Senior Maoist leader Sudhakar killed in Bijapur encounter
RAIPUR: A senior maoist commander who was a Central Committee Member (CCM) was killed in an encounter in the National park area of Bijapur on Thursday. The deceased has been identified as Narasimha Chalam alias Sudhakar, 67, in-charge of the Maoist ideological training school (RePOS). An AK -47 rifle was recovered beside his body. Sudhakar's death came just a week after the elimination of CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Basavaraju on May 21. Speaking to TNIE, P Sunderraj, Inspector General of police (Bastar range) said, Acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of senior Maoist leaders and cadres in the region, a joint team comprising personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) launched targeted operation on June 5 inside the remote forest of Indravati National Park. During the operation, security forces engaged in an encounter, resulting in the death of Sudhakar. The IG added that reliable intelligence inputs had indicated the presence of Gautam alias Sudhakar, along with Telangana State Committee member Bandi Prakash, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee member Pappa Rao, and several other armed Maoist cadres in the area. Chhattisgarh police cited the death of Sudhakar as a major blow to the Maoist leadership, particularly in the Dandakaranya region of the state adjoining Telangana, Odisha and Maharashtra. So far this year, security forces have recovered the bodies of 186 Maoist cadres in the Bastar region, which spans seven districts in south Chhattisgarh. According to a press release issued by the Bastar police, it is believed that other Maoist cadres may have fled the encounter site. Further details, including the exact number of casualties and recoveries, will be shared once the operation is complete. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reaffirmed the BJP government's commitment to meeting the March 31, 2026 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate the Maoist threat from the region.
Greener side of Bastar as forest cover increases
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarhs Bastar region, in recent years, has been making headlines for Maoist-related campaigns involving security forces. At the same time, the extensive area has also witnessed the Chhattisgarh forest departments diligent engagement in achieving a remarkable feat of improving the forest cover density, reinforcing the regions reputation as a thriving green landscape. The India State of Forest Report (ISFR), published by the Forest Survey of India in Dehradun, reflects the results of these consistent efforts, including the utilisation of a satellite-based sensor with a spatial resolution of 23.5 metres. The report highlighted a significant enhancement in forest cover across multiple regions of the Bastar zonean area larger than the state of Kerala and boasting several tourist attractions and sightseeing spots. With the acknowledged commitment to sustainable forest management and associated conservation initiatives in recent years, the forest department has undertaken various measures to enhance forest cover, thereby strengthening the green footprint. The progress in forest cover density is attributed to multiple factors, including continuous monitoring by the forest department, an effective soil and water conservation programme, removal of invasive weed species and community-led afforestation initiatives, as well as the deep-rooted environmental ethos of Bastars tribal communities. The inspired vision of the Chhattisgarh government gave a boost to the state forest departments proactive and scientific approach that yielded impressive conservation results. The ISFR 2023 data reaffirms the states commitment to sustainable forest where strategic interventions and active community participation has yielded a major boost on augmenting the forest cover, V Sreenivasa Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, told this newspaper. Several areas in Bastar have shown an upward transition in forest classification. Notable improvements are seen in Jagdalpur Circle covering forest divisions of Bastar, Bijapur, Sukma and Dantewada and Kanker Circle that includes Keshkal, Bhanupratapur, south Kondagaon and Narayanpur forest divisions, a senior officer elucidated quoting the ISFR report. The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis confirmed that approximately 152 sq km of forest area have transitioned from Moderate Dense Forest to Very Dense Forest. Additionally, 93 sq km of land have improved from non-forest to open forest, while 156 sq km have progressed from open forest to moderate dense forest.
Another Racehorse Dies In Raipura stable
The horse, identified by its new tag 894, in the Raipura stud firm died on Tuesday evening following a paralytic stroke: Dr Prafulla Moon
A tragic accident occurred on the Bilaspur-Raipur highway when a speeding Innova, driven by Akash Chandani, crashed after he recklessly opened the door to spit gutkha. The vehicle flipped multiple times, resulting in the death of Jackie Gehi and critical injuries to Akash and Pankaj Chhabra. The incident was captured on CCTV, prompting a police investigation.
The Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board, Raipur (CG Vyapam) has officially released the CG Vyapam SET Result 2025 for the State Eligibility Test (SET) 2024 on 03-06-2025, and candidates who appeared for the exam held on 21-07-2024 can now check and download their results by entering their roll number and date of birth on the official website vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in.
Raipur village fights eviction for MLA colony
Villagers allege land is being cleared for MLA colony; authorities cite encroachment on government land
Allahabad HC declares arrest of two accused in Chhattisgarh liquor scam as 'illegal'
LUCKNOW: In a major ruling, Allahabad High Court declared that the arrest of Anwar Dhebar, a Chhattisgarh-based businessman and brother of former Raipur mayor and former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, both accused in a money laundering case of Rs 2000 crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam, as illegal. A division bench, comprising Justice Siddharth Varma and Justice Madan Pal Singh, granted bail to Dhebar in connection with the FIR lodged against him in Meerut. The bench noted that the arrest memos did not have any column for the ground on which the petitioner was arrested, nor was given the reason for arrest. The court in its order stated that here being a definite non-compliance of the mandate of Section 50 of the CrPC and Article 22(1) of the Constitution of India, we are of the view that the arrest of the petitioner be declared illegal and all subsequent arrest memos be quashed and also the remand orders be set aside, said the bench. In connection with the chain of events related to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, an FIR was lodged against Dhebar in Uttar Pradesh under sections 420, 468, 471, 473, 484 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code on July 30, 2023. Almost 11 months later, on June 18, 2024, Dhebar, who had been granted bail by the Chhattisgarh High Court, was again arrested by UP police just 20 minutes after his release in Raipur. Following the arrest, the Investigation Officer (IO) applied for a transit remand under Section 167 of CrPC before the magistrate at Raipur and it was granted for 48 hours. Subsequently, Dhebar was produced before the special judge (Prevention of Corruption Act) of Meerut, who remanded him to judicial custody until July 1, 2024. Finally, Dhebar moved Allahabad High Court and his plea was clubbed with the petition filed by the other accused ex-IAS officer Anil Tuteja who was arrested separately in the connection with the same case. As both the petitions sought the court to declare their arrest illegal, they were heard together by the court. On the other hand, the Additional Advocate General for the state submitted that since there was a memo of arrest and the son of the petitioner Dhebar had been informed about the arrest, the arrest could not be held illegal as the reason for it was known to the petitioner. The bench however was not satisfied with the Additional Advocate General's contention, and it stated that neither in the memos of arrest nor in the information given to Dhebar's son or in the remand orders were given the ground of arrest communicated to the petitioners. Furthermore, the court also observed that the petitioners were given no opportunity of hearing to oppose the custodial remand. The court concluded that the petitioners were never furnished the grounds of arrest as mandated under Section 50 of CrPC. Declaring their arrests illegal, the court refused to interfere with the charge-sheet submitted by the investigation officer. The Court, however, clarified that the proceedings following law as per the charge-sheet may continue in the case.
Raipur Diary: RSS invites Bastar tribal leader to Nagpur event
RSS invites Bastar tribal leader to Nagpur event Arvind Netam, a veteran tribal leader from Bastar and former Union Minister, has been invited to a national-level function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at its headquarters in Nagpur on June 5, leading political analysts to speculate if the move is a form of tribal outreach by the saffron organisation. Though Netam parted ways with the Congress party in August 2023 in protest against the Bhupesh Baghel-led state government of the day, he has remained vocal about issues confronting the tribal community. It remains to be seen if the invitation is an attempt to court him and persuade him to join the BJP. 295 cops promoted for helping combat Maoists As many as 295 police personnel in Chhattisgarh have been promoted out of turn for showing bravery in combating Maoists. The state director general of police, AD Gautam, recognised their valour and determination during the operations. Among those elevated are low- as well as middle-rank officials from the district police, special task force and intelligence units. As many as 206 constables will now take charge as head constables, and 37 head constables will take on the role of assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs). Further, 15 ASIs have been made sub-inspectors (SIs), and 16 SIs are inspectors now. 3 babus accused in coal levy scam walk out of jail Three bureaucrats, including two suspended IAS officers, and three others accused in the Chhattisgarh coal levy scam were recently granted interim bail by the Supreme Court. IAS Ranu Sahu and Sameer Vishnoi as well as Saumya Chaurasia who served as Deputy Secretary to CM Bhupesh Baghel and others walked out of the Raipur Central Jail following the apex court relief. They were arrested by the ED in the money laundering case around two years ago, wherein a syndicate of government servants and private persons were accused of illegally levying money for the movement of coal. Two others accused in the case remain in judicial custody. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
16 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district
RAIPUR: Sixteen Maoist cadres, including two active members of Peoples' Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) company, surrendered in Sukma district, about 450 km south of Raipur on Monday. According to the police, six of the surrendered rebels were carrying a collective reward of Rs 25 lakh. With this, as many as 571 Maoists have surrendered so far in 2025 in Chhattisgarh's Bastar. Interestingly, nine out of the 16 cadres belonging to Kerlapenda village panchayat falling under the Chintalnar police station limits. Police sources said these villagers were notably influenced by the Chhattisgarh government's latest initiative that incentivises Maoist-free panchayats. Under the scheme, if any panchayat in the Naxal-affected area becomes Maoist-free, it will become entitled to get Rs 1 crore grant for local development works. According to the Sukma district police chief, all 16 cadres, including a woman cadre, surrendered before senior police and CRPF officials expressing their frustration with the hollow and anti-people ideology of the left-wing extremists. Among the notable names was Rita alias Dodi Sukki, an active member of the Central Regional Committees PLGA company no. 2, and Rahul Punem, a party member in PLGA battalion no. 1. Both carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh each, the SP said. The district police chief further noted that many of the surrendered rebels were inspired by the states Niyad Nellanar (Your Own Good Village) campaign, which not only promotes development in remote and conflict-hit areas but also strengthens the states broader surrender and rehabilitation policy. While part of the states formal Maoist Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy-2025, the Niyad Nellanar scheme has introduced a more targeted approach, leveraging local aspirations and infrastructure support to win over disillusioned Maoists. In several instances, the Chhattisgarh Police and central paramilitary forces have collaborated to engage with cadres and even senior Maoist leaders, urging them to abandon violence and rejoin mainstream society.
Real Estate Developers Face Rs 10 Lakh Penalty for Not Registering Project with JKRERA
JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JKRERA) has imposed a penalty of Rs 10 lakh on real estate developers for failing to register their ongoing project at Sang Talab, Raipur Domana, with the Authority. This penalty was imposed for violation of Section 3(1) of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. [] The post Real Estate Developers Face Rs 10 Lakh Penalty for Not Registering Project with JKRERA appeared first on Kashmir Life .
JKRERA Imposes Rs. 10 Lakh Penalty On Erring Real Estate Developers
JAMMU, Jun 2: The Jammu and Kashmir Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JKRERA) has imposed a penalty of 10,00,000 (Rupees Ten Lakhs only) on real estate developers for failing to register their ongoing real estate project located at Sang Talab, Raipur Domana, with the Authority. The penalty of Rs. 10 lakh has been imposed for violation of Section 3 (1) of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act 2016. The Authority took suo-motu cognizance of the violation and initiated proceedings under [] The post JKRERA Imposes Rs. 10 Lakh Penalty On Erring Real Estate Developers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
RAIPUR: Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) president Chirag Paswan on Monday said he will definitely contest the upcoming Bihar polls if his candidature consolidates his party's position and strike rate. He also said there is no vacancy for the post of chief minister of the eastern state as incumbent Nitish Kumar will continue to lead post the polls, likely to be held in October-November this year. Paswan was talking to reporters at Swami Vivekananda Airport here on his arrival to attend an event of a regional news channel. When asked about his contesting Bihar assembly elections, Paswan said, I have already said that I don't see myself in the politics of the Centre for a longer period. The reason for my entry into politics is Bihar and Biharis (people of Bihar). I have my own vision - Bihar First, Bihari First. In such a situation, I want my state Bihar to stand at par with developed states. After becoming an MP for the third time, I realised that it may not be possible (to work for Bihar) by staying in Delhi, he asserted, adding that he had told his party that he wished to return to Bihar (politics) soon. Paswan said several parties benefitted when their national leaders have fought state polls. The BJP has tried this strategy many times by fielding their MPs in the assembly elections and have got its benefit. If my move to enter the poll fray strengthens my party and consolidates its strike rate (percentage of seats won against seats fought) then I will contest. We had a 100 per cent strike rate in the Lok Sabha elections. I would like my strike rate to be just as good in the Bihar polls, he said. Asked about the chief ministerial face of the NDA for the Bihar polls, he said, There is no vacancy for the post of Bihar CM. Nitish Kumar will be on the post after the polls. The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) is likely to soon call a meeting of its executive members to formalise a proposal urging Paswan to contest the Bihar assembly elections.
IndiGo flight faces turbulence due to dust storm; pilot forced to abort landing at Delhi Airport
IndiGo flight 6E 6313, traveling from Raipur to Delhi, encountered turbulence caused by a dust storm as it approached Delhi airport. The pilot aborted the initial landing attempt and climbed to a higher altitude due to strong winds reaching 80 km/hr. After circling in the air until the weather improved, the aircraft successfully landed at Delhi airport.
ACB-EOW arrests liquor businessman in Delhi in Chhattisgarh scam probe
Bhopal: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and Economic Offences Wing (EOW) have arrested liquor businessman Vijay Bhatia from Delhi in connection with the Chhattisgarh liquor scam case. He is being transported to Raipur while authorities carried out raids at six of his properties in Durg-Bhilai (Chhattisgarh). Early in the morning, at around 6 a.m., EOW officials []
Chhattisgarh: Three Maoists with Rs 21 lakh bounty held in Sukma
Raipur: In a significant breakthrough, security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district have successfully apprehended three Maoists, each carrying a substantial bounty on their heads. The individuals, identified as Dodi Podia, aged 36, Dodi Pandu, aged 18, and Dodi Nandu, aged 28, were taken into custody by a joint team comprising personnel from the Central Reserve []
The CG Vyapam Pre Polytechnic Test (PPT) Result 2025 has been released on 29-05-2025 by the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board, Raipur (CG Vyapam), and candidates can check their results online through the officially activated link.
CG Vyapam Pre MCA Result 2025 Out at vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in How to check Results Here
The CG Vyapam Pre MCA Result 2025 has been released on 29-05-2025 by the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board, Raipur (CG Vyapam) for the Pre Master of Computer Application Examination, and candidates can now check their results online through the officially activated link at vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in.
Major Highway Police Operation: 60 Lakh in Cash Seized from Car Near Nagpur
Nagpur: In a major success, the highway police in Nagpur district seized 60 lakh in unaccounted cash from a car near Pardi (Heti) on Thursday evening. The vehicle, a Tata Harrier, was en route from Bhopal to Raipur and was found to be carrying four youthsall under the influence of alcohol. The operation was carried [] The post Major Highway Police Operation: 60 Lakh in Cash Seized from Car Near Nagpur appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
'Surrender or get eliminated like Basavaraju': Bastar top cop's warning to Maoist leaders
RAIPUR: In a stern and explicit warning, the Bastar range inspector general of police has asked top Maoist leaders to give up arms and surrender or else be prepared to face the same fate meted out to the general secretary of the CPI (Maoist) Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju. Basavaraju was among the 27 Maoists killed in Abujhmad area of Narayanpur district in south Bastar during a fierce encounter with security forces on May 21. Amid the ongoing offensive against the left-wing extremists in Bastar region, the range IG Sundarraj P stated that following the killing of the top Maoist commander Basavaraju, their leaders must now be fully aware that there remains no place safe for them anywhere in Bastar. Why Chhattisgarh police cremated bodies of Maoists killed on May 21 despite Andhra HC's directive We consistently get solid information about the locations of the top Maoist leaders and they can be eliminated anytime by security forces. They now have only one option remaining. Either surrender and join the mainstream or get killed in upcoming decisive operations by the troops. The banned Maoist organisation has begun crumbling, said Sundarraj, while issuing the warning to Maoist leaders including Ganapathy, Devji, Sonu, Hidma, Sujata, K Ramchandra Reddy, Barse Dewa and others who have reportedly gone into hiding. The Maoist organisation is facing a serious crisis of leadership and there are rifts emerging within. The death of Basavaraju, the highest-ranking Maoist leader, represents not only a severe operational blow but also a psychological setback to the already demoralised Maoist network, the IG added. The Maoist movement, once feared for its brutality, is now breathing its last, as peace and development take root across Bastar, he asserted. Over 400 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters across Bastar zone during the last 17 months.
RAIPUR: Tension prevailed at Bhatanpali after a Dalit family that got converted into Christianity dismantled a temple built by them, leading to a protest by cadres of Bajrang Dal in the outskirts of Chhattisgarh's Raigarh town. The police arrested five, including three members of the Dalit family after the incident. A senior police officer told TNIE that the Sarthi family had built the temple in 2020 on government land, though there was no idol placed inside and only the structure existed. The family accepted the Christian faith a year ago, and the temple was dismantled by a JCB machine. As the news spread, a group of Bajrang Dal cadres arrived and, claiming that their religious sentiments were hurt, attempted to reach out to a nearby church to vandalise it in retaliation, but the police intervened and prevented it, the officer said. The existing church was built on private land some 25 years ago. According to eyewitnesses, some Bajrang Dal protestors managed to enter the church, raised a saffron coloured cloth and tried to remove the cross. There was a scuffle between the activists of Bajrang Dal and the police, who asked the protestors not to take the law into their hands. We have arrested five persons including three members of the Sarthi family and an operator of a JCB machinery that was used to demolish the temple, the officer added. The locals close to Nirmal Sarthi claimed that the family was initially taken to a police station to safeguard them from the protestors, and later they were arrested by the police. The demolished temple was a 6 ft x 6ft structure built by the Sarthi family close to the entrance of their residence. The Hanuman temple didn't have any idol installed, nor did anyone ever come to worship there. A Dalit family stands victimised in the incident. While Sarthi, his two sons and Bogilal Sarthi were arrested and sent to jail, no stern action was taken against those who created disharmony and agitation in the name of religion, said Degree Prasad Chouhan, human rights activist based in Raigarh.
RANCHI: The Jharkhand government on Thursday suspended IAS officer Vinay Chaubey and Joint Excise Commissioner Gajendra Singh following their arrest in the alleged liquor scam. The suspension order, issued by the Department of Personnel, takes effect from May 20the day both officials were arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). After an interrogation for nearly six hours, the State Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) had arrested Chaubey in connection with the alleged liquor scam in Jharkhand. Singh was also arrested on the same day. Both Chaubey and Singh were taken into custody and subsequently sent to judicial custody. According to ACB officials, both officers are accused of misusing their official positions and causing significant financial losses to the state exchequer. Preliminary findings suggest irregularities in the management of excise operations, prompting a wider probe into the states liquor distribution and licensing system. As per government service rules, any official held in custody for over 48 hours is liable to be suspended from service, a provision invoked in this case. Jharkhand IAS officer Vinay Chaubey arrested by ACB in connection with alleged liquor scam In the liquor scam that took place in Chhattisgarh, it is alleged that a syndicate based in Raipur supplied liquor to Jharkhand using fake holograms in a scam of crores of rupees. Former IAS officers Anil Tuteja, AP Tripathi and businessman Anwar Dhebar, among others, have been made accused in this scam. The heat of the alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh also reached Jharkhand between 2019 and 2022, with Chaubey being named in it. He was made an accused along with Chhattisgarh officials. The case was registered by the Economic Offences Wing on the basis of the statement of by Vikas Singh, a resident of Argora police station area in Ranchi. Vikas Singh had accused Chhattisgarh officials Tuteja, Dhebar, Tripathi and others of causing a loss of revenue worth billions of rupees to the Chhattisgarh government by committing a liquor scam. Following an FIR (36/2024) registered by the Chhattisgarh Economic Offences Wing, the ACB Ranchi also registered a preliminary investigation. During the investigation, the ACB questioned former Excise Secretary Choubey and Singh multiple times. Based on information obtained during the initial questioning, the ACB registered a regular FIR related to the liquor scam with government approval. After completing the investigation of the FIR registered in Chhattisgarh in March 2025, the Economic Offences Wing wrote to the Jharkhand government, requesting sanction for prosecution against Choubey and Singh.
PRSU B.A 2nd Year Result 2025 Released at prsu.ac.in Direct Link to Download UG Courses Result
PRSU Result 2025 is out! Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University Raipur (PRSU) has released the 2025 results for various UG and PG courses on its official website, and students can check their results now via the official website using the direct link and instructions provided below.
Modi Naturals Announces Stellar Growth of 66% for FY25 Financial Results
Established in 1974 and headquartered in New Delhi, MNL is listed on the BSE. We operate 4 factories in India located at Pilibhit, Raipur, Sonipat and Hyderabad.
IIM Raipur Research Associate Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online for 01 Posts
Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM Raipur) has released a notification for the recruitment of 01 Research Associate post, and interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIM Raipur website by 08-06-2025, with this article providing details such as eligibility criteria, age limit, salary structure, selection process, application steps, and direct links to the official notification and online application form.
PRSU Result 2025 Released at prsu.ac.in Direct Link to Download UG Course Result
PRSU Result 2025 is out! Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University Raipur (PRSU) has released the 2025 results for various UG and PG courses on its official website, and students can check their results now via the official website using the direct link and instructions provided below.
Ranchi Diary | Birsa zoo eyes lion pair from Chhattisgarh
Wildlife lovers rejoice! Raipurs Nandanvan Jungle Safari and Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park have struck a major deal for animal exchange. As part of the swap, the Birsa zoo will receive a pair of lions, while Nandanvan will welcome a pair each of porcupines, hyenas and gharials. According to officials privy to the matter, the Central Zoo Authority has given the green light to the agreement. If everything goes as planned, a lion and a lioness will be shifted to the Birsa zoo as early as the first week of July. Currently, the Birsa zoo is home to just one lion, Shashank. Though a pair of lions was brought in from Shankar Bagh zoo in August 2019, they later died. JMM looks to expand footprint in urban areas Traditionally backed by tribal and rural voters, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is now shifting its attention towards urban constituencies. According to party sources, the JMM is strategically targeting city wards. Government schemes such as the CM School of Excellence, Ambedkar libraries and urban slum welfare programmes have been designed with urban beneficiaries in mind, they said. A series of infrastructure projects, like flyovers and enhanced public transport, are also said to be a part of the JMMs strategy to woo the urban voters. The party seeks to strike a balance and expand its footprint in cities. Girls outperform boys in Class X JAC board exams The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) recently announced the results for the Class X board examinations. This year, the pass percentage stands at a remarkable 91.71%, reflecting a strong overall performance. Once again, girls managed to outshine boys with a higher pass percentage. But thats not all. The topper is also a girl, Geetanjali of Hazaribagh Indira Gandhi Balika High School. She secured an impressive 98.60% in the exams. Further, of the 14 students who have bagged the top five positions, 12 are girls. And all of them except for one are from the same Hazaribagh high school. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
Chhattisgarh EOW files charge-sheet against ex-CM deputy secretary, former collector in DMF scam
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh State Bureau for Investigation of Economic Offences (EOW) on Tuesday filed a 6,000-page charge-sheet before the Special Court (Anti-Corruption), Raipur, against Saumya Chaurasia, former deputy secretary to ex-Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel; the then Korba collector, Ranu Sahu; and several others in connection with the multi-crore District Mineral Fund (DMF) scam. Besides Chaurasia and Sahu, businessman Suryakant Tiwari, Maya Varriar, Manoj Dwivedi, Bhuneswar Singh Raj, Barosa Ram Thakur and Virendra Rathore have also been named in the charge-sheet. They have been accused of direct involvement in corruption and financial embezzlement by manipulating the tender process to benefit favoured proprietors and suppliers. They allegedly collected illegal commissions amounting to around Rs 75 crore in the DMF scam in Korba district. According to investigators, these substantial bribes were paid in exchange for securing DMF tenders. The state EOW stated that an FIR had been registered against all the accused under Sections 7 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, in addition to Sections 120-B, 420, 467, 468 and 491 of the Indian Penal Code. The accused named in the charge-sheet are currently lodged in Raipur Central Jail under judicial remand. Chaurasia, during her tenure as a deputy secretary in the then Chief Ministers Office, allegedly misused her official position and exercised undue administrative influence to facilitate the receipt of illegal commissions in return for awarding DMF tenders in Korba. In May this year, the Chhattisgarh High Court rejected the bail plea of the accused in the DMF scam.
Cops step up vigil on Maoists; Naxal statement says surrendered cadres aided in May 21 gunfight
RAIPUR: Police and intelligence agencies have been keeping a close watch on activities of Maoist cadres and their overground supporters following the last week's killing of their top leader Basavaraju in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, officials said on Monday. In a statement attributed to Maoists and shared nearly a week after the encounter, the Naxals have admitted that a total of 28 cadres, including Basavaraju, were killed in the gun-battle. In one of the biggest strikes on Naxalites, security forces gunned down Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, general secretary of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist), and 26 other cadres during a fierce encounter in forests of Abhujmad along Bijapur-Narayanpur inter-district border on May 21. Two jawans of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of state police were also killed during the gunfight. In the statement dated May 25, shared on social media on Monday, Maoists claimed some cadres active in the unit of Basavaraju recently surrendered before police and helped security forces in the operation, resulting in the death of the septuagenarian Naxal leader. The three-page statement was issued in the name of Vikalp, a spokesperson of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), which had been instrumental in executing several deadly attacks on security forces in south Bastar. The Maoists, in the statement said, there were 35 cadres, including Basavaraju, who were engaged in the encounter with security personnel on May 21 and of them, 28 were killed while seven others managed to escape. Police had recovered the bodies of 27 Naxalites. The body of a cadre, Nilesh, was found by Maoists, the statement said. The police intelligence was already aware of the presence of the party's (CPI-Maoist) general secretary BR Dada in Abhujmad. In the last 6 months, some people from different units active in the Maad area surrendered before police and became traitors. Police kept receiving our confidential information from these surrendered cadres. Two major operations were conducted (by security forces) in January and March targeting Basavaraju, but they were not successful, it said. After these operations, in the last one-and-a-half months, six people from the unit belonging to Basavaraju surrendered before police. A company party committee member (CYPCM), who was charged with key responsibility in Basavaraju's security, was also among them, said the statement. A member of the unified command of Maoists, which guides Naxal activities in Abhujmad, also sided with police which made their task easier. All these surrendered cadres took part in the (anti-Naxal) operation. Because of them, we had to suffer such a big loss, it said. Maoists admitted they failed to protect their leader. A senior police official said the CPI (Maoist), in the statement, has admitted to the loss of 28 cadres, including Basavaraju, Through the statement, the illegal and banned Maoist outfit was also trying to instigate their supporters to organise rallies and meetings throughout the country to glorify the death of their cruel and dreadful leadership, which was responsible for the death of thousands and thousands of innocent citizens, tribals, women, children and security personnel. Police and intelligence agencies have been keeping a strict vigil on activities of underground Maoist cadres as well as their overground workers and supporters, Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P noted. Three AK-47 rifles, four Self Loading Rifle (SLR), six Insas rifles, one carbine, six .303 rifles, one Barrel Grenade Launcher (BGL), two rocket launchers, two 12 bore guns, one country made pistol, two muzzle loading guns and a huge cache of explosives were recovered from the encounter site in forests of Kudmel-Kalhaja-Jatlur villages, he said. The recovered arms included an AK-47 weapon looted by Basavaraju and his associates from security forces in April 2010 Tadmetla ambush in then Dantewada district (where 76 security personnel were killed) and those looted by Naxals after 2010 Gawadi (Narayanpur district) and 2017 Burkapal (Sukma district) attacks, the IPS officer said. Efforts were on to establish the origin of other weapons, he added. Basavaraju was one of the most wanted criminals in the country and so far records of more than 258 criminal cases, in which he had direct or indirect involvement, are being screened by the investigation team, Sundarraj said. Further lawful action and investigation procedure is being carried out by Narayanapur Police in the case, the IG said.
Why Chhattisgarh police cremated bodies of Maoists killed on May 21 despite Andhra HC's directive
RAIPUR: The last rites of Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju and seven other Maoist cadres who were among the 27 killed in Abujhmad area in a fierce encounter with security forces on May 21 were performed in the state's Narayanpur district on Monday. The funerals were held in Chhattisgarh despite the family members of five dreaded Maoists, two from Andhra Pradesh and three from Telangana, arrived in the district demanding the bodies of the deceased be handed over to them. The supreme commander and general secretary of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist) was among the eight cremated. Earlier, following the direction of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, two petitioners, one of them claiming to be relatives of Basavaraju approached the Narayanpur police seeking custody of the bodies after the completion of the post-mortem. However the Chhattisgarh police declined to hand over the bodies to the petitioners and instead cremated them amid tight security, citing that the claimed relatives could not provide any valid and legal document in support of their claims to take the dead bodies to their respective states. Handover of Maoist leader's body: Pleas filed for compliance to Andhra Pradesh HC order Speaking to TNIE, a senior police officer in Bastar said, Andhra Pradesh high court didn't issue an order to Chhattisgarh Police to hand over the bodies to the petitioners. It was only a direction given to the petitioners to approach the concerned police authorities in Chhattisgarh. In total 05 groups of claimants (including two petitioners in the high court) reached Narayanpur but couldn't produce any valid and satisfactory documents to prove their relationship with the deceased Maoist cadres. Among the eight bodies, five were found to be invalid claims, two were unclaimed, the officer stated. Reliable sources informed us that, under pressure from Maoist front organisations and their urban associates, some individuals posing as relatives arrived in Narayanpur to claim the bodies, he added. According to the officer, this was part of a broader conspiracy orchestrated by Maoists and their supporters to stage an elaborate funeral for their slain leader and cadres. The police and intelligence agencies acted promptly and lawfully to prevent such glorification, which could have furthered their propaganda, he said. However, human rights activist Bela Bhatia, who was present in Narayanpur, strongly criticised the police action. She alleged that the rights of the families who had travelled long distances to claim the bodies were violated. Despite the High Court allowing the petitioners to approach the police in Chhattisgarh to seek custody of the bodies, the authorities denied the families their right to perform the last rites according to their cultural traditions, Bhatia said. The police conducted the cremations by force, without the consent of the families, she added. The incident has sparked a debate over the balance between state security concerns and the rights of families in conflict zones. INTERVIEW | Basavaraju killing a success, but gun cant kill ideology
RAIPUR: At the 10th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chhattisgarh presented its ambitious long-term development vision, highlighting the transformation of the Bastar region. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that Bastar, once known for Maoist violence, is now emerging as a national model for development, employment generation, and self-reliance. He shared a forward-looking plan to transform the state into a Rs 75 lakh crore economy by 2047. Our ambitious plan will be achieved through the 3T ModelTechnology, Transparency, and Transformation. As part of this long-term agenda, the government has prepared a comprehensive roadmap named the Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision Document. This document outlines integrated strategies for economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability, the chief minister said. The CM added that the state aims to double its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) within the next five years. Highlighting Bastars progress, the CM said the region is beginning to realise its full potential due to increasing opportunities. Several skill development centres have been set up in the Bastar zone, where local youth are receiving training in areas such as computer literacy, healthcare, food processing, and technical trades. He noted that tribal communities in Bastar are now gaining access to open markets, training programmes, and entrepreneurship opportunities, with local products becoming drivers of new livelihood avenues. To implement its development goals effectively, the state has prioritised 13 key sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, IT, tourism, and skill development. Ten focused missions have been launched to ensure progress in these areas. CM Sai also informed the council that Chhattisgarh has introduced more than 350 policy reforms to improve governance and service delivery. Rich in mineral resources like steel, coal, dolomite, and lithium, Chhattisgarh plans to increase its steel production capacity from 28 to 45 million tonnes by 2030. The state also aims to become a national leader in power generation. Notably, it has become the first in the country to successfully auction a lithium blockan essential element for electric vehicles and the green energy transition. Key highlights of the roadmap presented at the meeting included Chhattisgarhs vision to become the backbone of Indias energy and industrial future, uplift rural villages through tourism, forest-based produce and tribal empowerment, and embrace digital governance for greater speed and transparency. The plan also underscores policy leadership and efforts to strengthen connectivity across the state. Stalin demands 50% tax share, slams fund denial; AP CM proposes growth sub-groups at NITI Aayog meet
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Raipur Diary | Preserving the rich tribal legacy of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh gets a reason to feel proud to have its first tribal museum in the new capital city, Naya Raipur. The state has around 31 percent tribal population with 42 tribal communities. Befittingly, tribal Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the museum, which preserves tribal traditions and culture. Spread across 10 acres, the museum will also try connecting the younger generation to their roots. The museum, with 14 galleries based on various themes, depicts the lifestyles, costumes, folk art, customs and religious beliefs of Chattisgarhs tribal communities through visual and digital media. JSPL staff chip in to help those hit by Pak conflict Arbitrary shelling by the Pakistan Army across the J&K border has devastated several villages, claiming innocent lives and pushing thousands of civilians in the border areas towards a humanitarian crisis. In response, employees of Jindal Steel and Power Ltd in Chhattisgarh and other states, inspired by a call from the company chairman, Naveen Jindal, have pledged to contribute one days salary towards rehabilitating the affected families. This act reflects an effort to support those living through turmoil in the border regions. Over 20,000 JSPL employees have taken a pledge to transform individual gestures into a unified national commitment. Bringing joy to those who are less fortunate A novel initiative built around the simple yet powerful idea of fulfilling the wishes of underprivileged children aged 3 to 10 from 25 villages by over 300 employees of Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (Balco), Indias iconic aluminium producer. The Wish Tree Campaign brought to life the heartfelt wishes of children from underprivileged backgrounds, with Balcos employees stepping up as volunteers. These children expressed simple desires, ranging from pencil boxes, clothing and schoolbags to shoes and other necessities. After collecting over 500 such wishes, the employees selected, purchased or gifted the items to the children. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
RAIPUR: As security forces continue their crackdown against the four-decade-old left-wing extremism in Chhattisgarh, flushing out cadres from their hideouts, women form a high percentage of Maoists being neutralised in exchanges of fire with troops. For instance, among the 27 Maoists killed last Wednesday in south Bastar, there were 12 women (44 percent), while in the 21-day Operation Black Forest in the Karreguttalu hilly terrain on the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border that culminated on May 11, 16 of the 31 Maoists killed (51%) were women. In the encounter that eliminated Maoist supreme commander Basavaraju, the 12 women cadres killed included Kalpana, who was just 20, while the eldest among them were Sangita and Bhumika, both 35. Police officials who have had a long stint working in the combat zone of Bastar region divulged that the strength of women in the Maoist organisation in Chhattisgarh remains much higher compared to the adjoining states of Telangana, Andhra, Maharashtra, Odisha, Jharkhand and MP. Jungle warfare expert Brigadier (Retd) B K Ponwar said the organisational structure of Maoists in Chhattisgarh is quite unusual, with women constituting over forty percent of its strength. Sadly, they are misled tribal women who are projected as warriors against the state, he added. 300 left-wing extremists neutralised this year, forces on track to meet target of Naxal-free India by 2026 Women are enrolled at a young age from villages and also assigned the responsibility of serving in the Maoists' cultural troupe Chetna Natya Mandli', various supply chains and keeping watch on their male counterparts. The women Naxals are deployed as human shields too as their male counterparts are cowards. Female cadres, unlike their men, dont easily flee from the field, a senior IPS officer having nearly a decade-long posting in conflict-ridden Bastar told The New Indian Express . One of the reasons for the high strength of women among the Maoists is a reflection of the social character of tribal communities in Chhattisgarh. This consequently influences the composition of the Maoist organisation, said an officer of IGP rank. The CPI (Maoist), in their attempt to garner the support of women and lure them to join their movement, were also seen issuing a diktat to the local population to observe International Womens Day on March 8. Casualty count of women Maoist cadres in major operations in 2025 12 among 27 along Narayanpur-Bijapur border, 21 May 16 among 31 in 21-day long Operation Black Forest, 11 May 11 among 17 in Sukma, 29 March 14 among 26 in Bijapur, 20 March 11 among 31 in Bijapur, 9 February 6 among 16 in Gariyaband, 21 January Vital inputs from surrendered Maoists helped forces track down Basavaraju who carried Rs 3.25 crore bounty
Maoist gunned down in joint operation in Sukma, Chhattisgarh
Raipur: A Maoist was killed in an armed confrontation with security forces in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, Friday. Reports from police sources indicate that the Maoist was killed in the exchange of gunfire, while a search operation is still underway in the Kistaram police station area. Authorities received intelligence suggesting the presence of a large number []
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RAIPUR: Actionable intelligence from surrendered Maoists about the movements of supreme commander Basavaraju alias Nambala Keshav Rao, general secretary of the CPI (Maoist), in the Abujhmad area of Narayanpur, helped security forces neutralise him and 26 others in an encounter on Wednesday, said sources. Most of the left-wing rebels killed along with Basavaraju were his bodyguards and trained cadres of the military wing of the outfit. According to a source, crucial inputs were given by recently surrendered Maoists in south Bastar region about the probable locations and activity of Basavaraju and other senior leaders in the region of Abujhmad, covering the districts of Narayanpur and Bijapur in south Bastar. One of the Maoists who provided the information had reportedly served as an armed guard in the team engaged to escort and provide protection to Basavaraju. Abujhmad, a hilly terrain in south Chhattisgarh, has been the hideout of senior leaders and commanders of the CPI (Maoist) for decades. Following the inputs, a discreet plan of action was chalked out during the past couple of weeks to reach his location, the source added. 300 left-wing extremists neutralised this year, forces on track to meet target of Naxal-free India by 2026 The encounter took place after a a 50-hour search operation by the security forces. The elimination of the topmost Maoist commander is a huge achievement towards securing freedom for Bastar region from the terror of left-wing extremists. Maoism is now taking its last breath in Chhattisgarh. The pledge taken by our Prime Minister and Home Minister will be surely met. Such stern actions against the Maoists will continue till the menace gets wiped out, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai told media persons on Thursday. Basavaraju carried a bounty of Rs 3.25 crore on his head, said the CM. This included Rs 1 crore from the Chhattisgarh government, Rs 1 crore from the Union Home Ministry, Rs 50 lakh from the NIA and Rs 25 lakh each from the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, CM Sai elucidated. Meanwhile on Thursday, a member of the 210th battalion of CoBRA, the elite unit of the CRPF, and a Maoist were killed during an exchange of fire in an anti-Maoist operation in Bijapur district. The state home minister Vijay Sharma divulged that so far 424 Maoists have been neutralised in separate encounters across Chhattisgarh since 2024.
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26 Naxals gunned down in Chhattisgarh encounter with security forces
Raipur: At least 26 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in the dense forests of Chhattisgarhs Narayanpur district, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed on Wednesday. Sharma stated, More than 26 Naxalites have been neutralized by the security forces. Our forces fought bravely, and the operation is still ongoing with further search [] The post 26 Naxals gunned down in Chhattisgarh encounter with security forces appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
Rajasthan government issues APOs for SDM, Tehsildar involved in illegal sale of Barmer border land
JAIPUR: Acting on the highly controversial and illegal land sales near the international border in Barmer district, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has ordered APO (Awaiting Posting Orders) for the SDM and Tehsildar of Ramsar involved in these dubious deals. This significant move came after a high-level meeting on Monday night. SDM Anil Kumar Jain has been accused of selling land in a restricted area of Barmer in December last year using forged documents. He allegedly manipulated records to execute power of attorney in the names of his family members and facilitated the registry of the land through fraudulent means. Barmer MP Ummedaram Beniwal and Shiv (Barmer) MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati had previously accused SDM Jain of being a puppet of companies and facilitating land transactions in sensitive border areas. On May 17, tensions escalated in Manihari village of Shiv, where a clash broke out between villagers, police, and the administration. The conflict arose when company workers reportedly attempted to forcibly install high-tension electric poles in a field. When the affected family resisted, company representatives called the police. During the confrontation, SDM Anil Kumar Jain was allegedly seen manhandling a woman, which further fueled public outrage. MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati condemned the incident and reiterated his allegations against Jain, stating that the SDM was complicit in corporate land dealings near the border. Reacting to the APO orders, Bhati remarked, This is the result of the peoples struggle. In addition to the Ramsar officials, the Chief Minister also issued APOs to SDO Gulab Chand Verma and the Tehsildar of Raipur (Beawar) over administrative lapses. Just days earlier, the SPs of Jhunjhunu and Bikaner were APO-ed following reported security lapses during the Chief Ministers visits. Monday nights video conference was attended by the Chief Minister along with the Chief Ministers Office (CMO), District Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and Superintendents of Police. During the meeting, CM Sharma issued a stern message, stating that his government would pursue a policy of zero tolerance toward corruption. The Chief Minister also reviewed key administrative issues including the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Garibi Mukt Gaon Yojana, the status of applications under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), pending disciplinary actions against staff, land allocation related to budget announcements, public grievance hearings, and the issue of illegal mining. He instructed officials to take necessary steps to ensure effective implementation. Reiterating his stand, Chief Minister Sharma said, Officers must be held accountable to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the last person. Any negligence will not be tolerated.
RAIPUR: Arbitrary shelling by the Pakistan Army across the border devastated several villages, claiming innocent lives and pushing thousands of civilians in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir into a severe humanitarian crisis. In response to this tragedy, employees of Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL), inspired by a call from the companys chairman Naveen Jindal , have pledged to contribute one days salary towards the rehabilitation of families affected by the conflict. This collective act reflects a united national effort to support those living through turmoil in the border regions. More than 20,000 JSPL employees have voluntarily committed to the initiative, transforming what began as an individual gesture into a powerful symbol of solidarity. Armys tweet including Shaheen Missile catches attention, Pakistan MFA denies use The citizens living along our borders are no less than soldiers. Their courage, resilience, and sacrifice inspire us all. Now, when they are in distress, it becomes our moral and national duty to stand with them. I urge every Indian and every institution to contribute to this noble cause, said Naveen Jindal, who also serves as a Lok Sabha member from the Kurukshetra constituency. Following the tragic killing of civilians in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22 April, India launched Operation Sindoor a decisive military response targeting terror camps across the border. In retaliation, Pakistan conducted heavy shelling on Indian villages, resulting in widespread displacement and destruction. Company officials noted that JSPL has a longstanding history of responding during times of national crisis. From ensuring oxygen supply and distributing free meals during the COVID-19 pandemic to contributing Rs 25 crore to the PM CARES Fund and extending aid during the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, the organisation has consistently stepped forward in the nations time of need.
Jharkhand ACB interrogates IAS officer in liquor scam case linked to Chhattisgarh syndicate
RANCHI: The team of Jharkhand Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) is questioning IAS Vinay Chaubey in the liquor scam case at its headquarters in Ranchi. A team of ACB officials took Chaubey with them from his Ranchi residence at around 11 am on Tuesday for interrogation. Chaubey was the Secretary of the Excise Department at the time when the alleged liquor scam is believed to have taken place. The liquor scam in Chhattisgarh involves a Raipur-based syndicate which supplied liquor to Jharkhand using fake holograms, resulting in a scam worth crores. Former IAS officers Anil Tuteja, AP Tripathi, and businessman Anwar Dhebar are among the accused. The heat of the alleged liquor scam also reached Jharkhand between 2019 and 2022 and the name of Jharkhand IAS Vinay Chaubey was also named in this scam and made an accused along with the officials of Chhattisgarh. Notably, this case was registered by the investigation by the Economic Offences Wing based on the statement of a person named Vikas Singh, a resident of Argora police station area in Ranchi. He is the person who had accused Chhattisgarh officials Anil Tuteja, Anwar Dhebar, Arunpati Tripathi and others of causing a loss of revenue worth billions of rupees to the Chhattisgarh government by committing a liquor scam. According to him, the liquor policy in Jharkhand was altered by officials involved in the syndicate to facilitate the scam. During the investigation, ED found that officials from the corporation had colluded with liquor traders to form a syndicate, causing financial losses to the Chhattisgarh government. It was also revealed that the same syndicate responsible for the liquor scam in Chhattisgarh was also behind the formulation of the new excise policy in Jharkhand, which allegedly facilitated a similar scam there. Based on this information, the Chhattisgarh ED summoned Vinay Chaubey for questioning. Chaubey reportedly claimed innocence during his interrogation by the Chhattisgarh ED, stating that the new excise policy was implemented with the governments approval and that he was not personally responsible for any wrongdoing. Following the registration of an FIR by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand ACB, after obtaining the necessary permission from the state government, had initiated a preliminary enquiry (PE) into the alleged scam. After the initial probe, a regular FIR was filed with government approval and Vinay Chaubey is now being interrogated in connection with that case.
Three women hacked to death on suspicion of practicing witchcraft in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Three women, including a 17-year-old girl, were hacked to death by sharp-edged weapons in separate incidents during the last six days in rural areas of Chhattisgarh over suspicion of practicing witchcraft (Tohni). 17-year old Minakshi Markam is the youngest so far to have been killed after being branded as 'Tohni' in the state. All three women were brutally assaulted and killed. Besides Minakshi at Dhakuni village in Maoist-affected Kanker district, 75-year-old Sanmet Kashyap at Sanbahli village in Mahasamund and another elderly woman Hidma Podiyami at Katekalyan in Dantewada were murdered last week, by their neighbours. A couple of months ago, President Droupadi Murmu during her visit to Chhattisgarh Assembly praised the state for enacting laws intended for social welfare and development including the protection for women as seen in the Witch-Hunting Prevention Act of 2005. Chhattisgarh Tonhi Pratadna Nivaran Adhiniyam 2005, aimed against witch-hunting of women and to prevent the atrocities faced by them on the name of Tohni, is punishable with imprisonment upto 3 years with fine. Tonhi is believed to be any person who is suspected to harm any other person or persons or society by black magic, evil eye or by any other superstitious means. In all inhuman acts, there may be various reasons based on strong superstitious beliefs cited by the accused behind killing the women. They are driven by irrational credence, remaining ignorant about the reasonable solutions to the problems and that led to ridiculous misgivings. The women labelled as tohni get ruthlessly abused by those suspecting them of practicing witchcraft, said Dr Dinesh Mishra, 59, an ophthalmologist, who also run a voluntary organisation Andhshraddha Nirmoolan Samiti' to campaign against the social evils and educate the people for over two decades. The stringent Tonhi Act to a large extent curbed the menace, but the prevailing illiteracy and social factor led to a social boycott from the community, a police officer stated. Dr Mishra suggested the government undertake a campaign to eradicate superstition based on tohni and infuse scientific temperament.
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Bank branch reopens in Chhattisgarh's Maoist-affected Jagargunda after 25 years
RAIPUR: Bank reopens in Jagargunda, a known Maoist epicentre in strife-torn Sukma of south Bastar. Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday virtually inaugurated a branch of Indian Overseas Bank in Jagargunda that will extend numerous benefits to nearly 14,000 people, mostly from tribal rural communities inhabiting 12 nearby villages. The launch of the new branch marks a major step forward in financial inclusion enabling government welfare programmes, access to savings or credits and supporting economic growth in one of the states most sensitive regions. The opening of the banking branch in Jagargunda is a victory of the basic beliefs of democracy and development over the left-wing extremism. The double-engine government is committed to revitalising Bastar while ensuring that the wave of change reaches every village. The state is swiftly working to enable banking facilities to reach all gram panchayats, said CM Sai in his address to the gathering from his official residence. Recently, on April 24 (National Panchayat Day), the state launched Atal Panchayat Digital Seva Kendras in 1,460 gram panchayats, through which rural citizens are now availing digital banking services. Highlighting the combined impact of security, development, and public trust, the CM emphasised that continuous operations by security forces of both central and state government with a firm resolve are helping Bastars villages emerge from the grip of Maoists and join the mainstream of development. The place had earlier been a branch of a rural bank in 2001, but was targeted by the Maoists in an attempted loot. Now, the very building stands with a new identity as a formal bank. When I was a district collector in Dantewada, the region was deeply naxal-affected and officials had to think twice before entering the interior areas. Today the region is witnessing a transformation, said O P Choudhary, state finance minister, who got his account opened in the bank along with other local residents. Now with the local bank branch operational in our area, there will be disbursement from various government schemes and receive funds directly into the accounts, said the local tribals who are beneficiaries of schemes like tendu leaf bonuses, PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, MGNREGA wages and other subsidies. How Maoist-affected Dantewada emerged as best performer in Class 10 boards in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: A Bhilai-based urologist has landed in hot water after attempting to promote his professional services by using a line from a speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the wake of Operation Sindoor. The act went viral on social media following which Dr Shivendra Singh Tiwari, associate professor general surgery in Shri Shankaracharya Institute of Medical Sciences, was suspended for 15 days on disciplinary grounds. A high-power committee has been constituted by the administration to probe into the matter. The urologist borrowed the line Blood and water cant flow together, which PM Modi had used to hint that there would be no reversal in the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. The treaty was put on hold after the April 22 terror attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam. India subsequently carried out retaliatory strikes targeting terror camps located in PoK and Pakistan. The doctor further added, So if you see blood in your urine, immediately consult a urologist. It may be serious. Medical experts said that doctors may use social media platforms to extend professional care to patients and serve larger public health causes but using the same tool for self-promotion is unjustified. Meanwhile, the dean of the institute has issued an official order that stated, Your act of advertising yourself which has been getting viral on WhatsApp, social media is unwarranted and disgraceful on your part being a responsible medical personnel. The management has therefore taken a very serious view of above act of yours. You are hereby suspended with immediate effect for a period of 15 days. Dr Tiwari was not available for comment.
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India Rolls Out E-Passports With Optimised Security Features Check How To Apply, Other Key Details
At present, the service is available at select centres such as Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad and Surat, among others.
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai held discussions on the next phase of strategy following the successful Operation Black Forest in an interaction with the security forces. Operation Black Forest had dismantled a key operational base of the banned CPI (Maoist) at Karreguttalu. The discussion happened during the CMs visit to the CRPF camp in Galgam, south Bastar, on Thursday. The CM commended the achievement of the forces in the tough, inhospitable Karreguttalu forested hilly terrain as he affirmed that the military victory at the strategic areas should now be converted into long-term development and peace. His visit to the camp, located along the inter-district border of Bijapur-Dantewada, was also intended to boost the morale of the jawans. The fight ahead will not be waged by weapons and courage alone, but also through education, employment, and inclusive development in the region. The operation was more than a military success and the moment has arrived with the crucial opportunity to pave the way for sustainable peace and prosperity, CM Sai asserted. The visit was as a part of the ongoing state governments Sushasan Tihaar (Good Governance Festival), a flagship initiative aimed at taking governance to the grassroots and closely tracking the implementation of public welfare schemes. Operation 'Black Forest' executed in Bijapurs south-west forest border area adjoining Telangana border for 21 days, during which the troops cautiously secured a substantial area of a lesser-known Karreguttalu hilly topography surrounded by forests from the grip of left-wing extremists. During the operation, as many as 31 Maoists were killed. The security forces traced several Maoist bunkers, arms-making units, and hideouts that were destroyed. The state government is aggressively countering the Maoist menace on two fronts: precise, diligent police action and rapid development plans, a government spokesperson said. He also met around 90 surrendered Maoists at a rehabilitation centre in Dantewada, where they are receiving training to secure dignified livelihoods in fields like drone operation, poultry farming, technician, and taxi driving. CM Sai assured that the rehabilitated surrendered Maoists will soon be integrated into district-level development initiatives.
Maoist base dismantled in Chhattisgarh, 31 killed in 21-day operation: Top officials
RAIPUR: The first-ever decisive and strategic crackdown against the CPI (Maoist) Operation Black Forest, launched on April 21 has stamped out the safe haven of senior Maoist leaders, senior officials of the CRPF and Chhattisgarh police said, commending the operation as immensely successful. Executed in Bijapurs south-west forested area adjoining Telangana border, the operation involved thousands of security personnel for 21 days, during which the troops cautiously secured a substantial area of a lesser-known Karreguttalu forested hills surrounded by forests from the grip of left-wing extremists. During the operation, as many as 31 Maoists were killed in separate encounters. 18 jawans sustained injuries mostly in the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) pressure blasts and their conditions were stated to be out of danger. They were airlifted to Jagdalpur, Raipur and Delhi for immediate medical attention. A sizeable Karreguttalu hilly expanse was believed to be a key shelter for senior Maoist leaders including top commanders of the outfit for years. A joint team of security forces comprising personnel from different units of District Reserve Guard, Special Task Force, CRPF and its elite unit CoBRA force were engaged in the anti-Maoist campaign that culminated on May 11. CRPF DG G P Singh and Chhattisgarh police chief Arun Dev Gautam along with senior officials on Wednesday jointly briefed the media in Bijapur (south Bastar) on how the planned Operation Black Forest got executed and the successful outcome of the mission.
HM Amit Shah lauds security forces for eliminating 31 Maoists
Raipur: Lauding heroic efforts of security forces in eliminating 31 Maoists at Karregutta hills, Chhattisgarh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said security forces have achieved a historic milestone in the fight against Maoism by eliminating notorious Maoists in the biggest operation to date. HM Amit Shah reaffirmed the governments commitment to eradicating Maoism, 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 .
Forces claim huge blow to Maoists in 'Black Forest' op
Chiefs of Central Reserve Police Force and Chhattisgarh police, GP Singh and AD Singh respectively, along with senior commanders of the two forces addressed the media in this district, about 450 km from state capital Raipur, to assert that the top armed Maoist leadership was either eliminated or injured.
How Maoist-affected Dantewada emerged as best performer in Class 10 boards in Chhattisgarh
DANTEWADA: Students in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada, a district long besieged by Maoists , have proven the phrase 'nothing succeeds like success' true with their incredible performance in this year's board examinations. Dantewada topped the state in Class 10 board exams this year with an impressive 94.45 overall pass percentage. Interestingly, state capital Raipur ranked 32 among all districts with 66.24 pass percentage. Dantewada ranked 6 in Class 12 exams. A short while ago, the district remained among the bottom five in terms of board exam results. Where fear ruled the forested terrain, academic failure was yet another worry. Dantewada collector Kunal Dudawat told TNIE that major issues such as the lack of teachers, poor attendance, no tracking of student performance, no preparation for exams and evaluation were addressed. Several smart and focused strategies were adopted to improve school education, he added. The community, schools and administration have worked together to script the story of success. The magnificent results reflect not only the hard work of students, but the consistent coordinated efforts of teachers, principals, education department and the district administration. Potacabin schools, Choo Lo Aasman, Jawanga education city met the vision of local educational needs. The Maoists didn't want young people to get enrolled in schools as they feared that education might challenge their ideology and existence. So, as soon as children entered teenage years, pressure started building on them and their families to join the movement. Gradually the conflict-ridden Bastar zone strategically countered the barriers created by Maoists, beat the odds, won peoples trust, said Bastar IGP Sundarraj P. Last year, Dantewada stood at 8th position with 85.13% in Class 10 results. In Class 12, the district climbed from 11th to 6th position, with 87.66% pass percentage. Officials associated with the school education department shared that there were regular monthly tests, teachers worked together to create high-quality papers, fair evaluation of answer sheets, tracking every students progress, extra-support and workshops for students among other effective practices keenly followed across the district. Every quarter of the year, review meetings are held to discuss performance of students, schools and quality of teaching. Parents in Dantewada now realise the value of education. UNICEF and Bachpan Banao conducted sessions on mental health, reading skills, and motivation. Irregular or drop-outs were checked by village-based Bal-mitras (education workers). Shiksha Samarthan, in which graduate youths were appointed as guest teachers to mitigate the shortage of teachers.
The death toll in Chhattisgarh's Saragaon accident has risen to 13 on Monday, Raipur SP Lal Ummed Singh said.
At least 13 dead,11 injured in trailer-truck collision in Raipur
RAIPUR : Thirteen people, all women and children, died and 11 were injured in a collision between a trailer truck and a truck in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, police said. Four children and nine women died in the road accident that happened late Sunday night near Saragaon on Raipur-Balodabazar road in Raipur district. Police officials said a family from Chataud village had gone to Bansari village to attend a family function. Relatives of victims mourn at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Hospital after a mini truck collided with a speeding trailer, killing 13 and injuring 12 others, in Raipur, early Monday, May 12, 2025 While returning, the truck they were travelling in collided with a trailer near Saragaon under the Kharora police station area. After getting information about the accident, a police team was sent to the spot and the injured were taken to Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Hospital, Raipur. Raipur district collector Gaurav Singh said district administration officials also reached the spot. Police registered a case and the matter is being investigated, the collector said.
Chhattisgarh: 13 dead, several injured in tragic road crash near Raipur
New Delhi: In a devastating road accident near Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 13 people, including women and children, lost their lives when their Swaraj Mazda vehicle collided with a trailer truck on the Raipur-Balodabazar highway. The victims were returning from a family ceremony when the tragedy struck near the village of Bangoli, under the Kharora police station. 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 .
Raipur Diary | State poised to emerge as a textile hub soon
The Chhattisgarh government has signed a MoU with the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), marking a major step towards transforming the state into a centre for textile and apparel manufacturing. During the recent CMAI FAB show in Mumbai, CM Vishnu Deo Sai engaged with the investors and industrialists, inviting them to invest in the state. He presented the states ambitious vision for the textile sector. The government is emphasising that the state is now not just focused on ease of doing business, but speed of doing business. Additionally, the state cabinet has already approved NIFT campus in Nava Raipur. Soon, a CMAI Textile and Apparel facilitation centre too will be set up. Indias 1st hydrogen fuel truck for mining logistics The Adani Enterprises has deployed the countrys first hydrogen fuel cell truck to promote cleaner transportation for mining logistics at the state governments coal block. Each truck, equipped with smart technology and three hydrogen tanks, can carry up to 40 tons of cargo over a distance of 200 km. CM Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the first truck that will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh district to the states power plant. Hydrogen, the most abundant element, produces no harmful emissions. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles match diesel trucks in range and load capacity but emit only water vapour and warm air. Waqf Board notices to 400 wrongdoers Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has served notices to people who have illegally taken possession of its properties, as well as those who have accrued unpaid rents for leased properties. Over 400 people have been served notices across the state on properties worth over `500 crore, as the Board Chairman, Salim Raj, has directed the concerned district collectors and the superintendents of police to cancel all registrations that the Board asserts have been sold illegally. Early this month, a team from the ministry of minority affairs visited Chhattisgarh to inspect the Waqf properties and its existing status. As per the board, the state possesses Waqf properties worth more than `5,000 crore. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
13 dead, 11 injured in trailer-truck collision in Raipur
Four children and nine women died in the road accident that happened late Sunday (May 11, 2025) night near Saragaonon Raipur-Balodabazar road in Raipur district
13 Dead, 11 Injured After Trailer Collides With Truck In Chhattisgarh's Raipur
13 killed,12 injured after truck collides with trailer in Chhattisgarh's Raipur
A tragic accident near Saragaon on Raipur-Balodabazar Road in Chhattisgarh has claimed the lives of 13 people. The incident occurred when a truck carrying villagers returning from a Chatthi program collided with a trailer. Twelve others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Dr B.R. Ambedkar Memorial Hospital in Raipur, according to SP Lal Ummed Singh.
9 Women, 4 Children Killed In Trailer-Truck Collision In Chhattisgarh
Thirteen people, all women and children, died and 11 were injured in a collision between a trailer truck and a truck in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, police said.
Indias first hydrogen-powered truck for mining logistics deployed in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: The countrys first hydrogen fuel cell truck to promote cleaner transportation for mining logistics has been deployed at the Chhattisgarh governments coal block by Adani Enterprises on Saturday. Each truck, equipped with smart technology and three hydrogen tanks, can carry up to 40 tons of cargo over a 200-kilometer range. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the first truck that will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh district to the states power plant. The state-owned Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Limited has appointed Adani Enterprises as the mine developer and operator for the Gare Pelma III block through a competitive bidding process. The launch of India's first hydrogen-powered truck in Chhattisgarh reflects the state's commitment to sustainability. Such initiatives will significantly reduce our carbon footprint and set a new standard for industry, said the chief minister. Hydrogen, the most abundant element, produces no harmful emissions. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles match diesel trucks in range and load capacity but emit only water vapour and warm air, with minimal noise. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the first truck that will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh district to the states power plant. Since mining mainly uses diesel-powered machinery, switching to cleaner fuels will reduce emissions and noise. It will also help lower Indias crude oil imports and carbon footprint. These hydrogen-powered trucks will gradually replace diesel vehicles used in the companys logistics operations. In collaboration with an Indian and international energy technology firm and a major auto manufacturer, Adani is developing hydrogen fuel cell battery-operated trucks for cargo transport. The initiative for hydrogen-powered trucks is a significant step towards Adani Group's commitment to decarbonisation and responsible mining. We are creating model mines with minimal environmental impact by incorporating autonomous dozer push technologies, solar power, digital initiatives, and tree transplanters to relocate trees, said Vinay Prakash, CEO - Natural Resources and Director Adani Enterprises. Adani will replace the conventional diesel trucks with those powered by environmentally friendly hydrogen cells. Adani Natural Resources is the first in Asia to deploy Dozer Push Semi-Autonomous Technology, boosting both safety and sustainability.
Lifting the veil, letting in light
CHHATTISGARH: Generations in the Bastar zone of south Chhattisgarh have grown up under the shadow of Maoist terror. One such individual is 24-year-old Dr Harish Podiyami, a tribal from the Gond community who has served as a medical officer in his home district since August last year. Born and brought up in Sukma, Harish defied the odds by successfully completing an MBBS course at Raipurs Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Medical College in 2023. Coming from an area woefully roiled by Left-wing extremism and violence unleashed for the past over four decades, it was no mean feat. But Harish is not done yet. He is already preparing himself for another competitive exam to pursue a postgraduate degree MD or MS. As someone who was raised in a region considered a hotbed of Maoist violence, it goes without saying that he didnt have an easy childhood. But not many realise the challenges that come with living in a conflict zone. His family had no access to proper healthcare facilities. Schools were few and far between. And the benefits of government schemes didnt reach families that live in such areas. The situation now is a far cry from those times despite the threat of violence. Roads have been constructed, Anganwadi and health centres have come up and ration shops have opened. But he cant help but shudder when he harks back to those days. My family faced a persistent threat here. We were forced to shift to Rampuram, which distant 20 km from Chintagufa, by Maoists who identified us as supporters of the police, he recalls. But thats when a tragedy struck his family. To move our household belongings, my father went out to arrange a tractor, which met with an accident. My father was critically injured in the mishap. We took him to a district hospital, but there was no doctor to offer emergency services at the time (perhaps because of staff shortage). Besides, there was no ventilator support. We lost my father as a result. Had he received the necessary help and care in time, he could have been saved, a visibly shaken Harish says. It was a rude shock for our family, he says, revealing that it was at this very moment that he decided to pursue a career in medicine. The expenses of his medical education were met by his elder brother, a farmer, and a scholarship. He started school education in 2006, when the controversial government-backed anti-Maoist peace campaign Salwa Judum was at its peak. During those days, the Naxals used to pick a young member in every family under their rule to join as cadres of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist). I was young then. I remained a target of the Maoists. Though my parents were not educated, they were wise enough to realise that if I went to school, I would not end up as a part of the Maoist organisation, the young doctor says. Though he earlier wanted to serve as a civil servant, it soon dawned on him that if he wanted to clear the UPSC exams, he needed good coaching. And for that, he would have to spend a lot of money and stay in Delhi. I was good in biology and chemistry. So, I decided to try my luck in the medical stream instead, he smiles, adding, I got selected in an MBBS course in the year 2018 when my family was going through a tough phase in life. Now, he continues to serve the people in his area as a health professional. There is a lack of awareness about health and facilities in hospitals across most of our area in Sukma. I understand my people, their issues and the situation here better, said Dr Harish. Changing contours of conflict zone Not many realise the challenges that come with living in a conflict zone. Harish and his family had no access to proper healthcare facilities. Schools were few and far between. And the benefits of government schemes didnt reach families that live in such areas. The situation now is a far cry from those times despite the threat of violence. Roads have been constructed, Anganwadi and health centres have come up and ration shops have opened.
Pak again launches drone attacks on military installations, civilian areas
Soldier, man martyred, 4 injured; houses damaged People wake up to sound of sirens, blasts Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 10: Pakistan early today again targeted military installations and civilian areas in Jammu and Udhampur launching large numbers of drones simultaneously, majority of which were destroyed by the Indian Air Defence System. However, some drones and debris fell in civilian areas in which a 45-year-old man was killed at Kheri Keran in Raipur area on outskirts of the City and four [] The post Pak again launches drone attacks on military installations, civilian areas appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Adani Group deploys Indias first hydrogen-powered truck for mining logistics
Raipur (Chattisharh) [India], May 10: Adani Enterprises, the flagship company of the Adani Group, flagged off what it claimed to be Indias first hydrogen fuel cell truck to promote cleaner transportation. As per a statement from the Adani Group, these hydrogen-powered trucks will gradually replace diesel vehicles used in the companys logistics operations. In collaboration with an Indian and international energy technology firm and a major auto manufacturer, Adani Group is developing hydrogen fuel cell battery-operated trucks for cargo transport. [] The post Adani Group deploys Indias first hydrogen-powered truck for mining logistics appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PRSU Result 2025 Out at prsu.ac.in Direct Link to Download 3rd Semester Result
PRSU Result 2025: Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University Raipur Result 2025 has been released on prsu.ac.in. Here is the direct Link to check your B.Sc 3rd Semester Results Online.
Adani Group Deploys First Hydrogen Truck To Haul Coal In Chhattisgarh
On Saturday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the truck on its maiden journey from state capital Raipur.
IIM Raipur MBA in Public Policy 2025: Fully funded program with 50,000 monthly stipend apply by May
The Chhattisgarh Government will fully sponsor the program by covering the entire tuition fee for enrolled students, ensuring accessibility to quality education.
IIM Raipur Junior Developer Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM Raipur) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Junior Developer posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIM Raipur website. The last date to submit the application form is 23-05-2025.
22 Maoists killed in ongoing anti-Maoist operation Mission Sankalp in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: At least twenty-two Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces during the ongoing anti-Maoist operation Mission Sankalp in the volatile south-west forest border area of Bijapur district adjoining Telangana, a senior police officer said on Wednesday. The gunbattle broke out in the morning near the Karregutta hilly terrain along the interstate border. So far, 22 bodies have been recovered as the search operation continues in the region. The identity of the dead Maoists are yet to be established, he said. In the past two weeks of the massive offensive in south Bastar, security forces have gunned down 26 Maoists, including three women Naxalites who were killed in an exchange of fire on April 24, followed by the neutralisation of one woman Maoist on 5 May. Several weapons have been recovered during the ongoing decisive inter-state operation involving more than 15,000 security personnel over the past 12 days, as troops continue to march cautiously ahead towards the lesser-known Karregutta forested hills, surrounded by dense terrain, believed to be a crucial safe haven for senior Maoist leaders including top commanders of their battalion, the officer said. Based on specific intelligence inputs about Maoist presence along the south-western border areas of Bijapur, a joint team comprising personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), CRPF and its elite CoBRA unit launched an anti-Maoist campaign. During the operation underway, an encounter took place between the forces and the Maoists on Wednesday. So far, the bodies of 26 Maoists have been recovered under Operation Mission Sankalp since April 21, he added. In the past few days of this major counter-insurgency drive, security forces have located several Maoist bunkers, hideouts and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Owing to the inhospitable topography, the forces have been unable to recover all bodies of the Maoists killed, the officer said. Around six jawans have been injured in pressure IED blasts during various stages of the operation. Their conditions are said to be stable and out of danger. This year, 168 Maoists have been killed in various encounters across Chhattisgarh, including 151 in the Bastar division. The Red rebels have also killed nine civilians in separate incidents in the Bastar region, which includes seven Maoist-affected districts.
PRSU Result 2025 Released at prsu.ac.in Direct Link to Download 1st Sem Result
PRSU Result 2025: Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur Result 2025 has been released on prsu.ac.in. Here is the direct Link to check your B.Voc/B.Sc/B.Com 1st Sem Results Online.
Telangana PG medico dies by suicide at AIIMS Raipur
Hyderabad: In a tragic incident, a Telangana doctor pursuing his post-graduate studies in medicine (forensic science) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, died by suicide, allegedly due to suffering from heavy work pressure and insomnia. Dr A Ravi Kumar, a native of Hyderabad, ended his life on Saturday at his apartment 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 .
Woman cadre killed by special forces in Chhattisgarhs anti-Maoist operation
RAIPUR: A woman Maoist in uniform was killed in an encounter with the security forces in Bijapurs south-west forested border area adjoining Telangana, Bastar police said on Tuesday. Three women Naxalites were earlier killed in an exchange of fire with security forces on April 24. So far, four bodies, all women cadres of banned CPI (Maoists), besides several weapons have been recovered during the ongoing decisive inter-state operation involving more than 10,000 security personnel over the past 12 days, as troops continue to march cautiously ahead towards a lesser-known Karregutta forested hills, believed to be a crucial safe haven for Maoist leaders including their top commanders. Based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of Maoists along the south-west border areas of Bijapur district, a joint team of security forces comprising personnel from District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), CRPF and its elite Cobra force is out on an anti-Maoist campaign. During the operation underway, an encounter took place between the forces and the Maoists. The body of a woman Maoist and a rifle were recovered from the scene, said Sunderraj P, Bastar range inspector general of police. Based on the marks and impressions at the encounter site, there remains a strong possibility of more Maoists being killed and injured in the gun battle, the officer added. During the last few days of the ongoing significant anti-Naxal campaign, the forces in the region have unearthed several Maoist bunkers, their hideouts and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), he stated. Owing to tough inhospitable topography, the forces could not recover all bodies of Maoists killed during the operation, said the IG. Some jawans were also injured in the IED blast and their conditions were stated to be out of danger. In another incident in Sukma district, south Chhattisgarh, the Maoists killed a deputy sarpanch Muchaki Ram of Tarlaguda village panchayat at Benpalli on Monday. His body was recovered on Tuesday after the villagers alerted the police. This year, 146 bodies of Maoists have been recovered so far in various encounters in Chhattisgarh, including 129 killed in the Bastar division. The Red rebels have killed nine civilians in different incidents in the Bastar range, comprising seven Maoist-affected districts.
Woman Maoist killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh
Raipur: A woman Maoist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district amid the ongoing massive anti-Maoist operation in the area, a senior police official said on Tuesday. The gunfight took place on Monday in the forest around Karregutta hills along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj 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 .
Woman Naxalite killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district
RAIPUR: A woman Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district amid the ongoing massive anti-Naxal operation in the area, a senior police official said on Tuesday. The gunfight took place on Monday in the forest around Karregutta hills along Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P told PTI. With this encounter, the bodies of four women Maoists have been recovered in the area since security forces launched the operation, involving some 24,000 personnel from different units, on April 21, he said. A .303 rifle was also recovered from the encounter site on Monday, Sundarraj said. On April 24, three women Naxalites were killed on Karregutta Hills and a huge cache of weapons, explosives and other materials was recovered. The ongoing operation, said to be one of the biggest counter-insurgency actions launched in Bastar region, involves personnel of the District Reserve Guard, Bastar Fighters and Special Task Force, all units of the Chhattisgarh police; Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and its elite unit CoBRA, among others. The operation was launched following inputs about the presence of senior cadres of the `battalion number 1' -- considered to be the strongest military formation of the Maoists -- and leaders of the Telangana state committee of the Maoists in the area. The densely forested area with a series of hills is said to be the base of the battalion no 1, according to the police. Intelligence suggests that several senior Maoist cadres have either been killed or seriously injured during the operation, said Sundarraj. Hundreds of Naxalite hideouts and bunkers have been destroyed so far and a huge cache of explosive materials, detonators, food stock and items of daily use have been seized, he said. At least six security personnel belonging to STF, DRG and CoBRA were injured in separate incidents of pressure IED blasts. All of them were out of danger, Sundarraj said. As many as 146 Naxalites have been killed in separate encounters in the state so far this year. Of them, 129 were killed in the Bastar division comprising seven districts including Bijapur.
Tendu leaves price: Chhattisgarh worried over smuggling from adjoining states
RAIPUR: Owing to the higher prices set for the collection of tendu patta, at Rs 5,500 per standard bag in Chhattisgarh, it is reportedly being smuggled in from neighbouring states. Tendu leaves, also known as green gold, are a prominent minor forest produce of Chhattisgarh. Their annual production is around 1.68 million standard bags, which accounts for 20% of the countrys total tendu leaves production. During the collection season that begins from the third week of April to the second week of June, people engaged in smuggling of tendu leaves get active, said a senior official with the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Cooperative Federation, the nodal agency for tendu patta collection. The officer added that to prevent such smuggling, the teams in every district forest division have been instructed to undertake extensive patrolling, install checkpoints, and take stern action against those found involved in secretly bringing in tendu leaves from other states. Chhattisgarh is known to produce the best-quality tendu leaves, which are used as beedi (a rural form of cigarette) wrappers. They serve as a primary source of livelihood for tribal villagers. One standard bag of tendu leaves comprises 1,000 bundles of 50 leaves each. The collection season starts earlier in the southern part of the state than in the northern part. Currently, the villagers are seen plucking tendu patta from shrubs in the districts of Sukma, Dantewada, Bijapur, Jagdalpur, Narayanpur, Gariaband, and other adjoining districts. This year, the state expects to surpass the previous annual production target of 16.72 lakhs of standard bags. State lists out measures to rein in the menace To prevent such cases of smuggling, the teams in every district forest division have been instructed to undertake extensive patrolling, install checkpoints, and take stern action against those found involved in secretly bringing in tendu leaves from other states.
CM Sai Praises Kashmiri Guide Nazakat For Saving Lives Of Chhattisgarh Tourists In Pahalgam
Raipur, May 4: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday expressed gratitude to Kashmiri tourist guide Nazakat Ahmad Shah who saved a group of tourists from Chhattisgarh during the Pahalgam terror attack, and pointed out that the Muslim community is getting a bad name because of some people. All Muslims arent bad and the community is becoming infamous due to some people, Sai said in an exclusive interview to PTI. Asked what India should do to retaliate against Pakistan for [] The post CM Sai Praises Kashmiri Guide Nazakat For Saving Lives Of Chhattisgarh Tourists In Pahalgam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Maoist killed in a gunfight with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Gariabad
RAIPUR: A Maoist was killed in a gunfight with the security forces near hilly forested terrain of Motipani in Gariaband district, about 170 km east of Raipur, the police said on Saturday. Based on specific inputs about the presence of Maoists in the forest region of Motipani village under Jugad police station limits in Gariaband, a joint team comprising E-30 district force and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a search operation. When the forces reached the hilly terrain close to Motipani, the Maoists opened indiscriminate firing resulting in an exchange of fire. The body of Maoist was found after the encounter. The gunfight continued for around half-an hour. The Red rebels later fled into the nearby jungles, said Nikhil Rakhecha, Gariaband district police chief. The deceased Naxal has been identified as Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) Yogesh carrying a reward of Rs 8 lakh on his head, the officer added. Sources said , no security personnel were injured in the operation. The forces also recovered one self loading rifle (SLR), explosives and naxal materials during further search operations in the area. This year, 146 bodies of Maoists have been recovered so far in various encounters in Chhattisgarh including 129 killed in the Bastar division. Gariaband, adjoining Odisha state, is among the Maoist-affected districts of Chhattisgarh.
Bandi Sanjay Seeks National Highway Status for Key Telangana Roads
Kumar stated that he has also sought the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed HyderabadRaipur greenfield corridor.
Waqf Amendment legislation aims to uplift marginalised Muslims: Dr Jitendra
Excelsior Correspondent RAIPUR, May 1: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Thursday defended the recently introduced Waqf Amendment Bill, asserting that the legislation is not only pro-Muslim but also a necessary corrective to protect the interests of marginalised sections within the community. Addressing a press conference here, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the [] The post Waqf Amendment legislation aims to uplift marginalised Muslims: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Modi has courage, conviction to undo wrongs committed by earlier Govts: Dr Jitendra
Excelsior Correspondent RAIPUR, May 1 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modis courage and conviction to undo the wrongs and historical injustices committed by earlier Governments, citing the revocation of Article 370, the abolition of Triple Talaq, and now, reforms in Waqf-related laws. Speaking at a [] The post Modi has courage, conviction to undo wrongs committed by earlier Govts: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressing Intellectuals meet at Raipur on Thursday.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressing Intellectuals meet at Raipur on Thursday. The post Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressing Intellectuals meet at Raipur on Thursday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chhattisgarh rural life to move, connect, thrive with steady bus service scheme
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh cabinet on Wednesday decided to initiate the Mukhyamantri Gramin Bus Suvidha Yojana to facilitate within easy reach of the local residents inhabiting remote, scheduled, rural and Maoist-affected regions. The decision was to bridge the gap that rural communities often experience in their daily lives as a silent struggle to access convenient regular rural transport services particularly in those areas having low population density. In the remote rural and scheduled areas of Chhattisgarh the public transport services are less and scattered. There remains a sparse public transport network to meet the local needs. A committee will be formed at the state and district level for the determination of new rural routes across the rural and tribal belts. The state government will provide special financial assistance in the first years to various categories of vehicles operated under the new scheme, said CM Sai. Under this scheme, permits and facilities will be provided to light / medium transport motor vehicles with the 18 to 42 seating capacity (excluding driver). The benefit of the permit will be given to the local residents of Chhattisgarh state, in which priority will be given to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, women and Naxal-affected areas. The beneficiaries will be selected through a tender process. Under this scheme, the vehicle owner will be completely exempted from monthly tax for a maximum period of three years from the date of issuance of the first permit for operating vehicles on rural roads. The state government will provide special financial assistance of Rs 26 per kilometer in the first year, Rs 24 per kilometer in the second year and Rs 22 per kilometer in the third year to various categories of vehicles operated under the new scheme. The visually impaired, intellectually challenged, physically challenged, senior citizens of 80 years and above, persons suffering from AIDS will get complete exemption in fare along with one attendant, while those staying in Maoist-affected areas will have to pay half the fare once the routine rural bus service begins.
CHANDIGARH/BHOPAL/JAIPUR/RAIPUR: The stalemate over visa cancellations post-Pahalgam attack ended on Tuesday, with 70 Pakistan national women possessing long-term visas and No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) certificates permitted to cross over into India at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari border. Initially, the Centre revoked all visas issued to Pakistan nationals visiting India. As a result, spouses of Indian citizens with Pakistani passports faced an emotional situation; those currently visiting or residing in India had to return to Pakistan, leaving their children behind if the latter were Indian citizens. Indian nationals currently visiting Pakistan could return to India but not with their children if the latter held Pakistan passports. However, the Centre revised the visa guidelines allowing those on Long-Term Visas to stay in the country. So, on Tuesday, Pakistani immigration authorities allowed women holding Pakistani passports and married to Indian nationals and having NORI certificates and long-term visas to cross over to India, sources said. In total, 240 people from Pakistan, including more than 70 NORI visa holders, entered India, and 140 people from India returned to Pakistan via the Attari border. Saba Kiran, a Pakistani national married in India, bids goodbye to her daughter as she is being deported to her country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Vignettes from Attari Family members waiting at the border post were relieved after the decision. Dr Vikram Udasi, from Jalgaon, Maharashtra, had been waiting at the Attari border since April 25 to receive his wife Priya, a Pakistani national, and child Ahan, who were in Pakistan visiting family. They were reunited after both crossed over. Finally, after the long wait, I have met my wife and child, and now we are returning to our home town. She has been on a Long-Term Visa for the past eight years, which is valid until 2026, he said. A Pakistan national, and his family members wait to cross over to their country Rishi Kumar from Kolhapur in Maharashtra, was equally happy. He was waiting for his wife and children at the Attari border for the last few days. His wife hails from Balochistan, a Pakistani national, while her two children are Indians. The three went to Pakistan to visit family. She was ultimately allowed to return to India along with her children. Edge of uncertainty In Madhya Pradesh, the fate of nine children with Pakistani passports and short-term visas hangs in balance. The state government has sought the Centres advice on nine children born to Pakistani fathers and Indian mothers, who are now with their mothers. The kids are between one year and 11 years of age. Four, aged between four and seven, are with their mother in their maternal home Indore, three others in Jabalpur and two in Bhopal. Komal, right, from Rajasthan gets emotional as her brother and sister-in-law leave for their home country Pakistan through Attari-Wagah border check-post following curbs imposed in the wake of Pahalgam terror attack, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. In the Jabalpur case, the mother brought the children on short-term visas last month because of financial difficulties, as their father was unemployed in Pakistan. There were 14 Pakistani nationals in MP, including the nine children with their Indian mothers in Indore, Bhopal and Jabalpur. Also, a young man (from the Sindhi community) was on a short-term visa in Bhopal. He had applied for a long-term visa just a few hours before the Centre ordered the revoking of 14 categories of visas and asked those Pakistani nationals to leave India by April 27. Weve sought the central governments advice and guidance in all these cases of the 10 Pakistani nationals, including the nine kids, a senior state police officer told this newspaper on Tuesday. Pakistani woman gets emotional while leaving for Pakistan as her husband is barred. Three of the 14 Pakistani nationals who had to leave the country by April 27 have already left and crossed the international border into Pakistan. In the case of a six-year-old kid, a Pakistani national, who had come with the Indian mother to the maternal grandparents place in Indore, the matter of both going to Pakistan is reportedly being looked into by the Foreigners Registration Office in Delhi. The Centre revoked the 14 categories of visas on April 25 in the wake of the ghastly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and Pakistan nationals who were in India on such visas were asked to leave the country by April 27. In a communication to all state governments, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), however, added that the order would not apply to Long-Term Visa (LTV) holders besides diplomatic and official visa holders Pakistani nationals. Who stay, who dont In Rajasthan, security agencies have deported 129 of the 400 Pakistani nationals residing in the state. According to official sources, 109 individuals were sent back by April 27, and an additional 20 were deported on April 28. However, several others currently remain untraceable, and efforts are underway to locate them. In a parallel development, after the Centre said in an updated directive that Long-Term Visa holders are not required to leave the country, 362 Pakistan nationals in Rajasthan have had their LTVs approved and formally registered in the last three days. Officials clarified that applicants whose LTV cases are pending or under consideration are exempt from deportation. Radha, right, a Pakistani national who was living in Jammu & Kashmir, with her relative as she is being deported to her country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Notably, Pakistani Muslim women married to Indian citizens and residing in India on LTVs are also not being asked to return to Pakistan under the revised rules. A significant number of Pakistani refugees, especially Hindus, have settled in the border districts of Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, Barmer, and particularly Jodhpur. In many cases, families have been split due to cross-border marriageswhere one half of the family is in India while the other remains in Pakistan or faces pressure to return. In at least three to four reported instances, mothers hold passports from one country, while their children have obtained citizenship in another, typically due to birth circumstances. These families now face the emotional and logistical burden of separation until new regulations are introduced or the situation stabilises. Fate of a few In Chhattisgarh, the Raigarh police have arrested two Pakistani citizens who acquired Indian voter identity cards through fraudulent means and by providing fake information. The district police said Iftekhar Sheikh (29) and Armish Sheikh (25) are brother and sister. The duo stayed in the Kodatarai area of Raigarh district, about 230 km east of Raipur. Additional SP (Raigarh) told this newspaper, Their father, Yakub Sheikh, is Indian and stays in Raigarh. He married a Pakistani woman who died during the Covid-19 pandemic. The two children were born in Pakistan but were raised and schooled in India. appu Kumar, a Pakistani national who was living in Jammu & Kashmir, shows a copy of his identification card as he is being deported to his country through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari-Wagah border, near Amritsar, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Both are here on valid Long-Term Visas, and, at present, they cant be deported. But they furnished wrong information and procured Indian voter ID cards, following which a case has been registered against them. The police had launched a drive to ensure no Pakistan nationals were found staying illegally in the district, and both the Pakistan nationals were traced during the intensive verification campaign, said Jutemill police station in-charge Prashant Rao. The police have registered the case against both under sections 199, 200 (false statement made in declaration), 419 (cheating by impersonation), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will), 468 (forgery to cheat) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC. Fate of nine children in MP hangs on the edge In Madhya Pradesh, the fate of nine children with Pakistani passports and short-term visas hangs in balance. The state government has sought the Centres advice on nine children born to Pakistani fathers and Indian mothers, who are now with their mothers. The kids are between one year and 11 years of age. Four, aged between four and seven, are with their mother in their maternal home Indore. 362 Pak nationals in Raj get LTVs approved in 3 days After the Union government said in an updated directive that Long-Term Visa holders are not required to leave the country, 362 Pakistan nationals in Rajasthan have had their Long-Term Visas approved and formally registered in the last three days. Officials clarified that applicants whose LTV cases are pending or under consideration are exempt from deportation.
Nava Raipur Atal Nagar Becomes Indias First 'Debt-Free' Planned City
The smart city is located approximately 20 km from the old Raipur city.
To clear summer rush, extra coaches for some trains
Trains from Visakhapatnam to Brahmapur, Bhubaneswar, Koraput and Raipur to get extra coaches from May 1-31 to manage waitlisted rush
Pakistan nationals arrested in Chhattisgarh for illegally obtaining voter IDs with false information
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh police in Raigarh arrested two Pakistani citizens, Iftekhar Sheikh (29) and Armish Sheikh (25), who allegedly acquired Indian voter IDs by providing false information. The district police said the siblings were staying in the Kodatarai area of Raigarh district, about 230 km east of Raipur. The father of both Yakub Sheikh is Indian and stays in Raigarh. He married a Pakistan woman who died during the Covid-19 pandemic. The birthplace of brother-sister is Pakistan though they were brought up including schooling in India. As they were born in the neighbouring country, they got their nationality from Pakistan. Both are here on valid Long Term Visa (LTV) and presently they cant be deported. But they furnished wrong information and procured Indian voter ID cards following which the case was registered against both. Further probe is on, Akash Markam, additional SP (Raigarh) told this newspaper. The situation came to light when the Raigarh police launched a drive to ensure no Pakistani nationals were staying illegally in the district. They received information about the two suspected foreigners residing in Kodatarai at the house of a local inhabitant, Yakub Sheikh (their father). Both Pakistani nationals were traced during the intensive verification campaign underway, said Jutemill police station incharge Prashant Rao in Raigarh. The Jutemill police personnel raided the area based on the inputs received and during the interrogation Iftekhar, Armish were found with valid Pakistan passports and LTV. The late mother of both was native of Landhi town in eastern Karachi. Staying in Raigarh they obtained Indian voter ID cards by furnishing false information on Form no 06 of Election Commission of India to get their names included in the electoral roll. The Raigarh police stated that perhaps both of them wished to stay in India. The police had registered the case against both under sections 199 (false statement made in declaration which is by law receivable as evidence), 200 (giving declaration as true while knowing it to be false), 419 (cheating by impersonation), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will), 468 (forgery with the aim to cheat) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). After the recent decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on Security in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has decided to suspend visa services to Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. All existing valid visas issued by India to Pakistani nationals stand revoked with effect from 27 April 2025.
Two Pakistani nationals held for illegally obtaining Indian voter ID cards in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh police in Raigarh arrested two Pakistani citizens who allegedly through fraudulent means acquired the Indian voters Identity cards providing wrong information. The Pakistani nationals, Iftekhar Sheikh (29) and Armish Sheikh (25 years) were staying at the Kodatarai area of Raigarh district, about 230 km east of Raipur, the district police said. The Raigarh police launched a drive to ensure no Pakistani nationals were found staying illegally in the district, and got the information about the two suspected foreigners residing in Kodatarai at the house of a local inhabitant, Yakub Sheikh, said Jutemill police station in-charge Prashant Rao in Raigarh. Both Pakistani nationals were traced during the intensive verification campaign, he added. The Jutemill police personnel raided the area based on the inputs received, and both the 'foreigners' claimed they had a Pakistan passport and a valid Long Term Visa (LTV) during the interrogation. Both of them are natives of Landhi town in eastern Karachi. They managed to obtain Indian voter ID cards deceitfully by furnishing false information on Form No. 06 of the Election Commission of India to get their names included in the electoral roll. The Raigarh police also informed that they had other documents, like the bank passbook. The police had registered the case against both under sections 199 (false statement made in declaration which is by law receivable as evidence), 200 (giving declaration as true while knowing it to be false), 419 (cheating by impersonation), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will), 468 (forgery with the aim to cheat) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Further investigation is underway, the police said. After the recent decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on Security in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack , the Indian government has decided to suspend visa services to Pakistani nationals with immediate effect. All existing valid visas issued by India to Pakistani nationals stand revoked with effect from 27 April 2025.
RAIPUR: Seven faculty members and a student leader have been booked for allegedly forcing students of Bilaspur-based Guru Ghasidas Central University to offer namaz (Islamic prayer) during the National Service Scheme (NSS) camp organised in the district. The incident occurred on March 31 during the special camping program held in the Kota block from March 26 to April 1 this year. A total of 159 students participated in various community service activities during the event. After their return, several students alleged that a program officer and a coordinator had forced them to offer namaz on the day of Eid (March 31). As protests grew, the university formed a three-member committee to investigate the allegations. Some students also filed a complaint at the Koni police station in Bilaspur, demanding action against the program officer, coordinator, and other teachers involved. Some students claimed that after protesting against performing namaz, they were allegedly threatened with being denied certificates. A police inquiry was initiated after students returning from the camp protested, and right-wing outfits also held demonstrations demanding action. The Bilaspur Senior Superintendent of Police, Rajnesh Singh, formed a four-member committee led by City Superintendent of Police, Akshay Sabadra, to conduct the investigation. The report was submitted to the SSP on Saturday. According to the Bilaspur police, as many as 159 students were allegedly forced to offer namaz during the camp at Shivtarai village in Kota, although only four of them were Muslims. The police have registered a case against Professor Dilip Jha, Madhulika Singh, Jyoti Verma, Neeraj Kumari, Prashant Vaishnav, Suryabhan Singh, and Basant Kumar, all teachers at the Central University, as well as the team leader-cum-student, Ayushmann Choudhary. They have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Sections 196, 197, 299, 302, and 190, as well as Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Religious Freedom Act. We will continue our investigation into the incident, the SSP said.
