Fire at HPCL refinery in Visakhapatnam extinguished with no casualties
The News Mill
Fire breaks out at HPCL facility in Visakhapatnam; no casualties reported
Fire breaks out at HPCL facility in Visakhapatnam; no casualties reported
AP Gears Up For CII Partnership Summit In Visakhapatnam On Nov. 12, 13
Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad reviewed the arrangements with senior officials at the state Secretariat on Monday and stressed the need to organise the summit to attract domestic and international investors.
Visakhapatnam oil refinery incident: Fire breaks out at HPCL facility in Vizag
A fire occurred at the HPCL facility in Visakhapatnam on Monday night, as reported by the police. There were no casualties resulting from the incident, according to officials. The police commissioner confirmed the fire, although the cause remains undetermined at this time. Visuals of the incident showed a towering column of fire and thick smoke over the city. The situation has garnered widespread attention on social media platforms.
Massive explosion at Visakhapatnam oil refinery, thick smoke billows after fire
Massive explosion at Visakhapatnam oil refinery, thick smoke billows after fire More Details Awaited
A powerful explosion was reported at an oil refinery in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, causing concern among people living nearby. Videos from the location showed towering flames rising from the site, with thick clouds of smoke spreading across the surrounding
PNG pipeline blast kills man, injures six in Muzaffarpur
Officials told to expedite Prakash Parv preps
Visakhapatnam refinery hit by major fire near oil tank
A fire broke out on Monday evening at Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd's Visakh Refinery, causing significant concern in nearby industrial areas. Flames erupted near a tank containing Ruf Pitch Oil, alarming commuters passing by the location and leading to viral videos on social media. HPCL sources reported no injuries or casualties from the incident, but the cause remains unclear. Rumors of an explosion circulated, though officials considered that scenario unlikely.
IGPL Visakhapatnam leg begins on Tuesday
Explosion Sparks Major Fire at HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery
Thick smoke was seen billowing over nearby neighbourhoods, while multiple fire tenders were rushed to the site to bring the blaze under control.
Officials review Patna Metro construction progress, stress timely execution and coordination
PPU named best performer in research-based chemistry programmes
Jan Suraaj petitions council chief to disqualify Independent MLCs
Unique Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam: A Roofless Abode of Goddess Lakshmi
Discover the Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam, where devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi under the open sky, especially during Diwali. Unique Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam: A Roofless Abode of Goddess Lakshmi
Patna-bound flights cancelled ahead of Diwali, Chhath rush
Jan Suraaj seeks disqualification of two Bihar MLCs after they join BJP
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) Jan Suraaj Party on Monday sought the disqualification of newly elected independent Members of the Bihar Legislative Council, Banshidhar Brajwasi and Rahul Raj, after they joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) shortly after their election. A delegation led by former MLA Kishore Kumar Munna met the Bihar Legislative Council's Acting Chairman Prof Dr Ramvachan Rai and submitted a petition seeking action against the two MLCs under the relevant constitutional provisions. Jan Suraaj spokesperson Kumar Saurabh criticised the move heavily and said that it was a betrayal of the voters mandate and a violation of democratic principles. The reason being, the results came out on October 28 - 2 seats were won by BJP, 2 were won by independent candidates, and 2 were won by RJD, and one by Jan Suraaj, and just to create the perception that you won four seats and not two, you tried to tweak the mandate given by the public, he said. They are clearly going against the Schedule 10, 190, and 12(K) provisions of the Constitution, he added. The Jan Suraaj delegation alleged that Brajwasi, elected from the Tirhut Graduate constituency, and Rahul Raj, elected from the Saran Teachers' constituency, joined the BJP before even 72 hours had passed since their election victories. The delegation argued that their decision to join a political party after being elected as independents violated the provisions of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution and sought the termination of their membership of the Legislative Council. Speaking after the meeting, Munna said an independent member elected to a legislative body could face disqualification for joining a political party after the election. He said the delegation had apprised the Acting Chairman of the entire matter and requested that notices be issued to the parties concerned, and appropriate action be taken in accordance with the law. Munna said the Election Commission of India, the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar, the Chief Secretary and the Commissioner concerned had also been made parties to the petition. He further claimed that both MLCs had publicly acknowledged joining the BJP and accepting membership of the party. The delegation submitted supporting material, including newspaper reports, statements made by the two leaders in the media and other relevant evidence, in a pen drive to the Acting Chairman. According to Munna, Rai assured the delegation that he would consult legal experts and take appropriate action in accordance with the applicable rules and legal provisions. Former MLC Rambali Singh Chandravanshi, who was also part of the delegation, said the members had raised concerns over delays in securing justice while presenting their case before the Acting Chairman. He said Rai had described the matter as serious and assured the delegation that appropriate action would be taken under the relevant legal and constitutional provisions. Chandravanshi expressed confidence in the Acting Chairman's impartiality and said he hoped that a decision would be taken in the interest of protecting the Constitution and democratic values. The delegation included former MLA Kishore Kumar Munna, former MLC Rambali Singh Chandravanshi, Subhash Kushwaha, Tej Narayan Sahni, Suresh Patel and Obaidur Rahman, among others.
Chirag Paswan Critiques Oppositions Rally, Highlights Youth Engagement in Patna
Chirag Paswan praises a youth forum in Patna while criticizing the oppositions rally turnout, questioning their public support. Chirag Paswan Critiques Oppositions Rally, Highlights Youth Engagement in Patna
Andhra releases Rs 37 crore for rescue, relief as Cyclone 'Murasu' closes in
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 2 (IANS) With severe cyclonic storm Murasu approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast, with wind speeds of 100110 km per hour, the state government on Monday released Rs 37 crore for rescue and relief operations. The Revenue (Disaster Management) Department has issued orders, allocating funds to 17 districts to meet immediate expenditure towards rescue and relief operations. The government has sanctioned Rs.3 crore each for six districts, Rs.2 crore each for eight districts, and Rs 1 crore each for three districts. Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) had proposed to the government to accord permission to the Collectors and District Magistrates to utilise funds under Rule TR27 to meet emergent relief requirements such as evacuation, provision of food and temporary shelters, medicines, fuel, transportation, and restoration of essential services. The Revenue Department accepted the proposal and issued orders. Meanwhile, the APSDMA stated on Monday night that the cyclone is currently centred 80 km from Nellore, 80 km from Kavali, 110 km from Ongole and 170 km from Machilipatnam. It is expected to make landfall near Ongole between tonight (midnight) and the early hours of Tuesday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in isolated places across the districts of West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, and Palnadu. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also expected in isolated areas within the Prakasam, Markapuram, and Nellore districts. ASDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain has advised people to stay safely indoors. People have been urged to maintain a high state of alert and remain cautious of power lines that may have snapped due to the strong winds. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea. According to the Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre, a storm surge of about 1.5-2 metres above the astronomical tide is very likely to inundate low-lying areas of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Authorities have issued danger signals to ports along the Andhra Pradesh coast. Great Danger 10 (GD-10) has been issued to Nizampatnam Port and Vadarevu Harbour. Danger signal 9 has been hoisted at Machilipatnam, while danger signal 8 has been issued for Krishnapatnam Port. Meanwhile, at least 19 domestic flights were cancelled at Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports on Monday, while several trains were also cancelled. Vijayawada Airport has cancelled 12 flights while Visakhapatnam Airport (Bhogapuram) has cancelled four flights. Tirupati Airport has also cancelled three flights. This is the second cyclone in the Bay of Bengal to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast in a week. Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Narsapur in the early hours of October 28, with the maximum sustained wind speed of 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph. It claimed seven lives and caused widespread damage to crops, roads, electricity and telecom infrastructure in the coastal districts. Crops over thousands of acres were damaged in the cyclone while hundreds of electricity poles and trees were uprooted. As per preliminary estimates, the cyclone caused losses of Rs 4,600 crore.
Begusarai ASI arrested for taking Rs29k bribe
Fishermen haul 400 boats ashore as Cyclone Murasu approaches Kothapatnam in Andhras Ongole
Fishermen haul 400 boats ashore as Cyclone Murasu approaches Kothapatnam in Andhras Ongole
CM meets Gadkari seeks early clearance of 4 highway projects
Bharat Taxi to roll out in Patna, Gaya, Vaishali by month-end
Faster mining operations to spur jobs, investment: Minister
800 job seekers shortlisted at Buxar employment fair
Sacred Bodhi tree in excellent health, says FRI assessment
Fake software import: ED seizes Rs 47 lakh, foreign currency in Delhi, Kolkata
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) The ED conducted searches at seven premises located in Delhi and Kolkata and seized Rs 47 lakh and foreign currency in a case related to illegal transfer of funds outside India in the guise of payments for software import, an official said on Monday. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Visakhapatnam Sub-Zonal Office, carried out the search operations under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, the official said in a statement. The proceeds of crime in this case are prima facie estimated to be about Rs 1,500 crore. The search operation led to seizure of unaccounted/unexplainable cash worth Rs 47 lakh and foreign currency amounting to US $5900, 2200 United Arab Emirates dirham, 5600 renminbi/Chinese yuan along with voluminous incriminating documents/records/property papers and digital devices containing evidence of layering of proceeds of crime and its transfer outside India through shell entities, the ED said. The ED investigation was initiated on the basis of an FIR registered under various sections of the IPC by M.V.P. Police Station, Visakhapatnam, on the complaint of the Income Tax Department, against Vaddi Mahesh and others, said the statement. They were accused of conspiring together, creating false and forged documents and using the same as genuine to make foreign outward remittances through various banks, it said. It was revealed that Vaddi Mahesh, along with his father and others, floated several companies with registered offices in Kolkata and opened bank accounts in their names, through which an amount of Rs 569.03 crore was transferred to five companies in Singapore, Hong Kong and China, ostensibly towards purchase of customised software. However, fabricated invoices of the foreign companies were submitted to the banks, and no software was imported against these remittances, the ED said. The money laundering investigation conducted by the Enforcement Directorate revealed that Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, a habitual offender detained thrice under COFEPOSA, was smuggling cosmetics, electronic goods, textile fabrics, into India by evading customs duty, including by misusing the Customs Transit Declaration Scheme available for Nepal, the agency said. In order to pay the overseas suppliers and to launder the proceeds of crime generated from the sale of the smuggled goods, he approached Vaddi Mahesh through his associates, it said. Investigation showed that during 2014-17, Vaddi Mahesh received funds in the bank accounts of his shell companies from various entities and remitted the same abroad on the instructions of Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, the ED said. These funds were parked in dormant or newly incorporated companies in Singapore and Hong Kong held by nominee directors, and were further transferred to the bank accounts of Bhimendra Kumar Goyal and the companies of his family members, Swiss Fox Pte Ltd and Bhav Technology China Limited, thereby projecting the proceeds of crime as untainted. Investigation further revealed that Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, in collusion with Pawan Kumar Ralli, operated fake firms, Mehak Overseas, Karan Overseas and Geet Enterprises, in fictitious names at fake addresses in New Delhi, and that part of the proceeds of crime was also diverted abroad through Village Handicraft Export and received in Eagle Mount Trading Pte Ltd, Singapore, beneficially owned by Ashish Todi, the ED said.
Bihar: ASI arrested in Begusarai bribery case
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) In a major crackdown on corruption, the Vigilance Investigation Bureau on Monday arrested an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) posted at Sahebpur Kamal police station in Begusarai district while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 29,000. The accused, identified as Chandan Jha, was caught red-handed by a vigilance team from Patna during a trap operation near the block headquarters. The arrest has triggered a stir within the district police department. Gautam Sharan, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in the Vigilance Investigation Bureau, Patna, said the action followed a complaint lodged by Amit Kumar, a resident of the Sahebpur Kamal police station area. In his complaint, Amit Kumar alleged that ASI Chandan Jha had demanded money in exchange for removing his name from a criminal case. After receiving the complaint, the Vigilance Department conducted a preliminary verification of the allegations. Once the bribe demand was confirmed, a case (No. 127/26) was registered at the Vigilance police station. Subsequently, a trap was laid on Monday. The vigilance team apprehended the ASI immediately after he allegedly accepted Rs 29,000 from the complainant. According to DSP Gautam Sharan, the accused had initially demanded Rs 30,000, but the amount was later settled at Rs 29,000 following negotiations. The entire amount was recovered from his possession during the operation. The DSP said the case was related to a four-wheeler allegedly owned by the complainant. ASI Chandan Jha had claimed that he had already sold the vehicle. However, the same vehicle was subsequently seized in connection with a case involving liquor smuggling. The accused allegedly demanded the bribe in exchange for removing the complainant's name from the liquor smuggling case. Following his arrest, the vigilance team took the accused to the Begusarai Circuit House (Parisadan) to complete the necessary legal formalities. Arrangements were subsequently made to take him to Patna for further legal proceedings. The operation has once again brought the issue of corruption within the police department into focus. The Vigilance Department has reiterated its action against public servants allegedly demanding or accepting bribes, while further investigation into the case is underway.
103 NCC cadets get Army training at BRC, Danapur
Child born without external ears gets hearing implant at AIIMS-Patna
Patna Book Fair to open from Dec 4 with focus on young readers, aspiring writers
Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled at three Andhra airports
The flight cancellations affected Vijayawada, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam airports as the cyclone approached the Andhra Pradesh coast, officials said on Monday
15-hour gridlock on Ranchi-Patna highway leaves thousands stranded
Six fishermen safe as fishing boat runs aground at Rushikonda beach in Visakhapatnam
Bihar couple turns entrepreneur under PMFME scheme; their noodle business employs a dozen people
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) A couple from Sheikhpura district of Bihar, namely Sanjay Kumar and Ranjana Kumari, have become the talk of town over their food venture under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, and its capacity to employ about a dozen people in a short span of time. The couple, after learning about the scheme, received monetary support under the scheme and launched a noodle-manufacturing business not long ago. The initiative not only made their family financially self-reliant but has also created job opportunities for others in the surrounding area. Today, their entrepreneurial venture employs a total of 10 people regularly. Ranjana Kumari, sharing the success story of 'Smriti Noodles,' shared with IANS the difficult times when it was difficult to cover household expenses and manage children's education. Facing a weak financial situation, she aspired to start a venture of her own. It was during this period that she learned about the PMFME scheme. She applied under the program and, with government assistance, took the first steps toward establishing her business. Earlier a homemaker and now a successful businesswoman. Ranjana and her husbands story has become an inspirational tale in the village as the family has not only become self-reliant but also employs locals in the noodle manufacturing business. She says that both men and women are currently employed at her unit. Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she remarked that the scheme has served as a vital support system for women like her. Today, the family is not dependent on others to run expenses and is effectively fulfilling the familys responsibilities. Ranjanas husband, Sanjay Kumar, shared that his wife had long aspired to start a business, but rising inflation and household expenses made it difficult. It was during this time that they learnt about the PMFME scheme. With government assistance, they were able to install the necessary machinery and begin the production of noodles. According to Sanjay, this venture has given them, particularly his wife, a new identity. They are now receiving orders for noodles from several nearby districts, including Nalanda, Nawada, and Rajgir.
Sonia meets Lalu in Delhi, recalls UPA welfare schemes
Bihar: Gas pipeline explodes in Muzaffarpur; one feared dead, several injured
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) A powerful explosion rocked the Gobarsahi area of Bihar's Muzaffarpur district on Monday after a gas pipeline was reportedly damaged during drain construction work, leaving one person dead and several others injured. The intensity of the explosion was such that the windowpanes of dozens of nearby houses shattered, while the walls of several residential buildings sustained damage. The sudden blast triggered panic among residents, many of whom rushed out of their homes, fearing further explosions. Following the incident, a large crowd gathered at the spot as residents expressed concern over the continuing gas leak and the possibility of a fire. A team from the Fire Department rushed to the scene and launched emergency operations to control the situation. Efforts were underway to contain the gas leak, prevent a possible fire and ensure the safety of people living in the surrounding areas. According to preliminary information, one person has died, and several others have sustained injuries. However, official confirmation regarding the death, the exact number of injured persons and their identities is still awaited. The injured are expected to be shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment, while authorities are also assessing the damage caused to residential properties and the need to evacuate people from vulnerable areas. The incident occurred when a gas pipeline was accidentally ruptured during drain construction work. The administration will investigate how the pipeline was damaged and whether adequate safety precautions were followed before and during the construction activity. The explosion has raised concerns over the safety of underground gas pipelines during infrastructure development work in densely populated residential areas. Further details regarding the casualties, the extent of the damage and the restoration of normalcy are awaited from the district administration and the concerned gas agency. The district police have deployed a number of police personnel to the affected area and urged people to stay cautious.
Bihar Assembly secretariat issues notice to Anant Singh over anti-party activities
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 2 (IANS) The Bihar Legislative Assembly Secretariat has issued a notice to Mokama MLA Anant Singh, asking him to submit his response within seven days over allegations of anti-party activities. The notice was issued by Assembly Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh on the instructions of Speaker Prem Kumar and was received by Anant Singh on Monday. The proceedings were initiated following a complaint by the Janata Dal (United), which has sought the termination of Anant Singh's legislative membership, alleging that he engaged in activities against the party. JD(U) state president Umesh Kushwaha had submitted a formal petition to Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar, seeking action against the Mokama MLA. The party also submitted supporting documents, including newspaper clippings, CDs and other evidence, to substantiate its allegations. After examining the complaint and the documents submitted by the JD(U), the Speaker directed the Assembly Secretariat to initiate the formal proceedings. Accordingly, the notice was issued, giving Anant Singh seven days to present his defence. No decision has been taken so far regarding the termination of his Assembly membership. Further proceedings will depend on his response and the Speaker's consideration of the matter. The controversy stems from the recent Bihar Legislative Council elections, during which Anant Singh openly opposed JD(U) candidate Neeraj Kumar in the Patna Graduates' constituency and campaigned in support of Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Kumar. Neeraj Kumar was the official NDA candidate and the JD(U)'s chief spokesperson. Following Anant Singh's public opposition to the party's candidate, the JD(U) expelled both him and his wife, former MLA Neelam Singh, for six years. The party had earlier assigned Union Minister and Munger MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh the responsibility of resolving the differences between Anant Singh and Neeraj Kumar. JD(U) National Working President Sanjay Jha had also indicated that Lalan Singh would intervene to settle the dispute. However, the differences between the two leaders remained unresolved during the election campaign. Lalan Singh's remarks reportedly added to the friction, further complicating efforts to broker a reconciliation. After Neeraj Kumar won the Patna Graduates' constituency despite Anant Singh's opposition, he declined to accept congratulations and blessings from Lalan Singh. Neeraj also made a pointed remark, saying that he would repay the political debt with interest. However, his stance appeared to change just two days later, when he began publicly praising Lalan Singh, adding another twist to the political developments within the JD(U).
BJP chief accuses Oppn of undermining democracy, warns Cong of losing LoP post
VPA Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has announced 20 vacancies across various posts. The recruitment drive includes Electrician, Fitter, Welder, Motor Mechanic, and other positions. The online application process will begin on 04 November 2026, and the last date to apply is 03 December 2026. Candidates can apply through the official website, apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.
Severe Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled across 3 Andhra airports
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to impact Andhra Pradesh, resulting in significant flight cancellations. At least 19 domestic flights have been canceled across Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports. Major airlines such as IndiGo and Air India Express have announced several flight cancellations. The storm is anticipated to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast during the night between November 2 and November 3.
Daily-wage worker found dead in Supaul paddy field
Criminal carrying Rs25,000 reward shot in leg in Vaishali encounter
Kin block road outside Khagaria SPs residence over youths death
Probe intensifies in girls murder case after human head found in Banka canal
SEC has become subservient to Chandrababu Naidu, alleges Jagan
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 2 (IANS) Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party President Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday accused the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) of acting in favour of the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and failing to ensure free and fair municipal elections. In a social media post, he said the SEC, which is meant to protect democracy, has become subservient to Chandrababu Naidu. The shocking incidents during yesterdays municipal polling across the state, including in Pulivendula, show how the SEC is enabling election irregularities, he said. Yesterday in Pulivendula, YSRCP agents were kept out of 70 of the 80 polling booths. TDP goons brought in from other areas went on a rampage with the support of election officials and the police. They attacked our party agents to stop them from entering polling booths. In some places, they dragged our agents out of the polling stations. These incidents took place with the police's support. Voter slips were snatched from people, polling booths were captured, and votes were rigged and cast repeatedly. The video evidence of these incidents is clear. Agents from all 70 booths came to me personally, showed their agent forms to the officials, lodged complaints and protested, he said. Stating that the entire state witnessed what happened, Jagan said the SECs response was shocking. Irregularities took place in 70 of the 80 booths, and our agents were attacked and forced out. In these circumstances, how was it fair for the SEC to order repolling in only four booths and then wash its hands of the matter? asked the former Chief Minister. The SECs decision to order repolling in only four booths in Pulivendula, despite irregularities in many more, was an eyewash meant to mislead the public. Can these elections be called free and fair? If the Election Commission, which is responsible for protecting democracy, turns a blind eye to the ruling partys wrongdoing, how can peoples right to vote be protected? How can the public retain faith in the electoral system? YS Jagan said. He alleged that these incidents were not limited to Pulivendula. Election irregularities took place across the state, including in the municipal corporations of Kadapa, Anantapur, Tirupati, Kurnool, Chittoor, Ongole, Guntur, Nellore, Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. Similar incidents occurred in several municipalities, including Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Vinukonda, Jammalamadugu, Nandyal, Chimakurthy, Giddalur, Emmiganur, Sullurpeta, Palasa, Dhone, Naidupeta, Nandigama, Jaggayyapeta, Kuppam, Puttur and Parvathipuram. We will fight these election irregularities in court to protect democracy. We will place every piece of evidence before the courts. Justice may take time, but truth and justice will ultimately prevail, he added.
Patna Book Fair Set to Celebrate Literature and Arts from December 4-15
The Patna Book Fair will feature over 350 events celebrating literature, art, and cinema from December 4-15, 2026. Patna Book Fair Set to Celebrate Literature and Arts from December 4-15
Tejashwi Yadav Calls for United Opposition Amid Sonia Gandhis Meeting with Lalu Prasad Yadav
Tejashwi Yadav emphasizes the need for a united opposition during a meeting between Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Prasad Yadav in Patna. Tejashwi Yadav Calls for United Opposition Amid Sonia Gandhis Meeting with Lalu Prasad Yadav
22, 24 carat Gold prices see mixed trend across other cities on November 2
Cyclone Murasu: 12 flight services cancelled at Vijayawada; Visakhapatnam flights hit
The severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to cross the south Andhra coast near Ongole tonight
Nabin to lead BJP's save democracy rally in Kolkata, civic poll strategy on agenda
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin will arrive in Kolkata on Monday afternoon to lead the partys Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (save democracy, eliminate anarchy) rally, which will begin at College Street and conclude at Esplanade in central Kolkata. Following the rally, the BJP chief is expected to review the party's preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in the state, including Kolkata. The rally is part of the BJPs nationwide campaign against the Opposition protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The SIR protests have been spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by the Congress-led INDIA bloc and other opposition parties, according to the BJPs account of the campaign. Nabin is scheduled to arrive at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from Patna shortly after 2 pm. He will proceed directly to College Street, the starting point of the rally, and lead the march to Esplanade. It remains unclear whether he will address party workers and supporters at the concluding gathering. Mondays programme will mark the start of an extended BJP campaign across West Bengal against the anti-SIR protests. State BJP vice-president Prabal Raha said similar rallies would be held in Howrah, adjoining Kolkata, and Siliguri in Darjeeling district on November 3. The second phase of the campaign is scheduled to begin on November 11, after Kali Puja and Diwali. The party plans to organise marches at 800 locations across the state, each with at least 10,000 participants, Raha said. The BJP also intends to bring national-level leaders and supporters from different parts of the country into the campaign in urban centres across Bengal. After the Kolkata rally, Nabin is expected to meet state BJP leaders to review preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in West Bengal. These include the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC). A state BJP committee member said the discussions would focus on the partys strategy for the civic polls, including candidate selection. The leadership may also take up the preparation of preliminary candidate lists for the KMC and HMC elections. Nabin is expected to leave for Delhi either on Monday night or on Tuesday morning. The elections to the seven municipal bodies are likely to be held in the third or fourth week of December, according to the schedule being discussed. The results are expected in the last week of December or the first week of January 2027. The BJPs campaign is expected to run alongside its preparations for the civic elections, giving the state leadership two parallel organisational tasks in the weeks ahead.
Cyclone Murasu: IndiGo Issues Travel Advisory as Bad Weather Disrupts Vizag Flights
Due to adverse weather conditions in Visakhapatnam, flight operations are impacted, IndiGo said.
Cyclone Murasu: No. 3 Danger Signal Issued at Krishnapatnam Port
Rainfall has been reported across several parts of Nellore district as the cyclone approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast.
RRB NTPC UG CBT 2 Cut Off 2026 Out - Check Zone-Wise and Category-Wise Cutoff Marks
RRB NTPC UG CBT 2 Cut Off 2026 has been released from 30 October for CEN 07/2025. Check post-wise, category-wise and zone-wise cutoff marks for Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Bengaluru, Bilaspur, Chennai, Gorakhpur, Patna, Ranchi and Siliguri. Download the cutoff PDFs and check CBT 2 results and scorecards online. The CBTST is tentatively scheduled for 27 November 2026.
The cyclonic storm lay centred about 350 km east of Chennai, 400 km east-southeast of Nellore, 430 km southeast of Machilipatnam, 420 km east-southeast of Kavali, 450 km southeast of Ongole, and 520 km south of Visakhapatnam, according to IMD.
GVMC polls record 51% turnout with Bheemunipatnam leading at 65%
Several injured as music show turns violent in Bhagalpur
BRC pays tributes to fallen heroes on foundation day
Bihars folk and maithili theatre: Devotional roots, literary legacy, and decline
PMC steps up preparations for Prakash Parv
Community Durga Pujas urged to preserve heritage, support local artisans
Dark chapter in history of democracy: Jagan on polling for Andhra municipal elections
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 1 (IANS) YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has termed Sundays polling for urban local bodies in Andhra Pradesh a dark chapter in the history of democracy. Broad daylight rigging, polling agents being obstructed and pulled out, and voters openly threatened and prevented from exercising their right to vote, all in the presence of police, he said in a post on X. Hey Ram! Save Democracy!, wrote Jagan, who posted a video clip of rigging and violence allegedly by the TDP cadres during the polling. In Pulivendula(ULB), in 70 out of 80 polling booths, YSRCP polling agents were not allowed to enter the polling stations; who is to identify the voter?, he asked. Apart from my home constituency Pulivendula, similar incidents were also witnessed with respect to the following ULBs - Kadapa, Anantapur, Tirupati, Kurnool, Chittoor, Ongole, Guntur, Nellore, Visakhapatnam (GVMC), Vijayawada, Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Vinukonda, Jammalamadugu, Nandyal, Cheemakurthi, Yemmiganur, Sullurpeta, Palasa, Nayudupeta, Nandigama, Jaggayyapeta, Kuppam, Puttur, Bheemunipatnam, Parvathipuram and others, alleged the YSRCP chief. He stated that under Chandrababu Naidus watch, Andhra Pradeshs electoral system is collapsing alarmingly, with democratic institutions totally hijacked. This is no longer an election; its only your selection. It is an assault on democracy and a brazen attempt to subvert the peoples mandate!. I specially mention and salute the brave women and dedicated party cadre who stood their ground and fought till the very last minute to save democracy, he added. Meanwhile, YSRCP State Coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy said the municipal polling process had been reduced to a farce, with Chandrababu Naidu resorting to large-scale electoral manipulation to manufacture an artificial victory. Speaking at the YSRCP central office, he said the party would demand repolling, take the irregularities to the national level and once again approach the courts. Sajjala said the irregularities that began at the nomination stage reached their peak on polling day. YSRCP candidates were prevented from filing nominations, nomination papers were torn, names disappeared from final lists, nominations were rejected during scrutiny, candidates were forced to withdraw, and leaders were subjected to cases, bind-overs and house arrests. He said YSRCP had approached the Supreme Court with evidence concerning nearly 1,500 to 2,000 people, but even directions relating to CCTV surveillance and extension of nominations were not implemented effectively by the State Election Commission. Despite these obstacles, YSRCP did not boycott the elections. Following YS Jagan Mohan Reddys direction, the party stayed in the contest and fought until the end. In Kadapa, only two of 66 nominations were retained, while similar obstruction occurred in Chittoor and Pulivendula. On polling day, voters were intimidated, polling agents were denied entry and booths were captured, he said. Sajjala listed Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Jammalamadugu, Madanapalle, Dhone, Tadipatri, Chimakurthy, Kuppam, Pulivendula, Kadapa and Chittoor among places where repolling was required. He also cited irregularities in Anantapur, Nellore, Kurnool, Ongole, Vinukonda, Markapuram, Yemmiganur and Nagari. He said police, Presiding Officers and Returning Officers facilitated the ruling partys actions while the SEC failed to intervene. In several places, YSRCP agents were removed after noon and bogus votes were cast with police support. Nearly 360 booths saw YSRCP agents driven out, he said.
Opposition seeks disqualification of two MLCs under anti-defection law
20 new sports complexes being built in state: Samrat
Vegans seek end to animal exploitation
Four arrested for gang rape of orchestra dancer
Patna Zoo Toy Train to Make a Comeback by January End, New 3.77-Km Track to Cost
Patna Zoo plans to relaunch the battery-operated toy train by January 2027, featuring a Vande Bharat-inspired design and improved facilities for visitors.
Heritage walk takes participants to landmarks linked to Mahatma
Railways to develop Rs 1000-cr network for coal transportation to Buxar thermal power plant
Cardicon 2026: Experts discuss advances in cardiac care
Samrat urges affluent households to surrender 125 units of free power
Girl missing from Buxar village rescued in Delhi
Samrat launches Comfed control centre, says agriculture vital to states economy
SIT arrests three accused in Rs 2-cr gold heist case
PMC logs 43% rise in property tax collection
Nishant urges JD(U) workers to connect with people in UP
Tensions flare at several Visakhapatnam polling booths during local body elections
YSRCP and NDA leaders trade allegations of polling irregularities; police and District Collector intervene to defuse tensions in several wards
Youth living with girl as brother found hanging in Begusarai rented house
Debates before PUTA poll bring teachers concerns to fore
Electricity Workers Brave Cyclone Arnab To Restore Essential Services
Amid heavy rain and winds of up to 150 kmph brought by Cyclone Arnab, APEPDCL electricity workers continued working through the night near HB Colony in Visakhapatnam, braving harsh conditions to keep essential services running.
Fragmented thought a new trend in politics, says JD-U's Neeraj Kumar on Independent MLCs joining BJP
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 1 (IANS) In what signals growing unease in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) alliance in Bihar, JD-U spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said the move of two newly elected Independent Members of Legislative Council (MLCs) to join the ruling party shows that fragmented thought has become a new trend in politics. Hinting that the switchover post-election could be a reflection of this, he added that the Independent MLCs decision to align with the BJP was a matter of their own discretion. NDA allies BJP and JD-U had fielded four candidates each in the recently held MLC elections for eight seats in Bihar; however, the alliance could fetch just 3 seats while the rest of the Teachers and Graduates constituencies voted in favour of RJD, Independents, and newly founded Jan Suraaj Party (JSP). Neeraj Kumar, the JD-U MLC who battled the odds successfully, told scribes that the party will hold a meeting on November 5 to review the election results, while admitting that the NDAs performance was not up to the mark in elections. Asked about whether the results were a setback for the party, he remarked: Having one's body in one place, soul in another, and mind somewhere elsethis has become a new trend in politics. He mentioned that the November 5 meeting will include the party's winning and losing candidates, MLCs, election in-charges, and other relevant stakeholders. JD-U's national executive president, the state president, and other senior leaders are also likely to participate and deliberate on MLC results. He noted that the party has encountered similar situations during elections in the past and added that if an independent MLC chooses to join a political party, it is entirely a matter of their own judgment. The switchover of two newly elected Independent MLCs, Bansidhar Brajwasi and Rahul Raj, into the BJP has stirred a political row in the state, with opposition RJD accusing the ruling party of mocking the Constitution and demolishing democracy, questioning how the two members could join an outfit within days of winning a public mandate in the biennial elections. RJD Working President Tejashwi Yadav has demanded that both the newly elected MLCs should be disqualified for violating the anti-defection law. On the provisions of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution concerning an independent member joining a political party, Neeraj Kumar said that legal experts could provide a definitive interpretation. He stated that once a formal application is received regarding this, the Council Chairman could consult legal experts and decide on the legality in accordance with constitutional procedures.
Thousands Join Silent March in Patna for Brahmin Communitys 15 Demands
In Patna, thousands participated in a silent march advocating for the Brahmin communitys 15 demands, emphasizing unity and rights. Thousands Join Silent March in Patna for Brahmin Communitys 15 Demands
Gummadi Sandhya Rani Casts Vote as Polling Begins Peacefully in Parvathipuram Manyam
Polling in Visakhapatnam is also progressing peacefully, with police maintaining security arrangements at polling stations.
According to booth-level officials, voter turnout was thin between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., with only a handful of people visiting several polling stations during the first hour
According to booth-level officials, voter turnout was thin between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., with only a handful of people visiting several polling stations during the first hour
Stampede-like chaos at concert featuring Roshan Rohi, Dimple Singh; police resort to lathi charge
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the extension of the Northern bullet train corridor from Siliguri to Guwahati, saying Delhi-Guwahati travel could take under eight hours. PM Narendra Modi has approved the Northern corridor, which will connect major cities across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal before reaching Assam.
BJP Leaders Criticize Oppositions Rally in Patna, Claiming It Misleads the Public
BJP leaders in Patna express skepticism about the oppositions rally, suggesting it misleads the public and questions its legitimacy. BJP Leaders Criticize Oppositions Rally in Patna, Claiming It Misleads the Public
Tejashwi seeks disqualification of 2 Bihar MLCs over BJP switch
Patna: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has sought the disqualification of Bihar MLCs Bansidhar Brajwasi and Rahul Raj, who had announced that they had joined the BJP, less than a week after getting elected as independents. Yadav, who is the Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, stated this late Saturday night, October 31, hours after 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 .
