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ED searches 17 locations in Keralam over alleged co-op. bank fraud

Searches conducted at Urban Co-operative Society, Angamaly; Thennala Service Co-operative Bank; and Kuttanellur Co-operative Bank in connection with alleged fraud involving 550 crore

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 10:59 pm

Excited to work with Harmanpreet, admired her from afar, says MI head coach Williams

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 8 (IANS) Newly appointed Mumbai Indians head coach Luke Williams expressed his delight at getting an opportunity to be a part of the Womens Premier League (WPL) franchise, adding that he was excited to work with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, after having admired her from afar. Obviously, Ive had the pleasure of coaching against Harman in several leagues all over the world and have seen her fabulous talent and brilliant captaincy and leadership qualities and have been able to admire her from afar. So Im absolutely thrilled to be able to work with Harman and work together to really get the best out of the team for this season, said Williams in a video on the franchises YouTube channel on Thursday. He had coached Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a WPL 2024 triumph, and Williams said he was thrilled to get a chance to be a coach in the competition again. I was absolutely delighted when I found out that I was going to be offered the position. To be part of such a prestigious franchise is an absolute honour. Obviously, the WPL team has already achieved so much, having won the competition twice, and Im just so thrilled to be able to get started and meet the playing and support staff to get going. MI is playing an exciting brand of cricket. Quite intimidating as a team with a fantastic fan base as well as players who can take the game away from you very, very quickly. So again, thats the style of cricket that we want to play: to be able to put pressure on the opposition and to never give up. The MI side are going to play a relentless and aggressive style of cricket, and we will definitely continue that this year, which is one of the most exciting things about taking on this role, he added. Commenting on preparations for the upcoming season, with the auction happening in Kochi on October 28, Williams stated that he does not think there needs to be a complete overhaul of the squad considering the depth and balance that MI possess in all departments. Thats one of the most exciting things about being able to come into this particular team is that it has such a strong core. So I dont think that there needs to be a huge amount of changes necessarily. Obviously, were looking at the finer details and making sure that we get the balance right for different conditions that we might come up against. But at the moment I think the squad that we have got is a really good combination of players with the right mix of batting and bowling and seam and spin. Having been here before and also played in the WPL and seen the game grow, the passion of the fans is absolutely phenomenal. So its a really special time to be a part of Mumbai Indians, added Williams. He further pointed out that Indian womens cricket is going through an exciting phase and wants MI to be at the forefront of it all by continuing to play fearless and entertaining cricket. I think that the Indian team is playing some really special cricket at the moment and obviously have had so much success on the international stage. The future for both WPL and Indian cricket is incredibly bright. So we want Mumbai Indians to lead the way in terms of being fearless and taking the game on and playing a brand of cricket that is entertaining for the supporters and something that our fans can be really excited about and proud of, he said. Speaking about his own strengths as a coach, Williams credited his ability to communicate effectively with his players and staff as his main strength. I think obviously the ability to stay calm is always a good quality. As a coach, being able to communicate with different people, players, and staff. I probably take a bit of pride in my communication with people and making sure that they understand the demands clearly and that they feel empowered to do their jobs. So I think thats probably my strength as a coach, he said. Williams signed off by saying about the incredible support that MI gets from its fans and said that he looks forward to seeing them at the matches when WPL 2027 happens from January 14 to February 7. I cant wait to see you all at the games because, as you said, you are simply the heart and soul of the franchise. So it's really exciting to meet everyone and see that fantastic support and know that it plays such a big part in the teams success for the coming season and in the future ahead, said Williams.

bhaskarlive 8 Oct 2026 10:08 pm

Two Kochi-Riyadh flights cancelled over security concerns

Akasa Air and Saudia flights from Kochi cancelled amid reported disruptions at Riyadh airport

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 9:46 pm

Karingachira-Thiruvankulam NH 85 stretch to be widened to 14 metres

Widening aimed at facilitating free left turns at bottlenecked Thiruvankulam Junction; 20-metre-wide roundabout planned at junction for smoother traffic flow; steps to be taken to construct Chitrapuzha-Mamala Bund Road

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 9:36 pm

Drivers suspension sparks heated exchange in Kochi Corporation Council

LDF questions suspension, seeks verification of complaint against driver; Mayor defends action as being in accordance with Kerala Municipality Act; Council to hear drivers version and ensure suspension does not affect his service record

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 9:29 pm

Centre seeks fishers views for national action plan on small-scale fisheries

Digital Desk | New Delhi/Kochi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Centre has begun a nationwide consultation with fishing communities to frame a National Plan of Action for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (NPOA-SSF). The Union Department of Fisheries is leading the exercise, while the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOBP-IGO) is facilitating and coordinating it. The draft action plan is expected to be released on World Fisheries Day on November 21. It will then be opened for public review before finalisation and notification in 2027. Union Fisheries Secretary Dr Abhilaksh Likhi said the consultations were central to the process. These consultations are not a formality to be completed before the plan is drafted. They are where the plan is written, he said. The plan is aimed at protecting the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on small-scale fishing and allied activities. The Centre has asked coastal states and Union Territories to hold consultations and submit the views of fishing communities for inclusion in the plan. Community-led consultations have already been held at Kakdwip in West Bengal and Baleswar in Odisha. More than 20 consultations are planned across the eastern and western coasts and the island territories. The Department has asked Fisheries Departments in coastal states and UTs to appoint nodal officers or teams. They have been asked to organise consultations this month and submit the feedback to the National Task Force drafting the action plan. The exercise is intended to ensure that the concerns and priorities of fishing communities are reflected in the national policy. Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Dr Surabhi Rai said the proposed framework must reflect the realities of fishing communities. The consultations would help record the voices of fishers and fish workers and incorporate them into the policy. About 30 million people in India are linked to fisheries and allied activities, according to Rai. The sector also plays an important role in the country's food and nutritional security. Fourteen fisher community and civil society organisations have joined the community-led consultation process. They include the National Federation of Small-Scale Fish Workers, the National Fishworkers' Forum, and the South Indian Federation of Fishermen Societies. The consultations will cover issues such as access to fisheries resources, sustainable management, livelihood security, decent work, gender equality, climate change, and disaster risks. The consultations will be held in local languages. They will include fishers, crew and share workers, migrant fish workers, fish vendors, dry-fish processors, and youth. Separate discussions will also be held for women and young participants. The NPOA-SSF is being prepared in line with the Food and Agriculture Organisation's Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries and India's National Policy on Marine Fisheries, 2017.

bhaskarlive 8 Oct 2026 9:06 pm

Kochi Corporation rules out land transfer for Brahmapuram waste-to-energy plant

Corporation open to leasing land but insists on retaining ownership; Councillors oppose regional plant and want only waste generated within the district treated at Brahmapuram; Council seeks clarity on lease period, viability gap funding and Corporations liabilities

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 9:03 pm

ED finds major loan irregularities at three Kerala co-op banks

Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 8 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has detected major irregularities in loan transactions at three co-operative banks in Kerala. The findings were disclosed in a statement issued by the ED on Thursday. The irregularities came to light during searches conducted at 17 premises in Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur on Wednesday. The searches were carried out in connection with three separate cases being investigated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The cases relate to the Urban Co-operative Society, Angamaly; Thennala Service Co-operative Bank in Malappuram; and Kuttanellur Service Co-operative Bank in Thrissur. The ED said its Kochi Zonal Office is investigating 27 co-operative society and bank fraud cases involving approximately Rs 550 crore in suspected proceeds of crime. In the Urban Co-operative Society, Angamaly case, the ED searched five premises in Ernakulam and nearby areas. The premises were linked to the society and individuals connected with the alleged fraudulent loan transactions. The investigation followed an FIR registered by the Angamaly Police, which alleged fake loan applications, loans granted to ineligible persons, and misappropriation of society funds. The FIR estimated the alleged fraud at around Rs 55 crore. The ED found that 422 loans worth about Rs 96.74 crore had been sanctioned against 108 properties belonging to 65 members. Serious irregularities were detected in 159 loans worth approximately Rs 33.82 crore. These included the absence of original title deeds, the use of photocopies of deeds and, in certain cases, the absence of registered mortgages. Some loan applications were incomplete, while loans were allegedly sanctioned in the names of ineligible or non-existent persons. The ED seized documents relating to the alleged fraudulent transactions. Documents relating to 38 properties, digital devices and mobile phones were also seized. Two fixed deposits worth about Rs 1.82 crore were frozen. In the Thennala Service Co-operative Bank case, the ED searched seven premises linked to former office-bearers and directors in Malappuram and Kozhikode. The investigation followed 10 FIRs registered by the Kottakkal Police. Around 53 additional FIRs were also registered in 2023 and 2024 in and around Kottakkal. The bank had allegedly promised higher returns on fixed deposits. However, customers allegedly did not receive their principal amounts and returns after maturity. The ED also found alleged irregularities in Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and land-backed loans. Fake KCC loans were allegedly sanctioned to fictitious and benami members. Some loans were allegedly sanctioned beyond prescribed limits and without the required approvals. Loan funds were allegedly diverted to deposits, repayment of earlier liabilities and other unauthorised transactions. The suspected proceeds of crime are estimated at around Rs 10 crore. The ED recovered documents relating to two properties and froze 20 fixed deposits and bank accounts holding about Rs 24.50 lakh. In the Kuttanellur Service Co-operative Bank case, the ED searched five premises in Thrissur and nearby areas linked to former office-bearers and officials. The investigation followed four FIRs registered by the Ollur Police. The cases relate to alleged cheating and the use of forged documents. According to the ED, properties belonging to bank customers were allegedly mortgaged as security for loans without their knowledge or consent. The loans were allegedly sanctioned in the names of third parties. Forged death certificates, identity documents, and valuation reports were allegedly used. The ED also found that board members allegedly granted membership to persons outside the bank's jurisdiction and provided loans to them through illegal means. The value of properties offered as collateral was allegedly inflated. Documents of loan applicants were also allegedly forged. According to the ED, the alleged transactions caused a financial loss of more than Rs 27 crore to the bank. Digital evidence and documents relating to the alleged loan transactions were seized during the searches. Further investigation is in progress.

bhaskarlive 8 Oct 2026 9:01 pm

Crime Branch defends pace of probe into Chander Kunj Army towers in Kochi amid owners concerns

In letter to affected apartment owners, Economic Offences Wing of Crime Branch, Ernakulam Range, dismisses allegations of lack of progress in investigation into alleged irregularities and offences related to construction

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 2:55 pm

Attire is a citizens choice: Kerala HC backs school headmistress over churidar row

Court was considering a petition by headmistress of a Kollam school seeking to disqualify school manager for allegedly denying her entry for wearing a churidar instead of a sari

The Hindu 8 Oct 2026 1:46 pm

Kerala HC rejects in camera trial plea in SFI activist Abhimanyu murder case

Kerala HC rejects in camera trial plea in SFI activist Abhimanyu murder case Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday rejected a plea by the accused in the 2018 murder of SFI activist Abhimanyu seeking an in camera trial, holding that criminal proceedings are ordinarily required to be conducted in open court. Justice C.S. Dias [] The post Kerala HC rejects in camera trial plea in SFI activist Abhimanyu murder case appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Mangalorean 7 Oct 2026 9:52 pm

Maharashtra wins both team titles at 10th AIPA National Pickleball Championship in Kochi

The 10th AIPA National Pickleball Championship 2026 concluded after four days of competition from October 1 to 4 in Kochi. Hosted by the Federation of Pickleball Associations of Kerala (FPAK), the championship was held in the state for the first time. Players from across the country competed in Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles across nine age categories, from U-10 to 60+. Maharashtra won the Junior/Senior Championship Trophy with 12 gold, 11 silver and 8 bronze medals. Madhya Pradesh finished as first runners-up with 5 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze, while Tamil Nadu were second runners-up with 3 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze, according to a press release from AIPA. In the Veteran Championship, Maharashtra again emerged as winners with 7 gold, 3 silver and 5 bronze medals. Karnataka finished as first runners-up with 4 gold, 7 silver and 3 bronze, while Madhya Pradesh were second runners-up. In U-10, Aaryav Desai (MAH) won Boys Singles, ahead of Rela Parimi (AP). Agastya Shah and Mahir (MA...

devdiscourse 7 Oct 2026 9:36 pm

Textile merchants stage protest against UPI charge move in Kochi

KTGA members protest reported proposal to impose a 0.4% merchant discount rate on UPI transactions from October 15

The Hindu 7 Oct 2026 9:01 pm

Migrant children in Ernakulam get training in Madhubani painting

31 students from five schools enrolled in the Roshni project take part; Ten-day programme being held at GVHSS, Kunnumpuram; Training aims to impart vocational skills alongside studies

The Hindu 7 Oct 2026 7:56 pm

Supplyco opens 24-hour convenience store in Kochi, expands Sabari brand

More such outlets are planned at suitable locations like the 24-hour convenience store opened at Vyttila Mobility Hub

The Hindu Businessline 7 Oct 2026 1:09 pm

Valid tickets, denied boarding: Air India Express told to pay Rs 70,287 to passengers

Air India Express was ordered to refund Rs 20,287 to a mother and her young son. They were denied boarding on a Kochi-Abu Dhabi flight despite holding valid travel documents. Consequently, they incurred additional expenses to travel to Sharjah and faced hardships during the journey. The consumer commission awarded compensation of Rs 40,000 for the inconvenience and Rs 10,000 for litigation costs.

The Times of India 7 Oct 2026 12:53 pm

Air India, Singapore Airlines announce expansion of commercial cooperation

Air India and Singapore Airlines on Wednesday announced an expansion of their commercial cooperation to provide more flight options for travellers between India and Singapore. The expansion is part of the initiatives under the Commercial Cooperation Framework Agreement inked in January this year. From October 15, both airlines will offer travellers a wider range of itinerary and flight options through their respective booking channels. This covers 126 weekly flights between Singapore and eight Indian cities: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, Air India said in a release on Wednesday. At present, an eligible Air India-operated codeshare flight booked through SIA must include an SIA-operated flight, and vice versa. This requirement will be removed from October 15, allowing travellers to book eligible flights between India and Singapore operated by either airline on a standalone basis through each other's booking channels. Currently, an ..

Business Standard 7 Oct 2026 12:39 pm

Two More Nabbed In Kochi Gangrape Case

Two more individuals, including a woman, have been arrested in connection with the recent gangrape of a woman in Kalamassery, Kochi. The accused, Saranya and Sanju, were apprehended in Wayanad. Police state that Saranya played a prime role in the assault, which involved four people and occurred on October 2. Two other accused have already been remanded, and the survivor's partner revealed harrowing details of the incident.

Rediff 7 Oct 2026 12:32 pm

Two more taken into custody in Kochi gang-rape case

Saranya, aka Ammu, and Sanju were taken into custody from Wayanad

The Hindu 7 Oct 2026 12:02 pm

Government Order dropping six Water Metro terminals in Keralams Kochi draws flak

Critics say the decision to drop at least two of the six terminals will affect the intended water transport connectivity to places located far away from Kochi city. The terminals that have been dropped are Thevara, Aster, Amrita, Kothad, Cheriyamthuruth, and Mulavukad

The Hindu 7 Oct 2026 1:43 am

NCW seeks report from Kerala Police over Kochi gangrape within 7 days

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) The dignity, bodily autonomy, privacy and safety of every woman must be protected without compromise, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said on Tuesday, seeking a report from Kerala Police within seven days over the alleged drugging and gang rape of a woman in Kerala's Kochi. Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar wrote to the Kerala Director General of Police Ravada Azad Chandrasekhar, seeking a fair, comprehensive and time-bound investigation, identification of all persons involved and strict action under applicable provisions of law, an official statement said. An Action Taken Report has been sought within seven days, it said. The NCW took note of a deeply disturbing media report regarding the alleged drugging and gang rape of a woman at Kalamassery in Kochi after she was reportedly lured on the promise of a job as a spa manager. The incident allegedly took place on October 2 and visuals of the alleged assault were reportedly recorded, the statement said. The Commission has also called for investigation into the alleged job offer, preservation and forensic examination of digital evidence, identification of persons responsible for recording or circulating the alleged visuals, the statement added. Rahatkar also recommended an examination of any wider organised modus operandi targeting women through fraudulent employment offers. The Commission has also sought continued medical and psychological care, legal aid, victim-support services and protection for the survivor. The dignity, bodily autonomy, privacy and safety of every woman must be protected without compromise, Rahatkar said. Earlier last month, the Commission took taken suo motu cognisance of the reported gruesome murder of a woman and a child in Attappadi in Kerala's Palakkad district and sought a report from the state police. The severed and decomposed body parts of the victims were reportedly found stuffed in sacks and abandoned on the banks of the Bhavani river, as per a media report. The NCW Chairperson has written to the Kerala Director General of Police, seeking immediate apprehension of the suspect, identification of all possible accomplices, a thorough and impartial investigation, and preservation of forensic evidence, an official statement said. Necessary assistance and support to the victims' families during the identification and legal process have also been sought, it added.

bhaskarlive 6 Oct 2026 5:12 pm

Kochi Corporation mulls mobile ABC units to ensure balanced stray dog control

For long, councillors from West Kochi have complained of discrimination in catching of stray dogs for sterilisation at the Corporations ABC Centre at Brahmapuram

The Hindu 6 Oct 2026 3:19 pm

India's festive hiring rises 7 pc as whitecollar market cools

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) India's festive hiring grew 7 per cent yearonyear to 1,27,080 jobs in 2026 even as overall whitecollar hiring moderated 11 per cent yearonyear in September, a report said on Tuesday. The report from foundit said the divergence reflected a concentrated buildup in Indias consumption and fulfilment economy. Quick Commerce led festive demand with an 18 per cent yearonyear rise, followed by Ecommerce at 12 per cent and Logistics & Transportation at 10 per cent. Meanwhile, this demand is spreading beyond the metros, with Tier 2 and emerging cities growing significantly faster, while early-career professionals remain at the centre of festive hiring. Festive hiring has continued to expand over the last three years, rising from 98,120 jobs in 2024 to 1,18,750 in 2025 and 1,27,080 in 2026. Travel & hospitality, media & entertainment and retail recorded over 6 per cent, 5 per cent and 4 per cent gains respectively. The report added that whitecollar gigs and freelance hiring grew 15 per cent yearonyear, indicating greater use of flexible talent as businesses respond to seasonal spikes in demand. Strong demand for early-career talent also shows that businesses are prioritising agile, digitally ready workforces that can scale with demand. As consumption becomes more distributed, we expect employment opportunities to increasingly follow the same trajectory, said Tarun Sinha, CEO, foundit. Metros accounting for 56 per cent of festive whitecollar roles posted only 3 per cent YoY growth. Tier2 cities accounted for 27 per cent of festive jobs and grew 11 per cent, while Tier3 and emerging cities, at 17 per cent of the total, recorded the fastest growth at 15 per cent. Jaipur, Lucknow, Indore, Surat, Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Coimbatore, Chandigarh and Kochi are among the cities seeing increased demand during the 2026 festive period.

bhaskarlive 6 Oct 2026 3:05 pm

Kerala HC directs State to consider representation to include Rugby as State-level Sports and Games event

The court says Rugby should be included in State-level sports events as it is part of the National School Games

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 9:42 pm

Parliamentary panel visits HMT Kalamassery unit

The panel will recommend measures to the Union government and concerned authorities to expedite the revival of the cash-strapped PSU

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 9:35 pm

Regular classes at Cusat School of Engineering shift online after chickenpox outbreak

Four cases of chickenpox reported from a hostel block over the past few days

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 7:58 pm

Chander Kunj Army flats handover for demolition stalled as AWHO representatives fail to turn up

Army Welfare Housing Organisation reportedly informs district administration officials that it is awaiting authorisation from headquarters in Delhi

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 2:35 pm

VACB begins probe into alleged irregularities in Mundamveli P&T apartment project in Kochi

Vigilance officials inspected the apartments and their immediate surroundings and interacted with residents and members of the protest committee

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 2:13 pm

Messis Keralam visit row: ED to register money-laundering case

Kochi unit of ED to register Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act after revelations of financial transactions worth crores in connection with the failed bid

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 1:13 pm

Kerala: Two held in Kalamassery gang rape case, absconding woman among suspects

Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 5 (IANS) Two persons have been taken into custody in connection with the alleged gang rape of a young woman in Kalamassery in Kerala's Ernakulam district, while police are on the lookout for two others, including a woman, Kochi City Police Commissioner S. Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar said on Monday. The Commissioner said all aspects of the case were being investigated and that police were looking for the remaining accused. One of those in custody is suspected of links with several spas operating in Kochi. The woman had allegedly been drugged and sexually assaulted after being lured to a lodge at Edappally near here, hours after she was interviewed for a job in a spa. Police said she had come across an advertisement on OLX seeking a manager for a spa. She attended a personal interview on September 2. Later that evening, a woman allegedly contacted her and asked her to come to a lodge at Edappally. An Uber taxi was reportedly arranged for her to reach the lodge. According to the police investigation, the woman was offered juice after reaching the lodge. She allegedly became unconscious after consuming it and was subsequently gang-raped. Police suspect that the victim was kept at the lodge for a day. She was allegedly given drugs and alcohol and subjected to repeated sexual assault during this period. The alleged gang rape took place on September 2 and 3. The victim, who was living with her husband in Kochi, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital. Police said a woman was also among those who allegedly sexually assaulted the victim. Two persons have been arrested so far, while two more, including the woman, are yet to be apprehended. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the job advertisement, the role of the spa connections of one of the accused and the sequence of events leading to the woman being taken to the lodge. The police are also probing whether others were involved in the crime and whether similar incidents had taken place earlier.

bhaskarlive 5 Oct 2026 11:59 am

Two arrested for allegedly drugging, gang-raping woman in Kochi

Police sources said the woman was called to a lodge on the pretext of arranging a job for her at a spa. The accused allegedly forced her to drink alcohol and consume drugs before sexually assaulting her

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 11:14 am

Two arrested for allegedly drugging, gang-raping woman in Kochi

Police sources said the woman was called to a lodge on the pretext of arranging a job for her at a spa. The accused allegedly forced her to drink alcohol and consume drugs before sexually assaulting her

The Hindu 5 Oct 2026 11:14 am

Woman drugged, gang-raped after being lured with job offer in Kochi

Kochi: A woman was allegedly drugged and gang-raped after being lured to Kalamassery here on the promise of a job as a spa manager, police said on Monday, October 5. The incident took place on October 2, and four people were allegedly involved in the assault, police said. The accused also allegedly recorded visuals of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 5 Oct 2026 11:09 am

Coast Guard evacuates critically ill patient from Agatti to Kochi amid challenging weather

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in coordination with the Union Territory of Lakshadweep Administration and Coast Guard District Headquarters at Kochi and Kavaratti, successfully carried out a critical medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) from Agatti to Kochi amid challenging weather conditions, ensuring timely medical assistance for a critically ill patient. According to the Indian Coast Guard, the operation involved the urgent airlift of a 66-year-old patient who required specialised neurosurgical care. The patient was transported from Agatti to Kochi aboard an ICG Dornier aircraft operated from Coast Guard Air Enclave (CGAE), Kochi. The patient required continuous oxygen support during the evacuation, making the operation particularly critical. The Coast Guard personnel carried out the mission despite formidable operational challenges posed by the prevailing weather conditions, ensuring that the patient could be transferred to a facility capable of providing the required neurosurgical treatment. The Indian Coast Guard shared details of the operation on X, highlighting the coordination between its units and the Lakshadweep Administration in executing the medical evacuation. In a high-stakes operation amidst challenging weather, @IndiaCoastGuard, in coordination with the UTL Administration and Coast Guard District Headquarters Kochi and Kavaratti, successfully executed a critical MEDEVAC from Agatti to Kochi. An ICG Dornier ex-CGAE Kochi airlifted a 66-year-old critically ill patient requiring urgent neurosurgical care with continuous oxygen support, the ICG posted. Undeterred by formidable operational challenges, the ICG stands true to its motto: We Protect, it added. The latest operation is part of the Coast Guard's wider commitment to providing assistance and responding to emergencies at sea and coastal areas, besides its primary responsibility to safeguard India's maritime interests. Earlier, the ICG Station Okha, in collaboration with Asha Blood Bank, Porbandar, conducted a voluntary blood donation camp on October 1 to mark National Blood Donation Day. A total of 23 personnel of ICGS Okha and members of the Coast Guard Welfare & Wellness Association (CGWWA) participated in the blood donation drive. The camp was conducted under medical supervision, with the Asha Blood Bank team ensuring safe collection and handling of the donated blood. The Coast Guard said the initiative reflected its commitment not only to safeguarding India's maritime interests but also to the welfare of the communities it serves. The contribution of the donors will help sustain critical medical care and save lives, reflecting commitment to serve and save lives, the ICG said. Earlier on Thursday, the Coast Guard had also highlighted another major rescue operation after the fishing vessel Sant Anton-I went adrift off New Mangaluru. The ICG launched a coordinated sea-air operation amid adverse weather conditions and successfully brought all 31 fishermen safely back to shore. The Coast Guard said the rescue was part of its legacy of saving more than 11,897 lives, reiterating its continued commitment to protecting people and ensuring safety across India's maritime domain.

bhaskarlive 4 Oct 2026 9:33 am

Rs 9,802 Cr metrolite dream returned to J&K: Sanjay Sapru demands answers

Srinagar, Oct 03: Congress leader Sanjay Sapru has questioned the return and rejection of the Jammu and Srinagar Metrolite proposals from New Delhi, saying the projects have lost nearly a decade since they were first proposed, while public money was spent on preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and the estimated cost continued to rise. Projects worth Rs 9,802 crore remained stuck since 2017 and have now been returned and rejected. Public money was consumed, valuable years were lost and the cost of the projects mounted with every passing year, Sapru said. Revisiting the history of the projects, Sapru said the original 2017 heavy metro proposal envisaged a 58-km network at an estimated cost of Rs 15,881 crore but was subsequently rejected by the Centre. Fresh DPRs were thereafter prepared by RITES Ltd, Gurgaon, in 2023 under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Metrolite Guidelines of 2019. The proposed Srinagar corridor, he said, stretched 25 km from HMT to Indira Nagar with 24 stations at an estimated cost of Rs 5,733 crore, up from Rs 4,892 crore in 2021. The Jammu corridor covered 23 km from Bantalab to Bari Brahmana through 22 stations at an estimated cost of Rs 4,069 crore. Sapru said that despite the preparation of fresh DPRs, both proposals remained pending with the Ministry from 2023 and were eventually sent back without final approval, leaving the projects without a definite implementation timeline. He also questioned the expenditure incurred on preparing the DPRs and related exercises. According to him, around Rs 8.50 crore was spent on DPR preparation, apart from expenditure on TA/DA and official exposure visits. He recalled that between 2016 and 2021, visits were undertaken to metro systems in Delhi, Kochi and Lucknow, while experts from the Japan International Cooperation Agency also visited Jammu and Srinagar to assess a proposal that had earlier been conceived for Japanese funding. Kochi made its metro operational in less than five years. Some may offer excuses in the name of disturbances, but the real question is why the project could not move forward despite nearly a decade having passed since its conception, Sapru said. The Congress leader said the delay had also resulted in a significant increase in the estimated cost of the Srinagar project, which rose by around Rs 840 crore in two years. Sapru said the issue was not limited to the fate of the two proposed projects but also involved the public expenditure incurred during the process and the opportunity cost of delaying a mass-transit system for Jammu and Srinagar. He said the estimated Rs 9,802-crore projects now required clarity on their future, including whether fresh proposals would be prepared and whether the Metrolite concept would be revived. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have already paid the price in lost time, public expenditure and cost escalation. There must now be clarity on what happens to the projects, the money already spent and the years lost, Sapru said.

RisingKashmir 3 Oct 2026 5:00 pm

Background checks delay Kochi police plan to issue IDs to private bus staff

Police launched the background verification drive in response to a series of incidents of criminal behaviour involving private bus employees

The Hindu 3 Oct 2026 4:12 pm

Amid P&T apartment controversy, Kochi Corporation drops TDLC bid

Thrissur District Labour Contract Cooperative Society had emerged as lowest bidder in tender floated by Kochi Corporation in August for preparing a DPR for proposed convention centre at Edappally

The Hindu 3 Oct 2026 10:39 am

Jebi Mather supports Adoor Prakash, renews call for KPCC executive committee meeting

Adoor Prakash is a very senior leader who has every right to express his views about having to learn of important matters through media. What he said cannot be dismissed lightly, says the MP

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 4:55 pm

BJP workers wave black flag at Excise Minister M. Liju in Keralams Alappuzha

The protesters were arrested and removed from the scene by the police. The BJP has been blocking the vehicles of the State Ministers and waving black flags at them for several days since Youth Congress activists staged a black flag protest against Amit Shah in Kollam on September 26

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 4:32 pm

Amazon expands ultra-fast delivery service to more than 120 Indian cities

Amazon has expanded its ultra-fast delivery service, Amazon Now, to more than 120 cities across India, doubling its footprint in two weeks as the e-commerce giant steps up its delivery network ahead of the festive season. The service is now available in cities including Amritsar, Abohar, Jalandhar, Ambala, Mangalore, Manipal, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, Changanassery, Bhubaneswar and Karwar, Amazon said in a statement on Friday. Amazon Now offers tens of thousands of products, including groceries, fruits and vegetables, frozen food, personal care items, fashion and beauty products, small appliances, and home and kitchen goods. Orders are fulfilled through a network of nearly 800 micro-fulfilment and urban fulfilment centres, the company said. We are delighted to take ultra-fast deliveries with Amazon Now to India's hinterland - from Amritsar & Abohar in the north to Kochi & Changanassery in the south - ahead of the Amazon Great Indian Festival. Amazon Now continues to be the ...

Business Standard 2 Oct 2026 2:42 pm

Passenger tries to open planes emergency exit at Hyderabad airport

Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 2 (IANS) An alleged attempt by a passenger to open the emergency door of an aircraft while it was preparing to take off created a scare at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad in Telangana. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when passengers were boarding the IndiGo flight to Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. After the airline staff alerted the authorities, the passenger was deboarded. He was later handed over to the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) Police. According to police, during the boarding process, the passenger was shifted from the 9th row to the 2nd row, which is an emergency exit seating area. While settling in, he touched the emergency exit handle, triggering a security sensor alarm. A case has been registered at the RGIA Police Station. The passenger told the police that he unintentionally touched the emergency exit handle. Further investigations were ongoing. On August 6, a traveller allegedly damaged an emergency exit window panel and attempted to tamper with the emergency exit door while the aircraft was preparing to land at Kochi airport. The incident occurred aboard Kuala Lumpur-Kochi Batik Air flight OD231. Police arrested the passenger, identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal. He was booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 351 (criminal intimidation), the Aircraft Act Section 11A (failure to comply with any direction issued) and the Kerala Police Act Section 118(e) (knowingly does any act which causes danger to the public or failure in public safety). The latest incident at RGIA came just a couple of days after the attack on the flydubai flight Captain by a co-pilot in an alleged attempt to hijack the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. The co-pilot was overpowered by some passengers who entered the cockpit after the pilot, Captain Smit Machchhar, raised an alarm. Two flydubai pilots travelling as passengers helped land the aircraft. According to reports, the plane dropped 17,400 feet in just under two minutes. The flight was diverted to Tabuk airport in northern Saudi Arabia. The Indian pilot, who was injured in the attack, is being hailed as a hero for thwarting the suspected hijacking attempt.

bhaskarlive 2 Oct 2026 11:59 am

Mumbai-based firm targets six-month window for Kochi Chander Kunj towers demolition, debris clearance

Edifice Engineering and South Africas Jet Demolition had undertaken a two-day inspection of apartments in towers B and C in June. The two firms had earlier overseen the demolition of the Maradu apartment complexes

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 11:49 am

Bus driver, scooter riders booked over alleged altercation in Keralams Kochi

Police register two separate first information reports against both parties based on mutual complaints lodged against each other

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 2:20 am

MVD cracks the whip following complaints against private buses

Legal action initiated against erring drivers and bus operators

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 2:08 am

Inspections at multiplexes in Kochi set to continue in October

A joint drive was conducted at multiplexes in malls last month following complaints of overpricing, and notices were served on erring establishments

The Hindu 2 Oct 2026 1:35 am

FIR against college, Professor over alleged research publication fraud

The petitioner allegedly lost 26,000 after being promised publication of his research paper in the UGC-CARE-listed Kanpur Philosophers Journal

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 7:59 pm

Amazon Now Expands Ultra-Fast Delivery Service to Over 120 Indian Cities

Customers in cities such as Amritsar, Abohar, Jalandhar, Ambala, Mangalore, Manipal, Vizag, Kochi, Changanassery, Bhubaneswar and Karwar get deliveries in minutes through Amazon Now

Deccan Chronicle 1 Oct 2026 4:21 pm

Reporter TV MD Anto Augustine questioned by police in Keralam CM defamation case

Kalamassery police issued Anto Augustine a fresh summons after he failed to appear before the investigation team on September 28

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 3:18 pm

Kochi Corporation to update tree registry after row over unauthorised felling

The first tree census was conducted in 2010 and the latest one in 2019

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 3:02 pm

Asian Games: Manu Francis, Prince Kurisinkal Noble sail India to first medal with men's skiff silver

Digital Desk | Gamagori City, Oct 1 (IANS) India opened its sailing medal account at the Asian Games as Manu Francis and Prince Kurisinkal Noble secured silver in the mens skiff competition on Thursday, finishing behind China after nine races. The Indian pair closed the regatta with 23 points, four more than the Chinese combination of Wen Zaiding and Liu Tian, who took gold with 16. Hong Kong Chinas Akira Luke Sakai and Russel Aylsworth completed the podium with 24 points. Francis and Noble produced a steady campaign, with their strongest result coming in the third race, which they won. The Indian sailors won Race 3 and finished second in Races 1, 5 and 9. They accumulated 29 points across the nine races, with their sixth-place finish in Race 8 discarded to arrive at a net score of 23. The Aichi-Nagoya medal was Indias first Asian Games silver in the mens skiff and the countrys second medal in the event. Varun Thakkar and KC Ganapathy won bronze in the mens 49er at Jakarta 2018. Manu and Princes silver was also Indias 24th sailing medal at the Asian Games. At Hangzhou 2023, India had won three. Unlike most sports, sailing follows a low-point scoring system, with a race winner receiving one point, the second-placed boat two and so on. The lowest overall score wins, with the worst result discarded after the prescribed number of races. China, however, maintained the edge at the top of the standings, winning four of the nine races. The silver marks another milestone for Francis, 31, and Noble, 30, who have known each other since childhood. The Kochi-based sailors developed an interest in the sport early and subsequently trained at the National Sailing School in Bhopal and the Muziris Yachting Club in Kerala. Their Asian Games medal adds to an earlier success as a pair, having previously claimed bronze at the Asian Sailing Championships. Skiffs are lightweight, compact sailing boats that demand considerable coordination between crew members, with race results often decided by tactical choices, positioning and consistency across multiple rounds. Earlier on Thursday, Harshita Tomar and Shital Verma narrowly missed adding another medal, finishing fourth in the womens skiff. The Indian pair had also finished fourth in the event at Hangzhou 2023.

bhaskarlive 1 Oct 2026 12:06 pm

Don't Trouble The Trouble actor Fahadh Faasil lives in Kochi home featuring plant-filled balcony with a white swing, brick-accented wall, large windows, cosy interiors and colourful vintage dcor

Fahadh Faasil house tour: The actor is set to lead his first Telugu film titled 'Don't Trouble The Trouble', which is scheduled to release on October 2. The film features Fahadh as Suri, a street magician whose trick leads to unexpected events. Anticipation is high for the film, with advance bookings reaching Rs 2.17 crore across six show dates. Positive reviews can elevate the film's status to blockbuster success upon release.

The Economic Times 1 Oct 2026 10:00 am

Kerala HC directs State to decide on appointment of expert panel to probe alleged irregularities in digital re-survey

A petition by Congress leader Shaji J. Kodankandath had alleged that irregularities in the digital survey equipment tenders had caused a loss of 150 crore to the public exchequer

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 6:02 am

Kalamassery police issue fresh summons to Anto Augustine in case over CM marriage remarks

The case pertains to a reported revelation by Augustine that two people had met him with what they claimed was a journalistic scoop on Satheesans alleged second marriage

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 6:01 am

Koder House fire in Keralams Fort Kochi fuels questions over safety of heritage properties

The incident exposes alleged lapses in firefighting mechanism in Fort Kochi, prompting Fire dept. to initiate steps to strengthensafety infrastructure in the area; proposal to be submitted to District Collector highlighting need for installing dedicated firefighting equipment, including water hydrants, at strategic locations to prevent similar incidents in future

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 6:00 am

Kerala High Court directs State govt. to expedite disposal of pending cases against MPs and MLAs based on District Judiciary recommendations

Registrar suggests measures such as prioritising execution of processes such as summons or warrants issued by criminal courts and deputing police officers to assist courts in the matter

The Hindu 1 Oct 2026 6:00 am

What nonsense? KTR slams Revanth over Ram vs Shiva comment

Kochi: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President KT Rama Rao on Wednesday, September 30, criticised Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for his remarks classifying Hindu through wealth and poverty. I saw the Telangana Chief Minister yesterday talk about Ram vs Shiva. I dont understand. BJP wants to divide the country on religion, on Hindu-Muslim. Now Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 30 Sep 2026 8:50 pm

Puthiyappa boat maintenance yard project yet to take off

19-crore proposal backed by Fisheries department, but no field-level study or funding approval yet; boat owners forced to depend on private yards at Beypore and Kochi for repairs; limited time to complete repairs and obtain fitness clearance before fishing resumes

The Hindu 30 Sep 2026 7:52 pm

Third Wave Coffee forays into Kerala with two outlets in Kochi

This market expansion complements the brands recent new market entries across Visakhapatnam, Jalandhar, Lucknow, and Ludhiana, further strengthening the presence across Indias high-potential emerging markets

The Hindu Businessline 30 Sep 2026 6:06 pm

Iranian boat carrying drugs worth Rs 3,000 crore seized in Lakshadweep, five Pak nationals held (Ld)

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 30 (IANS) A Nigerian national allegedly acted as a link between a Gujarat-based wanted accused and a wider drug network that planned to move a 526-kg consignment of methamphetamine and heroin to Punjab, Gujarat ATS officials said on Wednesday, adding that the Iranian boat carrying the drugs used a Starlink device to communicate with handlers while at sea. The consignment, comprising around 400 kg of methamphetamine and 126 kg of heroin, was seized from the Iranian boat 'Azad' in the Arabian Sea west of Lakshadweep on September 25. Five Pakistani nationals on board were apprehended, and the vessel was brought to Mumbai for further investigation. Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi said the agency had received intelligence about a meeting in Ahmedabad between a Nigerian national and a wanted accused from the state in connection with the planned import of more than 500 kg of narcotics. According to the ATS, the original plan was to transfer the consignment to a Tamil Nadu fishing boat in Indian waters, unload it on the Tamil Nadu coast and then transport it onwards. The drugs were ultimately intended for Punjab, from where they could have been distributed to other parts of north India, officials said. Joshi said the investigation had established a link with Pakistan-based drug smuggler Haji Salim, describing him as a supplier and a key figure in the network. Haji Salim has his network in Punjab, Joshi said, adding that the consignment belonged to his network and had been sent by him. He said the five Pakistani nationals arrested from the 'Azad' were also believed to be part of the same network, though their precise roles were still being investigated. The ATS also found that the boat was equipped with a Starlink device. Officials said the system could provide internet connectivity in international waters and could be used for communication, including WhatsApp calls, with handlers in Pakistan. The use of the device is now part of the investigation into how the maritime network coordinated the movement of the consignment. The Nigerian national who allegedly attended the Ahmedabad meeting is also being investigated. Joshi said Nigerians have emerged in several drug-trafficking networks as intermediaries, peddlers and, in some cases, people operating networks within India. The Nigerian linked to the present case had appeared in connection with narcotics activity elsewhere, though not previously in a Gujarat ATS case, he added. The ATS said it had information identifying the intended receiver in Punjab but was withholding details while efforts to trace the network continued. We know where it was supposed to go, but we will not disclose it at present, Joshi said. The intelligence was shared with the Indian Coast Guards headquarters in Delhi, following which a joint team was formed. Gujarat ATS officers B.H. Korat and V.N. Vaghela were sent to Kochi and joined Coast Guard personnel for maritime surveillance. The operation involved sustained tracking of suspicious boats over a large maritime area. On September 25, the 'Azad' was located around 160 nautical miles northwest of Lakshadweep and approximately 490 nautical miles southwest of Mumbai. Officials told IANS that the Coast Guard used smaller boats to surround the vessel during the interception, helping prevent the suspects from throwing the narcotics overboard. Such precautions were important because dumping the consignment into the sea would have made recovery difficult, they added. The operation resulted in the seizure of 526 kg of high-grade heroin and methamphetamine valued at over Rs 3,000 crore, alongside the apprehension of five Pakistani crew members, the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement. The five accused were identified as Mohammad Yakub Balochi, Shakirullah, Faridullah, Ahmad Khan and Wahidullah Khan, all residents of Peshawar in Pakistan. Preliminary questioning indicated that the 'Azad' had sailed from the Konarak area of Iran and received the narcotics from a smaller boat originating from Gwadar, Pakistan. A case has been registered with the Gujarat ATS, and further investigation is underway to identify the remaining members of the network, including the wanted accused from Gujarat, the Nigerian intermediary and the intended receivers in Punjab.

bhaskarlive 30 Sep 2026 5:40 pm

Fire breaks out at historic Koder House in Fort Kochi

Kochi: A fire broke out at the historic Koder House, a landmark of Fort Kochis Jewish heritage, on Tuesday evening, prompting fire and rescue personnel to rush to the iconic building. The fire broke out around 6.50 pm at the imposing three-storeyed, brick-red building on Tower Road, which was once the home of the prominent Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 30 Sep 2026 3:57 pm

Fort Kochis Historic Koder House Gutted in Massive Fire

The historic three-storeyed red-brick mansion was built in 1808, by Samuel S Koder, an influential Baghdadi-Jew of that time

Deccan Chronicle 30 Sep 2026 12:24 pm

Reporter TV MD gets fresh notice to appear before Kerala Police

Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 30 (IANS) Kalamassery police in Kerala have issued a fresh notice to controversial Reporter TV Managing Director Anto Augustine, directing him to appear for questioning on Thursday in the case registered over his alleged defamatory remarks against Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. The police had initially asked Augustine to appear before them on Monday. However, he did not turn up. His lawyer informed the police that Augustine was not in the city and would appear only after October 5. The police rejected the request, saying they could not give him so much time. A fresh notice was subsequently issued directing him to appear at the Kalamassery police station on Thursday. Augustine had earlier indicated that he would approach the Kerala High Court seeking the quashing of the FIR. The case was registered on a complaint by KPCC spokesperson Raju P. Nair. It relates to remarks made by Augustine at a public function about two weeks ago. Augustine had claimed that two young men had approached him with documents relating to an alleged marriage of the Chief Minister. He said he had conducted an enquiry into the documents at the Baindoor Sub-Registrar's Office and that the documents were in his possession. The remarks triggered a political controversy as they were seen as an allegation concerning the personal life of the Chief Minister. Raju P. Nair later approached the police, alleging that Augustine had made the remarks with the intention of publicly insulting CM Satheesan. Following a direction from the Director General of Police, a case was registered. The FIR alleges that Augustine and two others were involved in a conspiracy and had knowingly kept forged documents in their possession. Police are examining the origin and authenticity of the documents and the circumstances in which they came into Augustine's possession. The complainant has also sought seizure of the documents and examination of CCTV footage to identify those allegedly involved in preparing them. The case comes at a time when Augustine is facing legal proceedings in several other matters, including the Muttil tree-felling cases. He was also recently arrested in an Abkari case and was later granted bail. The police are now awaiting Augustine's appearance on Thursday as they proceed with the investigation into the allegations.

bhaskarlive 30 Sep 2026 10:56 am

Kinetiq RRobotics Deploys Nova Robotic Concierge at Cochin International Airport

KINETIQ ROBOTICS AND COCHIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LIMITED REPRESENTATIVES GATHER WITH NOVA: the AI-driven service robot, to mark its passenger-facing debut. Kochi (Kerala) [India], September 30: Live Passenger-Facing Robot Combines Airport

bhaskarlive 30 Sep 2026 10:16 am

Massive fire breaks out at historic Koder House, a landmark of Fort Kochi's Jewish heritage

A massive fire broke out at the historic Koder House, a landmark of Fort Kochi's Jewish heritage , on Tuesday evening, prompting fire and rescue personnel to rush to the iconic building. Local reports suggest that the fire broke out around 6.50 pm at the imposing three-storeyed, brick-red building on Tower Road, which was once the home of the prominent Jewish Koder family and is now being converted into a heritage hotel, police said.

India TV 30 Sep 2026 9:28 am

Video: Massive Fire Engulfs Fort Kochi's 200-Year-Old Koder House

Scary visuals from the spot shows the building being engulfed in orange and deep yellow flames, with firefighters trying to douse the blaze.

NDTV 29 Sep 2026 11:26 pm

SFI, KSU claim gains in college union polls in Ernakulam

SFI wins all seats at Maharajas College and 13 of 14 at St. Peters College; KSU wrests unions from SFI at six colleges, including Cochin College; KSU retains unions at 10 colleges, including Sacred Heart and Sree Sankara College

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 10:44 pm

Kochi Corporation eyes flyover funds to fix battered footpaths

Corporation explores moving 12 crore earmarked for flyover beautification to footpath renovation; CSML says funds cannot be diverted midway and a fresh proposal would be needed; EDRAAC flags deplorable footpath conditions along several stretches, including Shanmugham Road and M.G. Road.

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 10:36 pm

CPI seeks rehabilitation package for P&T apartment residents

A delegation led by CPI district secretary N. Arun visited the complex and expressed solidarity with the residents staging protest

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 10:35 pm

Decomposed body found inside old railway coach at Ponnurunni yard in Kochi

Police sources said the body is suspected to be at least a month old, and the advanced state of decomposition has made identification difficult

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 10:30 pm

High Court quashes govt move to dissolve Kerala Police Officers Association

Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 29 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Tuesday quashed the state government's decision to dissolve the Kerala Police Officers Association (KPOA), holding that the government had no power to restructure recognised police associations in a manner that interfered with the constitutional rights of their members. A bench of Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas held that the freedom to form associations guaranteed under Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution also includes the freedom to continue an association and preserve its composition. The freedom to form an association and freedom to continue the association are both facets of Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution, he said. The ruling came on petitions challenging a government order issued on July 27, 2026, restructuring the associations representing different ranks of police personnel. The order abolished the KPOA and retained the Kerala Police Association (KPA) and Kerala Police Senior Officers Association (KPSOA) in a reorganised form. The government had also ordered that the assets of the KPOA, including its bank accounts, documents, deposits, investments, rights and liabilities, be distributed between the two remaining associations in a 60:40 ratio. Ad hoc committees were also appointed to handle administrative functions, with elections to the newly constituted associations scheduled to be held by September 30. The High Court found that the government's action was contrary to the position taken by the state police chief earlier this year. In a proposal dated January 17, the state police chief had recommended retaining all three associations with only limited changes to their composition. The proposal did not call for the abolition of any of the associations. The court noted that the recognition granted to the police associations had not been withdrawn either by the state police chief or the government. It held that the government could not therefore interfere with the structure of the recognised associations. The court also found that the government had altered the membership structure of the KPA contrary to its bye-laws and interfered with the membership and assets of the KPOA without the consent of its members. The government order was consequently set aside along with the subsequent orders constituting the ad hoc committees. The judgment effectively restores the position of the police associations that existed before the government's restructuring order.

bhaskarlive 29 Sep 2026 7:57 pm

Third-generation entrepreneur and technology venture owner Divakar Pai Kochikar elected new KCCI president

Outlining his priorities, Mr. Kochikar said the strength Mangalurus port and maritime economy brings to the region is a natural advantage worth building on further.

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 7:21 pm

Rs 1.5 Crore Hydroponic Weed Seized At Kochi Airport, 2 Arrested

The passenger, Shakh Zaved Ali from Hyderabad, had arrived from Bangkok via Colombo by a Sri Lankan Airlines flight on Monday, officials said in a statement.

NDTV 29 Sep 2026 6:24 pm

Senior RSS ideologue MA Krishnan passes away

Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 29 (IANS) Veteran RSS pracharak and former Kesari chief editor M.A. Krishnan, popularly known as M.A. Sir, died on Tuesday at the age of 97, marking the end of a long association with the Sangh Parivar's cultural and social activities in Kerala. He passed away at a private hospital in Kochi. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar condoled his death and described it as an irreparable loss to national movements and Kerala's cultural and social life. Krishnan was among the early organisers who worked to expand the RSS and its associated cultural initiatives in Kerala. He became an RSS pracharak in 1954 and later held key organisational responsibilities, including Prantha Bauddhik Pramukh and Prachar Pramukh. He entered the media field in 1964 as the editor of Kesari. Through the publication and his writings, he intervened in a range of cultural, social and ideological issues. Krishnan was also closely associated with the founding and development of several organisations and initiatives aimed at children's cultural activities. He was a founder and guiding force behind Balagokulam and Tapasya Kala Sahitya Vedi. Chandrasekhar said Krishnan played a key role in introducing the character of 'Unnikrishnan' (little Krishna) to children in Kerala and in making him a popular presence in their cultural life. He also played an important role in popularising Sri Krishna Jayanthi Shobhayatras across the state, Chandrasekhar said. Krishnan provided leadership to several other initiatives, including Amritabharathi, Balasamskarakendram, Balasahithi Prakashan, International Srikrishna Centre and Saurakshika. His interventions extended beyond organisational work. His work, including 'Nilayude Ithihasam', reflected his engagement with Kerala's cultural and social issues. His association with Balagokulam, the Janmashtami celebrations and the cultural activities of Tapasya helped establish these initiatives across different parts of the state. Chandrasekhar said Krishnan's influence through his organisational, literary and cultural activities was unparalleled. His life and contributions would remain a source of inspiration for future generations, Chandrasekhar said.

bhaskarlive 29 Sep 2026 4:07 pm

RSS veteran M.A. Krishnan passes away in Kochi at 97

He was founder of Tapasya Kalasahitya Vedi and Balagokulam and had worked as editor of Kesari

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 3:28 pm

CMRL-Exalogic case: Kerala HC reserves verdict on plea seeking FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena, Riyas

Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 29 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Tuesday reserved its verdict on a plea seeking registration of an FIR against Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena Vijayan and son-in-law Mohammed Riyas, a former State Minister and presently a CPI(M) legislator, in the CMRL-Exalogic case. Justice A. Badharudeen reserved the verdict after hearing detailed arguments in the case. The case relates to allegations of financial transactions between Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) and Veena's company, Exalogic Solutions. The ED had gathered the material during its investigation into the alleged transactions. The plea was filed by advocate K.M. Shahjahan, seeking a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act based on information furnished by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The state government opposed the plea. It said an FIR could not be registered without a preliminary inquiry into the allegations. The Advocate General said the main material relied upon by the ED was a diary. An FIR could not be registered solely on the basis of a diary, he argued. The government also maintained that the plea was not maintainable and that a preliminary inquiry was necessary before registering a case. The court pointed out that the ED had submitted statements along with the other material. The ED produced before the court a letter sent to the Director General of Police recommending registration of a case against Vijayan and Riyas. It also submitted material, including statements recorded during its inquiry. The court asked whether the statements had been given to the government. The ED said complete copies of the statements had not been handed over. The agency said the information contained in its letter was sufficient to register a case. It also said it was ready to provide copies of the statements if the police required them. The ED reiterated that a case should be registered on the basis of the material submitted by it. The government argued that the ED was not an investigating agency like the police and that its role was limited to collecting information and taking further action within its jurisdiction. The court, however, observed that the ED was an investigating agency. The High Court has now reserved its verdict on whether the state police should register an FIR without a preliminary inquiry. An SIT has already been formed by the Satheesan government based on the ED letter to the State Police chief.

bhaskarlive 29 Sep 2026 3:19 pm

Cross-border waste dumping: NGT finds gaps in Keralam pollution control boards report on treatment of biomedical waste

Kerala State Pollution Control Board had claimed that there are adequate treatment facilities for processing the biomedical waste generated in healthcare facilities across various districts

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 2:53 pm

WPL 2027 Retentions: RCB, Mumbai Indians Make Bold Calls as Grace Harris and G Kamalini Released

All five Womens Premier League (WPL) franchises have officially announced their retained and released player lists ahead of the 2027 season. A total of 63 players have been retained across the teams as preparations ramp up for the WPL 2027 auction, scheduled for October 28 in Kochi. The fifth edition of the flagship tournament will [] The post WPL 2027 Retentions: RCB, Mumbai Indians Make Bold Calls as Grace Harris and G Kamalini Released appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Pragativadi 29 Sep 2026 2:03 pm

Divakar Pai Kochikar Elected KCCI President for 2026-27

Divakar Pai Kochikar Elected KCCI President for 2026-27 Mangaluru: Members of the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mangaluru, held the 86th Annual General Meeting at the Chambers registered office at 4.30 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026. The meeting elected Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar as the new President, along with other office-bearers and [] The post Divakar Pai Kochikar Elected KCCI President for 2026-27 appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Mangalorean 29 Sep 2026 1:51 pm

Keralam local body bypolls: UDF retains Ayyappankkavu in Kochi Corporation

Ajith Kumar A.K. registers maiden electoral victory, defeating P.K. Usman of CPI(M) by a margin of 549 votes

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 12:19 pm

P&T apartment residents demand unconditional apology from Maxy over volte-face remark

The P&T Apartment Owners Association takes strong exception to former Kochi MLAs remarks, prompting the CPI(M) district leadership to issue a statement

The Hindu 29 Sep 2026 6:14 am

Kerala HC grants pre-arrest bail to YouTuber

Court says custodial interrogation unnecessary; bail subject to conditions including weekly appearance before investigating officer and cooperation with probe

The Hindu 28 Sep 2026 10:53 pm

WPL 2027: 63 players retained, 27 slots remain ahead of auction

The retention period for the 2027 season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) concluded on Monday, with 63 players, including 23 overseas stars, retained across the five franchises ahead of the player auction in Kochi on October 28. Across the five WPL franchises

devdiscourse 28 Sep 2026 8:51 pm