Gujarat: RRU launches three training programmes in Fiji for 180 officials from nine Pacific nations

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 3 (IANS) Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) has launched three specialised training programmes in Fiji to strengthen the professional and institutional capabilities of around 180 government officials from nine Pacific countries, including Fiji. The month-long initiative, which began on November 2 in Suva, is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Service of the Fijian government, with support from the High Commission of India in Fiji. The programmes will focus on international law and security, stress management and psychological well-being, and cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The initiative is guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'MAHASAGAR' vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement of Security and Growth Across Regions), which emphasises capacity-building, institutional cooperation and knowledge exchange as key elements of India's engagement with partner countries. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Luke Rokovada, Chairman of Fiji's Public Service Commission; Suneet Mehta, High Commissioner of India to Fiji; Pita Tagicakirewa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Service; and RRU Vice-Chancellor Bimal Patel, who joined virtually. Speaking at the event, Rokovada acknowledged India's contribution to Fiji's human resource development and institutional capacity-building, describing it as the country's largest capacity-building partner. He appreciated RRU's efforts to extend specialised training opportunities to Fiji and other Pacific Island countries, and highlighted their importance in improving professional competencies, institutional effectiveness and bilateral cooperation. Mehta said sustained engagement with Pacific Island countries was an important dimension of India's international cooperation. He highlighted RRU's role in advancing India's engagement with the region through specialised education, professional training and institutional capacity-building. Such programmes could help translate diplomatic goodwill into lasting institutional partnerships, knowledge exchange and people-to-people connections, he said. Patel, who is also a Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), stressed the need to bridge the gap between international legal frameworks and their practical implementation by public institutions. My work across international legal diplomacy, scholarship and education has strengthened a simple conviction: international law serves people best when public institutions have the knowledge to put it into practice. As Vice-Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University and a Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, I attach particular value to strengthening that knowledge, he said. The first programme, a 10-day course on the fundamentals of international law and security, commenced on November 2 with 60 participants from nine Pacific countries. It will cover the basic principles and contemporary developments in international law, their intersection with evolving security challenges, and emerging regional and global concerns. The course will also focus on applying legal concepts to practical institutional situations. The second programme, a six-day course on stress management for health and psychological well-being, is scheduled from November 16 to 23. It will address stress management, mindfulness, burnout prevention, psychological resilience and peer support. Given Fiji's exposure to climate-related challenges, natural disasters and displacement, the programme will also examine their psychological effects, along with digital stress and the well-being of personnel working in demanding professional environments. The third programme, a five-day course on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, is scheduled from November 24 to 30. It will cover cybersecurity, cybercrime investigation, digital forensics, network security, cyber law and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Practical demonstrations and exposure to relevant tools and technologies will form part of the training. RRU has also been expanding its international training programmes through its collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. According to the university, it has trained more than 3,200 law-enforcement officials from 94 partner countries in specialised areas, including forensics, cyber education and policing. In addition, 52 students from 18 countries across South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Oceania are currently pursuing its regular two-year master's programmes designed for law-enforcement professionals. Through its engagement with Fiji and other Pacific Island countries, the university is also looking to expand cooperation in international law, maritime security, policing, disaster management, cybersecurity, defence studies and professional education. The initiative is aimed at strengthening institutional preparedness by combining legal understanding, psychological resilience and technological capabilities, while expanding professional and institutional links between India and the Pacific region.

Rs 109 crore distributed to 3.63 lakh girls under Gargi Award Scheme: Rajasthan CM

Digital Desk | Jaipur, Nov 3 (IANS) Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that daughters are the strength of society and the nation. When girls receive education, good values, respect and equal opportunities, their progress benefits not only themselves but also their families and society as a whole. Education for girls, he said, is a powerful catalyst for social transformation. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign has brought about a positive change in social attitudes towards girls' education and empowerment across the country. The state government, too, is making sustained efforts to ensure accessible and quality education while providing girls with equal opportunities to progress. The Chief Minister was addressing a Pratibha Vikas Shivir (Talent Development Camp) at Adarsh Vidya Mandir in Mansarovar, Jaipur, on Tuesday. On the occasion, he also unveiled the poster for a knowledge examination based on the Ramayana. Sharma said that India's culture, shaped over thousands of years by sages, saints and great visionaries, has imparted invaluable lessons on life, values and duties. It is the responsibility of the present generation to pass on this rich heritage, the ideals of great personalities and cultural values to the younger generation. He emphasised that focusing only on rights is not enough; individuals must also understand their responsibilities towards their families, society and the nation. Respect and service towards parents, elders and family members, he said, remain defining features of Indian culture. The Chief Minister observed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the policies of the double-engine government have created a favourable environment for the birth, education and greater social participation of girls. He said the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 places special emphasis on equal opportunities, safety and quality education for girls, with specific provisions to remove barriers to their education. Education, he added, should not be viewed merely as a means of securing good examination results, but as the foundation for developing an individual's personality, thinking and values. The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to providing quality education to every student. Under the financial assistance scheme for uniforms and school bags, 800 per student is being transferred directly to the bank accounts of students in Classes 1 to 8 and girls in Classes 9 to 12 through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). So far, Rs 482 crore has been disbursed to 66 lakh students through this mechanism. In addition, approximately Rs 250 crore has been transferred directly to the bank accounts of around 41.56 lakh students in Classes 1 to 8 to facilitate the provision of free uniforms. Smart classrooms have been established in more than 4,000 schools across the state, while digital libraries have been developed in 500 PM SHRI schools. More than 41,000 science and mathematics kits have also been distributed to over 20,000 schools. During the last two academic sessions, students have received more than 8 crore textbooks, 14 lakh bicycles and over 88,000 tablets, all free of cost. Furthermore, 4.41 lakh students have been provided free admission under the Right to Education (RTE) Act during the same period. Highlighting initiatives for girls' education and empowerment, Sharma said that Rs 109 crore has been distributed to 3.63 lakh girls under the Gargi Puraskar Yojana (Gargi Award Scheme). Similarly, more than 3 lakh girls have received Rs 158 crore under the Balika Protsahan Puraskar Yojana (Girl Child Encouragement Award Scheme). Under the PM POSHAN scheme, the Shri Krishna Bhog initiative enables donors, members of the public and teachers to sponsor meals for schoolchildren on special occasions. Sanitary pad vending machines have also been installed in more than 4,000 government schools. To ensure that children from disadvantaged communities and labourers' families remain connected to education, an on-demand examination facility has been introduced through the Rajasthan State Open School.

Kolkata: Rahul Gandhi's 'sleeping posters' surface in Salt Lake

Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) Parts of Salt Lake in the northern outskirts of Kolkata, on Tuesday, were flooded with posters featuring pictures of Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi taking a nap when the House was in session. The posters also carried a slogan -- Desh Ki Neta Aisa Ho? (Should the country have a leader like this). However, it is still not clear who put up such posters, and no individual or group has claimed responsibility for it. The said posters depicted two separate pictures of the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. In one picture, Rahul Gandhi is seen sitting with his hands on his cheeks, and his eyes closed during a session of the Parliament. In another picture, he is seen sitting in a reclining position with his hands on the seat within the House. The message conveyed through the poster is that Rahul Gandhi was sleeping inside the Parliament when the House was in session. The development surfaces at a time when Rahul Gandhi is spearheading a movement at New Delhi, uniting all the opposition forces against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' lists in the country as well as demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on the other hand, had started a counter campaign throughout the country under the aegis of Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy. On Monday, a mega rally on this count was organised in Kolkata, which was led by the BJP President Nitin Nabin. At the end of the rally, Nabin addressed a gathering and said that just as West Bengal had been freed from the misrule of Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress in the Assembly polls earlier this year, now Delhi too needs to be freed from Rahul Gandhi quickly. On Tuesday, a similar rally was organised at Siliguri in Darjeeling district, which was led by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is trying to eliminate illegal infiltrators from the voters' list while Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were trying to protect them.

FIR sought against AISA chief Neha Bora over remarks linking temple priests to rape

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) A Supreme Court lawyer has approached the Delhi Police seeking registration of an FIR against All India Students' Association (AISA) national president Neha Bora over her alleged remarks linking temple priests to sexual offences against women. In her complaint to the Station House Officer of the Cyber Police Station, New Delhi district, advocate-on-record (AoR) Amita Sachdeva sought action under Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable provisions of law, claiming that the statements could promote enmity between different groups and disturb public tranquillity. Sachdeva contended that a video featuring Bora had been widely circulated on social media platforms and reported by multiple news outlets, in which she made sweeping statements attributing sexual offences against women to temple priests. In the video, Bora is purportedly heard saying: Brahmin mahilayein sadkon par chalte hue bhi surakshit nahi hain. Unke saath rape hota hai. Mandiron mein pujari bhi rape karte hain. Unnao aur Kathua mein aisi ghatnayein hum dekh chuke hain. (Brahmin women are unsafe even while walking on the streets. They are raped, and even priests in temples commit rape. We have witnessed such incidents in places like Unnao and Kathua.) The video also carries an overlay reading: PUJARI RAPES WOMEN INSIDE TEMPLES. The complainant contended that the statements made a generalised attribution of sexual offences to an entire category of persons and linked them to a particular social order. Sexual offences are criminal acts that must be investigated and prosecuted strictly under the law wherever they occur. However, publicly attributing such crimes in a blanket manner to an entire category of persons, and disseminating the same widely, is capable of promoting disharmony, enmity, hatred or ill-will between different groups of citizens, the complaint stated. It further claimed that the statements were prejudicial to the maintenance of public tranquillity and order, adding that their wide electronic circulation had generated public reaction. The lawyer submitted that the matter was being raised purely as a law and order issue concerning public tranquillity and was not framed as a grievance of, or on behalf of, any particular community. Sachdeva urged the police to register an FIR against Bora and any other persons whose involvement may emerge during the investigation. She also sought a thorough probe into the statements, their intent, electronic records, circulation and alleged impact on public order.

Dia Mirza video row: Oppn welcomes Bombay HC verdict, says BMC removed video due to her surname

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 3 (IANS) The opposition parties in Maharashtra on Tuesday welcomed the Bombay High Court's judgment which directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to re-upload the public awareness video of actor Dia Mirza, alleging that the civic body had removed her video ecause of her surname. In the video, Mirza had urged citizens not to burst firecrackers on public roads during Diwali. Speaking to reporters, Shiv Sena-UBT MLA Aaditya Thackeray said instead of focusing on civic issues, here is this BJP leader (Ameet Satam) whose entire focus is only on Hindu-Muslim issues and caste discrimination. Today, whether it's Dia Mirza, Ajinkya Rahane, or Madhuri Dixit, the BMC itself wrote a letter asking them to make those videos. And now, the BMC Mayor (Ritu Tawde) herself is claiming she wasn't aware of it. So, how are they running the government? he remarked. AIMIM National Spokesperson Waris Pathan hailed the Bombay High Court's judgment, saying: They (BMC) received a proper reprimand. The court said that this is not a communal issue, so why are you making such statements?... The Mumbai BJP Chief, Ameet Satam, tweeted and specifically targeted Dia Mirza because of her surname. Otherwise, videos made by Madhuri Dixit and Ajinkya Rahane were not removed. Echoing similar view, Shiv Sena-UBT leader and former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar said whoever occupies the Mayors chair must represent all communities and not speak for any one caste, group, or religion. There has been discussion about Dia Mirza for the last two or three days. She has brought glory to the country, received several honours, and served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)... She did not come seeking any benefit, nor was she going to gain financially from this. It was the municipal corporation that invited her. They have insulted her due her 'Mirza' surname, which is extremely wrong, she told IANS. Pednekar also criticised remarks made by the BMC Mayor, saying: The Mayor has no right to claim that she has blacklisted someone. Making such statements before a major festival like Diwali, which is celebrated by people of all communities, is inappropriate. India is a secular country, and such comments about an artist are completely unacceptable. Speaking to IANS, Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Indulging in such dirty and petty politics is something only the BJP can do. I sincerely thank the High Court for reprimanding them and making it clear that such discrimination has no place under the Constitution of this country, he said. While maintaining that Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde is an empowered woman, NCP-SP leader Fahad Ahmed alleged that Mumbai BJP Chief Ameet Satam is the one running the entire BMC. Ameet Satam has finished the essence related to festivals like Diwali, Eid etc, he told IANS.

After struggling with sleep, Amitabh Bachchan reveals how his unusual new technique finally worked

Amitabh Bachchan has opened up about his recent struggles with sleep, revealing that several techniques he tried to overcome his sleepless nights failed to work. In his latest blog, the 84-year-old actor also discussed his irregular gym routine, how his demanding work schedule is affecting his physical and mental energy, and his determination to get back to regular exercise.

CTI Seeks Ban On Rallies

New Delhi: The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) on Tuesday wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner, demanding that rallies, sit-ins and protest marches be prohibited at major locations in the national capital until November 11, the day of Bhaiya Dooj. In its letter dated November 3, the traders body cited financial losses caused by []

Modi govt prepared for SIR debate, but Congress must let Parliament function: HM Amit Shah

Digital Desk | Raipur, Nov 3 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the Narendra Modi government is fully prepared for a thorough discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, but the Congress must first allow Parliament to function. Addressing the closing ceremony of the Chhattisgarh Rajyotsav, HM Shah challenged the Opposition, particularly Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, to engage in a real debate instead of stalling parliamentary proceedings and organising mock Parliament. He said the government is even willing to call a special session for this purpose. If you have the courage, come forward and engage in a proper debate. Simply carrying a copy of the Constitution does not equate to upholding it ones conduct must be constitutional, HM Shah said. He alleged that the Congress has brought Parliament to a standstill and asked the party to let it function so that the people of the country can see who is speaking the truth and who is peddling lies. HM Shah further said the Modi government is ready for a detailed discussion on the SIR exercise and related issues raised by the Opposition. He emphasised that democratic debate should take place inside Parliament rather than through parallel platforms or street protests. The Home Ministers remarks come amid ongoing Opposition protests over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and allegations of large-scale voter deletions. Shah maintained that the government has nothing to hide and is open to scrutiny, provided Parliamentary proceedings are allowed to continue normally. He reiterated that the Constitution must be respected not merely by carrying its copy but through constitutional conduct. Shah said the people would judge for themselves once a proper debate takes place on the floor of the House. The Home Ministers statement is seen as a direct challenge to the Congress and other Opposition parties that have been demanding discussions on electoral issues while also being accused of disrupting Parliament.

Cyclone Arnab costs APSRTC 13.10 crore in revenue loss

Over 10.73 lakh scheduled bus kilometres cancelled and four vehicles damaged; Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy directs officials to prioritise passenger safety and restore services promptly

Pakistan: Misuse of anti-terrorism law in human rights lawyers' case signals fixed judgement

Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 3 (IANS) A Pakistani anti-terrorism court sentenced human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari Zainab-Hazir and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha to 10 years' imprisonment each and invoked the anti-terrorism law over an alleged security breach during a cricket tour in 2024. Such brazen misuse of anti-terrorism law in the conviction of the couple leaves little room for doubt that this is a fixed judgement, a report has detailed. Prosecutors said that Mazari and her husband removed barriers placed on the road designated for the cricket team's security convoy and hindered the movement of police personnel in Islamabad. The court said that it was a very common nature (and) ordinary type of incident apparently of removal of a barrier, retired Indian Army officer Nilesh Kunwar wrote in Eurasia Review. Yet, it invoked the Anti-Terrorism law, ruling that this act constituted a 'major security breach' as it had occurred during the visit of an international cricket team. To defend this bizarre assessment, the court cited the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. Such brazen misuse of the Anti- Terrorism Law leaves little room for doubt that this is a fixed judgment.'Reasons are the soul and heart of a judgment' is a cardinal principle in judicial rulings and even a lay person would agree that in this case, the alleged infringement doesnt justify the prison term awarded to Mazari and Chattha. So, could the judges admission of what the duo did was actually a very common nature ordinary type of incident, be a cryptic message that their heart wasnt in the judgment?, Colonel (Retd.) Kunwar mentioned. Pakistani journalist Asad Ali Toor contended that Imaan Mazari Zainab-Hazir emerged as a constant challenge for the State as she offered legal assistance to family members of Baloch people who were subjected to enforced disappearances by the Pakistani army and other law enforcement agencies working under Army Chief General Asim Munir's command and defended human rights activist Mahrang Baloch and Afghan nationals harassed by Pakistani authorities. Rawalpindi launched a concerted social media onslaught to discredit Mazari while the international community took notice of the wonderful work she was doing, with the World Expression Forum presenting her Young Inspiration Award in 2025 for displaying extraordinary courage, integrity, and impact in the struggle for the rule of law and justice, the report in Eurasia Review detailed. At the time of Imaan Mazari Zainab-Hazir's arrest on sedition charges, UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Defenders Mary Lawlor criticised Pakistan. saying that the cases against her appear to reflect an arbitrary use of the legal system to harass and intimidate. Subsequently, Asim Munir considered Mazari as a serious threat and her immediate removal from the scene till things became better was important, and the easiest method to do it was through judicial manipulation. Earlier, Pakistan's then-Army Chief Zia ul Haq and General Pervez Musharraf had followed similar pattern with Prime Ministers Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif respectively. The Mazari-Chattha case has drawn severe criticism from human rights organisations. After 10-year prison sentences were handed down to Imaan Mazari Zainab-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha, US-based advocacy group Human Rights Watch (HRW) called on Pakistani authorities to immediately quash the convictions, release Imaan and Hadi Ali, and cease criminal proceedings aimed at punishing human rights advocates. Prosecuting two human rights lawyers for terrorism sends a chilling message to everyone who speaks up for fundamental rights in Pakistan. The authorities should quash the outrageous 10-year sentences handed down to Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha, said Patricia Gossman, Senior Associate Asia Director at HRW. Punishing lawyers and human rights activists for defending rights leaves those they represent without protection. Concerned governments should press Pakistan to end its crackdown on human rights advocacy, Gossman said. The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) sharply criticised the harsh verdict, calling it a blatant assault on fundamental rights, freedom of expression and the very principles of justice. The use of anti-terrorism laws to punish dissent and target human rights defenders is a deeply alarming abuse of the legal system that must not be tolerated. Imaan Mazari has courageously stood with the oppressed, challenged state excesses and raised her voice for those denied justice. Punishing her for human rights advocacy sends a chilling message to every individual who dares to speak against injustice, the BWF stated. A system that imprisons those demanding justice while silencing dissent cannot claim to uphold the rule of law, it added.

INS Sahyadri concludes Busan naval exercise

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) Strengthening maritime cooperation and interoperability between the Indian and South Korean navies, Indian Navys stealth frigate INS Sahyadri has concluded its participation in the India-Republic of Korea Navy (IN-RoKN) bilateral exercise at Busan, the Ministry of Defence said on Tuesday. Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri successfully concluded her participation in the Indian Navy Republic of Korea Navy (INRoKN) Bilateral Exercise at Busan, Republic of Korea, on 29 Oct 2026. The engagement strengthened maritime cooperation and enhanced interoperability and mutual understanding between the two navies, the ministry said in a statement. INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built guided-missile stealth frigate, had arrived at Busan on October 26, where it was welcomed by the South Korean Navy. The ship had come to Busan after the Indra 2026 exercise with the Russian Navy, departing Vladivostok on October 20. The harbour phase facilitated meaningful engagement between personnel of the Indian Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy through professional discussions, cross-deck visits, operational briefings and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges. These interactions enabled the sharing of operational perspectives and best practices, while cultural exchanges and sporting engagements fostered camaraderie and strengthened interpersonal bonds, the statement said. During the harbour phase, Indian Ambassador to South Korea Gourangalal Das had met the ships commanding officer and attended an onboard reception. The sea phase translated these professional interactions into practical operational engagements, with INS Sahyadri and ROKS Munmu the Great undertaking coordinated navigation, helo operations and joint maritime manoeuvres. The exercise provided an opportunity to practise coordination at sea, develop a better understanding of each others operating procedures and enhance interoperability between the two navies, the ministry said. INS Sahyadri and ROKS Munmu The Great undertook the sea phase of the IN-ROKN Bilateral Naval Exercise off the coast of Busan. Multiple drills to include cross deck helicopter landings, Search and Rescue and other aspects were practiced, the Indian Embassy in Seoul had said. It said INS Sahyadri had since set sail for her subsequent mission. The successful completion of the exercise reflects the shared resolve of India and the Republic of Korea to deepen maritime cooperation through sustained engagement and collaboration. Such interactions contribute to mutual trust and support collective efforts towards maintaining peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, the statement added.

Rajasthan High Court declares tax collection on Out-of-State private vehicles illegal

Digital Desk | Jaipur, Nov 3 (IANS) The Rajasthan High Court has declared the Transport Department's action of collecting road tax from private cars and jeeps registered in other states, allegedly on the grounds that they had been operated in Rajasthan for more than 30 days, illegal, in the absence of a specific statutory notification. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal and Justice Sameer Jain ruled that the Transport Department cannot impose or collect taxes on non-transport vehicles registered in other states without a valid notification issued under the relevant provisions of the law. While disposing of petitions filed by Harpi Core Network India Private Limited and others, the court directed the department to refund the taxes collected from the petitioners within 30 days and immediately release the seized vehicles. Several vehicle owners had approached the Rajasthan High Court challenging the Transport Department's action against their private vehicles, which were registered in states including Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The petitioners submitted that lifetime road tax had already been paid in their respective states at the time of registration. However, during routine inspections, flying squads of the Rajasthan Transport Department intercepted several such vehicles and initiated enforcement proceedings. The Rajasthan Transport Department maintained that these vehicles had been operating in Rajasthan for more than 30 days without payment of the prescribed state road tax. It argued that under Rule 28 of the Rajasthan Motor Vehicles Taxation Rules, vehicles remaining in the state beyond 30 days were liable to pay tax under the Rajasthan Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1951. Challenging the department's action, the petitioners argued that their vehicles were already registered in other states and that the applicable lifetime tax had been paid there. They contended that there was no legal basis for demanding a lump-sum tax in Rajasthan merely because the vehicles had been used in the state for more than 30 days. The petitioners also invoked Article 265 of the Constitution, which provides that no tax can be levied or collected except by authority of law. They argued that the Transport Department could not impose a tax merely by relying on administrative interpretations or notifications that did not specifically authorise such a levy. The Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma-led state government defended the department's action, arguing that private vehicles registered outside Rajasthan were being used in the state for periods exceeding 30 days and were, therefore, liable for taxation under the applicable rules. The government also cited a notification issued on July 10, 2024, which prescribed rates for one-time taxation of non-transport vehicles. It argued that the notification covered vehicles already registered in other states as well. Accordingly, the government maintained that the tax demands and seizure of vehicles were legally justified. After hearing both sides, the High Court observed that the July 10, 2024, notification prescribed tax rates for passenger and goods vehicles. However, there was no separate notification under the relevant statutory provision specifically authorising the levy of one-time tax on private non-transport cars registered in other states. The Bench held that merely mentioning vehicles registered in other states in a notification issued under a different provision does not fulfil the statutory requirement for imposing such a tax. The court clarified that when the law requires a specific notification for levying a particular tax, the government cannot collect it by relying on a notification issued under another provision. Consequently, the court held that the one-time tax demand against private cars registered in other states could not be sustained on the basis of the existing notification. The court directed the Transport Department to release the seized vehicles immediately and refund the tax collected from the petitioners within 30 days.

Darshan Suspended for 4 Hours at Srimandir Tomorrow

Public entry at the iconic Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri will remain suspended for four hours on Wednesday to facilitate the sacred and confidential Banakalagi (facial ornamentation) ritual of Lord Jagannath and His siblings. According to a special advisory released by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the special esoteric ritual will take place on [] The post Darshan Suspended for 4 Hours at Srimandir Tomorrow appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Bangladesh garment workers clash with police, defy call to end protests

Paramilitary forces have been deployed in Gazipur and Narayanganj as workers demanding a 30,000-taka minimum wage stay on the streets for a fourth day, with 58 police officers injured, the police said

BJP Calls for Fair Investigation into Sexual Assault Cases in Jharkhand

The BJP criticizes the Jharkhand government over two sexual assault cases, demanding immediate and impartial investigations. BJP Calls for Fair Investigation into Sexual Assault Cases in Jharkhand

Sailor Killed, MEA Issues Fiery Rebuke Demanding Immediate Halt

Karnataka Sugarcane Farmers Intensify Protests Demanding Higher Prices

Karnataka sugarcane farmers escalate protests, demanding higher purchase prices and a revised minimum selling price for sugar. Karnataka Sugarcane Farmers Intensify Protests Demanding Higher Prices

Absolute disgrace: Congress slams Modi govt bid to reclaim IAF Sports Complex

The Air Force Sports Complex's management was issued eviction notices by the government, demanding the return of the land situated near the Prime Minister's official residence

Accept Amit Shah's challenge to debate SIR in Parliament: JD(U) to Rahul Gandhi

Janata Dal (United) has asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to engage in a debate regarding the SIR exercise. The party believes that accepting Amit Shah's challenge would demonstrate Gandhi's faith in parliamentary democracy. Additionally, JD(U) criticised Gandhi for his comments about Prime Minister Modi's leadership and foreign support. Congress responded by demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Amitabh Bachchan talks about sleep troubles and irregular gym sessions

In his latest blog, Amitabh Bachchan spoke about his ongoing struggles with sleep, his efforts to resume his gym routine and balancing his demanding work schedule at 84. The veteran actor admitted he still hasn't figured it out, despite seeking help from Google.

Karnataka sugarcane farmers intensify stir for higher procurement prices, attempt to lay siege to DC

Karnataka sugarcane farmers intensify stir for higher procurement prices, attempt to lay siege to DCs office Bengaluru: Sugarcane farmers across Karnataka intensified their statewide agitation on Tuesday, with protesters attempting to lay siege to the Deputy Commissioners office in Mysuru and launching a Jail Bharo protest in Belagavi, demanding a procurement price of Rs 5,500 [] The post Karnataka sugarcane farmers intensify stir for higher procurement prices, attempt to lay siege to DCs office appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Watch: Delhi Police suspends ACP for violation of discipline after protest by 100 personnel

Delhi Police ACP Manasvi Vashishta, who led a protest by police personnel against the transfer of two officers following a scuffle at Shahdara police station, has been suspended for violation of discipline. Around 100 personnel had gathered outside police headquarters on November 2, demanding the reinstatement of Vashishta and SHO Arun Kumar. The protesters also raised five demands, including clear guidelines for handling confrontations involving lawyers and action against lawyers allegedly involved in misconduct.

Watch: Bengaluru man glues receptionists hands to desk, flees with gold

On October 31, a masked robber stormed into a shoe and bag repair shop in Indiranagar, brandishing a knife and demanding valuables from Jayashree, the receptionist. Despite the terrifying experience, she bravely yelled for help and managed to escape his grip. Quick action from bystanders led to the swift arrest of Prabhuraj. Authorities are now probing his background, suspecting mental health issues may be involved.

Ramayanas pre-Diwali GAMBLE brings back memories of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge: Shah Rukh Khan-starrer opened BELOW Gundaraj, Andolan, Angrakshak and yet REWROTE box office HISTORY

While Diwali falls this year on Sunday, November 8, Ramayana will release three days before the Festival of Lights, on Thursday, November 5. The decision has surprised the trade and industry. After all, the days leading up to Diwali are traditionally considered dull for the movie business. Audiences are busy with last-minute preparations, shopping and festivities, resulting in reduced footfalls. Even on Diwali, collections tend to dip significantly during the evening hours due to Lakshmi Puja. Interestingly, Bollywood Hungama went back in time and discovered that one of Hindi cinema's biggest blockbusters faced a similar situation in 1995 Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. The Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol romantic drama arrived on Friday, October 20, while Diwali was celebrated on Monday, October 23 (though, as per information on the internet, a section of the population celebrated it on Tuesday, October 25). The film emerged as a blockbuster and continues to run even today at Mumbai's iconic Maratha Mandir. However, what many may not know is that Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge was far from an extraordinary opener. In fact, among 15 major releases of 1995, it ranked 15th in both opening-day and opening-weekend collections, earning just Rs. 55 lakhs on day one and Rs. 1.56 crores over its opening weekend. Believe it or not, the opening day and opening weekend collections of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge were lower than those of Karan Arjun, Trimurti, Coolie No 1, Gambler, Rangeela, Barsaat, Andolan, Angrakshak, Haqeeqat, Sabse Bada Khiladi, Ram Jaane, Gundaraj, Hulchul and Veergati! This is particularly remarkable considering that several of these films are barely remembered today, while Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge went on to become one of the most iconic films in Indian cinema. However, the picture began to change once the Diwali holidays kicked in. The film's collections picked up considerably, helping it climb from the 15th position in opening-weekend collections to the seventh position in first-week collections, with Rs. 3.37 crores. Thanks to the strong weekday business during the post-Diwali holidays, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge managed to overtake Angrakshak, Haqeeqat, Sabse Bada Khiladi, Ram Jaane, Gundaraj, Hulchul and Veergati in first-week collections. And that was just the beginning. The film continued its extraordinary run at the ticket windows and ultimately collected a massive Rs. 53 crores in its lifetime, emerging as the highest-grossing film of 1995 by a huge margin. It remains a classic example of how a film's initial performance during the pre-Diwali period can be misleading and how the real picture can emerge only once the festive holidays begin. Another interesting example is Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999). The Salman Khan-starrer arrived on Friday, November 5, while Diwali fell on Sunday, November 7. The Sooraj Barjatya directorial was released on a grand scale. However, the pre-Diwali period affected its initial collections, which were below their full potential, even though it registered the third-biggest opening of 1999. But once the festive period was over, the film witnessed a substantial jump in business. The collections went from strength to strength, and Hum Saath Saath Hain ultimately emerged as the biggest hit of the year. It now remains to be seen how Ramayana fares during its first four days. However, one thing is certain the film will get an opportunity to showcase its full box office potential from Monday, November 9, when the lucrative post-Diwali holiday period begins. After all, as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge proved 31 years ago that a relatively subdued pre-Diwali opening need not come in the way of creating box office history. A list of top 15 grossers of 1995 and their first day, first weekend, first week and lifetime collections Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge First day collections: Rs. 55 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.56 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.37 cr Lifetime: Rs. 53 cr Karan Arjun First day collections: Rs. 80 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 2.24 cr First week collections: Rs. 4.29 cr Lifetime: Rs. 25.29 cr Trimurti First day collections: Rs. 1.06 cr First weekend collections: Rs. 3.07 cr First week collections: Rs. 5.04 cr Lifetime: Rs. 8.58 cr Coolie No 1 First day collections: Rs. 72 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 2.07 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.70 cr Lifetime: Rs. 20.33 cr Gambler First day collections: Rs. 72 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 2.06 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.46 cr Lifetime: Rs. 7.17 cr Rangeela First day collections: Rs. 71 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 2.05 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.73 cr Lifetime: Rs. 20.22 cr Barsaat First day collections: Rs. 68 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.96 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.67 cr Lifetime: Rs. 19.19 cr Andolan First day collections: Rs. 69 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.95 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.20 cr Lifetime: Rs. 6.05 cr Angarakshak First day collections: Rs. 69 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.90 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.10 cr Lifetime: Rs. 5.65 cr Haqeeqat First day collections: Rs. 64 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.83 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.02 cr Lifetime: Rs. 6.25 cr Sabse Bada Khiladi First day collections: Rs. 65 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.82 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.15 cr Lifetime: Rs. 9.40 cr Ram Jaane First day collections: Rs. 62 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.78 cr First week collections: Rs. 3.16 cr Lifetime: Rs. 8.61 cr Gundaraj First day collections: Rs. 61 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.67 cr First week collections: Rs. 2.87 cr Lifetime: Rs. 5.08 cr Hulchul First day collections: Rs. 59 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.65 cr First week collections: Rs. 2.80 cr Lifetime: Rs. 5.75 cr Veergati First day collections: Rs. 57 lakhs First weekend collections: Rs. 1.58 cr First week collections: Rs. 2.62 cr Lifetime: Rs. 4.99 cr

Their anarchy plan exposed: Giriraj Singh accuses Rahul Gandhi, allies of plotting 'civil war'

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday accused Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi and his allies of attempting to create an atmosphere of anarchy and trigger a civil war in the country, claiming that their alleged plan had been exposed. Targeting the Opposition over its protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Singh alleged that foreign forces and extremists were also involved in the activities. On one hand, Rahul Gandhi and the so-called Tukde-Tukde Gang, even the face of that cockroach, have been exposed. These people wanted to create an atmosphere of anarchy in the country. They wanted to trigger a civil war in the country. They wanted the police to open fire. That was their objective, which has now been exposed. Foreign forces were also involved in this...In earlier protests which took place at Jantar Mantar, Shaheen Bagh people were involved; there was a contribution of extremists, he said. Singh further alleged that Rahul Gandhi's earlier statements about removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi within three months reflected the Opposition's intentions. Rahul Gandhi never spoke like the Leader of the Opposition, he used to say, 'Modi will be removed in 3 months,' which shows it was their plan to initiate civil war, he added. The Union Minister also hit out at Gandhi over his remarks demanding that Prime Minister Modi and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar be sent to jail. And the way Rahul ji continues to speak, saying, 'Modi will have to go to jail, Gyanesh will have to go to jail,' but you yourself are out on bail. How can you talk about sending others to jail? Your entire family is out on bail. Your brother-in-law is out on bail, you are out on bail, and I don't know whether your mother is out on bail or not, but there is a case against her as well. All of them... His mother did not take Indian citizenship for 12 years. What kind of love for India is this? Singh said. On the Opposition's allegations regarding SIR, Singh questioned why it had not submitted the names and evidence it claimed to possess. When you were asked to provide the names, why didn't you provide them? You didn't provide them in Bihar or in Delhi. You recently went to submit a memorandum to the President, and it has been almost 600 days, nearly 550 hours, as I have seen. Yet you have still not provided any evidence to the President, he said. Meanwhile, BJP leader Ram Kadam also criticised Rahul Gandhi and his allies, accusing them of opposing India's progress. The way Rahul Gandhi and his allies do not want to see this country's progress, we must ask what has changed in the last 13 years. Everyone should look back at the pages of history and see what India was like 13 years ago. Today, India has become the world's fourth-largest economic power. We are making progress in every sector. That is why PM Modi can no longer be stopped or targeted with allegations. No charges can tarnish his image. Out of complete frustration, the opposition is displaying its ideological bankruptcy, he told IANS.

BJP accuses AISA's Neha Bora of 'Hindu hate', claims she is 'inspired' by LoP Rahul Gandhi

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on All India Students' Association (AISA) President, Neha Bora over her remarks on the Brahmanical system and religious institutions. The BJP alleged that she was displaying Hindu hate and shared an old statement in which she alleged that priests commit rapes inside temples. BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari targeted Bora over the comments and alleged that her views were influenced by Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP, Rahul Gandhi. He also alleged that the Congress was harbouring hostility towards Hindus, claiming that the party's approach posed a threat to the country's unity. Taking to social media platform X, Bhandari shared Bora's remarks and drew a comparison with an earlier statement attributed to Rahul Gandhi concerning the safety of women in temples. Neha Bora, poster girl of Rahul Gandhi, displays her Hindu hate! Says - 'Pujaris rape in temple'. She is inspired by Rahul Gandhi, who earlier had said 'Mandiro main ladkiyon ke sath ched chad hoti hai'. Congress hates Hindus, loves vote bank! Congress Soch is a threat to India's unity! Bhandari alleged in his post. The controversy erupted after Bora made the remarks while extending support to an impeachment resolution against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The resolution and the criticism surrounding the Election Commission have been part of the ongoing political debate over the revision of electoral rolls which the Opposition claims have resulted in the disenfranchisement of 13 crore Indians. Bora had earlier accused the authorities of deliberately deleting voters' names and committing procedural violations during the electoral roll revision exercise. Following these allegations, Bora turned her attention to caste-based discrimination and the role of religious institutions, arguing that women and other vulnerable sections required protection from what she described as the Brahmanical system. Protection is absolutely necessary - and it is precisely from the Brahmanical system that such protection is required. This is a system which posits that the poor, the oppressed, animals and women are all deserving of subjugation and abuse. It is the very same system under which even Brahmin women are unsafe and fall victim to rape. Priests commit rapes inside temples. We have witnessed such instances... Bora said.

India, US begin military exercise Tiger Triumph in Visakhapatnam

Digital Desk | Visakhapatnam, Nov 3 (IANS) The fifth edition bilateral tri-service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) amphibious Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 between India and the United States is underway in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with forces from both countries training side-by-side to strengthen defence cooperation and enhance their ability to respond to regional crises, the US Navy's Pacific Fleet said on Tuesday. According to the US Navy, the service members from the US and Indian Armed Forces officially commenced Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 with an opening ceremony in Visakhapatnam on Monday. Tiger Triumph 2026 is a bilateral, combined joint exercise focused on advancing joint and combined interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, tabletop staff planning, and integrated multi-domain command and control. Tiger Triumph represents the growing strength, sophistication, and shared commitment of the US-India Major Defence Partnership. Our bilateral training reinforces our shared commitment to regional stability, refines our combined operational coordination, and prepares our forces to rapidly respond to crises and natural disasters in the region, said US Pacific Fleet Vice Commander US Navy Rear Adm. Joaquin Martinez de Pinillos. Underscoring the significance of the joint exercise, Indian Navy Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, said, Our two countries share a strong and enduring partnership, built on mutual trust, professional respect and an expanding range of defence engagements. Exercise Tiger Triumph gives practical expression to this relationship by bringing together complementary capabilities of our armed forces in demanding humanitarian assistance and disaster response settings. Marking the fifth edition of the bilateral exercise series since its inception in 2019, Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 incorporates staff planning, all-domain tabletop exercises and specialised training in command, control, cyber and space synchronisation. In addition to bilateral operational planning, participating personnel will conduct subject-matter expert exchanges, community outreach, and cultural events to build lasting professional relationships, the US Navy stated. The exercise comes amid continued efforts by India and the US to deepen their defence partnership. Last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Cebu, Philippines, on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) and reviewed progress made under the defence framework between the two nations. Taking to X, Singh said, Had an excellent meeting with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the 13th ADMM-Plus. We reviewed the progress of our 10-year India-US Defence Framework, driving strategic convergence across military technology, information sharing, and co-production. Our robust partnership continues to be a cornerstone for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, he added. Following the discussions, Hegseth also took to X and said that it was great meeting with Defence Minister Singh. We celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Framework for our Major Defense Partnership and explored ways to strengthen cooperation, he said.

Paris Jackson is demanding that her fathers estate pay alleged dues worth USD 600 million

Man holds woman at knifepoint, threatens to slit her throat over gold chain in Bengaluru; rescued by public

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 3 (IANS) A man allegedly barged into a shop on Domlur 100 Feet Road in Bengaluru, held a young woman at knifepoint and threatened to slit her throat while demanding that she hand over her gold chain. The woman was later rescued by members of the public, who overpowered the accused and handed him over to the police. The incident took place on October 31 but came to light on Tuesday after a video of the incident went viral on social media, triggering concerns over women's safety. According to the police, the accused, identified as Prabhuraj, entered a branded bag and shoe repair shop around 11.45 a.m. wearing a helmet and gloves. The woman employee, who had arrived at 10 a.m. and opened the shop, was alone at the time. The accused initially claimed that someone was chasing him before grabbing the woman and threatening her with a knife. He allegedly demanded that she hand over her gold chain. When she resisted, he held her by the neck, placed the knife close to her throat and dragged her outside the shop. The video shows the woman pleading with the accused to release her as he threatened to take her away in an autorickshaw. He had a helmet covering his face and held her by the neck with one hand while wielding a knife in the other. When members of the public gathered and asked him to release the woman and leave the place, the accused reportedly said that he did not want her and threatened to slit her throat. The public eventually overpowered the accused and rescued the woman. They thrashed him, dragged him to a pole, tied him up and assaulted him again before handing him over to the police. Indiranagar police rushed to the spot and arrested the accused. DCP East Vikram Amte said the accused had come with the intention of committing chain snatching. When members of the public attempted to catch him, he caught hold of the woman and threatened to kill her. Further investigation is underway.

Tusshar Kapoor receives Rs 5 crore extortion threat, in name of Lawrence Bishnoi gang

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) Bollywood actor Tusshar Kapoor has received an extortion call from a person identifying himself as Harry Boxer, said to be a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. He purportedly threatened the actor to pay Rs 5 crore, following which the actor reported the matter to Mumbai Police. The Anti-Extortion Cell and the Crime Branch have taken up investigation into the matter. According to Mumbai Police sources, the Crime Branch's technical team conducted a detailed examination of the audio recording of the threatening call received by Tusshar Kapoor. The police compared the voice in the recording with an official audio sample of Harry Boxer available in their database. According to senior Mumbai Police officials, preliminary investigations suggest that the call was a hoax, as the voice did not match the available audio sample. Police suspect that some miscreant may have used the name of the Bishnoi gang to create fear and extort money from the actor. The police are now trying to trace the person behind the audio threat and ascertain whether it was an isolated act by a miscreant or whether an organised gang was involved in the incident. Tusshar Kapoor belongs to a prominent family in the film industry. He is the son of veteran actor Jeetendra and producer Shobha Kapoor, while his elder sister, Ekta Kapoor, is a renowned television and film producer. Tusshar made his acting debut with films such as 'Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai', 'Kyaa Dil Ne Kaha' and 'Jeena Sirf Merre Liye'. However, he gained wider recognition through comedy films, particularly the 'Kyaa Kool Hain Hum' series and the 'Golmaal' franchise, which includes 'Golmaal', 'Golmaal Returns' and 'Golmaal 3'. He also received appreciation for his performance in the critically acclaimed film 'Shor in the City', in which he explored a more serious role. Also, eight bullion traders in the Sarafa Bazar area of Nagpur are said to have received threatening letters demanding Rs 10 lakh each in the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, with police suspecting the role of local criminals. The senders have also threatened to kill the traders and their family members, if they fail to pay the money or inform the police.

India, US hold 5th edition of Tiger Triumph 2026 in Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, Nov 03: The Opening Ceremony of the 5th edition of the IndiaUS Bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, Tiger Triumph 2026, was held at Maritime Warfare Centre (MWC), Visakhapatnam on 02 Nov 2026. The exercise, which is being conducted as a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) this year, aims to enhance coordination, joint planning and interoperability between the Armed Forces of both countries during large-scale HADR operations. The Opening Ceremony was presided over by RAdm Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and RAdm Joaquin J Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander, US Pacific Fleet. The exercise reflects the deepening convergence of IndiaUS strategic maritime interests and the growing defence partnership between the two nations. The present edition aims to further enhance interoperability and facilitate the conduct of Combined Joint All-Domain Operations, with a focus on planning and coordination for large-scale HADR operations. Participating units from the Indian side include specialists from all domains of maritime operations from the Indian Navy, ground forces from the Indian Army and representatives from various units of the Indian Air Force, as well as Special Forces personnel from all three Services. A team from the NDRF will also participate for the first time in the 5th edition of Tiger Triumph 2026. The US Joint Force comprises specialist representatives from various domains of the US Armed Forces, including the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and Navy, as well as specialists in Space, Cyber, Medical and Explosive Ordnance Disposal.

Midday meal workers not paid for four months, protest in Dharwad

Workers from the seven taluks of the district were demanding immediate release of honorarium pending for the last four months

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Arrives In Coimbatore, Heads To Erode To Attend Women's Development Programme

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay arrived at Coimbatore International Airport on Tuesday and proceeded by road to Erode district to participate in a programme organised under the Mahalir Thittam (Women's Development Programme). The programme is scheduled to be held at 11.45 am at Sri Lakshmi Narayana Mahal near the Karumandi Sellipalayam Bridge in Perundurai. Ahead of his first visit to Perundurai, fans and party cadres expressed their excitement over the Chief Minister's arrival.

Delhi Police ACP Manasvi Vashishta Suspended After Leading Officers

In a major administrative crackdown, Delhi Police Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Manasvi Vashishta was suspended on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, after leading a high-profile demonstration by police personnel outside the Delhi Police Headquarters on Jai Singh Road. The suspension follows Mondays protest, where scores of serving police officers gathered demanding an audience with Delhi [] The post Delhi Police ACP Manasvi Vashishta Suspended After Leading Officers Protest Outside Police Headquarters Over Lawyers Clash appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Tusshar Kapoor gets Rs 5 crore extortion threat in name of Bishnoi gang

Tusshar Kapoor received an extortion call demanding Rs 5 crore from someone posing as a gang member. The Mumbai Crime Branch conducted a preliminary investigation into the threatening call received by the actor. Their technical team analyzed the audio and found no matching voice with official samples. Police believe the impersonator used the gang's name to instill fear and extort money.

Over one lakh workers expected at Jantar Mantar in Delhi for indefinite protest by CITU starting December 1

The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) will launch an indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar demanding protection of workers rights and repeal of anti-worker labour codes

Squash: Senthilkumar beats top seed Lobban to clinch Czech Open title

Digital Desk | Brno, Nov 3 (IANS) Indian squash player Velavan Senthilkumar added another significant title to his growing collection, defeating top seed Greg Lobban of Scotland in the final to emerge champion at the USD 35,000 Czech Open, a PSA Copper-level tournament. The fourth-seeded Indian, currently ranked 42nd in the world, overcame world No. 31 Lobban 13-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-7 to secure his 12th PSA Tour title and second at the Copper level. The victory marks another milestone for Senthilkumar, who had claimed his maiden title in the category at the Budapest Open in August. Senthilkumar had to negotiate a challenging draw on his way to the trophy, beginning with a second-round victory over Brazils Diego Gobbi before getting past eighth seed Jeremias Azana of Argentina 11-3, 11-8, 11-7 in the quarterfinals. He carried that momentum into the last four, producing a commanding performance against Frances Auguste Dussourd. The Indian wrapped up the semifinal 11-7, 12-10, 11-1 to book his place in the title clash. Lobban, meanwhile, secured his final berth with a straight-games victory over Frenchman Toufik Mekhalfi, setting up a meeting between the tournaments top seed and fourth seed. The final proved a sterner examination for Senthilkumar, particularly in the opening game, which went down to the wire. The Indian held his nerve to take it 13-11 before gaining greater control in the second, winning it 11-5. Lobban fought back to claim the third game 11-8, but Senthilkumar regained his composure to close out the contest 11-7 and lift the trophy. The Czech Open triumph adds to what has been an encouraging period for the Indian, who also enjoyed a productive campaign at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. He returned with two bronze medals, finishing on the podium in the mixed team competition alongside Joshna Chinappa and as part of the Indian mens team. The mens teams campaign ended in the semifinals following a 2-1 defeat to Malaysia. Senthilkumar had previously broken new ground at the Budapest Open in August, where he defeated Hungarys Balazs Farkas in the final to claim his first PSA Copper-level crown. His latest success underlines his growing consistency on the PSA Tour as he builds towards the sports Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Elsewhere, Indian players faced a difficult outing at the USD 241,000 US Open, a PSA Platinum event in Philadelphia. World No. 1 and top seed Mostafa Asal of Egypt defeated Abhay Singh 11-3, 11-1, 11-7 in the opening round before beating another Indian, Veer Chotrani, 11-1, 11-6, 11-4 in the second round.

Mirpur-11 metro station closed amid garment workers' protest

Metro trains have been bypassing Mirpur-11 station since 10:22am today after authorities temporarily shut it amid protests in the area by garment workers demanding higher wages and benefits

ITC Mangaldeep

India : Building on its continued association with Ayodhya Ram Mandir, ITC Mangaldeeps Har Bhakt Shri Ram Tak brings together technology and collective faith to make devotion more inclusive and accessible for visually impaired devotees. The thought draws inspiration from Mangaldeeps Sixth Sense initiative, which seeks to enable people with visual impairments to experience the []

Tusshar Kapoor allegedly receives Rs 5 cr extortion threat in Lawrence Bishnoi gang's name

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 3 (IANS) Bollywood actor Tusshar Kapoor has allegedly received an extortion threat demanding Rs 5 crore from someone claiming to be Harry Boxer, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. After the threat, the actor, son of Jeetendra, alerted the Mumbai Police, whose preliminary investigation suggests the call may be fake, as the voice recording did not match official audio samples of Harry Boxer. The Crime Branch's technical team thoroughly examined the audio recording of the call received by Tusshar Kapoor. The police compared the voice in the threatening call with official audio samples of Harry Boxer available in their database. According to senior Mumbai Police officials, the samples for the audio did not match, leading investigators to suspect during the preliminary probe that the call could be fake. Police suspect that some miscreant may have used the Bishnoi gang's name merely to create fear. The police are now trying to trace the person who sent the audio recording. Several Bollywood personalities, including Salman Khan, Rohit Shetty, Ranveer Singh and Tiger Shroff, have reportedly faced threats and attacks allegedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. On the work front, Tusshar was last seen in Welcome to the Jungle directed by Ahmed Khan, written by Neeraj Vora. The film stars an ensemble cast of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Jacqueline Fernandez, Disha Patani, Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Farida Jalal, Lara Dutta, Shreyas Talpade, Aftab Shivdasani, Yashpal Sharma, and Akshara Singh. He will next be seen in Golmaal 5, directed by Rohit Shetty. The first installment of the Golmaal film series, which hit the screens in 2006, stars Ajay Devgn, Tusshar Kapoor, Arshad and Sharman along with Rimi Sen and Paresh Rawal. It was reportedly based on Harsh Shivsharan's Marathi play Ghar Ghar, which also inspired Vora's Gujarati play Aflatoon, in turn one of the inspirations for the film. The film was followed by 4 sequels such as Golmaal Returns, which released in 2008, 2010s Golmaal 3 and Golmaal Again, which hit the silver screen in 2017. All the films starred Ajay, Arshad, Tusshar, Sanjay Mishra, Vrajesh Hirjee and Mukesh Tiwari, with Shreyas Talpade appearing in three, Kunal Khemu and Johnny Lever in two. Akshay is joining the fifth installment.

Arunachal bandh over Siang dam project, protests against CAPF deployment

Protests erupted in Arunachal Pradesh against the 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, demanding the release of detained individuals. A 36-hour bandh was enforced across Siang, Upper Siang, and East Siang districts. Instances of violence included attacks on political leaders' homes and arson at a police station.

Lawyers seek suspension of ACP Manasavi Vashist over alleged insulting remarks

The Rohini Court Bar Association, Rouse Avenue Court Bar Association and other lawyers have approached the Commissioner of Police, seeking the suspension of ACP Manasavi Vashistha over his alleged insulting remarks against lawyers, following his protest outside the Police Headquarters on Monday. Rohini Court Bar Association is abstaining from Judicial work on Tuesday, demanding immediate suspension of ACP Vashistha. Central Delhi Court Bar Association Secretary Vijay Bishnoi also gave a representation to the Commissioner of Police seeking suspension of Vashistha. ACP Vashistha and SHO Shahdara were transferred by Delhi Police after lawyers organised a protest. On October 28, the Coordination Committee of All Delhi Bar Associations had called for abstention from judicial work after Delhi Police transferred ACP Gandhi Nagar and the SHO of Shahdara Police Station. The decision was taken after a high-level meeting of Delhi Police officials and representatives of the Bar Council of Delhi (B...

Manipur tension flares after bodies of two missing Kuki youths found

Tension has increased in Manipur after two Kuki youths were found dead, sparking protests and clashes. Security forces faced difficulties in controlling large gatherings of demonstrators demanding justice. The Committee on Tribal Unity has outlined five demands for the government to meet before they accept the deceased's bodies. Political leaders from the Manipur Congress are discussing the law and order situation amid ongoing violence.

Cyclone Murasu crosses Andhra Pradesh coast; triggers heavy rain, strong winds

Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 3 (IANS) Heavy rains with gusty winds lashed parts of south coastal Andhra Pradesh as the severe cyclonic storm Murasu in the Bay of Bengal crossed the coast between Nellore and Narasapur early Tuesday, According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletin, the severe cyclonic storm crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur close to between 3.30 a.m. and 5.30 a.m. with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph. It lay centered at 5.30 a.m. over south coastal Andhra Pradesh, close to Ongole, about 40 km southwest of Bapatla, 80 km north-northeast of Kavali, and 120 km from Machilipatnam. It is likely to continue to move North-northwestwards and weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm (wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph) by noon and further into a deep depression (wind speed reaching 55-65 kmph gusting to 75 kmph) by midnight of this day. It is under the continuous surveillance of Doppler Weather Radars at Machilipatnam and Visakhapatnam, the IMD said. Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) Centre and the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) are continuously monitoring the situation. Prakhar Jain, MD of SDMA and CEO of the RTGS, has urged people to remain on high alert. In case of any issues, people can report them at any time via 'Mana Mithra' at 9552300009. Murasu triggered heavy rain in the south coastal region since Monday. According to APSDMA, Naguluppalapadu in Prakasam district recorded the highest rainfall of 198.01 mm between 8.30 a.m. on Monday and 6 a.m. on Tuesday. Kothapatnam recorded 182.25 mm of rainfall, while Bapatla received 128.53 mm of rainfall. Chirala recorded 124.10 mm; Throvagunta in Prakasam district recorded 116.93 mm; Ongole Urban recorded 106.97 mm, and Chilakapadu recorded 104.50 mm of rainfall. Heavy rains are likely in several districts on Tuesday. Widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall, is expected over Bapatla, Guntur, Krishna, Palnadu, NTR, Eluru, and West Godavari districts. Widespread moderate rainfall, with isolated heavy rainfall, is expected over East Godavari, Polavaram, Kakinada, Konaseema, Prakasam, and Markapuram districts. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy on Tuesday directed RTC and Transport Department officials to give the highest priority to the safety of passengers in cyclone-affected areas. He directed officials to continuously monitor weather conditions and make decisions regarding bus operations accordingly. In areas experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds, bus services should be temporarily suspended, if necessary. The minister said road conditions should be monitored regularly, and buses must be operated only along safe routes.

US Democrat Pooja Sethi dares Paxton to condemn Bo French's attacks on Indian Americans

Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 3 (IANS) Indian American Democrat Pooja Sethi, who is running for the Texas House of Representatives, has challenged Republican US Senate nominee Ken Paxton to condemn party colleague Bo French's posts targeting Indian Americans, accusing Paxton of courting the community's votes while staying silent. Waiting for @KenPaxtonTX to condemn Bo French's bigoted attacks on Indian Americans. Or does that outrage disappear when he needs our votes? Sethi wrote on X on the eve of Tuesday's election. Sethi, the Democratic candidate for Texas House District 47 in Austin, was quoting a post by X user Vasant Bhatt, who said he had been told by sources that Paxton visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Irving on October 31. So you want to walk into our temples, kneel before our deities, and participate in our sacred worship when there's an election to win, while simultaneously associating yourself with and endorsing people who are unabashed Hinduphobes and racists? Bhatt wrote. He added that he was currently seeking photographic confirmation of the reported visit. French, the Republican nominee for the Texas Railroad Commission, the state's oil and gas regulator, set off the row on September 13 with a post on X over a photograph of University of Texas students, many of them of South Asian descent, celebrating a football win. I heard UT graduation this year looked like this. I didn't believe it. The problem is now obviously far worse than anyone imagined, French wrote. The post has been viewed more than 54 million times, according to X. The same day, Paxton, who is the Texas Attorney General, posted: I condemn racism in all its forms, including James Talarico saying white men are America's top terror threat and that he prays to overcome his own 'whiteness,' whatever that means. He did not name French. Talarico, a Democrat, is Paxton's opponent in the Senate race. Talarico had earlier asked on X: @KenPaxtonTX: will you condemn this blatant racism or will you cower to extremists? Sethi has made the issue central to her final pitch. At a time when hate is on the rise, we have the opportunity to make history. We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced. Hate has no home in Texas, she posted on Sunday. If elected, Sethi would be the first South Asian woman in the Texas Legislature She is an attorney and a former chair of the Travis County Democratic Party. Paxton's campaign did not immediately respond to the posts. Texas votes on Tuesday.

CTI demands ban on rallies, protests until Bhaiya Dooj; claims loss of Rs 14,000 crore in a month

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) on Tuesday wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner, demanding that no rallies, sit-ins or protest marches be permitted at major locations in the national capital, including Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar and Ramlila Maidan, until November 11, the day of 'Bhaiya Dooj'. In its letter dated November 3, the traders' body expressed concern over the financial losses suffered by businesses due to frequent demonstrations and traffic disruptions over the past month. It urged the police to ensure that no further protests are allowed at prominent locations, particularly in Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar, Ramlila Maidan, India Gate, Rajghat, Delhi Gate, Central Delhi and Old Delhi, until the festive period concludes. CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal said traders had already suffered substantial financial losses due to rallies and sit-ins and were no longer in a position to bear further disruptions, particularly during the peak festive shopping season. According to the CTI's estimates, businesses in Delhi suffered losses of approximately Rs 14,000 crore between October 1 and November 1. The CTI claimed that frequent demonstrations and protest marches at Jantar Mantar, Connaught Place, Patel Chowk and Janpath throughout October led to persistent traffic congestion in Central Delhi. As a result, retail businesses, hotels, restaurants and transport operators in Connaught Place, Janpath, Palika Bazaar, Khan Market, Karol Bagh, Paharganj and Kamala Market suffered estimated losses of around Rs 3,000 crore between October 1 and October 30. The traders' body claimed that the mega rally organised at Ramlila Maidan on November 1 alone resulted in business losses of approximately Rs 11,000 crore across several sectors. Of this, the retail and wholesale trade sector accounted for an estimated Rs 8,800 crore in losses. The CTI said around three lakh shops operate within a five-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan, covering major commercial hubs such as Kashmere Gate, Mori Gate, Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazaar, Khari Baoli, Naya Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, Ajmeri Gate, Daryaganj, Paharganj, Kamala Market, Jama Masjid, Bhagirath Palace, Lajpat Rai Market, Kinari Bazaar, Dariba Kalan, Ballimaran, Fatehpuri, Tilak Bazaar, Connaught Place, Palika Bazaar, Gaffar Market and Karol Bagh. It claimed that around 2.5 lakh shops remained completely shut on the day of the rally, bringing nearly 80 per cent of commercial activity to a standstill. The organisation said the rally coincided with one of the busiest shopping periods of the year, immediately ahead of Dhanteras on November 6 and Diwali on November 8. It further claimed that the rally created panic among nearly 3-4 lakh customers who regularly visit Delhi's markets from around 100 neighbouring cities and towns, including Sonipat, Panipat, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Noida, Meerut, Bahadurgarh and Jhajjar. Many customers reportedly cancelled their shopping plans. The CTI estimated losses of Rs 1,500 crore in the transport and logistics sector, claiming that movement of vehicles and goods within a 10-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan was severely disrupted. Loading and unloading operations reportedly came to a halt, affecting the movement of goods across major markets. According to the traders' body, around 5,000 trucks and tempos carrying goods from 56 industrial areas, including Narela, Bawana, Okhla, Mayapuri, Mundka and Udyog Nagar, arrive in these markets daily. Another 3,000 trucks transport goods from Delhi to different parts of the country, including the National Capital Region (NCR). The CTI said the entire supply chain was disrupted during the rally, while buses, cars and tempos remained stranded on JLN Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg. It added that thousands of transport vehicles were caught in traffic congestion, leaving drivers and helpers stranded without adequate food and drinking water. The hotel, restaurant, hospitality and tourism sectors reportedly suffered losses of around Rs 500 crore. The CTI claimed that bookings were cancelled at more than 2,000 hotels, restaurants, guest houses and eateries across Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, Paharganj, Chandni Chowk and Daryaganj. Tourists, including domestic and foreign visitors, also faced difficulties visiting popular destinations such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk. The informal sector and daily-wage workers suffered estimated losses of Rs 200 crore, according to the traders' body. It said nearly 20 lakh people, including employees, loaders, auto-rickshaw drivers, street vendors, porters and coolies working in these markets, lost their daily earnings due to the disruption. The CTI said the impact was particularly severe on workers belonging to economically weaker sections. Expressing concern over the upcoming festive season, Goyal said Dhanteras falls on November 6, Diwali on November 8 and Bhaiya Dooj on November 11. He said the next 10 days represented the biggest business opportunity of the year for around 20 lakh traders and 75 lakh employees associated with Delhi's commercial establishments. If rallies and protests continue every day, the entire Diwali business will be ruined. Traders are no longer in a position to bear further losses, Goyal said. The CTI has put forward three demands before the Delhi Police Commissioner. First, no rallies, protests or demonstrations should be permitted at Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar, Ramlila Maidan, or India Gate until November 11. Second, alternative venues such as Burari, Alipur, Jasola and Yamuna Khadar should be designated for organising rallies and demonstrations. Third, smooth traffic movement and adequate parking arrangements should be ensured in Central Delhi throughout the festive season. Issuing a warning, Goyal said traders would be compelled to surrender the keys to their shops to the organisers of rallies and protests if their businesses continued to suffer during the crucial festive period.

Psychiatrists call for sports, creative activities to become integral to medical education

Srinagar, Nov 2:The ongoing SKIMS Sports Series 2026 is aimed at helping medical students cope with academic pressure and the demanding nature of their profession, while promoting physical and mental well-being, doctors associated with the programme said. The 12-day sports series is being organised across the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, and SKIMS Medical College to encourage students to participate in sports and extracurricular activities. Dr Musharraf, a member of the organising team, said medical students faced considerable psychological stress due to long hospital rounds, academic rigour and demanding clinical responsibilities. Medicine is a vast field, and medical students face a lot of psychological stress, from long hospital rounds to academic pressure. Sports play a pivotal role in mitigating that stress and helping us develop physically and mentally fit doctors, he said. Dr Musharraf said the series had started on a positive note, with the organisers hopeful of greater participation from students of both institutions. He said sports should not be viewed as an activity meant exclusively for professional athletes, adding that medical students and healthcare professionals also needed opportunities to participate in recreational and competitive activities. He said the demanding workload and mental pressure faced by doctors made participation in sports particularly important for their overall development. Dr Rasika, a psychiatrist associated with the programme, said physical health and mental well-being were interconnected and needed to be addressed through a holistic approach. Physical health should not be the only priority. It should be a holistic approach which includes mental health. Only when your mental health is fine will your physical health be on track, she said. Dr Rasika said sports and creative activities should be incorporated into the medical curriculum instead of being confined to annual events or professional athletes. These activities keep their motivation levels high and teach them how to approach and manage situations. They add another dimension to coping mechanisms, she said. Dr Rasika said medical students and doctors often faced mentally exhausting situations while dealing with patients, making it important for them to develop healthy ways of managing stress. She said even mental health professionals could experience emotional exhaustion while dealing with certain conditions and might themselves require therapeutic support. Sports serve as a coping mechanism. The body learns to deal with stress and prepares itself to face challenging situations, she said. The doctors said regular participation in sports and extracurricular activities could help medical students develop resilience, improve their mental and physical health and prepare them for the demands of the medical profession.

Sports key to holistic development of future doctors: Dr Abdul Majid

Srinagar, Nov 2: The Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) is organising a 12-day sports programme across its Soura campus and SKIMS Medical College to promote mental and physical well-being among medical students and healthcare professionals. The programme is being organised as part of the observance of World Mental Health Awareness Month, from October 10 to November 10, with the Department of Psychiatry taking the lead. Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry Dr Abdul Majid said the initiative was aimed at encouraging a holistic approach to the development of medical students, with sports and extracurricular activities playing an important role in maintaining mental and physical health. Sports are among the best extracurricular activities that can help in developing a person holistically. We need to ensure that our students are physically and mentally fit, he said. Dr Majid said the programme was being organised on the directions of the SKIMS Director and the principal of the medical college, with the aim of promoting mental health awareness through activities beyond academics. He said the initiative also followed the Supreme Court's recent emphasis on the mental and physical well-being of students across educational institutions in the country. Dr Majid said sports activities should be integrated into the medical curriculum, rather than being restricted to annual events. Sports should be part and parcel of the curriculum. A yearly or even six-monthly activity at any institution would be of great help in developing these youngsters into role models for tomorrow, he said. He said medical students, who often face demanding academic schedules and clinical responsibilities, needed opportunities to engage in activities that support their overall well-being. Dr Majid said sports also help build professional relationships and strengthen networking among students, contributing to their development as future healthcare professionals. He said the programme would convey the message of saying yes to life and no to drugs, while encouraging students to make physical and mental fitness a part of their daily lives.

Mehbooba urges Centre to initiate dialogue with J&K

Srinagar, Nov 2: People's Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference (NC), holding the party responsible for what she described as an atmosphere of mistrust between the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir, and accusing it of repeatedly changing its political position on the Kashmir issue to suit its pursuit of power. Addressing a workers' convention in Srinagar, the former chief minister traced the political developments in Jammu and Kashmir to the events surrounding the 1947 accession, questioning the NC's subsequent political positions and its handling of the region's special constitutional status. She said Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India was signed by NC founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, despite the region being Muslim-majority. However, she alleged that the party subsequently changed its position and began demanding a plebiscite. Who is responsible for this atmosphere of suspicion? Mehbooba asked, alleging that the NC had created confusion among people through its shifting political positions. Referring to the period between the accession and the 1975 Indira-Sheikh Accord, she said the NC had advocated a plebiscite for nearly 22 years before abandoning the demand and returning to power through an agreement with then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. She pointed out that Sheikh Abdullah accepted the position of chief minister under the accord despite his party having no elected MLAs at the time. When you became chief minister instead of prime minister, you told people to forget the plebiscite because you needed power, she said, accusing the NC founder of compromising his earlier political position for power. Mehbooba further argued that India's leadership, including Jawaharlal Nehru and B R Ambedkar, had provided J&K with a special status and its own constitution, but subsequent political developments had created doubts in New Delhi about the region. She alleged that the consequences of these political reversals extended beyond individual leaders, with suspicion eventually affecting the wider population of J&K. The PDP president maintained that the NC had repeatedly harmed the interests of the region and asserted that peace would remain elusive as long as the party continued to govern J&K. Mehbooba also sought to defend the PDP's decision to enter into an alliance with the BJP in 2014 to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir, asking party workers not to feel embarrassed when confronted by the NC over the political arrangement. She urged her workers to counter the NC's criticism by reminding people of Sheikh Abdullah's political compromises and what she described as the party's inconsistent stand on Kashmir. The PDP chief also took an apparent swipe at NC President Farooq Abdullah, without explicitly naming him, over his remarks suggesting that Pakistan was protecting Kashmir. She alleged that such statements amounted to sending a political signal to New Delhi that Kashmiris were aligned with Pakistan. Turning her criticism towards the Centre, Mehbooba said the Kashmir issue required political engagement and dialogue rather than an approach centred on security measures and coercive action. She argued that invoking stringent laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA), or terminating government employees from service, would not resolve the underlying political concerns. Kashmir cannot be resolved by using the UAPA, PSA or dismissing employees from service. It can be resolved through dialogue, Mehbooba said. She also called for reopening traditional trade routes connecting Jammu and Kashmir with Central Asian cities, including Kashgar, Khotan and Yarkand, arguing that renewed economic and commercial connectivity could contribute to addressing the region's longstanding issues. Drawing a comparison with the arrangements at Lipulekh in Uttarakhand, she questioned why similar possibilities for opening traditional routes could not be explored in Jammu and Kashmir. Mehbooba warned that a policy relying on force and restrictions could not be sustained indefinitely, questioning how long the authorities expected to silence public concerns through such measures. The former CM alleged that people in J&K had endured prolonged restrictions and pressure over the past seven years. Referring to July 22 and October 12, she claimed that developments on these dates had given people in the rest of the country a glimpse of the conditions Kashmiris had been experiencing for years. She said people elsewhere had found it difficult to endure such circumstances even for a single day, whereas the population of J&K had faced them for an extended period.

Festive rush, bitter returns at Asia's second-largest fruit market

Srinagar, Nov 02: At Asia's second-largest fruit market in Sopore, the festive rush is bringing brisk business, with hundreds of trucks carrying Kashmir apples to markets across India and neighbouring countries. But for many growers, the busy trading season has a bitter side: while premium apples are commanding good prices ahead of Diwali and Chhath Puja, disease-hit fruit is fetching barely Rs 200 to Rs 250 a box. The contrast is stark. Buyers are looking for large, clean apples, but pest attacks and diseases have left growers with more lower-grade produce in a season when the overall crop is also down. According to representatives of Sopore Fruit Mandi, around 200 to 250 trucks are leaving the market daily, with apple dispatches estimated at 2.5 lakh to 3.5 lakh boxes. The consignments are headed to markets across India, besides Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan. Zahoor Ahmad Tantray, General Secretary of Fruit Mandi Sopore, said demand was particularly encouraging for premium-quality fruit, with buyers from different parts of the country seeking larger apples ahead of the festivals. Rates are good for good-quality apples and demand is also strong. Especially during Diwali, there is considerable demand for large apples, locally known as Char Tahi (4 layer) and Do Tahi (2 layer). Buyers from different parts of the country approach us for this quality, Tantray said. The problem, however, is that much of this year's produce has failed to meet the quality sought by buyers. Scab, Alternaria, leaf miner and aphids have damaged the crop, increasing the proportion of B-grade and C-grade apples reaching the mandi. Unfortunately, this year we have seen more B-grade and C-grade apples because of diseases and pest attacks. Scab, Alternaria, leaf miner and aphids have caused considerable damage. B- and C-grade apples are fetching only around Rs 200 to Rs 250 per box, and because of this many growers are heading towards losses, Tantray said. For orchardists, the quality of the harvest has become as important as the strength of market demand. Growers with premium fruit are benefiting from the festive buying, while those whose apples have been affected by diseases are struggling to secure remunerative prices. Tantray said the overall crop was lower this year, but the mandi continued to handle substantial quantities of fruit. Some trucks carry around 3,000 to 3,500 boxes, and when we calculate the total daily movement, it comes to around 2.5 to 3.5 lakh boxes. Despite the lower crop, the market is functioning well, he said. An outstation merchant said the demand for Kashmir apples remained strong, particularly for fruit with good colour, size and appearance. Demand is particularly good for clean and attractive fruit. With Diwali and Chhath Puja approaching, buyers are looking for quality. The problem is mainly with inferior-grade apples, which are difficult to sell at remunerative prices, the merchant said. The quality concerns have also prompted growers to seek stronger measures against pests and diseases that have affected their orchards. Manzoor Ahmad, a grower from Hadipora, said farmers were satisfied with the rates offered for good-quality apples, but infestations had taken a heavy toll on the crop. We are getting good rates for quality apples, but leaf miner and other pests have affected the crop badly. These problems must be controlled at the earliest to protect growers and improve fruit quality in the coming years, he said. Growers have urged the authorities and horticulture experts to strengthen pest surveillance and disease-control measures to prevent similar damage in the coming seasons. Even as traders prepare consignments for the festive markets, transportation has emerged as another concern. Tantray urged the administration to reopen Tulbul Bridge, saying its closure for repairs over the past ten days had added to difficulties during a crucial period for fruit movement. The bridge has been under repair for around ten days. We hope it will be opened soon. Chhath Puja loading has already started, and any further delay will create more problems for growers, traders and the general public, he said.

Robots enter Kashmir's saffron fields

Pampore, Nov 02: In Kashmir's saffron fields, where extracting a kilogram of the prized spice requires separating the red stigmas of nearly 1.6 lakh flowers by hand, scientists are testing robots to take over some of the most labour-intensive work involved in its cultivation. On Monday, the experimental machines were put to the test at the Advanced Research Station for Saffron and Seed Spices in Konibal, Pampore, where scientists demonstrated robotic systems designed to remove weeds, pick saffron flowers and separate their delicate stigmas. The field trials, conducted under a Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)-supported project in collaboration with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), offered growers a glimpse of how automation could change the way Kashmir's most valuable spice is cultivated and processed. For scientists, the immediate challenge is to reduce the dependence on manual labour, which remains one of the biggest constraints on saffron cultivation. Prof Syed Zameer Hussain, Director Research at SKUAST-K and Chief Principal Investigator of the project, said harvesting flowers and separating stigmas are among the most demanding operations in saffron production. To obtain just one kilogram of dry saffron, growers must separate stigmas from approximately 1,60,000 flowers, he said. Scientists are now developing robotic arms fitted with vision systems to identify and pick flowers in the field, along with mechanical units capable of separating the red stigmas after harvesting. Hussain said the trials had shown encouraging results and that researchers were aiming to make field-ready machines available to farmers by next year. Another prototype demonstrated on Monday was an autonomous weeding robot, developed to address the persistent problem of weeds in saffron fields. Unlike crops where weeding is confined to a particular season, saffron fields require repeated attention almost throughout the year. The robot is designed to identify and remove weeds, with its navigation and operation controlled through a mobile application. SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who attended the demonstration, said the machines were being developed in collaboration with leading national research institutions, including C-DAC Kolkata and CMERI Durgapur. He said trials would continue over the next month or two, while the technology could take one to two years to be fully refined for wider use. Ganai said the shortage of agricultural labour had become a serious concern for growers across Jammu and Kashmir, with younger people increasingly reluctant to take up physically demanding farm work. Although climate change, prolonged dry spells and erratic weather have affected saffron production, he said the heavy dependence on manual labour was another major obstacle to sustaining cultivation. Mechanisation, he said, could help address that difficulty and make saffron farming more attractive to younger generations. Dr Showkat Rasool, In-charge of SKUAST-K's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, said the project was conceived about a year ago in response to declining saffron acreage and yields and the difficulties associated with manual cultivation. He said the automated weeding system had already been validated during important stages of the crop cycle, including November, March and the June-July period. The project, now in its second year, involves CMERI Durgapur, CMERI Ludhiana, CMTI Bengaluru, C-DAC Kolkata and C-DAC Mohali. Dr Sunita Verma, Scientist G and Group Coordinator, R&D in IT at MeitY, said the initiative was intended to use electronics and information technology to address practical problems faced by farmers. Besides saffron, the programme covers technological interventions in walnut and apple cultivation. Verma said farmers had been consulted while developing the project and were being involved in evaluating the prototypes. Their feedback, she said, would be important in identifying limitations and making the machines suitable for actual farm conditions. Monday's demonstration was held as part of the third meeting of the National Steering Committee under the National Programme on Application of Electronics and ICT in Himalayan Region Crop Management, known as Agri-Excellence. The committee will continue its review at SKUAST-K's Shalimar campus on Tuesday. The university has also developed machines for preparing saffron beds and planting corms, with the corm-planting equipment already operational at the research station. Ganai said researchers had additionally developed an intercropping system that allows saffron and black cumin, locally known as Kala Jeera, to be cultivated in the same field. The university is producing and distributing planting material to encourage farmers to adopt the practice.

Long hours, little security for Kashmir's delivery riders

Srinagar, Nov 02: Behind every food delivery that reaches a doorstep in Srinagar is a worker navigating traffic, covering long distances and racing against time, often at the cost of his health, financial security and personal well-being. For thousands of young people seeking livelihood opportunities in a region grappling with persistent unemployment, food delivery platforms have emerged as an accessible source of work. However, a new study examining the working conditions of food delivery workers in Srinagar has exposed the precarious reality behind this growing employment model, finding that flexibility and independence often come at the expense of decent earnings, job security and social protection. Titled 'Working Conditions, Financial Resilience and Job Motivation in the Gig Economy: A Study of Food Delivery Workers in Srinagar', the research draws on primary data collected from 71 male food delivery workers through structured questionnaires. The findings paint a picture of a young, entirely male workforce, with participation concentrated in the 18-34 age group. While gig work offers an opportunity to earn without entering conventional employment structures, the study finds that workers face long working hours, extensive travel and mounting operational expenses. Unlike conventional employment, where employers generally provide infrastructure and bear several operational costs, food delivery workers largely depend on their own vehicles and pay for fuel and maintenance themselves, the research reads. These expenses eat into their earnings, leaving workers dissatisfied with the financial returns despite the time and effort invested in the job. The study identifies a fundamental contradiction in the gig economyworkers value the freedom to manage their schedules and the autonomy associated with platform-based employment, but remain unhappy with wages and the limited prospects of career advancement. For many young workers, the flexibility offered by food delivery platforms provides an alternative to prolonged unemployment. However, the absence of predictable earnings and a clear career path makes this arrangement an uncertain source of livelihood. The researchers found that financial resilience among the respondents was moderate. Significantly, this resilience did not emerge from stable or sufficient earnings but was sustained largely through financial literacy, personal money-management practices and support from social networks. Workers rely more on their ability to manage volatile incomes and seek assistance through personal connections than on any dependable financial safety net, the study reads. This leaves them particularly vulnerable to unexpected expenses, medical emergencies and periods of reduced work. The research also highlights the physical risks associated with the occupation. Long working hours and extensive travel expose delivery workers to fatigue, road accidents and musculoskeletal problems, the study notes. The psychological burden is equally concerning. Income fluctuations, workload pressures and uncertainty over daily earnings contribute to stress, making the occupation considerably more demanding than its flexible structure might suggest. The findings further reveal inconsistencies in institutional support. While 50.70 per cent of respondents perceived their platforms as providing adequate assistance during disputes or emergencies, 15.49 per cent considered such support insufficient. The gap points towards the need for more transparent grievance-redressal systems and reliable mechanisms to protect workers when they encounter difficulties while performing their duties. The researchers conclude that the existing structure of gig employment in Srinagar is economically and socially unsustainable without policy intervention. They argue that the costs of maintaining vehicles, managing health risks and coping with income fluctuations are disproportionately borne by workers, while the absence of conventional employment benefits leaves them exposed to financial shocks. The study recommends extending social security coverage to gig workers, introducing health and accident insurance, ensuring minimum-earning guarantees and establishing effective platform-level grievance-redressal mechanisms. It also calls for stronger policy recognition of platform-based workers, whose contribution to the expanding digital economy has not necessarily translated into corresponding employment protections. The research assumes particular significance in Jammu and Kashmir, where limited conventional employment opportunities have made alternative livelihood arrangements increasingly important for young people. By documenting the experiences of food delivery workers in Srinagar, it brings attention to a segment of the workforce often missing from discussions on unemployment, labour welfare and economic security. The researchers acknowledge that the study is based on a relatively small sample of 71 male respondents, selected through convenience and snowball sampling. Its findings, therefore, should not be treated as representative of every food delivery worker in Srinagar or the wider region. Nevertheless, the research offers empirical insight into the challenges faced by workers in a rapidly expanding employment sector.

Omar Abdullah's Marriage: Time to Celebrate When the Political House is Burning?

Politics has its own sense of timing, and sometimes events unfolding simultaneously reveal more than lengthy political speeches. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has begun a new chapter in his personal life with his marriage to journalist Nidhi Razdan on October 30. The occasion deserves congratulations, and nobody has any business questioning his personal choices. But the political circumstances in which this new beginning has taken place raise an uncomfortable question: when the political house is burning, can its captain afford to remain detached from the fire? The National Conference is passing through a particularly turbulent phase. Its recent Cabinet reshuffle, instead of bringing stability, has exposed serious internal differences. Legislators are openly expressing resentment, senior leaders feel marginalised, regional representation has become controversial, and Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi has announced his decision to leave the party and resign from Parliament. Omar Abdullah may have every reason to celebrate his personal happiness, but the people of Jammu and Kashmir have equally compelling reasons to demand answers about the government they elected. The issue is not his marriage. The issue is the political leadership and its priorities. A Cabinet reshuffle that has opened a Pandora's box The Cabinet expansion on October 27 was expected to strengthen the government after nearly two years of functioning with vacancies. Instead, it has generated a wave of dissatisfaction within the ruling party. At least 18 National Conference legislators reportedly assembled in Srinagar to discuss their grievances. Their concerns reportedly extend beyond ministerial accommodation to the functioning of the government, the influence of political advisers, the exclusion of senior leaders and the failure to fulfil electoral commitments. Some legislators have questioned why people without an electoral mandate enjoy significant access to the Chief Minister while elected representatives struggle to secure an effective voice in decision-making. The public dissatisfaction expressed by senior leaders such as Mubarak Gul and Abdul Majid Larmi has further exposed the depth of the problem. This is no longer simply a question of who became a minister and who did not. It is a question of whether the elected representatives of the National Conference have confidence in the political management of their own government. A Chief Minister who cannot adequately address the grievances of his own legislators will inevitably face questions about his ability to maintain political cohesion. The Abdullah family's political inheritance under scrutiny The National Conference has a long history and a political legacy associated with Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and subsequently Farooq Abdullah. But political inheritance cannot become a permanent substitute for organisational democracy. The party's present predicament raises questions about the concentration of political authority around the Abdullah family and the limited space available to independent voices. Aga Ruhullah Mehdi's announced departure has added another dimension to this debate. His public criticism, including his allegation that the party treats Jammu and Kashmir like a family estate, is particularly damaging because it comes from within the National Conference's own political ranks. His objections concern unfulfilled electoral commitments and the leadership's approach to political accountability. The National Conference may disagree with his assessment, but it cannot ignore the political significance of a sitting MP publicly distancing himself from the party leadership. When legislators and elected representatives begin questioning the political culture of their own organisation, the leadership must recognise that the problem extends beyond individual ambitions. Jammu's political exclusion The Cabinet reshuffle has also revived an old and sensitive question: does Jammu receive adequate political representation in a government elected to administer the entire Union Territory? The dropping of Satish Sharma has left the Jammu plains without representation in the Council of Ministers. The erstwhile Doda District also continues to remain unrepresented. For a region that has repeatedly complained about political neglect, this development has naturally generated resentment. The National Conference cannot seek votes across Jammu and Kashmir and then treat regional representation as a secondary consideration while distributing political power. Jammu's concerns are not about demanding special privileges. They are about democratic representation, dignity and equal participation in governance. Omar Abdullah must explain why the Cabinet's composition has generated such widespread regional dissatisfaction. The government cannot expect people to accept political imbalance merely because the Chief Minister considers the reshuffle an internal administrative decision. Election promises: Where is the accountability? The National Conference secured its mandate in 2024 on a series of significant political and economic commitments. Restoration of statehood, protection of rights, employment opportunities and relief on economic concerns were central to the party's campaign. Two years later, people are entitled to ask what has actually been delivered. The most uncomfortable aspect for Omar Abdullah is that questions about these promises are now emerging from within his own party. Aga Ruhullah's criticism has brought the issue of political credibility into sharp focus. An election manifesto is not a document to be remembered only during campaigning. It represents a commitment to the electorate. The Chief Minister must provide a transparent account of the commitments fulfilled, those still pending and the reasons for delays. The people of Jammu and Kashmir did not elect a government merely to witness a change in political personalities. They expected meaningful governance and measurable results. Celebrations cannot replace political responsibility Omar Abdullah's marriage is a private milestone. But his public office carries responsibilities that cannot be put on hold. The Chief Minister must address the growing dissatisfaction among legislators, explain the rationale behind the Cabinet reshuffle, respond to regional concerns and restore confidence among people who supported his party. The National Conference cannot afford to treat every disagreement as a conspiracy or every dissatisfied legislator as an opponent of the leadership. Democratic organisations survive through consultation, accommodation and accountability, not through unquestioning loyalty to individuals. There is also a larger political irony. The party that frequently invokes its historical legacy and claims to represent the aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir must now answer questions about its own internal democratic functioning. The BJP, as the principal opposition, will naturally examine these developments and question the government's performance. But the ultimate accountability is not to the opposition; it is to the electorate. The morning after the celebrations The wedding celebrations will eventually end. The guests will return, the photographs will become memories and the couple will embark on their new journey. But the political crisis will not disappear with the celebrations. The disgruntled legislators will still expect answers. Jammu will continue to demand adequate representation. The announced departure of Aga Ruhullah will remain a serious political development. The electorate will continue asking about promises that have yet to translate into results. Omar Abdullah must now demonstrate that he can manage the responsibilities of the government through consultation and political accountability rather than relying exclusively on the authority of his office and his family's legacy. A Chief Minister's greatest political achievement is not the management of party positions or the preservation of family influence. It is the confidence he commands among the people he governs. There is nothing wrong with celebrating a new beginning in personal life. But when the political house is burning, the responsibility of its captain is to extinguish the fire before it consumes the entire establishment. Omar Abdullah has begun a new chapter in his personal life. Jammu and Kashmir is still waiting for a convincing new chapter in governance. (Sunil Sethi is Chief Spokesperson, JK BJP and Altaf Thakur is Spokesperson, JK BJP)

Ultrashort laser pulses can slice lab-grown diamond along useful crystal plane

More than just a precious gemstone for jewelry, diamond has properties that make it attractive for several next-generation, high-performance technologies. Its high thermal conductivity can help move heat away from semiconductor devices, while its wide bandgap is promising for high-power electronics. Moreover, its transparency in the visible light range makes diamond useful for demanding optical applications.

Supreme Court ends monitoring of Ram Mandir donation theft probe after UP files charge sheet

The Supreme Court concluded the court-monitored investigation on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir donation theft case. This decision came after the Uttar Pradesh government submitted a charge sheet regarding the allegations. The case involved claims of cash misappropriation by individuals during the donation counting process. The Supreme Court allowed petitioners to assist in the trial court proceedings. The trial court has been directed to proceed according to legal protocols.

Dhinidhi Desinghu wins historic bronze in women's 100m freestyle at Youth Olympics

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) There was a time when Dhinidhi Desinghu was so frightened of water that she ran back home in her swimsuit rather than enter a swimming pool. On Monday, the 16-year-old Bengaluru swimmer stood on the podium at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, having clinched a bronze medal in the women's 100m freestyle. Dhinidhi clocked a personal best of 56.27 seconds in the final to finish third behind Croatia's Ana Bobanovic (55.89) and New Zealand's Alyssa Lawson (56.13), becoming the first Indian female swimmer to reach a final at the Youth Olympics. For the teenager, who had once actively disliked swimming, the achievement marked a remarkable transformation from a reluctant beginner to one of India's most promising young swimmers. I know I was really scared. There's a story from when I was six or seven... We went to the pool during summer break... I went to the pool and then ran back home in my swimsuit because I just hated being there, Dhinidhi told Olympics.com after winning her medal. Her parents had to enter the pool themselves to persuade her to get into the water. Swimming was initially introduced as a recreational activity, largely because the pool was close to home and convenient for her parents to take her for lessons. Dhinidhi, who preferred spending time alone reading books rather than engaging in outdoor activities, gradually developed an interest in the sport as she grew older. I'm not really sure how I fell in love with swimming, but as the years went by, I grew to love it, she said. Her competitive instincts eventually became a driving force, with swimming providing an outlet for her desire to challenge herself and win. That determination took her to the Paris 2024 Olympics at just 14, where she was the youngest member of the Indian contingent. For someone who had grown up watching the world's leading swimmers on television, competing alongside them was an unforgettable experience. You see these swimmers on TV, and suddenly they're standing next to you, competing in the same events, swimming in the same pool and even in the same lanes, she recalled. Among those who left her starstruck was French swimming sensation Leon Marchand. However, the experience extended beyond the pool, with life in the Olympic Village, interactions with athletes from different countries and exchanging pins among her cherished memories. There were so many things I experienced at 14 that I don't think many athletes get to experience in their entire lives. People train for years, sometimes their whole lives, to become Olympians. To be able to say that I became one at 14 was, in a way, lucky. But at the same time, I worked really hard for it, she said. Two years after her Olympic debut, Dhinidhi arrived in Dakar with greater experience and confidence. She clocked 56.80 seconds in the 100m freestyle heats, the third-fastest time overall, to qualify for the final. It was also the first time she had gone below 57 seconds in a morning heat. She improved her performance further in the final, lowering her personal best by 0.53 seconds to secure the bronze medal. However, the teenager revealed that her primary focus had been on improving her timing rather than winning a medal. I wasn't really thinking about a medal. It was mostly about improving my time, she said. Despite celebrating her podium finish, Dhinidhi's competitive spirit meant she was already thinking about what could have been better. Every athlete comes here to win gold. A medal is a medal, but at the end of the day, everybody is competitive and everybody wants that gold medal, she added. Behind the achievement are years of demanding training schedules, early mornings and sacrifices. Asked whom she would dedicate the medal to, Dhinidhi came up with an answer that reflected both gratitude and self-belief. Probably my mom, my dad and myself. The swimmer explained that while athletes often acknowledge the people who support them, they sometimes forget to recognise their own efforts and perseverance. I feel like I thank a lot of people, but I sometimes forget to thank myself for going through all of this. It's hard to get up in the morning, put in all that effort, go to the gym, work so hard and get into the pool every day, she said. Recalling the difficult training sessions, including days when she had to train alone, she added, So I kind of want to thank myself as well for putting in all that work. For a girl who once ran away from a swimming pool, the bronze medal in Dakar represents much more than a podium finish. Dhinidhi now hopes to use the Youth Olympic achievement as a stepping stone towards a bigger ambition: winning an Olympic medal in swimming, something India has yet to achieve. The people competing here (at the Youth Olympics) are going to be my competitors one day at future Olympics. Winning a medal here shows that maybe, if I keep this steady pace going, I could win a medal at the Olympics, she said. She also hopes her journey will inspire more girls to take up swimming and help the sport gain greater recognition in India. We're not really a swimming nation, and it's not common to see women do well in our sport. To see that I've inspired a lot of people, especially girls and even non-swimmers, means a lot, she added.

Niloufer Survey Flags Bed Shortage, Poor Sanitation

The organisations staged a protest in front of the hospital and submitted a memorandum to superintendent Vijay Kumar, demanding immediate action: Reports

Fake govt cyber forensic specialist, forex trading promises: Gujarat businessman duped of Rs 1.24 crore

Digital Desk | Surat, Nov 2 (IANS) A man posing as a government cyber forensic specialist allegedly cheated a Surat-based petrochemical businessman of Rs 1.24 crore by promising lucrative returns through forex trading, cryptocurrency and overseas funds, before using the money to purchase property and luxury cars in Mumbai, police said on Monday. The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell has arrested the main accused, Priyank Vyas, 34, from Mira Road in Mumbai. A chartered accountant, Rohan Kelawala, who allegedly introduced Vyas to the complainant and facilitated the transactions, is absconding. According to the police, the accused and his associates collected Rs 1,29,25,100 from the complainant and his friend in 21 instalments over 11 months, between November 2025 and October 2026. Of this, Rs 4.70 lakh was returned to the complainant, leaving Rs 1,24,53,900 unpaid. The fraud came to light after the complainant, a petrochemical businessman, approached a chartered accountant in Surat in November 2025 for assistance with banking and loan-related work. The accountant allegedly told him that he invested clients' money in forex trading and introduced him to Vyas, describing him as a cyber forensic expert and cryptocurrency specialist. The two met at a hotel in Mumbai. To gain the businessman's confidence, Vyas allegedly displayed a fake identity card bearing the national emblem and identifying him as Dr Priyank Samirbhai Vyas Forensic Cyber Crime Specialist, Cyber Forensic Department, Mumbai. He also claimed that his car carried a government board and used a UPI ID named 'fslcyberforensic' and an email address named 'fslmumbai'. Vyas initially sought Rs 18 lakh, claiming that the amount was required to renew the IP address of a terminal developed by him. He promised to return Rs 30 lakh within 60 days and also offered the complainant a 20 per cent partnership in his business. On January 21 this year, the complainant sent Rs 18 lakh in cash to the chartered accountant's office. The accused subsequently communicated with the complainant through a 'Work' group on the BOTIM application, discussing IP purchases, software updates, cryptocurrency transactions and pre-authorised cards. Screenshots of USDT transactions and photographs of VISA cards issued by foreign banks were allegedly shared to reinforce the impression that the transactions were genuine. Between February and October 2026, Vyas allegedly demanded further payments on various pretexts, including a Rs 15 crore server fund, a Rs 153 crore fund from Argentina, the withdrawal of 5.3 million US dollars from a card and the recovery of Bitcoin from the wallet of a person in Nashik. The money was collected as gas fees, transaction charges, withdrawal charges, processing fees and personal loans through cash, bank transfers, Google Pay, angadia channels and USDT. Police said the accused repeatedly displayed large balances on a laptop, sent screenshots showing 'Transaction Success' and subsequently claimed that transactions had failed. He cited reasons such as IP-related banking errors, withdrawal limit issues, an Ethereum server outage and 83,768 ETH being blocked because of the size of a transaction. He also claimed that a wallet audit had identified 17 errors, comprising 15 yellow and two red alerts, and demanded additional fees to resolve them. The accused allegedly returned small amounts at intervals, including Rs one lakh, Rs 15,000, Rs 5,000 and Rs 3.5 lakh, to maintain the victims' confidence and persuade them to make further payments. On some occasions, the complainant and his friends were called to hotel rooms in Mumbai, where Vyas allegedly demonstrated a purported live transfer of 1.96 BTC on a laptop described as a government terminal. He also added the complainant's bank account as a beneficiary and shared screenshots showing 'Payment Initiated', 'RTGS' and 'Withdrawal Processed Successfully'. The police said the money was not used for any server, fund or cryptocurrency transactions. Instead, Vyas allegedly purchased a property in Mumbai worth around Rs 1.5 crore, bought a BMW luxury car and booked another flat for which he paid approximately Rs 80 lakh as a token amount. Investigators are collecting documentary evidence to establish that these assets were acquired using the proceeds of the fraud and initiate legal action for their seizure or freezing. The investigation has also revealed two other alleged victims in Surat. One of the complainant's friends paid Rs 74.90 lakh in instalments through bank transfers and cash, while another Surat resident allegedly paid Rs 7.5 lakh. Police suspect that the accused may have collected nearly Rs two crore from victims in the city and are investigating whether more people were cheated. Police said Vyas and Kelawala had earlier been cheated while trading on a platform named GlobalSwiftPay. Although the platform displayed large US dollar balances, the money could not be withdrawn. Investigators suspect that the two subsequently used the same concept of displaying fictitious balances and demanding fees to cheat others. The police also alleged that Kelawala played a key role in introducing the complainant to Vyas. He had assured the businessman that the money would be returned with profits within 30 days and said the responsibility for repayment was his. He received the initial Rs 18 lakh at his office and sent a message stating '1800 received'. He was also the administrator of the BOTIM group and shared transaction screenshots and photographs of foreign bank cards. When the complainant sought updates, he allegedly replied, 'Waiting bro'. The case was registered at the Surat City Cyber Crime Police Station on October 30 under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. The FIR includes Sections 318(4), 204, 205, 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the BNS. A team led by Police Inspector N R Patel conducted the investigation under the supervision of senior officials. Investigators analysed transaction records, wallet screenshots and trace reports, and verified wallet addresses and transaction IDs through blockchain explorers. Technical analysis and human intelligence led the team to Vyas's location at Mira Road in Mumbai. Police have seized two mobile phones, two laptops, two hard disks, two pen drives, three cryptocurrency wallet cards, a chip, the fake Cyber Forensic Department identity card, a card of the Crime Grievance and Intelligence Council, two cheque books, two bank passbooks and documents relating to a flat in Mira Road. A BMW and a Honda City were also seized. The police have valued the seized items at a total of Rs 9.65 lakh. Kelawala remains absconding, and efforts are underway to arrest him. The police have urged people to verify investment platforms and brokers before transferring money, avoid offers promising guaranteed or unusually high returns, and refrain from paying additional amounts in the name of withdrawal or tax-processing fees.

Best MacBook for 2026: Air vs Pro vs Neo compared

Macworld Apple sells several MacBook models across different sizes, prices, and performance levels, so choosing the right one depends on your budget, the type of work you do, and how much power you actually need. In this in-depth guide, we explain which MacBook is best for different users, compare the latest MacBook Air , MacBook Neo and the MacBook Pro models (with and without touchscreen), and help you decide how much RAM and how much storage you really need. Choosing a MacBook Pro now involves two decisions: how much processing power you need, and which display you want. The entry-level 14-inch model uses the M6 chip, while more demanding users can choose M5 Pro or M5 Max configurations with either a non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display or a PROLED XDR OLED touchscreen. For most people, the MacBook Air remains our recommended starting point. If you need a Pro, choose the chip, memory and storage around your workload, then consider whether the touchscreen models OLED display and lighter design justify the extra cost. In this article, well help you decide whether a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or MacBook Neo is the best fit for your needs. Which MacBook is right for you? In 2026, Apples laptop lineup spans five main choices: the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, the mainstream MacBook Air, the M6 MacBook Pro, the high-performance M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro and the touchscreen versions of those MacBook Pro models. Best for basic use and tight budgets : MacBook Neo is ideal for students, casual browsing, streaming, and light productivity at the lowest entry price. Best for most people : MacBook Air (M5) offers the best mix of portability, battery life, silent operation, and everyday performance. Best for those who want a superior display and extra ports : The MacBook Pro (M6) offers professional-grade features without the extreme power of the M5 Pro or M5 Max chips. Best for professionals and power users : MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) is best for demanding workflows such as 4K video editing, 3D work, heavy multitasking, and software development. Best for high-end creative professionals : Suited to those who work extensively on their laptops built-in display and need direct touch interaction. Use the table below to quickly find the MacBook that best suit your needs, or read on for more detailed guide to help you choose the best MacBook for your specific needs. Model Best For Screen sizes Starting Price Buy MacBook Neo Students, casual users, and first-time buyers. 13-inch $699 Amazon / Apple MacBook Air (M5) Most people: everyday performance and portability. 13.6-inch or 15.3-inch $1,299 / $1,499 Amazon / Apple MacBook Pro (M6) A better display, more ports, and sustained performance. 14.2-inch $1,999 Amazon / Apple MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) Demanding creative work, development, and heavier workloads. 14.2-inch or 16.2-inch $2,499 / $4,099 Amazon / Apple Touchscreen MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) High-end creative professionals who need OLED and touch interaction. 14.2-inch or 16.3-inch $2,899 / $4,499 Amazon / Apple The best Mac for various use cases. If youre also wondering whether its the right time to buy, read our guide: Should you buy the MacBook Air now or wait? Which MacBook is best in 2026 Below we recommend the best MacBooks for various users, from students and every day users, to professionals, creatives and content creators. We also compare MacBook Air or MacBook Pro for those wondering which model to buy. Below this section you can find general advice about choosing the best specs, including screen size , when purchasing a new Mac. Apple 13-inch/15-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) Best MacBook for most people Price When Reviewed: From $1,299 (was $1,099) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1,099.99 View Deal $1149 View Deal $1244.28 View Deal $1297 View Deal $1299 View Deal $1299 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The MacBook Air (M5) is the best MacBook for most buyers because it offers the strongest balance of price, portability, battery life, and performance. The 13-inch MacBook Air is light, quiet, fast enough for everyday work, and easier to recommend than any other Mac laptop. The latest version, updated in March 2026, keeps the same winning formula while improving storage and connectivity. There is also a 15-inch version for anyone who wants a larger screen. Whats new The latest MacBook Air features the M5 chip, base storage is 512GB, and it supports newer wireless standards including Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Why we recommend the MacBook Air Excellent balance of performance and portability Silent fanless design Long battery life Strong everyday performance for work, school, and travel Now ships with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage as standard Sizes The MacBook Air comes in two sizes: 13-inch MacBook Air , 13.6-inch screen: Best for portability 15-inch MacBook Air , 15.3-inch screen: Better for multitasking and split-screen work Display As you can see from the above measurements, the display, when measured diagonally is a little larger than the standard naming would suggest. As a result the 13-inch MacBook Air display is actually larger than that on the 13-inch MacBook Neo, discussed below. The MacBook Air uses a bright Liquid Retina display, but it still lacks the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate and HDR capabilities found on MacBook Pro models. Performance The M5 chip in the MacBook Air is fast enough for office work, school tasks, web apps, multitasking, and light creative work. Because the Air has no fan, though, performance can dip during long video exports or other sustained heavy workloads so that the temperature remains optimal. Battery life Battery life is excellent, making the Air a great choice for anyone who works away from a desk. It offers more battery life than the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, but falls short of the 14-inch MacBook Pro. Other specs You get MagSafe 3 for charging and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. The MacBook Air also supports up to two external displays. (Older M1 and M2 models were limited to one external monitor). 16GB RAM to 32GB RAM From 512GB to 4TB SSD Price Apple put MacBook Air prices up by $200 in June 2026. 13-inch MacBook Air : Now starts at $1,299/1,299 15-inch MacBook Air : Now starts at $1,499/1,499 What to know before buying The Airs biggest limitation is sustained performance. It is quick for most tasks, but it is not the right machine for users who regularly push their system for long periods. The MacBook Air is likely to soon adopt the M6 chip as used in the entry-level MacBook Pro, Mac mini and iMac. Read our full Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (M5, 2026) review Apple MacBook Neo Best budget MacBook Price When Reviewed: $699 (was $599) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $681.11 View Deal $689 View Deal $697 View Deal $699 View Deal $799.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The MacBook Neo is the cheapest way to buy a Mac laptop in 2026. Now starting at $699 (which is unfortunately $100 more than it was when Apple launched it in March), it is aimed at students, first-time Mac buyers, and casual users who mainly browse the web, stream video, join video calls, and work in basic apps. Despite its lower price, it still looks and feels like a MacBook, with an all-aluminum design and a lightweight chassis. Who is MacBook Neo for? The MacBook Neo is best for people whose computing needs are simple: web browsing, email, documents, streaming, and schoolwork. Why we recommend MacBook Neo Lowest price in the lineup Light and portable Quiet fanless design Good battery life Fast enough for basic everyday use Sizes The MacBook Neo comes in just one size: 13-inch MacBook Neo , 13-inch screen Display Like the MacBook Air the MacBook Neo offers a Liquid Retina display with max 500 nits brightness, but thats where the similarities end. The display is slightly smaller than the display on the 13-inch MacBook Air, offering 2,408 by 1,506 pixels compared to 2,560 by 1,664 pixels. It also lacks the wide color P3 and True Tone technology of the other MacBooks, offering only sRGB color. Performance The MacBook Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip the same processor first introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro. While it is a mobile-class chip, its performance is optimized for a laptop environment, offering a highly responsive experience for everyday productivity. In our tests it proved faster than the M3 in single-core, while equal to the M1 when it came to multi-core performance and graphics. Battery life The MacBook Neo should comfortably last a working day of general productivity. In our video-loop battery test, with screen brightness set to 150 nits, it lasted 13 hours and 15 minutes. Apple advertises up to 16 hours of video streaming or 11 hours of wireless web browsing. More demanding tasks will drain the battery faster. Other specs You get two USB-C ports, but these are not identical in capability, one being USB 3 and the other USB 2. See MacBook Neo ports explained . The MacBook Neo only supports one external display with a resolution of up to 4K at 60Hz. 8GB RAM 256GB or 512GB SSD Price Starts at $699/699 Education pricing is now $649/649 What to know before buying The Neo makes several trade-offs to achieve its low price, including the absence of a backlit keyboard, a limited selection of ports, and no Touch ID on the base model. It also features a lower-quality display compared to the Air and Pro, offers less memory with a maximum of 8GB RAM, and delivers lower sustained performance than M-series MacBooks. For many buyers, the 512GB, $799 model represents better value, as it includes Touch ID and additional storage. Alternatives The MacBook Neo is the best budget MacBook, but it is best suited to light workloads. If you can spend more, the MacBook Air remains the better long-term buy for most people. Another option, if a low price is your top priority, is a refurbished MacBook . Look out for clearance deals on older Apple silicon MacBooks, but avoid the older Intel-based models. See: MacBook Pro deals and MacBook Air deals . Read our full Apple MacBook Neo review Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M6, 2026) Best step up from the MacBook Air Price When Reviewed: $1,999 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro is worth considering if you want more features than the MacBook Air offers without paying for an M5 Pro or M5 Max. Its active cooling suits longer workloads, while its HDR display and additional ports are useful for creative work. Why we recommend the M6 MacBook Pro Active cooling for sustained workloads ProMotion and HDR display HDMI and an SDXC card slot Lower starting price than the Pro and Max models Sizes The M6 model comes in one size: a14.2-inch screen. Display The non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display uses mini-LED technology, with up to 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness and adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Performance The M6 has a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU. Choose it for everyday work and creative projects; consider M5 Pro or M5 Max configurations when you need greater graphics or memory capacity. Battery life Apple rates it for up to24 hours of video streamingor16 hours of wireless web browsing. Actual endurance depends on your workload. Other specs 16GB, 24GB or 32GB unified memory 1TB, 2TB or 4TB SSD Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and headphone jack Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 Price Starts at$1,999/1,999. What to know before buying Compare an Air with matching memory and storage before buying. Choose the Pro if its display, connections and cooling justify the premium. For OLED and touch, youll need a PROLED XDR model. Apple 14-inch/16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/M5 Max, non-touchscreen, 2026) Best for professional performance Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was 2,199) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $2,289 View Deal $2289 View Deal $2299 View Deal $2331.16 View Deal $2499 View Deal $2499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices If you regularly edit high-resolution video, compile large code projects or run demanding professional software, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or M5 Max offers more performance and memory capacity than the MacBook Air. These non-touchscreen models are particularly worth considering if processing power matters more than OLED or touchscreen input. They offer the same chip options as the PROLED XDR versions at a lower starting price. Why we recommend the non-touchscreen MacBook Pro Active cooling for demanding sustained workloads Powerful CPU and GPU configurations Bright mini-LED display with ProMotion and HDR Thunderbolt 5, HDMI and an SDXC card slot Lower price than equivalent touchscreen models Sizes There are two sizes to choose from: 14-inch MacBook Pro , 14.2-inch screen: Easier to carry between locations. 16-inch MacBook Pro , 16.2-inch screen: More room for timelines, tool palettes and side-by-side apps. Display Both sizes feature a non-touch Liquid Retina XDR display. The mini-LED panel offers up to 1,000 nits sustained full-screen XDR brightness, 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness, P3 wide color and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Performance There are two chip families to choose from: M5 Pro: The sensible starting point for demanding photo editing, software development, video editing and heavier multitasking. M5 Max: Worth considering for complex 3D work, high-end video production and workloads requiring more GPU power or memory. M5 Pro configurations offer up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU. M5 Max has an 18-core CPU and a choice of 32-core or 40-core GPU. Battery life Apples video-streaming ratings vary by size and chip: 14-inch M5 Pro: Up to 22 hours. 14-inch M5 Max: Up to 20 hours. 16-inch M5 Pro: Up to 24 hours. 16-inch M5 Max: Up to 22 hours. These are Apples ratings; demanding professional workloads will reduce battery life. Other specs M5 Pro: From 24GB to 64GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 1TB to 4TB SSD. M5 Max: From 36GB to 128GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 2TB to 8TB SSD. Three Thunderbolt 5 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Price Starting prices are: 14-inch M5 Pro: $2,499/2,499. 16-inch M5 Pro: $2,999/2,999. 14-inch M5 Max: $4,099/4,099. 16-inch M5 Max: $4,399/4,399. What to know before buying These models are a strong choice if you want Pro or Max performance while keeping costs down, especially if you mainly use an external monitor. Compare retailer discounts with the touchscreen versions: the difference may exceed their $400/400 starting-price premium. Choose memory carefully because it cannot be upgraded later. The maximum memory capacity also depends on the chip configuration. Apple 14-inch/16-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Pro/M5 Max, touchscreen 2026) Best for OLED and touch Price When Reviewed: $2,899 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $2,899 View Deal $2899 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display combines M5 Pro or M5 Max performance with an OLED touchscreen and a thinner, lighter design. It is worth considering if you spend much of your working day using your laptops built-in screen. The premium buys display and design improvements rather than a newer processor generation. Equivalent non-touchscreen models retain the same M5 Pro and M5 Max chip options. Why we recommend considering the touchscreen MacBook Pro Tandem OLED display with P3 and Adobe RGB color support Direct touchscreen input alongside the keyboard and trackpad Lighter design than equivalent non-touchscreen models ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz Up to 16TB of storage with M5 Max Sizes There are two sizes to choose from: 14-inch MacBook Pro , 14.2-inch screen: The more portable option, starting at 1.38kg. 16-inch MacBook Pro , 16.3-inch screen: More workspace for creative apps, starting at 1.82kg. Display Both sizes feature a tandem OLED PROLED XDR touchscreen. Apple specifies up to 1,000 nits sustained full-screen brightness and 2,000 nits peak brightness for HDR content and outdoor SDR use. The display supports P3 and Adobe RGB color, True Tone and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. Dynamic Island replaces the notch. Touch adds another way to scroll, zoom and interact with content while retaining the built-in keyboard and Force Touch trackpad. Performance Choose between the same chip families offered in the non-touchscreen professional models: M5 Pro: Suitable for demanding photo editing, software development, video editing and heavier multitasking. M5 Max: For more intensive graphics, high-end video production, 3D work and workloads requiring larger memory configurations. Choose the chip around your workload, then decide whether the display and lighter design justify the extra cost. Battery life Apple advertises the same video-streaming endurance as equivalent non-touchscreen models: 14-inch M5 Pro: Up to 22 hours. 14-inch M5 Max: Up to 20 hours. 16-inch M5 Pro: Up to 24 hours. 16-inch M5 Max: Up to 22 hours. These figures are Apples ratings, rather than our independent test results. Other specs M5 Pro: From 24GB to 64GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 1TB to 4TB SSD. M5 Max: From 36GB to 128GB unified memory, depending on configuration; 2TB to 16TB SSD. Three Thunderbolt 5 ports, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Price Starting prices are: 14-inch M5 Pro: $2,899/2,899. 16-inch M5 Pro: $3,399/3,399. 14-inch M5 Max: $4,499/4,499. 16-inch M5 Max: $4,799/4,799. Each starts at $400/400 more than its equivalent non-touchscreen model. What to know before buying The combination of OLED, touch and reduced weight may justify the premium if you regularly work on the built-in screen. If you mainly use an external monitor, a non-touchscreen model could offer better value. Our recommendation remains provisional pending independent testing of display quality, touch controls, app support and everyday usability. MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Which should you buy? The M5 MacBook Air and M6 MacBook Pro are different in some significant ways. Foundry The MacBook Air is our recommendation for most people, offering enough performance for everyday work and light creative projects in a thin, light, silent design. Choose the MacBook Pro if you regularly run demanding workloads or will benefit from its better display and additional ports. The closest comparison is between theM5 MacBook Air and 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro. For more demanding professional work, the MacBook Pro also offers M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, with a choice of non-touchscreen or PROLED XDR touchscreen displays. Performance: Do you need a MacBook Pro? The M5 MacBook Air is well suited to web browsing, office apps, studying, photo editing, and occasional video projects. Using creative software doesnt automatically mean you need a Pro: the size of your projects and how frequently you run demanding tasks matter more. The M6 MacBook Pro combines a newer chip generation with active cooling. Its fans help it sustain performance during lengthy video exports, code compilation, and other intensive tasks. The Airs fanless design keeps it completely silent, but performance can fall during prolonged heavy workloads. If these demanding tasks make up much of your working day, consider anM5 Pro or M5 Max MacBook Pro. These offer greater processing, graphics, and memory capacity than the standard M6 model. A newer chip generation doesnt automatically make the M6 the more powerful choice. Display and ports: What does the Pro add? The MacBook Airs Liquid Retina display is suitable for everyday work, with 500 nits brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. You can choose a 13-inch model for portability or a 15-inch model for more workspace. The M6 MacBook Pros 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display adds mini-LED technology, deeper contrast, brighter HDR highlights, and ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. These features are particularly useful for viewing and editing HDR content, although you dont need to be a creative professional to appreciate the screen. The M6 Pro also provides three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and an SDXC card slot. The Air has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, so connecting memory cards, HDMI displays, or several accessories may require adapters or a dock. For anOLED touchscreen, choose a PROLED XDR MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro or M5 Max chip. Touchscreen availability is a separate consideration from how much processing power you need. Portability, battery life, and price The Air is thinner and lighter, making it the stronger choice if you carry your laptop regularly. The 15-inch Air is also worth considering if you want a larger screen without the weight and expense of a 16-inch Pro. The M6 MacBook Pro has a higher advertised battery-life rating, although actual endurance depends on your workload. Both models are suitable for working away from a power socket. The Air costs less, but compare configurations with matching memory and storage before deciding. The M6 Pro starts with more storage, which narrows the price difference if you would otherwise upgrade the Air. Our buying advice: Air or Pro? Buy the MacBook Air for everyday work, studying, travel, and light creative projects. It offers the best balance of performance, portability, and price for most buyers. Buy the M6 MacBook Pro if you want its HDR display, additional ports, longer advertised battery life, or better sustained performance. Choose an M5 Pro or M5 Max MacBook Pro for demanding professional workloads that justify more processing power, graphics performance, or memory. Consider the PROLED XDR version if you also want OLED and touch. The table below compares the M5 MacBook Air with the entry-level M6 MacBook Pro: Feature MacBook Air, M5 MacBook Pro, M6 Starting Price $1,299 $1,999 Display 13.6 or 15.3 Liquid Retina (500 nits) 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR; 1,600 nits peak HDR, ProMotion up to 120Hz Processor M5 M6 Battery Life Up to 18 hours Up to 24 hours Ports 2x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3 Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe Cooling Fanless Active cooling SSD 512GB4TB 1TB4TB RAM 16GB32GB 16GB32GB Comparing the MacBook Air and entry-level MacBook Pro. Best MacBook for specialist cases Not everyone will fit into one of the categories we have addressed above. If you work in the creative industries, development, machine learning, or software engineering, or other high performance use, well address the best MacBook for you next. Best MacBook for video editing: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (non-touchscreen, M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was 2,199) Best Prices Today: $2,289 at Amazon | $2289 at B&H | $2299 at Best Buy US The MacBook Pro is the best MacBook for video editing and creative work, especially if you regularly work with large files, high-resolution footage, or GPU-heavy apps. These models are built for demanding workflows and offer the sustained performance, display quality, memory headroom, and connectivity that creative professionals need. The following are reasons why creatives choose the MacBook Pro: Active cooling for long renders Stronger GPU performance Higher RAM ceiling Better display for color-critical work Better external monitor support Runs: Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve and more Best MacBook for creative professionals: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (touchscreen, M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,899 Best Prices Today: $2,899 at Amazon | $2899 at Apple Photographers, video editors, and designers who rely on color accuracy and contrast will see the most benefit from the PROLED XDR display. Best MacBook for developers: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,499 (was 2,199) Best Prices Today: $2,289 at Amazon | $2289 at B&H | $2299 at Best Buy US For professional developers, the MacBook Pro remains the strongest option. It is better suited to large codebases, longer compile times, virtualization, multiple displays, and heavier sustained workloads. It offers a good balance of price and performance for most engineers. The following are reasons why developers choose the MacBook Pro: Better thermal management for long build sessions More RAM options Better support for external displays More overhead for containers, emulators, and heavier dev tools Best MacBook for heavy workloads: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max) The M5 Max chip is best for AI development, complex simulations, or users who need the highest memory ceiling. We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro PROLED XDR (M5 Max, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $4,499 Best Prices Today: $4499 at Apple Best MacBook for gamers: 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) We recommend: Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026) Price When Reviewed: $2,999 (Was $2,699) Best Prices Today: $2749 at B&H | $2,749.99 at Amazon | $2999 at Best Buy US While Windows PCs still hold a performance lead in raw frames per second, Apple Silicon has made high-end gaming a viable reality on macOS, particularly with the latest Pro and Max models. The M5 Pro MacBook Pro, updated in March 2026, strikes a balance for those who need oomph for gaming without the extreme price tag of the M5 Max version of the MacBook Pro. It includes Thunderbolt 5 ports for high-speed data transfer and supports more unified memory than the base M5. It is specifically recommended for serious gaming and moderate media production. The M5 Pro model lacks the massive GPU core count of the Max chip, meaning it may struggle with the highest settings on the most demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077. In our real-world gaming benchmarks, it provides good results for Mac users, even if it still faces a gap compared to dedicated PC gaming rigs. See our round up of the Best Games for Mac to see which A-list games are available to play. Is MacBook Air good enough? Eugen Wegmann The MacBook Air may suffice in some cases: Creatives : The Air works well for light creative work, especially photo editing, design, and shorter video projects. It is not as strong in sustained workloads, but it is much easier to carry and costs less. Development : The MacBook Air is still a good choice for lighter software development, especially for web development, scripting, and general programming. It is best for developers who prioritize portability over maximum sustained speed. Gaming : The M5 MacBook Air features a third-generation ray-tracing engine and enhanced shader cores, which Apple says improves 3D rendering and gaming tasks. However, in our tests the lack of active cooling caused performance to dip after playing for 10 minutes or so. You can play casual games just fine, but for a variety of reasons, if youre into AAA gaming, the Air isnt the best choice. What about MacBook Neo? If your budget is much tighter and your needs are basic, the MacBook Neo is the entry point. It gives you macOS at a much lower price, but with more compromises than the Air. If you choose the Neo we recommend the 512GB version. We recommend: Apple MacBook Neo (512GB) Price When Reviewed: $799 (was $699) Best Prices Today: $789.99 at Amazon | $799 at Apple | $799 at B&H Other MacBook buying decisions to consider When buying a MacBook, its important to consider how you will use it, as this will determine the right balance of performance, portability, and price. Key factors to consider include which chip you require, how much RAM you will need for multitasking, and the size of the SSD required for storage, all of which cannot be upgraded later. Screen size affects portability and productivity, screen quality is key for creative work, while battery life matters if you work on the go. You should also think about weight, port selection, and long-term value to ensure the device meets your needs both now and in the future. In the next section well examine these elements of the buying decision. Best MacBook display and screen size Foundry The best MacBook screen size depends on how much portability, screen space, and display quality you need. Best MacBook screen sizes Best size for most people: 13-inch MacBook Air or 14-inch MacBook Pro Best size for portability: 13-inch MacBook Air or MacBook Neo Best all-around Pro size: 14-inch MacBook Pro Best large-screen option without Pro pricing: 15-inch MacBook Air Best for maximum workspace: 16-inch MacBook Pro How many screens are supported The 13-inch and 14-inch MacBooks offer the best balance of portability and usability. The larger 15-inch and 16-inch options are ideal if you want more room for spreadsheets, side-by-side apps, or general multitasking. These displays can run alongside the built-in screen. The M5 Pro and M5 Max limits apply to both touchscreen and non-touchscreen models. MacBook Neo : Supports only one external display up to 4K at 60Hz. MacBook Air (M5): Supports up to two external displays at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M6): Supports up to two external displays at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M5 Pro): Supports up to three external displays, each at 6K/60Hz. MacBook Pro (M5 Max): Supports up to four external displays, each at 6K/60Hz. For more advice read: How to use two or more monitors to a Mac . MacBook displays: Liquid Retina, Liquid Retina XDR and PROLED XDR Apples MacBooks offer three main display types. The most useful differences are brightness, contrast, refresh rate and touchscreen support. Liquid Retina: MacBook Neo and MacBook Air These displays suit everyday work, web browsing and watching videos. They have a fixed 60Hz refresh rate and dont support touch. The Airs display also supports the wider P3 color gamut, making it a better choice than the Neo for color-sensitive work. Liquid Retina XDR: Non-touchscreen MacBook Pro The M6 MacBook Pro and non-touchscreen M5 Pro and M5 Max models use mini-LED displays. These offer higher contrast and brighter HDR highlights than the Air, plus ProMotion adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and motion. PROLED XDR: Touchscreen MacBook Pro The touchscreen M5 Pro and M5 Max models use OLED displays. OLED controls light at the individual pixel level, producing deep blacks without the backlight blooming that can occur with mini-LED. These models also support direct touchscreen input. You can compare the screen options in the table below: Model Screen Size Display Name Max Brightness Color Gamut Refresh Rate Display Technology Touchscreen True Tone MacBook Neo 13-inch Liquid Retina 500 nits sRGB 60Hz LCD No No MacBook Air 13.6-inch Liquid Retina 500 nits P3 Wide Color 60Hz LCD No Yes MacBook Air 15.3-inch Liquid Retina 500 nits P3 Wide Color 60Hz LCD No Yes MacBook Pro 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR 1,600 nits (Peak HDR) P3 Wide Color ProMotion, up to 120Hz Mini-LED LCD No Yes MacBook Pro 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR 1,600 nits (Peak HDR) P3 Wide Color ProMotion, up to 120Hz Mini-LED LCD No Yes MacBook Pro 14.2-inch PROLED XDR 2,000 nits (Peak HDR) P3 + Adobe RGB ProMotion, up to 120Hz Tandem OLED Yes Yes MacBook Pro 16.3-inch PROLED XDR 2,000 nits (Peak HDR) P3 + Adobe RGB ProMotion, up to 120Hz Tandem OLED Yes Yes How the screens compare across Apples range of MacBooks. For most people, the Airs display is sufficient. Choose a Liquid Retina XDR model if HDR brightness and ProMotion matter to your work. Consider PROLED XDR if you particularly value OLEDs contrast or want touchscreen input. Is the touchscreen MacBook Pro worth paying extra for? The touchscreen MacBook Pro starts at $400/400 more than an equivalent non-touch M5 Pro or M5 Max model. That premium buys display and design improvements, with the same processor options. What the premium gets you A tandem OLED display: The PROLED XDR screen offers higher contrast and adds Adobe RGB alongside P3 color support. This may be particularly valuable for photographers, video editors and designers who regularly use the built-in display. Touchscreen input: Scroll, pinch to zoom and interact directly with content onscreen, alongside the keyboard and trackpad. Its usefulness will depend on your apps and how you prefer to work. A thinner, lighter design: The 14-inch model weighs approximately half a pound less than its non-touch equivalent. Both sizes also replace the notch with Dynamic Island. When its worth the extra money The premium is easiest to justify if you spend much of your working day using the laptops own screen. The combination of OLED, wider color support and touch could make it a more useful workspace, while the reduced weight benefits anyone who frequently carries their MacBook. You dont have to want touch to appreciate the other improvements. As Macworlds Roman Loyola argues, the display may be the more compelling upgrade . When to choose a non-touch model If you mainly work with an external monitor, the upgraded built-in display offers less benefit. A non-touch M5 Pro or M5 Max can provide the processing power and memory you need at a lower price. Touch also wont suit every workflow. Reaching across the keyboard may be less comfortable than using the trackpad for extended periods, so consider how often you would actually use it. Compare matching chip, memory and storage configurations before deciding: retailer discounts could make the price difference larger than $400/400. Which is the best MacBook for battery life? The 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro and 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro share Apples highest advertised video-streaming rating, at up to 24 hours. For wireless web browsing, the 16-inch M5 Pro leads at up to 17 hours. The MacBook Air offers a lighter, less expensive option, with both sizes rated for up to 18 hours of video streaming or 15 hours of web browsing. The budget-friendly MacBook Neo has lower advertised endurance, at 16 hours and 11 hours, respectively. See: MacBook Air, Pro and Neo batteries compared. You can compare Apples advertised battery-life ratings in the table below: Model/chip Apple video streaming (up to) Apple wireless web browsing (up to) 13-inch MacBook Neo, A18 Pro 16 hours 11 hours 13-inch MacBook Air, M5 18 hours 15 hours 15-inch MacBook Air, M5 18 hours 15 hours 14-inch MacBook Pro, M6 24 hours 16 hours 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro 22 hours 14 hours 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Max 20 hours 13 hours 16-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro 24 hours 17 hours 16-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Max 22 hours 16 hours M5 Pro and M5 Max ratings apply to both touchscreen and non-touchscreen models of the corresponding size. How much RAM do you need? For most buyers in 2026, 16GB of RAM should be the minimum. That is the sweet spot for a MacBook you plan to keep for several years. However, the MacBook Neo ships with only 8GB RAM, and there are no options to upgrade this capacity at the time of purchase or later. Whether this is enough RAM depends entirely on your specific use case, as the device is positioned as a budget-friendly entry point into the Mac ecosystem. For the target audience students, teachers, and casual users 8GB of RAM should be sufficient for general productivity. A significant concern regarding the 8GB capacity is its long-term viability. MacBook memory is not upgradeable after purchase. If you expect to keep your laptop for a long time, it is worth buying more RAM upfront if your budget allows. RAM recommendations by user type Casual users and students : 16GB recommended. 8GB is workable for very light use, but not ideal for longevity. Creative work and gaming : 24GB to 32GB is the safer target. Professionals and AI-heavy workflows : 48GB to 128GB, depending on workload. You can compare RAM options in the table below: MacBook Model Base RAM Maximum RAM MacBook Neo 8GB 8GB 13-inch & 15-inch MacBook Air (M5) 16GB 32GB 14-inch MacBook Pro (M6) 16GB 32GB 14-inch & 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro) 24GB 64GB 14-inch & 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max) 36GB 128GB Compare RAM allocation across Apples range of MacBooks. How much storage do you need for a MacBook? 256GB : Fine for cloud-first users with light local storage needs, but it can fill up quickly. 512GB : The better starting point for most people. It gives you more breathing room for apps, files, photos, and offline media. 1TB or more : Best for media professionals, developers with larger local workloads, or anyone who works with large files regularly. Determining the best storage capacity for a MacBook depends heavily on your specific workflow, as internal storage cannot be upgraded after purchase. While Apple previously offered 256GB as a baseline, most current models now start at 512GB or 1TB to accommodate the increasing space requirements of modern operating systems and applications. For most buyers, 512GB is the practical minimum if the budget allows. Experts now generally advise against 256GB drives for primary machines. Furthermore, SSDs can slow down significantly as they fill up. A common rule of thumb is to buy at least twice the capacity of what you need to store to maintain performance. Storage (SSD) recommendations by user type Casual users and students : 512GB recommended. Sufficient for documents, web browsing, and light media use. General Productivity : 512GB to 1TB recommended. For users with moderate photo libraries and some video projects. Creative Professionals : 1TB to 2TB+ recommended. Necessary for 4K video editing, large high-resolution photo libraries, and professional audio suites. High-End Workflows : 4TB to 8TB recommended. For 3D animation, AI development, and massive video production projects. Is there a difference between SSDs in Apples MacBooks There are significant differences in SSD performance, capacity, and technology across the current MacBook lineup. In March 2026, Apple introduced faster storage technologies for the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. The most notable differences lie in the read/write speeds, which vary based on the models processor and the physical capacity of the drive: MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max) : The M5 Pro and Max models, released in March 2026, feature the fastest internal storage in the lineup. Apple claims these SSDs are up to twice as fast as the previous generation. MacBook Pro (M6) : Apple describes the SSD in the M6 model as Superfast. With the arrival of the M5 in 2025 Apple claimed it delivered up to 2x faster read/write performance than its predecessors. MacBook Air (M5) : The M5 MacBook Air also received a similar storage speed boost with the March 2026 update. MacBook Neo: The MacBook Neo uses a slower SSD to maintain its lower price point. Compare storage options in the table below: MacBook Model Base Storage Maximum Storage MacBook Neo 256GB 512GB MacBook Air (M5) 512GB 4TB MacBook Pro (M6) 1TB 4TB MacBook Pro (M5 Pro) 1TB 4TB MacBook Pro (M5 Max) 2TB 8TB non-touch / 16TB touchscreen Compare SSD options for MacBooks. Which MacBook chip should you choose? Choosing the right MacBook chip in 2026 depends on your specific workflow, ranging from basic productivity to high-end professional creative work. Apples current lineup features the M5 family (M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max) and the budget-friendly A18 Pro. Apples MacBook chips currently fall into four clear tiers. A18 Pro : Best for basic users who want the cheapest MacBook possible. M5 : Best for general users, students, and office work. M5 Pro : Best for photographers, editors, programmers, and users with heavier workloads. M5 Max : Best for high-end creative work, large AI models, 3D production, and anyone who needs the most performance possible in a MacBook. See our Mac processor comparison to find out how different generations of Mac chips compared. Compare processor and GPU options in the table below: Feature A18 Pro M5 M6 M5 Pro M5 Max MacBook models MacBook Neo MacBook Air MacBook Pro MacBook Pro (touch and non-touch) MacBook Pro (touch and non-touch) CPU Cores 6-core 10-core 12-core Up to 18-core 18-core GPU Cores 5-core Up to 10-core 12-core Up to 20-core Up to 40-core Max Memory 8GB 32GB 32GB 48GB 128GB Ports Support USB-C: one USB 3 port, one USB 2 port Thunderbolt 4 Thunderbolt 4 Thunderbolt 5 Thunderbolt 5 Best For Budget choice for students & basic tasks Mainstream choice for general consumers Creative work, better display and more ports Software development, 4K video editing, photo editing Extreme processing power, massive memory capacity Compare chip options for MacBook Air, Neo and Pro. FAQ 1. Which MacBook lasts the longest? For battery life, the MacBook Pro models lead the lineup, with 24 hours of playback. 2. Should I buy a refurbished MacBook? A refurbished MacBook can be a good value, especially if you buy Apple silicon rather than Intel. Just make sure the price gap is meaningful and the machine still has enough life left to justify the purchase. Since Apple put up prices across the range buying in the Refurbished Store is even more attractive. The MacBook Air, MacBook Neo and MacBook Pro were all available at the original price shortly after Apple raised prices. For example, the MacBook Neo is $599 , you can get a 13-inch, M5 MacBook Air for $1,099 and a 14-inch MacBook Pro, M5 Pro for $2,119 . 3. Is a MacBook Air powerful enough? Yes. For most people, the MacBook Air is more than powerful enough for everyday work, school, multitasking, web use, and light creative tasks. 4. Is a MacBook worth it compared to a Windows laptop? That depends on your priorities, but MacBooks are often worth the extra cost if you value exceptional battery life, premium build quality, class-leading trackpads, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Apples recent price increases have made Macs more expensive, but the company isnt alone in raising prices. Lenovo also announced price rises in June 2026, while other PC manufacturers have warned that soaring memory and storage costs are putting pressure on margins, making higher prices increasingly likely across the industry. As a result, the price gap between Macs and comparable Windows laptops may not be as large as it first appears. 5. How long will a MacBook last? The typical lifespan of a MacBook is generally between five and eight years, though this depends heavily on a combination of hardware durability and ongoing software support . While the physical components are built to last, Apple eventually classifies older models as vintage or obsolete, which limits your ability to get official repairs and parts. Find out more here: How long do MacBooks last: Lifespan, support and when to upgrade . Why you can trust Macworld Macworld has been covering everything Apple related since our first issue which arrived alongside the original Mac in 1984. Nobody knows Apple better, except probably Apple, but the difference is that we are completely impartial. We are made up of a team of experts with decades of experiences with Macs and other Apple products, and between us we have reviewed every Apple product meaning we are uniquely positioned to provide buying advice. At a glance: MacBook Specs Model Screen Chip Ports Battery life Starting price MacBook Neo 13-inch A18 Pro 2 USB-C (one USB 3, one USB 2) 16 hours $699 MacBook Air 13-inch 13.6-inch, Liquid Retina display M5 2x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 18 hours $1,299 MacBook Air 15-inch 15.3-inch, Liquid Retina display M5 2x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 18 hours $1,499 MacBook Pro 14-inch 14.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR display M6 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 24 hours $1,999 MacBook Pro 14-inch 14.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR display M5 Pro/M5 Max 3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 24 hours (Pro), 22 hours (Max) $2,499 MacBook Pro 16-inch 16.2-inch, Liquid Retina XDR display M5 Pro/M5 Max 3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 22 hours (Pro), 20 hours (Max) $2,999 Touchscreen MacBook Pro 14-inch 14.2-inch, PROLEDXDR touchscreen M5 Pro/M5 Max 3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 24 hours (Pro), 22 hours (Max) $2,899 Touchscreen MacBook Pro 16-inch 16.3-inch, PROLEDXDR touchscreen M5 Pro/M5 Max 3x Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 22 hours (Pro), 20 hours (Max) $3,399 November 2026 MacBook lineup. Headphone jacks omitted from port listings.

IDBI Bank privatisation: Congress demands halt, FM Nirmala Sitharaman clarifies govts stand

IDBI Bank employees began a two-day nationwide strike on Monday to protest against the proposed privatisation of the lender, demanding that the Union government scrap the sale to Canadas Fairfax Financial Holdings.

Raptadu Attack: Accused Stable, Girl Questions Medical Care

The accused in the Raptadu school girls attack case, Hemant, is conscious and stable, though doctors are working to save his severely injured right leg. Meanwhile, the other injured girl is recovering well, but has expressed anger and questioned why the accused is receiving medical treatment, demanding severe punishment for him.

BJPs 10-year double-engine rule in Uttarakhand betrayed peoples aspirations, says Kharge

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday strongly criticised the BJPs 10-year tenure in Uttarakhand, alleging that the partys double-engine government had betrayed the hopes and aspirations of the states people. In a post on his X handle, Kharge said a collapsed law-and-order situation, serious concerns regarding the safety of women, the arrogance of those in power, and a persistent tendency to evade accountability had left the public deeply disappointed. He said that the people of Uttarakhand were now demanding accountability and seeking change. According to him, the Congress party is vigorously championing the rights and interests of the people from the streets to the legislative assembly. Kharge asserted that the party is firm on its stand to earn the trust of the public so that it can provide Devbhoomi Uttarakhand with a government that is secure, empathetic and accountableone that prioritises the public interest above all else. The Congress presidents remarks come in view of the growing political activity in the hill state, where the opposition has been highlighting issues related to governance, womens safety and administrative accountability. Kharges statement indicates the partys attempt to position itself as an alternative focused on public welfare and responsible governance in Uttarakhand. By pointing to the alleged failures of the ruling dispensation, the Congress is seeking to mobilise public opinion ahead of future electoral contests in the state. Kharges emphasis on security, empathy and accountability indicates the partys intent to build a narrative centred on good governance and the protection of citizens rights. The statement also shows the Congress broader strategy of raising questions about the performance of BJP-ruled states while projecting itself as a party committed to addressing the genuine concerns of the people. On Monday, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and the partys general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal held a meeting with Uttarakhand leaders to discuss the strategy and action plan for the forthcoming state assembly elections. Both leaders urged the state unit to work aggressively, maintain solidarity and take a firm stand.

Siddaramaiah meets Rahul Gandhi amid ongoing sting operation controversy

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Congress Working Committee (CWC) member and former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met senior party leader Rahul Gandhi here on Monday amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged sting operation linked to him. Karnataka Urban Development Minister and his son Yathindra Siddaramaiah and the Chief Ministers Legal Adviser Ponnanna were present during the meeting. Earlier in the day, Siddaramaiah met Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal. Siddaramaiah has briefed the party leadership on the latest developments in the case and discussed the possibility of certain insiders being involved in the sting operation. He had already held discussions on the matter with members of his close circle. Siddaramaiah earlier indicated that he had filed a complaint in connection with the sting operation and that the investigation into the matter was not appropriate. Several state Congress leaders accompanied Siddaramaiah during his meeting with Venugopal in Delhi. Along with his son and Ponnanna, former ministers Venkatesh, Legislative Council members Nagaraj Yadav, Dr Thimmaiah, and Shivakumar, former member Ramesh Babu, and Vice-Chairman of the State Guarantee Schemes Implementation Authority Mehroze Khan accompanied him to Delhi. The sting operation case has triggered a political controversy in Karnataka, with the CCB investigating the alleged operation, the circulation of the video, and the circumstances surrounding its recording. Siddaramaiah had described the alleged sting operation against him as a systematic blackmail conspiracy, naming a journalist and Krupa Alva of Mangaluru as people he believes were behind it. His remarks have added fresh momentum to the controversy, which has now reached the national political arena amid competing allegations about the possible involvement of Congress members. He said his eight years as Chief Minister and his long political career had not been marked by allegations of this kind. He accused unnamed individuals of using blackmail as a political tactic and insisted that he had committed no wrongdoing. Siddaramaiah maintained that the video, which purportedly featured claims of sexual abuse from an incident in 2011 and surfaced on social media, is completely baseless and part of a malicious political campaign to tarnish his character. He personally lodged a formal complaint with the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner, demanding an impartial and fair investigation to unmask the real culprits behind the concocted case. He also moved the Bengaluru City Civil and Sessions Court to obtain an interim injunction restraining newspapers, television channels, and social media platforms from publishing or broadcasting the unverified video.

Valkyrae Deletes Her CS2 VODs After Fans Criticise Her For Choosing CS2 Over GTA RP During Her Grind

Valkyrae has called out viewers demanding GTA RP instead of Counter-Strike 2 as she tries to complete her 16K Premier rating bet. The streamer later deleted her VOD and admitted that the constant complaints are making her CS2 grind difficult.

GOC Northern Command reviews operational readiness of troops in Reasi

Jammu, Nov 2: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma today visited general area of Reasi to review operational readiness and assess the prevailing security situation in the hinterland. He was accompanied by officers from intelligence and other security agencies. The GOC was briefed on ongoing Counter Terrorism (CT) operations, measures to further strengthen the security grid incorporating joint intelligence frameworks and synergy between all stakeholders. The Army Commander commended the troops for their unwavering commitment, high state of operational preparedness and exemplary professionalism while operating under challenging conditions.

Northern Army Commander, IGP Jammu Assess Security Scenario in Reasi

SRINAGAR: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma along with Inspector General of Police Jammu Tejinder Singh visited general area Reasi to review operational readiness and assess prevailing security situation in the hinterland. During the visit, the Army Commander along with stakeholders from Intelligence and other Security agencies was briefed on ongoing Counter []

From UAE honours to Israeli award, brave Indian pilot Smit Machchhar earns global recognition

Digital Desk | Abu Dhabi, Nov 2 (IANS) Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073, has received widespread appreciation for his courage, with tributes pouring in from the UAE, India, Israel and the United States, a report has stated. It noted that while the UAE has formally honoured the Indian pilot and flight crew, Israel has recently announced plans to confer a civilian bravery award on Machchhar following his recovery. Beyond the official recognition and messages of support from world leaders, the captain has also received prayers and goodwill from members of the UAE community, who have come together to wish him a speedy recovery after he sustained serious injuries in a cockpit incident, a recent report in the 'Gulf News' mentioned. At the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, swamis and devotees gathered to offer special prayers for his recovery. A video shared by the temple showed men, women and children singing devotional hymns as priests conducted the prayers, the report noted. The temple said the gathering was organised to recognise Machchhar's courage and pray for his complete recovery. With heartfelt prayers for strength and healing, we pray for his swift and complete recovery and for strength to his family and loved ones during this time, the temple said. On September 30, Machchhar was at the controls of flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot brutally attacked him inside the cockpit. Despite sustaining serious injuries and losing consciousness several times, he succeeded in unlocking the cockpit door, giving crew members and passengers access to intervene. The aircraft was then rerouted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed without further incident. The actions of the captain, crew and passengers have since drawn international recognition, with tributes highlighting their efforts to protect those aboard, the report noted. Last week, the UAE honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and the flydubai crew for their courage and professionalism during the cockpit attack, enabling crew members and passengers to intervene and help avert a potential tragedy. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the First Class Order of Zayed II on the crew members involved in the incident. The honour recognises their bravery and efforts to protect passengers and ensure the safety of the aircraft during the emergency. The honours were presented by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, also received the crew members and recognised their contribution during the emergency. The UAE leadership commended the crew's courage, professionalism and commitment to protecting passengers and securing the aircraft under difficult circumstances. It reiterated that ensuring the safety and security of people remains a key priority for the country. Earlier in October, Israeli President Isaac Herzog wrote to Captain Machchhar, likening his heroics to those of the Indian troops who risked their lives over a century ago to liberate cities in the Holy Land, calling the Indian pilot a hero of Israel, India and all of humanity. In the letter, Herzog thanked the pilot for steering the aircraft to safety and said his actions showed the strength of his character. Your ability to find the strength to rise above the pain, to combat the immediate threat to your life, and to operate sound judgment demonstrates the strength of your character and the great valour you possess, he wrote. Herzog also announced that Captain Machchhar, who fought against the attacking co-pilot in a Flydubai aircraft and helped save 174 people onboard, will receive Israels Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, the countrys highest bravery award for civilians, once he recovers.

Gujarat: Over 6,000 women among 8,169 newly appointed primary teachers

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 2 (IANS) More than 6,000 women are among the 8,169 candidates selected as Vidya Sahayaks in Gujarat, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday handing over appointment recommendation letters to the newly recruited primary school teachers at a ceremony in Adalaj, near Gandhinagar. Addressing the gathering at Trimandir, Patel said the newly appointed teachers would play an important role in shaping the future of the country and realising the vision of Viksit Bharat. He urged them to nurture students in a manner that would enable them to make meaningful contributions to nation-building. Highlighting the number of women selected, the Chief Minister said that more than 6,000 of the over 8,000 recruits were women, reflecting the growing participation of women in the education sector. Initiatives such as Kanya Kelavani Mahotsav and Shala Praveshotsav, launched in Gujarat during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure as Chief Minister, had developed into a major movement, with their positive results now becoming visible, he noted. Patel said the recruitment had been conducted transparently, with candidates selected on merit. He noted that the happiness and pride of parents and family members are evident as young people secured government jobs through their hard work. He also said the Education Department is planning to recruit around 10,000 additional teachers in the coming period. Emphasising the responsibility associated with the teaching profession, Patel said: Teachers continued to command respect in society, regardless of how successful their students became in fields such as medicine, engineering or science. Referring to the example of Saint Dnyaneshwar, he urged the newly appointed teachers to exercise responsibility while using digital platforms and social media. Teachers' behaviour and conduct had a lasting influence on children's minds and personalities, he added. Cabinet Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja said the state government had completed a recruitment process for approximately 12,000 Vidya Sahayaks through a merit-based system using technology and transparent procedures. The recruitment includes around 11,000 vacancies for Gujarati-medium Classes 1 to 5 and approximately 987 vacancies for other mediums. Referring to the National Education Policy, Vaja said: The focus should be on foundational literacy and numeracy, skill development and experiential learning rather than rote learning. He called upon the newly appointed teachers to make classrooms engaging through activities, stories, experiments and technology. He also stressed the need for regular communication with parents and ensuring students' attendance, urging teachers to contribute to society and nation-building as Gujarat works towards the vision of Viksit Bharat. Minister of State for Education, Rivaba Jadeja, said: Teachers played a significant role not only in imparting knowledge but also in shaping children's thinking, personality and character. She emphasised that education should give equal importance to values, skills and technology alongside basic literacy. Quoting Rabindranath Tagore, Jadeja added that hose who wished to serve the nation should work in the field of education.

Bihar: ASI arrested in Begusarai bribery case

Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) In a major crackdown on corruption, the Vigilance Investigation Bureau on Monday arrested an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) posted at Sahebpur Kamal police station in Begusarai district while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 29,000. The accused, identified as Chandan Jha, was caught red-handed by a vigilance team from Patna during a trap operation near the block headquarters. The arrest has triggered a stir within the district police department. Gautam Sharan, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in the Vigilance Investigation Bureau, Patna, said the action followed a complaint lodged by Amit Kumar, a resident of the Sahebpur Kamal police station area. In his complaint, Amit Kumar alleged that ASI Chandan Jha had demanded money in exchange for removing his name from a criminal case. After receiving the complaint, the Vigilance Department conducted a preliminary verification of the allegations. Once the bribe demand was confirmed, a case (No. 127/26) was registered at the Vigilance police station. Subsequently, a trap was laid on Monday. The vigilance team apprehended the ASI immediately after he allegedly accepted Rs 29,000 from the complainant. According to DSP Gautam Sharan, the accused had initially demanded Rs 30,000, but the amount was later settled at Rs 29,000 following negotiations. The entire amount was recovered from his possession during the operation. The DSP said the case was related to a four-wheeler allegedly owned by the complainant. ASI Chandan Jha had claimed that he had already sold the vehicle. However, the same vehicle was subsequently seized in connection with a case involving liquor smuggling. The accused allegedly demanded the bribe in exchange for removing the complainant's name from the liquor smuggling case. Following his arrest, the vigilance team took the accused to the Begusarai Circuit House (Parisadan) to complete the necessary legal formalities. Arrangements were subsequently made to take him to Patna for further legal proceedings. The operation has once again brought the issue of corruption within the police department into focus. The Vigilance Department has reiterated its action against public servants allegedly demanding or accepting bribes, while further investigation into the case is underway.

BJP Womens Wing Protests Against Rising Milk Prices in Bengaluru

The BJP Womens Wing in Bengaluru protests against rising milk prices, demanding justice for farmers and accountability from the Congress government. BJP Womens Wing Protests Against Rising Milk Prices in Bengaluru

ACF Soumya Ranjan Death Case: Wife Bidyabharati Sent to 13-day Judicial Custody

Main accused Bidyabharati Panda surrendered before the SDJM court in Paralakhemundi in the ACF Soumya Ranjan death case. Her bail was rejected, remanding her to 13-day custody. The post ACF Soumya Ranjan Death Case: Wife Bidyabharati Sent to 13-day Judicial Custody appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Officer Held For Bribe In Odisha

An Odisha land acquisition officer, Ajay Kumar Garanaik, was arrested by the Vigilance Directorate on Monday for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 5 lakh bribe from a landowner. The bribe was sought to release compensation for land acquired for the Sambalpur-Talcher doubling rail line project.

Villagers stage protest at Collectorate demanding mobile ration shop

Kharge, Rahul meet senior party leaders from Uttarakhand leaders in Delhi but Harish Rawat absent

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi held a meeting with senior Uttarakhand party leaders here on Monday to discuss preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections in the hill state. Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Uttarakhand Congress In-charge Kumari Selja, state unit President Ganesh Godiyal, Uttarakhand Assembly LoP Yashpal Arya, and the party's Election Management Committee head Harak Singh Rawat were among the prominent party leaders present during the meeting. However, senior party leader and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat was absent. The meeting was part of the Congress' strategy to strengthen the party's position in the Himalayan state ahead of the Assembly elections next year. Kharge took aim at the double-engine BJP government in Uttarakhand and said that, over the past ten years, it has etrayed the hopes and aspirations of the state's people. A collapsed law-and-order system, serious questions over women's safety, the arrogance of power, and a persistent tendency to evade accountability have left the people of the state disillusioned, he posted on X. The people of Uttarakhand are now demanding an accounting and seeking change. The Congress Party is fighting with full vigour for the rights and entitlements of the people, from the streets to the halls of the legislature. Our resolve is to win the trust of the people and give Devbhoomi Uttarakhand a secure, sensitive, and accountable government that places public welfare above all, he added. Addressing reporters after the meeting, Kumari Selja said that extensive discussions were held, strategising on forming an agenda for the party's election campaign. Since it is an election-going state, a review of the situation there was taken, discussing what is happening and how all of us will move forward together. Regarding the strategy, we will inform you in due time. Everything is fully prepared; our programs are currently underway, she said. Meanwhile, on November 4, Congress is planning to hold demonstrations at district and state headquarters in Uttarakhand against alleged land scams and the illegal sale or auction of land in the state. A very major issue there revolves around corruption and the land scams. Land is being sold off at dirt-cheap prices, representing a massive scandal, which is a key part of the corruption issue. Since corruption is so widespread, land grabbing is a significant part of it. We have extensive details regarding what is happening on such a large scale. Going to the ground level, all our people and leaders will stage protests at various places to bring this to the public's attention, Selja said, mentioning that the Congress party will hold a campaign regarding this on November 4. She also stated that she will hold a press conference at the party headquarters here to expose the alleged scam. Asked about Harish Rawat's absence from the meeting, Selja said: There is a set criterion for the meeting. For instance, I am the In-charge; our two Secretaries are present with us, along with the PCC President, the CLP leader, and our two Chairmen. As I mentioned to you, the Campaign Committee Chairman and our Election Management Committee Chairman are present. Since this is about elections, that was the focus. Otherwise, discussions with all leaders have been happening earlier and will continue in the future as well. This is an ongoing process that will keep moving forward with other leaders too. Harak Singh Rawat, speaking to IANS, said that the Congress will hold a demonstration regarding the corruption taking place in Uttarakhand. The land scams, whether in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Vikas Nagar, or land belonging to the Jal Vidyut Nigam worth billions of rupees, or in Mussoorie where George Everest land was given to Ramdev Ji -- we are holding a demonstration on November 4 against all of this. In Uttarakhand, over the next three months, regarding corruption and all these issues, we have formulated a complete action plan today, he said.

Gujarat govt to spend an additional Rs 11.10 lakh annually on mountaineers' meals

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 2 (IANS) The Gujarat government has increased the daily meal allowance for mountaineering trainees and instructors at its training centres in Junagadh and Mount Abu from Rs 150 to Rs 350 per person, with the revised rates coming into effect from April 1, 2027. The decision, taken by the Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department, will involve an additional annual expenditure of Rs 11.10 lakh and benefit around 510 trainees participating in mountaineering camps at the two centres. At the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Mountaineering Training Centre in Junagadh, approximately 230 trainees attend training camps every year. The increase in the allowance will entail an additional expenditure of Rs 3.40 lakh annually at the centre. At the State Mountaineering Institute in Mount Abu, around 280 trainees participate in training programmes annually. The revised allowance will result in an additional annual expenditure of Rs 7.70 lakh at the institute. The two centres, which function under the Commissionerate of Youth Services and Cultural Activities, organise more than 20 government and non-government mountaineering training camps throughout the year. The revised allowance will apply to both trainees and instructors attending these camps. The government said the increase is aimed at improving food facilities and ensuring adequate nutrition for those undergoing physically demanding mountaineering training. Mountaineering involves sustained physical exertion, endurance and fitness, with trainees spending long hours practising on mountains and challenging rock formations. The increase is intended to help them maintain their stamina and physical fitness during training. The additional allocation of Rs 11.10 lakh annually will support the nutritional requirements of around 510 young people attending the two institutes, according to the government announcement.

Ktaka BJP Mahila Morcha protests milk price hike; Shobha Karandlaje demands rollback

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 2 (IANS) The BJP State Mahila Morcha on Monday staged a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru against the hike in milk prices, with Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje demanding that the Congress government roll back the increased prices and provide justice to farmers, warning that the government should quit power before a revolution erupts. Before a revolution takes place in the state, the Congress government should leave power. Otherwise, roll back all the prices you have increased and give justice to our farmers, Karandlaje said while addressing the protesters. The Union Minister alleged that the state governments administration had collapsed over the past three to four months and had reached its lowest level. The state governments administration has come down to zero in the last three to four months. Today, it has reached its lowest level. Such a situation has been created in Karnataka, she charged. Questioning Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar over what she described as the government's Kannada Rajyotsava gift to the people, Karandlaje said those in power should not judge the financial condition of ordinary citizens based on their own lifestyles. Chief Minister, what is your Kannada Rajyotsava gift to the people? You may be wealthy enough to drink Bisleri water in your homes, but we are not people who drink Bisleri. We drink the water of our mother Cauvery, she said. Do not determine the standard of living of the people of Karnataka based on your own status. You may be able to pay more for milk, but people who work in hotels for small salaries, drive taxis and autorickshaws, or survive through roadside businesses are facing severe hardship, she added. Karandlaje said ordinary citizens had to pay house rent, electricity bills, water bills and garbage collection charges from their limited incomes while also bearing the burden of repeated increases in milk and curd prices. The Union Minister also attacked the Congress government over drought relief, alleging that farmers had been given Rs 2,500 per acre as if it were charity while being subjected to several conditions. There has been inadequate rainfall, and the state is facing a severe drought. The government has given farmers Rs 2,500 per acre as if it were alms, she alleged. She said the previous BJP government led by B.S. Yediyurappa had provided Rs 4,000 to farmers in addition to assistance under the Centre's PM-Kisan Samman scheme. After coming to power, they stopped the money that the Yediyurappa government was providing to farmers. For even this Rs 2,500, they have imposed 17 or 18 rules and conditions, she charged. Karandlaje further alleged that the government had repeatedly increased milk prices while its guarantee schemes were not reaching beneficiaries properly. Rs 5,000 crore under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme has gone missing, and the government has not accounted for it till date, she alleged. She also criticised the government over the condition of the state-run transport corporations, claiming there was no money to repair buses or purchase diesel despite the government's free bus travel scheme for women. Former Legislative Council member Bharati Shetty, who also addressed the protest, demanded an immediate rollback of the milk price hike. She said the previous BJP government under Yediyurappa had provided subsidies for milk from the state exchequer and demanded that the Congress government fulfil its manifesto promise of providing milk subsidies. The Congress government should provide subsidies for milk as promised in its manifesto. But it is not right to give consumers a shock treatment, she said. Bharati Shetty said the BJP Mahila Morcha was holding protests against the price hike across Karnataka, including at the district, mandal and ward levels. She alleged that the government had increased milk prices several times and criticised the latest hike. BJP Kisan Morcha State Vice-President Bharati Mallikarjun, leaders Poornima Prakash, Bengaluru North Mahila Morcha district president Manjula Devi, Bengaluru Central Mahila Morcha district president Neethu N.M. Reddy, Bengaluru South Mahila Morcha district president Shwetha Raghavendra and other office-bearers and workers were present at the protest.

Two Five-Wicket Hauls, Two Fifties Put Karnataka in Command

Rohan Patil and Mayank Agarwal scored contrasting half-centuries, building a crucial 129-run partnership, after Karnataka's bowlers dismantled Assam's batting line-up, giving their team a commanding lead on day one of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match.

Odisha: Special land acquisition officer caught in bribery case

Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 2 (IANS) Odisha Vigilance on Monday apprehended a Special Land Acquisition officer after he was caught red-handed while receiving a bribe of Rs 3.10 lakhs from a land oustee in Anugola for the release of land acquisition compensation amount of Rs 84.62 lakhs. According to the official statement by the Odisha Vigilance, the accused official, Ajay Kumar Garanaik, is presently posted as Special Land Acquisition Officer, Sambalpur-Talcher Doubling Rail Line Project in Sambalpur. The agency further stated that Garanaik was apprehended by Odisha Vigilance shortly before for allegedly demanding a bribe of Rs 5 lakh from the landowner (complainant). The bribe was allegedly sought in lieu of facilitating the release of Rs. 84,62,288 towards land acquisition compensation and assuring favourable consideration of the landowner's claims for further compensation in connection with the proposed third railway line project. Garanaik had demanded a bribe of Rs.5.10 Lakhs from the complainant. He received Rs.2 Lakhs a few days back, on October 27 and demanded the rest, Rs. 3.10 lakhs, to be paid immediately. Garanaik also threatened the complainant landowner that unless he was paid the rest bribe amount Rs3.10 Lakhs, he (Garanaik) would create problems during his future land acquisition for third railway line project, said the Odisha vigilance. Guranaiks insistence and threats irked the complainant and, finding no other means, he reported the whole matter to vigilance authorities, narrating harassment by Garanaik. Acting on his complaint, a team of Odisha Vigilance nabbed Garanaik while taking the balance amount of bribe Rs.3.10 lakh from the complainant near the B.Ed. college in Anugola on Monday. The tainted bribe money of Rs.3,10,000 has also been recovered from the possession of accused Garanaik and seized by sleuths. Following the successful trap, simultaneous searches are going on at three locations linked to Garanaik over suspicion of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. In this connection, a case (20 /26) has been registered at the Sambalpur Vigilance Police Station on November 1 under Section 7 of the P.C. (Amendment) Act, 2018. Odisha Vigilance stated that the investigation against the accused, Garanaik, is underway and that a detailed report will be submitted upon its completion.

Arunachal Pradesh: Shutdown Called In 3 Districts On November 2 Over Proposed Siang Mega Dam

Indigenous communities across three Arunachal Pradesh districts enforced a total shutdown demanding the immediate release of over 40 anti-dam demonstrators and resisting the 11,200 MW Siang project that threatens to submerge 27 ancestral villages.

Bangladesh garment factories reopen, fresh clashes keep industry on edge

Bangladesh's garment factories reopened on Monday, but fresh clashes between police and workers demanding higher wages broke out in Dhaka and nearby industrial hubs, keeping manufacturers on edge after Sunday's widespread closures. Police said they used tear gas

Joint Press Conference in Chandigarh Against Arrests of Lakha Sidhana and Mohanjeet Singh Sheron

Various social, farmers, human rights and public-interest organisations held a joint press conference at Chandigarh Press Club against the arrests of Lakha Sidhana and Mohanjeet Singh Sheron, demanding their release and an impartial investigation. The post Joint Press Conference in Chandigarh Against Arrests of Lakha Sidhana and Mohanjeet Singh Sheron appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .

CPI(M)-led group holds march to Sanskrit universitys Kalady campus demanding permission for suspended SFI activists to write exams as per HC order

Varsity had suspended 16 students in connection with protest led by SFI to press various demands while a meeting of Syndicate was under way on August 13

AIMSA Sets Nov 12 Deadline for J&K Govt to Revise PG Residents' Stipend Demands, Warns of Protests

Jammu, Nov 02 : The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) held a press conference today at Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu, highlighting the ongoing disparity in the stipend structure of Postgraduate (PG) Resident Doctors across Jammu & Kashmir. The press conference was led by AIMSA Chief Advisors Dr. Sanah, Dr. Abhishek Mittal, Dr. Fazan Lone and Dr. Sidhant Sharma. Dr. Danish Hamid, Joint Secretary, AIMSA, representing PG Dental Residents across J&K, also participated and highlighted the concerns and demands of the dental resident fraternity. Dr. Shahnawaz Malik, Additional Secretary, AIMSA, was also present. During the press conference, AIMSA representatives raised concerns over the existing stipend structure, questioning why PG Resident Doctors in J&K are receiving only 64,000 in the first year and 67,000 in subsequent years, while several other states offer significantly higher stipends to their resident doctors. They emphasized that PG residents across J&K deserve fair and competitive remuneration in recognition of their demanding clinical responsibilities, extended working hours and dedicated service to patients. AIMSA called for an urgent revision of the existing stipend structure in line with prevailing standards in other states. The association also wrote to the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, seeking an early resolution of the long-pending stipend-related demands. The representation was signed by Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, AIMSA President, J&K. We are hopeful that Government will revise their Stipend within this time period, Dr Khan said. AIMSA has set 12 November 2026 as the deadline for the government to provide a concrete response and resolve the issue. The association further stated that if the demands remain unaddressed by the stipulated deadline AIMSA across J&K, will initiate peaceful and democratic protests throughout the Union Territory. AIMSA reiterated its commitment to securing fair and uniform stipend policies for PG Medical and Dental Residents and urged the government to address their genuine concerns within the stipulated timeline

Bansuri Swaraj targets Congress as BJP leaders, 1984 anti-Sikh massacre victims' families stage protest in Delhi

BJP leaders, including MPs Bansuri Swaraj and Kamaljeet Sehrawat, along with families of the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre victims and members of the Sikh community, staged a protest march from Gurdwara Bangla Sahib in the national capital on Monday, demanding accountability and justice. The protesters raised slogans against the Congress party and carried banners demanding justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre. Speaking to ANI during the protest, Bansuri Swaraj launched an attack on the Congress, accusing the party of being responsible for the killings and alleging that victims had been denied justice for decades. The killing of our brethren, the massacre of 1984, reveals the Congress party to be nothing but a collection of criminals and monsters. In 1984, these monsters from the Congress party had innocent members of our community burned alive. They were denied justice and forced to endure an agonisingly long wait, Swaraj said. She further criticised the Congress for hold...

Pakistan fined for slow over-rate in tri-series final against Sri Lanka

Digital Desk | Dubai, Nov 2 (IANS) Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in ODI Tri-Series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore. The sanction was imposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after Pakistan were found to have bowled one over short of the required quota within the stipulated time, even after accounting for time allowances. Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed penalty, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Wayne Knights, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz. Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams are penalised five per cent of their players match fees for every over they fall short of the minimum over-rate requirement. The penalty applies after the available time allowances have been taken into consideration. The fine comes after Pakistan registered a thrilling three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka to lift the tri-series trophy in front of their home crowd. Chasing a challenging target of 326, the hosts reached 329 for seven with nine balls remaining, completing the tournament-winning run chase. Fakhar Zaman was the chief architect of Pakistans successful pursuit, producing a commanding 127 off 99 deliveries, his 12th ODI century. He received valuable support from Saad Baig, who scored 74 off 75 balls, as the pair rescued the hosts after early dismissals of Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam. With Pakistan needing late impetus after Zamans dismissal, Arafat Minhas delivered a decisive contribution, smashing 61 off just 31 deliveries, including four sixes and as many boundaries. His aggressive knock brought the equation within reach before Shaheen sealed the victory with a six. Earlier, Kamindu Mendis had struck 131, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed 77, taking Sri Lanka to 325 for eight. However, their efforts proved insufficient as Pakistan completed the chase to claim the tri-series title.

Irfan Habib Calls Ram Mandir Verdict

The Ayodhya Ram Mandir dispute has returned to the centre of Indias historical debate after Marxist historian Irfan Habib described the Supreme Courts November 2019 judgment as totally illegitimate during an interview with ThePrint published on October 30, 2026. His remarks questioned the archaeological evidence supporting the existence of an earlier Hindu temple at the [] The post Irfan Habib Calls Ram Mandir Verdict Illegitimate, Questions Archaeological Evidence appeared first on Tfipost.com .

Darshan Halted at Puri Srimandir for 3 Hours Today

Public entry and darshan of the Holy Trinity at the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri will remain temporarily suspended for three hours this afternoon. According to officials of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), general devotees will not be allowed inside the temple premises from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The three-hour restriction on darshan [] The post Darshan Halted at Puri Srimandir for 3 Hours Today appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Supreme Court disposes plea seeking probe into alleged Ram Mandir donation theft after UP files chargesheet

The Supreme Court on Monday disposed of a batch of petitions seeking an independent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya after the Uttar Pradesh government informed it that a chargesheet had been filed in the case. A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice [] The post Supreme Court disposes plea seeking probe into alleged Ram Mandir donation theft after UP files chargesheet appeared first on India Legal .

Ashok Pandit Criticizes BMC Commissioner Over Diwali Statement, Calls for Deletion of Posts

Filmmaker Ashok Pandit expressed outrage at BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhides Diwali message, demanding the removal of related social media posts. Ashok Pandit Criticizes BMC Commissioner Over Diwali Statement, Calls for Deletion of Posts

Protest Erupts Over Reservation Discrepancies in Uttar Pradesh Teacher Recruitment

Hundreds protest in Lucknow demanding revised results for teacher recruitment amid claims of reservation discrepancies. Protest Erupts Over Reservation Discrepancies in Uttar Pradesh Teacher Recruitment