UP Man Killed By Son, Nephew For Abusing His Minor Daughters: Cops

A 55-year-old man, who had allegedly been sexually abusing his minor daughters, was killed with a gun and sword by his son and nephew, both minors, in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, police said.

IRP Commandant flags off Bharat Darshan Tour

Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Oct 24: A Bharat Darshan tour, organized under Civic Action Programme 2025, was flagged off here today by Atul Sharma, Commandant IRP-19th from Battalion Headquarters Kathua in the presence of officers and officials of the unit. A total of 34 students from various Government schools of District Kathua accompanied by their faculty members under the supervision of Police personnel of the unit shall visit Delhi, Agra, Mathura and Vrindhavan from October 24 to 28, 2025. The tour [] The post IRP Commandant flags off Bharat Darshan Tour appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Akhilesh Yadav Bets On 'Local Manifestos' To Reclaim Uttar Pradesh Ground, BJP Calls It 'Gimmick'

The Samajwadi Party has decided to release localised manifestos tailored for specific regions such as Mathura-Vrindavan, Agra, Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, and Bundelkhand.

12 loaded wagons of freight train derail near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI: Twelve loaded wagons of a freight train derailed near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday night, disrupting traffic on the Delhi-Mumbai route, officials said. No one was injured in the incident that occurred between Vrindavan Road station and Ajhai station, which comes under the Mathura-Palwal section of Agra Rail Division, at 8:24 PM, they said. As per preliminary information, 12 wagons are derailed, which have obstructed the down main line, UP main line, and third line. There is no report of any injury to any of the train's crew, an official said. These obstructions will severely impact train movements on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Kota route, he said.

Goods train derails in Mathura; Delhi to Agra, Jhansi routes suspended; rescue teams on way

Rare jewels not found as Mathuras Banke Bihari temple's treasury doors open after 54 years

Mathura's Banke Bihari temple's treasure rooms, sealed for 54 years, reopened to reveal gold and silver bars, gemstones, and precious coins. Priests reported finding these items in a long box, alongside utensils and other artifacts. The Supreme Court-appointed panel oversaw the exercise, with findings to be presented to them before the vaults were resealed.

Mathura: Banke Bihari Temple's Treasury Room Opens After 54 Years

The Supreme Court, in its August 2025 order, had constituted a 12-member high-powered interim committee headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Ashok Kumar to look after the day-to-day affairs of the temple

Armys Northern Command carries out multi-domain, multi-agency warfare exercise

NEW DELHI: The Indian Armys most committed Northern Command carried out a simulation of intense multi-domain, multi-agency exercises using futuristic conflict scenarios. According to a statement by the Army, the exercise challenged commanders, staff and troops with futuristic threats in cyber, space, electromagnetic and cognitive domains. The four-day exercise (13-16 October) named as Vidyut Vidhhwans concluded under the aegis of Headquarters (HQ) Northern Command, with new lessons, improved reflexes and setting of new benchmarks in Indias preparedness for next-generation conflicts. Among the tri-services, while there is a substantial deployment of the Army and Air Force, the Indian Navy also has its complements at select locations. The Army added further that Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), sister services, central government agencies and private sector players participated jointly, underscoring the importance of an integrated and whole of a nation approach to continuously evolving security landscape. Participation by indigenous defence industry players set a new benchmark, achieving Jointness, Atmanirbarta (self-reliance) and Innovation. In addition to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the CAPFs include the Border Guarding Forces: Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force (ITBPF), Shashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), mandated as the lead Internal Security Force. Troops of the Northeast-based Assam Rifles have also been deployed in the Jammu division for the CI/CT Task. The Northern Command handles borders with both China and Pakistan, including sensitive areas such as Kargil, Siachen, and Eastern Ladakh, where tensions with China continue due to the ongoing standoff. The spectrum of threats handled by Northern Command is not multi-domain, including the traditional border-related issues, long-standing counter terrorism/counter insurgency (CI/CT), but also the modern offence and defence spectrum, which includes the cyber, space and others, as mentioned earlier in the report. As brought out earlier by the TNIE , with Pakistan, India shares a total of 3,323 km border which is divided into three parts: the International Border (IB) (approximately 2,400 km from Gujarat to the north banks of Chenab in Akhnoor in Jammu), the Line of Control (LoC), (740 km long and runs from parts of Jammu to parts of Leh) and the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) (110 km long dividing the Siachen region extending from NJ 9842 to Indira Col in the north.) With China, the length of the border, as per the Ministry of Home is 3488km, which is not fully demarcated. There has been a dense deployment of troops in Eastern Ladakh since May 2020, which started with a standoff situation. Both in Pakistan and China borders we are strong: Army Vice Chief During the exercise, Troops deployed in the forward areas were practised in situations like cyber intrusion, spectrum saturation, electronic jamming, spoofing and cognitive attacks., the Army said. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Northern Army Commander, while interacting with the troops, said, In modern warfare, the lines are blurring between domains, so we need to leverage niche technology and keep innovating. A whole of nation approach is required to protect our territorial integrity and critical assets and also unleash punitive action on adversaries if the situation so demands. Before taking charge as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command, General Pratik Sharma was at New Delhi based Army Headquarters as the Director General Military Operations (DGMO) followed by his elevation to the crucial post of Deputy Chief of Army Staff handling the strategy for the more than a million strong Indian Army, with the operations and intelligence directorates under him. As per the Army, initiated by the thoughtful dialogue during Samvad held at Mathura on October 4, the exercise demonstrated that readiness for future warfare begins with open minds and seamless teamwork. The Northern Command now stands better equipped, united and prepared to defend against emergent threats with strategic foresight and multi-domain synergy, said the Army.

Uttar Pradesh: Banke Bihari's treasury to be opened after 54 years on Dhanteras festival today in Mathura

Banke Bihari's treasury in Mathura opened its gates on Dhanteras after 54 years. A High Powered Committee, following a Supreme Court order, gained entry. The entire process was videographed with extensive security measures in place. This significant event marks the reopening of a treasury closed since 1971. Dhanteras, a day dedicated to wealth and prosperity, witnessed this historic moment.

Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah case: HC fixes next hearing on November 7

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court on Thursday fixed November 7 for the next hearing in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah mosque dispute at Mathura. Justice Avinash Saxena fixed the next date after hearing counsels for the parties. The court verified the documents and asked the counsels for the parties to file their replies on pending applications. 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 .

Devotee dies of suspected heart attack at overcrowded Banke Bihari Temple in UP

LUCKNOW : A devotee died at the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan late on Wednesday evening while leaving the temple after darshan. He suddenly collapsed in the crowd and died on the spot. Family members said the temple was extremely crowded, making it difficult to move. It is suspected that he may have died from suffocation. According to district administration sources, a probe is underway to ascertain the cause of the sudden death. The deceased, who was reportedly an asthma patient, had come from Meerut with his family for the darshan of Banke Bihariji. Kripal (50), son of Sher Saini, along with his younger brother Om Prakash, nephew Titu, and 47 others from Niloha, Mawana, Meerut, visited temples in Vrindavan. In the evening, they reached Thakur Shri Banke Bihari temple for darshan. While in the crowd, Kripal Saini allegedly began feeling unwell. After darshan, near gate number four, he fell unconscious. Temple doctors were called immediately. After examining Kripal Saini, they advised that he be taken to hospital. He was rushed to Mayawati Hospital by ambulance, where he was declared dead upon arrival. Doctors cited a heart attack as the prima facie cause of death. Police reached the scene, but the family refused a post-mortem in writing. Temple CCTV footage shows Kripal Saini suddenly collapsing near the gate while a child was on his shoulder. He is seen putting the child down and then falling unconscious. According to the family members of the deceased, Kripal Saini had been suffering from respiratory illness and had recently experienced increased breathlessness. District Magistrate Chandraprakash Singh stated that the death appeared to be from a heart attack. Relatives took the body away without a post-mortem. Meanwhile, attributing the sudden demise of Kripal Saini to cardiac arrest based on the doctors version and his other medical conditions, SSP Mathura Shlok Kumar denied suffocation of the devotee due to overcrowding in the temple.

J&K: Old Mortar Shell Defused in Kathua

JAMMU, Oct 13: Security forces detected and safely defused an old mortar shell found in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district, officials said. The shell was discovered in a farm land in Karol Mathura border village in the Hiranagar sector on Sunday evening following information provided by local residents, they said. A bomb disposal squad was [] The post J&K: Old Mortar Shell Defused in Kathua appeared first on Northlines .

Old Mortar Shell Defused In J&Ks Kathua

JAMMU, Oct 13: Security forces detected and safely defused an old mortar shell found in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district, officials said. The shell was discovered in a farm land in Karol Mathura border village in the Hiranagar sector on Sunday evening following information provided by local residents, they said. A bomb disposal squad was called to the spot, and the mortar shell was defused safely, the officials added. (Agencies) The post Old Mortar Shell Defused In J&Ks Kathua appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

The Curse of the Newly-Widowed Bride! In This Mathura Village, Women Dont Worship Moon or Adorns Themselves on Karwa Chauth

In a village in Mathura district, women neither fast nor worship the moon on Karwa Chauth. The heartbreaking legend of a newly-widowed brides curse reveals why this centuries-old tradition was abandoned.

HC dismisses plea to remove next friend in Krishna Janmabhoomi case

Prayagraj: In the Krishna Janmabhoomi legal dispute in Mathura, the Allahabad High Court has dismissed an application filed by Hindu side plaintiffs in suit No. 7 seeking the removal of Kaushal Kishore Thakur alias Kaushal Singh Tomar as the next friend of the deity, Shri Krishna Lala Virajman. Dismissing the application, Justice Ram Manohar Narayan 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 .

Auto Driver Arrested In UP For Raping, Killing Sex Worker In Mumbai: Cops

A 34-year-old autorickshaw driver was arrested from Uttar Pradesh' Mathura days after he allegedly raped and murdered a sex worker in Mumbai, officials said on Tuesday.

'Godman' Chaitanyanand Saraswati taken to Delhi campus to point out crime scenes; aide who threatened parent held

NEW DELHI: Chaitanyanand Saraswati, a self-styled godman accused of sexually harassing 17 female students at a private institute here, was taken to its campus on Monday for pointing out locations where he allegedly used to call his victims, police said. An associate of Saraswati, 38-year-old Hari Singh Kopkoti of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand, was also arrested for allegedly threatening the father of one of the victims on September 14. Saraswati, 62, was arrested early Sunday from a hotel in Agra and brought to the campus where he had earlier served as chairman. ... The accused was taken to the institute to point out the places, particularly his office and room where he stayed and used to call female students to meet him. A search was conducted to collect incriminating evidence, if any, a police officer said. He was asked about CCTVs on the campus and hostels, and cameras outside hostel bathrooms as well, whose footage was directly accessible on one of the mobile phones recovered from him, he said. Meanwhile, Kopkoti, who earns his livelihood through municipal work, admitted during interrogation that he had made the call at Saraswati's instructions using his own phone, and asked the complainant's father to withdraw the complaint, the officer said. He told police that he had come in contact with Saraswati last year, when he visited Delhi with an acquaintance, who was already known to the accused. The mobile phone used for the call was seized, and Kopkoti was bound down under sections 232 (Threatening any person to give false evidence) and 351(2) (Criminal intimidation) and released, police said. Saraswati was remanded to five-day police custody on Sunday. He is expected to be confronted with his three female aides working in different positions at the AICTE-approved Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, the institute at the heart of the matter. The three women are accused of threatening students and forcing them to delete lewd messages sent by him. Police said Saraswati had been abroad since July, returning to India on August 6. After he was booked, a Lookout Circular (LOC) was issued to prevent him from leaving the country. While avoiding arrest, he reportedly shuttled between Vrindavan, Mathura, and Agra, using taxis and staying in budget hotels. He and his aides allegedly claimed links to the Prime Ministers Office to secure cooperation while evading authorities. Three mobile phones and an iPad were recovered from him, including a phone that gave him access to CCTV footage of the campus and hostels. Authorities have also frozen about Rs 8 crore in multiple bank accounts and fixed deposits linked to him. According to the FIR, he forced female students to visit his quarters late at night, sent inappropriate messages at odd hours, and monitored their movements via CCTV feeds. The Sringeri Sharada Peetham, which administers the institute through a governing council, had earlier ordered a comprehensive audit of SRISIIM by independent experts. The audit, it claimed, flagged several irregularities and illegalities, including fraud, forgery, cheating, and criminal breach of trust allegedly involving Saraswati and his associates.

29-Year-Old Trainee Doctor Dies After Jumping From High-Rise In Noida

Shiva was from Mathura and was pursuing an MBBS degree from a private college in Delhi, having joined the 2015 batch

Allahabad HC to hear Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah case on Oct 9

The Allahabad High Court has fixed October 9 for the next hearing in the Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah mosque dispute in Mathura. This follows the court's August 1 ruling, which declared 18 suits filed by Hindu worshippers maintainable for land possession and temple restoration. The controversy involves allegations of a temple's demolition for the mosque's construction.

President Murmu reaches Mathura for day-long visit aboard special, luxury Maharaja Express train

According to a statement from the President's office, her itinerary is packed with visits to prominent holy sites

Medical Coach, Private Lounge, 5 Suites: Inside President Murmu's Luxury Train Maharajas' Express

President Droupadi Murmu travelled from New Delhi to Mathura on Thursday morning aboard the Maharajas' Express, one of the world's most luxurious trains. The Indian Railways had deployed special coaches for her visit to Mathura.

UPITS 2025 set to showcase confluence of investment, innovation, and culture of Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW: The third edition of the UP International Trade Show (UPITS) is set to take off at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida on Thursday. Scheduled from September 25 to 29, the mega event will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi and will present Uttar Pradeshs industrial, agricultural, cultural, and innovation strengths on a global stage. More than just a platform for trade and investment, UPITS 2025 aims at creating a future-ready ecosystem for youth, entrepreneurs, and international delegates, while celebrating the states diverse identity through the confluence of craft, culture, and cuisine. The inaugural edition of the trade show in 2023 featured 1,914 exhibitors and 400 foreign buyers. The second edition expanded to 2,122 exhibitors, 350 foreign buyers, and five lakh visitors, generating export orders worth over Rs 2,200 crore and direct sales of Rs 40 crore. With more than double the growth in just two editions, the upcoming third edition is expected to attract over 2,500 exhibitors, 500 foreign buyers, and more than half a million visitors, reinforcing its status as a global platform for business and investment. A major highlight will be the One District One Product (ODOP) Pavilion in Hall No. 9, featuring 343 stalls dedicated to the signature products of each district. From Bhadohi carpets and Firozabad glasswork to Moradabad metalware and Saharanpur woodcraft, these displays will showcase the journey of Uttar Pradeshs craftsmanship from local to global. The pavilion will also create opportunities for networking, business collaborations, and partnerships involving startups, designers, and international buyers. Russia will participate in the tradeshow as the partner country. On September 26, the RussiaIndia Business Dialogue will bring together policymakers, industrialists, financial institutions, insurance firms, and academia from both nations. This dialogue will not only strengthen economic cooperation but also pave the way for technological partnerships, joint ventures, and new business opportunities in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The IT and Electronics Department will present a live demonstration of an AI model in a sprawling 200-square-meter pavilion. Designed with modern amenities, including a curved LED wall, smart video displays, a VIP lounge, and a dedicated startup zone, the pavilion will highlight cutting-edge technological innovations and reflect how the Yogi government has positioned Uttar Pradesh as a rising hub of enterprise, innovation, and digital excellence. Under the master exhibition layout, Halls 1 to 8 and 15 will serve as centres for B2B activities, while Halls 9, 10, and 12 will focus on B2C interactions, and Halls 11 and 14 will host both B2B and B2C activities. The ground floor will feature exhibits from UPSIDA, Invest UP, GNIDA, YEIDA, Civil Aviation, the Russia Pavilion, IT/ITES, Electrical-Electronics, Tourism, Clean Mission, ODOP, Agriculture, Dairy, Textiles, and Logistics. The second floor will serve as the venue for inaugurations, B2B meetings, knowledge sessions, showcases of renewable energy, defence manufacturing, health, education, and culture. There will be 25 food stalls dedicated to the cuisine of Uttar Pradesh on the Swad Uttar Pradesh theme. Visitors will be able to savour traditional delicacies such as Moradabadi dal, Banarasi paan and lassi, Panchhi petha, Jain shikanji, Mathura peda, and Khurjas khurchan. Under CM Yuva scheme, Hall No. 18A will host 150 innovative stalls featuring franchise-based ventures, technology-driven business models, agritech, healthtech, and startup ideas. On September 27, MoUs will be signed with 27 premier educational institutions. Bankers and industry leaders will extend financial and strategic support. CM Yuva Fellows from all 75 districts will also showcase local brands, amplified by a digital campaign and the platform conclave.cmyuva.org.in to connect youth with opportunities. Beyond business, UPITS 2025 will celebrate the cultural ethos of Uttar Pradesh. Visitors will be treated with performances of Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Bundeli, and Tharu folk traditions, along with soulful Sufi music, graceful Kathak performances and light music sessions. Star artistes, including Dinesh Lal Nirahua, Padmashree Malini Awasthi, and Pratibha Singh Baghel will add grandeur to the evenings.

Man held for issuing death threat to Yogi Adityanath in video

MATHURA (UP): (Sep 19) A 27-year-old man who allegedly posted a video threatening to kill Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was arrested from his house in Mathura district on Friday, police said. The man, identified as Suneet alias Gatua, a resident of Nagla Hardayal under Mant police station limits, was seen in the video holding a country-made pistol to his head while issuing the threat, Superintendent of Police (Rural) Suresh Chandra Rawat said. A case was registered at Mant [] The post Man held for issuing death threat to Yogi Adityanath in video appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Treasury of Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan to be opened after 54 years

LUCKNOW: The treasury of Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, is set to open after 54 years. Located directly beneath the sanctum sanctorum, the seat of Banke Bihariji, the toshkhana (treasury) was last accessed in 1971, when precious jewellery was transferred to a bank for safety. As per the sources, the treasure comprises of rare artefacts, including a peacock necklace made of emeralds, Sahasra Phani, a silver Sheshnag, and navratnas (nine gems) in a golden kalash. The decision to open it was taken at a temple committee meeting on Thursday. A special committee, comprising temple management, civil judges, auditors, and police officers, will oversee the process to be videographed. According to the temple historians, the treasury, built in 1864, follows the Vaishnav tradition. The treasury houses offerings from the Bharatpur, Karauli, and Gwalior kingdoms, as well as sealed documents, gifts, letters of appreciation, land deeds, donated buildings, temples, and fields. The local sources claimed that the treasury was last opened in 1971 under the supervision of then temple committee president Pyarelal Goyal. Jewellery then removed from the treasury was sealed in a box and stored in a State Bank locker in Bhuteshwar, Mathura, with an inventory provided to all committee members. Though guarded vigilantly, the Banke Bihari temple treasury has a history of thefts. It has a history of being robbed twice during the British era in 1926 and 1936. Following such incidents, the main basement door was closed, leaving only a small window for offerings. Two prior attempts to open the treasury, in 2002 and 2004, were unsuccessful in the absence of official permission. The committee also approved changes in temple timings: summer morning aarti from 7:007:15 AM, evening darshan from 4:159:30 PM, and corresponding adjustments for winter. VIP passes will be discontinued, and all police and private security personnel will remain at their posts. Plans are underway to hire trained security or retired soldiers to enhance protection. The Banke Bihari Temple High-Power Management Committee meeting was attended by retired District Judge Mukesh Mishra, District Judge Vikas Kumar, Civil Judge Shipra Dubey, DM Chandra Prakash Singh, SSP Shlok Kumar, Commissioner Jag Pravesh, MVDA Vice Chairman Shyam Bahadur Singh, ASI archaeologist Dr Smita S Kumar, and sevayats Shailendra Goswami, Varadan Goswami, Dinesh Goswami, and Vijay Krishna Goswami Babbu.

Committee headed by ex-HC judge bans VIP passes at Mathura's Bankey Bihari temple

The committee has also initiated steps to improve financial transparency and infrastructure. It has requested for a special audit of the temple's finances

Uttar Pradesh reels under floods as rivers swell, IMD issues rain alert for 38 districts

LUCKNOW: With almost all major rivers in Uttar Pradesh flowing above the danger mark and floods continuing across several districts due to heavy rainfall, the Meteorological Department on Wednesday issued rain alerts for 38 districts, warning of heavy downpour in five and light rain in the remaining 33. The water levels of rivers, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Sharda, and Saryu are rising continuously, disrupting normal life across the state. Water released from the Hathini Kund Barrage has worsened the situation in Vrindavan, Mathura, where nearly half of the area is flood-affected. Floodwaters have even reached the Radha Vallabh and Banke Bihari temples. Moreover, the parikrama (circumambulation) path in Vrindavan has gone completely underwater. Normally, the distance between the Banke Bihari Temple and the Yamuna is about 600 metres, but now the floodwaters have closed in to just 100 metres. In Agra, the Yamuna flood has reached Hathi Ghat, with 2 to 3 feet of water blocking roads and halting traffic. The water level has now touched the boundary wall of the Taj Mahal. At the Bijnor Ganga Barrage, the Ravali embankment has also suffered damage due to erosion. Authorities from the irrigation and administration departments are working to control the situation, while traffic on the Delhi-Pauri highway has been suspended as a precaution. In Lakhimpur Kheri, floodwaters brought in a crocodile that killed a young man in Murghaha village while he was returning from his field. Villagers claimed at least four crocodiles were present in the drain, but the forest department has yet to respond. In Kannauj, central Uttar Pradesh, heavy rainfall on Monday afternoon led to the collapse of a 700-year-old tomb wall. The incident damaged three houses and buried five motorcycles under debris. In Prayagraj, floodwater entered residential areas, submerging over 1,000 houses in the Chhota Baghada locality. According to the Meteorological Department, Uttar Pradesh received 2.6 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, which is 56% below the average estimate of 5.9 mm. However, the seasonal rainfall since the beginning of the monsoon has reached 647.5 mm, nearly equal to the average of 647.3 mm, fulfilling the states rainfall quota so far.

Dream of temple in Mathura will be fulfilled: BJP

The dream of the Ram Temple has been fulfilled, now it is the turn of Mathura-Vrindavan, says BJP on X

Jamiat denies Madanis remarks on dialogue with RSS over Mathura, Gyanvapi mosques

Organisation clarifies that its president was misquoted; says legal authorities will decide on disputes

Delhi: Ramlila cards honouring army, air force, navy to replace Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman depictions

The Lav Kush Ramlila at Red Fort will showcase a Somnath Mandir replica. Invitation cards will feature the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The Ramlila will use LED lights, 3D projection, and light shows. Political leaders and actors will participate. Artists from Gujarat, Kashi, Rajasthan, and Mathura-Vrindavan are working on the set.

Ready for engagement on Gyanvapi, Kashi and Mathura: Mahmood Madani backs RSS' suggestion

Maulana Mahmood Madani, President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, has voiced his support for dialogue between Muslim communities and the RSS, welcoming Mohan Bhagwat's recent remarks on sensitive religious issues. Madani's organization has already passed a resolution favoring engagement to minimize differences.

CPM slams RSS CM Bhagwat for remarks on Mathura, Kashi; calls speech unconstitutional and divisive

NEW DELHI: The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Friday strongly condemned a recent speech by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, alleging that his remarks reflect the organisations disregard for the Indian Constitution and violate the law of the land. In a statement, the CPM said that during his third-day address before a select audience in Delhi, Bhagwat sought to reignite the sensitive disputes surrounding Mathura and Kashi. The party claimed Bhagwat demanded that Muslims give away the mosques at these sites as a precondition for communal harmony, a move the CPM described as an attempt to provoke religious polarisation, divert public attention, and deepen communal divides. Following the demolition of the Babri Masjid, in which the RSS played a role, Parliament passed a law that prohibits any alteration to religious sites existing before 1947. This law mandates that the status quo must be maintained in Mathura, Kashi, and all other places of worship, irrespective of the claims made by majoritarian communal forces, the statement read. The CPM accused the RSS of using divisive rhetoric to shield the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government from growing public discontent in the run-up to elections. It has long been the practice of the RSS and its affiliated organisations to stoke communal tensions to distract citizens from deteriorating economic conditions. With rising US tariffs, a slowing economy, intensifying attacks on peasants and workers, and increasing evidence of electoral manipulation, the public is beginning to see the BJP governments failures more clearly, the CPM alleged. Calling for vigilance against the RSSs divisive agenda, the party urged citizens to protect the unity and integrity of the nation. This can only be achieved through broad-based resistance, uniting all sections of the people, it stated.

RSS chief on three kids rule, festival meat ban and Kashi-Mathura: Heres what Bhagwat stated

'No need to search for shivling everywhere': Mohan Bhagwat's key message; clarifies stance on Kashi, Mathura

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that the organization will not support movements to reclaim temples in Kashi and Mathura, emphasizing that the Ram temple movement was the only one backed by the Sangh. He projected a conciliatory image, asserting Islam's place in India and Akhand Bharat's reality.

Sangh will not participate in movements for Mathura & Kashi, but it wont stop Swayamsewaks, says Mohan Bhagwat

Speaking on Manusmriti, RSS chief urged religious leaders to come up with smriti that is appropriate for present times

RSS Won't Support Kashi, Mathura Reclamation Movements, Volunteers Can: Mohan Bhagwat

Responding to questions on the last day of his three-day lecture series here at Vigyan Bhawan, Bhagwat clarified that RSS volunteers were free to join such movements.

Mohan Bhagwat presents benign, modern image of RSS; never suggested PM Modi should retire at 75

Mohan Bhagwat stated Islam will always have a place in India. He dismissed any rift with the BJP. Bhagwat clarified his stance on retirement age for politicians. He said RSS will not join movements for Kashi and Mathura. Bhagwat emphasized self-reliance amid US-India trade issues. He defended RSS's role in the freedom movement.

Does Lord Krishna's magic still lives on? Here are 5 sacred places in India where you can feel his presence

Vrindavan, Dwarka, Mathura, Govardhan, and Barsana are five sacred places where Krishna's presence is still felt. Each site carries timeless lessons of love, devotion, courage, and protection, keeping Lord Krishna's magic alive for millions of devotees.

Man Kidnaps 1-Year-Old, Rescued After 41-Hour Search In Mathura: Police

A one-year-old girl abducted from Mathura Junction railway station late Friday night was traced within 41 hours near Agra Cantonment station by the Government Railway Police.

Allahabad HC defers plea against ordinance for control of Bankey Bihari temple

The Allahabad High Court has postponed hearing a petition challenging the legality of an ordinance establishing a government trust to oversee the Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir in Mathura. The state raised an objection, stating that the ordinance is awaiting the Governor's approval after being passed by the state legislature.

Devotees throng temples across India to celebrate Shri Krishna Janmashtami

Across India, devotees celebrated Shri Krishna Janmashtami with immense enthusiasm. Temples were filled with bhajans, mantras, and sacred rituals, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. From Delhi's ISKCON temples to Mathura's Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, special prayers and performances took place, with political figures and artists participating in the festivities.

Spirit of Krishnas selfless karma is our strength, making us invincible, says CM Yogi

LUCKNOW: Reiterating the purpose of the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Shree Krishna to safeguard the virtuous and to destroy evil, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said Lord Krishna turned the battlefield into the land of 'Dharma'. The inspiration of Shri Krishnas selfless actions gives us strength. The spirit of Shri Krishnas selfless karma is our power, making us invincible. As long as this inspiration will remain with us, no one can harm us, said the CM. He was participating in the Janmashtami celebrations to mark the 5252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishan in Mathura on Saturday. Visiting the land of Lord Krishna for the 38th time during his tenure as CM, Yogi unveiled a Rs 30,000 crore master plan for the holistic development of the Braj region. The CM also inaugurated 118 projects worth Rs 646 crore. He said the master plan would connect pilgrimage sites like Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Gokul with the memories of 'Dwapar Yuga'. He said, Our government is committed to enrich the Braj region, thereby, respecting the sentiments of revered saints. We are making possible the works which were once considered impossible. Citing the example of Kashi Vishwanath Dham and the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, he said that ten years ago, even imagining them seemed impossible, but today they have become a reality. In Kashi, where earlier not even 50 devotees could visit together, now 50,000 devotees can have darshan at once. In Ayodhya, the grand Ram Temple is reviving the memories of 'Treta Yuga'. Similarly, a grand corridor has also been completed at Vindhyavasini Dham. He also mentioned the ropeway facility in Barsana, calling it a great relief for the elderly. He said, This is the benefit of development, that we are continuously working for the convenience and safety of devotees. Later, addressing a gathering, Yogi said that Mathura reflected 5,000 years of ancient history and devotion. On Shri Krishna Janmashtami, devotees from across India and the world have converged here, he noted, adding that Lord Krishna resided in every particle of Mathuras sacred soil a devotion unparalleled anywhere else. I bow countless times to this holy land, he said. CM Yogi said he has had the privilege of joining celebrations like 'Rangotsav' and 'Janmashtami' in Mathura for several years. He stressed on Indias role to present spirituality blended beguilingly with modern development before the world. He added that the world was eager to study Indias spiritual legacy, which, in times of global crises, was the ultimate resort to lasting peace and harmony. The CM also mentioned the success of MahaKumbh-2025 which witnessed 67 crore devotees taking the holy dip in the confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati. Similarly, the double-engine government is working with full honesty for the uninterrupted flow and purity of Yamuna, he said. The Chief Minister noted that India has completed 78 years of independence, while highlighting PM Narendra Modis vision of new resolutions for the centenary in 2047. Referring to the recent 24-hour discussion in the UP Assembly, he said society and government must work together to make Uttar Pradesh prosperous and developed by 2047. CM Yogi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 118 development projects worth Rs 646 crore for Mathura-Vrindavan. These included the inauguration of 80 projects worth about Rs 273 crore, and the foundation laying of 38 projects worth Rs 373 crores. These projects included beautification of Parikrama paths, entrance gates, restoration of kunds facilities for devotees, connectivity, water conservation, and environmental protection. Yogi also honoured the saints of the Braj region during his visit.

Happy Krishna Janmashtami wishes, images, quotes, greeting to share with your loved ones

Happy Krishna Janmashtami wishes Images messages, greetings: Janmashtami, Lord Krishna's birth celebration, spans two days this year. Celebrations are on August 15 and 16. Mathura and Vrindavan prepare for large festivities. Mathura expects over three million devotees. Homes and temples are being decorated. Devotees will fast and offer special prayers. Dance and drama performances will depict Krishnas life. Maharashtra will feature Dahi Handi events.

Mathura under tight security for Janmashtami celebrations

Mathura transformed into a fortress for Shri Krishna Janmashtami, with heavy security and traffic restrictions in place for the Krishna Mahotsav. Authorities have implemented strict measures, including social media monitoring and restricted items at the temple, to ensure the safety of devotees.

Mathura turns fortress; UP CM Adityanath to visit on Janmashtami

Mathura heightened security measures for Shri Krishna Janmashtami, deploying thousands of police personnel to manage the influx of devotees. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is scheduled to participate in the celebrations, inaugurate development projects, and offer prayers at Sri Krishna Janmasthan.

Mathura Preps For Janmashtami: Vehicle Entry Banned, Over 5,000 Personnel Deployed

Mathura and Vrindavan fortified for Janmashtami: 5,000 police deployed, 300+ CCTV cameras installed and heavy vehicles banned.

Raj Kundra offers kidney to Premanand Maharaj in Mathura, Shilpa Shetty left surprised

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and businessman Raj Kundra visited Mathura. They met spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj. Raj Kundra emotionally offered his kidney to the guru. This happened after learning about the guru's health condition. The guru acknowledged Kundra's goodwill. The couple's visit occurs amidst ongoing legal issues. They face allegations related to a financial dispute.

UP govt tables Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust bill in UP Assembly

LUCKNOW: Advancing its plan for the proposed Banke Bihari Corridor in Vrindavan to manage the overwhelming crowds at the historic temple, the Uttar Pradesh government introduced the Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust Bill on the third day of the Monsoon Session of the state Assembly on Wednesday. The bill stipulates the formation of a temple trust with complete authority over all offerings, donations, and both movable and immovable assets of the temple. This includes the idols housed within the premises, gifts and offerings made to the deities, assets provided for worship, rituals and ceremonies, and all cash, bank drafts, and cheques received for temple use. Additionally, temple property will include jewellery, grants, contributions, hundi collections, and associated assets. It is noteworthy that the Supreme Court of India, on Friday (8 August 2025), stayed the operation of the Banke Bihari Temple Trust Ordinance issued by the state government earlier this year. The ordinance, dated 26 May 2025, sought to place the administrative control of the temple under the newly-formed trust, pending a final decision by the High Court on its validity. The Supreme Courts August 8 order also proposed to amend its earlier 15 May judgement, which had permitted the UP government to use temple funds to acquire five acres of land around the temple for corridor development. Nonetheless, the state government proceeded to table the bill in the Assembly on Wednesday at 11 am, underscoring its intent to create a trust that honours the spiritual legacy of Swami Haridas. The government assured that all religious customs, festivals, rituals, and ceremonies would continue unchanged. The trust will be responsible for setting darshan timings, appointing priests, deciding their remuneration, ensuring the safety of devotees, and managing the day-to-day administration of the temple. Improved Facilities for Devotees The bill outlines the objective of providing world-class amenities to devotees. Proposed facilities include: Prasad distribution centres A dedicated darshan path for senior citizens and persons with disabilities Drinking water stations and resting benches Queue and access management kiosks Cow shelters, an Annakshetra , kitchens, hotels, inns, exhibition halls, canteens, and waiting rooms Structure of the Temple Trust As per the bill, the Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust will consist of 18 members, 11 nominated and 7 ex-officio. Nominated Members: Three eminent representatives from Vaishnav traditions, sects, or peeths (sadhus, saints, gurus, scholars, mahants , acharyas , or swamis) Three eminent representatives from other Sanatan Dharma traditions (same criteria as above) Three distinguished individuals from any branch of Sanatan Dharma (such as scholars, educationists, entrepreneurs, professionals, or social workers) Two representatives from the Goswami tradition, direct descendants of Swami Haridas Ji (one each from Raj-Bhog Sevadaars and Shayan-Bhog Sevadaars ) All nominated members must be Sanatani Hindus and will serve a term of three years. Ex-Officio Members: District Magistrate of Mathura Senior Superintendent of Police, Mathura Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation CEO of the Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Kshetra Vikas Parishad CEO of the Banke Bihari Temple Trust One nominated representative of the state government In the event that any ex-officio nominee is a non-Hindu or does not subscribe to Sanatan Dharma, a junior officer will be appointed in their place. The trust is required to meet at least once every three months, with a minimum of 15 days' prior notice. Members will not be held personally liable for any decisions taken in good faith. The trust may independently purchase movable or immovable property up to a value of 20 lakh. Any acquisition exceeding this limit will require government approval. The Chief Executive Officer of the trust will be an officer of ADM (Additional District Magistrate) rank. This bill formalises the temples administrative framework while safeguarding its centuries-old religious traditions, offering a roadmap for improved governance and an enhanced experience for devotees.

Bill to form trust for Mathura's Banke Bihari temple introduced in Uttar Pradesh Assembly

The House was informed that devotees and visitors face great inconvenience due to the very narrow path leading up to the temple

Tiger kills farmer, injures forest guard in Bihar's Champaran

PATNA: An elderly man was killed and a forest guard was injured by a tiger before it was rescued by a forest department team in Bihars West Champaran district, officials said on Tuesday. The incident took place near Ghogha Ghat Khairahi village outside Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve (VTR) when a farmer identified as Mathura Mahto (67) was working in his field on Monday. Other farmers found Mahto missing when they noticed tiger pugmarks leading to the sugarcane field. They immediately alerted the forest department officials and patrolling guards who rushed to the spot and started searching for the missing man. The forest department team soon found the deceaseds body in a sugarcane field. However, search operation was hampered due to darkness, and it resumed around 7.30 am on Tuesday. The tiger, which was hiding in the sugarcane field, attacked one of the guards, causing serious injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment where his condition is stated to be stable. The big cat was spotted near a forest and was subsequently neutralised. We have rescued the tiger, and it is under observation of a team of veterinary doctors, Dr. Neshamani K, VTR forest conservator-cum-field director, said. The tiger, considered to be old and anaemic, is believed to have entered Indian territory from Nepals Madi forest. Veterinary checks suggested that the big cat was unable to find wild prey due to his age and weaknesses, forcing it into human settlements. Dr. Neshamani said that the big cat was about 12-years-old and weak. Efforts are on to rehabilitate the tiger at Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden in Patna, he added. Authoritative sources said that VTR has registered an increase of 75 per cent in its population. At present, 54 tigers are residing at VTR. Located in the Bagaha subdivision of West Champaran district, the VTR is known for its rich biodiversity. It serves as a natural habitat for iconic species such as tigers, leopards, deer, blackbucks, and many others.

RLD seeks removal of UP minister from Yogi cabinet after he calls party 'spoiler' of alliances

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh sugarcane development and sugar industry minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, an MLA from Chhata assembly constituency in Mathura, presented an embarrassing situation for his party and the state government by calling ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) a spoiler and saying any party that formed an alliance with it lost power. Consequently, the Jayant Chaudhary-led party upped the ante against the minister, demanding his removal from the Yogi cabinet. Notably, addressing a gathering in Mathura on Sunday, Chaudhary said any party that allied with the RLD was doomed and faced defeat in elections. In 2002, when the BJP, led by Rajnath Singh, formed an alliance with the RLD, it lost the Uttar Pradesh assembly election, Chaudhary claimed. Earlier, when the RLD joined the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, the Narasimha Rao (Congress) government, or the VP Singh (National Front) government, all lost power in the subsequent elections, he added. In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the BJP won 240 seats despite setting a target of 400, he remarked. The BJP had joined hands with a jinxed party, the RLD, in 2024, said the minister. Reacting to the statement on Tuesday, state minister Anil Kumar, an RLD MLA, said the statement of the senior BJP leader and a cabinet minister was baseless, unfounded and improper. The decision to stitch an alliance is the right and ambit of the central leadership of both the parties. Raising questions on alliance is not proper, said the minister, who joined the Yogi cabinet in 2024 after the RLD and BJP came together in UP and at the Centre. Similarly, RLD national general secretary Anil Dubey accused Chaudhary of trying to break the BJP-RLD alliance. He has no authority to speak on the alliance between the two parties. Its a matter between RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary and the BJP leadership. Rather than speaking on the political alliance, he should focus on the sugarcane farmers. He should ensure that farmers get arrears and the price of their crop, Dubey said. Chaudhary should be immediately sacked as minister, senior RLD leader and former minister Tejpal Singh said at a press conference. Singh said Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary started his political career in Lok Dal and was groomed by Chaudhary Charan Singh. He won an assembly election on the Lok Dal ticket but later defected to Congress in 1996, to the BSP in 2002, and to the BJP in 2017. He is a party hopper, Singh said. An influential Jat leader from west Uttar Pradesh, Chaudhary has represented the Chhata assembly constituency in Mathura district for five terms. Asked why Chaudhary attacked the RLD, a BJP leader said Chaudhary was irked after the RLD staked claim to his Chhata seat for the 2027 assembly election. Chaudhary is around 74 years old and may lose his claim to the party ticket in the 2027 assembly election, as the BJP has an unwritten rule about MPs and MLAs retiring at the age of 75, the BJP leader said, adding that he wants to promote family members from his traditional assembly seat.

Farmer who was set ablaze by land mafia in Mathura dies

An 80-year-old farmer, Satyabhan Singh, has died from severe burns after allegedly being set on fire during an eviction drive in Mathura. The incident, involving a land-grabber and accomplices, prompted the suspension of two revenue officials, with a third facing suspension. An investigation is underway, and the victim's family has requested a judicial probe from the Chief Minister.

Independence Day Long Weekend Trips: Top getaways near Delhi NCR for a quick escape

Independence Day 2025 Best Places to Visit Near Delhi Delhi NCR: This Independence Day long weekend offers a perfect opportunity to escape Delhi's hustle. Explore nearby destinations like Mathura-Vrindavan for spiritual retreats, Agra for historical sites, or Neemrana for luxurious stays. Jaipur's royal charm and Rishikesh's blend of adventure and spirituality provide diverse options for a memorable getaway, catering to varied interests and preferences.

Over 5 million devotees expected in Mathura for Janmashtami, security stepped up

Mathura (UP), Aug 10: The 5,252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishna will be celebrated at midnight on August 16 in all major temples of Mathura, including the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, and at the Thakur Bankey Bihari temple in Vrindavan. Nandgaon will mark the festivities on the night of August 17, officials said here on Sunday. District Magistrate Chandraprakash Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar said that while around 4.2 million devotees visited Mathura during Janmashtami last year, [] The post Over 5 million devotees expected in Mathura for Janmashtami, security stepped up appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Supreme Court stays UP's Bankey Bihari temple ordinance, forms panel led by ex-HC judge

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has put on hold parts of the Uttar Pradesh Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Temple Trust Ordinance, 2025, and directed the Allahabad High Court to quickly decide on petitions challenging the law, preferably within a year. A two-judge bench, led by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, declined to directly rule on the Ordinance but stayed its provisions that allow the state to form a trust to manage the temple. The court said affected parties should approach the high court instead. To ensure smooth temple operations, the Supreme Court set up a 12-member committee headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Justice Ashok Kumar. This panel will oversee the daily functioning of the Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Maharaj Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura. The committee will handle essential services like clean drinking water, washrooms, seating, crowd management, and special facilities for the elderly, women, children, and disabled visitors. It will also plan the temples overall development and may negotiate land purchases for expansion. If needed, the state government must legally acquire the required land. The order came after Devendra Nath Goswami challenged the Ordinance, including a provision allowing the UP government to use temple funds to buy land for a corridor project. The courts decision ensures the temples management remains under judicial oversight until the high court decides on the case.

Shahi Idgah dispute: Application in HC against its order on representative suit

Prayagraj: An application has been filed before the Allahabad High Court seeking quashing of the recent order declaring Suit No 17 filed on behalf of Lord Krishna Virajman as representative suit of all Hindu parties in the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah dispute of Mathura. The petition filed on behalf of Kaushal Kishore Thakur 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 .

After SC rap, UP government says Banke Bihari Temple ordinance for better administration

NEW DELHI: The Uttar Pradesh government informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday that its objective for enacting an ordinance for Banke Bihari Temple trust was aimed at better administration of the religious place at Vrindavan in Mathura. On August 4, the top court said it would keep in abeyance its May 15 nod to the ambitious scheme to develop the Shri Banke Bihari Temple Corridor at Vrindavan in Mathura for the benefit of devotees as key stakeholders were not heard. Appearing before a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj said the 2025 ordinance had nothing to do with the pending litigation of ownership of the temple administration. Let me clarify at the outset that the ordinance has nothing to do with the pending writ petition. There was a PIL filed for better administration of the temple before the high court and directions were passed, Nataraj said. He said the ordinance was issued for better administration of the temple which witnesses about two-three lakh devotees every week. The bench then told Nataraj that his arguments might be good, but could be made when the challenge to the ordinance is relegated to the high court. Nataraj handed over the proposal of the state government to the bench, which upon examination was found to be the same as suggested by the court on August 4. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the petitioners, urged the bench to be allowed to give a proposal and suggestions on the issue of administration of temple by August 8. The petitioners have challenged the validity of Uttar Pradesh Shri Bankey Bihari Ji Temple Trust Ordinance, 2025, for reportedly taking over the management of the ancient temple and the recall of the top court's May 15 order. On May 15, the top court allowed an impleadment application filed by the state while paving the way for a Uttar Pradesh government scheme to develop the corridor. It allowed the state's plea to utilise the funds of the Banke Bihari temple only for the purchase of a five-acre land around the temple to create a holding area. The top court, however, said the land to be acquired for the purposes of development of the temple and the corridor should be in the name of the deity or the trust. The bench posted the matter for August 8 while allowing the petitioners to give their suggestions on the issue. On August 4, the bench deprecated the approach of the state government in moving the court in clandestine manner and questioned the hurry for enacting an ordinance. The top court has said that it would appoint an interim committee headed by a retired high court or district judge to manage the affairs of the temple in the interest of lakhs of devotees besides including the main stakeholders in the managing committee. It asked Nataraj to seek instruction and submit a proposal for administration of the temple and clarified that the court was at present not adjudicating the constitutionality of the ordinance and the high court will look into it. The plea before the bench, filed through advocate Tanvi Dubey, of the management committee of the Thakur Shree Banke Bihari Ji Maharaj Temple in Mathura, challenges the ordinance, which vested the control of the shrine's administration with the state.

Janmashtami 2025: How Is Krishnashtami Celebrated In Mathura And Vrindavan

Janmashtami is celebrated with utmost joy and fervour by the devotees of Lord Krishna. The day, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, Krishnashtami, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti and Sree Jayanthi, marks the birth of Lord Krishna.

Major rivers flowing above danger mark in UP as incessant rains claim a dozen lives

LUCKNOW: At least five rivers in Uttar Pradesh are flowing above the danger mark and many others are in spate owing to the incessant heavy rains during the last 50 hours, which have claimed over a dozen lives so far. Continuous rainfall and overflowing rivers have triggered a major flood crisis affecting at least 20 districts, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Jhansi, Agra, Kanpur Dehat, and Kanpur Nagar. Rising water levels in the Ganga, Yamuna, and Chambal rivers have inundated hundreds of homes and cut off villages. Relief and rescue teams from the SDRF, NDRF, and PAC have been pressed into service in the worst-hit areas. The monsoon remains active in both eastern and western parts of UP due to a strong monsoon trough. Heavy rainfall has been reported in Lucknow prompting the District Magistrate to declare all schools from Classes 1 to 12 closed on Monday. Similar orders were issued in Sultanpur, where government and private schools up to Class 8 were shut. Eastern Uttar Pradesh recorded 18.4 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, nearly 146% above the normal level of 7.5 mm. Western UP saw 8.2 mm of rainfall compared to an expected 7.2 mm, 14% above normal. The IMD has issued warnings of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall for over 60 districts. The Met department issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall in Siddharthnagar, Gonda, Balrampur, Shravasti, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Mathura, Hathras, Agra, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Sambhal, and Badaun. Alerts for heavy rain have also been issued in 40+ additional districts, including Lucknow, Kanpur, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Ayodhya, Moradabad, and Etawah. Lightning warnings are in effect for nearly the entire state. The flood situation is grim across the state with the Team 11, constituted by UP CM Yogi Adityanath, comprising ministers, on ground zero to oversee the rescue and relief. With the CM personally monitoring the situation, the flood relief and rescue operations intensified across the state. Varanasi, Prayagraj and Kanpur are among the worst-affected divisions. In Varanasi, families have been waiting for hours for their turn to perform the last rites of their near and dear ones at the ghats as rising waters of the swollen Ganga spilled on to the streets on Monday leaving the Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghat cremation grounds completely inundated. While pyres were being laid at the upper platform at Manikarnika Ghat, cremations took place in the streets near Harishchandra ghat. With the majority of the 84 ghats along the Ganga submerged, flood waters had been flowing on roads especially in upstream areas. The fury of the Ganga is not only gripping Kashi but also affecting the lives of thousands in neighbouring Ballia district as well. The fields with ready paddy crops are completely marooned in Ghazipur and Chandauli districts. In Prayagraj, with water levels of Ganga and Yamuna having breached the danger mark by around 50 centimetres at Naini, Phaphamau and Chhatnag, more than 107 wards of the district stood flooded forcing more and more residents to take refuge at makeshift flood relief camps. Over 1747 families, comprising 7500 people, have already moved to 18 relief camps, which are getting crowded by the day. The administration has deployed over 168 boats and one motorboat to rescue and assist flood victims. While the Ganga breached the danger mark in Ballia and Ghazipur, the Yamuna is above the danger mark in several areas, including Auraiya, Jalaun, Hamirpur, and Banda. The Betwa River is also overflowing in Hamirpur. According to Relief Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami, 40 tehsils and 694 villages in 17 districts were in the grip of floods impacting over 1.16 lakh peopleall of whom have received assistance and moved to relief camps. Over 25,000 people and 4,682 cattle have been relocated. However, 11,386 hectares of land lie flooded. Relief is being delivered via 738 active boats, with 4,867 kept on standby. So far, 9,467 food packets and 1.18 lakh lunch packets have been distributed, while 39 langars (community kitchens) continue to serve fresh meals to those hit by rains and flood fury, added Goswami. With senior officials holding ground in sensitive and hypersensitive districts, 14 NDRF teams, 15 SDRF teams, and 48 PAC teams have been deployed across 57 districts to aid affected populations. Goswami said that a total of 924 flood shelters were housing 18,772 displaced individuals, all being attended to by 778 medical teams. Additionally, 1,193 flood posts were monitoring the situation, and 25,586 people were relocated to safer areas. The most-affected districts include Kanpur Nagar, Lakhimpur Kheri, Agra, Auraiya, Chitrakoot, Ballia, Banda, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Chandauli, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Hamirpur, Etawah, and Fatehpur. Relief operations are underway at a rapid pace, with NDRF, SDRF, and PAC teams conducting continuous patrolling in affected areas.

Mathura Sridharan, Ohio's newly appointed Solicitor General, racially abused, targeted for her 'bindi'

Mathura Sridharan, an Indian-origin lawyer, has been appointed as Ohio's Solicitor General, marking her as the state's top appellate lawyer. Attorney General Dave Yost praised her legal acumen and Supreme Court success. However, Sridharan faced racist online attacks due to her heritage, prompting strong defense from Yost, who affirmed her American citizenship and qualifications.

Indian-origin lawyer named Ohios new solicitor general

NEW YORK, Aug 4: Indian-origin lawyer Mathura Sridharan has been named Ohios 12th solicitor general, the states top attorney for appeals in state and federal courts. Attorney General Dave Yost said in a statement last week that he proudly selected Sridharan for the role following the departure of her predecessor, Elliot Gaiser, who President Donald Trump tapped to lead the US Department of Justices Office of Legal Counsel. Mathura is a relentless defender of Ohioans, a champion of federalism and [] The post Indian-origin lawyer named Ohios new solicitor general appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Who is Mathura Sridharan? New Indian-origin solicitor general of Ohio being trolled for...

Indian-origin lawyer Mathura Sridharan has been appointed the 12th solicitor general for the US' Ohio state. This means Sridharan will represent the state in key cases before state and federal courts across the country, including the United States' Supreme Court. Read on to know more about her.

IAS officer, who did sit-ups amid lawyer stir, shunted

LUCKNOW: A video clip purportedly showing IAS officer Rinku Singh Rahi doing sit-ups while holding his ears amid a protest by lawyers in Shahjahanpur went viral on social media on Tuesday. It sparked not only a buzz in administrative but also culminating in his removal from the post of SDM and getting attached to Revenue Board in Lucknow late Wednesday evening. The incident took place after the 2022-batch IAS officer who was transferred to Punwayan tehsil in Shahjahanpur as SDM on July 24 from Mathura had spotted a lawyers clerk urinating in the open. Offended by the act, the officer allegedly reprimanded the clerk and made him do sit-ups, triggering a backlash from the lawyers who gathered in protest and allegedly forced Rahi to do the same. However, taking cognizance of the alleged theatrics by the IAS officer, the state government in a late Wednesday evening decision shunted him and attached with Revenue Board in Lucknow. Rahi could remain on the post of SDM, Punwayan tehsil, for a little over 24 hours after joining on Tuesday afternoon. He had joined as SDM at 2 pm on Tuesday and set on an inspection immediately. The protesting lawyers said the clerk had no choice but to relieve himself in the open due to the deplorable condition of the tehsils public toilets. The SDM approached the lawyers and said while protests and demonstrations were allowed, the sound from loudspeakers should not reach the office. During this interaction, the lawyers raised the issue of the clerk being made to do sit-ups and questioned: If the toilets are in such a filthy condition, where are the lawyers and clerks supposed to go? As tensions rose, Rahi acknowledged the fault of the administration and took an extraordinary step. In front of the protesting lawyers and staff, he held his ears and performed five sit-ups, declaring: I, too, will not urinate in the open. I must follow the rules myself.

Kavach 4.0 to be commissioned on Mathura-Kota route

New Delhi: The advanced version of Kavach 4.0 on 324 km of the Mathura-Kota section has been approved by an independent safety assessor and is ready for commissioning, the government informed Parliament on Wednesday. Asked to give an update in the Lok Sabha on the installation status of Kavach in the Indian Railways by June 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 Merchant Robbed Of 70 Kg Of Silver While Returning From Agra

Unidentified assailants allegedly robbed a Mathura-based merchant of 70 kilograms of silver in the Farah area of the district on the night of July 29-30.

Battle Of Baghpat 2.0: Kulhads Fly As Mathura Lassi Sellers Fight On Street

The Battle of Baghpat in 2021 was fought over chaat. And the Battle of Mathura in July 2025 has been fought over lassi

Delhi drowns again as rain throws life out of gear; commuters stuck for hours

Heavy rain triggered widespread traffic chaos in Delhi, turning roads into parking lots and frustrating commuters. Key routes like Aruna Asaf Ali Marg and Mathura Road experienced severe slowdowns due to waterlogging and malfunctioning traffic signals. The absence of traffic management personnel exacerbated the situation, leading to widespread complaints and highlighting the city's lack of preparedness for monsoon rains.

Sewayats deny UP minister darshan at Banke Bihari temple amid protest over corridor project

LUCKNOW: UP Power Minister and close confidante of PM Narendra Modi, AK Sharma, faced a massive protest from the Sewayats of the Banke Bihari temple against the proposed corridor in Mathura-Vrindavan on Saturday. The protesting Sewayats, Goswamis, did not let the minister take darshan of the deity and pulled the curtain down on the idol as soon as Sharma reached in front of it inside the temple. As per local sources, when the minister arrived at the temple, the Sewayats, who are opposing the Rs 600-crore Banke Bihari Corridor proposed by the state government and approved by the Supreme Court, were prepared to protest his visit. The minister was not even given prasad. The Goswami community members are hereditary priests who have been engaged in prayers and priestly duties at the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan for centuries. With the arrival of the minister, around 1520 women, belonging to the family of Goswamis, thronged the temple premises wearing black bands. They surrounded the minister and started shouting Hai hai and Mantriji go back, said a local source. In the wake of the rising build-up, the officials present on the spot escorted the minister out of the temple from Gate Number 4. The Supreme Court has given the go-ahead for the Banke Bihari Corridor, an ambitious plan to ease crowd congestion and enhance the pilgrimage experience around the shrine. The state government has brought an ordinance to create a Trust to run the temple and oversee work on the proposed corridor. Significantly, the Supreme Court has allowed the Uttar Pradesh government to use temple funds for land acquisition to build the corridor - a project envisaged to ease crowd pressure around the temple. While the state government claims it will help pilgrim movement and improve their safety by avoiding stampede-like situations, locals fear the project will damage Vrindavans spiritual and cultural heritage. Over 250 buildings would have to be demolished to carve out the corridor. The Supreme Court allowed the state government to use Rs 500 crore from the temples funds to acquire land. The acquired land will be in the name of the deity or the temple trust. The apex court also permitted authorities to acquire up to five acres of land around the temple for the project. The division bench of the apex court, comprising Justice Bela M Trivedi and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, said in the order that the land acquired for the corridor would be registered in the name of the temple deity, that is, Banke Bihari, or the managing trust. The court made it clear that the approval for the corridor project was being given keeping the stampede of 2022 in mind. Meanwhile, on Saturday, after exiting the temple without having darshan of Banke Bihari, Power Minister AK Sharma reached the Gaddi of Jugal Goswami at VIP Road. There, too, he was thronged by protesting women, four of whom were called to meet the minister. While meeting the protesting women, the minister made the state governments stand on the corridor clear, saying that the government always worked with public welfare as its priority. You can see for yourself, the unmanageable crowd here. The state government is sensitive to such a scenario as it could lead to some mishap. The state government will keep the interest and welfare of the local people in mind and the authorities will go ahead with the proposed project taking everyone along, assured the minister. I am also a part of the same government which has worked for Sanatan values by rendering services to Shree Krishna, Shree Ram, Lord Kashi Vishwanath and Goddess Vindhyavasini. We do not intend to hurt the sentiments of anyone, added Sharma.

Allahabad HC allows plaint to represent suits of Hindu side in Krishna Janmabhoomi Mathura case

The Allahabad High Court has designated suit number 17 as the representative suit for all cases related to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah mosque dispute in Mathura. This decision means suit 17 will be the primary focus, with its outcome binding on the other 17 suits. The court has set August 22 for framing issues in the case.

BJP MP Hema Malini performs at Thakur Radha Raman Lal Ji's Raas Sthal in Mathura

Stakeholders' interests will be protected: Hema Malini after facing flak over temple corridor remark

Mathura MP Hema Malini is facing backlash over a resurfaced video where she purportedly discusses the Bankey Bihari corridor project, suggesting those opposing it might have to leave. Local residents and priests have expressed outrage, fearing displacement and disruption to Vrindavan's heritage.

HC dismisses plea for use of disputed structure in place of Mathuras Shahi Idgah Mosque

PRAYAGRAJ (UP), Jul 4: The Allahabad High Court on Friday dismissed a plea seeking a direction that the word disputed structure be used in place of Shahi Eidgah Mosque of Mathura. The application was moved with a prayer to direct the stenographer concerned to use the word disputed structure in place of Shahi Idgah Mosque in the entire further proceedings of this original suit along with other connected matters. The application was supported by an affidavit of advocate Mahendra Pratap [] The post HC dismisses plea for use of disputed structure in place of Mathuras Shahi Idgah Mosque appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

12 Alvar Sculptures Found At Yerragondapalem

A few names were mentioned, such as Pey Alvar, Kulasekara Alvar, Thirumangai Alvar, Mathurakavi Alvar, Thondaradippodi Alvar, and Tirumalisai Alvar.

Allahabad HC rejects plea to refer Mathuras Shahi Idgah as disputed structure

Neither desirable nor expedient to issue such directions at this point, says court; plaintiff trying to introduce a case through the backdoor, says counsel representing the mosque

Krishna Janmabhoomi case: Allahabad HC rejects plea to declare Shahi Idgah Mosque as 'disputed structure'

LUCKNOW: In the ongoing legal battle over the Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura, the Allahabad High Court on Friday rejected the Hindu sides plea to declare the Shahi Idgah Mosque, situated on Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi premises, a disputed structure. The petition had sought an official designation of the mosque as a disputed site in court records and all further proceedings. The single-judge bench, comprising Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, dismissed the plea orally, saying the application filed by the Hindu side in this regard is being dismissed at this stage. The judgment, which was reserved on May 23, is being seen as a significant relief for the Muslim litigants in the long-standing legal battle. Notably, advocate Mahendra Pratap Singh, appearing for the Hindu side, had filed an application on March 5 this year, urging the court to declare the Shahi Idgah Mosque as a disputed structure. The contention of the petitioner was that the mosque was built through encroachment and lacked legal documentation proving ownership or religious designation. The Hindu side asserted that the structure could not be called a mosque in the absence of land ownership documents, municipal records, or tax filings. So far, four hearings have taken place in the single-judge bench. Besides this petition, 18 other related petitions filed by the Hindu side have been clubbed by the High Court, and they remain pending before it. All the petitions primarily seek the removal of alleged illegal encroachments from the premises of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, currently referred to as the Shahi Idgah Masjid. The Hindu petitioners claimed that the land where the mosque stands was originally the site of a Krishna temple. They argued that symbols and motifs of Hindu deities were still visible on the mosques walls. They further contended that merely occupying a land illegally did not establish ownership and drew parallels with the Ayodhya dispute. They requested that, similar to the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the Shahi Idgah should be declared a disputed structure before further legal decisions are made. On the contrary, in response, the Muslim side filed objections, describing the Hindu petition as entirely baseless. They emphasized that the Shahi Idgah had been existing for the last over 400 years. They also argued that the demand to declare it a disputed structure should not only be dismissed but also that the petitioners should be penalized. The Shahi Idgah Mosque is located adjacent to the Shri Krishna Janmasthan temple complex in Mathura. The dispute has drawn national attention, with similarities drawn to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case in Ayodhya.

Can't rename Shahi Idgah mosque as disputed structure: HC

The Allahabad High Court dismissed a plea seeking the use of 'disputed structure' instead of 'Shahi Eidgah Mosque' in Mathura case proceedings.

Allahabad High Court rejects plea seeking use of disputed structure for Shahi Idgah mosque

PRAYAGRAJ: The Allahabad High Court on Friday dismissed a plea seeking a direction that the word disputed structure be used in place of Shahi Eidgah Mosque of Mathura. The application was moved with a prayer to direct the stenographer concerned to use the word disputed structure in place of Shahi Idgah Mosque in the entire further proceedings of this original suit along with other connected matters. The application was supported by an affidavit of advocate Mahendra Pratap Singh. On the other hand, a written objection was filed on behalf of defendants. The order was passed by Justice Ram Manohar Narain Mishra hearing a bunch of original suits relating to Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah mosque dispute in Mathura. The Hindu side has filed 18 suits for possession of land after removal of the structure of Shahi Idgah masjid as well as for restoration of the temple and for permanent injunction. Earlier, at one stage on August 1, 2024, the high court had rejected applications of the Muslim side challenging maintainability of suits of Hindu worshippers and held that all suits of Hindu worshippers are maintainable. In the August 1 order, the court had also held that these suits are not barred by Limitation Act, Waqf Act and Places of Worship Act,1991, which prohibit conversion of any religious structure as existed on August, 15, 1947. At another stage, on October 23, 2024, the high court had rejected an application moved by the Shahi Idgah mosque committee to recall the high court's January 11, 2024 order consolidating all suits filed in connection with the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah dispute at Mathura. The controversy is related to the Aurangazeb-era mosque which is alleged to have been built after demolishing a temple at the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Allahabad HC Rejects Plea to Call Mathura's Shahi Eidgah Mosque Disputed Structure

A bench of Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra orally said that the application was being dismissed at this stage.

Builder tied to house collapse that killed 3 slapped with NSA

In Mathura, builder Sunil Chen faces serious repercussions as the National Security Act (NSA) is invoked against him following a tragic incident on June 15. Unauthorized excavation led to the collapse of five houses in Maya Tila, resulting in the deaths of Totaram, Yashoda, and Kajal.

MP: In a First, BJP Chooses a Sitting MLA to Head Party in MP, Khandelwal Takes Charge of Post

Mr. Khandelwal who was born in Mathura in 1964 in Uttar Pradesh had made debut in electoral politics by winning the Lok Sabha by-elections in Betul in 2008

Rajmargyatra app to help motorists choose best route available to reach destination

NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is working with Google Maps to introduce a new feature in its Rajmargyatra mobile app. The feature will suggest different routes, including the alternative with the lowest toll charges to the motorists. This service will be available from next month. Officials said that with the launch of the new feature, the highway users would be at liberty to choose a route to reach a destination as per their convenience to save travelling time or toll fees. There are two best possible routes to reach Agra from Delhi. One can take the Yamuna Expressway or National Highway 44 (Mathura Road). The app will inform users which route will attract a lower toll, said officials while explaining the purpose of the feature. Google Maps provides live traffic data and real-time GPS navigation for driving, walking, cycling and public transport. It also suggests routes with estimated toll charges. Moreover, it offers options to avoid tolls entirely or prioritise routes based on the preferences of the user. The move is being seen as another strategic attempt by the NHAI to increase downloads and usage of the Rajmargyatra app. A dedicated link for activation and renewal of annual FASTag pass for non-commercial private vehicles will also be made available on the App next month. In a transformative step towards hassle-free highway travel, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari last month announced the plan to launch the pass that will cost Rs 3,000. It will be valid for one year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips, whichever is earlier. Adding annual pass activation and renewal link to Rajmargyatra is also to encourage people to download the app. The number of downloads has never been as per our expectations. With this new addition, we are hoping that more users will have the app in their mobile phones, said officials. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, till February, the Rajmargyatra App had a 4.4-star rating based on 12,000+ reviews with 3.48 lakh downloads on the Google Play Store, and more than 74,000 phone users have downloaded it through the Apple Store. The app was introduced about two years ago as a one-stop repository to improve user travelling experience as it offers real-time weather conditions, timely broadcast notifications, and access to details about nearby toll plazas, petrol pumps, hospitals, hotels, and other facilities for national highway users. The app is also equipped with an inbuilt complaint redressal and escalation mechanism. Users can easily report highway-related issues, attaching geo-tagged videos or photos for better clarity.

Government strengthens cybercrime crackdown as cases surge nationwide

NEW DELHI: With internet usage and online financial transactions rising sharply over the past two years, cybercrime cases involving phishing emails, financial fraud, and ransomware attacks have seen a corresponding surge. Cybercriminals are deploying increasingly sophisticated and evolving techniques to defraud unsuspecting individuals across the globe. These crimes often have cross-border implications, prompting international cooperation among law enforcement agencies, a senior CBI official said. Identifying human error as the primary enabler of cyber fraud, the official noted, Criminals use social engineering tactics to manipulate people into revealing sensitive information. Many individuals are unaware of common scam methods, making them easy targets. Fraudsters exploit emotions such as fear (threats of legal action), excitement (fake lottery wins), or urgency (bogus emergency fund requests). They frequently impersonate trusted sources, including banks, government agencies, and even close friends. Cybercriminals are also exploiting online payment systems through fraudulent UPI requests and QR codes, card skimming, SIM swaps, and scams involving cryptocurrency and fake investment schemes. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has regularly issued advisories about ransomware threats. It noted that the dark web has become a marketplace for stolen data, hacking tools, and illegal services. Organised cybercriminal groups now engage in activities such as identity theft, data sales, and Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS). In response to this growing threat, the government has significantly strengthened its cybercrime defence infrastructure. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has been established and integrated with law enforcement agencies nationwide. Over 50,000 Cyber Commandos have been deployed across police stations, and a dedicated portal has been launched for reporting cybercrime especially cases involving women and children ensuring rapid response by authorities. To further this effort, the CBI has launched Operation Chakra-V, a comprehensive initiative encompassing intelligence gathering, case registration, raids, arrests, and prosecutions targeting cybercriminals. Since the operation's launch earlier this year, the CBI has conducted searches in multiple states including Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh focusing on perpetrators of digital arrest scams. The agency is also cracking down on so-called kingpins and individuals involved in the SIM card supply chain, which fuels these crimes. Officials have mapped key cybercrime hotspots beyond traditional centres like Jamtara (Jharkhand) and Nuh (Haryana), identifying new hubs in Kolkata and Purulia (West Bengal), Mumbai (Maharashtra), Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), and Bharatpur and Alwar (Rajasthan). In a major recent crackdown, the CBI arrested nine individuals linked to the operation of approximately 8.5 lakh mule accounts across over 700 bank branches nationwide. These accounts were allegedly used in digital arrest scams and to launder proceeds of cyber fraud. Based on intelligence inputs, coordinated searches were carried out at 42 locations across Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. A CBI spokesperson said, The mule accounts were being operated by organised cybercriminal networks involved in impersonation, fraudulent advertising, investment frauds, and UPI-based scams. He further noted that these fraudsters often receive assistance from rogue bank officials, agents, intermediaries, and e-Mitras, who help facilitate the opening and use of mule accounts by bypassing Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations and due diligence protocols. Earlier this month, the CBI searched 10 locations across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, arresting a man in Mumbai accused of supplying pre-activated SIM cards and mule accounts to criminal networks. Last month, in two separate cases, the agency arrested 11 cybercriminals. In the first, six individuals were taken into custody for defrauding Japanese citizens, following raids at 19 sites across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. In the second case, raids were conducted at 42 locations across Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, resulting in the arrest of five individuals for selling unauthorised SIM cards used in cyber fraud. Since the launch of the financial fraud reporting portal in 2021, over 10 lakh complaints have been registered, helping authorities recover nearly 4,000 crore. Officials at I4C credit this success to the portal's ability to enable immediate reporting and rapid intervention in cases of financial fraud.