NC-BJP face-off set to hit streets as parties announce rival gheraos in J&K
Srinagar, Sep 1:Jammu and Kashmirs political contest between the National Conference (NC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set for a sharper street-level confrontation on Wednesday, with the NC announcing counter-gheraos of BJP headquarters in Srinagar and Jammu hours after the BJP called for a Secretariat gherao against the Omar Abdullah-led government. The rival programmes have transformed September 2 into a political face-off, with both parties attempting to set the terms of the public debate and, crucially, decide where accountability for Jammu and Kashmirs unresolved issues should lie. The BJPs protest is aimed at the elected government, while the NC is preparing to take its counter-campaign directly to BJP offices, putting the spotlight on the Centre and its commitments towards J&K. Announcing its programme, the NC said its protests would remain peaceful and would demand accountability for commitments made by the Centre in Parliament and before the Supreme Court. The party has identified four demands: constitutional guarantees, restoration of statehood, clearance of the reservation file and justice for the people of J&K. The political messaging is unmistakable. Faced with a BJP campaign questioning the performance of the NC-led administration, the ruling party is seeking to move the debate from governance in J&K to the larger question of what the Centre has promised J&K and what remains undelivered. At the heart of the NCs counter-offensive is statehood. Restoration of statehood has been one of the partys defining demands since the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in 2019. By placing it alongside constitutional guarantees and the reservation issue, the NC is seeking to frame Wednesdays protest not as a defence of the Omar Abdullah government but as a broader political demand directed at New Delhi. The partys reference to the mandate is equally deliberate. The mandate of the people of J&K is not a blank cheque. It must be respected, not taken for granted, the NC said. The statement effectively draws a political line between the mandate received by the elected government and the authority of the Centre, while signalling that the NC does not intend to allow the BJP to monopolise the narrative on accountability. For the BJP, the counter-protest presents a different challenge. Its decision to take its agitation to the Civil Secretariat is designed to put the NC government directly under pressure over issues it says remain unresolved under the present administration. The NCs decision to respond at BJP headquarters turns that campaign into a two-way political contest. Rather than allowing the BJP protest to dominate the political conversation, the NC is seeking to force the Centre and the BJP to answer questions over statehood, constitutional safeguards, and other commitments. The confrontation also reflects the changing political dynamics after the 2024 Assembly elections, when the NC emerged as the principal force in government while the BJP retained its position as the dominant political force in Jammu. Both parties are now attempting to consolidate their respective political constituencies while expanding their narratives beyond their traditional regional strongholds. For the NC, statehood remains a particularly potent issue because it allows the party to connect the question of J&Ks political status with the electoral mandate received by the elected government. For the BJP, the emphasis on governance allows it to argue that the elected administration should be judged on its performance rather than on issues falling within the Centres domain.
Security, connectivity, opportunity: PM Modis SCO call
New Delhi, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to move beyond declarations and translate 25 years of cooperation into tangible outcomes, while urging a united approach to terrorism, stronger regional connectivity and greater opportunities for people. Addressing the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek, PM Modi said the grouping must transform its shared geography into shared opportunities at a time when the world is passing through uncertainty and instability. It is a matter of great pleasure for me to be here amongst all of you on this special occasion of the 25th anniversary of the SCO, he said, thanking Kyrgyz President SadyrJaparov for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to the Indian delegation. The PM also congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its Independence Day, which India observed with the country the previous day, and extended his warm greetings to the President and people of Uzbekistan on its Independence Day. He said the opening ceremony of the World Nomad Games had offered a glimpse of Kyrgyzstans rich culture and the shared heritage of SCO countries. This shared heritage and our deep people-to-people connections are among the great strengths of the SCO family, PM Modi said. He said that over the past 25 years, the SCO had developed a strong tradition of dialogue and cooperation across the vast expanse of Eurasia and had made valuable contributions not only to the well-being of its people but also to the advancement of humanity. The PM said the organisation had laid a strong foundation for cooperation, but the next 25 years should focus on converting that cooperation into tangible results. At a time when the world is passing through uncertainty and instability, we must transform our shared geography into shared opportunities. And through our efforts, we must bring about positive change in the lives of our people, he said. Recalling Indias vision for the SCO outlined at the previous meeting, PM Modi said its three main pillars were Security, Connectivity and Opportunity. He called for these three pillars to move beyond vision and be translated into concrete outcomes. The PM said peace and security were the first and foremost requirements for achieving those goals, warning that terrorism continued to pose a serious challenge to humanity as a whole. He said countries could not afford to limit the fight against terrorism to an action-reaction approach. We must dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorist financing, recruitment, radicalisation, and safe havens, PM Modi said. He called upon SCO members to speak with one voice and make it clear that there could be no place for double standards on the serious issue of terrorism. We must send a strong message to countries that use terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide safe haven and support to terrorists that terrorism can never be a strategic asset for anyone, the PM said. He linked the SCOs shared aspiration for a peaceful and secure Eurasia with peace and stability in Afghanistan. PM Modi said India had been contributing to the development of Afghanistan and providing humanitarian assistance to its people and would continue to do so. He said that in todays interconnected world, the scope of security had become even broader, with the crisis in West Asia demonstrating that a conflict in one region did not remain confined to that region. The PM said its impact was felt across the world, affecting energy security, maritime trade and supply chains, with countries of the Global South bearing the greatest brunt of such disruptions. Therefore, India has consistently called for all tensions and conflicts to be resolved not on the battlefield, but through dialogue and diplomacy, he said. PM Modi also warned that drug trafficking was not merely a crime but a serious threat to the younger generation and regional security. He welcomed the establishment of SCO centres to address challenges such as security threats, organised crime, information security and narcotics. The PM called for these centres to be made effective instruments for practical coordination and timely action. He identified strong and reliable connectivity as the second pillar of shared development. PM Modi said India supported all efforts that connected markets, facilitated trade and opened new avenues for development. At the same time, he stressed that such connectivity initiatives must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. This is also the fundamental spirit of the SCO Charter, the PM said. He said the scope of connectivity would become even broader going forward. PM Modi said that along with roads, railways, and air corridors, countries must simplify customs processes, promote digital documentation and make logistics networks more efficient. The third pillar, Opportunity, means that the benefits of SCO cooperation should reach people directly, he said. The PM described people-to-people connections as the organisations greatest strength and said India viewed the SCO as a confluence of great civilisations, cultures and ideas. Over the next 25 years of the SCO, people-to-people ties should remain at the heart of cooperation, he said. PM Modi said the true measure of the organisations success should be the number of new opportunities its efforts created for young people, the number of new markets opened for entrepreneurs, the extent to which farmers benefited from technology and how much better the lives of citizens became. This is the true meaning of Security, Connectivity, and Opportunity, he said. The PM stressed that cooperation within the SCO should not be merely government-driven but should also be people-driven. He welcomed the special emphasis placed on youth engagement under Kyrgyzstans chairmanship. PM Modi said India had taken initiatives such as the SCO Start-up Forum, Young Authors Conclave and Young Scientists Forum. He also recalled Indias proposal last year for the SCO Civilizational Dialogue Forum. The PM said he was pleased that the first session of the forum would be held in India this year and expressed confidence that, with the active participation of all SCO members, it would become a strong platform for vibrant dialogue within the organisation. He invoked Kyrgyz literary figure ChingizAitmatov, saying the writer had given the world a beautiful and profound thought that people often focused more on the things that divided them and less on the things that united them. PM Modi said the message remained equally relevant for the SCO today. Our diversity is our identity, and our shared purpose is our strength, he said. The PM called upon SCO members to move forward from Bishkek with a resolve to transform their shared geography into shared opportunities, their vision into outcomes, and government-driven cooperation into people-driven partnership. With the same belief and commitment, India is ready to contribute to the SCO familys shared journey, he said.
NSUI protests gang rape of 16-year-old girl on sleeper bus in Delhi
The News Mill
Delhi Class 7 girl dies after teacher harasses her over not bringing a book
Delhi Class girl dies after teacher harasses her over not bringing a book
66% names dropped from Delhi draft roll marked shifted
31.59 lakh exclusions marked permanently shifted; of these, over 10 lakh electors are aged 30-39, show data: 1,042 booths account for 4.5 lakh shifted entries, mainly in South East, South districts
Aaqib Nabi Joins Surrey for County Championship Matches
New Delhi, September 2: Recently selected for the Indian national team, fast bowler Aaqib Nabi has joined the English county team Surrey for the County Championship, where he will play three matches. The 29-year-old has made a name for himself in Indian domestic cricket with an impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy, taking 60 wickets ... Read more Aaqib Nabi Joins Surrey for County Championship Matches
Surge in Petrol and Diesel Consumption Signals Economic Growth in August
New Delhi, September 2: In August, India witnessed a significant increase in petrol and diesel consumption compared to the same month last year. This rise reflects heightened economic activities across the country, according to data from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Diesel, the most consumed petroleum product in India, is primarily used in ... Read more Surge in Petrol and Diesel Consumption Signals Economic Growth in August
Ahmedabad Set to Welcome Global Travelers with Enhanced Connectivity: Ram Mohan Naidu
Ahmedabad, September 2: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced on Tuesday that last year, 16 million passengers traveled on international flights from Ahmedabad to Delhi. With the implementation of the hub and spoke model, Ahmedabad is poised to welcome international travelers from various destinations, especially in preparation for the Commonwealth Games in 2030. The ... Read more Ahmedabad Set to Welcome Global Travelers with Enhanced Connectivity: Ram Mohan Naidu
Delhi Government Introduces Cost-Free Rooftop Solar Systems for Households
New Delhi, September 2: In a significant move towards transforming the energy sector in Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Tuesday that rooftop solar systems of up to 3 kilowatts will be installed for domestic consumers with an average consumption of 400 units, without any initial costs during the fiscal year 2025-26. While unveiling ... Read more Delhi Government Introduces Cost-Free Rooftop Solar Systems for Households
Five More Indians Rescued Amid Devastating Floods in Nepal
New Delhi, September 2: The Ministry of External Affairs reported on Tuesday that five more Indian citizens were safely rescued from the devastating floods in Nepal, bringing the total number of rescued individuals to 163. On Tuesday, 151 Indian nationals also departed from China, according to the ministry. The Indian rescue team faced numerous challenges ... Read more Five More Indians Rescued Amid Devastating Floods in Nepal
Delhi SIR: AAP criticises EC over 1.67 lakh deletions in Burari, seeks details
BRICS Summit: Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory ahead of motorcade rehearsal
Fortis Healthcare reviews Delhi HC ruling in Daiichi Sankyo case, may approach Supreme Court
In a significant development, Fortis Healthcare is assessing a recent decision from the Delhi High Court regarding the Daiichi Sankyo arbitration. The court's order for a forensic audit of earlier transactions poses a notable contingent liability for Fortis. Consequently, the company may explore the option of appealing to the Supreme Court, as this ruling could necessitate direct compensation to Daiichi Sankyo.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to consider the Centres plea seeking clarification on the applicability of its March 11 judgement on OBC creamy-layer criteria on candidates of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025. A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and R Mahadevan issued notice on the Centres plea and asked the parties [] The post SC to consider Centres plea on OBC Creamy Layer Criteria appeared first on Northlines .
Congress Leader Criticizes Government Over GDP Growth Claims
New Delhi, September 2: Congress leader Salman Soz has sharply criticized the Indian government regarding its reported GDP growth of 7.8%. He accused the government of celebrating on social media while ignoring the harsh realities of inflation, unemployment, and stagnant rural incomes. In the first quarter of the financial year 2026-27, the government released figures ... Read more Congress Leader Criticizes Government Over GDP Growth Claims
Windfall tax slashed on fuel exports
New Delhi has reduced export duties on petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel. The levy on petrol exports is now 1.15 per litre, a significant decrease. Diesel export duty sees a marginal reduction to 25 per litre. Aviation turbine fuel exports will now face a 19 per litre windfall tax. These revised rates will take effect from September 3, 2026.
Ram Mohan Naidu Launches Hub-and-Spoke International Operations from Ahmedabad Airport
Ahmedabad, September 2: Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjirapu Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurated the hub-and-spoke international aviation operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. This new system allows international travelers departing from this city to complete immigration and customs formalities before flying to foreign destinations via Delhi. Under this initiative, Ahmedabad ... Read more Ram Mohan Naidu Launches Hub-and-Spoke International Operations from Ahmedabad Airport
Supreme Court quashes FIRs against student protesters
The Supreme Court quashed several first information reports against protesters. It invoked constitutional powers to ensure complete justice for young participants. The court also directed that similar cases in other states shall not be pursued. A policy for compensation to affected families will be formulated within three months. Prosecution will continue against individuals with serious criminal antecedents in Delhi.
Delhi government to sell onions at 35 a kg amid surge in prices
Delhi Cabinet clears free rooftop solar systems for households using up to 400 units
BJPs youth connect: Bike yatras, hackathons, marathons on cards
The BJP plans extensive youth outreach programs to connect with students. Prime Minister Modi will likely address students at Delhi University's Shri Ram College. A month-long yatra from Vadnagar to Varanasi will highlight government initiatives. Various youth-centric events like hackathons and marathons are scheduled. This outreach aims to strengthen the party's connection with young voters.
Delhi high court quashes FIR against ISKCON employee after Rs 20 lakh settlement
The News Mill
DC Edit | ECs Six-crore Purge A Self-goal On SIR?
It is estimated that six crores of the 36 crore names in the electoral rolls in 16 states and three Union territories which conducted the SIR have been deleted in the third phase. The National Capital Territory of Delhi perhaps bore the worst brunt when it saw one in every three voters there being declared ineligible to vote
Limited CCTV coverage, no GPS tracking: Major safety lapses on private Delhi buses
Limited CCTV coverage no GPS tracking Major safety lapses on private Delhi buses
Vinesh Phogat maternity policy plea: Delhi HC asks for centre, WFI response
Vinesh Phogat maternity policy plea Delhi HC asks for centre WFI response
After the flames, a young life struggles to heal
SCO Summit: India's priorities on terror, security reflected in Bishkek Declaration
India's priorities found reflection in the SCO Bishkek Declaration adopted Tuesday. The declaration emphasized combating terrorism and strengthening scientific cooperation among members. New Delhi highlighted thirteen key outcomes, including a center for countering security threats. Prime Minister Modi urged confronting nations using terrorism as state policy. This summit strengthened India's engagement with the Eurasian region.
India, US commit to deepen relationship in critical minerals, other areas
In a significant move, India and the US have vowed to bolster their bilateral relationship, particularly in critical minerals supply chains. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent praised India's involvement in G7 discussions. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman invited him to visit New Delhi, marking a pivotal moment. Furthermore, the US will take center stage by hosting the G20 Leaders' Summit later this year.
NCRTC recovers 500 lost items on Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor
3 months on, family that lost 8 struggles to cope
25 rooms and no fire exit: How negligence sparked fire in Hauz Rani that killed 23
15-year-old girl dies in AIIMS, dad alleges years of delay in heart surgery
Father seeks answers; AIIMS said child was being evaluated for possible heart-lung transplant
Names of over 40% voters not on rolls in 13 seats
BJP Cites Migration, AAP Claims BLOs Didnt Fan Out Properly
Delhi targets 2.3 lakh solar rooftops by 2027 after policy revamp
Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address SRCC students on September 5, focus on youth aspirations
Delhi High Courtrejects pleaalleging exclusion of homeless from electoral rolls during SIR
India-Sacu pact could reshape New Delhi's emerging-market trade strategy
The proposed preferential trade agreement could open new export markets, diversify critical mineral supplies and test whether calibrated deals with developing economies can complement India's recent d
Mans Body Found Stuffed in Sack, Dumped in Dwarka Drain
25-year-old stabbed to death by friend
Govt scraps rank cap in IP univ as 29k+ seats go vacant in 3 yrs
After maternity leave, women have right to resume at same functional status: HC
MCD councillors miffed about lack of public health checks
Parts of Delhi receive rain; thunderstorms expected today
No fresh evidence after 40 years, court sets aside FIR order in 1984 riots case
BRICS Summit: Delhi Traffic Police issue advisory ahead of motorcade rehearsal
Infant trafficking: Police cant arrest selectively, says HC
Curtains for comfort, say bus owners; safety first, insist passengers
Gangrape raises fresh questions over visibility norms for buses
CPI targets Modi government at Delhi rally, calls for change
Party general secretary D. Raja accuses the BJP-led government at the Centre of running a fascist regime
Delhi High Court questions police over failure to arrest key accused in child trafficking case
Minister Balakrishna urges HDK to take up state issues in Delhi
CARA launches year-round campaign against illegal adoption
New Delhi, Sep 1 : The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, has launched the theme for Adoption Awareness 2026, reinforcing its commitment to promoting legal, safe, transparent and child-centric adoption across the country. The theme for Adoption Awareness 2026 is: Legal Adoption. Safe Childhood. Secure Future. Say No to Illegal Adoption! The theme was formally launched by Bhavna Saxena, CEO, CARA, during a Live Morning Show on DD National, marking the beginning of a sustained nationwide awareness initiative to promote legal adoption and prevent illegal adoption practices. During the programme, Bhavna Saxena, CEO, CARA, emphasised the importance of following the legal adoption process and said, Adoption is not a shortcutit is a sacred responsibility. Through CARA and the legally prescribed channels, we safeguard the dignity, rights and future of every orphaned, abandoned or surrendered child. Every child deserves a safe, loving and secure familynot secrecy, uncertainty or risk. CARA has been undertaking several measures to strengthen awareness, coordination and enforcement against illegal adoption practices, including enhanced coordination with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, sustained awareness and capacity building at the State, district and community levels remain critical to ensuring that every child is protected and every adoption is carried out through the prescribed legal process. Year-Round Outreach to Promote Legal Adoption Under the theme Legal Adoption. Safe Childhood. Secure Future. Say No to Illegal Adoption, several outreach activities will be conducted throughout the year to create widespread awareness among citizens and key stakeholders. As part of the initiative, State/UT-level Adoption Awareness Workshops are being organised from September 2026 onwards, moving beyond the earlier approach of limiting adoption awareness activities to the month of November. These workshops will provide a platform for stakeholders to understand the statutory adoption process, strengthen inter-departmental coordination, identify and address illegal adoption practices, and reinforce the principle of the best interest of the child. The campaign will involve a wide range of stakeholders, including Women and Child Development Departments, Child Welfare Committees, District Child Protection Units, Specialised Adoption Agencies, Child Care Institutions, Police, Health Departments, Judiciary, Legal Services Authorities, hospitals and nursing homes, medical professionals, ASHA and ANM workers, civil society organisations, media and digital platforms, among others. Adoption Awareness Workshop in Delhi on 10 September 2026 As part of this nationwide initiative, CARA will organise an Adoption Awareness Workshop in Delhi on Thursday, 10 September 2026, at the Delhi Secretariat, New Delhi in collaboration of Department of Women and Child Development, Govt. of Delhi and concerned authorities. The workshop will focus on strengthening awareness regarding the legal adoption framework and the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in ensuring that children in need of care and protection receive appropriate care, protection and rehabilitation through lawful mechanisms. The workshop will also emphasise the importance of timely reporting of children found separated from their guardians, lawful surrender procedures, declaration of children as legally free for adoption, and adherence to the prescribed adoption procedure. A Collective Responsibility to Protect Every Child The campaign seeks to ensure that prospective adoptive parents and the general public understand that adoption is a legal and child-centric processnot a private arrangement between individuals. Citizens are encouraged to follow only the legally prescribed adoption process through CARA and the designated authorities/agencies and to report suspected instances of illegal adoption to the competent authorities. Through sustained, year-round awareness and coordinated action, CARA aims to build a stronger ecosystem in which every childs dignity, identity, rights, safety and future are protected.
Rape in bus: NHRC notice to Delhi, Gautam Buddha Nagar CPs
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said on Tuesday, September 1, it has issued notices to the police commissioners of Delhi and Gautam Buddha Nagar in Uttar Pradesh in the wake of the alleged gang rape of a 16-year-old girl in a moving bus. The rights panel has sought a report from the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Meta sued for over Rs 20000000 by Delhi man after Instagram creator films him using Meta glasses
Accusing an Instagram creator of secretly filming him at a Delhi caf using Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, a man has sent a legal notice seeking Rs 2.05 crore in damages, an apology and the video's removal. The notice also targets Meta directly over the glasses' design, arguing its recording indicator is too easy to miss, in what the IFF calls one of India's first such challenges.
Om Birla Reviews Preparations for Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference
New Delhi, September 1: A high-level review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday, focusing on the preparations for the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference scheduled from September 13 to 19 in Cape Town, South Africa. During the meeting, Speaker Birla emphasized the crucial role of the Indian delegation. ... Read more Om Birla Reviews Preparations for Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference
Delhi Traffic Police announced upcoming restrictions and diversions for a BRICS Summit rehearsal. Key roads will be affected on September 2, impacting daily commutes significantly. Motorists should plan journeys and use alternate routes to avoid delays. Metro services will remain operational, while bus routes may face diversions. Travelers to airports and stations are advised to use the Metro and plan ahead.
Delhi HC issues notice on plea seeking policy for women athletes returning after maternity
The petition by wrestler Vinesh Phogat seeks a framework to facilitate the return of women athletes to competitive sports after pregnancy and maternity leave
AIIA Launches Ayurvarta Digital Dialogue Series Ahead of Ayurveda Day
New Delhi, September 1: The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi has launched a special digital dialogue series called Ayurvarta. This initiative aims to disseminate authentic Ayurvedic knowledge, scientific perspectives, and its relevance in contemporary health systems to a wide audience both domestically and internationally. AIIA operates as an autonomous institution under ... Read more AIIA Launches Ayurvarta Digital Dialogue Series Ahead of Ayurveda Day
Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory for BRICS Summit rehearsal on Sept 2
The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory ahead of the motorcade rehearsal for the BRICS Summit 2026, announcing that restrictions and diversions will affect several key roads in the national Capital on September 2, officials said on Tuesday. The rehearsal will be held from 10 am to 3 pm. According to Ministry of External Affairs statement, the 18th BRICS Summit will take place from September 12 to 13 at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan. The advisory said traffic movement will be regulated at 22 diversion points and on more than 35 roads during the rehearsal. Motorists have been advised to plan their journeys and use alternate routes wherever possible. Major roads likely to be affected include Sardar Patel Marg, Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, Tees January Marg, Rajesh Pilot Marg, Subramaniam Bharti Marg, Mathura Road, Moti Lal Nehru Marg, Dr Zakir Hussain Marg, Brigadier Hoshiar Singh Marg, Africa Avenue Road, Satya Marg, Shanti Path, Janpath, ...
Home Secretary Govind Mohan Honors 18 SSB Personnel for Valor
New Delhi, September 1: On Tuesday, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan honored 18 officers and personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) during a ceremony. An official statement revealed that Mohan, the chief guest of the event, awarded bravery medals (GMs) to 18 officers and personnel, while five officers received the Presidents Police Medal (PSM) ... Read more Home Secretary Govind Mohan Honors 18 SSB Personnel for Valor
Swara Bhasker has revisited the controversy surrounding her 2018 open letter to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali after watching Padmaavat. Years after the films release, Swara explained that the debate around her letter largely focused on one particular line, while the broader concerns she raised about women, sexual violence and the portrayal of jauhar received less attention. Speaking at an event hosted by the India International Centre (IIC) in Delhi, Swara recalled her reaction to the films climax. Padmaavat, starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, was released in January 2018 following months of controversy. Inspired by Malik Muhammad Jayasis 16th-century epic poem Padmavat, the film revolves around Rani Padmavati and the conflict between Rajput ruler Ratan Singh and Alauddin Khilji. Swara said the depiction of jauhar, in which hundreds of women collectively die by self-immolation, made her question the message being conveyed to survivors of sexual violence. Im watching this, these 800 women committing jauhar, and I was like, yaar, if I had been, God forbid, if I was a rape survivor, what is this film telling me? I would feel like a coward, that I didnt kill myself to save my honour. Is that what you want to tell in a society like ours, where I feel like theres anyway a rape epidemic? she said. She further questioned the connection between a womans life and the idea of sexual purity. Is this what we want to tell our survivors, that you didnt deserve to live? That if you actually had been honourable and brave women, you would have killed yourself. Are we saying that rape is the end of a womans life? she said. Swara also recalled being particularly disturbed by a close-up of a pregnant woman during the jauhar sequence. And then there was that one shot, it made me so mad, I was like, chiii, in the audience loudly. There is a close-up of a pregnant womans belly. And she is going, so youre saying that a foetus that might be female doesnt deserve to be born, because she might be raped by a Muslim ruler? she said. The actor clarified that she did not write her open letter immediately after watching the film. Instead, she waited five days to reflect on her response. And then I came out and I was like this is terrible. And normally people think that I do these things out of rage. But I waited for five days. And I was like, let me check if I still feel like this. And then at the end of five days, I wrote this letter, she recalled. Published by The Wire in January 2018, the letter questioned the glorification of jauhar and the portrayal of womens worth through sexual purity. Swara said the subsequent discussion, however, focused heavily on one phrase from the letter. I just want to say that when it got published, there was one line in the letter where I was trying to say that women are more than their private parts. And watching this film made me feel that Im reduced to a vagina, she said. Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Swara Bhasker says husband Fahad Ahmad is very bad at gossiping; calls it a way to know what values you share
Delhi hotel fire: Owner Lavkesh Bajaj, two others chargesheeted
New Delhi: Months after a deadly blaze killed 23 people at a hotel in Malviya Nagar on June 3, Delhi Police has chargesheeted its owner Lavkesh Bajaj and two others for allegedly flouting bed-and-breakfast (B&B) rules to run the 26-room establishment despite the rejection of an earlier application for a hotel licence, officials said. Bajaj, 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 .
SC quashes all FIRs against CJP protesters; Sept 5 march called off
New Delhi, Sep 1: The Supreme Court on Tuesday quashed all FIRs registered against students who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party-led protests across the country between July 20 and 25, prompting the group to call off its September 5 march in the national capital. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant [] The post SC quashes all FIRs against CJP protesters; Sept 5 march called off first appeared on Highland Post .
Whatfix CEO and Co-founder Khadim Batti dies of sudden cardiac arrest
New Delhi Enterprise software startup Whatfixs co-founder and CEO Khadim Batti has passed away after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest, The post Whatfix CEO and Co-founder Khadim Batti dies of sudden cardiac arrest appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Salman Khurshid Addresses Terrorism and Religion: A Call for Understanding
New Delhi, September 1: Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid made a significant statement on Tuesday regarding the relationship between terrorism and religion, which may escalate political accusations. In an interview, Khurshid emphasized that linking terrorists to any religion is unjust to both individuals and faith itself. He stated, It is clear that terrorism has no ... Read more Salman Khurshid Addresses Terrorism and Religion: A Call for Understanding
In Numbers: Voter Deletions In Delhi And Districtwise Breakup
A total of 47.56 lakh electors have been excluded, representing an overall reduction of 32.8 per cent.
Delhi High Court seeks Centre, FSSAIs response to plea against ban on Fortune soyabean refined oil
The company has challenged FSSAIs action on two claims made on the packaging of the product: 100% Veg and Cholesterol Free For Healthy Lifestyle
India's Finance Minister and the US Treasury Secretary met to strengthen bilateral ties. They committed to deepening cooperation across several key areas of mutual interest. Critical minerals emerged as a significant focus for future collaboration between the two nations. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers gathering. Both officials acknowledged the long-standing relationship and pledged enhanced partnership.
Modi, Xi shake hands, talk on sidelines of SCO Summit ahead of BRICS meet
Trade imbalance, investment easing, direct flights, border tensions are among issues that the leaders may take up in New Delhi, sources say
Malad sweet shop, Kurla hotel, and Blinkit outlet face licence suspension
In its latest update on Tuesday, the FDA said it had taken action against Delhi Sweet and Bhelpuri House in Malad West, Gulzar Mohammadi Hotel in Kurla West, and Blink Commerce Private Limited (Blinkit) in Akola
Votes being added, deleted to make BJP win, says Congress citing Maharashtra, Delhi SIR
Congress said that in West Bengal, 91% of the voter names struck off in the SIR had to be reinstated after appeals
Harish Rawat Observes 'Maun Vrat' In Delhi Over Case Against Rahul Gandhi
The protest comes amid a growing political confrontation between the Congress and the BJP over an alleged 'shuddhikaran' or purification ritual conducted at Haldwani's Ramlila Ground
Delhi Speaker Vijender Gupta proposes modern museum in Assembly complex
New Delhi, Sep 1 (IANS) Delhi Speaker Vijender Gupta announced that a state-of-the-art museum will be built in the Legislative Assembly complex, offering citizens an opportunity to explore the constitutional legacy and architectural heritage of this historic landmark, an official said on Tuesday. Addressing students of Delhi University under the Secretariats Youth Outreach Initiative, the []
Auqib Nabi Joins Surrey To Play Three Matches In County Championship
Auqib Nabi: Uncapped Indian fast-bowler Auqib Nabi has joined the English County side Surrey to participate in three matches in the County Championship after his recent India call-up. The 29-year-old has been one of the emerging stars in Indian domestic cricket after his stellar Ranji Trophy campaign, during which he picked 60 wickets and helped Jammu and Kashmir lift their maiden title. Nabi will now be in action for Surrey in their upcoming three matches against Yorkshire, Sussex and Glamorgan. IANS had previously reported on August 28 about the possibility of Nabi joining Surrey on Sunday and playing in the County Championship. He will play in three matches for Surrey, starting with the game against Yorkshire on September 2 at The Oval. It is followed by games against Sussex and Glamorgan in Hove and The Oval on September 8 and 15, respectively. Yes, Auqib has got his visa for going to England, after all the paperwork was done. It is understood that he's expected to depart for England from New Delhi today. If all goes well, he may be available for the game starting on September 2. The main purpose of this stint is also for the Indian team management and selectors to check if Nabi can swing the ball well there in England, as the climate in New Zealand for the Test series will need for him to do that in conducive conditions with the red Kookaburra ball in hand, a source familiar with the development had told IANS on Sunday. The move comes after he received his maiden India call-up as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah for the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, although he did not make his debut as India went with two pacers in both matches. While Nabi will be in action in the English county cricket, he is expected to return in time for India A's matches against Australia A, which will start from September 22. On this short-term association, Auqib Nabi said: Its an honour to join Surrey, one of the best Clubs in England. Im looking forward to learning from the group and helping them for the next three matches. While Nabi will be in action in the English county cricket, he is expected to return in time for India A's matches against Australia A, which will start from September 22. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Nabi has been a star performer in the previous two Ranji trophies, having picked up 100 wickets across the two seasons. He also hogged the limelight when he picked four wickets in four balls for the North Zone in the Duleep Trophy in 2025. He was later signed by Delhi Capitals in 2026, where he played five matches for the franchise. Article Source: IANS
Is rape the end of a womans life? Swara revisits Padmaavat jauhar row
Swara Bhasker has revisited her 2017 criticism of Padmaavats jauhar scene, questioning its portrayal of honour, sexual violence and survival. Speaking at a panel in New Delhi, she recalled why she wrote an open letter to Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Her remarks have now reignited the debate online, with netizens strongly criticising her interpretation of jauhar and the films historical context.
'Historic Win': CJP Hails Supreme Court Verdict As Apex Court Quashes FIRs, Sept 5 Cancelled
The Supreme Court has ordered that FIRs related to the NEET 2026 protest incidents should not be pursued or investigated and will be treated as closed. No fresh FIRs can be registered for incidents between July 20 and 26, with an exception allowing the Centre and Delhi Police to proceed against 2,873 identified persons in cases involving established bodily harm or property destruction. The court also ordered a pan-India compensation mechanism and directed compensation within three months for NEET 2026 suicide cases. Following the order and government assurances, CJP withdrew its September 5 Delhi protest march.
Man Beats Roommate To Death After Drinking Alcohol Together In Delhi: Police
According to the police, both had consumed alcohol together, and later got into an altercation over some issue.
Congress Leader Questions Government on Pellet Gun Use Against Students
New Delhi, September 1: Congress leader Supriya Shrinate has demanded accountability from the government regarding the use of pellet guns during student protests. Commenting on the Cockroach Public Partys (CJP) decision to cancel a planned demonstration on September 5, she stated that the focus should be on who authorized the use of pellet guns against ... Read more Congress Leader Questions Government on Pellet Gun Use Against Students
30 yrs of 'Monsoon Wedding': Mira Nair chose monsoon due to unexpected link to Zohran Mamdani
Highlights Mira Nair revealed the surprisingly personal reason she scheduled Monsoon Wedding during the monsoon. The timing was linked to her son Zohran Mamdanis school vacation. More than two decades later, Zohran is now the mayor of New York City. Twenty-five years after Monsoon Wedding became one of Mira Nair s most celebrated films, a small detail about its making has taken on a new significance. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter , Nair revealed that the films monsoon timing was not simply about wanting to capture the rainy season. It was also about making sure she could take her young son, Zohran Mamdani, with her. It was about Zohrans school holiday Nair explained that she chose the timing because the monsoon coincided with Zohrans school vacation, allowing her to take him along while she worked in Delhi. The film was shot over 30 days, with Nair and writer Sabrina Dhawan spending time in Delhi before filming to finalise locations and casting. The production eventually became known for its vivid use of rain, music and the energy of a Delhi wedding. But behind that visual identity was a practical decision made by a working mother trying to fit a major film around her childs school calendar. From the film set to New York City At the time, Zohran was simply Nairs young son accompanying her during the production. Today, he is known for a very different reason: he serves as New York Citys mayor. That makes Nairs throwaway explanation about the films timing unexpectedly fascinating in hindsight. The child whose school holiday helped shape the production schedule would go on to build a political career of his own. Monsoon Wedding premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 2001, where Nair won the Golden Lion, becoming the first female director to receive the award. The film went on to become both a critical and commercial success. The films anniversary now offers a chance to revisit not just its famous wedding chaos and darker family secrets, but also the small personal choices behind its making.
Delhi SIR: 20-45 pc voters cut in minority, SC-reserved seats
New Delhi: Minority-dominated and Scheduled Caste-reserved constituencies in the national capital registered between 20 and 45 per cent voter exclusions against the overall figure of 33 per cent deletions that Delhi recorded at the draft stage in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Officials said among all states and Union Territories where SIR has 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 .
Man Stabbed Multiple Times By Friend Over Dispute In Delhi, Dies: Police
Teams received information from LNJP Hospital on September 1, where the injured man, Shivam Mathur, was brought with multiple stab injuries, a senior police officer said.
Delhi HC asks Centre, Meta to respond to NC MP Mehdis plea against FB page suspension
The petitioner says access to the page remained restricted since March following a notice issued under the Information Technology Act
Delhi HC asks Centre, Meta to respond to NC MP Mehdis plea against FB page suspension
The petitioner says access to the page remained restricted since March following a notice issued under the Information Technology Act
PM Modis Foreign Policy Centered on Peace: Key Insights from Meeting with Irans President
New Delhi, September 1: During the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Iranian President Masoud Pejashenjan. Speculations suggest that discussions included the Chabahar Port, which former Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar highlighted as a significant indicator of Indias peace-centric foreign policy. MJ Akbar stated, ... Read more PM Modis Foreign Policy Centered on Peace: Key Insights from Meeting with Irans President
Delhi women avail 8.25 crore free bus rides in 4 months, RTI data reveals
Delhi women avail crore free bus rides in months RTI data reveals
Indian Government Reduces Export Duty and Windfall Tax on Diesel from September 1
New Delhi, September 1: The Indian government has revised the export duty framework for petroleum products, effective September 1. This includes a reduction in both the export duty and windfall tax on diesel. The export duty on diesel has been cut from 3 per liter to 1 per liter. Additionally, the windfall tax on diesel ... Read more Indian Government Reduces Export Duty and Windfall Tax on Diesel from September 1
SC allows fresh FIRs against hardened criminals identified by Delhi Police during protest: CJP
Land pooling to open newer geographies for real estate development in Delhi
Delhi Master Plan 2047 will develop nearly 200 sq km of urban extension areas. This plan introduces new development models and strengthens land pooling for integrated growth. Infrastructure-led development will create new communities with essential amenities and connectivity. High-density mixed-use development is planned along Urban Extension Road-II. This initiative aims to transform Delhi into a future-ready global capital.
Delhi SIR draft roll: 47.57 lakh voters left out, claims open till Sept 30
