Swami Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishan unfurl National Flag on 77th R-Day
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Jan 27: On 77th Republic Day of the country, chief of the Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust, Swami Ramdev and general secretary, Acharya Balrkishan unfurled the National Flag at Patanjali Wellness Centre and extended greetings to the people of the country. On this occasion, Swami stressed on five points-indigenous education, indigenous medical systems, indigenous economy, following Sanatan living style and dependence on indigenous things to make the nation strong and progressive. Swami said that today our country is facing [] The post Swami Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishan unfurl National Flag on 77th R-Day appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kedarnath, Badrinath and 47 affiliated temples considering a ban on entry of non-Hindus
Following a proposal to restrict non-Hindus at Haridwar's Kumbh ghats, the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee is considering a similar move at its shrines. Citing tradition and constitutional rights, the committee chairman stated the decision aims to preserve religious practices, welcoming those who respect their faith.
Goa to host Patanjalis largest wellness centre after Haridwar
NT Reporter Panaji Announcing his expansion plans, Yog Guru Baba Ramdev on Saturday said that Goa will soon be home to Patanjali Ayurveds largest wellness centre after Haridwar. He said the project will be developed with support from the state government. Speaking to reporters after conducting a yoga session for government officials at the Yog []
Amit Shah inaugurates Patanjali Emergency and Critical Care Hospital in Haridwar
HARIDWAR, Jan 22: Union home minister Amit Shah here on Thursday inaugurated the Patanjali Emergency and Critical Care Hospital the worlds first integrated medical system and a global centre for yoga, ayurveda and modern medicine, an official statement said. During the event, Shah inspected the hospital and described it as the worlds first hybrid hospital. He also interacted with yoga guru Swami Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, general secretary, Patanjali Yogpeeth. Operated by Patanjali Yogpeeth, the hospital will be able [] The post Amit Shah inaugurates Patanjali Emergency and Critical Care Hospital in Haridwar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rakesh shines at National Powerlifting Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 23: Rakesh Kumar of Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory delivered a stellar performance at the Subrata Classic Full Powerlifting and Deadlift National Championship 2026, organized by the Indian Powerlifting Federation (IPF), held at Haridwar from January 17 to 21. Competing against top athletes from across the country, Rakesh Kumar showcased exceptional strength and determination by winning three gold medals and one silver medal in different categories. His remarkable achievement brought pride to Jammu & Kashmir [] The post Rakesh shines at National Powerlifting Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Solution To World's Problems Lies In Indian Tradition: Amit Shah
The event, organised by the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, also marked the centenary of the Akhand Jyoti, a flame that has been continuously burning for over a century
Non-Hindu prohibited area signs come up at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar
Haridwar: Amid demands to declare the Haridwar Kumbh area in Uttarakhand a Hindu zone and restrict entry to non-Hindus at all religious places and Ganga ghats within it, signs reading Non-Hindu prohibited area were put up at Har Ki Pauri on Friday, January 16. The Ganga Sabha, the organisation that manages and maintains Har Ki 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 .
Posters Barring Entry Of Non-Hindus Installed At Haridwars Har Ki Pauri
The demand to ban the entry of non-Hindus in Haridwar has been raised for a long time, particularly in light of the upcoming Ardh Kumbh festival next year.
'Non-Hindu Prohibited Area' Boards Put Up In Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri
Amid demands to declare the Haridwar Kumbh area in Uttarakhand a Hindu zone and restrict entry to non-Hindus at all religious places and Ganga ghats within it, signs reading 'Non-Hindu prohibited area' were put up at Har Ki Pauri on Friday.
Boards barring non-Hindus at Har ki Pauri come up in Uttarakhand
Signs declaring 'Non-Hindu prohibited area' have been erected at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, citing a 1916 bylaw. This follows a viral video incident, though the individuals were later identified as Hindu YouTubers. The Ganga Sabha is pushing for broader restrictions across the Kumbh area, a move the Uttarakhand government is considering to preserve the sanctity of religious sites.
Three day conference on Health Services starts at Patanjali University
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Jan 15: A three day conference on Health Services and Management Using Smart Techniques started here today at Patanjali University. The conference is being organised jointly by Patanjali University, IIT Roorkee, American Institute of Management and Technology, USs Global Knowledge Foundation, BIS Dehradun and University of Mariland Eastern Shores Business Management and Accounts Department. The conference is being organised to unify the smart techniques for technology and management of health services. The conference started with the warm [] The post Three day conference on Health Services starts at Patanjali University appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ban on non-Hindus at Uttarakhand Ganga ghats should not be limited to devotees: Ganga Sabha
The Ganga Sabha has called for a ban on non-Hindus entering Har Ki Pauri and other Ganga ghats in Haridwar. This restriction should also apply to government employees and media personnel. The Sabha cited existing bylaws from 1916 that prohibit non-Hindu entry. They also highlighted an incident where individuals disguised as Arab sheikhs were seen filming.
Uttarakhand: Two held for roaming around at Har Ki Pauri in sheikh attire
Haridwar: Police have detained two men after a video purportedly showing them, wearing sheikh attire (kandura), roaming around at Har Ki Pauri and bathing at Ganga ghat surfaced online, officials said on Tuesday, January 13. Police said that the video of the men roaming around Malviya Ghat and its surroundings at Har Ki Pauri caused 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 .
Viral Video Of Men In Arab-Style Robes At Haridwar Ghat Draws Police Attention
The men, who identified themselves as Habibullah and Habibi from Dubai, told the priests that they were social media influencers.
UP Dalit woman murder, daughter kidnap case: Accused sent to judicial custody
Meerut: A local court on Sunday, January 11, sent the main accused in the murder of a Dalit woman and the abduction of her daughter to 14 days of judicial custody in connection with the two crimes in Meerut districts Kapsad village, officials said. The abducted young woman, Ruby, 20, who was recovered from Haridwar 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 .
Manager killed over parking fee dispute in Haridwar, two arrested
Haridwar: Two men from Haryana allegedly ran over a 55-year-old parking manager with their car after a dispute over fee near Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar here, resulting in his death, police said here on Sunday, January 11. The two men, Vishal, 22 and Suraj, 35, both residents of Sonipat, had fled the scene after 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 .
Meerut murder-abduction case: Accused nabbed in Haridwar; woman rescued
The incident happened in Kapsad village of Meerut on January 8, when a woman was grievously injured while trying to save her 22-year-old daughter from alleged abductors, triggering caste tension
The link expressway, stretching 50.70 kilometers, will provide much-needed relief to residents of Haridwar. Once completed, it will significantly reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun, bringing the two cities within a mere two-and-a-half hours of each other.
Uttarakhand govt plans ban on non-Hindus entering 105 ghats in Haridwar
Uttarakhand government is considering a ban on non-Hindus entering Haridwar's 105 ghats. The state also plans to declare Haridwar and Rishikesh as holy cities. This move follows demands from religious leaders and a body overseeing the Har-ki-Pauri ghat. The government is reviewing a 1916 agreement that had similar restrictions. The process may begin before the Ardh Kumbh in 2027.
Patanjali Yogpeeth celebrates 32nd Foundation Day
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Jan 5: Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust here today celebrated its 32nd foundation day with enthusiasm. On this occasion, the Trust founder and president, Swami Ramdev and general secretary, Acharya Balkrishan said that they worked hard to aware the people about Yoga, Ayurveda, Indigenous Products, Sanatan Dharam, Saints etc. They urged the students and researchers of Patanjali institutions to feel proud in spreading the knowledge about Yoga, Ayurveda, Indigenous Products, Sanatan Dharam etc so that the people may move [] The post Patanjali Yogpeeth celebrates 32nd Foundation Day appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Declare Kumbh Mela area restricted zone for non-Hindus before 2027 Ardh Kumbh: Shri Ganga Sabha
The Sabha president said that the government should identify such people and remove them from Haridwar
No Entry For Non-Hindus In Haridwar? Looking To Preserve Sanctity, Says Uttarakhand CM Dhami
Sources said a proposal to extend these restrictions to all 105 Ganga ghats, from Haridwar to Rishikesh, is currently under discussion with seers and Shri Ganga Sabha
Womans Ashes Go Missing From Crematorium Locker in Himachals Solan, Police Launch Probe
When the family visited the crematorium on Thursday morning to collect the ashes for immersion in Haridwar, they discovered the locker open and the ashes missing
After Viral Video Of Attack On Gangster Vinay Tyagi, 2 Shooters Arrested In Haridwar
In a significant breakthrough, the Haridwar Police have apprehended two suspects in connection with a violent assault on notorious gangster Vinay Tyagi near the Laksar flyover.
BJP leader urges govt to remove video implying his involvement in Ankita Bhandari murder
The controversy stems from a viral video and an alleged audio conversation of a woman named Urmila Sanawar, who claims to be the wife of former MLA Suresh Rathore from Haridwar's Jwalapur. In the video, Sanawar alleged that a person named 'Gattu' was involved in the murder of Ankita Bhandari, a receptionist at a resort who was murdered in 2022 by her employer over refusal to render sexual favours.
Haridwar Congress MLA, Annoyed By Power Cuts, Climbs Poles To Cut Electricity To Officials' Houses
Congress MLA Virendra Jati climbed electricity poles and cut the power to the houses of three electricity department officials after expressing anger over repeated power cuts.
Angered By Outages, Congress MLA Cuts Power To Officials' Houses In UP
Annoyed by power cuts, Congress MLA Virendra Jati from Jhabreda in Haridwar district climbed electricity poles and cut the power to the houses of three of the department's officials.
Haridwar hotel cancel Christmas event after protest by Hindu groups
The hotel had advertised about its Christmas events on social media on which the Hindu groups objected to
A Christmas event scheduled to be held at a hotel run by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar has been cancelled following objections from Hindu outfits, a hotel official said on Monday. Several activities for children were scheduled for December 24 at Hotel Bhagirathi on the occasion of Christmas, but they will not be held now, hotel owner Neeraj Gupta said. After information about the Christmas event at the hotel spread on social media, Hindu organisations began protesting against it. Ujjwal Pandit, an office-bearer of the Shri Ganga Sabha, in a post on social media, warned that Christmas celebration on the banks of the Ganges would not be tolerated and asked the organisers to cancel it immediately. Pandit, secretary of the Ganga Sevak Dal of the Ganga Sabha, said, Events related to foreign culture will not be tolerated on the banks of the Ganges. This event is an insult to the religious sanctity of Haridwar and the dignity of the Ganges. Christmas has nothing to do with our Hindu religion. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) also opposed the Christmas celebration on the banks of the Ganges. RSS' Shetriya Prachar Pramukh Padamji told PTI that whether it is the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department or any other organisation, everyone should 'respect the religious beliefs, traditions and dignity' of Haridwar. He said, Haridwar is the city of the Ganges, the land of gods, and here beliefs and traditions in accordance with Hindu culture have been followed for centuries, and no one has the right to disrupt them. However, when contacted, the management of Hotel Bhagirathi said that no event was planned on Christmas that would have gone against the dignity of Haridwar, Hindu culture and its traditions. Hotel owner Neeraj Gupta said, We were not organising any such Christmas-related event at the hotel. A Christmas tree was indeed decorated at the hotel reception, but the plan was to organise games for the children on this occasion. He said that in addition, a grand Ganga Aarti was to be performed on the banks of the Ganges, and keeping in mind the religious significance, sanctity, and purity of the Ganges, only pure vegetarian food was to be served. Gupta said non-vegetarian food and alcohol are prohibited at the hotel. He said that due to the protests by Hindu organisations, the programmes planned for children at the hotel have now been cancelled, and only the grand Aarti will be held on the banks of the Ganges on this occasion.
Four killed as car rams into dumper in UP's Bijnor
BIJNOR: Four people, including an Islamic scholar, were killed after a car rammed into a dumper from behind here, police said on Monday. Circle Officer, Najibabad, Nitesh Pratap Singh, said the accident occurred around 11.30 pm on Sunday on the Haridwar road near Jalpur village under Nangal police station limits. The car hit the dumper that was moving ahead of it. Due to the impact of the collision, the car was left badly mangled and police had to cut open its doors to retrieve the bodies, he said. The deceased were identified as Qari Iqbal (75), Ashfaq (65), Ehtesham (25) and Salauddin (26), all residents of nearby areas, he said. Police said Iqbal was returning after delivering a sermon at a madrassa programme when the others offered to drop him home.
Special train from Coimbatore to Haridwar via Mangaluru
The train will cater to the extra rush of passengers during the Christmas and New Year holidays
Four killed in high-speed crash on RishikeshHaridwar highway
DEHRADUN: Four people were killed instantly in a tragic road accident on the RishikeshHaridwar highway late on Tuesday night after a speeding SUV rammed into a stationary truck. The incident took place near the Mansa Devi railway crossing in Haridwar. According to police, a Mahindra XUV500 travelling at high speed from Haridwar towards Rishikesh crashed into the rear of a parked truck with such force that the SUV was completely crushed and became wedged underneath the larger vehicle. Eyewitnesses told the police that the impact reduced the car to a mangled wreck. Preliminary investigations and witness accounts suggest that the SUV had been aggressively overtaking several vehicles moments before the collision. It was a terrible sight, said one eyewitness. The driver suddenly swerved sharply to the left, apparently to avoid an animal on the road. He lost control, and the car went straight into the back of the truck. Emergency teams from Rishikesh Kotwali, Shyampur and IDPL police outposts rushed to the scene after receiving alerts from the control room. Rescue personnel used a heavy-duty crane to cut through the wreckage and extricate the victims. All four occupants were taken to hospital, where doctors declared them dead on arrival. Police have so far identified two of the deceased as Dheeraj Jaiswal (30) and Hariom (22), both residents of Rishikesh. Efforts are under way to establish the identities of the remaining two victims, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the high-speed collision.
Gyan Bharatam Mission recognises University of Patanjali as Cluster Center
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Dec 14: At a ceremony here today, the University of Patanjali has been recognized as a Cluster Center by the Gyan Bharatam Mission, Ministry of Culture. In this regard MoU was signed in the presence of Patanjali Universitys Chancellor, Yogaguru Swami Ramdev, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Acharya Balkrishna and Gyan Bharatam Missions Project Director, Dr. Anirban Dash, Dr. Sridhar Barik (Coordinator, NMM) and Vishwaranjan Malik (Coordinator, Digitization, NMM). Speaking on this occasion Swami Ramdev expressed gratitude to the PM [] The post Gyan Bharatam Mission recognises University of Patanjali as Cluster Center appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Congress leader Harish Rawat performs 'Joota Seva' to placate sikh community amid controversy
DEHRADUN: In a significant move aimed at stemming political fallout, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and senior Congress leader, Harish Rawat, personally visited the Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha in Dehradun on Sunday. Following prayers before the Guru Granth Sahib, Rawat participated in 'Langar Sewa' (community kitchen) service and performed 'Joota Ghar Seva' (shoe cleaning) service. This act of penance follows a recent controversy ignited by Congress leader and former cabinet minister, Harak Singh Rawat, who allegedly made an objectionable remark targeting the Sikh community during a lawyers' protest in Dehradun on Friday. The comment sparked widespread outrage among the Sikh populace. Sensing the depth of the community's anger, Harish Rawat stepped in to mediate and control the damage. His involvement comes after Harak Singh Rawat had already sought forgiveness, including performing 'Joota Seva' at the Paonta Sahib Gurdwara. The timing is crucial for the Congress party, which is gearing up for the 2027 Assembly elections, having been out of power in Uttarakhand since 2017. The party is acutely aware that regaining power requires a united front and securing key community votes. A mistake was made by a Congress leader, and to repent for it, we will perform 'Joota Seva' and 'Kar Seva' at the Gurdwara and seek forgiveness before the Guru Granth Sahib, Harish Rawat stated, emphasising accountability. The political calculus behind this swift damage control cannot be overstated. Sikh voters hold significant sway in several key constituencies across Udham Singh Nagar and possess a vital vote bank in Dehradun and Haridwar. In both the 2017 and 2022 polls, Congress secured seats in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar, underlining the necessity of maintaining community goodwill. The BJP wasted no time capitalising on the gaffe. BJP State Media In-charge, Manveer Chauhan, reacted sharply, stating, As a senior leader of the Congress, Harak Singhs comment clearly shows what the party's thinking towards the Sikhs remains even today. With the state leadership recently reorganisedintroducing a new State President, Ganesh Godiyal, and establishing election committees well in advancethe Congress is aggressively campaigning against the ruling BJP government. However, this latest incident forced the party onto the back foot, prompting top brass like Harish Rawat to intervene directly to protect their electoral prospects.
Stone-pelting on Bajrang Dal's procession in Haridwar; heavy police force deployed
The Bajrang Dal had organised a 'Shaurya Yatra' in the evening. The procession started from three different locations in Haridwar and the stone-pelting incident took place as soon as it reached Ram Chowk in Jwalapur, the officials said.
Watch: 6 Wild Elephants Stray Onto Haridwar Highway, Chaos Follows
Incidents of wild elephants straying into human settlements are on the rise in Uttarakhand's Haridwar district, raising concerns over growing human-wildlife conflict in the region.
Rats allegedly gnaw deceased man's face in Haridwar hospital mortuary; family vandalises premises
DEHRADUN: A shocking incident at the District Hospital's post-mortem house in Haridwar has sparked outrage after family members discovered that rats had allegedly gnawed on the face, including one eye, of a deceased man's body stored overnight. The gruesome discovery early Saturday morning led to immediate fury among the relatives, culminating in vandalism within the hospital premises before police could arrive. The deceased was identified as 36-year-old Lakhan alias Lucky Sharma, manager of the Punjabi Dharamshala, who was rushed to the District Hospital late Monday night after his health deteriorated. Doctors declared him dead upon arrival, and the body was placed in the mortuary pending post-mortem procedures. When we returned in the morning, we saw clear bite marks from rats on the eye, ear, nose, and face of the body, stated Manoj Sharma, the deceased's brother-in-law. The familys anger intensified as they claimed the deceased had intended to donate his eyes. Rats destroyed one eye. Seeing one eye missing sent our tempers soaring, Sharma added. Allegations of gross negligence by hospital staff quickly followed, triggering a massive uproar. A crowd gathered rapidly, joined soon after by members of the local Punjabi community and several Congress party leaders, all demanding accountability from the hospital administration. In the chaos that ensued, family members and supporters allegedly damaged glass panes, tables, chairs, and essential equipment inside the hospital before authorities could gain control. The brother-in-law further detailed the potential cause of the tragedy. The deep freezer was not working properly. The specific unit where the body was kept was also open from the back. That is how the rats entered and consumed parts of the body, he alleged. The Chief Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ranbir Singh of the District Hospital, acknowledged the serious lapse, confirming the facility's infrastructure issues. It is true that several body storage freezers in the hospital are malfunctioning. Some lids are not even closing properly, he admitted. He assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted, and strict action would be taken against those found responsible for the lapse.
The asthi visarjan of Dharmendra was held in Haridwar, in the presence of the Deol family. However, neither Sunny Deol nor Bobby Deol performed the rituals. Read on to know who it was.
Sunny Deol, along with Bobby Deol, Karan and Rajveer Deol, reached Haridwar to perform the asthi visarjan of Dharmendra.
UP Groom Disappears On Wedding Night After Bride Asks For Bulb, Found In Haridwar
A 26-year-old Meerut man who went missing on his wedding night after stepping out to buy a bulb was found safe in Haridwar three days later.
Dehradun Diary | Dharmendras ashes reach Haridwar
Veteran actor Dharmendras ashes have arrived in Haridwar, where the immersion ceremony, known as Asthi Visarjan, will take place at VIP Ghat on Wednesday. Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and other family members have reached Haridwar to perform the rituals. The family has requested privacy and asked the media to maintain distance. The ashes are currently kept at Pilibhit House in Haridwar, a 100-year-old mansion on the banks of the Ganges, where the family is also staying. Security arrangements have been made at VIP Ghat to ensure a peaceful ceremony. The iconic actor passed away on November 24 after a long illness. States Raj Bhavan renamed Lok Bhavan Symbolising a shift in governance, Uttarakhands Raj Bhavan has officially been renamed Lok Bhavan (Peoples House), effective Monday. The Governors Secretariat confirmed the change, citing a letter from the Union Home Ministry and the approval of Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd). This renaming of the Raj Bhavan in Dehradun and Nainital is official, stated Governors Secretary Ravinath Raman. This move aligns with a national trend of transforming symbols of colonial-era authority into spaces reflecting public accessibility. Observers note this is part of a broader initiative championed by PM Narendra Modi to redefine public office. CM announces high-level Sanskrit Commission CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the formation of a high-level commission for the promotion and development of Sanskrit during the closing ceremony of a two-day international conference at the Sanskrit Academy on Monday. Addressing delegates, Dhami stated, Ancient civilisations developed on the foundation of Sanskrit, the root of most world languages. Former CM Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank highlighted Uttarakhands pioneering role, noting it was the first state to declare Sanskrit its second official language. Devbhoomi has been the centre of Indian knowledge, he added. The commission aims to safeguard this Devvani heritage.
Top seers expelled from Juna Akhara amid rift
HARIDWAR: A major rift has surfaced within Uttarakhands spiritual leadership with the expulsion of two senior MahamandaleshwarsSwami Prabodhanand Giri and Swami Yatindranand Girifrom the Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara. The action, taken late Sunday, followed their participation in a meeting at Bharat Sewa Ashram in Haridwar that saw several sadhus reportedly raise demands contrary to the Akhara Parishads established norms. Announcing the decision, Juna Akharas International President Mohan Bharti Maharaj said the two seers made unwarranted statements and used abusive language against the government and administration. He alleged they were attempting to damage Sanatan Dharma and disrupt preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela, adding that Prabodhanand Giri also faces a pending murder-related inquiry. According to sources, the Sunday meeting saw saints demand facilities for Sthaan-Dhari (place-holding) saints at the 2027 Ardha Kumbh, similar to those provided to Akhara Parishad members. The gathering also announced an Ashram Parishad as an alternative body to the existing Akhara Parishad. This is not the first sign of discord. Earlier, Swami Roopendra Prakash and Prabodhanand Giri had questioned the very relevance of the Akhara Parishad and criticised holding the Ardha Kumbh on the scale of the Maha Kumbh.
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway opens for trial run; inauguration expected by month-end
NEW DELHI: The much-awaited Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, expected to reduce travel time by almost four hours, was opened for a trial run on Monday. Developed at an approximate cost of Rs 12,000 crore, the corridor will significantly reduce the travel time between the national capital and the city located in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand from the existing 6.5 hours to just 2.5 hours. The access controlled expressway, that has an operational speed limit of 100 kmph starts from Akshardham Temple in Delhi and passes through many districts of Uttar Pradesh such as Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur and culminates at Dehradun. The 210-km-longexpressway was expected to be ready by March 2024. Speaking at the monthly interactive sessionDelhi Dialoguesorganised by TNIE , the Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra last week said that the remaining work of the project had almost been completed and the expressway would be opened by the end of this month. The project was approved in 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the expressway in December 2021. The expressway will also have a spur towards Haridwar and also connect to Char Dham Highway, thus enhancing the connectivity to the hill stations and pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The last 20-km long stretch passes through the eco-sensitive zone of Rajaji National Park where Asias longest elevated wildlife corridor (12km) that includes 340 metre Daat Kali tunnel is being constructed. Multiple animal passes have been provided in the Ganeshpur-Dehradun section for avoiding animal-vehicle collisions. The corridor also has arrangements for rainwater harvesting at intervals of 500m and over 400 water recharge points. The ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) has planned to install solar panels along the 14.75 km-long stretch of the Expressway, including a 6.9 km elevated section starting from Akshardham junction (near Delhi-Meerut Expressway) to at DLF Ankur Vihar situated at Delhi-Uttar Pradesh (UP) border. The estimated cost of the pilot project is Rs 1,479.22 crore, which is to harness up to seven (megawatt) MW of solar power. It will be commissioned within 18 months, with a 25-year power agreement.
Dr Jitendra addresses Dehradun World Summit, announces expansion of Uttarakhands Weather network
Excelsior Correspondent DEHRADUN, Nov 30: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Minister of State for Earth Sciences; and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced here today that in Uttarakhand, while three Weather Radars have already been installed at Surkanda Devi, Mukteshwar and Lansdowne, three more radars will soon be commissioned at Haridwar, Pantnagar and Auli, thus further strengthening real-time forecasting capability for the region. Addressing the World Summit [] The post Dr Jitendra addresses Dehradun World Summit, announces expansion of Uttarakhands Weather network appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Haridwar Ardh Kumbh 2027 will be celebrated as grandly as Purna Kumbh: CM Dhami
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the 2027 Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela will be celebrated grandly, mirroring the Purna Kumbh. For the first time, sadhus and saints will participate in 'Shahi Snan' during the four-month event, with extensive preparations underway to ensure its historic significance and the safety of millions of expected devotees.
CBI arrests assistant professor in escalating UKSSSC paper leak probe
DEHRADUN: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday arrested an assistant professor who acted as a key conspirator in the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) graduate-level recruitment paper leak, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation. The accused, identified as Suman, an assistant professor at Shaheed Srimati Hansa Dhanai Rajkiya Mahavidyalaya in Tehri Garhwal, was taken into custody alongside two others, Mohd Khalid and his sister Sabiha. The arrests mark a deepening of the probe into the leak that forced the cancellation of the crucial examination. The CBI took over the investigation after the Uttarakhand government recommended a central probe amid widespread student agitations that followed the leak. The assistant professor was arrested on Friday, and will be produced before the designated court after a medical examination, a CBI spokesperson confirmed in a formal statement. Sources within the agency said Professor Sumans alleged involvement surfaced during the scrutiny of digital evidence obtained from Khalid and Sabiha, who were apprehended earlier. Preliminary findings indicate a troubling modus operandi. Officials stated that Suman assisted Khalid by solving portions of the leaked question paper, which was reportedly obtained via Khalids sister. The solved answers were then sent to Khalid, who was appearing as a candidate in the examination. The interrogation and analysis of mobile phone data strongly indicated Sumans direct assistance in disseminating the leaked content, an official privy to the investigation noted. The controversy erupted in October when three pages of the graduate-level recruitment exam paper were leaked from a centre in Haridwar, triggering widespread outrage among unemployed youth across the state. More than one lakh candidates had competed for just 416 vacant posts, making the integrity of the exam especially critical. The perceived scale of malpractice prompted sustained protests led by the Uttarakhand Berojgar Sangh. The state governments decision to transfer the sensitive case to the CBI came in response to persistent public demands for an impartial and thorough investigation. The arrest of a serving academic now points to a potentially more organised network behind the leak rather than isolated incidents. The CBI is expected to reveal further details as the accused are presented before the court.
Confirming the fair on January 13, Makar Sankranti, CM Dhami, also said that administrative work is progressing fast.
'Kumbh Shahi Snan in Haridwar on': CM Dhami announces key dates as preparations kick off
BHOPAL:After being on the run for more than three weeks, the suspended government doctor, the alleged mastermind of the recently busted inter-state fake Indian currency notes (FICN) racket, has been arrested in Madhya Pradesh's capital, Bhopal. Acting on specific inputs, cops from the special investigation team (SIT) of Khandwa district police, raided a house in Bhopals Bagmugaliya area and arrested Dr Prateek Navlakhe along with his two aides. While the suspended government doctor, 43-year-old Prateek Navlakhe, hails from southwestern MPs Burhanpur district, the two other men arrested from the rented house on Sunday evening have been identified as 35-year-old Gopal alias Rahul (resident of MPs Harda district) and 43-year-old Dinesh Gore (who hails from Amravati-Maharashtra). Suspended MP doctor emerges as mastermind in inter-state fake currency racket busted in Maharashtra Dinesh Gore is the acting principal of a government school in Maharashtra, while Rahul is a property broker. FICN totalling Rs 25,000, nine cell-phones, a laptop, 32 ATM cards, 15 bank cheque books, a dryer machine and other incriminating material have been seized from the arrested trio, Khandwa district police superintendent Manoj Rai said on Monday. With this recent action, FICNs totalling over Rs 30 lakh have so far been seized by the Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh police teams from the possession of the seven arrested members of the inter-state racket and their whereabouts since October 30. Importantly, the alleged inter-state FICN racket was busted in Malegaon town of Maharashtras Nashik district on October 30 following the arrest of a Muslim cleric, Maulana Zuber and his key aide, Nazir. The Malegaon cops had seized from the duo, Rs 10 lakhs FICN, which they were to route to various parts of the western state. With Zubair being the Imam of a mosque located in Pethia village of southwestern MPs Khandwa district, the Khandwa district police raided the room where he stayed in the Imambara in Pethia village and recovered Rs 19.78 lakh FICN on November 2. An SIT was subsequently formed by the Khandwa district police superintendent into the entire case, and the two men, including Maulana Zubair, arrested in Malegaon town on October 30, were later brought to Khandwa (MP) for questioning. It was their questioning that confirmed the direction of the police investigation, about the suspended government doctor Pradeep Navlakhe being the mastermind of the inter-state racket. Navlakhes arrest from Bhopal is a breakthrough for us in the case, as he has emerged as the real mastermind of the racket. The laptop seized from the rented house in Bhopal contains details and designs of the FICNs, SP-Khandwa district Manoj Rai said. As per sources associated with the ongoing police probe, investigations strongly suggest many more Maharashtra links in the racket, including some major links in the Vidarbha region. Probe till now suggests that Dr Navlakhe was into FICNs for 4-5 months. Before that, he had also tried his hand at FICN, but failed to succeed completely. Importantly, back in 2022, Navlakhe (who was posted at the Burhanpur district hospital) was accused of opening an account in a private bank in the name of the hospital's peon and then parked around Rs 24 lakh. The account was closed after withdrawing the money. In 2022, Dr Navlakhe was suspended after he sold the hospitals equipment worth Rs 25 lakh as scrap. He was also suspected to be involved in hawala business, cricket betting and human trafficking. The suspended doctor met Mohd Zubair while being lodged in Khandwa jail. Zubair was lodged there in multiple cases of robbery and investment fraud. The Khandwa polices SIT suspect that it was at the Khandwa jail that Navlakhe convinced Zubair to become part of his network of FICN supply racket. Dr Navlakhe had tried his luck with FICN printing in the past and is accused of two to three cases of counterfeit Indian currency notes in Jalgaon and Bhusawal in Maharashtra. Barring Dr Navlakhe, the six others arrested in the case so far were possibly working as agents who searched prospective buyers of the fake currency notes and then supplied them to the customers. For every Rs one lakh, the racket got Rs 30,000 in authentic currency notes from the customers, then distributed to operatives. Ongoing investigations suggest that the finest quality wire used in the FICNs was sourced from China, while the paper was sourced from Maharashtras Vidarbha region. On October 30, when Maulana Zubair, along with an aide, was arrested with Rs 10 FICN in Malegaon (Maharashtra), Dr Navlakhe was present in Pune. With the help of his girlfriend, Dr Navlakhe first came to Bhopal via Burhanpur and later went into hiding in Haridwar (Uttarakhand), before returning and hiding in the rented flat with Dinesh Gores help. While investigations till now have revealed that the income generated from the FICN business was parked by Dr Navlakhe in his girlfriends bank account, the seizure of 32 ATM cards and 15 bank cheque books strongly suggests that the rackets mastermind was also parking alleged crime money in mule accounts.
Philosopher and spiritual researchers multi-disciplinary study reveals Samrat Vikramaditya and Devi Ahilyabais contributions in Haridwar; 100+ rivers to be documented
Mind your language, affluent teens, says CBSE
DEHRADUN: Officials affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) have issued a stern warning regarding a noticeable decline in conversational etiquette and conduct among teenagers from affluent backgrounds attending affiliated schools, particularly in regions like Uttarakhand. The board is actively reaching out to parents, pressing them to closely monitor their childrens language use and the content they consume online. Dr Anupam Jagga, principal of a prominent institution in Haridwar and a CBSE Regional Coordinator, formally documented the concern in a letter. The advisory explicitly points to a troubling rise in the use of profanity and inappropriate material shared among students. The most worrying aspect is the sharp drop in the standard of language used, stated Jagga, referencing observations made during recent counselling sessions. He highlighted a candid admission from students preparing for the IIT entrance exams. These high-achievers acknowledged that their success was rooted in discipline and dedicating six to eight hours daily to self-study. However, he noted that this crucial time is increasingly being diverted towards online media consumption instead of books and newspapers. In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in students using abusive language in their casual conversations, Jagga observed. He identified web series streamed on Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms as a primary catalyst for this shift. Short-term observational checks conducted by the school reportedly confirmed serious issues, including habitual use of abusive language, harassment of peers, and the sharing of explicit or inappropriate content. Chetna Thapliyal, a law student, expressed dismay over the content creators priorities. OTT filmmakers need to realise that dialogue can be powerful even without relying on profanity if the story demands it, Thapliyal told this paper. It is unfortunate that their vocabulary seems limited only to curses. In this rush for monetisation, the content being served is eroding the speaking style and basic courtesy of the younger generation. Currently, I see no easy solution, lamented Chetna. Echoing the need for direct intervention, Arnav Gandhi, who recently qualified for NEET, emphasised the role of educational institutions.
CBSE warns of decline in teen etiquette amid rising online abuse
DEHRADUN: Officials from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) have issued a stern warning about a noticeable decline in conversational etiquette and conduct among teenagers from affluent backgrounds attending affiliated schools, particularly in regions like Uttarakhand. The board is urging parents to closely monitor their childrens language and the content they consume online. The concern was formally documented in a letter circulated by Dr Anupam Jagga, Principal of a prominent Haridwar school and CBSE Regional Coordinator. The advisory highlights a troubling rise in profanity and inappropriate material shared among students. The most worrying aspect is the sharp drop in the standard of language used, Dr Jagga said, citing observations from recent counselling sessions. He noted that students preparing for IIT entrance exams, while acknowledging the importance of discipline and six to eight hours of daily self-study, are increasingly diverting this time to online media rather than books and newspapers. In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in students using abusive language in casual conversations, Dr Jagga observed, identifying web series on OTT platforms as a major catalyst for the shift. Short-term observational checks conducted by the school reportedly revealed habitual use of abusive language, harassment of peers, and the sharing of explicit content. Reacting to the trend, law student Chetna Thapliyal expressed concern over content creators priorities. OTT filmmakers need to realise that dialogue can be powerful without relying on profanity. In this rush for monetisation, the content being served is eroding the speaking style and basic courtesy of the younger generation, she said. Echoing the need for intervention, NEET qualifier Arnav Gandhi emphasised the role of schools. Institutions must immediately start mandatory counselling sessions and classes focused on teaching students to overcome the tendency towards abusive language, he suggested. Guidelines for Parents: Dr Jagga outlined key recommendations for parents to help re-establish behavioural norms: Digital Dialogue: Engage in regular discussions about what children watch, share, or write online. Language Policing: Encourage polite and respectful language, including on digital platforms. Digital Footprint: Explain that every post or comment leaves a permanent digital record. Device-Free Zones: Set aside times and areas, especially during meals and before bedtime, where devices are prohibited. Balance Trust: Monitor social media usage while maintaining a healthy balance between supervision and trust. Promote Real Interaction: Encourage reading, sports, and real-world social engagement over excessive screen time.
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Silent Divorce: Why So Many Married Haridwar Residents Are Seeking Live-In Status Under UCC
Haridwar-based psychologist noted a rising number of married couples experiencing silent divorce, in which spouses remain legally married but have long disengaged emotionally
'Gotta Drop Ego': American Tourist Shaves Head On Banks Of Ganga After Making Promise, Video Viral
A US tourist fulfilled a promise by shaving his head in Haridwar after livestreaming daily across India for 60 days, honouring local spiritual traditions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India is moving fast on the path of development, as he flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from the Banaras railway station in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency. Emphasising that infrastructure is a major factor in the economic growth of developed countries around the world, the prime minister said, In every nation that has achieved major progress, the driving force behind it has been infrastructure development. Infrastructure is not just about big bridges and highways. Whenever such systems are developed anywhere, it sparks the overall development of that region. With so many Vande Bharat trains running and flights arriving from countries across the world, all these developments are now linked to growth. Today, India is also moving rapidly on this path, he said. PM Modi said high-speed trains like Vande Bharat are laying the foundation for a ew generation of Indian Railways. Trains like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat and Amrit Bharat are laying the foundation of a new generation of Indian Railways. Vande Bharat is a train of Indians, built by Indians for Indians, of which every Indian is proud, he said. He claimed that foreign travellers are amazed by these trains adding that more than 160 Vande Bharat Express trains are now operational in the country. Modi further said that spiritual tourism has become a major source of income and has ushered in development in Uttar Pradesh. In our country, pilgrimage has for centuries been considered a medium of national consciousness. These journeys are not merely routes for darshan of deities, but a sacred tradition that connects the soul of India, Modi said. Places like Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Haridwar, Chitrakoot and Kurukshetra are the centres of our spiritual beliefs, he said. Today, as these sacred destinations are being connected through the Vande Bharat network, it is also linking India's culture, faith and development. This is an important step towards making symbols of India's heritage a representation of national growth, he said. These journeys also have an economic aspect, which is often not discussed. Over the past 11 years, the development work done in Uttar Pradesh has elevated pilgrimage tourism to a new level, the PM said. Last year, more than 11 crore devotees came to Kashi for Baba Vishwanath's darshan, and since the construction of the Ram Temple, over 6 crore people have visited Ayodhya to seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. These devotees have contributed thousands of crores of rupees to Uttar Pradesh's economy and provided steady income to hotel owners, transport operators, local artists and boatmen, he said. This has created new opportunities for the youth, Modi said. Hundreds of young people in Varanasi are now starting new ventures, from transport to local businesses. Because of all this, the doors of prosperity are opening in Kashi and across Uttar Pradesh, he said. To realise the dream of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) from a 'Viksit Kashi', numerous infrastructure projects are being undertaken here, Modi said. Today, Kashi is experiencing continuous expansion, development and qualitative improvement, with facilities ranging from good hospitals, good roads, gas pipelines, and internet connectivity, he said. Work on the ropeway is progressing rapidly, he said. Our effort is to make visiting Varanasi, staying in Varanasi and enjoying the amenities of Varanasi a special experience for everyone, he added. Modi said the government is also striving to improve health services in Varanasi. He said 10-11 years ago, BHU hospital was the only option for people seeking treatment for serious illnesses. Due to the large number of patients, one could not get treatment even after waiting overnight. For serious illnesses like cancer, people would sell their land and farms, and travel to Mumbai for treatment. Today, our government has worked to alleviate all these concerns of the people of Kashi. Mahamana cancer hospital for cancer, Sankara Netralaya for eye treatment, the state-of-the-art trauma centre at BHU, and the divisional hospital at Shatabdi Chikitsalaya, Pandeypur, have all become a boon for Kashi, Purvanchal, and the surrounding states, he said. Due to Ayushman Bharat and Janaushadhi Kendras in these hospitals, millions of poor people are saving crores of rupees. Kashi has become known as the health capital of this entire region, the prime minister said. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also attended the event. The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi and Ernakulam-Bengaluru routes. The semi-high-speed trains will significantly reduce travel time between major stations, enhance regional mobility, promote tourism and support economic activity across the country, according to an official statement. The Banaras-Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express will connect prominent cultural and religious destinations, including Varanasi, Prayagraj and Chitrakoot, officials said. (With inputs from PTI)
Relative Kills Man Who Came To Attend Nephew's Funeral In Uttarakhand
A man who had come to attend his nephew's funeral in Uttarakhand's Haridwar district was killed allegedly by his relative by slitting his throat following a family dispute, police said on Friday.
Student Poses As Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Member To Extort Rs 30 Lakh, Arrested
Police have arrested a BSc student in Uttarakhand's Haridwar for allegedly attempting to extort Rs 30 lakh from a businessman in the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, officials said.
40-year-old Haridwar man uses 'Angithi' charcoal smoke to kill self after looming debt crisis
DEHRADUN: A quality control head from a Haridwar pharmaceutical company died of carbon monoxide poisoning after he decided to end his life by igniting a charcoal brazier (Angithi) inside the bathroom. Police sources revealed that the deceased, identified as 40-year-old Luv Kumar, a QC controller at an industrial area firm, was found dead in the bathroom of his New Vishnu Garden home in the Kankhal area of Haridwar on Wednesday. The method of suicide was reportedly premeditated and conveyed via social media just before the act. He ignited a charcoal brazier inside the bathroom, filled the space with smoke, and lay down, stated a police official familiar with the initial findings. Crucially, before taking this step, he sent a WhatsApp message to his wife informing her of his intention to die by carbon monoxide gas. Upon receiving the message, the victim's family alerted the authorities. Station House Officer (SHO) Manohar Singh Rawat and his team rushed to the residence but arrived too late to save Kumar. It was found that Kumar's wife had been staying at her parental home with their children for some time. When police arrived, the bathroom was filled with smoke, and a burnt brazier was present, SHO Rawat confirmed. The preliminary suspicion is that death occurred due to asphyxiation from the gas emitted by the burning charcoal. The investigation uncovered severe financial distress as the motive. A suicide note recovered from the scene explicitly pointed to overwhelming debt stemming from massive losses in the stock market. Initial inquiries suggest that deceased Kumar had heavily invested in the share market, resulting in losses amounting to several lakhs of rupees, a senior police officer disclosed. The pressure of this debt became so severe that he was even forced to sell his house. Police are now investigating the extent of his financial dealings and any potential connections that may have exacerbated his debt crisis. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
Maha Karthika Deepotsavam To Light Up Ganesh Ghat
The event promises to be a grand spiritual celebration featuring a womens procession, floating lamps shaped like Lord Shiva, and a Ganga Harathi by priests from Haridwar.
President Murmu lauds 64% female graduates at Patanjali University
DEHRADUN/HARIDWAR: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the convocation ceremony at Patanjali University, emphasising the pivotal role of women in shaping a developed India and urging graduates to embody the spirit of ancient Indian wisdom. I am delighted to note that 64 percent of today's graduates are our daughters, the President stated. The number of medals won by our girls is four times that of the boys. This is not just a statistic; it is the vanguard of a developed India led by women. She drew a connection between this achievement and India's rich intellectual heritage, citing figures like Gargi, Maitreyi, Apala, and Lopamudra, who historically provided intellectual and spiritual leadership to society. I am confident that our educated daughters will enhance the glory of Bharat Mata with their inner strength and talent, she remarked. The President extended her heartfelt congratulations to all graduating students and praised those receiving medals. She specifically lauded the teachers and guardians, reserving special appreciation for the parents of the female students. Speaking from the sacred land of Haridwar, known traditionally as the gateway to both Lord Vishnu ('Hari') and Lord Shiva ('Har'), the President noted the immense fortune of the scholars and teachers studying under the worship of Goddess Saraswati in such a spiritually charged environment. She highlighted the university's decision to integrate modern education with Indian culture, making the graduates carriers of a great cultural tradition. The President paid homage to Maharishi Patanjali, the founder of Yoga, who, through Yoga, purified the mind; through Grammar, purified speech; and through Ayurveda, purified the body. This university, established in his sacred name, is making the profound tradition of Maharishi Patanjali accessible to contemporary society, she observed, appreciating its efforts in promoting Yoga, Ayurveda, and natural medicine for a healthier India. The President was particularly impressed by the university's focus on three key dimensions of its India-centric vision: the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family), the synergy between ancient Vedic knowledge and modern scientific research, and finding solutions to global challenges. You have all received education in harmony with the ideals of this university in this beautiful location, she told the students. You must have experienced that protecting the environment and aligning lifestyles with nature is essential for the future of humankind. Concluding her address, President Murmu expressed her firm belief that the graduates would always be ready to face global challenges, including climate change, thereby contributing significantly to a virtuous society and a developed nation. Speaking on the occassion Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, The honourable President's life of struggle and simple demeanor is a source of inspiration for all of us. Her recent flight in the Rafale fighter jet showcased her indomitable courage, patriotism, and determination, setting an exemplary model for the entire nation. President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a Foot Over Bridge and a Horse Riding Area at the President's Retreat in Dehradun. The Rs 9 crore FOB, featuring Himalayan architecture, ensures safe connectivity to the Presidential Garden. The new 0.7-acre riding area honors the Presidential Bodyguard's tradition. These additions enhance the complex's security and heritage appeal.
President Murmu Emphasises Womens Role In Indias Development At Patanjali University Convocation
Haridwar, Nov 2: President Draupadi Murmu on Sunday emphasised the need for collective cooperation of the entire nation, including women, to realise the vision of a developed India by 2047. Speaking as the chief guest at the second convocation ceremony of Patanjali University, Murmu highlighted the significant role women are playing in the educational landscape. Murmu expressed her delight at the fact that 62 per cent of the students at Patanjali University and 64 per cent of the graduates at [] The post President Murmu Emphasises Womens Role In Indias Development At Patanjali University Convocation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Army Colonel Dismissed From Service Over Affair With Fellow Officer's Wife
During the trial, the complainant, married since 2006, said he noticed changes in his wifes behaviour following her trips to Haridwar and Leh
LUCKNOW: Issuing directives to the authorities of the Uttar Pradesh Industrial Expressway Development Authority (UPEIDA) to expedite work on the Ganga Expressway and complete the project by December this year, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asked officials to cancel land allotments in the UP Defence Industrial Corridor if investors fail to begin work within three years. He also ordered a transparent monitoring system to track land use and investor progress. Chairing a high-level review meeting of UPEIDA late Wednesday evening, CM Yogi said land allocations should not remain idle and that new facilities should be provided only where there is genuine development. If an investor fails to utilise the allotted land within three years, the allocation should automatically be cancelled, he said, cautioning officials against land hoarding and instructing them to ensure timely execution of projects. Officials were asked to set up a clear, accountable system to monitor progress and to grant further concessions only on demonstrable milestones. As per UPEIDA authorities, investment proposals worth about Rs 30,819 crore have been received for the defence corridor, and 5,039 acres of land have already been acquired. Several companies have begun operations at corridor sites, officials said. The CM also emphasised the establishment of skill development centres at every node Lucknow, Kanpur, Jhansi, Agra, Aligarh and Chitrakoot to train local youth for technical roles in defence production. Turning to road infrastructure, Yogi described expressways as the backbone of Uttar Pradeshs economy and urged officials to expedite work on the Ganga Expressway, directing that construction be completed by December. The review also covered proposed extensions, including the MeerutHaridwar, NoidaJewar and ChitrakootRewa link expressways, as well as new projects such as the Vindhya Expressway and the VindhyaPurvanchal link to improve connectivity between Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Varanasi, Chandauli and Sonbhadra. The meeting reviewed UPEIDAs time-bound plan to attract investment into industrial clusters and logistics parks along the expressways, including provision for reliable power and water, truck terminals, waystations, and health and emergency facilities. Officials said implementation would be closely monitored and linked to land-use milestones so that infrastructure and investment translate into jobs and regional development.
Patanjali Research Institute organises workshop on Soil Health
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Oct 29: Union AYUSH Ministry, Patanjali Research Institute, NABARD, Bharuva Agri Science and others under the scheme Healthy Earth jointly organised a two day workshop on soil health which concluded here today. Aim of the workshop was to strengthen the permanent agriculture system and long term food security across the world. Many farmers, researchers, agriculture experts and others joined the workshop and discussed issues related to soil health management and to improve soil quality. Patanjali University Vice [] The post Patanjali Research Institute organises workshop on Soil Health appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CBI takes over Uttarakhand exam scandal probe
NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case in the alleged paper leak scandal during the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination after the state government referred the matter to the federal agency to probe the larger crime nexus. The case was initially registered at Raipur Police Station, Dehradun, on September 22, 2025, under the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination (Measures for Control and Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment) Act, 2023. It was alleged that large-scale corruption, collusion and organised cheating in a recruitment examination were carried out across various districts simultaneously. It is alleged that the question papers for an exam held on September 2122, 2025, were stolen in advance, copied and circulated among select candidates in lieu of hefty money. The accused were identified as Suman, wife of Naresh Chauhan, Assistant Professor, Amroda Degree College, Pratapnagar (Tehri Garhwal) a public servant, Khalid, son of Mohd. Shahzad, resident of Sultanpur Adampur in Haridwar, Sabia, daughter of Mohd. Shahzad and Hina, daughter of Mohd. Shahzad. The FIR also refers to other unknown public servants and private persons. The preliminary investigation found that insiders in the recruitment system colluded with private people to leak the question papers, which were allegedly sold to aspirants for Rs 5 Rs 10 lakh each. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India, on October 24, 2025, directed the CBI to probe the case throughout Uttarakhand. Based on the order, CBI registered a case in the matter. It was also stated that between 2022 and 2023, several exams conducted by the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) and Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) were marred by leaks and bribery, prompting massive protests. It was when aspirants started protesting across the state, the government took cognisance and brought the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination (Control and Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment) Act, 2023, prescribing stringent jail terms and penalties for offenders. Lakhs of aspirants demanded transparency and re-examinations. Despite that, in 2025, the cheating network remains active, and to unearth the entire nexus, the state government has referred the matter to CBI.
Patanjali starts Emergency and Critical Care Hospital
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, Oct 25: Patanjali Emergency and Critical Care Hospital was inaugurated here today at Patanjali Yogpeeth in the presence of Swami Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna. This day marks a new chapter in the history of medical science, Swami Ramdev said adding: The Hospital in Haridwar is just a beginning as plans for a much larger facility to be established in Delhi-NCR region is also there. He informed that this will not be a corporate hospital, but rather a [] The post Patanjali starts Emergency and Critical Care Hospital appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
MS Dhoni's wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva visited Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri to seek Maa Ganga's blessings, winning hearts as they humbly distributed food to devotees and shared a moment of faith and kindness.
DEHRADUN: The lingering haze from Diwali fireworks has plunged Uttarakhand's air quality into a dangerous zone, with the state capital, Dehradun, recording 'severe' pollution levels on Tuesday morning. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and AQI India, Dehradun registered an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 261. This severe reading was mirrored across the state, with Haridwar and Kashipur also reporting significantly poor air conditions. Monitoring stations in Dehradun revealed shocking figures. PM2.5 concentrations peaked at 184 micrograms per cubic meter, while PM10 levels surged to 230 micrograms per cubic meter - exceeding far beyond the safe limits. Despite clear daytime skies, cold air and low wind speeds are trapping pollutants near the surface, explained an environmental analyst. This is creating a health hazard, especially for those with respiratory issues. The pollution crisis extended beyond Dehradun. Haridwar recorded an average AQI of 182, and Roorkee hit 176, both falling into the 'unhealthy' category. Rudrapur and Kashipur remained in the 'poor' range with AQIs above 150. Rishikesh, the spiritual town, saw its AQI hover around 179 on Monday evening, marking a volatile trend after fluctuating between 153 and a low of 63 earlier this month. While acknowledging the poor readings, state officials highlighted Uttarakhands performance relative to other major north Indian cities. A government spokesperson noted that Delhi recorded an AQI of 351 ('very poor'), Lucknow 250, Patna 226, and Bhopal 235 on the same Diwali day. Uttarakhand's cities have performed better overall, demonstrating our commitment to cleaner air, the spokesperson stated. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasised a long-term vision. Our goal is to ensure clean air not just during festivals, but year-round. This years results prove that real change is possible through innovation, awareness, and collective participation. Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB) Chairman, RK Sudhanshu, credited recent interventions for mitigating the worst effects. This year's cleaner Diwali is a result of collective effort, Sudhanshu stated. Drone-based water sprinkling, new mechanical sweeping machines, and intensive awareness campaigns in schools have shown a concrete impact. Specifically, drone-based water sprinkling helped control PM10 levels in Dehradun. Furthermore, the deployment of mechanical sweeping machines - procured under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in collaboration with the CPCB - significantly reduced road dust in Dehradun and Rishikesh.
Diwali diplomacy: Uttarakhand CM Dhami's marathon meetings fuel cabinet reshuffle buzz
DEHRADUN: The festive spirit of Diwali took a distinctly political turn in Uttarakhand this weekend, as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami engaged in a marathon series of high-profile meetings, leading political analysts to speculate that a long-awaited cabinet expansion is finally on the horizon. The chief minister dedicated the auspicious day to courtesy calls that carried significant political weight, meeting with a host of former chief ministers before consulting with sitting MLAs and organisational leaders. The flurry of activity began Sunday. CM Dhami first called on former CM Tirath Singh Rawat. He then visited former CM Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri to inquire about his well-being. However, the most closely watched interaction was Dhamis meeting with former CM Harish Rawat at his residence. CM Dhami's engagement with leaders across the spectrum shows a commitment to unified governance, noted one observer, highlighting the significance of this particular meeting. The consultations continued with former Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank. Dhami also met with his political mentor, former CM Bhagat Singh Koshyari, following a meeting with Haridwar MP and former CM Trivendra Singh Rawat. The day concluded with a courtesy call on the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Ritu Khanduri. Dhami cabinet reshuffle looms: High stakes and internal BJP buzz in Uttarakhand Following his outreach to senior leaders, Dhami turned his attention to current administrative and party structures. He met with Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal and later held discussions with Uttarakhand BJP State President Mahendra Bhatt, signalling organisational coordination ahead of any cabinet changes. The prolonged wait for several MLAs aspiring to cabinet positions appears to be reaching its climax. Several key ministerial posts have remained vacant, particularly since the resignation of Cabinet Minister Prem Chand Aggarwal. State BJP President Mahendra Bhatt recently confirmed the impending reshuffle to reporters. The chief minister is preparing to expand the cabinet soon, Bhatt stated, putting an end to weeks of speculation. Currently, the Uttarakhand cabinet has five vacant positions. Four of these have been empty for a considerable time, with the fifth slot opening up after the resignation of former finance minister Prem Chand Aggarwal. MLAs have been patiently waiting for these vacancies to be filled, an insider mentioned. Despite numerous internal discussions, concrete results have been held back, but the recent flurry of activity suggests the final list is nearly complete. Under constitutional provisions, the Uttarakhand council of ministers can comprise the chief minister, eight cabinet ministers, and three ministers of state (independent charge)a total quota of twelve. During the current Dhami government's tenure, two positions have become unavailable: one following the passing of Cabinet Minister Chandan Ram Das, and the second due to Prem Chand Aggarwal's resignation, leaving two ministerial posts open for immediate filling alongside the existing vacancies.
Uttarakhand graduate-level exam cancelled amid paper leak scandal; re-test within three months
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) has officially cancelled the controversial graduate-level examination held in September. The government announced the cancellation following the submission of a crucial report by the one-member inquiry commission, promising that a re-examination will be conducted within the next three months. The decision brings a temporary close to weeks of intense agitation by unemployed youth across the state. The cancelled exam, conducted on September 21, saw the participation of approximately 105,000 candidates. The UKSSSC issued orders formally nullifying the recruitment process, though it clarified that this cancellation would not affect other ongoing examinations. The cancellation was formalised on Saturday after the inquiry commission, headed by a single member, presented its findings to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. This decisive action follows widespread protests under the banner of the Uttarakhand Unemployed Union, sparked by allegations of a significant paper leak. The unrest intensified until Chief Minister Dhami personally visited the protest site and assured the youth that their demands would be addressed. The youth had given the government a ten-day deadline to act on the matter, and that deadline concludes today, a source close to the administration noted. The investigation committee submitted its report, and the government took the necessary decision to scrap the exam. The scandal erupted when three pages of the question paper were reportedly leaked via mobile phone from a centre in Haridwar during the examination itself and subsequently went viral on social media. Students immediately demanded the cancellation of the test and a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Chief Minister Dhami had previously announced a CBI inquiry and established a separate single-member commission headed by retired Uttarakhand High Court Justice U.C. Dhyani to investigate the matter internally, alongside forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The inquiry commission finalized its report based on widespread public dialogue and feedback collected across various locations before handing it over to the state government. Earlier on Friday, a delegation of BJP MLAs met with CM Dhami, urging him to cancel the examination in the interest of the students and ensure a fair re-test. The State Media in charge of the BJP, Manveer Singh Chauhan, stated that the Congress party did not want the demands of the youth regarding the copying scandal to be prioritized. In contrast, he asserted that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami followed high political standards by visiting the protesting students, humbly listening to their demands, and agreeing to a CBI inquiry. Uttarakhand exam row: Student protests and government crackdown over UKSSSC paper leak scandal
During the September 21 examination, three pages of the question paper were allegedly leaked from a centre in Haridwar, causing a stir across the State
Uttarakhand tops Himalayan states in illegal arms cases: NCRB report
DEHRADUN: The serene image of Uttarakhand is sharply contrasted by alarming crime statistics, with the state leading Himalayan regions in cases related to illegal arms possession. A recent report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the year 2023 has brought this unsettling reality to the forefront. According to the NCRB data, a staggering 1,767 cases were registered against individuals in Uttarakhand for possessing arms in 2023. Of these seizures, 1,184 weapons were found to be illegal, while only four legal firearms were recovered in these specific registered instances. This places Uttarakhand seventh nationally in the overall count of arms possession cases. It seems that possessing firearms, both legal and illegal, is increasingly being treated as a hobby by some residents of this Himalayan state, noted a senior police official familiar with the report's findings. The trend is further complicated by the open display of weaponry. In districts like Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar, instances of firing weapons over trivial disputes are surfacing, sometimes even being circulated on social media. Police efforts, however, are noted; in 2023 alone, authorities filed charges against 1,767 individuals under the Arms Act. Crucially, the report indicates that illegal firearms are heavily implicated in serious crimes. The majority of recovered illegal weapons were linked to violent offenses, including murders and attempts to cause grievous hurt, the report states. Beyond arms possession, the state has also seen a rise in violent crimes. Registered incidents of homicide, robbery, and kidnapping rose from 3,162 in 2021 to 3,923 in 2022, settling slightly lower at 3,570 in 2023. A significant concern remains the judicial backlog, with police filing chargesheets in only 58 percent of the 2023 cases, leaving many pending investigation closure. Udham Singh Nagar, particularly sensitive regarding crime, is reportedly a hub for this illicit trade, with police and STF units frequently busting illegal arms manufacturing units in nearby Terai forests, often sourcing supplies from neighbouring Uttar Pradesh areas. Responding to the findings, Uttarakhand Police Spokesperson Dr. Nilesh Anand Bharane affirmed a strict stance. Police action against illegal arms holders is ongoing. Miscreancy will not be tolerated in the state. Whoever the criminal, their rightful place will always be behind bars. State | Cases under Arms Act | Seized illegal firearms Himachal Pradesh | 24 | 04 Uttarakhand | 1764 | 1184 West Bengal | 1349 | 1337 Arunachal Pradesh | 15 | 10 Nagaland | 74 | 73 Manipur | 89 | 81 Mizoram | 29 | 25 Tripura | 06 | 05 Meghalaya | 09 | 06
Natarajasundaram Pillai, thenagaswaram player who excelled in complex rhythms
Pallavi Natarajasundaram Pillai, as he was known, was renowned formallaris. The available recordings are an invaluable documentation of his styleand a testimony to his astonishing grip onlayam orthalam. There would be no dull moment in a concert byNatarajasundaram Pillai, saysthavil maestro Haridwaramangalam A.K.Palanivel
DEHRADUN: Following widespread concerns and deaths linked to contaminated cough syrups in several states, the Uttarakhand Health Department has launched an intensive crackdown, leading to the immediate suspension of licenses for seven medical stores in Dehradun. The aggressive action underscores the state government's commitment to child safety. A spokesperson for the Health Department confirmed the drive, stating, Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Uttarakhand government has made the safety of our children the absolute highest priority. A massive, state-wide operation against illegal and unsafe cough syrups is now underway. Teams from the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) have been mobilised across all districts. In Dehradun, surprise inspections targeted pharmacies along key areas including Chakrata Road, Kishan Nagar Chowk, Ballupur Chowk, Kanwali Road, Balliwala Chowk, and Prem Nagar. During these checks, the sale of all cough and cold medications intended for children was instantly halted. Seven medical store licenses have been cancelled, and suspicious syrups have been seized and sent for urgent laboratory testing, an official source indicated. The vigilance extends beyond the capital. Department sources revealed that over 170 samples have been collected statewide for quality verification. Significant collections include 40 samples from Udham Singh Nagar, 39 from Haridwar, and smaller batches from Haldwani, Kotdwar, Almora, Rudraprayag, and Uttarkashi. The seized samples contained active ingredients such as Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, and Phenylepherine Hydrochloride, prompting rigorous scrutiny. In related enforcement actions, stock of the syrup named 'Respifresh TR' was seized in Kotdwar (Pauri district) and Chaukhutia (Almora). This particular syrup had previously been declared of Non-Suitable Quality (NSQ). Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami issued a stern warning: There will be absolutely no compromise when it comes to the health of our children. Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat appealed directly to the public: We urge every citizen not to purchase any medication, especially syrups, from any medical store without a valid doctor's prescription. Owner of TN-based Sresan Pharma arrested in Chennai over cough syrup deaths
Uttarakhand SEC vows stronger defence as SC battle looms
DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand State Election Commission (SEC) has broken its silence following a stinging rebuke from the Supreme Court, which not only dismissed its plea but also slapped a fine of Rs two lakh over the poll body's handling of recent Panchayat election controversies. The fine is directly linked to the SEC's unsuccessful attempt to challenge a High Court order concerning candidates possessing dual voter identification cards. State Election Commissioner Sushil Kumar confirmed the penalty, attributing the Supreme Court's displeasure to the quality of legal arguments presented on the commission's behalf. The Supreme Court refused to intervene in the High Court's order. As far as the fine is concerned, this penalty was imposed by the Supreme Court because it was dissatisfied with the arguments put forth by the commission's advocate, Commissioner Kumar stated. Uttarakhand HC grills election commission over Nainital panchayat poll chaos, 'kidnapping' claims This year's three-tier Panchayat polls were fraught with disputes, ranging from reservation issues to the contentious matter of dual voter IDs. The SEC found itself in a legal bind when it appealed against an interim High Court stay that blocked an SEC circular. This circular had controversially allowed candidates whose names appeared on multiple electoral rolls to contest the elections held in July. The Supreme Court's decision to reject the SECs petition and impose the fine signals a significant judicial warning regarding procedural integrity. Commissioner Kumar assured the public that the commission is taking the judicial censure seriously. We will ensure stronger and more concrete legal representation in the future, he added, acknowledging the need for improved legal strategy following this costly setback. According to the SEC sources, BJP won 122 seats in the Panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, while Congress secured 80 seats. Notably, independent candidates made a strong showing, winning 152 seats. The elections were held for 10,831 seats across 12 districts, excluding Haridwar, for District Panchayat members, Block Panchayat members, and Gram Pradhans.
VIDEO: Pregnant Woman Denied Admission, Gives Birth on Hospital Floor; Doctor Fired
A pregnant woman was denied admission at a womens hospital and delivered on the floor in Haridwar. Dr. Saloni Pant was found guilty of negligence and terminated. Two nurses also face action.
'Maza Aaya': Nurse Mocks Woman After She Delivers Baby On Haridwar Hospital Floor
A woman in Haridwar was forced to give birth on a hospital floor after being denied admission. A doctor was fired and two nurses face action as officials probe the negligence.
Uttarakhand CM Dhami defuses protest storm over paper leak with bold CBI move
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami appears to have successfully defused the escalating student protests over the UKSSSC examination malpractice allegations by recommending a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe. The decision has left the opposition Congress unsettled while also neutralising potential dissent within the ruling BJP. Even critics within the BJP, including former Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, who has often made veiled remarks against Dhamis decisions, were left with little option but to praise his handling of the crisis. At Rawats Haridwar residence, supporters reportedly celebrated with firecrackers. BJP state spokesperson Honey Pathak said Dhamis move reflected rare foresight. Comparing him with all Chief Ministers since the formation of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami has shown a level of foresight that makes it clear he has emerged as an extremely sensitive and student-welfare-oriented Chief Minister compared to his predecessors over the last 25 years, she said. For several days, Dhami had hinted at a deeper investigation. On Monday, he made an unannounced visit to the protest site at Parade Ground, where he directly engaged with students demanding a CBI inquiry into the exam irregularities. I see you protesting in this heat during the festive season. It does not feel good for me either, he told them, assuring that the government was committed to full transparency in examinations. He announced that the government would recommend a CBI investigation and also promised to withdraw cases registered against protesting students. The controversy began after three pages of the September 21 graduate-level exam paper leaked at a Haridwar centre. The government initially formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), but students continued to press for a central agency probe. Acknowledging the stakes, Dhami said he understood the dreams of Uttarakhands youth. I know the students here have beautiful dreams based on securing a government job after studying, he said, recalling his own struggles. The Chief Minister confirmed that while the SIT probe, supervised by a retired High Court judge, was already underway, the government would move forward with the CBI recommendation. He also noted that the SIT report would be submitted soon, which could even result in the exam being cancelled. The exam saw 1,05,803 candidates competing for 416 posts. Explaining his decision to meet students at the protest site rather than call them to his office, Dhami said, I could have called you to my office, but I felt the pain of you demonstrating here in this intense heat. He added that youth would play a key role in making Uttarakhand the best state in India during the Amrit Kaal of developed India.
