Tripura: INDIA bloc stages protest march in Agartala over SIR, electoral rights
Reported by: Mrinal Banik Agartala: Leaders and workers of eight political parties under the INDIA blocs Tripura unit on Friday staged a protest march in Agartala, demanding protection of constitutional values, electoral rights and the neutrality of democratic institutions. The protesters raised concerns over the functioning of the Election Commission, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) [] The post Tripura: INDIA bloc stages protest march in Agartala over SIR, electoral rights appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Indian boys beat Cuba to finish 87th at FIFA U15 World Cup Festival
Digital Desk | Baku (Azerbaijan), Oct 30 (IANS) India boys concluded their campaign on a winning note in the FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival, defeating Cuba 6-4 in the 87th-place play-off at the Hovsan Competition Complex Pitch 1B in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Friday. Victor Lalawmpuia, Nibas Meetei Wahengbam and R. Lalremruatfela scored twice each as the Blue Colts secured victory in their 10th and final fixture of the tournament. India built a commanding 6-1 advantage before Cuba struck three late goals to narrow the margin. In the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival, India registered five wins over Laos, Cameroon, Bahrain, Trinidad and Tobago, and Cuba, suffered four defeats to Senegal, Honduras, Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, while drawing once against Grenada to finish in 87th place out of 189 competing nations. In the last fixture, Bibiano Fernandes' side were on the charge from the outset and needed less than a minute to take the lead. Lalawmpuia stole possession from Cubas central defender, evaded a challenge and calmly placed his shot into the bottom-right corner. India doubled their advantage in the sixth minute through a well-worked move down the left. Lalremruatfela and Muhammad Sohil Khan combined before the latter delivered a cross across the face of goal, beyond the reach of the Cuban defence and goalkeeper. An unmarked Nibas arrived at the far post and tapped it home. Cuba responded by testing Dhannya Desai from distance and close range, but the India goalkeeper produced several important saves to preserve his sides two-goal cushion, the AIFF reports. India extended their lead in the 12th minute following a set piece. Sohil floated a free-kick into the area from the left, and although Cuba cleared the initial delivery, Nara Meitei Loushambam sent the ball back into the penalty box. Lalremruatfela was left unmarked and tapped it home to make it 3-0. Cuba pulled a goal back in the 19th minute after an error in the Indian defence, but the Blue Colts returned with renewed attacking intent and restored their three-goal advantage in the 22nd minute. Nibas struck powerfully from long range to score his second. Lalawmpuia followed suit a minute later. Receiving possession well outside the penalty area, he held off a Cuban challenge before trying his luck with his left foot. His shot took a deflection, looping into the air before dipping beyond the goalkeepers reach to make it 5-1. Lalremruatfela then completed his brace in the 27th minute as India capitalised on more slack Cuban defending. Left unmarked, he collected Desais goal kick and beat the goalkeeper with a powerful left-footed finish for Indias sixth. Cuba continued to seek a response, but Desai remained alert, making further saves before being replaced by Jenit Ningthoujam. The Caribbean side reduced the deficit in the 33rd minute from the penalty spot. Cuba then scored two more in the 34th and 39th minutes. However, the late rally came too late to overturn Indias advantage. The Blue Colts held on through the remaining moments to secure the win. R. Lalremruatfela concluded the tournament as India's top scorer with nine goals, followed by Lalawmpuia with eight, Nibas with four, Macdonnish Ngairangbam and Ronandev Aheibam with three each, and C Lalhmingropuia and Soumojit Sarkar with one each.
Digital Desk | Los Angeles, Oct 30 (IANS) The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has paid a tribute to the late acting legend, Sir Patrick Stewart after he passed away at the age of 96. On Friday, the Academy took to their Instagram, and shared a clip from the sci-fi franchise Star Trek featuring the actor with Jonathan Frakes. They also penned a long note in the caption, as they remembered the actor for his contribution to the field of cinematic arts. They wrote, There was something extraordinary about the way Sir Patrick Stewart could make even the most powerful characters feel profoundly human. Whether commanding the bridge of the Enterprise or guiding a generation of young mutants, Sir Patrick Stewart brought a tenderness to his characters that made us feel we knew them. Behind that unmistakable voice was an actor who understood that even the greatest heroes could be uncertain, that strength could exist alongside vulnerability, and that compassion was never a weakness. Over a career spanning more than 6 decades, his performances became woven into the lives of generations who grew up watching him. As Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Professor Charles Xavier, and so many others, he left us with characters we loved, lessons we carried, and memories we'll always treasure, she added. The actor passed away at the age of 96 at his Los Angeles home. He was surrounded by family and friends in his final moments. His estate took to his X, formerly Twitter, and shared the news. They wrote, We announce with great sorrow the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart yesterday at his home in Los Angeles, in the loving care of his beloved wife Sunny, following a brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter, and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all. We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace. They further mentioned, A son of Mirfield in the West Riding of Yorkshire, he travelled from the Royal Shakespeare Company to an equally acclaimed career spanning 6 decades on Broadway, the silver screen and television. The actor is survived by his third wife, singer Sunny Ozell and Daniel and Sophia, children from his first marriage from actor Sheila Falconer. Patrick Stewart's last cinematic appearance will be Avengers: Doomsday, which is set to be released in India on December 17, 2026.
The Himachal Pradesh Congress has targeted mobilising 10,000 to 15,000 party workers for the INDIA bloc's mega rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on November 1, demanding the replacement of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with ballot papers and alleging irregularities in the electoral process. The Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) president, Vinay Kumar, said the party had arranged around 200 buses, both government and private, along with more than 500 other vehicles to transport party workers from the state to the national capital for the rally. Addressing reporters in Shimla, Kumar said ministers, MLAs, chairpersons, board and corporation directors, women workers, Youth Congress, NSUI, Seva Dal and other frontal organisations, besides ordinary party workers, would participate in the rally. We are targeting around 10,000 to 15,000 workers from Himachal Pradesh for the rally in Delhi. We have arranged around 200 buses, both government and private, and more than 500 other...
Thousands join INDIA Bloc rally in Agartala, demand removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 30 (IANS) Thousands of people, including a large number of women, took part in a massive protest rally organised by the INDIA Bloc parties here on Friday, demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of electoral malpractices and alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Carrying thousands of Tricolours, singing patriotic songs and raising slogans, the protesters marched through the streets of the state capital, Agartala, demanding the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of vote theft and various other electoral malpractices. The Tripura unit of the INDIA Bloc, comprising eight political parties -- the Congress, CPI(M), CPI, Revolutionary Socialist Party, All India Forward Bloc, CPI(ML), Gana Mancha and Tripura People's Party -- jointly organised the protest rally and vowed to continue their agitation until their demands were met. The protesters marched through different parts of the city, raising slogans and expressing their anger over what they described as serious irregularities in the electoral process. The rally witnessed a massive public turnout, with participants waving the national flag and calling for greater accountability and transparency in the country's electoral system. The protest rally was followed by a public meeting in the state capital, where the demonstrators reiterated their demand for the removal of Gyanesh Kumar and the suspension of the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls. Former Tripura Chief Minister and veteran CPI(M) leader, Manik Sarkar, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Jitendra Chaudhury, former Minister Manik Dey, Tripura state Congress President Asish Kumar Saha, former Minister and Congress Working Committee member Sudip Roy Barman, along with several other senior leaders of the INDIA Bloc, led the protest rally and addressed the gathering. The four-point charter of demands includes the removal of Gyanesh Kumar from the post of Chief Election Commissioner, withdrawal of the ongoing SIR process, a review of provisions allegedly affecting the independence of the Election Commission, and opposition to the legal protections granted to the Chief Election Commissioner. CPI(M) Tripura state secretary and Jitendra Chaudhury alleged that the SIR exercise could lead to the exclusion of genuine voters from electoral rolls if adequate safeguards were not put in place. He also questioned the neutrality of the Election Commission and accused the BJP-led Central government of weakening the country's democratic institutions. Nearly 13.50 crore voters have already been removed from electoral rolls across the country through the SIR exercise, and there are apprehensions that over 2.50 lakh voters could be deleted from Tripura's electoral rolls during the upcoming SIR process, Chaudhury said. Tripura state Congress Committee President, Asish Kumar Saha, echoed similar concerns, alleging irregularities in voter registration, including duplicate entries and unusually large numbers of voters registered at certain addresses. He also raised questions over the transparency of electoral procedures and warned that such alleged irregularities could undermine public confidence in the country's electoral system. Congress leader Sudip Roy Barman appealed to political parties outside the INDIA Bloc, as well as other supporters of democracy, to join the campaign against the alleged electoral malpractices. He said the INDIA Bloc's agitation would continue to put pressure on the Election Commission and the authorities concerned to address their grievances regarding electoral roll revisions and ensure the integrity, transparency and fairness of the voting process. The INDIA Bloc leaders reiterated their resolve to continue the democratic movements until their demands were addressed and the concerns raised by the Opposition parties over the electoral process were adequately resolved.
Afridi, Nafay power Pakistan to four-wicket win over India in Hong Kong Sixes
Digital Desk | Hong Kong, Oct 30 (IANS) Pakistan produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting to defeat arch-rivals India by four wickets in a high-scoring encounter at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 on Friday, chasing down a target of 89 in just 3.5 overs after restricting their opponents to 88/5 in six overs. Captain Abbas Afridi led the charge with a blistering 35 off just eight deliveries, while Khawaja Nafay remained unbeaten on 41 off 12 balls to guide the defending champions to their first victory of the tournament. Abbas was named Player of the Match for his explosive contribution. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan initially struggled to contain Shashank Singh, whose 40 off just 11 deliveries kept India competitive despite the loss of wickets at regular intervals. India openers Rahul Tripathi and Nitish Rana started steadily, collecting 11 runs in the opening over. Muhammad Shahzad provided the breakthrough in the second over, dismissing Tripathi for nine off five balls. Shashank then launched an immediate counterattack, smashing 16 runs off three deliveries to push Indias total to 22 in the over. Pakistan captain Abbas kept Rana in check during the third over, conceding 11 runs while bowling four dot balls. India reached 44/1 at the halfway stage, with Shashank beginning to take control of the innings. The right-hander accelerated further in the fourth over, plundering 24 runs with three sixes and a boundary. Rana, however, struggled to match the scoring rate and was retired out in the fifth over after making 19 off 14 balls, bringing Rahul Tewatia to the crease. Pakistan seized control when Abdul Samad dismissed Tewatia for a golden duck before removing India captain Krunal Pandya for another duck on the very next delivery. Abdul conceded just 10 runs in the over, leaving India at 78/4 with one over remaining. Shashanks entertaining innings ended on the first ball of the final over when Ahmed Daniyal dismissed him. India added 12 runs from the remaining deliveries to finish at 88/5. Pakistans response was emphatic from the outset. Abbas and Nafay launched a relentless assault on the Indian bowlers, with the captain smashing five consecutive sixes against Krunal to help Pakistan collect 31 runs in the opening over. The onslaught continued against T. Natarajan in the second over, as Pakistan plundered another 28 runs to reach 73/1 after just two overs. India finally found a breakthrough when Shashank dismissed Abbas for 35, but the wicket did little to disrupt Pakistans momentum. Nafay continued to dominate the attack, striking two boundaries and five sixes during his unbeaten knock. Irfan Khan struck the winning runs as Pakistan reached 91/2 in 3.5 overs, completing a commanding victory over their neighbours. The result has also intensified the qualification battle in Group C. India will face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday, with a victory potentially leaving all three teams level on points. In that scenario, the number of sixes hit will determine which team advances to the Cup category. Pakistan currently lead the Group C sixes tally with 23 across two matches, followed by the UAE with 12 in one match and India with seven in one match.
Jharkhand High Court Expresses Anger Over Missing Girl Case
The Jharkhand High Court criticized police negligence in the case of a girl missing since 2018, demanding accountability from officials. Jharkhand High Court Expresses Anger Over Missing Girl Case
When Ramayana: Part One was announced, much of the conversation naturally revolved around Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Rama. After all, Ranbir is one of Hindi cinema's biggest stars, and portraying such an iconic character is arguably the most significant responsibility of his career. But there is another superstar in the film whose presence could prove equally important to its commercial prospects. And interestingly, he isn't playing the hero. He is playing Ravana. Yash, who became a nationwide sensation with the KGF franchise, is one of the most intriguing casting choices in Ramayana. His presence raises a fascinating question: Could the actor portraying the antagonist actually be the film's biggest box-office advantage in certain markets? It is a question worth examining, especially when the industry is increasingly dependent on films that can appeal to audiences across linguistic and geographical boundaries. The KGF phenomenon changed everything Before KGF, Yash was primarily a major star in Kannada cinema. The franchise transformed him into a pan-India phenomenon. The success of KGF: Chapter 2 was particularly significant because it demonstrated that a Kannada-language film could command extraordinary interest in Hindi-speaking territories. Yash was no longer simply a regional superstar enjoying success outside his home market. He had become a recognisable commercial force across the country. The achievement was even more remarkable because the Hindi version of KGF: Chapter 2 performed at a level comparable to the biggest Hindi blockbusters. However, there is an important distinction. The KGF films were built around Rocky Bhai, a character specifically designed to project power, swagger and larger-than-life heroism. Yash's screen presence was central to their appeal. In Ramayana, he faces a completely different challenge. He is not playing the protagonist. He is portraying Ravana, one of the most formidable antagonists in Indian mythology. And yet, that might actually make his presence more commercially interesting. Could audiences turn up for Ravana? Indian cinema has repeatedly demonstrated that powerful antagonists can become major attractions. From Gabbar Singh in Sholay to the larger-than-life villains of contemporary action cinema, a compelling antagonist can be just as important to a film's popularity as its hero. Ravana offers an extraordinary opportunity in this regard. He is not merely a conventional villain. He is a powerful ruler, a scholar, a devotee of Lord Shiva and a character associated with immense pride, ambition and moral contradictions. His complexity makes him dramatically fascinating. For Yash, the role offers the possibility of moving beyond the Rocky Bhai image without abandoning the commanding screen presence that made him popular. Imagine the anticipation surrounding a major confrontation between Ranbir's Rama and Yash's Ravana. The emotional stakes of the epic would be complemented by the cinematic excitement of watching two major stars face each other. This is where Ramayana has a potentially enormous advantage over a conventional star vehicle. It can attract audiences for both its hero and its antagonist. The North-South equation One of the biggest challenges facing expensive Indian films is achieving genuinely nationwide appeal. A film may perform exceptionally well in Hindi-speaking markets but struggle in the South. Conversely, a major South Indian blockbuster may need extensive marketing and favourable word of mouth to establish itself in the Hindi belt. Ramayana attempts to address this challenge through its casting and subject. Ranbir Kapoor brings strong recognition among Hindi-film audiences. Yash commands a particularly devoted following in Karnataka and has considerable recognition across India. Sai Pallavi adds another layer of familiarity for audiences in the southern markets. Together, they create a combination that could appeal to multiple territories. But can Yash's presence genuinely translate into additional ticket sales? That is where the trade analysis becomes interesting. If the Kannada version delivers unusually strong collections, or if the film performs particularly well in markets where Yash enjoys a devoted following, it could indicate that his casting has expanded the film's commercial reach. However, the contribution of a particular actor cannot be established simply by examining regional collections. The familiarity of the Ramayana story, the marketing campaign, ticket prices and audience response will also influence demand. The challenge is to separate genuine star power from the appeal of the overall cinematic event. Ranbir has the central role, but Yash has a different advantage Ranbir Kapoor's performance will carry enormous emotional responsibility. Lord Rama is revered by generations of audiences, and the character demands restraint, dignity and conviction. The portrayal will inevitably be judged against deeply established cultural expectations. Yash, on the other hand, has an opportunity to create a memorable cinematic interpretation of Ravana. His character allows for greater theatricality, physical intensity and dramatic flamboyance. These qualities could prove especially effective in promotional material and large-screen presentation. There is also a difference in audience expectations. Ranbir will be expected to embody the idealism associated with Rama. Yash will be expected to make Ravana a formidable opponent. The latter could generate considerable excitement without necessarily overshadowing the former. Indeed, a powerful Ravana could make the triumph of Rama more emotionally satisfying. The producer factor There is another aspect of Yash's involvement that deserves attention. He is not merely a member of the cast. His banner, Monster Mind Creations, is associated with the production alongside Prime Focus Studios. This gives his association with Ramayana a significance beyond acting. For a star who established his pan-India credentials through KGF, participating in such an ambitious project as both an actor and a producer represents an important step in his career. It also underlines the changing dynamics of Indian cinema, where major stars are increasingly involved in building large-scale intellectual properties rather than simply headlining individual films. The real test begins after the opening weekend Advance bookings can reveal where initial enthusiasm is strongest. But they cannot conclusively establish which star is responsible for a film's performance. A more meaningful assessment would require comparing the Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam versions, along with occupancy patterns and sustained collections. If Ramayana achieves exceptional numbers in Karnataka and performs strongly in other southern territories, Yash's presence could be an important contributing factor. If Hindi collections dominate, Ranbir's established market and the universal appeal of the subject may be more significant. And if the film performs consistently across India, perhaps the biggest achievement will be the way its cast and story have combined to transcend the conventional North-South divide. So, is Yash the real box-office trump card of Ramayana? The possibility certainly deserves consideration. Ranbir Kapoor is the central protagonist and the emotional anchor of the film. But Yash brings a different kind of commercial strength an established pan-India following, a commanding screen image and the ability to generate anticipation around a formidable antagonist. However, in an industry where nationwide appeal has become increasingly valuable, Yash could prove to be one of Ramayana's smartest commercial decisions. After all, every great cinematic hero needs an equally compelling adversary. And in Ramayana, the man playing Ravana might just be one of the reasons audiences turn up to celebrate Rama. Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor, Nitesh Tiwari, and others discuss Ramayanas values with students from 500 schools; special episode to stream on JioHotstar
Shraddha Kapoor dances her way to glory as legendary Lavani dancer in Eetha trailer
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) The trailer of the upcoming film Eetha starring Shraddha Kapoor was unveiled on Friday. It showcases the actress essaying the role inspired by the legendary Lavani dancer Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. The trailer opens up with the internal conflict of the lead character peppered with self-doubts, and lost hope before she bounces back into action with the tamasha company, earning respect and fandom along her journey. The trailer features fast cuts of dance sequences edited to a crisp and pulsating score by the musical duo Ajay-Atul. Shraddha capitalises on her Marathi cultural background and delivers a solid performance with a commanding screen presence set to the folk beats. The film also stars Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Nana Patekar in his posthumous performance, Randeep Hooda and Anant Joshi. The film is inspired by the life of Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, a legendary Marathi folk artist, Lavani dancer and Tamasha performer from Maharashtra. She belonged to a family of traditional Tamasha artistes. From a very young age, she developed a passion for singing, dancing and acting. Through her extraordinary talent, powerful expressions and dedication, she became one of the most celebrated performers in Maharashtra. She was popularly known as Tamasha Samradni (Empress of Tamasha), and received national recognition and Presidential honours for her contribution to folk art. Her life was marked by remarkable dedication, courage and determination. Despite facing personal and financial difficulties, she continued to preserve and promote Maharashtra's traditional folk culture. She also worked for the welfare of fellow Tamasha artists. In 2006, the Maharashtra government established the Vithabai Narayangaonkar Lifetime Achievement Award in her memory, honouring outstanding contributions to Tamasha. Produced by Maddock Films, the film is helmed by Laxman Utekar, and is set to bow in theatres on December 4, 2026.
Not a single vote should be left out: Chandra Shekhar Azad on SIR deadline extension
Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram) National President Chandra Shekhar Azad on Friday underscored the vital importance of universal franchise following the extension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) deadline, demanding that election authorities leave no eligible citizen behind. Weighing in on the extension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) deadline, Azad stressed that safeguarding every ballot is paramount for shaping future democratic outcomes.
Indian Naval Ships depart Colombo after successful port call
Digital Desk | Colombo, Oct 30 (IANS) Ships of the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), comprising Indian Naval ships INS Tir, INS Sujata and Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sarathi, departed Sri Lankas Colombo, marking the conclusion of a successful port call, the Ministry of Defence said on Friday. Before departing Colombo, the ships of 1TS undertook a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Sri Lankan Navy ship Nandimithra, facilitating coordinated maritime manoeuvres and enhanced operational coordination and interoperability between the two maritime forces. According to the Defence Ministry, the visit underscored the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional maritime cooperation and capacity building, in line with New Delhis vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). The visit featured bilateral engagements between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), reinforcing defence cooperation and the maritime partnership between the two nations. During the port call, the Senior Officer, 1TS, accompanied by the Commanding Officers of the ships, called on the Commander, Western Naval Area, Sri Lanka Navy. The interaction reaffirmed the close bilateral ties and the shared commitment of both navies to enhancing maritime cooperation, the Defence Ministry stated. As part of the professional engagements, sea trainees of 1TS visited the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee, and interacted with their Sri Lankan counterparts. In a reciprocal engagement, SLN cadets from NMA visited the 1TS ships and gained insights into the squadrons training facilities and activities. These interactions provided opportunities for the exchange of experiences and fostered professional camaraderie among the trainees of both navies, it added. As part of its community outreach initiatives, the Indian Navy personnel participated in a beach clean-up activity during the port call, promoting environmental sustainability. The ships were also opened to visitors, including members of the local community and the Indian diaspora, providing an opportunity to interact with the crew and gain insight into the Indian Navys training and operational activities, the Defence Ministry mentioned. The ships of 1TS arrived in Colombo on Tuesday as part of their training deployment and were accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Sri Lanka Navy. Anchoring Friendship, Strengthening Maritime Cooperation. Ships of the Indian Navys First Training Squadron (1TS) - INS Tir, INS Sujata and ICGS Sarathi - arrived at Colombo to a ceremonial welcome from the Sri Lanka Navy, the Indian Navy posted on X. As part of the professional engagements during the port call, the DG Naval Training and the Commander, Eastern Naval Area, Sri Lanka Navy, interacted with sea trainees onboard, it added.
Kauriburir Mandir: Watch the Official trailer from bengali Web series 'Kauriburir Mandir' starring Jeetu Kamal, Solanki Roy, Paoli Dam and Saswata Chatterjee. Kauriburir Mandir is directed by Sayantan Ghosaln. To know more about Kauriburir Mandir, watch the video. Check out the latest bengali trailer, new series trailer, trending bengali series trailer, Jeetu Kamal, Solanki Roy, Paoli Dam and Saswata Chatterjee 's videos at Etimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Delhi Police bust illegal gambling den in Model Town, apprehend 10
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS) The Delhi Police have busted an illegal gambling network in the Model Town area of North-West Delhi and apprehended 10 people allegedly involved in gambling activities, officials said on Friday. The Anti-Burglary Cell of the North-West District Police conducted the raid and recovered Rs 11,300 in cash, a mobile phone used for online satta parchi writing, 244 satta slips, five carbon papers, three writing pads, a calculator and three pens. According to the police, the operation was carried out on October 28 following secret information about illegal gambling activities involving the writing of satta parchis at Rajpura, Gudmandi, Delhi, also known as Raddi's Adda, under the jurisdiction of Model Town police station. Acting on the information, a team from the Anti-Burglary Cell conducted a raid at the identified location and apprehended 10 people who were allegedly found actively participating in gambling activities. The police team comprised ASI Rakesh, Head Constables Ajay and Rajpal, and Dharamraj. During the raid, the police recovered Rs 11,300 in cash and several items used in the gambling operation. These included a mobile phone suspected to have been used for online satta parchi writing, 244 satta parchis, five carbon papers, three writing pads, one calculator and three pens. Following the operation, an FIR (No. 413/26) dated October 28 was registered at Model Town police station under Sections 12 and 9/55 of the Gambling Act, as mentioned in the police statement. The 10 apprehended persons have been identified as Tazuddin, 39, a resident of Rajpura, Gudmandi; Mahender, 42, also a resident of Rajpura, Gudmandi; Deepak, 42, of New Gupta Colony, Model Town; and Aasha Ram, 45, of Old Gupta Colony, Model Town. The other accused have been identified as Mahesh, 53, of Kabir Nagar; Mohit Kumar, 25, of Rajpura, Gudmandi; Ashok Kumar, 49, who lives at Sonu Ka Makan in Yadav Chowk, Rajpura, Gudmandi; Giriraj, 44, of Rajpura, Gudmandi; Suraj, 47, of Rajpura, Gudmandi; and Umesh, 35, who resides at Bittu Ka Makan in Rajpura, Gudmandi. The police said the operation was part of their efforts to curb illegal gambling activities in the district. Further investigation is underway.
Raghubir Yadav suffered heart attack before shooting for a key scene in Hunkkaar: The Roar
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) Veteran actor Raghubir Yadav, who is receiving a lot of positive response to his work in the streaming series Hunkkaar: The Roar, has a scary medical situation before shooting for a key scene for the series. Director Karan Kapadia and Raghubir Yadav recently took audiences behind the scenes to discuss pivotal moments from the series as they shared insights into the creative process and memorable on-set anecdotes in a special scene breakdown. Adding a surprising twist to the conversation, Karan recalled that the team was shooting the crucial testimony scene when, the night before, Raghubir Yadav had suffered a heart attack. Recounting the incident with characteristic humour, Raghubir jokingly remarked that the scene was so intense that he rather enjoyed having a heart attack more. The anecdote offers a glimpse into the demanding nature of the sequence and the candid, unexpected moments that unfold behind the camera. Hunkkaar The Roar is set against a world of power, faith and influence, and follows the accusation made by 17-year-old Meenu Rawat against a spiritual figure. The show is directed by Karan D. Kapadia and Nitya Mehra. Actress Aneet Padda, who broke out on the scene with Saiyaara, essays the role of Meenu Rawat. Her allegations trigger a high-stakes investigation and a courtroom battle, exposing the complex relationship between faith, power and justice. Fatima Sana Shaikh plays ACP Jasleen Singh Soin, while Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Raghubir Yadav, Ram Kapoor and Arjun Mathur feature in pivotal roles. Backed by Applause Entertainment, Birla Studios and Purple Pebble Pictures, the series explores truth, institutional influence and a young womans fight to be heard. Produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment, in association with Purple Pebble Pictures, a Mangata Films Production, Hunkkaar: The Roar is available to stream on JioHotstar.
'GO OFFLINE': Nicki Minaj's 'EVIL' Insult Sparks Fiery Democrat Retort Amid Team Trump Role Buzz
Nicki Minaj has ignited a fresh political firestorm after launching a blistering attack on New York Governor Kathy Hochul, calling her an evil woman and demanding that Democrats give up her seat. But Hochul has fired back, telling the pro-Trump rapper to get outside, go offline and stop attending Trump rallies, claiming they are poisoning your mind. The war of words comes amid growing speculation about Minaj potentially taking on a major role in Donald Trump's White House. The rapper recently endorsed Trump at a Michigan rally, praised his leadership and travelled aboard Air Force One, where she also met White House Communications Director Steven Cheung. Cheung fuelled the speculation by joking that Minaj could be the administration's new White House Press Secretary. Her latest clash with Hochul marks a dramatic escalation in her political involvement, putting the rapper at the centre of another high-profile showdown between Trump allies and Democrats.
Protest against liquor policy suspended after Ladakh admin agrees to all demands: Wangchuk
Leh, Oct 30: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk said the protest against the new liquor policy in Ladakh was suspended after the administration agreed to all demands and sought a week's time to formalise the agreement. Women-led protests began last week in Ladakh, driven by a newly introduced liquor policy, demanding a complete rollback of the policy and for Ladakh to be declared a dry Union territory. Ladakh women leaders suspend their protest against liquor. After the UT administration agreed to all demands and sought a week to finalise the agreement. Let's hope that their trust and faith in the system will be respected, Wangchuk said on X on Thursday. The four organisations on Thursday suspended their dharna planned from October 29 to November 5 following a written assurance from the UT administration. The assurance was conveyed through a letter issued by the Home Department on October 29, signed by Special Secretary Tashi Dolma, accepting in principle all the points and recommendations submitted by the organisations on the liquor policy. The Ladakh Buddhist Association Women Wing, Anjuman-e-Imamia Women Wing, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam Women Wing and Christian Community Women Wing have objected to the liquor policy. In a press release, the organisations said the UT administration has sought a week's time to finalise the agreement in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation. Respecting the request, the women's organisations have agreed to temporarily suspend their dharna, giving the administration an opportunity to fulfil its commitment and formalise the agreed points in writing, it added. The organisations said the suspension of the protest should be seen as an expression of their faith in the administration's assurance and thanked the people of Ladakh for their overwhelming support. The protest was launched against the expansion of liquor availability, including the issuance of recent bar licences and wine shops. The organisations have been demanding measures to safeguard the future of youth, protect the social fabric and preserve Ladakh's cultural and spiritual values. The organisations reiterated their long-term commitment towards a healthier and alcohol-addiction-free Ladakh.
Teacher Recruitment Aspirants' Protest Ends In Prayagraj, Several Detained
The candidates were demanding that the Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) and Post Graduate Teacher (PGT) recruitment processes be conducted under the previous rules and examination pattern.
Fatwa Against Sara Over Temple Visit
An Islamic cleric issued a fatwa against actress Sara Ali Khan, demanding she repent for offering prayers at the Kedarnath temple.
Travis Kelce Puts Team First Amid Kansas City Chiefs Injury News
Travis Kelce put team success ahead of personal records after the Kansas City Chiefs' loss to the Seattle Seahawks, while addressing his injury concerns and demanding a stronger response before the Denver Broncos clash.
Michael Jackson's $109 Million Estate War EXPLODES, Daughter Moves Court Against 'King Of Pop's Aide
Michael Jackson's $109 million estate has become the centre of a fresh legal showdown, with his daughter Paris Jackson taking aim at the man overseeing her late father's fortune. Paris has filed a court motion demanding a reduction in executor compensation, accusing John Branca of missed deadlines, incomplete financial disclosures and failures in estate reporting. According to court documents cited by RadarOnline, nearly $90.9 million in executor compensation had allegedly been paid out before receiving court approval. Her legal team is also challenging a proposed $109.2 million compensation package and pointing to an alleged $972,442 discrepancy in the estate's financial accounting. Paris wants executor compensation reduced from 15% to 10% until complete financial records are submitted. The dispute also revives concerns reportedly raised by Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi, dating back to 2018. A hearing is scheduled for December 4, 2026. The court has yet to rule on her allegations.
IND vs NZ 4th T20I Live Streaming: With a commanding 3-0 lead in the T20I series against New Zealand, India heads into the fourth match set at the iconic Eden Park in Auckland. India showcased an impressive batting display, successfully chasing 199 runs in Wellington. New Zealand, looking to bounce back after their series setback, will seek to make a statement. Fans can tune in to watch the action live on SonyLIV and Sony Sports Network.
Delhi Police seize over 1,073 kg of firecrackers; register 10 FIRs
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS) The Delhi Police have intensified their crackdown on the unauthorised sale, possession and storage of firecrackers ahead of the festive season, registering 10 FIRs and seizing 1,073.426 kg of firecrackers across five police station areas. According to a police statement issued on Friday, the seizures were made in the jurisdictions of Lahori Gate, Burari, Kotwali, Bara Hindu Rao and Subzi Mandi police stations as part of efforts to safeguard public safety and maintain law and order during the festive period. The highest recovery of 622.88 kg was made in the Subzi Mandi area, followed by 178.5 kg in Bara Hindu Rao, 107.6 kg in Kotwali, 88.916 kg in Lahori Gate and 75.53 kg in Burari. At Lahori Gate police station, an FIR (No. 0504/2026) was registered on October 16 under Sections 223(b) and 288 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 5 and 9B of the Explosives Act. A total of 88.916 kg of firecrackers was recovered from an area in front of Sir Sobha Singh Polyclinic. In the Burari area, FIR No. 0753/2026 was registered on October 18 under Sections 223(a) and 288 of the BNS and Section 9B of the Explosives Act. Police recovered 75.53 kg of firecrackers from in front of House No. 163, Gali No. 11, B-Block, Himgiri. Kotwali police registered two FIRs in connection with the recoveries. On October 18, FIR No. 0862/2026 was registered after 93 kg of firecrackers were recovered from Angoori Bagh Fool Wala Road, near Prabha Dharamshala. Subsequently, on October 27, FIR No. 0942/2026 was registered following the recovery of 14.6 kg of firecrackers near Moti Cinema in Chandni Chowk. The cases were registered under Section 288 of the BNS and Section 9B of the Explosives Act. In Bara Hindu Rao, three FIRs, Nos. 263/2026, 264/2026 and 266/2026 were registered on October 24 and 25. Police recovered 49.7 kg of firecrackers in the first two cases and 128.8 kg in the third case from the Mahavir Bazar area, taking the total seizure to 178.5 kg. Subzi Mandi police registered three FIRs -- 453/2026, 456/2026 and 462/2026 on October 23, 25 and 27, respectively. The recoveries included 272.58 kg from Gali Mandir Wali, near Arya Mandir; 318.5 kg from another location under the police station's jurisdiction; and 31.8 kg near Pul Bangash on Roshanara Road. The North District Police said unauthorised storage and unsafe handling of firecrackers could pose serious risks of fires and injuries, particularly in crowded markets and residential areas. Residents, traders, shopkeepers and property owners have been urged to comply with applicable regulations and refrain from unauthorised sale, possession and storage of firecrackers. Citizens have also been urged to report suspected violations to the police promptly. The police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring safe and orderly festive celebrations. Further investigation and legal action are underway in the cases.
'MOM GONNA SMACK HER': Trump's Personal Attack On Ilhan Omar, Revives Fake Name & Citizenship Claim
Donald Trump has unleashed another blistering attack on Somalia and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, branding the African nation a sh*thouse country during a fiery speech. The President also mocked a heckler, claiming her mother would smack her around, before accusing Omar of fraud and demanding that she resign from Congress. Trump revived his controversial immigration remarks, questioning why the United States accepts migrants from countries he considers troubled. His latest comments are likely to fuel another political firestorm.#DonaldTrump #Trump #IlhanOmar #Somalia #TrumpSpeech #USPolitics #Immigration #TrumpNews #Minnesota #PoliticalControversy #BreakingNews #WhiteHouse
GCW M.A. Road hosts event on rights of senior citizens
Srinagar, Oct 29: Emphasising the need to respect, care for and stand by older persons, Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Mohammad Mobin called for greater sensitivity towards the elderly, observing that caring for them is a shared responsibility of families and society. Addressing a programme organised at Government College for Women (GCW), MA Road, Srinagar, as Chief Guest, Prof. Mobin said older persons must not be left behind as society progresses. He reminded the audience that parents spend their most productive years raising their children, making sacrifices and building their futures. The time eventually comes when the younger generation must give back with the same love, patience and commitment, ensuring that their parents age with dignity, security and a sense of belonging. Under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the programme was organised by RRTCAnugraha, Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, GCW MA Road with Moul Mouj Foundation supporting the broader awareness initiative. Welcoming the participants, Principal of the host college, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq Khan said that issues concerning older persons were close to the institutions heart. She observed that caring for elderly should be our priority, calling for greater compassion and understanding towards their needs. A special highlight of the programme was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, which brought together legal, law-enforcement, social and administrative perspectives on ageing. Kifayat Hussain Rizvi (IAS Retd.), former Commissioner/Secretary, J&K Government, brought the perspective of an experienced public servant, highlighting the need to ensure that retirement does not mean retirement from life. Tahir Ashraf, Senior Superintendent of Police, SIA, addressed the growing threat of cybercrime targeting older persons, particularly digital arrest scams and financial fraud. He highlighted the importance of digital awareness and the need for younger family members to help older persons navigate technology safely without compromising their independence. Tabassum Qadir Parray, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, spoke on the legal rights and protection available to senior citizens, including remedies for neglect, abandonment and abuse under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. In her message, Aabha Chaudhary of RRTCAnugraha reaffirmed the organisations commitment to working for the welfare of older persons and spreading awareness about their social and legal rights. The programme featured a skit by a team of college students which evoked emotional response from the audience, a solo song performance, screening of a short film, Wakathon and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam plantation activity, promoting intergenerational bonding, respect and care for the elderly. Winners of the essay-writing competition on issues concerning senior citizens were also announced. Certificates and cash prizes were distributed among the winners of the essay competition and the skit actors. The programme also recognised the contributions of the colleges alumni, former principals and faculty members, felicitating them for their association with the institution. Senior citizens participating from various organisations, including the Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association (CGPWA), Kashmir and Ahata Waqar, were also felicitated. Among those present were Registrar, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Wilayat Hussain Rizvi; Controller of Examinations, Prof. Khurshid Ahmad Mir; Dean, Sciences, Prof. Nighat Nasreen; Dean, Social Sciences, Dr. Javaid Ahmad Bhat; Prof. Masooda Yaseen; Mrs. Mandip Kaur; GM Dilshad, besides students, senior citizens and representatives of various organisations. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Head, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Dr. Suhail Ahmad.
Samad, Lotra rescue J&K from defeat against Baroda
Srinagar, Oct 29: Sensational centuries from Abdul Samad and a fighting knock from Sahil Lotra helped Jammu and Kashmir salvage a draw against Baroda in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match at the Reliance Cricket Stadium in Vadodara on Thursday. Baroda, however, secured victory on the basis of a first-innings lead after J&K finished their second innings at 316 for six in 96 overs. Forced to follow on after conceding a massive 313-run first-innings lead, J&K were staring at a possible defeat after their top order once again failed to provide a solid foundation. However, Samad and Lotra produced a remarkable fightback, ensuring the visitors batted out the final day to save the match. Samad was the chief architect of the rescue act, hammering a magnificent 143 off just 152 deliveries. His aggressive innings featured 16 fours and seven sixes, as he took the attack to the opposition and shifted the momentum with a display of fearless strokeplay. The right-hander showed his ability to change the course of a match, countering Barodas bowling with an attacking approach when J&K needed it most. At the other end, Lotra displayed tremendous patience and composure, remaining unbeaten on 96 off 240 balls. His innings was built on discipline and resilience, providing the perfect foil to Samads attacking approach. Lotra held his ground and his partnership with Samad proved decisive in taking J&K out of danger. The pair stitched together a crucial 225-run partnership, transforming a precarious situation into one of relative comfort for the visitors. Their contrasting styles, Samads aggression and Lotras calm resistance,proved effective against a Baroda attack that had dominated proceedings for much of the match. J&K had resumed the fourth day under pressure after being asked to follow on. Their first-innings total of 303 had left them 313 runs behind Barodas imposing 616, built around Priyanshu Moliyas unbeaten 321 and Mahesh Pithiyas 102. The visitors second innings initially followed a familiar pattern, with the top order struggling to make an impact. Qamran Iqbal scored 20, Shubham Khajuria managed five, Kawalpreet Singh contributed 22, while captain Paras Dogra fell for one. The early setbacks raised the prospect of Baroda completing a convincing victory. However, Samads counter-attacking century and Lotras determined effort changed the complexion of the contest. After Samad was dismissed for 143, Lotra continued to bat with discipline, ensuring Baroda could not force a result. Rydham Sharma added 11, while Vanshaj Sharma remained unbeaten on one alongside Lotra when the match was drawn. For Baroda, Mahesh Pithiya claimed three wickets, while Rasikh Salam, Bhargav Bhatt and Atit Sheth picked up one wicket each. Priyanshu Moliya was adjudged Player of the Match for his monumental unbeaten 321 in Barodas first innings, which laid the foundation for the hosts first-innings advantage. While J&K managed to avert defeat through a determined batting display, Baroda took the match honours by virtue of their commanding first-innings total.
Remain mission ready to sustain operational dominance: Lt Gen Pratik Sharma
Rajouri, Oct 29: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma has asked army troops to remain proactive,vigilant and mission ready to sustained operational dominance in the prevalent security situation. The Northern Army Commander was interacting with troops deployed both on Line of Control (LoC) as well as hinterland sectors of twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Army said that Lt Gen Pratik Sharma visited frontline units along the Line of Control in Poonch and hinterland formations in Rajouri on Thursday. The visit was aimed to review operational preparedness and prevailing security dynamics, army further said. The Army Commander was briefed on operational challenges, joint intelligence frameworks and synergy with security agencies, a statement read. Army informed that while interacting with the troops, Army Commander exhorted all ranks to remain proactive, vigilant and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance.
Jaylen Brown Denies Trade Demand Claims As Brian Scalabrine Walks Back Celtics: Report
Jaylen Brown denied demanding a trade from Boston after Brian Scalabrine made claims about his exit. The Sixers star says he wants to focus on Philadelphia.
Caring for the elderly is a blessing, not just an obligation
Srinagar, Oct 29:Emphasising the need to respect, care for and stand by older persons, Vice Chancellor of the Cluster University, Srinagar, Prof. Mohammad Mobin, today called for greater sensitivity towards the elderly, observing that caring for them is a shared responsibility of families and society. Addressing a programme organised at Government College for Women (GCW), MA Road, Srinagar, as the Chief Guest, Prof. Mobin said older persons must not be left behind as society progresses. He reminded the audience that parents spend their most productive years raising their children, making sacrifices and building their futures. The time eventually comes when the younger generation must give back with the same love, patience and commitment, ensuring that their parents age with dignity, security and a sense of belonging. Under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the programme was organised by RRTCAnugraha, Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Government College for Women, MA Road, Srinagar, with Moul Mouj Foundation supporting the broader awareness initiative. Welcoming the participants, Principal GCW, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq Khan said that issues concerning older persons were close to the institutions heart. She observed that caring for elderly should be our priority, calling for greater compassion and understanding towards their needs. A special highlight of the programme was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, which brought together legal, law-enforcement, social and administrative perspectives on ageing. Kifayat Hussain Rizvi (IAS Retd.), former Commissioner/Secretary, J&K Government, brought the perspective of an experienced public servant, highlighting the need to ensure that retirement does not mean retirement from life. The discussion underscored the importance of respecting the wisdom, experience and continuing contributions of older persons. Tahir Ashraf (JKPS), Senior Superintendent of Police, SIA, addressed the growing threat of cybercrime targeting older persons, particularly digital arrest scams and financial fraud. The discussion highlighted the importance of digital awareness and the need for younger family members to help older persons navigate technology safely without compromising their independence. Tabassum Qadir Parray, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, spoke on the legal rights and protection available to senior citizens, including remedies for neglect, abandonment and abuse under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. In her message, Aabha Chaudhary of RRTCAnugraha reaffirmed the organisations commitment to working for the welfare of older persons and spreading awareness about their social and legal rights. The programme featured an emotional skit by GCW MA Road students, cultural performances, a Wakathon and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam plantation activity, promoting intergenerational bonding, respect and care for the elderly. Winners of the essay-writing competition on issues concerning senior citizens were announced, with Nausheen Qureshi securing first position, Ayesha Faisal second and Shifa Qureshi third. Certificates and cash prizes were distributed among the winners. The programme also recognised the contributions of the colleges alumni, former principals and faculty members, felicitating them for their association with the institution. Senior citizens participating from various organisations, including the Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association (CGPWA), Kashmir and Ahata Waqar, were also felicitated. Among those present were Registrar, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Wilayat Hussain Rizvi; Controller of Examinations, Prof. Khurshid Ahmad Mir; Dean, Sciences, Prof. Nighat Nasreen; Dean, Social Sciences, Dr. Javaid Ahmad Bhat; Prof. Masooda Yaseen; Mandip Kaur; GM Dilshad, besides students, senior citizens and representatives of various organisations. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Suhail, who expressed gratitude to the guests, participating organisations, faculty members, students and senior citizens for contributing to the success of the event.
Patrick Stewart: the commanding Shakespearian thespian who conquered superhero pop culture
Russia vows continued support for Cuba in seeking lifting of US embargo
Digital Desk | Moscow, Oct 30 (IANS) Russia will continue to support Cuba in seeking the lifting of the US economic, commercial and financial embargo, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. In a statement published on its website, the ministry said that the UN General Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution calling for an end to the embargo, with 130 votes in favor, 17 against and 25 abstentions. Russia supported the resolution, said the ministry, adding that the outcome of the vote once again confirmed he international community's near-unanimous and resolute condemnation of the illegal and inhumane embargo against Havana. The ministry said an unprecedented escalation of economic and military pressure on Cuba this year, coupled with an energy blockade, has pushed ordinary Cubans to the brink of survival, Xinhua news agency reported. A socioeconomic collapse in Cuba could trigger a mass exodus to neighbouring countries and a major regional migration crisis, the ministry warned. Russia praised the Cuban government and people for their resilience in defending the country's sovereignty and independence, saying Havana continues to pursue an independent foreign policy despite massive US pressure. Moscow's principled position on the issue remains unchanged, the ministry said, pledging to work with Cuba and the international community to seek a swift, complete and unconditional lifting of the embargo on the island. Meanwhile, India on Wednesday reiterated its rejection of laws that adversely affect the sovereignty of other countries as it voted for a General Assembly resolution demanding an end to the US embargo on Cuba. Soumya Nair, a counsellor in India's UN Mission, said New Delhi backs the Assembly's call to all countries to reject laws and regulations with extraterritorial effects that adversely affect the sovereignty of other states and the progress and prosperity of their peoples. Speaking before the Assembly voted on the resolution asking the US to end the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, she said, India reiterates the Assembly's call to all states to refrain from promulgating and applying, and to repeal and invalidate such laws and measures in conformity with their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and International Law. The drama continued on Wednesday when the US expelled the Cuban mission's First Secretary Richard Tur de la Concepcion for allegedly physically tangling with a US diplomat during the confrontation, according to Waltz.
Flower growers urge Punjab govt to expedite Ludhiana mandi project
HC Directs Housing Board to Register Sale Deeds
The Telangana HC has directed the Housing Board to execute and register sale deeds in favour of flat purchasers at various places within 10 days, without insisting on adjustments towards interest or demanding penal interest at this stage
FIR against Anand SOG PSI for demanding bribe
STOP BLAMING US!: Trumps Arab Ally BLASTS Netanyahu Over Israel Election Meddling Claims
Qatar has issued a blistering response to allegations that it interfered in Israels election, categorically denying involvement and mocking the extraordinary range of political influence attributed to Doha. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari said that if all the accusations were believed, Qatar would apparently own all of Israel. The row is simultaneously turning into another political problem for Benjamin Netanyahu. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett has challenged him to declare Qatar an enemy TODAY, while accusing Netanyahu of previously refusing to do so and pointing back to the wider Qatargate controversy. Gadi Eisenkot has called for suspected interference to be investigated but warned against using unproven allegations to undermine the election result. Israels election authority, meanwhile, says there is no evidence before it of systematic fraud. That leaves an explosive post-election fight: Qatar ridiculing the allegations, Netanyahus rivals demanding answers, and the politically toxic issue of Dohas alleged influence returning to the centre of Israeli politics.
104th birth anniversary of Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj celebrated at Bhakti Mandir
Indias Aerospace Startup Boom: Innovation, Challenges and What Lies Ahead
Indias aerospace sector is entering a new era, with startups such as Sarla Aviation, The ePlane Company and Zephyra Dynamics developing aircraft for urban mobility, regional transport and cargo. But how close are these innovations to commercial operations? The Times of Indias Chethan Kumar explains the opportunities driving the sector, the challenges of certification, funding and scaling, and the importance of building a robust domestic supply chain. From electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft to amphibious planes, Indias aerospace sector faces a crucial question: can it build a self-reliant ecosystem or will it continue to depend on foreign technology for critical components such as engines, avionics and electronics? The journey ahead is promising, but demanding.
Raghubir Yadav recalls suffering a heart attack before Hunkkaar: The Roar testimony scene
Raghubir Yadav recently opened up about filming a crucial scene for Hunkkaar: The Roar, revealing that he had suffered a heart attack the night before the sequence was shot. The veteran actor shared the anecdote during a scene breakdown with director Karan Kapadia, recalling the incident with humour while discussing one of the series pivotal moments. During the conversation, Kapadia recalled that the team was preparing to shoot the testimony scene when Yadav suffered the medical emergency. Reacting to the incident, the actor reportedly joked that the scene was so intense that he enjoyed having a heart attack more. The anecdote emerged as the actor and director looked back at memorable moments from the series, offering a glimpse into the experience of filming the sequence. However, the details of Yadavs medical condition and recovery were not elaborated upon in the supplied announcement. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Birla Studios (@birlastudios) Raghubir Yadav plays Baapji in Hunkkaar: The Roar In Hunkkaar: The Roar, Yadav plays Baapji, a character that places him in a negative role. The series marks a departure from some of the actors familiar performances, with his character positioned at the centre of its intense narrative. The scene breakdown features Yadav and Kapadia discussing key moments from the show, sharing details about the creative process and anecdotes from the set. The conversation also highlights the demanding circumstances surrounding the testimony sequence. Hunkkaar: The Roar is produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment, in association with Purple Pebble Pictures, a Mangata Films production. The series is created by Karan D. Kapadia and Nitya Mehra, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas serving as executive producer. The series is currently streaming on JioHotstar. Also Read:Priyanka Chopra Jonas says she is drawn to stories with depth and meaning after backing Hunkkaar: The Roar
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 29 (IANS) India registered a convincing 45-24 victory over Sri Lanka to take the spotlight at the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026, producing a commanding raiding performance to secure a 21-point win. With this victory, India concluded the group stage undefeated after winning all six matches. Pankaj Mohite led Indias scoring with 15 raid points, while Aditya Shinde contributed 10. Nitesh added five tackle points, with Yogesh Dahiya chipping in with four. India recorded 22 successful raids and nine tackle points, alongside six points from all-outs, to establish a comfortable advantage over Sri Lanka, who managed 24 points. In another key fixture, Bangladesh defeated Scotland 70-20 to secure their place in the semi-finals. Md Al-Amin led the attack with 24 points, while Md Hasibul Hossain added 12 and Akash Md Julfiker contributed six. Bangladesh registered 44 raid points, 12 tackle points and 10 points from all-outs. Arun Sidhu was Scotlands leading scorer with nine points. Tanzania produced a strong all-round performance to defeat England 36-27. Juma Sultania led Tanzania with 11 points, while Ali Bakari contributed nine. Felix Li was Englands leading scorer with 12 points, but Tanzanias defensive effort helped them maintain their advantage and secure a nine-point victory. Uganda also secured a convincing win, defeating Nigeria 48-23. Mutebi Simon led Uganda with 16 points, supported by Ssekamatte Rahim with nine and Ngabirano Innocent with seven. Uganda accumulated 30 raid points, nine tackle points and eight points from all-outs. Ekpe Victory Emmanuel top-scored for Nigeria with seven points. Canada edged Singapore 45-38 in a closely contested encounter. Manpreet Singh led Canada with 16 points, while Anmol Thakur added 11 and Anand contributed eight. Canada recorded 27 raid points and 16 tackle points, with four super tackles bolstering their defensive effort. For Singapore, Aidil Asyraaf scored 10 points, and Aadit Senthilkumar added nine, but Canada held on to secure the seven-point victory. Kenya rounded off the days action with a commanding 76-27 victory over Australia. Tobias Kinywa Murithii led Kenyas raiding effort with 21 points, while Stephen Adongo contributed 14. Kenya dominated with 48 raid points, 13 tackle points and 12 points from all-outs to secure a comprehensive 49-point win. For Australia, Divot Singh was the leading scorer with 10 raid points, followed by Jasmeet Grewal with nine, but Kenyas attacking dominance proved too strong. India, having already secured its place in the semi-finals, will return to action on October 30 as it looks to continue its campaign at the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026.
On April 21, 2026, armed men hijacked the Honour 25, a diesel tanker, in a swift attack. The crew was held hostage on board, with a ransom demanded for their release, which created a tense situation. Somali security forces intervened in September to recover the vessel, resulting in tragic consequences. Five crew members lost their lives during the operation, compounding the crisis.
Ayushman Card Alert 2026: Don't Pay Anyone for Your Card, Report Fraud on This Helpline Number
Ayushman Card Fraud Alert 2026: People applying for an Ayushman Card under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) have been advised to remain cautious of individuals demanding money in exchange for creating the card.According to a public awareness message, beneficiaries shou...
Indians struggle at Te Arai as defending champion Laopakdee leads Asia-Pacific Amateurs
Digital Desk | Tomarata (New Zealand), Oct 29 (IANS) The strong winds and a rough layout at the Te Arai Links made it a difficult opening day for the Indian trio at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, with Ribhav Verma (79), Anshul Mishra (82) and Arkesh Bhatia (85) struggling in testing conditions at Te Arai Links South Course on Thursday. With strong winds making club selection and shot-making difficult, the Indians have plenty of ground to recover in Fridays second round if they are to stay in contention for a place beyond the halfway cut. The championship, one of the premier events in amateur golf in the Asia-Pacific region, will see the top 60 players and ties advance after 36 holes. Even as many of the young golfers found the conditions tough, defending champion Fifa Laopakdee of Thailand produced a remarkable display of control and scoring to open with an eight-under 63 and establish a three-shot lead over New Zealands Joshua Bai. Laopakdee, who made history last year by becoming the first Thai golfer to win the championship, showed that he had lost none of his confidence since his breakthrough victory in Dubai. The Arizona State University senior went on to play in the Masters and The Open earlier this year and returned to New Zealand determined to defend his title. Couldn't ask for a better way to start the round, Laopakdee said. Before it started, I knew it was going to be windy out there, and it was going to be tough. Eight under wasn't on my bingo card today, but I was able to pull it off, and it feels amazing, he said. The 21-year-old's round gathered momentum at the ninth hole, where he holed out from 83 yards for an eagle on the par-four. The spectacular shot helped him turn in 31 after starting steadily at two-under through eight holes. Laopakdee continued to attack when opportunities presented themselves, adding birdies at the 10th, 13th, 15th and 16th to reach the par-five 18th just one shot short of the championship's 18-hole record of 62. Despite finding trouble with his approach, he recovered to make par and sign for a stunning 63. Bai, a 20-year-old from Auckland and a junior at the University of Florida, carded a five-under 66 to emerge as his closest challenger. The 2026 North & South Amateur champion combined six birdies with a bogey to finish three shots behind the leader. The home contingent also made a strong start, with Ryan Xie and Cooper Moore signing for four-under 67s. Japan's Kaito Sato was another shot back at three-under 68, while Yuki Miya, Australia's Kayun Mudadana, Malaysia's Nateesh Ganesh, China's Qiyou Wu and Hong Kong, China's 14-year-old Joseph Cao were among those at two-under. For the Indians, however, the immediate priority will be to produce a substantial improvement on Friday. Verma, Mishra and Bhatia will need to negotiate Te Arai's demanding layout with greater consistency, manage the wind more effectively and avoid costly mistakes. With the cut looming after the second round, the challenge is not merely to find lower scores but to remain patient on a course where the conditions can quickly punish even minor errors. The Indians will need a determined response to keep their championship hopes alive.
Albania Opposition Burns Flares In Parliament Amid Anti-Rama Protests
Albanian opposition lawmakers disrupted a parliamentary session by burning flares and blocking access to the podium, as student-led anti-government protests demanding Prime Minister Edi Ramas resignation continue. Demonstrations have been fuelled by anger over alleged government corruption, unemployment and poor education standards. Opposition leader Sali Berisha accused ruling lawmakers of violence against young protesters, while Rama has called for dialogue and announced economic measures aimed at easing public discontent.
Telangana: Class 10 KGBV hostel girl gets her period, dies later
Hyderabad: A class 10 girl died after allegedly getting her period at a Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) hostel in Siddipet on Thursday, October 29. Her parents and local leaders staged a sit-in protest outside the mortuary at Siddipet Government Hospital demanding an enquiry. The girl had returned to the KGBV Raghavapur hostel on October Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Jakrem make it into IWL 2 final round
Shillong, Oct 29: Jakrem SC concluded their Group C campaign in the Indian Womens League 2 (IWL 2) 2026-27 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Mumbai Knights FC at the SSA Stadium here today. With three wins from three matches, Jakrem SC finished on top of Group C with 9 points, securing qualification for the [] The post Jakrem make it into IWL 2 final round first appeared on Highland Post .
J&K: Northern Army Commander visits forward posts in Poonch, reviews security operations
Digital Desk | Jammu, Oct 29 (IANS) Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited forward formations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district and hinterland units in Rajouri to review operational preparedness, counter-terrorism measures, and inter-agency synergy. During the operational assessment, Lt Gen Sharma received comprehensive briefings on emerging security challenges, joint intelligence mechanisms, and tactical coordination among various security agencies deployed across the region, military officials said. Interacting with troops stationed along the forward border outposts, the Army Commander commended their high morale and urged all ranks to remain proactive, vigilant, and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance along the border and in the hinterland. Headquartered in Udhampur, the Northern Command, popularly known as the Dhruva Command with its official motto Always in Combat, is a vital operational command of the Indian Army tasked with safeguarding India's northern borders with Pakistan and China. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the command on May 1, 2025. Originally established in 1908 under the British Indian Army, the command was disbanded in 1947 before being re-raised in 1972 with its headquarters set up in Udhampur town. The Northern Command oversees three critical operational field formations: XIV Corps (Fire and Fury Corps): Headquartered in Leh, responsible for guarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and high-altitude warfare in Ladakh. XV Corps (Chinar Corps): Headquartered in Srinagar, responsible for counter-insurgency operations and border security across the Kashmir Valley. XVI Corps (White Knight Corps): Headquartered in Nagrota, responsible for securing the Jammu region and the Line of Control (LoC). In addition to border defence in treacherous terrain, including the Siachen Glacier, the Northern Command manages extensive counter-terrorism and counter-infiltration operations in the hinterland, primarily utilizing specialized forces such as the Rashtriya Rifles.
PV Sindhu Cruises Into Hylo Open Quarterfinals In Just 26 Minutes
Double Olympic medallist P V Sindhu stormed into the women's singles quarterfinals of the Hylo Open Super 500 badminton tournament with a commanding straight-game win, while compatriots Malvika Bansod and Isharani Baruah bowed out, on Thursday.
GOC Northern Command reviews operational preparedness, security dynamics in Poonch and Rajouri
Poonch, Oct 29: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Armys Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited frontline unites along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and hinterland formations in Rajouri to review operational preparedness and prevailing security dynamics. During his visit, the Army Commander was briefed on operational challenges, joint intelligence frameworks and synergy with security agencies. Interacting with the troops, the Army Commander exhorted all ranks to remain proactive, vigilant and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance.
Army Commander Reviews Security Preparedness Along LoC in Poonch, Rajouri
SRINAGAR: The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, visited frontline Army units along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and formations in Rajouri to assess operational preparedness and review the prevailing security situation. During the visits, the Army Commander was briefed on operational challenges, joint intelligence mechanisms and coordination with []
IDBI Bank employees' forum opposes majority stake sale to Fairfax
The United Forum of IDBI Officers and Employees has strongly opposed the proposed sale of a majority stake in IDBI Bank to Canada-based Fairfax Financial Holdings, demanding an immediate suspension of the process and a comprehensive review under parliamentary scrutiny.
Congress stages protest demanding bonus for unorganised workers in Puducherry
Pradeep Purnekar murder case: Aaditya Thackeray accuses Eknath Shinde of protecting conspirators
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 29 (IANS) Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Thursday alleged that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is desperate to safeguard former Thane Mayor Meenakshi Shinde from the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar murder case. The Sena (UBT) leaders alleged that the police have merely arrested the contract killers and that until Meenakshi and Rajendra Shinde are arrested, the true conspiracy will never come out. We demand that the main accused and conspirator should be arrested at the earliest. We have no idea why she is being protectedwhen we met the police commissioner, we sensed that the policemen are convinced about who the main accused is, said Thackeray, addressing a press conference in Thane. Thackeray, along with Purnekars son Ram, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut and Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders from Thane, held a press conference after holding a meeting with the Thane police commissioner. Earlier, Thackeray visited the house of Purnekar to meet the wife of the dead leader. Thackeray said that despite giving the evidence of CCTV footage, arrests have not been made. What and why are you waiting for? Thackeray asked. This is a political murder of which CCTV footage is available. Why are the main conspirator and masterminds not being arrested? Why is Eknath Shinde so desperate to safeguard the accused and conspirator? he asked. Thackeray criticised deputy CM and Thanes guardian minister Eknath Shinde for detaining Ram Purnekar, who had gone to meet the latter demanding action in his fathers murder. We had come to Thane only to meet the Purnekar family and the police commissioner. But the local MP used abusive language and made a childish attempt to threaten us. Instead of facing us, they (Shinde-led Sena leaders) protested somewhere else and did not face us, said Thackeray. He also slammed Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis for failing to deliver justice to the Purnekar family. The Home Minister is busy breaking parties, cutting trees and selling Sahyadri mountain ranges instead of stopping all these things, he said. Targeting CM Fadnavis, Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut said that Maharashtra never had such a weak home minister. I want to tell those who challenged us to come to Thane that we not only came here, but we are ready to wait till we face you. Dont boast because you are in power. It is not permanent. Meenakshi and Rajendra Shinde are the main accused in this case, and people are coming out of the streets to safeguard killers, he said, adding that police will have to arrest both of them.
Jamia Students Defy Cancellation Of Official Celebrations, Hoist Tricolour On Foundation Day
Jamia Protest: Students at Jamia Millia Islamia continued their protest on the universitys 106th Foundation Day on October 29, marking 18 days of demonstrations. Demanding the restoration of the students union and elections, which they say have not been held since 2006, protesters organised their own celebrations after the administration cancelled the official event. Students hoisted the Tricolour, raised slogans and staged hunger strikes as the standoff with the administration continued. Watch NDTV's Reet Kaur Sahni ground report from the campus.
Ayodhya braces for Deepotsav; hotels, homestays fully booked amid tourist surge
Digital Desk | Ayodhya, Oct 29 (IANS) The temple city of Ayodhya is witnessing a sharp surge in tourist bookings as preparations intensify for the 10th Deepotsav celebrations. With hotels fully booked from November 4 to 8 and homestays reserved from November 2 to 10, the local tourism sector is gearing up for a major influx of devotees and visitors. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued directives to the tourism department and the Ayodhya Development Authority to finalise arrangements for accommodation, transportation and the grand execution of the event. A large number of devotees are expected to visit the Ram Mandir, witness the illuminated Saryu (river) Ghats and attend cultural programmes during the festival. Lakshmikant Pandey, manager of Ramprastha Hotel near Naya Ghat, said all rooms at his establishment are booked from November 4 to 8. He noted that tourists are excited about Deepotsav and have appreciated the arrangements being made in the city. Similarly, Ambrish Pandey of Awadh Homestay on Station Road reported full occupancy from November 2 to 10. He credited the coordination between the Ayodhya Development Authority and the government for ensuring a smooth experience for visitors. Tourist guide OP Saini observed that the number of pilgrims rises significantly during Deepotsav. He said improvements in roads, ghats, parking facilities and lighting under the Yogi government have made visits more comfortable compared to earlier years. Guides are providing accurate information about Ram Janmabhoomi, Saryu Ghat and other religious sites to enhance the experience of pilgrims. The festive preparations have also boosted local markets. Sculptor and vendor Rajkumar reported increased demand for idols of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman, earthen lamps and other worship materials. He said government efforts to promote tourism have benefited local businesses, with outstation tourists praising the citys readiness. The enthusiasm among hotel owners, homestay operators, guides and vendors of religious items highlights the growing importance of Deepotsav for Ayodhyas tourism economy. As the city transforms into a major spiritual and tourism hub, the 10th Deepotsav is expected to further strengthen its position on the national tourism map.
Delhi Police register FIR against unknown persons in Jamia vandalism case
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Delhi Police on Thursday lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against unknown persons in connection with an incident involving vandalism and damage to property at the Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), officials said. According to the police, the case has been registered at Jamia Nagar Police Station, on the complaint of the varsity administration. This is the second FIR registered in connection with the ongoing students' protests at the university in recent days. Earlier, the Delhi Police had registered an FIR at the Jamia Nagar police station against Congress MPs Imran Pratapgarhi and Imran Masood, as well as Samajwadi Party MP Mohibbullah Nadvi, following a complaint by Jamia Millia Islamia registrar Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi. Rizvi had alleged that the Congress MPs entered the campus without authorisation on separate occasions, amid the ongoing agitation. Students of the university have been staging a hunger strike since October 12 demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU) and the removal of the University's Chief Proctor over a crackdown on protesters. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the university expressed deep shock, disappointment, and concern regarding the incidents that took place on Tuesday night, which involved vandalism and damage to university property. The varsity said that upon receiving reports of attacks on the campus, the proctorial team and JMI faculty members immediately arrived on the spot. They discovered that groups of protesting students and local residents had vandalised University gates and walls, brought down Gate No. 4C, pelted stones, and damaged the CCTV control room and cameras, while also severing their connections. It is reported that a group of masked protesters even reached the University's boys' hostel in an attempt to mobilise more individuals to join them, the JMI said in a statement. According to the University, viral social media videos posted by the protesting students themselves show extensive damage inflicted upon JMI property. This has left the university community deeply distressed and outraged, it said. Most concerning is the fact that the vandalism began shortly after members of the protesting student committee had been in discussions with JMI faculty (this marked the seventh such attempt at dialogue initiated by the university administration), the University said.
'Time to raise our voice as democracy is at stake': Venugopal appeals Indians to join Nov 1 rally
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Congress MP and party's General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal on Thursday targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre, while appealing every Indian to join the INDIA bloc's November 1 rally against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. In a video message posted on social media platform X, Venugopal referred to the Opposition alliance's rally as Chalo Dilli, Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao and claimed that the democracy is under attack. Thirteen crore names have been deleted from electoral rolls. There is a massive fraud happening in voter rolls in state after state, he alleged while referring to the SIR being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Criticising the Union government, Venugopal said: Our votes are being stolen and when we demand answers, we are met with cane charge and detention. We will not be silenced or intimidated, we will continue to fight for our democracy. The Congress leader also asserted that Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi is leading the fight from the front, emphasising that the LoP is fearlessly raising questions and holding those in power accountable. Now it is time for all of us to stand with him (Rahul Gandhi) and join this fight, he added. Venugopal also said: On November 1, there will be a massive rally and march by INDIA bloc parties at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi, demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation and holding the Modi government accountable. Mentioning that he will be present at the Ramlila Maidan, the Congress MP urged every Indian to join the Opposition alliance. This is the time to stand up, to raise our voices. The future of our democracy is at stake and we cannot afford to remain silent. Jai Hind! Venugopal said. Earlier on Thursday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said the mega INDIA bloc protest was very much on track, adding that the opposition parties have taken up the task to awaken the people against the autocratic regime (NDA government). Echoing similar view, Congress MP Kumari Selja said: Rahul Gandhi ji, our other leaders and the INDIA bloc are fighting to save democracy, from the streets to Parliament. Our voices are being suppressed in Parliament. You have seen how we tried to raise our concerns during the Parliamentary session, but the Union government does not allow us to do so. They have absolutely no faith in democracy and have made every possible attempt to weaken it. Meanwhile, Congress MP Manish Tewari questioned the BJP's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy march, saying that restoring the voting rights of 13 crore disenfranchised people would eliminate the need for rallies.
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India to Face New Zealand in Fourth T20I Tomorrow
AMN In Mens Cricket, India will take on New Zealand in the fourth T20 International of the five-match series at Eden Park in Auckland tomorrow. The match will begin at 12:30 PM. India have already clinched the series with a commanding 3-nil lead after winning the first three matches. India will now look to maintain []
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President KT Rama Rao on Thursday accused the Congress government in Telangana of corruption and failing to address farmers' concerns, alleging irregularities in the Radial Road project and demanding the immediate release of pending financial assistance to farmers. Addressing the issue, KTR referred to allegations raised by Congress MLA Rajgopal Reddy regarding the alleged Radial Road scam. He also cited claims made by builder Nama Ramesh, who, according to KTR, alleged match-fixing in the process and intimidation by the Chief Minister's Office over submitting a tender. Congress MLA Rajgopal Reddy raised the issue of the Radial Road scam... Furthermore, a builder, Nama Ramesh, who owns a construction company, has openly declared that there was match-fixing involved. He alleged that he was intimidated by the Chief Minister
68 Killed In Spain Train Crash; Anti-Government Protests Erupt Over Railway Safety
A deadly collision between two high-speed trains near Urda has triggered protests in Madrid, with demonstrators demanding accountability as investigators examine a possible signalling failure.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday urged people to join the opposition INDIA bloc's 'Chalo Dilli' march on November 1, demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special...
Justice must be ensured for youth in PSC irregularities: Kerala BJP
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 29 (IANS) A BJP delegation on Thursday met the Governor and briefed him on the alleged irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC). Speaking to the media after the meeting, BJP state president and MLA Rajeev Chandrasekhar said the delegation had apprised the Governor of the seriousness of the PSC recruitment scam and urged him to take strong follow-up action to ensure justice for the youth through the legal system. Governor Om Prakash Mathur said he shared the stand taken by former Governor Rajendra Arlekar on the PSC issue and would adopt a position that would provide relief to young people seeking employment, Chandrasekhar said. Arlekar had written a letter to President Droupadi Murmu recommending the removal of Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman M.R. Baiju and the commission members just before he moved out as Governor of Tamil Nadu, after a scam broke out in the rank list of the Kerala State Planning Board. Chandrasekhar was accompanied by BJP legislature party leader B.B. Gopakumar, BJP national executive member and fellow legislator V. Muraleedharan, Yuva Morcha in-charge advocate P. Sudheer and Yuva Morcha state vice-president Shijil. Chandrasekhar also criticised Lok Sabha leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi, saying that while he travelled across the country speaking about Chhatron Ki Goonj (the voice of students), he remained silent on the PSC irregularities in Kerala and the injustice faced by students. He said the Congress leadership, which spoke up for students' rights, should adopt the same position on the problems faced by young people in Kerala. The public should recognise these contradictions in the Congress's political stand, he said, demanding urgent government intervention to address the grievances of PSC rank holders and protect their future. Chandrasekhar said the BJP would continue to take a strong stand on the issue until justice was delivered to the youth. B.B. Gopakumar, MLA, said the government led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan had failed to address the demands of PSC rank holders who had shaved their heads as part of their protest to draw the government's attention to their plight. He alleged that the government had remained indifferent to the issue for nearly 150 days and acted only after the Governor recommended action to the President under Article 317 of the Constitution. From the outset, the BJP had demanded a comprehensive investigation into the PSC irregularities and action against those responsible, Gopakumar said. The BJPs move comes at a time when the PSC chairman Dr M.R.Baiju and three other PSC members were questioned by the SIT of the Crime Branch probing the Planning Board fiasco. On Wednesday, the SIT arrested a retired PSC employee and has charged another serving employee, who is presently on the run.
Indians Struggle As Laopakdee Dominates Asia-Pacific Amateur Opener
The Indian trio of Ribhav Verma, Anshul Mishra, and Arkesh Bhatia faced a challenging opening day at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in New Zealand due to strong winds and a difficult course layout. While they struggled, defending champion Fifa Laopakdee of Thailand delivered an exceptional eight-under 63 to take a commanding lead. The Indians now need a significant improvement on Friday to make the halfway cut.
Jamia Issues Show-Cause Notice to Hostel Resident Over Students Union Protest
The action comes as the university extends online classes till November 24 amid 18 days of protests demanding restoration of the students union.
IIT Mandi Associate Professor Recruitment 2026
Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi) has released the notification for the post of Associate Professor. Eligible candidates can apply online at fap.iitmandi.ac.in from 17 October 2026 to 06 November 2026.
Malegaon Civic Chief, Aides Held In Bribery Trap
Malegaon Municipal Corporation Commissioner Ravindra Jadhav, along with his PA and an accountant, was arrested on Thursday by the Maharashtra Anti-Corruption Bureau for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 80,000 for bill payments related to civic works. The arrests followed a complaint filed in July and a subsequent trap operation.
Netanyahu escalates claims of election fraud by Arab parties
Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, October 29, intensified allegations of election fraud by Arab-led parties, describing suspected foreign interference as an earthquake and demanding an immediate investigation by the police and the countrys top internal security agency, Shin Bet. In a social media post, Netanyahu cited Central Elections Committee (CEC) chief Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rajasthan ACB arrests two govt employees for accepting bribe in Mundawar
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 29 (IANS) The Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday arrested a development officer and a junior assistant posted at Panchayat Samiti Mundawar in Khairthal-Tijara district for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 65,000. The two officials, identified as Sanjay Kumar Yadav and Ritik Kumar Singh, were caught red-handed during a trap operation conducted by the ACBs Bhiwadi outpost. According to ACB Director General Govind Gupta, the action followed a complaint alleging that Yadav had demanded Rs 65,000 to complete Measurement Book (MB) entries related to sanitation contracts and pipeline work executed by the complainants firm. The complainants firm had been awarded sanitation contracts by Panchayat Samiti Mundawar for Gram Panchayat Mataur and Gram Panchayat Nangli Oja. The complainant alleged that Development Officer Sanjay Kumar Yadav was harassing him and demanding a bribe of Rs 65,000 to process the Measurement Book entries for the contracts and pipeline work carried out by the firm. Following the complaint, the ACBs Bhiwadi outpost verified the alleged bribe demand on October 23. During verification, the demand was reportedly confirmed, and Yadav allegedly agreed to accept the amount in exchange for processing the entries. Acting on the directions of ACB headquarters, a team from the Bhiwadi outpost conducted the trap operation on Thursday at the Panchayat Samiti office in Mundawar and caught Yadav and Junior Assistant Ritik Kumar Singh while they were allegedly accepting the bribe of Rs 65,000. The operation was conducted under the supervision of Piyush Dixit, Superintendent of Police (SP-I), ACB Jaipur, and led by Police Inspector Surjit Singh, in charge of the ACBs Bhiwadi outpost. Under the supervision of ACB Additional Director General of Police Smita Srivastava and Inspector General of Police S. Parimala, the accused are being interrogated, and further legal proceedings are underway. The ACB has registered a case against the accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Further investigation is in progress. The Bureau has also stated that individuals against whom cases have been registered may approach it through the prescribed procedure to ascertain the status of their cases, examine the facts on record and submit their explanations. Any further action will be taken in accordance with the law. The ACB has urged the public to report corruption and seek assistance if their legitimate work is being obstructed.
Netanyahu alleges election fraud, rules out cooperation with Arab parties
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday intensified allegations of election fraud by Arab-led parties, describing suspected foreign interference as an earthquake and demanding an immediate investigation by the police and the country's top internal security agency. In a social media post, Netanyahu cited Central Elections Committee (CEC) chief Justice Noam Sohlberg's decision to ask Shin Bet chief David Zini to investigate suspicions of foreign funding and improper influence in Tuesday's election. The Ra'amgate affair is an earthquake. They stole the elections in Israel! Netanyahu wrote, targeting the Arab-led Ra'am (the United Arab List) and the Joint List alliance. He alleged that foreign entities had interfered in Tuesday's parliamentary elections and bribed voters in favour of Arab-led parties. The allegations come amid an inconclusive election in which neither Netanyahu's bloc nor the opposition camp led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot has secured a ...
Jamia Millia Islamia Students Continue Protests Demanding Restoration of Student Union Elections
Protests at Jamia Millia Islamia continue as students demand elections for the student union and criticize the administrations authoritarian approach. Jamia Millia Islamia Students Continue Protests Demanding Restoration of Student Union Elections
Meghalaya govt files FIR against KHADC inspector over ropeway site sealing
Digital Desk | Shillong, Oct 29 (IANS) The Meghalaya government has lodged an FIR against an inspector of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) for allegedly sealing the lower terminal site of the proposed Shillong Peak Ropeway Project at Lawsohtun, officials said on Thursday. Tourism Commissioner and Secretary R.M. Kurbah said the complaint was filed at Laban Police Station after the site was locked on Tuesday. No arrest had been made, and the police were investigating the matter. Defending the project, Kurbah said the land belonged to the government and that activities at the site were limited to preparatory work. A temporary camp was being established to facilitate soil testing, approach road development and ground levelling in accordance with environmental and social safeguards prescribed by the New Development Bank, which is funding the project. She clarified that construction had not commenced either at the lower terminal or at the proposed locations of the ropeway's six pillars. She also rejected allegations that work had started without the necessary clearances. According to Kurbah, the work order was issued to the contractor on October 25, 2025, following due procedure. The contractor obtained a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Dorbar Pyllun on May 4, 2026, before applying for a KHADC trading licence on May 18. The contractor subsequently sought an NOC from the Syiem of Hima Mylliem on July 16 and received a response on July 28. The KHADC issued a show-cause notice on August 27, which the contractor answered. Another NOC was obtained from the Dorbar Myntri of San Kur and 11 Kur of Riat Laban Mylliem on September 28, while the licensing process remained underway, she said. Kurbah added that the Meghalaya Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation had consulted traditional institutions, including discussions with the Dorbars of Raid Laban and the lower terminal area in 2022. She further said concerns over Lum Shyllong and its water catchment had been addressed during a presentation at the State Convention Centre, noting that the site was around 3.15 km from the proposed ropeway location. Meanwhile, the Joint Action Committee opposing the project met the Syiem of Hima Mylliem on Wednesday, demanding cancellation of the sanads granted to headmen who entered into land lease arrangements for the project.
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 29 (IANS) The federal government's decision to impose governor's rule and emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has sparked concerns about human rights, civilian authority, and democracy in Pakistan. Aqil Shah, a political scientist at Georgetown University, stated that the emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa marks a significant escalation in Pakistans struggle between civilian authority and the military, a report has detailed. Shah said, Its an important setback because the PTI has been disempowered and dismantled, pretty much at all levels. The government's decision has deprived the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of political representation, leaving them being ruled by a governor and technocrats who act as military proxies, according to a report in Drop Site News. Shah said that Pakistan militarys political ambitions extend beyond Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munirs personal grievances, including former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans ouster of Munir as Inter-Services Intelligence chief. Pakistan military wants to stop civilian leaders from challenging its dominance over national security, internal security, and electoral politics. At least one person was killed, and more than a dozen others were injured after police opened fire during protests in Bara in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province held against the imposition of emergency rule and the removal of Khyber Pakhtunkhwas elected government led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The deceased has been identified as a 13-year-old boy. Following the imposition of governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, protests were held, PTI leaders and workers were arrested, and communications were disrupted in the province, Drop Site News reported. It was a peaceful protest, Drop Site quoted Irfanullah, whose younger brother, Munir (19) was shot in the left foot. Irfanullah said that his brother and many others were injured after Khyber police fired at the protesters. Irfanullah said that they did not cause any unrest or chaos. We are not planning to abandon PTIWe are just demanding and raising our voice for our rights and for peace here, nothing else, Drop Site News quoted Irfanullah as saying. Habeel Khan (13), who was killed in the gunfire, worked at an eatery in the market. His uncle said that Habeel Khan died in the hospital four days after the protest. The hospital death summary revealed that the causes of death included gunshot injury, cardiac arrest, and septic shock. Many local residents revealed that injured protesters were not able to receive treatment at local healthcare facilities in Bara for fear of arrest, and healthcare providers did not provide them treatment as they feared police raids. Irfanullah said Munir tried to receive treatment at a local hospital on two occasions. However, the employees refused to provide treatment as they feared police would come to arrest him. Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) spokesperson Maheen Pracha said that it has received reports regarding police raids in Khyber, Swat and Peshawar, curfew and military deployments, according to Drop Site News report. Pracha said, Whether it's the PTI in power now or somebody else, the same laws being made now will come back to haunt the next government in power. The violence in Bara erupted after Pakistan's federal government imposed a state of emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, removing PTI-led elected government. Pakistan government's decision came after thousands of PTI supporters began marching from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa towards Islamabad to demand Khans access to medical care and his release from prison. PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari condemned the Pakistan government's decision to impose governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, terming it as a coup disguised as emergency. Strongly condemn the arrest of the only mandated Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and of Junaid Akbar. This coup disguised as emergency or governor rule has squashed the only little bit of democracy left in Pakistan. Further instability and collateral damage to follow. The regime must be feeling very proud, Bukhari wrote on X.
Spain's Train Crash Outrage Turns Violent; Clashes Erupt On Streets Amid 'Sanchez Resign' Cries
Spain is facing a wave of anger after a devastating high-speed train collision killed at least 68 people, triggering violent protests in Madrid and renewed scrutiny of railway safety. Around 500 demonstrators gathered outside the Transport Ministry on Wednesday, demanding the government's resignation. Some protesters threw bottles and flares at police, prompting officers to deploy tear gas and clear the roadway. The tragedy has intensified pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Snchez's government, with questions mounting over how the collision occurred and whether safety procedures failed. Snchez has vowed to investigate fully, promising that any negligence or security system failures will be addressed.
CMO Raebareli Medical Officer Recruitment 2026
Chief Medical Office Raebareli (CMO Raebareli) has invited eligible candidates to attend a Walk-in Interview for 18 vacancies, including Medical Officer Npcdcs, Medical Officer, and Medical Officer Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandir posts. The walk-in interview will be held on 16 November 2026. Candidates should report at 11:00 AM.
Congress should introspect after MLC poll results, says JD(U), BJP leaders
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Janata Dal (United) and the BJP on Thursday criticised the Congress party over its performance in the recent Legislative Council elections, saying the party and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the questions raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the use of ballot papers. The remarks came after PM Modi took a swipe at Congress over the results of the Legislative Council elections held across 28 constituencies in four states using ballot papers. In a post on X on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said, MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big states - Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won. Speaking to IANS, JD(U) national spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan said Congress and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the points raised by the Prime Minister. Congress and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the points raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his tweet. Congress has repeatedly demanded voting through ballot papers instead of EVMs. However, in elections held across 28 constituencies for the Legislative Councils in four states, Congress failed to achieve success anywhere except the Nagpur Graduates' constituency. In Karnataka, where Congress is in power, the BJP and JD(S) together won all four seats contested, he said. Ranjan further said Congress had failed to open its account in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections and had suffered a setback in Bihar, where it previously had one MLC. This clearly shows that instead of demanding elections through ballot papers or other methods, Congress and Rahul Gandhi should reconsider the party's strategy on public issues. Rahul Gandhi should introspect and atone for bringing Congress to such a poor state, he added. BJP MP Yogender Chandoliya also criticised the Congress for repeatedly questioning the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Congress had been demanding for a long time that votes should not be cast using EVMs, even though EVMs were introduced during the Congress government's tenure in Uttar Pradesh. Our view is that Congress managed to win one seat, opening its account with great difficulty. Now, will Rahul Gandhi accept this outcome or not? he said. Chandoliya alleged that Congress would once again raise questions about the election results, and that the party had developed a habit of making allegations over various issues. Getting even one seat seems like a huge achievement for Congress, as making allegations on everything has become a habit for them. Otherwise, the results across the country are not going to be in their favour, whether they talk about EVMs, SIR or ballot papers, he added. The BJP won 13 of the 28 Legislative Council seats contested across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka, while Congress secured only one seat.
At least 16 account holders, mostly farmers, have accused employees of Punjab National Banks Aichhar village branch in Greater Noida of allegedly diverting fixed deposits worth an estimated Rs 35 crore. The bank has suspended five staffers, including the branch manager, and launched an internal probe. Police have registered an FIR and begun an investigation, while customers have protested outside the branch demanding the return of their money.
India backs UN call to end US embargo against Cuba
India has reiterated its rejection of laws that adversely affect the sovereignty of other nations while supporting a United Nations General Assembly resolution demanding an end to the longstanding U.S. embargo against Cuba. Addressing the assembly prior to the vote, Soumya Nair, a counsellor in Indias Permanent Mission to the UN, stated that New Delhi []
Cong no longer relevant, should stop politicising every issue: BJP MP on MLC election results
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal on Thursday said that the results of the Legislative Council elections had made it clear that the Congress is no longer relevant in Indian politics, adding that the party should introspect and stop politicising every issue. His remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at the Congress over the results of the Legislative Council elections held across four states using ballot papers. Speaking to IANS, Khandelwal said, This has made it clear that the Congress is no longer relevant in politics. Earlier, it used to be said that EVMs were hacked, and the blame was pinned on the Election Commission. Then allegations of vote theft were made, which had no basis. Now, the Congress was demanding elections through ballot papers, and the MLC elections were held using the same ballot papers. The Congress has now been wiped out, and the party should introspect and realise that there should not be politics over every issue. People give a befitting reply when the time comes and deliver their verdict, he added. Backing Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement regarding the MLC election results, the BJP MP said that demanding resignations had become a habit of the opposition parties. What the Home Minister said is right because demanding resignations has become a habit for them. They demand resignations over every small or big issue, turn every matter into a controversy and call for resignations. So, when will they resign over the ballot box? What Home Minister Amit Shah said is completely right, Khandelwal said. He further alleged that Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and other opposition leaders would avoid taking responsibility for the election results. Now, Rahul Gandhi and all the opposition parties will run away, hiding their faces, but the public is watching all of this, he added. Khandelwal also reacted to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remarks targeting the BJP over the Varanasi Legislative Council election results and said that the SP chief was also gradually losing his relevance in politics. Akhilesh Yadav, too, like other parties, is gradually losing his relevance. Consequently, while he used to speak with some sense occasionally in the past, he is now making baseless statements that have no foundation, Khandelwal said. The BJP won 13 of the 28 Legislative Council seats contested across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka.
Puneet Issar Slams Naseeruddin Shah's 'Selective' Stand: Don't Like Govt In Power? Contest Elections
Issar's remarks come amid Shah's recent support for student protests at Jamia Millia Islamia, where students have been demanding the restoration of their student union.
Tanla Platforms, HBL Engineering, Bharti Hexacom stock ideas by Jatin Gedia
Stock market outlook: Jatin Gedia of Teji Mandi expects the pullback in Nifty to continue citing positive cues from the daily and hourly momentum indicators.
Qaziabad milk farmers seek hike in procurement rates
Handwara, Oct 28: Milk farmers in Qaziabad area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district have sought an immediate revision of milk procurement rates, saying rising costs of cattle feed, fodder and veterinary care have made dairy farming increasingly unviable. The farmers said procurement rates had remained unchanged despite a significant increase in input costs over the past few years, squeezing their earnings and threatening their livelihoods. While the prices of feed, fodder and medicines have increased considerably, the rates paid to milk producers have remained stagnant, the farmers said. We are currently paid only Rs 35 per litre, while the same milk sells in the market for around Rs 50-55 per litre. We work hard but receive very little in return. The gap between procurement and market prices is too wide and is affecting our livelihoods, said Sajad Ahmad, a young farmer from Mandigam in Qaziabad. Sajad Abdullah of Yaroo said he had purchased two cows in the hope that dairy farming would help support his family, but rising expenses and low procurement rates had made it difficult to sustain the business. I bought two cows believing dairy farming would provide a stable source of income. However, with low procurement rates and increasing feed costs, it has become extremely difficult to continue, he said. He added that higher transportation and veterinary expenses had further increased the financial burden on small dairy farmers. If the situation continues, many small dairy farmers like me may be forced to abandon the profession, he said.
DGP Nalin Prabhat, GOC XV Corps review ongoing operations in south Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 28:Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, along with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Armys XV Corps, reviewed ongoing security operations with formations deployed across South Kashmir, according to a post shared by Kashmir Zone Police on X. The review assumes significance amid continued security efforts in the region, where the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army work in coordination to address security challenges and maintain peace and stability. The review brought together the leadership of the police and the Army to assess ongoing operations involving formations deployed across South Kashmir. The engagement underscores the importance of coordination between the two forces in operational planning and the implementation of security measures on the ground. South Kashmir, comprising Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian districts, has remained a key focus of counter-terrorism efforts. Security agencies have continued to maintain operational preparedness and coordinate their activities to respond to emerging challenges. The joint review by the DGP and the GOC XV Corps highlights the continued engagement between the police and the Army in monitoring the operational situation and assessing the functioning of formations deployed in the region. The Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army have been working together on security-related operations across the Valley, with coordination between field formations remaining an important component of their efforts. Kashmir Zone Police, in its post on X, stated that Nalin Prabhat, along with the GOC XV Corps, reviewed ongoing operations with all formations deployed in South Kashmir.
Mexican TV Host Kicks Drone, Strikes Model In Face, Then His Reaction Sparks FURY | VIRAL
A Mexican TV host has sparked outrage after kicking a drone during a live broadcast, accidentally sending it flying into Colombian model Isabella Rojas face. The shocking incident unfolded on Mexican variety show Es Show, leaving Rojas injured and in tears. Host Ernesto Chavana later apologised and accepted responsibility, but footage of the live TV mishap triggered fierce backlash online. Watch the moment the drone struck Rojas and see why viewers are demanding accountability after the on-air disaster.
Cabinet expansion aftershocks continue in NC
Srinagar, Oct 28: The aftershocks of the National Conferences Cabinet expansion continued to reverberate on Wednesday, with Health Minister Sakeena Itoo defending the partys unity, supporters of veteran MLA Mubarak Gul staging a protest in Srinagars Press Colony, and Gurez legislator Nazir Ahmad Gurezis reported disappointment adding to the unease within the ruling party. A day after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inducted four legislators into his Council of Ministers, the celebrations of the new entrants were accompanied by visible disappointment among several senior leaders who had hoped to find a place in the government. The reactions have brought the partys internal dynamics into focus, raising questions about how the leadership will balance seniority, loyalty, regional representation and the expectations of legislators who have remained outside the Cabinet. Itoo sought to play down suggestions of a serious rift, describing the National Conference as a family and maintaining that differences of opinion were natural in a political organisation. She argued that not every legislator could be accommodated in the ministry and that grievances could be expressed within the partys democratic framework. Her remarks came as supporters of Gul took their disappointment to Press Colony, demanding that the veteran Eidgah MLA be accommodated in the Cabinet. Protesters reportedly wore white shrouds, held placards and raised slogans in his support, with some demanding that he resign from the party rather than accept his exclusion. Gul, a six-time MLA and former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, had expressed disappointment over being overlooked. His subsequent appointment as National Conference general secretary by party president Farooq Abdullah has not prevented supporters from publicly questioning the decision to leave him out of the ministry. The discontent has also extended to Gurezi, whose absence from Tuesdays oath-taking ceremony attracted attention amid speculation over the names considered for ministerial positions. The newly inducted minister, Mir Saifullah, who went to Gurezi's residence to meet him, said: Gurezi is my close friend, and he is a basic soldier of NC; there is no question of him being angry with the party. Meanwhile, Abdul Majeed Larmi, the MLA from Anantnag West, made an emotional appeal to his supporters while addressing party workers, saying he had not cried for himself but for the people who had stood by him. Why shouldnt I cry for those who visited me and remained like a rock with me since 2014? Larmi said, referring to the loyalty and support of his workers over the years. Urging his supporters not to react in a manner that could go against the principles of the National Conference, Larmi asked them to remain committed to the party despite their disappointment. While acknowledging that he was hurt by being overlooked for a ministerial berth, he made it clear that he would continue with the party. His remarks reflected the emotional undercurrent surrounding the Cabinet expansion, with the disappointment of individual legislators increasingly intertwined with the expectations of their supporters. The leadership has sought to contain the fallout by emphasising party unity and the limitations on Cabinet strength. Omar Abdullahs adviser Nasir Aslam Wani acknowledged that every MLA aspired to become a minister but said the Union Territorys constitutional framework imposed constraints. The expansion saw Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shamima Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Kaloo inducted into the ministry. With the four appointments, the government filled the vacancies that had remained open for nearly two years and brought the Council of Ministers to its maximum permissible strength of nine, including the Chief Minister. The episode has left the National Conference leadership facing the delicate task of managing expectations without allowing disappointment to harden into a wider organisational dispute. While the party has maintained that the reshuffle was an exercise in governance, protests and emotional appeals from within its ranks have ensured that the political consequences of the Cabinet expansion continue to unfold.
The Uncomfortable Economics of Kashmiri Weddings
Weddings, once conceived as celebrations, have now devolved into spectacles. Guy Debord, in his seminal work, The Society of the Spectacle, posits that in the modern world, everything that we once lived directly has transposed into an image. The shift from expression through directly lived experiences to expression through the exchange and consumption of images has endangered a profound and pervasive erosion of both the human existence and the sanctity of marriage. Life, in general, and weddings, in particular, are no longer lived, but performed to be watched. Debord traces the development of a modern society in which authentic social life has been replaced with its representation. He argues that the history of human social life has seen a decline from being into having, and from having into merely appearing. A socio-economic equation idiosyncratic to most Kashmiri weddings is: an un/der-employed starry-eyed woman trying to live up to an image of an Instagram bride and a father/brother who is(nt) ready to squander all his savings for a curated performance. Out of Debords 221 theses, many fit perfectly in helping us comprehend the nuanced economics of Kashmiri weddings. Thesis 34, particularly, states, The spectacle is capital accumulated to the point that it becomes an image. The unemployment rate in Jammu & Kashmir among young women(aged 15-29) ranges between 46% to 53%. On the other hand, an average middle-class Kashmiri wedding minimally costs 20-25 lakh rupees. An unemployed woman who has no independent economic capital has only a spectacle in the form of symbolic capital. This is capital that could have been a house down payment, a business enterprise, a Masters degree, a rewarding future. But the capital must annihilate itself to become an image & so it does. Thesis 42 deserves mention: The spectacle corresponds to the historical moment at which the commodity has succeeded in totally colonising social life. A few decades back, a Kashmiri wedding was all about a family gathering, happy moments & a sumptuous meal. Now the list of what is visibilised & commodified includes: our emotions(one must pat to show love), our kinship(one must pay to look honourable), our bodies( one must pay to look unrealistically beautiful), our religion(one must pay for a Nikah shoot with the holy Quran as a prop). Every ritual is commodified into a service one can buy & pay for. The question is, where to place the blame? On the woman, who is an under-achiever in education and employment(by choice or by chance) and seeks recognition not by being a woman of substance but by being a maximalist ornate bride. For her, the wedding becomes the only rationally chosen social spectacle where she is allowed to be central, visible, and commanding. For her the spectacle gives the appearance of an achievement without the labor of achievement. On the patriarchal system which limits her access to public life, to meaningful employment, to spaces where she is seen and valued for her work. When there is no office to go to, no business to build, no career ladder to climb, life can feel purposeless. She plans a spectacle to compensate for an empty calendar. On the mother who makes her son spend extravagantly by making him believe that love for her sister equals expenditure, that honor of the family equals display and to say no would make him less of a brother and far less of an honourable man. On the consumer economy where conspicuous consumption becomes production. A womans self-worth doesnt come from earning money but by spending money not for use, but to signal status. On the father/brother who has fallen prey to conspicuous consumption by proxy in which he displays his wealth, economic privileges, social status not through his own direct consumption but by outfitting and provisioning his daughter/sister in luxury goods. Tragically, wherever the blame falls, it is the father/brother's wallet that becomes the brides only access to capital in a patriarchal consumer economy. When such a woman is denied self-worth, she attempts to find it in one big day because the other 364 days offer her little worth in her own eyes & in the eyes of the world. Does this mean that we should have no celebrations at our weddings? No, we don't need less celebrations. What we need is more life outside the celebration. What we need for our women is meaningful, rewarding, fulfilling jobs, start-ups, research projects, and incomes of their own so that they wouldnt make the men in the family silently carry a burden which isnt entirely theirs to bear. If their daily lives are filled with meaning, they wouldnt need to make one day unnaturally heavy with meaning. We need to give our women something more spectacular than a wedding. And if we dont, the spectacle will go on!
Kupwara DM seeks action against drug-linked contractors
Srinagar, Sep 28: District Magistrate Kupwara Abhishek Sharma has directed the R&B Department and Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) to examine allegations against government contractors allegedly linked to narcotics-related activities and initiate appropriate penal proceedings under the rules. He has also directed the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kupwara to initiate action for cancellation of driving licences of persons involved in drug-related cases. The directions were issued during a district-level meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), chaired by the District Magistrate along with SSP Kupwara Sudhanshu Dhama and SSP Handwara Sajad Khaliq, to review the anti-narcotics situation and strengthen enforcement across the district. The move is likely to draw attention from people seeking strict action against drug-related activities, particularly those demanding accountability from individuals allegedly involved in the drug trade. Residents have long called for firm enforcement and coordinated efforts to protect young people from substance abuse. During the meeting, the District Magistrate reviewed the prevailing ground situation, ongoing enforcement measures and the status of rehabilitation facilities. He stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholder departments, with equal focus on enforcement, rehabilitation and community engagement. The Police Department was directed to take stringent legal action against drug peddlers. The ARTO was asked to proceed with licence cancellation in drug-related cases in accordance with applicable rules. The DM further directed the R&B Department and ACD to examine the allegations against government contractors allegedly linked to narcotics-related activities and initiate appropriate penal proceedings wherever warranted under the rules. The Health Department, in coordination with the Police Department, was asked to inspect all de-addiction centres and take action against unauthorised facilities. The Assistant Drug Controller was directed to monitor the supply and distribution of medicines to prevent the misuse of prescription drugs. The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) was instructed to procure testing kits for screening commercial drivers across the district. Controlling officers were also directed to identify government employees struggling with substance addiction and facilitate their structured rehabilitation at certified de-addiction facilities. The meeting underlined the administrations focus on a coordinated approach to tackle drug abuse through enforcement, prevention, treatment and public participation. People seeking stronger action against the drug menace will now look for effective implementation of these directions, including action by the concerned departments and the ARTO in accordance with the law.
GMC staff threaten strike over pending service rules
Srinagar, Oct 28: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has yet to finalise recruitment rules for non-gazetted employees of five newly established Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), leaving hundreds of employees facing stagnant salaries and limited opportunities for career progression. Employees of GMCs Anantnag, Baramulla, Rajouri, Doda and Kathua have been demanding the framing of service rules, alleging that the prolonged delay has left them demoralised and deprived of promotions and other career benefits. Vishap Sharma, a member of the Joint Coordination Committee of the five new medical colleges, said the employees had issued a final ultimatum to the government, demanding that the service rules be finalised by November 16. If the government fails to do so, all non-gazetted employees across the five GMCs, including nursing, paramedical, clerical and multi-tasking staff, will cease work. The responsibility for any disruption will lie with the Health and Medical Education Department, he said. Sharma said the government had failed to frame the rules despite seven years having passed since the establishment of the colleges, expressing concern over what he termed the departments lack of seriousness towards the employees concerns. He said seven years was an excessively long period to resolve the issue and questioned why the framing of service rules had taken so long. The employees alleged that the prolonged uncertainty had affected their morale, with some reportedly resigning due to the lack of promotional avenues and stagnant salaries, further aggravating staff shortages in the institutions already facing manpower shortages. They said repeated representations submitted to the H&ME Department through official channels had failed to elicit a response or produce any tangible outcome. The employees have urged the government to adopt recruitment rules on the pattern of existing medical colleges in Srinagar and Jammu, arguing that uniformity would ensure fairness and provide staff with clear avenues for career advancement. Notably, in August last year, the Health and Medical Education Department had placed the draft recruitment rules for the five new GMCs in the public domain for feedback. However, no further progress has been reported towards their finalisation. In April 2025, the department had also informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that the draft recruitment rules for the colleges were under consideration. With the November 16 deadline approaching, the employees have warned of a Union Territory-wide strike if the government fails to address their long-pending demand.
Touchscreen MacBook Pro Guide: Release date, price and new features
Macworld Apple has announced its first touchscreen MacBook Pro lineup, officially called MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display. Available in 14.2-inch and 16.3-inch sizes with M5 Pro or M5 Max processors, the new models combine tandem OLED technology with direct touchscreen input. Touch is standard across the new range, while non-touchscreen MacBook Pros remain available. The biggest changes include Dynamic Island, a smaller and lighter enclosure, and a new 16TB maximum SSD option on M5 Max configurations. The display adds Adobe RGB support and higher peak brightness while retaining a maximum 120Hz refresh rate. Other features include up to 128GB of RAM, Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7 and audio with a claimed 50% deeper bass. The touchscreen models retain the same chip families, memory capacities and advertised battery endurance as their equivalent non-touch M5 models, making this primarily an upgrade to the display, design and how users interact with their Mac. U.S. starting prices carry a $400 premium over equivalent non-touch versions, with the 14-inch M5 Pro starting at $2,899 and the 16-inch M5 Max starting at $4,799. Whats new compared with the non-touchscreen MacBook Pro? The processor generation, maximum RAM, Thunderbolt generation, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth versions and Apples battery-life ratings havent changed, but there is a lot that is different. Change New PROLED XDR models Non-touch M5 models Display technology Tandem OLED PROLED XDR Mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR Touchscreen Standard Multi-Touch input No Peak brightness 2,000 nits peak HDR and outdoor SDR; sustained full-screen brightness remains up to 1,000 nits 1,600 nits HDR; up to 1,000 nits SDR outdoors Colour and contrast P3 plus Adobe RGB; quoted 10,000,000:1 contrast P3; quoted 1,000,000:1 contrast Screen dimensions and resolution 14.2-inch, 30241986; 16.3-inch, 34722266 14.2-inch, 30241964; 16.2-inch, 34562234 Camera cutout and interface Dynamic Island Notch Portability 14-inch: 1.381.40kg; 16-inch: 1.821.84kg; both thinner 14-inch: 1.601.62kg; 16-inch: 2.142.15kg Maximum storage 16TB with either M5 Max GPU configuration 8TB with M5 Max Camera stabilisation Adds advanced video stabilisation Existing computational video features Speakers Redesigned system; Apple claims 50% deeper bass Six-speaker system Touchscreen MacBook Pro release date: When will it launch? Pre-orders : October 28, 2026 On sale : November 6, 2026 Pre-orders opened on October 28, 2026, through Apples website and Apple Store app. Deliveries and retail availability begin Friday, November 6, through Apple Stores and Apple Authorised Resellers. Apple announces an initial rollout covering 30 countries and regions. Pre-order the touchscreen MacBook Pro PROLED XDR from Apple U.S. Pre-order the touchscreen MacBook Pro PROLED XDR from Apple U.K. Touchscreen MacBook Pro price Apple has introduced a more expensive touchscreen range alongside the existing models. The new range carries a $400 starting-price premium over every equivalent non-touch M5 model. The premium does not buy a newer processor generation, more base memory or a larger entry SSD. Model Non-touch starting price PROLED XDR starting price Difference 14-inch M5 Pro $2,499 / 2,499 $2,899 / 2,899 +$400 / 400 16-inch M5 Pro $2,999 / 2,999 $3,399 / 3,399 +$400 / 400 14-inch M5 Max $4,099 / 4,099 $4,499 / 4,499 +$400 / 400 16-inch M5 Max $4,399 / 4,399 $4,799 / $4,799 +$400 / 400 Touchscreen MacBook Pro design Apple The new MacBook Pro retains a conventional laptop layout, built-in keyboard and Force Touch trackpad. It comes in Space Black or Silver, with an enclosure made from 100% recycled aluminium. Compared to the existing models, the weight reduction is more substantial than the thickness reduction: the 14-inch models lose 220g, while the 16-inch models lose approximately 310320g. Slimmer borders also allow the larger screen to grow slightly despite a reduced enclosure footprint. Apple describes a revised hinge and cooling system. It claims greater hinge stability during touch input and says the cooling design directs warm air away from the display. Well be verifying those claims in our review of the new laptop. Model Previous width depth thickness New width depth thickness Previous new weight 14-inch M5 Pro 31.26 22.12 1.55cm 31.08 21.63 1.50cm 1.60 1.38kg 14-inch M5 Max Same Same 1.62 1.40kg 16-inch M5 Pro 35.57 24.81 1.68cm 35.55 24.42 1.60cm 2.14 1.82kg 16-inch M5 Max Same Same 2.15 1.84kg Touchscreen MacBook Pro dimensions compared to non-touchscreen models. Touchscreen MacBook display The PROLED XDR Display isnt just for touching. Apple Both sizes offer M5 Pro and M5 Max configurations, and every PROLED XDR model includes touch. There is no base-M6 configuration in this touchscreen range. OLEDs benefits concern image reproduction: individually lit pixels, deeper blacks and reduced blooming around bright objects. Touch adds a separate benefit direct interaction with content. The maximum refresh rate remains 120Hz. Apple indicates that pixel compensation mitigates ageing and burn-in, rather than establishing that OLED cannot deteriorate. It quotes 1% reflectance for standard glass; nano-texture scatters reflections further. There is also an oleophobic coating to reduce fingerprints. For cleaning, Apple advises powering down and using a soft cloth appropriately dampened for standard screens; never spray liquid directly onto the display. For nano-texture, use the supplied polishing cloth and follow Apples specific care instructions. Display specification 14-inch 16-inch Diagonal size 14.2 inches 16.3 inches Native resolution 30241986 34722266 Pixel density 254ppi 254ppi Technology Tandem OLED Tandem OLED Sustained full-screen HDR/SDR brightness Up to 1,000 nits Up to 1,000 nits Peak HDR brightness 2,000 nits 2,000 nits Peak outdoor SDR brightness 2,000 nits 2,000 nits ProMotion 10120Hz 10120Hz Colour One billion colours, P3 plus Adobe RGB, True Tone Same Glass Standard antireflective glass or optional nano-texture Same Apple qualifies the sustained brightness figure for temperatures below 25C. Peak brightness does not mean the whole screen continuously operates at 2,000 nits. Which MacBook models get a touchscreen? Touch comes with the 14- and 16-inch PROLED XDR models using M5 Pro or M5 Max; the M6 MacBook Pro and Liquid Retina XDR models have no touchscreen. How does touch work in macOS? Apple Apple confirms scrolling, pinch-to-zoom, drawing, dragging and dropping, double-tapping a window to fill the screen, and flicking windows into tiled positions. Touch works alongside keyboard and trackpad input. Dynamic Island provides access to activities and controls. Spotlights relocation there requires Siri AI to be available and enabled. In everyday use, this offers a direct way to move through documents, enlarge photographs or reposition content. macOS translates taps into clicks for many existing apps; developers can use gesture APIs for more specialised controls. Apple indicated that there are forthcoming updates for Microsoft 365, Notion, Canva, Zoom, Lightroom, DaVinci Resolve, Blender, Cinema 4D, ZBrush, Shapr3D and djay Pro later this year. Creator Studio updates are confirmed to be coming in November. Touchscreen MacBook Pro processor M5 Pro and M5 Max As expected, the processors are carried-over M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The new models feature the same CPU/GPU options, Neural Engine and memory bandwidth as the equivalent non-touch models. All have a 16-core Neural Engine and GPU Neural Accelerators. The 18-core CPU comprises six super cores and 12 performance cores; the 15-core version has five and 10 respectively. Apple introduced these chips earlier in 2026. They use third-generation 3nm manufacturing and Apples Fusion Architecture, joining two dies into one system-on-chip through advanced packaging. Those are characteristics of the existing M5 Pro/Max generation, not manufacturing upgrades introduced with touch. For an example of Apples older-generation comparisons, it claims 10.9 faster time to first token than M1 Pro for a 14-inch M5 Pro model. Apples test used an 18-core CPU/20-core GPU, 64GB RAM and 4TB SSD against an M1 Pro with 10-core CPU/16-core GPU, 32GB RAM and 8TB SSD. The workload was a quantised 14-billion-parameter model, an 8K-token prompt and LM Studio. Apple made no indication that there was any CPU/GPU performance increase over an equivalent non-touch M5 configuration, or a quantified improvement in whole-system power efficiency. Separately, Apple has launched the 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M6 chip . Touchscreen MacBook memory: How much RAM is included? There is no increase in base or maximum memory over the equivalent non-touch M5 models. The M5 Pro starts with 24GB, the 32-core GPU M5 Max has 36GB, and the 40-core version starts with 48GB. Reaching 64GB with M5 Pro requires the 20-core GPU; reaching 128GB requires the 40-core M5 Max. More memory can accommodate larger creative projects, more demanding multitasking and larger local AI models. Touchscreen MacBook storage: What is the highest capacity? The entry capacities are unchanged. However, it is possible to upgrade to 16TB on M5 Max, up from 8TB. In order to obtain that capacity buyers need either the 32-core or 40-core GPU. Apple makes an up to twice as fast storage claim that compares a 16TB M5 Max system with an 8TB M4 Max system. Both had 128GB RAM; testing used FIO 3.43 with 1,024KB requests, a 10GB file and queue depth eight. That test doesnt demonstrate doubled SSD performance over the non-touch M5 range. We will be running our own benchmarks. Touchscreen MacBook camera, microphones and speakers The camera remains a 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View and 1080p video recording. Advanced video stabilisation is new, however. Authentication remains Touch ID. Dynamic Island is an interface feature, not confirmation of Face ID or a TrueDepth camera. Apple retains a six-speaker system, force-cancelling woofers, Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos support. Apple claims 50% deeper bass and adds closed-lid audio tuning. The three-microphone array retains directional beamforming, Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum modes. Touchscreen MacBook battery Apple lists video-streaming ratings of 22/20 hours for the 14-inch Pro/Max and 24/22 hours for the 16-inch Pro/Max, the same as the non-touchscreen models. Touchscreen MacBook Pro connectivity and ports Both sizes include: One 3.5mm headphone jack with support for high-impedance headphones. Three Thunderbolt 5 USB-C ports, supporting charging and DisplayPort. One HDMI port. One SDXC card slot. MagSafe 3. Apple quotes Thunderbolt/USB4 support up to 120Gb/s and DisplayPort 2.1. Apples N1 wireless chip, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread are included, but they are not touchscreen-model upgrades. External display support The M5 Pro chip supports three external displays at 6K/60Hz or 4K/165Hz. Alternatively, it can support one 8K/60Hz, 5K/120Hz or 4K/240Hz display, plus a second at up to 5K/120Hz or 4K/200Hz. The M5 Max chip supports four external displays at 6K/60Hz or 4K/165Hz, or two displays at up to 8K/60Hz, 5K/120Hz or 4K/240Hz. Apples PROLED XDR specifications lists 165Hz for the multi-display 4K configurations, rather than the older 144Hz figure. Touchscreen MacBook Pro versus non-touchscreen specs Model / display range CPU cores GPU cores Available memory (GB) SSD options (TB) Video streaming (up to hours) U.S. included adapter Battery capacity (Wh) D isplay resolution (pixels) 14-inch M5 Pro PROLED XDR (touch) 15 16 24, 48 1, 2, 4 22 70W USB-C 72.6 3024 1986 14-inch M5 Pro PROLED XDR (touch) 18 20 24, 48, 64 1, 2, 4 22 96W USB-C 72.6 3024 1986 14-inch M5 Max PROLED XDR (touch) 18 32 36 2, 4, 8, 16 20 96W USB-C 72.6 3024 1986 14-inch M5 Max PROLED XDR (touch) 18 40 48, 64, 128 2, 4, 8, 16 20 96W USB-C 72.6 3024 1986 16-inch M5 Pro PROLED XDR (touch) 18 20 24, 48, 64 1, 2, 4 24 140W USB-C 100.0 3472 2266 16-inch M5 Max PROLED XDR (touch) 18 32 36 2, 4, 8, 16 22 140W USB-C 100.0 3472 2266 16-inch M5 Max PROLED XDR (touch) 18 40 48, 64, 128 2, 4, 8, 16 22 140W USB-C 100.0 3472 2266 14-inch M5 Pro Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 15 16 24, 48 1, 2, 4 22 70W USB-C 72.4 3024 1964 14-inch M5 Pro Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 20 24, 48, 64 1, 2, 4 22 96W USB-C 72.4 3024 1964 14-inch M5 Max Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 32 36 2, 4, 8 20 96W USB-C 72.4 3024 1964 14-inch M5 Max Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 40 48, 64, 128 2, 4, 8 20 96W USB-C 72.4 3024 1964 16-inch M5 Pro Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 20 24, 48, 64 1, 2, 4 24 140W USB-C 100.0 3456 2234 16-inch M5 Max Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 32 36 2, 4, 8 22 140W USB-C 100.0 3456 2234 16-inch M5 Max Liquid Retina XDR (non-touch) 18 40 48, 64, 128 2, 4, 8 22 140W USB-C 100.0 3456 2234 Should you buy the touchscreen MacBook Pro? Is touch worth the premium? Provisionally, the stronger justification is the combined OLED display, lower weight and touch capability. Buyers who regularly manipulate visual content may find direct input useful. Those who mainly type, use a mouse or work on an external display have less reason to pay the extra $400. A firm verdict needs testing of reflections, fingerprints, reach, hinge movement and app behaviour. Which model? The 14-inch M5 Pro is the most accessible and portable option. Choose the 16-inch M5 Pro for a larger workspace and Apples longest battery rating. M5 Max makes sense when GPU performance, memory bandwidth, more than 64GB RAM or storage above 4TB serves a demonstrated workload; it is unnecessary simply to obtain touch. Should existing owners upgrade? For owners of an M5 Pro or M5 Max MacBook Pro, this is principally a screen and portability decision. M4 owners should similarly assess the display benefits against the cost. Older Apple-silicon and Intel owners may gain more broadly, but performance improvements vary by application. This or an iPad Pro? Choose the MacBook Pro when desktop Mac applications, its keyboard, ports and professional workflows are essential. Choose an iPad Pro when a handheld tablet and supported Apple Pencil workflow are central. Apple has not established Pencil support, a detachable display or tablet conversion for this MacBook Pro.
Dawn Staley Raises Safety Concerns Ahead Of South Carolinas Paris Opener Against Maryland
Dawn Staley has addressed security concerns in Paris ahead of South Carolinas opener against Maryland, while both coaches prepare for a demanding start to the college basketball season.
India rejects laws affecting national sovereignty; votes at UN against US embargo on Cuba
Digital Desk | United Nations, Oct 28 (IANS) India on Wednesday reiterated its rejection of laws that adversely affect the sovereignty of other countries as it voted for a General Assembly resolution demanding an end to the US embargo on Cuba. Soumya Nair, a counsellor in India's UN Mission, said New Delhi backs the Assembly's call to all countries to reject laws and regulations with extraterritorial effects that adversely affect the sovereignty of other states and the progress and prosperity of their peoples. Speaking before the Assembly voted on the resolution asking the US to end the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, she said, India reiterates the Assembly's call to all states to refrain from promulgating and applying, and to repeal and invalidate such laws and measures in conformity with their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and International Law. The resolution was carried with 130 votes to 17, with 25 abstentions, after a drama on the floor of the Assembly chamber on Tuesday when Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla charged up to the dais to confront US Permanent Representative Mike Waltz as he was speaking. Assembly President Khalilur Rahman briefly suspended the proceeding to restore order. The drama continued on Wednesday when the US expelled the Cuban mission's First Secretary Richard Tur de la Concepcion for allegedly physically tangling with a US diplomat during the confrontation, according to Waltz. He said, If you lay a hand on an American diplomat in this body, there will be consequences. That so-called diplomat today will be put on a plane back to Havana, he said without identifying the diplomat, who was identified by Cuba. The confrontation took place as Waltz was speaking of the alleged corruption by Cuba's leaders. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, was critical of the Cuban conduct. He said at his Wednesday briefing, We expect every delegation to respect the decorum of the General Assembly's hall and to respect the rules and procedures of the General Assembly. UN Safety and Security deployed more personnel than usual, and They did a great job in ensuring that the situation did not get out of hand, he added. Nair said, India's commitment to multilateralism is rooted in our belief that international challenges are best addressed through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the UN Charter. It is in this spirit that India hopes that the embargo will be lifted at the earliest, to help create an environment that would enable the people of Cuba to participate more fully in international cooperation and pursue their legitimate development aspirations, she said. She noted that because of the embargo Cuba's health system faces shortages of over 60 per cent of essential medicines, while food production has declined by more than 50 per cent over the past five years. The recently tightened restrictions on fuel exports to Cuba have disrupted essential services, including healthcare, education, water supplies, food distribution and transportation, she said.
MLC Election: BJP protest during counting at Pahadiya Mandi
