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 The court noted that the recognition granted to the police associations had not been withdrawn either by the state police chief or the government.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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 .
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 .
Keralam local body bypolls leave status quo in Ernakulam as UDF, LDF and Twenty20 retain seats
'It Feels Like We Are Playing At Home,' Says Deepti On Special UP Warriorz Bond
UP Warriorz: UP Warriorz all-rounder Deepti Sharma has underlined the unique bond she shares with the franchise, saying her roots in Uttar Pradesh and the support from the local crowd give her added motivation to perform in the Womens Premier League (WPL). With the five franchises having finalised their retention lists ahead of the 2027 player auction in Kochi on October 28, Deepti reflected on what playing for a team representing her home state means to her. As a player, I always think about how I can stay level-headed, and that mindset pushes me to keep improving. It feels like a great opportunity for me because I belong to UP, from Agra and playing for the UP Warriorz makes that connection special. It gives me extra motivation to perform. When the WPL family comes to watch, it becomes even more enjoyable. The crowd supports us, and it feels like we are playing at home. That kind of backing gives you confidence on the field. I want to contribute as much as I can for this team and make the fans proud, Deepti told JioStar. Deepti has also embraced the responsibility of finishing innings for Warriorz, a role that requires her to assess the situation quickly and remain composed when the pressure is at its highest. The finishers are the ones who close out the game at the end and, I have been given that role with the bat for the UP Warriorz in whatever matches I have played, right from the start. So, I always think that whatever position I bat at or however many balls I face, I must finish the job. And whatever total is on the board, that stays in my mind. I know how many balls are left and I must get the team to that total. If I stay calm and back my skills, I know I can get the job done. When we think like this during the innings, we learn a lot from that experience. Every match teaches you something new about handling pressure and finishing games, she added. Deeptis comments come as Warriorz prepare to reshape their squad after two successive seasons at the bottom of the WPL standings. The franchise has released several prominent overseas and domestic players, including Deandra Dottin, Chloe Tryon, Amy Jones, Asha Sobhana, Shweta Sehrawat and Kiran Navgire. The overhaul leaves Warriorz with an opportunity to rebuild their squad at the auction, where all five teams will seek to fill the vacant slots on October 28. Each franchise can have a maximum of 18 players. Deeptis comments come as Warriorz prepare to reshape their squad after two successive seasons at the bottom of the WPL standings. The franchise has released several prominent overseas and domestic players, including Deandra Dottin, Chloe Tryon, Amy Jones, Asha Sobhana, Shweta Sehrawat and Kiran Navgire. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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
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
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
WPL 2027: 63 Players Retained, Auction on October 28
Ahead of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 player auction in Kochi on October 28, a total of 63 players, including 23 overseas stars, have been retained across the five franchises.
58.14% voter turnout recorded in byelections in Ernakulam
Turnout in the three grama panchayat wards exceeded 75%, while only 46.91% of voters cast their ballots in Kochi Corporations Ayyappankavu division.
Releasing Danni Wyatt: Gujarat Giants (GG) head coach Michael Klinger has stated that the decision to release England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge was driven by a desire for tactical flexibility in the upcoming auction, alongside considerations regarding her international availability during the 2027 Women's Premier League (WPL). GG opted to release four players Danni, India fast bowler Titas Sadhu, uncapped batter Aayushi Soni, and wicketkeeper-batter Shivani Singh, while keeping the majority of their core intact. Firstly, we decided not to release too many players. We feel like we really got a strong squad internally already. But some really tough decisions - Danni is a world-class player. Unfortunately, she didn't get a lot of game time last year. We just felt that giving us another option as an overseas player in the auction and seeing what's out there and what other skill sets are out there, that's something that we can do in about a month. But Danni's also got some English series on during the WPL, and I suppose for her, her preference was to be playing cricket as well rather than potentially being part of our squad and maybe being on the bench. So, that's the way we decided to go, Klinger said to Star Sports on the retention deadline show on Monday. The franchise has retained a formidable overseas contingent comprising Beth Mooney, skipper Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Kim Garth, and Sophie Devine. The Indian group retained by the GG features Yastika Bhatia, who missed WPL 2026 due to knee injury recovery, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh Thakur, Tanuja Kanwer, Kashvee Gautam, Kanika Ahuja, Bharti Fulmali, Anushka Sharma, Jintimani Kalita, and Happy Kumari. Detailing the domestic releases, Klinger revealed that the presence of Yastika alongside Beth made Shivani redundant as a wicketkeeping option, while injury setbacks forced the management's hand regarding seamer Titas. With some high-quality local players, we have Aayushi Soni who's doing well in domestic cricket, and Shivani Singh had a really good domestic season last year. Probably releasing her was sort of a reflection on Yastika Bhatia being available for us this year. So we've got two keepers already now with her and Beth. Titas, unfortunately, we know she can be highly skilled, but she's just had a lot of injuries last year's WPL and couldn't play much for us and has been sort of injured since. I know she's coming back now. So looking forward to see how she goes over the next few weeks as well. But we know she's a good bowler, but it also gives another option, he explained. Having suffered Eliminator heartbreak in the last two WPL editions, Klinger has set his sights firmly on securing the top spot in the league standings to secure a direct route to the final. GG will head into the player auction on October 28 in Kochi with a purse of Rs 1.25 crore. I mean, everyone starts fresh, don't they, at the start of next year? But we're certainly confident we've got the team and the ability to be playing in the championship game. The last two years we've made playoffs and unfortunately lost in the eliminator. So one way of making sure we make finals is to finish on top. So that's certainly going to be a goal of ours initially. But it's going to be the goal of every other team in the competition as well. I feel we've got the playing list ready. I mean, everyone starts fresh, don't they, at the start of next year? But we're certainly confident we've got the team and the ability to be playing in the championship game. The last two years we've made playoffs and unfortunately lost in the eliminator. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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
Prime accused in overseas recruitment scam gets bail
Hundreds of victims of the alleged financial fraud staged a protest at the companys office at Palarivattom
Despite geopolitical risks, Street remains bullish on Petronet LNG outlook
Analysts remain positive on Petronet LNG, citing Kochi growth, new revenue streams and project execution despite high spot LNG prices and geopolitical risks ahead.
WPL 2027: Personal reasons rule out Lizelle Lee; U19 WC clash behind Kamalini's release
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Lizelle Lee was unavailable for playing in the 2027 Women's Premier League (WPL) due to personal reasons, which led to the Delhi Capitals releasing her for the upcoming season. Lizelle was among the six players released by DC on the retention deadline day on Monday. In WPL 2026, Lizelle amassed 320 runs for DC in her first outing in the five-team competition at an average of 32 and strike-rate of 139.13, while taking six catches. Lizelle Lee is not available for WPL 2027 duration due to personal reasons and she had communicated it before hand, said a WPL source to IANS on Monday. Apart from her, DC have opted to release Australia leg-spinner Alana King, Indias off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana, wicketkeeper-batter Taniyaa Bhatia, as well as uncapped duo Pragati Singh, and Srujana Eddla. Pragati and Srujana had come into DC fold late in WPL 2026 as injury replacements for India U19 batter Deeya Yadav and wicketkeeper-batter Mamatha Madiwala. Meanwhile, eyebrows were raised over two-time champions Mumbai Indians releasing young wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini for WPL 2027. But the WPL source confirmed to this news agency that a likely schedule clash with the upcoming ICC U19 Women's T20 World Cup, to be played in Nepal and Bangladesh in early 2027, may force Kamalini to give the competition a miss and play in the global showpiece event, where India will enter as defending champions. Mumbai Indians have confirmed that G. Kamalini was released from the squad due to her likely being a part of Indias U19 squad for the upcoming World Cup. The tournament timeline is expected to overlap with WPL 2027, thus making her unavailable for the season, further said the source. Kamalini had won the 2025 U19 Womens T20 World Cup and recently was a member of the senior Indian team winning the Asia Cup in Dubai and grabbing the gold medal in the Asian Games in Japan. It is understood that Deeyas availability for WPL 2027 could be doubtful if shes selected for the U19 World Cup. The fifth edition of the WPL is scheduled to take place from January 14 to February 7, 2027, though the venues are yet to be known. The player auction for the 2027 season will take place on October 28 in Kochi. A total of 27 slots, including seven overseas slots remain available ahead of the auction. UP Warriorz will go into the auction with a maximum purse of Rs 3.65 crore.
WPL 2027: Perry's Availability Boosts All Departments, Says RCB Head Coach Rangarajan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Australias premier seam-bowling all-rounder Ellyse Perry's decision to make herself available for the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 season has bolstered defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in every single department, said head coach Malolan Rangarajan. Perry, who missed RCB's title-winning 2026 campaign due to personal reasons, confirmed her availability in August this year. On the WPL 2027 retention deadline day. RCB opted to retain 13 players, comprising nine Indian and four overseas stars, while parting ways with Dayalan Hemalatha, Gautami Naik, Linsey Smith, and Grace Harris ahead of the player auction on October 28 in Kochi. The fifth edition of the WPL is scheduled to run from January 14 to February 7, 2027. RCB has retained 13 players and Ellyse Perry has made herself available to play for RCB in the upcoming WPL. RCB has decided to release four players, Hemalatha, Gautami, Linsey and Grace Harris. It's really important to appreciate the effort and commitment with which these players play for RCB. They played an integral part in us winning our second title and I want to take this opportunity to thank them again for all the effort they put in, said Rangarajan in a video posted by the franchise on Monday. Speaking about Ellyses return for the five-team tournament, Rangarajan felt it made the retention strategy easy for RCB, who have also retained captain Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Lauren Bell, Nadine de Klerk, Radha Yadav, Prema Rawat, Arundhati Reddy, K Prathyoosha, Sayali Satghare, Pooja Vastrakar, and Georgia Voll. It was a long-drawn process, the whole retention process, where we had our coaches and Smriti was involved in it. Perry indicated that she'd be more than happy to come back and play for RCB sometime in August and post which we got together and we thought about how we could improve our squad. With Perry returning to our squad, it bolsters the team in all departments. She comes in as a batter and that got us thinking about how we could balance our squad and look for options in the auction, he said. Rangarajan expressed confidence in the retained core while underlining that past success will not breed complacency when the team approaches the auction table, where RCB has a purse of Rs 1.15 crore. We've had the benefit and privilege to be able to retain a major core of our squad, 13 players - 9 Indians and 4 Overseas players. This is obviously a winning combination, but it's important for us to realize and the players to realize that we expect and they're expected to come in with improvements in their performance. The intent with which we're going to approach this auction is to improve our team, he said. Closing with an acknowledgement of the franchise's loyal supporters, Rangarajan reiterated the side's commitment to delivering an entertaining brand of cricket in WPL 2027. The 12th Man Army has always been there for the team, always supported us through thick and thin. This is obviously a winning combination, but it's important for us to realize and the players to realize that we expect and they're expected to come in with improvements in their performance. The intent with which we're going to approach this auction is to improve our team, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kerala HC urges Centre to examine patent powers for cancer drugs
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 28 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Monday asked the Centre to examine whether its powers under Section 100 of the Patents Act could be used to improve access to costly patented life-saving medicines, particularly when such drugs are priced beyond the reach of patients. Justice Harisankar V. Menon observed that invoking the provision was ultimately a policy matter but noted that government intervention could be considered where medicines were being sold at exorbitant prices. Section 100 empowers the Central government to authorise the use of a patented invention for government purposes without the consent of the patent holder. The court did not direct the Centre to invoke the provision in the present case involving expensive breast cancer medicines but asked the government to collect data to determine affordability and consider intervention wherever required. The proceedings centred on Ribociclib, a patented breast cancer drug manufactured by Novartis, and Palbociclib, another breast cancer drug whose patent has expired and is available at a lower price. Expert opinions from cancer treatment institutions and the Drugs Controller General of India confirmed that the two medicines could not be treated as interchangeable. The court nevertheless held that affordability required proper assessment based on relevant data. It said the Centre could consider invoking Section 100 not only in the present case but also in other instances involving life-saving medicines if intervention was necessary. The proceedings originated in a petition filed in 2022 by a cancer patient seeking affordable access to Ribociclib, then priced at around Rs 78,468.75 a month. The petitioner died in September 2022, but the High Court decided to continue examining the issue.
Mumbai Indians announce retained players ahead of WPL 2027 season
The countdown to the WPL 2027 Auction has officially begun, with the auction set to take place on October 28, 2026, in Kochi.
WPL 2027: MI Let Go Of Kamalini, RCB Release Harris, DC Part Ways With Lee And Rana
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Two-time champions Mumbai Indians have surprisingly parted ways with promising wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini, while titleholders Royal Challengers Bengaluru have released Australias power-hitting batting all-rounder Grace Harris ahead of the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) season. Two-time champions MI, who missed out on playoffs in WPL 2026, made significant changes to their setup by releasing six players in total, after appointing Luke Williams as their new head coach. Alongside Kamalini, who recently won the Asia Cup with India and got the Asian Games gold medal earlier this month in Japan, the franchise also opted to part ways with Australian quick Milly Illingworth, India left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque, as well as uncapped players Kranthi Reddy, Poonam Khemnar, and Triveni Vasistha. Defending champions RCB trimmed their roster by releasing four players. Apart from Harris, the franchise also parted ways with England left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, alongside domestic players Dayalan Hemalatha and Gautami Naik. With Ellyse Perry making herself available for WPL 2027, as per head coach Malolan Rangarajan, it could be a reason behind the two-time winners releasing Grace. Four-time runners-up Delhi Capitals have let go of South Africa opener Lizelle Lee, Australia leg-spinner Alana King, who came as a replacement for Annabel Sutherland, and experienced India off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana. Wicketkeeper-batter Taniyaa Bhatia, Pragati Singh, and Srujana Eddla were the other players released by DC. UP Warriorz, after consecutive bottom finishes in the WPL, have executed a massive overhaul of their core unit by parting ways with international stars Deandra Dottin, Chloe Tryon, and Amy Jones, as well as India leg-spinner Asha Sobhana, batters Shweta Sehrawat, and Kiran Navgire. Gujarat Giants have released experienced England batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge, young India pacer Titas Sadhu, whos been out of action due to a hand injury sustained in WPL 2026, Aayushi Soni, and Shivani Singh ahead of the new season. The five WPL franchises will assemble at the Grand Hyatt in Kochi on October 28 for the player auction to complete their respective squads, with 18 being the maximum number of players they can have. The fifth edition of the WPL will take place from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with venues yet to be announced. WPL 2027 releases list: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Grace Harris, Linsey Smith, Gautami Naik, and Dayalan Hemalatha Mumbai Indians: G Kamalini, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth, Kranthi Reddy, Poonam Khemnar, and Triveni Vasistha Delhi Capitals: Lizelle Lee, Alana King, Taniyaa Bhatia, Sneh Rana, Pragati Singh, and Eddla Srujana Mumbai Indians: G Kamalini, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth, Kranthi Reddy, Poonam Khemnar, and Triveni Vasistha Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Gujarat Giants: Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Aayushi Soni, Titas Sadhu, and Shivani Singh Article Source: IANS
Will we need a special court to consider petitions from AMMA? asks Kerala HC
High Court criticises the actors association over the high number of petitions arising from disputes between its members; observations made while considering a petition to quash an FIR lodged against actor Lakshmipriya
Palarivattom police in Keralam to submit report to ED on Kochi immigration firm scam
The police say the ED will be intimated about the cases as the accused have received money in bank accounts abroad for services promised or delivered in India
Keralams Samridhi@Kochi eatery row: LDF alleges 25-lakh dues; UDF counters with 2-crore liability
Both fronts trade charges over pending subsidy dues
Actor Lakshmipriya booked for allegedly defaming Ansiba Hassan
Three, including elderly couple, killed in separate accidents
KSRTC conductor suspended for allegedly insulting school student
VACB seizes 14.10 lakh, $788 from GST officials residence in Kochi
The cash was seized from the residence of GST Joint Commissioner Prajani Rajan at Pachalam on Saturday, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau said in a statement
INS Sudarshini sets sail from Egypt's Alexandria after port call
Digital Desk | Cairo, Sep 27 (IANS) Indian Naval Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini set sail from Egypt's Alexandria after concluding its port call, which included cross-training with the Egyptian Navy, professional interactions, and cultural engagements. During the stay in Egypt's Alexandria, the ship hosted India's Ambassador to Egypt, Suresh Reddy and local dignitaries. INS Sudarshini arrived at Alexandria on September 23, as part of her ongoing Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition. Alexandria Naval Base's Commander, Rear Admiral Mohamed Abdel Aziz, along with representatives of the India Embassy, warmly received it upon its arrival. The port call marks the ships second visit to Alexandria during the deployment. INS Sudarshini set sail from Alexandria, Egypt, following a port call featuring cross-training with the Egyptian Navy, professional interactions and cultural engagements, the Indian Navy posted on X. The ship hosted Ambassador Suresh Reddy and local dignitaries. The engagements fostered mutual understanding and further strengthened bonds of friendship between the two Navies, it added. The 10-month Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition commenced from Kochi on January 20, with INS Sudarshini scheduled to cover approximately 22,000 nautical miles across 18 ports in 13 countries. Since the start of the voyage, the three-masted barque has traversed the Arabian, the Red, and the Mediterranean Seas, undertaken a transit of the Suez Canal, and participated in France's prestigious maritime festival Escale a Sete maritime festival, according to the Ministry of Defence. The ship subsequently undertook the historic first Atlantic crossing, arriving at Antigua on May 27 after a 19-day passage from Cape Verde. During the passage, the ship crossed the milestone of 10,000 nautical miles since departing Kochi. The ship subsequently sailed to the Azores and Portugal. During the ongoing voyage, the trainees have gained extensive exposure to long-range ocean navigation and traditional seamanship. The Mediterranean passage has provided further hands-on experience in open-sea manoeuvring, sail handling, and traditional seamanship, according to the statement. Lokayan 26 represents the Indian Navys continued commitment to professional training, maritime outreach and strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation with partner nations. Through the deployment, INS Sudarshini has served as a floating ambassador of Indias rich seafaring heritage, carrying the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) across the oceans, the Ministry of Defence statement said.
Kerala HC to decide if ED referral warrants FIR in CMRL-Exalogic case
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 26 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Saturday raised questions over the state government's decision to order a preliminary enquiry instead of registering an FIR on the Enforcement Directorate's recommendation for a probe under the Prevention of Corruption Act in the CMRL-Exalogic case involving former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena Vijayan, her husband and former minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, who is currently an MLA. Justice A. Badharudeen said the court would examine the legal question of whether the State Police had the discretion to conduct a preliminary enquiry after receiving information from the ED under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), or whether it was bound to register an FIR. The court directed the ED to produce in a sealed cover the communication sent to the State Police Chief and posted the case for detailed hearing on September 29. The ED strongly opposed the delay in registering the FIR. Its counsel told the court that the agency had shared information regarding the alleged commission of offences with the State Police Chief during its investigation and that the material disclosed offences requiring investigation by the State Police or the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. The ED maintained that there was no discretion available to the State Police to conduct a preliminary enquiry after receiving such information and that an FIR should be registered. The court specifically asked whether the State Police had any option other than registering an FIR when information under Section 66(2) of the PMLA is forwarded to it. The Advocate General, K. Jaju Babu, defended the government's decision to order a preliminary enquiry. He argued that there was no requirement to register an FIR immediately and that the police could first verify the information. He also questioned the maintainability of the petition, contending that it was like a public interest litigation but had been filed with a vested interest. The petitioner argued that the Crime Branch SIT constituted by the government did not include the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau despite the ED alleging offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The ED said its investigation had uncovered transactions that required examination as possible predicate offences. The agency had subsequently written to the State Police Chief under Section 66(2) of the PMLA seeking action under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The State government had ordered a 30-day preliminary enquiry by a nine-member Crime Branch SIT after obtaining legal advice. The government has maintained that the Supreme Court's rulings permit a preliminary enquiry in appropriate cases before registration of an FIR. The High Court also referred to the requirement of a predicate offence for PMLA proceedings and questioned the ED on the legal basis of its action. The ED explained that the Serious Fraud Investigation Office had initially registered proceedings over Companies Act offences and that, during its investigation, the ED came across material indicating possible offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The case assumes significance as the High Court had in June allowed the ED's PMLA investigation into the CMRL-Exalogic transactions to continue, holding that the absence of an FIR relating to a scheduled offence did not prevent the ED from exercising its inquiry powers under the PMLA. The latest hearing has now put the legality of the State government's decision to conduct a preliminary enquiry before registration of an FIR at the centre of the dispute.
A fresh case has been registered against Parvathy Maya Shaji, the founder and CEO of Amster Overseas, and two others based on a complaint lodged by a youth from Ponnani in Malappuram
Augustine moved the application, anticipating an imminent move to arrest him after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case related to the Messi row carried out search operations at ocations linked to him and his brothers
Augustine moved the application, anticipating an imminent move to arrest him after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case related to the Messi row carried out search operations at ocations linked to him and his brothers
Residents feel vindicated as CM calls for demolition of P&T apartments
The families were shifted from the erstwhile waterlogging-prone P&T Colony in the Gandhi Nagar division of the Kochi Corporation
Kochi Is changing the way it dates, talks about sex and relationships
From Malayali dating apps to extramarital dating and three-hour vibrator deliveries, Kochi is finding new ways to talk about intimacy even if much of it is still happening discreetly
Magistrate court directs police to investigate actor Ansiba Hassans petition against Lakshmi Priya
Police issue summons to Anto Augustine over comments about Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan
Reporter Broadcasting Company managing director Anto Augustine has been asked to appear before the police at 10 a.m. on September 28
Photography exhibition by Induchoodan Foundation showcases the birds of Keralam
Over 50 photographs by 26 artistes open a window to the fascinating diversity of birdlife in Keralam
Hundreds of private bus workers yet to submit details for police verification
Police have received details of only 474 of the estimated 2,000 private bus employees in the Kochi city
More complaints emerge after arrest of CEO of Kochi-based immigration firm, say police
Police probing the case said they had come across at least 25 complaints from different parts of the State against the firm
Jewellery assistant manager arrested for allegedly stealing gold worth 60 lakh in Kochi
The thefts were reportedly committed between January 2025 and February 2026
Jewellery assistant manager arrested for allegedly stealing gold worth 60 lakh in Kochi
The thefts were reportedly committed between January 2025 and February 2026
Keralam govt. to crackdown on fraudulent agencies
The police apprehended the chief executive officer of an immigration firm in Kochi for alleged job fraud a day ago.
Keralam govt. to crackdown on fraudulent agencies
The police apprehended the chief executive officer of an immigration firm in Kochi for alleged job fraud a day ago.
PVR Inox opens 5-screen multiplex at MyMoon, Kochi
PVR Inox announced the opening of new 5-screen multiplex at MyMoon, Kochi. The new five-screen cinema is equipped with advanced projection and sound technologies, including PXL, 4K laser projection, Dolby Atmos immersive sound and RealD 3D, bringing greater clarity, depth and impact to the cinematic experience. The cinema comprises five state-of-the-art screens with a total seating capacity of 814.
LDF threatens stir against Kochi Corporation as street lights fail and ads stay
At the Corporation council meeting held on September 10, the LDF raised the issue, specifically pointing to non-functional street lights on the Venduruthy Bridge, Alexander Parambithara Bridge, stretches of the Kundannoor Bridge falling under the Corporation limits, and M.G. Road
Charagh Din enters Kerala after 77 years with first store in Kochi
The Kochi outlet is part of Charagh Dins broader plan to enter new markets while retaining the personalised approach that has been central to the brands business model
Over 300 gram of suspected MDMA seized in two cases in Kochi; 3 arrested
Environmental organisations point out that the Collector was 'only carrying out' directives of Supreme Court and High Court
CIS buyers drive up orthodox tea prices in Kochi auctions
Some traders, however, attribute price rise to low offerings
Zones of worry: Lives on the boil on forest fringes in Keralam after new ESA notification
Keralam is once again witnessing a heated debate over the inclusion of some of its villages in the Western Ghats region in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas. Hiran Unnikrishnan and Sandeep Vellaram meet the stakeholders, including the settlers of the region and conservationists, to understand their concerns
Bitumen price surge hits road works, adding to motorists woes in Kochi
Bitumen price rises from 10,093 to 14,915 per 156-kg barrel between March 5 and September 16; Kochi Corporation explores allowing additional estimates to bridge the gap caused by the price variation; contractors seek a Finance department directive to cover excess costs in local-body projects
Bus drivers booked for rash driving in Kochi
CCTV footage captured the incidents, including one in which a pedestrian narrowly escaped being hit
VACB arrests Kochi Corporation overseer for alleged bribery
Bribe was allegedly sought to settle complaint against a commercial building
Kochi Metro Rail Limited issues circular imposing curbs on officials communicating with media
The circular issued by District Collector G. Priyanka, who is holding charge of KMRL managing director, also warns of stern action against those who violate the order
CEO Of Immigration Firm Held In Kochi Cheating Probe
Parvathy Maya Shaji, CEO of Amster Overseas Private Limited, has been detained at Thiruvananthapuram airport in connection with two cheating cases registered in Kochi. She is accused of defrauding individuals by promising high-paying jobs abroad in Armenia and Poland, with complainants paying significant sums. Her husband and other employees are also named in the cases, and police anticipate more complaints.
Digi Yatra set to include international travel, domestic air travel for foreigners
Face-based boarding at airports yet to start due to infrastructure gaps at airports; the pilot programme for international departures will run between October and December at Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi and Mumbai airports
Drowning of boy in apartment pool in Kochi: parents allege negligence on part of association
Office-bearers of the apartment owners association have dismissed the charges as baseless
IPL 2027 Mini-Auction to Return to India, Goa Confirmed as Venue
The Indian Premier League auction will return to India after three successive editions were held overseas, with Goa confirmed as the venue for the IPL 2027 mini-auction in December. The move marks the auctions return to Indian soil for the first time since the auction ahead of the 2023 IPL season was held in Kochi. [] The post IPL 2027 Mini-Auction to Return to India, Goa Confirmed as Venue appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Kerala High Court grants State four weeks to appoint chief investigator in SPCA
Home department has constituted a three-member search and selection committee to facilitate the appointment, State informs the court
Prohibition activists demand restoration of local bodies powers at meeting with Minister
Excise Minister M. Liju holds talks with 20 organisations that work on anti-liquor and anti-narcotic campaigns
Wellness hub for gig workers opened in Kochi
The centre to provide safe rest facilities and basic welfare amenities to gig workers in food delivery, e-commerce and ride-hailing sectors
Services from Kochi airport to grow by 14.40% during winter schedule
The winter schedule, effective from October 26 to March 28, will feature 1,766 weekly flight movements, up from 1,544 services during the summer schedule
Ronaldinho Arrives in Kochi for Exhibition Match
Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has arrived in Kochi along with fellow players, ahead of an exhibition match.
Keralams Kochi Corporation in a tight spot over Plan fund utilisation
So far, the Corporation has received only 7.89 crore of 23.67 crore Plan fund allocation from State govt. However, even this has effectively been reduced to 80.70 lakh after deductions at source
Tuna caught in Indian waters safe to eat: CMFRI
Kochi Tuna caught along the Indian coast is safe to eat, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) said on The post Tuna caught in Indian waters safe to eat: CMFRI appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Kodakara hawala case transferred to PMLA court for joint trial with ED case
The accused have been directed to appear before the PMLA court on November 19, 2026.
Kochi continues to grapple with acute water crisis
Recent pipe bursts and shutdowns at the water treatment plants at Aluva and Maradu have exacerbated the crisis.
CM to present Akshaya awards on September 26
25 children taken to Kochi for free heart treatment
Indian Oil board approves Kochi-Kanyakumari-Thoothukudi gas pipeline
IOCLs Board cleared the investment approval for laying, building and operating KTPL at an estimated project cost of 2,448.70 crore
Child rights panel orders detailed probe into drowning of boy in Kochi flats swimming pool
The Commission issued the instruction after visiting the pool and its premises on September 21.
Child rights panel orders detailed probe into drowning of boy in Kochi flats swimming pool
The Commission issued the instruction after visiting the pool and its premises on September 21.
Bodies of Two Malayali Women Killed in California Returned to Kochi for Last Rites
The bodies of two Malayali women, murdered in California, have returned to Kochi for their final rites amid deep sorrow. Bodies of Two Malayali Women Killed in California Returned to Kochi for Last Rites
Bodies of Malayali women killed in California brought home for last rites
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 21 (IANS) The bodies of two Malayali women, Anjana and Ann Mary Mathew, who were allegedly murdered by a close friend in California last month, were brought back to Kochi on Monday, with relatives making arrangements for their funerals amid an outpouring of grief. The bodies arrived at Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery in the morning on a flight from San Francisco via Los Angeles and Dubai. After completion of the official procedures, the bodies were handed over to the relatives. The body of Ann Mary Mathew, a native of Kesavadasapuram in Thiruvananthapuram, was taken to her husband's home in Kottayam. A close relative told IANS that the body would be taken to her parish church on Tuesday morning, where the final rites will be held. The body of Anjana, a native of Thrissur, was first taken to her ancestral home at Peechi. A large number of people gathered there to pay their last respects, with many filing past the body. It will later be taken to the family's home, where the funeral is expected to be held at the local parish on Tuesday. Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi had been closely following the arrangements for bringing the bodies back to Kerala from the US since the killings last month. The two women were killed in a double murder in California on August 28. Anila, a native of Erattupetta in Kottayam and a close friend of both victims, has been arrested by California police in connection with the killings. According to investigators, Anila went to Ann Mary's home in San Jose and allegedly stabbed her to death. About one-and-a-half hours later, she allegedly called Anjana and asked her to come to a location. Police said Anjana was subsequently killed after being struck by a vehicle. Anila was arrested soon after the killings and is currently being held in the high-security section of the Santa Clara County Main Jail. The motive behind the killings of the two women, who were close friends, is still being investigated by the Milpitas police. The murders had sent shock waves through the Malayali community in California and Kerala. The return of the bodies on Monday brought the tragedy home, with relatives and friends gathering at the two families' homes to bid farewell to the young women. The investigation by US authorities is continuing to establish the circumstances and motive behind the killings.
IOCL to invest 2,449 cr in Kochi-Kanyakumari-Thoothukudi gas pipeline
The 424.5-km pipeline will have a capacity of 6.84 mscmd and transport regasified LNG from the Kochi terminal to key demand centres in Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Indian Oil board approves 2,449-crore Kochi Thoothukudi gas pipeline
The system will have a capacity of 6.84 million metric standard cubic metres per day, including common-carrier capacity
Indian Oil to invest 2,449 crore for Kochi-Thoothukudi natural gas pipeline
The 424.65-kilometre pipeline will pass through Kochi, Kanyakumari and Thoothukudi and will have an overall capacity of 6.84 million standard cubic metres per day
Calicut FC player dies in bike crash, teammate critically injured, Keralam CM condoles
Digital Desk | Kozhikode Sep 21 (IANS) Football in Kerala was plunged into grief after Calicut FC defender Rijohn Jose, 29, died in a bike accident in Kozhikode late Sunday night, just days before the start of the new Super League Kerala season. Rijohn, a native of Thrissur, was travelling with his Calicut FC teammate Gani Ahmed Nigam when their bike collided with another motorcycle near the flyover close to Malabar Christian College at around 10 p.m. Both players were seriously injured and rushed to hospital. Rijohn succumbed to his injuries during treatment in the early hours of Monday. Calicut Football FC said Rijohn's public viewing will be held today at EMS Corporation Stadium, Calicut, from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Keralam Chief Minister Office alo condoled the the death of young football via X post. Rijo, the key player of the Calicut FC team that won the first Super League Kerala in 2024, was a talent who made outstanding contributions to the football scene in Kerala. He, who donned boots for various prominent clubs in the country, met with an untimely demise while preparing for the new Super League season. We pray that Gani Ahmed, the footballer who was involved in the accident with Rijo and is currently undergoing treatment, recovers swiftly, the post read. Sharing in the grief of Rijo Jose's family members, friends, and sports enthusiasts. Our respects. Gani, who suffered serious head injuries, was initially admitted to a private hospital and was later shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital for specialised treatment, and his condition is being monitored. The tragedy came at a particularly painful time for Calicut FC, which was in intensive preparations for its opening Super League Kerala match. Super League Kerala is deeply saddened by the passing of Rijohn Jose of Calicut FC. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, his teammates, Calicut FC, and everyone who knew him, Super League Kerala posted on X. The team had been training at the JDT Ground in Vellimadukunnu ahead of its much-awaited opening fixture against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on Saturday. Rijohn was an important member of the Calicut FC squad and played as a defender. He had previously represented Forca Kochi and FC Kerala and had also turned out for clubs including FC Deccan, Wayanad United. Gani Ahmed Nigam is also a familiar name in Kerala football. He represented Kerala in the last Santosh Trophy and was part of the Calicut FC squad for the Super League Kerala season. According to police, the two were returning to their accommodation after training when the accident occurred. Their motorcycle collided with another bike coming from the opposite direction. The impact threw the riders onto the road. Local residents and police rushed the injured to hospital soon after the accident. Kozhikode City Police have registered a case and begun an investigation into the circumstances leading to the collision. Rijohn's sudden death has left his teammates and the Calicut FC management devastated. The Kerala Football Association and the club expressed their deep sorrow over the death of the young footballer, who had emerged as a promising player in Indian domestic football. With the Super League Kerala season due to begin within days, the death has cast a pall of grief over the tournament and Kerala's football community.
Indian Oil to invest $256 mn for Kochi-Thoothukudi natural gas pipeline
The investment comes amid India's broader push to expand natural gas infrastructure, improve connectivity and increase the share of gas in the country's energy mix as it seeks cleaner fuel altern
Kochi Corporation to launch drive to remove low-hanging overhead cables
Cost to be recovered from respective cable owners
Court clarifies that the complaint under the domestic violence Act did not become retaliatory or malicious simply because it was registered after complainant initiated the Family Court proceedings
TN: Two dead as rain-triggered landslide hits Idukki village
Digital Desk | Idukki, Sep 20 (IANS) Two people were killed after a landslide buried a shed at Kottakamboor in Vattavada, Idukki district, on Sunday evening following three hours of heavy rain. The deceased were identified as Kottakamboor resident Balakrishnan and his sister, Chinnu. Balakrishnans wife, Mariamma, who was also inside the shed, was rescued with critical injuries. Residents rushed to the site and began removing soil and debris before emergency teams arrived. Mariamma was taken for emergency medical treatment, while rescuers continued searching the affected area to see whether anyone else was trapped. Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Munnar and police officers from Devikulam later joined the operation. Persistent rain, unstable soil, and difficult terrain posed major challenges to the teams. Officials closely monitored the surrounding slope amid fears of further earth movement. The landslide was reported after Vattavada and nearby high-range areas experienced intense rainfall for around three hours. The prolonged downpour is suspected to have saturated the slope and triggered the collapse. Police, revenue, and disaster-management officials are expected to inspect the location and assess risks to nearby residents. The incident has again highlighted Idukkis vulnerability to landslides during spells of heavy rain. The district has witnessed several deadly slope failures in recent years, particularly in and around the Munnar high ranges. The worst was the Pettimudi landslide near Rajamala on August 6, 2020, when a massive flow of mud and boulders buried plantation workers quarters. Sixty-six bodies were recovered, while four people remained missing and were presumed dead, taking the toll to 70. In October 2025, a mudslip at Koombanpara near Adimali buried houses below the KochiDhanushkodi national highway. Biju, 48, died after being pulled from the rubble, while his wife, Sandhya, was rescued and hospitalised. Several houses were damaged, and families living in vulnerable areas were shifted to a relief camp. Authorities have advised residents of landslide-prone locations to remain vigilant and avoid unstable slopes as heavy rainfall continues across the region. Emergency teams remained at Kottakamboor to complete the search, secure the affected site, and prevent residents from entering the danger zone.
Bike rental platform Royal Brothers conducts women riding initiative in Kochi
Royal Brothers is currently present across four cities in Kerala
Malayalam movie HALF screened under Midnight Madness section at Toronto film festival
