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Sikh Man Injured After Scuffle Between Two Families Turns Violent Over Hookah In Delhi's Kirti Nagar
A senior police officer said that no complaint has been filed by either side, so no FIR has been registered.
Delhi AQI Remains Very Poor; Centre Sets One-Week Ultimatum To Authorities To Improve Air
Delhi Air Pollution: The Union environment ministry said that monthly review meetings would be held from January 2026 to assess action plans prepared by states.
Thick Smog Blankets Delhi, Flight, Train Ops Hit, Air Quality Likely To Worsen
The national capital, Delhi, woke up to a thick layer of smog blanketing the city with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 380, falling under the 'very poor' category.
7 Elephants Killed After Collision With Rajdhani Express In Assam; Five Coaches Derailed
Train number 20507 DN Sairang-New Delhi Rajdhani Express struck elephants on the track, leading to the derailment of the locomotive and five coaches.
IMD weather forecast: As winter tightens its grip, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of dense foggy conditions in Northern India. Cold wave conditions are likely to prevail in Telangana, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, the IMD warned. Meanwhile, while Delhi is likely to see a partly cloudy sky today, Ooty in Tamil Nadu will see misty weather.
India, Netherlands for strengthening global cooperation to combat terrorism in comprehensive manner
NEW DELHICondemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, India and the Netherlands on Friday emphasised the need for strengthening international cooperation to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner. The two sides also discussed key developments in Indo-Pacific, Ukraine, South Asia, West Asia (Middle East), and other regional and global issues of shared []
Environmental responsibility part of CSR, says SC bench
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday held that companies cannot claim to be socially responsible while disregarding the protection of wildlife and fragile ecosystems affected by their operations. A two-judge bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Atul S Chandurkar while hearing submissions in the long-running case on conservation of critically endangered Great Indian Bustard held that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) cannot be divorced from a companys environmental responsibility. CSR funds are not acts of philanthropy but instruments to discharge constitutional and fiduciary duties, particularly where corporate activities threaten endangered species, the bench said. The case was filed in 2019 by environmentalist M K Ranjitsinh seeking urgent measures to prevent the extinction of the Great Indian Bustard, whose populations have declined due to habitat loss and collisions with overhead power lines in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Disposing of the writ petitions, the court ruled that survival of the Great Indian Bustard is non-negotiable, adding firms benefiting from natural landscapes must shoulder responsibility for conserving them.
Orange Alert In Delhi As Fog, Toxic Air Continue To Choke; 177 Flights Cancelled, AQI Nears 400
Dense fog and hazardous air pollution gripped Delhi, disrupting over 700 flights and pushing AQI near severe levels.
Learning Malayalam, Priyanka tells Modi at Speakers chai pe charcha
NEW DELHI: A light-hearted exchange over Wayanad turmeric and Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent Ethiopia visit figured in the friendly conversation between Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the PM at the customary tea hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday, after the conclusion of the Winter Session of Parliament. Priyanka, the Congress MP from Keralas Wayanad, is understood to have told Modi that she is learning Malayalam so that it helps while conversing with her constituents. She also asked the PM about his recent three-nation trip to Africa and the Middle East. Modi is learnt to have said that the impression many people have in India about Ethiopia is quite different from the actual position of that country, which is progressing very well socially and economically. The tea party is a customary meeting hosted by the Speaker with leaders of different parties after every session. The Opposition had stayed away from the meeting since the 2024 Monsoon Session alleging that its members were not allowed to speak during debates. Congress sources said the party decided to attend it this time around following a decision by AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge. While the Opposition remains opposed to the bills, they felt the Chair was relatively fair during this session. This, they said, was in contrast to the previous session, when they were not allowed to speak. When SP leader Dharmendra Yadav observed that the Winter Session was one of the shortest, the PM told him in a friendly manner that it was good for his throat as he didnt have to shout for too many days, inviting laughter from those present, sources said. RSPs N K Premachandran too complained about the short session, with Speaker Birla reminding him that he had given him ample opportunities to speak on any subject. Priyanka joined in, saying that many MPs like her always look at Premachandrans conduct in the House and try to learn various aspects of parliamentary proceedings, sources said. Those who attended the tea party included Manickam Tagore, Kumari Selja, Supriya Sule, A Raja, Ram Mohan Naidu, Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Chirag Paswan.
South Delhi bizman shot 69 times: Another businessmans family suspected behind killing
A brutal daylight shooting in Delhi saw businessman Ratan Kumar gunned down 69 times. Police suspect a revenge plot orchestrated by overseas gangsters, linked to the murder of another businessman allegedly by Kumar's estranged son, Deepak. The family believes this was retaliation, despite Kumar publicly disowning his son.
'Thought Airports Were Safe': Passenger Alleges Physical Assault By Pilot. Airline Responds
A passenger accused Air India Express pilot of assault at Delhi airport Terminal 1. Airline issued a statement saying that it unequivocally condemns such behaviour.
A foreign vlogger's trip to New Delhi took an unexpected turn with auto driver Mr Mulchan. He became more than a driver, joining tourists at amusement parks and temples. This encounter showcased genuine Indian hospitality. The viral video highlights the warmth and connection found in everyday interactions, leaving a lasting impression on both the travelers and Mr Mulchan.
The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for Saturday, cautioning about dense fog across the city and predicting that the unfavorable weather conditions were likely to persist throughout the day.
The authorities are working to ensure that the infrastructure is in place to handle the influx of passengers and vehicles. With the airport expected to handle approximately 30 crore passengers annually, the need for effective traffic management is paramount.
Lal Bagh walk to introduce biodiversity through Ramayana and Mahabharata
The story goes that...Bheema, wanting to prank his beloved wife Draupadi chopped up a shalmali trees trunk, placed it on his bed and hid it under some blankets. Oblivious to this, Draupadi came by and as she did often, began massaging what she believed were her husbands legs. But his unnatural quietness and stillness slowly made her suspicious and when she starts to hear the distant sounds of laughter, those suspicions are confirmed. She flies into a rage and curses the shalmali tree to grow thorns, so that no woman will mistake it for a mans leg again, Anupriy Kanti tells the story with a laugh, as he does on his curated walks through Lal Bagh, encouraging participants to feel and engage with the trees, plants, and natural formations in the garden while learning all about the myths and folk tales that have been told about them. For Kanti, who has taken part in and been part of organising walks in Delhi and Bengaluru, this approach to combining nature with mythology emerged from the history walks that the city sees plenty of. He says, There are some amazing walks happening in the city, in Lal Bagh too, but I noticed that a lot of them just covered colonial history despite the fact that the park has huge botanical variety that have cultural significance across civilisations. With this in mind, he started Before and Beyond History Walks, combining botanical information about the plants in the park and their prehistoric roots while telling stories across cultures from Greek myths to Filipino folktales. The walk set to happen this weekend focuses specifically on the Indian Epics the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Right now, mythology has become a little bit of a polarised term with people either trying to prove that mythology is history or completely dismissing mythology. Im not trying to say that they are real or not, Im saying that they mean something to us as a civilisation. Through the walk, your relationship with the stories, the garden and your way of seeing nature will also change, he says. To encourage people to look at the epics with fresh eyes, as they are doing so with the park, Kanti has curated stories that may have slipped through familiar mainstream narratives. I have gone into local Kannada folklore and even stories from foreign countries that people may not be familiar with, he says, adding, Well also be talking about how the tradition has evolved for example, with the Ramayana, you have Valmikis Sanskrit version, but also versions around the globe and modern adaptations that change the story. This weekend, roll out of bed and escape into nature and the world of stories our ancestors made with it after all, unlike the heroes of these epics who had to brave the natural world for years in exile, we can come back to city life anytime. (On Saturday, the Ramayana Quest will be held at 7.30am and Mahabharata Quest at 3pm.Vice-versa on Sunday. To book, visit @prihistorica on Instagram. Prices range from `599 to `999)
When your tandoori naan & tikka arent smoky, but everything else is
57 in police net in cyber fraud cases under Cy-Hawk operation
In a dramatic turn of events at Delhi airport, an Air India Express pilot found himself grounded after supposedly attacking a passenger amidst a scuffle over a security queue. The passenger described the ordeal, sharing how he emerged with a bloodied face before the pilots scheduled flight to Bengaluru.
SMVD Sangarsh Samiti delegation calls on Nadda, seeks early resolution of issue
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Dec 19 :In connection with the ongoing public concern and stir regarding the allotment of seats in Shree Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), a high-level delegation of core members of Shree Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti today met the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, at Parliament House, here. The delegation apprised the Union Minister in detail about the widespread resentment prevailing among the people of Jammu over the [] The post SMVD Sangarsh Samiti delegation calls on Nadda, seeks early resolution of issue appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Energy independence aligned with self-reliance, geopolitical compatibility: Dr Jitendra
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Energy independence is no longer a matter of choice but an economic, strategic, and geopolitical necessity, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh, while adding that Indias transition towards clean and diversified energy sources is inseparably aligned with self-reliance and geopolitical compatibility, the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Indias expanding global role. Addressing an event in Delhi, the Minister said that debates on whether [] The post Energy independence aligned with self-reliance, geopolitical compatibility: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dengue tightens its grip on Delhi; pan-India cases up 5x
No conclusive data linking higher AQI to lung diseases: Centre to RS
India, Oman trade pact likely to be operationalised within 3 months: Goyal
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: India and Oman will endeavour to implement the India-Oman free trade agreement, signed on December 18, within the next three months, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday. Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Oman has offered zero-duty access on over 98 of its tariff lines or product categories, covering 99.38 per cent of Indias exports to the Gulf country. All major labour-intensive sectors, including gems and jewellery, textiles, leather, footwear, sports goods, [] The post India, Oman trade pact likely to be operationalised within 3 months: Goyal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: The short Winter Session of Parliament concluded on Friday as both houses were adjourned sine die after the passage of some key legislations, including the one replacing the 20-year-old scheme MGNREGA and others to allow the opening up of civil nuclear sector for private sector and 100 per cent FDI in Insurance. Both the houses witnessed heated exchanges between the opposition and treasury benches during discussions on key legislations and debates. While Lok Sabha saw 111 [] The post Winter Session concludes as key legislations replacing MGNREGA, pvt participation in nuclear sector passed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Traditional medicine must win trust through science, expand reach: PM Modi
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said traditional medicine was yet to receive the place it truly deserved and asserted that it should win trust through science to expand its reach further. Addressing the WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine here, Modi said strengthening research, use of digital technologies and developing a trusted regulatory framework will further bolster traditional medicine. There was once a perception that traditional medicine was limited only to wellness or lifestyle, but [] The post Traditional medicine must win trust through science, expand reach: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarat best destination for real estate development, realtors must explore opportunities: CM
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday urged real estate developers to invest in the state, as it offers huge business opportunities and provides time-bound permission for projects. He noted that Gujarat has become the best destination for real estate activities and also a role model for well-planned urban development. Addressing realtors apex body CREDAIs national conclave here, Patel urged real estate players to explore business opportunities at GIFT City and the upcoming Dholera industrial city [] The post Gujarat best destination for real estate development, realtors must explore opportunities: CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sky is no longer the limit: CJI Surya Kant on Shubhanshu Shuklas Axiom-4 mission
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Friday praised Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station, and said his odyssey serves as an exemplification that the sky is no longer the limit. Shukla was part of the Axiom-4 commercial mission to the International Space Station (ISS) from June 25 to July 15. Speaking at NDTV Indian of the Year Awards 2025, CJI Kant said he [] The post Sky is no longer the limit: CJI Surya Kant on Shubhanshu Shuklas Axiom-4 mission appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Net direct tax collection grows 8 pc to Rs 17.04 lakh cr on slower refunds
NEW DELHI, Dec 19 : Net direct tax collection grew 8 per cent to over Rs 17.04 lakh crore between April 1-December 17 as refund issuances slowed, the income tax department data showed on Friday. This includes net corporate tax mop up of over Rs 8.17 lakh crore and non-corporate tax of about Rs 8.47 lakh crore. Net revenue from Securities Transaction Tax (STT) stood at Rs 40,195 crore till December 17 of the current fiscal. Refunds issuance dropped 14 [] The post Net direct tax collection grows 8 pc to Rs 17.04 lakh cr on slower refunds appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Commuters faced significant disruption as Delhi enforced a ban on non-BS 6 vehicles from other states, leading to confusion and fines at border checkpoints. Many were turned back or forced to take lengthy detours, highlighting a lack of coordination and public awareness regarding the new pollution control measures.
Omar seeks early release of pending Central funds for JJM
CM assures achievement of targets NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday met Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Paatil here and discussed key issues related to the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in the Union Territory, including the early release of pending Central funds to clear work-done claims and restart stalled schemes. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Abdullah was accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest [] The post Omar seeks early release of pending Central funds for JJM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Meditation, boating at Bharat Vandana Park likely from Jan
FM likely to present budget on Sunday
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: If Parliamentary convention is followed, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the General Budget for 2026-27 on a Sunday, according to officials. The budget has been presented on the first day of February since 2017, and in 2026, it is a Sunday. However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, when asked about it, said, These decisions are taken by the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs at an appropriate time. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The [] The post FM likely to present budget on Sunday appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vicky Kaushal: Im better at changing diapers than acting
Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif have been basking in the joy of becoming parents to their first child, a baby boy. The couple welcomed their son on November 7, 2025, and have been cherishing every moment of their new journey together. Recently, Vicky made his first appearance outside Mumbai after the birth of his child, attending an event in Delhi, where he spoke candidly about fatherhood and life as a new dad.
DU teacher alleges caste bias after show-cause notice
Registration renewal hopes rekindled for BS-IV vehicle owners
For loss-making DTC, idle depot land likely to turn into cash cow
ISL clubs propose club-owned league with perpetual rights
New Delhi, Dec 19: Indian Super League (ISL) clubs on Friday formally proposed a fundamental restructuring of the countrys top-tier professional football league, seeking perpetual operational and commercial rights for a club-owned league model while retaining the All India Football Federation (AIFF) as the sports regulator. The proposal was submitted on the final day of []
Youve Got Mail! India Post Stamps Out Age-Old Style For Gen-Z Designs
High demand, server overload: Issuance of PUCC slows in Delhi
Noidas AQI slips back to severe, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad not far behind
MCD Annual Plan: Parking, EV Charging Infra In Focus
AP CM Pushes For Refinery, Metro Rail And Shipbuilding Projects In Delhi Meetings
The CM met petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and invited him to lay the foundation for the proposed BPCL Greenfield Refinery in Nellore district.
How city youth are clinging to readingbetween exams and endless scrolling
PWD asks road maintenance zones to submit ATRs on stray helpline signage
Two Noida schools receive hoax bomb threat emails
Man held for helping cons park Rs 1 crore in bank account
Woman files sexual assault case against veterinary doc
Christmas shopping meets purpose at city winter carnival
At the British High Commissioner's residence, the Tamana Winter Carnival unfolded as a vibrant celebration of the holiday season and inclusivity
Ghaziabad man gets 6 yrs jail for molestation bid on 7-year-old girl
One killed, another person hurt in India Gate accident
Air pollution curbs strand Delhi-NCR commuters
Delhi's ban on non-BS VI vehicles to combat pollution is disrupting commutes for thousands from Noida and Gurgaon. Employees are shifting to cabs and metro, facing crowding and limited availability, while some are forced to take leave. Companies are encouraging remote work and carpooling to mitigate the impact.
1cr theft: Thak-Thak gang member held
Aviation Ministry Directs Airlines To Ensure Passenger Care As Fog Disrupts Flight Operations
Civil Aviation Ministry's direction came as dense fog disrupted operations at the Delhi airport, with at least 177 flights getting cancelled and over 500 flights getting delayed.
Family alleges teen killed while being robbed, cops counter claim
Court junks Rabri's plea to transfer cases from Judge
A Delhi court has rejected Rabri Devi's request to move IRCTC and land-for-jobs cases. The CBI argued her plea was a tactic to avoid fair justice. The cases involve alleged corruption by Rabri Devi and her family. Special Judge Vishal Gogne is presiding over these matters. The court found the judge's previous decisions were based on judicial application of mind.
Court summons Lalu, kin for framing of charges on Jan 9
A Delhi court will decide on framing charges in the land-for-jobs case on January 9, with Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi, and their children ordered to appear. The court also dismissed Rabri Devi's plea to transfer cases, including the IRCTC scam and money laundering proceedings, from Judge Vishal Gogne, whom she accused of bias.
Off-duty AI Express pilot assaults passenger at Delhi airport; suspended
An Air India Express pilot faces suspension after an alleged physical assault on a passenger at Delhi airport. The incident occurred near the security area. The passenger reported the altercation on social media, sharing images of his injuries. The airline has launched an investigation into the employee's conduct. The pilot was traveling as a passenger on another airline.
Smart Cities Projects nears completion in J&K
New Delhi, Dec 19:Jammu and Kashmir has made a substantial headway under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), as data presented in the Parliament records the majority of approved projects in Jammu and Srinagar nearing completion. In a written reply to Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs said that Jammu and Kashmir has [] The post Smart Cities Projects nears completion in J&K appeared first on Northlines .
17,315 street vendors benefit under PM SVANidhi in J&K
New Delhi, Dec 19:Nearly 17,315 street vendors in Jammu and Kashmir have benefited from the Prime Minister Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme and over 48 crore loan disbursed so far, as per the official data tabled in Parliament shows. In a written reply by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in response [] The post 17,315 street vendors benefit under PM SVANidhi in J&K appeared first on Northlines .
183 Cr disbursed under AMRUT 2.0 in 3 Yrs
Over 78,000 tap connections delivered New Delhi, Dec 19:Jammu and Kashmir has received over 180 crore as Central assistance under several development missions focused on strengthening basic amenities for the urban poor, including water supply and sewerage, the Union Government informed Parliament today. In a written reply to Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Housing and [] The post 183 Cr disbursed under AMRUT 2.0 in 3 Yrs appeared first on Northlines .
Vizag Air Quality Index at 350, Beats Delhi
On Friday, the air quality index at Visakhapatnam central area around noon showed 350, while Delhi, said to be the most polluted city, displayed the index at 316 around the same time.
Delhi pharma owner arrested for drug trafficking
Jammu Tawi, Dec 19 : The Anti-Narcotics Task Force of Jammu and Kashmir Police has arrested the owner of a Delhi-based pharmaceutical company for his alleged involvement in drug trafficking in the Union territory, officials said on Friday. In a significant breakthrough against a drug trafficking network, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) has apprehended Jatish [] The post Delhi pharma owner arrested for drug trafficking appeared first on Northlines .
Winter Session concludes with passage of key legislations
New Delhi, Dec 19: The short Winter Session of Parliament concluded on Friday with both Houses adjourned sine die after the passage of several key legislations, including a bill replacing the 20-year-old MGNREGA scheme, opening the civil nuclear sector to private participation, and allowing 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector. [] The post Winter Session concludes with passage of key legislations appeared first on Northlines .
Special audit to look into finances of med council
12 Flights Cancelled as Poor Visibility Hits Jammu, Srinagar Airports
SRINAGAR: Widespread fog over North India disrupted air traffic on Friday, severely affecting operations at Srinagar and Jammu airports, with 12 flights cancelled and a further 18 delayed. At Srinagar International Airport, seven flights were cancelled, and twelve were delayed due to poor visibility and adverse weather at departure points, including Delhi, Amritsar and Kolkata. []
Fog disrupts flights: Dense fog hits Delhi airport operations; 177 cancelled, 500+ delayed
Dense fog grounded operations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Friday, leading to at least 177 flight cancellations and over 500 delays. Airlines are offering full refunds and free rescheduling, with airport authorities ensuring passenger support amidst ongoing CAT III operations.
Severe air: Teachers allege discriminatory attendance policies
Breathe Smart: Air Purifiers In Schools
Flights from Chennai hit by Delhis dense fog
'Will Be Asset For Our Party': PM Modi Meets BJP National Working President Nitin Nabin
BJP leader Nitin Nabin assumed charge as the partys National Working President on Monday at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi.
National Herald Case: Probe Agency Moves Delhi High Court Over Trial Order
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday approached the Delhi High Court challenging a trial court's order refusing to take cognisance of its charge sheet against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and others in the National Herald case.
National Herald case: ED moves Delhi HC against order favouring Gandhis
The ED has assailed the trial courts order issued on Wednesday, which held that taking cognisance of the agencys complaint was impermissible in law as it was not based on a FIR. The court ruled that an investigation and the consequent prosecution complaint under PMLA
Indias reengagement with China in trade and investment is benefitting exporters
Easing of business Visa to Chinese experts has long term implications for manufacturers By T N Ashok When India quietly eased business visa rules for foreign engineers and technicians last month, the immediate beneficiaries were Indian manufacturers struggling with stalled factory lines and half-installed machinery. But the deeper signal was unmistakable: New Delhi [] The post Indias reengagement with China in trade and investment is benefitting exporters appeared first on Northlines .
Two men arrested for series of housebreakings in west Delhi
Police Bust Major Cyber Fraud Racket; Four Arrested, 24 Crore Money Trail Detected
Jaishankar seeks Dutch push as India-EU trade talks enter decisive phase
NEW DELHI: India and the Netherlands on Friday agreed to deepen cooperation in emerging strategic domains such as semiconductors, digital technology and cyberspace, while also stepping up defence and security engagement, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pressed for Dutch support to conclude the IndiaEuropean Union free trade agreement (FTA). During talks with his Dutch counterpart David van Weel, Jaishankar said the relationship, traditionally strong in areas such as agriculture, health, science and shipping, was ready for a more ambitious phase. Whether it is semiconductors, digital, cyberspace or life sciences, we would like to work more closely with you, he said. With India and the EU in the final stages of negotiating a trade pact expected to be signed in January, Jaishankar added: We count on your support as we are moving to what I hope is a decisive phase in our negotiations with the EU on the free trade agreement. Van Weel, who began his India visit in Mumbai on Wednesday, said he was not aware of any big sticking points that could delay the deal. Hopefully, that will happen in the very near future. I know EU officials will be visiting India as guests on your Republic Day, so Im sure that everybody wants this to be concluded as soon as possible, he told reporters later. At the same time, he acknowledged the complexity of the talks, noting: Its never easy, the EU is 27 nations with different economies, different interests, so all free trade agreements take time to come to fruition. The Dutch ministers visit also focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation. He held meetings with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, with the two sides concluding a letter of intent on Thursday to provide a framework for defence cooperation. As part of this effort, a Dutch frigate will make a port call at Kochi in May 2026. Van Weel also visited the Western Naval Command and the Mazagon Dockyard in Mumbai to explore opportunities for defence industrial collaboration. Regional stability and the Indo-Pacific featured prominently in the discussions. Van Weel said cooperation was crucial at a time when there is pressure on the openness of the oceans and on adherence to UNCLOS. The Netherlands [has] been dependent on the high seas and free passage of trade in order to thrive as an open economy, he said. This is something that we want to cooperate on. Both sides exchanged views on developments in Ukraine, South Asia and West Asia, and condemned all forms of terrorism, stressing the need for stronger international cooperation to counter the threat. Van Weel described Russias war in Ukraine as an existential security issue for Europe. Ukraine cannot lose this war, he said, adding that he had urged partners to use their contacts with Moscow to convey to them the message to come to the negotiating table. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof is expected to visit India in February for the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, and the Netherlands reiterated its invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit, signalling momentum in the bilateral relationship.
The Enforcement Directorate has appealed to the Delhi High Court after a trial court refused to take cognisance of its prosecution complaint against Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald money laundering case.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday, in its landmark verdict, laid down guidelines on how courts must be sensitive and adhere to the evidence and testimony, while conducting court proceedings of minor victims of trafficking and prostitution. It also observed that child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation a deeply disturbing realities in India. Upholding the conviction of a Bengaluru man and his wife for trafficking and sexually exploiting a minor girl, a two-judgeBench of the apex court, headed by Justice Manoj Misra and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, issued the guidelines. While relying on various judgments --Bai Radha versus State of Gujarat, and State of UT of Delhi versus Ram Singh (December 16, 2012, Delhi gangrape and murder case) -- the top court on Friday passed the verdict, which could be an eye opener for the courts dealing with such kind of victims. The top court passed the verdict after hearing an appeal filed by the convictK P Kirankumar alias Kiran against the state of Peenya Police. Itrefused to doubt the conviction -- earlier imposed by the trial court and High Court -- of the accused in the matter. The cases of child trafficking are not isolated aberrations but part of an entrenched pattern of organised exploitation that continues despite legislative safeguards. The judicial assessment of such cases must be informed by sensitivity to the lived realities of minor victims rather than rigid or hyper-technical standards of proof, said the apex court in its 16-page judgement, a copy accessed by TNIE noted. The SC -- while upholding the judgments of the Trial Court and the Karnataka High Court under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 --cautioned against discarding the child victim's testimony over minor inconsistencies or stereotypical notions of conduct. The instant case lays bare the deeply disturbing reality of child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation in India, an offence that strikes at the very foundations of dignity, bodily integrity and the State's constitutional promise of protection to every child against exploitation leading to moral and material abandonment, observed the top court. The SC, while asking the courts to be very sensitive while appreciating the evidence of a minor victim of trafficking, the Court ought to bear in mind: 1. Her inherent socio-economic and, at times, cultural vulnerability when the minor belongs to a marginalised or socially and culturally backward community. 2. Complex and layered structure of organised crime networks which operate at various levels of recruiting, transporting, harbouring and exploiting minor victims. Such organised crime activities operate as apparently independent verticals whose insidious intersections are conveniently veiled through subterfuges and deception to hoodwink innocent victims. The apex court directed that recounting and narration of the horrible spectre of sexual exploitation, even before law enforcement agencies and the Court, is an unpalatable experience leading to secondary victimisation. This is more acute when the victim is a minor and is faced with threats of criminal intimidation, fear of retaliation, social stigma and paucity of social and economic rehabilitation. In this backdrop, judicial appreciation of the victim's evidence must be marked by sensitivity and realism. If, on such nuanced appreciation, the version of the victim appears to be credible and convincing, a conviction may be maintained on her sole testimony. A victim of sex trafficking, particularly a minor, is not an accomplice and her deposition is to be given due regard and credence as that of an injured, the court said in the verdict.
Virat Kohli has returned to domestic cricket after 15 years as Delhi announced a star-studded squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Rishabh Pant will lead the side, with veteran pacer Ishant Sharma also included, marking a major boost for Delhi's title hopes.
Crash barrier between Madhuban Chowk and Mukarba Chowk to avoid accidents
RS Chairman expresses displeasure over disruptions by Opposition members during G RAM G Bill passage
NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Friday conveyed his displeasure over disruptions by Opposition members during the passage of the rural employment guarantee Bill (Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission - Rural Bill). Terming the conduct 'unbecoming of Members of Parliament', he urged them to introspect and refrain from such behaviour in future. Disruption created during yesterday's sitting by the Opposition Members by shouting slogans, displaying placards, disrupting the Minister replying to the discussion, tearing up papers and throwing them in the well of the House showed conduct unbecoming of Members of Parliament. I earnestly hope that Honble Members would introspect and not repeat such unruly behaviour in future, he said. Radhakrishnan read out a synopsis of the legislative and other business transacted during the 15-day sitting of the Winter session before adjourning the proceedings sine die. The Winter session of Parliament started on December 1. The Rajya Sabha proceedings continued till midnight on Thursday as the House debated the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission - Rural (Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission - Rural) Bill. The Bill was passed with a voice vote amidst a ruckus created by Opposition MPs. The legislation replaced the 20-year-old rural employment scheme -- the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGA) -- by boosting the number of guaranteed workdays to 125, up from the current 100 days per household for unskilled manual labour. Opposition MPs protested the removal of the name of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, from the new legislation. PM suffering from 'acute acronym-itis': Congress' dig after passage of G RAM G Bill In his valedictory remark, as the 269th Session of the Rajya Sabha concluded, the Chairman also highlighted the productivity and constructive debates during the winter session. Overall, the House functioned for a total of about 92 hours, and the productivity of this Session stood at 121 per cent, said Radhakrishnan. The Session witnessed an unprecedented number of Zero Hour Notices, with an average of over 84 notices received per daynearly a 31 per cent increase as compared to the preceding two Sessions. Further, the number of matters actually raised during Zero Hour significantly surpassed previous benchmarks, averaging more than 15 matters per daynearly a 50 per cent increase as compared to the preceding two Sessions, he added. Winter Session began with Centre insulting Tagore, ended with insult of Gandhi: Congress The Chairman further noted that a remarkable number, as many as 59 Private Members' Bills, were introduced during this session. In the discussion on each Private Members' Bill and Resolution, 22 Members participated, he stated. Highlighting the quality of deliberations, Radhakrishnan said that the House held a two-day special discussion on the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram', with 82 members participating. A three-day discussion on electoral reforms saw interventions from 57 members. During the session, the Rajya Sabha passed or returned eight Bills and adopted a statutory resolution on the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, with participation from 212 members. As many as 59 Private Members' Bills were introduced, reflecting what he described as the vibrancy of parliamentary democracy. Rahul Gandhi slams VB-G RAM G Bill as anti-village, says Modi Govt destroyed 20 years of MGNREGA
Dev Dutt Appointed Selector For Delhi Civil Services Team
All India Civil Services Tournament: Devdutt has been appointed as selector for the Delhi Services team for the All India Civil Services Tournament. Dev Dutt captained the India Men's Deaf Cricket Team, who achieved a comprehensive victory in the three-match T20 series with strong performances across all departments against the Inclusive Warriors Deaf Dubai (IWDD) team at Sharjah's DCS YOU SELECTS Arena. Alongside Dev Dutt, Pawan Chauhan and Deepanshu have also been appointed as selectors. In the opening match on December 11, IDCA scored a formidable 212 for 5 after choosing to bat, before bowling out IWDD for 123 in 17.2 overs to secure an emphatic 89-run victory. Santosh Kumar Mahapatra was named Player of the Match for his crucial contribution to the dominant win. The second T20 on December 12 saw IWDD bat first and score 134 for 8, but IDCA chased down the target with ease, reaching 139 for 2 in just 11.3 overs to secure an eight-wicket victory. Once again, Santosh Kumar Mahapatra received the Player of the Match award for his match-winning performance. In the opening match on December 11, IDCA scored a formidable 212 for 5 after choosing to bat, before bowling out IWDD for 123 in 17.2 overs to secure an emphatic 89-run victory. Santosh Kumar Mahapatra was named Player of the Match for his crucial contribution to the dominant win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the end of the series, Santosh Kumar Mahapatra was named Best Batsman, Virender Singh earned the Best Bowler and Player of the Series awards, and Vaibhav Paranjpe was recognised as the Best Fielder, marking a strongly dominant series for the IDCA Team. Article Source: IANS
Pant to lead Delhi, Kohli to play first two matches of Vijay Hazare Trophy
The squad for the first two games also includes Ishant Sharma, Navdeep Saini, vice-captain Ayush Badoni, Priyansh Arya and Nitish Rana
Centre to soon set up Bureau of Port Security; Amit Shah reviews safety of vessels, coastal hubs
NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday convened a high-level meeting to review the security of vessels and port facilities across the country and initiate the constitution of a dedicated Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) to enhance the security of coastal logistic hubs, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in an official statement. The proposed Bureau of Port Security will be established as a statutory body under Section 13 of the newly promulgated Merchant Shipping Act, 2025,it said, adding that the body will function under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and will be responsible for regulatory oversight and coordination related to the security of ships and port infrastructure. Chairing the meeting, Shah stressed upon the need for a robust and future-ready port security framework and directed that security measures be implemented in a graded and risk-based manner, the MHA said, while noting that he also said that the framework should factor in vulnerabilities, trade potential, geographical location and other relevant parameters to ensure effective protection of critical maritime assets. The BoPS will be headed by a Director General of the rank of an IPS officer in the pay matrix of Level-15 and will be modeled on the lines of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the MHA said, adding that during the preliminary phase of one year, the Director General of Shipping would function as the Director General of the Bureau of Port Security. According to the MHA, the new body will focus on timely analysis, collection and exchange of security-related information, with special emphasis on cyber security. A dedicated division will be created within the Bureau to protect port-related IT infrastructure from emerging digital threats, it added. As part of the revamped security framework, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been designated as a Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for port facilities and the force will be responsible for conducting security assessments and preparing security plans for ports across the country. The CISF has also been tasked with training and capacity building of Private Security Agencies deployed at ports, while these agencies will be certified and regulatory measures will be introduced to ensure that only licensed and trained private security providers operate in the port security ecosystem. The meeting was attended by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Minister of Civil Aviation. The MHA said lessons drawn from the strengthened maritime security framework would also be leveraged to further improve security mechanisms in the aviation sector.
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Pant Appointed As Delhis Captain, Kohli Confirms Availability
Vijay Hazare Trophy: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named as Delhis captain for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting on December 24 in Bengaluru. Delhis squad has also been boosted by the availability of batting stalwart Virat Kohli, as well as senior pacers Ishant Sharma and Navdeep Saini. With BCCI making a mandate for India players with central contracts to feature in domestic cricket, seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana will link up with the Delhi side once he becomes available, said the DDCA on Friday. The senior mens selection committee met at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday to finalise Delhis squad from a bumper list of probables announced earlier. The meeting was attended by selectors Yashpal Singh, K. Bhaskar Pillai and Manu Nayar, chief coach Sarandeep Singh, CAC member Robin Singh (Jr.), secretary Ashok Sharma and joint secretary Amit Grover. Delhi will play its first two Elite Group D games in the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Andhra and Gujarat at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground when playing for his IPL team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Delhi is also scheduled to play its remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Kohli comes on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. The duo will be available for Delhi till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11-17, 2026. Kohli last played Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi in the 2009/10 season. Kohli comes on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ranjan and Tejasvi had recently bagged IPL 2026 deals after being roped in by three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the recent auction held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Delhi won the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2012/13, while being runners-up in 2015/16 and 2018/19 seasons. Article Source: IANS
Hazare Trophy: Kohli and Pant headline Delhis squad
ED seizes assets linked to YouTuber Anurag Dwivedi in illegal betting case
The agency seized luxury vehicles worth over 4 crore and frozen movable assets valued at about 3 crore during searches at 10 premises in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh linked to Dwivedi
Delhi court rejects Rabri Devi's plea to transfer cases from judge alleging bias
A Delhi court has rejected a plea by former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi. She had sought to transfer criminal cases against her and her family to another court. Rabri Devi alleged bias from Special Judge Vishal Gogne. The cases involve the land-for-jobs and IRCTC scams. The CBI had called her plea a mala fide attempt to interfere with justice.
Activists, Lawmakers Hold Symbolic Demonstration Against VB-G RAM G Bill in Delhi
The activist said some morcha members even received letters from police warning of legal action if they held a demonstration.
