj on November 11. It further proposed that the 10 days of the Diwali festival be permanently designated as a no-protest period every year. Goyal said no rallies, sit-ins or demonstrations should be permitted at Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar, Ramlila Maidan, India Gate and Delhi Gate during this period. He suggested that alternative locations, including Burari, Alipur, Jasola and Yamuna Khadar, should be designated for organising protests and demonstrations. Second, CTI called for strict enforcement of the 'one day, one protest' rule at Jantar Mantar. Referring to the Supreme Court's observation about the 17-day occupation after permission was granted for just one day, Goyal said such incidents should not be repeated. He demanded that organisations be allowed to hold demonstrations at the venue for only one day at a time and that vacating the premises by 5 p.m. be made mandatory. Third, CTI demanded the enactment of a Delhi Recovery of Damages Act to ensure compensation for business losses and damage to private property caused during protests. Goyal said states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura and Uttarakhand had laws providing for the recovery of damages from those responsible for planning or instigating violence and destruction of property during demonstrations. He said Delhi should also introduce similar legislation to ensure accountability and compensate affected traders. Fourth, the traders' body proposed a dedicated trade-disruption insurance mechanism and a compensation fund for traders and daily-wage earners affected by rallies, demonstrations and traffic restrictions. Goyal said the fund should cover losses suffered by nearly five million daily-wage workers, street vendors, auto-rickshaw drivers, loaders and porters whose livelihoods were affected by the closure of shops and disruption of transport. He suggested a mechanism similar to claims tribunals established to address losses during riots. Fifth, CTI demanded that the Delhi Police obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from CTI and the concerned market association before granting permission for any large rally involving more than 10,000 people in Central Delhi. It also called for the traffic management and parking plans for such events to be made public in advance to minimise inconvenience to traders, employees and commuters.
Delhi Police book Prashant Bhushan for sharing 'doctored' video of Russian Foreign Minister
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Delhi Police have registered an FIR against senior Supreme Court advocate Prashant Bhushan over the alleged circulation of a doctored video of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, which purportedly contained remarks hostile to India. According to Delhi Police, the matter came to light during cyber patrolling on Tuesday (November 3), when they noticed a social media post alleging that a purportedly manipulated video of the Russian Foreign Minister had been shared from Bhushans handle. In a post on X, Delhi Police said, On 03.11.2026, during cyber patrolling, it came to notice that the social media handle @thequotesnews has claimed that a purported doctored video of the Russian Foreign Minister, hostile to India, was shared from Prashant Bhushans handle @pbhushan1. Through the said video, there is an allegation of disseminating misleading, defamatory, and inflammatory content to incite public disturbance and spread rumours, it added. The police further said that a case has been registered in this connection under Sections 336(4), 353(1)(c), 356 and 340(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 66C of the Information Technology Act. The FIR, numbered 263/26, has been registered at the Special Cell police station, officials said. The development comes after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) fact-check unit debunked a digitally manipulated video purportedly showing Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticising India over its internal affairs and oil purchases. The video, which was shared by Bhushan, was also denied by the Russian Embassy, following which the MEA issued an official clarification, confirming that the clip was entirely fabricated. The MEAs Official FactCheck account also labelled the video as fake and posted on X: Fake Alert!!! The video of the Russian Foreign Minister being used in this post is fake! The Indian and Russian authorities have cautioned against the growing challenge of digital disinformation and AI-generated misinformation, particularly the potential impact of fabricated content on international relations.
Otto Introduces Voice AI CRM, Turning Phone Conversations into Complete Sales Updates
New Delhi : Otto (Ottoverse, Inc.), a voice AI company building CRM for field sales teams, announces the launch of the worlds first voice AI CRM. The platform allows field sales representatives to manage their entire CRM by phone, removing the need to type notes into a laptop after customer visits. Field sales representatives spend []
Amid growing tension, NCP chief Sunetra Pawar calls core committee meeting today
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 4 (IANS) Amid growing tension between the veterans and young turks, the NCP chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar has convened an urgent meeting of the core committee on Wednesday at her official residence, Devgiri. This is the second meeting after the core committee first met on Monday. The first meeting happened after the senior leaders met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday and complained about the unilateral functioning of NCP MP Parth Pawar and their neglect in decision-making. Wednesday's core committee meeting is also important after the party legislators and ministers on Tuesday expressed serious concerns over internal frictions and claimed the party is weakening in the absence of unity. Sources said the core committee is expected to discuss the visits of ministers, legislators and MPs to the drought-hit areas and activating the party strengthening programme. Earlier, in a meeting held on Tuesday, NCP leaders and MLAs voiced strong concerns, stating that the party appears weak and that grassroots members are left in the dark about ongoing friction among senior leadership. The meeting of all NCP MLAs took place at the official residence of the party's National President and Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar. Key leaders, including National Working President Praful Patel, State President Sunil Tatkare, senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal, and Dilip Walse Patil, were in attendance, along with over 20 MLAs. During the meeting, State President Sunil Tatkare guided the MLAs on party organisation and how to tackle the severe drought situation prevailing across the state. Tatkare instructed all MLAs to visit drought-affected areas to understand the grievances of farmers and make concerted efforts to secure government assistance for them. Party minister Makarand Patil and legislators Anil Bhaidas Patil and Sangram Jagtap raised the issue of internal friction and what was happening at the level of seniors. They argued that the party is becoming weak in the absence of a show of unity. Anil Bhaidas Patil raised a demand that the party should make concerted efforts to reclaim the crucial Finance portfolio. Additionally, several MLAs voiced complaints regarding alliance partners within the ruling Mahayuti coalition. Notably, a majority of the MLAs, including Sunil Shelke, complained that their constituency works were not being processed or approved under the departments managed by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Further, Minister Makarand Patil complained about the BJP's dominance and its efforts to weaken the allies. He narrated the manner in which the BJP won the Satara Zilla Parishad polls, bypassing the NCP and Shiv Sena. He said that the NCP and Shiv Sena therefore fought together the recently concluded elections to the Satara District Central Cooperative Bank against the BJP. MLA Saroj Ahire claimed that the BJP and the Nashik District administration are not keeping her in the loop, especially during the implementation of a slew of works for the Sinhasth Kumbh Mela. Another MLA, Hiraman Khosksar, apprehended that if the NCP got a step-motherly treatment in the allocation of funds, they would face defeat in the 2029 Assembly polls. Following instructions from the senior leadership encouraging legislators to freely express their challenges and opinions, the MLAs directly questioned the top brass regarding ongoing internal conflicts within the party. On Monday, the senior leaders, including Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse Patil, briefed the core committee about their meeting with HM Amit Shah. They told the party chief how BJP and HM Shah are concerned over the present state of affairs of the NCP, emphasising the need for corrective steps. The delegation comprising all top leaders of the party, except Pawars, was reportedly advised by HM Shah to 'pull up the socks' as the collapse of the NCP organisation was hurting Mahayuti in Maharashtra. The NCP leaders had sought HM Shah's appointment to discuss the organisational matters as well as allotment of cabinet portfolios in Maharashtra, due to the NCP. The delegation included Rajya Sabha member Praful Patel, NCP state chief Sunil Tatkare, minister Hasan Mushrif, Chhagan Bhujbal, former Ministers Dilip Walse-Patil and Dhananjay Munde. Bhujbal's nephew and former Lok Sabha member Sameer was also part of the delegation. Both Patel and Tatkare, in the past, have openly called for introspection within the NCP following its defeat in the recently held legislative council elections. Bhujbal is miffed over the decision to appoint MLC Zeeshan Siddique as Mumbai NCP chief without even informing him. Both Walse-Patil and Munde are out of the state cabinet despite vacancies. The Finance portfolio, which was originally with the NCP, was taken up by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after the death of Ajit Pawar. Despite repeated demands, the BJP has not handed over the portfolio to the NCP. Mushrif was asked to step aside from Pune graduates' constituency polls after the NCP let go of its claim and gave the seat to the BJP. Mushrif's trusted aide, Bhaiyya Mane, was to contest the election originally. Sources within the NCP said that a lack of collective leadership within the NCP was one of the key issues discussed with HM Shah. While the issue of lack of collective leadership within the party was discussed, it was told to them that the NCP leaders need to ensure smooth functioning of the party, said an NCP leader privy to the discussions. These leaders were told that the problems within the NCP organisation are not harming them only, but being in Mahayuti, it is affecting the ruling alliance as a whole. If these issues are not resolved, then the alliance will face problems, the source said. Another party leader confirmed that HM Shah maintained that the BJP was closely observing the developments in Maharashtra. The NCP officially downplayed the visit. It is highly unfortunate that unnecessary political colour is being given to the Wednesday meeting in Delhi between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and senior leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party, attempting to fabricate a narrative of internal party differences, said Umesh Patil, National Spokesperson, NCP. Patil said that the meeting of senior NCP leaders took place after Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar, in her last meeting with HM Shah, had mentioned that a delegation of senior leaders from the party would be meeting him and had requested time to be made available. He said that it appears that certain unseen forces are planting such reports to create an artificial narrative that there are internal differences within the Nationalist Congress Party and a lack of coordination in the leadership.
Delhi-NCR feels winter chill as thick smog engulfs city; AQI stands at 377
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) The national capital's overall air quality remained in the 'very poor' category for the third consecutive day on Wednesday, with the city recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 377 at 8 a.m. A thick layer of smog has continued to blanket several parts of the city as winter gradually sets in across Delhi-NCR, and residents start experiencing chilly weather. PM2.5 remained the prominent pollutant in Delhi. The air quality situation was particularly alarming in several areas, with Punjabi Bagh and Jahangirpuri recording AQI readings of 456 and 450, respectively, placing them in the 'severe' category. Mundka and the area around IIT Delhi also recorded high AQI levels of 436 and 438, respectively. Of Delhi's 59 air quality monitoring stations, 20 reported 'severe' air quality, while 33 others remained in the 'very poor' category. The remaining stations recorded 'poor' air quality. The deterioration in air quality comes after Delhi was brought under Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Monday, November 2, when its 24-hour average AQI stood at 324, entering the 'very poor' category for the first time this season. Among the monitoring stations, Tikri Kalan recorded an AQI of 340, NSUT Jaffarpur 383, Najafgarh 379, Chhawla 302, NSIT Dwarka 346, Dwarka Sector 8 400, IGI Airport (T3) 360, Nangloi 361, Karala 308, Bawana 411, Burari 360, Rohini 436, North Campus, Delhi University, 416, RK Puram 428, Siri Fort 419, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium 411, Sonia Vihar 424, Delhi Technological University (DTU) 435, Vivek Vihar 435, Nehru Nagar 339, Vasundhara Enclave 333 and Commonwealth Sports Complex 390. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category until at least Friday, November 6. With Diwali approaching, the deteriorating air quality across Delhi and the National Capital Region has prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage II restrictions under GRAP across the entire NCR with immediate effect. Earlier, Stage I of GRAP was imposed on October 21, when Delhi's AQI stood at 244. The measures under Stage I include promoting public transport, checking Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates, prohibiting diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years, and restricting the use of coal and firewood at roadside eateries and commercial tandoors. The measures also include restrictions on the use of diesel generator sets.
Delhi traders seek suspension of protests till Nov 11 over Diwali business loss
The top court was hearing several pleas, alleging loss of business due to a protest at the Ramlila Maidan
Two charred to death as massive fire engulfs 80 temporary shelters in Bemina Srinagar
Srinagar, Nov 04: Two persons were killed after a massive fire engulfed around 80 temporary shelters at Durbal area of Bemina in Srinagar during the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, officials said. According to the Fire and Emergency Services Department, the fire broke out around 12:23 AM and rapidly engulfed nearly 80 makeshift shelters constructed with tarpaulin and wooden material. An empty poultry farm and a tipper were also caught in the blaze. Fire tenders from Fire Stations JVC and Rawalpora, along with additional reinforcements from Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters Batamaloo, were rushed to the spot to control the fire. Officials said the flames had spread across the entire area before the Fire and Emergency Services were called, making the firefighting operation challenging. After the blaze was brought under control, two bodies were recovered from the debris. The deceased were identified as Mohammad Noor Alam (27), son of Abdal Wahab, a resident of Delhi presently staying at Durbal, and Al Ameen (16), son of Mohd Rafi, originally from Delhi and presently residing in Kupwara. Both were working as scrap collectors in Durbal, officials said. The bodies were handed over to the local police after completion of FSL proceedings. The cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained. The firefighting operation was coordinated by Deputy Director Command Srinagar Dr Aqib Hussain Mir, Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah, DFO City and DFO Headquarters. (JKNS)
Delhi police file FIR against Disha protesters detained on November 1
The News Mill
Delhi air turns hazardous; AQI touches 605, GRAP-II vehicle curb enforced at Gurgaon border
Delhi AQI: Among the worst-affected locations, Punjabi Bagh recorded an AQI of 452, followed by Dhaula Kuan at 417, ITO at 418, RK Puram at 423 and Ghazipur at 410. The air quality around India Gate stood at 414, with all these locations falling in the severe category.
Drought threatens India's 20% ethanol blending target as food takes priority
India faces a significant challenge in its ethanol production due to the lowest monsoon rainfall experienced in over a decade. This situation has prompted New Delhi to prioritize food security over its ethanol blending targets. Estimates suggest that the ethanol blending ratio may decrease this supply year from 20% to around 15%. Producers are being squeezed by increased corn prices and reduced purchasing prices for ethanol.
Two Killed as Fire Destroys 80 Temporary Shelters in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Two persons were killed after a major fire engulfed around 80 temporary shelters in the Durbal area of Bemina in Srinagar during the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, officials said. The victims were identified as Mohammad Noor Alam, 27, son of Abdal Wahab, a native of Delhi who was staying in Durbal, and []
Delhi government destroys 7,000 kg of unhygienic khoya at Mori Gate market ahead of Diwali
The News Mill
Diwali shopping rush brings Delhi traffic to a crawl, key roads hit
A surge of shoppers heading out for last-minute Diwali purchases brought large parts of Delhi to a crawl on Tuesday evening, with bumper-to-bumper traffic, serpentine queues of vehicles and prolonged snarls reported across busy market areas and arterial roads. Heavy traffic was reported in and around several major shopping hubs, including Sarojini Nagar, South Extension, Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh, Kamla Nagar, Chandni Chowk and Rajouri Garden, as markets witnessed a rush of people making festive purchases. Congestion was also reported around Kashmere Gate, Hauz Khas and Defence Colony, with the increased movement of shoppers adding to the vehicular pressure on roads. Visuals from ITO, South Extension and Dhaula Kuan showed long queues of cars, buses, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers packed closely together, with vehicles inching forward through congested stretches. At several points, the roads appeared choked with traffic, while commuters on two-wheelers navigated narrow gaps between
Delhi air quality index rises to 605 with multiple areas in severe pollution range
The News Mill
Two Killed as Massive Fire Engulfs 80 Temporary Shelters in Srinagars Durbal Bemina
Srinagar: What began as a fire in a cluster of makeshift shelters turned into a night of tragedy at Durbal Bemina, claiming two lives and reducing around 80 temporary structures to ashes during the intervening night. The devastating blaze, which broke out shortly after midnight, engulfed nearly 80 Make shift tents leaving behind charred remains of shelters and belongings. An empty poultry farm and a tipper were also caught in the fire. Officials told Rising Kashmir that the State Fire Control Room, Batamaloo, received a distress call at around 12:23 AM, reporting a fire in temporary shelters (juggies) made of tarpaulin and wooden material. Immediately after receiving the information, fire tenders from Fire Station JVC and Fire Station Rawalpora were rushed to the spot. Upon reaching the location, firefighters found a large number of makeshift structures engulfed in flames. They said that, Considering the intensity and magnitude of the blaze, additional firefighting resources, including fire tenders and water bowsers, were mobilised from F&ES Headquarters, Batamaloo, to strengthen the operation. Personnel from Police Station Bemina, SDPO Bemina and local residents also assisted the Fire and Emergency Services teams in controlling the blaze and managing the situation at the site. After sustained firefighting efforts, the flames were brought under control. However, during a subsequent search operation, two bodies were recovered from the debris of the burnt structures. The deceased were identified as Mohammad Noor Alam (27), son of Abdul Wahab, originally from Delhi and presently residing at Durbal, and Al Ameen (16), son of Mohammad Rafi, originally from Delhi and presently residing at Kupwara. Both were reportedly working as scrap collectors in the Durbal area. Following the completion of Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) proceedings, the bodies were handed over to the local police for further legal formalities. Officials also said that Deputy Director, Command Srinagar, Dr Aqib Hussain Mir, along with Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah, DFO City and DFO Headquarters, remained actively involved in overseeing the mobilisation of firefighting resources and coordinating the teams deployed at the incident site. They said that The exact cause of the fire remains unknown and is being investigated by the concerned authorities.
Domestic gold prices stood at Rs 1,39,890 per 10 grams on Wednesday morning, while silver was priced at Rs 1,80,800 per kg.
Delhi wakes to another smoggy morning, AQI at 373; NCR cities also choke
Punjabi Bagh records the highest reading at 452, followed by Jahangirpuri at 450; Gurugram and Noida also report 'very poor' air
Delhi Schools Must Form Anti-Tobacco Committees, Conduct Regular Awareness Drives
Delhi Education Department directs all government and private schools to prevent tobacco and substance abuse on campuses through committees and awareness programs.
Modi got 30-plus foreign awards: Did visas become easier for Indians?
New Delhi:Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been decorated by more foreign governments than any Indian leader before him. By most counts, the tally has crossed 30. The latest, Uzbekistans Order of Highest Friendship (Oliy Darajali Dostlik), was conferred on him in Tashkent on August 30. Each ceremony is held up as proof of Indias rising 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 .
You used me, Ruhullah tells NC leadership Budgam, Nov 03: You used me. With these words, Srinagar Member Parliament (MP) Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday accused the National Conference leadership of exploiting his political credibility to secure electoral victories in 2024 before abandoning its commitments to the people, as he announced his resignation from the party and the Lok Sabha, ending a 24-year association with the NC. Addressing thousands of supporters at Behisht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam district on the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi, Ruhullah delivered an approximately 80-minute address, launching an unprecedented attack on NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over what he described as the betrayal of the people's mandate and abandonment of the struggle for Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional rights. Ruhullah said his decision was driven by principles, conscience and the political commitments made to people during the 2024 Assembly elections, rather than any personal grievance or disappointment over not being accommodated in the government. In a symbolic gesture, he signed his two-page resignation letter on the podium before handing it over to Mohammad Ashraf Mattoo, father of 17-year-old Tufail Mattoo, who was killed during the 2010 unrest when Omar Abdullah was Chief Minister. He asked Mattoo to forward the letter to Farooq Abdullah. Mehdi also announced his resignation from the Srinagar parliamentary constituency and said he had emailed his resignation to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The Srinagar seat, however, will become vacant only after the Speaker accepts his resignation. Describing his departure from the party as a decree of freedom, Ruhullah said he had no intention of simply shifting from one political party to another. Instead, he wanted to build a movement of honest, compassionate and committed people who would take forward the struggle for the dignity and rights of Jammu and Kashmir. At the heart of Ruhullah's address was his charge that the National Conference had used his political credibility and the trust people had placed in him to secure electoral victories before abandoning the very commitments on which it had sought votes. You used me, he said, recounting the political developments ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He alleged that the party had initially approached him to contest from Baramulla, citing the presence of Shia voters, but he suggested that Omar Abdullah contest from north Kashmir instead. Ruhullah was subsequently fielded from Srinagar, where he won the parliamentary election. Recounting developments following Omar Abdullah's electoral defeat in Baramulla, Ruhullah claimed that the Chief Minister had told him that the dignity of the National Conference and the people of Jammu and Kashmir rested in his hands. I took that responsibility seriously and raised the issue of the region's constitutional rights in Parliament, he said. He said the party again sought his support during the Assembly elections, assuring him that it would fight for the dignity and constitutional rights of Jammu and Kashmir rather than confine its political agenda to restoration of statehood. However, he alleged that the leadership began retreating from its position on Article 370 almost immediately after forming the government. You got power in 2024, and from the second day, when we spoke about Article 370, you started saying no. Is this the dignity promised? he asked. Ruhullah said the NC had received a massive mandate in 2024 because people had invested their anger, expectations and political hopes in the party. He said he had campaigned tirelessly for it but was deeply hurt when the leadership abandoned the struggle that had brought it back to power. He also recalled the party's commitments on rationalisation of reservation, 200 units of free electricity, restoration of constitutional guarantees and release of prisoners, accusing the leadership of failing to carry forward the promises made to voters. Taking direct aim at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Ruhullah criticised his conduct after assuming office, particularly his interactions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He said the presentation of shawls to the national leadership had disappointed people who expected the NC government to assert Jammu and Kashmir's political concerns. He also revisited Omar's remarks during the inauguration of the Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg in January 2025, when the Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that the weather had supported the event and there was not a cloud in the sky. Ruhullah said a lack of clouds during Chillai Kalan, Kashmir's harshest winter period, was actually a bad omen, questioning the Chief Minister's understanding of the region's realities. He further challenged the respect commanded by the office of the Chief Minister, saying the chair might carry authority but that authority did not automatically command public respect. He said he bowed his head and placed his cap and turban only before Almighty Allah. Recalling the December 2024 student protest over reservation outside the Chief Minister's residence at Gupkar, Ruhullah said he had stood with the protesting youth because their concerns were genuine and deserved to be heard. His participation in the demonstration had become a major flashpoint in his relations with the party leadership. Accusing the NC government of being subservient to the Centre, Ruhullah declared that Kashmir would engage with New Delhi on its own terms and would not accept an agenda imposed from outside. Ruhullah also made clear that his resignation was not the end of his political engagement. He said he wanted to identify honest young people with compassion and commitment who were willing to enter public life and fight for the rights and dignity of their people. I will go as far as I need to find them, he said, appealing to parents to encourage their educated and hardworking children to participate in politics and work towards changing society. He said some people wanted him to form a new political party, but his immediate priority was to launch a broader movement for the restoration of dignity and respect in Jammu and Kashmir. The announcement came against the backdrop of growing disquiet within the National Conference following its recent Cabinet expansion and reports of differences among party legislators over the distribution of ministerial positions.
Delhi Chief Minister Challenges Rahul Gandhi to Debate in Parliament
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta has openly challenged Rahul Gandhi to a debate in Parliament, addressing past Congress actions and recent political tensions. Delhi Chief Minister Challenges Rahul Gandhi to Debate in Parliament
Indian Navy rescues hijacked fishing vessel off Somalia, frees 20 crew
New Delhi, Nov 3:The Indian Navy has rescued a hijacked fishing vessel, Azini, from armed pirates off the coast of Somalia following an operation lasting over 48 hours, securing the safe release of all 20 crew members without any casualties or injuries. According to the Defence Ministry, the vessel was hijacked by an armed pirate group off the north-eastern coast of Somalia last month. The hijacking posed a serious maritime security threat, as the vessel could have been used as a mother ship to launch further attacks on merchant vessels in the region. The Indian Navy deployed a mission-ready warship, supported by a maritime reconnaissance aircraft, to locate and intercept the vessel. Through persistent surveillance and coordinated action, the naval platforms tracked its movements and used calibrated non-kinetic measures to restrict its movement and prevent it from escaping. Marine Commandos were also reinforced through a precision airdrop by an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft. The commandos subsequently carried out a swift tactical operation, secured the vessel and overcame the pirate threat, enabling the release of all 20 crew members. The Navy said the successful operation demonstrated its operational preparedness and the ability of the armed forces to conduct complex maritime security missions through close inter-service coordination. The operation also reaffirmed Indias commitment to acting as a First Responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region, the Navy said, adding that it remained committed to protecting seafarers, securing vital maritime trade routes and maintaining a safe and stable maritime environment.
IndiGo Passenger Booked for Emergency Exit Tampering
Air travel safety came under scrutiny after a passenger allegedly attempted to tamper with an emergency exit mechanism aboard an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Pune. The incident triggered an onboard alarm shortly after take-off, prompting Pune City Police to register a case against the 33-year-old passenger. The post IndiGo Passenger Booked for Emergency Exit Tampering appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Delhi Police ACP suspended over protest outside Police Headquarters
New Delhi, Nov 3: Delhi Polices Assistant Commissioner of Police Manasvi Vashistha, who joined the protest by personnel outside the Police Headquarters against the transfer of two officers, has been suspended, police sources said on Tuesday. The suspension comes amid controversy over the protest, in which police personnel gathered outside the headquarters seeking revocation of transfer orders. The action against the ACP was taken in connection with the incident, said the police source, adding that further details were awaited.
November pain: Air quality severe in parts of Delhi
Indian Railways suspends platform ticket sales at six Delhi stations, check new rules
In view of the expected heavy passenger rush during Diwali and Chhath festivals, the Indian Railways has temporarily suspended platform ticket sales at six major railway stations in and around Delhi. The restriction will remain...
PM Narendra Modi inaugurates, launches Pune Metro projects worth Rs 21,800 Cr
New Delhi, Nov 3:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for Pune Metro projects worth around 21,800 crore, saying improved connectivity would accelerate the citys growth and enhance the ease of living for residents. Addressing the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said the inauguration of the Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor would provide better connectivity to Punes major IT hub, while the new line would strengthen links between the old and new parts of the city. Describing Pune as a centre of ideas, innovation and youth aspirations, the Prime Minister said the city had emerged as a major hub for information technology, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, startups and manufacturing. A better-connected Pune is a faster-growing Pune, he said, adding that metro connectivity would reduce commuting time, improve urban productivity and benefit both the poor and the middle class. PM Modi said Indias metro network had expanded to nearly 1,200 km across 26 cities over the past 12 years, serving more than one crore commuters daily. He noted that Maharashtras operational metro network had grown from around 10-11 km in 2014 to nearly 175 km, with more than 680 km under construction. He highlighted that the newly inaugurated corridor had been developed under the public-private partnership model, calling it an example of cooperation between the government and the private sector. Emphasising the importance of urban development, PM Modi said cities were major centres of economic activity and called for transforming hundreds of smaller cities into growth hubs. He also referred to the Urban Challenge Fund, backed by 1 lakh crore in Central assistance, to mobilise greater investment in urban infrastructure. The Prime Minister said India had emerged as the worlds fastest-growing major economy while also making significant progress in reducing poverty. Citing a recent World Bank report, he said around 50 crore people had been lifted out of extreme poverty over the past 10-12 years. PM Modi also expressed concern over the difficulties faced by farmers in Maharashtra due to adverse weather and natural calamities. Assuring them of the governments support, he said, Do not worry at all, we are all with the farmers. He urged people to remember drought-affected families and others facing hardship during the Diwali festivities, stressing that collective efforts were essential to overcome the challenges.
Mehboobas dialogue pitch meets the wall of political divisions
Srinagar, Nov 3:While Jammu and Kashmirs politicians often seek New Delhis attention to start a dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, they themselves miserably fail to engage with rival political parties within J&K. Former chief minister and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Muftis renewed call for dialogue with New Delhi exposes a deeper contradiction in J&K politics of parties sharing common demands but remaining divided over leadership, strategy, and political ownership of the struggle. Muftis demand that New Delhi engage in dialogue with J&K, while accusing the ruling National Conference (NC) of burying autonomy and deepening the Delhi divide, highlights a fundamental challenge in J&K politics: the gap between rhetoric of broader interests and the reality of fragmented politics. In June, Mufti appealed for a united political outreach to New Delhi and wrote a series of letters to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, BJP Legislature Party leader Sunil Sharma, and J&K Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra. The development had come in response to the engagement between the Leh Apex Body (LAB), Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and the Government of India. Following it, Mufti proposed that political parties in J&K jointly approach Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for a meaningful and sustained dialogue on J&Ks future. After sending the letters, Mufti said, J&K stands at a crossroads where we cannot let despair shape our future. Political leadership across the state must rise above politics to unite for peace and dignity of its people. A sincere and sustained dialogue with the Government of India is imperative. I urge a united outreach to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Muftis appeal had carried echoes of the Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), the coalition formed after the August 5, 2019, constitutional changes. However, an aspect of Muftis outreach that attracted attention was its selective nature. While she wrote letters to CM Omar, LOP Sharma, and JKPCC chief Karra, she did not reach out to Altaf Bukharis Apni Party, Sajad Lones Peoples Conference, CPI (M) leader Muhammad Yusuf Tarigami, or other political actors of J&K. Now, Muftis latest demand for a dialogue between J&K and New Delhi, without having made any headway in bringing a consensus among the different political parties on the issue, prompts questions about whether the proposed consensus was intended to be genuinely inclusive or just symbolic. The reality is that nearly seven years after the reorganisation of J&K, political parties continue to articulate remarkably similar concerns on several core issues like restoration of statehood, protection of democratic rights, greater political empowerment, economic development, or rebuilding public confidence. However, they often differ in strategy, political ownership, and leadership. Talking to Greater Kashmir, former minister and Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari said: Last year in October, I was the first one to tell Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to start a dialogue with people of Kashmir, as the Home Minister on his visit to Kashmir had said that New Delhi would not talk to Islamabad and instead talk to people of J&K as it considered their own people. However, when we took that stand, we were referred to as New Delhis B Team. Mehbooba even sent letters to NC, BJP, and Congress, but as part of her divisive politics, she did not invite others, including Apni Party. He said that on PDPs foundation day on Monday, Mufti called upon New Delhi to initiate a dialogue with the people of J&K and echoed Apni Partys year-old stand. Mehbooba used to sing Pakistan-Pakistan. PDP used to say that those who talk of getting involved in dialogue with New Delhi are BJPs own people. However, after wasting one full year, she has suddenly come to realise that there is a need for a dialogue between the Centre and New Delhi. Had they instead arrived at a consensus on the issue and sought to approach New Delhi together along with other parties, it would have been easier for New Delhi to engage, Bukhari said. He said that the leadership in Jammu and Kashmir could learn from Ladakhis, who, despite differences between the Kargil Development Alliance (KDA) and Leh Apex Body (LAB), presented a united face to New Delhi. The different political parties in J&K can similarly present a joint stand at least on the issues that touch the skin of the people like arrests, harassment, slapping of PSAs, and statehood as these are not demands specific to any political party, the Apni Party leader said. Mehboobas change of heart is welcome as we have no locus standi to tell New Delhi to engage Islamabad in dialogue. Her climb down from what she was saying and echoing the same things that the Apni Party has been saying is a good development. But if she is sincere, why not approach New Delhi together about the common issues. He claimed that it was the Apni Party that played a key role in safeguarding the land and employment rights of Jammu and Kashmir residents following the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Bukhari was referring to the Jammu and Kashmir Domicile Law that was introduced after the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, under which a person is eligible for domicile status (which relates to certain job and residence provisions) if they have resided in the Union Territory of J&K for a period of 15 years, or have studied there for 7 years and appeared in Class 10th or 12th examinations, among other qualifying categories (such as central government or All India Service officers who have served for a specified duration). Kargil Democratic Alliance (KAD) Co-Chairman Asgar Ali Karbali told Greater Kashmir over the phone from Kargil that they tried to reach a common ground with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) with open hearts. We accepted ground realities and realised that both the KAD and LAB had a common goal, he said. However, there was a communication gap and misunderstandings which we tried to resolve. Delving into the details of how KAD and LAB agreed on the demands to be presented to New Delhi, Karbali said: The LABs demand was the 6th Schedule and constitutional guarantees. KADs demands were democratic rights and statehood. Then there were also issues that both agreed on, like recruitments, reservations, Ladakh Reservation Certificates (LRC), gazetted and non-gazetted posts, and the increase of parliamentary seats for both Ladakh and Kargil. He said that when the two groups met for the first time, they sat together from 11 am to 3 pm and reached a consensus and came up with four demands of statehood, 6th Schedule, recruitment and reservations, and LRC. These also included issues of domiciles and an increase in parliamentary seats one each for Leh and Kargil, Karbali said. And, for the past 6 years, both groups have been sincere, and if at all there is any miscommunication, it is discussed in the Core Committee and deliberated upon. Former minister and Peoples Conference (PC) President Sajad Gani Lone, however, has a different take on the issue. While he believes in presenting a joint front to New Delhi, he does not believe that it is the sincerity of the Ladakh leadership that different groups arrived at a consensus. The reality is that Delhi wants to have a dialogue with the people of Ladakh as they consider them their own. On the contrary, they dont treat people of Kashmir as their own. It is not an issue of todays Delhi but a legacy being carried forward for decades. The people of Ladakh have been the loved ones of Delhi even in the previous regimes at New Delhi. Even Congress used Ladakh and Jammu as a stick to beat Kashmiris. Delhi loves them, but it does not treat Kashmiris as their own, Lone said. However, he backed the idea of engaging in dialogue with New Delhi. Dialogue is a sacred institution to resolve conflicts. The alternative to dialogue is violence. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, dialogue has always been misused. It has never been taken seriously. Various rounds of dialogue between the Hurriyat and New Delhi came to nought, the PC President, who is also MLA Handwara, said. He said that one of the biggest tragedies of Kashmir was that the two kings parties play musical chairs. When they (NC and PDP) are in power, they slap PSAs on the people, blind people with pellet guns, and kill civilians. When out of power, they become the proponents of dialogue and human rights. This trivialises the concept of human rights and dialogue. They should leave that space of talking about the human rights of the people to others, as they are the people whose hands are splattered with the blood of Kashmiris. Over seven years after the 2019 reorganisation, J&Ks political parties remain united on many demands but divided on the politics of pursuing them. Unlike Ladakh, the region is yet to turn shared grievances into a collective political voice.
BJP chief Nitin Nabin to lead Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao march in UP's Gorakhpur today
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Nov 4 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President Nitin Nabin will undertake a two-day organisational visit to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh starting Wednesday, during which he will lead the party's 'Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao' march and hold a series of meetings with senior party functionaries to fine-tune preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections. Nabin will reach Gorakhpur on Wednesday morning and lead the padyatra in the afternoon. According to the programme schedule shared on the X handle of the BJP National President's Office, the march will begin at 12.10 p.m. from Maharana Pratap Inter College and conclude at Mata Kali Temple near the Sardar Patel statue. Following the march, Nabin will attend a meeting with members of the intellectual community at 3.30 p.m. at Annexy Bhawan, Taramandal. He is also scheduled to hold a meeting with public representatives at the same venue at 5 p.m. On the second day of his visit, Thursday, the BJP chief will offer prayers at the Baba Gorakhnath Temple in the morning. Later, he will hold a meeting with former party office-bearers, including former state and regional office-bearers who served during the last three terms, former district in-charges and former district presidents. He will subsequently interact with former public representatives, including former Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, former MLAs, Legislative Council members, former Zila Panchayat presidents, and former Nagar Palika and Nagar Panchayat presidents. Nabin is also scheduled to hold a detailed meeting with the party's state-level organisational leadership, including the State President, state office-bearers, regional office-bearers and other key functionaries. The meeting will focus on finalising the roadmap for upcoming organisational campaigns and electoral strategy ahead of the Assembly elections. Earlier, Nabin had led the 'Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao' campaign in Delhi, Haryana, Bihar and West Bengal. The campaign has been launched by the BJP to counter the INDIA bloc's protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities.
Over 5000% surge in searches for Ruhullah: Google Trends
Srinagar, Nov 3:Search interest in Srinagar Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah surged by more than 5000 percent over the preceding week. According to Google Trends, Jammu and Kashmir emerged as the leading region in India for searches related to the politician. The surge came ahead of Ruhullah's November 3 announcement regarding parting his ways from National Conference and resignation from his Lok Sabha seat. The announcement had brought to a head his prolonged confrontation with the party leadership. Google Trends data for India shows a breakout in search interest, exceeding 5000 percent. This figure is in comparison with both the preceding week and the corresponding period last year. J&K ranked first among Indian regions for search interest, followed by Bihar, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The data also shows multiple variations of the politician's name. Among the most searched queries were 'Aga Ruhullah', 'Ruhullah Mehdi', 'Aga Ruhullah Mehdi' and 'Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi'. Ruhullah had announced his intention to resign in late October and his formal announcement was scheduled for November 3. He made the announcement today at Behisht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam. The day was also the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi. The Google Trends figures, however, measures relative search interest and not the actual number of searches. It is not a direct indicator of public support for a politician. The breakout indicator denotes an exceptionally large increase from the comparison period. The past-week graph, search interest remained relatively low for much of the period. It shot up sharply towards the weekend. This indicates that the bulk of the increase was concentrated in a short window, and does not represent a gradual build-up in searches. A look at the search trend over the past year suggests that interest in Ruhullah has largely been episodic. The graph showing sharp but isolated spikes separated by extended periods of relatively low search activity. There are noticeable peaks around April and August-September. The latest surge marks another significant jump in search interest.
Open challenge, come to Parliament: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta dares Rahul Gandhi to debate
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday issued an open challenge to Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, asking him to come to Parliament for a debate after he demanded a public debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking a swipe at the Congress leader, Gupta invoked the Emergency imposed in 1975 and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots to target the Congress's political legacy. In a post on X, Gupta wrote: Rahul Gandhi Ji, OPEN CHALLENGE. Come to Parliament. Lets debate! 1975: Your grandmother imposed the Emergency. Opposition jailed. Press gagged. Democracy strangled. 1984: Your father was Prime Minister when thousands of innocent Sikhs were massacred in Delhi. Congress still cannot escape that bloodstained legacy, she added. The chief minister highlighted the years in which Congress suffered major setbacks, saying: 2014, 2019, 2024. Three consecutive terms. The fourth is already your biggest nightmare. Bhaagna mat! Parliament of India, New Delhi. No visa required. Gupta's remarks came in response to Gandhi's demand for a public debate with the Prime Minister. Challenging PM Modi, Gandhi had asked him to choose any stage or venue to discuss allegations of anti-national activities and alleged connections with foreign forces. 24 hours have passed, Modi ji. I challenged you. You say that the opposition is anti-national. Pick any stage, any venue, and debate me. Who is the anti-national? Who has connections with foreign forces? And what kind of connections are they? Do it as soon as possibledon't be afraid, Gandhi had posted on X. Earlier, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had also sharply rebuked Gandhi for demanding a public debate with the Prime Minister, saying Parliament was the appropriate venue for such an exchange. Responding to Gandhi's challenge on X, Sitharaman said: Rahul ji, you ask the Prime Minister to choose a venue for a debate. There is already one: Parliament, where you happen to be the LoP. She also pointed out that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had offered a special session of Parliament a day earlier to discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Why not show the same enthusiasm for a debate in Parliament that you show while issuing challenges on social media? she asked.
GRAP 2 restrictions in Delhi: Whats allowed and whats not
Delhi imposes GRAP Stage 2 restrictions as AQI hits very poor; bans for older vehicles, boosts parking fees, and encourages usage of public transport. Heres what allowed and whats not.
Face recognition vans, drones deployed to secure Delhis Sadar Bazar ahead of Deepavali
With festive shopping drawing huge crowds to the Old Delhi wholesale market, police step up surveillance with paramilitary flag marches, watchtowers and round-the-clock deployment to prevent theft and manage congestion.
The News Mill
The Quantum Advance: A New Chapter in the Future of Computing
What if the next major advance in computing does not simply make machines faster, but helps humanity explore possibilities that have remained beyond the reach of conventional technology? This is the promise of quantum computing, a field that could open new possibilities in medicine, materials, energy and scientific knowledge. Computers have reshaped communication, learning and work. Supercomputers perform demanding scientific calculations. Now, scientists are exploring a form of computing that could open a chapter in this journey. A conventional computer stores information in units called bits. Each bit represents zero or one. A quantum computer uses a quantum bit, or qubit, whose behaviour follows quantum physics, the science of matter and energy at small scales. A qubit can exist in a combination of possible states, called superposition. Qubits can also share a special quantum connection, in which the state of one is linked to another. These properties allow quantum computers to approach specialised calculations differently from conventional machines. Quantum computers will not replace laptops, smartphones or supercomputers. Conventional machines will continue everyday tasks, while supercomputers will handle demanding calculations. Quantum systems are being developed for specific areas of research that require different approaches. The technologies may work together. One area is the study of molecules and materials. Their behaviour follows quantum physics, making some properties difficult to model. Quantum machines may eventually help researchers explore these systems. The potential of these systems is being explored across different areas of research. Making quantum computers more reliable is an important area of research. Qubits require carefully designed conditions to work reliably, so scientists are developing methods to improve their performance. These methods combine several physical qubits to form a more reliable unit known as a logical qubit. This work is part of ongoing efforts to improve the performance of quantum computers. Google's Willow processor showed progress in reducing errors in quantum computers. A study published in the journal Nature in 2025 demonstrated improved protection of quantum information using 101 qubits. In October 2026, Quantinuum reported another advance through its Helios system, achieving 99.9995 per cent accuracy in an experiment, or about five errors per million operations. Both developments are important steps towards making quantum computers more reliable. The area of research continues to develop, with scientists exploring ways to expand its capabilities and applications. Researchers have shaped the field. John Preskill of the California Institute of Technology works on quantum information and error correction. Peter Shor of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology developed a landmark quantum algorithm. At Harvard, Mikhail Lukin leads research involving quantum optics and information. In Japan, Yasunobu Nakamura directs the RIKEN Centre for Quantum Computing. Around the world, research centres bring together experts from universities, scientific institutions and industry to advance quantum computing, communication, sensing and materials. Their collaboration is helping develop new ideas, knowledge and technologies. The United Kingdom's National Quantum Computing Centre helps develop and test quantum computers. Oxford leads QCi3, a research hub focused on scalable, interconnected systems. At Cambridge, the IonQ Quantum Innovation Centre opened in October 2026. The partnership also plans to bring a 256-qubit quantum computer to the university in the future. ETH Zurich advances quantum information theory. At Princeton, Nathalie de Leon studies defects in materials such as diamond that may support quantum information and sensing devices. Research in this field continues to explore new materials and improve the performance of quantum systems. Quantum computers may eventually help researchers study molecules and support the search for new medicines. They could help study materials for better batteries and more efficient technologies. Scientists are exploring possible applications in energy, transport and supply chains. Researchers continue to explore these applications and their potential benefits. Meanwhile, India is building its capabilities. Under the National Quantum Mission, four research hubs have been established. The Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru hosts the Quantum Computing Hub. IIT Madras, with the Centre for Development of Telematics, hosts the Quantum Communication Hub. IIT Bombay leads the Quantum Sensing and Metrology Hub, while IIT Delhi hosts the Quantum Materials and Devices Hub. Indian companies are contributing to this field as well. Bengaluru-based QpiAI announced QpiAI-Indus in April 2025, a quantum computing system featuring 25 superconducting qubits. The company is among eight startups selected under the National Quantum Mission, coordinated by the Department of Science and Technology. The system brings together quantum processors, specialised systems to operate them, and software designed to work alongside conventional high-performance computers. Its launch marks a step in India's efforts to develop its own quantum computing capabilities. Quantum computing is also encouraging progress in digital technology. Researchers are developing new ways to make information systems more reliable and better prepared for the next generation of computing. These developments show how scientific research can support innovation and create new opportunities across different fields. The field continues to evolve as researchers work to improve the reliability and scale of these systems. With further research and development, the technology may gradually find wider applications in specialised areas of science and industry. The next era of computing will not be shaped by one kind of computer alone. Conventional machines will support everyday life, supercomputers will handle demanding calculations, and quantum systems may offer another approach to specialised areas of scientific research. The measure of this advance will not simply be the number of qubits inside a machine. It will be the discoveries they may help make possible: better medicines, improved materials, more efficient energy systems and new scientific insights. Every major scientific advance begins with curiosity. Quantum computing is giving researchers new ways to advance scientific knowledge. Its journey is still unfolding, inviting continued curiosity, patience and hope. The greatest achievement of computing will not be measured by the sophistication of machines, but by the lasting improvements they bring to human life. (The Author is a Columnist. Email: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
Deleted Voters Can File Form 6 Without Fear of Prosecution, Clarifies Election Commission
The clarification came following a Delhi High Court order concerning voter enrolment through Form 6
Flop political agenda of Congress leads to one more flop show at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi
FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS On 1st November 2026-the past Sunday, we witnessed one more flop show at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi organised by the Congress party and attended by most of the opposition parties. It was earlier claimed that ten lakh people would be attending the rally. However, even 10% of the big claim didnt participate in the event. All estimates confirm that the total number of the people attending the rally at its peak time didnt touch even 50,000 mark, which is the normal capacity of the ground. People didn't show their interest in the rally in any significant manner. All opposition parties numbering 20 or more which took part in the rally brought their cadres to the rally. Then there were a number of habitual agitators and activists also seen in the rally. Leaders of regional parties who have lost their ground in their respective regions spoke at the rally. The attendance of people in the rally, the lack of enthusiasm among them about the issues of the rally and the future agenda sent a clear message across, i.e. that there was a complete disconnect of the leaders with the people on the issues for which the rally was called with extreme fanfare. Congress and the other newly formed platforms tried to create political pressure upon the government in regard to the resignation of the CEC Gyanesh Kumar earlier also well before this rally. However, those pressure tactics didnt work and faded away with the passage of time. The organisers of these protests have clearly mentioned that their actual target was Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and the Home Minister, Amit Shah whom they wanted in all circumstances to go. The accusations against SIR and resignation of Gaynesh Kumar were basically a camouflage to advance their original motives to dethrone the duly elected government. The frustration of the Congress led opposition has reached a level of no-return. They are pursuing an agenda that has no logic and legal standing. Their main thrust has remained on the so-called vote-theft issue which they are unable to substantiate in any way. They have failed to do so at the levels of CEC's office, judiciary, Parliament and also in the court of the public where they keep on losing elections after elections. The recently held elections for MLC seats in a number of states in which NDA-BJP won 16/28 seats, besides two elected MLCs joining the BJP after the results, is a classic example. In these elections, the Congress party was able to win only one seat through second preferential votes. The way the things are being manipulated, exaggerated and spoken by the opposition and particularly the principal opposition party, Congress, supported by the other newly formed groups clearly indicate that there is a foreign hand involved in these disturbing developments. These are surely aimed at creating disturbances of a bigger magnitude throughout the country and discredit the government and the nation globally. But their designs have fallen flat due to the disinterest shown by the silent majority of the country. When the Congress party led by Rahul Gandhi virtually 'raided' Akashvani Bhavan, Nirvachan Sadan and the Supreme Court of India in October 2026, it actually made known to the public at large that all these things were done by the Congress in utter desperation. The Supreme Court declined to meet such a raiding delegation of Congress in its premises. Instead it asked them to file their complaint with the Apex Court which would be put to trial by the designated bench of the highest court. The Supreme Court was annoyed over Rahul Gandhi's conduct on 12 October. The Apex Court clearly questioned Rahul Gandhi's conduct during his march stating it wanted the petitioner to explain his conduct while filing the petition and noted that 'we are not happy with what was done'. A bench led by CJI Suryakant issued formal notices to Rahul Gandhi, Congress party and the other leaders. The court said that it would 'examine everything' but demanded an explanation for the commotion and crowd management during the filing. Neither Congress party nor Rahul Gandhi, nor the other opposition leaders learnt any lessons out of this fiasco. Instead of waiting for the court's verdict, they all went for the free-for-all shows castigating constitutionally elected and established institutions and dignitaries of the nation. When they met the President of India, Dropadi Murmu in regard to their grievances regarding SIR connected issues, she asked them directly for proof in this connection. The Congress party or any leader of the opposition has failed to provide any proof in this context till date. Instead Rahul Gandhi brazenly claims publicly that 'he had a feeling of vote-chori and his feeling was multiplied by the results of the elections'. On the one hand, he accuses Gyanesh Kumar of conducting SIR to favour PM Modi and BJP and on the other hand he accuses him of getting PM Modi elected as the Prime Minister of India. Gyanesh Kumar assumed his office in January 2025 while PM Modi was elected in the year 2024 for the third time. Such atrocious arguments with a false sense of righteousness has gripped the Congress party and its leaders Kharge and Rahul Gandhi beyond imagination. Unruly, uncontrolled and arrogant behaviour and conduct of the leaders of opposition, both Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have been witnessed by the people umpteen times now. They have lost control over their language and public conduct. While Congress president Kharge publicly used invectives against the father of the Prime Minister Modi, Rahul Gandhi was seen involved in unruly and vagabond manner during the protests, pushing and pulling people in the rallies. The Supreme Court was compelled to issue a notice to Rahul Gandhi on a plea filed by a pregnant journalist in this regard. A sorry state of affairs about the LoP is a concern for all. 'The Supreme Court has issued notice to Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi on a plea filed by a pregnant journalist alleging that he pushed her while she was inside the top court's registry during the oppositions 12th October march to the top court. On 12th October, 2026, Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders led a crowd to the Supreme Court to submit a petition challenging the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The pregnant journalist, Richa Parashar, alleged that Rahul Gandhi had grabbed her and pulled her as she attempted to cover the march. She alleged that his security guards also pushed her; she fell in the push and was hospitalised. Respondent No.4 (Rahul Gandhi) suddenly pushed her towards the gate, with such force that she lost her balance and fell and had to break the fall with her hands. The push was delivered openly, in a crowded place, in the presence of security personnel, journalists and other persons, despite her express pleas. It was not a mere jostle of the crowd, her application states. The plea claims that even after she was pushed, no one stopped to help her. Respondent No.4 (Rahul Gandhi) did not even bother and no one, neither he nor any of the leaders, workers or security personnel accompanying him, stopped to help her or to ask whether she was hurt. With blood coming out of her hands, the applicant managed to reach a side pavement, where she sat pleading for help for almost forty minutes'. In the meantime, the Election Commission of India in response to the notice of the Supreme Court of India submitted its affidavit in the apex court and demolished the entire narrative in regard to the decisions about the SIR in the Commission. The ECI stated that all decisions regarding the 'SIR' (Summary Revision/Declaration) process were taken unanimously at the Commission. The affidavit was unanimously approved by all three members, the Chief Election Commissioner and both Election Commissioners. All three orders concerning the 'SIR' process (June, 2025, October, 2025 and May, 2026) were decisions reached unanimously by the Commission. The submission also said that there have been no changes to 'Form 6', only the Central Government has the authority to amend it. The 'SIR' declaration is a separate document. The plea seeking to restrain the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is not maintainable. The CEC can only be removed in the same manner as a Supreme Court judge. The Commission has never released nor authorised the release of any internal notes or files to the media. The Supreme Court has already dismissed repeated challenges to the EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines). On 17 November, 2026 the Supreme Court is expected to deliver the final judgement on SIR and the related issues for which the opposition has lost its sagacity to wait. As if it was not all enough, the Congress party organised a mock parliament at the residence of the LoP in Rajya Sabha and the President of the Congress party Mallikaarjuna Kharge on 31 October, 2026 (which was earlier decided to be held on 30 October, 2026). In the mock parliament, which was attended by real and fake MPs both, a resolution for the 'impeachment' of the CEC was adopted. Neither the mock parliament, nor the deliberations in it nor any sort of resolution adopted therein has any constitutional, legal or moral value. By these kinds of childish activities, the opposition and particularly the Congress party has brought themselves below par in the eyes of the public. In a way, they have further exposed themselves before the nation and their motives have come to be seen with suspicion. Another aspect of this whole scenario is that the LoP in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has initiated a campaign of threats and warnings to the duly elected authorities and constitutionally established institutional heads besides the police and civil officers. These threats need to be viewed by the government and the law and order authorities very seriously. Even the Supreme Court needs to take suo moto actionon these threats unleashed by Rahul Gandhi. Enough is really enough. It clearly seems that both Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are competent enough to bury the Congress party with their own hands....! (The author is a senior BJP & KP leader, Human Rights Defender and a columnist and can be reached at: ashwanikc2012@gmail.com )
Kupwara to host talent hunt for local youth
Kupwara, Nov 3: In a major opportunity for talented youth of North Kashmir, Kupwara is set to host Kashmirs Got Talent, a talent hunt event that will bring nationally recognised celebrities to the border district to identify and promote local talent. Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Abhishek Sharma has urged aspiring artists from across the district to participate, saying the event could open new doors for youngsters who have talent but lack opportunities and resources. Speaking to press at Government Degree College Kupwara, Sharma said the auditions will be held on November 8, 9 and 10 at the college ground. He said the event is being organised through the joint efforts of the Indian Army and Taha Film International. More than 350 registrations have already been received, indicating strong enthusiasm among the youth. Sharma said Kupwara has no shortage of talent, but local artists often lack platforms to showcase their abilities within the district. He said the event would give them an opportunity to present their skills before nationally recognised celebrities without travelling to cities such as Srinagar, Delhi or Mumbai. He appealed to talented youngsters from remote villages and far-flung areas to come forward and take part in the auditions. The DC said the event would cover different categories, including contemporary and traditional folk performances, giving participants from different backgrounds an opportunity to showcase their skills. He described the initiative as a rare opportunity for young people, particularly those who cannot afford to travel outside the district in search of platforms. Sharma expressed hope that the event would help discover hidden talent and enable local artists to bring recognition to Kupwara and Jammu and Kashmir.
BJP leaders criticise Mamata-Congress bonhomie
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee of allying with anarchists in Delhi
Prepare plan to clean up waste along rail tracks: Centre to MCD
ACP suspended after police HQ demonstration over transfers
Anthropogenic emission cuts in Delhi-NCR could slash PM2.5 by 60%, study reveals
After Delhi meeting without her, Sunetra rallies NCP MLAs
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, who heads the ruling NCP, met party legislators in Mumbai on Tuesday. The meeting, attended by around 50 MLAs and ministers, aimed to discuss party unity, future election strategies for 2029, and organisational strengthening. This gathering followed a meeting of senior NCP leaders with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, which Sunetra Pawar did not attend.
Stubble fire row flares as Delhi AQI worsens; Khanna worst-hit in Punjab
SIR-excluded voters can reapply without fear of 'false declaration' charges: ECI clears air
The Election Commission of India recently clarified concerns regarding filling Form 6 for re-inclusion on electoral rolls. This clarification aims to alleviate fears among registered voters about potential legal consequences. The clarification follows a Delhi High Court order that deemed such apprehensions as misplaced.
Checks to curb pollution choke Delhi-bound roads for second day
IIT-Roorkee to study Parthala underpass design, work may begin next month
