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
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.
The court says Rugby should be included in State-level sports events as it is part of the National School Games
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
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
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
Two Arrested in Kerala Gang Rape Case Involving a Female Suspect
Two suspects have been arrested in a gang rape case in Kochi, Kerala, while police continue to search for two additional suspects. Two Arrested in Kerala Gang Rape Case Involving a Female Suspect
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
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.
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
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
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 .
Youth held for allegedly raping transwoman in Kochi
Fashion photographer held with suspected MDMA in Kochi
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.
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
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
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
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
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 ...
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.
Mammootty's Panampilly Nagar house is now a stay
Mammootty's former residence in Kochi's Panampilly Nagar has opened its doors to fans as a unique holiday accommodation. This charming villa offers four distinctive bedrooms, welcoming up to eight guests. In addition to the cozy sleeping arrangements, guests can indulge in a private theatre and art galleries during their stay. The entire villa can be booked for around Rs 25,433, exclusive of taxes.
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
KMRL to take steps to augment non-ticketing revenue
MVD cracks the whip following complaints against private buses
Legal action initiated against erring drivers and bus operators
4.35 crore disbursed for construction parking lot near Mangalavanam
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
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
Keralams favourite bar snacks reinterpreted in refreshing ways at Repeat, Kochis newest restobar
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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
Amazon expands ultra-fast delivery service Amazon Now to over 120 cities
Amazon Now has doubled its footprint in two weeks, bringing minute-level deliveries to customers in cities including Amritsar, Abohar, Jalandhar, Ambala, Mangalore, Manipal, Vizag, Kochi, Changanasser
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 .
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
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
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.
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 .
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
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.
Kerala HC directs transparency in selection of Sabarimala, Malikappuram Melsanthis
Court was considering a report filed by Sabarimala Special Commissioner R. Jayakrishnan on the matter
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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: 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, 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.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Describing player retentions and releases as the most challenging aspect of his job, Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Jonathan Batty has said that four-time runners-up will enter the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 player auction with a singular focus on fine-tuning their starting eleven to finally break their finale jinx. New Delhi, Sep 28 (IANS) Describing player retentions and releases as the most challenging aspect of his job, Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Jonathan Batty has said that four-time runners-up will enter the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 player auction with a singular focus on fine-tuning their starting eleven to finally break their finale jinx. On the retention deadline day, DC released six players, including big overseas names in South Africa opener Lizelle Lee and Australia leg-spinner Alana King, alongside Indias off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana, wicketkeeper-batter Taniyaa Bhatia, as well as uncapped duo Pragati Singh and Srujana Eddla. It's always a really difficult time of year. Retentions and releases are probably the most challenging part of the job. You obviously want to have the right players in your team and in your squad to give you the best chance of going into the season. Delhi have always been really strong in terms of the quality of the playing eleven to the depth of the squad that we've always had. So for us, going into this retention-release cycle to try and work out how we can improve our starting eleven as a priority is really challenging. We had 11 super players who were in the starting eleven last year, and to try and improve on that is really, really difficult. So we've made some really difficult decisions. There's been a lot of debate and discussion around the management group and our scouts, to come to the point where we've obviously released those six players that we have - it's been a challenging time, said Batty to broadcasters Star Sports during the retentions announcement show on Monday. DC, though, have retained a formidable 13-member squad built around a star-studded core. The side features major international heavyweights in Marizanne Kapp, Laura Wolvaardt, Annabel Sutherland, Chinelle Henry, and Lucy Hamilton. The retained domestic contingent is headlined by skipper Jemimah Rodrigues and explosive opener Shafali Verma, alongside Minnu Mani, Deeya Yadav, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandni Sharma, Niki Prasad, and N Sree Charani. Having suffered heartbreak in all four WPL finals so far, Batty took pride in the team's consistent run to the summit clash while remaining confident that a title breakthrough is right around the corner. We're really proud of the performances that the DC girls have put in over the last four years, and getting to every final, you say it's an incredible achievement. We haven't reached our goal, which is always to try and win the tournament. So hopefully this year we'll get the icing on the cake and get over the line. As for the reasons why we've fallen short in the last couple of years, I don't think there's any set reason. Just on the day, the opposition have outplayed us in all those four finals. I think it's a testament, as you said, to the strength of the team that we keep doing that in terms of getting to the final. The way we've done it each year has been slightly different, he noted. Analysing how the competitive landscape of the WPL has evolved, Batty pointed out that equal squad strengths across franchises made last season's run to the final their toughest yet. Obviously, we were dominant through the first year. In subsequent years, obviously, we had a bit more of a challenge when the teams were more evenly balanced along the way. Last year, I felt that all the teams were the most evenly balanced they had been through the whole tournament. So it was much harder, I felt, for us to get there. We probably played our best game in the Eliminator last year and then obviously fell short in the final again. So we're constantly looking just to tinker and try and improve our starting eleven. But you look at the world-class players we've got within our starting eleven, if you keep getting yourself in finals, at some point you are going to win one, and so hopefully that will be this year, he stated. Batty further praised Jemimah for stepping up admirably and playing a hands-on role in the recruitment and retention decisions alongside the scouting setup. So Jemi obviously stepped in to take the captaincy on with Megs departure the previous year. I thought she went from strength to strength. She learnt a huge amount during the tournament. She was a wonderful captain on and off the field. You would always include your captain and leader in those discussions. She's obviously got a good knowledge of the domestic game as well as obviously the international players we make targets for, and we've always listened to that. The whole recruitment element for Delhi is a real collaboration. So we've got wonderful scouts out there. We've got a really good management group. We've got people behind the scenes who are really well-versed in auction strategy as well, he explained. Batty concluded by pointing out the human side of managing squad transitions ahead of the upcoming auction in Kochi on October 28, where DC will operate with a remaining purse of Rs 1.1 crore. We take all those different thoughts in and make the huge decisions whether to retain or release a player. We've been very good at the recruitment side, and we want to stay good at that. As a coach, it's really tough, obviously, talking to those players that you've released, trying to explain why that might be, and obviously making the players that you've retained very happy. So we want to keep them firing and playing well for Delhi as well.
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.
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
Kerala Travel Mart 2026 concludes in Kochi
Four-day event records around 58,000 B2B meetings, besides discussions on tapping emerging opportunities
KSRTC conductor suspended for allegedly insulting school student
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
Police gag media from asking questions to CM Satheesan in Kochi, ACP cites security aspect
In a video aired on TV channels, the officer is heard saying that the Chief Minister is someone in the Z Plus security category
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
