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Jolly LLB 3 teaser: Akshay- Arshad s hilarious face-off

The teaser for Jolly LLB 3 has been released, showcasing a hilarious courtroom battle between Arshad Warsi's Jolly from Meerut and Akshay Kumar's Jolly from Kanpur. Saurabh Shukla returns as the exasperated Judge Tripathi, caught in the middle of their antics. Fans are eagerly anticipating the film's release on September 19th, excited for the clash of the two Jollys.

The Times of India 12 Aug 2025 12:38 pm

Don't ask for salary, OTHERWISE...: Horrifying video of shopkeeper brutally beating his staffs with belt goes viral - WATCH

Viral Video Meerut: A chicken trader was spotted brutally assaulting two of his employees for demanding their unpaid salaries for three months in a startling incident from Meerut.

DNA India 11 Aug 2025 7:20 pm

Drone rumours trigger panic in UP village, 45-year-old Bhurey Singh serves as 'sky sentry'

LUCKNOW: In Puranpur, a rural tehsil in Pilibhit district, 45-year-old Bhurey Singh now stands on nightly vigil with a flashlight strapped to his bicycle and a thick wooden stick in hand. Hired two weeks ago by local residents, he serves as the village's sky sentry. They say thieves are using drones to plan robberies, Bhurey told PTI. Whether it's true or not, we can't take any chances. His nightly patrol reflects a wave of fear spreading across more than 300 villages in at least a dozen districts of western Uttar Pradesh -- from the forest edges of Pilibhit to the urban sprawl of Ghaziabad. Since mid-July, cries of Drone chor! have echoed through village lanes at night, replacing the usual silence of the countryside. Shadows dart across rooftops, wooden lathis are clutched tightly, and families stay awake long past midnight in fear of unseen threats from above. Villagers speak in hushed tones of mysterious drones flying after dark, allegedly scouting rooftops and identifying weak entry points. In many communities, drones have become ghosts in the sky. Sometimes real. Often imagined. Always feared. As the panic grew, so did state attention. Last week, the matter was reviewed in a high-level law and order meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He issued a stern warning against those spreading rumours or flying drones without authorisation. Those creating fear using drones -- or spreading misinformation -- will be charged under the Gangster Act, the chief minister directed. Provisions under the NSA may also be invoked if necessary, he said. To regulate drone usage, police have been instructed to maintain a dedicated drone register. DIG Kalanidhi Naithani of Meerut Range directed all police stations in his jurisdiction to list drone owners and take immediate action against individuals operating drones after dark. He cautioned citizens against using drones just for fun, warning of strict legal consequences for violations. Despite these measures, fear persists on the ground. Punjab launches anti-drone systems to tackle drugs & weapons smuggling from Pakistan According to police, the roots of this hysteria lie in Amroha, where bizarre rumours began circulating in early June about an underwear-clad, oil-smeared gang of thieves using drones to survey homes before burglaries. Though the story appeared implausible, it spread rapidly. Soon, villages in neighbouring districts such as Moradabad, Rampur, Sambhal, Meerut, and Bijnor began reporting similar drone sightings. Many videos, some doctored or outdated, went viral on social media. Every flickering light or low-flying object sparked panic. On WhatsApp, paranoia quickly outpaced fact. Officials attribute the growing alarm to low digital literacy, widespread misinformation, and deep-seated anxieties around unfamiliar technologies. What began as whispers has now escalated into violence. In Modinagar, Ghaziabad, a man visiting his girlfriend from Hapur was mistaken for a drone operator and beaten by a mob earlier this month. He had no drone, only the misfortune of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. In Bareilly, a toy drone found on the roof of a government school caused alarm. Four brothers returning from Delhi were intercepted and assaulted by locals who assumed they were part of a drone theft gang. Police later confirmed the drone was a broken plastic toy incapable of flight. In Aurangabad, Bulandshahr, a blinking light in the sky triggered chaos. A man walking nearby -- allegedly drunk and unaware -- caught, stripped, and beaten. Drone vigil ensures safety at Bapatla beaches He had no connection to any drone activity. Police helplines in several districts have received hundreds of drone-related complaints in recent weeks. However, senior officers maintain that no thefts have been conclusively linked to drone surveillance. Drone sightings have been reported for over a month now, DIG Naithani told PTI. But not a single theft case has been proven to involve drones. This hysteria is driven entirely by rumours and fear. Over 40 people have been arrested in districts such as Meerut, Amroha, and Sambhal for inciting panic or spreading false information. Police in several areas have launched awareness drives, directing drone owners to register their devices or face fines. WhatsApp helplines have been issued to counter hoaxes. In Amroha, three YouTubers filming drone footage were detained for flying without police permission. They were released after verification, but the incident added to local suspicion. In Meerut, two content creators were held for allegedly spreading fake drone-related videos. Police in the affected districts have appealed to residents to approach authorities if they spot a drone, instead of spreading rumours on social media. Superintendent of Police (Rampur) Vidya Sagar Mishra told PTI, We have held meetings with influential community members at the village level and sought their support to counter the rumours. The officer said drone sightings were largely hearsay and had no proven links to any organised gang. Still, in many homes, fear continues to shape daily life. One or two people in every household now stay awake through the night, looking at the sky, said Ramapati Verma of Fatehganj in Bareilly. We can't let our guard down. What if the thieves come? What if they hurt someone? she asked.

The New Indian Express 10 Aug 2025 1:00 pm

Hindu Yuva Vahini leader lured LLB student with job promise, raped her in Ghaziabad

LUCKNOW : The Ghaziabad city president of the Hindu Yuva Vahini is on the district police radar after allegedly raping an LLB student, who claimed she was called by the accused on the pretext of introducing her to a senior advocate but was instead taken to a flat and assaulted. The victim alleged that after the rape, the accused left her on the road and fled. He also allegedly threatened to kill her if she revealed the incident to anyone. According to sources, the victim reached Muradnagar police station at 11 pm. Members of the Bajrang Dal also arrived at the police station in support of the victim and created a commotion. Following this, the police registered a case against the accused. Police sources said raids were being conducted to nab him. The incident allegedly took place in Muradnagar, Ghaziabad. As per the police complaint, the victim met the accused, identified as Sushil Prajapati, a resident of Ghaziabad, in November 2021. Prajapati allegedly remained in regular contact with her over the phone. While studying law, she used to practise with a senior lawyer at the Meerut Court. Prajapati allegedly told her to start working at the Ghaziabad Court, claiming that he knew senior advocates there. He allegedly promised her that these advocates would provide her with a monthly remuneration and that his acquaintances would refer cases to her. The victim stated that she agreed to the suggestion and asked Prajapati to make arrangements for her practice in Ghaziabad Court. Sushil Prajapati called me at 11 am on Thursday and said that he had talked to a senior lawyer of Ghaziabad with whom he would introduce me, she claimed. In her complaint, she added that she took a bus from Meerut and reached Modinagar in Ghaziabad. From there, she travelled to the Rapid station, after which Prajapati asked her to come to Muradnagar. As I reached there, Sushil Prajapati was already standing there with his Thar, she mentioned. Prajapati allegedly took her to a flat, where he offered her a cold drink, saying the lawyer would arrive shortly. The cold drink was apparently spiked as I started feeling sleepy. Taking advantage of it, Prajapati forcefully assaulted me and raped me, the victim alleged in her complaint. She further claimed that Prajapati threatened her by saying he was a member of the Hindu Yuva Vahini with high-level connections, before leaving her on the road. He allegedly told her to return to Meerut quietly. After regaining consciousness, the victim reached Muradnagar police station to file her complaint. Upon learning about the incident, Gorakshak Dal and Bajrang Dal workers also reached the police station to support the victim. Meanwhile, Hindu Yuva Vahini's district president, Ayush Tyagi Kakda, said, The organisation does not support such workers who play with the dignity of sisters and daughters. According to Additional Police Commissioner Alok Priyadarshi, a case has been registered under the relevant sections against the accused and the victims medical examination was being conducted.

The New Indian Express 8 Aug 2025 5:58 pm

One Heart, One Liver: Rare Conjoined Twins Pass Away Within 24 Hours Of Birth In Meerut

Dr. Rachna Chaudhary said such cases are critical as incomplete embryo division stops the full development of two separate babies in early pregnancy stages

News18 7 Aug 2025 4:01 pm

Who is IAS officer Deepak Meena? IIT alumnus who cracked UPSC in first attempt, now becomesDMof...

Deepak Meena was an IIT alumnus who prepared for the UPSC exam and cracked it on his first attempt. He was given the UP cadre where he served as DM of Meerut, Ghaziabad and now he is given the responsibility to administer Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's home district of Gorakhpur.

DNA India 5 Aug 2025 4:31 pm

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.

The New Indian Express 4 Aug 2025 7:26 pm

Watch: Drunk man drives car onto Meerut railway platform, narrowly misses train; arrested

An intoxicated Army personnel, Sandeep Daka, drove his car onto the platform of Meerut Cantt railway station in Uttar Pradesh, narrowly missing a moving train. The Government Railway Police arrested Daka, seized his vehicle, and booked him under several sections of the Railway and Police Acts.

The Times of India 3 Aug 2025 4:24 pm

Watch: Drunk Man Drives Car Onto Railway Platform At Meerut Cantt

In a shocking breach of railway safety, a man under the influence of alcohol drove his car onto the platform of Meerut Cantt railway station, dangerously close to a train.

NDTV 3 Aug 2025 12:28 pm

Meerut Man Stabs Seven-Month Pregnant Wife To Death, Then Informs Police

In Meerut, Ravi Shankar stabbed his seven-month pregnant wife, Sapna, to death in a locked room at her sister's house.

News18 2 Aug 2025 7:05 pm

UP Man Kills Pregnant Wife, Sits Next To Body, Waits For Cops

A pregnant woman was stabbed to death by her husband in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut. The husband, Ravi Shankar, killed his seven-month pregnant wife, Sapna, inside a locked room before calling the police on himself.

NDTV 2 Aug 2025 5:29 pm

Three killed, five injured as vehicle crashes into height barrier on Hindon bridge in Meerut

MEERUT: Three persons were killed while five others were injured in a road accident in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut district on Friday morning, police said. The accident occurred on a bridge over the Hindon River in the Sarurpur police station area when a speeding light vehicle crashed into a height barrier, police said. Eight people were travelling in the vehicle when it was passing over the bridge along the Meerut-Baraut road. The impact of the collision left the vehicle badly damaged, killing three passengers on the spot, police said, adding that the injured were rushed to a hospital. The crash triggered chaos in the area, police said. Sarurpur SHO Ajay Shukla told PTI that the identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed, though preliminary information suggests that the victims were from a distant location. Police have seized the vehicle and initiated a probe into the incident, the SHO said.

The New Indian Express 1 Aug 2025 1:16 pm

Close to 3500 of over 60,000 new recruits in UP police drop out of training

LUCKNOW: After going through the rigours of the recruitment during the biggest ever recruitment drive to appoint 60,244 constables in UP Police, over 3568 candidates selected have left the job at the onset. After the selection process for 60,244 posts, comprising 48195 for men and 12049 for women, under -- Recruitment 2023 -- was completed, 3568 candidates did not even join the job. Over 100 candidates joined the department but resigned after participating in the initial sessions of training. The recruitment process commenced in December 2023 with a plan to induct 20 per cent women, leading to 12049 female candidates in the police force. Initially, the examination for the recruitment was held in February 2024, but had to be cancelled due to the paper leak. The process restarted in August 2024, and the exam was conducted. Approximately 50 lakh candidates applied for this exam. However, at the time of examination in August 2024, about 30 per cent of the aspirants did not appear in the exam. The final result of the exam was declared on March 13, 2025. On June 15, in the presence of Amit Shah, appointment letters were distributed to the selected candidates at a grand event in state capital, Lucknow. From June 21, a month-long JTC (joining Training Course) of the selected candidates started and it culminated in their main training beginning at the Recruitment Training Centres (RTC) from July 21. Finally, at the time of joining, instead of 48,195, only 45,055 men joined, and instead of 12,049 women, only 11,621 female candidates joined the training. Out of 60,244, only 56,676 candidates joined. The remaining 3568 candidates distanced themselves from the police job. Former DGP and DG Training Sukhkan Singh feels that when the youngsters are jobless, not joining even after being selected is beyond understanding. There could be several reasons for this. When such candidates do not join, the positions that remain vacant are re-advertised. The recruitment process for those positions is started afresh. According to an officer associated with the training claimed that a few candidates had resigned after joining the training. The number of such candidates is reported to be more than 100. A few of them were selected for the post of Village Development Officer. Meanwhile, there were a few people who could not bear the rigors of the training. A candidate from Deoria district in eastern UP quit simply because he could not wake up at 5 am in the morning. He was appointed in the Ghazipur district. Initially, his father tried to convince him, but when it didn't work, the candidate went to the SP office and submitted his resignation. Similarly, trainee constable Tarun Kumar committed suicide by jumping from a three-storey barrack in Firozabad Police Line on July 23, 2025. In Bulandshahr Police Line on July 26, 2025, trainee constable Bhupendra attempted suicide by consuming a poisonous substance. He was referred to a higher centre in critical condition. A resident of Hathras, Bhupendra had returned from home just a day before. Meanwhile, over 9,000 constables, comprising 5,914 men and 3,533 women are receiving training across 10 training institutes (ATC, PTC, and PTS). Additionally, 4,302 candidates, comprising 2,800 men and 1,502 women are receiving training across all commissionerates. Meanwhile, in the Agra zone, there are 3,250 men, in Bareilly zone, there are 2,800 men and 1,900 women, in Gorakhpur, there are 3,348 men and 1,005 women, and in Kanpur zone there are 1,986 men and 1,104 women. Similarly, in Lucknow zone, there are 3,380 men and 600 women, in Meerut zone, there are 3,048 men, in Prayagraj 3,051 men, and in Varanasi, 3,355 men and 605 women are undergoing training. Meanwhile, in the PAC battalion, 12,407 men and 1,533 women are undergoing training. This includes training for 284 men and 161 women who are dependents of deceased personnel.

The New Indian Express 29 Jul 2025 2:48 pm

Accident Victim Bled On Stretcher, Left To Die At Govt Hospital; Family Says Doctor Was Asleep

The grieving family alleged that the doctor on duty was asleep while they pleaded for urgent medical attention for the victim at a government hospital in Meerut.

News18 29 Jul 2025 9:32 am

Meerut Police on alert after drone sighting rumours; launches night patrols, awareness drive

Following reports of suspected drone sightings in rural areas, Meerut police have heightened vigilance and initiated preventive measures. Seminars are being organized with village heads to address rumors and identify potential troublemakers, while night patrols have been intensified. The police are also compiling a 'drone register' and urging the public to report suspicious activity, warning against spreading false information.

The Economic Times 29 Jul 2025 6:52 am

Doctor asleep, man 'bleeds to death' in Meerut hospital

A junior resident doctor at Lala Lajpat Rai Memorial Medical College in Meerut has been suspended following allegations of negligence. The doctor allegedly failed to attend to a 30-year-old accident victim, Sunil Kumar, who later died from his injuries while waiting for treatment. An investigation has been launched into the incident after a video surfaced showing the doctor seemingly asleep while Kumar's family pleaded for help.

The Times of India 29 Jul 2025 3:15 am

UP Womans Foetus Growing In Liver, Not Uterus: What Is Rare Intrahepatic Ectopic Pregnancy?

UP Womans Foetus Growing In Liver, Not Uterus: Only 8 such cases reported worldwide. Meerut doctors say this could be Indias first intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy

News18 28 Jul 2025 5:49 pm

Muslim hawker assaulted in Meerut; attempt to create fear, says opposition

While locals claim the victim was mistaken for a thief, his wife alleged they are being forced to modify the complaint

The Hindu 28 Jul 2025 1:30 am

TRAGIC! Meerut businessman dies after his neck gets trapped in showroom lift, Staff noticed him on CCTV 30 minutes later

A 63-year-old sports equipment businessman, Harvinder Singh, died tragically after getting trapped in a lift at his showroom in Devnagar, Surajkund, police confirmed on Sunday morning.

Web Dunia 27 Jul 2025 10:47 am

Bomb Threat Emails Target Private Schools in Agra, Meerut, Kanpur

Threatening emails prompt bomb disposal and dog squad checks across schools; investigations point to Kolkata origin

Deccan Chronicle 23 Jul 2025 6:49 pm

APS Meerut Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for PGT, TGT and More Posts

TheArmy Public School Meerut Cantt (APS Meerut) has released an official notification for the recruitment of PGT, TGT and More posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official APS Meerut website. The last date to submit the application form is 30-07-2025.

FreeJobAlert 22 Jul 2025 4:40 pm

CCSU Result 2025: Chaudhary Charan Singh University releases BBA, BCA sem results at ccsuniversity.ac.in; steps to check and more

Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, has released the BBA and BCA second and fourth semester examination results, including detain lists, on its official website for both regular and private students. These exams were conducted in June 2025, and the results were officially published on July 22, 2025. Students can now check their results and detain status online.

The Economic Times 22 Jul 2025 2:09 pm

CCSU Result 2025 Released at ccsuniversityweb.in Direct Link to Download BBA, BCA 2nd and 4th Semester Result

CCSU Result 2025: Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut Result 2025 has been released on ccsuniversityweb.in. Here is the direct Link to check your BBA and BCA 2nd and 4th Semester Results Online.

FreeJobAlert 22 Jul 2025 12:53 pm

CCSU Result 2025: Chaudhary Charan Singh University BBA & BCA June 2025 even semester results out at ccsuniversity.ac.in; check direct link here

CCSU Result 2025: Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut, has released the BBA and BCA June-2025 semester II and IV results, including detailed detain lists for various colleges. Students can check their results on the official CCSU website. Earlier results for LL.B., B.Ed., and BA.LL.B. courses were also announced. The university has provided clear instructions on how candidates can access their results online for the June-2025 examinations.

The Times of India 22 Jul 2025 12:35 pm

Life-Saving Solution Or Risky Quick Fix? Meerut Woman's Death Reignites Bariatric Surgery Debate

Rajni Gupta, 56, underwent the procedure on July 11 but passed away on July 15 due to complications from the surgery that pushed her body into septic shock

News18 22 Jul 2025 10:25 am

Delhi-Gurgaon in 30 minutes? Nitin Gadkari's new plan to end Capitals traffic woes

Delhi is set for a major infrastructure overhaul. The goal is to ease chronic traffic congestion. A high-speed Delhi-Gurgaon corridor is proposed. It aims to cut commute times significantly. An elevated corridor will link Delhi-Meerut Expressway to AIIMS-Mahipalpur Bypass. These projects seek to decongest Central Delhi. Authorities are evaluating the proposals.

The Economic Times 21 Jul 2025 7:34 pm

CM Yogi warns against defaming Kanwariyas, Kanwar Yatra

LUCKNOW: Cautioning against defaming Kanwariyas or Kanwar Yatra, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said his government would act strictly by naming and shaming them publicly those who would be caught creating ruckus during the Yatra. Speaking at an event near Dulhera Chowki in Meerut on Sunday, the UP CM also urged the devotees to practise restraint and desist from taking the law into their hands. However, the CM showered flowers on kanwariyas during his Meerut visit while returning from Delhi. Meanwhile, the CMs assertion came a day after seven kanwariyas were booked for assaulting a CRPF personnel in Mirzapur. On Sunday, three of the Kanwariyas were held by the district police. However, smelling a rat in the entire controversy, the CM said: If anyone creates ruckus to defame the Kanwar Yatra, then we have CCTV footage of all of them. After the Kanwar Yatra is over, their posters would be displayed in public. Where there is enthusiasm, excitement, faith and devotion, some elements will constantly try to disturb that bonhomie and defame the devotion and faithUnmask them, keep them away from you at all costs. Do not allow them to enter your circle. approach the administration instead of taking the law into your hands, added CM Yogi. Sayiyam banana chahiye.. Hum Kanwar Yatra jo leja rahe hain..Hum dusaron ki bhi pareshaniyon ko samjhen (Show restraint We need to understand the problem of others), he said while asking the Kanwariyas to be within the limit of law and order. Warning of attempts to defame Kanwar Yatra both on the ground as well as on social media the CM told Kanwar associations to take the responsibility and identify such people. In fact, Kanwar associations should expose such elements who are trying to create ruckus to bring a bad name to the Yatra. Unmask them, keep them away. Do not let them to be part of your group and immediately inform the administration about them, the CM said. Meanwhile, as per the official sources, three kanwariyas were held for allegedly assaulting a CRPF jawan following an argument over train tickets at the Mirzapur railway station on Sunday. The GRP had registered a case against the kanwariyas under Sections 115(2), 352 of the BNS and the Railway Act, respectively. Later they were released on bail.

The New Indian Express 21 Jul 2025 6:01 pm

'Miscreants infiltrating kanwar groups to defame them,' alleges UP CM as video of attack on CRPF jawan goes viral

MEERUT: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said some people are trying to defame the kanwar yatra on social media and urged every 'kanwar sangh' to expose the malcontents. We have to keep in mind that where there is enthusiasm and excitement, where there is faith and devotion, some elements are constantly trying to disturb that enthusiasm and to defame this devotion and faith, Adityanath said at an event here. Social media is replete with videos showing apparent kanwar yatris, wearing the saffron associated with them, creating ruckus on roads, ransacking hotels, damaging vehicles, and beating civilians. Adityanath claimed these are miscreants who infiltrate kanwar groups and bring them bad names. Unmask them, keep them away from you at all costs. Do not allow them to enter your circle. Immediately inform the administration about this, he said. Adityanath said there is administration to take legal action if any such miscreant desecrates the kanwar, and urged people not to take into their hands. During the entire period, many troublemakers have resorted to defame this holy pilgrimage. We have CCTV footage of all of them. We are going to paste their posters after this (kanwar yatra) is over. We are going to take very strict action against them, he said. Adityanath alleged that before 2017, the year he came to power, the governments in UP did not allow these holy pilgrimages to happen and created obstacles in their path. But, today there are governments that respect your devotion. So it is our responsibility to take it forward with the same sacred sentiment, he said. He also urged the kanwariyas to join in cleanliness programmes, and strive to not let any river, intersection, or road become dirty. On Friday too, Adityanath had said that efforts were being made to defame kanwar pilgrims and they are being termed errorists and rioters. Three kanwariyas were arrested for allegedly assaulting a CRPF jawan following an argument over train tickets at the Mirzapur railway station here, an official said on Sunday. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was going to catch the Brahmaputra Express, while the kanwariyas (devotees of Lord Shiva) also wanted to buy tickets for the same train for going to Baidyanath Dham in Jharkhand. An argument broke out between them over purchasing the tickets. Meanwhile, Adityanath showered flowers on the kanwariyas from a stage built near Dulhera Chowki in Meerut's Modipuram area. Rajya Sabha MP Laxmikant Bajpai and UP's Minister of State Somendra Tomar shared the stage with him. Three kanwariyas held for assaulting CRPF jawan at Mirzapur railway station after ticket dispute

The New Indian Express 20 Jul 2025 6:19 pm

CM Yogi Welcomes Kanwariyas With Flower Showers In Meerut | Watch

The Kanwar Yatra is an annual Hindu pilgrimage in which devotees of Lord Shiva travelmostly on footto collect holy water from the Ganga River and offer it at Shiva temples.

News18 20 Jul 2025 2:41 pm

UP Police ban Kanwariyas from carrying trishuls, hockey sticks during yatra

Uttar Pradesh Police has prohibited kanwariyas from carrying sticks and tridents during the Kanwar Yatra. This ban extends across major districts like Meerut and Muzaffarnagar. Motorbikes without silencers are also disallowed to curb noise pollution. The decision follows violent incidents along the yatra route. Authorities are strictly enforcing the ban, registering FIRs against violators.

The Economic Times 20 Jul 2025 12:43 pm

New Delhi-Gurugram high-speed link in the works, travel time may drop to 25 minutes

NEW DELHI: Sick of long traffic snarls between Delhi and Gurugram? Theres good news on the horizon! A new high-speed corridor is in the offing, set to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities. What once took over an hour on crowded highways like NH-48 or MG Road could soon be reduced to just 25 to 30 minutes. A direct link starting from either Gyarah Murti or Talkatora Stadium to Gurugram is currently being explored. This project is part of two major proposals aimed at easing traffic congestion in Lutyens Delhi and Central Delhi, as per government officials. According to sources, this idea was discussed during a meeting in June, chaired by Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, and senior officials. The National Highways Authority of India was asked to draw up a detailed plan to tackle congestion. The second proposal under discussion focuses on a major elevated corridor or tunnel aimed at connecting the Delhi-Meerut Expressway with the planned elevated route from AIIMS to the Mahipalpur Bypass. This is expected to reduce traffic congestion on Ring Road and the Mehrauli-Gurugram route, officials said. Core of the plan is the 20-km elevated corridor from AIIMS to Mahipalpur Bypass, which is designed to act as an alternative to NH-48.

The New Indian Express 20 Jul 2025 8:04 am

Overheight DJ vehicles stopped in U.P.'s Meerut, modified to meet Kanwar Yatra safety norms

As many as 55 DJ setups were found to have heights ranging from 12 to 16 feet, posing a significant risk to overhead power lines, traffic flow and public safety

The Hindu 20 Jul 2025 2:02 am

UP man held for killing dog by slamming it on road

Naresh Kumar was arrested in Meerut for allegedly killing a community dog. He repeatedly slammed the dog onto a road in Sisoli. A video of the incident surfaced, sparking outrage. Sonia Gautam from Sarayu Animal Welfare Society filed a complaint. The FIR was registered at Mundali police station. Police are investigating previous similar crimes by the accused.

The Times of India 19 Jul 2025 1:04 am

Schools Shut In These Districts Amid Kanwar Yatra Rush

In Uttar Pradesh, the districts of Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Bareilly, and Badaun have suspended academic activities across schools between July 16 and 23.

NDTV 18 Jul 2025 12:33 pm

Meerut Woman Dies After Weight-Loss Surgery, Family Alleges Negligence, Doctor Denies Charge

A woman died after undergoing bariatric surgery in Meerut, prompting her family to allege medical negligence. The doctor denied the claims, citing her pre-existing conditions.

News18 17 Jul 2025 12:20 pm

Delhi-Meerut RRTS: Good news for commuters as 3 more Namo Bharat stations to be operational soon, they are...

This marks a major step towards the full commissioning of the 82-km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor.

DNA India 16 Jul 2025 8:00 pm

DelhiMeerut RRTS Sees 1.25 Cr Riders Even Before Full Route Opens

With NH-58 heavily restricted during the Kanwar Yatra, the RRTS has emerged as a vital transport lifeline, offering commuters a reliable alternative

News18 15 Jul 2025 8:45 pm

These UP districts order closure of schools and colleges from July 16 to 23: Heres why

Several districts in Uttar Pradesh, including Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Varanasi, Bareilly, and Badaun, have announced school closures during the Kanwar Yatra to manage traffic and ensure public safety. While Meerut and Muzaffarnagar schools will remain closed from July 16 to 23, other districts have declared holidays on specific Mondays and weekends. Authorities have also arranged for missed classes to be conducted on Sundays to maintain academic continuity amid disruptions.

The Times of India 15 Jul 2025 8:05 pm

Kanwar Yatra pilgrims smash school bus windshield after minor brush in Meerut

In yet another violence related to Kanwar Yatra pilgrims, Kanwariyas vandalised a school bus in Meerut after they alleged the vehicle touched one of their belongings. The pilgrims completely damaged the windshield, attacking it with sticks and rods even as the bus driver was inside. A video of the same has emerged on social media 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 .

The Siasat Daily 15 Jul 2025 3:34 pm

Gangster associated with Mukhtar Ansari killed in encounter with UP police's Special Task Force

LUCKNOW: Shahrukh Pathan, who was a close accomplice of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari and slain mafia don Sanjeev Jiva, was killed in a police encounter in Muzaffarnagar in western UP early on Monday. The cases he was involved in included the murder of a man in police custody, contract killings and threats to witnesses. Pathan, 34, was killed in an encounter with the Special Task Force (STF) of the UP police. He had been out on bail and was absconding in a fresh criminal case filed against him in Sambhal district. Additional Director General of Police Amitabh Yash said the gangster was rounded up by the Meerut unit of the STF in an injured condition following the encounter. He was taken to a hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival. As per police sources, the encounter took place at 1.05 am on the stretch leading to the village of Bijopur on Chappar-Rohana Road in Muzaffarnagar. A number of cases of murder and extortion were registered against Pathan in Muzaffarnagar, Sambhal and Haridwar districts, the STF said. The STF recovered three pistols, a revolver, ammunition and a car without a number plate from his possession. According to Meerut STF ASP Brajesh Kumar, the police team traced the criminal after getting a tip-off about his presence in Muzaffarnagar. Police said Pathan fired around 10 rounds at them and was killed in retaliatory firing by the STF. It may be recalled that gangster Sanjeev Maheshwari alias Sanjeev Jiva, with whom Pathan was closely associated, was shot dead while going for a court hearing in Lucknow two years ago. Jivas gang was allegedly involved in around two dozen cases of murder, loot and extortion predominantly in western UP. According to police, Pathan was adopted by his paternal uncle Amir Azam, a resident of Fakkarsa Chowk. Azam runs a bicycle repair shop at the same location. Pathan started living with him since childhood and would often sit at the shop. It was during this time that he befriended a criminal Sobi of Khalapar, Muzaffarnagar. In 2015, Pathan along with Sobi murdered Asif Zayada in police custody at the Muzaffarnagar railway station. Zayada was being brought from Naini Jail to the Muzaffarnagar court for a hearing in a murder case. Following his arrest, Pathan came in contact with gangsters like Jiva and Mukhtar Ansari in jail and began working for Jiva. While returning from court proceedings in 2016, he escaped from police custody under Civil Lines Police Station, Muzaffarnagar. After absconding, Pathan gunned down blanket trader Amit Dixit alias Goldie in Nirmala Chhawni Colony, Haridwar district, on the instructions of Jiva in 2017. The original target was property dealer Subhash Saini of Kankhal but Dixit was killed due to mistaken identity. A murder case was registered against Pathan at Kotwali Nagar Police Station, Haridwar. In the same year, the UP DGP announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for his arrest as he had murdered Yasin, the father of Zayada, who was a key witness in the case. Pathan was eventually arrested in Uttarakhand and sent to jail. Along with Jiva, he was sentenced to life imprisonment in the Amit Dixit murder case. About six months ago, after being released on bail, he began threatening and attempting to kill witnesses in the murder cases. While being lodged at Haridwar's Roshanabad Jail, Pathan physically assaulted jail warder Nitin Sajwan, who had objected to his use of a mobile phone inside jail, added police sources.

The New Indian Express 14 Jul 2025 5:04 pm

UP: Two held for serving orange juice mixed with urine to Kanwar pilgrims

Police have arrested two Muslim juice vendors in the Nandgram area of Ghaziabad district in Uttar Pradesh over allegations that they mixed urine in orange juice while serving Kanwar Yatra pilgrims. Zeeshan and Mahtab, who run a juice shop at Sihani Chungi on the Delhi-Meerut Highway, were arrested on Sunday, July 13, based on a 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 .

The Siasat Daily 14 Jul 2025 3:40 pm

UP govt orders display of QR code stickers in eateries on Kanwar Yatra route

The Uttar Pradesh government has made it mandatory for eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to display QR code stickers, which what many believe is a way to target Muslim food business owners. According to the latest order, all shops along the 540 km Kanwar Yatra route, from Meerut to Muzaffarnagar, must display the QR 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 .

The Siasat Daily 13 Jul 2025 6:17 pm

UP makes QR code stickers mandatory for eateries, steps up food safety drive ahead of Kanwar Yatra

LUCKNOW: With Kanwar Yatra all set to kick off on Friday with the advent of the holy month of Shravan, the Uttar Pradesh government intensified its food safety and cleanliness campaign along the pilgrimage route. The state government has made it mandatory for all eateries to display QR-code-enabled stickers linked to the Food Safety CONNECT App. While the state government officials claim it to be a digital food safety reform aimed at ensuring hygiene, transparency, and accountability for the estimated four crore pilgrims expected to undertake the Yatra this year, the eatery owners consider it the official version of the nameplate diktata reference to last years government order (GO) that had snowballed into a controversy. As per the new norms, the QR-code-based stickerlinked to the Food Safety Connect Appis now mandatory on all food establishments along the Kanwar Yatra route. Scanning the sticker reveals the owners name, registration number, address, and menu details. According to senior state government officials, the move is not just a technological upgradation but a hygiene and transparency reform. The official sources confirmed that teams were placing stickers on all eateriesfrom high-end restaurants to roadside stalls. They said that citizens could also file complaints via the app on finding sub-quality food. The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has also directed shopkeepers to display rate lists and maintain high standards of cleanliness. Expired products and uncovered juices have been destroyed in several inspections, especially in Muzaffarnagar, Lucknow, Meerut, and Ayodhya. While the state government has decided to stay away from issuing any fresh directive about nameplates or religious identification ahead of this years Kanwar Yatra, the digital sticker bearing the owners name and registration has reminded traders of July 2024, when the UP Police issued the controversial order for shop owners on the 240-km Kanwar route to display their names and phone numbers prominently. Officials maintained that the Food Safety Connect App was part of a wider initiative to ensure food safety during monsoon and mass gatherings. To ensure smooth movement and safety of Kanwariyas along with better coordination with respective district administrations during the Kanwar Yatra, top officials from states including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttarakhand convened a high-level meeting at the Commissioners Office in Meerut earlier this week. The inter-state coordination meeting, attended by UP Chief Secretary Manoj Singh, DGP Rajeev Krishna, and other senior officers from the other three states, finalised a detailed action plan for crowd management, law and order, and pilgrim convenience. The top brass of all the states concerned decided to get all liquor shops along the Kanwar route covered with curtains during the Yatra. Though the liquor shops will remain open, their visibility will be restricted to avoid any temptation and provocation, said a senior state government official. Surveillance through drones will be carried out continuously, and traffic police are set to implement a revised traffic flow plan from Thursday night. As per the traffic plan, one lane will be dedicated exclusively to Kanwariyas and another for light vehicles. Heavy vehicles will not be allowed inside city limits during the peak period of the Yatra. Additionally, every 15 kilometres, an IPS-level officer will be deployed to monitor the situation and ensure immediate response to any disturbances. A special WhatsApp-based coordination group has also been created with officers from all four states to facilitate real-time communication, updates, and coordinated troubleshooting. The Yatra is expected to draw over 4 crore participants this year. While the state has taken a more systemic and administrative approach this year, fringe elements havent stayed quiet. However, the state hasnt endorsed such actions. In cities like Lucknow, QR stickers are also being used to collect real-time food feedback. This allows FSDA officials to identify problem spots and take action immediately. Meanwhile, UP Chief Secretary Manoj Singh reiterated that no compromises would be made on the quality of food served to the pilgrims. Every kitchen would be under scanner of FSSAI officials. From DJ volume to canal water levels, every detail is being tracked. At the same time, the WhatsApp-based coordination group across four states is fully active, he said. He added that only pure vegetarian food should be served along the Kanwar route, and the PWD, electricity, and irrigation departments were told to fix past lapses to prevent mishaps.

The New Indian Express 10 Jul 2025 7:14 pm

Not Just Delhi And Noida, Haryana Earthquake Tremors Were Felt 200 Km Away

The 4.4 magnitude earthquake, with its epicentre in Haryana's Jhajjar, shook not just Delhi and Noida. The tremors were felt as far as Meerut and Shamli in western Uttar Pradesh. While Shamli is about 140 km from Jhajjar, Meerut is over 200 km away.

NDTV 10 Jul 2025 10:25 am

Polling Stations In Uttar Pradesh To Increase By 12% As ECI Issues New Directive: CEO Rinwa

Rinwa was speaking at a training session for District Magistrates and District Election Officers from 15 districts, held at the Commissioner's Auditorium in Meerut.

Bloomberg Quint 7 Jul 2025 10:21 pm

Delhi-Meerut Expressway to closed on these days for Kanwar Yatra in July: Check full traffic advisory on closure, diversions

The Delhi-Meerut Expressway will be closed for the Kanwar Yatra. The closure will be from July 19 to July 23. Heavy vehicles will be restricted from July 11. Light vehicles will also face restrictions from July 19. Authorities have planned alternative routes for diverted traffic. Security will be enhanced with CCTV cameras.

The Economic Times 5 Jul 2025 1:36 pm

BIG update from Indian Railways, Meerut-Varanasi new Vande Bharat Express to launch soon, check timings, prices, stoppages here

Indian Railways is all set to launch a new Vande Bharat Express between Meerut to Varanasi. Now, the passengers can travel from Meerut to Varanasi directly.

DNA India 3 Jul 2025 6:29 pm

NHAI issues directions to ensure smooth conduct of 'Kanwar Yatra'

NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on June 30 conducted a meeting with the Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand administrations and police to ensure adequate arrangements for smooth 'Kanwar Yatra' and minimise inconvenience to highway users. The meeting aimed to address various issues pertaining to the route -- used by pilgrims -- such as water logging and potholes. The meeting also aimed to ensure adequate street lighting, implementation of short-term road safety measures and installation of road signages. Directions have also been issued to shut illegal turns or gaps in medians and also ensure that clean toilets and public conveniences for the pilgrims are provided. Addressing the meeting, NHAI chairman, Santosh Kumar Yadav, urged the participants to make adequate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the Kawad Yatra with minimal disruption to both the road users and the pilgrims. To expedite preparedness for the upcoming Kawad Yatra, a review meeting through Video Conferencing was held with the officials from state administration. Yadav also directed NHAI officials to coordinate with the local administration, deploy adequate patrol vehicles, ambulances, cranes, and ensure staff availability at the toll plazas to assist the pilgrims and efficiently manage traffic flow along the route of the Kanwar Yatra, said officials. Present in the meeting were Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD) of UP, Commissioner (Saharanpur) Atal Kumar Rai, Commissioner (Moradabad) Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, Commissioner (Meerut) Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod, District Magistrates, Police officials, and senior officials of the NHAI. The Member (Administration) of NHAI Vishal Chauhan directed Authority field offices to ensure safety of the commuters and pilgrims around under construction projects, ensure barricading, provide proper diversions, install reflective boards and signages at the dark spots, drainage covers, closure of the unauthorized cuts and prominent display of contact details of emergency service providers such as the ambulances and cranes. The meeting also highlighted the collaborative approach between different government agencies to enhance coordination for the smooth conduct of the religious and community events, said officials.

The New Indian Express 30 Jun 2025 8:47 pm

This is 'Chaat Capital' of UP, with 20 to 25 different types, it is...

Meerut in Uttar Pradesh is famously known as the City of Chaat for its wide variety of spicy and flavourful street food.

DNA India 28 Jun 2025 10:16 pm

What A Shameless Society: Javed Akhtar On Outrage Over Meghalaya, Meerut Murder Cases

Javed Akhtar questioned selective outrage over women murdering husbands, stressing the need to investigate the context of such crimes.

News18 27 Jun 2025 8:52 pm

Meerut Murder Dj Vu: Ludhiana Man's Body Tied With Rope Found Stuffed In A Blue Drum

Police confirmed that the body, believed to be that of a man around 40 years old, was wrapped in a bedsheet

News18 27 Jun 2025 9:12 am

Punjab: After Meerut drum murder case, man's body found in a blue drum in Ludhiana

A dead body was discovered in a blue drum in Ludhiana's Sherpur area. The victim's limbs were tied. Rag pickers found the drum and alerted the police due to a foul smell. Police investigation revealed the body was wrapped in a bedsheet inside a gunny bag. The victim is estimated to be around 40 years old.

The Times of India 25 Jun 2025 9:36 pm

13-yr-old Dalit raped at Meerut government hospital; authorities show no concern

A 13-year-old Dalit girl, who was undergoing a knee surgery at an orthopaedic department in the Meerut government hospital in Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly raped by an attendant of another patient. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, June 20. The teenager, accompanied by her mother, was admitted to the general ward for the surgery. According 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 .

The Siasat Daily 24 Jun 2025 7:04 pm

NBCC Bags Rs 297-Crore Redevelopment Project In Uttar Pradesh

The project has been awarded to the state-owned company by the Meerut Development Authority.

Bloomberg Quint 23 Jun 2025 7:08 pm

NCRTC completes trial run of Namo Bharat train from Delhi to Meerut

NCRTC achieved a milestone with successful trial runs of Namo Bharat trains across the entire 82 km Delhi-Meerut corridor, completed in under an hour. Meerut Metro trains also underwent successful tests alongside. This marks progress towards full operation, featuring an advanced signalling system and platform screen doors. Currently, 55 km is operational, with remaining sections undergoing final touches.

The Economic Times 23 Jun 2025 10:26 am

BIG update on 82-km Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor, Namo Bharat train now completes...; check details

Trial runs and final finishing works are ongoing on the remaining stretches -- approximately 4.5 km between Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar in Delhi, and around 23 kilometres between Meerut South and Modipuram in Meerut.

DNA India 22 Jun 2025 10:29 pm

Delhi-Meerut RRTS Completes 82-Km Trial: Soon, Sarai Kale Khan To Modipuram In Less Than 1 Hour

During the trial, Namo Bharat trains ran seamlessly at the maximum operational speed of 160 kmph across the entire 82-km stretch, NCRTC said

News18 22 Jun 2025 7:38 pm

Operation Sindhu: 2 more flights with evacuated Indian students from Iran to land tonight; government steps up rescue efforts

Two evacuation flights are bringing stranded Indian nationals home tonight, landing in Delhi from Mashhad and Ashgabat. Scores of Indians, including students and pilgrims, are stuck in Iran and Israel amidst escalating conflict. Families across Uttar Pradesh are anxious, with many pilgrims from Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Meerut facing financial strain and limited resources.

The Times of India 20 Jun 2025 7:42 pm

UP ATS arrests army jawan with 70 AK-47 rounds; says he planned to sell them

LUCKNOW: The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Uttar Pradesh Police arrested an army jawan who was carrying 70 cartridges of an AK-47 rifle and was reportedly planning to sell them to a friend in the Pallavpuram area of Meerut district in western UP. According to police sources, when the ATS team tried to take him into custody, the army jawan, named Rahul, attempted to escape by dodging the cops. He got into his car and tried to flee by ramming it into the ATS team. However, the officers surrounded him and managed to catch him soon after foiling his attempt. During questioning, Rahul said that he had come home on leave and was trying to deliver the cartridges to his friend. A case was registered at Pallavpuram police station under sections of the Arms Act. The accused is currently posted at the Army Telecommunication Centre in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. Police, ATS, and army officials are jointly investigating the matter. His mobile phone records are also being checked to find out if more people are involved. As per ATS sources, Rahul is a resident of Nangli Azad village under Daurala police station limits. He is currently on leave. Meerut ATS unit inspector Amit Kumar Bhati said that on Tuesday, acting on an informer's tip-off, they were conducting checking under the Delhi-Haridwar bypass Modipur post flyover. During this operation, a Hyundai Venue car was stopped and checked. Inside, 70 restricted cartridges of an AK-47 rifle were recovered from Rahul's possession. During interrogation, Rahul revealed that he is currently posted as a constable in the Army at the CT Battalion MIC & S Training Centre in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. He said that he came on a 30-day leave on June 9. ATS sources further said that Rahul disclosed a friend named Abhinav, who he claimed was with the ATS. Abhinav, a resident of Shastri Nagar, had allegedly asked Rahul for the cartridges back in February, saying he had lost his own. Rahul told investigators that Abhinav had called him at 10:30 pm on Tuesday to meet near A to Z Colony in Pallavpuram. Rahul reportedly reached the location, but Abhinav never showed up. Rahul also revealed that he had procured the cartridges during his earlier posting in Jammu and Kashmir. He claimed that during army operations, he and his team were issued weapons and ammunition, and during that period, he stole some cartridges and brought them to Meerut, hidden in his luggage. Rahul further claimed that a doctor from Shastri Nagar had introduced him to Abhinav a few months ago, and that he had also bought his car through Abhinav. Contradictorily, ATS sources said that it was based on Abhinavs input that Rahul was apprehended and the cartridges recovered. Rahul was recruited into the Army in 2013. The ATS said the recovered cartridges were army-grade and used in military operations. Investigators are now trying to determine who the cartridges were meant for, who uses such restricted ammunition, and whether there is a wider network involved. Authorities are also probing Rahuls contacts and movements since he came on leave. According to Daurala Circle Officer PC Agarwal, a man named Rahul was arrested with cartridges. A case has been filed under the Arms Act and he has been sent to jail.

The New Indian Express 19 Jun 2025 4:32 pm

Inside Delhis family theft network: How 3 men stole 25 high-end SUVs with sophisticated tools

In Delhi, a family gang, including a father, son, and son-in-law, was arrested for stealing nearly 25 SUVs. The gang targeted Hyundai Creta, Toyota Fortuner, and Maruti Brezza models. They used advanced tools to bypass security systems. The police caught them after a tip. The stolen vehicles were sold in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.

The Economic Times 15 Jun 2025 3:23 pm

From Meerut To Meghalaya, Crime Stories That Shocked India In 2025

Criminal cases, including Raja Raghuvanshi and Saurabh Rajput's murder, have left the nation stunned.

NDTV 11 Jun 2025 7:46 am

India under the leadership of PM Modi is set to become third-largest economy by 2027: UP CM Yogi

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated today that India is poised to become the world's third-largest economy by 2027, propelled by its unprecedented growth in the last decade. Speaking on the 11th anniversary of the Modi government , CM Yogi highlighted that India was the only major economy to have doubled in size within a decade, and the first country to more than double its per capita income, rising from Rs 79,000 in 2013-14 to approximately Rs 2.5 lakh currently. Interacting with media persons, CM Yogi congratulated Prime Minister Modi on behalf of the UP government and the people of the state for ushering in a golden era of development. He presented a report card on the Centre's good governance and welfare initiatives. CM Yogi stated that India's economy, unstable and lacking public confidence before 2014, was the world's 11th largest despite decades of independence. However, under Prime Minister Modis leadership of a decade, the country has risen to become the fourth largest economy, surpassing Britainits former colonial rulerand now overtaking Japan, he added. He emphasised the transformative impact on infrastructure over the past 11 years, calling it the ackbone of a strong economy. He noted that The pace of highway construction has tripledfrom 11 km/day during the UPA era to over 35 km/day today. About 3.8 lakh km of rural roads have been built, connecting 99% of villages under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, he claimed adding that 3,600 km of high-speed corridors were developed, and Indias first rapid rail was now operational between Delhi and Meerut. Indias growth story remains resilient as global economy lags: RBI governor Shaktikanta Das India became a global identity under PM Modi: CM yogi Adityanath The Chief Minister further detailed infrastructure development, stating, Since 2014, over 55,000 km of highways have been expanded. Metro services, earlier limited to 5 cities, are now running in 23 cities, including six in Uttar Pradesh. World-class trains like the Namo Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Vande Bharat Express are redefining rail travel. Airport infrastructure has also doubledfrom 74 airports built in 67 years to 160 airports today. In Uttar Pradesh alone, operational airports have increased from 2 in 2017 to 16 of which four are international airports, while the fifth at Jewar will be operational soon, said the UP CM. CM Yogi credited Prime Minister Modi for giving India a global identity and transforming service into a pledge, governance into a culture, and security into a prioritymarking the rise of a developed, self-reliant New India. He stated that PM Modi believed where there was technology, there was progressand where there was a BJP government, there was also welfare of the poor. He added that PM Modi had redefined governance as a medium of service and partnership with the people. In the last 11 years, service has become a resolution, good governance a culture, and security the highest priority. This is the new Indiaan India the world trusts, said CM Yogi. The Chief Minister criticised previous Congress-led governments for breaking public trust and damaging India's global image in the 65 years after independence. In contrast, he said, the last 11 years under Prime Minister Modi have provided a corruption-free, nepotism-free, and appeasement-free leadership. He added that Modi ji had realised the vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, turned India into a symbol of trust, laid the foundation of a developed and self-reliant nation, and presented a clear roadmap for the next 25 years. CM Yogi reiterated that in the last 11 years, India has carved a distinct identity not just socially and culturally, but also in security, governance, and economy. Governance today is defined by policy clarity, transparency, and accountability. Development is no longer just a sloganit now reflects inclusive progress that balances heritage with growth. Every citizen now benefits from government schemes based on eligibility, not identity. Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas has become the foundation of governance, driven by citizen satisfaction rather than appeasement. The country has witnessed a strong model of zero tolerance for corruption, Minimum Government, Maximum Governance through Digital India, and unwavering commitment to national unity and internal security, said CM Yogi. Referring to India's military strength, the UP CM noted that the 11 years of PM Modis government are being marked at a time when Indias military strength had been both tested and trusted globallyas seen through Operation Sindoor. He observed that before 2014, India was perceived as a nation that spoke of peace even when provoked. But under PM Modi, a new doctrinethe New Normalhad emerged. While India prefers peaceful development with like-minded nations, any breach of security or promotion of terrorism will be met with decisive action like surgical strikes, air strikes, and Operation Sindoor , said the CM. He also commended the abrogation of Article 370, stating it brought Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh fully into the constitutional fold, establishing a new model of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. CM Yogi concluded by saying that during the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, PM Modi gave the nation the mantra of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), rooted in the Panch Pran (Five Pledges): building a developed India, freeing the country from the mentality of slavery, pride in heritage, strengthening unity and integrity, and fulfilling civic duties.

The New Indian Express 10 Jun 2025 7:59 pm

Raja-Sonam, Saurabh-Muskan, And More: Cases Of Love, Marriage, Betrayal & Cold-Blooded Murder

The shocking Meghalaya case comes months after the Meerut merchant navy officer murder case.

News18 9 Jun 2025 4:59 pm

'Husband killers': From Indore to Meerut, the chilling murder cases that sparked national outrage

Sonam Raghuvanshi, Indore Couple missing Case: A disturbing trend of wives allegedly murdering their husbands, often with the help of accomplices, has ignited public outrage in India. Cases range from a honeymoon killing in Meghalaya, where a wife allegedly hired men to kill her husband, to a Meerut murder involving dismemberment and concealment in a cement drum.

The Economic Times 9 Jun 2025 10:32 am

17 year old Aastha killed by her own mother for talking to her boyfriend in Meerut

In a shocking incident in Meerut's Partapur region, 17-year-old Aastha was murdered by her mother and family members for having a relationship. They strangled her and beheaded her with a bolt cutter, disposing of the body parts in different canals to prevent identification. Police have arrested five individuals, including the mother and a minor, while one suspect remains at large.

The Economic Times 7 Jun 2025 5:08 pm

'Gun in the bag': Food delivery agent caught with illegal arms in UP's Muzaffarnagar

A 23-year-old man from Meerut, who was working in Haryana as an agent for a popular food delivery app, was caught by police in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar disctrict, carrying a cache of illegal firearms. Authorities recovered 10 country-made pistols along with ammunition hidden inside his delivery bag. Police acted on a tip-off and stopped the suspect near the Jamalpur canal culvert in Ramraj area, where he was trying to evade them on a motorcycle. Upon searching, officers found the weapons and cartridges. Muzaffarnagar Senior Superintendent of Police Sanjay Kumar Verma said the man, identified as Sudhanshu Kumar, had been using his job as a delivery agent as a front to smuggle illegal firearms across several states, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. He has a criminal history and has five criminal cases registered against him, police said. During questioning, Sudhanshu disclosed the involvement of six others in the illegal arms trade. Police have formed a special unit to track down and arrest these suspects. The gang reportedly supplied weapons to different regions, with a notable demand in Meerut. Legal action has been initiated under the Arms Act, and efforts continue to uncover the source and buyers of the weapons. (With inputs from PTI)

The New Indian Express 7 Jun 2025 2:21 pm

Pistols, Cartridges: Delivery Agent Caught In UP With Unusual Package

Sudhanshu posed as a delivery agent working with a food delivery aggregator, but contents of the packages he delivered were illegal arms in Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh's Meerut.

NDTV 6 Jun 2025 9:39 pm

8 Snakes Rescued From UP House 2 Days After Villagers Kill 52 Serpents

Two days after the residents of Samouli village in Meerut district killed 52 snakes that crawled out of the courtyard of a farmer's house, forest officials rescued eight snakes from the same house, officials said.

NDTV 4 Jun 2025 5:10 pm

Allahabad HC declares arrest of two accused in Chhattisgarh liquor scam as 'illegal'

LUCKNOW: In a major ruling, Allahabad High Court declared that the arrest of Anwar Dhebar, a Chhattisgarh-based businessman and brother of former Raipur mayor and former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, both accused in a money laundering case of Rs 2000 crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam, as illegal. A division bench, comprising Justice Siddharth Varma and Justice Madan Pal Singh, granted bail to Dhebar in connection with the FIR lodged against him in Meerut. The bench noted that the arrest memos did not have any column for the ground on which the petitioner was arrested, nor was given the reason for arrest. The court in its order stated that here being a definite non-compliance of the mandate of Section 50 of the CrPC and Article 22(1) of the Constitution of India, we are of the view that the arrest of the petitioner be declared illegal and all subsequent arrest memos be quashed and also the remand orders be set aside, said the bench. In connection with the chain of events related to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, an FIR was lodged against Dhebar in Uttar Pradesh under sections 420, 468, 471, 473, 484 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code on July 30, 2023. Almost 11 months later, on June 18, 2024, Dhebar, who had been granted bail by the Chhattisgarh High Court, was again arrested by UP police just 20 minutes after his release in Raipur. Following the arrest, the Investigation Officer (IO) applied for a transit remand under Section 167 of CrPC before the magistrate at Raipur and it was granted for 48 hours. Subsequently, Dhebar was produced before the special judge (Prevention of Corruption Act) of Meerut, who remanded him to judicial custody until July 1, 2024. Finally, Dhebar moved Allahabad High Court and his plea was clubbed with the petition filed by the other accused ex-IAS officer Anil Tuteja who was arrested separately in the connection with the same case. As both the petitions sought the court to declare their arrest illegal, they were heard together by the court. On the other hand, the Additional Advocate General for the state submitted that since there was a memo of arrest and the son of the petitioner Dhebar had been informed about the arrest, the arrest could not be held illegal as the reason for it was known to the petitioner. The bench however was not satisfied with the Additional Advocate General's contention, and it stated that neither in the memos of arrest nor in the information given to Dhebar's son or in the remand orders were given the ground of arrest communicated to the petitioners. Furthermore, the court also observed that the petitioners were given no opportunity of hearing to oppose the custodial remand. The court concluded that the petitioners were never furnished the grounds of arrest as mandated under Section 50 of CrPC. Declaring their arrests illegal, the court refused to interfere with the charge-sheet submitted by the investigation officer. The Court, however, clarified that the proceedings following law as per the charge-sheet may continue in the case.

The New Indian Express 3 Jun 2025 8:03 pm

Good news for Delhi-NCR commuters, new 400-metre-long skywalk to ease traffic, set to be built in..., will cost Rs...

Noida is all set to get a new 400-metre-long skywalk, with an estimated cost of Rs 40 crore. The Noida Authority is planning to build a modern circular skywalk at the Sector-62-63 roundabout, near the Delhi-Meerut Expressway. The detailed project report will be reviewed by IIT experts.

DNA India 3 Jun 2025 10:09 am

UP: Earthquake magnitude 2.7 strikes Meerut

A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 2.7 struck Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday morning at 08:44 AM IST, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The quake's epicenter was located five kilometers below the surface. Earlier, on May 28, a stronger earthquake of magnitude 3.9 jolted Churachandpur, Manipur.

The Economic Times 1 Jun 2025 11:28 am

Zepto Halts Caf Ops For 80 Stores Across Six Cities Amid High Demand

Caf operations have been temporarily suspended in Agra, Chandigarh, Meerut, Mohali, Amritsar, and parts of Delhi.

Bloomberg Quint 23 May 2025 3:50 pm

Woman In Extramarital Affair Kills Husband, A Meerut Throwback In Kanpur

The gruesome murder of a man in Kanpur has revealed multiple layers of conspiracy, an extramarital affair, and a modus operandi that matches partly with the Meerut killing that had sent shockwaves through the country two months ago.

NDTV 20 May 2025 12:37 pm

BKU Atal chief booked for announcing bounty to behead Rakesh Tikait

LUCKNOW : A man identified as Amit Chaudhary, president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Atal), has been booked over a social media post in which he allegedly announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for anyone who would behead Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait. The viral post sparked protests by Tikait's followers in Muzaffarnagar and Meerut. Cases were registered against Chaudhary at Civil Lines Police Stations in Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, and Agra. Muzaffarnagar Station House Officer Ashutosh Kumar Singh stated that in the viral video, the accused purportedly announced a Rs 5 lakh reward for the beheading of Tikait. A case was also lodged against Chaudhary in the Jani police station area of Meerut, confirmed by Station In-charge Mahesh Kumar Rathore. In a video released in Meerut on Sunday, Amit Chaudhary is shown stating that he would give Rs 5 lakh to anyone who beheads Rakesh Tikait. Declaring Tikait a raitor, terrorist and madman, Chaudhary accused him of making anti-national statements. From his statements, it is clear that he is part of a sleeper cell. They work with a terrorist mentality and make statements against society or the government, Chaudhary reportedly said in the video. Following his remarks, several farmers staged protests at the Jani police station in Meerut on Sunday afternoon. Chaudhary also criticised Tikait for allegedly insulting traders. Rakesh Tikait is calling traders dishonest and speaking about dealing with them. I want to say that the countrys traders are its backbone. Their role in the GDP is significant. It is the trader who adds value to the farmers crop by purchasing it and bringing it to the market. For farmers, traders should be revered, he said. He further stated that Tikait operated with a terrorist sleeper cell mentality and that such individuals should be beheaded. Now, merely removing Rakesh Tikaits turban will not sufficehis head must be severed. Given the kind of statements and mentality he is displaying, we must not stop at his turban; we must behead him. I will offer Rs 5 lakh to anyone who carries it out, he declared. Notably, on 2 May, Rakesh Tikait faced intense public outrage in Muzaffarnagar over his comments on the Pahalgam terror attack. During the protest, there was pushing and shoving, and someone struck his head with a flag, causing his turban to fall off. Right-wing organisations strongly protested against him. The situation became so tense during the demonstration that police had to escort the farmer leader out of the area. However, Tikait managed to leave safely and was not injured.

The New Indian Express 19 May 2025 6:02 pm

UP man booked for issuing beheading threat against Tikait

With the viral post sparking protests by the followers of the farmer leader in Muzaffarnagar and Meerut, a case was registered against Amit Choudhry at the Civil Lines Police Station in Muzaffarnagar.

Rediff 19 May 2025 4:36 pm

UP man booked for announcing reward for beheading BKU's Rakesh Tikait in social media post

MUZAFFARNAGAR: A man has been booked over his social media post in which he allegedly announced a reward for anyone who beheads Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait. With the viral post sparking protests by the followers of the farmer leader in Muzaffarnagar and Meerut, a case was registered against Amit Choudhry at the Civil Lines Police Station in Muzaffarnagar. Station House Officer Ashutosh Kumar Singh said on Sunday that in the viral video, the accused purportedly announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for the beheading of Tikait. Led by the BKU's Muzaffarnagar district president Naveen Rathi, hundreds of protesters demanded immediate police action against Choudhry. Rathi said he has lodged an FIR against the accused. In Meerut, BKU activists gheraoed Jani police station, demanding action against Chowdhury. BKU Meerut district president Anurag Chaudhary led a tractor-trolley protest and staged a sit on the police station premises. Police in both districts issued statements regarding the registration of FIRs but did not elaborate on the accused and reasons why he made such statements against Tikait. It is part of the probe, they said.

The New Indian Express 19 May 2025 10:59 am

Meerut varsity adds Ramayana, Mahabharata in journalism course

Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU) has incorporated 'Bhartiya Sanchar ke Praroop' into its MA-JMC program. The course aims to educate students about traditional Indian communication methods found in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. CCSU official states that this initiative blends ancient wisdom with modern journalism, highlighting examples like Sanjay's live narration and Hanuman's role as a messenger.

The Times of India 18 May 2025 3:40 am

Roof Collapses At Delhi's New Ashok Nagar Station Amid Heavy Rain, Services Halted

A section of the steel roof at New Ashok Nagar station on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor was damaged due to heavy rainfall accompanied by a strong windstorm on Saturday, an official statement.

NDTV 17 May 2025 9:43 pm

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to be ready in three months, says Union minister during full stretch inspection

NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Saturday informed Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Harsh Malhotra, that the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway would be ready within three months. Malhotra inspected the entire 210-km stretch of the expressway along with officials from the Authority. The minister took cognisance of the various bottlenecks reported by NHAI officials and directed them to expedite the work and complete the project within the stipulated time frame so that it could be opened to the general public as scheduled. After the inspection, the minister stated that the expressway would be instrumental in decongesting the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi and also reduce the load on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and other connecting highways. The 210-kilometre-long access-controlled expressway, with an operational speed limit of 100 kmph, will connect the national capital with Uttarakhands capital, Dehradun. It starts from Akshardham Temple in Delhi and passes through several districts of Uttar Pradesh, such as Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur, before culminating at Dehradun. The project was expected to be completed within the deadline of March 2024. It was approved in 2020, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the expressway in December last year. The expressway is being developed at an approximate cost of 12,000 crore and will reduce the travel time from Delhi to Dehradun from the existing 6.5 hours to 2.5 hours. The expressway will also have a spur towards Haridwar and connect to the Char Dham Highway, thereby enhancing connectivity to the hill stations and pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The final 20-kilometre stretch passes through the eco-sensitive zone of Rajaji National Park, where Asias longest elevated wildlife corridor (12 kilometres) is being constructed. This includes the 340-metre Daat Kali tunnel.

The New Indian Express 17 May 2025 6:15 pm

'Food adulteration is a social crime,' says UP CM Yogi; calls for public shaming of offenders

LUCKNOW: Launching a renewed crackdown on those involved in food adulteration and the sale of counterfeit medicines, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday termed the menace a social crime, declaring that such acts would not be tolerated. In a strong deterrent measure, the CM called for the public identification of offenders by displaying their photos at major intersections to raise awareness and discourage others. Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) department in Lucknow, Adityanath directed officials to take strict and decisive action against adulterators, fake medicine traders, and others under the states zero tolerance policy. He instructed that daily consumables such as oil, ghee, spices, milk, and cheese be tested rigorouslypreferably at production unitsto ensure quality. Special teams should be formed to carry out intensive checks of milk and dairy products with continuous monitoring, he said. Additionally, professional blood donors should be identified, and effective control should be established in this sector, he added. Public health is the state's top priority and it must be handled with full transparency and commitment. Officials informed the CM that the states network of food and drug laboratories had expanded significantly. Apart from six major divisions already in operation, new laboratories and offices have been established in Aligarh, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bareilly, Basti, Chitrakoot, Kanpur, Mirzapur, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Saharanpur, and Devi Patan divisions. Laboratory buildings in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Jhansi have also been upgraded, while three modern microbiology labs have been set up in Lucknow, Meerut, and Varanasi. These facilities are equipped for testing microorganisms, protozoa, viruses, bacteria, mycotoxins, and other pathogens. Testing is already underway in Lucknow and Meerut. The Chief Minister suggested the creation of a Corpus Fund to support the operation and maintenance of these laboratories. To tackle the fake drug trade effectively, Adityanath directed improved coordination between FSDA and police authorities to ensure better enforcement and drug quality checks. For transparency in the food safety process, FSDA has implemented a password-protected barcode system, allowing confidential and impartial sample analysis. Each sample is digitally tested by scientists and validated only after senior official approval. To boost public involvement, the department has introduced a mobile app called Food Safety Connect and a toll-free number (1800-180-5533). The CM instructed that a complaint be considered resolved only after the complainant expresses satisfaction. Significant progress has also been reported in the pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing sectors. Over the past three years, investment proposals worth 1,470 crore have been approved, generating direct employment for more than 3,340 people. There has also been a notable increase in pharmaceutical units, medical device production, blood banks, and retail medicine sellers across the state.

The New Indian Express 14 May 2025 5:06 pm

NCRTC Completes Installation Of Precast Slab Track On Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Corridor

NCRTC said that for the first time in the country, turnouts on precast track slabs were conceived and implemented.

Bloomberg Quint 12 May 2025 5:37 pm

Civil defence volunteers rehearse emergency response in Lucknow ahead of nationwide mock drill

LUCKNOW: A day before the scheduled mock drill mandated by the Union government, civil defence volunteers conducted a rehearsal at the Lucknow police lines on Tuesday to strengthen emergency preparedness. Meanwhile, UP DGP Prashant Kumar, on Tuesday, said that comprehensive civil defence mock drills would be conducted across all districts on Wednesday in compliance of the instructions received from the Government of India. The exercise, which involved around 200 civil defence volunteers, was aimed at training volunteers in managing large-scale emergencies and responding effectively to potential missile or air attacks. According to Chief Warden, Civil Defence Lucknow, Amarnath Mishra, the participants demonstrated coordinated responses to sirens, evacuation procedures, and protective measures designed to minimise panic and chaos during emergencies. The drill focused on practical techniques to protect civilians during missile strikes and air attacks, along with educating the public on how to safeguard themselves in such situations, Mishra added. The development comes a day after the Union Home Ministry's directives to states to conduct mock drills on May 7 to enhance civil defence preparedness. The Union Home Ministry asked the states to operationalise air raid warning sirens and train civilians to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack. The states have also been directed to update and rehearse evacuation plans, crash blackout measures, and early camouflaging of vital plants and installations. Interacting with media persons, the UP DGP Prashant Kumar said that the Centre had identified 19 districts-- one placed in Category 1, two in Category 2 and the remaining 16 in Category 3-- for the exercise. Bulandshahr in western UP has been kept in Category 1; Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Bakshi Ka Talab, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Meerut, Prayagraj, Moradabad, Bareilly, Mathura, Ghaziabad, Jhansi, Saharanpur, Sarsawan, and Chandauli are there in Category 2; Baghpat and Muzaffarnagar, both western UP districts, have been kept in Category 3. However, keeping the preparedness in mind and also considering the local sensitivities, the state government has decided to conduct the mock drill across all the state districts, said the DGP. He explained that the exercise would involve coordinated participation from multiple agencies, including the police administration, fire services, and disaster response agencies, to cope with disasters and other critical situations. The mock drill is imperative to ensure better coordination and readiness among all response agencies, said Prashant Kumar. Meanwhile, DG Civil Defence, Abhay Prasad also confirmed the instructions received from the Centre, explaining preparations were already underway to equip civilians with the knowledge and readiness needed in case of any future conflict. He said the mock drill would be conducted between 7 pm to 9 pm on Wednesday. At present, the state Civil Defence department has offices in 15 districts but covers 26 districts through its network. As part of the initiative, an assessment of emergency medical infrastructure, response time, and coordination between various agencies would be assessed in the event of mass casualties and large-scale evacuations. The drill would also foster greater public awareness and resilience in times of national crisis, said a senior state government official.

The New Indian Express 6 May 2025 5:11 pm