SC extends stay on court-monitored survey of Shahi Idgah mosque complex in Mathura
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday extended its stay on the Allahabad High Courts order that permitted a court-monitored survey of the Shahi Idgah Mosque complex in Mathura. The complex is located adjacent to the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, a site of significant religious importance for Hindus. A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and 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 .
Watch: 'Pumpkin', Uttar Pradesh's first-ever double-decker bus restaurant, launched at Maha Kumbh
Uttar Pradesh's first double-decker bus restaurant, Pumpkin, has been launched in Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela. Offering a vegetarian and satvic menu, the bus can seat 25 diners and has a kitchen on the ground floor with dining upstairs. Founder Manveer Godara plans to expand to religious sites like Kashi, Mathura, and Ayodhya.
Centre delaying Worship Act reply: Mosque panel to SC
The Mathura Shahi Masjid Eidgah Committee has approached the Supreme Court, requesting the court to prevent the central government from filing a response to a petition challenging the Places of Worship Act's constitutional validity. The committee accuses the BJP-led government of intentionally delaying its response. The court had previously issued a notice to the government in March 2021, but the government has yet to submit its reply despite numerous opportunities. The committee argues that the government's delay is intended to obstruct those opposing the challenge to the Places of Worship Act from filing their own responses. The petition also states that the pleas challenging the law's validity are scheduled for hearing on February 17, and closing the government's right to respond would serve justice. The Supreme Court previously issued a ruling in December 2022 that stopped courts from entertaining new lawsuits or issuing interim or final orders regarding the reclaiming of religious places, particularly mosques and dargahs. The ruling halted proceedings in 18 lawsuits filed by Hindu groups seeking surveys to confirm the original religious character of 10 mosques, including the Gyanvapi Masjid in Varanasi, the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Mathura, and the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. This decision was made in response to six petitions, including one filed by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay, challenging various provisions of the Places of Worship Act. The 1991 law prohibits the conversion of places of worship and guarantees the preservation of their existing religious character as it stood on August 15, 1947. Notably, the dispute regarding the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid in Ayodhya was excluded from this law. There are also several cross-petitions advocating for a strict enforcement of the 1991 law to uphold communal harmony and maintain the current status of mosques that Hindu groups seek to reclaim, claiming they were temples before being destroyed by invaders.
Places of Worship Act: Mathura Shahi Masjid committee moves SC to close Centre's right to file reply
The Mathura Shahi Masjid Eidgah Committee moves the Supreme Court to close the Centre's right to reply on a plea challenging the Places of Worship Act. The committee accuses the BJP-led Centre of deliberate delays, impacting the hearing of petitions against the 1991 law.
In a fresh application filed before the Supreme Court, the Committee of Management of Mathura's Shahi Masjid Eidgah has pleaded that the right of the Centre to file its reply to the petitions challenging the validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991 should be closed.
Man gets life term for brutal stabbing of neighbour over affair
A 35-year-old man in Mathura received a life sentence for stabbing and killing a villager on November 24, 2023, due to an alleged affair. The court also fined him Rs 15,000. Although the victim's brother lodged a complaint, the convict's wife did not testify. The court found him guilty under IPC sections 506 and 302.
Telangana bus travelling to Maha Kumbh catches fire, one dead
Hyderabad: An elderly person died after a bus from Telanganas Nirmal district travelling to the ongoing Prayagrajs Maha Kumbh Mela caught fire in Uttar Pradeshs Mathura city. According to police, around 50 pilgrims were travelling in the bus when it stopped at Vridhavan Tourist Center for a break. An elderly person died after a bus 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 .
Mathura Shahi Idgah row: SC defers hearing on mosque panel's plea to March
The Supreme Court postponed its hearing to March 2025 on the Shahi Idgah mosque committee's plea in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute. The committee argues the lawsuits violate the Places of Worship Act, which prohibits changes to religious character post-Independence. Allahabad High Court had rejected the committee's plea, stating the religious character needed determination.
Elderly Passenger Killed as Pilgrims Bus Catches Fire in Mathura
Mathura (UP): An elderly passenger lost his life when a private bus carrying pilgrims from Telangana to the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh caught fire on Tuesday, police said. The incident occurred at the Vrindavan Tourist Centre, where the bus was parked. According to Additional SP City Arvind Kumar, the bus was carrying around 50 pilgrims en route to Prayagraj for a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh. The group had stopped at Vrindavan on Tuesday evening, and while some pilgrims visited nearby temples, others stayed back to prepare food. Amid this, sparks were noticed coming from the bus, which quickly escalated into a massive fire. Emergency services, including police and fire teams, were immediately alerted. One of the pilgrims raised an alarm, pointing out that an elderly man, identified as Dhrupati, was still inside the bus. Tragically, the fire engulfed the vehicle before he could be rescued, and he was found dead. A fellow passenger claimed that Dhrupati was smoking a beedi and had chosen to stay in the bus while others stepped out. It is suspected that the lit beedi might have caused the fire, although investigations are ongoing. Senior police officials arrived at the scene to oversee the rescue and investigation efforts. The body has been sent for post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death, Kumar said.
Bus carrying pilgrims to Maha Kumbh catches fire in UP, 1 killed
Mathura: An elderly passenger was killed when a private bus carrying pilgrims from Telangana to the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh caught fire on Tuesday, police said.Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze, which created chaos at the tourist facility in Vrindavan where the bus was parked, they said. According to Additional SP City Arvind Kumar, the bus had around 50 pilgrims and arrived at the Vrindavan Tourist Centre on Tuesday evening. The group was en route to Prayagraj for a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh later in the night. While some pilgrims ventured out to visit temples, others stayed back to prepare food. Amid this, sparks emerged from the bus, quickly escalating into a massive fire. Police and fire services were alerted immediately. One of the pilgrims raised an alarm and pointed out that an elderly man, identified as Dhrupati, was still inside the bus. However, by the time fire teams arrived, the blaze had engulfed the vehicle, and Dhrupati was found dead. A fellow passenger who had been sitting near Dhrupati alleged that the deceased was smoking a beedi and chose to remain in the bus while others stepped out to visit temples. He speculated that the fire might have started due to the lit beedi. Senior police officials reached the site and are investigating the incident. The body has been sent for post-mortem, Kumar said.
CM Mohan Charan Majhi announces permanent palace in Bargarh town for Dhanuyatra festival
BARGARH: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday announced that the state government will construct a permanent Raj Mahal (palace) in Bargarh town for the Dhanuyatra festival. Attending the 77th edition of Dhanuyatra in the evening, Majhi said, The festival is a distinct example of Odia Asmita. A permanent and attractive Raj Mahal will be developed in Mathura Nagari (Bargarh town). Around Rs 12.80 crore will be spent on developing the infrastructure. The government has also prepared a detailed project report in this regard. The CM further said respecting the heritage, culture and sentiments of the people of Bargarh, the government aid to Dhanuyatra has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1 crore. Besides, Rs 10,000 will be awarded to each of the 170 artistes participating in the festival. An expert committee has also been formed to grant UNESCO heritage status to Dhanuyatra. A dedicated website has been prepared to provide all the information related to the festival. For the first time, arrangements were made to telecast Dhanuyatra live through LED screens in various parts of the state. Besides, arrangements have been put in place to felicitate artistes and their family members involved in the festival, he added. Meanwhile, the 11-day festival, which celebrates the story of Lord Krishna and King Kansa, concluded on Monday. The tyrannical rule of King Kansa, his death and the exploits of Lord Krishna were enacted on 14 main stages in Mathura (Bargarh) and Gopapura (Ambapali). During the festival, sources said, traffic congestion emerged as a significant concern for visitors. Major traffic gridlock was reported during peak hours despite prior route planning by the district police. Visitors also struggled with inadequate parking places.
SC to hear Mathura's Shahi Idgah dispute on Wednesday
The Supreme Court of India will hear a plea from the mosque management committee challenging an order rejecting its petition in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh on January 15. The Allahabad High Court had rejected the mosque committee's plea, stating that the religious character of the Shahi Idgah mosque needed to be determined. The case involves claims that the mosque was built after the demolition of a temple, a claim disputed by the mosque committee. The Supreme Court will now decide on the maintainability of the mosque committee's plea.
Mathura Shahi Idgah row: SC to hear mosque committees plea on Jan 15
New Delhi: The Supreme Court would on January 15 hear a plea of the mosque management committee against an order rejecting its petition in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura, UP. A single judge bench of the Allahabad High Court on August 1, last year, rejected the plea of the Committee of Management, Trust 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 .
Mathura's Ordeal: The Landmark Tukaram v/s Maharashtra Case
Tukaram v. State of Maharashtra is a significant legal case in India that examines the concept of consent in sexual encounters and the legal definition of rape. The incident occurred in the Cha...
Calcutta High Court orders status quo on donated lands meant for health centre upgrade
The Calcutta High Court has directed the respondents to maintain the status quo with regard to the character and usage of the lands donated by the petitioners grandfather and father for the purpose of upgrading the Primary Health Centre at Purandanpur, Mathurapur Block II, District South 24 Parganas. The courts direction comes in response to [] The post Calcutta High Court orders status quo on donated lands meant for health centre upgrade appeared first on India Legal .
The Supreme Court has upheld the Allahabad High Court's decision to merge 15 lawsuits regarding the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah dispute. The court noted that consolidation benefits all parties by preventing multiple proceedings. The issue is set to be revisited in April, with further clarifications allowed if necessary.
Plea against combining multiple lawsuits in Mathura temple-mosque dispute may be raised later: SC
A lawyer, appearing for the Committee of Management Trust Shahi Idgah, said the lawsuits were not similar in nature and yet have been consolidated by the High Court
School Winter Vacation 2025: School Holidays Extended In These States
Cities in Uttar Pradesh including Ghaziabad, Agra, Mathura and Lucknow have declared holidays in their schools until January 11-14, 2025.
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 9: BJP today organized the Sangathan Parv election for BJP Sangathan district Jammu South and Jammu district. The significant political event was attended by Shri Kant Sharma, MLA Mathura, (UP), Sangathan Parv election observer BJP Jammu & Kashmir, Dr Narinder Singh Raina BJP national, secretary and MLA RS Pura -Jammu South, Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, general secretary BJP Jammu & Kashmir and MLA Ramgarh and Rakesh Mahajan State Returning Officer and State incharge all cells The [] The post BJP organises Sangathan Parv appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
MP CM Mohan Yadav Visits Mathura: Urges Sanatan Culture in Education Policy
Mathura (Uttar Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited Mathura on Thursday, where he paid homage to the Yamuna River and visited the Brahmand Ghat in Gokul. He also offered his respects at the ashram of Sant Guru Sharnanand. Speaking to reporters after his prayers, CM Yadav emphasized his government's commitment to integrating Sanatan culture into Madhya Pradesh's education policy. Mathura, recognized as the sacred birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna, carries its own distinctive significance, Yadav remarked. Madhya Pradesh education system incorporates several elements of Sanatan culture, along with teachings connected to Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. I came to Mathura to seek blessings from Guruji and to pay homage to the Lord, particularly before taking part in our Kumbh. Focus on Youth and Religious Infrastructure Earlier, CM Yadav chaired a Cabinet meeting in Bhopal that granted in-principle approval for the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Shakti Mission, set to launch on January 12, 2025, commemorating Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary. The initiative aims to create a unified platform for youth-oriented activities, fostering socio-economic development among the youth of Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, Yadav convened a Cabinet Committee meeting on preparations for Simhastha-2028, a grand Hindu religious festival held every 12 years in Ujjain. He directed regular reviews of infrastructure progress in Ujjain and Indore divisions every 15 days. Highlighting the significance of these regions, he noted the presence of two Jyotirlingas, which will draw numerous devotees during the event. Reverence for Sanatan Values -Yadav's Mathura visit followed his participation in the Bhojpal Mahotsav Mela in December, an event dedicated to honoring Raja Bhoj. During the Mahotsav, he expressed his profound respect for Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, emphasizing his dedication to the Sanatan order. We hold no malice against anyone, he added. However, we will never compromise on matters related to Sanatan Dharma. After Lord Rama, it feels like Krishna Kanhaiya of Yamuna is calling me. CM Yadavs remarks underscored his vision of upholding traditional values while fostering modern initiatives for youth and religious infrastructure development.
How many residences does Atishi want? BJP's Virendraa Sachdeva asks
Delhi BJP and Congress have targeted the Aam Aadmi Party regarding the 'Sheesh Mahal' controversy. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva criticized Delhi CM Atishi, questioning her refusal to reside at 6 Flagstaff Road amid the ongoing investigation, and her demand for multiple residences including AB 17 Mathura Road and her Kalkaji constituency home.
Add these 15 enchanting experiences to your bucket list in 2025, that are worth a lifetime!
Let the feeling of the New Year sink in, it is time to get on to some new experiences. Those that you shall add to your already pending bucket list, those that you will just feel like hopping on to right now. Here are some, right in India. You know the destinations, but the glory of the place is worth to be experienced at a certain point of time. Thus, we have got it prepared for you. The long weekends in 2025 shall be utilized well. Come, check it- Kumbh Mela The first event that you got to experience at the beginning of the year is to visit the Mahakumbh. After a gap of 12 years, in 2025 the Mahakumbh is going to take place at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This religious event is the largest human gathering on the planet. Take a dip on the day of the Shahi snan in the Ganges, visit the camps of various spiritual leaders and be a part of the once in 12- year experience at the Mahakumbh 2025. It will begin on Jan 13 th 2025 and will continue till Feb 26, 2025. Do not miss the event of the year! Rann Mahotsav The ongoing Rann Mahotsav will continue till March 15, 2025. Celebrate the natural bliss of the White desert with the vivid cultural heritage of Gujarat. You can enjoy a comfortable stay at the Tent city and enjoy various activities and adventures, the music and folk dance performances of the local artists, the traditional crafts of artisans, and relaxation with meditation at spa. During the Rann Mahotsav, the beauty of Kutch is a splendid experience. You should go for it now, before the festival ends! Attractive packages are available for an amazing visit. Experience Holi as a local India is on a festival spree every year. Apart from all the festivals, the Holi fervor is always on a high. Why not celebrate the best of Holi at the most known places of the country? Be one with the local community and enjoy the festival of colors like never before. You can head out for- the Bra ki Holi in Mathura, around the Banke Bihari and Gopinath temple in Vrindavan, the Barsane ki Holi near Mathura, the ultimate experience of Holi in the Pink city of Jaipur, the best eve of Holi, i.e. Holika dahan in Udaipur, on the shores of Lake Pichola in Pushkar, in the idyllic spot Varanasi and near the Golden temple of Goddess Durga in Amritsar. Plus, it is a long weekend at the time of Holi this year. So you just cannot miss at any cost. The Taj Mahal at sunrise or on full moon Its a spectacular experience to visit the Taj Mahal. But have you ever imagined the beauty of the monument at sunrise and on a full moon night? It would be one of a kind. For a breathtaking sight where the rays of the sun fall on the white marble structure, when there is no flock of visitors seen, get out early and gaze at the Taj Mahal. And if you want to see it in the moonlight, then also you have got a chance. For, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) keeps the Taj Mahal open for visitors five days a month after sunset. Go for it to witness the magical hues right in front of your eyes. Spot the Bengal tiger The big roaring cat is a sight to behold. And the Indian subcontinent has a significant number to its tiger population. Add the unique thrilling safari experience to your bucket list now. Well, the best place to spot the Bengal tiger would be the Sunderbans in West Bengal. Get on the boat safari to look out for the Bengal tiger that lives in the semi-aquatic lifestyle in the Sundarbans, the Worlds largest Mangroves. Yet you can look out for other wildlife sanctuaries, national parks and tiger reserves in India. These include the Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Ranthambore, Tadoba, Pench and the Jim Corbett. At the Golden temple One of the most serene places you will ever be at, the Golden temple. Visit the Golden temple to attend the Palki ceremony and be a part of the Langar for lunch. The Palki ceremony is commenced at pre-dawn when the Sikh holy book is carried in a palanquin from the Alakh takht inner chamber (where it rests at night) to the main sanctum of the temple. The devotees sing bugles and devotional songs. The practice is reversed at night. It will be the best sacred visit of your life. Every day, a langar is organized for the worshippers and pilgrims at the Golden temple. Go out to help in the kitchen preparing the meals, and in the end seat in the lines to experience the most beautiful meal for the day. Serving at the Golden temple is the ultimate human experience one can ever have. Ganga Aarti at Haridwar On the banks of the river Ganges, the evening prayer is the most blissful religious ritual to be a part of. Thousands of pilgrims assemble to witness the Ganga Aarti at the Har-ki Pauri Ghat. It is organized every morning and evening by the Ganga Sabha. Offering of Panchamrut and flowers is made to Ganga while chanting the Ganga Lahari Mantra. Lastly, a special song for Ganga can be heard in the speakers when Aarti is offered by lighting the copper diya. It can be the most overwhelming experience of your lifetime. Night Kayaking in Andaman The Bioluminescence effect of the Andaman Islands is surreal. And it is only experienced at night by Kayaking in the calm waters with dense mangroves around. The best time to go for Kayaking is during no-moon or full moon phase. It also takes place on other days, only the bioluminescence effect is reduced by 20-30% in comparison to the dark days. The luminescent plankton glows blue in the depths of the waters of Andaman sea. You can even stargaze on the Kayak, at the best adventure of your life. The best places to opt for Night Kayaking include Port Blair, Havelock, Baratang, Neil Island and the Ross Island. Get onto the Kayak to immerse yourself in the spell-bounding luminescent night! Stay in the traditional homestays Homestays are quite in trend these days, with visitors looking for that home feeling while travelling. There are many traditional homestays in various parts of India offering the most comfortable, cozy, homely experience. They serve you with the best local cuisine with a unique cultural experience. You can also look for some homestays that are reviving the rich heritage of India. The best traditional homestays of India date back to five decades and more. Ones you can experience include- Slow Garden (Ladakh), Krishnayan Heritage (Gwalior), Shahpura Bagh (Shahpura), Ranjit Svasa (Amritsar), Philipkuttys farm, Kumarakom (Kerala), Premkunj (Udaipur), Jungle Lodge (Shimla) and many more homestays that are being opened by people in their old homes for visitors. An Ayurvedic retreat The land of Rishi Patanjali, yoga and Ayurveda, India has a variety of hosts offering you the ultimate Ayurvedic wellness. There is a long list of Ayurvedic rejuvenation centers and resorts in the country. Why not try something new and go for an Ayurvedic holiday for a therapeutic experience. The experts and doctors treat you with therapies even for some acute medical conditions, with meditation and yoga and the best from Ayurveda. So, basically it will be a peaceful, healthy and healing trip. The best in India are- Ananda in Himalayas (Uttarakhand), Ashok Country Resort (New Delhi), The Leela (Udaipur), Devaaya, The Ayurvedic and Nature Cure Center (Goa), Somatheeram Ayurveda resort and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village, both in Kerala. Explore famous food streets Well, who doesnt love the Indian street food. Say the name of the dish and everyone is up for it. You might always go down the street in your city, but have you ever experienced the delight of eating at some of the famous Indian streets? Its so deliciously amazingyou should try visiting these food streets for a real good culinary experience of your lifetime. Know the delicacies, culture and cuisine of India through its street food. Sarafa bazaar (Indore), Chowk and Aminabad (Lucknow), Old city and Majithia road (Amritsar), Paranthevali gali (Delhi), Gol Park (Kolkata), VV Puram, Mosque road, Avenue road and Church street (Bengaluru), Muhammad Ali road (Mumbai), Manek chowk (Ahmedabad) and Chartori gali (Bhopal) are some of the famous food streets of India that are a heaven for a food lover. Encounter the elusive Snow leopard In the high altitude mountains of the Himalayas, you can track down the striking beauty of the Snow leopard. It can camouflage easily in the snow, with patterned spots and thick fur, often called as mountain ghosts by the locals. An estimated 718 snow leopards are left in the Himalayan region. Watching the big cat is the most thrilling experience to have. Coming month of February is the best month to spot them, when they come out to lower regions in search of prey. Visit the Himalayan states of Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim to catch the sight of the elusive cat species. Explore the stars, sky and space Get a step ahead of star gazing, know more about the stars, the sky and the space. You will know space exploration, astronomy and associated technologies, and you will be surprised to know Indias advancement. Visit the biggest planetariums in the country, even the best in Asia for an educational and entertainment treat. Delve into one of a kind experience that you will have at- The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata (also known as Taramandal which is the largest in Asia and 2 nd largest in the world), Hyderabad and Chennai are the top most. Others include the Nehru Planetarium (Mumbai), Guwahati Planetarium (Assam) and the Ahmedabad Planetarium (Gujarat). Celebrate Cinema at the iconic Raj Mandir All things glamour and iconic at the Raj Mandir cinema of Jaipur. The Raj Mandir Cinema has become symbolic with time. It is often called as Cinema ka Mandir. The meringue shaped auditorium is in business since 1976. Movie premieres are a different feel at Raj Mandir, which is well equipped with the latest sound and technology. Designed in the art moderne style, it has art deco chandeliers and velvet drapes adding to the charm of the interiors here. Not to forget the jasmine scented air conditioning of the cinema theatre. Thus, experience the best of cinema at the Raj Mandir! Ride Kettuvallam in Kerala To those who dont know the Kettuvallam is a traditional houseboat in Kerala. It is made up of bamboo, coir and wood, that reflects Keralas authentic craftsmanship. Basically, it is now a cruise that sails in the backwaters of Kerala. With lagoons, lakes and canals forming the network of water channels in Kerala, the Kettuvallam is worth the ride. You can also watch out the sunset and enjoy a delicious supper that is rich in Kerala cuisine. Do not miss your leisurely Kettuvallam cruise in Kerala. Thus, with this you can experience the best of India in 2025, that you will remember for a lifetime. And when you are done, you can tick this off your bucket list. Happy travelling and Happy experiences!
Fresh petitions in Supreme Court seek vacation of stay on places of worship case
NEW DELHI: A fresh batch of petitions has been filed before the Supreme Court, seeking the vacation of its earlier order that stayed the filing of new suits against places of worship and the conducting of surveys in pending mandir-masjid cases. The fresh batch of pleas has been filed by various individuals challenging the Supreme Court's December 12 order, which suspended said that no orders would be passed by any court in the country, including surveys, on places of worship until the case is heard again after four weeks. The petitions seek modification of this order. The matter is scheduled for a hearing on February 17, 2025. The interim order was passed on December 12 by a special bench of the apex court, led by the Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, Justices Sanjay Kumar and KV Viswanathan while hearing a batch of petitions relating to the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991 Act, which prohibits the conversion of the religious character of places of worship from their status as of August 15, 1947. It is to be noted that some petitions challenged the constitutionality of the Act, whereas, some others sought its strict implementation. Many Political parties such as CPI (M), Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), NCP (Sharad Pawar group) MLA Jitendra Awhad, RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) MP (Member of Parliament) Manoj Kumar Jha, MP Thol Thirumavalan, and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi have sought to intervene in the matter, supporting the Places of Worship Act. The top court is seized of many pleas, including the one filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and lawyer, Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, seeking a direction that Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, be set aside. Another plea was filed by former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, against the provisions of the 1991 law. Swamy wanted the apex court to ead down certain provisions to enable Hindus to stake claim over the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura.
ISKCON Mathura's Employee Flees With Lakhs Of Donation Money, Receipt Book
According to the FIR, Murlidhar Das, son of Nimai Chand Yadav, is a resident of Sriram Colony, Rauganj Vasa in MPs Indore.
Silver idols, plates stolen from temple at BJP leader's house in Mathura
Mathura: An unidentified person allegedly stole valuable items, including idols and plates made of silver, from a temple built on the ground floor of a BJP leader's house in the Govind Nagar area here, police said on Sunday. According to Devpal Singh Pundir, the SHO of Govind Nagar police station, the incident occurred on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday. Pradeep Goswami, the general secretary of the city unit of the BJP, was sleeping with his family in their room on the upper floor of their house in Chowk Bazar. Around dawn, a thief broke into the temple on the ground floor and stole silver idols of various gods and goddesses, including those of Lord Shiv, five silver cows, four Sriyantras, 11 plates and other items, the SHO said. Goswami discovered the theft when he came downstairs to the temple and subsequently filed a complaint, based on which a case was registered, the SHO added. CCTV footage was reviewed, showing the thief taking the items, he said, adding that the police are working to identify and locate him.
Senior Congress leaders join BJP ahead of civic polls in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: In a setback to the Congress ahead of the urban local body polls in Uttarakhand, several senior party leaders, including state unit vice-president Mathura Dutt Joshi, joined the BJP. Joshi was said to be sulking after the party's high command denied ticket for the mayoral seat in Pithoragarh to his wife the. Joshi said that he joined the BJP as there was no appreciation for honest party workers in the Congress. I worked with full honesty and ability in the Congress but there is no appreciation for all this. So I have taken membership in the BJP. I will continue to serve the party with full dedication for the rest of my life, he added. Other leaders who crossed over to the BJP are former Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) vice-president Bittu Karnataka and two-time former district panchayat president Jagat Singh Khati. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Pradesh BJP president Mahendra Bhatt welcomed the leaders into the saffron fold at the party's state office here on Saturday. Describing the leaders who crossed over as hardworking and capable people, Dhami expressed confidence that the BJP would benefit from their energy and experience in the civic elections. There is no value for capable and good people in the Congress, the chief minister said. @narendramodi , pic.twitter.com/YwzKPFn303 Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) January 4, 2025 Bhatt said that the BJP would take care of the new leader's self-respect. The common reason offered by the leaders who crossed over was the Congress' inability to give due respect to dedicated party workers. Urban local body polls in Uttarakhand are scheduled for January 23.
UP: Mathura ISKCON employee absconds with donation money & receipt book
Mathura: An ISKCON temple employee tasked with collecting money donated by devotees has fled with lakhs of rupees along with a receipt book, officials said on Saturday. An FIR was filed by the temples Chief Finance Officer Vishwa Nam Das late on Friday night, Superintendent of Police (City) Arvind Kumar said. He said Das had 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 .
Uttarakhand Congress faces setback as veteran leader Mathura Joshi leaves party over ticket row
DEHRADUN: In a significant blow to the Congress party just 18 days before the local body elections in Uttarakhand, veteran leader Mathura Dutt Joshi, who has been associated with the party for five decades and served alongside Rajiv Gandhi, has bid farewell to the Congress. This decision was not easy for me, Joshi stated. However, I believe it is time for a change, and I must follow a path that aligns with my values and vision for the future. In a whirlwind 24 hours, the Congress party has been rocked by a series of unexpected events involving its state vice president, Mathura Datt Joshi. His discontent over ticket allocation was followed by his resignation from the party just hours later. This was swiftly followed by his suspension from the partys disciplinary committee, leaving Congress's core team in a state of shock. Commenting on the situation, a senior party leader stated, The rapid sequence of these events has taken us all by surprise. We are currently assessing the implications of this development. The party now faces significant challenges as it prepares for upcoming elections amidst internal turmoil. To mitigate its embarrassment, the Congress party has expelled Mathura Datt Joshi from the party for six years. This decision was communicated through a letter signed by Dhani Lal Shah, the member secretary of the Congress Disciplinary Committee, shortly after Joshi's resignation earlier in the afternoon. Congress state spokesperson Garima Mahara Dasouni remarked, We are taking necessary actions to uphold the integrity of the party and ensure discipline among our members. In response to Mathura Datt Joshi's resignation from the party, Dasouni stated, The party has given him positions and respect in full measure. After enjoying the benefits of Congress for 48 years, he no longer has the right to call Congress his mother party. Joshi's unexpected resignation from the party has deepened the leadership crisis within Congress. With local body elections scheduled for January 23, selecting a new vice president in such a short timeframe poses a significant challenge for the party. According to Congress sources, Joshi had been seeking a ticket for the position of municipal chairperson for his wife. However, the Congress high command did not accommodate his request, leading to his dissatisfaction. This discontent prompted him to take this surprising step.
Stage set for urban local body polls in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Competition has intensified for the January 23 elections to the five municipal corporations in Uttarakhand. Despite a setback in the last Lok Sabha elections, the Congress saw its vote share increase, suggesting that this years municipal electionsespecially in the capital and the five corporationscould take an intriguing turn. All eyes are now on the electoral dynamics of the states five major municipal corporations: Dehradun, Haldwani, Kashipur, Haridwar, and Srinagar. Currently, the BJP occupies the mayoral seats in Dehradun, Haldwani, and Kashipur, while the Congress holds Haridwar and Srinagar. Speaking to TNIE, Chief Election Officer Dr BVRC Purushottam said, Nominations for the Uttarakhand municipal elections have been completed, and the scrutiny process is currently underway. Voting will take place on January 23, with results expected to be announced on January 25. Political analyst Avikal Thapliyal stated, There is a significant fundamental difference between the two political parties. The BJP has a robust organizational structure from the state level down to the booth level whereas Congress candidates have to rely on their own efforts. The disparity could play a crucial role, he added. For the Dehradun mayoral election, the BJP has selected Saurabh Thapliyal, who hails from the partys youth wing. Congress has strategically chosen veteran Virendra Pokhriyal. Both candidates have strong political backgrounds and have emerged from student politics. Pokhriyal is the former president of the states largest DAV College. Thapliyal enjoys considerable popularity among the youth. With 7,65,000 voters across 100 wards in the Dehradun Municipal Corporation, the upcoming elections promise to be highly competitive. This election is crucial as it encompasses nearly five legislative constituencies, remarked a local political expert. In the Haridwar Municipal Corporation, which has 193,000 voters and a mixed population of Brahmins and Banias, the BJP has nominated Kiran Jaisal as its candidate. Jaisal has served as a councillor twice, while her husband, Subhash Chandra, has held the position thrice. Kiran Jaisal is considered a strong contender. The Congress is going with Amresh Baliyan to contest against Kiran Jaisal. The selection process has been complicated by the introduction of womens OBC reservations, prompting both parties to consider their candidates. Meanwhile, dissent plagues the Congress, surfacing afresh after the ticket distribution. Party strategists are trying to avoid the situation from getting out of hand by appeasing the disgruntled members. Mathura Dutt Joshi, vice-president of Uttarakhand Congress, has expressed dissatisfaction with the ticket allocation process and is keeping himself away from the media. A reliable source within the party revealed, He may even bid farewell to the Congress. State President Karan Mahara actively engages with upset party officials and workers to reconcile differences. The BJP, too, is tackling dissent, tasking its MPs and MLAs with addressing the concerns of dissatisfied members and rebels. In some regions, state officials have also been deployed to manage discontent. At a glance Elections to 5 municipal corporations in Uttarakhand on January 23 BJP occupies the mayoral seats in Dehradun, Haldwani, and Kashipur Congress holds Haridwar and Srinagar Key contest for Dehradun corporation BJP, Congress choose candidates emerging from student politics Both parties face dissent,rebels
Mandir-masjid disputes increased in UP post Ayodhya Ram temple consecration in 2024
Temple-mosque disputes have escalated in Uttar Pradesh since the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, culminating in violence in Sambhal. Major disputes exist in Varanasi, Mathura, Lucknow, Budaun, Baghpat, and Jaunpur, each involving historical claims about the original sites of existing mosques.
SC to hear AIMIM chief Owaisi's plea on places of worship law
New Delhi: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on January 2 a plea of AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi seeking implementation of the 1991 places of worship law, which asks to maintain the religious character of a place as it existed on August 15, 1947.Lawyer and MP Owaisi, who heads the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, filed the plea on December 17, 2024, through advocate Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi. On December 12, however, a bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna while acting on a batch of similar pleas against the 1991 law, restrained all courts from entertaining fresh suits and passing any interim or final orders in pending cases seeking to reclaim religious places, particularly mosques and dargahs. As the matter is sub-judice in this court, we deem it appropriate that no fresh suit would be registered and proceedings are undertaken till further orders of this court, the CJI-led bench had said. As a result, the top court stalled the proceedings in about 18 lawsuits filed by various Hindu parties seeking surveys to ascertain the original religious character of 10 mosques, including Gyanvapi at Varanasi, Shahi Idgah Masjid at Mathura besides Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal where four persons' lives were snuffed out in clashes. The special bench, also comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan, was hearing about six petitions, including the lead one filed by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay, challenging various provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. One of the contentions was that the provisions took away the right of judicial remedy to reclaim a place of worship of any person or a religious group. The 1991 law prohibits conversion of any place of worship and provides for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947. Owaisi, in his plea, has sought a direction to the Centre to ensure effective implementation of the law, said his counsel. He also referred to instances where several courts had ordered survey of mosques on pleas by Hindu litigants, he said. It is likely that the top court would on January 2 tag Owaisi's plea with the pending matters for hearing. Pleas of the Muslim side have also sought strict implementation of the 1991 law to maintain communal harmony and to preserve the present status of mosques, sought to be reclaimed by the Hindus side saying temples existed in these places before invaders razed them. The Gyanvapi Mosque management committee had moved the apex court to oppose several pending petitions that challenge the constitutional validity of the 1991 law. It listed a series of contentious claims made over the years concerning various mosques and dargahs, including the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Mathura, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque near Delhi's Qutub Minar, the Kamal Maula Mosque in Madhya Pradesh, and others. The petitions challenging the law were filed with mischievous intent to facilitate lawsuits against these religious sites, which the 1991 Act currently protected, the committee said.
SC to hear AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi's plea on places of worship law
New Delhi: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on January 2 a plea of AIMIMchief Asaduddin Owaisi seeking implementation of the 1991 places of worship law, which asks to maintain the religious character of a place as it existed on August 15, 1947. Lawyer and MP Owaisi, who heads the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, filed the plea on December 17, 2024, through advocate Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi. On December 12, however, a bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna while acting on a batch of similar pleas against the 1991 law, restrained all courts from entertaining fresh suits and passing any interim or final orders in pending cases seeking to reclaim religious places, particularly mosques and dargahs. As the matter is sub-judice in this court, we deem it appropriate that no fresh suit would be registered and proceedings are undertaken till further orders of this court, the CJI-led bench had said. As a result, the top court stalled the proceedings in about 18 lawsuits filed by various Hindu parties seeking surveys to ascertain the original religious character of 10 mosques, including Gyanvapi at Varanasi, Shahi Idgah Masjid at Mathura besides Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal where four persons' lives were snuffed out in clashes. The special bench, also comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan, was hearing about six petitions, including the lead one filed by lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay, challenging various provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. One of the contentions was that the provisions took away the right of judicial remedy to reclaim a place of worship of any person or a religious group. The 1991 law prohibits conversion of any place of worship and provides for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947. Owaisi, in his plea, has sought a direction to the Centre to ensure effective implementation of the law, said his counsel. He also referred to instances where several courts had ordered survey of mosques on pleas by Hindu litigants, he said. It is likely that the top court would on January 2 tag Owaisi's plea with the pending matters for hearing. Pleas of the Muslim side have also sought strict implementation of the 1991 law to maintain communal harmony and to preserve the present status of mosques, sought to be reclaimed by the Hindus side saying temples existed in these places before invaders razed them. The Gyanvapi Mosque management committee had moved the apex court to oppose several pending petitions that challenge the constitutional validity of the 1991 law. It listed a series of contentious claims made over the years concerning various mosques and dargahs, including the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Mathura, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque near Delhi's Qutub Minar, the Kamal Maula Mosque in Madhya Pradesh, and others. The petitions challenging the law were filed with mischievous intent to facilitate lawsuits against these religious sites, which the 1991 Act currently protected, the committee said.
Neighbourhood watch, atmanirbhar in defence
Internal security Cyber security still a challenge Despite successes in the three major theaters J&K, Naxal-hit areas and the Northeast posing challenges to internal security, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will require continuing with its ongoing strategy of zero tolerance to deal with emerging situations in 2025. In addition, the MHA will need to move forward with renewed vigour to meet the new challenges posed by online frauds and cybercriminals. The home ministry has recently taken over the responsibility of dealing with the challenge of cyber fraud by setting up a new wing I4C under its umbrella. The year 2025 will require a lot of focus on the massive use of Internet data by people at large which leaves them vulnerable to unscrupulous elements from not only within India but from across the globe. Experts believe cyber attackers are transitioning from opportunistic attacks to more targeted and sophisticated campaigns, leveraging advanced malware types like Trojans and Infectors and the agencies need to be ahead of them. MEA Cautious walk for South Block Amid Indias rising international profile and rebalancing of power, the year 2025, like 2024, is expected to test Indias diplomatic prowess in following a cooperative relations approach with great powers and its neighbourhood. While the primary focus will be on the US, China, Russia and the European Union, a special watch will be on the Trump and Putin relations. The leadership change in the US with Republican Donald Trump returning to the White House is anticipated to be a policy shift. In addition, the ongoing unrest in Europe, conflicts encompassing the West Asia and Asia will require deft handling. Developments in Bangladesh and Syria will have to be handled skillfully for their long shadows might cover a larger swath of international affairs. Both countries are undergoing a regime change. In a major turn of events, India and the European Union have agreed to hold the first-ever ministerial strategic foreign policy dialogue soon, to jointly navigate an array of critical challenges, including geo-political tensions. Defence Focus on Integrated Theatre Command To address the global supply chain, the sector may witness major acquisitions and policy changes with a push for local manufacturing. The year 2025 is to see a move ahead in important projects, such as FRCVs and nuclear attack (SSN) submarines, to be manufactured locally. Also, decisions on the much-awaited conclusion of the 114 multi-role fighter aircraft and the construction of the six advanced conventional submarines by an Indian manufacturer in a Strategic Partnership with a foreign company are due. The plan is to replace the over four-decade-old Russian-origin T-72 main battle tank with future-ready combat vehicles (FRCVs) by 2030. Major reform is awaited, and the formation of the Integrated Theatre Commands (ITC) is due to get approved. It will be the most significant reform since Independence, wherein all three military services (Army, Navy and Air Force) will be reorganised and reconfigured to function under one commander, with each ITC handling a single theatre of war. Also, another significant area will be military diplomacy. Health Strengthening health infra a key task The year 2024 saw the launch of several health initiatives, including an insurance scheme for senior citizens aged 70. The results of these initiatives are expected in 2025, which holds both promises and challenges. Meeting the target of eliminating TB, five years ahead of the international target, will be another challenge. Health ministry officials said a 100-day intensified campaign will cover 347 selected high-priority districts across 33 states/UTs that reported a high death rate, low testing, and high incidence of TB. The scheme, which was launched on December 7, will conclude in March 2025. The major challenge, however, is a shortage of drugs for TB patients, though the government says it has enough stock. March 2025 will mark the fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a notable decline in cases, some cases are still being reported. The focus would also be on tackling the threat of non-communicable diseases like heart attacks, stroke, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes. Education NTA reforms, textbooks to cost less If 2024 was a year of controversy for the education sector with allegations of cheating, mismanagement and mass cancellations of key examinations, then the coming year is set to see reforms, reorganisation and restructuring. In 2025, the National Testing Agency (NTA) will undergo an overhaul. It will focus on conducting entrance exams for admissions to higher education institutions. For this, additional 10 posts will be created to ensure zero-error testing. Also, as the government is focusing on establishing new schools, it has sanctioned `8,232 crore for opening 85 Kendriya Vidyalayas and 28 Navodaya Vidyalayas. The coming year will also bring cheers to parents as the NCERT textbooks for some classes will cost less. The Centre will also start working on updating textbooks for classes 9-12. With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 completing the fifth year, the focus will be on transforming the country as an educational hub. In all, the year promises beneficial norms and decisions for the education sector. Top court Triple talaq, Places of Worship Act After an action-packed year in which the Supreme Court issued transformative judgments, it is once again poised to deliver significant verdicts that will impact nearly every aspect of peoples liveswhether religious, social, or regarding their relationship with the state and its laws. Among the major petitions, a notable batch challenges the triple talaq law. The SC is set to hear Haryana governments appeal against the Punjab and Haryana HCs July 10 order, which directed the opening of the highway and the removal of barricades. Another enduring controversy is the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991, which aims to preserve the religious character of places of worship as they were on August 15, 1947. Additionally, the SC will consider the dispute concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Masjid in Mathura. It will examine a PIL challenging the constitutional validity of Sections 12 and 51 of the Blood Donor Guidelines, 2017, which impose a blanket ban on transgender individuals from donating blood. Reports by: Mukesh Ranjan, Mayank Singh, Kavita Bajeli-Dutt and Suchitra Kalyan Mohanthy
Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura Witness Surge In Devotees Ahead Of 2025
Ayodhya is witnessing a massive surge in devotees ahead of the New Year, particularly with the newly consecrated Ram temple attracting thousands eager to seek blessings from Lord Ram.
3 killed in collision on NH-19 in Mathura
Mathura: Three people were killed, and one person was injured in a collision between a tractor and a loading truck here early on Sunday, police said.While one person died on the spot, two others succumbed to their injuries in the hospital, Inspector Sanjay Kumar Tyagi of Chhata Kotwali said. According to police, the accident occurred in front of Chhata Sugar Mill on NH-19 where a speeding canter, attempting to overtake a brick-laden tractor trolley, collided with it. Both vehicles were going towards Mathura from Chhata when the incident took place this morning. The injured have been identified as Puran Singh (who was sitting on the tractor), Prince, the canter driver, and Dharmendra Yadav. All three were rushed to KD Medical College, where Puran Singh and Prince succumbed, while Dharmendra Yadav remains in critical condition, Tyagi said. The lone fatality at the scene was Umesh, he said. Victims' ages have not yet been ascertained.
Hyderabad had India's third lowest votes in last LS elections
Hyderabad: Its official. The Hyderabad constituency not only did not have the least number of votes polled in Telangana during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but it also emerged as the third in the country in terms of the low voter turnout. According to the latest statistical report on the 2024 elections released by the Election Commission of India, the Hyderabad constituency recorded 48.79 per cent polling with 10,81,878 of its 22,27,094 voters casting their votes. The two constituencies with the lowest polling were Nawada of Bihar with 43.47 per cent and Patna Sahib, also in Bihar, at 46.87. Seven other constituencies that had less than 50 per cent voting were Rewa in Madhya Pradesh (49.48), Ghaziabad (49.88), Mathura (49.38), and Phulpur (49) all in Uttar Pradesh. Incidentally, the highest voting took place in Andhra Pradesh with 88.32 per cent of the 16,07,382 voters in Ongole going to the polling stations. According to the ECI report, people who exercised the None Of The Above (NOTA) option, were not limited to exercising this option at the polling booths but also did so using postal ballots. In Telangana, those who chose Nota at the polling stations numbered 1,02,661, while among postal ballots as many as 1,583 chose the Nota option.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwats recent comments have been misinterpreted, must be seen in full context, says VHP organising general secretary Milind Parande
Jaipur explosion: Tanker driver appears before police, to be questioned by SIT
The driver, Jaiveer (40), a resident of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, managed to get out of the tanker in time after sensing the impact of the collision, which broke the tanker's outlet nozzles
ASI surveys newly found temple, wells in Sambhal
A four-member team from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a survey of the recently-discovered Shri Kartik Mahadev temple, five pilgrimage sites, and 19 wells in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India. The survey followed the discovery of three damaged idols inside a well of the Bhasma Shankar temple, which was reopened after being shut for 46 years. The Shri Kartik Mahadev temple, also known as the Bhasma Shankar temple, was reopened on December 13 after authorities found the covered structure during an anti-encroachment drive. The temple houses an idol of Lord Hanuman and a Shivling and had remained locked since 1978. The district administration has requested carbon dating of the temple, including the well, from the ASI. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has restrained courts across India from entertaining new lawsuits or passing any orders in pending ones seeking to reclaim religious places, especially mosques and dargahs, until further notice. This action halts proceedings in approximately 18 lawsuits filed by Hindu parties seeking surveys to determine the original religious character of 10 mosques, including the Gyanvapi at Varanasi, the Shahi Idgah Masjid at Mathura, and the Shahi Jama Masjid at Sambhal, where four individuals died in clashes. The Supreme Court will examine the legality, scope, and boundaries of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits the conversion of places of worship and ensures the preservation of their religious character as it existed on August 15, 1947.
Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura Our Only Focus: VHP After RSS Chief Calls Frequent Disputes 'Unacceptable'
Talking to News 18, Surendra Jain, joint general secretary of VHP said that the issues were instances of historical reckoning.
Smoke In Coach Of Uttar Pradesh Train Causes Panic Among Passengers, Glitch Promptly Resolved
The incident occurred on the 22531 Mathura SF Express between Gauri Bazar and Baitalpur railway stations where the train was halted.
6 Arrested for Blocking Roads in Mathura with Cow Carcasses
Mathura : Six people were arrested for blocking a road here by placing carcasses of more than three dozen cows, police on Saturday said. The animal remains were reportedly collected from a forest behind Prem Mahavidyalaya on Vrindavan Road on Friday, they said. Besides the six, police have booked 31 more for blocking the road and obstructing government work, Jait Police Station SHO Ashwani Kumar said. In addition, around 60-70 unknown people have been accused in the case. Efforts are being made to identify everyone involved in the sit-in through photographs and video clips taken from the spot, the SHO said. The six arrested were identified as Pawan Kumar, Himanshu alias Hemanand, Dharmendra, Puneet, Kapil, and a woman, whose name was not revealed. They all were produced before a magistrate, who sent all of them to judicial custody for 14 days.
UP: Protests erupt in Mathura after discovery of 30 cow carcasses
Hundreds of protesters blocked the Mathura-Vrindavan Road for several hours on Friday following the recovery of more than 30 cow carcasses from a forest near the PMV Polytechnic College. The incident sparked outrage among residents, leading to significant traffic disruptions, particularly affecting pilgrims and schoolchildren. According to the police statement, the cow carcasses were discovered 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 .
SC: Trial courts not to pass orders on religious places
The Supreme Court halted legal battles over temple reclamation claims, freezing existing and barring new 'mosque-temple' lawsuits. This includes the Gyanvapi and Mathura disputes. The order stems from challenges to the 1991 Places of Worship Act, which fixed religious sites' status as of Independence Day 1947, excluding the Ayodhya case.
SC restrains courts across India from passing orders in any suit or plea seeking survey of mosques
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the lower courts across the country not to entertain or issue orders in cases seeking relief including the survey of religious places under the Places of Worship (Special Provision) Act 1991. The court issued the order while hearing a batch of pleas challenging certain provisions of the 1991 Act. As the matter is sub-judice before this Court, we deem it appropriate to direct that while suits may be filed, no suits would be registered and proceedings undertaken till further orders of this Court, a three-judge bench of the apex court, led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices KV Viswanathan and Sanjay Kumar said. We also direct that in the pending suits, the Courts would not pass any effective interim orders or final orders, including orders of survey till the next date of hearing, the bench added. The order would effect at least ten such petitions filed in various courts of the country, challenging the ownership of religious places including the Gyanvapi masjid in Varanasi and the Shahi Eidgah masjid in Mathura. The 1991 law prohibits the conversion of any place of worship and provides for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947. The apex court also directed the Centre to file a detailed reply within four weeks to the batch of pleas challenging the 1991 law. The court also clarified that no further suits challenging the origin of religious places can be registered in the country till it hears and disposes of the pending petitions. It, meanwhile, allowed pleas of various parties including Muslim bodies seeking to intervene in the proceedings. CPI (M), Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), NCP (Sharad Pawar) MLA Jitendra Awhad, RJD MP (Member of Parliament) Manoj Kumar Jha, MP Thol Thirumavalan have sought to intervene in the matter, supporting the Places of Worship Act. Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta agreed to file the reply within four weeks. The top court is seized of many pleas, including one filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and lawyer, Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, seeking a direction that Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, be set aside. Another plea was filed by former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, against the provisions of the 1991 law. Swamy wanted the apex court to ead down certain provisions to enable Hindus to stake claim over the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura.
SC to hear pleas against Places of Worship Act today
New Delhi: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on Thursday a batch of PILs challenging the validity of certain provisions of a 1991 law that prohibits filing a lawsuit to reclaim a place of worship or seek a change in its character from what prevailed on August 15, 1947.A three-judge bench of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan is likely to hear the matter. The top court is seized of the pleas, including one filed by Ashwini Upadhyay who has prayed that sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, be set aside. Among the various reasons submitted was the contention that these provisions take away the right of judicial remedy to reclaim a place of worship of any person or a religious group. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Maharashtra MLA Jitendra Satish Awhad have also filed pleas against several pending petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, saying the law protected public order, fraternity, unity and secularism of the nation. The matter will be heard in the backdrop of several suits filed in various courts, including those related to the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura and Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, claiming these were built after destroying ancient temples and seeking permission to allow the Hindus to offer prayers there. The Muslim side, in most of these cases, has cited the 1991 law to argue that such suits are not maintainable. As many as six petitions, including those filed by former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, have been filed against the provisions of the 1991 law. Swamy wanted the apex court to ead down certain provisions to enable Hindus to stake claim over the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura, while Ashwini Upadhyay claimed the entire statute was unconstitutional and no question of reading down arises. The doctrine of reading down a law is generally used to save a statute from being struck down entirely subject to adjudication over its constitutionality. On the other hand, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind had cited the five-judge Constitution bench judgement in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title case, noting the reference to the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, to argue that the law cannot be set aside now. The top court had on March 12, 2022, sought the Centre's response to the plea filed by Upadhyay challenging the validity of certain provisions of the law. The petition alleged the 1991 law creates an arbitrary and irrational retrospective cut-off date of August 15, 1947, for maintaining the character of the places of worship or pilgrimage against encroachment done by fundamentalist-barbaric invaders and law-breakers. The 1991 law prohibits converasion of any place of worship and provides for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947, and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The law had made only one exception -- on the dispute pertaining to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri masjid in Ayodhya.
SC to hear pleas on Places of Worship Act on Thursday
The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear a batch of petitions challenging the validity of certain provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits lawsuits to reclaim a place of worship or change its character from what prevailed on August 15, 1947. The pleas, including one filed by Ashwini Upadhyay, argue that these provisions violate the right to judicial remedy and create an arbitrary cut-off date. The matter will be heard in the backdrop of several ongoing cases related to places of worship, including the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and the Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura. The Muslim side has cited the 1991 law to argue that such suits are not maintainable. The Supreme Court had previously sought the Centre's response to Upadhyay's petition, which alleged that the law creates an arbitrary and irrational retrospective cut-off date for maintaining the character of places of worship.
Places of Worship Act: Mathura Masjid files intervention in SC
New Delhi: A day ahead of the crucial hearing in the Supreme Court on pleas challenging the validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, the Committee of Management of Mathuras Shahi Masjid Eidgah, on Wednesday, December 11, filed an intervention application, saying that the law was enacted by Parliament in the interest of the 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 .
Seven killed in truck-van collision at Hathras in U.P.
The accident happened on Mathura-Kaiserganj highway near Jaitpur village in Hathras district
7 dead, several injured in Hathras road accident on Mathura-Kaiserganj highway
JMM MLA Rabindra Nath Mahato unanimously elected as Jharkhand Assembly Speaker
RANCHI: Rabindra Nath Mahato, the JMM MLA from Nala Assembly seat, has been unanimously elected as the Jharkhand Assembly Speaker for the second consecutive term. Mahto is the only MLA to be elected Speaker of the Assembly for two consecutive terms, marking a historic achievement. Protem Speaker Prof Stephen Marandi read proposals for the post, following which, Mahto was unanimously elected as Speaker of Jharkhand Assembly. Seven panels had proposed Rabindra Nath Mahatos name for the post of Speaker. Both the ruling party and the opposition supported his name for the position. Chief Minister Hemant Soren first proposed Mahatos name for the Speakers position, with JMM MLA Mathura Prasad Mahato seconding the motion. Protem Speaker Stephen Marandi conducted the voting through a voice vote and Rabindra Nath Mahato was elected as the Speaker of the Assembly.
JMM's Rabindra Nath Mahato elected unopposed as Jharkhand Assembly Speaker
Chief Minister Hemant Soren proposed Mahato's name for the post and the proposal was seconded by JMM MLA Mathura Prasad Mahato during the second of the four-day session of the assembly.
CPI(M) urges SC to halt lawsuits seeking mosque surveys
New Delhi: The CPI(M) Politburo on Monday voiced concern over the spate of lawsuits filed across the country seeking survey of ancient mosques to verify the presence of temple ruins lying underneath. After Varanasi and Mathura, in Sambhal, a survey was ordered of a 16th century mosque by a lower court. This resulted in violence 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 .
NEW DELHI: The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM) on Monday expressed serious concern over the spate of lawsuits being filed and entertained in lower courts claiming that there were temples where centuries-old mosques stand at present. It is unfortunate that the Supreme Court has not intervened to put a stop to such litigation by upholding the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, l991. The 2019 five-member Bench judgment of the Supreme Court on the Ayodhya dispute categorically upheld the validity of the law and its enforcement. Given this direction, it is incumbent on the apex court to intervene to put a stop to legal proceedings, which are violative of the Act, read the statement issued by the Polit Bureau. The statement further said that after Varanasi and Mathura, in Sambhal, a survey was ordered of a 16th-century mosque by a lower court and it had resulted in violence in which four Muslim youth have been killed. The party also mentioned a similar petition that was filed in the civil court in Ajmer regarding the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. On situation in neighbouring Bangladesh, the party reiterated that the Bangladesh interim government and authorities must ensure the safety and full protection of religious minorities. The administration seems to be ignoring the activities of the Islamist fundamentalist forces in this regard, the CPM said. At the same time, the Polit Bureau decried the efforts of the BJP-RSS and Hindutva outfits in India, which are seeking to whip up passions by incendiary propaganda. Such an approach will not help the interests of the minorities in Bangladesh, said the party. The Polit Bureau further called upon secular and democratic forces in both countries to come out strongly against all forms of communalism which will harm the interests of the people on both sides of the border. It alsk sharply criticized Government's callous indifference in denying Kerala the rightful assistance for the victims of the devastating landslide disaster in Wayanad. Despite the state's urgent plea for Rs 214.68 crore in immediate relief and Rs 2,319.1 crore for comprehensive recovery and reconstruction, the Centre has failed to approve the funds even after four months. The refusal to classify the landslide as a calamity of severe nature and the unwillingness to waive loans for the affected families also reflect a deeply unjust and inhumane approach, undermining the principles of federal support in times of crisis, the CPM stated The Polit Bureau also called upon the Centre to immediately release the funds claimed by the state government. Through the statement, the CPM also condemned the police 'repression on the farmers' of Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh. Around 150 leaders and activists of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and other organisations have been jailed, the party said. The arrested farmers have started a hunger strike in jail. House arrests of many activists are going on. The attack on women who have been in the forefront of the struggle by the police is shocking...The CPI(M) fully supports this struggle, demands that repression must be stopped forthwith and the government must accept and implement the just demands of the struggle, said the party. The statement was issued after the pilot bureau meeting held in New Delhi. In the meeting, the Polit Bureau discussed a Draft of the Political Resolution to be taken up at the 24th Congress to be held in the first week of April 2025. Based on the discussion in Polit Bureau, the Draft will be placed for adoption in the next meeting of the Central Committee to be held in January in Kolkata.
Temple-mosque disputes simmer across UP; row in Sambhal, Mathura, Varanasi among other places
Several temple-mosque disputes simmer across Uttar Pradesh, including the Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal where recent violence resulted in four deaths. Disputes also continue in Baghpat, Lucknow, Budaun, Mathura, and Varanasi, with claims of temples existing at the sites of mosques, raising religious tensions.
Experts demand tax relief for artefacts being brought back to India
Experts at the 106th National Convention of the Indian Numismatic Society in Mathura urged the government to reduce or eliminate the 33% customs duty on repatriated cultural artefacts. They argued that the current duty discourages private efforts to recover India's heritage, contrasting it with supportive policies in the UK and US.
Dalit Girl Gang-Raped In Moving Car In UP's Mathura, Accused On Run: Cops
A Dalit girl was allegedly gang-raped by three persons here in a moving car, after which she was thrown out on the side of a road, police said on Friday.
Telangana HC: Allow RTC JAC to Conduct Protest Meet, Police Told
Hyderabad: Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy of the Telangana High Court on Wednesday directed the police to permit a meeting of the TSRTC joint action committee (JAC) at Bus Bhavan. The JAC lodged a complaint before the court that their representations seeking permission to conduct the protest meeting to air their grievances from November were futile. The judge wondered how the union could be stopped from protesting. If a trade union does not go on strike, then who will, the judge wondered. Proceedings witnessed lighter moments when government pleader Mahesh Raje informed the court that the police would be busy supervising the mammoth crowds at RTC crossroads where people would be flocking to watch Pushpa, The Rule 2. RTC counsel said, light-heartedly, that the challenge would be if the union said Taggede Le, a popular dialogue of the protagonist in the film. The judge made it clear that the meeting should be restricted to about 300 people and no provocative statements will be made and the police will be free to take action if there is a law order problem. PIL seeks action against illegal pet shops A two-judge panel of the Telangana High Court took on file a PIL the functioning of unlicenced and illegal pet shops and their non-compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960. The panel, comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Sreenivas Rao, was dealing with a PIL filed by Humane Society International/India. The petitioner complained that the state had failed to implement the provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shop) Rules, 2018 ('Pet Shop Rules') and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shop) Rules, 2017 ('Dog Breeding & Marketing Rules'). It was the case of the petitioner that the Delhi High Court directed the authorities to finalise pet shop rules within 15 days from February 26, 2018, and accordingly the Union framed the rules. The petitioner alleged that the respondent authorities had failed to take any action against illegal pet shop owners. The petitioner sought a committee headed by a retired High Court judge to oversee/ monitor/ ensure that the respondents/ TSAWB/ and enforcement authorities were enforcing the various provisions with regard to Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The petitioner inter alia in the PIL sought a direction to carry out an awareness campaign to clarify the process of registration of pet shops and dog breeding centres with TSAWB. The panel considered the same and directed the state to file its response within four weeks. Teachers can participate in poll campaigns: HC Justice T. Vinod Kumar of the Telangana High Court disposed of a writ plea challenging a notification issued by the Nalgonda district election officer and collector on November 20, prohibiting teachers from participating in election campaigning during school hours and in school premises. The judge was dealing with a writ plea filed by former MLC Battapuram Mohan Reddy. The petitioner argued that the notification exceeded the respondent's jurisdiction and sought that it be set aside. The petitioner contended that the instructions, which included stringent actions under the Representation of the People Act, 1950, for violations, were arbitrary and unjust. The notification directed officials to ensure teachers refrain from engaging in campaigning during school hours. This directive was issued as part of preparations for compiling the voter list for the upcoming teachers constituency elections in February 2025. The government pleader, appearing for the respondent authorities, clarified that the notification did not entirely prohibit teachers from campaigning. Instead, it restricted campaigning during school hours and on school premises to avoid disruption to academic activities. Campaigning during lunch hours outside school premises remained permissible. The judge observed that the authorities cannot impose restrictions on teachers participating in campaigning beyond school hours. Accordingly, the judge disposed of the writ plea with a directive, ensuring that campaigning activities do not interfere with the schools functioning. Food outlet challenges termination of contract in Sec railway station Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya of the Telangana High Court took on file a writ plea challenging the actions of the principal chief commercial manager of Rail Nilayam, South Central Railway, in terminating the license of a petitioner for running a catering stall. The judge was hearing a writ plea filed by Mathura Prasad and Sons, alleging that its licence for running a catering stall the Secunderabad railway station was terminated for false and frivolous reasons. It is further alleged that the petitioner was debarred from participating in the future similar contract/licence of the Indian Railways for a period of one year. The petitioner contended that the actions of the respondent authorities was illegal and amounts to overreaching of the powers. Counsel for the petitioner also brought to the notice of the judge that the stall of the petitioner was immediately seized without even giving an opportunity of removing articles and a tendered was also issued in respect of its stall. After hearing counsel for the petitioner, the judge directed the respondents not to take any steps that will make the writ plea infructuous. The judge also directed the respondent authorities to file their response and posted the matter for further adjudication. HC takes up plea challenging denial of promotion to nurse Justice Pulla Karthik of the Telangana High Court will hear a writ plea challenging the actions of the state director of public health and family welfare department in not considering the case of a nursing officer for promotion to the post of head nurse/senior nursing officer. The judge was dealing with a writ plea filed by Jedidha Samuel, working as a nursing officer at the special prison for women, Chanchalguda. The petitioner was challenging the actions of the respondent authority in not considering the case of the petitioner for promotion to the post which is a non-selection post. The petitioner stated that seniority in the feeder category is the sole criteria and despite her being eligible and qualified, she was not being promoted. The petitioner contended that her name was included in the list drawn for filling up of vacant posts of senior nursing officer. However, her name was deleted due to pending departmental proceedings. The government pleader sought time to seek instructions.
PM Modi should intervene to ensure release of ISKCON monk in Bangladesh: BJP member in LS
New Delhi: A BJP Lok Sabha member on Wednesday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the release of ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who has been jailed in Bangladesh on charges of sedition. Ujjain MP Anil Firojiya raised the issue during Zero Hour in Lok Sabha. BJP member from Mathura, Hema Malini, said that insult to religion, violence, and injustice cannot be tolerated. We cannot be silent. This is not an issue of diplomacy, but linked to our emotions and devotion to Shri Krishna, the actor-turned-politician said. Malini said she hoped that the Bangladesh government would release the ISKCON monk. BJP member Dilip Saikia, who represents Darrang-Udalguri in Assam, wanted the Parliament to adopt a resolution to send a message to the Bangladesh government for a complete halt to the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. Saikia said since the formation of Bangladesh in 1971, lakhs of Bangladeshi Muslims infiltrated Assam and have become a deciding factor in the political and electoral system. Firojiya said no lawyers were available in Bangladesh and one who was ready to represent him was battling for life.
Shikha Mukerjee | Digs and gigs: Ajmer Sharif & archaeology of Hindutva
It is a snowball gathering speed. Or may-be its a mudslide gaining momentum. Or maybe its a virus. Whatever it is, it seems to be birthing more and more litigation across mostly North India. It certainly seems that keeping the country on the boil is back in favour as a tried, tested, easy and successful strategy for the Hindu Right, led by the BJP and the nearly 100-year-old voluntary social service outfit RSS. On a mission to hoist India to the pinnacle of glory by reorganising history, chronically litigious Hindu outfits like the International Hari Har Sena Sri Ram Sena, Hindu Sena and a bevy of lawyers and fervent petitioners have filed a slew of cases, in war mode in district courts across North India. The demand is straightforward: demolish and dig up 30,000 sites where believers are certain temples were built over and mosques established. By adding Ajmer Sharif, the shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, that needs to be dug up to reportedly uncover a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Hindu Right has outdone itself. Among the devout, it is usual to place chadars, a sheet, on the grave of the Sufi mystic. Among those who have done so in recent times are Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi and tens of thousands of devotees from all across the world. When Mr Modi sent the chadar, duly captured on camera, it was believed he was trying to appease Muslim voters ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Others, however, have prayed and visited Sufi shrines, including the Fatehpur Sikri dargah near Agra, like former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his partner Carla Bruni, who prayed for a child and indeed had one. Hindutva or Hindu fundamentalism, or Hindu revival though why something that flourished for millennia needs rev-ival is a mystery, because it never faded, verged on extinction, though it was in danger of being eclipsed by Buddhism around and after Emperor Ashoka's times. But in twenty-first century In-dia, some people believe it needs kindling to keep it burning. Reviving temples suspected or believed to have been destroyed is the new and supplementary agenda of Hindutva. A new archaeology has been established in service of Hindutva. Thanks to former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, the starter or spark or kindling was his 2022 decision to overturn the 1991 law, which sought to prohibit conversion of any place of worship and to provide for the maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on the 15th day of August 1947, otherwise known as the Places of Worship Act. While the law was meant to be tamper proof, the former Chief Justice, who seemed to fuse his piety with his professional responsibilities, decided that digging into the foundations of Varanasis Gyanvapi Masjid to uncover a Shiva linga was perfectly in order. The outcome of the reversal and its consequences are four dead and several injured in UPs Sambhal over a dispute on what lies below the Shahi Jama Masjid. The claim by a mahant was followed up by a lawyer, who is involved in other places of worship disputes, starting with the Gyanvapi, Mathuras Shahi Idgah Mosque and the Sambhal dispute. Having retired and thus free to presumably pursue his pieties in private, instead of in front of a camera that turned his devotions into a public spectacle, the retired Chief Justice can now watch from the sidelines the consequences of his decision. The Hindu Right in pursuit of Hindu revival, aided and abetted by a judiciary that brandishes God to support its decisions that are fundamentally flawed, as in the Ayodhya land dispute, is now part of the archaeology of Hindutva. To legitimise the digs and gigs, advocates and various litigants have a judiciary that is willing to overturn the law to enable what the law said could not be done. So, claims can be confidently made that legal proceedings will progress faster than a bullet train and that justice, as defined by them, will be done. Hindutva archaeology is essential to the project of de-Islamisation, as Mujibur Rahman calls it in his recent book, Shikwah e Hind. Digs and gigs are the window dressing required to legitimise the supplementary project to avoid committing what the apex court led by former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi described as a heinous crime, of mosque demolition in the Ayodhya case. The law and the taxpayer are vulnerable to being used as a tool of cynical exploitation of sentiment since the Hindu revivalists are essentially a bunch of freeloaders ra-ther than philanthropists or zealous crusaders. With the courts turning into the revivalists fa-vourite tool, the changes proposed to the law on Waqf properties will certainly add to the thousands of cases that are already in the judicial system over land and other disputes relating to Waqf-administered properties. The choice for the Narendra Modi government is simple: it can support the supplementary project of mosque demolition-temple rebuilding and do so by abandoning the Constitution and its basic structure of which secularism is a part. Or, he can rein in the Hindu Right and demolish the supplementary project. He can follow the route he has adopted on the Waqf issue or duck responsibility, albeit temporarily. If that is a choice too stark for the Prime Minister, he can resort to playing cat and mouse with the secularism project and the supplementary project of Hindutva. Legalising the demolition of Muslim places of worship on the pretext of unverified claims to temples buried under them is a political problem; it is not a problem that the judiciary can solve. The choice and decision that the Modi government has to make is simple. It can either amend the 1991 Places of Worship Act and open the floodgates to the new archaeology that Hindutva is trying to establish; or, it can, in Parliament, in this Win-ter Session, unequivocally declare its commitment to upholding the 1991 law. Any waffling on this as a government is unacceptable. Flawed and weak as the attempt may have been, from within the ranks of the BJP there was a move to throw out the words secular and socialist added through the 42nd Amendment in 1976. The Supreme Court, currently headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, has thrown out the petition. It does not mean that another petition will not be filed at a different time to which the apex courts response could be different. The Places of Worship Act reversal is a case in point; mischief can be made whenever there is a convergence of ideas, ideologies, politics and petitioners.
Sabarmati Report reveals hidden truths: Hema Malini
Mathura: BJP MP and renowned actress Hema Malini has said that the Hindi film The Sabarmati Report exposes the truth behind the 2002 train burning incident at Godhra in Gujarat that was kept hidden for years. While visiting her parliamentary constituency Mathura on Sunday during a break from the Winter Session of Parliament, Malini watched 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 .
DC Edit | SC halting Sambhal survey sets a welcome precedent
Its time the charade of surveys a section of Hindutva peddlers is using to undermine the citizens fundamental right to freedom of religion, which are otherwise guaranteed by Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution, is halted with immediate effect. And honouring the order of the Supreme Court last week asking the advocate commissioner to keep aside his findings of his survey of a Mughal era mosque in Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh in a sealed envelope plus its directive to the district court there not to go ahead with the proceedings should be the first step in this direction. The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act passed by the Parliament in 1991 aims to preserve the character of all religious structures in India. Even if it preceded the monumental damage dealt to the foundations of the republic by the demolition of the Babri Masjid, the law declared that the religious character of a place of worship existing on the 15th day of August, 1947, shall continue to be the same as it existed on that day. The legislative intent of the law was clear to all right-thinking Indians: It did not want this nation to engage in the dangerous business of righting the wrongs of history. Participating in the discussion, Rajmohan Gandhi, then member of the Rajya Sabha, cautioned everyone that the ringing lesson of the Mahabharata down the centuries is those who seek to right the wrongs of history with an attitude of revenge will only produce destruction and more destruction and more destruction. The Supreme Court, in its observations in 2022, had come up with a curious interpretation of the law, however, saying that it did not bar the determination of the religious character of places of worship. The logic still holds, though, because the character of a structure can be retained only after determining it! The Allahabad high court applied the same logic while ordering a survey of the Shahi Idgah at Mathura. At present, there are a number of surveys at various levels across the country seeking to redefine the religious character of many places of worship of Muslims. The Supreme Court, while hearing a petition seeking stay on the order of the survey of the mosque in Sambhal, said it undermined the need to preserve peace. And the court was perhaps reading the minds of the people as peace is the precondition for progress of a country. And, too, India, where 80 of its 143-crore people survive on free food grain provided by the government, needs it more than any other nation. There are people in this country who have discovered the value of religion as a tool to capture power and then retain it. But this nation cannot afford advocate commissioners holding survey orders received from courts blithely going about checking the religious character of places of worship across the country. It will be in the interest of peace if the apex court ponders over the 1991 Act, explains its legislative intent from its historical and current perspectives and dissuades the Hindutva peddlers and some courts from further engaging in this survey entrepreneurship. That can perhaps persuade the people to understand the ethos on which this country is built and the principles on which its Constitution is based. Its up to the court to speak loud and clear now, and then walk the talk.
Call for fast-track courts for Mathura, Kashi temple disputes
Mathura: Hindu nationalist organisations participating in a convention here have raised the demand for expedited hearings of disputes concerning temples in Mathura and Kashi through fast-track courts. The convention was organised by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti in Vrindavan, Mathura district, on Saturday. The event also focused on two additional demands implementing a complete and 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 .
Hindu groups call for fast-track courts for Mathura and Kashi temple disputes
Hindu nationalist organisations call for fast-track court hearings for temple disputes in Mathura and Kashi, a complete ban on illegal halal certifications in India, and action against the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. Over 120 representatives from various states attended the convention organised by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti.
New rules on Noida and Yamuna Expressway from December 15: Check speed limits, penalties and more
The measures come after a major accident on November 19, when a speeding bus heading to Mathura collided with a truck on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway
SC to hear plea of mosque committee related to dispute at Mathura Shahi Idgah complex on December 9
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday said it will hear on December 9 a plea of the mosque committee against the Allahabad High Court rejecting its petition challenging the maintainability of 18 cases of the Hindu side related to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura. A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar said it will accord a detailed hearing on the plea at 2 pm on December 9. This we will hear at length. We will take it up on December 9, at 2 pm... We have to decide what is the legal position, the CJI said. Speaking for the bench, the CJI said he prima facie felt that an intra-court appeal would lie against the single judge bench order of August 1 of the high court. We will certainly give you an opportunity to argue, the bench said. On August 1, the high court rejected the plea of the Committee of Management, Trust Shahi Masjid Idgah challenging the maintainability of 18 cases related to the temple-mosque dispute in Mathura, and ruled that the eligious character of Shahi Idgah needs to be determined. The mosque committee's contention was that the suits filed by Hindu litigants relating to the dispute over the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple and the adjacent mosque violated the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act -- and were thus not maintainable. The 1991 Act prohibits changing the religious character of any shrine from what existed on the day of the country's Independence. It exempted only the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute from its purview. The cases filed by the Hindu side seek the emoval of the Aurangzeb-era mosque they claim was built after demolishing a temple that once stood there. The high court said the 1991 Act did not define the term eligious character and the disputed place cannot have a dual religious character -- of a temple and a mosque, which are adverse to each other -- at the same time. Either the place is a temple or a mosque. Thus, I find that the religious character of the disputed place as it existed on August 15, 1947, is to be determined by documentary as well as oral evidence led by both the parties, the high court said. The high court concluded that the cases do not appear to be barred by any provisions of the Wakf Act, 1995: the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991; the Specific Relief Act, 1963; the Limitation Act, 1963 and Order XIII Rule 3A of the Code of Civil Procedure Code, 1908. Hindu side counsel Vishnu Shankar Jain had said that with the dismissal of the plea challenging maintainability, the high court will continue to hear all related cases on the temple-mosque issue. Jain also said the Hindu side will now move the Supreme Court asking it to vacate its stay on an earlier Allahabad High Court order that had allowed a survey of the mosque. The Hindu litigants claim the mosque holds signs suggesting that it was a temple once. The mosque management committee and the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board had argued that the suits were barred under Places of Worship Act and other laws. On May 31, the Allahabad High Court reserved its judgment on this maintainability plea after hearing both sides. However, the court reopened the hearing at the request of Shahi Idgah counsel Mehmood Pracha. The judgment, pronounced Thursday, was finally reserved on June 6. The Mathura dispute mirrors the legal tussle in Varanasi, where the Gyanvapi mosque and the Kashi Vishwanath temple are located next to each other.
Mosque committee's argued that suits filed by Hindu litigants relating to the dispute over the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple and the adjacent mosque violated the Places of Worship Act
SC to hear on Dec 9 plea of mosque committee related to dispute at Mathura Shahi Idgah complex
The Supreme Court will review a plea from the mosque committee challenging the Allahabad High Court's rejection of their petition on December 9. The committee disputes the maintainability of 18 cases linked to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah conflict in Mathura. The High Court rejected their plea, ruling the religious character of Shahi Idgah requires determination.
Rash of suits over shrines after SC's Gyanvapi order
The Supreme Court's 2023 order refusing to stay a scientific survey at the Gyanvapi Mosque complex has sparked claims over several other disputed places of worship across India. This has led to several court cases, including one in Mathura where a survey of the Shahi Idgah Mosque complex was ordered, and another in Ajmer where a claim was made that a Shiva temple existed within the dargah of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti. The article also highlights a dispute over the Bhojshala in Madhya Pradesh, which Hindus consider a temple and Muslims consider a mosque. The Supreme Court's order has reignited debates about the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits the change of character of religious places as they existed on August 15, 1947.
Court Order On Ajmer Dargah Sparks Intense Political Debate
An Ajmer court's decision to hear a petition claiming the presence of a Shiva temple under the Ajmer dargah, has sparked intense political debate, coming as it does after similar claims over mosques and dargahs in Mathura, Varanasi and Dhar.
Court Petition Claims Ajmer Sharif Dargah as Former Hindu Temple
Ajmer: A court in Rajasthan's Ajmer issued notices Wednesday to the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) over a lawsuit filed by the Hindu Sena. The suit claims the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi shrine, was built over a Shiva temple, citing historical evidence. The Ajmer munsif criminal and civil (west) court will next hear the case on December 20. The Dargah Khwaja Saheb Committee, a statutory body under the ministry, is also a respondent. The Hindu Sena's legal team submitted to the court excerpts from Har Bilas Sarda's 1911 book Ajmer: Historical and Descriptive , which reportedly references remnants of a pre-existing Shiva temple at the site. The petitioners claim religious rituals were performed at the temple until its alleged demolition and have requested an ASI survey to investigate the dargahs structure. They assert the dome contains parts of the temple and that a sanctum sanctorum exists in the basement. The petition seeks the site to be declared a Hindu temple and the removal of the dargah structure, sparking debates on the Places of Worship Act, 1991. This law prohibits altering the religious character of any place of worship as it stood on August 15, 1947. Critics warn that such claims threaten communal harmony and question the historical basis for these assertions. This case follows similar disputes involving other historic sites, including the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi and the Shahi Idgah in Mathura. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for India's religious and cultural landscape.
NIA raids multiple places in 3 states as part of probe into Davinder Bambiha case
NEW DELHI: In a crackdown against terror-gangster nexus, the NIA on Wednesday conducted raids at premises linked with associates of Davinder Bambiha syndicate at nine locations in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, officials said. The NIAs probe into the case relates to a conspiracy by terror outfits to smuggle arms and ammunition into the country, they said. The NIA teams searched the premises of suspects in the terror-gangster syndicate case in Palwal, Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana, Jalandhar district of Punjab and Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, a senior official said. Later in an official statement, the NIA said that following the searches at the premises, the team of investigators recovered a host of incriminating materials, including mobile/digital devices, banking transactions and property-related documents, and seized them. In a massive crackdown on the terror-gangster nexus case, the NIA on Wednesday conducted extensive searches at premises linked with associates of Davinder Bambiha syndicate at nine locations in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, it said. Bambiha, a notorious gangster, was killed in a police encounter in 2016, the officials said. Bambiha gang members are considered rivals of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his associates, they added. Wednesdays searches were part of the NIAs continuous crackdown on terror outfits engaged in criminal conspiracies to smuggle terrorist hardware, such as arms, ammunition, narcotics, explosives and other contraband into India, the agency said. NIA investigations in the case, registered on the directions of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), further show large-scale attempts by these organisations and terrorists to raise funds for carrying out terror acts on Indian soil, the agency noted in the statement. AGTF, SAS Nagar police nab two operatives of Davinder Bambiha Gang
NIA Conducts Searches Against Terror-Gangster Syndicate Involved In Smuggling Arms Into India
New Delhi, Nov 27: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted searches at nine locations in multiple states as part of a probe into a conspiracy by terror outfits to smuggle arms and ammunition into the country, according to an official statement. NIA teams searched the premises of suspects in the terror-gangster syndicate case in Palwal, Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana, Jalandhar district of Punjab, and Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, it said. A host of incriminating materials, [] The post NIA Conducts Searches Against Terror-Gangster Syndicate Involved In Smuggling Arms Into India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NIA Searches in 3 States in Bambiha Terrorist Gangster Syndicate Case
New Delhi: In a massive crackdown in the terror-gangster nexus case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted extensive searches at premises linked with associates of Davinder Bambiha syndicate at nine locations in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. The NIA teams conducted searches at premises of suspects in the terror-gangster syndicate case in Palwal, Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana, Jalandhar district of Punjab, and Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. A host of incriminating materials, including mobiles/digital devices, banking transactions and property related documents, were seized during the searches. The searches were part of NIA's continuous crackdown on terror outfits engaged in criminal conspiracies to smuggle terrorist hardware, such as arms, ammunition, narcotics, explosives etc, into India. The NIA investigations in the case RC 22/2023/NIA/DLI, registered on the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs further show large-scale attempts by these organisations and terrorists to raise funds for carrying out terror acts on the Indian soil.
Mathura Prem Mandir Founder's Daughter Killed, 7 Injured In Yamuna Expressway Collision
Vishakha Tripathi was killed when a truck rear-ended their vehicle, while her two sisters are among the seven admitted to a hospital for their injuries
Sambhals Jama Masjid Clash: Another Mosque-Temple Dispute In Uttar Pradesh?
After Ayodhyas Babri, Varanasis Gyanvapi and Mathuras Shahi Idgah, is it the start of yet another mosque-temple dispute in UP?
UP Student Suicide: Class 10 Boy Hangs Himself To Death In Mathura
A Class 10 student allegedly committed suicide at his home, police said on Friday.
Delhi's Air Quality Stays in 'Very Poor' Range Amid Persistent Smog
NEW DELHI: The air quality in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) remained in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning, with a layer of smog hanging over the region. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 371 as of 7:15 a.m. In other NCR cities, the AQI readings were also concerning: Faridabad had an AQI of 263, Gurugram was at 281, Ghaziabad registered 274, Greater Noida stood at 234, and Noida recorded a level of 272. Several areas in Delhi showed particularly alarming figures, with AQI readings over 400, which falls into the 'severe' category. The specific AQI levels were 410 in Anand Vihar, 411 in Bawana, 426 in Jahangirpuri, 402 in Mundka, 410 in Nehru Nagar, 402 in Shadipur, and 413 in Wazirpur. Many other areas of Delhi also faced 'very poor' air quality, including Alipur (389), Ashok Vihar (395), Aya Nagar (369), Burari Crossing (369), Chandni Chowk (369), Mathura Road (333), Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range (373), IGI Airport (357), Dilshad Garden (320), and ITO and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, both at 342. The CPCB categorizes AQI levels between 200 and 300 as poor, 301 to 400 as very poor, 401 to 450 as severe, and anything above 450 as severe plus. In response to the pollution, the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) initiated night-time cleaning and road sweeping at several locations early on Friday. On Thursday, after days of being in the 'severe' and 'severe plus' categories, the city's overall air quality showed slight improvement, moving into the 'very poor' range. Despite this, a thick smog continued to linger, with the AQI at 389 at 7:15 a.m. Several neighborhoods remained in the 'severe' category, with 12 locations recording AQI levels between 400 and 500, and 26 others between 300 and 400. In light of the hazardous air quality, the government has implemented several measures to reduce pollution. The Centre has announced staggered working hours for its employees. An official order from the Union Ministry of Personnel encouraged staff to carpool and use public transport, stating that offices could operate from either 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also tightened the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), introducing stricter regulations. Under the updated guidelines, physical classes for students up to Class 5 will be suspended during GRAP Stage 3, and for students up to Class 12 in GRAP Stage 4. In addition, the revised GRAP mandates staggered timings for public offices and municipal bodies to help reduce traffic and emissions. During Stage 4, residents are advised to wear masks when venturing outdoors to protect themselves from the poor air quality. Delhi Orders 50% Work-from-Home as Air Quality Deteriorates Delhi Minister Gopal Rai Urges Urgent Meeting for Cloud Seeding to Combat Smog Delhi-NCR Pollusion LIVE: Severe Air Pollution Sparks Medical Emergency Across Northern India
Chandrodaya Mandir: The World's Tallest Temple Set to Dazzle Devotees in Vrindavan
A Grand New Temple in Mathura -The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has already been completed, but the construction of majestic temples in Uttar Pradesh continues. One such temple, the Chandrodaya Mandir in Vrindavan, is rapidly rising in the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura. This temple is set to become one of the tallest in the world, attracting both devotees and tourists. With plans to rival iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, it promises to be a stunning addition to the region's spiritual and cultural heritage. A Monumental Project by ISKCON The Chandrodaya Mandir is being built by ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). The foundation stone was laid on November 16, 2014, by former President Pranab Mukherjee. When completed, the temple will feature an astounding 166 floors, making it unique in the world of temple architecture. A Towering Height to Rival Global Landmarks Standing at an impressive 700 feet, the Chandrodaya Mandir will be three times the height of the Qutub Minar in Delhi, which stands at 72.5 meters. This remarkable height ensures that the temple will be counted among the tallest temples worldwide. The depth of its foundation will also surpass that of the Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest building, by three times. A Pyramid-Shaped Wonder The temple will be built in a pyramid shape, with the topmost floor named Braj Mandal Darshan. Surrounding the temple will be representations of the twelve forests described in the Shrimad Bhagwat and other scriptures. The total construction cost of the temple exceeds Rs 700 crore, and it is designed to withstand an earthquake of up to 8 on the Richter scale. Built to Withstand the Harshest Conditions The temples structure is being designed with meticulous care to endure extreme conditions. Not only will it stand firm against earthquakes, but it is also engineered to withstand winds as strong as 170 km per hour. Spread across 70 acres, the temple complex will feature car parking facilities and even a helipad. Visiting the entire site could take three to four days, given its vast expanse. Impressive Features and Modern Technology The Chandrodaya Mandir will be the most modern temple to date, incorporating 4D technology for a unique spiritual experience. A library dedicated to the life of Lord Krishna will be a key feature, alongside a Krishna-themed park where visitors can enjoy a light and sound show. The temple will have the capacity to host up to 10,000 devotees at once, making it a hub for both spiritual practice and tourism. With its grand scale, modern design, and spiritual significance, the Chandrodaya Mandir is poised to become a landmark of global importance. The temples construction is not just an architectural marvel but also a beacon of devotion and cultural pride for future generations. Ayodhya: THESE Reasons Cited for the Three-Month Delay in Ram Temple Completion Yogi Govt Prioritizes Restoration of Historic Temples in Prayagraj for Mahakumbh 2025
Delhi's air quality remains severe plus for Day 2
New Delhi: The air quality in the national capital remained in the the 'severe plus' category for the second consecutive day on Tuesday morning, with smog shrouding the city, reducing visibility and worsening air pollution to touch an alarmingly high level of poor AQI. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the national capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) at 488 as of 8 am, placing it in the 'severe plus' category. At such high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, the air is considered hazardous to health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. Drone visuals from around the Bhikaji Cama Place at 7:20 am today show a thick layer of smog blanketing the entire area. Meanwhile, the trains' movement continues amid smog in Delhi. Visuals from New Delhi Railway Station also show layer of haze covering the area. 22 trains have been running late and 9 trains have been rescheduled as a result of the smog, said the Railways. Visuals from Kartavya Path and surrounding areas also show people carrying out their morning walk routine and bicycling around a thick layer of smog. As the pollution level continues to remain high, a thick froth of toxic foam continues to float in sections of the river near Kalindi Kunj and Okhla Barrage. The residents of Delhi continue to raise alarms as air quality levels in many areas remain in the severe plus category in multiple areas. As of 8.30 am, the AQI for Anand Vihar was recorded at 500, Bawana at 500, CRRI Mathura Road at 500, DTU at 494, Dwarka Sector-8 at 494, ITO at 391, Jahangirpuri at 493, Lodhi Road at 488, Mundka at 498, Narela 500, North Campus at 494, Punjabi bagh at 495, RK Puram at 490, Shadipur at 498 and Wazirpur at 498, according to SAFAR-India (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research). Amid worsening air quality in the national capital, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has decided to conduct classes online until November 22, citing severe pollution and hazardous AQI levels in Delhi and the NCR. In Haryana, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Gurugram, announced that, as per directives from the Director of Secondary Education Haryana and after assessing the Air Quality Index (AQI) situation, all physical classes up to the 12th standard in Gurugram district will remain suspended from November 19 to November 23, 2024, or until further notice. Air quality has deteriorated in several cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and parts of northern India, reaching severe levels and raising concerns about health risks. Amid 'severe' pollution in the national capital, the Supreme Court on Monday issued a circular advising litigants and advocates in the apex court premises to ensure wearing masks and taking health measures. Inviting reference to Order dated November 17, 2024, of Director (Technical), Member Convenor of Sub-Committee on GRAP, Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas notifying implementation of Actions under stage-IV (Severe Air Quality) of revised Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR, it has been directed that an advisory be issued for taking preventive health measures including wearing of mask, the SC stated in the notice. Everyone is, therefore, advised to ensure wearing of a mask and taking health measures mentioned in the aforesaid order, it added
Bulldozer on standby in Jharkhand to realise looted funds, oust infiltrators: UP CM Adityanath
Nala (Jamtara): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday intensified his criticism of the JMM-led coalition, accusing it of indulging in dacoity by looting natural resources and central funds sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also called upon Hindus to be united to be safe and asserted that after Ram Temple in Ayodhya it was time for a Krishna temple in Mathura. Addressing a poll rally at Nala in Jamtara, Adityanath said, The JMM-led coalition has looted Jharkhand's natural resources and the central funds sent by Modi. It has also encouraged infiltration by Bangladeshi migrants and Rohingyas, posing a serious threat to 'beti, mati, roti' (daughter, land, and bread). Now, the bulldozer is on standby to reclaim the looted funds. Adityanath alleged that illegal mining, including rampant extraction of sand, coal and forest resources, was flourishing under the protection of the ruling coalition, leaving Jharkhand hollowed out by mafia activities. He accused the JMM-led government of providing support to infiltrators involved in land jihad and love jihad in Jharkhand, warning that such forces would not be spared if the NDA comes to power. The Uttar Pradesh CM also took aim at the Congress-JMM alliance, claiming they had obstructed the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Now, they are playing with the lives of people in Jharkhand through their divisive politics, he said. Adityanath said at least 10 lakh Hindus were massacred during partition in 1947 because Hindus were divided and urged them to be united to be safe. After Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, it's time for Krishna Kanhaiya Temple in Mathura, he asserted.
'Time for Krishna Temple in Mathura': UP CM Yogi Adityanath in Jharkhand
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during a Jharkhand rally, hinted at pursuing the construction of a Krishna temple in Mathura after the Ram Mandir inauguration. He heavily criticized the ruling JMM-led coalition, accusing them of corruption, illegal mining, and fostering infiltration. Adityanath pledged to recover looted funds, provide jobs, and expel infiltrators if the NDA comes to power.
Asutosh Pandey of Mathura received 22 WhatsApp audio clips on WhatsApp threatening to bomb Allahabad HC on 19 Nov and then him on 20 Nov
No vehicles will be allowed to halt or park on Mathura Road or Bhairon Marg.
Fire at Indian Oil Corp's Mathura refinery injures eight
The fire, which occurred in the crude distillation unit after a month-long maintenance, was extinguished and refinery operations remain unaffected
New Highway Will Cut Travel Time To Faridabad, Palwal, Sohna By 2 Hours From Tomorrow
Traveling from Delhi, Noida, or Ghaziabad to Faridabad and Palwal usually means going through Mathura Road, where traffic jams turn a 30-minute trip into a two and a half hour ride
Five killed, 24 injured as tempo traveller rams into stationary canter in UP
Firozabad (UP): Five people were killed and 24 injured when a tempo traveller rammed into a stationary canter on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway here as its driver, who was in an inebriated state, was drowsy, police said on Saturday. The tempo traveller, which was going from Mathura to Lucknow, was carrying 30 passengers when the incident took place in the Nasirpur police station area on Friday night, they said. The people travelling in the tempo traveller were returning from a 'mundan' ceremony from Mathura around 10.30 pm on Friday when it suddenly rammed into a canter parked on the side on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, Superintendent of Police (Rural) Akhilesh Bhadoria said. Four passengers died on the spot and one died in the hospital. Of the total 30 passengers, 24 were injured and admitted to hospitals in Saifai and Shikohabad, the SP said. The driver of the tempo traveller driver had dinner at a dhaba and consumed alcohol with it. As a result, he was drowsy while driving, according to police. The deceased have been identified as Mahadev (42), Sandeep (23) and Vitara (45), all residents of Lucknow, Kajal and Pappu, police said. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem and further investigation is underway, they said.
Five dead, 24 injured as tempo traveller collides with stationary vehicle on Agra-Lucknow Expressway
FIROZABAD: Five people were killed and 24 injured when a tempo traveller rammed into a stationary canter on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway as its driver, who was in an inebriated state, was drowsy, police said on Saturday. They said that the tempo traveller, which was going from Mathura to Lucknow, was carrying 30 passengers when the incident took place in the Nasirpur police station area on Friday night. According to Superintendent of Police (SP) Rural Firozabad Akhilesh Bhadoria, the bus was enroute from Mathura to Lucknow when it collided with a parked vehicle near Thana Nasirpur on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. Five people died and several others were injured in the incident. Shortly after receiving the information, police reached the spot. SP Rural and CO Sirsaganj inspected the spot. The injured were immediately sent to the District Hospital. In the investigation, it was discovered that the bus had lost control due to the negligence of the driver, said the SP. Sharing further details, the SP said, Sandeep, a resident of Mohaddinpur in Lucknow, had gone to Mathura for his four-year-old son Siddharth's Mundan ceremony. There were about 20 people on the bus including his family and relatives. This tragic accident occurred while returning from Mathura. In the accident, Sandeep's wife Neetu (42), daughter Luvshikha (13), and Naitik (15) son Sajjan died on the spot. Two other people also died during treatment, said the official. Those injured in the accident included Geeta (42), Hrithik (12), Karthik (9), Pranshu (13), Sanjivan (43), Sushil Kumar (30), Shashi Devi (44), her granddaughter Chamcham (4), Savitri Devi (41), her granddaughter Aarohi (1.5), Riya (16), Poonam (29), Phoolmati (40), Sarika (13) and Ruby (29), all are undergoing treatment. The official said that there was chaos on the expressway after the accident. A few people who witnessed the incident immediately informed the police and helped the injured. The police have sent the bodies of the deceased for postmortem, said the official. An investigation into the matter is underway. Further details on the matter are awaited. Earlier on Wednesday, ten people including six women died and four got injured in a collision between an auto and a truck in Uttar Pradesh's Hardoi, said police. Neeraj Kumar Jadaun, Superintendent of Police, Hardoi said, 10 people including 6 women died in a collision between an auto and a truck. 4 people got injured. All the injured were hospitalised and said to be out of danger, said police.
Did devotees actually mistake AC water for Charan Amrit? Banke Bihari Temple issues clarification
A viral video showing devotees at the Banke Bihari Mandir in Mathura Vrindavan drinking water dripping from an air conditioning unit, mistaking it for holy water, has sparked debate about faith and critical thinking. Temple authorities clarified that the water was not 'Charan Amrit,' but condensation, urging devotees to be discerning.
Like UP, bring BJP to power in Jharkhand to bulldoze mafia: Yogi
Ranchi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday accused the JMM-led coalition in Jharkhand of patronising mafia and urged people to vote for BJP which would ulldoze them. Adityanath also claimed that such actions were being taken against the mafia in his home state Uttar Pradesh. He also claimed that it is the BJP that can guarantee security and safety to people. The JMM-led coalition is patronising mafia in sectors, such as land, sand, forest, mining, and liquor, in Jharkhand...Like UP, bring the BJP to power in Jharkhand to bulldoze mafia, he claimed while addressing an election rally in Koderma. Adityanath also alleged, Like Aurangzeb looted the country's wealth and destroyed temples, the JMM-led coalition and its ministers, including Alamgir Alam looted Jharkhand's people. He claimed that the BJP is the only party that can guarantee the country's security and pride, women's empowerment and employment to youths. Adityanath accused the Congress of creating obstacles to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Ram Lala now sits in that temple after 500 years and Ram temple consecration has paved the way for Mathura and other temples, he said. Elections to the 81-member Jharkhand assembly will be held on November 13 and 20, while the counting of votes polled will take place on November 23.
