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Opposition mounts attack on govt over G-Ram-G bill, says rights will be diluted
NEW DELHI: Mounting a sharp attack on the proposed legislation to replace MGNREGA, the Opposition parties on Wednesday accused the government of weakening the rights-based welfare scheme and for attempting to erase Mahatma Gandhis legacy. Initiating the debate on Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill (VB-G RAM G), Congress MP from Haryana, Jai Prakash, said the proposed law will create fresh financial liabilities for the states and deprive grassroots-level bodies such as the gram sabhas of their rights to decide on the work to be undertaken under the draft law. Opposing the bill, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh said that the provisions of the new bill are a blow to states like Kerala, which is already under financial strain due to Centres anti- state policies. Suresh also lamented the deletion of Mahatma Gandhis name from the title of the proposed Bill. However, the treasury benches mounted a strong defence with many citing the increase of working days from 100 to 125 days. Mahua Moitra of the Trinamool Congress said the provision of 60:40 basis of Centre-State expenditure-sharing would prove to be the death knell of the scheme. In an expenditure of `10,000 crore, the distribution of 60:40 Centre-State spending would be `6,000 crore and `4,000 crore. So, the state share has gone up by 430%, said Moitra. Quoting Gandhi, she said, By Ram Rajya I do not mean Hindu Raj, I mean divine Raj, the kingdom of God. Ram Rajya ensures equal rights for all, prince and pauper alike. It is the sovereignty of the people based on moral authority. The MP added, By changing the name and repealing the act you have destroyed Gandhi jis idea of Ram Rajya both in letter and in spirit. She pointed out that before the suspension of fund releases in 2022, Bengal was among the top performers of MGNREGA nationwide. Approximately 2.6 crore job card holders across 1.4 crore rural households were in Bengal. Since March 2022, the government has not released one single paisa to West Bengal. As of today the Centre has outstanding MGNREGA dues of `52,000 crore, Moitra said. When we went to meet the minister we were dragged out by the police, the Trinamool MP said.
Delhi is battling severe smog, with air quality reaching 'very poor' levels. Authorities have activated all Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR to combat the escalating pollution. Inspections revealed significant dust and waste accumulation on roads, highlighting the urgent need for improved maintenance and dust-control efforts.
National Herald case: BJP & Congress spar over court order
NEW DELHI: The Congress and the BJP traded sharp blows on Wednesday after a Delhi trial court declined to take cognisance of the Enforcement Directorates complaint in the National Herald case, with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge calling it a victory of truth and the ruling party insisting the case is very much alive. The court on Tuesday declined to take cognisance of EDs money laundering charges against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and five others. Kharge said the order vindicated the Congresss long-held charge that the case was driven by political vendetta. We welcome the judgment. Truth always triumphs, he said, alleging that the sole objective was to harass the Gandhi family and target the Opposition through a vindictive mindset. Kharge said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah should resign. It is like a slap on their face. They should not harass people like this, he said, accusing the government of misusing central agencies for political ends. He claimed that over the past 11 years, more than 50 key Opposition leaders had been intimidated by the ED, CBI, and the Income Tax Department. Kharge added, We have been fighting on the streets, in Parliament and outside it, and will continue to do it and teach them a lesson. Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal said the party would expose the Modi governments vendetta politics, as Congress workers protested outside the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee office. The BJP, however, rejected the Congresss reading of the order. Party spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said the Congress was misleading the public. The case is still pending trial in the Delhi High Court. The court has not quashed the proceedings and has allowed the ED to continue its investigation, he said, and demanded an apology from Kharge and Khera for their remarks. Political vendetta: Kharge Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the order vindicated the Congresss long-held charge that the case was driven by political vendetta. However, BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia rejected the Congresss reading of the order, and demanded an apology from Kharge and Khera over their remarks.
Delhis winter haze lingers, pollution could intensify severely by year-end
Dense fog continues to shroud the national capital, keeping air pollution in the very poor category for the third consecutive day and disrupting air traffic. While a slight improvement was noted, pollution levels are expected to persist and potentially worsen. Vehicular emissions and industrial output are significant contributors to the smog.
No Pollution Certificate, No Fuel, No Entry For Old Cars In Delhi From Today
Vehicles that do not have BS-VI engines will not be allowed to enter the national capital from today as part of rigorous anti-pollution measures adopted by the Delhi government. Fuel stations will not serve vehicles without a PUC certificate.
The Namo Bharat Train project is progressing, with work underway for the IFFCO Chowk interchange station connecting Gurugram, Faridabad and Greater Noida. Utility relocation, including major water and sewer lines, will start in January 2026, ensuring seamless construction.
The Delhi government will begin strict enforcement of the No PUC, No Fuel rule from December 18 as part of an intensified multi-pronged drive to curb worsening air pollution in the national capital.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has directed local authorities to prohibit demolition works in Delhi-NCR during the peak pollution period from October to December annually. He also mandated the establishment of C&D waste handling infrastructure within a 10-km radius of construction sites and urged a 40% reduction in air quality index within a year.
Delhi HC raises alarm over unregulated used car sales, cites Red Fort blast
Vilayati Kikar May Not Come In Way Of Infra Projects In Capital
Delhi government modified its ban on non-BS VI vehicles, restricting them only during GRAP-IV. Vehicles without PUC certificates will be denied fuel, and construction material transport is halted until GRAP-IV ends. The government also plans a car-pooling app and improved traffic management to combat pollution.
Delhi HC questions government over failure to regulate sale of old vehicles
A Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the Delhi government to file a detailed response on the issue of regulating authorised dealers of registered vehicles
NGT orders attachment of realtors office, criminal action against MD
Amandeep Hospitals partner with Ujala Cygnus to bring 3D printing, VR into clinical practice
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Amandeep Hospitals, in collaboration with Ujala Cygnus, today announced the inauguration of North Indias first-ever hospital-based 3D Printing and Virtual Reality (VR) Technology, marking a historic advancement in medical technology integration and patient-centric innovation. Dr Abhijat Sheth, Chairman, National Medical Commission, New Delhi, inaugurated the 3D Printing and Virtual Reality Technology at Amandeep Ujala Hospitals, marking a significant milestone in medical innovation. With his presence, the event highlighted the importance of embracing cutting-edge technology to [] The post Amandeep Hospitals partner with Ujala Cygnus to bring 3D printing, VR into clinical practice appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
China's Beijing has significantly improved its air quality by implementing stringent vehicle emission controls, phasing out old vehicles, and promoting electric mobility. The nation also undertook industrial restructuring, relocating heavy industries and transforming former factory sites. These comprehensive, large-scale, and urgent measures offer valuable lessons for India's approach to tackling air pollution.
As no PUC, no fuel order kicks in, city pump dealers flag key challenges
Govt working with seriousness to strengthen key sectors: Minister
Sat raises issues of cooperative exports Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Dec 17: Jammu & Kashmir BJP president and Rajya Sabha Member, Sat Sharma, raised an important starred question in the Rajya Sabha on cooperative exports and market linkages, underlining the pivotal role of cooperatives in strengthening agriculture and enhancing farmers incomes across the country. Terming it his maiden question in the Upper House, Sat Sharma expressed gratitude for the opportunity and congratulated Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and the Ministry of [] The post Govt working with seriousness to strengthen key sectors: Minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dr Jitendras historic SHANTI Bill passed in LS, Nuclear projects opened to Private sector
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Dec 17: Lok Sabha today passed the historic SHANTI Bill 2025 that is, Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025, after a marathon debate followed by a point wise, evidence supported, eloquent reply by Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh. Among the many path-breaking provisions in the Bill, the most important one is the opening up of Indias Nuclear programme to the Private sector. The Minister addressed the [] The post Dr Jitendras historic SHANTI Bill passed in LS, Nuclear projects opened to Private sector appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
How manual collection, high toll are stalling travel between Delhi & NCR
Food department notice to varsity after worms found in hostel food
Delhi riots case: court acquits five accused of arson, rioting
The assertion on behalf of the accused that they had been falsely implicated in this case in order to solve this case cannot be completely brushed aside, the judge observed.
Know All You Wanted To About How Metro Works From Drivers Seat
AQI still very poor, likely to turn severe by December end
Minor offences may no longer land you in prison, but will come with stiffer penalties
DTU study says planting bamboo at Baansera improved air quality
Hi-tech machines to help speed upYamuna cleanup
Legacy waste not removed: NGT cracks down on Khoda civic body
Contradictory police records: Court acquits 5 in riots case
After deadly accidents, cops with tea posted on eways
Fog grips Delhi: Air quality stays in very poor zone; likely to turn severe by end of December
Delhi's air quality remains poor, with a slight improvement to 334 on the AQI due to strong winds. However, pollution is expected to persist, potentially worsening to severe levels by month's end. Emissions from Haryana and local vehicles are significant contributors. Shallow fog is trapping pollutants, impacting flights and visibility.
More than 10% posts vacant in Delhi Police, says Minister
A Delhi Police constable, Saurabh Chaudhary, was arrested after snatching a gold earring from a woman in Ghaziabad's Shalimar Garden. Overpowered by alert residents, he confessed to the crime, stating he was drunk and frustrated with his life. He has been charged under BNS Section 304 (2) and faces departmental action.
Rs 240-crore dry fruits unit to come up off Yamuna Expressway
60 iPhones, 28 iPads seized from mobile theft gang, four held
Ghaziabad man handed life term for strangling wife 2 years ago
Two arrested as groups lob stones, drag women by hair
Sai Upvan set to get 650m skywalk, pickleball courts
Who is Jyoti Bansal, an IIT Delhi graduate on H1-B visa who built a billion-dollar tech empire?
From a small town in Rajasthan, Jyoti Bansal, an IIT Delhi alumnus, has become a billionaire. Arriving on an H1-B visa, he built AppDynamics, sold to Cisco for $3.7 billion, and now leads Harness, an AI software delivery firm valued at $5.5 billion. His journey highlights immigrant entrepreneurship and the power of sustained effort.
Bombay HC allows Gautam Navlakha torelocateto Delhi, sets strict conditions
I hate being reminded we are a UT: J&K CM Omar Abdullah
New Delhi: Omar Abdullah on Wednesday described the office of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister as that of disempowerment, saying he is having the unique misfortune of transitioning from leading one of countrys most empowered states to a Union Territory with far less power than any other state CM. Speaking at the Express Adda organised []
Man mortgages cars he took on rent to pay off losses, held
Dense fog: Air India issues travel advisory; warns of possible flight disruptions
Air India has issued a travel advisory warning passengers of possible flight disruptions over the next few days. Dense fog conditions are expected in northern and eastern India, particularly affecting Delhi. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses before traveling. The airline has launched 'FogCare' to offer advance alerts and options to reschedule or get refunds for affected flights.
Man kills stepdaughter after spat with wife, held
Indian Coast Guard Ship Sarthak Makes Strategic Port Call at Chabahar, Iran
NEW DELHI: Marking the first-ever visit of an Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ship to the port of Chabahar ICGS Sarthak, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, entered the Chabahar port in Islamic Republic of Iran. The ship is on a four-day visit from 16-19 December 2025 to Iran. Chabahar is a strategically placed deep-water port that offers India a direct maritime gateway to Iran, Afghanistan and Central Asia. ICG on Wednesday said that the visit underscores Indias growing maritime engagement in the region and ability to provide secure supply lines to Afghanistan and Central Asia, aligned with Indias SAGAR & MAHASAGAR vision of secure, cooperative maritime engagements. The four-day visit of ICG Ship Sarthak to Chabahar reflects Indias commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation, promoting a rules-based maritime order, and contributing to peace, stability, and sustainable development across the wider Indian Ocean Region and the Gulf, the force said. Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) is Indias policy towards the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR) is Indias updated doctrine marking and evolution from IOR to a global maritime sphere. During the port call, ICG Ship Sarthak will engage in a wide range of professional and community-oriented activities with the Iranian Navy and other Iranian maritime agencies. These include courtesy calls and professional interactions, aimed at strengthening institutional linkages and enhancing mutual understanding in maritime safety and security. Key highlights of the port call, as per the ICG, include joint training activities focusing on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE), and Marine Pollution Response (MPR). A marine pollution response demonstration in Chabahar harbour, targeting oil spills and Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) spills, will be conducted to showcase coordinated response mechanisms. MRCC-to-MRCC coordination drills, a table-top exercise, and joint Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills will further enhance interoperability and operational preparedness between the two sides. In addition to professional engagements, the visit will feature sports fixtures and a beach walkathon, with the participation of embarked National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, aligning with the national Puneet Sagar Abhiyan to promote marine environmental awareness and coastal cleanliness. The port call at Chabahar follows the ships earlier visit to Kuwait, where ICG Ship Sarthak successfully interacted with the Kuwait Coast Guard, further highlighting the Indian Coast Guards expanding footprint and constructive engagement with regional maritime partners. Raised in February 1977 for surveillance in the Indian waters and 2.01 million square kilometres of Exclusive Economic Zone, the Indian Coast Guard, is India's auxiliary service for Maritime Law Enforcement, undertaking 'safety and protection' tasks in Indian waters. India, Iran MoU to develop Chabahar Port In 2015 India and Iran signed an inter-Governmental MoU regarding Indias participation in the development of the Chabahar Port in Iran. Iran's Chabahar port, located in the Sistan-Baluchistan Province on the south-eastern coast is a port of great strategic utility for India. It lies outside the Persian Gulf and is accessed from India's western coast. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, in July 2024 informed the Parliament that The Government of India has undertaken to develop the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar, Iran by equipping and operating General Cargo and Container Terminal for a period of 10 years, as per the Long Term Main Contract, from the date of signing of the said Contract i.e., 13.05.2024. A total of Rs.400 Cr has been allocated from FY 2016-17 to FY 2023-24. The amount utilized so far for the development of Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar is Rs. 201.51 Cr, added Sonowal. The development of the Chabahar Port Project, as per the 2024 Year End Review of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways 2024 is an India-Iran flagship project & the signing of the contact is a really important step in opening up the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) to Central Asia.
Two more Indians killed in Russia-Ukraine war zone, bodies arrive at Delhi airport
The deceased, Ajay Godara and Rakesh Kumar, had gone to Russia on student visa but were allegedly enlisted in the Russian Army after being misled by agents who promised them work as cleaners and helpers
Delhi's Air Quality Likely To Be 'Very Poor' Or 'Severe' For Next 6 Days
Smog persisted across Delhi on Wednesday, with air quality falling in the 'very poor' category, slightly improving from the day before.
Long-term measures needed to contain air pollution, says SC
The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance on the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, calling for permanent solutions to this pressing issue. In its recent decree, toll collection has been paused at nine significant entry points to reduce traffic congestion.
Cooperative-run Bharat Taxi to launch in Delhi in January as Uber alternative
Exciting news for Delhi! Bharat Taxi is set to revolutionize the taxi scene with its official launch early next year. As India's pioneering cooperative taxi service, it stands as a homegrown alternative to traditional cab apps.
Delhi HC refuses PIL seeking 4x refund from IndiGo
The Delhi High Court has refused to hear a public interest litigation demanding IndiGo pay passengers four times the ticket price for cancelled flights. The court suggested the petitioner join an existing case concerning IndiGo's flight delays, cancellations, and refund issues. This move highlights ongoing scrutiny of the airline's operations and regulatory oversight within India's aviation sector.
Illegal call centre defrauding US citizens via tech support busted
Rising pollution hits market footfall, festive sales: traders
One Year Separation Not Mandatory For Divorce By Mutual Consent: Delhi High Court
Waiver is not to be granted as a matter of course, but only where the court is satisfied that the circumstances of exceptional hardship to the petitioner.
Rajasthans pairing of Anantjeet Singh Naruka and Darshna Rathore produced a consistent performance to win the Senior Skeet Mixed Team gold medal at the 68th National Shooting Championship Competitions (Shotgun), currently underway at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi. The Rajasthan duo defeated the Uttar Pradesh pair of Olympian Mairaj Ahmad Khan and []
Delhi HC allows waiver of separation period in mutual consent divorce
Police arrest five syndicate contract killers wanted for multiple murders
TPL 7 champions Sofia, Jeevan of GS Delhi Aces call Ahmedabads atmosphere electric and energetic Social News XYZ
Delhi pollution: Experts caution against smog-eating surfaces
New Delhi: As the Delhi government moves ahead with plans to develop smog-eating surfaces in the city, environmental experts on Wednesday warned that such technological interventions should not replace efforts to curb pollution at its source. Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Wednesday announced that the government has signed a memorandum of understanding with 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 .
The senior counsel said for the poor, who could not afford air-purifiers, staying at home, away from school, deprives them of education, a mid-day meal and no safety from pollution; for them, the intensity of pollution at home may be worse than in school.
Watch: AAP setting garbage on fire to raise pollution: Delhi Environment Minister
IndiGo, DGCA face heat in Parliament over flight chaos
New Delhi: A parliamentary panel examining the recent air traffic disruptions tried to fix responsibility for Indigos mass cancellation of flights as senior aviation officials and IndiGo COO Isidro Porqueras appeared before it on Wednesday, but found the replies of the airline and DGCA evasive and unconvincing, according to sources. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Delhi HC cracks down on alleged use of pirated surveillance software at Udyog Bhawan
It was found that multiple unauthorised copies of the Mirasys software, originally licensed for another site in Gurugram, were illegally copied and surreptitiously installed at the premises of Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday commented on the fourth T20 International between India and South Africa being abandoned in Lucknow due to dense smog, suggesting the match should have been scheduled in Thiruvananthapuram instead of a north Indian city grappling with severe air pollution. The match was called off without a ball being bowled after visibility at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium was badly affected by a thick blanket of smog on Wednesday evening. Reacting on X, Tharoor said cricket fans had been left waiting in vain for the IndiaSouth Africa fixture to begin in Lucknow, but poor visibility caused by widespread smog made play impossible. Pointing to air quality concerns across north India, he said the game should have been held in Thiruvananthapuram, where air quality levels were significantly better. Several north Indian cities, including New Delhi, Agra, Lucknow and Chandigarh, remained enveloped in smog through the day. While Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 334 in the very poor category, Lucknow registered an AQI of 171, classified as moderate, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. However, pollution levels varied across the Uttar Pradesh capital. Three of the citys six monitoring stationsKendriya Vidyalaya, Lalbagh and the Talkatora District Industries Centrerecorded AQI levels above 200, placing them in the poor category. The BCCI's Tours and Fixtures Committee's decision to slot matches in the eastern and northern regions of the country during winters has come under the scanner. Meanwhile, India vice-captain Shubman Gill is likely to miss the final T20I against South Africa after suffering a toe injury during a nets session, with the team opting for caution ahead of the T20 World Cup. Sanju Samson is expected to open in his absence. Gill was hit on the toe late in an extended practice session and was in visible discomfort, prompting the team to rest him as a precaution, a BCCI source said. His availability for the Ahmedabad game remains uncertain. The injury comes amid scrutiny over Gills form, with modest returns in the series, while Sanju Samson has impressed in recent outings. Gill had earlier missed the Test and ODI series against South Africa due to a neck injury that required hospitalisation. Despite the dip in form, the coaching staff led by Gautam Gambhir has reiterated its backing of Gill, viewing him as a key top-order batter for the T20 World Cup early next year. (With inputs from PTI)
ED arrests couple in Rs 300-crore Ponzi fraud case
New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a man and his wife for allegedly duping people by orchestrating a multi-level marketing scheme involving more than Rs 300 crore. Chander Bhushan Singh and his wife, Priyanka, directors of a company named Maxizone Touch, were taken into custody under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering 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 .
Watch: Delhi govt planning overhaul of PUC certificate issuing system: Environment Minister
Delhi government is considering an overhaul of the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate issuing system as the existing centres are old with many shortcomings Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on December 17, amid the ongoing pollution crisis in the national capital.
Silver prices surged to an all-time high of Rs 2.05 lakh per kg in Delhi, driven by robust domestic and international demand. The white metal has seen a significant jump of 127.40% this year. Gold also edged higher, nearing record levels amid geopolitical tensions and expectations of US Federal Reserve rate cuts.
Lok Sabha nod to bill to open up nuclear sector for private players
New Delhi: The tough provisions of Indias nuclear liability laws led to silent phobia among industry, prompting the government to bring a new comprehensive bill to address their concerns and open up the atomic energy sector for private participation, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Wednesday. Singh was replying to a discussion in the Lok 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 .
Digvijaya Singh, Sudha Murty Among 8 Winners At Lokmat Parliamentary Awards
The sixth annual Lokmat Parliamentary Awards 2025 were held on Wednesday in New Delhi, honouring Members of Parliament for their outstanding performance in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
DGCA, IndiGo airline officials appear before parliamentary panel following recent cancellation chaos
NEW DELHI: Senior aviation officials and IndiGo Chief Operating Officer (COO) Isidro Porqueras on Wednesday appeared before the parliamentary panel examining the recent air traffic disruptions. The panel found the replies of the airline and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) unsatisfactory, evasive and unconvincing, sources said. According to the sources, before fixing the onus for the chaos that left thousands of travellers stranded across the country's airports, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture, chaired by Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader Sanjay Jha, has decided to wait for two weeks till the report of the ongoing inquiry of the Civil Aviation Ministry comes out. The officials and Indigo executives have been asked to submit their written replies, and the panel may summon them again after the release of the report, sources added. A team of officials led by IndiGo's Porqueras represented the airline, while Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha led the team of the ministry and DGCA. Four flight inspectors had no role in Indigo crisis: Aviation expert Sanjay Lazar | Interview The ministry has constituted a four-member committee to review the circumstances leading to the massive operational disruptions. Its report is expected to be submitted on December 28. Representatives of Air India, Air India Express, Akasha and SpiceJet also attended the nearly four-hour-long meeting. A few of the MPs questioned whether the ministry was unprepared for such a situation following the implementation of the revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms or if it was an arms-twisting technique adopted by Indigo to get the exemption for the new routine, the sources said. The members said the panel has taken serious note of the difficulties faced by thousands of passengers due to disruption in air services. Even parliamentarians, who were in the national capital for the Winter Session of Parliament, faced the brunt of flight cancellations by IndiGo and delays by other airlines, a panel member said. Several MPs also received complaints from people about air fares shooting up due to the scenario. IndiGo cancelled hundreds of flights for days beginning December 2 across the country. Aviation regulator DGCA has served notices to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and COO Porqueras, seeking their explanation. Indigo flight crisis: Delhi HC refuses to entertain PIL seeking increased compensation to passengers
Parliament passes bill to allow 100 pc FDI in insurance sector
New Delhi: Parliament on Wednesday passed a bill to raise FDI in the insurance sector to 100 per cent from the current 74 per cent, which is expected to increase insurance penetration, lower premiums, and boost job creation. The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, was cleared by the Rajya Sabha 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 .
Indian Navy commissions MH-60R helicopter squadron at INS Hansa
NEW DELHI: In a planned move to carry out modernisation and capability enhancement, the Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned a Squadron of MH-60R Helicopters at INS Hansa, Goa, the first operational squadron on the Western Seaboard. The Indian Navy said, These helicopters will significantly augment the Indian Navys integral aviation capabilities on the Western Seaboard. The squadron, named Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 335 (Ospreys), was commissioned in the presence of Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Navy Chief said. The aircraft has been fully integrated with fleet operations and has proven its worth on numerous occasions. The Indian Navy will receive a significant fillip in its integral aviation capabilities with the commissioning of the squadron. The advanced weapons, sensors and avionics suite make the helicopter a versatile and capable asset for the Indian Navy, offering enhanced capabilities to address conventional as well as asymmetric threats. Speaking on the occasion, Admiral Tripathi said, The induction of the versatile, multi-role MH60R helicopter on the Western Seaboard, as the first operational squadron, marks an important milestone for our Navy. The Indian Navy, as reported earlier by The New Indian Express , commissioned its first six multi-role MH-60 R helicopters in March this year as part of the IN Air Squadron 334 Seahawks. A total of 24 MH-60R contracted in February 2020 at the cost of Rs 15,000 crore ($2.13 billion) are planned to be inducted by next year. The helicopter is designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP). The biggest ships of the Indian Navy form part of its two Fleets. A Fleet is a group of ships that operate under one authority. The Indian Navy's Western Fleet is based at Mumbai, and the Eastern Fleet is based at Visakhapatnam. The maritime environment around us, today, is more complex and contested than ever before. Shifting geopolitics, fast-moving technologies, and an expanding spectrum of threats from grey-zone activities to supply chain disruptions at sea are shaping this new reality. It is within this challenging and dynamic strategic context that India is undertaking its maritime voyage towards becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047. Strengthening maritime security and deterrence, therefore, are fundamental to safeguarding our sea lines of communications, and growing national maritime interests., said Navy Chief While the 335 Squadron is being formally commissioned today here at Goa, the MH-60R helicopter has already proven its prowess across multiple missions during Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25, and in the recently concluded Tri-Services Exercise 2025. I am, therefore, happy to note that the Squadron being commissioned today is fully operational, ready to deploy with the Fleet from day one, reflecting our deep commitment to expeditious capability induction and integration, he added. The operationalisation of the capabilities of this platform is part of the self-reliance plan, as the simultaneous pursuit of integration of indigenous weapons and sensors on this helicopter, in close collaboration with industry, in keeping with the Indian Navys commitment to Aatmanirbharta. It is a matter of pride that several critical equipment on this platform from Software-Defined Radios and Data Links, to weapons such as Depth Charges and, in the near future, Missiles are fully Made in India. The Indian Navy has also indigenously developed the infrastructure, training systems and maintenance capabilities necessary to sustain these platforms aligned with our vision of Aatmanirbharta, the Naval Chief added. 2025 marks 75 years since the Government of India approved the formation of a Fleet Air Arm, thereby transforming the Navy into a potent multi-dimensional force, and giving us a decisive edge at sea. The INS Hansa at Goa is an important Naval air station, as in 2022, the second P8I air squadron was commissioned at this very airbase, augmenting the Navys shore-based fixed-wing capabilities to operate across domains. Navy Chief, talking about the capability enhancement, said, Complementing the P8Is, the Indian Navy is progressing the acquisition of 15 MQ-9B Sea Guardian RPAs, which will significantly enhance our ability to maintain persistent maritime surveillance, and comprehensive Maritime Domain Awareness, across our maritime areas of interest. In addition to building its shore-based aviation capabilities, the Indian Navy has maintained an unwavering focus on the enhancement of the integral shipborne aviation capabilities both fixed and rotary wing. It is in this context that the recent signing of the contract for 26 Rafale-M carrier-borne aircraft assumes particular significance, strengthening our long-range maritime strike and land-attack capabilities, as well as Fleet Air Defence. Highlighting the overall capability, Admiral Tripathi highlighted that Complementing the deck-based fighters, rotary-wing platforms, that include the shipborne Uncrewed Aviation Systems, extend the Fleet's ability to undertake persistent surface and air surveillance, standoff anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, logistics support, and search-and-rescue at sea.
Judges must exercise restraint while pronouncing verdict: Ex-CJI B R Gavai
NEW DELHI: Former Chief Justice of India B R Gavai on Wednesday said that a degree of restraint was necessary for judges while pronouncing verdicts, as something he had once said during the proceedings, in a lighter vein, was blown out of proportion. The former CJI was responding to questions during a panel discussion in the Lokmat National Conclave 2025. While deciding the matters, it is I feel necessary that the judges must exercise restraint. A degree of restraint is very necessary because what I had said once in a court in a lighter mail, out of context, was blown out of proportion, and it was given a totally different colour, he said. Ex-CJI Gavai said judges should never be bothered about whether they are opposed or supported while passing verdicts. The judges are supposed to decide the matters on the basis of the facts before them, on the basis of the law, and on the basis of the Constitution. It did not matter to me much whether I was opposed or liked, he said. Gavai said that social media became a menace when judges said a few words, which were blown out of proportion and given a totally different context. So the best thing is to abide by the advice given by one of our learned colleagues, to speak less. And in any case, the judges are supposed to speak through their judgments, he said. Answering a question about the significance of directive principles of the Constitution, the ex-CJI said that last year marked 75 years of the Kesavananda Bharati case, which laid down the asic structure doctrine. I have been saying at many places that though the initial journey of the Supreme Court may not be conducive with the importance of the directive principles of the Constitution, in the Kesavananda Bharati case, you might notice that though the Supreme Court was equally divided on the amending cause of the Constitution, but in so far as the importance of Directive Principles is concerned, almost all the judges were on the same page, ex-CJI Gavai said. He said that the earlier view that whenever there is a conflict between the fundamental rights and directive principles, the directive principle should give way to the fundamental rights was later changed by the apex court, which held that the directive principles and the fundamental rights, together, are the soul and conscience of the Constitution. Regarding the question of the supremacy of one organ of the state and whether the judiciary had weakened in the last decade, ex-CJI Gavai said, Sometime back, there was a statement by the then constitutional functionary that the judiciary is not Supreme, but it is the parliament which is supreme. And on various forums, I had an occasion to speak, and I said that neither the parliament nor the judiciary is supreme. What is supreme is the Constitution of India, and all the three bodies, the legislature is the parliament and the executive and the judiciary, work under the areas which are earmarked for them by the Constitution. He said at times there was some friction between the three bodies, and some overlapping of functions, but it was wrong to say that the judiciary had weakened in the last 10 years. In my judicial career of more than 22 years, and six and a half years at the Supreme Court, I went on to decide many matters, some in favour of the governments, some in favour of some citizens against the government and the narrative that unless a judge decides on the matters against the government, he is not an independent judge is not correct, because the judges decide the matters on the basis of the facts that are placed before them and apply the law and the constitutional provision as they apply to those facts, the former CJI said.
AP BJP Leaders Call on Amit Shah in Delhi
State unit briefs Home Minister on governance initiatives and infrastructure needs
Dhaka police stop march to Indian mission as India summons Bangladesh envoy
DHAKA: Police stopped a group of protesters marching towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka's Gulshan area on Wednesday afternoon, demanding the return of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina and others who fled during and after the July uprising last year, according to The Daily Star. The protest followed threats against Indian diplomats, prompting India to summon Bangladesh's envoy. The MEA said it expects the interim government to ensure the safety of Missions and Posts in Bangladesh in keeping with its diplomatic obligations. Several hundred protesters under the banner of 'July Oikya' assembled near Rampura Bridge and began their march at around 3:15 pm today. As the procession advanced towards Uttar Badda, police erected barricades to block the route, preventing the demonstrators from moving forward, the report said. Despite the obstruction, protesters managed to breach the initial barricade but were stopped again by a stronger police blockade further ahead. Unable to proceed, the demonstrators eventually sat on the road, raised slogans and addressed the gathering using loudspeakers, The Daily Star reported, citing on-ground accounts. Earlier during the march, protesters were heard chanting slogans such as Delhi na, Dhaka; Dhaka, Dhaka as they moved along the route. #WATCH | Bangladesh: A large number of people, under the banner of July Oyikko (July Unity) held a protest march to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. They were stopped by the Police from going any further. The protesters demanded the immediate repatriation of Sheikh Hasina pic.twitter.com/xD8HgVpWFT ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2025 Law enforcement personnel were deployed in large numbers along the procession route to maintain law and order and prevent the situation from escalating, The Daily Star reported. The protest come against the backdrop of heightened concerns in New Delhi over the security environment in Bangladesh. On Wednesday morning, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh's High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, and apprised him of India's strong concerns, particularly regarding the activities of extremist elements who have announced plans to create a security situation around the Indian Mission in Dhaka. The MEA said, India completely rejects the false narrative sought to be created by extremist elements regarding certain recent events in Bangladesh. It is unfortunate that the interim government has neither conducted a thorough investigation nor shared meaningful evidence with India regarding the incidents. Placing the issue in the broader bilateral context, the MEA added, India has close and friendly relations with the people of Bangladesh rooted in the liberation struggle, and strengthened through various developmental and people-to-people initiatives. We are in favour of peace and stability in Bangladesh and have consistently called for free, fair, inclusive and credible elections, conducted in a peaceful atmosphere. The summons also followed recent incidents, including anti-India rhetoric by National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Hasnat Abdullah, who had made a public speech threatening to isolate the 'Seven Sisters' and provide refuge to Northeast separatists if Bangladesh is destabilised. Abdullah is known for his strong anti-India stand.
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to open for public soon, Nitin Gadkari reveals new inauguration date
The Delhi-Dehradun expressway will reduce travel time between the two cities to two hours from the existing 6.5 hours.
Elgar case: Bombay HC permits accused Navlakha to shift to hometown in Delhi
A bench of Justices Bharati Dangre and Shyam Chandak said Navlakha shall appear every Saturday before the local police station in Delhi to mark his presence, surrender his passport and not leave Delhi without prior permission from the special court
Delhiites, Dehradun Is No Longer A Clean-Air Escape For You As AQI Nears 300
Dehraduns real-time AQI on Wednesday hovered between 260 and 300, worsening significantly after sunset.
No entry to non-BS VI outstation vehicles kicks in; traffic cops steps up checks
Laid off at 35 with two kids and no savings: A Delhi techies post reflects his struggle
A Delhi software professional's sudden job loss at 35 has created immense financial pressure. With family responsibilities and no savings, he seeks practical advice online. His story reveals the precarious balance many professionals face between stability and uncertainty. The techie's candid post resonates with widespread anxieties about job security and unexpected life changes.
Foreign varsities in India can save $113 bn in forex, serve 5.6 lakh students by 2040: Report
Foreign universities are poised to significantly impact India by 2040. They are projected to educate over 5.6 lakh students, saving USD 113 billion in foreign exchange. This expansion will also create substantial demand for high-quality education real estate. Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Mumbai are identified as prime locations for these institutions.
Fake law degree case: Delhi court denies anticipatory bail
A Delhi court has rejected the anticipatory bail plea of a man accused of enrolling as an advocate using forged law degree documents. Additional Sessions Judge Shunali Gupta, who was hearing the plea filed by advocates K Rajan and Kartik Chettiav on behalf of J Vansanthan, denied the relief, saying the allegations against Vansanthan were serious
CHANDIGARH: Aishdeep Singh, the mastermind behind the murder of 30-year-old kabaddi player-cum-promoter Kanwar Digvijay Singh alias Rana Balachauria, was arrested on Wednesday by the Punjab Police from the Indira Gandhi International Airport at Delhi. Meanwhile, another key accused in the case Harpinder Middhi was killed in an encounter at Lalru near here in which two police personnel also sustained injuries. Police said the tussle between different gangsters over the organisation of kabaddi tournaments in Punjab led to the shooting. Senior Superintendent of Police of SAS Nagar Harmandeep Hans said Aishdeep Singh, who had been staying in Russia, came to India on November 25 on the directions of gangster-turned-terrorist Dony Bal to execute the murder. He was arrested from Delhi airport when he was planning to escape to Muscat. Aishdeep informed police about his accomplice Harpinder Middhi, a resident of Naushehra Pannuan in Tarn Taran, who actively supported the shooters and was supposed to escape along with him. Acting on the information, police parties led by Deputy Superintendent of Police of Dera Bassi Bikramjit Singh Brar and including inspectors Sumit Mor, Pushvinder Singh and Malkiat Singh conducted a raid at the location pinpointed by him on the Ambala-Lalru Highway near Jharmal River in Lalru. Upon seeing the police party, the suspect Harpinder Middhi opened fire resulting in serious bullet injuries to two police personnel -- head constables Gulab Singh and Kumar Sharma. The police party retaliated in self-defence during which the suspect was injured and was rushed to Civil Hospital Dera Bassi, where he succumbed to injuries, he said. Gang rivalry over kabaddi tournaments leads to killing of player-promoter Rana Balachauria in Mohali Hans said that police have also arrested another accused Jugraj Singh with the help of Amritsar (Rural) Police. All the accused persons involved in this case have been identified and raids are being conducted to nab the remaining accused, he said. Balachauria was shot dead in Mohali on December 15 by associates of gangsters Doni Bal and Lucky Patial. Police have identified the three accused including the two shooters who pumped bullets into Balachauria. They are Aditya Kapoor alias Makhan and Karan Pathak of Amritsar. The duo are currently absconding. Twelve teams of the Punjab AGTF, SSOC and the district police have been hunting for them for the past two days. Hours after the shootout, gangster Dony Bal claimed responsibility for the attack in a Facebook post. I, Donibal, Saganpreet, Mohabbat Randhawa, Amar Khabe, Prabh Daswal, and Kaushal Chaudhary, take responsibility for the killing of Rana Balachauria during the Kabaddi Cup in Mohali. This man (Rana) was in contact with our rivals Jaggu and Lawrence, it read. He had provided shelter to the killer of Sidhu Moosewala and personally looked after him. By killing Rana today, we have avenged the murder of our brother Sidhu Moosewala. This act was carried out by our brothers Makhan Amritsar and Defaulter Karan, it stated. The killing of Balachauria has brought back memories of a similar incident three years ago when another kabaddi player Sandeep Nangal was shot dead in Jalandhar district in the middle of a tournament at Mallian Kalan village. More recently, a 25-year-old kabaddi player named Teja Singh was shot dead in broad daylight in Jagraon in October this year.
With Delhi under 'severe' air quality, Beijing offers its pollution-control playbook
Hazardous air quality, dense smog and a spike in respiratory illnesses have become a grim winter routine for Delhi. As the national capital chokes under severe air quality for much of the week, Chinas capital, once derided as the worlds smog capital, has emerged as a contrasting case study, and Beijing is now offering its playbook. In an extensive post on X, Chinese embassy spokesperson Yu Jing shared a step-by-step account of how Beijing curbed air pollution over the past decade, accompanied by before-and-after images of the city. Stressing that both India and China face the challenge of air pollution amid rapid urbanisation, Jing said cleaner air doesnt happen overnight, but it is achievable. The post included air quality readings from December 15, showing Delhis AQI at a hazardous 447, compared to a relatively moderate 67 in Beijing. Breaking down Beijings approach, Jing said China adopted ultra-strict vehicle emission standards comparable to Euro 6 norms and aggressively phased out old, high-emission vehicles. Vehicular pollution remains one of the biggest contributors to smog in Delhi. While India mandated BS-VI emission norms for vehicles manufactured after April 1, 2020, enforcement continues to be a weak link. How did Beijing tackle air pollution? Step 1: Vehicle emissions control Adopt ultra-strict regulations like China 6NI (on par with Euro 6) Phase-out retired old, high-emission vehicles Curb car growth via license-plate lotteries and odd-even / weekday driving pic.twitter.com/E0cFp4wgsV Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) December 16, 2025 Delhi, which has battled toxic air since Diwali, banned the entry of non-BS VI vehicles only earlier this week and has also barred refuelling of overage vehicles. The Chinese embassy spokesperson also pointed to measures such as licence-plate lotteries, odd-even and weekday driving restrictions, and massive investments in metro and bus networks, alongside a rapid push for electric mobility. While Delhi has experimented with the odd-even scheme, its impact on pollution levels has been limited. Jing underlined that Beijings gains were made possible through coordinated policies across the BeijingTianjinHebei region, preventing pollution spillover from neighbouring areas. In contrast, one of Delhis biggest challenges remains stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Despite repeated directions from the Supreme Court for coordinated action, lapses and inter-state blame games have blunted enforcement. The second pillar of Beijings clean-air push was industrial restructuring. According to the embassy, more than 3,000 heavy industries were shut down or relocated. Relocating Shougang, one of Chinas largest steelmakers, alone cut inhalable particles by 20%, the post said. Vacated industrial sites were converted into parks, commercial districts and cultural or technology hubs. The former Shougang industrial complex, for instance, was transformed into a key venue for the 2022 Winter Olympics. Beijing also shifted wholesale markets, logistics hubs and even some educational and medical institutions to nearby cities, retaining only high-value research, development and service sectors in the capital. While the suggestions from the Chinese embassy have drawn attention, experts caution that Delhi has heard, and even attempted, many of these measures before, with marginal success. Beijings turnaround followed a five-year national action plan launched in 2013, which included shutting coal-fired boilers, expanding public transport, promoting new-energy vehicles and accelerating the shift to green energy. The citys last-mile connectivity now relies on micro-buses, shared mobility options such as bikes and e-scooters, ride-hailing services and even autonomous vehicles. How does Beijing tackle air pollution? Step 2: Industrial Restructuring Shut down or remove 3000+ heavy industries. Relocating Shougang, one of Chinas largest steelmakers, alone cut inhalable particles by -20%. Transform vacated factories into parks, pic.twitter.com/SYPOsoMaO1 Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) December 17, 2025 Delhi governments, meanwhile, have relied on measures such as water sprinkling, anti-smog guns and short-term traffic curbs, but pollution levels remain dangerously high. Experts say that while Delhi and Beijing share some pollution sources, a straight replication of the Beijing model is impractical unless adapted to local realities. Year-long transport curbs, for instance, are not feasible in the national capital, and persistent disagreements among states over stubble burning continue to undermine progress. They argue that integrating rural agricultural policies to address crop residue burning, expanding public transport infrastructure and ensuring strict compliance are critical. A Comptroller and Auditor General (Comptroller and Auditor General of India) report tabled in the Delhi Assembly has found that Delhis worsening air pollution is driven largely by systemic failures within the city, particularly weak enforcement of vehicular pollution norms. The audit highlights widespread irregularities in the Pollution Under Control (PUC) regime, noting that over 1.08 lakh vehicles were issued certificates despite exceeding permissible limits for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. In several instances, certificates were issued to multiple vehicles within seconds, raising doubts about the integrity of testing. Between 2015 and 2020, nearly 4,000 non-compliant diesel vehicles continued to operate due to lax certification. The report also flags major lapses in removing end-of-life vehicles. Of the 47.51 lakh vehicles meant to be deregistered between 2018-19 and 2020-21, only 2.98 lakh were actually removed, leaving over 93% still officially registered and potentially in use. None of the vehicles impounded for pollution violations had been scrapped, while scrapping and impounding infrastructure remains grossly inadequate. Enforcement has been further hampered by staff shortages, lack of mobile testing equipment, and the absence of real-time data to guide deployment of teams. The audit concludes that Delhis air crisis cannot be blamed solely on external factors like stubble burning, but has been significantly worsened by poor implementation of policies, weak monitoring, and failures in governance. The broad lesson from Beijing, experts say, is not that solutions are unknown, but that implementing them requires sustained political will, regional coordination and rigorous enforcement, several stars that must align for Delhi to breathe easier.
Man arrested for posing as police officer and conducting fake raid at jewellery workshop in delhi
Man beaten to death after altercation over bidi in east Delhi
SC Allows Delhi Govt to Act Against Old Vehicles Which are Not BS-IV Compliant
The ASG urged the court to allow action against older vehicles up to BS-III standards, arguing that such vehicles contribute disproportionately to air pollution
Air pollution: SC pushes NHAI, MCD to suspend or shift toll booths to cut emissions
New Delhi: Taking a serious note of the severe air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a slew of directions and asked the NHAI and the MCD to consider either temporary closing or relocating the nine toll plazas of the civic body at borders of the national capital to ease usual 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 .
Delhiites Visit Dehradun To Escape Pollution, Only To Find AQI At 300
As a thick winter smog once again engulfs Delhi, forcing schools to shut intermittently and residents indoors, thousands of people are heading for the hills in search of cleaner air.
SC allows action against vehicles below BS-IV norms in NCR
The Supreme Court has empowered the Delhi government to take action against vehicles not meeting BS IV emission standards in the NCR region. In a separate development, the apex court has transferred the suo moto case concerning the rape of a trainee doctor in Kolkata to the Calcutta High Court.
Delhi HC seeks action on used vehicle sales after Red Fort blast
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court questioned the city government on Wednesday over its failure to regulate the sale and transfer of used vehicles, while pointing out that in a recent bomb blast near the Red Fort, a second-hand car was used, making the issue more significant. A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya 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 .
Bengal SIR: ECI to subject hearings on claims, objections to daily audits
NEW DELHI: After completing the first phase of the three-stage Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal with the publication of the draft electoral rolls on Tuesday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) will now focus on strict monitoring of the hearings on claims and objections, scheduled to begin next week. Sources in the ECI said that, in view of large-scale irregular voters data detected during progeny mapping, where, in several cases, the age difference between father and child was found to be less than 15 years, it has been decided to subject the proceedings of the hearings on claims and objections to daily audits. A source said, The idea is to detect the doubtful cases during the hearing sessions and refer such individuals back to the electoral registration officers (EROs) concerned for rechecking. At the same time, sources said the ECI has also decided to video-record the entire hearing sessions and, if necessary, conduct webcasting of the proceedings. The recorded videos will be preserved and examined to identify doubtful cases, they added. The sources also said the ECI has decided to adopt a two-pronged monitoring mechanism for the hearing sessions, one by the special roll observers appointed by the Commission to review the SIR exercise, and the other by senior ECI officials monitoring the process online directly from the Commissions headquarters in New Delhi. The Commission has also decided to appoint micro-observers for the second stage of the three-stage revision exercise, which will involve the filing of claims and objections and the notice phase, the sources said. They added that the issuance, hearing, verification and decision on enumeration forms, and their disposal, will be carried out concurrently by the EROs. Thereafter, the third stage of the SIR will commence, during which the ECI will publish the final voters list on February 14 next year. Soon after the publication of the final voters list, the ECI will announce the dates for the crucial Assembly elections scheduled to be held next year, the sources said.
