Hardeep Singh Puri out: 8 new faces in BJPs UP Rajya Sabha list carries a 2027 message

BJP has nominated eight new leaders for the Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. This new slate emphasizes social and regional diversity within the party's representation. Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri was notably excluded from the new nominations, raising questions about his future role. The BJP prepares for upcoming Assembly elections in both Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, which may influence future cabinet reshuffles.

Rise and Fall 2: Kajal Raghwani reveals she tried to commit suicide, had cut her wrist

Digital Desk | Mumbai, October 6 (IANS) Bhojpuri actress Kajal Raghwani opened up about one of the most difficult chapters of her life on Rise and Fall Season 2. She revealed that she had once tried to end her life and had cut her wrist during a deeply troubled phase. The revelation came during a conversation in the Tower when Niharika Tiwari noticed the mark on Kajals hand and asked her about it. Kajal responded candidly, Kaata hai.. Maine kaata tha sucide karne ke liye. (It is a cut. I had cut myself to commit suicide.) Her revelation left the other contestants shocked. Manish Kashyap reacted to Kajals confession, saying, Mein injection se darta hu, yaha ladkiyaan haat kaat letu. Itna himaat kaha se hota hai yaar aap log ko.. shiddhat se pyaar kariye lekin agar koi bhul raha hai toh bhul jao. (I am scared of injections, and here girls cut their hands. Where do you people get so much courage from? Love someone wholeheartedly, but if someone is forgetting you, then let them go) When the conversation turned to the reason behind her decision, Kajal made it clear that it was not simply about someone leaving her or over a heartbreak. When Niharika suggested that perhaps it was connected to love, Kajal said it was something she had done for herself. Manish, unable to understand her reasoning, questioned her further, asking, Mein apne liye apna haat kyu kaatunga. (Why would I cut my own hand for myself?) Kajal then opened up about how she had been feeling at the time, saying, Mujhe nahi jeena tha,mujhe duniya samajh nahi aa rahi thi. (I did not want to live; I could not understand the world around me) Kajal has earlier spoken about difficult relationships and emotional struggles on the show earlier as well. In another conversation, she had opened up about her relationship with Bhojpuri actor Khesari Lal Yadav, saying the two grew close while working together and eventually fell in love. She said, I am not the only one who has fallen in love with a married man, a lot of women have. The situation was such that we worked together, became attracted to each other and fell in love. Kajal has also said that she was in a five-year relationship with Khesari and claimed that he would still miss her. However, she later separately clarified that the man she accused of physically abusing her was not Khesari Lal Yadav. She said the physical abuse happened in another relationship and that she did not want to reveal that person's identity. Talking about the show, it is produced by Banijay Asia, and hosted by Virender Sehwag.

Healthy Navratri Recipes: 8 Low-Oil Vrat Dishes To Try This Year

Navratri fasting is meant to feel light. Yet vrat plates can lean heavily on the fryer: kuttu puris, aloo tikkis, sabudana vadas. The Indian Council of Medical Research's National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) estimates that 56.4 per cent of India's disease

Why Bengal sculptors collect soil from Kolkatas red-light area for Durga idols

Kumartuli, an iconic neighborhood in Kolkata, showcases the unique tradition of crafting Durga idols from clay. A significant aspect of this practice involves gathering soil from the thresholds of sex workers, which holds sacred meaning in Bengali heritage. This inclusion reflects a profound connection between faith and societal acceptance, stirring dialogue about purity and respect for all communities, particularly those often sidelined during significant cultural events like Durga Puja.

Ilia Topuria Vs. Salahdine Parnasse at UFC 336? Frenchmans Camp Finally Responds

A widely circulated rumour linking Ilia Topuria with Salahdine Parnasse as his next opponent has been shut down, for now, with Parnasses manager saying he would accept the fight if the UFC proposes it, but stating that nothing is official.

Cong govt exerting undue influence on SIR process: NDA seeks K'taka Governor's intervention

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 6 (IANS) An NDA delegation led by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy and Leaders of Opposition R. Ashoka and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy on Tuesday expressed serious concern and disapproval over what it termed the undue influence exerted by the Karnataka government on the constitutional process of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The delegation, comprising BJP and JD(S) MLAs and MPs, met Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot at the Lok Bhavan and submitted a memorandum seeking his intervention to safeguard the interests of individuals who filed objections through Form-7 applications. The NDA leaders alleged that the Chief Electoral Office appeared to have succumbed to pressure from the state government and urged the Governor to issue directions to ensure that false and unwarranted FIRs and criminal cases under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, were not registered against individuals, including BJP workers, in connection with the SIR exercise. The memorandum stated that the SIR process had been progressing smoothly and in a structured manner and was currently at the stage of issuing notices and disposing of claims and objections. It said the exercise was aimed at ensuring accurate, inclusive and legally valid electoral rolls and fulfilling the constitutional promise of universal adult franchise. The NDA delegation said the SIR was necessary to prevent and curb the inclusion of ineligible persons in electoral rolls on account of what it termed illegal influx, and to safeguard the integrity of voter rolls and ensure free and fair elections. It further stated that the SIR exercise in Karnataka was at an advanced stage of the notice phase and disposal of claims and objections. Referring to Rule 13(2) of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, the memorandum said every objection to the inclusion of a name in the electoral roll had to be filed in Form-7 and could be submitted by a person whose name was already included in the electoral roll. The NDA leaders contended that filing objections through Form-7 was a legitimate constitutional right, subject to scrutiny by election officials and the appellate process provided under law. They also argued that there was no bar on filing Form-7 objections in bulk. Referring to an Election Commission of India communication dated January 16, 2026, and the Manual on Electoral Rolls, 2023, they said applications could be submitted in bulk for identifying corrections in draft electoral rolls. The memorandum claimed that there were no restrictions on the number of Form-7 applications that could be submitted to Electoral Registration Officers or Assistant Electoral Registration Officers and that all objections were required to be cross-verified by election officials. It also stated that Booth Level Agents could file multiple Form-7 applications. Hence, no illegality is committed with submitting Form-7, the delegation stated. The NDA leaders also criticised Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and ministers for allegedly holding a protest within the premises of the Election Commission despite prohibitory orders. They alleged that the protest exerted undue influence on the functioning of the Chief Electoral Office. According to the memorandum, such actions appeared to have resulted in the issuance of a circular proposing action under Section 31 of the Representation of the People Act. The delegation said the circular had caused apprehension among people who had submitted Form-7 applications, as it appeared to legitimise the use of police machinery and interference in the SIR process. It further alleged that individuals were now apprehensive about the registration of criminal cases under the BNS, 2023, citing FIRs registered in various districts, including Belagavi, Bidar, Ballari and Mysuru. The NDA delegation urged Governor Gehlot to issue appropriate directions to the Karnataka government to safeguard the interests of individuals who had filed objections through Form-7. It also sought directions to ensure that false, unwarranted FIRs and criminal cases under the BNS, 2023, were not registered against individuals, including BJP workers, in connection with the SIR exercise. The delegation said such intervention was necessary in the interest of justice and to maintain the purity of elections.

Attempting to create atmosphere of anarchy: BJP attacks Cong over INDIA bloc protest

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Congress and the INDIA bloc over their planned protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accusing the Opposition of mounting a sponsored attack on constitutional institutions and describing it as a low to India's democracy. Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, party national spokesperson Sambit Patra alleged that the Opposition, particularly the Congress, was attempting to create political instability with the aim of bringing Rahul Gandhi to power. A sponsored attempt is being made by the Opposition, especially the Congress, as to how a change of power be brought about in the country, and Rahul Gandhi be made to sit in power just like that. To do this, a blow to India's democracy is being hurled at Constitutional bodies in a sponsored manner, Patra said. He claimed that the issue was not a recent development and alleged that the Congress had been pursuing such a strategy for several years. Since the beginning, Congress has been attempting to somehow launch and relaunch Rahul Gandhi. However, when Rahul Gandhi could not be launched in several attempts, Congress and some of its allies decided that even if Rahul Gandhi has to be launched through chaos, they will attack the country's democracy, but at any cost, they will politically launch Rahul Gandhi, Patra said. The BJP spokesperson also alleged that the Congress would attempt to create an atmosphere of anarchy during the INDIA bloc's scheduled protest on Tuesday by using the Election Commission as an issue. We have been hearing about the so-called rally and march. Before their rally takes place, it is our responsibility as a political party to accurately place the issue before the people of the country and explain what is happening in the Election Commission and what is happening in the entire matter before the Supreme Court, Patra said. Referring to the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Patra alleged that misconceptions and fake news had been circulated over the past few days. For the past few days, 'misconceptions and fake news' have been spread regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Yesterday, you saw that a petition was filed in the Supreme Court regarding the Election Commission of India. The main demand of that petition was that the Chief Election Commissioner should be removed and dismissed -- that he should be removed, he said. Patra also referred to a post shared by Rahul Gandhi on X on Monday, in which the Congress leader had shared the ECI's September 26 press statement. Patra said he would respond to what he described as Gandhi's undle of lies and sought to challenge four misleading or fake statements made in the post. He identified the four claims as statements that Form 6 has been changed illegally, that Form 6 changed unilaterally, that the Election Commission of India is trying to help the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and that there had been an Election Commission of India's criminal assault on Indian democracy. First, 'Form 6 has been changed illegally'. Second, 'Form 6 changed unilaterally'. Third, 'Election Commission of India is trying to help the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'. And fourth, 'Election Commission of India's criminal assault on Indian democracy', he said. Patra said the Election Commission had already conducted a fact-check on the issue and rejected the claims. He also referred to Monday's hearing in the Supreme Court, saying the proceedings had become part of the political debate over Form 6. Yesterday, when the matter was heard in the Supreme Court, CJI Justice Surya Kant made a remark. What was that remark regarding Form 6? I am reading it out: 'Any modified Form 6 has not been approved by us. Let's be clear, when the record is produced, we would like to see who has modified it, Patra said. He argued that the Supreme Court had not approved any modification to Form 6 and had indicated that it would examine the matter once the relevant record was placed before it. The Supreme Court said that it had not issued any order approving any modification to Form 6. It said that when the matter comes on record, the court will see whether any modification was made to Form 6. The petition claimed that Form 6 was illegal and should be removed, and Rahul Gandhi tweeted that Form 6 was illegal. However, no such statement was made by the CJI or the Supreme Court yesterday, Patra said. Patra then alleged that Gandhi's first claim was that Form 6 was illegal and sought to contrast Gandhi's interpretation with what he said was actually stated by the Supreme Court and the Election Commission. Rahul Gandhi Ji's lie number one is that Form 6 is illegal. He has said that, based on the hearing in the Supreme Court and the Election Commission of India's press statement number 120 issued on September 26, 2026, the Election Commission lied. But if we look at what the Supreme Court actually said, which I have read out, and what the Election Commission said, I will read out the portion that Rahul Gandhi has underlined: 'The declaration attached to Form 6 for SIR has been upheld by the Hon'ble Supreme Court'. There was no modification in Form 6, but to a declaration attached to it, he said. Patra further referred to the Supreme Court's order, saying that the Election Commission had powers within the constitutional and legal framework to take steps related to the electoral rolls. Patra said that the Supreme Court itself has said this in its Order 152 that for cleaning and ensuring the purity of the electoral rolls, if such additions are required, the Election Commission can do so within its limited powers, the BJP spokesperson said. You all know that a very clear press statement was issued, in which all three Election Commissioners were sitting together... After that, they issued this press statement. Here, all three Commissioners are sitting together, and the statement says that the decision was unanimous, with the signatures of all three. So, here Rahul Gandhi has made his second claim, making another attempt to create confusion, Patra said. The BJP leader then turned to what he described as Gandhi's hird claim, alleging that the Election Commission was attempting to benefit the BJP. Gyanesh Kumar Ji was appointed on February 19, 2025. The Lok Sabha elections of 2014, 2019 and 2024, as well as elections in several states and Union Territories, had already taken place before his appointment, Patra said. He also questioned whether the Congress would similarly raise questions about former CEC V.K. Sampath, who was appointed during the tenure of the previous UPA government in 2012 and served as the Chief Election Commissioner during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when the BJP formed the government at the Centre. Gyanesh Ji is not helping the Bharatiya Janata Party; Ganesh Ji is helping the Bharatiya Janata Party. Ganesh Ji is the deity of wisdom, knowledge, learning and intellect. The people of India have wisdom, intellect and knowledge, and they know that they should not vote for those involved in dynastic politics and corruption, those who stand with terrorists, and those who cannot even post a tweet for Captain Smit, Patra said.

Puri Records Second-Highest October Temperature in 130 Years as IMD Warns of Impending Rain

Puri recorded its second-highest October daytime temperature in nearly 130 years on Monday, with the mercury soaring to 36.6C on October 5, according to historical data dating back to 1896. The record heat surpasses the previous second-highest October mark of 36.3C set on October 4, 2024. The intense spell comes amidst the ongoing withdrawal of [] The post Puri Records Second-Highest October Temperature in 130 Years as IMD Warns of Impending Rain appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

BJP Announces Candidates for Rajya Sabha Elections in Uttar Pradesh, Excludes Key Ministers

The BJP has revealed its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, omitting key figures like Hardeep Singh Puri. BJP Announces Candidates for Rajya Sabha Elections in Uttar Pradesh, Excludes Key Ministers

Rajya Sabha polls: 8 fresh BJP faces for UP, Hardeep Puri among 2 ministers dropped

BJP has chosen not to renominate Union ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and B L Verma for Rajya Sabha. This decision raises speculation about a possible reshuffle of the council of ministers by PM Narendra Modi. Since several ministers have been given organization roles, it indicates their continuation in government may be unlikely. Puri's term ends in November, and he may be reassigned for the Punjab assembly polls.

BJP names 8 new Rajya Sabha candidates from UP, leaves out Hardeep Singh Puri and BL Verma

The BJP has officially declared eight candidates for the impending Rajya Sabha elections, emphasizing the importance of regional representation and caste considerations. The exclusion of union ministers and current members has sparked speculation about an impending cabinet reshuffle. This selected group emphasizes inclusivity by featuring individuals from Dalit and backward communities, aligning with the party's strategic vision as it prepares for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

Cabinet reshuffle on cards as 12 ministers hold multiple portfolios, key posts may get new faces

Anticipated changes in the Indian cabinet are on the horizon as Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri plans to leave the petroleum ministry next month. This development comes after key ministry realignments, particularly Pralhad Joshis additional duties in education. With around 40% of ministers managing dual roles, the current cabinet structure appears strained. As the Modi administration approaches its midpoint, these shifts could drastically influence minority representation.

Sambit Patra targets Punjab govt over crime, cites HC-ordered CBI probe

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sambit Patra on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, alleging corruption and a deteriorating law-and-order situation following a Punjab and Haryana High Court direction for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into corruption allegations against the Chief Ministers OSD and others. Addressing a press conference at the BJPs central office in New Delhi, Patra alleged that law and order has collapsed, and corruption has reached its peak in Punjab. He referred to the High Courts direction for a CBI investigation into allegations of corruption against Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD, Ranbir Singh Ghuman, and others. Patra claimed that allegations had been made that Ghuman and certain other officials facilitated the delivery of government benefits in exchange for bribes or commissions. He said the court had directed the CBI to carry the inquiry forward, complete the investigation within two months and submit its report. The BJP MP from Odishas Puri Lok Sabha constituency also referred to what he described as four murders and attacks on police personnel in Punjab in the past 48 hours and sought answers from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP regarding corruption and the law-and-order situation. Briefing the media, Patra cited an incident on Sunday evening in Amritsar in which social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu was murdered. He also referred to three murders in Ludhiana within a span of 48 hours, including that of a former sarpanch. According to Patra, Sarpanch Navtej Singh of Malewal village was murdered on Saturday evening, while 29-year-old Laddi Khan of Mullanpur Dakha village was shot dead. He further stated that another murder took place in Anant Vihar Colony, Sahnewal, Ludhiana, where 35-year-old Dinesh Kumar was allegedly stabbed to death. Accusing Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP of double standards, Patra claimed that if a similar situation had occurred in a BJP-ruled state, the party would have organised rallies, held press conferences and demanded dismissal of the government. He further alleged that even police personnel were not safe in Punjab. When police officers themselves are being killed, who will take responsibility for the safety of ordinary citizens? Patra asked. Patra cited several incidents involving attacks on police personnel. He said that on February 22 this year, ASI Gurnam Singh was shot dead at the Aandhiyan Police Post in Gurdaspur district and Home Guard Ashok Kumar was also killed on the same day. He further stated that on May 24, in Hamza village under Fatehgarh Churian on the Majitha Road in Amritsar district, ASI Joga Singh was allegedly killed while on duty by assailants on a scooter. Patra also claimed that ASI Harjit Singh was killed on September 18. He added that five days later, an attempt was made on the life of ASI Jaswant Singh, who narrowly escaped. According to Patra, ASI Sukhchain Singh also came under gunfire on Sunday but survived. We have highlighted the number of police personnel who have been killed, Patra said, while also referring to incidents of firing at police stations.

Sanitation workers in Dharmapuri go on strike demanding minimum wages

Union ministers Puri, Verma do not find place in BJP's UP Rajya Sabha list

Hardeep Singh Puri and B L Verma's Rajya Sabha terms end on November 25; their exclusion comes amid speculation about a mid-term revamp of the Union Council of Ministers

Yadu H13 True HEPA Filter Air Purifier (Up to 2,083sq ft) $59.99

Yadu H13 True HEPA Filter Air Purifier (Up to 2,083sq ft) $59.99

Puri Hotel Owner Detained After Allegations of Serving Sacred Mahaprasad with Non-Vegetarian Food

A profound sense of shock and anger has gripped the holy town of Puri following a deeply sensitive and alarming incident involving the alleged desecration of Mahaprasad. Local devotees, servitors, and Jagannath lovers have expressed intense outrage after reports emerged that a local eatery near the Puri Railway Station and Police Line area was openly [] The post Puri Hotel Owner Detained After Allegations of Serving Sacred Mahaprasad with Non-Vegetarian Food appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Gold, silver prices remain flat in Delhi amid subdued demand

New Delhi, Oct 5 (PTI) Gold and silver prices remained unchanged in the national capital on Monday as subdued domestic demand kept bullion rates moving in a narrow range. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity quoted flat at Rs 1,49,800 per 10 grams, inclusive of all taxes, while silver remained steady at Rs 2,27,000 per kilogram, according to local traders. Traders said domestic prices moved in a narrow range, with subdued demand from jewellers and retailers keeping the precious metals muted. Gold prices remained steady in the domestic market, tracking a firm trend in overseas markets, said Saumil

BJPs UP Rajya Sabha List Out: Oil Minister Hardeep Puri Dropped, 8 Candidates Named

The BJP has announced eight candidates for the October 16 Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, including two women. Former Lok Sabha MP Priyanka Singh Rawat and Shruti Gangwar, daughter of Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, are among the nominees. Dharampal Singh, Radhakant Ojha, Prakash Pal, Vidyasagar Sonkar, Gopi Krishna Pandey and Ram Pratap Singh Chauhan are the other candidates. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, whose Rajya Sabha term is ending, has not been included in the list. Party insiders say his omission could signal a reshuffle in the Union Council of Ministers. Ten Rajya Sabha seats are falling vacant in Uttar Pradesh, with eight currently held by the BJP, one each by the SP and BSP.

No Hardeep Puri, Smriti Irani: The New BJP Faces For UP Rajya Sabha Polls

Dharam Pal Singh, Radhakant Ojha, Prakash Pal, Vidyasagar Sonkar, Gopi Krishna Pandey, Priyanka Singh Rawat, Ram Pratap Singh Chauhan and Shruti Gangwar are the eight BJP candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls.

BJP drops all 8 UP Rajya Sabha members - what it means

The outgoing BJP members, apart from Hardeep Singh Puri and BL Verma, are Arun Singh, Neeraj Shekhar, Geeta Shakya, Brijlal and Seema Dwivedi. The eighth seat belonged to former deputy chief minister Dinesh Sharma, who resigned on September 11 after being appointed lieutenant governor (LG) of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. His term was due to end on November 25, like those of the others.

Gulf countries, Qatar keen on investing in India's refining sector

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) While major energy producers in the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have expressed strong interest in funding oil refinery projects in India, New Delhi is also looking at sourcing more investment from Qatar, according to an article. The initiative supports Indias plan to increase national refining capacity from 5.4mn barrels per day (bpd) to over 6.2mn bpd to meet rising domestic fuel requirements, according to the article in the Gulf Times. The article highlights that India is also broadening its diplomatic outreach to Qatar to secure institutional capital across the broader energy value chain. In April, during a two-day official visit to Doha, Indias Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri met Qatars Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, who is also President and CEO of QatarEnergy, to discuss strategic relations, trade, investment, and maritime supply chain security, it noted. During the meeting, both officials reaffirmed bilateral energy cooperation while stressing the necessity of maintaining stability in global fuel supplies and ensuring unhindered maritime commerce during regional disruptions, according to state-run Qatar News Agency (QNA). While trade between the two nations has historically been anchored by long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreements, bilateral dialogue is increasingly focusing on mutual equity participation in processing assets, the website of the Indian Embassy in Qatar stated. Long-term gas trade remains a central pillar, highlighted by Petronet LNGs 20-year contract extension in 2024 to purchase 7.5mn tonnes of LNG annually from QatarEnergy through July 2028 and beyond. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held a discussion on September 29 with her Qatar counterpart Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari on the implementation of the $10 billion Qatari investment commitment in India and finalisation of the Bilateral Investment Treaty. At the meeting held on the sidelines of the AIIB 2026 annual meeting in Doha, the two Finance Ministers also discussed the expansion of Indian UPI payments across Qatar and the Gulf nations engagement with the National Infrastructure and Investment Fund of India, according to a Finance Ministry statement. The ministers also discussed the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement as a strengthened framework for trade, investment and tax certainty between the two countries. The Finance Minister appreciated the excellent arrangements for the AIIB Annual Meeting. She recalled Indias recent engagements with Qatars leadership, which elevated India-Qatar bilateral relations to a strategic partnership. Al Kuwari thanked the Indian community for being part of the success story of Qatar. He looked forward to bigger opportunities for strengthening trade, finance and investment relations between the two countries, the statement added.

BJP announces 8 names for RS election, drops Hardeep Puri

The BJP has announced eight candidates, including minister Dharam Pal Singh, for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. These elections, scheduled for October 16, will fill 10 seats from Uttar Pradesh, one from Uttarakhand, and a bypoll in West Bengal, with several prominent members retiring.

BJP Announces 8 Rajya Sabha Candidates for UP; Drops Union Ministers Hardeep Puri and B.L. Verma

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday announced its list of eight candidates for the upcoming biennial Rajya Sabha elections from Uttar Pradesh, scheduled for Oct 16. In a major reshuffle, the party has dropped all sitting MPs from the state whose terms are expiring, including Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and BL Verma. With [] The post BJP Announces 8 Rajya Sabha Candidates for UP; Drops Union Ministers Hardeep Puri and B.L. Verma appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

BJP Nominates 8 Leaders To Rajya Sabha From UP, Hardeep Puri Not On List

The BJP has announced eight names for the coming Rajya Sabha election from Uttar Pradesh, keeping a balance between castes and ensuring election on at least one seat on October 16.

BJP releases Rajya Sabha candidate list, drops Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

The Rajya Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh is being held for 10 seats, with voting scheduled for October 16.

BJP Announces 8 Rajya Sabha Candidates In UP, Drops Hardeep Puri, Smriti Irani And Kumar Vishwas

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has left out several prominent names that were in the spotlight during the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Sabha elections, including Smriti Irani, Kumar Vishwas and Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri. The party on Monday announced

BJP announces 8 candidates for Rajya Sabha polls in UP; Puri, BL Verma not in list

BJP has announced eight candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. Union ministers Hardeep Puri and BL Verma were not included in this announcement. The election schedule was previously announced by the Election Commission of India. Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party has designated two candidates for these polls as well. The final date for filing nominations will be October 6, followed by polling on October 16.

BJP announces 8 candidates UP Rajya Sabha elections, fields Dharampal Singh; drops Hardeep Singh Puri

BJP announces 8 candidates UP Rajya Sabha elections, fields Dharampal Singh; drops Hardeep Singh Puri More to follow...

Chole bhature hack: Netherlands man craving desi food finds jugaad to make it without kneading dough; internet divided over the final result

A man living in the Netherlands has shared a quirky food hack for Indians missing chole bhature abroad. In a viral Instagram video, Piyush uses a tortilla from Albert Heijn, fries it in hot oil and turns it into a puffed bhatura-like bread. While the hack impressed some viewers, others said it tastes more like puri than traditional bhatura.

IIT Guwahati Develops Innovative Plant-Based Water Treatment System

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have created a new eco-friendly water treatment system using plants to purify polluted water from livestock. IIT Guwahati Develops Innovative Plant-Based Water Treatment System

Those vendors of snacks

Over two years, this writer befriended panipuri-wallahs in an attempt to tell their stories even if, at first, they didnt want their stories to be told.

Big B recalls Yash Chopras strange transformation from Kabhi Kabhie to Deewaar

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 5 (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan reminisced about working with late filmmaker Yash Chopra on two vastly different films, Kabhi Kabhie and Deewaar. While talking to actor Ayushmann Khurrana, who came to KBC to promote his upcoming film Udta Teer, he recalled how the late filmmaker seamlessly shifted from the romance-filled world of Kabhi Kabhie to the intense, gritty drama of Deewaar, calling it a testament to the filmmakers greatness. Ayushmann first paid a heartfelt tribute by singing the iconic title track Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein. Amitabh was then heard saying: Bohot khub Ayushmann ji aur ek baar ek jordaar taaliyan inkeliye. Thank you, bohot saari purani yaadein taaza kardi aapne. Yeh gaana humari film Kabhi Kabhie ka hain aur yeh Yash Chopraji ki film hain. (Very good, Ayushmann ji, and once again, a big round of applause for him. Thank you, you have brought back so many old memories. This song is from our film Kabhi Kabhie, and this is a Yash Chopra ji film.) The icon recalled: Humme yaad hain ki yeh film Kashmir mein shoot hui thi aur Ayushmann ji badi ajeeb baat hain ki jab hum Kabhi Kabhie shoot kar rahe the, saath hi saath hum aur ek film shoot kar rahe the Yashji ki jiska naam tha Deewaar. (I remember that this film was shot in Kashmir, and Ayushmann ji, the strange thing is that when we were shooting Kabhi Kabhie, at the same time, we were also shooting another film by Yash ji called Deewaar.) Vahi keh rahe hain ki badi ajeeb baat hain Ayushmann ji aur yakeen nahi hota hain ki Yashji joh the ek romantic kisam ke director the aur unki har film romance keliye jaani jaati thi, aur achanak voh Deewaar jaisi film bana rahe the voh bhi viprit iss film se. (What I am saying is that it is a very strange thing, Ayushmann ji, and it is hard to believe that Yash ji, who was a romantic kind of director and whose every film was known for romance, suddenly made a film like Deewaar, which was completely opposite to this film.) Humme yaad hai Deewaar ke shooting ke just doh din baad Kabhi Kabhie ki shooting shuru ho gayi aur kaise Yashji ne parivartan kiya apne aap ko aur samah ko kaise badla, voh greatness thi Yashji ki. (I remember that just two days after the shooting of Deewaar, the shooting of Kabhi Kabhie began, and how Yash ji transformed himself and how he changed the atmosphere, that was the greatness of Yash ji) Kabhi Kabhie released in1976. The musical romantic drama film written by Pamela Chopra. It stars Waheeda Rehman, Shashi Kapoor, Raakhee, Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh. This was Yash Chopra's second directorial film with Shashi Kapoor and Big B in the lead roles after Deewaar in 1975. Meanwhile, Deewaar also featured Neetu Singh, Nirupa Roy, Parveen Babi, Iftekhar, Madan Puri, Satyen Kappu and Manmohan Krishna. In the film, two impoverished brothers struggle to survive in the slums and eventually find themselves on opposing sides of the law. Expressing his gratitude once again for the soulful musical tribute, Amitabh was further celebrated by Ayushmann and Sara Ali Khan in honour of his birthday month. To mark the special occasion, the duo requested the megastar to deliver some of his iconic dialogues across a range of different emotions, celebrating his unparalleled versatility and legacy as an actor. Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18 airs Sony Entertainment Television!

CM Yogi Advocates for Voter List Purification Amid Nationwide Protests

CM Yogi Adityanath supports the special intensive review process to remove ineligible names from voter lists, emphasizing national integrity. CM Yogi Advocates for Voter List Purification Amid Nationwide Protests

PM Modi Shares Wisdom on True Friendship Through Sanskrit Shloka

PM Modi emphasizes the qualities of true friendship through a Sanskrit verse, highlighting virtues like purity, sacrifice, and sincerity. PM Modi Shares Wisdom on True Friendship Through Sanskrit Shloka

Delhi AQI remains moderate, several areas record poor air quality

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Delhis air quality remained in the moderate category on Monday, although several parts of the national capital recorded pollution levels in the poor category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As per CPCB data, overall air quality in Delhi remained moderate, with several monitoring stations reporting elevated pollution levels. Mandir Marg recorded an AQI of 146, Aya Nagar 140, Punjabi Bagh 212, CRRI Mathura Road 225, Shadipur 175, IGI Airport (T3) 187, Alipur 238, JNU 135, R.K. Puram 193, Mundka 257, Wazirpur 221, Vivek Vihar 230, Okhla Phase-2 203, Cantonment Area 87, Nehru Nagar 144 and Anand Vihar 179. The deterioration in air quality comes as Delhi enters the period when pollution levels typically begin to rise sharply. The national capital had witnessed its most polluted start to October in recent years, with the situation worsening over the past few days. On Sunday, Delhi recorded its worst air quality of the season, with the citys average AQI reaching 187, placing it at the higher end of the moderate category. The rise in pollution follows a brief period of relatively cleaner air, when rainfall and strong winds helped disperse pollutants. However, declining wind speeds, the absence of rain and localised emissions have contributed to the renewed deterioration in air quality. PM10, consisting largely of coarse and inhalable particles originating from sources such as road dust, construction activity and biomass burning, has been among the major pollutants during the recent deterioration. Of the 43 operational air quality monitoring stations in Delhi, 14 recorded AQI levels in the poor category in the average 4 p.m. bulletin. Mundka reported the highest AQI at 273, followed by 257 at both CRRI Mathura Road and Narela, while Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 237. The Delhi Cantonment area recorded the lowest AQI at 97, falling in the satisfactory category. Under CPCBs classification, an AQI between zero and 50 is considered good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 severe. CPCB data also indicated that Delhi has witnessed one of its most polluted starts to October in the last six years. The average AQI during the first four days of October was 174.5 in 2026, compared with 119.75 in 2025, 167.25 in 2024, 155 in 2023, 161.25 in 2022, 107.25 in 2021 and 176.25 in 2020. Air quality in Delhi-NCR generally begins deteriorating from mid-September. Stubble burning, followed by emissions from vehicles, industries, power plants and biomass burning, contributes significantly to winter pollution. Firecrackers during the festive season, particularly around Diwali, can further aggravate the situation despite restrictions. The Commission for Air Quality Managements expert assessment has identified PM2.5 as a key pollutant affecting Delhis air quality, with secondary particulates formed from various combustion-related emissions contributing significantly during winter.

Tamil Nadu weather updates: Rain with thunderstorms likely as IMD forecasts wet conditions across the state

Tamil Nadu weather: Rain with thunderstorms and lightning is likely in 17 districts, including Chennai, over the next three hours, according to the Chennai Meteorological Centre. The IMD has also forecast isolated heavy rain in the ghat areas of Coimbatore, the Nilgiris, Theni, Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri, along with gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph in one or two places.

Sub adult tigress found dead near Brahmapuri farm

Puri school snakebite leaves student dead, another critical

Delang: A Class IX student died of snakebite, and another was critical after the two were bitten while staying overnight at their school following a block-level sports competition in Puri district, according to reports. The deceased was identified as 14-year-old Sai Swayam Jena, while PK Gyanaranjan Parida is undergoing treatment at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar. []

Varanasi Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal inspects Assi Ghat, Pushkar Kund, Ravindrapuri, and Bhelupur areas

The Municipal Corporation of Varanasi is accelerating development work to promote tourism and streamline the city's traffic system. To streamline traffic flow and provide better facilities to tourists in the Assi Ghat and Bhadaini areas, a mechanised multi-level car parking lot is being constructed at a cost of

Delhi: Eminent artistes from India, abroad perform during dance fest at Purana Qila

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Eminent artistes from India and abroad performed at the three-day 'Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav' that concluded on Sunday at the historic Purana Qila in Delhi, an official said. Organised by the Delhi Tourism Department of the state government, the festival was held on the theme 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi'. The festival was held from October 2 to 4, with performances scheduled daily from 6:30 p.m. onwards. Entry for the public is free. On the occasion, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra said that organising the Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav at the historic Purana Qila was a special initiative in itself. He added that the festival provided an important platform to showcase Delhi's historical heritage and India's rich cultural traditions together. He said that the festival was organised for the second time and, following discussions with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, efforts will be made to regularly organise and promote such cultural events in Delhi. Mishra said that Delhi is a city deeply connected with thousands of years of history, traditions, art, culture, valour and heritage. He added that through such events, efforts were being made to strengthen Delhi's cultural identity and connect the younger generation with India's rich artistic and cultural traditions. He said that the Delhi government is committed to developing the national capital not only as the political capital but also as the cultural capital of the country. He added that ideas and initiatives from artistes, gurus and people associated with the cultural sector from across the country are welcome for organising cultural programmes and launching new initiatives in Delhi. The state government will work together with artistes and those associated with the cultural sector to take such programmes forward, he said. The Indraprastha Nritya Mahotsav featured performances representing various Indian classical dance traditions, including Kuchipudi, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Sattriya, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali and Manipuri. On the first day of the festival, Padma Bhushan awardees Guru Raja and Radha Reddy and group (Delhi) presented Kuchipudi; Padma Shri Ramli Ibrahim (Malaysia) presented a performance; Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Guru Vaswati Mishra (Delhi) presented Odissi; Kalakshetra from Chennai presented Bharatanatyam; and Dhwani from Delhi presented Kathak. On the concluding day, the performances listed included Lok Chhanda (Delhi), Nrityagram and Guru Surupa Sen (Bengaluru), and Guru Latasana Devi and group (Mumbai). At the closing ceremony, a special Bharatanatyam production conceptualised and prepared by Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Guru Vaibhav Arekar was presented.

Marathon Fever Builds as Bhubaneswar Runners Join OMC Puri Coastal Marathon Promo Run

A high-energy Promo Run for the upcoming OMC Puri Coastal Marathon was organised in Bhubaneswar today, bringing together runners, fitness enthusiasts and citizens to build momentum and generate wider awareness ahead of the much-anticipated sporting event. The Promo Run was flagged off by. Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha; Sidhant Mohapatra, MLA, Digapahandi; Balwant [] The post Marathon Fever Builds as Bhubaneswar Runners Join OMC Puri Coastal Marathon Promo Run appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Spurious drugs case: Kingpins travel to turkey throws light on rackets international links

Govt School Peon Arrested for Sexual Assault Attempt on 69-year-old Woman in Puri

In a disturbing incident, police have arrested a government employee for allegedly attempting to sexually assault a 69-year-old woman under the Nayahat police outpost limits in Odishas Puri district. The accused, identified as Indramani Parida, works as a peon at Arei High School. According to police sources, the survivora resident of Mahanipur village in the [] The post Govt School Peon Arrested for Sexual Assault Attempt on 69-year-old Woman in Puri appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

'Congress exposed itself on shuddhikaran row': U'khand CM Dhami (IANS Interview)

Digital Desk | Dehradun, Oct 4 (IANS) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday lashed out at the Congress, accusing it of fabricating issues, while claiming that the grand old party has exposed itself over the alleged purification ritual performed at the Haldwani event venue of party President Mallikarjun Kharge. In an exclusive interaction with IANS at Uttarakhand's border town of Banbasa, the Chief Minister spoke on a range of issues, including the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. IANS: This is the first time that a government in Uttarakhand has held a Cabinet meeting near the India-Nepal border. Any specific reason behind choosing Banbasa? CM Dhami: Prime Minister Narendra Modi had pledged to bring border areas into the mainstream for their development, prioritising them as first villages. He (PM Modi) had declared from the Mana village, that it along with similar border villages, would henceforth be designated as first villages and that their development would be prioritised. The villages would be comprehensively established, and planned by capitalising on their future potential. On those lines, the state government visited the Banbasa-Tanakpur region, home to the revered 'Maa Purnagiri Dham' and situated along the sacred banks of the Sharda river. This area is historically significant as it shares border with Nepal, and hosts an Army cantonment board and a large contingent of paramilitary forces. The region also serves as a route for the Kailash-Mansarovar and Adi Kailash pilgrimages. It boasts of numerous religious sites and also borders Uttar Pradesh. Holding the Cabinet meeting here has been a positive experience and has been well-received by the public. We intend to continue this practice, demonstrating that the Uttarakhand government can make crucial state decisions from any location. We believe that the Uttarakhand government should go to every place, big or small. The government's work should be decentralised. As the 'Mukhya Sevak' (chief servant), there are many places in the state where no one had ever gone before, but I have reached those places. We will continue making such efforts in the future as well. IANS: Uttarakhand is the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). How do you look back at the process? CM Dhami: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, we contested the elections in Uttarakhand in 2022. Then, we had promised the people here that we would bring a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) law. The people of Uttarakhand blessed us with their mandate, and we fulfilled the promise we had made to them. The draft for UCC was prepared under the chairmanship of Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, after consulting with everyone and holding discussions with all stakeholders. We are happy that under the leadership of PM Modi, the people of the state blessed us with their mandate and we fulfilled the promise made to them. Now it is being followed by others (BJP and NDA-ruled states). IANS: Rahul Gandhi has made series of allegations against the Narendra Modi government during several of his programmes, including 'Chhatron Ki Goonj'. What are your views on the LoP's campaign? CM Dhami: The 'Yuvraj' (Rahul Gandhi) is completely unacquainted with India's culture and values. It is not reflected in his conduct or his upbringing. After all, would anyone mock the gesture of a Prime Minister offering a chair to an elderly mother? He (Rahul Gandhi) is no longer acting like the Leader of Opposition. He aspires to be a comedianor rather, he has turned into a comedian on public platforms. He is engaging in such low-level antics and displaying such undignified behaviour. Ajit Doval (National Security Advisor) is the son of Uttarakhand who brought pride to the entire nation. He has dedicated his entire life to India's securityboth internal and external. The language which has been used to describe him (NSA Ajit Doval) is appalling. I believe that not only the citizens of the country but especially the people of Uttarakhand will never forgive him (Rahul Gandhi). Making such comments is extremely hurtful. Members and leaders of the Congress previously used terms akin to street thug to describe the late General Bipin Rawatthe first CDSwho also belonged to our state. This reveals their true mentality. IANS: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had alleged purification ('shuddhikaran') of his event venue in Uttarakhand's Haldwani. The Opposition had accused the BJP of playing a role in it. What are your views on this matter? CM Dhami: In Haldwani, members of the Scheduled Caste communityour artisan brothers and Valmiki brothersperformed a 'Shuddhi Havan' (purification ritual) because 'jihadi' slogans were being raised there. Mess is created at the rallies; liquor bottles are thrown, and other forms of trash and litter are left behind. It was a religious site, yet it was politicised with claims of insults to individuals or casteseven though there was no such incident before or after the event, nor any press release or video evidence was available. In fact, members of the Dalit and Scheduled Caste communities themselves participated in it. When the truth came to light, the Congress party was completely exposed. They have no real issues, so they fabricate them. So after a few days, they have to face embarrassment. IANS: The Opposition is staging protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. How do you view it? CM Dhami: No issue was ever raised while SIR was conducted earlier in the country. This time, fake entries are being removed, and the votes of infiltrators are being deleted. Those who have their names registered in multiple places are being brought down. Earlier, elections were influenced through these (fake) votes. There used to be electoral malpractices and bogus voting. Daughters who are married and have moved elsewhere, why should their votes remain on the rolls? It should be at their new location. And for those who have passed awaywhy should their votes still exist? Why should votes exist for people who have moved away? So, their (Opposition's) modus operandi is to oppose everything, sometimes they oppose the Election Commission, sometimes EVMs, sometimes our administration or the official machinery, and at other times, they make remarks against the High Court or the Supreme Court.

V-P Radhakrishna says compassion, unity key to building Viksit Bharat@2047

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday called upon people to nurture the values of humility, compassion, service, unity and responsibility while building Viksit Bharat@2047. Addressing the Mahaparva Kshamapana Ceremony 2026, organised by the Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee and Jain Mahasabha Delhi at Vigyan Bhawan, Radhakrishnan said that development must go beyond economic prosperity, modern infrastructure and technological advancement. He said a truly developed India must also have trust among citizens, values within families, character among youth and compassion in society, in keeping with the vision of Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi. Highlighting the deep historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Jainism, Radhakrishnan said Jainism has made significant contributions to Tamil literature and culture. He recalled the contributions of Jain scholars and monks to classical Tamil literature and noted the presence of ancient Jain temples and centres of learning across Tamil Nadu. Emphasising the universal message of Jain philosophy, the Vice-President said the teaching of friendship towards all living beings and enmity towards none resonates with Indias civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. In a world witnessing conflict and violence, he said, the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavira offer a path towards peace, dialogue, coexistence and compassion. The Vice President said Ahimsa is not merely the absence of physical violence, but also the absence of violence in thought, word and deed. He said Bhagwan Mahavira showed humanity the path of inner victory, reminding people that true strength lies in conquering anger, intolerance and revenge. The Vice President described the occasion as a celebration of universal values of forgiveness, friendship, non-violence and inner purification. On the occasion, he also presented the Jain Samaj Ratna Award to K.C. Jain. Those present included Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria; President, Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee, Kanhaiya Lal Jain; President, Jain Mahasabha Delhi, Dinesh Doshi; Acharya Visuddh Sagarji Muniraj; Vipin Jain, General Secretary, Shree Jain Tarun Samaj Bhagwan Mahaveer Memorial Samiti; Munishri Udit Kumar; Munishri Tirth Nirvaan Vijay and Upadhyay Ravinder Muni.

Asian Games MVPs: Meet teenage sensation Yu Zidi & sprint king Puripol Boonson

Yu Zidi, a 13-year-old swimmer from China, set multiple records and won three gold medals at the Asian Games. Puripol Boonson, a 20-year-old sprinter from Thailand, achieved a 100m-200m double with four record-breaking performances. Both athletes earned the titles of Female and Male Most Valuable Players for their remarkable achievements. Their performances established them as promising stars in Asian sports moving forward.

OMC Puri Coastal Marathon 2026: CM Majhi, Kapil Dev back Odisha's coastal running vision

The Odisha Tourism Department outlined its vision for the upcoming OMC Puri Coastal Marathon 2026, focusing on sports, fitness, tourism and community participation ahead of the marathon, scheduled to take place in Puri on December 13. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida were also present on the occasion, according to a press release from OMC. Speaking on the occasion, Majhi said, Odisha has always believed in the power of sports to inspire, unite and transform lives. Through initiatives such as the Puri Coastal Marathon, we are taking our commitment to fitness, healthy living and sporting excellence to a wider platform. We want Odisha to emerge as a leading destination for sports alongside its rich tourism and cultural identity. Pravati Parida said, The OMC Puri Coastal Marathon is not just a marathon; it is an initiative to encourage fitness, healthy living and greater participation in sports. Puri, with its beautiful coastline and rich...

Venomous Snake Attacks Sleeping Students in Puri Hostel; 1 Dead, Another Fighting for Life

A night of terror unfolded at the Munida High School hostel in Delang, Puri district, after a poisonous snake slithered into a room and bit two sleeping students, leaving one dead and the other in critical condition. The victims were sleeping inside their hostel room when the poisonous reptile bit them late at night. Upon [] The post Venomous Snake Attacks Sleeping Students in Puri Hostel; 1 Dead, Another Fighting for Life appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Noida: Two injured after house roof collapses in Brahmpuri

Two labourers were injured after the roof of a house collapsed during repair work in the Brahmpuri area under Dadri Police Station limits on Sunday, police said. According to Noida Police, the incident occurred on October 4 when repair work was underway on the roof, and it suddenly collapsed, trapping some labourers. On receiving information, local police and a fire service unit reached the spot and launched a rescue operation. Two injured workers, identified as Irfan alias Titu and Haider Ali, were rescued and shifted to a hospital for treatment. Rescue operations are underway, with senior officials present at the site. Further legal proceedings are being carried out, police said. Further details awaited. (ANI)

BJP names Dinesh Arya as RS candidate from U'khand, Koel Mallick from Bengal

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday announced Dinesh Arya as its candidate for the 2026 Rajya Sabha biennial election in Uttarakhand and Rukmini Mallick (Koel Mallick) from West Bengal. In Uttarakhand, the by-election is necessitated by the completion of the term of sitting Rajya Sabha member Naresh Bansal. Actress-turned-politician Rukmini Mallick, popularly known as Koel Mallick, recently switched to the BJP from the Trinamool Congress. She resigned as Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member in July this year, leaving the seat vacant and forcing a by-election. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on September 22 had announced the biennial elections for 11 Rajya Sabha seats, along with a by-election for one seat from West Bengal, on October 16. Of the 11 seats going to the polls in the biennial elections, 10 are from Uttar Pradesh, and one is from Uttarakhand. The West Bengal election will be held to fill a casual vacancy in the Upper House. The notification for the elections was issued on September 29, while the last date for filing nominations will be October 6. The scrutiny of nominations will be conducted on October 7, followed by the last date for withdrawal of candidature on October 9. Polling for the Rajya Sabha seats will be held on October 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while counting of votes will begin at 5 p.m. on the same day. In Uttar Pradesh, the terms of 10 sitting Rajya Sabha members are coming to an end. The members whose terms are expiring include Arun Singh, Geeta alias Chandraprabha, Brij Lal, Ram Gopal Yadav, Ramji Gautam, B.L. Verma, Seema Dwivedi, Dinesh Sharma and Hardeep Singh Puri. Earlier in the day, the BJP announced its candidates for three Teachers' and Graduates' constituencies for the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council election. The BJP has fielded Smita Yogesh Jadhav from the Pune Division Graduates' constituency, Sudhakar Vitthalrao Kohle from the Nagpur Division Graduates' constituency and Kaustubh Muralidhar Gawde from the Pune Division Teachers' constituency. The announcement comes after discussions within the ruling alliance over the distribution of the five seats going to polls. According to MahaYuti leaders, the alliance has finalised a 3:1:1 formula for the elections. Under the arrangement, the BJP will contest three seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will contest one seat and the Shiv Sena will contest the remaining one seat. The NCP has been allotted the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Graduates' constituency, while the Shiv Sena will contest the Amravati Teachers' constituency.

Puri Coastal Marathon: CM Mohan Charan Majhi backs Odisha's coastal running vision

Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 3 (IANS) The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, outlined its vision for the upcoming Puri Coastal Marathon 2026 in the presence of Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy CM Pravati Parida. The event highlighted Odisha's growing focus on sports, fitness, tourism and community participation ahead of the marathon, scheduled to take place in Puri on December 13. The Puri Coastal Marathon, India's only marathon combining sand and road running, is envisioned as a major sporting and tourism experience that will bring runners from across the country and beyond to Puri, showcasing Odisha's spectacular coastline, rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance and hospitality. With a total prize money of Rs 1 crore, the marathon aims to create a platform where sports and tourism come together, encouraging people to embrace healthier lifestyles while experiencing the natural and cultural beauty of the state. The event follows the statewide Promo Run held on World Tourism Day on September 27, which brought together participants from across Odisha to promote fitness and build awareness of the marathon. The initiative reflected the State's efforts to encourage wider public participation in running and to establish Odisha as a destination for major sporting events. With the unveiling of the marathon's visual identity, the recognition of national sporting achievers and the participation of prominent dignitaries, the event marked an important milestone in the build-up to the marathon. Speaking on the occasion, CM Majhi said, Odisha has always believed in the power of sports to inspire, unite and transform lives. Through initiatives such as the Puri Coastal Marathon, we are taking our commitment to fitness, healthy living and sporting excellence to a wider platform. We want Odisha to emerge as a leading destination for sports alongside its rich tourism and cultural identity. Deputy CM Pravati added, The OMC Puri Coastal Marathon is not just a marathon; it is an initiative to encourage fitness, healthy living and greater participation in sports. Puri, with its beautiful coastline and rich cultural heritage, provides a wonderful platform to bring sports and tourism together. I invite runners from across India and beyond to come to Puri and experience the spirit of Odisha through sports. A key highlight of the event was the presence of Padma Bhushan and PGTI chief Kapil Dev, captain of India's first ODI World Cup-winning team. His participation underscored the role of sporting icons in inspiring the next generation and nurturing a culture of fitness and sporting excellence. I want to thank the Odisha government for their support in hockey. I want to thank especially the initiative of marathon. Marathon is very important. Running is important for a sports person. I am sure in the future, apart from tourism, Odisha will be known for sports, Kapil Dev said. The event also celebrated India's sporting achievements with the felicitation of Baranica Elangovan, who won India's first-ever Asian Games medal in pole vault with a bronze at the 2026 edition, and Animesh Kujur, holder of the Indian national record in the 200-metre sprint. The felicitation recognised their contributions to Indian athletics and reinforced the importance of supporting sporting talent and celebrating excellence. The creative identity and vision of the Puri Coastal Marathon 2026 were showcased through a master video on the marathon, along with videos detailing the design story and launch of the official marathon medal and jersey. A special photo session with athletes further marked the occasion, bringing together sporting personalities and stakeholders in the lead-up to the event. As Odisha prepares to welcome runners to Puri this December, the marathon aims to celebrate endurance, sporting excellence and community participation while strengthening the bond between sports and tourism.

Sand Artists Celebrate Indian Teams Gold Medals at Asian Games 2026

Sand artists in Puri create stunning art to honor Indian cricket and hockey teams for their gold medal victories at the Asian Games 2026. Sand Artists Celebrate Indian Teams Gold Medals at Asian Games 2026

YSRC Grassroots Leaders Resign In Nellimarla, Cheepuripalli

Several YSRC grassroots leaders, including ZPTCs and MPTCs from 13 villages, resigned following the suspension and dismissal of Baddukonda Appala Naidu.

Gujarat govt honours 93 farmers, takes natural produce sales network to 1,200 centres

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 3 (IANS) The Gujarat government on Saturday expanded its network for marketing naturally farmed produce with the inauguration of more than 100 new sales centres, taking the total number of such outlets in the state to 1,200, as 93 progressive farmers were honoured with the Best ATMA Farmers Awards. Governor Acharya Devvrat, who chaired the award ceremony in Gandhinagar in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani, called for wider adoption of natural farming and urged every farmer practising the method to bring at least one more farmer into the campaign. Devvrat said natural farming is necessary to reduce the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides and protect soil, water and the environment as well as human health and future generations. Referring to Denmark, he said: Urea and DAP are not subsidised there, while cow dung and urine are used for producing biogas and organic fertilisers, helping maintain soil organic carbon at two per cent. Welcoming the inauguration of the new sales centres, the Governor said they should become centres of consumer trust rather than merely places where produce is sold. He called for maintaining the quality and purity of naturally farmed products, creating awareness about the centres and sharing information about them among citizens. He also appreciated the state government's efforts to promote natural farming and indigenous cow rearing under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Patel, and congratulated the award-winning farmers. Patel said the state had undertaken various initiatives centred on good governance, development, technology and public welfare to mark PM Modi's 25 years of public service. Development is not just about creating infrastructure but also about improving the quality of life of ordinary citizens, he said. The Chief Minister said knowledge, science, research and technology would be central to India's development in the 21st century. Referring to PM Modi's call for Jai Anusandhan alongside Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, he said the approach linked national security, food security, scientific progress and research. Patel said Gujarat is seeking to empower farmers by integrating natural farming with technology and environmental conservation. New technology and agricultural research could help increase productivity and farmers' incomes while ensuring efficient use of resources, he said. Emphasising the link between soil and human health, Patel called for greater awareness about balanced use of chemical inputs, soil health and sustainable farming. He urged farmers to demonstrate the practical benefits of natural farming on their fields and inspire others to adopt it. He also stressed water conservation and judicious use of water, calling for greater rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and efficient utilisation of water resources. 'Seva' is at the heart of programmes marking PM Modi's 25 years of public service, adding that cleanliness, water conservation, saving electricity and fuel and protecting natural resources are also forms of social service, he said. He urged people to incorporate such measures into their daily lives. Patel asked farmers to bring problems related to natural farming or the marketing of their produce to the government's notice and congratulated the award recipients and Agriculture Department officials. Vaghani said natural farming had emerged as a major campaign in Gujarat under Modi's vision and the guidance of the Governor and Chief Minister. An increasing number of educated young people were also taking up natural farming, and the government is working to provide marketing and certification support, he said. Describing natural farmers as the government's Brand Ambassadors, Vaghani urged them to connect five more farmers with natural farming. He also said Gujarat had become the second state after Uttarakhand to receive the President's assent to its Uniform Civil Code Bill. He congratulated Patel on behalf of the people of Gujarat. He said the measure would introduce a uniform law across the state while preserving the traditional systems and culture of tribal areas. During the programme, an MoU was signed between the Directorate of Agriculture and SAC-ISRO to promote the use of satellite and geospatial technology in agriculture. Appointment letters were handed over to 14 newly appointed Assistant Directors of Agriculture (Class-II) to strengthen agricultural extension services. The dignitaries also released the Agriculture Department's Annual Action Plan 2026-27, Assistance-Oriented Schemes of the Agriculture Department and Assistance-Oriented Schemes of the Horticulture Department. Around 50,000 farmers from across Gujarat, besides ministers, MPs, MLAs and representatives of local self-government bodies, participated virtually in the programme.

Special camps for voter enrolment in SIR to be held in Dharmapuri

ECoR GM Reviews Redevelopment Works and Passenger Amenities at Puri Railway Station

East Coast Railway (ECoR) General Manager, Parmeshwar Funkwal, inspected Puri Railway Station today and reviewed the ongoing station redevelopment works, passenger amenities, and overall operational preparedness at the station. During the inspection, the ECoR GM reviewed the progress of various redevelopment and infrastructure enhancement works being undertaken at Puri Railway Station. He directed the officials [] The post ECoR GM Reviews Redevelopment Works and Passenger Amenities at Puri Railway Station appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Ganjam-Puri coastal sands rich in thorium, rare earths: Study

Vizianagaram suburbs bear the brunt of damaged roads

Residents seek immediate repairs to badly damaged roads in Vasant Vihar, Padmavati Colony, Dharmapuri and other areas

Bihar: Anant Singh backs Jan Suraaj candidate with Jan Ashirwad Yatra

Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 3 (IANS) Amid the ongoing political activity surrounding the Bihar Legislative Council elections, JD(U) MLA Anant Singh of Mokama on Saturday embarked on a nearly 200-km-long Jan Ashirwad Yatra in support of Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh in the Patna Graduates constituency. The yatra began from Anant Singhs residence in Patna and passed through parts of Nalanda before proceeding towards Nawada. At several places, party workers and supporters gathered to welcome him, with slogans such as Anant Singh Zindabad and Chhote Sarkar Zindabad being raised. Supporters were also seen taking selfies with the JD(U) MLA. Bhojpuri singer-actor Gunjan Singh accompanied Anant Singh during the journey. Before setting out from Patna, Anant Singh said he was seeking the blessings of voters for Anuj Singh. The public is God; they are the masters. I have set out to seek their blessings for Anuj. I will travel as far as Nawada, he said. Asked whether he could reconsider his position in view of the JD(U)s official stand, Anant Singh ruled out any retreat. Without directly naming JD(U) candidate Neeraj Kumar, he said: Everyone knows what he has done for me. Anant Singh has publicly backed Anuj Singh despite the latter being a Jan Suraaj candidate and Neeraj Kumar being the JD(U)s official nominee from the Patna Graduates constituency. The JD(U) has said the matter is being examined within the party. The proposed route of the Jan Ashirwad Yatra includes Bakhtiyarpur, Harnaut and Bihar Sharif, followed by Pawapuri, Ghosrawan, Chhachhu Bigha, Katrisarai, Shahpur, Warsaliganj, Pakribarawan, Kauakol, Phuldi, Rupau, Roh and Kadirganj before reaching Nawada. The programme also includes garlanding ceremonies at Warsaliganj, the statue of B.R. Ambedkar in Narhat and the Jayaprakash Narayan Ashram in Hisua. The roadshow comes days after Anant Singh accompanied Anuj Singh during his nomination for the Patna Graduates constituency, further highlighting his public support for the Jan Suraaj candidate. Anuj Singh, a resident of Nawadas New Area locality, has been fielded by Jan Suraaj from the Patna Graduates constituency. He has studied at Modern English School, Ganauri Ramkali Teachers Training College and Triveni B.Ed. College. He holds a PhD in Resource Geography from Magadh University, which he obtained in 2011. According to details cited in reports about his candidature, Singh declared assets of around Rs 4.79 crore in his 2026 election affidavit. He was earlier associated with the Congress and later joined Jan Suraaj. Anant Singh backs Anuj Singh with Jan Ashirwad Yatra.

HM Shah sets 50-crore-litre milk production target for Madhya Pradesh in next 3 years

Digital Desk | Bhopal, Oct 3 (IANS) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday set a target of taking Madhya Pradesh's milk production to 50 crore litres over the next three years, calling for modern infrastructure and scientific improvement of cattle breeds to drive the state's dairy sector. Addressing a state-level Gopalak Sammelan at BHEL Dussehra Maidan in Bhopal, HM Shah said the expansion of dairy production would not only strengthen the rural economy but also help improve the incomes of cattle rearers and contribute to the fight against malnutrition. This conference of cattle rearers is an auspicious sign of a White Revolution in Madhya Pradesh. We aim to achieve a milk production level of 50 crore litres in Madhya Pradesh over the next three years, the Home Minister said. The conference was attended by around 35,000 cattle rearers and members of dairy cooperative societies from several districts of the state. HM Shah said the target would require significant investment in infrastructure and improvement in cattle breeds. He suggested that work be undertaken on a 50-acre tract of land for breed improvement and modern facilities for the livestock sector. The Home Minister said milk production had the potential to become an important source of additional income for rural families and announced that a scheme would soon be introduced in Madhya Pradesh under which farmers would be able to earn from cow dung. He said dairy cooperatives had a major role to play in expanding the organised dairy sector and improving the economic participation of livestock rearers, particularly women. Milk production will also play a significant role in the fight against malnutrition. In the near future, a scheme will be introduced in Madhya Pradesh through which farmers can earn income from cow dung, benefiting rural communities, HM Shah said. The Home Minister also assured the Madhya Pradesh government that the Centre has been promoting White Revolution 2.0 through dairy cooperatives, with the stated objective of increasing milk procurement, expanding cooperative coverage and strengthening the rural economy. The Bhopal programme also marked the launch of a series of dairy infrastructure projects in Madhya Pradesh. HM Shah virtually laid the foundation stone for a Rs 255-crore milk processing plant in Ujjain with a capacity of three lakh litres per day. In Bhopal, a 40,000-litre-per-day Product Dairy Plant, built at a cost of Rs 16.5 crore, was inaugurated along with a state-level central dairy laboratory costing Rs 12.42 crore. Strengthening work on a mini dairy plant in Shivpuri, costing Rs 6.5 crore, was also launched. Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat are leading in milk production. This is because BJP governments at the Centre and in the states are working sincerely for the welfare of farmers and the animal husbandry sector, HM Shah said. During the programme, Rs 101 crore was provided as financial assistance to gaushalas, while Rs 15.10 crore in dividends was distributed among members of dairy cooperative societies. Bonus payments were also made to members of the Bhopal and Indore milk unions. The Home Minister said strengthening the cooperative sector was essential for building the infrastructure required to expand dairy production and improve returns for milk producers.

Woman Delivers Baby at Bhubaneswar Railway Station

A pregnant woman travelling aboard the BangiriposiPuri Express gave birth to a healthy baby girl on the platform of Bhubaneswar Railway Station on Saturday. According to reports, the woman experienced severe labour pains as the train approached Bhubaneswar. Immediately after the train pulled into the station, she was brought out onto the platform, where she [] The post Woman Delivers Baby at Bhubaneswar Railway Station appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Kareena Kapoor wishes 'Chup Chupke' co-star Neha Dhupias son Guriq on fifth birthday; shares pic with Jeh

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 3 (IANS) Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor took to her social media account to wish Bollywood couple Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedis son, Guriq, on his fifth birthday. Sharing an adorable black-and-white picture of Guriq with her younger son Jehangir Ali Khan, fondly known as Jeh, Kareena penned a sweet birthday message for the little one. In the picture, Guriq and Jeh can be seen standing next to each other, with both striking similar cool poses with their arms crossed. Guriq is seen wearing a jacket with a personalised G on it, while Jehs jacket features the letter J. Kareena captioned the picture, Happy birthday G Baba God bless you always @nehadhupia @angadbedi. For the uninitiated, Guriq Singh Dhupia Bedi is the younger child of Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi. He was born on October 3, 2021, and the couple also have a daughter, Mehr Dhupia Bedi, who was born on November 18, 2018. Kareena and Neha share a professional connection that goes back to Priyadarshans 2006 comedy-drama Chup Chup Ke, which also starred Shahid Kapoor in the lead. Kareena played Shruti, while Shahid portrayed Jeetu. Neha played Meenakshi, Shrutis cousin. Talking about the movie, Chup Chup Ke was released in 2006 Hindi comedy-drama directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Ronnie Screwvala. The film, which released on June 9, 2006, starred Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor in the lead roles, with Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Om Puri, Anupam Kher, Shakti Kapoor, Neha Dhupia, Sushma Reddy, Amita Nangia and Manoj Joshi in supporting roles. For the uninitiated, Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi got married in an intimate ceremony on May 10, 2018. They welcomed their daughter Mehr in November that year, followed by their son Guriq on October 3, 2021.

Land Acquisition Hurdles Slow Rs 233-Crore Drought Relief Canal Project In Tamil Nadu's Dharmapuri

Gold Price Today in Jaipur: 24K Gold Falls to 1,49,380, Check Latest 22K, 18K and 14K Rates

Gold Price Today in Jaipur: Gold buyers in Jaipur have received some relief after prices moved lower across all major purity categories. Rates for 24-carat, 22-carat, 18-carat and 14-carat gold have declined, while the fall becomes even more noticeable when current prices are compared with levels se...

Surra Confirmed In Manipuri Ponies In Kakching District

The illness affecting Manipuri ponies in and around Hiyanglam and Wabagai in Manipurs Kakching district has been confirmed as Surra, a parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma evansi, the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services said on Thursday. According to the department, an investigation was launched after ponies in the affected areas developed symptoms such... The post Surra Confirmed In Manipuri Ponies In Kakching District first appeared on Northeast Today .

Heavy rain forecast for Nilgiris, Coimbatore; showers likely across Tamil Nadu

Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 3 (IANS) Moderate rain accompanied by strong winds is likely across Tamil Nadus Western Ghats districts and several southern and central districts on Saturday and Sunday, the Meteorological Department has forecast. The weather conditions are being influenced by a cyclonic circulation over the southeastern Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast. The department said the system could bring rainfall to parts of Tamil Nadu over the next two days. Besides districts along the Western Ghats, moderate rain is expected in Madurai, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga. Pudukkottai, Tiruchi, Ariyalur and Perambalur are also likely to receive moderate rainfall during the same period, with strong winds accompanying the showers. The forecast indicates that rainfall will vary across the State, with heavier showers expected in some hill districts and areas adjoining the Western Ghats. Other districts covered by the forecast are expected to receive moderate rain. The Meteorological Centre has predicted heavy rain in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Dindigul and Theni districts on Sunday, October 4. The warning places these four districts among the areas likely to experience the most intense rainfall during the weekend. For Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri, the department has forecast moderate rain on Sunday. These districts are expected to receive showers as the prevailing weather system continues to influence conditions across western and adjoining parts of Tamil Nadu. Nilgiris and Coimbatore are likely to see a longer spell of heavy rainfall. According to the Meteorological Centre, heavy rain in these two districts could continue until October 6, extending beyond the weekend forecast issued for other areas. The outlook, therefore, points to sustained wet weather in the Nilgiris and Coimbatore, while Dindigul and Theni have been specifically identified for heavy rain on Sunday. The forecast for the remaining named districts is for moderate rainfall. In Chennai, the department has predicted light rain on Saturday evening or during the night. The capitals forecast is for lighter showers compared with the heavy rainfall expected in parts of western Tamil Nadu. The latest forecast covers both the weekend rainfall outlook and the possibility of continuing heavy showers in two western districts through Tuesday. Strong winds are also expected alongside moderate rain in the Western Ghats districts and the southern and central districts identified in the departments forecast for Saturday and Sunday.

Pakistans empty coffers and Mirpurs full wallets

Pakistans economic story today is one of striking contradictions. On one side is a government struggling under the weight of public debt, interest payments, taxation pressures and limited fiscal space. On the other is a powerful overseas Pakistani community, particularly from Mirpur division of Pak-occupied Jammu and Kashmir(PoJK), sending money home, building businesses and homes, financing weddings and family functions, and keeping thousands of local economic transactions alive. Pakistan borrows to keep the government running, while millions of Pakistanis abroad earn the foreign currency that keeps the wider economy moving. According to reports on the country's FY2025-26 finances, the government recorded a primary surplus of about Rs3.63 trillion and the federal fiscal deficit was around Rs4.8 trillion. But the improvement has not removed the fundamental probleman enormous debt burden and the cost of servicing it. The FY2026-27 federal budget reportedly stands at Rs18.77 trillion, with approximately Rs 8.05 trillion earmarked for interest payments. In simple terms, an exceptionally large share of government resources is being consumed by obligations created by borrowing in the past. That leaves considerably less fiscal room for development, infrastructure, education, healthcare and other public services. Pakistan's problem is deeper than a single year's deficit. It is structural. The government needs money for salaries, defence, development, subsidies and public services. But its domestic tax base remains relatively narrow. When expenditure exceeds available revenue, the government borrows. Rising debt increases interest payments. Higher interest payments leave less money for development. The government then faces pressure to raise taxes and levies or borrow again. Low revenue, borrowing, higher debt,higher interest payments, reduced development space, pressure for more taxation, weaker economic activity, continued borrowing. Recent fiscal improvement therefore needs to be viewed carefully. A lower deficit is important, but the quality and sustainability of that improvement matter just as much. If fiscal consolidation is achieved mainly by cutting development expenditure, postponing investment or imposing additional burdens on businesses and consumers, the immediate numbers may improve while the economy's future productive capacity suffers. That is the dilemma confronting Islamabad. There is, however, another side to Pakistan's financial storyits overseas population.Workers and families living in Britain, the Gulf, the United States and other countries send billions of dollars back to Pakistan every year. These remittances provide foreign exchange, support household consumption and help ease pressure on the country's external accounts. The State Bank of Pakistan(SBP) has reported strong remittance inflows during FY2025-26. The United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are among the major sources. Mirpur, where migration became an economic model. For decades, Mirpur division has maintained an unusually strong economic and emotional relationship with overseas Pakistanis, particularly the large Mirpuri community in Britain. The story has historical roots. Migration from the region expanded substantially during the decades surrounding the construction of the Mangla Dam and subsequently developed into an extensive family and community network in Britain. Today, many Mirpur families effectively live between two worlds. They may spend most of the year in Britain, the United States or the Gulf, but their emotional, social and financial connections remain firmly rooted in Mirpur. They return for weddings, family celebrations, religious occasions and other important events. Property remains an important link with home. And there is an extraordinary phenomenon that illustrates the depth of that connection: even when death occurs thousands of miles away, some families bring the deceased back to Mirpur for burial and final rites in ancestral graveyards. For many families, therefore, Mirpur is not simply a place of origin. It remains home. The city of locked mansions Drive through parts of Mirpur and another dimension of the diaspora economy becomes visible. Large houses and imposing bungalowssome reportedly spread over four or even six kanalsstand as physical symbols of overseas earnings. Yet many remain closed for much of the year. A caretaker may be the only person living in a mansion whose owners spend most of their time abroad. There is a certain irony in this landscape: houses built with money earned in Britain or America, standing empty while their owners live thousands of kilometres away. But even an empty house represents an economic chainconstruction material, labour, architects, electricians, plumbers, furniture makers, transporters, property dealers and maintenance workers. The money earned abroad does not remain entirely abroad. A portion finds its way back into the local economy. Perhaps nowhere is this more visible than in weddings. For many overseas Mirpuri families, major family functions continue to be held in Mirpur. Relatives fly in from Britain, America, the Gulf and other countries. Marriage halls become busy. Caterers receive orders. Transport operators get work. Jewellery shops, clothing stores, decorators, photographers, beauty salons, furniture dealers and other businesses benefit. A wedding may last only a few days, but the money circulating around it can sustain dozens of businesses. One pound earned in Britain can eventually become income for a hotel worker in Mirpur, a tailor, a taxi driver, a shopkeeper or a caterer. Community and overseas-business representatives have cited estimates that as much as 2 million a day may flow from the Mirpur diaspora into the region through remittances and overseas visitors' spending. If such an amount were sustained for around 300 days, it would theoretically amount to approximately 600 million a year. The 2 million figure should therefore be regarded as a community-sector estimate. Yet the absence of a precise figure does not erase the economic phenomenon. The evidence of diaspora-driven economic activity is visible across Mirpur's property market, construction sector, retail trade, hospitality industry and family spending. An overseas family's economic contribution does not necessarily arrive as a single bank transfer. It can take many forms: remittances to relatives; construction of houses; purchase of property; investment in shops and businesses; wedding expenditure; hotel and restaurant spending; education and healthcare expenses; vehicle purchases; furniture and household goods A builder pays labourers. A shopkeeper pays employees. A hotel buys supplies. A caterer employs workers. A family purchases jewellery or clothing. A transport operator receives fares. Overseas earnings, remittance/investment, household spending, business turnover, employment, local economic activity. That is why remittances should not be viewed merely as money sent by one family to another. They can become a broader economic stimulus. The Bank of PoJK has also become part of this remittance infrastructure, offering home-remittance services through international money-transfer channels and maintaining branches in Mirpur and other parts of PoJK. The importance of formal channels is obvious. Money entering through regulated financial institutions strengthens transparency, provides foreign exchange to the formal economy and creates a record of financial flows. But PoJK's banking infrastructure also highlights another challenge: how to transform remittance-dependent consumption into productive in town. This may be the next big economic question for Mirpur. The overseas community has demonstrated its capacity to generate wealth. The challenge is whether that wealth can increasingly be converted into employment-generating investment. A house may provide shelter and represent family wealth. But a factory can employ hundreds. A technology company can create skilled jobs. A tourism project can generate continuing income. A modern healthcare facility can serve an entire district. A university or vocational institute can create human capital. Mirpur's overseas wealth could therefore become a much larger development force if a greater share were channelled into small and medium enterprises, tourism, technology, education, healthcare, renewable energy and other productive sectors. This brings Pakistan's larger financial dilemma into sharp focus. Islamabad needs foreign exchange. It needs tax revenue. It needs investment. It needs economic growth. And millions of Pakistanis living abroad are already generating the foreign exchange that the country desperately needs. But remittances cannot permanently substitute for a productive domestic economy. A country cannot build its future solely on money sent home by its citizens working elsewhere. Remittances are a lifeline, but the ultimate objective must be to create an economy capable of generating employment, exports, investment and tax revenue within Pakistan itself. That is where Pakistan's fiscal challenge becomes more profound. Mirpur shows what overseas earnings can do. Islamabad must find a way to make the domestic economy capable of generating the same kind of productive energy. In Islamabad, billions are consumed by debt servicing. In Mirpur, billions earned abroad continue to circulate through homes, weddings, shops, construction and family businesses. One represents the cost of Pakistan's past borrowing. The other represents the economic power of Pakistanis working abroad. The real question for Pakistan is whether it can convert the second into a foundation for a stronger domestic economybefore the first consumes an even larger share of the nation's financial future. (The Author is a former bureau chief at Aaj Tak TV, Jammu)

Puri residents allege assault, bomb threat after opposing liquor trade

A written complaint has been filed at Baselisahi police station alleging that a youth and three others were assaulted and threatened with bombs after opposing an alleged liquor trade in the locality. According to the complaint, the incident took place on the night of October 1 in Jeevaramji Palli on Lokanath Road, under Baselisahi police [] The post Puri residents allege assault, bomb threat after opposing liquor trade appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Maha: BJP slams CJP protest at Shivaji Park, calls it political drama

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 2 (IANS) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Pravin Darekar on Friday launched a scathing attack on the protest organised by the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) at Shivaji Park, declaring it a complete failure driven purely by political motives. Darekar alleged that while the protest was originally billed as an agitation over student issues, it quickly morphed into a staged political drama targeted at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Highlighting the dismal turnout at the venue, Darekar, at a press conference, claimed the event lacked genuine public backing and was hijacked by opposition political figures. He noted the presence of Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Mahesh Sawant, Sainath Durge, and several Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers, asserting that the protest had lost its original focus. Pointing to activist Abhijit Dipke, Darekar remarked that organisers had to repeatedly tell Dipke to stay calm, which, according to him, exposed the lack of coordination and substance behind the agitation. Darekar strongly condemned controversial statements allegedly made by Abhijit Dipke regarding B.R. Ambedkar and demanded an immediate public apology. Dipke allegedly claimed that B.R. Ambedkar's stature and intellect grew primarily because of Jawaharlal Nehru. Rejecting the assertion, Darekar termed the remarks deeply offensive and an insult to the legacy of the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He accused the organisers of straying entirely from the core issue to engage in divisive rhetoric. Addressing concerns surrounding the Special Summary Revision (SIR) process of the electoral roll, Darekar clarified that the exercise aims to purify the voters' list rather than arbitrarily delete names. He emphasised that, under standard regulatory protocols, only ineligible entries or duplicate registrations are removed, and a clear procedure for claims and objections remains available to every citizen. Darekar accused the CJP of attempting to further its own political agenda by maligning Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and defaming the Election Commission as an institution. Firmly responding to Dipkes criticism of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Darekar advised critics to study Fadnaviss extensive political journey before casting aspersions. He stated that Fadnavis is a leader nurtured in the values of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) who has never indulged in power-hungry politics for a ministerial position. Darekar similarly dismissed criticisms directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointing to the Prime Ministers global standing and international impact. He concluded that the oppositions rhetoric against the RSS and central leadership exposed the protest as nothing more than an orchestrated political farce designed to gain media attention.

New research shows how water would behave on the moon

As humanity looks toward future bases on the moon, plant cultivation will be critical for sustaining life there. Plants can provide food, oxygen, medicine, water purification and waste recycling, making them indispensable for lunar development.

Nearly all tested cat foods contained traces of heavy metals and other contaminants, study finds

Lead was detected in 99 per cent of the 100 cat foods tested. Cadmium was found in 96 per cent and arsenic in 94 per cent of samples. Researchers stressed that detecting a contaminant does not establish that a particular food will harm a cat. Nearly all of the cat foods tested in a new investigation contained detectable traces of heavy metals or other contaminants, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, pesticides and plastic chemicals. The analysis, by US nonprofit Clean Label Project, reported by CNN, tested 100 top-selling cat foods from 62 brands for more than 122 contaminants. According to the investigation, lead was detected in 99 per cent of samples, cadmium in 96 per cent and arsenic in 94 per cent. The findings covered wet, dry and air- or freeze-dried foods, as well as products marketed as natural or premium. But the results need some context. The investigation measured the presence of contaminants; it did not establish that the levels detected would cause illness in cats. Clean Label Project itself says its testing does not determine whether a specific product will cause harm to an animal. The organisation says its category studies use products bought at retail rather than samples supplied by manufacturers, with testing carried out by Ellipse Analytics, an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory. Heavy metals found across different types of food Molly Hamilton, executive director of Clean Label Project and an author of the report, said cats could be particularly relevant to concerns about repeated exposure because many eat the same food every day. Most cats eat the same foods nearly every day, with little variation, Hamilton said. The contaminants are an ongoing exposure that may accumulate in cats bodies, she added, noting that chronic kidney disease is one of the common causes of death in older cats and that the kidneys play an important role in filtering heavy metals. The investigation found differences according to the type of food and protein used. Dry cat food contained roughly three times as much lead as wet or air-dried products, according to the analysis. Fish and seafood-based foods were more strongly associated with mercury and cadmium than products using other proteins. Mercury levels were about 18 times higher and cadmium levels about 2.5 times higher in fish- or seafood-based foods than in foods using other proteins. Wet seafood products had the highest mercury levels, with the analysis finding nearly 28 times as much mercury as in wet foods made with other meats, particularly poultry. That does not mean all fish-based cat food was high in mercury, Hamilton stressed. As the main protein, chicken was better when it came to mercury and cadmium, but we saw higher rates of lead and herbicides in chicken, she said. Its a whack-a-mole situation which contaminant do you want to whack? Clean Label Project said about 85 per cent of poultry-based foods met its own purity standard, compared with 25.7 per cent of fish and seafood products. Heavy metals occur naturally in soil, water and air, although industrial, agricultural and mining activity can increase contamination. They can consequently enter food through ingredients and environmental exposure. The presence of a detectable amount, however, does not by itself establish a health risk. The Pet Food Institute, which represents US pet food manufacturers, made that point in response to Clean Label Project's earlier dog-food investigation. It said modern laboratory methods can identify trace amounts of naturally occurring substances at levels that may be far below those associated with harm. Glyphosate and plastic chemicals add to concerns The investigation also looked beyond heavy metals. Glyphosate, a widely used agricultural herbicide, was detected in 37 per cent of the products tested, according to Clean Label Project. The organisation said foods containing more plant ingredients among the first 10 listed ingredients tended to have higher detected levels. Hamilton said cat foods with two plant ingredients among their first 10 ingredients had roughly 40 per cent more glyphosate than comparable foods with one, while products with five plant ingredients had nearly four times as much. The health debate around glyphosate remains contested. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified it as probably carcinogenic to humans in 2015, while the US Environmental Protection Agency has reached a different assessment. The investigation also detected di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, or DEHP, a plasticiser used in PVC and some food-contact applications, in about half of the products tested. Ryan Babadi, science director at Toxic Free Future, a nonprofit consumer product safety organisation, called the finding concerning and suggested that contamination could occur during food processing through contact with PVC tubing or other equipment. It was detected in about half of the products tested, with the highest levels in canned and pouch products, Babadi said. It is encouraging to see those harmful bisphenols, including BPA, were found less frequently, suggesting pet food can be produced and packaged without these endocrine-disrupting chemicals, he added. The Pet Food Institute said manufacturers use food-safety and quality-assurance systems that include ingredient specifications, supplier verification, testing, traceability and preventive controls. Cat owners should feel confident that the food they feed their pets is safe and produced according to rigorous regulatory and quality standards, said Elise Fennig, president and chief executive of the Pet Food Institute, as per the report. The organisation has also argued that contaminant studies need to provide sufficient scientific and regulatory context, including information on sampling, analytical methods and established safety thresholds. There are also limitations to the new investigation itself. Each product was tested from a single batch, meaning the results cannot show how contamination might vary between different batches of the same food. The research also compares contamination across categories rather than establishing a safe or unsafe level for an individual cat. Hamilton acknowledged that distinction. Every product in this study was purchased at retail, and no brand had any role in selecting products, conducting testing or analyzing the results. No brand saw the results before publication, she reportedly said. The organisation's own consumer guidance also notes that laboratory results need to be interpreted in the context of detection limits, testing methods and serving sizes. For cat owners , that means the study does not provide a simple list of foods that are safe or unsafe. Instead, it raises questions about how frequently pet-food manufacturers test for contaminants and how much information consumers receive about those tests. Hamilton said owners concerned about a particular product should ask the manufacturer whether it carries out contaminant testing and how often. The best way to know whats in your cats food is to contact the manufacturer and determine if they test the food and how frequently they test, she said, as per reports. The findings therefore offer a reason for greater scrutiny of pet-food testing and supply chains, but they are not evidence that nearly all commercial cat food is dangerous. For now, the clearest finding is narrower: contaminants that are not normally highlighted on the front of the packet were detectable in a large proportion of the products tested, and the investigation has renewed questions about how those levels should be measured, regulated and communicated to pet owners.

Odisha Habishyali Yojana 2026 Online Registration Begins Oct 6: Check Eligibility and Details

The sacred month of Kartik is just around the corner, bringing immense spiritual fervour to the pilgrim town of Puri. To ensure that elderly women can observe their holy rituals with comfort, dignity, and devotion, the Government of Odisha has announced that online applications for the popular Habishyali Yojana will commence on October 6, 2026. [] The post Odisha Habishyali Yojana 2026 Online Registration Begins Oct 6: Check Eligibility and Details appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Puri Sand Artist Manas Kumar Sahoo Pays Tribute To Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar

Puri-based sand artist Manas Kumar Sahoo paid tribute to Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar with a sand sculpture honouring the pilot and his courage.

Man attempts to desecrate temple in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: A man allegedly attempted to desecrate a temple in Chaitanyapuri police limits on Friday, October 2. The incident occurred at Santoshi Mata Temple, where the man walked into the shrine and threw two branches in front of the idol while prayers were underway. In a video shared on social media, the man is seen 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 .

Temple trust in Mathura to use computerised machine to test purity of metal donations

Sri Krishna Janmasthan Sewa Sansthan will use a computerized machine to check metal donation purity starting from Navratri. This machine can test for 20 metals without altering the original form of donations. Donors will receive a purity report when making their contributions, which will require their signatures. The counting of donations will also be recorded under CCTV surveillance for increased transparency.

Temple trust in Mathura to use machine to test purity of metal donations

The Sri Krishna Janmasthan Sewa Sansthan in Mathura will introduce an advanced computerised testing machine to determine the purity of metal donations received at the temple, as part of the measures to bring greater transparency to the donation process. Sewa Sansthan Secretary Kapil Sharma told PTI on Friday that the machine can test the presence of 20 different metals and will become operational from Navratri, which begins on October 11. The purity test will be conducted in the presence of the devotee, who will be given a copy of the test report along with the donation receipt, Sharma said. The donor will have to sign the report, which will also carry the devotee's mobile phone number. A copy of the report will be preserved in the archives of the Sewa Sansthan, he said. The machine will not require breaking the metal and can test its purity in its original form, Sharma said. He said all metal donations received in hundis or donation boxes will be tested during the counting ..

Gold rate today (October 2, 2026): Check 24k, 22k, 20k, 18k gold jewellery prices from IBJA, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Joyalukkas, Kalyan Jewellers and Tanishq

Gold rate today: On October 2, 2026, gold prices saw slight upticks as consumers observed the latest trends in bullion and jewellery costs. The IBJA also published revised rates for various gold and silver purities.

In Protests for Removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and Against Mass Disenfranchisement, An Echo of 1894 Mahatma Gandhi

ON the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on 2nd October this year several opposition parties including Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) have launched massive protests across the country demanding resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar who according to the Indian Express expose flagrantly violated the constitutional provisions and rules leading to the appalling erosion of independence of the Election Commission of India for implementing SIR without involving two other Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. It has resulted in the disenfranchisement of crores of voters across India and the expose revealed the shocking decision of Kumar to include illegally and in an unauthorised manner a provision in Form 6 asking the first time voters, using that Form for getting enrolled in the electoral roll, to mention from the electoral roll of 2002 the names of their parents and or grand parents. Additionally the Indian Express revelations laid bare the manipulation of electoral rolls to add and delete voters centrally at the office of Election Commission of India by employing a software which lawfully should have been operated by Electoral Registration Officers posted in different States of the Indian Union. Such egregious transgressions of CEC Kumar with impunity has erased millions of names from the voters list and overwhelmed people with anxiety and desperation. They apprehend that because of their disenfranchisement they would lose their citizenship and all other rights enshrined in the Constitution assuring them their individual dignity. Specious Grounds For Disenfranchisement It is salutary to note that the aforementioned protests unleashed against Kumar in defence of the right to vote of the citizens has an echo of Mahatma Gandhis 1894 heroic struggle in South Africas Natal province for retaining the voting rights of Indians after the Franchise Law Amendment Bill was introduced in the Natal Assembly to take away their restricted franchise rights on very specious grounds. On December 16, 1895 Mahatma Gandhi in his article Indian Franchise wrote that British authorities asked Indians to prove that they were voters in India so as to be entitled to it in Natal. He then asked, Why such a rule for the poor Indians alone? He added that they would not object to such an arrangement if it were applicable to all including whites who were inhabitants of Natal . He noted that the Europeans would find it difficult to get their names on the Voters List in the Colony under such conditions. Colonial Playbook For Disenfranchisement and SIR That colonial play book of 1894 asking Indians in Natal Province of South Africa to prove that they were voters in India is getting replicated in 2026 SIR mandating that those desirous of getting enrolled in the electoral roll should locate their names in the voter list of 2002. Any attempt to ask Europeans to prove their status as voters in the countries from where they came to Natal, in the words of Gandhi, would be received with the strongest indignation. His utterances are resonating in 2026 when people in India are expressing their indignation because the ECI while implementing SIR asked them to prove their citizenship and eligibility as a voter disregarding their enrolment in earlier electoral rolls and Supreme Court in its May 2026 judgement upheld that ECI can examine citizenship of a voter in a limited way. It is instructive to note that the right to vote in Natal in 1894 was restricted to a few and it was available to those possessing immovable property worth 50 pounds. Yet Gandhi in his July 1894 petition to Lord Rippon, Principal Secretary of State for Colonies, stated that any civilised country would value franchise right as the birth right and the commonest right of a citizen and asserted that disenfranchisement of Indians would subject them to indignity and heap insult to the whole Indian nation. Fast forward to 2026 when 13 crores of voters are now facing disenfranchisement due to SIR. Combine it with Indian Express expose pinning the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar for his deliberate acts of commission and omission in flouting all rules and norms while taking crucial decisions concerning SIR. All such actions removing millions of voters from the electoral roll constitute an insult to the Indian nation and its Constitution which upholds the dignity of an enfranchised country upholding parliamentary democracy. In the aforementioned petition to Lord Rippon, Gandhi wrote that bereft of voting rights Indians would lose, self-respect, to remain in the Colony and that such a thing would materially interfere with their business, and throw hundreds of Her Majestys Indian subjects out of work. Those articulations of Gandhi uttered in echo in Rahul Gandhis assertions during his Vote Adhikar rally in Bihar in September 2025 that Vote Theft meant theft of rights, theft of employment, theft of education, theft of democracy and theft of the future of the youth. In fact many people whose names were removed from the electoral rolls in West Bengal and Bihar following the implementation of SIR are now being deprived of their opportunities to earn their livelihood, their small business establishments getting demolished and even the ration cards issued to them have been withdrawn. What Indians are facing on account of their disenfranchisement in 2026 were predicted by Mahatma Gandhi when voting rights of settlers of India in Natal were taken away by colonial rulers. He, in his article, The Indian Franchise written on December 16, 1895 very emphatically stated, I repeat again, it is not political power that the Indians want. It is degradation, it is many other consequences and measures that will flow from and will be based on the disfranchisement that they dread and resist. Hundred and thirty one years later Indians suffering the process of disenfranchisement on account of SIR are indeed confronting its dreadful consequences and, therefore, on October 2, 2026, on Gandhi Jayanti, country wide protests have been launched to uphold the jurisprudence of universal adult franchise and flag the point that the constitutionally mandated independence of Election Commission of India must be restored and defended to salvage democracy from the onslaught of the powers that be. Communal Grounds for Disenfranchisement The British rulers of Natal employed communal factors in 1894 to disenfranchise Muslims hailing from India. They manufactured the reasoning that mostly Muslims among Indians were more keen to retain their right to vote. Specifically peddling the false argument that overwhelming numbers of Muslims in the voter list would enable them to wield greater political power over Hindus they cautioned the latter to be wary of the former. Mahatma Gandhi in his aforementioned letter to Rippon referred to charges made by British rulers that a few Indians wanted political power and that those few were Mahomedan agitators and so the Hindus should learn from past experience that the Mahomedan rule would be ruinous for them. He remarked that people of both the communities lived amicably in Natal and such attempts to set the Hindus against the Mahomedans would be most mischievous and calamitous causing grievous results which India tragically faced due to divisive British rule. Juxtapose those observations of Gandhi with the SIR produced curated voter list from which more names of Muslim voters have been deleted across the country. In doing so the play book of colonial rulers in employing Hindu-Muslim narrative to disenfranchise voters is being followed by those operating State apparatus of India during 2025-2026 when SIR process is being carried and adverse consequences on the purity and integrity of electoral process are being unmistakably felt. Debunking Ghuspatia Narrative It is rather tragic that the devious strategy of British rulers of Natal describing Indians settled there as intruders and so should be devoid of right to vote has been replicated by the present rulers of India including CEC Gyanesh Kumar who justified SIR on the ground that Ghuspatias (infiltrators) would be removed from the electoral roll. Mahatma Gandhi in his above mentioned article, Indian Franchise, debunked the characterisation of Indians as intruders and charged that even the white rulers coming from Europe would not be spared of the same charge that they intruded to South Africa. A Retrograde Step It is quite significant that Gandhi described Franchise Law Amendment Bill to disenfranchise Indians as a legislative activity, of a retrograde character. Description of the SIR by opposition leaders as a form of Vote Bandi captures Gandhis words retrograde invoked in the context of Franchise Law Amendment Bill of 1894. That retrograde Bill became an Act but due to petitions of Gandhi that Indians were removed from electoral roll on racial grounds, the UK Government disallowed it. But it was then altered and racial element was removed by providing for the disqualifications as voters of all Asiatics as such. That became an Act and Indians lost their voting rights. Gandhi wrote in his petition to Lord Rippon I take the liberty to say that, had not an attempt been made to tread upon their commercial pursuits, had not attempts been made and repeated to degrade them to the condition of pariahs of society, had not, in fact, an attempt been made to keep them for ever hewers of wood and drawers of water, i.e., in a state of indenture or in one very much resembling it, there would have been no franchise agitation. It is indeed tragic that several decades after splendid success of universal adult suffrage in India and an agitation has been launched in defence of the right to vote, that too on the occasion of birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi whose first struggle in South Africa in 1894 was in defence of the voting rights of Indians who were then disenfranchised. Millions of Indians now losing their right to vote and massive erosion of independence and integrity of the Election Commission under the leadership of CEC Gyanesh Kumar is imperilling democracy in India . The struggle of Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa during 1894-95 against disenfranchisement of Indians in South Africa offers valuable lessons to uphold universal adult franchise and the rights of all Indians who are constitutionally mandated to be treated equally regardless of their identities rooted in faith, caste, language or ethnicity for inclusion in voter list. Presumption of Citizenship In his book Satyagraha in South Africa Gandhi wrote, There is always a general presumption in favour of the right of the subject. So long, therefore, as the government of the day does not become positively hostile, the names of Indians and others could be included in the electoral roll, the above law notwithstanding. Those words are assume salience in the context of the protests against mass disenfranchisement on account of SIR and erroneous functioning of CEC Kumar disregarding the general presumption in favour of the rights of the citizens. Therefore, Mahatma Gandhis 1894 struggled for the rights of Indians in Natal to vote is of enduring significance to save the Constitution.

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