RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said Chhattisgarh's journey in the last 25 years has been an inspiring one as it has now emerged as a symbol of prosperity, security and stability although it was earlier identified with Naxal violence and backwardness. He also said that a legislative assembly is not merely a place for framing laws but a vibrant centre for shaping the state's destiny. Speaking after inaugurating the new Chhattisgarh legislative assembly building in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, PM Modi said every thought emerging from the assembly should reflect the spirit of public service, a commitment to development, and confidence in taking India to greater heights. The true significance of the new assembly building's inauguration lies in our collective resolve to perform our duties with sincerity and uphold the spirit of democracy, he said. All of us need to remember that this legislative assembly is not just a place for making laws, but a vibrant centre and a powerful force in shaping the destiny of Chhattisgarh. Therefore, we must ensure that every idea emanating from here reflects the spirit of public service, the resolve for development, and the belief in taking India to new heights, he said. We have to build an India, lay the foundation of a Chhattisgarh that can move forward on the path of development while remaining connected to its heritage. 'Nagrik Devo Bhava' (Citizen is God) is the mantra of our good governance, he said. Laws should be made here that accelerate reforms, making people's lives easier and removing unnecessary government interference from their lives. There should be neither a lack of government presence nor unnecessary influence, he said. The PM also highlighted India's success in combating terrorism and left-wing extremism, saying, India has broken the backbone of terrorists. Now Chhattisgarh too is moving towards becoming free of the Maoist violence. In the past 25 years, Chhattisgarh has witnessed an inspiring journey, from being known for Naxal violence and backwardness to emerging as a symbol of prosperity, security, and stability. The development wave and smiles have reached the Naxal-affected areas, he said. He credited this transformation to the hard work of the people of Chhattisgarh and the visionary leadership of successive BJP governments. India is the mother of democracy. The sacred Sengol (sceptre) inspires Parliament and galleries of the new Parliament connect the world to the legacy of India's democracy, the prime minister said. India is moving forward by taking heritage and development together, and this sentiment is evident in every policy and decision of the government, he added. PM Modi said that Chhattisgarh's 25th anniversary of foundation day celebrations mark the beginning of a larger goal. By 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, Chhattisgarh will play a crucial role in achieving the vision of a developed India, he said. Earlier, he unveiled a statue of former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the premises of the newly built Assembly.
PM inaugurates Veer Narayan Singh Memorial & Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Nava Raipur
PM Modi unveils Atal Bihari Vajpayees statue at new Chhattisgarh Vidhansabha building in Raipur
Price Of Protest: Raipur Civic Body To Impose Tax On Demonstrations
The civic body in Chhattisgarh's Raipur passed a resolution imposing a tax of Rs 500 for holding protests or demonstrations in public open spaces across the capital.
GUWAHATI: Fans could not hold back their tears, both inside and outside theatre halls, after watching Roi Roi Binale , the last film featuring music icon Zubeen Garg, who died under mysterious circumstances while swimming in the sea in Singapore on September 19. The movie, directed by Rajesh Bhuyan and released on Friday, ran to packed houses across Assam and broke all opening day records, with most theatre halls scheduling up to five shows a day. The screening started as early as 4.25 am at several theatres. Tickets for all shows for the first week were sold out, and fans had booked the first three days tickets within an hour last week. The state is still grieving Gargs untimely demise, and there was an outpouring of emotion as fans thronged single-screen and multiplex theatres. In viral videos, some were seen seated long after shows were over, sobbing. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. For the first time in the history of Assamese films, a movie is being released in different parts of the country. It was screened in Patna, Ranchi, Dhanbad, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mysore, Vellore, Visakhapatnam, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jaipur, Vapi (Gujarat), Indore, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Raniganj, Maldah, Siliguri, Agartala, Dharmanagar, Cooch Behar, Raipur and Nagpur, said Siddharth Goenka, the films distributor. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. In cities like Bengaluru, Assamese films were earlier screened in only one or two theatres, but this time, it premiered in 17 theatres simultaneously. There will be 600 shows daily in Assam and the rest of the Northeast alone, which is unprecedented. Outside the Northeast, 96 halls would screen the movie with 170 shows daily, Goenka added. The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a constituent of Assams ruling coalition, booked all 218 seats for a show at a multiplex in Guwahati. AGP ministers Atul Bora and Keshab Mahanta watched the film along with party leaders and workers. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he would watch it privately. If I go to a cinema hall, it will cause inconvenience to people as I will be accompanied by my security personnel, he said. Garg plays the lead role of a blind musician in Roi Roi Binale , a musical love story that recounts the life and struggle of a visually impaired artist who experiences the world through sound, imagination and love. The film features 11 songs, all composed by Garg himself.
PM Modi to inaugurate Chhattisgarh's new Assembly building, unveil projects worth Rs 14260 crore
RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav marking 25 years of formation of the State on Saturday. The PM will dedicate the states new legislative Assembly building, which is cited as a model of technological integration and foresight, designed keeping in mind both present and future needs. More than an architectural marvel, the building stands as a living emblem of Chhattisgarhs rich culture, tradition, and faith. Built at a cost of Rs 324 crore, the complex spans 51 acres and is divided into three main wings. Wing A houses the Assembly secretariat; Wing B includes the main chamber, the Central Hall, and offices for the chief minister and the Speaker; Wing C accommodates ministerial offices. Every section has been planned for efficiency, accessibility, and aesthetic coherence. The Assembly Building embodies green architecture principles throughout. Solar-power installations, dual rainwater-harvesting lakes, and a suite of environmentally friendly materials make the site a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure. Every stage of construction adhered to national standards for energy conservation and ecological balance. Among its many facilities, the new Assembly features a state-of-the-art auditorium with seating for 500 and a 100-seat Central Hall. PM Modi will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for a series of developmental projects worth over Rs 14,260 crore across key sectors such as roads, industry, healthcare, and energy. As part of the Dil Ki Baat programme, he will interact with around 2500 children successfully treated of congenital heart diseases in the Gift of life ceremony at Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital at Nava Raipur. Besides inaugurating the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial & Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum, the PM will also launch Shanti Shikhar of Brahma Kumaris (a modern centre for spiritual learning and meditation) and initiate 12 new Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP) blocks across nine districts of Chhattisgarh. He will unveil the statue of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the new Vidhan Sabha and launch the Museum Portal and e-book Aadi Shourya honouring freedom fighters.
South Eastern Railway has proposed new Vande Bharat Express trains from Ranchi to six destinations, including Raipur, Rourkela, Pune, New Delhi, LTT, and Varanasi. The proposal, sent to the Railway Board, aims to meet rising passenger demand as current routes see high festive-season bookings.
RAIPUR: The Odisha State Committee (CPI-Maoist), declaring to continue long-term peoples war, countered the statements of Central Committee (CC) member Chandranna alias Pilluri Prasad Rao, who surrendered in Hyderabad a couple of days ago. The committees press note contended to continue its strategic combat despite facing several challenges and cited the assertions of Chandranna (after surrender) on Comrade Devji being appointed as the general secretary of the banned outfit as untrue. The Bastar police in Chhattisgarh, verifying the authenticity of the letter, said that such messages of the Odisha Committee do not indicate strength but the growing frustration and deep internal crisis within the Maoist ranks. The recent surrender of Politburo and CC members among others, had shaken the Maoist leadership that is now resorting to falsehood, fabricated claims and hollow rhetoric about continuing the revolution. The Maoist organisation is in complete disarray, morally bankrupt, and strategically cornered across all affected states, Sundarraj Pattlingam, IGP, Bastar Range told this newspaper. The Maoist leaderships attempt to brand committed cadres who chose peace as traitors only reveals their insecurity and helplessness, he added. The letter issued in the name of Ganesh, authorised representative of Odisha State Committee (CPI-Maoist), criticised Chandranna, citing him as a betrayer masked to deceive the people. Referring to Chandrannas purported statement, the press note stated that he has no right to call himself a revolutionary to work for the people in future. There has been no meeting of the Central Committee after the death of General Secretary Comrade Basavaraju (in May this year). Under the present scenario, when the central government continues its offensive under Operation Kagar, there is no possibility of holding the CC meeting, the letter stated. The Odisha State Committee alluded to the existing challenges faced by their revolutionary movement as a temporary tough situation. Such comments, if authentic, further expose that Devji no longer enjoys authority even within the fragmented and weakened Maoist outfit. We are closely monitoring every development brewing within the Maoist camp, IG Sundarraj affirmed. The Bastar Police, under the framework of Mission 2026, reiterated that it remains fully committed to dismantling the remnants of the CPI (Maoist) network and ensuring complete restoration of peace and normalcy in the region.
PMs Chhattisgarh Visit Rescheduled, Tour Curtailed to 6 Hrs on Nov 1
His scheduled overnight stay in Raipur on October 31 has been cancelled due to his pressing engagements in Delhi, official sources said.
51 Maoists surrender in Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: 51 cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), including nine women members, surrendered in an edgy district of Bijapur, about 350 km south of Raipur, on Wednesday. Twenty among them were carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 66 lakh on their heads, the police said. As many as 51 Maoist cadres decided to return to the mainstream, citing their frustration over the hollow ideology of the banned outfit and impressed by the state governments rehabilitation policy and development plans, said Jitendra Yadav, Bijapur district superintendent of police. Its yet another significant achievement under the Bastar Range police initiative Poona Margham: Rehabilitation through Reintegration in Bijapur, he added. According to the district police press release, the surrendered Red rebels included five members of the PLGA (Peoples' Liberation Guerrilla Army) battalion, seven members of area committees and platoon, three belonging to LOS (local organisation squad) group, besides one militia platoon commander, 14 militia platoon members, and 20 other lower rung members. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai cited to give up the armed struggle as the collapse of Left-wing extremism in the country. Across the Bastar region, around 450 cadres have relinquished the ideology of CPI (Maoist) in October. Since the BJP came to power in December 2023 in Chhattisgarh, over 2,250 Maoists have surrendered in the State.
Following major setbacks, Maoists replace top positions to sustain morale among cadres
RAIPUR: Amid repeated setbacks, the strength of the politburo and Central Committee (CC) members in thedecision-making body inCPI (Maoist), have dwindled from 45 to 20 during the last couple of years, and now to a single digit. However, the Red Brigade of left-wing extremists, facing a serious leadership crisis, have simultaneously undertaken damage control exercises to fill the void created by the loss of important influential leaders. And their mid-level or senior commanders were assigned the ranks as the frontline Maoist leaders, the intelligence sources told. There are barely 2-3 politburo and around half a dozen CC members remaining, taking responsibility in different regions like Abujhmad, Jharkhand, Odisha border, Amravati border and other key hideouts. Abhay for anonymity: How Maoists evade police action In a discreet move, the senior leaders are given positions as figureheads to show up numbers as a strength, ensuring that the morale of their cadres is not dented, a senior officer in the know-how of the development andbased in Bastar region further revealed. The Politburo & CC members are bestowed with key responsibilities, different organisational roles, besides steering military activities. The Maoist guerrillas, after over four decades of waging war on the state and security forces, are fast losing ground, and their influence has substantially declined in the last few years. The Maoist organisation, under the given circumstances, are not following their customary procedures regarding promotion of their senior cadres to the politburo or as CC members, the practice firmly followed earlier. For elevation to the top position, neither proposals are sought nor general body meetings or discussions that used to happen spanning over mutiple days earlier to elevate seniors through the department promotional committee are taking place now, the officer added. Another reason for such a make-do approach is that the topMaoist leaders not able to interact safely and conveniently amid existing challenges and restricted mobility. So, the procedures the Maoists executed to make up the higher positions, remain conventionally digressed, appearing rudimentary and makeshift, TNIE learnt. In 2025, more top Maoist leaders were killed than in any other year. The forces eliminated the general secretary of CPI (Maoist), Basava Raju alias Nambala Keshav Rao, and at least eight CC members cited to be the masterminds of several violent incidents where many jawans and innocent civilians were killed. India on verge of eradicating Naxal-maoist terror: PM Modi
CBI takes over Uttarakhand exam scandal probe
NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case in the alleged paper leak scandal during the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination after the state government referred the matter to the federal agency to probe the larger crime nexus. The case was initially registered at Raipur Police Station, Dehradun, on September 22, 2025, under the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination (Measures for Control and Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment) Act, 2023. It was alleged that large-scale corruption, collusion and organised cheating in a recruitment examination were carried out across various districts simultaneously. It is alleged that the question papers for an exam held on September 2122, 2025, were stolen in advance, copied and circulated among select candidates in lieu of hefty money. The accused were identified as Suman, wife of Naresh Chauhan, Assistant Professor, Amroda Degree College, Pratapnagar (Tehri Garhwal) a public servant, Khalid, son of Mohd. Shahzad, resident of Sultanpur Adampur in Haridwar, Sabia, daughter of Mohd. Shahzad and Hina, daughter of Mohd. Shahzad. The FIR also refers to other unknown public servants and private persons. The preliminary investigation found that insiders in the recruitment system colluded with private people to leak the question papers, which were allegedly sold to aspirants for Rs 5 Rs 10 lakh each. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India, on October 24, 2025, directed the CBI to probe the case throughout Uttarakhand. Based on the order, CBI registered a case in the matter. It was also stated that between 2022 and 2023, several exams conducted by the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) and Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) were marred by leaks and bribery, prompting massive protests. It was when aspirants started protesting across the state, the government took cognisance and brought the Uttarakhand Competitive Examination (Control and Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment) Act, 2023, prescribing stringent jail terms and penalties for offenders. Lakhs of aspirants demanded transparency and re-examinations. Despite that, in 2025, the cheating network remains active, and to unearth the entire nexus, the state government has referred the matter to CBI.
Raipur Diary | PM to launch silver jubilee celebrations
PM Modi will inaugurate the silver jubilee year celebration of the statehood at Nava Raipur (new capital city of Chhattisgarh) on November 1. He will attend five different programmes. For each, a senior IAS officer has been deployed as a nodal officer to oversee the preparations and organising the events. Modi will unveil the new state Assembly premises, attend a programme of Sri Sathya Sai hospital, Prajapita Brahma Kumaris and launch Tribal Freedom Fighter Memorial digital museum. He will also address a public rally during the inaugural ceremony. Chhattisgarh was carved out of erstwhile Madhya Pradesh on November 1, 2000. IAFs Surya Kiran aerial show in Raipur The skies of Naya Raipur will turn into a spectacle of national pride on November 5 when the Indian Air Forces Surya-Kiran Aerobatic Team will enthral citizens with their breathtaking manoeuvres. The show will be the star attraction of the states silver jubilee celebrations and the aerial display will symbolise Chhattisgarhs progress, confidence, and stature. As the Surya-Kiran team performs signature formations like Bomb Burst, Heart in the Sky, and Arrowhead, spectators will witness the precision and teamwork that define Indias air warriors. Formed in 1996, the Surya-Kiran team so far has performed over 700 air displays in India and abroad. New medical colleges to expand health edu Chhattisgarh is set to get four new medical colleges that will increase the seats by 200. The move is expected to give fresh impetus to the expansion of health education and state-of-the-art treatment services reducing dependence on major cities for better medical care and cure. The total number of government medical colleges in the state will go up to 14. The four placesGeedam (Dantewada), Janjgir-Champa, Kawardha and Mahendragarhwhere the new medical colleges are to be built, are among the backward regions of the state. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Say Trees! How A Techie From Raipur Is Reviving Bengaluru's Lakes And Green Cover
The extensive work by Kapil Sharma and his NGO was spotlighted last week by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme
Bengaluru engineer finds mention in PM Modis Mann ki baat for lake rejuvenation
Sharma, who moved to Bengaluru from Raipur in 2001 to pursue engineering, says he fell in love with the citys tree-lined streets
PMs Mann Ki Baat appreciates Ambikapurs unique garbage cafe
RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 127th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday praised the innovative initiative adopted in Ambikapur, north Chhattisgarh, to make the city free from plastic waste. The PM cited the Garbage Caf operated by Ambikapur Municipal Corporation as a singular blend of cleanliness and service, where people receive a meal or snacks in exchange for plastic waste. A unique example of cleanliness and social initiative has emerged in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh. In the Garbage Caf run by the Ambikapur Municipal Corporation, people can exchange their plastic waste for a full meal or snack, the PM stated. He stated that under this initiative, if a person deposits one kilogram of plastic waste, they receive lunch or dinner, while half a kilogram of waste earns them a snack. This step not only helps keep the city clean but also serves as an inspiring example of social awareness and cooperation. TNIE had, in its earlier special coverage, reported how any citizen can now walk in with a load of plastic and be treated with a free meal in the unique restaurant in Ambikapur, a notable innovation to make people cheerfully join the campaign aimed to free the city of plastic menace. Sustainable and productive waste management model earned Ambikapur a tag of being among the cleanest cities in the country and was earlier bestowed with the Swachh Sarvekshan award.
Chhattisgarh to embark on plan to create integrated capital region covering four cities
RAIPUR: The BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh government will venture into a major development plan next month, to create the State Capital Region (SCR) after Governor Ramen Deka approved a bill passed during the last monsoon session in the Assembly. The concept for the establishment of Chhattisgarh Capital Region, said to be on similar lines of the National Capital Region, will incorporate four citiesRaipur, Nava Raipur, Bhilai-Durg under one integrated development master plan. The notification on the SCR has been issued with a publication in the state gazette. According to the notification, the entire plan has been divided into nine zones, explaining in detail when, what and how the various works are going to be accomplished while carrying out simultaneous development of the four cities. The state NITI Ayog has elucidated the development plan for cities to be integrated as SCR in the vision document 'Chhattisgarh Anjor 2047.' The planned urbanisation programme will give priority to 13 major areas, including education, healthcare, transport, information technology, business, tourism, skill training, and modern infrastructure. The development of SCR will further serve as the growth engine for the state's economy as well. It will boost the scope of industrial investment, and expedite possibilities of urban development and employment in the region, said Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The issuing of notification makes way for the setting up of a Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA). The SCR will integrate 23 civic bodies and around 700 villages, an official said. A well-planned survey and conceiving a detailed project report (DPR) for SCR remain in focus to ensure efficient public services for the population that is expected to exceed 50 lakh by 2031. To meet the growing demand of urbanisation and rising population pressure, the CRDA will work similarly to the NCR Planning Board, Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, he added. The chief minister will serve as the chairperson of the CRDA and the authority will have ministers of urban administration and development, housing and environment, and public works department, along with the state's chief secretary and secretaries from key departments. The urban population of Chhattisgarh is stated to be around 27 per cent and this is expected to touch 45 per cent in 2047. The process of land acquisition and the development in the SCR will be done by the CRDA after it comes into existence. The creation of SCR, envisioned as a growth engine in the state, was among the pledges declared by the ruling BJP in its 2023 Assembly poll manifesto.
Abhay for anonymity: How Maoists evade police action
RAIPUR: English playwright William Shakespeare wrote in Romeo and Juliet, Whats in a name? For the outlawed CPI (Maoist), the answer is everything. Names, often assumed or symbolic, are a tool of survival, strategy, and connection with the communities in which they operate. In the CPI (Maoist) movement, their key leaders mostly operated underground. Since maintaining anonymity remains a key part of their modus operandi, they continue their illegitimate pursuits under different pen names or aliases. Such names that are neither modern nor customary facilitate them to gel with the local population, said Sundarraj P, who spent over nine years as inspector general of police in Bastar. One example is the name Abhay, used as the spokesperson for the Central Committee. The name continues to represent the group publicly, regardless of which leader issues the statement. Last week, two press releases bore the name previously used by Mallojula Venugopal Rao, alias Sonu, who had surrendered in Gadchiroli. The practice goes far beyond just official statements. Senior Maoist figures, who operate underground often for decades, have nicknames that help them blend with local populations. Sundarraj explained: For instance, Sujatha, a senior-most Maoist woman who remained underground for nearly four decades, was popular among the locals as Mynakka. Sujatha surrendered to the Telangana police last month. Aliases also allow leaders from one region to operate safely across others, evading law enforcement while continuing their mission. Among tribal communities, names like Bhima, Aiytu, Ramanna, Rajman, Nirmala, and Sarita carry informal weight, sometimes challenging social hierarchies and connecting more naturally with villagers than urban or progressive titles do. Safety is another prime concern. Police intelligence notes that pseudonyms shield leaders from police records and active cases registered across various stations, keeping them one step ahead of security forces. For Maoists, a name is more than identityit is a lifeline, a bridge to local populations, and a cloak against the state. In a world where anonymity is survival, a simple alias like Abhay or Mynakka carries decades of history, strategy, and underground life.
Senior IPS Officer facing sexual harassment probe in Chhattisgarh, PHQ orders probe
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh Police Headquarters (PHQ) has ordered an investigation into sexual harassment allegations against senior IPS officer Ratanlal Dangi, following a complaint filed by the wife of a police sub-inspector who accused him of harassment spanning seven years. A two-member committee comprising IPS officer Anand Chhabra (2001 batch) and DIG Milna Kurre has been constituted to probe the charges. According to the complaint, the woman has submitted digital evidence claiming that Dangi, who has served as the police chief of Korba district and as inspector general in Sarguja and Bilaspur divisions, repeatedly harassed her and called her to his residence in the absence of his wife. She alleged that her interactions with Dangi began in 2017 through social media, continued via video calls in which she gave him yoga lessons, and persisted even as he was transferred between postings. In his response, Dangi wrote to the state police chief denying the allegations. He claimed that the woman, in collusion with others, had blackmailed and mentally tortured him while threatening self-harm to exert pressure. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said strict action would be taken if the allegations were proven, regardless of the accuseds rank or position. The PHQ confirmed receiving complaints from both sides and stated that further steps will be taken based on the committees findings in accordance with established procedures. The investigation remains ongoing.
Chhattisgarh pays homage to personnel for supreme sacrifice in the line of duty
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai acclaimed the police personnel who selflessly and courageously countered the challenges with bravery and laid down their lives in the line of duty. The state on Tuesday observed Police Commemoration Day with a solemn parade, and tributes were paid to martyrs at the 4th Battalion premises of Chhattisgarh Armed Force, Mana in Raipur. The invincible bravery and supreme sacrifice of the police will forever be remembered and adored by the nation, said the Governor, who also conveyed his deeply felt condolences to the families of martyrs and saluted all police officers and personnel. CM Sai lauded the state security forces for setting forth an unbeaten spirit and valour in the fight against Maoists, following which the regions that were earlier affected by the presence of left-wing extremists are now swiftly witnessing fast development. Under the leadership of PM Narendera Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the campaign to eliminate Maoists has gained a strong impetus. The Chhattisgarh government remains committed to achieving the target to wipe out the Maoist menace by March 2026, the CM added. He emphasised that various schemes like Niyad Nellanar,Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan,PM Janman Mission, and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya have been changing the lives of people for good in remote tribal areas. In Bastar, south Chhattisgarh, the Police Commemoration Day Parade was organised at Amar Vatika, Jagdalpur, to pay homage to the brave police personnel who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Bastar Range Inspector General of police Sundarraj P read out the names of 191 brave personnel from the state police and Central Armed Forces who attained martyrdom between 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025, and offered heartfelt tributes to their supreme sacrifice. Among the 191, as many as 130 personnel belonged to different state police forces and 61 to the Central Armed Police Forces. The Bastar Police, inspired by the sacrifices of these brave martyrs, will continue to uphold its commitment to peace, safety, and development in the region with courage, devotion, and resolve, the IG said. Observed every year on 21 October, Police Commemoration Day stands as a symbol of the nations gratitude to the valiant police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice for Indias unity, integrity, and security.
'Ekla chalo re should be our life motto
Her name means strong-willed, steeped in creative art. Abhradita Banerjee has lived up to her name, staying steadfast on the artistic path her father once encouraged her to take. Hindustani music is her forte, but her understanding of music as a science and an emotional stream extends beyond academics. Music, for her, is a way of life. Through music, she connects with people who turn to music not just for enjoyment or calm, but also for healing and sharpening their faculties. Her work with children with special abilities, especially, is laudable for its impact and empathy. Abhradita arrived in Thiruvananthapuram in 1996, when Hindustani music wasnt as popular as it is today here. She persevered, musically and culturally, to belong in this land. From those days to becoming one of the leading gurus of Hindustani music in Kerala, her journey has been quite mellifluous. Excerpts: How did you begin your music journey? I started learning at the age of six. Back then, I loved dancing more. But my father used to tell me that dance would require greater physical effort to maintain, whereas singing was easier to sustain. Though I switched to music, I still love dance a lot. My first music lessons were with a lady in my neighbourhood. My serious lessons began when I was eight, with Sumati Rajimwale madam. But it was in Class 7 that the true guru-shishya parampara was established, under the tutelage of Padma Shri Pandit Madan Chauhanji. I am still under his guidance. An artist from Bengal in a place where Hindustani was not prevalent. How was the journey from the time you shifted to Kerala till now? I was born and raised in Raipur, Madhya Pradesh, though in a Bengali family. I came here in October 1996. Those days Poojappura, where I lived, did not even have street lights. Coming from a Hindi belt, it was tough to adjust here.Moreover, I was in a good space there as a performing artist and an AIR-graded one. Coming here meant dropping below zero. But I didnt give up. Thanks to guru kripa, I was determined to take music forward. I first performed at the Bengali association here. I tried to meet people, especially those connected with music. Slowly, I started to belong here. How was the cultural adaptation? There are similarities (with Bengal) at the intellectual and sahitya level. Lifestyle-wise too. But culture-wise, there is a difference. One, there was no Durga Puja here. And during Diwali, it was a struggle to get colours for the rangoli. Even diyas would be available more during Thrikkarthika. However, I did not bother much about all these. I continued with my own culture while adapting to the culture of this land. What brought you to Kerala? My husband, Moinak Banerjee, came here as a scientist at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology. He loved the place so much that he did not want to go anywhere else. I initially wanted to move out. But after my children were born, I decided to stay here because the education was good, and it was a safe place. (Sings Rabindrasangeet.) Hindustani was not very popular in Thiruvananthapuram those days. How did you connect with the audience? I believe any kind of art is an emotion a soul-to-soul connection. If the voice does not reach the heart, there is no use of the art. When I began performing in Thiruvananthapuram, I used to explain the song situation, raga, and so on. I thought no one would understand Hindi, but Kerala is unique. People here may not speak Hindi, but they understand the language. You might not get applause like wah wah, but if a person sits till the end of a performance, it means he liked it. I learnt to read such aspects of the culture. That helped me connect with the people here. The connection endures. Now I can explain in Malayalam as well. So, it is all a work of emotion. We cannot divide art as Hindustani or Carnatic, though there might be technical differences. Raga Kalyani in Carnatic is Raga Yaman in Hindustani; Shankarabharanam is Bilawal; Mayamalavagowla is Bhairav. Now you see a lot of change. One of the positives of social media is the exposure for performing arts. On the other side, gharanas (genres) are not actually followed. It is important to understand that there is no shortcut to practice and devotion to art. How important is purpose in art? That is another level. One may perform just for personal peace and happiness. Yet the question remains: what do you give back to society? Bhava (emotion) is needed. You have to be empathetic, and that comes from diving deep and practising sincerely. Personally, I do not look out for performances. I sing only where my music is genuinely wanted. I seek no financial benefit. I also teach children. Not all can be performers some learn to perform, others to enjoy. Its not just Tansens we need; we need Kaansens too (kaan meaning appreciative ears here). Music can help ease stress. It can also help neurodivergent children improve their attention span. In children with autism and ADHD, the Indian classical music system based on alankars (Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni Sa) has huge potential. I do therapeutic sessions. Any specific ragas for this? Shuddha Swara is a bright swara. Raga Bilawal, which is Shankarabharanam in Carnatic, has that brightness. When a child is hyperactive, we need a slightly calmer form of raga or swara. In such cases, I prefer using Bhairav, which helps control anxiety. Once anxiety is controlled, children with ADHD start to listen. Even just the sound of the tanpura, if you keep it playing for some time, helps. So, depending on the childs behaviour, I change the swaras (breaks into a song). Children with autism are often sensitive to sound, so I adjust how much projection is needed and how much of the tanpura sound to use. Do students with ADHD respond well to the sessions? Once they start sitting regularly, a daily routine of singing helps a lot. I dont give them recorded patterns because the digitisation of everything irritates them. There has to be a human connection. It is working very nicely. How long have you been doing this? It has been a long time. Initially, I used to take one child at a time at my institution, Mukthaangan (attached to her house at Thirumala in Thiruvananthapuram). But after the pandemic, I started taking in more children. I have made it my mission to use my art to do something for them. Now I also travel to different cities for this. It has become part of my research as well. I follow a 45-day module, and after that, we observe the childs development. Based on that, the next course is decided. This is a one-woman project, right? I have done two masters degrees one in clinical psychology and another in vocals. I attended an autism workshop once, and from that time onwards, I had it in my mind that I wanted to work for these children. In India, most institutions for special children follow Western patterns. I wondered: Why not our own Indian pattern? The main challenge for special children lies in emotions. These aspects are already discussed in Natya Shastra, Ayurveda, Charaka Samhita, and many other ancient Indian texts. People sang during rituals to enhance concentration and calmness. Everything is linked to the brain. In India, over the past 400-500 years, the connection with our manuscripts and knowledge systems has been lost. On the other hand, Westerners are researching them. I always had in my mind: Why not use Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni Sa as music therapy? Could you explain what exactly gharanas are? In simple terms, they are styles of singing. In Carnatic, they are called banis. Carnatic music is mainly practised across four southern states, so the number of banis is fewer. But in north India, there are many states, and that is why the number of gharanas is much more. If we go towards the eastern side, the style of presentation is softer. You can see that in Rabindra Sangeet and Baul traditions. So even their classical forms, like the Agra Gharana and Kirana Gharana, have a softer touch. Long ago, before India was divided, the Lahore Gharana was one of the strongest and most prominent genres of classical music. Later came the Patiala Gharana. In Rajasthan and Gujarat too, there are traditional styles. Every region, every state, has its own tradition, its own singing style, and its own folk roots. Classical music evolved from folk traditions. That is why the influence of folk can be found in every gharana. How has south Indian culture influenced Hindustani music? The influence mainly comes from the swara combinations. There is a misconception that Carnatic musicians cannot sing Hindustani. That is not true. Our brains can store both. The main thing is to understand the technical nuances like voice projection changes, gamaka patterns (melody), and pace shifts. On grasping these, one can easily follow both. It also depends on the teaching. I always tell my students not to differentiate between the two. Hindustani singer Abhradita Banerjee interacting with TNIE team of journalists as part of the Express Dialogues series. Have you sung Carnatic songs? I learnt Carnatic for three years when I was young. I won a prize at a national competition, too, when I was 12 or 13. I could not continue as there were no teachers in Raipur. I learnt music because of my father, and before his death, when I was in Class 9, he introduced me to many genres. I was also introduced to the Veena. My father used to take me to the veena gurus house, 15km away from our home, on a bicycle. After I took part in competitions, the judges advised me to continue both. Unfortunately, I could not. [M S] Subbulakshmi songs were an integral part of my childhood (sings her favourite Bhavayami Gopalabalam). As a person who has learnt both, how do you view the so-called Carnatic-Hindustani conflict? What is a Carnatic kriti? It expresses emotions towards a deity. Hindustani, too, is emotions both to a deity and to different human moods. Whatever the genre, it is the soul that is being touched. In Hindustani, the time theory is more defined. Hindustani concerts are time-based, and raga selection follows that. Nobody will sing Yaman, an evening raga, during a morning concert. In south India, there are no time-based concepts for Carnatic concerts, so they mix and match. I am, however, for experimenting. I believe you should have a projection of voice strong enough to create that concept of time. If I sing Bhairav (a morning raga) in the afternoon, the listeners should feel the morning dawning. My voice should have that power. How do you view stories like that of Tansen singing to bring rain? Being a researcher, I try to understand the basic theory. Such stories are documented. There is always a chance that when you sing Raag Meghmalhar, the situation of rain is created. As I said, it is about creating the mood through music. I once had a similar experience. When I was teaching on a sunny afternoon, I was singing Raag Bhairav. My eyes were closed, and when I opened them, my students were staring at me. Outside, the sunny afternoon had turned cloudy, dawn-like. Scientifically, it might just have been the weather, but my students still remember that day and often tell me how different that class felt. How do you look at someone who does not have bhakti singing Carnatic? Bhakti is about emotions. That is why teaching is important. When we teach, the words must be explained. Whether it be Carnatic, Hindustani, Kajri or folk, you need to explain the meaning. If you teach a Carnatic kriti that way, the sense of bhakti will come, whatever faith you belong to. It is about visualising. Even atheists believe in some kind of emotion. If there are no emotions, I do not think they can sing a kriti. We are referring to people like T M Krishna... I understood. His way of singing has evolved through several years of practice. And while singing, he connects with some kind of emotion that we may not know. Because without emotion, I do not think anything can emerge in any form of art. There can also be no connectivity with our own self or with the listeners. Religions may urge us to form communities, but art is beyond community. There is, however, a force and that force can be felt through emotions while performing. An example is Ustad Rashid Khan, who used to cry while singing a composition on Durga during Navaratri. I teach that connectivity to my students, who come from varied communities. What was the style followed by Rabindranath Tagore, who wrote emotional poems? If Hindustani is Bharatanatyam, Rabindra Sangeet is Mohiniyattam. The emotional aspect is rich in Gurudevs lyrics. The music was composed by several people, including his family members and even Shantiniketan students. The lasya element and composition made the music technically and emotionally rich. (Sings Rabindra Sangeet.) Many classical singers have gone on to sing in films. Did you ever consider it? I was always away from the networking circles needed for film music. As an A grade artist in AIR in the ghazal stream, I did get some offers. But I always wanted to keep myself within the classical stream. I, however, have done aakars (background vocals) for some films. I do respect the way film music is planned, and if someone wants the kind of music I present, I am still open (smiles). Hindustani music is now increasingly featured in film songs... Yes, and many of my students are now prominent singers. Srikant Hariharan, Narayani Gopan and Reshma Raghavendran among them. Malayalam films have had a long-time connect with Hindustani I have been a judge for many reality shows. I have heard the compositions of Baburaj and Johnson Raag Yaman was his signature, as seen in Anuragini and Devanganangal. Southern Kerala had lesser influence earlier, but that is no longer the case. Carnatic and Hindustani are just a few gamakas apart. Some composers have even mixed Western influences. When Hindustani is fused with Western, the difference is not as conspicuous as when Carnatic is. Nowadays, there is hardly any pure Carnatic music in contemporary film songs. There are many ghazal fans too in Kerala Yes, even Malayalam ghazals exist. Ghazal is primarily a style of writing. Hariharan sir has used Carnatic ragas in ghazals, but the essence of ghazals lies in lyrics and emotion. Abida Parveen, Chithra Singh, Ghulam Ali each brings a distinct pattern of singing. Ghulam Ali often blends ragas (sings his famous Chupke, chupke), while Mehdi Hasan always stayed true to one raga (sings his Ranjish hi sahi). Jagjit Singh created beautiful compositions that incorporated Western influences. He took ghazals to the common people; until then, they were the preserve of the elite. Nowadays, classical music is also breaking out of elite circles Thanks to social media, people now learn about different programmes and genres easily. In Kerala, classical concerts still draw a select audience. These days, people often relate classical music to film songs you can see listings like Ten film songs based on Raag Yaman. Thats fine, but why not also explore the raga structure itself? Adnan Sami does this he even plays pure classical kritis on the piano. That way, people are tempted to know more. About 10 years ago, I started a band called Srishti to popularise Hindustani khayals and ragas. We need to approach popularisation with a visionary mindset. 'Not many are aware of Swathi Thirunals Hindi kritis You have also worked on Swathi kritis in Hindustani, havent you? Yes. I have compiled 20 of Maharaja Swathi Thirunals 38 kritis. Seven were released by Saregama as an album. One famous composition is Vishweshwara, dedicated to Kashi Vishwanath. It is remarkable the maharaja never visited Kashi, yet his composition vividly depicts the citys geography. Sadly, not many are aware of his Hindi compositions. I made some improvisations and performed Vishweshwara in Kashi at Indira Gandhi National Centre for Art, BHU, and AIR Varanasi, which recorded the session (sings Vishweshwara). I would like to end this conversation on a musical note. There is a song written by Gurudev in 1905, protesting the partition of Bengal. Its essence is: Walk alone if you believe you are on the right path. It is ingrained in every Bengali heart and I feel it should be our lifes motto (concludes with Ekla chalo re).
RAIPUR: Tribal youths who once lived under the shadow of terror in the Maoist-affected district of Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki have achieved a remarkable milestone, with ten of them, including two females, successfully clearing both the physical and written competitive examinations conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) and the Chhattisgarh Police. They will soon join the police force as constables, marking the first such success in this edgy region. The breakthrough is seen as a powerful symbol of change, signifying a critical shift in the mindset of a region that borders Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and Kanker district in the Bastar division. With the security scenario having significantly improved across the district, once cited as a hotbed of left-wing extremism, the region now undeniably yearns for peace and development. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), besides engaging in anti-Maoist operations in the western region of Chhattisgarh, also took up the noble cause of supporting local youths in shaping their future careers. For several youths, adversity in life tested their capability, courage and character. The Aundhi Company Operating Base (COB), about 205 km west of Raipur in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, organised a crucial two-year career guidance and physical training programme for tribal youths, who were also offered financial support for their course materials. The successful outcome is underpinned by the ITBPs persistent and precise anti-Naxal operations that have dismantled the local leadership of the left-wing extremists. ITBPs programme exclusively for youths in the region began in 2023. We created awareness among the local youths, groomed them physically, counselled on how to face the competitive examinations and offered them other essential support. First time, five got selected as constables through SSC and other five in Chhattisgarh police. More such success to follow, Commandant Vivek Kumar Pandey told this newspaper. Commandant Pandey and district police chief Y P Singh felicitated the ten youths, motivating them to become ambassadors of peace and development for their community. The presence of the ITBP in the erstwhile Rajnandgaon region (Chhattisgarhs western region) dates back to December 2009, when it established key bases at various locations such as Aundhi, Sitagaon, Madanwada and Kohka. In August 2025, a joint operation by the 27th Battalion ITBP and the Chhattisgarh Police eliminated top commanders of the DKSZC Vijay Reddy and DVSC Lokesh Salame, allegedly knocking down the senior command structure of the Rajnandgaon-Kanker border division.
Amid wave of mass surrenders, another Maoist leader urges cadres to lay down arms in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: The recent mass surrenders of Maoists at Gadchiroli (Maharashtra) and Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh) have led a senior leader of Udanti Area Committee, active along the Chhattisgarh-Odisha border, to appeal to cadres active in the region to lay down their arms and rejoin the mainstream. A one-page letter in Hindi issued in the name of Maoist leader Sunil, has cited the surrender with weapons led by Sonu Dada in Maharashtra and Rupesh Dada in Chhattisgarh hinting the pressure of the security forces and inability to operate the mission of CPI (Maoist) in the present context asked the comrades to halt the armed struggle but will continue to resolve the problems of the people. So, our Udanti Area in the Gariaband region decided to stop the armed movement. I appealed to all unitsGobra, Sinapali, SDK (Sonabeda-Dharambandha-Kholibatar area), Sitanadi, to decide at the earliest, as we have already lost several key senior leaders. We support the decision taken by Sonu Dada and Rupesh Dada. Join with your arms (to surrender), stated the letter that also carried the mobile phone number of Sunil for the members of the region. Gariaband district police chief Nikhil Rakhecha welcomed the move of Maoists to renounce the path of violence and return to society. We are hopeful that the remaining Maoist cases will respond positively to the letter apparently shared with the media. We are also trying to reach out to them for their surrender with weapons, Rakhecha told the TNIE . Gariaband, adjoining Odisha state, is among the Maoist-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. The Udanti Area Committee covers adjoining regions along the Chhattisgarh-Odisha border. In a major development, 210 Naxal cadres, including 111 women, surrendered to police and paramilitary forces in Jagdalpur, Bastar district, on Friday. Earlier, senior Maoist politburo member Mallojula Venugopal Rao, alias Bhupathi , along with 60 other hardcore militants, had surrendered in Gadchiroli. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said India is likely to be free of Maoist influence by March 2026.
Raipur Diary | Balco plan for Indias aluminium self-reliance
Korba-based Bharat Aluminium Company Ltd (Balco), part of Vedanta Aluminium, has produced the first metal from Indias largest 525 kilo Ampere (kA) smelter under its ongoing one million tonne per annum expansion. This performance surpasses the previous national record of 378 kA and takes the companys total production capacity to 1 million tonnes per annum. It now enters the global Million Ton Club. The upgrade is expected to increase domestic supplies of high-grade aluminium for key sectors, including defence, aerospace, automotive, and construction. The company says the expansion aligns with the Make in India mission. Cgarh tops PM-JAY performance chart Just seven months ago, Chhattisgarh was flagged for a relatively high number of suspicious claims under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and was counted among weak performers. In a sharp turnaround, the state has now been awarded best performing state at the National Health Authority conclave. The improvement followed an aggressive clean-up drivefield audits, surprise hospital inspections, and close scrutiny of claim patterns. The state also worked towards near-zero pendency on insurance claims and grievance responses. Dr Priyanka Shukla, CEO of the state nodal agency, received the award. Results, not paperwork, matter, collectors told CM Vishnu Deo Sai has told district collectors that their performance will now be judged by results on the ground rather than paperwork. He said governance at the district level must be defined by transparency, accountability and timely delivery. He warned that the government will not accept slow execution or token compliance. Collectors have been instructed to make sure welfare schemes reach people without delay. Monitoring will be tightened, with emphasis on measurable outcomes. The message signals a shift from routine procedures to visible results and public confidence. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Major Breakthrough: 208 Naxals Surrender With 153 Weapons in Chhattisgarh
Raipur, Oct 17: In a major boost to Indias campaign against Left-Wing Extremism, 208 Naxalites, including 110 women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh on Friday, handing over 153 weapons as part of the states surrender and rehabilitation drive. Officials said the surrendered cache included 19 AK-47 rifles, 17 SLRs, and 36 .303 rifles, among other firearms. The [] The post Major Breakthrough: 208 Naxals Surrender With 153 Weapons in Chhattisgarh appeared first on Northlines .
Abujhmarh, North Bastar dists Naxal-free: Shah
RAIPUR: More than 150 Maoists led by senior Naxal leader Rupesh and woman commander Ranita in-charge of Maad division of Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKZC) will surrender before the Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai and Home Minister Vijay Sharma in Jagdalpur (Bastar) on Friday. Welcoming the move, Sharma said that the Maoist rebels in large strength are going to renounce the banned outfit and return to the mainstream. The state government will roll out a red carpet welcome to them. The police department has carried out all preparations for the occasion in Jagdalpur, he added. The entire Maad division team of CPI (Maoist) crossed the forested terrain, the Indravati river and inter-district border of Dantewada and Bijapur carrying around 70 weapons and will reach Jagdalpur where the formal ceremony of mass surrender is scheduled to happen, a police officer said. Rupesh alias Satish, a Naxal spokesperson hailing from Andhra Pradesh, was among those Maoist leaders who recently appealed to the Centre to halt the operations for six months to facilitate peace talks. Rupesh was instrumental as a key communication channel between the Central Committee of CPI (Maoist) and the different divisions of DKZC, revealed a source. Besides the crumbling Maoist organisation, the frustration with hollow ideology, ongoing offensive operations against left-wing extremists and the outreach efforts by the forces led the Red ultras surrender in such big strength, officials said.
NMDC Steel product bags BIS certification
The certification was presented during the World Standards Day 2025 celebration organised by BIS, Raipur
HC orders Rs 2 lakh payout after govt hospital reveals womans HIV status
Bilaspur: The Chhattisgarh High Court has directed the state government to pay a Rs 2 lakh compensation to the parents of a newborn after staff at a public hospital in Raipur disclosed the mothers HIV-positive status in violation of confidentiality protocols. The HC, during a previous hearing, cited a news report which said a poster 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 .
Chhattisgarh wins best performing state award for transparent PM-JAY implementation
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh was bestowed with an award as best performing state for its effective execution, transparency and almost zero pendency on health care insurance claims and related issues under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). The award was received by Dr Priyanka Shukla, chief executive officer (CEO) of the state nodal agency at the National Health Authority (NHA) Conclave held in Bhopal on Wednesday. At the NHA review meeting in January 2025, Chhattisgarh was found to have a relatively high number of suspicious claims. To improve this situation, the state nodal agency developed and implemented a swift action plan to strengthen accountability and transparency in health services. The nodal agency has taken steady, resolute steps in recent months, including conducting extensive field audits to identify suspicious claims, significantly reducing the turnaround time (TAT) for claims processing, orientation and sensitivity training for all stakeholders, strengthening the State Anti-Fraud Unit (SAFU) team, and establishing regular communication and coordination mechanisms with empanelled healthcare providers (EHCPs). Besides intensive reviews at district and state level by the health secretary and CEO (state nodal officer), the health department team conducted surprise inspections of many hospitals across the state. Penalty action was taken against 45 hospitals (the highest ever) for non-compliance with the scheme's standards. Additionally, field audits were conducted in over 32,000 cases, preventing fraudulent claims and making the claim settlement process more transparent. Regular meetings are being held with representatives of the Indian Medical Association and private hospitals to address issues faced by empanelled hospitals. According to data from the National Health Authority, 97 percent of hospitals (the highest) registered under PM-JAY in Chhattisgarh are active, a testament to hospitals' confidence in the scheme. In contrast, this rate in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh is 62 %, and the national average is only 52 percent. (PM-JAY) (Zero Pendency) NHA CEO pic.twitter.com/dgxrj6KzRB ShyamBihari Jaiswal (@ShyamBihariBjp) October 15, 2025 Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal congratulating the department officials, said, The state government's goal remains to provide quality and respectable healthcare to all eligible families. The Ayushman Bharat Scheme was included as an agenda for the first time in the recently held Collectors' Conference, chaired by CMVishnu Deo Sai in Raipur. CM Sai has directed all collectors to conduct regular reviews of the scheme in their respective districts.
78 Maoists lay down arms in Chhattisgarh's Bastar
RAIPUR: In a major blow to the banned outfit CPI (Maoist), as many as 78 cadres, including 43 women, have surrendered in the districts of Sukma, Kanker, and Kondagaon in Chhattisgarhs Bastar division on Wednesday. The mass surrender in Chhattisgarh follows Tuesdays significant development when a senior Maoist politburo member, Mallojula Venugopal Rao alias Bhupathi, along with 60 other hardcore ultras , laid down their arms in the Gadchiroli district of neighboring Maharashtra. In Chhattisgarh, the Red rebels who surrendered separately before authorities in the edgy Bastar region also deposited over three dozen weapons, including seven AK-47 rifles. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai cited the move to give up the armed struggle as the collapsing of Left-wing extremism in the country. Our brave security forces are fighting this battle with indomitable courage and are achieving success, the CM said. In Sukma district, 27 Maoists, including ten women, gave up their arms. Among them, as many as 16 were carrying a collective bounty of $50 lakh, officials said. In Kanker district, 50 Maoists, including two members of the DKSZC and 32 female cadres, turned themselves in at a Border Security Force (BSF) camp. A woman cadre, carrying a bounty of $5 lakh, surrendered in Kondagaon district. The Dandakaranya region comprises the Bastar region and the border areas of Maharashtra, Telangana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. Kanker shares its border with Maharashtras Gadchiroli. Maoists in a group led by Rajman Mandavi and Raju Salam, both members of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), reached the BSFs Kamtera camp of the 40th battalion at Koylaibeda in Kanker and surrendered. They also surrendered 39 weapons, including seven AK-47 rifles, two Self-Loading Rifles, four INSAS rifles, an INSAS LMG (light machine gun), and a Sten gun, a senior police officer said. The surrendered cadres include five members of the divisional committee, Tadami, Heeralal Komra, Jugnu Kowachi, Narsingh Netam, and Nande (wife of Rajman Mandavi). The others included 21 area committee members and 21 party members, he revealed. Those who surrendered in Sukma before senior police and Central Reserve Police Force officials cited disillusionment with the hollow Maoist ideology, atrocities committed by the banned outfit on innocent tribals, and the growing influence of security forces as reasons for shunning the path of armed movement, said Kiran Chavan, Sukma district police chief. The surrendered Maoists were also impressed by the 'Niyad Nellanar' (your good village) scheme of the state government, aimed at facilitating development works in remote villages, and the lucrative new surrender and rehabilitation policy, the officer added. Since the BJP came to power in December 2023 in Chhattisgarh, around 2,000 Maoists have surrendered in the state.
Nava Raipur: Chhattisgarhs green capital bets on tech, tourism and semiconductors
Nava Raipur, India's first debt-free planned capital, is rapidly transforming into a technological and tourism hub. With wide roads, underground utilities, and a focus on sustainability, the city is attracting significant investment, including a major semiconductor plant and a Film City. Prestigious educational institutions are also bolstering its profile, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2035.
Chhattisgarh Youth Murdered for Not Sharing Beedi
Police arrest three friends who attacked victim with sharp weapons near Raipur
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday defined new benchmarks of good governance, transparency and public welfare for district magistrates during the collectors conference held in the state capital. In a clear and explicit message to all collectors, the Chief Minister stated that their performance would not be measured merely through paperwork but assessed on how effectively their actions deliver tangible results. The ultimate goal of governance is to ensure that every policy and scheme reaches the people in a time-bound and transparent manner. Any slackness at any level will not be tolerated. Results must be visible on the ground, not just on papers, CM Sai asserted. Announcing that paddy procurement in the state would commence on 15 November, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that all necessary preparations were completed in time. If any irregularities are found in the process, the collector will be held responsible. There should be strict vigilance in inter-state border districts to prevent illegal inflow of paddy from neighbouring states, he said. To strengthen monitoring, CM Sai said the Integrated Command and Control Centre would now be utilised for real-time surveillance of procurement activities. During a review of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, the Chief Minister emphasised that all eligible farmers must receive the benefit within the stipulated timeframe. He instructed divisional commissioners to closely monitor progress, particularly in Bastar and Surguja divisions. CM Sai directed that the Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana be expanded to cover the maximum number of beneficiaries and instructed district administrations to ensure that bank finance is easily available in rural areas. On healthcare, he reiterated that providing quality healthcare remains the state governments top priority. NRC Centres (Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres) must operate regularly and effectively, and special attention should be paid to maternal and child nutrition. Officials should identify hotspot areas and launch intensive campaigns on malaria eradication to ensure Chhattisgarh achieves the goal of becoming a malaria-free state at the earliest, he averred. Reviewing the Education Department, CM Sai said the twin goals of achieving a zero dropout rate and a 100 per cent Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) must be accomplished at any cost. He further announced that the state would soon launch a Chief Ministers Education Quality Mission to socially audit schools and introduce a grading system. He directed district collectors to prepare concrete strategies for improving examination results.
Chhattisgarh Waqf Board serves notices to 480 tenants over revised rents
RAIPUR: A few of the properties leased out bythe Chhattisgarh Waqf Boardon rent decades ago are yielding an absurdly low monthly rent of just 80 paise. Many continue to happily cough up a meagre amount of Rs 25, 50 to Rs 100 as rent for outlets, shops or complexes in Raipur and other districts of the State. There are over 480 tenants and shop owners who were served with notices by the Board in recent months, but instead of complying with the directive to either pay the revised rents or vacate, several of them approached the Chhattisgarh High Court against the new rent agreement. To address one of the most obtrusive issues confronting the Waqf Board -- the persisting outdated rental structure for Waqf-owned properties, with many leased out as far back as the 1950s -- the Board has conveyed that there will be a fresh agreement with the tenants and shop owners regarding rent in accordance with approved norms of the Board and the guidelines as stipulated by district collectors. Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board, while rationalising the prices under property lease rules, considering market values for securing better, reasonable returns, has revised the rent rates for its properties. We are attending to the crucial issue of revenue generation too. The misuse and encroachment of Waqf properties will not be allowed, Salim Raj, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh state Waqf Board said. The revised rents in accordance with the new rules are different for commercial and residential areas. Chhattisgarh has Waqf properties worth over Rs 7000 crore. The Waqf Board has already responded to the HC, and the hearing on the issue is listed for October 13. Around 200 people, who were served with repeated notices instead of complying with the directive on the revised rent, went to the High Court against the decision of the Board. After the courts decision, we will initiate stern actions. Transparency and accountability are a must in the management of Waqf properties, which remain one of the enduring issues, Raj asserted. The officials in the Board said that the issues of Waqf properties on various occasions get aggravated by allegations of illegal sales and misuse of Waqf assets, which have substantially crumbled the potential revenue that could have been used for community welfare.
PM Modi to inaugurate Chhattisgarhs new Assembly building in Nava Raipur on states silver jubilee
RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Chhattisgarhs new Assembly building in the capital city of Nava Raipur on 1 November, coinciding with the states silver jubilee foundation day celebrations. The newly constructed Vidhan Sabha is hailed as a masterpiece of architectural design, incorporating modern infrastructure, enhanced capacity, advanced technology, safety features, and sustainable building practices. The construction of the new building, which began with the foundation stone being laid in 2020, is nearing completion. The Central Hall, capable of accommodating all sitting legislators, is currently in its final stages. The project has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 324 crore and spans 5 lakh square feet. The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly currently comprises 90 members. The new complex has been designed with enhanced capacity, offering space for up to 200 members. Legislators will be seated in pairs, with each having their own individual desk. This future-ready design anticipates expansion following any potential delimitation exercises. The complex also includes 24 ministerial chambers, despite the current cabinet comprising 14 ministers. Decisions regarding the use of the remaining chambers will be taken by the Speaker of the House. Assembly Speaker Raman Singh had extended a formal invitation to Prime Minister Modi during a meeting in Delhi last month. He also invited Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to preside over the inauguration. Its going to be a moment of pride and an unforgettable memory for the people and Assembly members, said Singh. State Public Works Department Minister Arun Sao noted that the entire construction has been designed to last over 100 years. In addition to individual offices for each minister, the Assembly complex also features a museum beneath the main building, a 1,000-seat auditorium, and two eight-bedded hospitals, one Ayurvedic and one Allopathic. A dedicated parking facility with a capacity for over 700 vehicles is also part of the campus. The structural design of the building strategically maximises natural sunlight and comfort, employing energy-efficient and green construction techniques to ensure long-term sustainability.
Autonomy debate rages after IIM director quits
RAIPUR: The resignation of IIM Raipur Director, Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, highlights the inconsistencies between the IIM Act and the institutes HR policies, which some academics acknowledge have persisted for years and are seen as a key reason behind his decision to step down. Prof. Kakani said the contradiction between the institutes HR policies and the spirit of the IIM Act of 2017 was limiting his professional scope, thereby hindering his work and decision-making. He resigned abruptly on July 22, well before his tenure was scheduled to end in March 2027. For more than two months, Prof. Sanjeev Parashar has served as Director in charge. He could not be reached for comment. Prof. Kakani is the third director of a premier IIM in the past five years to resign, reportedly due to differences with the Board of Governors. Two former directors of IIM KolkataAnju Seth (2021) and Uttam Kumar Sarkar (2023)resigned over disputes with their boards. A respected academic, Prof. Kakani has previously taught at IIM Kozhikode, XLRI Jamshedpur, and LLBSNAA Mussoorie. He is now the vice-chancellor of RV University, Bengaluru. Faculty and senior students at IIM Raipur said disputes over administrative authority between directors and board chairpersons have increased since the IIM Act, 2017. They said these differences affected the institutes administrative autonomy and functioning. Prof. Kanai had reportedly raised these concerns during his tenure. A source explained the probable circumstance behind Prof. Kakanis resignation. A grave academic integrity issue involving the institutes faculty member allegedly implicated in a forgery acted as a primary catalyst for the sudden exit of Kakani. The fraud specifically related to a doctoral students signature to reorder the co-authorship of a research article accepted in an A-star journal, the source said. 3rd head in five yrs to quit over rift with board Prof Ram Kumar Kakani resigned abruptly as the IIM Raipur Director on July 22 this year, well before his tenure was scheduled to end in March 2027. Prof. Kakani is the third director of a premier IIM in the past five years to resign, reportedly due to differences with the Board of Governors.
Chhattisgarh Police arrest IIIT student for creating obscene images of 36 female students
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh police on Thursday arrested a student of the International Institute of Information Technology in Nava Raipur, accused of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create morphed obscene photos of around 36 girl students of the institute. A police team was sent to the IIIT on Wednesday after some inputs about the shocking incident were received, but were told by the institute management that an internal inquiry was being conducted by a three-member women's staff committee. We later received a written complaint from the IIIT management and registered an FIR. The accused Syed Rahim Adnan Ali, 20, has been arrested, and a formal investigation has begun, Vivek Shukla, additional SP (Nava Raipur) told TNIE . A case has been registered under Section 66 B of India's Information Technology Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 352 (intentionally insults to provoke breach of peace). The accused male student is in his second year of electronic and communication engineering degree. He had used photos posted on social media platforms to AI-generate pornographic images of the 36 female students. He kept all these obscene photos in his laptop and mobile phone which were seized by the police, the ASP added.
Student Used AI To Create Pornographic Images Of Classmates, Arrested
A 20-year-old student from the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Naya Raipur was arrested Wednesday for allegedly creating obscene images of female classmates using AI tools, said the police.
Amit Shah sets March 2026 deadline to wipe out Bastar Maoists
RAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday ruled out any possibility of dialogue with Maoists and said they will have to lay down weapons and accept the governments lucrative surrender and rehabilitation policy. Addressing the Bastar Dussehra Lokotsav and Swadeshi Mela in Jagdalpur, the headquarter of Chhattisgarhs Bastar district, he asserted that March 31, 2026, has been set as the deadline to bid farewell to the menace of Naxalism. I want to tell all my tribal brothers and sisters to persuade the youth of their villages to lay down their arms. They should shun violence, join the mainstream and become part of the development of Bastar, he said. Some people have called for talks (with Naxals). Let me make it clear again that both the Chhattisgarh and Central governments are committed to development across Bastar and all Naxal-affected areas. What is there to talk about? A lucrative surrender-and-rehabilitation policy has been put in place. Come forward and lay down your weapons, Shah said. He lauded Chhattisgarhs surrender and rehabilitation policy, which he described as the best in the country. The Chhattisgarh government has made the best surrender policy in the country. More than 500 people have surrendered in a single month. Everyone should surrender. As soon as a village becomes Naxalite-free, the state government will give it Rs 1 crore for development. Naxalism will not benefit anyone, he said. Security forces, including the CRPF and Chhattisgarh police, will give a befitting reply if ultras disrupt peace in Bastar, Shah warned. Some people in Delhi used to spread misinformation for years that the birth of Naxalism was for the fight for development. But I have come to tell my tribal brothers that the entire Bastar has been deprived of development. The root cause of this is Naxalism, he added. Notably, anti-Naxalite operations intensified in Chhattisgarh after the BJP came to power in 2023. Security forces have gunned down over 450 Naxalites in a string of encounters, mostly centred in the Bastar region, since January last year. Shah also attended the Muria Darbar celebrations, part of the renowned Bastar Dussehra festival, where tribal leaders discussed their issues with him. He praised the event for reflecting tribal culture, democratic values and community participation. On the same occasion, Shah launched the Chief Minister Rural Bus Service Scheme, aimed at improving connectivity in the tribal areas of Bastar and Sarguja. Additionally, he transferred the 20th monthly instalment of Rs 1,000 to the bank accounts of women beneficiaries under the governments Mahtari Vandan scheme.
103 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarhs Bastar days after Amit Shah rejects ceasefire offer
RAIPUR: A total of 103 cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), including 49 carrying rewards worth 1.06 crore, surrendered in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Thursday. The move came days after Home Minister Amit Shah rejected a ceasefire offer from the Naxals , saying they were welcome to surrender and that security forces would not fire a single bullet at those who lay down arms. The Bastar police issued a list highlighting the details of the surrendered cadres, which included senior functionaries and lower-rank militia cadres. According to the list released, the surrendered red rebels aged 18 to 40 renounced the banned outfit and decided to return to the mainstream of society. Several Revolutionary Peoples Committee members, Area Committee leaders, militia commanders and cadres of the CPI (Maoist) were among the 103 who surrendered. The surrendered Maoists will get the initial financial incentive of Rs 50,000 each. The misled youths of the banned outfit were also impressed with the benefits of the states surrender and rehabilitation policy, said Jitendra Yadav, Bijapur district police chief. Under the states new Surrender and Rehabilitation measures, surrendered cadres will be provided free housing, healthcare, farmland, and other amenities, along with additional financial support if they choose to undergo skill training or start a small business. MHA redeploys CAPF troops from J&K to intensify final offensive against naxals
NIA chargesheets four more for funding Maoist activities in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday filed a supplementary chargesheet against four more accused for alleged promotion of activities of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist) in Chhattisgarh. The NIA in its statement stated that the four accused against whom the supplementary chargesheet was produced, the three identified as Sunita Potam, Shankar Muchaki and Dashrath alias Dasru Modiyam, were office bearers of Moolwasi Bachao Manch (MBM), a frontal organisation of the CPI (Maoist), and arrested in the past. Mallesh Kunjam, the fourth accused named in the chargesheet, was an armed Maoist cadre and is still absconding, the agency said. Till now, seven accused have been charge-sheeted in the case. In October 2024, the MBM was banned by the state government under provisions of the Chhattisgarh Special Public Security Act, 2005. The NIA stated that all four accused named in the chargesheet were involved in activities like collection, storage and disbursal of funds for left-wing extremist groups. The outlawed CPI (Maoist) used these funds for staging protests against the democratically elected government and the development activities that are being carried out in the state. These illicit funds were being channelised through the frontal organisation like MBM, it added. The NIA, continuing with its probe into the case, is pursuing an action carried out by the Bijapur police in May 2023, when Gajendra Madvi and Laxman Kunjam, both workers of MBM, were arrested and seized Rs 6 lakh cash in junked Rs 2000 notes belonging to Naxalites.
India's first smart registration office unveiled in Chhattisgarh's Nava Raipur
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh has inaugurated the countrys first state-of-the-art Smart Registration Office in the new capital city of Nava Raipur, marking a major step towards modernising citizen services. Developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the new facility is designed to deliver faster, more transparent, and citizen-friendly services, in line with global standards. Registering a house, shop, or land will no longer mean standing in long queues at crowded government offices. The entire process can now be completed in just 12 to 15 minutes, in a setting comparable to passport or airport service centres, a government spokesperson told TNIE. The facility was inaugurated on Tuesday by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, in the presence of Finance Minister O P Choudhary. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the initiative as a milestone in citizen-centric governance. This initiative strengthens Chhattisgarhs identity as a welfare-oriented state. Citizen convenience remains the foundation of good governance, he stated. Encouraged by the model's potential, the central government is reportedly exploring similar upgrades nationwide. This modern facility, built on the PPP model, ensures speed, transparency, and convenience, enhancing the overall citizen experience, added an official. In the first phase, 10 registration offices are being upgraded, with the Nava Raipur unit now fully operational. The state government has set a target to modernise all 117 registration offices across Chhattisgarh within the next year. The smart office features a queue management system and digital display boards that eliminate long waits and provide real-time updates on documentation and fees. A trained helpdesk staff is also on hand to assist citizens at every stage of the process.
Chhattisgarh To Host First-Ever DGP-IGP Meet, PM Modi Likely To Attend
The three-day event is scheduled from 28 to 30 November at the newly developed Marine Drive complex in Nava Raipur.
Top Maoist leaders remain prime targets for forces in Chhattisgarh; nine leaders eliminated in 2025
RAIPUR: The ongoing anti-Maoist operation after the monsoon has been intensified with a renewed warning conveyed to the top Maoist leaders, asking them to give up arms and surrender, or else be prepared to be eliminated. The Chhattisgarh police and the Central forces affirmed that the sustained offensive against the left-wing extremists inflicted massive setback to the banned outfit, owing to which the Maoist leaders evidently remain fully aware that there is no safe place for them anywhere in the affected Bastar region. Bastar Inspector General of police, Sundarraj P, claimed that they consistently get solid information about the locations of top Maoist leaders, and they can be eliminated anytime by security forces. They can either surrender and join the mainstream or get killed in the ongoing decisive operations by the troops, the IG told TNIE . Despite adverse weather and tough geographical conditions besides other challenges, the forces are vigorously engaged in strategically planned anti-Maoist campaigns, keeping in mind the March 31, 2026, deadline set by the Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Most of the Central Committee (CC) members, who are only next to the Politburo of CPI (Maoist) in hierarchy, remained active in the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee during the last three decades, during which they waged a war against the state and the forces. Many of these CC members were cited to be the masterminds of numerous violent incidents, even leading to casualties of several jawans and the killing of innocent civilians. 71 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarhs Dantewada in a single day following 'Lon Varratu' campaign appeal Police believe the remaining top 10 Maoist leaders are active in Bastar and adjoining border states. The CC members carry huge bounty on their heads in various states of the country.In the year 2025, the forces eliminated the general secretary of CPI Maoist Basava Raju alias Nambala Keshav Rao and eight CC members. The Bastar police also shared the names of the remaining top 10 Maoist leaders who the police believe are active in Bastar and adjoining border states. They includefour Polit Bureau membersGanpathi alias Mupalla Laxman Rao alias Ramanna, Malojula Venugopal Rao alias Bhupathi, Devji alias Devanna alias Sudarshan, and Mishir Besra alias Bhaskar. Additionally, six CC members are Ganesh Uike, Anal Da alias Marandi, Malla Raji Reddy alias Murli, Ramder alias Majjidev, Madvi Hidma alias Deva alias Sainath, and Pullari Prasad Rao alias Malkapuram alias Bhaskar. The inhospitable rugged terrain of Abujhmad, spread over 4000 sq km in the district of Narayanpur and touching Bijapur, Dantewada, and Kanker was once the common address for most of the top Maoist leaders for decades. The dense forests earlier provided safe havens and hideouts for armed Maoist cadres and their top leadership. During the last three years, the Maoists' strongholds have been significantly weakened due to the establishment of several security camps and ongoing anti-Maoist operations, besides the development initiatives by the government in the region. The forces are swiftly acting on intelligence inputs about the movement of Maoist cadres, even in the dense forested terrain. The polit bureau CC members are bestowed with key responsibilities, different organisational roles, besides military activities in the banned outfit.
Raipur Horror: Pregnant Teen, 16, Slits Boyfriends Throat With Knife He Threatened Her With
The brutal murder has sent shockwaves through Raipur and Bilaspur.
UP CM sends cancer patient for treatment after mothers plea
LUCKNOW, Sept 29: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday arranged for a cancer patient to be immediately sent to a hospital after hearing his distressed mothers plea at a public grievance hearing on Monday. According to an official statement, the 64-year-old woman from Kanpurs Raipurwa spoke to a the chief minister Janata Darshan programme and said, Maharaj, our young son has cancer. We are poor and cannot afford treatment. We do not even have an Ayushman card. Please [] The post UP CM sends cancer patient for treatment after mothers plea appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
3 Naxalites carrying total bounty of Rs 14 lakh gunned down in Chhattisgarh
KANKER: Three Naxalites carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 14 lakh were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district on Sunday, a senior police official said. The gun battle took place on a forested hill near Chhindkhadak village along the border of Kanker and Gariaband districts, where a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxal operation in the morning, Kanker Superintendent of Police Indira Kalyan Elesela told PTI. Personnel belonging to the District Reserve Guard (DRG), a unit of the state police, from Kanker and Gariaband, and the Border Security Force (BSF) were involved in the operation, he said. Bodies of three Naxalites, including a woman cadre, were recovered from the site, along with a self-loading rifle (SLR), a .303 rifle, a 12-bore gun and other Naxalite-related materials, the SP said. Prima facie, the deceased were identified as Sarvan Madkam alias Vishwanath, the secretary of Sitanadi/Ravas area committee of Maoists, Rajesh alias Rakesh Hemla, an area committee member of Nagari area committee, and Basanti Kunkjam alias Hidme, a member of the protection team Mainpur-Nuapada, he said. The official said that Madkam and Hemla carried a bounty of Rs 8 lakh and Rs 5 lakh respectively, while Kunjam had a reward of Rs 1 lakh. Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P, said that despite the challenging geographical conditions and harsh weather, the police and security forces deployed in the region have been working with complete dedication to protect life and property, in accordance with the wishes of the government and people. He appealed to Maoist cadres to accept the reality that Maoism was on the verge of extinction. Now is the time for them to abandon the path of violence and join the mainstream by taking advantage of the government's rehabilitation policy, the senior official said. If they continue illegal and violent activities, they will face severe consequences, he added. With the latest action, 252 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of them, 223 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, including Kanker, while 27 were killed in Gariaband, which falls in the Raipur division. Two other Naxalites were killed in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district in Durg division. On September 22, top cadres, Raju Dada alias Katta Ramachandra Reddy (63) and Kosa Dada alias Kadari Satyanarayana Reddy (67), both Central Committee members of the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoists), were killed in an encounter in Narayanpur district, police said.
Chhattisgarh SIA arrests Maoist couple who worked as urban operatives for six years in Raipur
RAIPUR: Jaggu Kursaam alias Ramesh (28) and his wife Kamla (27) were no ordinary cadres of banned outfit CPI (Maoist), as they succeeded in living in the Chhattisgarhcapital for years without letting their actual identities be revealed despite being associated with over half a dozen area sub-divisional committees of the left-wing extremists in Bastar. The state intelligence agency team was said to be consistently monitoring their specific movements and securing tip-offs about them after a Central Agency got some clues about the Maoist couple from the recently arrested Red rebels. Both were under surveillance after their phone call to a senior Maoist leader was intercepted days ago. They carried a bounty of Rs 13 lakh, said a police officer. Ramesh, who was a divisional committee member of the Maoists,ironically worked as a security guard and driver in the homes of government officials and even at some private property, while allegedly managing to secure information for their outlawed organisation. During the last few months, both were staying in a rented house at Changorabhata residential area of Raipur and worked as labourers in some construction sites. Good at speaking and writing English, they usually avoided interaction with others. The intelligence inputs about them working as urban operatives led the police to track and arrest them. An FIR was lodged against the two Maoists at Deen Dayal (DD) Nagar police station, and both were produced before the NIA court on Friday in Bilaspur. The court remanded Kamla to judicial custody while Ramesh was sent to a 3-day police custody for an extensive interrogation and probe, the officer added. According to the Raipur police, the arrested couple confessed to working for the banned outfit and had arranged medical support, information, and shelter to enable them in creating urban bases for the organisation in the capital. According to the sources, Ramesh, presently a Bhairamgarh divisional committee member, joined the Maoists organisation in 2010 and Kamla who was an area committee member, has been working for the group since 2014. Both hailed from Savanar village in the Gangloor area of Bijapur district, south Bastar. The preliminary interrogation revealed that the couple is suspected to have been living in Raipur at different locations for nearly six years, with a forged Aadhar card. The case has been transferred from the DD nagar police station to the state intelligence agency. Now the state intelligence agency is investigating the issue, said Rajesh Dewangan, CSP, Purani Basti, Raipur. A gold biscuit, Rs 1.15 lakh in cash, besides other incriminating things were recovered from their rented house.
Maoist Couple With Rs 13 Lakh Bounty Arrested In Raipur, Exposing Urban Hideout Network
A Maoist couple with a Rs 13 lakh bounty, were arrested in Raipur after years undercover as labourers, exposing a hidden Naxal network in the city.
6 dead, several injured in Chhattisgarh factory collapse
RAIPUR, Sep 26 : Six factory workers were killed and several others injured when an under-construction structure collapsed at the Godavari Ispat plant in Chhattisgarhs Silatra industrial area today. Officials fear the toll could rise further as rescue teams continue to search for labourers trapped under the debris. Eyewitnesses said over a dozen workers were on duty when the steel and concrete framework suddenly gave way, burying many beneath the rubble. Panic gripped the site as fellow workers raised an [] The post 6 dead, several injured in Chhattisgarh factory collapse appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Six dead, six injured in furnace accident at Chhattisgarh steel plant
RAIPUR: Four officials and two workers were killed in an accident inside a furnace at a private steel plant in Chhattisgarh's capital Raipur on Friday, while six others, including a general manager, sustained injuries, police said. The incident took place at the plant of Godawari Power and Ispat Limited in Siltara area on the outskirts of the capital, Raipur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Lal Umed Singh told PTI . After being alerted about the incident at around 4:30 pm, a police team was sent to the spot and a rescue operation was launched, he said. The furnace was shut for the last few days. On Friday, cleaning work was underway using high-pressure water to remove the thick layer of slag deposited on the wall and roof of the furnace. Suddenly, the thick deposit of slag collapsed, trapping those present underneath, Raipur Additional Superintendent of Police Lakhan Patle said. During the rescue operation, bodies of six workers were retrieved from the debris, while six others were rescued in injured condition. They have been hospitalised, he added. A plant management official said the incident took place at around 3 pm, and the injured were immediately shifted to the occupational health centre inside the plant, following which they were referred to the hospital. The deceased have been identified as managers GL Prasanna Kumar and Kaligotla Prasanna Kumar, assistant managers Ghanshyam Ghomare and Nirakar Mallick and helpers Tulsi Ram Bhatt and Narayan Sahu, he said. General manager A Chakradhar Rao, senior technician Dipendra Mahato, junior technician Chandra Prakash Patel and three workers were injured, the official from the plant added. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, in an official statement, expressed deep grief over the incident and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured. Terming the incident as an extremely painful and unfortunate tragedy, Sai conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for peace to the departed souls and strength to the grieving kin.
Chhattisgarh HC orders CBI probe into Rs 1000-crore NGO scam in social welfare department
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate an alleged Rs 1000-crore NGO scam involving large-scale irregularities such as fake salaries and fictitious facilities linked to the state social welfare department. A division bench comprising Justice Parth Pratim Sahu and Justice Sanjay Kumar Jaiswal, while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) pending since 2018, described the issue as a case of organised corruption rather than mere administrative lapses. The court expressed doubts over the capability of local probe agencies or the state police to conduct an impartial investigation. The case concerns the State Resource Centre (SRC) for disabled persons, which received substantial government funding intended for welfare schemes. Public funds meant for vulnerable sections were allegedly siphoned off through fictitious non-government organisations (NGOs). The irregularities came to light after contractual employee Kundan Singh Thakur exposed large-scale wrongdoing. He lodged complaints at various levels and subsequently filed the PIL in 2018, alleging that salaries were withdrawn in his name without his knowledge. He reportedly received threats and was later dismissed. Special scrutiny revealed 31 financial irregularities, including unauthorised cash withdrawals, unjustified fund transfers, purchases of non-existent medical equipment, missing vouchers and cash-books, and staff employed only on paper. Salaries were withdrawn in the names of non-existent employees. The institutions, SRC and Physical Referral Rehabilitation Centre (PRC), linked to the social welfare department, reportedly existed only on paper. The SRC, established in 2004, was meant to provide technical and training assistance to the differently-abled, while the PRC, set up in 2012, was intended to supply artificial limbs and other medical aids. According to information obtained under the Right to Information Act, both institutions remained largely inactive while allegedly misusing substantial public funds. The scam reportedly implicates two former chief secretaries, around half a dozen bureaucrats, several state service officials, and a couple of former state ministers. Officials named in connection with the case include bureaucrats Alok Shukla, Vivek Dhand, MK Raut, Sunil Kujur, B L Agrawal, and PP Soti, as well as state service officials Satish Pandey, Ashok Tiwari, Herman Khalkho, Rajesh Tiwari, and Pankaj Verma. Several accused officials previously approached the Supreme Court via a Special Leave Petition filed on 5 February 2020, but the apex court remitted the matter back to the High Court. The High Court has directed notices to be served on all accused officials and has ordered the CBI to confiscate all relevant original documents from the concerned departments and offices within the next 15 days.
Six workers killed, 5 injured as structure collapses at Raipur Steel Plant, more feared trapped
At least six workers were killed and five others injured after a structure collapsed at a private steel plant in Chhattisgarh's Raipur on Friday, i.e., September 26, said the police.
5 Killed, Several Injured After Structure At Raipur Steel Plant Collapses
According to a preliminary investigation, five workers were killed and five others sustained injuries in the incident.
Vikas Sheel apointed as Chhattisgarhs 13th Chief Secretary
Vkas Sheel, a 1994-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as Chhattisgarh's new chief secretary, succeeding Amitabh Jain. The Chhattisgarh government issued the order on Thursday. Sheel, currently an advisor at the Asian Development Bank, previously served as Collector of Raipur and Bilaspur and held key positions in central government, including Additional Secretary for Health and Jal Jeevan Mission.
Chhattisgarh EOW arrests Chaitanya Baghel after HC denies pre-arrest bail in multi-crore liquor scam
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh State Bureau for Investigation of Economic Offences (EOW) on Wednesday arrested Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, following the High Courts refusal to grant him pre-arrest bail. Earlier, the EOW had presented a production warrant before the special court in Raipur, seeking custody of Chaitanya for interrogation in connection with the alleged liquor scam. Chaitanya was produced before the court on Wednesday and has been remanded to EOW custody until 6 October. After the High Court rejected his anticipatory bail plea, the Raipur special court also refused to grant any relief. On 15 September, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed its fifth supplementary charge-sheet, spanning 7,000 pages, against Chaitanya in the special court as part of the ongoing investigation into the multi-crore liquor scam. Chaitanya was earlier arrested by the ED on 18 July from his residence in Bhilai. The ED has identified him as the ultimate authority and controller of the liquor syndicate that began operations in 2019 during the tenure of Congress CM Bhupesh Baghel. Court sends Chaitanya Baghel, son of ex-Chhattisgarh CM, to judicial custody in liquor 'scam' case According to the EDs charge-sheet, two co-accused, former IAS officer Anil Tuteja and Anwar Dhebar, were designated as the front figures responsible for managing the operational and administrative aspects of the syndicate. The federal probe agency has alleged Chaitanyas key involvement in laundering over Rs 1,000 crore in proceeds from the excise scam. He is said to have played an authoritative decisive role in handling funds, acting as the apex figure in the group to promote a common interest. Chaitanya is also alleged to have been a major beneficiary of the illegal revenue generated by the liquor syndicate, which operated in coordination with businessmen and political figures. In addition to the ED, the EOW has registered a case and is conducting a parallel investigation into the liquor scam. Earlier this year, the state agency filed a charge-sheet against 22 excise officials and six-time Congress MLA Kawasi Lakhma in connection with the case. ED arrests Chaitanya Baghel, son of Bhupesh Baghel, in liquor 'scam' linked money laundering case
RAIPUR: Seventy-one cadres of outlawed CPI (Maoist) renounced the banned outfit and surrendered in an edgy district of Dantewada, south Bastar, on Wednesday. Of them, thirty carry a collective reward of Rs 64 lakh. In an ongoing campaign appeal Lon Varratu (return to your home/village)by Chhattisgarh police intended for the Maoist cadres, Dantewada is consistently yielding results ever since the campaign was launched in 2020 by the then district police chief Abhishek Pallava. Dantewada district superintendent of police Gaurav Rai said that the total number of Maoists who have so far surrendered under the Lon Varratu is 1113, of which 297 people carried rewards on their heads. Among the 71 who surrendered on Wednesday were 21 females. Besides the operations under the ongoing anti-Maoist campaign, we are simultaneously carrying out a community outreach programme attempting to impress upon the misled cadres of Red rebels about the benefits of the States surrender and rehabilitation policy, the SP added. On various occasions, its usually the individual approach by security personnel to use various means or channels to convey the message to the cadres of the banned outfit, and try to convince them of the rationality of returning to the mainstream. Such moves were also jointly carried out in association with the central paramilitary forces in Dantewada and other naxal-affected districts of Bastar division. The Maoists, after surrender, get the initial financial incentive of Rs 50,000 each. Besides, if such cadres wish to undergo skill training or set up a small business, they also receive further financial support, provided with free housing and healthcare, farm land, among other amenities under the new surrender rehabilitation policy. Lon Varratu is often seen striking an emotional chord with the regional cadres of Maoists, re-educate them on returning to their roots. Several cadres who left the banned outfit later stated that they realised the hollow, anti-development ideology of the Maoist organisation.
Raipur Diary | Chhattisgarh prodigy shines in equestrian event
Vedika Sharan, a young equestrian from Chhattisgarh, has made her mark at the prestigious FEI Childrens Classics 2025. The event, held at Embassy International Riding School in Bangalore, brought together riders aged 10 to 14 from across the country. Competing against 50 participants, Vedika displayed remarkable skill, precision, and composure, earning a silver medal. The FEI Bronze Tour tests both the rider and the horse on agility, strategy, and teamwork, making her achievement even more special. Representing India, Vedikas performance impressed judges and spectators alike. Police commissioner system in Raipur Chhattisgarh is set to introduce police commissioner system in Raipur, likely from November 1. With this change, Raipur will become the 73rd city in India to adopt the system aiming to make policing more efficient and responsive as the city grows into a metropolitan area. State DGP AD Gautam has directed preparations for the transition from the traditional system to a commissionerate structure. A seven-member panel, led by an ADG-rank officer, is studying existing models and preparing a draft proposal. Once ready, the proposal will be submitted to the Home Department for approval, paving the way for smoother law enforcement. Faculty shortage hits medical colleges Medical colleges in Chhattisgarh are facing a severe shortage of faculty. Out of 644 approved posts for assistant professors across 10 colleges, 332 remain vacant. Professors and associate professors are also in short supply, with 117 out of 241 professor posts and around 200 out of 399 associate professor posts empty. Usually, professor and associate professor positions are filled through promotions from assistant professors, as there is no direct recruitment. The state has proposed filling 125 assistant professor posts through the State Public Service Commission. The shortage affects teaching quality and student guidance. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
After 39 years, 83-year-old Jageshwar Prasad Awadhiya of Raipur has been acquitted in a false ?100 bribery case. His struggle cost him his wife, childrens future, and a lifetime of dignity.
Chhattisgarh CM agrees to grant NOC to Sammakka Sagar Project
The decision comes after Minister for Irrigation N. Uttam Kumar Reddy meets CM Vishnu Deo in Raipur
Naxalite killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur
NARAYANPUR: A Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Monday, police said. The gun battle broke out in the morning at a forest in the Abhujmaad area, adjoining Maharashtra, when a team of security forces was out on a search operation, a police official said. The operation was launched based on inputs about the presence of Naxalites in the area. So far, the body of a male Naxalite was recovered from the spot, and the intermittent exchange of fire was still underway, he said. Modi government moving forward with ruthless approach against Naxalites: Amit Shah With the latest action, 248 Naxalites have been killed in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of them, 219 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, while 27 others were gunned down in the Gariaband district, which falls in the Raipur division. Two other Naxalites were killed in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district in Durg division. On September 11, ten Naxalites, including a central committee member of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), Modem Balakrishna, were killed in an encounter in the state's Gariaband district, according to police. At least 30 Maoists, one security personnel killed in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh
Volleyball tournament concludes
Excelsior Sports Correspondent SAMBA, Sept 21: Youth Raipur Camp organized a three-day Volleyball Tournament from September 19 to 21, paying tribute to the legendary Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The event drew enthusiastic participation from local youth, who showcased commendable talent, passion, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, MLA Ramgarh and Former Minister for Health and Medical Education, J&K, as the chief guest. Dr. Manyal praised the organizers for fostering youth engagement [] The post Volleyball tournament concludes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai condemns Manipur ambush, extends condolences to bereaved families
RAIPUR: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday condemned the ambush in Manipur's Bishnupur district a day earlier which killed two Assam Rifles personnel, including one from Chhattisgarh. The attack on the Assam Rifles in Manipur is condemnable. Two jawans, including Rifleman Ranjit Kashyap, a brave son of Chhattisgarh, made the supreme sacrifice. I pay my deepest respects to the martyrs and extend my condolences to their bereaved families. Their sacrifice strengthens our resolve to defend and unite the nation, Sai said in a post on X. People stage protests against ambush on Assam Rifles in Manipur, search underway for attackers Two Assam Rifles personnel killed, five injured in terrorist ambush in Manipurs Bishnupur district - Vishnu Deo Sai (@vishnudsai) September 20, 2025 Two jawans of the Assam Rifles were killed and five others were injured when armed men ambushed the force's vehicle in Nambol Sabal Leikai area in Manipur on Friday evening. The attack took place when the troopers were travelling towards Bishnupur district from Imphal. Authorities identified the deceased troopers as Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap, who hailed from Bastar district.
Chhattisgarh Cancer Conclave equips young surgeons with advanced head, neck cancer techniques
RAIPUR: The annual Chhattisgarh Cancer Conclave held at the Balco Medical Centre (BMC) in Nava Raipur featured live surgical demonstrations of complex head and neck cancers, with participation from national and international cancer experts engaging to enhance the participants knowledge and technical understanding. The three-day conclave aims to bring new directions to cancer treatment in Central India. The workshop was led by renowned cancer specialists Dr Anil D'Cruz, Director of Oncology, Apollo Hospitals (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai), and Dr Gauri Pantvaidya, Professor and Head, Department of Head and Neck Oncosurgery, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai. Cancer surgeons from leading cancer institutions across the country enriched the sessions and provided participants with insights into complex surgical decisions. Discussing the rising incidence of head and neck cancer, Dr Anil D'Cruz said that cancer incidence, especially thyroid cancer, has tripled over the past three decades. This is primarily a surgically curable cancer, and with proper treatment, 99 per cent of patients can recover completely. However, if this surgery is not performed by trained surgeons, it can have serious adverse effects on patients voice, calcium balance, parathyroid function, and long-term management. So, surgeons should have experience performing at least 5060 such surgeries each year, he said. Dr D'Cruz added that the BMC Conclave provided young surgeons with the opportunity to learn and demonstrate these techniques. The state Health Minister, Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, who inaugurated the conclave, hailed the BMC Cancer Conclave as a way forward towards achieving the vision of the Chhattisgarh Government of connecting global experience with local health needs. The conclave is hosting educators, oncologists, researchers, and practitioners from seven countries and across India. Dr Bhavana Sirohi, Medical Director of BMC, said that standardisation of cancer care is crucial. Patients in this region should receive the same quality treatment as those in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai. Through various initiatives and collaborations, we are training young local surgeons, she said. Over 150 surgeons and physicians from across the country participated in the live surgical demonstration. The experts shared insights on the latest treatment methods.
Chhattisgarh family socially boycotted, house demolished allegedly due to 'not voting' for Sarpanch
RAIPUR: In Chhattisgarh's Bemetara district, a family has been socially boycotted and their house demolished, allegedly based on a directive from the sarpanch for 'not voting for him' during the panchayat polls held this year. Both the victim's family and the sarpanch belong to the Satnami (Scheduled Caste) community in Gadamod gram panchayat, Navagarh tehsil of Bemetara, about 80 km from Raipur. We are a family of 10 members, living in fear. Our house where we lived for 25 years has been razed to the ground using a bulldozer on the instruction of the sarpanch Mahajan Manhare and in the presence of the tehsildar and local police station incharge. We were not given any opportunity to challenge the order of the sarpanch, said Vijay Laxmi Manhare, who lodged a complaint to the sub-divisional magistrate, district police chief, tehsildar seeking justice and compensation. The sarpanch had earlier served a notice on vacating the allegedly illegally occupied land where the house was built several years ago but the distressed family refused to accept 'advance warning', questioning the authority of the sarpanch on issuing such a command to remove the unproven 'encroachment'. We have earlier lodged written complaints to Navagarh tehsildar and the police station incharge but they didn't receive it and instead told us to follow the dictates of the sarpanch, the woman added. The family alleged that Mahajan Manhare is nurturing strong grudges against them for not extending support during the panchayat elections and was warned of dire consequences for reportedly not voting for him. The family said that their children are not getting meals under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) in school and are not allowed to play with other kids in the village. Bemetara collector Ranveer Sharma said that the gram sabha has the authority to get the illegal encroachment removed following a due course of law in their jurisdiction area. I am not aware of the incident. But we will take action if the affected family is socially ostracised and ensure they are not deprived of the entitled social welfare schemes, the collector told TNIE . Lawyer J P Shukla, counsel for the aggrieved party, said that the family members were dislodged from their house in an inhuman way. The sarpanch can only make reference on the issue of encroachment and the executive power on removing it lies only with the tehsildar. The vengeful sarpanch seemingly has colluded with the local authorities in demolishing the house and boycotting the family, Shukla claimed.
Kanker police launch poster campaign to track Wanted Naxals; urge locals to aid surrender drive
RAIPUR: The Kanker police in Chhattisgarh, amid the ongoing offensive against Maoists, have heightened a parallel search campaign, putting up posters and banners carrying the identity of Wanted Naxals across sensitive villages and interior locations of the district. The police have also appealed to locals for support, asking them to provide alerts about the whereabouts of senior Maoists carrying rewards on their heads. The strategically placed posters display coloured images and names of top Maoist leaders, ranging from a bounty of Rs 1 crore to others carrying rewards of Rs 1 lakh. Most of the Wanted Naxals fall into Rs 40 lakh and Rs 25 lakh award categories. Alongside urging Maoists to give up violence and join the mainstream, the banners also inform villagers that anyone providing information about the ultras will be rewarded, with strict confidentiality assured. The initiative aims to strengthen the tactical fight against left-wing extremists whose senior cadres, often in civilian dress, continue to visit villages and tribal hamlets unnoticed by locals. Usually people are unaware of who the Maoist leaders are, particularly the top naxals. They need to stay informed. Now they can recognise and inform the police. However, the intended reason behind this campaign is also to induce the senior Maoists to surrender. The state governments main focus is to ensure their surrender, facilitate rehabilitation and join the mainstream of society, Indira Kalyan Elesela, Kanker district police chief, told TNIE. The 'Wanted Naxal' poster post information of the naxalites and promise rewards for informants. The posters promise rewards for informants. It was in the inhospitable Kalpad forested hilly terrain of Kanker last year that 29 Maoists were killed by security forces in the biggest offensive against the banned outfit, just days ahead of the Lok Sabha polling. The impact of the onslaught in Kanker later reverberated across other districts of the Bastar range, prompting similar offensive actions. For the first time, Wanted Naxals posters in remote areas are grabbing public attention. Many villagers were seen keenly observing, discussing, and reading the printed details on the banners. The Kanker police believe that with the local population content with the development works in their regions, they will extend support to this campaign as well. Kanker is among the seven Maoist-affected districts in the Bastar zone of south Chhattisgarh.
Two Maoists killed in encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur
RAIPUR: Two cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) were killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in the south-western region of strife-torn Bijapur district on Wednesday, police said. According to a senior police officer, Based on the specific inputs regarding the presence of Maoists in the given location of Bijapur district, a joint team of security forces launched a search operation. A gunfight broke out between the security forces and the Maoists on Wednesday afternoon. The exchange of fire continues intermittently. Two bodies of Maoists have been recovered from the encounter site. The troops out on operation in Bijapur on Wednesday comprised District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF) and CRPFs elite unit Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA). There was however, no report of any injury sustained by the forces. The forces also recovered weapons, explosive materials and items of daily use from the location. As the search operation also remains underway alongside the gun-battle, further operational details were not shared owing to the safety concerns of the personnel engaged in the anti-Maoist campaign on the ground, the officer said. Central Committee member likely among 10 Maoists killed in encounter in Chhattisgarhs Gariaband On Tuesday, a two-page purported press release by the banned outfit surfaced in Chhattisgarh. The spokesperson of the Central Committee of CPI (Maoist) Abhay has announced a temporary suspension of its armed struggle to facilitate peace talks, but has requested the government to declare a one-month ceasefire and halt security operations to initiate the process. In response, the state government said it was verifying the authenticity of the letter. This year 245 Maoists have been neutralised in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far. Of them, in the Bastar division alone, the forces gunned down 216, while 27 were eliminated in Gariaband district adjoining the Odisha border. Two other naxalites were killed in Durg division. Bijapur, among the seven Maoist-affected districts in Bastar zone, is cited as an epicentre of the left-wing extremist group in south Chhattisgarh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had in August last year declared that the country will be Maoist-free by March 31, 2026. No talks with Maoists as long as they carry arms: Union Minister Amit Shah
72-year-old Indian-origin US citizen murdered in Punjab; UK-based NRI prime suspect
CHANDIGARH: A 72-year-old Indian-origin US citizen, Rupinder Kaur Pandher, was allegedly murdered in Kila Raipur village near Ludhiana after traveling from Seattle to Punjab in July to marry a 75-year-old UK-based Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Charanjit Singh Grewal. According to police, Grewal lured her to India under the pretext of marriage and then orchestrated her brutal murder through a contract killer. The Punjab Police have identified the main suspect as Sukhjeet Singh alias Sonu, who has allegedly confessed to killing Rupinder on the night of July 1213, acting on instructions from Grewal. Investigators claim that financial gain was the primary motive for the murder. Police sources revealed that Charanjit Singh Grewal, originally from Mehma Singh Wala village, now residing in the United Kingdom, had allegedly plotted the murder and promised Rs 50 lakh to Sonu to carry out the killing. In a gruesome attempt to destroy evidence, Sonu reportedly burned Rupinders body with diesel in a storeroom at his residence, cooled the remains with water, and disposed of the ashes in a nearby drain in Lehra village. The police have since recovered partial skeletal remains and sent them for forensic analysis. While Grewal has been named as the prime suspect, efforts are ongoing to gather further evidence and secure his arrest. His brother and other associates have also been named in the FIR and are currently absconding. The case came to light when Rupinders sister, Kamal Kaur Khaizah, who resides in the US contacted the US Embassy in India on July 28 after failing to reach her sister for four consecutive days. Rupinder's phone had been switched off shortly after she traveled to Kila Raipur on Grewals invitation. Following Kamals persistent efforts, the US Embassy took up the matter with the Punjab Police. It was only last week that the family received a call from a friend who informed them of Rupinders suspected murder and Sonus arrest, which proved to be the breakthrough in the case. A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing. Assistant Commissioner of Police Harjinder Singh Gill confirmed that Sukhjeet Singh alias Sonu, a resident of Malha Patti in Kila Raipur, admitted to the murder and the attempt to dispose of the body by setting it ablaze in a storeroom on the night of July 1213.
Maoists announces temporary suspension of armed struggle, ask govt to declare 'ceasefire'
RAIPUR: The outlawed CPI (Maoist), in a purported statement, has announced a temporary suspension of its armed struggle to facilitate peace talks, but has asked the government to declare a one-month 'ceasefire' and halt security operations to initiate the process. Reacting to the development, the Chhattisgarh government said it was verifying the authenticity of the statement, which surfaced on social media on Tuesday. In the purported statement issued by Maoists, the rebels have appealed to the government to share their decision on the issue via the Internet and government news media, including radio. The two-page statement, dated August 15, was issued in the name of Abhay, a spokesperson of the central committee of Maoists, and came nearly four months after the killing of Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju , general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who holds the home portfolio, told reporters on Tuesday that the authenticity of the statement was being verified and the best way for Maoists is to surrender and avail rehabilitation benefits. The term 'ceasefire' is highly objectionable as there is no war-like situation that requires one. In a democracy, talks cannot be conditional, yet once again, they have set preconditions. However, after verifying the statement, discussions will be held within the government, he said. INTERVIEW | Basavaraju killing a success, but gun cant kill ideology The Maoists, in the statement, said they had proposed a ceasefire to the government earlier, asking for one month to consult with the highest leadership comrades of the outfit. But unfortunately, the central government did not express its favourable stand on it. Rather, it has further intensified its operations, the statement said. To take forward the process of peace talks that was started on the initiative of the party's general secretary (late Basavaraju), we are making it clear that in view of the changed global and national circumstances, as well as the continuous requests being made by the country's Prime Minister, Home Minister and senior police officers to give up arms and join the mainstream, we have decided to shun arms, it said. We have decided to declare a temporary halt to the armed struggle. We are making it clear that in the future, we will fight shoulder to shoulder with all political parties and organisations fighting for the public cause as far as possible, the statement added. The CPI (Maoist) offered direct talks with the Centre. We are ready to talk to the Union Home Minister or persons appointed by him or a delegation on this issue. But we will have to inform the party about our changed opinion. Therefore, our request to the Central Government is to give us one month to consult with our comrades working in different states across the country and those imprisoned, it said. We are also ready to exchange views with the government on this subject, primarily through video call. Therefore, we are making it clear once again that (the government should) immediately declare a formal ceasefire for a month, stop search operations and take forward the peace process, it said. The statement also carried a note, saying it was issued late due to several reasons. Reacting to the statement, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range Sundarraj P told PTI that police have taken note of the press release issued in the name of the CPI (Maoist) Central Committee regarding the laying down of arms and the prospect of peace talks. The authenticity of the release is being verified and its contents are under careful examination, he added. It is reiterated that any decision on engagement or dialogue with the CPI (Maoist) lies solely with the government, which will take an appropriate call after due consideration and assessment of the situation and circumstances, the IPS officer added. 'Surrender or get eliminated like Basavaraju': Bastar top cop's warning to Maoist leaders
CPI (Maoist) Announces Month-Long Ceasefire, Opens Door for Peace Talks
Raipur, Sep 17: In a dramatic shift, the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) has announced a one-month suspension of its armed struggle, declaring readiness for conditional peace talks with the central government. A statement issued by party spokesperson Abhay, dated August 15 but released Tuesday in Bastar, said the group would now focus [] The post CPI (Maoist) Announces Month-Long Ceasefire, Opens Door for Peace Talks appeared first on Northlines .
Punjab panchayats pass resolutions asking migrant labourers without documents to leave
CHANDIGARH: Following in the footsteps of Maharashtrawhich has often been in the spotlight for targeting outsiders amid the Maha Marathi rowseveral panchayats in Punjab are now passing resolutions directing migrant labourers to leave their villages. Around 27 villages in Hoshiarpur district have passed such resolutions, announcing that they will no longer issue residence verification (residence certificates) to migrant labourers in their respective areas. Migrants without valid documents issued in Punjab are being asked to leave within a week. According to the resolutions, those without proper paperwork will not be allowed to reside in these villages. These decisions come in the wake of the gruesome murder of a five-year-old boy in Hoshiarpur on September 9, allegedly by a migrant worker. The incident has triggered growing resentment against migrant populations across various parts of the state. The Chabbewal Panchayat passed its resolution on Sunday. Charanjit Singh, a panchayat member and husband of sarpanch Reena Sidhu, confirmed that many other villages in the region have either passed similar resolutions or are in the process of doing so. There is unity among villages across communities and castes on this issue, he added. On September 13, a meeting was held in Bajwara village, attended by sarpanches from around 27 hamlets, including Chak Sadhu, Nandan, Singhpur, Bassi Bahian, Dada, Kila Baroon, Allahabad, Bilaspur, and Anandgarh. A joint resolution was passed stating that panchayats would no longer attest any official documents of migrant workers lacking valid identity proof issued by the Punjab government. It was also resolved that such migrants would not be allowed to stay in the villages. A formal request was submitted to Hoshiarpur Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain for administrative support in implementing these resolutions. Similar decisions were also reported from Jaja and Zahura villages in the Tanda sub-division. Bajwara sarpanch Rajesh Kumar alias Bobby Mahe said: Migrants without valid identity documents have been asked to vacate the villages. Those already living here with documents such as Aadhaar or PAN have been informed that their relatives arriving from outside will not be eligible for any verification by the panchayat. He further stated that migrant workers residing on rent would only be allowed to do so if their landlords submit a written undertaking to the panchayat, taking full responsibility for them. Mahe claimed that around 200-250 migrant labourers currently live in Bajwara. He alleged that many of them have illegally encroached upon panchayat land, building permanent houses with electricity meters and water connections without paying rent or obtaining legal permission. A complaint regarding these encroachments was reportedly submitted to the Deputy Commissioner on September 8. He added that approximately 25 panchayats in the district have passed resolutions to withhold document verification for migrants since the September 9 incident. The Baddla Panchayat's resolution specifically mentioned members of the Gujjar community, who are also migrants. It instructed that any migrant with criminal records must report to sarpanch Kamlesh Rani. The resolution further stated that individuals with Aadhaar cards showing Baddla village as their address must submit photocopies of their documents to the sarpanch. Additionally, farmers employing such workers are required to provide written details about them. In Purhiran village, which also has a significant migrant population, a similar resolution was passed. Elsewhere, two village panchayats in Bathinda districtDeepes and Gehari Bhagipassed comparable resolutions. The Deepes village panchayat even held a protest, declaring that outsiders will not be permitted in the village. Labourers were instructed to stay near tube well motors rather than inside the village. Farmers hiring migrants must also ensure that their police verification is completed. In Gehari Bhagi, the diktat was even more extreme. The resolution stated: Migrants cannot purchase property or homes in the village. They are prohibited from registering voter IDs or Aadhaar cards with village addresses. They may only reside in tube wells or farm huts, not within village residential limits. Farmers employing them will be held entirely responsible and must ensure police verification. Even Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) Sidhu Pur backed the resolutions, claiming that migrants, particularly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, are disrupting the social fabric of the region. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann responded to the village panchayats' stance by cautioning against any form of discrimination. He said, Tomorrow, Punjabis with businesses in Raipur (Chhattisgarh) or Kolkata could be targeted the same way. There cannot be such discrimination. Earlier this year, in July, the Lakhanpur Garcha Patti village panchayat in Fatehgarh Sahib district ordered all illegally residing migrants to vacate within a week. The resolution cited harassment of women and children by migrants loitering in the area. Sarpanch Barinder Singh Binda said that while migrants initially came to work in fields, many had permanently settled near canal banks in unauthorized shanties. Last year, similar controversial measures were adopted by Jandpur and Mundo Sangtia village panchayats in SAS Nagar district. On November 24, the Jawaharke village panchayat in Mansa district went even further by passing a resolution that prohibited residents from marrying migrants. The panchayat warned that any resident violating the order would be expelled from the village.
Chhattisgarh raises ex-gratia to Rs 50 lakh for families of martyred soldiers
RAIPUR : The Chhattisgarh government has decided to increase the ex-gratia assistance from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 50 lakh for dependent relatives of soldiers martyred in war or military operations. Recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, the nations highest wartime gallantry award, will now receive Rs 1 crore, up from the previous Rs 40 lakh provided by the state. The decision was taken during the Rajya Sainik Board meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at the state secretariat. Our soldiers lay down their lives for the nation. We bow to their valour and sacrifice. The government is committed to the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families, the Chief Minister said. Various welfare schemes for war widows, ex-servicemen, and their dependants were discussed. The government also decided to raise the motivational grant for parents of soldiers from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000, and for soldiers disabled in battle from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh. Additionally, serving soldiers, ex-servicemen, and widows will now receive stamp duty exemptions of up to Rs 25 lakh on their first land or house purchase. CM Sai said that the 140 crore Indians feel secure and live in peace due to the tireless dedication, unwavering resilience, and sacrifices of the brave soldiers.
ED Files 7,000-Page Chargesheet Against Ex-CM Baghel's Son In Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam
The 7,039-page complaint (chargesheet) was filed in the court in Raipur, naming Chaitanya Baghel, a businessman, as an accused.
Liquor scam: ED files charge-sheet against former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghels son
RAIPUR: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday filed a 7,000-page charge-sheet (prosecution complaint) against Chaitanya Baghel , son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, before the special court at Raipur in connection with the ongoing probe linked to the multi-crore liquor scam case . Chaitanya was arrested by ED on July 18 at his Bhilai residence. The ED had cited Chaitanyas alleged key involvement in laundering over Rs 1000 crore in the excise scam case and a portion of the massive scandal channelised into his real estate project Vitthal Green under Baghel Developers. ED has earlier claimed that the investigation has divulged on how Rs 16.70 crore in liquor scam proceeds were seemingly laundered via Baghels real estate ventures, besides in such entities like Dhillon City Mall, Dillon Drinks. Chaitanya, according to the probe agency, emerged as a key beneficiary of the illegal revenue contributed from the alleged liquor syndicate coordinated through businessmen and political individuals. The Central probe agency estimated that Proceeds of Crime of around Rs 2,161 crore have been generated by the suspects in the liquor scam. The Chhattisgarh state Bureau for Investigation of Economic Offences (EOW) has also presented a production warrant before the special court on Monday, seeking the custody of Chaitanya for interrogation into the liquor scam. Besides the ED, the EOW has registered a case in the liquor scam and is probing into it. The state investigating agency has earlier this year filed charge-sheet against 22 excise officials and a six-time Congress MLA, Kawasi Lakhma, in the given case. 'This is a pattern': SC chides ED in Chhattisgarh liquor scam case for 'making allegations without evidence'
A heated argument erupted at Kempegowda International Airport when an IndiGo passenger was denied boarding on flight 6E 405 to Raipur, allegedly arriving six minutes after the airline's boarding cut-off time. The passenger accused a crew member of verbal abuse, which she denied, leading to a viral video and social media debate.
After Arrests Over Raipur 'Nude Party', Women's Commission Seeks Report
Police have arrested several suspected organisers after posters for an alleged ude party scheduled on 21 September in Chhattisgarh's Raipur went viral on social media.
Controversy, shock over publicised Nude Party planned in Chhattisgarh capital, six detained
RAIPUR: An invitation poster of a Nude party luring young men and women to present themselves undressed at a high-profile gathering in Chhattisgarh capital generated much disquiet and controversy over promoting obscenity, leading the Raipur police to detain six for interrogation. The detained youths, including the organisers of the event, associated with Hyper Club and SS Farm, were questioned by a team of crime branch police. The party planned in a private farmhouse now stands cancelled. The police have not ruled out the possibility of arrests of the duo, besides the others, if found involved in illicit activities. Two FIRs have been lodged against the organisers. The event was also nicknamed the stranger party. Besides the evident forbidden activities, everything, right from liquor, illegal drugs, was presumed accessible to those attending the Nude party on September 21. The police swung into action following a viral poster grabbing attention to Nude Party, creating controversy. The preliminary examination of mobile phones of the two detained showed the artists from Mumbai and Bangalore were also lined up for the party. Many cited the move as an attempt to start in Raipur an indecent get-together culture commonly seen in places in Europe and the US. Criticism began pouring in from the politicians too, who sought an immediate ban on any such emerging bad party plan and a stringent action against the organisers. The upcoming party, according to sources, is to be held privately with entry given only to a limited people. The entire programme was kept so confidential that information about the venue got shared only in private with registered members barely a few hours before. Outsiders are strictly prohibited from joining the party once the registration process ends. Mobile phones are not allowed. The organisers are also suspected of being a part of some drug cartel supplying it for flagrant abuse, often seen in high-profile parties. The entry fee for the nude party was fixed at Rs 40,000 with some offers for each individual. Even Rs one lakh was offered by some couples. Raipur police are inquiring into the bizarre lewd invitation shared on some social media. We are investigating in-depth why such a party was planned and the persons behind it. Such parties can never be allowed, said Lal Umed Singh, Raipur senior superintendent of police. Its shocking and shameful, a Nude party as a social gathering organised for the first time in Chhattisgarh under the BJP regime, said Deepak Baij, state Congress president. The state BJP too, expressing concern, condemned the move to organise Nude Party. We are worried about youths planning to be a part of such an event that should not be allowed in future. Congress should avoid doing politics on the sensitive issue, said Shyam Behari Jaiswal, state health minister
NEW DELHI: India accounts for 17% of the worlds population and 20% of the global disease burden, yet fewer than four percent of international clinical trials are conducted in the country. This gap means Indian patients often wait years after global approvals to access breakthrough therapies. Now, a new initiative, aligning it with Central Drugs StandardControl Organisations (CDSCO) priorities to boost participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials, has trained nearly 400 professionals, including investigators, ethics committee members and support staff to meet the global Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. The initiative is aimed at strengthening Indias role in global clinical research and facilitating faster patient access to breakthrough therapies. Launched by Roche Pharma India, the company on Saturday announced the successful completion of its first phase of the Advanced Inclusive Research (AIR) Site Alliance initiative in India, in which it partnered with 10 leading government hospitals from across the country. This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening Indias readiness to participate in global and local clinical trials, enabling faster patient access to breakthrough therapies and ensuring Indias diverse population is better represented in clinical research, said the company. Launched in 2023, the initiative focused on streamlining internal processes, building digital readiness for better data capture and monitoring and delivering tailored training programs to enhance operational efficiency. By equipping leading government hospitals with global-standard clinical trial capabilities, we are helping to bring innovations faster to India. This is a crucial step toward building equitable healthcare and shaping treatments that are relevant for India, said Dr Sivabalan Sivanesan, Country Medical Director, Roche Pharma India. Dr Amit Sehrawat, Associate Professor, Medical Oncology and Haematology, AIIMS, Rishikesh, said, This initiative is a strong example of how publicprivate partnerships can accelerate capacity-building and strengthen Indias clinical research ecosystem. India carries a significant burden of cancer, infectious and chronic diseases, yet has historically been underrepresented in global trials. By enabling government hospitals to participate in cutting-edge research, this program ensures Indian patients are part of the evidence generation process helping make treatments safer, more effective and relevant for our population. Dr Vyunkta Raju K N, Professor, Dept of Paediatric Neurology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, said: The AIR Site Alliance program has been transformational. Our investigators and ethics committees are now better equipped to conduct research of global standards. This collaboration has given our institutions new opportunities to bring advanced research directly to our patients. The 10 hospitals, which are part of this initiative are: AIIMS, Rishikesh; Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi; PGIMS, Rohtak; Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Center, Muzaffarpur; Balco Medical Centre, Raipur; Government Medical College, Aurangabad; Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, Bengaluru; Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati; Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute & Hospital, Lucknow and Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer, Cuttack. The project aligns closely with Indias national priorities, including the CDSCOs encouragement for greater participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials and the Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation Policy (PRIP) initiative that explicitly encouraged industry-academia partnerships to strengthen R&D capabilities, build clinical trial infrastructure and enhance Indias global competitiveness in innovative research, the company said. This initiative supports the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 - creating a future-ready, world-class healthcare ecosystem where India emerges as a global hub for clinical research, accelerates access to breakthrough innovations, and delivers equitable health outcomes for every citizen, it added. The AIR Site Alliance is Roches flagship global initiative designed to expand access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations. Already implemented in the US, UK, Canada, and Africa, the AIR Site Alliance is now active in India, helping to close representation gaps, generate more robust scientific evidence and accelerate equitable healthcare outcomes worldwide, the company added.
Two maoists killed in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur gunfight as security forces intensify operations
RAIPUR: Two cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) were killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in the south-western region of strife-torn Bijapur district, about 400 km south of Raipur, the Bastar police said on Friday. Based on intelligence inputs regarding the presence of Maoists in the given location of Bijapur district, troops launched a search operation. A gunfight broke out between the security forces and the Maoists in the morning. The exchange of fire continues intermittently. Two bodies of Maoists have been recovered from the encounter site, said the police. There was, however, no report of any injury sustained by the forces. The forces also recovered weapons, explosive materials, and items of daily use from the location. As the search operation remains underway alongside the gun battle, further operational details were not shared owing to safety concerns for the personnel engaged in the anti-Maoist campaign on the ground. On Thursday, a joint team of forces gunned down 10 Maoists, including Central Committee member Manoj Balakrishna of the banned outfit, in Gariaband district, about 150 km east of Raipur. Bijapur, one of the seven Maoist-affected districts in the Bastar zone, is cited as an epicentre of the left-wing extremist group in south Chhattisgarh. Union home minister Amit Shah had in August last year declared that the country would be Maoist-free by 31 March 2026.
Raipur Diary: Surging ahead on clean energy targets
Surging ahead on clean energy targets Efforts have intensified in Chhattisgarh to raise citizens awareness about the benefits of solar energy and the governments initiatives and subsidy provisions. Surya Rath was flagged off by the chief minister to give a push to the ambitious initiative similar to the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Schemeas the state moves towards fulfilling its commitment to clean energy targets. A positive sign is that solar power consumers are now emerging not just as energy producers but also as contributors to the energy sector. Citizens are being encouraged to meet clean energy goals and achieve the target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. State scores well in attaining SDG goals The recently unveiled Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) State and District Progress Report 2024 by CM Vishnu Deo Sai revealed progress in the improved states composite score. The report, prepared by the states planning commission, provides a clear picture of the work being carried out at the district levels. Education, health, nutrition, sanitation, energy, and logistics are given special attention to accelerate progress and achieve the SDGs. At the state level, 275 indicators in 16 SDGs were evaluated, of which 40 indicators had already achieved their targets. It is estimated that 83 more indicators will meet their targets in the next couple of years. Raipur jails turn into centres of mental bliss Prisons in Raipur, well-illuminated and ventilated, resemble typical government school classrooms during yoga and Sudarshan Kriya practicesthanks to innovative prison reforms introduced by the government in all district jails, with support from the Art of Living Foundation. Yoga, meditation and Sudarshan Kriya are taught to inmates under the Prison Course, which reportedly helps prisoners attain mental peace and inner strength, along with a decline in stress levels, improved sleep and a boost in self-confidence. The session is held daily from 7:30 to 9:30 am. The philosophy behind is that prison is an institutions of reform. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Central Committee member likely among 10 Maoists killed in encounter in Chhattisgarhs Gariaband
RAIPUR: A Central Committee (CC) member is believed to be among the 10 Maoist cadres gunned down by the security forces in Gariaband district on Thursday. The bodies and weapons will be recovered on Friday morning, as the exchange of firing continues close to Matal forested hilly terrain under Manipur police station limits. It is about 60 km from the district headquarters. It was a planned operation. Based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of senior cadres of Maoists, a joint team comprising Elite 30 (specially trained Garidaband district police force), CRPFs elite unit Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) and the Special Task Force (STF) left on the operation on Wednesday. The encounter ensued on late Thursday afternoon and continued. Bodies and automatic weapons will be recovered tomorrow morning, Amresh Mishra, Inspector General of Police (Raipur range) told. Two CRPF jawans injured in Maoist IED blast in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada, one critical According to information we received, a Central Committee member of CPI (Maoist) Manoj Balkrishnan is likely among the 10 Maoists killed in the gun battle, the IG added. The CC in hierarchy is only next to the Politburo of CPI (Maoist). Balakrishna, alias Balanna, Ramachander was the secretary of the Odisha State Committee (OSC) and had joined the Maoist movement some three decades ago. There has been no report of any security personnel sustaining injuries in the gun battle. The search operation by the forces has been simultaneously intensified in the region. Gariyaband, adjoining Odisha state, is among the Maoist-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. The series of encounters against the left-wing extremists remains a part of the renewed strategy to free the Chhattisgarh state from the influence of the outlawed Maoists. Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared the country will be free from the Maoist problem by March 2026.
RAIPUR: Leading industrialists from across the country came forward with ambitious investment proposals at the Bastar Investor Connect programme held on Thursday. The state government received investment proposals of over Rs 967 crore from industrialists. Chhattisgarhs Bastar region, which once existed under the shadow of Maoist terror, neglect and deprivation, emerged as a new hub of investment, opportunity, and employment, now. The initiative has simultaneously outlined comprehensive development plans worth Rs 52,000 crore on driving transformative change across key sectors like mining, healthcare, education, agriculture, and tourism. The majority of development investments in Bastar are being driven by public sectors. National Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (NMDC) alone is spearheading projects valued at Rs 43,000 crore. The Railways have sanctioned investments worth Rs 5,200 crore, while road infrastructure projects have secured Rs 2,300 crore. Rs 200 crore has been allocated for the establishment of a super-speciality hospital. On the private sector front, around Rs 1,000 crore in investments have been proposed, primarily targeting the service sector and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Industrialists during the programme submitted investment proposals worth over Rs 967 crore, which will provide employment to more than 2,100 people, said an official spokesperson. Overall, projects worth nearly Rs 52,000 crore have positioned Bastar as a hub for industrial and socio-economic transformation. The proposed rail and road projects in Bastar will not only enhance connectivity in remote and difficult-to-reach areas but also boost industrial opportunities, he added. The new Industrial Policy 202430 has played a key role in Bastars development. It prioritises sectors such as pharma, agro-processing, textiles, tourism, IT, defence, aerospace, and digital technology. During the occasion, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that Bastars prosperity will script the bright future of Chhattisgarh as a new chapter of investment and growth begins. After a successful visit to Tokyo and Osaka in Japan and Seoul in South Korea, the Chhattisgarh government hosted the next series of Investor Connect programme in Bastar. The State had earlier held investment summits in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Nava Raipur. While incentives are available for investments across the state, special provisions have been earmarked for Bastar, entitling investors here to maximum benefits. Based on PM Narendra Modi Jis mantra to Perform, Reform and Transform, we have carried out over 350 reforms in new industrial policy in line with the vision of Ease of Doing Business and Speed of Doing Business, CM Sai said. Bastar has made significant progress in the eradication of Maoists during the past 20 months. As many as 453 Naxals were neutralized, 1611 arrested, and 1636 surrendered. Over 65 new security camps were established, and more than 50 previously closed schools were reopened. Under the state governments Niyad Nellanar scheme, road, education, health, and communication facilities have reached even the remote areas of Bastar.
10 Maoists killed in encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh
Raipur: At least 10 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarhs Gariaband district on Thursday, a police official said. Police sources said Modem Balakrishna, a senior leader and Central Committee Member (CCM) of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), is among the deceased. The gunfight broke out in the forest under Mainpur police 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 .
At least 8 Naxals killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband
RAIPUR: At least eight Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district on Thursday, a police official said. The gunfight broke out in the forest under Mainpur police station limits when security personnel were out on an anti-Naxalite operation, Raipur Range Inspector General of Police Amresh Mishra told PTI. Personnel belonging to Special Task Force (STF), CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action - an elite unit of CRPF) and other state police units are involved in the operation. Intermittent exchange of fire is still underway. As per the inputs received from the ground, at least eight Naxalites have been gunned down, the IGP said. Further details are awaited, he added.
Two CRPF jawans injured in Maoist IED blast in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada, one critical
RAIPUR: Two personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were injured, one of them critically, in a pressure improvised explosive device (IED) blast planted by Maoists in Chhattisgarhs Dantewada district, about 450 km south of Raipur, on Thursday. The explosion occurred along the Barsur route, about 40 km from the district headquarters, according to police. A CRPF team was engaged in a demining operation this morning in the region. Two jawans were injured in the pressure blast of an IED planted by Maoists. The condition of one of the jawans is stated to be critical and he is likely to be taken to Raipur for immediate medical attention. The troops continuously carry out demining exercises to track down IEDs and get rid of them, Gaurav Rai, Dantewada district police chief, told TNIE . In guerrilla warfare, an IED is considered the easiest and deadliest weapon for Maoists, who are pushed on the back foot, to target security forces or other vulnerable options. Law enforcement agencies in the conflict-ridden Bastar zone stated that although Maoist-related violence has shown a declining trend, the strenuous challenge of effectively countering IED threats continues to persist in operations across south Chhattisgarh. Even the United Nations has cited IEDs as a grave worldwide threat.
Lightning strike damages navigation system at Raipur airport; flight operations hit
RAIPUR: Flight operations were disrupted after lightning strike damaged an aircraft navigation system at Raipur airport, an official said. As many as five IndiGo flights were diverted to various nearby airports due to the damage to the DVOR (Doppler VHF Omnidirectional Range) system at the Swami Vivekananda Airport on Wednesday evening, he said. All flight landings were suspended due to the DVOR system getting hit by lightning in the evening. As a result, five IndiGo flights that were scheduled to land at the Raipur airport were diverted to nearby airports, including Nagpur and Bhubaneswar, the official said on Wednesday. Repair works are underway, and flight operations from the airport are likely to resume by Thursday, he informed. A ground-based radio navigation system, DVOR helps aircraft determine their position and direction relative to a destination.
Maoist Masa killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district
RAIPUR: Security forces have neutralised a cadre of CPI (Maoist) during the search operation in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district, about 180 km south of Raipur, the police said on Wednesday. Acting on specific inputs, a joint team comprising District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Border Security Force (BSF) left for a search operation along the inter-district border area of Kanker-Narayanpur last Sunday. The exchange of fire occurred at the forested hilly terrain of Gedabeda under the Partapur police station limits, said Indira Kalyan Elesela, Kanker district police chief. The Maoist's body has been recovered by the Forces along with a weapon after the gunfight at the site. The deceased has been identified as Masa, a member of Maoists military wing People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), the officer added. He was carrying a bounty of Rs 8 lakh. The Maoists now have only one option remaining. Either surrender and join the mainstream under Chhattisgarhs rehabilitation policy or get eliminated in the ongoing decisive operations by the troops. The banned Maoist organisation has already begun crumbling, said Sundarraj P, Bastar range inspector general of police. Kanker is among the seven Maoist-affected districts in the Bastar zone of south Chhattisgarh.
Despite new openings, dilapidated anganwadi centres in Chhattisgarh see sharp drop in attendance
RAIPUR: When a district gets new Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), an increase in enrolment and attendance of children is expected. However, in Ambikapur, northern Chhattisgarh, approximately 300 km from Raipur, the situation paints a far less encouraging picture at several pre-school learning facilities. Over the past three years, as many as 70 new Anganwadi Centres have been established in Ambikapur. Ironically, the region has witnessed a drop in attendance of more than 14,000 children, highlighting a concerning trend. The absenteeism appears to stem from parents concerns over dilapidated infrastructure and poorly sheltered facilities at many AWCs. Described as unsafe, several centres have deterred parents from sending their children. According to staff from the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department in Ambikapur, who are not authorised to speak to the media, there has been a reported decline in attendance of 14,157 children. Despite repeated complaints from local residents and Anganwadi workers, authorities have allegedly failed to take timely action. Local residents have claimed that hundreds of centres suffer from leaking roofs and crumbling wall plaster, creating hazardous conditions for young children. As a result, parents are understandably reluctant to send their wards. AWCs primarily serve children aged 06 years, playing a critical role in early childhood education and healthcare. Yet many continue to operate in visibly poor conditions, reportedly due to negligence by the WCD Department. Despite repeated complaints from local residents and Anganwadi workers, authorities have allegedly failed to take timely action to repair or upgrade the facilities. Some parents have also raised concerns about the substandard quality of construction and repairs carried out at the centres. This situation in Ambikapur comes at a time when the Central Government has introduced guidelines for the co-location of Anganwadi Centres with primary schools, an initiative meant to enhance infrastructure and access. However, the local WCD office appears to lack basic information about the current state of AWC infrastructure in the district. Repeated attempts to contact Ambikapur Collector Vilas Bhoskar for comment proved unsuccessful, as he neither responded to queries nor made himself available for an explanation. According to local media reports, in some areas, AWCs have been forced to operate out of temporary structures like Durga pandals. In one case in Lakhanpur block, a centre was seen functioning from a festive pandal with hardly any children present. Ironically, the attendance register at the site indicated full attendance, raising questions about the accuracy of records.
Four IIMs to streamline MBA admissions with new joint process; Raipur to coordinate
RAIPUR: Agnesia, 64, wife of a paramilitary jawan, Najariyus Toppo, spared no effort running from pillar to post, from lodging a missing person complaint in a police station to engaging in a legal battle until the court finally declared her husband's death as civil death. Agnesia, a resident of Pidi, in the suburbs of Jashpur district, about 350 km from Raipur, in 1998, received a message from her husband, a CRPF Hawaldar posted in Jammu & Kashmir, conveying that he was availing an official leave and would meet her soon. He then reportedly left for Jashpur but didn't reach home. He was nowhere to be found, later. On a missing person complaint filed by his wife, the local police contacted the CRPF battalion unit in J&K and carried out searches through different sources, but couldn't get any clue about him. The CRPF, after initial scouting around andwaitingseven years for Najariyus, assumed him to be no longer alive and gave the pension benefit to his wife, said Satya Prakash Tiwari, counsel of Agnesia. But she continued to live without any proof that her husband had died. The wife consequently also lost the right to the properties owned by Najariyus, whose relatives planned to deprive her. She presented her application to the Jashpur collector seeking an official certificate but the district magistrate rejected her plea, citing that it is beyond his jurisdiction to declare anyone as civil dead. She didn't have any children. In 2012, she approached the tehsil court with another plea to transfer the ownership of her husbands properties on her name, but didn't get any outcome owing to the lack of a death certificate. She then again approached the Jashpur collector in 2022-23 seeking to inherit the late husbands properties and transfer it to the surviving spouse but was again denied owing to missing legal proof. Agnes moved to the court of Civil Judge Class-1, which declared her as the legal heir of Najariyus Toppo but didn't declare him as dead. Her counsel later filed the case before the Jashpur district and sessions court. District judge Satyendra Kumar Sahu, after considering the circumstances, the earlier judgements given by high courts of Kolkata and Allahabad accepted the presumption of death of the person in the light of the provisions of the Indian Evidence Act. The judge stated that if no decision is taken on declaring the husband's death as civil death then her life will turn woeful at this age, said advocate Tiwari. The judgment finally gave the much-needed relief to the aggrieved woman after 27 years of struggle.
