Heavy overnight rains, landslides wreak havoc in Dehradun, neighbouring areas

Heavy overnight rains at various places in Uttarakhand damaged roads, houses and shops, and washed out a bridge early on Tuesday, while many people are reported to have gone missing following the calamity that also triggered some landslides. Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said damage have been reported from Sahastradhara and Mal Devta in Dehradun, and also from Mussoorie. Two to three people are said to be missing in Dehradun, and a death that has been reported from Mussoorie is being verified, he said. Teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations in the affected areas, while 300 to 400 people have been moved to safety, the official highlighted. Waterlogging in Tehri left people stranded at Geeta Bhawan, Suman said, adding that they were rescued. Also, a road in Nainital has been blocked by debris brought by a landslide triggered by heavy rain. Residents of Majhara village were on the road, having survived what they called a landslide that hit their dwellings early in the morning. They claimed that some people have gone missing. In a post on X, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, Received the sad news of shops getting damaged due to heavy rains in Sasthdhara, Dehradun, late last night. District administration, SDRF, and police have reached the spot and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am constantly in touch with the local administration in this regard and am personally monitoring the situation. I pray to God for everyone's safety, he said in a post in Hindi on X. The chief minister's office, in a post in Hindi on X, said that Dhami has briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the situation in Uttarakhand following heavy showers. They assured the state of all possible help and asserted that the Union government stands firmly with the people of Uttarakhand in this hour of crisis, according to the CMO. Dhami is visiting the rain-affected areas of Dehradun district to review the situation on the ground. Local MLAs and senior officials are present with him. The state government stands with every affected family. The administration is already on alert mode and the NDRF, SDRF, police and local administration are constantly active, the chief minister said. Heavy rains caused the Song River to swell, flooding the nearby areas. Speaking to PTI Videos, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Sadar, Hari Giri, said, The water level is rising, and the flow is very strong right now. No deaths have been reported so far. Tourists were staying in the hotels. Waterlogging has been reported in Dehradun's IT Park area, with water entering many offices, leaving people stranded. I have been stranded here since 5:30am. There is a lot of water. The car here has been stuck since last night and is submerged. Water has entered offices and basements, said Hrithik Sharma, a local.

UP CM Yogi reaches out to Patanis following firing at their residence

LUCKNOW: Two days after the firing incident at Bollywood actress Disha Patanis parental home in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath spoke with her father, Jagdish Singh Patani, late Sunday night over the phone to get details of the incident. He assured the Patani family of all necessary help, stating there was no need to be afraid. No matter where the criminals areeven if they are undergroundthe UP Police will find them. The government is with you, the CM told Jagdish Patani. Meanwhile, Khushboo Patani, Dishas sister, released a video message emphasizing the importance of self-defence and security. Today, in this 'Kalyug', you never know what might happen. Nothing is certainwhether you're a public figure or not. It has nothing to do with that, she said. Jagdish Patani, a retired DSP, held a press conference at 12 noon on Monday, where he informed media persons about CM Yogi's late-night call. He expressed concern and assured us that the entire state stands with us. He specifically assured that there would be no negligence at any level regarding our familys security, said Patani. According to police sources, planning for the firing incident at the Patani residence began on July 30, after Khushboo Patani protested against a controversial statement made by religious figure Aniruddhacharya about women. Khushboos video, shared on July 30, sparked considerable controversy and was also linked to statements made by another religious leader, Premanand Maharaj. This reportedly angered gangsters Goldie Brar and Rohit Godara, who then orchestrated the firing at around 3 AM on Friday, September 11, 2025, to spread fear. Firing outside Disha Patani's Bareilly home; gangster Goldy Brar claims responsibility Police sources stated that the interrogation of local criminals in Bareilly was ongoing. Authorities believe that one of the two shooters was local and had thorough knowledge of the area, while the other was an outsider. SP City Manush Pareek is leading the investigation to gather clues. Under the direction of SP Traffic Muhammad Akmal, surveillance footage is being examined from both city and rural areas. The surveillance cell is also tracing mobile tower dumps and suspicious numbers, officials said. By the evening of the incident, a significant development occurred: notorious gangsters Goldie Brar and Rohit Godara claimed responsibility for the attack. In a Facebook post, Rohit Godara threatened: This is the fate of those who speak against Sanatan Dharma and revered saints. This is just the trailer; the full picture is yet to come. According to police, the criminals are believed to have entered Bareilly via the Jhumka intersection from the DelhiBareilly highway. However, they did not use the same route to escape. After the firing, they reportedly took City Station Road, crossed Fort Bridge, and passed through Mini Bypass intersection, reaching Vilaydham. CCTV footage captured their presence at these locations. The assailants eventually reached the Nainital Highway on a motorcycle. As a result, police are now reviewing surveillance footage from 72 hours before and after the attack on September 1112. In response to the incident, Bareilly SSP Anurag Arya has formed six teams, including the Cyber Cell, Surveillance Cell, and Special Operations Group (SOG), to track down and apprehend the shooters. Gangsters fire at Bollywood star Disha Patanis UP residence

Nainital's iconic Mall road on brink: New subsidence threat emerges as seven-year fix lingers

UTTARAKHAND: Uttarakhand, a State increasingly battling the ominous spectre of land subsidence, is now witnessing renewed concerns in its prime hill station, Nainital. Following the well-documented crises in Joshimath and Karnaprayag, the picturesque town's Lower Mall Road is experiencing fresh signs of sinking, raising fears of a potential collapse that could cripple local life and tourism. Alarmingly, a 20-meter stretch of the road, adjacent to a section that collapsed into Naini Lake seven years ago, has sunk by three to four inches, displaying prominent cracks. This development has intensified worries, especially since the permanent restoration of the 2018 collapsed area remains unfinished despite years of efforts and budget allocation. The situation is indeed concerning, stated Ratnesh Kumar Saxena, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD). We are working to prevent further water seepage by filling the cracks with bitumen, which is an immediate measure. However, the long-term solution faces significant hurdles. The current subsidence mirrors a dramatic incident in 2018 when approximately 25 meters of the Lower Mall Road broke away and plunged into the lake. A temporary road, built using geo-bags, managed to restore traffic in about a month. However, the approved project for a permanent solution to that earlier damage, estimated at 3.48 crore and sanctioned in 2023, has been plagued by delays. Officials attribute the persistent setbacks to a combination of factors, including the monsoon season, high tourist influx, and initial difficulties in securing a contractor. Despite eight rounds of tendering, the PWD finally found a contractor this year, kindling hopes for the long-awaited repairs. However, the onset of the monsoon and the subsequent rise in the lake's water level have again halted progress. It is simply not possible to undertake permanent stabilization work with the current elevated water level of the lake, Saxena explained. Treatment can only commence once the water recedes, which means we are looking at next summer before comprehensive prevention work can begin. The predicament highlights the growing vulnerability of Uttarakhand's fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The state has been on high alert since early 2023, when severe land subsidence in Chamoli district's Joshimath and Karnaprayag towns necessitated the displacement of over 550 families, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure development and robust disaster preparedness. As Nainital's iconic roadway teeters on the edge, residents and authorities alike face unprecedented challenges in safeguarding one of India's most cherished hill stations.

Uttarakhand Premier League Reveals Teams And Prize Money For Season 2

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU) and organizers SSPARK Sports and Entertainment on Friday revealed the participating teams and prize money for Season 2 of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL), which will start from September 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Dehradun. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the UPL returns bigger and stronger this year with seven mens teams and four womens teams, representing the cricketing spirit of Uttarakhand. The first season saw five mens and three womens teams compete, with USN Indians (mens) and Mussoorie Thunders (womens) crowned as champions. The teams competing this season will be - Dehradun Warriors, Haridwar Spring Elmas, Nainital Tigers, Pithoragarh Hurricanes, Rishikesh Falcons, Tehri Titans and USN Indians in the men's competition while Haridwar Storm, Mussoorie Thunders, Pithoragarh Hurricanes and Tehri Queens in the women's competition. Named after key districts and cities, these teams embody the diversity and passion of Uttarakhand, providing a professional platform for players from across the state to showcase their skills and push for higher honours. To further incentivise performance, the UPL retains its attractive prize money pool of close to Rs 50 lakh, underlining its commitment to rewarding excellence on the field. The mens champions will take home Rs 25 lakh, and the womens champions will be awarded Rs 7 lakh. The runners-up will receive Rs 12 lakh (mens) and Rs 3 lakh (womens). Individual brilliance will be recognised with the Mens Player of the Series (Rs 1 lakh) and Womens Player of the Series (Rs 25,000). Every match will carry a Player of the Match award of Rs 10,000, ensuring high-quality competition throughout. Kiran Rautela Verma, Secretary, Cricket Association of Uttarakhand, said, It is a matter of immense pride to be the first-ever woman secretary of a state cricket association in India and taking on the responsibility to conduct the second season of UPL. It is not just a league, but a platform where talent meets opportunity. This seasons expansion of teams reflects our vision of inclusive growth for cricket in Uttarakhand. With a strong schedule and attractive prize pool, we are committed to developing the game at the grassroots and professional levels. Rajeev Khanna, Founder, Sspark Sports & Entertainment, said, The Uttarakhand Premier League is fast becoming one of Indias most exciting state-level T20 competitions. Season 2s expanded format, featuring 12 competitive teams and a robust prize structure, will provide more players the opportunity to showcase their talent while entertaining cricket fans from the region. We look forward to two weeks of competitive cricket and community celebration. The UPL Player Draft will take place on Saturday, where all seven mens and four womens teams will finalize their squads. Avneesh Sudha, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Jagadeesha Suchith, Prashant Chopra, Bhupen Lalwani, Kunal Chandela and Rajan Kumar are the Icon players in the mens competition while Mansi Joshi, Neelam Bhardwaj, Sweta Verma and Kanchan Parihar will be the four key Icon players in the womens category. Rajeev Khanna, Founder, Sspark Sports & Entertainment, said, The Uttarakhand Premier League is fast becoming one of Indias most exciting state-level T20 competitions. Season 2s expanded format, featuring 12 competitive teams and a robust prize structure, will provide more players the opportunity to showcase their talent while entertaining cricket fans from the region. We look forward to two weeks of competitive cricket and community celebration. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score With close to 30 matches lined up - including league stages, eliminators, and finals - fans can look forward to two weeks of exhilarating cricket action in Dehradun as UPL continues to strengthen its position in Indias domestic cricket ecosystem. Article Source: IANS

PM Modi to conduct aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-hit areas on September 11

DEHRADUN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to conduct an aerial survey of Uttarakhand's disaster-stricken mountainous regions on Thursday, assessing the extensive damage caused by this year's relentless monsoon rains and related calamities. According to government sources, PM Modi will arrive in Dehradun after attending an event in Varanasi. He is expected to undertake an aerial survey of the disaster and flood-hit areas around 4:15 pm. Following this, at 5 pm, the Prime Minister will hold a high-level review meeting with state officials at Jolly Grant Airport to discuss the relief and rehabilitation efforts. On Wednesday afternoon, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Jolly Grant Airport to personally oversee preparations for the Prime Minister's visit, instructing officials to ensure all arrangements are made in a timely and meticulous manner. CM Dhami highlighted the Prime Minister's deep connection with the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a special affection for Uttarakhand. This is why, during this difficult time of disaster, the state has continuously received his unwavering support and guidance. His arrival will further strengthen disaster relief efforts in Uttarakhand, Dhami stated. This year, Uttarakhand has suffered extensive damage due to excessive rainfall and widespread flooding. There is a strong expectation that the central government will provide a substantial economic package to the state for disaster relief, rescue, reconstruction, and rehabilitation, akin to the assistance offered to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Sources from the State Disaster Management Office indicate a grim toll: since April, 85 people have lost their lives in various natural disasters across Uttarakhand, while 94 are still reported missing. Additionally, 128 individuals have sustained serious injuries in different incidents. The Disaster Management Department's data reveals assets worth approximately Rs 1944 crore have been destroyed, including vital roads, schools, power lines, substations, and irrigation canals. Uttarakhand suffers Rs 5,000 crore losses from monsoon rains, worst since Kedarnath tragedy Furthermore, an estimated Rs 3,700 crore is required to secure properties currently at high risk from further damage. Earlier, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team from the Government of India, which had been assessing the damage in the state, met with Chief Minister Dhami. The Chief Minister emphasised, Uttarakhand is an extremely disaster-sensitive state. During the monsoon season, it grapples with severe problems of landslides, floods, and waterlogging due to excessive rainfall. He urged national-level institutions to collaborate on further developing advanced forecasting systems to minimise damage from landslides. CM Dhami further stressed that his year's heavy rainfall has caused extensive damage in various regions, resulting in both loss of life and significant harm to assets. He highlighted that cloudbursts and landslides in the hilly areas cause permanent land damage, rendering such areas unusable for farming or construction, and called for an effective long-term action plan to address this. The Central Team, led by Joint Secretary R. Prasanna of the Ministry of Home Affairs, had surveyed damage in districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Nainital. After meeting the Chief Minister, the team commended the state government's relief operations, including the adequate arrangements for lodging and food in relief camps, the provision of on-site medical facilities, and other basic amenities for the affected, based on feedback received from the victims. Uttarakhand grapples with double crisis: Floods kill 80, 90 missing; State fights epidemic threat

IFS officer in Uttarakhand sues Cabinet Secretary over false affidavit, alleges defamation

DEHRADUN: In a dramatic escalation of a long-running bureaucratic dispute, Sanjeev Chaturvedi, the prominent Uttarakhand cadre Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and Magsaysay Award laureate, has initiated criminal proceedings against Indias top bureaucrat, Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan. Chaturvedi has accused Somanathan of filing a false affidavit and making defamatory remarks in court, seeking stringent criminal action from the Nainital High Court. The High Court is scheduled to hear the petition on September 16. This legal battle stems from a controversy dating back to Chaturvedis tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. During his time there, he initiated several high-profile corruption investigations, which later became the subject of various legal challenges. The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), in February 2023, ordered the production of documents related to these AIIMS corruption cases. Following alleged non-compliance, CAT initiated contempt proceedings in May 2023 against both the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. It is against this backdrop of alleged non-adherence to tribunal orders that the new legal challenge has emerged in the High Court. Chaturvedi has not only termed the writ petition filed by the Cabinet Secretary as baseless but also strongly objected to the allegations made within it. To substantiate his claims, he presented to the court a 2014 file noting from then Union Health Secretary Love Verma and Health Ministry CVO Vishwas Mehta. The document reportedly praised Chaturvedis integrity and dedication as outstanding. Speaking on the matter, Chaturvedi said, It is deeply unfortunate that the petition filed by the countrys Cabinet Secretary contains baseless and defamatory allegations. He added, The anti-corruption actions taken during my tenure were consistently affirmed in writing by top officials of the Health Ministry, confirming the integrity and merit of my work. The case underscores the ongoing friction between a decorated officer known for his anti-corruption stance and the highest levels of the bureaucracy, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle in the coming weeks.

India weather news: Heavy rains lash Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu and Himachal; check IMD's forecast for the day

In Jammu, persistent rainfall has raised concerns of flash floods and landslides in hilly districts. The IMD has placed the region under an orange alert, warning of heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning through the day. Meanwhile, red alert remains in force for Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal, with extremely heavy rain forecast on Wednesday. The remaining districts are under an orange alert.

IMD issues red alert for Northwest India

NEW DELHI: In anticipation of extremely heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Northwest India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi . IMD predicts the rain intensity levels may exceed 210 mm in certain areas over the next three days. It has also predicted an imminent risk of flash floods in several watersheds and neighborhoods of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. Residents are advised to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as severe weather conditions are expected. In Himachal Pradesh, the districts most at risk include Chamba, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan. In Uttarakhand, the vulnerable districts are Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi. The plains of Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhispecifically Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagarare also threatened by potential flash floods. The IMD has also projected heavy rainfall in Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, the Gujarat region, and Coastal Karnataka during the first week of September. Furthermore, a fresh low-pressure area is expected to form over the Northwest Bay of Bengal, off the coast of Odisha, and will move across Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat over the next 3-4 days. This will likely lead to increased monsoon rainfall in Odisha from September 2 to 4, in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh from September 3 to 5, and in Gujarat and parts of North Maharashtra from September 4 to 7. Due to these dangerous predictions, the IMD has advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea from September 1 to 6. Lake burst behind Uttarakhand flash flood, MHA told In the past 24 hours, many areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, West Rajasthan, and Telangana recorded extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 210 mm. Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and East Rajasthan received between 120-200 mm of rain. The heavy rainfall has led to widespread flooding in Punjab, resulting in losses to kharif crops. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has held a review meeting with senior officials to assess the damage caused by the heavy rainfall and discuss compensation measures. Earlier, the IMD's monthly outlook indicated that the country is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall in September, with a delayed withdrawal of the monsoon. Typically, the monsoon begins to withdraw in the first week of September and is expected to be fully withdrawn by September 30. The IMD has noted a new trend in September, characterized by more rainfall and a later withdrawal. So far, the country has experienced 6% more rainfall than normal, while the East and Northeast regions have faced approximately 18% below-normal rainfall. In contrast, the Northwest region has been the wettest, with about 27% above-normal rainfall recorded in the first three months of the monsoon. Flash flood strands 189 tourists in Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers

Uttarakhand reels under heavy rains as highways blocked, swollen rivers submerge towns

DEHRADUN: Relentless monsoon rains have unleashed a fresh wave of devastation across Uttarakhand, severing vital lifelines, submerging towns, and forcing school children to risk their lives daily. The state, often called Devbhoomi, is grappling with widespread disruption, with border areas cut off and major rivers in spate, prompting an official flood alert in multiple districts. The gravest concerns are from Uttarkashis Cheenakholi region, where children from at least seven villages are facing dangerous conditions to attend school. A child was swept away on Saturday, but miraculously rescued by villagers, said Mahesh Prasad Nautiyal, former Pradhan of Cheenakholi village. With the bridge broken and tilted, students from Bon, Cheenakholi, Jeevanla, Jugaldi, and Panjiyala villages are literally putting their lives at risk in this extreme weather to reach Government Inter College Bon, he added. In Uttarkashis Yamunotri region, the town of Syana Chatti has been submerged again as the Yamuna River overflowed its banks, with water flowing over the motor bridge. Panic has gripped residents, as the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam bungalow and a school campus were completely underwater. District Magistrate Prashant Arya visited the affected area. Connectivity has become a major challenge. Uttarkashi District Disaster Management Officer Jai Prakash Singh Panwar confirmed, The Yamunotri National Highway remains blocked at Syana Chatti, Jarjargad, Banas, and Naradchatti. The Gangotri Highway is also closed near Dharasu Bend and Netala, with work underway to restore connectivity. The crucial Malari Highway, leading to the China border, has been cut off for the second time in just a few days. Heavy overnight rain triggered flash floods in Tamak Nala, washing away a motor bridge and once again isolating the Niti Valley. This comes shortly after the highway, vital for villagers, pilgrims, and the movement of Army and ITBP personnel, had reopened on Saturday following a three-day closure caused by a landslide near Lata village. The deluge has also swollen the Ganga River downstream. In Rishikesh, the river breached its warning level of 339.50 meters on Sunday morning and rose further to 340.40 meters by late afternoon. The Hydro-met Division of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 24-hour flood warning for Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, and Rudraprayag. Red and yellow alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall remain in place for various districts, with the State Emergency Operations Centre advising District Magistrates to take necessary precautions.

Fire breaks out in Old London House building in Nainital; elderly woman killed, structure gutted

Nainital Senior Superintendent of Police P.N. Meena said the flames have been doused and the damage caused by the fire is being assessed. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained

Octogenarian dies in fire at Nainital residential building, three others rescued in midnight operation

NAINITAL: An 85-year-old woman lost her life and three others were rescued after a massive fire engulfed a residential building in the densely populated Mohanko Chowk area of Mallital, Nainital, late on Wednesday night. A large-scale firefighting and rescue operation was mounted to contain the blaze. According to the District Disaster Operations Centre (DDOC), the fire was reported around midnight. While the exact cause of the blaze is yet to be ascertained, preliminary investigations suggest a possible short circuit. Emergency response teams, including personnel from the fire department, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Water Department, health services, and civil police, were immediately pressed into service. Senior officials, including Additional District Magistrate Shailendra Singh Negi, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Nawazish Khaliq, Superintendent of Police Dr. Jagdish Chandra, and Mallital Kotwal Hem Chandra Pant, rushed to the site to oversee rescue and relief efforts. SDRF Inspector Kavindra Sajwan noted that the operation was particularly challenging due to the wooden structure of the house, which allowed the flames to spread rapidly. Despite the intensity of the fire, three persons were successfully rescued. Unfortunately, one elderly woman, identified as Shanta Devi (85), succumbed to suffocation, he said. Following directives from District Magistrate Vandana, additional firefighting resources, including tenders and tankers were mobilised from neighbouring towns such as Haldwani, Ramnagar, Bhimtal, Almora, Ranikhet, Sitarganj, and Rudrapur. Firefighting units from the Army and Air Force were also deployed. The fire was brought under control shortly after midnight. Authorities have confirmed no further casualties so far. However, a detailed search and rescue operation by the NDRF will commence once the structure is declared safe and the smoke clears completely, to ensure that no one remains trapped.

Uttarakhand HC grills election commission over Nainital panchayat poll chaos, 'kidnapping' claims

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court on Wednesday put the State Election Commission (SEC) under intense scrutiny, demanding a detailed affidavit within two days regarding the alleged irregularities in the Nainital Zila Panchayat President and Vice-President elections held on August 14. The alleged irregularities include kidnapping of members and ballot paper tampering. A division bench of Chief Justice G Narendra and Justice Subhash Upadhyay heard a petition challenging the election process and sought a comprehensive report from the SEC on the actions taken on the numerous complaints received. The next hearing in the high-stakes case is scheduled for September 1. During the proceedings, the court specifically questioned the SEC on what decisions were made based on reports submitted by Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena. The SEC's response was deemed unsatisfactory by the bench, which then ordered a detailed explanation of the actions taken and decisions made by the commission. Nainital poll turmoil: HC grills officials over alleged violence and abductions The petition was filed by Zila Panchayat member Poonam Bisht on August 20, seeking re-polling for the President's post. Bisht alleged ampering and overwriting on a ballot paper, which was subsequently declared invalid, and claimed the SEC prematurely declared the results without following due process. The election day on August 14 had witnessed high drama and significant unrest. Reports emerged of five Zila Panchayat members allegedly going missing amidst accusations of kidnapping traded between the BJP and Congress. The Congress had initially approached the High Court, which then directed the Nainital District Magistrate to postpone the election. However, District Magistrate Vandana Singh proceeded with the voting time extension and conducted the counting late at night under videography, though the results were not immediately declared and were stored in a double locker. DM Vandana Singh justified her actions, stating that, as per Election Commission rules, the District Election Officer does not possess the authority to cancel or postpone an election. The SEC eventually declared the results on August 16, with BJP candidate Deepa Darmwal winning the President's post by a single vote. The Congress candidate had raised strong objections, citing the alleged tampering and overwriting on one ballot paper. Meanwhile, the government counsel argued for the dismissal of the petition, contending that the petitioner, Poonam Bisht, was only a Zila Panchayat member and not a candidate for the President's post. This argument was strongly opposed by the petitioner's counsel, who asserted that as an elected member, they had every right to challenge the election outcome and ensure the integrity of the democratic process.

Dehradun weather set to worsen as IMD rings yellow alert; rains to continue over the next few days

Dehradun and several Uttarakhand districts are under a yellow alert. The IMD forecasts persistent rain, thunderstorms, and lightning until August 23. Rainfall intensity may increase after this period. Uttarkashi and Nainital are among the districts flagged for heavy showers. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel. Parts of Dehradun faced waterlogging and traffic jams.

Uttarakhand Monsoon Session adjourned after overnight opposition sit-in as government rushes through nine bills

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand Assemblys Monsoon Session, which began on Tuesday in Bhararisain, the states summer capital, was abruptly adjourned indefinitely on Wednesday, just two days into its scheduled five-day run. Lasting only two hours and forty minutes over both days, the brief session was marked by vociferous protests from the opposition Congress, while the ruling party swiftly pushed through nine key bills and a supplementary budget. From the outset, the opposition demanded a discussion on the states disaster management and law and order under Rule 310. Their protests escalated within the Assembly hall, with members tearing papers, shaking microphones, and raising slogans against what they described as a dictatorial government and vote theft. Failing to secure a debate, Congress MLAs, led by Leader of Opposition Yashpal Arya and Pritam Singh, staged an unprecedented overnight sit-in inside the Assembly building. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhamis efforts to pacify them reportedly proved futile. The second day mirrored the first in its tumultuous nature. Despite the uproar, the government managed to pass nine bills and a supplementary budget of Rs 5,315.89 crore. Among the significant legislations approved were the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Amendment Bill, the amended Conversion Law, and the Uttarakhand Minority Bill, paving the way for major state-level changes. The UCC (Amendment) Bill, passed by voice vote, introduces stricter provisions for live-in relationships, including increased penalties for misuse or violations. The amended Conversion Law has been made more stringent, now providing for a life sentence for those found guilty of forced or fraudulent conversions. Furthermore, the Uttarakhand Minority Bill seeks to establish an authority for all minority communities in the state, while also facilitating formal recognition for madrasas, with the aim of strengthening their operations and educational framework. Uttarakhand's Bhararisain monsoon budget session marred by opposition chaos The oppositions overnight dharna continued into Wednesday morning. Despite persistent government efforts, the Congress remained firm in its demands, which included the transfer of the Nainital District Magistrate, the suspension of the Senior Superintendent of Police, and the withdrawal of legal cases against Congress leaders. Facing an impasse, Assembly Speaker Ritu Bhushan Khanduri announced the indefinite adjournment of the House. Our demands have not been met, so the protest will continue, said Congress Deputy Leader of Opposition Bhuvan Kapri. He criticised the government as rechargeable, adding, No action was taken against the SSP for misbehaving with our MLA Aadesh Chauhan, nor against any officer in the Banbhulpura incident, or even for the misbehaviour with the Leader of Opposition and other MLAs. Haldwani MLA Sumit Hridyesh echoed the sentiment, stating, When discussions on attacks on the Leader of Opposition and MLAs are not allowed, then dharna was our only recourse. He refuted allegations of vandalism, adding, We went live at night to show the truth. Gandhijis truth runs in our blood. Kidnappings have happened before our eyes, and memes are being made about them; nothing is hidden from anyone. Nine key bills passed by the Uttarakhand Assembly: The Uttarakhand Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand-Uttar Pradesh Shri Badrinath and Shri Kedarnath Temples (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion and Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (commonly known as the Anti-Conversion Bill) The Uttarakhand Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand Witness Protection Repeal Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand Minority Education Bill, 2025 (also known as the Minority Educational Institutions Bill) The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2025 The Uttarakhand Loktantra Senani Samman Bill, 2025

BJP wins Nainital Panchayat chair by single vote amid abduction allegations

DEHRADUN: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has clinched the hotly contested Nainital District Panchayat Chairman's post by a wafer-thin margin of just one vote, concluding an election fraught with political drama and allegations of abduction. Deepa Darmwal of the BJP was declared Chairman, while party colleague Devaki Bisht secured the Vice-Chairman position, ending a period of intense political wrangling and anticipation. According to the Election Office, out of 27 eligible members, only 22 cast their ballots. Ms. Darmwal secured 11 votes against her Congress rival, Pushpa Negi, who garnered 10 votes. One vote was declared invalid, sealing Ms. Darmwal's victory by the narrowest possible margin. The election, however, was marred by serious allegations from the Congress party, which claimed that five of their district panchayat members were abducted to prevent them from voting. Our members were kidnapped to stop them from participating in the voting, a Congress leader stated, preferring anonymity due to the ongoing legal battle. Congress leaders had even approached the Nainital High Court over the alleged disappearances, with the matter currently sub judice. Nainital poll turmoil: HC grills officials over alleged violence and abductions Curiously, the five members later released a video on social media asserting they had merely been on a our and were unable to participate in the voting. This counter-narrative has only intensified the political intrigue surrounding the polls. Following the announcement, celebrations erupted in the BJP camp, with supporters garlanding Ms. Darmwal and Ms. Bisht. Election officials formally handed over their victory certificates. The Nainital District Panchayat election had been a high-stakes battle for both the BJP and Congress, with both parties treating it as a matter of prestige. Newly elected District Panchayat Chairman Deepa Darmwal expressed gratitude, stating, This victory is the result of the hard work of the public and our party workers. I thank all the members and assure them that I will work with complete honesty and dedication for the development of the district in the coming time. Despite the celebrations, the Congress continues to challenge the election process, maintaining its legal battle in court.

Nainital poll turmoil: HC grills officials over alleged violence and abductions

DEHRADUN: The Nainital High Court on Monday closely examined the controversial District Panchayat President election, demanding detailed explanations from senior officials amid serious allegations of rigging and violence. A division bench, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Alok Mehra, adjourned the crucial hearing until Tuesday, 19 August. The court deliberated extensively on the petitioners' call for a re-poll, one of the key issues raised, but deferred a decision, stating that the matter would be revisited on Tuesday. Five district panchayat members, allegedly abducted during the election process, were produced before the High Court on Monday. While the court refrained from questioning them directly, it expressed grave concern over reports that an armed gang had come within 200 metres of the polling booth. In a strongly worded remark, the bench stated: This clearly indicates a failure on the part of the police administration, and subsequently requested a detailed affidavit from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) regarding the incident. District Magistrate Vandana Singh, appearing via video conferencing, defended the 3am vote count on 15 August, asserting its legality. She confirmed that the ballot papers, which were stored securely in a treasury locker, had been presented to the court. The DM was also instructed to submit a sworn affidavit. Meanwhile, the Congress party has filed a fresh writ petition, renewing its demand for a re-poll. The court carefully reviewed video evidence, including disturbing footage showing individuals in raincoats allegedly dragging the five abducted members away. Additional concerns were raised over social media videos titled Nainital Ko Hila Dala (Nainital Shaken). The SSP assured the court that arrests related to the videos circulation were imminent. Amid these high-stakes proceedings, prohibitory orders remain in place around the High Court premises, with a heavy police presence deployed to maintain order ahead of todays resumed hearing.

Prohibitory orders imposed around Nainital HC ahead of key election hearing

DEHRADUN: Prohibitory orders have been enforced within a 500-metre radius of the Uttarakhand High Court complex in Nainital, ahead of a crucial hearing scheduled for Monday. The move, enacted under Section 163 of the newly introduced Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, comes in response to concerns over potential public disturbances linked to a high-profile petition challenging the District Panchayat Chairman election. Authorities anticipate a significant gathering of petitioners, supporters, and other interested parties near the court premises, prompting pre-emptive security measures to maintain public order and ensure the smooth conduct of judicial proceedings. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Nawazish Khaliq, who issued the order, stated: A significant petition regarding the Nainital District Panchayat Chairman election is scheduled for hearing before the Chief Justices bench of the Uttarakhand High Court on Monday. There is a strong possibility of a large number of petitioners and supporters converging at the court, which could affect peace and order. This prohibitory order has been issued in anticipation of such a situation to safeguard public safety and judicial integrity. The order prohibits the assembly of five or more persons without prior permission within the designated zone. It also bans public meetings, processions, slogan-chanting, and the carrying of weapons, including sticks, firearms, or explosives, except by police personnel on official duty. Additionally, the directive forbids unauthorised use of loudspeakers, the spreading of rumours, and the distribution of materials deemed harmful to public peace. The display of banners, posters, or pamphlets that could undermine the dignity of the court or provoke unrest is also prohibited. Violations of the order will attract legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, highlighting the administrations resolve to maintain law and order during this sensitive judicial process.

Nainital panchayat poll: HC slams police, FIRs filed in abduction row

DEHRADUN: Police in Nainital, Uttarakhand, have registered FIRs against 11 individuals, including the Bharatiya Janata Party District President, and 15-20 unnamed persons. This action follows a stern High Court reprimand concerning the chaotic local body polls last Thursday, which were reportedly marred by allegations of abduction and assault of Panchayat members, prompting immediate police action. The contested elections on Thursday, August 14, saw significant unrest. Both BJP and Congress accused each other of making their supported District Panchayat members disappear, a source close to the developments stated. These allegations led to a critical situation where five members were reportedly unable to cast their votes. The Congress party wasted no time, approaching the Uttarakhand High Court on the very day of the incident. Following the High Court's sharp observations during the hearing , the police were spurred into action. Four separate cases have since been registered based on complaints from the aggrieved parties. According to police sources, complaints were filed by Pushpa Negi, the Congress candidate for District Panchayat Chairman from Nainital, along with member Zeeshant Kumar and family members of two other affected members. Based on these complaints, the police have named BJP District President Pratap Bisht, Anand Darmwal (husband of BJP's District Panchayat Chairman candidate Deepa Darmwal), and nine others as accused. Additionally, 15 to 20 unidentified individuals have been implicated. Nainital SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena confirmed the development: Based on the complaints, an FIR has been registered against Anand Darmwal, Shankar Koranga, Pratap Bisht Bora, Pramod Bora, Prakhar Sah, BB Bhakuni, Vishal Negi, Pankaj Negi, Shubham Darmwal, and Komal Darmwal, along with 10 to 15 unknown persons. The charges have been filed under various sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Sahinta, including 191(2), 140(3), 115(2), 352, 351(3), 74, and 62. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Congress Leader of Opposition Yashpal Arya and Haldwani MLA Sumit Hrydesh alleged that they themselves were assaulted on Thursday. Congress leaders vehemently accused the BJP of murdering democracy through these actions. A particularly alarming allegation involves the purported abduction of five District Panchayat members Dikar Singh Mewari, Pramod Singh, Tarun Kumar Sharma, Deep Singh Bisht, and Vipin Singh near the polling station, allegedly in the presence of police personnel. This incident has raised serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process, with Congress workers being accused of open hooliganism and kidnapping opposition members. Despite the turmoil, the Election Commission has not yet declared the results for the Nainital District Panchayat Chairman election. Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh confirmed that the election results are sealed in envelopes and secured in a double locker. The matter is scheduled for a hearing in the Nainital High Court on Monday, during which the sealed results will be presented. Further action will only proceed following the High Court's orders.

Uttarakhand polls: Nainital re-vote ordered amid abduction allegations; BJP dominates statewide

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has ordered a fresh election for the Nainital District Panchayat President's post, citing significant irregularities and alleged abduction of members, even as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the recently concluded local body elections across the state. The court also sharply rebuked police and administrative officials during a virtual hearing. During Thursday's virtual hearing on the alleged abduction of ten District Panchayat members, the High Court, led by Chief Justice Narendar G, expressed shock at the police's handling. SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena and DM Vandana Singh were questioned. DM Vandana Singh assured the court of writing to the Election Commission for re-polling within an hour, but the Chief Justice sternly remarked, It appears the SSP wants to protect the criminals. Affidavits are being bought today and you claim you don't know. This followed the government's claim that five members had submitted affidavits wishing to voluntarily abstain. On the question of tracing the missing members via Call Detail Records (CDRs), the SSP stated that an FIR has now been registered at Tallital police station, enabling action based on CDRs and other evidence. The bench further asserted that action should be taken against police personnel present during the incident. It was noted that victims had provided the names of alleged abductors in their complaints, but these complaints were reportedly not registered. They had also revealed the names of the alleged abductors. The SSP Meena admitted failing to locate the missing members after a ten-day search, and that their families had refused to file complaints. Petitioners' lawyers presented a video allegedly showing goons picking up members while police stood by, a claim the SSP denied. The next hearing is on Monday. Despite the Nainital controversy and a loss in Dehradun, the BJP dominated statewide. The party secured 85% of Gram Pradhan posts, 70% of Block Chiefs, and 92% of District Panchayat seats. Five BJP candidates were elected unopposed as District Panchayat Presidents: Jitendra Prasad from Pithoragarh, Ajay Maurya from Udham Singh Nagar, Swati Sajwan from Tehri, Anand Singh Adhikari from Champawat, and Ramesh Chauhan from Uttarkashi. In Dehradun, the Congress scored a significant victory against the BJP. Sukhwinder Kaur was elected District Panchayat President with 17 votes, defeating BJP's Madhu Chauhan (13 votes). Abhishek Singh of Congress also won the Vice-President post with 18 votes, against his rival's 12.

IMD issues red alert for flash floods, cloudburst risk in Uttarakhand, week after Dharali disaster

NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised a red alert, cautioning against an imminent threat of flash floods across the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Bihar and Sikkim in eastern India, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the south and some parts of Maharashtra. It has asked people to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as nature prepares to unleash fury. IMDs caution applies to Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Lahul and Spiti, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts in Himachal and Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi districts in Uttarakhand. The weather office has alerted the Himalayan states, including the Jammu region, of extremely heavy rainfall up to 210 mm in the next day and heavy rain in the next 6-7 days. Satellite imagery shows scattered to broken intense convective clouds over Uttarakhand and also around Uttarkashi, which may cause cloudburst-induced flash floods. Uttarakhand cloudburst-hit Dharali villagers seek Kedarnath-style rebuild, relocation to nearby sites Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim of east India, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, east and north Telangana and Maharashtras Marathwada region may also witness low to moderate flash flood risk. In its bulletin, the IMD said inundation may occur at some saturated soils and low-lying areas over the regions of concern. The IMD has warned of hefty rainfall in west-central India adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal off north Andhra and south Odisha coasts due to the emergence of a low-pressure area along the Bay of Bengal. Under its influence, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema, Telangana, and Karnataka are more likely to receive hefty rainfall from August 13 to 17. Fisherfolk have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea between August 13 and 18. A similar advice relates to areas along and off the Sri Lankan coast, along and off the Andhra Pradesh coast, and the Odisha coast during the same period. Blockbuster monsoon likely in the second fortnight of August, said Debashish Jena, researcher and agrometeorologist at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Uttarakhand. Experts blame decades of deodar tree felling for worsening Uttarkashi cloudburst

Heavy rains claim two lives in Uttarakhand; pilgrimages halted

DEHRADUN: Two people, including a child, have died and two others are missing following rain-related incidents across Uttarakhand on Wednesday. Authorities confirmed the fatalities and disappearances as the State Emergency Operations Centre reported the grim events. The tragedy unfolded amidst warnings of heavy rainfall across the state for the coming days, leading to the suspension of major pilgrimages. Among the reported incidents, a woman lost her life, and four others were injured when their vehicle was hit by falling stones near Gholtir Shivnandi in Rudraprayag district. The vehicle was reportedly struck by debris dislodged from the hillside. In a separate heartbreaking incident in Tehri district, nine-year-old Aryan drowned after being swept away by a rain-swollen seasonal stream. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM in Darjana village, Ghansali, when Aryan slipped while attempting to cross the stream with his grandfather. Meanwhile, rescue efforts are underway for a 55-year-old woman, Pratapi Devi, who went missing after falling into an overflowing stream in Livadi village, Mori area of Uttarkashi district. Police reported that the incident, where she was swept away by the strong currents, happened when she was leading her cattle across the stream. District Disaster Management Officer Brijesh Bhatt confirmed that police and State Disaster Response Force teams launched a search operation immediately, but have so far been unable to locate her. The grim incidents coincide with severe weather alerts issued for the state. A Red Alert has been declared for Wednesday and Thursday for Bageshwar, Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Haridwar, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, predicting extremely heavy rainfall. An Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rain is in place for other districts. For Friday, August 15, Bageshwar, Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Nainital, and Champawat remain under an Orange Alert, with the rest of the state under a Yellow Alert for moderate to heavy rain. In light of the severe weather forecast, the State Emergency Operations Centre has urged all District Magistrates to exercise extreme caution. The Kedarnath Yatra has been suspended until August 14 by the Rudraprayag district administration. Similarly, the Chamoli district administration has halted the Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib pilgrimages until August 14, and trekking in the district has been banned until August 15.

Unchecked construction fuelling rise in natural disasters in Uttarakhand: Scientists

DEHRADUN: Unchecked human intervention in sensitive Himalayan states like Uttarakhand is ringing alarm bells for nature, transforming pristine beauty into a breeding ground for disaster. Rapid, uncontrolled construction in these ecologically fragile mountainous regions, rich in natural beauty and biodiversity, is not merely disturbing the environmental balance but is now directly fuelling a surge in natural calamities. Senior scientists at Nainital's Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) assert that the haphazard construction of buildings and roads is profoundly impacting the delicate Himalayan ecosystem. Experts explain that mountain soil is inherently fragile. Large-scale excavation and construction not only diminish the soil's natural water retention capacity but also destabilise the delicate climatic system. This disturbance is having a direct and alarming impact on regional weather patterns. Notably, there's been a significant increase in 'local cloud formation' an unusual accumulation of clouds at lower altitudes in mountainous areas. These low-lying clouds are prone to sudden, intense bursts of rainfall, leading to a surge in devastating cloudburst incidents. Narendra Singh, a meteorologist at ARIES, elaborated on the unseen impacts. Construction activities affect nature not just visibly, but invisibly too, he told TNIE . Every building emits radiation, which returns to the atmosphere, contributing to a rise in temperature. Areas with extensive construction typically record higher average temperatures compared to their surrounding regions. Dr. Singh further claimed that this localised temperature increase fundamentally alters the dynamics of cloud formation and precipitation. The combined impact of global warming, rampant deforestation, and unchecked construction is now starkly evident across the Himalayas, Dr. Singh stated. Where clouds once took months to form, delivering gentle, sustained rainfall, they now gather within hours, unleashing devastating deluges. Scientists have issued a grave warning: if the current pace of unsustainable development continues, incidents of cloudbursts and landslides in Uttarakhand and other Himalayan states could multiply manifold in the coming years. Local environmentalists echo these concerns, asserting that it is imperative to strike a critical balance between development and ecological preservation. They advocate for meticulously planned and sustainable construction practices, robust forest conservation efforts, and stringent controls on building activities in fragile mountainous regions as the only viable path to avert this looming crisis.

Disaster fears cripple Uttarakhand tourism, 80% hotel bookings cancelled in Nainital

DEHRADUN: The recent rains and landslides in Uttarkashi's Dharali have cast a long shadow over Uttarakhand's world-renowned tourism industry, severely impacting popular hill station Nainital and partially affecting Mussoorie. New bookings for both destinations have slowed down, sending shockwaves through the local economy. The tourism sector, which had pinned its hopes on the upcoming Independence Day long weekend, has seen a devastating wave of cancellations following the Dharali tragedy. Hoteliers are now urgently appealing to the district administration and the state government for meaningful intervention to safeguard their livelihoods. The disaster in Dharali has truly cursed our tourism business, lamented a local hotelier. Before Independence Day, 80 percent of hotel bookings have been cancelled. After a challenging peak season in May and June, tourism operators had anticipated a significant boost during the Independence Day holidays. However, the May season itself was largely a washout due to various incidents, including the Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor, and public outcry over a child rape case in Nainital. Digvijay Singh Bisht, President of the Nainital Hotel & Restaurant Association, confirmed the grim situation to this newspaper. 80 percent of bookings in various hotels in Nainital have been cancelled, he stated. Earlier, tourists used to inquire about weather conditions before booking, but now, phones aren't ringing at all. Experts blame decades of deodar tree felling for worsening Uttarkashi cloudburst In contrast, Mussoorie has experienced a comparatively lesser impact. Sanjay Agarwal, President of the Mussoorie Hotel Association, told TNIE , Mussoorie has seen about 5 to 10% booking cancellations. However, bookings around the August 15th holidays are still normal. Hotel owners believe that early and heavy monsoon rains had already dampened earnings in June and July. They had pinned their hopes on the upcoming string of holidays, including Rakshabandhan, Independence Day, Janmashtami, and weekend breaks, but the Dharali disaster has effectively dashed those expectations. Tribhuvan Fartyal, President of the Pangot Hotel and Restaurant Association, echoed the sentiment. Hotel and resort owners were expecting good tourism during Independence Day. Advance bookings were building strong hopes, but more than half of those bookings have been cancelled within six days of the Dharali incident. Rajendra Kapil, President of the Bhawali Hotel and Restaurant Association, highlighted another contributing factor. Bookings have been consistently cancelled over the past few days. Tourists are afraid to come here due to misleading information on social media portraying the entire Uttarakhand as unsafe. Sudarshan Shah, President of the Mukteshwar Hotel Association, called for immediate government action. Due to various reasons, the tourism season in May and June this year was weaker compared to previous years. Then, this disaster shattered our hopes. The government and administration must send a positive message to support the tourism businesses. Uttarkashi flash floods: Rescue operations enter day six; 1,308 people evacuated

Dehradun Schools Shut Amid Predictions Of Heavy Rain, Orange Alert

In Uttarakhand, the India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for three days in the districts of Dehradun, Nainital, Champawat, Bageshwar, Pauri Garhwal and Udham Singh Nagar.

Uttarakhand weather: IMD issues orange alert for heavy rain in Dehradun, Nainital & other districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several Uttarakhand districts, including Dehradun and Nainital, forecasting heavy rainfall for three days. Tragically, an 11-year-old boy drowned in waterlogged Khamaria village in Udham Singh Nagar district due to continuous rain. Authorities have recovered the body and provided the family with a compensation of Rs four lakh.

Union cabinet secretary challenges seven-year-old CAT order in IFS officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi case

DEHRADUN: In a rare and significant move, the Union Cabinet Secretary has approached Uttarakhand High Court, to seek the quashing of a seven-year-old Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) order concerning Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi. The petition also challenges contempt notices issued to the Cabinet Secretary by the Nainital Bench of CAT on May 21. The Uttarakhand High Court is set to examine a long-standing dispute involving Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi, concerning the downgrading of his annual performance review and alleged suppression of corruption cases he investigated during his tenure at AIIMS, Delhi. The case dates back to 2018 when the Nainital bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) dismissed an application filed by the then Cabinet Secretary regarding the downgrading of Chaturvedi's Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR) for 2015-16. The Tribunal had ruled that the Cabinet Secretary was a necessary party to the case since he had approved Chaturvedi's selection and many of the officer's grievances were directed against him. In a recent development, the Cabinet Secretary has approached the High Court seeking to quash CAT's February 2023 order, which directed the Cabinet Secretary, Health Secretary, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), and AIIMS to provide documents related to the closure of certain high-profile corruption cases. These cases were initiated during Chaturvedi's tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of AIIMS from 2012 to 2014. Simultaneously, the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has filed a separate petition requesting the High Court to remove the Cabinet Secretary's name from the case and substitute it with the DoPT Secretary's name instead. The controversy stems from Chaturvedi's challenge in July 2017 against the downgrading of his 2015-16 APAR. CAT had stayed the downgrading in September 2017. In 2019, Chaturvedi further alleged that his performance review was deliberately downgraded as an act of vendetta for his anti-corruption efforts. During his tenure as CVO of AIIMS, Chaturvedi had initiated action in nearly 200 corruption cases, including those involving the then AIIMS Director, a senior Tamil Nadu-cadre IPS officer, and a Himachal Pradesh-cadre IAS officer. The High Court, after hearing the Attorney General's submissions, has listed the matter for further hearing on August 28.

Landslide at Uttarakhand hydro project injures 12 workers, four critical

DEHRADUN: Twelve workers were injured, four of them critically, in a sudden landslide that struck the dam site of the under-construction Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project in Helang, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, on Saturday. The project is being developed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC). Following the incident, teams from the tehsil administration, police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and health department swiftly arrived at the site. All injured workers were rescued and immediately admitted to various hospitals for treatment. District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari confirmed that there were no fatalities reported from the Helang incident, stating that 12 workers sustained injuries in total. Of the injured, four are currently receiving treatment at the THDC Hospital. Two seriously injured workers are undergoing treatment at Swami Vivekananda Hospital in Pipalkoti, while another individual had a plaster cast applied at the same facility. One critically injured worker has been referred to the Medical College in Srinagar for advanced care. The Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project, an ambitious undertaking by THDC, is being constructed on the Alaknanda River. The river is currently diverted through a diversion tunnel, and the accident allegedly occurred during ongoing construction work at this site. Nand Kishore Joshi, District Disaster Management Officer of Chamoli, told this newspaper, One injured person has been sent to Srinagar Hospital for an MRI scan due to a head injury. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi told this daily, All individuals have been rescued and saved safely by SDRF along with other relief teams. The incident comes as the Meteorological Department issued a flood warning for the next 24 hours, starting Saturday. Heavy rainfall is expected to increase the risk of flooding in several districts, including Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi.

Is Naini Lake Haunted By A Predator? Fish Deaths, Foul Stench Alarm Locals

Naini Lake in Nainital is facing a crisis with dead fish and a deteriorating ecosystem. Locals suspect predatory Mangura fish, and authorities are working to address the issue

Foul stench from dead fish in Naini Lake threatens Nainitals tourism jewel

DEHRADUN: The picturesque Naini Lake, the very heart of Nainital's burgeoning tourism industry, is currently grappling with a disturbing and pervasive problem: a strong, foul odour emanating from a significant number of dead and partially eaten fish. This unwelcome stench is threatening to mar the serene experience for visitors, raising urgent concerns for the hill station's critical tourism economy. Tourists visiting the popular destination have reported an unpleasant smell across various parts of the lake. The sight of decaying, half-eaten fish bodies floating in the water has prompted widespread speculation among locals and authorities alike. One prevalent theory attributes the deaths to the presence of the carnivorous 'Mangura' (catfish), which was reportedly sighted in the lake on June 27, and, according to sources, has not been removed since. Mangura are known for preying on other aquatic life, and their presence could explain the half-eaten carcasses. Another hypothesis suggests the natural lifespan of the lake's common Silver Carp and Grass Carp may have simply come to an end, leading to a wave of natural deaths. Tourists speaking to the TNIE voiced their dismay, Anurag Gupta from Meerut, visiting with friends Priyank and Dilip Singh, lamented, Amidst Nainital's beautiful visuals and natural beauty, this smell near the lake completely spoiled our fun. The administration must pay immediate attention, or tourists will be deterred from visiting. Malvika Bajpai, a teacher from Noida who visited with her family, echoed the sentiment. Everything else in Nainital was lovely, but the foul smell from the lake during our boat ride, especially with the gusts of wind, really ruined the mood, she told the TNIE. It's not the first time the lake has faced such an issue; in July 2010, 39 Mangura fish were swiftly removed by the then Lake Development Authority after certain individuals reportedly introduced them. Dozens of dead fish have reportedly been recovered from the lake in recent weeks. Nainital Municipal Executive Officer, Rohitash Sharma, stated that his team is continuously undertaking cleaning operations in the lake and has already removed numerous dead fish. If any more dead fish remain, we will remove them immediately, he assured. Vijay Nath Shukla, Secretary of the District Development Authority, confirmed that the Fisheries Department in Pantnagar, which houses experts in aquatic life, has been informed about the situation. Whatever the cause, these decaying, foul-smelling fish must be removed from the water as quickly as possible, Shukla emphasised. As Nainital relies heavily on its picturesque lake for its appeal, authorities face mounting pressure to swiftly address the problem and restore the lake's pristine condition, ensuring its continued allure as a premier tourist destination.

No road, no wedding bells: Gairkhet village in Nainital cries for connectivity

NAINITAL: Despite grand government claims of connecting every village with a road network, the harsh reality in Uttarakhand paints a starkly different picture. Just a mere three kilometres from the bustling Nainital district headquarters lies Gairkhet, a village frozen in time. Its residents are grappling with the profound isolation of living without a single motorable road. This lack of basic connectivity doesn't just hinder development; it dictates every aspect of life, from education, healthcare, to even the very prospects of marriage. Each morning, schoolchildren embark on a gruelling 10-kilometre round trip on winding, treacherous paths to reach schools in Nainital. It takes us nearly two hours just to commute, and we live in constant fear of wild animals, recounts Himani Bisht, a student, highlighting the daily peril. Healthcare is a distant dream; the sick, especially pregnant women, must be carried on shoulders or makeshift palanquins to the B.D. Pandey District Hospital in Nainital. Several pregnant women had miscarriages due to delays in reaching the hospital; one woman, despite four pregnancies, lost all her cases, tragically shares Hema, a local resident. Perhaps, the most heartbreaking consequence is the village's inability to secure marital alliances. The biggest problem is that due to the lack of a road, young boys and girls here do not get wedding proposals, shares local resident Deepika. Hema corroborates: Our sons and daughters are growing older; but no one wants to marry into a village without a road. This grim reality has forced nearly half the village to migrate. The lack of connectivity impacts daily life severely. Even basic necessities come at a steep price; villagers pay up to Rs 500 to labourers just to ferry household goods. Our fresh vegetables and fruits rot in the fields because there's no way to transport them to the city market, laments Dheeraj, a local. Replacing an empty gas cylinder means Rs 400 as labour charges for carrying it on the shoulders from the city. No official seems to care about our plight, he adds. Manish Jalal adds to the safety concerns: We have to walk long distances, and theres always the danger of stones falling upon, especially for children. Nainital Municipal Councillor Bhagwat Singh Rawat offers a contrasting view, stating, There is no village in Nainital district that has not yet been connected by road. All villages have link roads and all kinds of facilities are being provided. However, he concedes the Gairkhet issue: The demand for a road in Gairkhet has been pending since 2008, but for unknown reasons, it hasn't been built yet. As Gairkhet continues its isolated existence, its residents can only hope that their desperate cries for connectivity will finally be heard, paving the way for a future where roads don't just connect places, but also lives and dreams. District Magistrate Vandana Singh stated that the process had been delayed due to technical obstacles in forest land transfer, but now the proposal has been cleared at all levels and has reached the Government of India. Answers to some queries raised by the central government have also been sent, and the department is working on it expeditiously.

'If you can't speak English...': HC slams Nainital ADM

The Uttarakhand high court has asked two top officials of the state to find out whether an officer who has no knowledge of English can effectively control an executive position after an additional district magistrate responded in Hindi during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL).

Monsoon fury fails to deter Char Dham pilgrims; Over 40 lakh devotees flock to Uttarakhand shrines amid inclement weather

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's revered Char Dham Yatra continues its remarkable momentum, drawing an unprecedented number of pilgrims despite the relentless monsoon season. Even before July concludes, the pilgrim count has soared past the 40 lakh mark, with over three months of the sacred journey still remaining this year. The 84-day pilgrimage, which commenced on April 30, has seen Kedarnath Dham emerge as the most frequented, welcoming a staggering 14.19 lakh devotees. However, the spiritual journey remains fraught with challenges. Heavy rainfall has triggered widespread landslides and debris flow, leading to the closure of 54 roads across the state, including two crucial national highways. This has caused significant inconvenience for both local residents and the scores of pilgrims. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, the Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highway in Chamoli district is currently blocked near Bhapkund due to a massive rockfall. The closure even stranded 11 polling parties dispatched from Joshimath for the upcoming Panchayat elections, preventing them from reaching their designated polling stations late into the evening. Similarly, the Ghatiabagarh-Lipulekh-Gunji National Highway in Pithoragarh is impassable near Lamari (Kilometer 11 milestone). District-wise, road closures include five in Uttarkashi, six in Tehri, seven in Rudraprayag, nine in Pithoragarh, eleven in Pauri, one in Nainital, three in Dehradun, ten in Chamoli, and one each in Almora and Bageshwar. Despite these formidable hurdles, the pace of the Char Dham Yatra shows no signs of slowing down. The Char Dham Yatra began on April 30. While the monsoon's onset initially slowed the pace, the pilgrimage has continued robustly despite severe weather challenges, said Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director of the Yatra Division at the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. As of Wednesday, after 85 days of the journey, over 4.06 million pilgrims have visited Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Hemkund Sahib, Gangwar added. Gangwar highlighted the dramatic increase in daily visitors, which has surged from just over 8,000 on July 13 to a remarkable 30,000 now. Pilgrim Count by Dham (as of Wednesday): Kedarnath: 1,419,555 Badrinath: 1,189,747 Gangotri: 658,232 Yamunotri: 577,798 Hemkund Sahib: 218,536

Underperforming teachers in Uttarakhand to face mandatory hill transfers under new transfer policy

DEHRADUN: In a decisive and unprecedented move aimed at dramatically elevating educational standards, the Uttarakhand Education Ministry is poised to implement a transformative new transfer policy. According to sources in the Education Department, the new groundbreaking initiative, specifically targeting teachers who have consistently delivered subpar academic results, represents a significant shift from previous, less impactful reforms. After years of grappling with fluctuating educational outcomes, this latest directive is designed to inject accountability and rigor into the state's schooling system. Dubbed one of the department's more unconventional decrees, the revamped policy mandates that teachers demonstrating poor academic performance in plain areas over the past two years will be compulsorily transferred to schools located in the state's challenging hill regions. This measure is widely viewed not just as a disciplinary action but also as a strategic redeployment for those deemed to have damaged the future of children through ineffective teaching. The underlying philosophy ensures every teacher contributes meaningfully to student success. The 2017 Transfer Act previously governed all employee transfers, but the Education Department has now drafted a specific new policy tailored exclusively for teachers, Uttarakhand Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat told the TNIE . This comprehensive policy, which is slated for presentation to the Cabinet very soon, fundamentally redefines the state's geographical divisions for transfer purposes. Instead of the previous 'Accessible' and 'Inaccessible' zones, the state will now be categorized into distinct 'Hilly' and 'Plain' regions, he added. Dr. Rawat further elaborated on the stringent criteria for these mandatory transfers: Under the new rules, any teacher whose students' Class 10th or 12th board examination results have been consistently poor for two consecutive academic years will face compulsory relocation to the hills. To be eligible for these mandatory transfers, teachers must also have accumulated at least 16 service points. These service points are typically calculated based on factors like years of service and postings in remote areas. All transfers will be conducted transparently through an online system, with allocation based on service points accumulated in either mountainous or plain regions. The policy precisely categorizes Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar as high hill districts. Other non-plain areas, including parts of Tehri, Rudraprayag, Pauri, Dehradun, Almora, Champawat, and Nainital, will be designated as low hill districts. Teachers will be required to complete a minimum service period in both regions, with a maximum tenure of five years in any specific sub-zone, ensuring a balanced distribution of experienced teachers. Currently, a one-time cadre change is permitted after three years of service. Special provisions have been incorporated for teachers serving in specialized institutions like SCERT, CIMAT, and DIET. Additionally, in a gesture of support, unmarried women teachers will be granted a one-time spousal transfer option to their husband's workplace or home district post-marriage.

Dhankhar has been keeping unwell, but...

In June, on a visit to Nainital in Uttarakhand, Dhankhar had collapsed at the Kumaon University.

MeT department issues red alert for heavy rainfall in parts of Uttarakhand's Kumaon region

Nainital, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar in the Kumaon region are likely to be pounded by extremely heavy rainfall on Sunday

Uttarakhand HC firm on dual voter list order; SEC faces fresh setback in Panchayat polls

DEHRADUN: In a significant blow to the State Election Commission (SEC), the Nainital High Court has once again taken a stringent stand on the upcoming three-tier Panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, slated for the end of this month. During a crucial hearing on Monday, the court issued explicit directives, stating that elections must adhere strictly to the provisions of the Panchayati Raj Act, warning that no violation would be tolerated. The court reiterated that candidates whose names appear on voter lists in two different locations will be deemed ineligible to contest. This controversy primarily revolves around candidates whose names are registered in both municipal (urban) and three-tier Panchayat (rural) voter lists. Dehradun-based social activist Shakti Singh Bartwal initially highlighted this anomaly. On July 7 and 8, Bartwal wrote to the Uttarakhand State Election Commission, urging them to issue clear guidelines to prevent voters listed in urban body electoral rolls from participating or nominating themselves in the Panchayat elections. Dissatisfied with the Commission's response and alleging non-compliance with Sub-sections 6 and 7 of Section 9 of the Panchayati Raj Act, Bartwal filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court. His petition argued that having names on two separate voter lists is considered a criminal offense in other states, questioning the basis on which the Uttarakhand SEC was approving such candidacies. The High Court had previously issued directives on this matter on July 11 . Against these instructions, the State Election Commission had filed a review petition , arguing that significant resources had already been expended on the election process and seeking clarification on the decision's impact on the ongoing electoral exercise. During Monday's hearing on the SEC's review petition, the High Court reiterated its earlier orders, effectively dismissing the Commission's arguments. The court emphatically stated, Elections must be conducted only under the provisions of the Panchayati Act. The court also clarified that it had not imposed any stay on the Panchayat elections. Furthermore, it stated that if any objection or complaint arises regarding a candidate, the aggrieved party could file a petition even after the elections. Advocates Sanjay Bhatt and Special Counsel Arvind Vashishth represented the State Election Commission in court. The High Court's decision has once again sent ripples through the Panchayat election process across the state's 12 districts. The situation has been further complicated by varying decisions from Returning Officers regarding dual-listed candidates, with some nominations being rejected while others were accepted. Following the Nainital High Court's order, the SEC has revised symbol allocation dates for Panchayat elections: commenced on Monday at 2 PM, continuing Tuesday from 8 AM until completion.

Uttarakhand panchayat polls: From IPS officers to Colonels, educated elite reshape rural leadership

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's upcoming panchayat elections are witnessing a significant paradigm shift, with highly qualified professionals -- from retired IPS officers and army colonels to teachers and IT specialists -- entering the fray, signalling a new era for rural governance. Voting for the two-phase polls is set to begin on July 24. Gone are the days when a village head was rarely educated beyond basic schooling. This election cycle sees a remarkable influx of candidates with impressive credentials, eager to serve their communities and test their fortunes in the grassroots democratic process. This ew craze, as local observers describe it, is attracting widespread attention across the Himalayan state. Amidst the usual political manoeuvring, two small villages in Uttarakhand Gunji in Kumaon and Birgan in Garhwal have set inspiring precedents. Their residents have unanimously chosen leaders whose lives exemplify service and dedication, completely bypassing the electoral process. In Gunji, villagers elected retired IPS officer and former Inspector General (Jails) Vimla Gusain unopposed. Similarly, in Birgan, Pauri district, retired Indian Army Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi was chosen as the Gram Pradhan without contest. This is not just a testament to rural unity and wisdom in democracy, but it also shows that people are now bringing forward capable and selfless leadership to change the direction and condition of their villages, Bhriguram, a local villager noted. According to election office sources, under Section 53(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, a candidate is declared elected unopposed if they are the sole nominee. This tradition has been observed in various parts of the State before, particularly in tribal areas like Jaunsar-Bawar. A village in Nainital district has also consistently chosen its Gram Pradhan unopposed for years, with one past election even decided by a coin toss. Vimla Gusain, a native of Gunji village in Pithoragarh district, recently retired from police service and holds the distinction of being Uttarakhand's first woman Jail Superintendent. Colonel Yashpal Singh Negi, from Birgan village in Pauri Garhwal's Bironkhal block, returned to his village after three decades of distinguished service in the army. The ongoing nomination process for panchayat elections continues to reveal a diverse pool of highly qualified individuals vying for positions ranging from Gram Pradhan to Block Development Committee members and District Panchayat members. Kavita Arya, a private school teacher, resigned from her job to contest for Gram Pradhan from Basani village in Haldwani. Diksha Bisht and Vaishali Negi, both B.Ed graduates from Gaulapar, are also in the race for Gram Pradhan. Meena Pandey, who previously assisted her husband in business and politics, now dreams of becoming the Block Pramukh of Haldwani, confident her qualifications will benefit the local populace. Neelu Negi, a Political Science postgraduate who runs a SHG, is actively campaigning, aiming to make a significant impact in her area.

Uttarakhand sacks 234 doctors for bond violation, prolonged absence; recovery proceedings initiated

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has dismissed 234 doctors for prolonged absenteeism and blatant violation of their bond agreements. The action has sent shockwaves through the state's health department, which is also poised to initiate recovery proceedings against these bond-bound doctors. The Health Department has already begun the process of forwarding the list of these 234 doctors to the National Medical Council. Officials estimate that a staggering sum of up to Rs 2 crore could be recovered from the doctors as part of their bond obligations. Uttarakhand Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat weighed in on the drastic step. Many doctors completed their MBBS studies in the state at subsidized fees but subsequently violated the terms of their bond agreements, Rawat told TNIE . Around 234 such doctors have been identified. These doctors have reportedly been absent from duty for extended periods without any official notification, leading to their dismissal. Rawat further elaborated on the terms of the agreement. As per the agreement with their respective medical colleges, these doctors were mandated to serve in the state's hilly districts for a minimum of five years upon graduating with their MBBS, he explained. The bond stipulated that failure to comply would require them to deposit a pre-determined sum and obtain a No Objection Certificate before pursuing opportunities outside the state or entering private practice. Despite these clear terms, 234 doctors assigned to the state's remote mountainous regions have remained absent from their posts without authorisation. This constitutes a clear breach of bond conditions and an act of gross indiscipline, the minister said. Sources within the Health Department revealed the breakdown of the dismissed doctors as approximately 56 from Doon Medical College, 95 from Haldwani Medical College, and 83 from Srinagar Medical College. Each of these doctors had signed a bond during their MBBS admission, committing to five years of service in the state's hilly terrain. Their original documents and medical certificates are reportedly still held by their respective colleges. Taking a serious view of the matter, the state government has directed the Director of Medical Education to initiate the recovery of bond amounts from all absent doctors, as per the terms of their agreements. In a related development, the Health Secretary has been instructed to seek explanations from Chief Medical Officers of the districts where these doctors were posted, as well as the in-charge officers of the respective hospitals. The inquiry aims to ascertain why local authorities failed to initiate timely action against the absent medical professionals. The dismissed doctors were assigned across various districts, with the highest numbers in Chamoli (46), Nainital (31), Tehri Garhwal (29), Pauri Garhwal (26), Uttarkashi (25), and Pithoragarh (25). Other affected districts include Almora (16), Rudraprayag (14), Champawat (11), Bageshwar (10), and even one doctor from Dehradun district who remains untraceable.

2 IAF personnel drown in Nainital lake as heavy rains pound Uttarakhand

Amidst heavy rains in Uttarakhand, two IAF personnel drowned in Bhimtal lake, prompting rescue operations. The severe weather has disrupted the Chardham Yatra, blocked over a hundred roads, and caused food shortages. The Home Minister has assured support, with NDRF and ITBP being deployed to mitigate the impact and ensure the Yatra continues smoothly.

Two IAF personnel drown while bathing in lake near Bhimtal in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: Two Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel, part of an eight-member group on a trip from Punjab, tragically drowned while bathing in a lake near Bhimtal, Nainital district, Uttarakhand, on Thursday. Their insistence on taking a dip in the scenic yet treacherous waters led to the fatal incident. According to police sources, two IAF personnel from Pathankot, Punjab, along with six other friends, had arrived in Nainital on Wednesday. They were staying at a hotel in Sundarkhal, Dhari, with a pre-scheduled plan of enjoying the region's natural beauty. Bhimtal's Police Circle Officer, Pramod Sah told the TNIE , On Thursday, the group of eight friends went to Musatal, located between Parital in Belwagaon, Chafi, Bhimtal. Upon reaching Musatal, Sourabh Singh Nayal, Prince Yadav, Sahil, and Vijender decided to bathe and entered the lake without much thought. He continued, While bathing, Prince Yadav and Sahil went into deeper waters and began to drown. Sourabh and Vijender made strenuous efforts to save them, but their attempts were in vain. Following the death of their two friends, Sourabh, Vijender, and four other female friends are inconsolable, weeping uncontrollably. The trip now holds only bitter and heart-wrenching memories for the accompanying personnel. Local eyewitnesses corroborated that the two men lost their lives due to their insistence on bathing. Sub Divisional Magistrate K.N. Goswami and Police Circle Officer Pramod Sah promptly arrived at the scene, gathered full details of the accident, and initiated immediate relief operations. Relatives accompanying the deceased informed the police that they were staying at the Sundarkhal hotel. Police Circle Officer Sah reiterated that warning boards are installed by the police, and action is taken against those entering rivers and lakes. He stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found bathing in the area.

Nainital HC sounds alarm on teen marriages, orders awareness drive

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand High Court has expressed deep concern over the rising number of adolescents entering into marriages and subsequently seeking court protection. The court deems the trend alarming and fraught with serious consequences, including potential charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The court had previously summoned Uttrakhand's Secretary for Child Rights Welfare, Chandresh Yadav, who appeared before the bench on Thursday. During the proceedings, the court directed Secretary Chandresh Kumar to prepare and present a comprehensive plan within two weeks. This plan aims to raise public awareness about the seriousness of the POCSO Act and address the growing issue of underage unions. The plan also focusses at sensitising parents especially, about the gravity of the POCSO Act, thereby enabling them to guide their children effectively. A division bench of the Nainital High Court, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra, observed during the hearing of one such case, stating, This trend is alarming and needs attention. The specific matter before the court involved a 19-year-old youth who, after marrying a girl of his age, sought court protection from her family. The bench noted with concern the increasing number of such cases where petitioners are often adolescents. While acknowledging the legal right to choose one's life partner, the court underscored that the growing tendency of marriages among minors makes it difficult for them to develop a sense of responsibility at such a young age. The court further highlighted grim scenarios where such marriages lead to severe repercussions. It pointed to instances where girls, later claimed by their parents to be minors, resulted in severe punishment for the young man under the POCSO Act, often leaving the married girl alone and vulnerable. In many cases, the court observed, he girl even became a mother after marriage, only for the husband to be jailed under POCSO, or the couple separated after maturity, leaving the child destitute. Such situations also encourage other crimes. The court also mandated that these awareness programs be implemented at the grassroots level through the Education Department, Rural Development Departments, Anganwadis, local administration, and para-legal volunteers in sensitive areas. It further emphasised the use of creative methods like plays and short films to effectively sensitise young adults about the issue. The next hearing in the matter will take place after the submission of the proposed plan.

Uttarakhand reels under heavy rain fury; 15 missing, key highways washed away, orange alert in seven districts

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is battling a severe monsoon crisis with relentless rains triggering landslides, road closures, and multiple rescue operations. An orange alert has been issued for seven districts, while authorities search for 15 people missing in separate rain-related incidents. The incessant downpour and subsequent landslides are making rescue and recovery operations incredibly difficult. Rescue operations are underway to locate 15 individuals who went missing in two separate incidents. A Tempo Traveller plunged into the Alaknanda River last week, claiming three lives, and seven individuals are still untraceable. In a separate incident near Silai Band, six labourers went missing after a road was completely washed away by surging waters. The Rishikesh-Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi has been entirely washed away near Silai Band and Aujhari, bringing all vehicular movement to a halt. The Kalsi-Chakrata State Highway in Dehradun district is also closed due to a massive debris slide. However, several key routes remain open, including the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway and the Rishikesh-Badrinath and Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highways. The scale of disruption is significant, with a staggering number of roads closed across various districts due to debris. These include 15 roads in Uttarkashi, 11 in Tehri, nine in Rudraprayag, five in Pithoragarh, 48 in Pauri, two in Nainital, nine in Dehradun, 15 in Champawat, 21 in Chamoli, 16 in Bageshwar, and two in Almora district. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has taken charge, conducting an on-site inspection of the affected area and issuing urgent directives to joint teams from NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, Police, and the Revenue Department to intensify search and rescue efforts. He has also directed the Irrigation Department to expedite work on draining water from a lake forming in the Yamuna River. The immediate focus remains on the tragic incident that occurred late Saturday night, which affected 29 labourers . Of these, 20 labourers have been safely rescued, and three deaths have been confirmed. A continuous and desperate search is underway for the remaining six missing labourers. The situation remains critical, and authorities are working tirelessly to rescue those affected and restore normalcy to the region.

Fourteenth judge recuses from case involving whistleblower Sanjeev Chaturvedi

DEHRADUN: In a continuing setback for whistleblowers in India, a fourteenth judge has recused herself from a case involving Ramon Magsaysay Award-winning Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Kushwaha of Nainital stepped aside from a criminal defamation case filed by Chaturvedi, citing personal reasons linked to familial connections. The case, filed in November 2023, concerns allegations by Chaturvedi that Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) member Manish Garg used objectionable language against him in open court on October 16, 2023. ACJM Kushwaha stated that she is related to another CAT member, D.S. Mehra, who often visits her official residence a connection she deemed sufficient grounds for her recusal. The familial link gains further relevance as Mehras bench had, in October 2024, issued a criminal contempt notice against Chaturvedi for initiating the defamation case. In retaliation, Chaturvedi filed a contempt petition against Mehra in November 2024. Uttarakhand CAT bench issues contempt notices to Cabinet Secretary, two top officials in Sanjiv Chaturvedi case Chaturvedi, who was honoured in 2015 for his anti-corruption efforts, has seen an unusual number of judges withdraw from hearing his cases 14 in total across various judicial levels. This includes two Supreme Court justices, two judges of the Nainital High Court, the CAT Chairman, one trial court judge in Shimla, and seven CAT members from benches in Delhi and Allahabad. The trend of judicial recusals has intensified in recent years. In February 2025, CAT members Harwinder Kaur Oberoi and B. Anand recused themselves from a matter concerning Chaturvedis appraisal report without offering any explanation, also instructing the registry not to list future matters involving him before their bench. A similar step was taken in February 2024 by Uttarakhand High Court Justice Manoj Tiwari in cases related to Chaturvedis deputation. This pattern stretches back over a decade. In 2018, the Uttarakhand High Court directed that Chaturvedis service-related matters be heard exclusively by the Nainital Circuit Bench, penalising the Central Government Rs 25,000 a decision upheld by the Supreme Court. The High Court reaffirmed this in 2021, prompting another legal challenge by the Centre, now pending before a larger Supreme Court bench since March 2023. Earlier recusals include that of then-Supreme Court Justice Ranjan Gogoi in 2013 and Justice U.U. Lalit in 2016 from a petition filed by Chaturvedi seeking a CBI probe into alleged corruption by then Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and other senior officials. Both stepped aside without citing reasons. The frequency and opacity of these recusals continue to raise concerns about judicial impartiality and access to justice for whistleblowers in India.

Heavy rains trigger major landslides across Uttarakhand, Yamunotri highway blocked

DEHRADUN: Heavy rainfall late Friday night triggered a significant landslide near Poligad on the Yamunotri National Highway, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. Hundreds of pilgrims embarking on the sacred Yamunotri Yatra have been left stranded on both sides of the highway since Saturday morning, facing considerable inconvenience. Heavy machinery from the National Highway Department has been deployed to the site, and clearance operations are currently underway to restore connectivity. Adding to the disruption, several other crucial routes across Uttarakhand have also been impacted by landslides and debris. According to the District Disaster Management Office, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Sirobagad, while the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund Highway remains impassable near Sonprayag. Additionally, the Badrinath Highway has been obstructed by debris near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti. Long queues of vehicles have formed at all three locations, with passengers waiting for a break in the weather. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for heavy rainfall in parts of Dehradun and Nainital districts, while an 'Orange Alert' has been declared for Bageshwar district. Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is also expected in other districts, with forecasts indicating that lightning and rain will continue across Uttarakhand until 3 July. In Chamoli district, relentless heavy rainfall since Friday night has severely disrupted daily life. The Badrinath Highway has been affected by landslides and debris at multiple points. Near Nandnagar, a pilgrimage vehicle became stuck in the Parthadeep landslide zone; however, all passengers were safely evacuated beforehand. Except for one or two locations, most routes have now been cleared, said Nandkishore Joshi, District Disaster Management Officer for Chamoli. However, the highway near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti, remains blocked, with debris removal operations continuing on a war footing. The village of Thirpak bore the brunt of the intense downpour when the Nolaklana stream overflowed around 1am. The surging torrent and debris engulfed three cowsheds, tragically killing two oxen and seven goats belonging to local residents Balbir Lal and Garib Lal. Villagers sought refuge in a nearby government hospital to escape the rising waters. In response to the warnings issued by the Meteorological Department, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant. He appealed to the public to exercise patience and caution during this period of adverse weather.

Nainital HC lifts stay on Uttarakhand Panchayat elections, seeks govt reply on quota irregularities

DEHRADUN: The Nainital High Court on Friday lifted the stay on panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, allowing the electoral process to proceed. However, it has directed the state government to respond to public interest litigations (PILs) alleging irregularities in the reservation roster. A division bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Alok Mahra removed the stay after hearing multiple petitions challenging the reservation roster for the state's panchayat elections. The bench instructed the State Election Commission to issue a revised election schedule, extending the previous one by three days. The state government has also been granted three weeks to submit its response to the issues raised in the petitions. The petitioners have raised concerns about the allocation of reservations for Block Pramukh and Zila Panchayat President posts. They allege that several seats have been continuously reserved for the same category over an extended period, which they argue contravenes Article 243 of the Constitution and various Supreme Court rulings. Representing the state, Advocate General Surya Narayan Babulkar and Chief Standing Counsel C.D. Rawat defended the new reservation roster. Advocate General Babulkar stated, It was necessary to invalidate the previous reservation roster following the report from the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) and to issue a new one for the current elections. Rawat added that the revised roster ensures compliance with legal mandates after the earlier one was deemed invalid. The High Court had initially stayed the panchayat elections on 23 June, even though the State Election Commission had already issued its election notification. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State President Mahendra Bhatt welcomed the courts decision, expressing satisfaction that the path has now been cleared for the formation of rural self-governments. Bhatt also criticised the Congress party, accusing it of obstructing the electoral process. The Congress party had been creating hurdles in the way of elections and then, ironically, blamed the government for delays, Bhatt said. The High Courts decision is a clear slap in their face.

VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after

DEHRADUN, June 25 : Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed during the golden jubilee function of Kumaon University in Nainital today as he turned emotional while meeting his old-time parliamentary colleague Dr Mahendra Pal. The VP however returned to normal soon after, and was found hale and hearty as a team of doctors examined him at the event venue. Vice President Dhankhar was the chief guest at Kumaon Universitys Golden Jubilee celebrations in Nainital on the first day of his three-day [] The post VP Dhankhar collapses at function in Nainital, recovers soon after appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

4, Including A Newborn, Killed As Car Falls In Canal In Uttarakhand's Haldwani

A four-day-old child among four members of a family died after their car fell into a canal at Haldwani in Uttarakhand's Nainital district on Wednesday, police said. The family was returning after child's delivery.

VP Dhankhar collapses during event in Nainital; condition now stable

DEHRADUN: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed suddenly in Haldwani on Wednesday during his three-day Uttarakhand tour. After receiving primary medical treatment, he was escorted to the Nainital Raj Bhavan by Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd). Sources close to the administration revealed that the Vice President had arrived as the chief guest for Kumaon University's 50th-anniversary celebrations. His health unexpectedly deteriorated shortly after the event concluded. Earlier in the day, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) had welcomed him at the Haldwani Army Helipad upon his arrival for the tour. During the Golden Jubilee ceremony at Kumaon University in Nainital, Vice President Dhankhar delivered a 45-minute address as the chief guest. He repeatedly referred to Dr. Mahendra Singh Pal, a former Member of Parliament who had served alongside him in 1989. Following his address, the Vice President descended from the stage and immediately embraced Dr. Pal. The two men conversed for approximately five minutes, reminiscing about their past. Dr. Pal became visibly emotional, shedding tears, and subsequently, Vice President Dhankhar also became tearful while still embracing his old colleague. It was during this poignant moment that Vice President Dhankhar's health took a sudden turn for the worse, as he collapsed while still in Dr. Pal's embrace. An on-site team of physicians promptly administered primary medical care. He was then transported to the Raj Bhavan alongside Governor Gurmit Singh. Medical professionals later confirmed that he Vice President's condition is now stable. Earlier, a host of dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya (representing the Chief Minister), MP Ajay Bhatt, Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht, Vice Chairman of the Forest and Environment Advisory Committee Deepak Mehra, Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Riddhim Aggarwal, District Magistrate Vandana, and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena, had extended a warm welcome to the Vice President.

VP Dhankhar collapses during emotional reunion in Uttarakhand's Haldwani; condition now stable

DEHRADUN: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar collapsed suddenly in Haldwani on Wednesday during his three-day Uttarakhand tour. After receiving primary medical treatment, he was escorted to the Nainital Raj Bhavan by Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd). Sources close to the administration revealed that the Vice President had arrived as the chief guest for Kumaon University's 50th-anniversary celebrations. His health unexpectedly deteriorated shortly after the event concluded. Earlier in the day, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd) had welcomed him at the Haldwani Army Helipad upon his arrival for the tour. During the Golden Jubilee ceremony at Kumaon University in Nainital, Vice President Dhankhar delivered a 45-minute address as the chief guest. He repeatedly referred to Dr. Mahendra Singh Pal, a former Member of Parliament who had served alongside him in 1989. Following his address, the Vice President descended from the stage and immediately embraced Dr. Pal. The two men conversed for approximately five minutes, reminiscing about their past. Dr. Pal became visibly emotional, shedding tears, and subsequently, Vice President Dhankhar also became tearful while still embracing his old colleague. It was during this poignant moment that Vice President Dhankhar's health took a sudden turn for the worse, as he collapsed while still in Dr. Pal's embrace. An on-site team of physicians promptly administered primary medical care. He was then transported to the Raj Bhavan alongside Governor Gurmit Singh. Medical professionals later confirmed that he Vice President's condition is now stable. Earlier, a host of dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya (representing the Chief Minister), MP Ajay Bhatt, Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht, Vice Chairman of the Forest and Environment Advisory Committee Deepak Mehra, Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Riddhim Aggarwal, District Magistrate Vandana, and SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena, had extended a warm welcome to the Vice President.

Nainitals Black Spots: 19 Scenic Routes Tourists Love, But Locals Know Can Be Deadly

Over 19 accident-prone black spots in Nainital see hundreds of crashes yearly, posing serious risks to lives, property, and the safety of tourists visiting the region

Uttarakhand HC stays panchayat elections over reservation dispute

Nainital: The Uttarakhand High Court on Monday stayed the upcoming panchayat elections in the state over disputes in reservation. Acting on petitions against the reservation rotation process for the three-tier panchayat polls in the state, a division bench of Chief Justice Guhanathan Narendar and Justice Alok Mehra stayed the polls scheduled to take place in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Uttarakhand scholarship scam: Rs 91 lakh fraud uncovered in 17 minority institutions, FIRs imminent

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has received crucial investigation report revealing widespread irregularities in a centrally sponsored scholarship scheme for students from minority communities. The reported submitted by the district administration, has flagged serious discrepancies in 17 out of 92 educational institutions under scrutiny. Following the findings, the state government is preparing to file First Information Reports (FIRs) against those involved. Officials confirmed that action would be taken to ensure accountability and recover misappropriated funds. The probe was initiated by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs after receiving multiple complaints and conducting an analysis of the National Scholarship Portal, which flagged several institutions and schools as suspicious. Subsequently, the Uttarakhand government ordered a comprehensive investigation across 92 institutions and schools within the state. District Magistrates were directed to form inquiry committees led by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs). The government had recently issued reminders to ensure timely submission of reports. The report reveals prima facie irregularities in scholarship disbursement across 17 institutions of the 92 that were examined, a government spokesperson said. These include instances where scholarships were awarded to students who were not enrolled in the listed institutions. The irregularities involve 1,058 students and an estimated financial fraud of around Rs 91 lakh. Departmental sources said Haridwar district accounted for the highest number of implicated institutions (7), followed by Udham Singh Nagar (6), and Nainital and Rudraprayag with two each. Dhiraj Garbyal, Secretary of the Minority Welfare Department, confirmed that the report had been received and has been forwarded to the Ministry. FIRs and other necessary steps will be taken to ensure accountability, he said.

Torrential rainfall, lightning lash Uttarakhand, claim three lives

DEHRADUN: Torrential rains and fierce lightning strikes across Uttarakhands high-altitude regions and plains have claimed three lives, as the state faces severe weather. The Uttarakhand Meteorological Department issued a heavy rainfall warning starting June 13, severely disrupting daily life across multiple regions . Lightning tragedies in Laksar In the Laksar area, two separate lightning incidents tragically claimed the lives of a woman and a youth Bholi Devi (45), of Mutkabad village in the Laksar Kotwali area, was working in her field when she sought shelter under a mango tree. A lightning bolt struck the tree, killing her instantly. An-18-year- old youth, Shahbaz , from nearby Jainpur village, suffered a lightning strike while working in a field. He sustained severe burns and later succumbed to his injuries. Heavy rainfall is affecting areas including Nainital, Almora, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Udham Singh Nagar, and Haldwani. Nainital, in particular, is experiencing flooding of streets, homes, and landmarks . Rohit Thapliyal of the Dehradun Meteorological Centre said that an active western disturbance is causing light to moderate rainfall across Uttarakhand from June 13 to 18, with heavier downpours expected in Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. He cautioned against venturing into streams and rivulets and urged heightened vigilance in landslide-prone zones. After June 18, rainfall is expected to ease, bringing temperature relief. Thapliyal noted that the monsoon is gradually covering the state, especially the Kumaon division. The states Disaster Management Department is on alert and ready to respond swiftly to any emergencies.

Uttarakhand: Long traffic jams at tourist spots delaying medical help, causing deaths

Dehradun: Long traffic jams in and around major tourist hotspots and pilgrimage centres in Uttarakhand are hindering timely medical assistance, resulting in preventable deaths. Recently, at least two fatalities occurred within four days due to delays in medical care caused by extensive traffic congestion. On June 9, a 40-year-old man from Nainital lost his life 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 .

Nainital Back In Business: After Rs 60 Crore Hit, Tourism Recovers As Hotels Offer Big Discounts

After a major tourism slump due to unrest and cancellations, Nainital is bouncing back as visitors flock to enjoy its mild climate and iconic sights

Tourist rush due to heatwave, summer holidays choking hills of Nainital

Police are not allowing tourists to cross border who dont have prior bookings, claim hoteliers

Woman posing as High Court lawyer busted in love-extortion scam in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A woman posing as a High Court advocate in Uttarakhand has been arrested for allegedly trapping a man in a love scam, marrying him, and then demanding a hefty sum of Rs 30 lakh under threat of murder. Police registered an FIR based on the victim's complaint and arrested the accused, recovering Rs 50,000 in alleged blackmail money. Authorities revealed the woman reportedly has 18 previous First Information Reports (FIRs) against her in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand for similar blackmail schemes. Deepak Kakkad, a resident of Vasundhara Bhoorarani Road, filed a detailed complaint with Senior Superintendent of Police Manikant Mishra on June 5. He stated that on May 2, he received a WhatsApp call from a woman identifying herself as Ankita Sharma, an advocate at the Nainital High Court. She claimed it was an accidental call meant for a client. Kakkad revealed that Ankita then began engaging him in sweet talks via WhatsApp chats, gradually ensnaring him in a love trap. She also allegedly swindled Rs 5 lakh from him under the pretext of securing a steel grilling contract. The relationship culminated in a marriage ceremony on May 27 at Piplia Mandir Sakainia Gadarpur, after which she moved into his home. After marriage, she began pressuring me to give her Rs 30 lakh, Deepak Kakkad told police. When Kakkad expressed his inability to pay, the woman allegedly threatened to have him killed if he didnt comply. Frightened, he approached the police. Subsequent investigations revealed that Ankita Sharma was, in fact, Heena Rawat, a known blackmailer from Kashipur. It was also discovered that she used another alias, Nikita Singh, with a fake Aadhaar card. Police checks further revealed that she was already married and allegedly operated with a gang, often filing false rape cases against victims to extort money. SSP Manikant Mishra confirmed the details on Saturday, stating that an FIR was registered based on Mr. Kakkad's complaint. Upon confirmation of the allegations during investigation, the accused woman was arrested late Friday night near Hotel Uday on Kichha Road, SSP Mishra told the TNIE. Police recovered Rs 50,000 and a fake Aadhaar card from her. She was produced in court on Saturday and subsequently remanded to judicial custody.

Monsoon's Island: 'Sri Lanka tapu' braces for three months of isolation in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: As monsoon rains begin to envelop Uttarakhand, a stark annual reality unfolds for 115 families residing on 'Sri Lanka Tapu', a distinctive village nestled within Nainital district's Bindukhatta area. Despite ambitious state-wide pushes for enhanced connectivity and modern infrastructure development, this community annually transforms into an isolated island, completely cut off from the mainland for three grueling months once the heavy rains begin. In preparation for this predictable isolation, residents are already in full swing, meticulously stockpiling essential food and supplies. We have to ensure we have enough to last us through the entire monsoon, explained Raghuveer Singh of Sri Lanka Tapu. Rising waters during the monsoon make reaching the mainland extremely difficult and dangerous, compelling families to prepare well in advance to avert hardships during their prolonged period of disconnection. According to administrative sources, the number of members in 115 families in Sri Lanka Tapu is around 200. Acknowledging the unique and persistent challenges, Haldwani Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rekha Kohli recently visited the village, accompanied by various departmental officials. Acting on her directives, the food supply inspector distributed rations sufficient to last until August, while the health department provided a comprehensive three-month supply of life-saving medicines. We have ensured residents of 'Sri Lanka Island' receive crucial supplies to sustain them through the monsoon, including rations until August and a three-month supply of life-saving medicines to address their immediate needs, stated SDM Kohli. Further bolstering emergency preparedness, a vital helipad has been constructed in Sri Lanka Tapu. Officials confirm this facility will serve as a critical lifeline, facilitating timely evacuation and treatment in medical emergencies and ensuring residents' safety during their isolation. Known to its residents as Kalapani, the village earned its 'Sri Lanka' moniker from journalists who, during the devastating 1984 floods, likened its distinctive geographical appearance to the island nation when flying overhead. Spanning 45 hectares, the village is uniquely surrounded by water on three sides and dense forest on the fourth, solidifying its status as a virtual island during the monsoon season and explaining its persistent isolation despite broader development efforts.

Uttarakhand emerges as rainfall hotspot, outpaces neighbouring states

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand consistently receives significantly more rainfall than its neighbouring regions, including Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh. This continuous spell of wet weather keeps temperatures in the state relatively cooler. Uttarakhands annual average rainfall is a substantial 1477.6 mm, stated the Meteorological Department, noting its lead over Himachal Pradesh (1245.1 mm) and Delhi (527.1 mm). The state also receives a heavy 1162.7 mm during the monsoon season, with July and August being the wettest months. Recent data shows that Dehradun recorded 23.2 mm of rain on June 3, highlighting the ongoing rainy spell. The Meteorological Centre reported that Uttarakhand is currently experiencing persistent rainfall. Dehradun, the state capital, recorded 23.2 mm on June 3, 7.8 mm on June 4, and 0.4 mm on June 5. This steady rain has caused a noticeable drop in temperature, providing relief from the summer heat. Uttarakhand sees record June chill as pre-monsoon rain cools temperatures Meteorological data shows that Uttarakhand stands ahead of many neighbouring states in terms of rainfall. Himachal Pradesh records an annual average of 1245.1 mm, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh 1232.3 mm, west Uttar Pradesh 765.3 mm, Punjab 565.5 mm, and Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi together average 527.1 mm. The Meteorological Centres records also show that Uttarakhand receives 1162.7 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season alone. Historically, the state has experienced above-average rainfall in three years 2000, 2007, and 2010. There were also six years of minimum rainfall and 18 years of normal rainfall over the past 26 years. An analysis of daily rainfall data from 1989 to 2018 shows varied trends across different districts in Uttarakhand. According to officials, districts such as Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Nainital have seen a significant rise in annual rainfall, while Pauri district has witnessed a decline in both monsoon and annual rainfall. Explaining the reason behind the high rainfall in Uttarakhand, Dr. Bikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Centre, told TNIE, The monsoon primarily draws its moisture and precipitation from two main branches: the Arabian Sea branch and the Bay of Bengal branch. In Uttarakhand, the Bay of Bengal branch is significantly more dominant and potent, which is the primary reason why the state experiences comparatively higher rainfall.

BJP workers halt burial over disputed waqf land in Uttarakhand

A decades-old land dispute between Hindu and Muslim communities resurfaced on Thursday, May 29, in the Gaujani area of Ramnagar, Nainital, after a Muslim family began digging a grave on land allegedly outside the designated cemetery. The move sparked immediate objections from local Hindu residents and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers, prompting a tense standoff. 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 .

Nainital parking crisis: Enemy property comes to space-starved city's rescue

To alleviate Nainital's persistent parking woes, the Ministry of Home Affairs has granted temporary use of the historic Metropole Hotel premises to the Uttarakhand government.

Tourism, Construction, And Crisis: Whats Threatening Nainitals Survival

Uttarakhand CAT bench issues contempt notices to Cabinet Secretary, two top officials in Sanjiv Chaturvedi case

DEHRADUN: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT)'s Nainital Bench has issued contempt notices to three of India's most senior bureaucrats: Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, and Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Secretary P. Daniel. Issued on Wednesday, the notices relate to the downgrading of IFS officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi's appraisal report. It is the first case that a Cabinet Secretary has received such a notice in a service matter. The CAT's action, according to sources, stems from a February 23, 2023, order. This order was prompted by Chaturvedi's application seeking documents related to high-profile corruption inquiries he conducted during his tenure as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO). Chaturvedi alleges his 2015-16 Appraisal Report was downgraded due to these actions, leading him to file his original petition in July 2017. These contempt notices arise from a petition filed by whistleblower IFS officer Sanjeev Chaturvedi in December 2023, alleging non-compliance with previous Tribunal orders. The CAT had earlier, on April 21, 2023, issued 'show cause' notices, questioning why contempt proceedings shall not be initiated against them for non-compliance of orders dated 23.02.2023 and 23.03.2023 passed by the Tribunal. The next hearing is fixed for July 9. As senior counsel Sudershan Goyal explained to TNIE , The core dispute involves CAT's February and March 2023 orders, directing officials to provide Chaturvedi with documents related to alleged closures of high-profile corruption enquiries he conducted as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO). Chaturvedi maintains his 2015-16 appraisal was downgraded due to these actions, prompting his original petition in July 2017. While AIIMS, Delhi, obtained a stay on these CAT orders from the Nainital High Court in May 2023, the High Court crucially clarified in May 2024 that the Cabinet Secretary, Union Health Secretary, and CVC were not covered by this stay. Despite this clarification, Chaturvedi alleges the documents remain withheld. The Cabinet Secretary's direct involvement in the matter dates back to December 2017, when the Centre initially sought to remove his name from the petition. However, CAT rejected this request in April 2018, ruling him a ecessary party due to his approval for Chaturvedi's deputation and the specific prayers made against him. The current action marks the tenth contempt proceeding initiated by Chaturvedi against senior central government officials. His notable past cases include notices issued by the Nainital High Court to the DoPT Secretary (Oct 2023) and former Union Health Secretary (July 2019); by the Delhi High Court to three CBI officers (Sep 2023, Mar 2024); and by CAT to the Union Forest and Environment Secretary (Feb 2023) and its Chairman (Feb 2019). Sanjeev Chaturvedi is widely known for his unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. His distinguished career includes service in the Government of Haryana and later as Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) at AIIMS, Delhi, where he unearthed numerous corruption cases. His relentless efforts earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in July 2015.