A river in spate: growing up Muslim in a syncretic world
Syeda Saiyidain Hameeds memoir offers remarkable lessons from an Indian past of communal amity, reminding readers of other writers like Zarina Bhatty and Hameeda Akhtar Husain Raipuri who wrote candid stories about themselves and others who broke many glass ceilings
ED, CBI step up probe against Bitcoin Ponzi scam suspect
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have intensified their investigations against Gaurav Mehta, a suspect in a Bitcoin Ponzi scam, following allegations that politicians may have been involved in using cryptocurrency to influence Maharashtra assembly polls. The ED searched Mehta's residence in Raipur and seized computers and digital devices. The CBI summoned him to appear before investigators. The ED is probing Mehta's potential links to politicians, politically exposed persons, and bureaucrats as part of its money laundering probe. The allegations came after BJP released purported voice notes suggesting that Congress and NCP leaders were attempting to use cryptocurrency for election campaigning. Both parties denied the claims, calling the voice notes fake.
Sule, Patole initiate legal action against BJPs bitcoin fraud accusation
Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (SP) leader Supriya Sule and Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole on Tuesday denied the allegations of Bitcoin misappropriation. They have initiated legal action against former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ravindranath Patil and the BJP for making the false accusations on the eve of voting for Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024. Mr. Patil accused them of misappropriating Bitcoins from a 2019 cryptocurrency fraud case and using the same to fund the ongoing Maharashtra assembly elections. Mr. Patil on Tuesday alleged that former Pune police commissioner Amitabh Gupta and former deputy commissioner of police Bhagyashri Nautake, who was handling the cybercrime investigations, were involved in the misappropriation of Bitcoins at the behest of Ms. Sule and Mr. Patole. He also named one Gaurav Mehta, an employee of an audit firm. Mehta sent me some voice notes he had received on WhatsApp. There were three audio messages from Supriya Sule where she asks for cash in exchange for bitcoins. She also says that he (Gaurav Mehta) does not need to worry about inquiry, they will handle it when they come to power, Mr. Patil said. The former IPS officer also alleged that he received few more audio clips from Mr. Mehta, which were the alleged conversations between Mr. Gupta and Mr. Patole, who was asking why there was a delay in cash conversion and the former Pune police commissioner assuring the Congress leader that four crypto wallets had been created and the transactions were done from these wallets. The BJP immediately sought explanation from Ms. Sule, Mr. Patole and their parties on the allegations. The party also posted four audio clips on its official X account. Denying the allegations, Ms. Sule said, All this is conjecture and innuendo. I am ready for a public forum debate with any BJP representative at a time and date of their choice. Mr. Patole also denied the allegations. The BJP in connivance with the media has attempted to defame me and my party by making false accusations. As the fourth pillar of democracy, the media should have reported BJPs allegations responsibly. It is unfortunate that few people are mischievously trying to defame us on BJPs instruction. In such a situation, I have no other option than to take legal action, he said. Advocate Ravi Jadhav, general secretary of Maharashtra Congress, has filed the complaint on behalf of the Congress leader against Mr. Patil and the BJP with the ECI and the cyber crime police station. Some reports indicated that the audio clips were generated using Artificial Intelligence. However, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that he has worked closely with Mr. Patole in the past and Ms. Sule is his sister, so he recognise their voice. The audio clip has their voices, I can figure out from their tone. An inquiry will be done and everything will be clear, he said. After the allegations surfaced, the Enforcement Directorate also swung in action and conducted searches at the Raipur premises of Gaurav Mehta, who is accused of collecting bitcoins worth around Rs.6,600 from his investors by promising them 10 per cent monthly returns. The ED is probing the money laundering aspect in connection with the police cases filed in Maharashtra and Delhi.
Maharashtra Bitcoin Scam: ED Raids Premises Of Audit Company Employee In Raipur
The house of Gaurav Mehta in Chhattisgarhs capital city Raipur is being covered under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
UP's solar-powered Jal Jeevan Mission to shine at Good Governance Conference in Raipur
Uttar Pradesh will present its innovative use of solar power in Jal Jeevan Mission projects at a national conference. With over 80% of these projects powered by solar energy, the state aims to serve as a model for others, showcasing cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability.
ED raids premises of audit company employee amid charges of Bitcoin use in Maharashtra polls
The house of Gaurav Mehta in Chhattisgarh's capital city Raipur is being covered under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
ED raids premises of audit firm employee Gaurav Mehta as links to Maharashtra bitcoin case emerge
MUMBAI: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches at the Chhattisgarh premises of Gaurav Mehta, allegedly linked to a bitcoin transactions case in poll-bound Maharashtra, official sources said. The searches are being conducted as part of an ongoing money laundering probe. The locations of Mehta in Chhattisgarh's capital city Raipur are being covered under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said. #WATCH | Raipur, Chhattisgarh: The Enforcement Directorate is conducting raids at the premises of Gaurav Mehta (employee of an audit firm named Sarathi Associates) in connection with an alleged Bitcoin scam. The searches are being carried out in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. https://t.co/ze92LbvahJ pic.twitter.com/lP0GktDwMp ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024 The BJP has accused NCP leader and Baramati MP Supriya Sule and Congress leader Nana Patole of allegedly using Bitcoins illegally to fund the current elections as its leaders played a recording purportedly claiming it to be Sule's voice. Mehta is allegedly linked to these transactions. Sule has denied the allegations. Polling for the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly is taking place on Wednesday. Sources said the ED is probing the role of Mehta and some others on charges of collecting huge amounts of funds in the form of bitcoins (worth Rs 6,600 crore in 2017) from gullible public with the false promises of 10 per cent per month return in the form of bitcoins. The case stems from police FIRs filed in Maharashtra and Delhi.
Odisha Deputy CM orders probe into baby sale in Khaprakhol
BALANGIR: Deputy chief minister KV Singh Deo ordered a probe into the alleged sale of a newborn by a poor family in Sangurjibhata village under Balangirs Khaprakhol block after he met the babys mother on Tuesday. Singh Deo went to the village and interacted with Aruna Bati Nag, the mother, who claimed that she had gifted her newborn to some unidentified persons because she was unable to raise her six kids. It was during the interaction, the deputy CM enquired from the ANM about the child, bringing to light new facts on the whole episode. While Aruna Bati asserted she was helped by ANM Mamata Bhoi, the latter said the woman herself took the decision to send the newborn away because her impoverished condition did not allow her to raise her sixth child. Singh Deo said he had learnt about the incident from media and directed the administration for an enquiry. During our interaction, the mother said she was unable to raise six children which is why the family decided to give away the youngest one, he told mediapersons. The incident took place two weeks ago but came to light after members of the Childline lodged an FIR over the alleged sale. Aruna Bati, mother of five including two sons, had given birth to her sixth child at Sunamudi health centre on November 2. The same day, she is reported to have given away her child allegedly for adoption. It was after the ASHA visited her house and reported the matter to child development project officer (CDPO), the matter came to light. On November 13, the child welfare committee visited the village and directed lodging of an FIR. Till then, no action was taken on the matter. During Singh Deos visit, Aruna Bati said she gave away the child through the ANM. However, Bhoi said, the mother expressed her inability to take responsibility of the child and contacted her. I am not at fault. Aruna Bati contacted me. It was her decision to give away the newborn, Bhoi said. After that Bhoi is believed to have contacted a couple of Rampur village through one Alok Agrawal. The couple took the baby. When the deputy CM asked the ANM who allowed violation of the adoption norms, the latter said she was unaware of the rules. The baby, currently, is in a private hospital in Raipur. Patnagarh sub-collector Sunil Meher, Khaprakhol block development officer Bibekanand Sadangi and SDPO Sadananda Pujari accompanied Singh Deo to the village.
Chhattisgarh public service scam: CBI gets seven-day remand of ex-Chairman
RAIPUR: A special court in Raipur has sent the former chairman of Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission Taman Singh Sonwani to a seven-day remand on Tuesday following his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probing the irregularities in recruitment process. The CBI took Sonwani into custody on Monday for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 45 lakh reportedly given by former director of Bajrang Power and Ispat Ltd Raipur Shravan Kumar Goyal to secure the position of deputy collector for his son and daughter-in-law. The premier investigating agency has also arrested Goyal and produced both before the court seeking a 14-day remand. A case was registered by the CBI against Sonwani and others accused in July this year on a reference from the state government. There were complaints of nepotism and fraud in the declared list of the Commission, citing a number of selected candidates close relatives of bureaucrats, politicians and businessmen had secured superior ranks and got better posts. The CGPSC-2021 exams recruitment list had candidates selected for 170 posts in twelve departments including the state administrative and police services. The case was lodged on the basis of allegations of selection of close relatives on factors other than merit in the examination and interviews during the year 2020-2022. The investigation into the irregularities continues. The BJP while in opposition has made the alleged corruption in CGPSC as a major issue ahead of the Assembly polls in 2023 and had pledged a CBI probe into the alleged CGPSC scam in its manifesto, if voted to power.
Karnataka Maritime Board floats global tender for development of Pavinakurve Port
The cost of developing the port is estimated to be 3,047.86 crores, according to Jayaram Raipura, CEO of the Board
CBI arrests former chairman of Chhattisgarh PSC in bribery case
New Delhi: The CBI has arrested former chairman of Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission Taman Singh Sonwani for allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 45 lakh from the director of a Raipur-based steel company for ensuring selection of latter's son and daughter-in-law as deputy collectors, officials said Monday. The agency has also arrested Shravan Kumar Goyal, director of Bajrang Power and Ispat Ltd, who had allegedly paid bribes through Gramin Vikas Samiti where Sonwani's relatives were members in two installments of Rs 20 lakh and Rs 25 lakh, they said. It is alleged that the bribe was meant for the selection of Goyal's son Sashank and daughter-in-law Bhumika Kataria as deputy collectors in Chattisgarh Public Service Commission examination.
Raipur Diary | New state industrial policy launched
Chhattisgarh has introduced a new Industrial Development Policy 2024-30, featuring many firsts and innovative-driven proposals aimed at driving economic growth, generating employment and fostering sustainable industrial development. There are specific exemptions earmarked for women entrepreneurs, surrendered Maoists, members of the third gender, Agniveer soldiers and entrepreneurs from SC/ST, offering them pathways to public and private sector employment. The thrust sectors have been divided into incentivise high growth sectors, service sectors, general sectors and core sectors. PHDCCI gets new chairman in the state The PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industries (PHDCCI), which has been working as a catalyst for promotion of Indian industry, trade and entrepreneurship for past 119 years, has appointed corporate leader Pradeep Tandon as the Chairman of its Chhattisgarh State Council. His role will focus on fostering progress, harmony, and integrated development within the region. The industry chamber works at the grassroots level with strong national and international linkages reaching out to over 1.5 lakh large, medium and small industries across multiple sectors to take the Indian economy to the next level. Who will be the next Chief Secretary? There is an increasing speculation that state BJP may follow the trend established by its recent governments in states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, where the chief secretary (CS) were appointed from the IAS officers posted with the Centres. In Chhattisgarh, rumours circulating in the power corridors suggest that the next CS might be a senior IAS officer who is on deputation in Delhi. Tenure of the present CS Amitabh Jain of 1989-batch ends on June 2025. It remains to be seen if Amit Agrawal (1993-batch) from Delhi will replace Jain or the two other senior most bureaucrats Renu Pillai (1991-batch) or Subrat Sahu (1992-batch), both posted in the state. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Chhattisgarh to paint horns of stray cattle to minimise road accidents at night
RAIPUR: There is no apparent respite from road accidents and consequent fatalities caused by stray cattle wandering onto traffic routes, main roads and state highways in Chhattisgarh. Over the past two-year-and-a-halfs, there have been 308 accidents, 231 casualties and 64 injuries across the state. The number of deaths (231) remains far higher than the casualties of civilians at 115 owing to Maoists violence in the conflict-ridden region of Bastar since January 2022. State authorities have been told to paint the cattle horns to prevent road accidents on the main routes of the capital. The move is expected to be a valuable step in alerting drivers on the roads. Stray cattle have become a recurrent cause of road accidents, particularly during the night when spotting them becomes difficult at times. Panchayat and Rural Development Department Secretary Niharika Barik has asked the departments concerned and officials to take effective steps to prevent road accidents on main roads and state highways. The animal husbandry department has been instructed to colour the horns of cattle lying on the roads. The paint should be of good quality so as to alert the driver of vehicles to spot the cattle on the route during the night hours from a distance. She also directed to get collar belts tied to the stray cattle besides creating awareness in the outskirts and villages to remove cattle from the roads. Some of the other measures to be undertaken included organising chaupals in villages for disseminating information and creating platforms for the cattle to rest. Officials in the traffic department said that people die when they try to save cattle on the road and the animals abruptly emerging or roaming around poses greater risks. The cattle at times crowd the main roads. Road accident deaths as a whole have gone up in Chhattisgarh. The road accidents in the state have risen by 7.36 percent and casualties by 8.62 percent in 2022 compared to 2021. To prevent mishaps, the best tools are the road safety rules and its awareness, said Sanjay Sharma, AIG (Traffic).
Chhattisgarh: Bastar village recognized as global tourism hub by UN body
Raipur : Dhudmaras, a hamlet located in the famous Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, has been selected for the best tourism village upgradation programme by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Dhudmaras is among 20 villages chosen from 60 countries worldwide for the prestigious programme by the UN body, highlighting its potential for sustainable tourism development, a spokesman of the Chhattisgarh government said here on Sunday. The village is renowned for its natural beauty, tribal culture, and biodiversity, attracting visitors with its unique blend of traditional lifestyle, local cuisine, and scenic landscapes. As part of the UNWTOs upgradation programme, Dhudmaras will receive support to enhance tourism infrastructure, promote its cultural heritage, and improve the quality of life of the villagers, according to the spokesman. Dhudmaras was given the best tourism village award by the Union government on the World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024. Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the tourism and forest departments, Bastar district administration and officials of Kanger Valley National Park for the global recognition received by the village in the tourism sector. Nestled in dense forests with the Kanger river flowing through it, Dhudmarasa offers an idyllic setting for eco-tourism. Local residents are offering homestays and accommodation facilities, while the village youths serve as guides for tourists, showcasing the natural beauty of the area. To Boost tourism, the Chhattisgarh government is improving roads and transport facilities in the area, alongside promoting local handicrafts in the global markets. Empowered by tourism and forest departments through training and capacity building, youths of 40 families of local Dhurwa tribe are conducting kayaking, bamboo rafting and trekking activities.
Get Friday speeches vetted: Waqf Board head
RAIPUR: In what is decidedly the first such directive anywhere in the country, the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board in the BJP-ruled state issued a circular to the Mutawallis (caretakers) of all mosques asking them to get the sermons they deliver every Friday afternoon before the prayer vetted by it. Waqf boards are bestowed with the authority to manage and protect Waqf properties in thir respective areas. There should not be any political colour in the speeches given ahead of the Jumma namaz every Friday. At times, fatwas are issued from the mosques or support is extended to some political party. Mosques should confine themselves to religious preaching or practices and not become a siyasi adda (political nest). So, I have instructed all Mutawallis to apprise the Waqf Board regarding the contents of their sermons and get our consent, Chhattisgarh Waqf Board chairman Salim Raj told this newspaper on Saturday. He contended that he has not overstepped his brief, as mosques and dargahs fall within the ambit of the Waqf Board. Raj said imams have also been asked to create awareness regarding the governments welfare schemes, especially those meant for the minorities. The opposition Congress dubbed the directive as an infringement of the religious freedom of minorities. The state Waqf Board has unjustifiably gone beyond its remit. The Board is meant to oversee the Waqf properties to ensure the Waqf deeds are fulfilled and not dictate terms to religious preachers or imams, said Sushil Anand Shukla, chairman of the Congress media cell.
Five Naxalites killed, two security personnel injured in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region
RAIPUR: Five cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) were killed in an encounter with security forces on Saturday in the Abujhmad area, located along the inter-district borders of Narayanpur and Kanker in south Chhattisgarh. Two jawans sustained bullet injuries during the gunfight, but their condition is reported to be stable. Based on an intelligence input about the presence of Maoists in the north Abujhmad (meaning unfamiliar land) region, a joint team of District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and Border Security Force (BSF) left on the planned operation, said a police officer in Bastar. During the search campaign at around 8 am, an encounter resulted after the Maoists opened fire on the forces that came close to their hideout location. So far, five bodies of Maoists have been recovered from the encounter site, the officer added. The forces also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition. Intermittent firing continues, while troops have intensified their search operation in the region, the officer added. The two injured DRG personnel have been shifted to the hospital for immediate medical care. This year, so far, 197 bodies of Maoists have been recovered after they were neutralized by security forces in separate encounters in the conflict-ridden south Bastar zone. The security forces in Chhattisgarh are carrying out aggressive anti-Maoist operations under the new regime with a renewed strategy targeting the rebels in the areas considered their strongholds. Kanker and Narayanpur are among the seven Maoist-affected districts in the conflict-ridden zone of Bastar. Further details awaited.
Five Naxalites killed, two security personnel injured in encounter in Chhattisgarhs Bastar
Raipur: Five Naxalites were killed and two security personnel injured in an anti-insurgency operation in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region Saturday, a senior police official said. The gunfight broke out at around 8 am in a forest in north Abujhmad along the border of Narayanpur and Kanker districts when a joint team of security personnel was out []
5 Naxalites Killed, 2 Jawans Injured In Encounter In Chhattisgarh's Bastar Region
The two security personnel who sustained injuries in the exchange of fire were airlifted and brought to Raipur for treatment.
Five naxals killed, 2 security personnel hurt in Chhattisgarh
In a significant anti-Naxalite operation, five Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces on Saturday morning in the forests of Abujhmarh, bordering Kanker and Narayanpur districts in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. The operation, involving the Border Security Force (BSF), District Reserve Guard (DRG), and Special Task Force (STF), began after specific intelligence about Maoist activity in the area. According to Bastar Range IG P. Sundarraj, the encounter started around 8 a.m., and intermittent gunfire continued throughout the day. Security forces recovered five automatic weapons, explosives, and the bodies of the slain Maoists. Their identification is pending. Two DRG personnel were injured in the gunfight and have been airlifted to Raipur for treatment. Officials confirmed their condition is stable. Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Arun Sao praised the forces, stating, The double-engine government is committed to making Bastar Naxal-free. Security forces are penetrating remote areas to neutralize Maoist threats and drive development. This encounter comes days after the recovery of three Maoist bodies, including a leader carrying an 8 lakh bounty, in Bijapur district. Further details on the operation are awaited.
NOK Air Flight from Hyderabad to Bangkok Declares Emergency After Bomb Threat
TELENGANA: A flight from Hyderabad to Bangkok declared an emergency early on Saturday, November 16,after receiving a bomb threat, authorities confirmed. NOK Air Flight DD959, scheduled to depart from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad to Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, was immediately diverted, and all passengers were safely deboarded. Mukesh, a Public Relations Officer for GMR, said, The flight declared an emergency this morning. All passengers were evacuated and moved to the terminal for security checks, while their luggage was unloaded and inspected. Earlier this week, a separate bomb threat caused a flight from Nagpur to Kolkata to make an emergency landing at Raipur Airport, triggering a thorough security check. A passenger was detained by Raipur police in connection with the incident. Security agencies are investigating multiple hoax bomb threats, but efforts to trace the culprits have not been successful. A senior official shared, We have been working with cyber experts and several teams, but our efforts have not led to any breakthroughs. It is confirmed that VPN services were used to send these threats. Initial investigations revealed that the bomb threats originated from European countries, but attempts to trace the IP addresses have come to a dead end. As part of heightened security measures, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has deployed a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) team at major airports to enhance safety protocols. Hoax Bomb Threat to School? Now Tiruchi Institutions Shut Down Amid Safety Concern IndiGo Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Raipur Following Bomb Threat
NOK Air Flight scheduled to travel from Hyderabad to Bangkok declares emergency after bomb threat
A Nok Air flight from Hyderabad to Bangkok declared an emergency and returned to the airport. All passengers were safely deboarded and their luggage checked. This incident follows a series of bomb threats targeting flights in India, including one that led to an emergency landing in Raipur.
Zeenat gets one-acre property at Similipal Tiger Reserve
BARIPADA: Three-year-old tigress Zeenat was released in a soft enclosure spread over one acre in the core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve on Friday morning. The tigress was translocated from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra to increase the population of big cats in Similipal. Regional chief conservator of forest and field director of Similipal Tiger Reserve Prakash Chand Gogineni said Zeenat was was safely released into a soft release enclosure in the core of Similipal at 9 am. The tigress was tranquilised in Tadoba Andhari on November 13 at 4 pm. It was then transported by road to Similipal via Raipur and Sambalpur. Zeenat reached Jashipur on Thursday at 7.30 pm. The tigress is healthy and active and will be released into the wild after it adjusts to its habitat, he said. A veterinary doctor, biologist and a tiger squad are keeping a watch on the tigress movement in the enclosure. Official sources said a deputy director, an assistant conservator of forest and a squad comprising 10 staff of Forest department had gone to Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) for relocating Zeenat to Similipal. Earlier, 31 month-old tigress Jamuna which was also brought from Tadoba- Andhari Tiger Reserve was released in the core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve.
Chhattisgarh: After 21 years, tribals plan to return to native place in Naxal-hit Abujhmad
Manjhi was the eighth BJP leader to have been killed by Maoists in the state in the past one year. (AFP PHOTO / Noah SEELAM) Manjhi was the eighth BJP leader to have been killed by Maoists in the state in the past one year. (AFP PHOTO / Noah SEELAM) Raipur: More than two decades after deserting their village due to Maoists, around 25 tribal families are planning to return to their native place in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district. Nearly 100 members of these families had left their homes in Gaarpa village located in Abujhmad after Naxalite started targeting them in 2003. They were then settled on the outskirts of Narayanpur town on a tract of government land, where they took up agriculture for livelihood. Now, 21 years after their desertion, these families recently visited their native place and have been planning to resettle there after police set up a camp there to facilitate development works and ensure security for local population. Abujhmad, bordering Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district, was considered a Maoist fortress until recently. On October 4, security forces scripted their most successful anti-insurgency operation in Chhattisgarh by gunning down 31 Naxalites during an encounter in the area. Leaving the ancestral land was never easy. We had no option but to flee for the sake of our lives. 60-year-old Sukkuram Nureti told PTI. Nureti's family was among the 25 families that left Gaarpa in April 2003. Nureti hails from the Abujhmaria community, a particularly vulnerable tribal group. Of the 80 families in the village, around 25 were followers of Gayatri Pariwar' and Naxalites objected to it. They threatened us with dire consequences if we did not quit following Gayatri Pariwar'. So we decided to leave the village, he said. Nureti said they always wanted to return. Now it seems our dream will come true as a police camp has been set up and things have started improving there, said Nureti, who has served as a member of Janpad panchayat in the past. Nureti and others who had left the village visited Gaarpa last week and opened a Lord Shiv temple that had remained shut since 2003. We are planning to resettle in the village as we have our farmland and homes there, he said. Making significant inroads into Abujhmad, the Chhattisgarh police have set up security camps in Gaarpa, Kasturmeta, Mastur, Irakbhatti, Mohanti and Horadi villages in the past eight months. The Gaarpa camp came up on October 22. According to police, the strategy of establishing these camps has pushed the Naxalites to a very limited area in the zone and facilitated development works in the region. Security camps in remote and Naxal-hit areas will help thousands of villagers avail the benefits of development works and welfare measures through Niyad Nellanar schemes, Narayanpur Superintendent of Police Prabhat Kumar said. Under Niyad Nellanar, the state government has been undertaking development works in interior villages within a 5-km radius of security camps. Tribals evicted by Naxals in villages around the newly set up camps have started returning to their homes, the SP said. Villagers who were earlier pressured by Naxals to oppose development projects are now demanding roads, mobile towers, health and schools. Positive results will be seen in the coming days due to the efforts of police and administration, he said. With a combined security and development push, nearly half of Abujhmad now has road accessibility. There is a target of providing road connectivity through Mad to Chhotebethia (Narayanpur) and Maharashtra, he said. We will connect Narayanpur to Gadchiroli (Maharashtra) and Chhotebethia within the next 18 months, the official said. After the establishment of six security camps, Principal Secretary of Chhattisgarh's Panchayat and Rural Development Department Niharika Barika recently visited five villages of Abhujmad, marking the first such trip by a top bureaucrat to the region. She travelled over 60 km on a motorcycle and reviewed more than 30 development projects, an official here said. Barika visited three Anganwadis, two schools, one health sub-centre and met grassroots development workers and flagged off bus service between Gaarpa and Narayanpur, he said. Spread over about 4,000 sq km, Abujhmad had been a den of the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) as its dense forest served as a hideout for its leaders. The rebels' activities in Abujhmad have declined in recent years due to the increased presence of security forces and development works being carried out in the region, officials said.
Odisha: Another tigress brought from Maharashtra, released in soft enclosure in Similipal
Baripada: Another tigress brought from Maharashtra was released in a 'soft enclosure' in the core area of the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha on Friday, officials said. The three-year-old tigress, named Zeenat, was brought to the STR on Thursday evening from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra, they said. It was tranquilised on November 13 and then transported to Similipal by road via Raipur, Sambalpur and Jashipur, a senior forest official said. The tigress is healthy and active, he said. A special team of Odisha's Forest Department, comprising a veterinarian, a range officer, and an assistant conservator of forests, went to Maharashtra to bring the tigress. Another tigress was brought to Similipal on October 27 with the approval of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). It was kept in a quarantine before being released into the wild recently. The Forest Department is planning to bring six tigers from central India to supplement the big cat population in STR, which now has 27 tigers and 12 cubs, officials said. The tigers are being brought under the big cat supplementation project with the objective of introducing a new gene pool to the population at Similipal, they said.
Chhattisgarh floats new industrial development policy 2024-2030
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai launched the states new Industrial Policy 2024-30 aimed at driving economic growth, generating employment and fostering sustainable industrial development. The initiative represents a crucial step toward improving both the economic and the social conditions of the state as the policy also aims to bring development to previously marginalised sections of society, providing them with opportunities to participate in the state's industrial growth. With an ingenious driven move for industrial growth, the policy intends to create a more equitable society with access to new opportunities, said the chief minister. The policy emphasised creating opportunities for youth, women, people with disabilities and marginalised communities, with several new initiatives designed to promote local employment, support entrepreneurs and attract investments to diverse sectors. For the first time, there are specific exemptions earmarked for women entrepreneurs, surrendered Maoists, members of the third gender, Agniveer soldiers, retired ex-servicemen and entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, offering them pathways to public and private sector employment. One of the key features of the policy is the focus on youth employment, with industries encouraged to hire locals and help them directly benefit from the states industrial growth. The thrust sectors have been divided into incentivised high-growth sectors, service sectors, general sectors and core sectors. The policy targets high-potential categories like pharmaceuticals, textiles, agriculture and food processing, non-wood forest products, green hydrogen, electronics, Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and solar energy, offering special incentives to attract investment. To further promote large-scale industrial development, the government has promised an additional 5 per cent grant to the first five anchor enterprises with an investment exceeding Rs 200 crore in these sectors. A foreign trade assistance centre to be set up in Raipur As per the policy, higher incentives will be provided for industrially underdeveloped blocks. To promote exports from the state, a Foreign Trade Assistance Centre will be set up in Raipur in collaboration with national-level institutions like IIFT, Kolkata. The state government will provide a training allowance of Rs 15,000 for each new employee hired by industries that employ more than 1,000 local workers, provided the employee remains employed for at least 12 months. The new industrial policy introduced unique measures aimed at rehabilitating and economically empowering surrendered Maoists. Under this provision, they will receive a 10 per cent subsidy to establish small and medium-scale enterprises. Special benefits are introduced for women and local youth interested in starting their businesses. Another standout feature of the policy is its provision for industries engaged in AI, robotics and computing. The policy addresses the revival of closed and sick industries, offering a special incentive package aimed at bringing these businesses back to life.
24 coastal villages in Odisha recognised by UNESCO as Tsunami Ready
Bhubaneswar: Twenty-four coastal villages in Odisha were recognised by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO as 'Tsunami Ready'. The recognition was given during the 2nd Global Tsunami Symposium held in Indonesia on November 11, a statement said. These villages are located in Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Ganjam districts, it said. Besides, the Tsunami Ready Recognition Certificates were renewed for two villages in the state. These villages are Noliasahi in Jagatsinghpur district and Venkatraipur in Ganjam district. They were recognised as Tsunami Ready in 2020. Various activities, including training of stakeholders, community awareness programmes, preparation of tsunami management plans, conducting mock drills and identification of evacuation routes, were done in these 24 tsunami-prone villages, the statement said. Members of the National Tsunami Ready Recognition Board, comprising scientists of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services and officers of NDMA, visited these coastal villages for verification of the 12 indicators on which they were adjudged in September. The NTRB members after verification of the indicators recommended IOC-UNESCO for recognising the communities of these 26 coastal villages of Odisha as Tsunami Ready Communities, the statement said. The government has identified 381 villages in the state as tsunami-prone. The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) was working to make the coastal communities of all tsunami-prone habitation as 'Tsunami Ready', officials said.
Servitors among 6 arrested for theft at famed Odisha temple
Berhampur: Four servitors were among the six persons arrested in connection with the theft of ornaments and cash from the revered Tara Tarini temple in Odisha's Ganjam district, police said on Friday. Silver ornaments worth Rs 10 lakh were stolen from the temple, a 'Shakta Pith' located on a hilltop in Purushottampur, on November 4. Among the items stolen were the crowns of the deities, a ceremonial umbrella and masks of the deities, according to police. The accused were identified as Amulya Rana (28), Bikash Rana (20), Rabin Kumar Rana of Gobindapur and Goutam Rana of Pratapur -- all servitors of the temple. The other two are the night watchmen of the temple, Kalia Dash (35) and Balaram Nayak (45) of Raipur. A cutter machine was seized from Kalia, while some electrical equipment was found with Balaram. A total of Rs 39,000 in cash was recovered from Amulya and Rabin, said SDPO (Purushottampur) Rajani Kanta Samal. He said the stolen silver ornaments could not be recovered from the accused persons. We are trying to recover the silver ornaments of the deities, he added. Samal said the investigation was continuing to find the other persons involved in the theft. The accused entered the temple by breaking the locks of the entrance gate. Besides stealing the silver ornaments, they had also taken cash from the 'hundi' or the donation box of the temple, police said. The matter came to light on the next morning. An investigation was started after the temple's managing committee lodged a police complaint. CCTV cameras have been installed at the temple following the theft.
Unesco certifies 24 new tsunami-ready villages in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of United Nations Educational, Scientifi c and Cultural Organisation (IOC-Unesco) has recently recognised communities of 24 tsunami prone coastal villages under six coastal districts of the state as tsunami-ready during the 2nd Global Tsunami Symposium in Indonesia. Tsunami-ready recognition certificates for Noliasahi of Jagatsinghpur district and Venkatraipur village of Ganjam district []
Fake Bomb Alert on Nagpur-Kolkata Flight Forces Emergency Landing
Raipur: A flyer in the Nagpur- Kolkata Indigo flight on Thursday raised a fake bomb alert forcing its emergency landing in Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur, police said. According to the police, a passenger, identified as Animesh Mandal, approached one of the crew members of the flight when the plane was in the air and raised the bomb alert. This forced the flight to divert its route and make an emergency landing in Raipur airport. Police learnt through the Air Traffic Control (ATC) that a member of the crew of the Indigo flight 6E.812 got the information from a passenger, Animesh Mandal, about bomb in the plane, senior superintendent of police (SSP), Raipur district, Santosh Singh told this newspaper. The incident happened at around 8.40 in the morning. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Raipur police entered the plane and evacuated all the passengers. The security teams checked the plane, passengers and the baggage thoroughly and found no explosives or any suspicious things in the flight, he said. It proved to be a hoax, police said. The plane had 187 passengers and six crew members. Later, the Nagpur-based flyer Mandal was arrested in connection with the incident and produced before the local court.
Threat to Shah Rukh: Lawyer remanded in police custody to Nov 18
The Mumbai police had arrested the accused lawyer from Raipur on Tuesday and had brought him to city after securing his transit remand from a court in Chhattisgarh
Passenger arrested following bomb threat in Kolkata-bound IndiGo flight
RAIPUR: A bomb threat that led a Kolkata-bound IndiGo flight making an emergency landing at Raipur airport on Thursday morning turned out to be a hoax. The flight left for its destination after thorough security checks of the entire aircraft by authorities and bomb squad for over three hours found nothing suspicious. The accused is a passenger Nilesh Mandal, 40, on board the same flight. He told one of the crew members that there is a dynamite placed inside the plane. Following the bomb threat the Kolkata-bound aircraft was diverted to Raipur. The accused is being interrogated at local Mana police station, said Santosh Singh, Raipur senior superintendent of police. The Raipur police had lodged an FIR following the compliant by the airport authority. Mandal has been taken into custody for interrogation and he will soon be produced in the Raipur court later today, the police said. Since last month, over 400 domestic and international flights operated by the Indian carriers have received hoax bomb threats. And most of the threats were issued through social media.
Nagpur-Kolkata IndiGo Flight Lands In Raipur After Hoax Bomb Threat
An IndiGo flight from Nagpur to Kolkata on Thursday made an emergency landing here after receiving a bomb threat which turned out to be a hoax, officials said.
IIM Raipur Inviting Applications For PhD In Management Practice Track
The deadline to complete the application process for admission to the PhD programme has been extended until November 17, 2024.
Union Min Mansukh Mandaviya announces new sports stadium in Chhattisgarh to groom tribal talents
RAIPUR: Union youth affairs and sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the construction of a state-of-the-art futuristic sports stadium in the remote tribal belt of Jashpur district to find talent among tribals and nurture them for national and international games. The announcement was made ahead of the undertaking Bhagwan Birsa Munda Mati Ke Veer Padyatra (foot march) along with the chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai, his cabinet colleagues, eminent citizens, MY Bharat Youth Volunteers and people from a cross-section of society as part of 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' celebration in Chhattisgarh. The occasion aimed to create a platform for youth to connect with, understand and respect the rich legacy of Indias tribal heritage. The padyatra commenced from Komodo village and culminated at Ranjeet stadium covering a distance of around 7 km. The event commemorated the tribal heritage, promoting inclusivity and raising awareness about government schemes benefiting the tribal communities. The key highlights of the padyatra in Jashpur were tribal cultural performances, an exhibition on tribal movements, awareness kiosks, artistic engagements, celebrating youth contributions, a tribute to tribal leaders, taking delight in tribal foods and recognition of tribal excellence. The occasion also witnessed a tree plantation activity besides the live workshops to offer an interactive experience with tribal dance, music, literature and food. The life of legendary tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who fought and sacrificed his life for the country's freedom at the age of 25, serves as an inspiration for all, said Mandaviya as he urged the youths to take a pledge to fulfil the dream of a development India and promote social welfare. CM Vishnu Deo Sai praised the tribal society that always defended the glory of its culture against every threat. It is a matter of great pride for Chhattisgarh and Jashpur to host the event on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, said the CM while conveying his gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for declaring November 15 as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' in honour of Birsa Munda. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai further stated that Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan and PM-JANMAN scheme are being implemented for the welfare of tribal communities. The PM will inaugurate Janjatiya Gaurav Divas for Chhattisgarhs Tribal Pride Day celebration via a live virtual connection to the state-level ceremony on Friday.
IndiGo Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Raipur Following Bomb Threat
An IndiGo flight traveling from Nagpur to Kolkata made an emergency landing at Raipur airport on Thursday morning, November 14, 2024, after a bomb threat was reported. The flight, carrying 187 passengers and six crew members, was diverted to Raipur following the alert, police said. The threat was received by airport authorities, prompting immediate action. Raipurs Senior Superintendent of Police, Santosh Singh, confirmed the aircraft had been redirected to Chhattisgarhs capital after taking off from Nagpur. The flight landed safely in Raipur just after 9 am and was directed to an isolation bay for security checks. The technical team and bomb squad immediately began a thorough inspection of the aircraft, the police official said. This incident comes amid rising concerns over hoax bomb threats. Last month, at least 410 flights, both domestic and international, were affected by similar threats, most of which were made through social media channels. Hoax Bomb Threat to School? Now Tiruchi Institutions Shut Down Amid Safety Concerns Another Hoax Bomb Threat Disrupts Air India Flight; Investigation Underway
Bomb threat: Nagpur-Kolkata IndiGo flight makes emergency landing at Raipur
Nagpur: A Kolkata-bound IndiGo flight from Nagpur with 187 passengers and six crew members onboard made an emergency landing at Raipur Airport on Thursday morning following a bomb threat to the aircraft, police said. The aircraft, which had taken off from Nagpur for Kolkata, was diverted after airport authorities received the threat, Raipurs Senior Superintendent [] The post Bomb threat: Nagpur-Kolkata IndiGo flight makes emergency landing at Raipur appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
IndiGo Nagpur-Kolkata flight gets bomb threat
An IndiGo flight carrying 187 passengers and six crew members made an emergency landing at Raipur airport on Thursday morning after a bomb threat was received. The aircraft, which had taken off from Nagpur for Kolkata, was diverted to Raipur after airport authorities received the threat. The plane landed at the airport in Chhattisgarh capital Raipur after 9 am and was immediately taken to the isolation bay for mandatory security checks. The aircraft is being thoroughly checked by the technical staff and bomb squad.
IndiGo Nagpur-Kolkata flight makes emergency landing in Raipur after bomb threat
The aircraft, which had taken off from Nagpur for Kolkata, was diverted after airport authorities received the threat, Raipur's Senior Superintendent of Police Santosh Singh said
Chhattisgarh governments paddy procurement drive at MSP begins today
RAIPUR: The Vishnu Deo Sai government is set to procure paddy at the minimum support price (MSP) from Thursday. The process will continue till January 31, 2025 in the ongoing Kharif season. Ahead of upcoming polls of urban bodies and a three-tier panchayats, the paddy procurement assumes significance in shaping the opinion of the farmers for the ruling party. Preparations have been put in place in all 2,739 procurement centres across the state, said Food Minister Dayal Das Baghel. The process will be carried out through a biometric-based system to ensure transparency and the farmers will be given tokens as per their eligibility. A helpline number has been issued and a control room set up to attend the complaints of farmers in paddy procurement centres. The government has raised the paddy procurement estimated target to 160 lakh metric ton (LMT), the highest so far. The total registered paddy growers this year are more than 27 lakh. The state has also witnessed a significant increase in the net sown paddy area with a total 34.52 lakh hectare, an increase of over a lakh hectare this year. Paddy procurement remains a major political issue in Chhattisgarh, which is cited as the rice bowl of Central India.
Chhattisgarh Assembly By-elections: Moderate Polling in Raipur City South Seat
Raipur: By-polls to the Raipur City Assembly constituency in Chhattisgarh, which witnessed moderate polling on Wednesday, holds significance for the chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai considering the fact that it is the first election in his 11-month-old tenure. The by-election has recorded voters turnout of around 46.43 percent by five pm, sources in the chief electoral officers office here said. The by-election has passed off peacefully, sources said. The ruling BJP has made the performance of the Vishnu Deo Sai government in the last eleven months particularly the implementation of various welfare schemes including the Rs 1,000 per month incentive for women, a major poll plank to retain the seat. The seat, held by the BJP for the last 34 years, has fallen vacant when the sitting MLA and veteran saffron leader Brij Mohan Agrawal was elected to the Lok Sabha in the recent elections. Mr Agrawal has been winning from the seat since 1990 making it an impregnable fort for BJP. For the first time in 34 years, BJP has fielded a new candidate Sunil Kumar Soni, a former MP from Raipur LS seat, in the seat in this by-poll following election of Mr Agrawal to the LS. The Vishnu Deo Sai government has provided good governance. We are banking on the performance of our government in the state particularly the implementation of pro-poor and pro-women schemes to retain the seat in the by-elections, BJP spokesman Anurag Agrawal said. Congress has fielded the state youth wing president of the party Akash Sharma to take on Mr Soni in a multi-cornered contest in the seat. A senior Congress leader said that the party eyed around 40,000-strong Brahmin votes by fielding Mr Sharma, a Brahmin, in the by-elections in the constituency. Besides, the party was trying hard to woo 25,000 Muslim voters and 12,000 dalit voters to support the Congress candidate in the by-elections, he added. Mr Agrawal had won the seat in the last Assembly polls by a record margin of 1.09 lakh votes.
Jharkhand Phase-I Assembly poll records over 65% turnout; Wayanad bypoll 64.72%
Among the 31 Assembly seats where byelections were held, Channapatna in Karnataka saw the highest turnout at 88.80%, while Raipur City South in Chhattisgarh was the lowest at 46.43%
Chhattisgarh NEET PG 2024: Merit list and seat allotment dates announced
The Directorate of Medical Education (DME) Raipur has released the Chhattisgarh NEET PG Counselling schedule for 2024. The merit list will be published on November 19, 2024, and will include candidates eligible for further counselling rounds. The process includes registration, choice filling, seat allotment, and final admission, conducted over several phases. Candidates are advised to stay updated with the official site for detailed information on deadlines and procedures.
November brings multiple school holidays due to key events and festivals, providing students with several breaks following Diwali. Raipur schools and banks will observe a holiday on 13th November due to assembly elections. On 14th November, Childrens Day will be celebrated with various activities in schools. The festive week concludes with Guru Nanak Jayanti on 15th November, observed as a public holiday in some states. Students and families have opportunities to enjoy and celebrate.
Shah Rukh Khan death threat: Mumbai police get three-day transit remand of accused Faizan Khan
Mumbai Police arrested Faizan Khan, a Raipur resident, in connection with a death threat and extortion case involving actor Shah Rukh Khan. Khan, who allegedly demanded 50 lakh, claims his phone was lost and a police complaint was filed. He has been remanded in police custody until November 15.
Lawyer Faizan Khan nabbed from Chhattisgarh for threatening Shah Rukh Khan
Mumbai: A man named Mohammad Faizan Khan, who gave out death threats to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, was arrested from Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. The accused, a lawyer, was arrested from his residence in Chhattisgarhs Raipur, TV reports said. Faizan Khan made a threat call to Bollywoods Badshah and also demanded Rs 50 lakh. He 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 .
Shah Rukh Khan death threat: Mumbai police detain lawyer from Raipur
The Mumbai Police on Tuesday detained a suspect in relation to the death threats made against Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan , news agency ANI reported. The suspect has been identified as Faizan Khan, a resident of Raipur, Chhattisgarh. He is currently being questioned by the cops after allegedly making a threatening call demanding a ransom from the Bollywood star. According to officials, the caller claimed to be outside Khans residence, Mannat, and demanded Rs 50 lakh, threatening the actors life if his demand was not met. Alarmed by the call, the Mumbai Police swiftly registered a case and dispatched a team to Raipur to investigate the matter. More details regarding the suspect have not been disclosed yet. A case has been registered under sections 308(4) (extortion involving threats of death or serious injury) and 351(3)(4) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Meanwhile, the suspect, who is a lawyer by profession has denied involvement in the threat. He claimed his phone was stolen on November 2, and the threat call made from his number was part of a larger conspiracy against him. The Mumbai police will produce Faizan in a Raipur court seeking his transit remand, Raipur's Senior Superintendent of Police Santosh Singh said. Salman Khan gets new death threat from Lawrence Bishnoi gang The threat to Shah Rukh Khan follows a series of threats issued to fellow actor Salman Khan, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Earlier on October 24, Mumbai Police arrested a man from Jamshedpur who had threatened Bollywood actor Salman Khan in the name of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and demanded a ransom of Rs 5 crore. The police registered a case against an unknown person and started an investigation after Mumbai Traffic Police received a threatening message. Both actors have been surrounded by tight security for a while now. Salman was upgraded to Y+ security especially after a firing incident outside his residence in April this year. This is not the first time, Shah Rukh Khan got a threat call. In October last year too, he received death threats after the success of his films Pathaan and Jawan . The actor had lodged a written complaint with the Maharashtra Police regarding this, after which he was given Y+ security. (With inputs from ANI and PTI)
SRK death threat case: Raipur lawyer arrested
The lawyer told the police that he lost his phone a week before and had filed a police complaint, the official said.
Death threat to Shah Rukh Khan: Police arrest lawyer from Raipur
Mumbai: Mumbai Police on Tuesday arrested a man from Chhattisgarh for allegedly issuing a death threat to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The suspect is currently being questioned by the police officials. Last week, the Mumbai Police received a call threatening Shah Rukh at the Bandra station. The caller even demanded Rs 50 lakh, following which the police registered a case and dispatched a team to Raipur for further investigation. More details regarding the suspect have not been disclosed yet. The threat to Shah Rukh follows a series of threats issued to fellow friend and Bollywood star Salman Khan, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Earlier on October 24, Mumbai Police arrested a man from Jamshedpur who had threatened Bollywood actor Salman Khan in the name of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and demanded a ransom of Rs 5 crore. The police registered a case against an unknown person and started an investigation after Mumbai Traffic Police received a threatening message. Both actors have been surrounded by tight security for a while now. Salman was upgraded to Y+ security especially after a firing incident outside his residence in April this year. The firing incident took place on April 14 outside Salman's residence at Galaxy Apartments in the Bandra area of Mumbai. The subsequent arrests revealed connections to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, leading the Mumbai Police to invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against all involved in the shooting. Earlier, police said that gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's brother, Anmol Vishnoi, played a key role in motivating the shooters. After receiving weapons delivery in Panvel on March 15, 2024, Anmol provided the shooters with the target's information, instructing them to carry out the firing at the actor's residence. The planned firing incident was executed as per instructions, during which the shooters received a total of Rs 3 lakh. In October, politician Baba Siddique was shot multiple times while he was leaving his son's Bandra office on October 12. The Nationalist Congress Party leader and former minister succumbed to injuries at the hospital shortly after the attack. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the attack. The demise of Baba Siddique and death threats to stars like Salman and SRK have raised concern among fans.
Shah Rukh Khan death threat: Police arrest accused from Chhattisgarh
Mumbai: Mumbai Police on Tuesday arrested a man from Chhattisgarh for allegedly issuing a death threat to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The suspect is currently being questioned by the police officials. Last week, the Mumbai Police received a call threatening Shah Rukh at the Bandra station. The caller even demanded Rs 50 lakh, following which the police registered a case and dispatched a team to Raipur for further investigation. More details regarding the suspect have not been disclosed yet. The threat to Shah Rukh follows a series of threats issued to fellow friend and Bollywood star Salman Khan, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Earlier on October 24, Mumbai Police arrested a man from Jamshedpur who had threatened Bollywood actor Salman Khan in the name of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and demanded a ransom of Rs 5 crore. The police registered a case against an unknown person and started an investigation after Mumbai Traffic Police received a threatening message. Both actors have been surrounded by tight security for a while now. Salman was upgraded to Y+ security especially after a firing incident outside his residence in April this year. The firing incident took place on April 14 outside Salman's residence at Galaxy Apartments in the Bandra area of Mumbai. The subsequent arrests revealed connections to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, leading the Mumbai Police to invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against all involved in the shooting. Earlier, police said that gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's brother, Anmol Vishnoi, played a key role in motivating the shooters. After receiving weapons delivery in Panvel on March 15, 2024, Anmol provided the shooters with the target's information, instructing them to carry out the firing at the actor's residence. The planned firing incident was executed as per instructions, during which the shooters received a total of Rs 3 lakh. In October, politician Baba Siddique was shot multiple times while he was leaving his son's Bandra office on October 12. The Nationalist Congress Party leader and former minister succumbed to injuries at the hospital shortly after the attack. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the attack. The demise of Baba Siddique and death threats to stars like Salman and SRK have raised concern among fans.
Shah Rukh Khan death threat: Mumbai police arrest accused from Chhattisgarh's Raipur
Mohammad Faizan Khan, a lawyer from his residence in Raipur was arrested after he failed to appear before the Mumbai police.
HC puts Chhattisgarh govt on notice over tiger death
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh High Court on Monday expressed concern over the recent death of a tiger in Baikunthpur forest, approximately 350 km north of Raipur, and sought an affidavit from the state on the measures taken to protect wildlife. Initiating a suo motu public interest litigation to address the issue, a division bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice A K Prasad directed the additional chief secretary (Forest & Climate Change) to submit the response before the next meeting, scheduled for November 21. When the wildlife and environment are being destroyed then what remains in Chhattisgarh! If the forest and wildlife that remain treasure for the state are not safeguarded then why will the visitors come. There should be a personal affidavit submitted regarding the steps and action taken to preserve the wildlife, said the Chief Justice. A male tiger died after it was poisoned in suspected poaching at Baikunthpur forest adjoining the Guru Ghasidas National Park, near the bank of the Khankopar close to Devshil Katwar forest village in north Chhattisgarh on November 8.
IAF veteran, witness to 1971 Pak surrender, dies at 89 in Raipur
Wing Commander M B Ojha (retd), a veteran of the 1965 and 1971 wars, passed away in Raipur at 89. He was present at the surrender of the Pakistan army in Bangladesh in 1971 and is seen in the iconic picture of the event. Chhattisgarh's governor and chief minister paid tribute to the air warrior.
Chhattisgarh: Elephant Calf Hurt in Potash Bomb Blast at USTR
Raipur: An elephant calf was injured in a bomb explosion in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR) in Gariaband district in Chhattisgarh, a senior forest officer said on Monday. The incident came to light on November seven when the local forest ranger received reports of blood stains in a vast patch of area in the Risgaon forest range where movements of 38-40 elephants were noticed, the forest officer said. A team of forest officers rushed to the area and found splinters of potash bomb, blood stains and pugmarks of elephants at the spot, deputy director of USTR Varun Jain told this newspaper. A three-day search involving dog squad and drone surveillance has led to disclosure that an elephant calf was injured in the potash bomb explosion, he said. The calf was found injured in its jaw and legs during the drone surveillance on Sunday, Mr Jain said. It is yet to be ascertained if the injured calf had stepped on the bomb leading to the explosion or if the bomb was detonated by suspected poachers targeting the baby pachyderm, a forest officer said. The poachers might have planted the bomb to hunt wild boars and the elephant calf became the victim, Mr Jain said. An investigation was on into it. A part of USTR is known to be Maoist-infested. Mr Jain however ruled out the possibility of Maoists involvement in the incident saying that the ultras usually use improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for explosion, not potash bombs. A police case has been registered in the incident. Meanwhile, the injured elephant calf has been spotted with an elephant herd and a rescue operation was launched to separate the calf from the herd for its treatment, Mr Jain said.
Campaigning ends for Raipur City South assembly seat bypoll; voting on Nov 13
Raipur: The campaigning for the bypoll to the Raipur City South assembly constituency in Chhattisgarh ended on Monday evening with leaders from both ruling BJP and the opposition Congress making a final bid to woo voters. BJP candidate Sunil Kumar Soni, a former Lok Sabha MP and Raipur Mayor, is locked in a straight fight against Congress nominee Akash Sharma, a young face and state president of the party's youth wing, in the prestigious seat, where voting will take place on November 13. The seat fell vacant after the sitting BJP MLA and former state minister Brijmohan Agrawal resigned following his election to the Lok Sabha from Raipur in this year's parliamentary polls. Agrawal had won from Raipur City South in the 2023 assembly polls. The canvassing concluded at 6 pm, and now candidates can undertake door-to-door campaigning before polling starts on Wednesday morning, an election official here said. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Agrawal spearheaded canvassing for the BJP candidate, while former CM Bhupesh Baghel, Congress state in-charge Sachin Pilot and the party's state unit president Deepak Baij campaigned for the main opposition party's nominee. At the hustings, the BJP highlighted pro-women and pro-farmers measures taken by the Sai government, which included launching of the 'Mahtari Vandan Yojna' under which married women are being provided monthly assistance of Rs 1,000. The Congress, during its campaign, accused BJP candidate Soni of being inactive during his tenure as the Raipur MP (2019 to 2024) and targeted the Sai government, which assumed office in December last year, over the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. On the last day of the campaigning, Chief Minister Sai held a roadshow in the constituency. Though there are 30 candidates in the fray for the bypoll, the main fight is between the Congress and BJP nominees. There are 2,71,169 electors in the constituency, including 1,33,800 men, 1,37,317 women and 52 transgenders. A total of 253 polling booths have been set up for the bypoll and five companies of security personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order during the election, officials said. Vote count will take place on November 23. In the last year's assembly elections, the BJP had registered a landslide victory by winning 54 out of 90 seats in the astate. The Congress, then in power, had won 35 seats, while the Gondwana Gantantra Party had emerged victorious in one assembly segment.
Elephant Calf hurt in suspected bomb blast in Chhattisgarh forest
Gariaband: An elephant calf sustained injuries in a suspected bomb explosion at the Udanti-Sitandi Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh. Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Director Varun Jain, on Monday informed that they had received information about a large amount of blood in an area designated for elephant herd. An anti-poaching team conducted the probe and discovered that the blood stains were spread across six kilometres at least, Jain said, adding that the injured calf was merely five to six years old. From the area near Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, we received information that a large amount of blood was spotted in an area where the herd of elephants was roaming. When the anti-poaching team conducted the probe, we traced the blood stains for foot marks for 6-7 km. We realised that it was an elephant that was injured. Through drone visuals, our staff spotted an elephant calf which is 5-6 years old, the Director of the Wildlife Refuge said. The calf was injured and its jaw was swollen and it sported an injury in its leg, Jain said, adding that they recovered the remains of the potassium bomb from the area. Its jaw is swollen up and there is injury in its leg as well. We also found the remaining potassium bomb. From this, it can be assumed that the (elephant) calf got injured either by chewing on the bomb or stepping on it. We have called a doctor team from Raipur, dog squad has also been called, he said. We are looking for a hunter. We have declared a Rs 10,000 reward for those who give any information regarding the hunters. We have also given a complaint to the Police regarding the explosive item. We were only able to trace the injured calf till now. Through a thermal drone, we will find out the extent of the injury. We will tranquilise the calf if required (to provide treatment). We have asked permission for the same. Jain said. The Reserve Director said that it was a common practice among hunters to place the potassium bombs to hunt wild boars. However, we will have to find out the intent whether it was meant for the elephant or the wild boar, he said.
Two Children Killed in Elephant Attack in Chhattisgarh Village
Raipur: Two children including a girl were on Sunday trampled to death by a herd of elephants in a forest in Surajpur district in Chhattisgarh, officials said. An 11-member herd raided a make-shift house in the forested village of Chitkhoi under Premnagar area falling under Surajpur forest division early on Sunday morning when seven-member-family of Bhikhu Pondo were sleeping, a forest officer quoting the survivor said. Bhikhu and his wife along with three of their five children managed to escape, but two others could not flee. The elephant herd trampled the two children to death and destroyed the house, a forest office said. The two slain children have been identified as Bishnu Pondo (11) and Kajol (five). Total nine people have died due to elephant attacks in separate incidents so far in Chhattisgarh in the last 25 days.
Chhattisgarh Roads to Match US Quality in Two Years: Gadkari
RAIPUR: Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that road networks of Chhattisgarh will match that of America in quality in two years. Addressing the 83rd annual convention of Indian Road Congress here, Mr Gadkari, who holds the portfolio of road transport and highways at the Centre, said that the Centre laid emphasis on quality while implementing various road projects in Chhattisgarh and other states. While announcing road projects worth Rs 20,000 crore for Chhattisgarh, Mr Gadkari declared that the road networks of Chhattisgarh will match that of America in quality in two years. The Union minister also encouraged eco-friendly innovations like bamboo crash barriers and biofuel, supporting sustainable development of rural farmers. He highlighted self-reliant technology of making a bamboo crash barrier in Chhattisgarh and said that this eco-friendly innovation has the capacity to replace steel. Mr Gadkari called for the use of bamboo crash barriers instead of iron in construction works in Chhattisgarh to encourage the farmers to go for bamboo cultivation. We have made bio vitamins from straw and it is being used in Meghalaya. Recently in Panipat, we have started making 1,000 liters of bio vitamin and bio aviation fuel from straw. In Chhattisgarh also, similar works should be done, he said. Mr Gadkari stressed the importance of cost-effective and high-quality works to help India become a self-reliant, five trillion-economy. He also emphasized the need for concerted efforts to reduce road accidents by improving road engineering and prioritizing road safety during construction of the roads. Speaking on the occasion, chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that the development vision of Chhattisgarh is aligned with Indias goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and doubling its GSDP by 2028.
Raipur: A platoon commander of peoples liberation guerrilla army (PLGA) of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), carrying a bounty of Rs eight lakh, was among three Naxals slain in the November eight encounter in Bijapur district in south Bastar of Chhattisgarh, police said on Saturday. One of the three Maoists slain in Fridays Bijapur encounter has been identified as Joga Madvi, commander of platoon number ten of PLGA, Bastar inspector general of police P Sunderraj said. Joga was in the rank of divisional committee (DVC) member of the outlawed outfit and carried a bounty of Rs eight lakh on his head, he said. The other two Maoists killed in the encounter were yet to be identified, he added. The encounter had taken place in the Rekapalli- Kamatpalli forest, considered the core area of Maoists in Bastar. Acting on specific intelligence inputs on the presence of around 30-40 armed Maoists including platoon number nine commander Bijja and Usoor Local Operation Squad (LOS) commander Deva, a joint search operation involving district reserve guard (DRG), special task force (STF) and CRPFs Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) was launched in Usoor- Pamed- Basaguda area in the district on November eight, according to Bijapur district superintendent of police Dr Jitendra Yadav. The encounter had taken place in the Rekapalli- Kammapalli jungle at around 11 am on Friday, leading to the killing of three Maoists. One sniper SLR rifle, one sniper weapon, one 12 bore rifle, one pistol, two country-made rifles, and explosives were recovered at the encounter site. According to Mr Sunderraj, 192 Maoists including 67 women were killed and 782 Naxals arrested in Bastar in the current year so far. As many as 783 ultras have surrendered during the period. Security forces have recovered total 246 weapons including three light machine guns (LMGs), nine AK47s, ten SLRs, eight Insas rifles, 13 numbers of 303 rifles, ten pistols, and 22 Barrel Grenade Launcher (BGL) rifles were recovered in different encounters with Maoists in Bastar during the period.
Tiger found dead in suspected poaching, third since 2022 in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: The death of a male tiger under mysterious circumstances at Baikunthpur forest adjoining the Guru Ghasidas National Park, about 350 km north of Raipur, has bewildered the Chhattisgarh State Forest Department. This is the third tiger death in the state since 2022 and the second suspected poaching reported this year after a tiger was killed in January in the same area. Chhattisgarh has witnessed a depressing record in the Save the Tiger mission with the big cat population in the state going down by around 59 per cent from 46 in 2014 to 19 according to the 2019 tiger census report. But officials now claimed to have improved the tally to 23 tigers. A team of doctors conducted a post-mortem of the tiger, which was found dead by locals near the bank of river Khankopar close to Devshil Katwar forest village in north Chhattisgarh. However, officials have not divulged any piece of information from the autopsy report amid conflicting inputs citing missing teeth and claws from the tigers carcass. The deceased tiger was believed to be seven years old. Three poachers arrested for poisoning two tigers to death in Tamil Nadu Officials suspected the tiger was poisoned two or three days ago and claimed all body parts were found intact. A hunt has also been launched by the forest team to track down the poachers. The state cabinet in August this year cleared the expansion of Guru Ghasidas National Park and creation of Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, which awaits official notification, spanning an area of 2829.38 sq km after the approval was earlier secured from the National Tiger Conservation Authority. Chhattisgarh, which was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in November 2000, has three tiger reserves. A forest officer on condition of anonymity stressed the need for strengthening the dedicated efforts of the staff with effective monitoring and control. If the element of fear vanishes on the field, we will not be getting encouraging figures on saving tigers in Chhattisgarh, he said. Tiger found dead in MP's Bandhavgarh reserve, second big cat death in a week
Centre earns over Rs 650 cr revenue from scrap disposal during special cleanliness campaign
New Delhi: The Centre has earned over Rs 650 crore from disposal of scrap during the recently-concluded cleanliness campaign, an official statement issued on Saturday said. The special campaigns conducted by the government from 2021-24 have generated a revenue of Rs 2,364 crore through disposal of scrap, it said. Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh said that the special campaign 4.0 was India's largest campaign for institutionalising swachhata and reducing pendency in the government offices and has witnessed many best practices and milestones. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's directions, the saturation approach was adopted in special campaign 4.0 for swachhata and reducing pendency. Special campaign 4.0 generated revenues of more than Rs 650 crore in the October 2-31, 2024 period, said the statement issued by the Personnel Ministry. The special campaign 4.0 has seen swachhata campaigns being undertaken in more than 5.97 lakh sites and has resulted in freeing 190 lakh square feet of space for effective office use, it added. Singh said with every passing year, the size and scale of the special campaign is increasing with more than 5.97 lakh sites covered in 2024 as against 2.59 lakh sites in 2023. The special campaign 4.0 was reviewed by the cabinet ministers, ministers of state and secretaries to the government of India providing leadership and guidance in implementation. The progress of special campaign 4.0 was monitored on a dedicated portal (https:cdpm.nic.in/SpecialCampaign4) on a daily basis. Singh appreciated the reduction in pendency in the central secretariat under the special campaign 4.0 with most of the ministries/ departments achieving 90-100 per cent of reported targets. He called on all officials to continue the momentum of special campaign 4.0 throughout the year and make it a way of life. Special campaign 4.0 concluded on October 31, 2024 with outstanding results and after collating all the data, the evaluation phase will start from November 14, the statement said. Some of the best practices in institutionalising swachhata that emerged in the Special campaign 4.0 are Curative preservation of Manuscript 'Ramayana', Asiatic Society, Kolkata, Ministry of Mines, Art sculpture made out of waste aluminium, JNARDCC, Nagpur, Ministry of Mines, Crafting a 12.5 feet tall idol of Lord Ganesha with scrap material, Raipur, Ministry of Railways and Disposal of about 105.72 lakh sticks of smuggled cigarettes worth Rs 8.7 crores by CBIC among others.
Chhattisgarh: Baghel, Agrawal Vie for Power in Raipur By-Poll
Raipur : Stakes are high for former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel and veteran leader and eight-time MLA Brij Mohan Agrawal in the November 13 Assembly elections in Raipur (South) seat in Chhattisgarh with both the leaders striving hard to make a comeback to the Centre stage of their respective parties, Congress and BJP. While Mr Baghel, whose stock in the party seems to have depleted following the debacle of Congress in Chhattisgarh in the November 2023 Assembly polls, is out to re-establish his supremacy in state party by winning the by-elections, Mr Agrawal is facing the test of his political legacy in the by-poll in his home constituency. Mr Baghel has been able to get ticket for his loyalist and youth Congress leader Akash Sharma in the by-elections to the Assembly seat and unite all the senior Congress leaders in the party including former deputy chief minister T S Singh Deo to launch a campaign blitzkrieg for the party candidate in the by-polls. All the senior Congress leaders have launched a door-to-door campaign to canvas for the party candidate, a Congress spokesman said here on Friday. Sources said that the Congress has decided to field Mr Sharma, considered a staunch loyalist of Mr Baghel, in the by-elections to woo Brahmin votes which constitute around 40,000 in the constituency since BJP has fielded an OBC candidate, Sunil Soni. The Congress is also eyeing the Muslim votes which constitute around 12,000 and Dalits who comprise around 18,000 in the Assembly constituency, a senior Congress functionary said. Mr Baghel is steering the campaign for the party in the by-elections, he added. Sources said that Mr Baghels camp felt that Mr Baij, being a tribal leader, saw an opportunity to project him as a chief ministerial prospect in the 2028 Assembly polls following defeat of the party under Mr Baghels leadership in the last Assembly elections in the state. By ensuring victory of the party candidate in the by-elections, Mr Baghel will be able to re-establish his supremacy in the state party, sources said. Mr Agrawal who represented Raipur (South) eight times in the Assembly before being elected to Lok Sabha in the recent polls is keen to retain the seat for the party to prove his mettle before the party leadership, sources said. The former minister was said to be unwilling to leave Chhattisgarh politics. But he was asked to contest from Raipur Lok Sabha seat in the last polls which he had won with a record margin of votes. Sources said that Mr Agrawal viewed the by-election in his home constituency as a test of his political legacy and hence, he had secured a party ticket for his protg Mr Soni to ensure his victory in the by-polls. The ruling BJP has a strength of 53 in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly, while Congress has strength of 35.
SRK faces death threat, Chhattisgarh man held
RAIPUR: Shah Rukh Khan, Bollywood megastar and one of Indias most influential cultural icons, has once again been targeted with a death threat. The death threat led to the swift arrest of a man identified as Faizan Khan in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on charges of issuing the threat. The chilling threat was made on November 5, []
Raipur lawyer claims stolen phone was used to threaten Shah Rukh Khan
According to Bandra Police, the threat call was made to their stations landline on November 5. The caller allegedly said, Shah Rukh Khan, the one at Mannat, Bandstand if he doesnt give me 50 lakh rupees, I will kill him
Chhattisgarh: Threatening call to Shah Rukh tracked to Raipur
Raipur: The threatening call made to Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has been tracked to Raipur. However, Raipur-based Mohammad Faizan Khan, the owner of the cell phone which was used to make the call on Tuesday, told the police that his mobile phone was stolen on November two, a senior police officer said here on Thursday. Khan is a lawyer by profession. Khan was interrogated in connection with the incident. He told the police that his mobile phone was stolen and he has already lodged a complaint in the local police station in this regard, city superintendent of police (CSP) (Civil Lines, Raipur) Ajey Kumar told this newspaper. Khan was let off later, police said. He has however been issued a notice asking him to be present before the police in Bandra in Mumbai during the investigation in the case, Mr Kumar said. Police suspected that the call might have been made by the person who is currently in possession of the stolen cell phone. A three-member police team from Mumbai landed here to probe the case, police said. The Mumbai police team interrogated Khan here in the morning, Mr Kumar said. According to him, the Mumbai police team came to the Pandri police station in Raipur to inform that a case had been registered in the Bandra police station in connection with the threatening call to the Bollywood actor. The call was made to the Bandra police station on Tuesday demanding Rs 50 lakh from the actor, police said. We will investigate it. Mumbai police too is also probing, Mr Kumar said. Shah Rukh Khan is the second top Bollywood actor to have received a threatening call demanding money after Salman Khan in recent times.
After Salman Khan, SRK gets death threats from Raipur man
Mumbai: A person who threatened Hindi film icon Shah Rukh Khan has been traced to Raipur in Madhya Pradesh. A case was registered at a police station in Bandra area of Mumbai. The caller has been identified as Faizan from Raipur, and case has been registered under IPC 308(4) and 351(3)(4). This points to a []
Shah Rukh Khan Receives Death Threat, Extortion Case Filed; Mumbai Police Summon Raipur Man
MUMBAI/RAIPUR, Nov 7: Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan has received a death threat and a demand for Rs 50 lakh, Mumbai police said on Thursday, adding an extortion case has been filed in this connection. The Mumbai police have also summoned a man from Raipur in this connection, a senior police official from the Chhattisgarh capital said. The threat to Shah Rukh Khan follows a series of threats issued to fellow actor Salman Khan, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The post Shah Rukh Khan Receives Death Threat, Extortion Case Filed; Mumbai Police Summon Raipur Man appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan receives threat; Mumbai Police registers case
The call was made to the Bandra Police Station`s landline on November 5; following the incident, police teams were dispatched to Raipur, Chhattisgarh, after tracing the location linked to the callers phone number
SRK gets death threats, suspect named Faizan identified: Report
Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has reportedly received a new death threat, prompting swift action from Mumbai Police. On Thursday, an unidentified individual made a threatening call to the Bandra Police Station, demanding a ransom of Rs 50 lakh from the actor. The call, made from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, led authorities to trace the suspect, 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 .
After Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan receives death threat; Mumbai police registers case
MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan has received a death threat and a demand for Rs 50 lakh, Mumbai police said on Thursday, adding an extortion case has been filed in this connection. The threat to Shah Rukh Khan follows a series of threats issued to actor Salman Khan allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Bandra police station received a call threatening Shah Rukh Khan and asking for Rs 50 lakh. An offence has been registered. No arrest has been made yet, a senior police official said. A case has been registered by the Bandra police under sections 308(4) (extortion involving threats of death or serious injury) and 351(3)(4) (criminal intimidation) of Bharaitya Nyaya Sanhita against the unknown caller who threatened Shah Rukh Khan, the official said. Police teams have been dispatched at various places for further investigation, he said. While there was no confirmation from Mumbai police on reports that the call was made from Raipur in Chhattisgarh, a Raipur police official said Mumbai police are giving notice to one Faiyaz Khan for threatening Shah Rukh Khan
Raipur Diary | Books on tribals bring delight to President
During the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Chhattisgarh, with over 30 per cent tribal population, her interaction with women and adivasis besides the release of two captivating books on tribals caught the attention of many. Governor Ramen Deka presented the President the first edition of books on tribalsAadi Nari and Poradguma Pen Karsad. Aadi Nari chronicled the socio-economic, human development index besides the pride, self-esteem and glorious tale of tribal women of Chhattisgarh. Poradguma Pen Karsad illuminates religious affairs, traditions and culture of Gond tribal community. Is Chhattisgarh out of sight for Cong RS MPs? Of the five Rajya Sabha members from Chhattisgarh, as many as 4 are from the Congress party. Barring Phulo Devi Netam, the remaining three Rajiv Shukla, KTS Tulsi and Ranjeet Ranjan are not directly related to the state and are in the Rajya Sabha through Chhattisgarh quota. One often hears about Ranjans trip to the state but the remaining two Shukla and Tulsi were not seen visiting for long, particularly after the change of power. This led the states residents questioing the MPs, wondering if they dont visit, how will they be familiar with the problems here. Nagarnar steel plant in Bastar hits record NMDC Steel Limited (NSL) integrated steel plant at Nagarnar in Bastar has achieved a significant milestone producing over 2 million tonnes of hot metal. The Nagarnar steel plant, aiming towards the optimal capacity utilisation, has successfully ramped up daily hot metal production to 7000 tonnes while aligning with the planned protocol. It achieved the production of the first million tonnes of hot metal in 226 days after it was commissioned in August 2023. Spread in 1980 acres and built at a cost of Rs 24,000 crore, the plant is working on producing sheets, plates and hot metal while operating on a zero-discharge concept. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
Cgarh: Maoists claim responsibility for attack on cops, release photograph of looted weapons
Raipur: Maoists on Tuesday claimed responsibility for the October three attack on two cops in a weekly market in Jagargunda under Sukma district in south Bastar of Chhattisgarh and released the photograph of the weapons looted by them from the injured policemen. A press release issued under the name of Samata who claimed to be spokesman of south sub zonal bureau of outlawed CPI (Maoist), said that the members of peoples liberation guerrilla army (PLGA) of Maoists had attacked the two Chhattisgarh policemen in the weekly market in Jagargunda amid carpet security and taken away one AK 47 and one self-loaded rifle (SLR) and a few magazines from them. The Maoists also released photographs of the two weapons looted by them from the two injured policemen. A small action team (SAT) of Maoists attacked the policemen deployed in security duty in the weekly market with sharp weapons on Sunday. The injured policemen were rushed to the local hospital and later airlifted to Raipur for admission in a private hospital. They were said to be out of danger now.
Glittering Start to Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava
Raipur : The inauguration of the three-day Rajyotsava (Chhattisgarh state foundation) late on Monday evening showcased a dazzling array of cultural programmes, enthralling audiences at the Meta Ground in Nava Raipur, the venue of the event. The festivities kicked off with an impressive display of 12 folk dances by the team of Rikhi Kshatriya, setting the tone for the evening. Noted artists including Mohan Chouhan and his ensemble showcased Adivrindam dance drama, while Sunil Soni and his team delivered regional dance music. The highlight of the event was the Naam Ramayan, performed by Vidya Varchasvi. The excitement continued with the thrilling display of Mallakhamb, a traditional Indian sport, and a mesmerizing performance by Bollywood playback singer Shantanu Mukherjee which kept the audience entertained until late into the night. The Rajyotsav, held to mark the Chhattisgarh Foundation Day, was inaugurated by chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday evening. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav was the chief guest on the occasion. Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh on November one, 2000. The three-day Rajyotsava was organized to mark the occasion.
Hindu spiritual leader Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, on Sunday, 3rd November, emphasised the need of having unity among the Hindus to stand strong against people who want India to become an Islamist nation. While talking to the press in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Bageshwar Dham said that Hindus must unite and fight for Sanatan Dharma. Continue reading Aapas Me Batoge To Phoot Phoot Kar Katoge: Bageshwar Dham Sarkar Asks Hindus To Stand United Against People Urging Ghazwa-e-hind The post Aapas Me Batoge To Phoot Phoot Kar Katoge: Bageshwar Dham Sarkar Asks Hindus To Stand United Against People Urging Ghazwa-e-hind appeared first on OurVoice | WeRIndia - Analysis & Opinion .
Chhattisgarh NAN 'scam': FIR against 2 retired IAS officers, former AG
Raipur: The Chhattisgarh ACB has registered a case against two retired IAS officers and a former state advocate general for allegedly misusing their positions to influence the probe in the alleged Nagrik Apurti Nigam (NAN) scam case, officials said on Tuesday. The allegations pertain to stints of the three accused during the previous Congress government in the state. The FIR was lodged on Monday against former IAS officers and NAN scam case accused Anil Tuteja and Alok Shukla, and former AG Satish Chandra Verma, based on a report and documents provided to the state's agency by the Enforcement Directorate, an official from the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) said. They were booked under Indian Penal Code sections 182 (false information, with intent to cause public servant to use his lawful power to the injury of another person), 211 (false charge of offence made with intent to injure), 193 (false evidence), 195A (threatening any person to give false evidence), 166A (public servant disobeying direction under law) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, he said. Tuteja is the former chairperson of NAN, while Shukla is its ex-managing director. The FIR stated that based on cases registered by state's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB)/EOW and ED in the Civil Supplies Corporation scam (commonly called NAN scam), the Income Tax department had collected some digital evidences, including WhatsApp chats, against Tuteja and Shukla. The evidence suggested the duo had not only made several attempts to frustrate the investigation by the ED but were also constantly in touch with bureaucrats and constitutional authorities of then Chhattisgarh government to influence the ongoing trial against them underway in a Raipur court in the ACB/EOW's case, it alleged. Shukla, who was posted as principal secretary in the state between 2018 and 2020, and Tuteja, who was joint secretary between 2019 and 2020, became influential officers in then state government (headed by Bhupesh Baghel from 2018 to 2023) and they had deep interference in the government's operations, policy making and other works since 2019, the FIR said. The two officers had direct interference in postings and transfers on all key posts in then government. In a way, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the entire bureaucracy of then Chhattisgarh government was under their control, it charged. On the observation of WhatsApp chats and documents in the case, it was prima facie found that, from 2019 to 2020, Shukla and Tuteja allegedly misused their respective positions and gave undue advantage to then Advocate General Verma, with the intention that he could be motivated to perform public duty in an improper manner, the FIR said. The two officers in connivance with Verma allegedly engaged in criminal conspiracy by making changes to procedural and departmental documents and information related to the EOW. They tried to get the replies, to be submitted in the Chhattisgarh High Court in the case registered against them, prepared in their favour, in order to obtain the benefit of anticipatory bail in the ACB/EOW case and also to get the same benefit in ED's case, it alleged. They along with then senior officials of EOW also allegedly pressured witnesses in the case to change their statements, the FIR said. The alleged scam was exposed in February 2015 when the ACB/EOW conducted simultaneous raids at 25 premises of the Civil Supplies Corporation (commonly known as NAN), the nodal agency for ensuring effective operation of the Public Distribution System (PDS), and its officials seized unaccounted cash totalling Rs 3.64 crore. Many of the rice and salt samples collected during the raid were tested for quality and were claimed to be sub-standard and unfit for human consumption. Later, the ACB made 18 persons accused in the case, including Tuteja and Shukla, the then state government officials. In 2019, the ED lodged an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act based on the FIR and chargesheet filed by the Chhattisgarh's ACB/EOW in the scam. In April this year, the ED arrested Tuteja in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Rs 2,000 crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh.
MP, CG to Prepare Joint Action Plan to Tackle Elephant Menace: Mohan
Bhopal : Chief minister Mohan Yadav on Monday said that Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh would prepare a joint action plan to tackle elephant menace in the two states. Mr Yadav indicated that he would discuss the issue with his Chhattisgarh counterpart Vishnu Deo Sai during his one-day visit to the neighbouring state on Monday. The chief minister has left for Raipur in the afternoon to attend the inaugural function of the three-day Rajyotsava, scheduled to be kicked off on Monday evening, to mark the 25th Chhattisgarh State Foundation Day. Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh on November 1, 2000. The state government is organizing the three-day grand event, commencing on Monday, to mark the occasion. Mr Yadav said that several herds of elephants have migrated to Madhya Pradesh from Chhattisgarh in the recent past and some of them have settled down in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR), falling in the districts of Umaria and Katni in Madhya Pradesh, in 2018 after finding the jungles suitable habitat for them. The herds are the first resident pachyderms of Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh need to deal with the issue jointly, he said. The chief minister's initiative comes in the wake of deaths of ten elephants in the BTR in Madhya Pradesh over 72 hours in the last week of October. It is a new experience for the state forest department to handle the elephant issue, he said and added that the state government is preparing a long-term plan to ensure that wild elephants become the part of Madhya Pradesh jungles and there should be peaceful cohabitation between the pachyderms and the local villagers. The state would study the best practices of other states in dealing with elephant menace and implement them in Madhya Pradesh.
Chhattisgarh State Foundation Day celebration begins at Naya Raipur
Chhattisgarh State Foundation Day, Rajyotsava 2024, celebrations (from November 4 to November 6) have begun at at the Rajyotsava venue in Naya Raipur, Atal Nagar. Government departments have set up exhibition stalls to showcase achievements and ongoing projects, with officials from all departments focused on highlighting contributions. The program was presided over by Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Vishnu Deo Sai, while Dr. Raman Singh, Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, attended as a guest. The events on November 5 will commence under the patronage of Governor Raman Deka, with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai presiding. The State Award Ceremony and the Rajyotsavas concluding event will take place on November 6, with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, Governor Raman Deka will preside, and both Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh will attend as guests. Over the three-day celebration, Deputy Chief Ministers Arun Sao and Vijay Sharma, Ministers Ramvichar Netam, Dayal Das Baghel, Kedar Kashyap, Lakhanlal Dewangan, Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, OP Choudhary, Laxmi Rajwade, Tankaram Verma, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant, Member of Parliament Brijmohan Agrawal, along with MLAs including Rajesh Munat, Purandar Mishra, Motilal Sahu, Anuj Sharma, Guru Khushwant Saheb, Indra Kumar Sahu, and other representatives will participate as guests. Artists will perform during Rajyotsava. The cultural programs will commence at 4:30 p.m. on November 4, with playback singer Shantanu Mukherjee scheduled to perform at 7:45 p.m. Prior to this, there will be performances by Rikhi Kshatriyas team, presenting folk dances; Mohan Chauhan and teams Adivindam; dance and music by Sunil Soni and team; and Naam Ramayan by Vidya Varchasvi. On November 5, starting at 5 p.m., the program will feature Sanskritik Leher Ganga by Shri Puranik Sahu, folk tunes by Surendra Sahu, Bhola Yadav, and team; The Moonlight Raga by Mohan Naidu and team; and performances by Rajesh Awasthi, Aru Sahu, and Neeti Mohan. The final day, November 6, will include Anurag Star Night by Anurag Sharma, a Mallakhamb act by Manoj Prasad, Magic Bastar by Savi Srivastava, and a musical performance by Pawan Deep and Arunita. Throughout the event, the Government of Chhattisgarh will organise an exhibition at the Rajyotsava venue. A Craft Village will be set up to display and sell a variety of handicrafts. Domes have been constructed at the venue for the exhibitions: Dome-1 and Dome-2 will feature government department stalls, Dome-3 will showcase commercial enterprises, and Dome-4 will host public sector institutions. Shilp Gram, Food Court, and Meena Bazaar are expected to be attractions for attendees at Rajyotsava. ( This is a release from the State government of Chattisgarh and TNIE hasn't verified it for the facts and accuracy of the content )
While talking to the press reporters in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Bageshwar Dham said that Hindus must unite and fight for Sanatan Dharma.
Chhattisgarh to Celebrate State Foundation Day with Three-Day Rajyotsava Festivities
Raipur: A three-day Rajyotsava is set to kick off here on Monday to mark the Chhattisgarh State Foundation Day. Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh on November one, 2000. The state government has decided to hold a three-day Rajyotsava from Monday to mark the occasion. The Rajyotsava venue has been decked up with colourful stages and arches for the purpose. Various state government departments have set up exhibition stalls to showcase achievements and the ongoing projects of the government. The grand event will be unveiled by chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai at the Rajyotsava venue in Atal Nagar in Nava Raipur on Monday afternoon. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav is scheduled to grace the occasion as chief guest, a spokesman of the state government said on Sunday. Vice-president Jagdeep Dhankhar is scheduled to attend the closing ceremony of the event on November six. Renowned artists drawn from various parts of the country will enthrall the audience with their captivating performances during the Rajyotsava. Bollywood playback singer Shantanu Mukherjee will give a performance during the event. Renowned folk artists and classical dancers will also give their performances on the occasion. Throughout the event, the Chhattisgarh government will organize a grand and visually appealing exhibition at the Rajyotsava venue. A craft village will be set up to display and sell varieties of Chhattisgarhs handicrafts. Shilp Gram, Food Court, and Meena Bazar are expected to be major attractions at the function. Large domes have been constructed at the venue to hold exhibitions.
Chhattisgarh: 2 jawans injured in Maoist attack in Bastar, weapons looted
Raipur: Two security personnel were on Sunday injured when a small action team (SAT) of Maoists attacked them with sharp weapons in a tribal weekly market in Jagargunda under Sukma district in south Bastar in Chhattisgarh. The attack by the Maoists, who were in civil dress, came when the two Chhattisgarh policemen were keeping vigil on movements of suspected Naxals in the Jagargunda weekly market, which functions only on a Sunday, a senior district police officer said. The SAT, considered the hitmen of Maoists comprising four-five members, fled the spot along with the service rifles of the two cops after committing the crime, the police officer said. The injured police constables have been identified as Kartam Deva and Sodhi Kanna. They were rushed to the nearby hospital and later airlifted to Raipur for admission in a specialized private hospital. The two police constables were posted in the Jagargunda police station and they were deployed in security duty in the weekly market on Sunday when the incident took place. The development is viewed with significance by the security establishment here since the Maoists seemed to have revived their old guerrilla warfare strategy of targeting security forces with their SATs, which proved very effective, sources said. The Maoists have revived the tactic of targeting security personnel in weekly markets in remote areas in Bastar with their SATs almost after one and half years, sources said. Maoists have suffered major reverses at the hand of security forces in recent times particularly in Abujhmad area in south Bastar which shattered morale of their cadres. The revival of the old tactics by Maoists to target security personnel with SATs in weekly markets in remote areas in Bastar is a ploy by them to boost sagging morale of their cadres, N Mishra, considered an expert in the Leftwing extremism in Bastar, told this newspaper.
Naxalites attack two cops, escape with AK-47, SLR in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
SUKMA: Two police constables in Chhattisgarh were injured on Sunday morning when Naxalites, disguised as civilians, attacked them with sharp weapons at a weekly market in the insurgency-affected Sukma district, an official reported. The incident occurred while the police personnel were on security duty at the market in Jagargunda village. Following the assault, the attackers escaped with the service rifles of the constablesan AK-47 and a Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), according to the official. The attack was carried out by a small action team of Naxalites, typically comprising four to five cadres. The two injured constables have been identified as Kattam Deva and Sodhi Kanna, the official said. Other security personnel deployed in the area immediately launched a search operation for the attackers, the official added. The injured constables, both stationed at Jagargunda police station, were initially taken to a local hospital. They were later airlifted to Raipur, where they have been admitted to a private hospital in the state capital. A doctor treating them confirmed that both officers are out of danger. The Naxalites, dressed in civilian attire, have previously targeted security forces at weekly markets in the Bastar division, which includes seven districts, among them Sukma. Naxalites kill man on suspicion of being police informant in Chhattisgarh
Naxalites attack 2 cops, flee with their weapons in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
Two Chhattisgarh Police constables were injured during an attack by Naxalites disguised as civilians at a weekly market in Sukma district. The assailants used sharp weapons and stole their service rifles. The injured officers were initially treated locally before being airlifted to Raipur for further medical attention. Security forces are actively searching for the attackers.
Two jawans seriously injured in Maoist attack in Chhatisgarh's Sukma
RAIPUR: Two jawans were seriously injured in a Maoist attack at the Haat bazar- the weekly market in Jagargunda of Sukma district on Sunday. The attack was carried out by the banned outfit CPI (Maoists) with sharp-edge weapons leading to a chaotic situation here, the Bastar police stated. In a surprise attack, two security personnel sustained serious injuries and have been admitted to the hospital for immediate medical attention. They are currently out of danger. The area has been cordoned off by security forces, and an intensive search operation has been launched in the region, a police officer said. Sukma remains one of the most Maoist-affected districts in the conflict-ridden Bastar zone and has witnessed a series of encounters against the left-wing extremists this year. This year, so far, 17 security personnel have been killed and 38 jawans injured in the conflict-ridden Bastar zone, according to official data shared by the Bastar police with the New Indian Express.
President Murmus recent address at the AIIMS Raipur highlighted a pivotal shift in Indias healthcare landscape-the role of modern technologies in transforming medical services, especially for underserved populations in remote areas. The emphasis has to be on the use of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics in the healthcare sector. Such tools can bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access, creating a more inclusive healthcare system. The reality for millions in rural India today is that [] The post Technology for Healthcare appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The real '12th Fail' Manoj Kumar Sharma IPS leaves students spellbound in Raipur
RAIPUR: There were students who might have not heard about the struggle and mental toughness that led Manoj Sharma who failed in the Class 12th examination to make his mark as an IPS officer. But many in Raipur were much excited to find the IPS officer of 2005-batch among them when he recently made a surprise visit to prominent libraries and smart reading rooms here. Sharma, often singled out with a tag 12th Fail , is cited as a real-life hero who believed that those not putting up a resolute brave fight to counter the challenges in life may end up as losers. He turned his failure as a stepping stroke towards success, went on with sheer grit and determination to do remarkably well in the UPSC civil services exams, one of the toughest competitive tests in the country and became an IPS officer. The success brought him acclaimed recognition and interestingly a movie 12th Fail was made on the IPS officer by a noted film director and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra. Students in Raipur felt inspired by the success profile of Sharma,who began his career joining Mumbai police as additional commissioner. He is presently an IG in the Central Industrial Security Force on deputation and was in Chhattisgarh during his official trip. Raipur collector Gaurav Singh, who is seen as a motivational speaker, seized hold of the occasion of Sharma's trip to get him to interact with the students in renowned libraries hereNalanda parisar, Kala Kendra, Takshashila smart reading rooms, where hundreds of aspirants are routinely seen preparing for various competitive examinations. The IPS officer couldn't conceal his delight at finding outstanding libraries where so many students spend time and work hard together. In response to a query from students about the increasing difficulty of competing in tough examinations, Sharma responded by suggesting that students can intelligently reorient themselves to develop their own pragmatic paths to success. We didnt have access to the excellent libraries and other facilities available today for students to prepare for their futures and careers, he remarked, according to those who met with him.
Confiscated cannabis converted into biomass for power in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Its often seen that investigating agencies set seized marijuana (cannabis) ablaze in the open to destroy it. It is a part of the agencies operations and procedures. However, in the Chhattisgarh capital Raipur, the police have found a novel way to turn massive amounts of confiscated cannabis (locally cited as ganja), worth several crores of rupees, into productive use in an eco-friendly way. Several tons of marijuana confiscated in thousands of cases under the NDPS Act in recent months across various districts of the Raipur Division were eliminated by being burnt in a power plant boiler, in accordance with the given legal provisions. The Raipur Division includes the districts of Mahasamund, Baloda Bazar, Gariyaband, Dhamtari and the capital, Raipur. Besides cannabis, other seized narcotic substances and drugs were also destroyed. The finishing action was carried out in the presence of the high-powered drug disposal committee constituted by the police headquarters, under the guidance of Raipur Range Inspector General Amresh Mishra, and paved the way to facilitate freedom from drug abuse in society. The destruction process, for which the approval from the environment department was also taken, was carried out amid the presence of the Raipur IG, SSP and other officials at the Siltara-based private power plant close to the state capital. The environment-friendly and productive practice of disposing of confiscated cannabis and other narcotic substances will continue, said Mishra. The seized cannabis were collected at the plant, where, after segregation, the narcotic materials were kneaded into a boiler through bucket elevators for direct combustion of biomass. With the marijuana being produced from the cannabis herbaceous flowering plant, experts cited it as good byproduct biomass to generate electricity. The open burning of cannabis poses serious threats to air quality. Usually, for generating 10 MW of power, around 20 tons of biomass is required. The boiler in the plant produces high-pressure steam, which, through the turbine blades, drives a generator to produce electricity, said officials of the power plant. The initiative can be replicated to achieve a similar result in other areas too.
Maoists jugaad BGL, a potent weapon in Naxal weaponry
Raipur : The jugaad barrel grenade launcher (BGL), developed in Maoists arms factory, is considered a potent weapon in the Naxal weaponry that bothered the security forces, counterinsurgency experts say. The desi BGL was developed in the Naxals arms factory around two decades ago and is being improvised continuously to make it the most effective weapon in the guerrilla warfare against security forces in the jungles. The jugaad BGL is one of the best weapons developed by the Naxals considering its effectiveness in guerrilla warfare against the security forces as well as the lack of sophistication in its production. A lathe machine, cutter, and welding equipment and iron plates are needed to make the weapon anywhere, Dr Girish Kant Pandey, Head of the Department of Defence Studies in the Government PG College of Science, Raipur, told this newspaper on Wednesday. Its cost of production is also very cheap, Dr Pandey, who has done PhD on Leftwing extremism in Bastar in Chhattisgarh said. Bastar range inspector general of police P Sunderraj disclosed to this newspaper that the desi BGL was developed by Maoists around 18 years ago and is being improvised continuously. It is a 'bore kind' of weapon, he said. Maoists upgrade the normal rifle or a muzzle loading gun to develop them into a jugaad BGL by mounting an iron pipe in them through the welding process. Maoists also use crude methods to make detonators for the BGL with the help of stainless steel and cortex wire. But, the success rate of detonation of shells fired from the jugaad BGL of Maoists is as low as 40 percent. The shells explode only when they hit a hard surface, Mr Sunderraj said. The Maoist-developed BGL has a range of 250-300 meters whereas a sophisticated under barrel grenade launcher (UBGL) in possession of security forces has a range of around 600 meters, according to him. Still Maoist-developed BGL is a potent weapon in Naxal weaponry, he added. According to him, only one security man was killed in the BGL attack by Maoists so far in Bastar. A jawan was killed in the BGL attack by Maoists at Tekalgudem in Sukma district in south Bastar in 2022. The BGL attacks by Maoists mostly caused injuries to the jawans. Security forces have so far recovered around 15 BGLs and 500 detonators in different encounters and raids in Maoists camps so far in Bastar.
ED raids in 15 locations linked to IAS officer in liquor scam case in Chhattisgarh
RANCHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided at least 15 premises linked to IAS officer Vinay Kumar Choubey, joint excise commissioner Gajendra Singh and a number of liquor businessmen as part of a money laundering investigation into an alleged excise scam in poll-bound Jharkhand. Officials said the searches are being undertaken at the premises in Ranchi and Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, after a criminal case was recently registered by the Jharkhand zonal office of the federal probe agency under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED took cognisance of a September 7 FIR filed by the anti-corruption bureau (ACB) and the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Chhattisgarh police at Raipur against seven people, including Chaubey, for allegedly causing a huge loss to the exchequer and altering the states liquor policy. Vikas Kumar of Ranchi had lodged a complaint with ED following which the FIR was lodged in Raipur. It was stated in the application that the entire conspiracy of the liquor scam was hatched in Raipur by making changes in the excise policy. The ED conducted the raids after the Supreme Court rejected Gajendra Singhs petition to quash the FIR. Chaubey, who previously served as secretary to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, also held the post of secretary in the excise and urban development departments. Choubey, however, was shunted to the panchayati raj department after Soren resigned following his arrest in the land scam. The ED has already interrogated both the officers in the context of their alleged involvement in the liquor scam. The central agency had conducted raids at 32 locations in Ranchi, Deoghar, Dumka and Kolkata on August 23, 2023. The ED had also searched the premises of state finance minister Rameshwar Oraon, his son Rohit Oraon, liquor businessman Yogendra Tiwari and 32 others. Yogendra was arrested after the raids. Plan hatched in Raipur It was stated in the application that the entire conspiracy of the liquor scam was hatched in Raipur by making changes in the excise policy. The ED conducted the raids after the Supreme Court rejected Gajendra Singhs petition to quash the FIR. Chaubey, who previously served as secretary to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, also held the post of secretary in the excise and urban development departments
PM Modi launches projects worth Rs 12,850 cr, extends Ayushman Bharat for all over 70 yrs
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched development projects worth nearly Rs 12,850 crore and extended his government's flagship health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above. The major push in the health sector was unveiled on the occasion of the ninth Ayurveda Day and the birth anniversary of Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine. Modi also inaugurated phase II of India's first All India Institute of Ayurveda in the national capital which includes a Panchakarma hospital, an Ayurvedic pharmacy for drug manufacturing, a sports medicine unit, a central library, an IT and startup incubation centre, and a 500-seat auditorium among others. In an innovative usage of drone technology to enhance service delivery and make healthcare more accessible, Modi launched drone services at 11 tertiary healthcare institutions. These are AIIMS-Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, AIIMS-Bibinagar in Telangana, AIIMS-Guwahati in Assam, AIIMS-Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, AIIMS-Jodhpur in Rajasthan, AIIMS-Patna in Bihar, AIIMS-Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh, AIIMS-Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh, AIIMS-Raipur in Chhattisgarh, AIIMS-Mangalagiri in Andhra Pradesh and RIMS-Imphal in Manipur. The prime minister also launched a helicopter emergency medical service from AIIMS Rishikesh, which will help deliver medical care speedily. Modi launched a U-WIN portal that seeks to benefit pregnant women and infants by fully digitising the vaccination process. It will ensure timely administration of life-saving vaccines to pregnant women and children (from birth to 16 years) against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. Further, the prime minister launched a portal for allied and healthcare professionals and institutes. It will act as a centralised database of existing healthcare professionals and institutes. Modi also inaugurated three medical colleges at Mandsaur, Neemuch and Seoni in Madhya Pradesh, besides facility and service extensions at various AIIMS -- Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh, Kalyani in West Bengal, Patna in Bihar, Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, Guwahati in Assam and in New Delhi, which also include a Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Modi also inaugurated a Super Speciality Block in Government Medical College at Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh and a Critical Care Block in Bargarh, Odisha. The prime minister laid the foundation stones of five nursing colleges in Shivpuri, Ratlam, Khandwa, Rajgarh and Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh, 21 critical care blocks at Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Manipur, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, and several facilities and service extensions at AIIMS in New Delhi and Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur. Among other projects, Modi inaugurated an ESIC hospital at Indore in Madhya Pradesh and laid the foundation stone for such hospitals at Faridabad in Haryana, Bommasandra and Narasapur in Karnataka, Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, and Atchutapuram in Andhra Pradesh. These projects are expected to bring healthcare benefits to around 55 lakh ESI beneficiaries. The other projects whose foundation stones were laid include a central research institute in yoga and naturopathy at Khordha in Odisha and Raipur in Chhattisgarh, centres of excellence at NIPER-Ahmedabad for medical devices, at NIPER-Hyderabad for bulk drugs, NIPER-Guwahati for phytopharmaceuticals, and NIPER-Mohali for anti-bacterial anti-viral drug discovery and development. In a major boost to the Make in India initiative in the healthcare sector, the prime minister also inaugurated five projects under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for medical devices and bulk drugs at Vapi in Gujarat, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh and Nalagarh in Himachal Pradesh. These units will manufacture high-end medical devices, such as body implants and critical care equipment, along with important bulk drugs.
Serial rapist out on parole rapes daughter, niece
Raipur: In the Koriya district of north Chhattisgarh, a 36-year-old rape prisoner who was on parole raped his 11-year-old daughter and 12-year-old niece. According to police, the accused has a history of rapes. According to the daughter, he sexually assaulted her at home on October 19 and threatened to punish her severely if she told anyone. Koriya SP Suraj Singh Parihar claimed that on October 21, the accused took his niece to the forest under the guise of gathering firewood and then sexually assaulted her. And he threatened her. Despite confiding in one another, the two cousins were so terrified that they dared not approach the authorities. On Saturday, they finally plucked up the guts to confront the police. Police said that there are reports of horrific sexual attacks by the convict following which he faces charges under the BNS and Pocso Act. Police sent out several teams to pursue the serial rapist after realising they needed to bring him back in jail as soon as possible. The defendant was taken to court and imprisoned. He was previously incarcerated for a vicious rape at Ambikapur Jall.
