Lion Goes Missing From Tamil Nadu's Vandalur Zoo, Search Op Underway
The lion was brought to Vandalur Park from the Chakkarbagh Zoological Park in Junagadh, Gujarat, under the National Animal Exchange Program.
From teacher to trickster: Gujarat police nab car scam kingpin in Mumbai
AHMEDABAD: A fraudster who rocked Gujarats online car market with a Rs 73 lakh fraud has finally landed in police net. Junagadh police nabbed the fraudster from Dahisar, Mumbai, after a high-tech chase across states. For three years, he duped car buyers and sellers on apps like OLX and CAR-24, trapping victims in 31 cases across 11 districts of Gujarat. The accused, Piyush Maheshbhai Patel (39), a resident of Visnagar, Mehsana, Gujarat was caught from Dahisar, Mumbai, after an intensive three-day surveillance operation. The story broke from Junagadh, where on September 25, 2025, a resident filed a complaint at the A-Division Police Station. The fraudster, posing as Dhaval Patel from CAR-24, trapped a local doctor by offering an inflated price for his Swift and luring him with a Brezza in return. Once the deal was set for just Rs 2.25 lakh through Angadiya payment, the scammer switched off his phone and vanished. The victims complaint led SP Subodh Odedara to order immediate action. PI and his team tracked the fraudsters digital trail, discovering he was operating from Mumbai. Using local intelligence, officers lay in wait inside a Mumbai salon for three days before finally nabbing the accused in Dahisar. Police interrogation peeled back Patels web of deceit. A former schoolteacher and car showroom worker, debt drove him into crime. His modus operandi was chillingly systematic: he would scan car-sale ads on OLX, pose as a CAR-24 agent, and bait owners with high offers. At the same time, he would tempt dealers in nearby cities with quick-sale cars at throwaway prices. Once both sides were convinced, Patel collected payments through Angadiya, then switched off his mobile and re-emerged with a new number and a new name. Patels aliases ranged from Dhawal, Arpit, Hardik, Sanjay, Rajendra Panchal, Jaimin, Hemala carousel of fake identities that helped him cheat buyers and sellers of 42 cars in three years. The confession is staggering: 31 cases registered in 11 districts, including Ahmedabad (6 cases), Gandhinagar, Bharuch, Botad, Banaskantha, Rajkot, and Kutch, with a total fraud of Rs 73.30 lakh. Earlier, he had already duped victims of nearly Rs 1 crore. From Patels possession, police seized a Samsung Galaxy A-35, 13 SIM cards, 3 blank HDFC cheques, and fraud-linked materials. His record reveals he turned Gujarats car market into his hunting ground, repeatedly exploiting digital platforms with surgical precision. The police have now tightened the investigation to identify possible accomplices and recover the looted money.
Gujarat monsoon forecast: Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch experience active monsoon conditions. Extremely heavy rain occurred in isolated areas. A low-pressure area influences weather patterns. It may intensify into a depression. The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain for the next seven days across the region. Heavy showers are expected in South Gujarat and Saurashtra.
AHMEDABAD: Tension erupted in Vadodaras old city on Friday night after a controversial AI-generated social media post targeting minority religious sentiments went viral. Crowds clashed, stones were thrown, and more than 50 people were detained as police restored order amid heightened communal anxiety. Vadodara witnessed a sharp spike in communal tension late Friday after the viral post inflamed locals in the old city area. The locality became a flashpoint as residents gathered in large numbers, creating a highly volatile situation and hurling stones. Police rushed to the scene as the mobs anger escalated, attempting to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control. The unrest quickly spread to the Vadodara City Police Station, where a mob demanded strict action against the individual responsible for the post. A heavy police presence, including convoys and barricades, was deployed to manage the crowd. About 50 suspects linked to the stone-throwing incident were taken into custody by the Crime Branch from the police station, further intensifying tensions in the area. City police moved swiftly, filing complaints against the accused for spreading communal provocation and registering cases of rioting. Additional security measures were put in place, including two policemen stationed outside the city police station to prevent escalation, while police patrolled the Junagadhi area to maintain calm. Additional Police Commissioner Lina Patil confirmed that separate police and Crime Branch teams intervened promptly, calming the crowd and restoring peace in the affected areas. Addl CP Lina Patil said, There was an incident in the citys old area that hurt religious sentiments. Following this, a crowd gathered outside the police station. Our teams, including separate units from the local police and Crime Branch, immediately intervened to control the situation. The matter has now been contained, and peace has been restored. Police personnel remain deployed in different areas to ensure continued safety, and action is being taken against all those involved in inciting communal tension. DCP Andrew McEwan added that the viral video had triggered the unrest and that police conducted combing operations across the city to prevent further incidents. Legal action has been taken on the viral post and rioting incidents. More than 50 people have been detained so far, DCP McEwan said, underscoring the polices resolve to curb any communal flare-ups.
Rahul Gandhis visit to Gujarat's Junagadh Camp postponed to September 19 due to bad weather
AHMEDABAD: Rahul Gandhis Gujarat push hit turbulence as bad weather in Delhi grounded his flight, forcing the cancellation of his second visit to Junagadhs Congress training camp today. The camp, aimed at reviving the party in Prime Minister Modis home state, has already seen top leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, guiding 41 city and district presidents. Congress plans to finalise a two-year strategy to challenge the BJPs three-decade dominance in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhis mission to revive the Congress in Gujarat, a state where the party has been in political exile for 30 years, faced a setback today as bad weather in Delhi grounded his flight, forcing the cancellation of his visit to Junagadh. Rahul was scheduled to return to the foothills of Bhavnath in Junagadh, where a 10-day intensive training camp is underway for 41 newly appointed city and district Congress presidents. The camp is a cornerstone of Congresss Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan, designed to rebuild the party from the ground up ahead of crucial state and national battles. On September 12, Rahul had spent four hours personally mentoring local leaders, signaling the partys renewed seriousness about Gujarat. Today, he was expected to participate again and oversee strategy sessions, but Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) chief Amit Chavda confirmed the cancellation, saying, Today, Rahul Gandhi was scheduled to join us again to mentor the leaders personally and review their progress. Unfortunately, due to severe weather conditions in Delhi, his flight could not take off, and his visit had to be postponed. We now expect him to arrive tomorrow for the camps concluding day, where every city and district president will present their action plans and Congress vision for the people of Gujarat. The camp is being conducted with inputs from experts across sectors, focusing on inclusive politics and grassroots outreach without caste or class barriers. Tomorrows concluding session will see district leaders present their programs and Congresss vision for Gujarats future. However, the absence of some key figures has drawn attention. Gir Somnath district president Punjabbhai Vansh attended only on the opening day and has been missing for the past eight days. Amreli district Congress chief Pratap Dudhat has also skipped the sessions, a fact noted at the partys top level. Chavda defended both leaders, attributing their absence to personal social reasons. Congresss urgency stems from Gujarats status as the home turf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, making every election here symbolically and strategically vital. The party aims to draft a comprehensive two-year roadmap to challenge the BJP juggernaut. The electoral data underscores the enormity of Congress task. In 2009, the BJP secured 47% of the votes to Congresss 44%, winning 15 of Gujarats 26 Lok Sabha seats. But 2014 was a game-changer: BJPs vote share surged to 59% a 12% jump, while Congress fell to 33%, losing all seats. The 2019 polls deepened this gap, with the BJP rising to 62% and the Congress slipping to 32%, again resulting in a clean sweep for the BJP. The 2024 elections brought little relief, as Congress managed to win just one seat, marking a symbolic breakthrough but highlighting the uphill battle ahead. Rahul Gandhis push through this leadership camp is Congresss most aggressive attempt yet to reclaim relevance in Gujarat, a state that has been the BJPs political fortress for over three decades. Tomorrows session will test whether the party can translate training into a tangible action plan to dent the BJPs dominance.
Gujarat scholarship scam: Rs 4.60 crore embezzled, four arrested
AHMEDABAD: A massive Rs 4.60 crore scholarship scam has been busted in Junagadh, Gujarat, where 12 educational institutions siphoned off funds meant for Scheduled Caste students by using fake documents. Police have arrested four key accused, while a manhunt is on for another administrator as the probe deepens. The scam has rocked Junagadh, exposing a deep-rooted nexus between educational institutions and alleged corruption in welfare schemes. Funds meant to empower Scheduled Caste students were embezzled, leaving thousands of deserving youths cheated of their rights. The case came to light after Kishore Bharkhada, Deputy Director of the Scheduled Caste Welfare Office, lodged a formal complaint, triggering the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Junagadh City Division. Acting swiftly, investigators seized documents related to 2,245 students submitted by 12 institutions, which became the foundation of the probe. Upon scrutiny, investigators discovered that between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016, administrators of these institutions hatched a calculated conspiracy. They fabricated student records and submitted them as genuine to the welfare office. These fake documents were then used to issue scholarship cheques, which were pocketed by the accused, never reaching the students they were intended for. The SIT also sought detailed records from banks linked to these institutions. After cross-checking financial transactions, the involvement of five prime accused surfaced. The Special Operations Group (SOG) of Gujarat Police moved in and arrested four of them, Ramesh Kalubhai Baku, Ramanik Nathabhai Rathod, Bhavin Laljibhai Dadhaniya, and Jagdish Bhikhabhai Parmar. A manhunt has been launched to nab Umar Farooq Ibrahim Amrelia, Administrator and Principal of Mangrols Indian Institute, who remains absconding. Investigators revealed that the scam involved a staggering 4,60,38,550, stolen over a three-year period. The revelation has sent shockwaves through the Scheduled Caste community, where students are now grappling with anger and distrust towards institutions meant to support them. Junagadh C Division Police have filed cases against the principals, trustees, and other office-bearers of the implicated institutions. Authorities have warned that more arrests could follow as the investigation widens. This scandal has sparked outrage, raising serious questions about the accountability of educational institutions and the safeguards within Gujarats scholarship system. The betrayal of vulnerable students has now become a flashpoint for public anger, with calls for stricter oversight and swift justice.
'Vote chori' main issue before country today, PM's Manipur visit now no 'big deal': Rahul Gandhi
JUNAGADH: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the strife-torn state now is not a ig deal as he insisted vote chori (vote theft) remains the main issue before the country currently. Talking to reporters outside the Keshod airport in Junagadh district of Gujarat, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed everywhere people are raising vote chor (vote thief) slogan. After landing at the airport in the afternoon, Gandhi reached Junagadh city where is scheduled to address district and city unit presidents of the Congress in Gujarat and interact with senior leaders. When reporters sought Gandhi's comments on PM Modi's scheduled visit to Manipur on Saturday, the Congress MP sought to downplay his tour to the trouble-torn north-eastern state. Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and the PM has decided to go there now. So that's not a big deal. The main issue today in India is 'vote chori' (vote theft), asserted Gandhi. PM Modi to visit Manipur on Saturday, his first visit since ethnic violence broke out in 2023 Modi will visit Manipur on September 13 and interact with internally displaced people in Churachandpur and state capital Imphal. This will be the PM's first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence broke out in the state two years ago. They stole the elections of Haryana and Maharashtra. We proved that in Karnataka recently. So, the main issue is vote theft. Everywhere people are raising 'vote chor' (vote thief) slogan, said the Lok Sabha MP from Raebareli. A training camp for local party leaders is being organised in Junagadh from September 10 to 19 as part of the Congress' 'Sangathan Srujan Abhiyan' (campaign to strengthen the organisation) in the BJP-ruled state. The camp was inaugurated on Wednesday by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Rahul Gandhi will address district and city unit presidents and interact with senior leaders of the party. He will be at the event for nearly three hours before leaving for Delhi, Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said.
Vote Chori Main Issue Before Country Today, PMs Manipur Visit Now No Big Deal: Rahul
Junagadh, Sep 12: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the strife-torn state now is not a big deal as he insisted vote chori (vote theft) remains the main issue before the country currently. Talking to reporters outside the Keshod airport in Junagadh district of Gujarat, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed everywhere people are raising vote chor (vote thief) slogan. [] The post Vote Chori Main Issue Before Country Today, PMs Manipur Visit Now No Big Deal: Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now another two are dividing us': Mallikarjun Kharge
AHMEDABAD: In an address in Junagadh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp attack on the BJP, vowing to safeguard the Constitution and energise party workers for a 2027 Gujarat Assembly battle. With Rahul Gandhi set to join later, Kharge invoked Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Nehru to rally Congress cadres, accusing the BJP of weakening democracy and stealing votes. He declared, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now two Gujaratis are working against it by dividing people. The three-day Congress training camp aims to rebuild the partys grassroots network in Gujarat and reignite a movement for change. The Congresss roadmap to reclaim Gujarat was visible in Junagadh, as party president Mallikarjun Kharge inaugurated a massive training camp, declaring it the launchpad for a decisive fight against the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections. With Rahul Gandhi scheduled to attend on September 12 and 17, the camp at Prernadham will run till September 19, training newly appointed district and city Congress presidents. Kharges speech was a blend of history, ideology, and firebrand politics. Without directly naming Prime Minister Modi or BJP leaders, he tore into their agenda, warning, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, united this nation. Now, two others are destroying that legacy by dividing people and weakening our Constitution. Constitution and Legacy in Focus Kharge reminded the audience that this year marks 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi became Congress President, underlining Gujarats historic role as the birthplace of Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Dadabhai Naoroji. He said, Gandhiji told us Congresss job is to uplift those at the bottom and bring equality. Sardar Patel believed strength without organisation is useless, and Nehruji taught us to adapt to change and stay connected with people. Tracing Congresss journey, Kharge divided its 140-year history into three phases the freedom struggle till 1947, the nation-building years after independence, and the past 11 years of serving as a strong opposition. From giving India the Constitution and voting rights to enacting historic laws like MNREGA, Right to Information, and Food Security Act, Congress empowered the people, he said, contrasting it with the BJPs record. Modiji has not brought a single law of such magnitude, Kharge added. Attack on BJP and Vote Theft Claims Taking direct aim at Gujarats BJP government, Kharge accused it of running on remote control from Delhi, saying real power lies outside the state. He alleged widespread vote rigging, claiming that in the Navsari Lok Sabha constituency, 30,000 fake or duplicate voters were found during verification. Referring to the controversial Surat Lok Sabha seat, he warned, This is how BJP comes to power by stealing votes. But this time, Congress will expose and defeat them. Kharge also mocked the Prime Ministers China stance, stating, When Chinese soldiers attacked, PM said no one entered. When Rahulji raised questions, they called him a Chinese agent. Today, he himself is visiting China. Rahul Gandhis Movements Turn Into Mass Campaigns Rahul Gandhis political yatras were presented as a blueprint for mobilising the nation. From the 3,200 km Bharat Jodo Yatra to the 6,700 km Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, and most recently the Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar, Kharge said Rahul turned issues of unemployment, inflation, and farmer distress into peoples movements. Rahulji has shown what determination can achieve, he said, urging workers to channel this spirit in Gujarat. Vision for 2027: Strength Through Training The 10-day training camp, Kharge emphasised, is not just about lectures but about forging identity and strategy. You will leave here stronger, informed, and ready to fight for change. If our district units are strong, no one can stop the storm of change in Gujarat, he declared. Kharge recalled the 2017 elections, where Congress prevented the BJP from winning a single seat in seven districts, cutting its tally below 100 for the first time. This proves the people of Gujarat are ready for change. We just need to unite and channel their anger, he urged. Sardar Patels 150th Anniversary to be Congress Showcase Kharge announced nationwide celebrations for Sardar Patels 150th birth anniversary starting October 31, with a special push in Gujarat. We will respect Sardar, but we will never allow BJP to distort his ideas, he said, positioning Congress as the true custodian of Patels legacy. As the camp opened with patriotic fervour, Kharges message was clear: revive the organisation, reclaim Gujarat, and protect Indias democracy. He ended with Gandhijis words: A handful of committed souls with unbounded faith can change history.
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government admitted in the Assembly on Wednesday that 307 Asiatic lions, have died in just two years, despite spending Rs 37.35 crore to prevent unnatural deaths. The disclosure raises serious questions about conservation strategies, as the lion population now stands at 891, spread across seven districts. The deaths, driven by disease, internal fights, and accidents, reveal a grim battle for survival inside the Gir ecosystem and surrounding areas. Gujarat is the only home to Asiatic lions in the world, but behind the celebratory headlines of a rising lion population, a silent tragedy is unfolding. The 16th Asiatic Lion Census, conducted on May 13, 2025, counted 891 lions spread across seven districts, with the highest concentration in Amreli (339), followed by Gir-Somnath (222), Junagadh (191), Bhavnagar (116), Porbandar (16), Rajkot (6), and Devbhoomi Dwarka (1). These numbers, while impressive on paper, mask a disturbing reality: 307 lions have died in the last two years, revealing cracks in Gujarats much-touted conservation model. According to Government Data, between August 2023 and July 2024, the state lost 141 lions, a toll already alarming for a critically endangered species. Yet, instead of improving, the situation worsened. From August 2024 to July 2025, the death count spiked to 166, pushing the two-year total to a staggering 307 lions lost, a figure that threatens to undo decades of conservation efforts. While most deaths were classified as natural, many were preventable, exposing failures in disease control, veterinary care, and basic habitat safety. The year 2023-24 set the stage for this unfolding crisis, with disease emerging as the single largest killer, claiming 60 lives. Shrinking habitats forced lions into closer contact, leading to 38 deaths from violent territorial fights, while another 24 perished from old age. Human-linked threats also played a deadly role; seven lions fell into open wells, five were struck by trains, three drowned, and one each died in a road accident and by electrocution. By the end of that year, the total death toll stood at 141, painting a bleak picture of a fragile ecosystem under pressure. But the following year, 2024-25, the situation turned even grimmer. Illness-related deaths surged to 81, a 35% jump, highlighting growing gaps in disease monitoring and treatment. Internal fights remained a serious problem, killing 36 lions, while 27 succumbed to old age. Open wells turned deadlier, with 13 lions plunging to their deaths, while six drowned, two died from electric shocks, and one was hit by a vehicle. The result was 166 deaths in a single year, the highest in recent memory and a wake-up call for the states conservation machinery. The crisis is most visible in Amreli district, which, despite housing the largest lion population, has also become a graveyard for the species. Between January and July 2025 alone, 31 lions including 14 cubs and 17 lions, died, most of them from illnesses that could have been treated with timely intervention. Multiple organ failure claimed five cubs and six lions, while pneumonia, anaemia, and anoxia took five more lives. Pneumonia and septicemia together killed four lions, while respiratory, liver, and kidney failures accounted for six additional deaths, including two cubs. A fatal spinal cord injury ended the life of one cub, and a parasitic disease, anaplasmosis, claimed another four lives. These patterns reveal systemic weaknesses in veterinary care and health monitoring, with infections and preventable diseases spreading unchecked. Even as deaths mounted, the Gujarat government insists it has been pouring resources into conservation. Over the past two years, it spent Rs 20.35 crore in 2023-24 and another Rs 17 crore in 2024-25, totalling Rs 37.35 crore. However, the rising death toll tells a different story. Despite massive financial outlays, lions continue to die from basic, preventable causes such as open well accidents, poor disease management, and lack of emergency infrastructure, raising serious questions about accountability and effectiveness. This crisis matters not just for Gujarat but for the entire world. Asiatic lions are critically endangered, and Gujarat is their only natural habitat on Earth. While the census figures may create an illusion of stability, the sharp rise in deaths suggests a dangerous tipping point. If disease control, veterinary systems, and habitat safety measures are not urgently overhauled, Gujarats celebrated success story could collapse into a silent tragedy.
Congress main concern is to protect Constitution and democracy, says Kharge
Junagadh, Sep 10: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday said his partys main concern was to save the Constitution and democracy, and alleged that those in power were not working for protecting these institutions. He was speaking to reporters before inaugurating a 10-day training camp for the Gujarat Congress district and city presidents here. In democracy, it is common to fight elections. Our main issue is to save the Constitution and protect democracy. Gujarat is the land where people like [] The post Congress main concern is to protect Constitution and democracy, says Kharge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
School Students Assaulted In Gujarat Hostel, Videos Go Viral
Two students of a private school were allegedly brutally assaulted by their hostel mates in separate incidents in Gujarat's Junagadh city last month, sparking concerns of safety and well-being of students across educational institutes.
Ahmedabad Diary | Buzz over CM Patel meeting PM in Delhi
In a surprise political move, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel rushed to Delhi on Thursday, holding a closed-door meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting, held just hours before the Vibrant Gujarat Roadshow in the capital, has triggered intense buzz about the imminent announcement of a new BJP state president. Patel, who will interact with top industrialists, diplomats, and global delegates at the roadshow, praised Modis leadership for making Gujarat a Most Preferred Investment Destination. Political circles are abuzz that this sudden visit signals key policy shifts and a decisive political reshuffle in the state BJP. BJP faction war over joblessness campaign BJPs factional feud in Junagadh burst into the open after former cabinet minister Jawahar Chavda launched an unemployment assistance campaign from his Manavadar bastion. The initiative, aimed at addressing youth joblessness, drew sharp attacks from within his party. BJP MLA Arvind Ladani slammed the drive as a political drama, while Savj Dairy Chairman Dinesh Khataria accused Chavda of betrayal, recalling his switch from the Congress to the BJP. Unfazed, Chavda hit back: My campaign has poured oil in some stomachsanswers will come in time. The escalating war underscores deep rifts in the party. Major reshuffle awaits Gujarat police set-up Gujarat Police is set for a major structural shake-up with plans to increase the number of range IGPs from nine to ten. Sources reveal that Gandhinagar may soon be granted a Police Commissionerate, replacing the SP system, which would prompt Patan and Banaskantha to be transferred out of the Border Range. According to sources, a new Mehsana Range could be formed, while Morbi may merge with East and West Kutch SP areas to create a Kutch-Morbi Range. Simultaneously, Ahmedabad is likely to get a Zone 8 DCP office, driven by the citys growing population and area, signaling sweeping changes in law enforcement operations. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
Dalit man beaten with belt, threatened with life in Gujarat
A young Dalit man was severely beaten, robbed, and threatened with death in Gujarats Junagadh district. This is the third reported case of caste-based violence in the area in a month. The assault took place on August 16 at the Swami Vivekanand School. The victim was affronted by a person who claimed his brother was 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 .
AHMEDABAD: A shocking case of caste-based violence has emerged from Gujarats Junagadh district, where a Dalit youth and his father-in-law were brutally assaulted for keeping a beard and moustache that their attackers claimed were reserved for upper castes. The incident, which occurred on August 11 in Khambhaliya (Ozat) village, has sparked outrage, with police registering a case under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The victims, identified as Sagar Makwana, a labourer from Mangnath Pipli village, and his father-in-law Jivanbhai Wala, were allegedly attacked by a group of men who hurled casteist slurs and mocked Sagars appearance. According to the complaint, Sagar had gone to Khambhaliya to get his bike repaired but found the garage closed. As he was returning home, he was stopped near a railway bridge by Shailesh Jebaliya from Navi Chavand village, who allegedly knocked him off his bike and began abusing him for his beard and moustache. Fearing further assault, Sagar called his father-in-law for help. However, when Jivanbhai arrived, a silver car without a number plate pulled up, carrying Lalo Bhupat and three unidentified men. The group allegedly intensified the casteist abuse before launching a violent attackbeating Sagar with a car wheel while punching and slapping Jivanbhai. The assailants fled only after villagers began gathering, but not before issuing threats. Jivanbhai Wala and Sagar Makwana are currently undergoing treatment. Both victims were rushed to Junagadh Civil Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Police have filed an FIR against Shailesh Jebaliya, Lalo Kathi Darbar, and three unidentified accomplices under relevant sections of the SC/ST Act. ASP Rohit Kumar Dagar confirmed to The New Indian Express that the accused are absconding and efforts are underway to arrest them. The incident has reignited concerns over deep-seated caste discrimination in rural Gujarat, with activists demanding swift justice for the victims.
New veterinary & animal husbandry college to be set up in North Gujarat
This will be the fifth veterinary college in the state after Anand, Navsari, Junagadh, and Dantiwada
A surprising encounter occurred in Gujarat. A cement factory worker in Junagadh had a face-to-face meeting with a lion. CCTV captured the incident. Both the man and the lion were startled. They ran in opposite directions. The video went viral on social media. People reacted with amusement and caution. The incident serves as a reminder of wildlife encounters.
Four charred to death in collision involving heavy vehicles, car in Gujarat
MORBI: Four persons, among them two children, were charred to death in a collision involving two heavy vehicles and a car on a highway in Gujarat's Morbi district, police said on Friday. The accident occurred on a national highway near Haripar village around 11 pm on Thursday, an official said. Superintendent of Police Rahul Tripathi said a container entered the road from the wrong side and overturned, causing a collision between a truck and a car, which caught fire. Prima facie, a major fire broke out in a car after it collided with a truck going alongside. The truck also caught fire in the collision. Four people died of burn injuries, he said. The deceased included two students travelling in the car and two occupants of the truck, the official said. Students from a boarding school in Junagadh were travelling to their home towns in Kutch district, Tripathi said. Seven others suffered minor injuries and were rescued by the fire department personnel and shifted to a private hospital, an official from the Morbi fire department said. Rudra Gujaria (15), Jamin Babariya (17), both car passengers, and one Shivram Nai, a resident of Bikaner in Rajasthan, were among the deceased, while the identity of another victim is yet to be ascertained, an official from Maliya Miyana police station said. The bodies were shifted to Rajkot for post-mortem, and a probe was underway, police said.
Three lion cubs dead, six isolated: Amreli scare fuels fresh worry over Gujarats lion losses
AHMEDABAD: Three lion cubs have died and six more are under observation in Gujarats Amreli district, triggering alarm over a possible health threat in the Asiatic lion population. While officials rule out a contagious epidemic, the mysterious deaths have raised concern across the state, especially given the rising lion mortality figures reported in recent years. In a concerning development from Gujarats lion territory, three Asiatic lion cubs were confirmed dead near Kagvadar village in Amrelis Jafrabad taluka, while six others have been isolated following signs of weakness and illness. The incident has sparked widespread concern amid growing scrutiny over lion deaths in the state. The forest department initiated a rescue operation after reports emerged that a group of cubs in the Jafrabad Range were unable to walk and appeared critically weak. The rescue team, upon arrival, found the condition of the cubs grave. Despite immediate medical attention, three of the cubs died during treatment. Confirming the incident, Forest Minister Mulu Bera said, Three lion cubs died two days ago near Kagvadar village. This is extremely unfortunate. He added that blood samples have been collected from six cubs and three lionesses for further testing. All animals have been isolated as a precaution, while veterinary experts from Junagadh College are probing the cause. Addressing speculation around a possible outbreak, DCF Dhananjay Sadhu of Palitana Shetrunji Division clarified that there is no evidence of a contagious disease. These deaths appear to be due to anemia or pneumonia as per preliminary assessments. When lionesses give birth, some cubs are naturally weak. The rescue was part of routine protocol, not emergency containment, Sadhu emphasized. He further stated that the remaining lions under observation are stable, and there are no visible signs of infection. The lions will be reintroduced into the wild once cleared through medical tests. Rumors of a spreading epidemic are false, he asserted. Gujarat government confirms it lost 286 lions, 456 leopards in two years This is not the first such incident in the area. Just 25 days ago, four weak lion cubs had wandered from the Mines area of Jafrabad Range into the Rajula Range. All were rescued and are still undergoing treatment at the Babarkot Animal Care Center. The deaths come amid growing scrutiny of Gujarats handling of lion conservation. Earlier this year, the state government revealed in the Gujarat Assembly that 286 lions including 143 cubs died between January 2023 and December 2024. While most deaths were attributed to natural causes, at least 58 lions and 17 cubs died unnaturally. This comes even as Gujarat celebrates a rise in its lion population. On May 21, 2025, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced that the state is now home to 891 Asiatic lions, up from 674 in 2020, a 32% increase in just five years. However, the rise in cub mortality casts a shadow over the population growth. Officials say investigations are ongoing and results from blood tests will determine whether these recent deaths are isolated or symptomatic of a larger problem. Gujarats Asiatic lion count leaps from 674 to 891 in five years
Shivraj Chouhan Leaves Wife Behind At Gujarat Event, Makes U-Turn With 22-Car Convoy
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan left Junagadh for Rajkot, unknowingly leaving his wife behind. Realizing after 10 minutes, he returned to fetch her.
Miraculous escape for eight people as bridge slab collapses in Gujarats Junagadh amid repairs
AHMEDABAD: Just days after the Gambhira bridge collapse between Vadodara and Anand claimed 21 lives, Gujarat has been jolted by another alarming bridge mishap this time in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka. In Ajak village, a portion of a dilapidated bridge gave way, plunging over eight people and a breaker machine into the river from a height. Miraculously, all were rescued without fatalities. Even as panic spread, the Junagadh District Executive Engineer claimed, the bridge hadnt collapsed but was being safely dismantled. In yet another bridge-related scare in Gujarat on Tuesday, a portion of the Ajak village bridge in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka collapsed during ongoing repair work, narrowly avoiding a major tragedy. The bridge, a crucial link between Keshod and Madhavpur and frequented by thousands of vehicles daily, gave way while a breaker machine was operating on it, sending the machine and eight to ten people standing on the slab plunging nearly 15 feet into the river below. Though the collapse caused a loud crash and panic among onlookers, all individuals involved escaped without serious injuries. A video of the dramatic incident has since gone viral, capturing the sheer chaos and fear as the slab crumbled in seconds. Local residents are furious, alleging that the repair work was carried out recklessly and without adequate safety measures. This is a public road with heavy daily traffic. Peoples lives are being risked without basic precautions or planning, said a villager, slamming the administrations negligence. Responding to the criticism, Junagadh District Panchayats Executive Engineer, Abhishek Gohil, confirmed that the bridge was indeed found to be in a dilapidated state during an inspection by the Road & Building Department. The old bridge near Mangrol was not damaged or broken it was deliberately demolished as a safety measure. During the slab removal process, a portion of it collapsed, but thankfully, no one was injured. Gohil clarified. Junagadh District Collector Anil Ranavasia added that the 10-meter-long bridge, divided into two spans, had already been closed to vehicular traffic two days ago. This bridge was flagged for demolition and reconstruction. Warning boards were placed on both sides. The slab collapsed due to the load of the equipment like JCB, but the area had already been sealed off, In fact, the bridge wasnt fell, it was intentionally demolished. Ranavasia told the media. He also noted that following the recent bridge collapse in Gambhira, inspections of over 480 bridges across the district had been conducted in the past five days, resulting in six being shut down for safety reasons. The administration maintains that Ajaks bridge was under supervised demolition not a spontaneous collapse but public anger over repeated infrastructure failures continues to rise.
Miraculous escape for 8 people as bridge slab collapses in Gujarats Junagadh amid repairs
AHMEDABAD: Just days after the Gambhira bridge collapse between Vadodara and Anand claimed 21 lives, Gujarat has been jolted by another alarming bridge mishap this time in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka. In Ajak village, a portion of a dilapidated bridge gave way, plunging over eight people and a breaker machine into the river from a height. Miraculously, all were rescued without fatalities. Even as panic spread, the Junagadh District Executive Engineer claimed, the bridge hadnt collapsed but was being safely dismantled. In yet another bridge-related scare in Gujarat on Tuesday, a portion of the Ajak village bridge in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka collapsed during ongoing repair work, narrowly avoiding a major tragedy. The bridge, a crucial link between Keshod and Madhavpur and frequented by thousands of vehicles daily, gave way while a breaker machine was operating on it, sending the machine and eight to ten people standing on the slab plunging nearly 15 feet into the river below. Though the collapse caused a loud crash and panic among onlookers, all individuals involved escaped without serious injuries. A video of the dramatic incident has since gone viral, capturing the sheer chaos and fear as the slab crumbled in seconds. Local residents are furious, alleging that the repair work was carried out recklessly and without adequate safety measures. This is a public road with heavy daily traffic. Peoples lives are being risked without basic precautions or planning, said a villager, slamming the administrations negligence. Responding to the criticism, Junagadh District Panchayats Executive Engineer, Abhishek Gohil, confirmed that the bridge was indeed found to be in a dilapidated state during an inspection by the Road & Building Department. The old bridge near Mangrol was not damaged or broken it was deliberately demolished as a safety measure. During the slab removal process, a portion of it collapsed, but thankfully, no one was injured. Gohil clarified. Junagadh District Collector Anil Ranavasia added that the 10-meter-long bridge, divided into two spans, had already been closed to vehicular traffic two days ago. This bridge was flagged for demolition and reconstruction. Warning boards were placed on both sides. The slab collapsed due to the load of the equipment like JCB, but the area had already been sealed off, In fact, the bridge wasnt fell, it was intentionally demolished. Ranavasia told the media. He also noted that following the recent bridge collapse in Gambhira, inspections of over 480 bridges across the district had been conducted in the past five days, resulting in six being shut down for safety reasons. The administration maintains that Ajaks bridge was under supervised demolition not a spontaneous collapse but public anger over repeated infrastructure failures continues to rise.
Gujarats crumbling bridges: How many more deaths will it take?
AHMEDABAD: Yet another bridge collapse in Gujarat has jolted the state, exposing deep-rooted negligence and crumbling infrastructure. The 40 year-old Gambhira Bridge in Vadodara district fell apart early Wednesday, dragging multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar River. While the government rushes to give reassurances, a haunting question persistshow many tragedies will it take before accountability replaces apathy? Gambhira Bridge Collapse: 9 Dead, 9 Rescued The Gambhira Bridge, connecting Central Gujarat to Saurashtra via Padra taluka in Vadodara district, collapsed early Wednesday morning in Mujpur Nazir. The bridge, known to be in a dilapidated condition for years, finally gave way dragging down two trucks, a pickup van, an auto-rickshaw, and an Eco car into the swollen Mahisagar River. Rescue teams pulled out nine bodies, while nine others were rescued alive. The bridge had shown warning signs of structural decay, yet no action was taken to shut it down or carry out urgent repairs. Public Fury Grows: Who Will Be Held Responsible? The tragedy has sparked public outrage. Citizens are questioning why the bridge was not closed despite its poor condition. Why are officials always reactive instead of proactive? Time and again, bridges across Gujarat have collapsed, and yet, the cycle of negligence, empty promises, and lack of accountability continues. Assurances after each disaster have failed to turn into meaningful reforms or penalties for those responsible. Gujarats Shameful Bridge Collapse Timeline Hatkeshwar Bridge, Ahmedabad : Built to Last 100 Years, Failed in 5. Constructed in 2017 at a cost of Rs 40 crore, the Hatkeshwar Bridge was deemed structurally unsound in under four years. Shockingly, AMC floated a tender to demolish a bridge that was supposed to last a century. Mumtapura Bridge, Ahmedabad : On December 21, 2021, a section of the Mumtapura Bridge caved in, raising serious questions about the project company. Thankfully, the collapse didnt claim lives, but it intensified the fear surrounding Gujarat's infrastructure. Halvad Bridge, Morbi New But Unreliable: A bridge connecting New Koiba to Old Koiba collapsed on August 26, 2024just a year after it was built. Heavy rains washed away the structure, exposing poor construction quality. Morbi Suspension Bridge : Gujarats Darkest Day. On October 30, 2022, a British-era suspension bridge over the Machhu River collapsed, killing 141 people. The bridge had reopened just four days prior after repairs. It was designed for 125 people but had over 500 on it. Metro Flyover, Surat : Cracked Before Inauguration A section of the metro flyover in Saroli, Surat, Cracked even before being inaugurated. Cracks in the slab were ignored until it was too late. The bridge gave way during metro construction work. Ambedkar Bridge, Mehsana : Repeated Pleas Ignored Despite repeated requests for repair, the Ambedkar Bridge connecting Mehsana-Visnagar ring roads One part sunk on February 14 2024. Built in 2014, it had structural issues that were never addressed. Habiasar Bridge, Chotila : Heavy Rains Take It Down A bridge near Habiasar village in Surendranagar district collapsed during heavy rain. It connected over five villages. Luckily, the road was closed to traffic at the time. Under-Construction Flyover, Palanpur : Girder Collapse Kills One On October 23, 2023, two girders of an under-construction overbridge near the Palanpur RTO Circle broke. A rickshaw driver lost his life, and two others were injured. Bamangam-Parij Bridge, Kheda : Old Warnings, Zero Action The bridge connecting Baman and Parij collapsed on October 4, 2023. Villagers had raised alarms about its condition long ago. No one was on the bridge at the time, narrowly avoiding tragedy. Dhandhusar Bridge, Junagadh : 1975 Construction Falls Apart A part of the 45-year-old Dhandhusar bridge over the Uben River collapsed in 2023. Local connectivity took a major hit, forcing people into long detours and hardship. Rajkots Madhapar Chowk Pier Collapse Workers Injured On January 25, 2022, a pier under construction at Madhapar Chowk caved in, injuring two workers. The incident happened during concrete capping work. Janada Bridge, Botad Built in Lakhs, Collapsed in Three Years In Botads Janada village, a bridge over the Patlia River collapsed during monsoon 2023. Built just three years ago, it couldnt withstand seasonal rains. Khari River Bridge, Mehsana Bypass One part sunk in 2020 A bridge constructed over the Khari River on the Mehsana Bypass, built at a cost of crores, crumbled in just six years. The 2020 sunk was one of the early warnings of the ongoing infrastructure crisis. Other Notable Incidents : Singhrot, Vadodara (2023) Another bridge collapse with public uproar. Nandelav Bridge, Bharuch (June 2022) Under-construction bridge collapsed; people miraculously survived. Ajidem Intersection, Rajkot (2020) Bridge collapse with no casualties. Satodak Village, Rajkot (2019) Fatal structural failure. Peapok Flyover, Surat (2019) Yet another collapse highlighting contractor failure. Conclusion: Decay, Death, and Denial The recurring collapse of bridgeswhether newly built or agedreveals a systemic failure in Gujarat's infrastructure governance. Contractors cut corners, tenders are mishandled, warnings go unheeded, and officials continue to pass the buck. Behind every collapsed structure is a trail of ignored complaints, wasted taxpayer money, and shattered families. Unless real accountability is enforced and urgent structural audits conducted, Gambhira will not be the last bridge to falland Gujarat will keep mourning preventable deaths.
No alliance with Congress, INDIA bloc was only for LS polls: Kejriwal after Gujarat bypoll win
AHMEDABAD: Aam Aadmi Partys national convener Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that his party no longer has an alliance with the Congress, accusing it of helping the ruling BJP in Gujarat. The Congress-led INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) grouping of opposition parties was meant only for the Lok Sabha elections last year, he said. Addressing a press conference here, the former Delhi chief minister said his party will fight the 2027 Gujarat assembly elections and emerge victorious as people of the state now have an option other than the BJP and Congress. We have no alliance with Congress. If there was any alliance, why did they contest the bypoll in Visavadar? They came to defeat us. The BJP had sent the Congress to defeat AAP by cutting our votes. When Congress failed, the BJP even reprimanded them. The INDIA bloc was only for the Lok Sabha polls. Now there is no alliance from our side, said Kejriwal. AAP leader Gopal Italia won the bypoll to the Visavadar seat in Junagadh district last month by defeating BJPs Kirit Patel by a margin of over 17,000 votes. Congress nominee Nitin Ranpariya stood in the third spot with 5,501 votes. Kejriwal claimed that the BJP has ruined Gujarat in its 30-year rule. The Congress has failed as an opposition because it helps the BJP retain power, he said. Be it farmers, youths or the middle class, every section of society is unhappy with the BJP. Despite unemployment, more than half of the posts are lying vacant, and jobs are given only on a contract basis. Despite that, the BJP has been winning elections because people did not have any option, said Kejriwal. People used to say that 'we want to defeat the BJP, but whom should we vote for?' Everyone knows that the Congress is in their pocket. In a way, a contract has been given to the Congress to help the BJP win every election. And Congress does its work very well, said Kejriwal. After the Visavadar bypoll, AAP has emerged as a strong alternative to both these parties, and people are banking their hopes on his party, said Kejriwal. To dethrone the BJP, AAP cadres will campaign vigorously in Gujarat and go door-to-door for the next two and a half years to convince people ahead of the 2027 assembly polls, he said. From today, we are starting 'Gujarat Jodo Abhiyan', under which people can join AAP by giving a missed call to our number. Our workers will also visit each and every house. AAP is a party of youths. I appeal to the youths, who want a corruption-free Gujarat, to join us in large numbers, he added. In the 182-member Gujarat assembly, the BJP has 162 MLAs, Congress 12 and AAP 5. While one seat is with the Samajwadi Party, two legislators are independents.
Congress vice-president Hira Jotva, son arrested in Rs 7.3 crore MNREGA scam in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: In a stunning crackdown, Congress Vice-President Hira Jotva and his son Digvijay Jotva have been arrested in connection with a massive Rs 7.30 crore corruption scam linked to MNREGA scheme works across three talukas of Gujarats Bharuch district. The scandal, which triggered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), came to light after a formal complaint was lodged at the Bharuch A Division Police Station. Acting swiftly, police late last night brought Hira Jotva from Gir Somnath to Bharuch for questioning. Following hours of intense interrogation, Hira Jotva was arrested alongside Rajesh Taylor, an outsourced employee from the Hansot TDO office. Both are set to be produced in court today and face police remand. In a fresh blow to the Congress camp, Bharuch SP confirmed later this afternoon that Jotvas son, Digvijay, was also taken into custody, deepening the partys crisis as the scam unravels. Bharuch SP Mayur Chavda told the media, During the investigation into the MNREGA scam, it was revealed that although the proprietors of the accused agencies appear to be someone else on paper, the real beneficiaries are Hira Jotva and his associates. They siphoned off government funds with the help of outsourced personnel in government offices and submitted forged documentation. He further added, Hira Jotva and his family members, whose accounts received alleged MNREGA work money, were brought in from Gir Somnath for questioning late last night. Following the interrogation, Bharuch police arrested them. We have also arrested technical operator Rajesh Taylor. Upon examining Hira Jotvas bank records, it became evident that his son, Digvijay Jotva, is also involved. He, too, has been detained from Gir Somnath today. The scandal came to light after the project officer of the Gram Vikas Agency lodged a complaint at the Bharuch A Division Police Station, exposing fraudulent activities by two Veraval-based firms, Jalaram Enterprise and Muralidhar Enterprise. The agencies were contracted to supply materials for MNREGA works but reportedly delivered substandard and insufficient material while inflating quantities, draining the public exchequer. Bharuch Police swiftly constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which launched an intensive probe, visiting villages, recording witness statements, and unearthing forged records linked to both agencies. The SIT eventually named Piyush Ratilal Nukani of Jalaram Enterprise and Jodha Naran Sabhad of Muralidhar Enterprise as prime accused, along with several complicit government officials and outsourced staff. As the probe deepened, the SIT found damning links between Congress leader Hira Jotva and the scam-tainted suppliers. Acting on this, police brought Jotva from Gir Somnath to Bharuch late last night for interrogation. He was arrested shortly after. Also held was Rajesh Taylor, an outsourced employee from Hansot TDOs office. Both were produced in court today with police seeking remand. Later, police confirmed the arrest of Jotvas son, Digvijay Jotva, tightening the net around a growing political-corporate nexus exploiting rural employment schemes. The investigation continues, with more arrests likely. Hira Jotva is a prominent face in Gujarat Congress politics. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Junagadh and had earlier fought the 2022 Assembly polls from Keshod. He also served as the General Secretary of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) from 2019 to 2023 and is currently its Vice-President.
Gujarat Congress Vice President Hira Jotva grilled by police over Rs 7.3 crore MNREGA scam
AHMEDABAD: An assistant project manager has flagged a shocking MNREGA scam worth Rs 7.3 crore across villages in Gujarat's Bharuch district, Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot Taluka. Acting on the complaint, Bharuch police have now summoned Congress leader Hira Jotva from Gir Somnath for questioning. Sources indicate that police may move toward arresting him following the interrogation. The Rs 7.30 crore fraud, spanning 430 development works across 56 villages in Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot talukas, was first flagged on May 30 by a government official from the Gram Vikas Agency, who filed a formal complaint at Bharuchs A Division Police Station. The investigation zeroed in on two Veraval-based firms Shri Jalaram Enterprise and Muralidhar Enterprise contracted for supplying material under MNREGA projects. These agencies allegedly manipulated records, provided substandard material, and bypassed mandatory manual labour by using machines, thereby violating the core principles of the rural employment scheme and causing massive losses to the state exchequer. Police identified Piyush Nukani, owner of Shri Jalaram Enterprise, and Jodhabhai Sabhad, owner of Muralidhar Enterprise, as key players in the racket. Crucially, both are reported to have close ties to senior Congress leader Hira Jotwani a link that has now drawn political attention to the case. Following the FIR, Bharuch SP formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the scandal. The SIT, after recording statements from workers and agency staff, summoned Hira Jotva to Bharuch for questioning regarding his association with the two contractors. Officials are probing whether Jotva played any role in facilitating or shielding the scam. However, at the time of writing, police have not officially declared whether Hira Jotva has been officially arrested or detained. Bharuch Congress Leader Sandeep Mangrola said, Hira Jotva was detained from Gir Somanth, and police are bringing him here at Bharuch for questioning. Hira Jotva is a prominent face in Gujarat Congress politics. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Junagadh and had earlier fought the 2022 Assembly polls from Keshod. He also served as the General Secretary of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) from 2019 to 2023 and is currently its Vice President. As questioning continues, the police are examining financial trails and political connections to determine the full scale and backing behind the scam. Legal proceedings are underway, and more detentions could follow based on emerging evidence.
Bypoll results: UDF wins in Kerala, TMC ahead in Bengal, AAP and BJP secure one seat each in Gujarat
By-elections to assembly seats in Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, and Kerala on Monday delivered mixed results, with AAP gaining ground, TMC set to retain its seat in Bengal, and the Congress-led UDF scoring a key victory in Kerala. Kerala: UDF snatches Nilambur seat In a severe blow to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government in Kerala, the opposition UDF on Monday surged ahead in the Nilambur Assembly by-election and was on the verge of victory as counting neared completion. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath, son of Congress veteran Aryadan Muhammed, secured a lead of 11,077 votes over CPI(M)s M Swaraj. The bypoll was widely seen as a mid-term referendum on the LDF government. Independent candidate P V Anvar, the former legislator whose resignation triggered the bypoll, surprised many with his strong performance, securing over 18,000 votes. The BJP candidate, Mohan George, lagged far behind. Celebrations erupted in Nilambur and across the UDF camp, with Congress leaders hailing the result as a sign of growing public support ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath wins Nilambur bypoll by a margin of over 11000 votes West Bengal: TMC comfortably ahead in Kaliganj In West Bengals Kaliganj assembly seat, TMC candidate Alifa Ahamed, daughter of the late MLA Nasiruddin Ahamed, was leading by over 29,749 votes after 13 rounds of counting. TMC candidate Alifa Ahamed secured 59,329 votes, while her nearest rival, BJP nominee Ashis Ghosh 29,580. Congress candidate Kabil Uddin Shaikh, backed by the CPI(M), slipped to the third position with 19,516 votes, election officials said. The bypoll was held following the death of Nasiruddin Ahamed in February. Voting saw a turnout of 69.85 per cent and remained largely peaceful. Voting for the by-election was held on Thursday, with a voter turnout of 69.85 per cent recorded till 5 pm. Barring a few isolated incidents, voting remained largely peaceful. Punjab: AAP edges ahead in Ludhiana West In Punjabs Ludhiana West, AAPs Sanjeev Arora was leading by 2,286 votes over Congress Bharat Bhushan Ashu after six of the 14 counting rounds. The BJPs Jiwan Gupta was in the third position, followed by Shiromani Akali Dals Parupkar Singh Ghuman. The by-election was necessitated by the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi earlier this year. Voter turnout for the seat stood at 51.33 per cent, a significant drop from the 64 per cent registered in the 2022 assembly elections. Gujarat: AAP wins Visavadar seat, BJP holds Kadi AAP leader Gopal Italia won the Visavadar seat, while BJP's Rajendra Chavda bagged Kadi seat on Monday, as counting for bypolls to the two constituencies in Gujarat concluded, officials said. Italia, the former Gujarat president of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), defeated his nearest rival, BJP candidate Kirit Patel, in Visavadar seat of Junagadh district by a margin of 17,554 votes. While Italia received 75,942 votes, Patel got 58,388 votes after the end of total 21 rounds of counting, as per the data shared by the Election Commission. BJP leaders earlier said they were hoping to break the 18-year jinx in Visavadar, where the party last tasted victory in 2007. Meanwhile, in the SC-reserved Kadi seat, BJP candidate Rajendra Chavda was leading by over 35,000 votes against Congress' Ramesh Chavda after 16 rounds of counting. The seat fell vacant following the death of BJP MLA Karsan Solanki in February. In Kadi seat of Mehsana district, reserved for the Scheduled Caste candidates, BJP's Rajendra Chavda emerged victorious by a margin of 39,452 votes over Congress' Ramesh Chavda after the end of all 22 rounds of counting. While Rajendra Chavda received 99,742 votes, former Congress MLA Ramesh Chavda managed to secure 60,290 votes. (With inputs from PTI)
Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA matches confirmed for 251 victims, 245 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: In a recent development following the Ahmedabad plane crash, Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi announced that DNA samples of 251 deceased victims have been successfully matched. Thus far, the mortal remains of 245 individuals have been handed over to their grieving families, with the remaining six to be returned in the coming days. Dr Joshi, addressing the media, shared that the 245 bodies released include 176 Indian nationals, 49 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, one Canadian, and 12 non-passengers. The extensive identification process marks a critical step towards closure for hundreds of devastated families. Ahmedabad plane crash: Crew member's mortal remains reach Manipur, thousands pay tributes Providing a district-wise breakdown, Dr Joshi stated that bodies have been returned to families from the following regions: Ahmedabad (70), Vadodara (24), Anand (26), Udaipur (7), Kheda (11), Mehsana (7), Surat (12), Bharuch (7), Gandhinagar (7), Diu (14), Gir Somnath (5), Rajkot (3), Patan (3), Junagadh (1), Amreli (2), Bhavnagar (1), Botad (1), Mahisagar (1), Aravalli (2), Palanpur (1), Jamnagar (2), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Modasa (1), Khambhat (2), Nadiad (1), Patna (1), Mumbai (10), Pune (1), Maharashtra (2), Rajasthan (2), Jodhpur (1), London (10), and Manipur (1). He emphasised that the DNA matching process is both highly sensitive and bound by strict legal protocols. Every identification has been carried out with the utmost precision and care. Agencies such as Forensic Science University, alongside the local administration, health departments, and various state and central authorities, are working tirelessly to ensure that the mortal remains are returned with dignity and respect. This coordinated and relentless effort underscores the authorities commitment to providing a measure of solace and closure in the wake of an immense tragedy.
Ahmedabad plane crash: 223 DNA matches confirmed, 204 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: DNA samples of 223 victims of the Air India plane crash have been successfully matched, and 204 bodies have been handed over to families as of 11:50 am on June 20, according to Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi. The Civil Hospital authorities have intensified the efforts to identify and return the remaining bodies. Meanwhile, two patients under treatment at the Civil Hospital succumbed to their injuries. Their bodies have been handed over to their families, bringing the total count of bodies handed over to 204 from the Civil Hospital alone. Breaking down the identification further, Dr Joshi confirmed that the 223 matched victims comprise 168 Indian nationals, 7 Portuguese, 36 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 11 non-passengers - local residents who were tragically caught in the crash zone. Several international, domestic Air India flights cancelled due to operational reasons Logistics have played a critical role in the aftermath, with 15 bodies airlifted and 189 transported by road, according to Dr Joshi. The mortal remains have been sent to various Indian states and several foreign countries. Ahmedabad received the highest number, with 58 bodies, followed by Vadodara (21), Surat (11), Udaipur (7), Mumbai (9), Diu (14), and Kheda (11). Others were sent to Mehsana (6), Gandhinagar (6), Rajkot (3), Jamnagar (2), Patan (2), Dwarka (2), Aravalli (2), and London (2). Single bodies were transported to locations including Botad, Jodhpur, Anand, Palanpur, Maharashtra, Junagadh, Amreli, Gir Somnath, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, Patna, Nadiad, Sabarkantha, Nagaland, and Modasa. Madurai-bound Indigo flight returns after mid-air 'snag,' say officials
Ahmedabad Diary | Government aid yet to reach Air India crash victims
After 241 of the 242 passengers onboard the AI171, en route to the London Gatwick, and the entire crew perished in the Ahmedabad air tragedy, compensation has begun trickling in. The Tata Group pledged Rs 1 crore per bereaved family, while Air India announced Rs 25 lakh each. Several others also died at the crash site. However, neither the Centre, nor Gujarat government has offered any relief so far. Slamming the silence, Congress leader Amit Chavda demanded both governments jointly grant Rs 1 crore per bereaved family, stressing that empathy must guide action in times of tragedy. BJP, AAP candidates fail to cast votes in bypoll Polling was held on Thursday for the Visavadar by-election, with BJPs Kirit Patel, Congress Nitin Ranpariya, and AAPs Gopal Italia in the fray. Ironically, only Congress candidate Ranpariya cast his own vote at the Bhesan BRC Bhavan on Thursday morning. BJPs Patel and AAPs Italia were unable to do so, as Patel is registered in Junagadh and Italia in Surat. Their absence from the Visavadar voter list barred them from supporting their own names on the ballot. As the poliing day draws to a close, focus now shifts to the turnout, and the symbolic weight of the missing votes. 13 IAS officers shifted in major bureaucratic rejig In a significant administrative shake-up, the Gujarat government has transferred 13 IAS officers and 9 Deputy Section Officers just a few days back. IAS officer Ashwini Kumar has been shifted from Urban Development to take charge as Principal Secretary, Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities. In another key swap, IAS M Thennarasan moves from Sports to head the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. Rameshchand Meena has been handed additional charge as Principal Secretary, Ports and Transport. Meanwhile, IAS Milind Shivaram Torawane, formerly MD of GSPC, Gandhinagar, takes over as Principal Secretary, Panchayat and Rural Development. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA of 211 victims matched; 189 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: In a significant update on the Ahmedabad plane crash tragedy, DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched, and 189 bodies have been handed over to their respective families, according to officials. Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi shared the details during a media briefing, emphasizing the coordinated effort between forensic teams, hospital staff, and law enforcement. Of the remaining cases, eight families are expected to claim the mortal remains of their loved ones in the coming days, while two families are scheduled to accept the bodies by tomorrow. Additionally, 11 families are still awaiting DNA matches of their other relatives, indicating that the process of closure remains ongoing for many. Providing a breakdown of nationalities, Dr. Joshi stated that among the 189 confirmed deceased, 142 are Indian citizens, 32 are from the UK, seven are Portuguese nationals, one is Canadian, and seven individuals were non-passengers, whose presence near the crash site turned tragic. In a detailed media briefing, Dr. Joshi confirmed that 189 bodies have been handed over to families so far, while DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. He noted that eight more families are expected to receive the mortal remains of their relatives in the coming days, while two families will accept the remains by tomorrow. However, the process is not yet complete - 11 families are still awaiting the DNA match of a second relative, highlighting the continued emotional wait for full closure. Providing further insight, he explained the nationality distribution of the 189 deceased: 142 were Indian citizens, 32 were British nationals, 7 were from Portugal, 1 was Canadian, and 7 were non-passengerspeople who were tragically caught in the disaster despite not being on the flight. Dr Joshi also offered a detailed breakdown of the geographical origin of those whose bodies have been handed over. These include seven from Udaipur, 20 from Vadodara, 10 from Kheda, 55 from Ahmedabad, six from Mehsana, one each from Botad, Jodhpur, Patan, Junagadh, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, and Patna, two each from Aravalli, Maharashtra, Amreli, Jamnagar, Dwarka, and London, 16 from Anand, five from Bharuch, 11 from Surat, six from Gandhinagar, 14 from Diu, three from Rajkot, nine from Mumbai, one each from Nadiad, Sabarkantha, and Nagaland. He emphasised that the process of DNA matching is both legally sensitive and scientifically complex, requiring meticulous attention. Due to these constraints, the identification is being carried out with utmost seriousness and urgency. To expedite the process, teams from the Forensic Science University, local administrations, state health departments, and multiple central and state agencies are working round the clock. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that the mortal remains are returned to families as quickly and respectfully as possible, offering a measure of peace amid a tragedy that has shaken families across India and abroad.
Ahmedabad plane crash: 190 DNA matches confirmed, 157 bodies handed over
AHMEDABAD: Six days after the devastating Ahmedabad plane crash, the sole survivor Vishwas Kumar has been discharged from the hospital in stable condition, confirmed Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Civil Hospital Superintendent. Kumar's family, who had flown in from the UK, was present at his side. The body of Kumar's brother, who was killed in the crash, was handed over to the family at 2 am on the same day, and a funeral was held for him in Diu. As of now, DNA samples of 190 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. In a detailed briefing, Dr. Joshi stated that 157 bodies have already been handed over to their respective families, with the identification and release process still underway for the remaining. He noted that five families are expected to collect the bodies of their loved ones soon, while the hospital remains in contact with 10 families. Meanwhile, 15 families are waiting for DNA matches of additional relatives, and the identification process is ongoing for three others. Dr. Joshi also revealed a detailed breakdown of the nationalities among the deceased whose bodies have been identified: 123 Indian nationals, 27 British citizens, 4 Portuguese nationals, 1 Canadian citizen, and 4 non-passengers. In terms of geographical distribution, he reported that the bodies handed over include: Ahmedabad (48), Vadodara (18), Kheda (10), Anand (11), Gandhinagar (6), Surat (6), Mehsana (5), Udaipur (6), Bharuch (5), Gir Somnath (5), Diu (12), Mahisagar (1), Bhavnagar (1), Patan (1), Botad (1), Aravalli (2), Jodhpur (1), Junagadh (1), Amreli (1), Rajkot (2), Nadiad (1), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Mumbai (7), London (2), Patna (1), and Maharashtra (2).
Air India crash: 87 victims identified by DNA tests, 47 bodies handed over to kin
AHMEDABAD: Four days after the horrific crash of an Air India plane in Ahmedabad claimed 270 lives, 87 victims have so far been identified through DNA matching and 47 bodies have been handed over to their families, officials said on Monday. Authorities are carrying out DNA tests to establish the identity of the victims since many of the bodies were charred beyond recognition or damaged otherwise after the plane crash on June 12. Till now, 87 DNA samples have been matched, and 47 bodies have already been handed over to the respective families. These deceased were from different parts of Gujarat, such as Bharuch, Anand, Junagadh, Bhavnagar, Vadodara, Kheda, Mehsana, Arvalli and Ahmedabad districts, additional civil superintendent Dr Rajnish Patel told reporters. No clarity yet on identity of 18 Air India crash victims The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with 242 persons on board crashed into a medical college complex in Ahmedabad moments after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 pm on June 12. While 241 persons on board the London-bound aircraft died, one passenger miraculously survived . Besides, 29 persons are reported to have died in the disaster on the ground, which includes five MBBS students . AUW! Could Air India Flight AI-171's weight have doomed it?
