Sikandar Trailer: Salman Khan-Rashmika Mandanna starrer blends romance with action but lacks clarity
The trailer seamlessly blends action and romance, revealing Salman's character as 'Rajkot ka Raja' who embarks on a mysterious mission in Mumbai.
PVR INOX to screen IPL matches on the big screen
The cities include Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Anand, Jamnagar, Kolkata, Guwahati, Udaipur, Gurgaon , Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Trivandrum among others
Gujarat launches demolition drive against illegal properties linked to criminal elements
AHMEDABAD: Despite Supreme Court guidelines requiring local administrations to issue notices before demolishing encroachments , Gujarat authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal properties linked to criminal elements. Following a surge in public violence, vandalism, and intimidationseveral incidents of which have been captured on video, the state government has launched a major drive targeting offenders involved in bootlegging, gambling, and other crimes. Police have compiled a statewide list of 7,612 offenders, including 3,264 bootleggers, 516 gamblers, and 2,149 individuals accused of harassing women in public. Authorities have begun inspecting properties linked to these individuals to identify unauthorised constructions. Today, bulldozer operations were carried out in Ahmedabad and other districts as part of this campaign. The state police chief has called an urgent meeting, where major decisions regarding the drive are expected. In Ahmedabads Dariyapur area, officials demolished an illegally constructed shed on the third floor of the Manpasand Gymkhana Club. The municipal corporation had issued a notice earlier, but the lack of police protection had delayed action. With adequate security, the structure was removed on Thursday. In Vadodara, police identified 825 offenders, including 377 bootleggers, 211 property offenders, 153 accused of violent crimes, 64 gamblers, and 19 other criminals. Officials demolished four huts belonging to bootlegger Dharmendra alias Shambhu near Tarsali Bypass and sealed two houses owned by bootlegger Vipul Panchal in Ghagharetiya village. Surat police have prepared a list of 1,400 offenders, with 350 classified as hardcore criminals. In Rajkot, a list of 756 accused has been submitted to the municipal corporations town planning branch for illegal construction verification. The bulldozer campaign against criminal elements is expected to continue across Gujarat in the coming days as authorities push to curb lawlessness.
RNSB Apprentice Peon Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
RNSB Recruitment 2025 Apply Online: Rajkot Nagarik Sahakari Bank (RNSB) has announced the recruitment of Apprentice Peon in 2025. Candidates With Any Graduate Can Apply Online on or before 26-03-2025.
Punctuality on track as Vaishnaw tears into Opposition
NEW DELHI: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday dismissed Opposition allegations regarding train punctuality, informing the Lok Sabha that 32 railway divisions have achieved over 90% punctuality while 17 out of 68 divisions maintain more than 80% punctuality. The Bhavnagar rail division under Western Railway holds the top position for punctuality, maintaining a rate of over 99.6%. Following closely are the Madurai division at 99.2%, Ratlam at 98.9%, Bikaner at 98.1%, Sealdah at 98%, Rajkot at 97.7%, Ajmer at 97.1%, and Jodhpur at 96.1%. Other divisions among the 32 that have surpassed 90% punctuality include Kota and Guntur, both with 95.7%, Ahmedabad at 95.1%, Bangalore and Alipur Duar at 94.4%, Guntakal at 94.3%, Mumbai Central at 92.9%, and Trivandrum at 91.3%, among others. The Vijayawada rail division, with 89.5% punctuality, leads the 17 divisions that have achieved over 80% punctuality. It is followed by Firozpur division at 89.2%, Sonpur at 88.6%, Agra at 88.3%, Rangiya at 88.3%, Malda at 88.1%, Nagpur at 87.8%, Ranchi at 87.7%, Bhusaval at 87.4%, and Samastipur at 86.7%. He said over 13,000 passenger trains are currently in operation, including 4,111 mail and express trains, 3,313 passenger trains, and 5,774 suburban trains. Vaishnaw stated 17,330 trains were operated during the Mahakumbh period. Additionally, 1,107 special trains were arranged to accommodate the Holi rush. The number of Holi special trains has consistently increased, from 604 in 2023-24 to 1,107 in 2024-25.
Gujarat: How a lobby fire in Rajkot building killed 3 non-residents - The Indian Express
Gujarat: How a lobby fire in Rajkot building killed 3 non-residents The Indian Express
3 killed as fire breaks out at residential building in Gujarat's Rajkot - MSN
3 killed as fire breaks out at residential building in Gujarat's Rajkot MSN
3 dead, 1 injured in Atlantis building fire in Gujarats Rajkot - The Tribune India
3 dead, 1 injured in Atlantis building fire in Gujarats Rajkot The Tribune India
3 dead, 1 injured in Atlantis building fire in Gujarats Rajkot
The official said that prima facie, the blaze erupted after a short circuit in the building
80-Year-Old Man Shoots Son Dead Over Remarriage Dispute in Rajkot
Widower wanted to remarry, but family opposed; son shot dead in anger
Son Objects To Second Marriage, 76-Year-Old Man Shoots Him In Gujarat
A shocking crime unfolded in Gujarat's Rajkot district where a 76-year-old man shot dead his son after a dispute over his second marriage.
Rajasthan MP demands CBI probe into youth's mysterious death; Gujarat Ex-MLA in spotlight
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Gondal is back in the spotlight as former BJP MLA Jayrajsinh Jadeja finds himself entangled in yet another controversy. The mysterious death of a Rajasthani youth in Rajkots Gondal has now escalated to the national stage. Rajasthan MP Hanuman Beniwal has intensified the heat, firing off a tweet demanding a CBI probe and alleging murder. Beniwal in-directly named BJPs ex MLA and his family in the case, calling for an immediate FIR. The political storm is gaining momentum. Tensions have flared in Gondal after the body of a missing youth was found near Targhadiya, igniting serious allegations against former BJP MLA Jayrajsinh Jadejas son, Ganesh Jadeja. A written complaint to the SP by Ratanlal Shankarlal Jat directly accused Ganesh and his men of assaulting Rajkumar Jat and his father. Rajkumar, a UPSC aspirant, vanished after allegedly being beaten, with no trace found for seven days. His father, in a separate complaint, claimed he too was attacked by men linked to the former MLA. My worst fear has come true, said Ratanlal Shankarlal Jat, father of the deceased youth, as he demanded justice. I dont know what exactly happened to my son, but ever since this incident, I have been saying the same thingwe want justice. Having lived in Gondal for 30 years, Jat expressed shock at the tragedy. This has never happened before. I strongly suspect my son was murdered. Whatever the truth is, we just want justice. Rajkot Rural Police have officially addressed the discovery of Rajkumar Jats body, citing CCTV and social media investigations. Footage from March 2, 2025, shows a fight between Rajkumar and his father at night. By 2 AM on March 3, Rajkumar left home, the police stated. Tracking his movements, authorities revealed, He reached Ramdham Ashram that evening and left around 2 AM on March 4. At around 3 PM on March 4, 2025, an unidentified man, approximately 30-35 years old, was found critically injured on the Targhadiya Bridge along the Rajkot-Ahmedabad National Highway, officials confirmed. Emergency responders rushed him to Rajkot Government Hospital via 108 ambulance. Despite immediate medical attention, the on-duty doctor declared him dead at 3:42 PM, the statement revealed. On March 9, the family identified his body and, following post-mortem procedures, accepted it, the statement concluded. My brother-in-law Rajkumar had been missing from his home in Gondal since March 3, said Arjun, speaking to local media. Then we got a call from the police saying he had met with an accident in Rajkot. Revealing a crucial detail, he added, While passing by Jayrajsinhs farmhouse in Gondal, he had a minor scuffle with 5-7 people. But now, with the police linking his disappearance to an accident, we are demanding a forensic postmortem. We need the truth, he asserted. The shockwaves of the incident have now rippled into Rajasthan. Rajsthans RLP Party MP Hanuman Beniwal stated that the incident has deeply shaken Rajasthan, intensifying the pressure on authorities. Taking to social media, he accused the former BJP MLA of being involved. Beniwal further demanded an impartial investigation, emphasising that the truth must come out, adding to the growing outcry.
Rahul Gandhi in Gujarat in a bid to revamp party ahead of 2027 assembly polls
AHMEDABAD: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi landed in Gujarat on Friday for a high-stakes two-day visit, aiming to energize the Congress ranks. Rahul, who arrives fresh from a fiery Lok Sabha debate where he declared with conviction that Congress will reclaim Gujarat in the next assembly elections, will be camping in Ahmedabad on March 7 and 8. With over two and a half years left for the 2027 polls, Gandhis visit signals an early battle cry, setting the tone for a long and aggressive campaign. On his first day in Gujarat, Rahul Gandhi engaged with nearly 500 Congress leaders in back-to-back meetings, setting the tone for the partys 2027 poll strategy. The day kicked off with three crucial sessions from morning to afternoon, where the AICC finalized and submitted a roadmap for Gujarat Congress ahead of the April 8-9 session. A core decisionensuring strict responsibility and accountability for every leadertook center stage. The first meeting brought together the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly and the former State Congress President, sparking an exchange of key political insights. This was followed by the high-stakes Political Affairs Committee meeting, attended by Congress Committee In-charge Mukul Wasnik, State President Shaktisinh Gohil, Opposition Leader Amit Chavda, and AICC Organization Secretary KC Venugopal, where candid discussions shaped the partys next moves. Only economic failure, unemployment, and inflation manufactured in 'bulk' under Modi government: Rahul Gandhi Rahul Gandhi didnt hold himself back in his closed-door meeting with Gujarat Congress leaders, sources reveal. In a deep dive into the partys repeated electoral failures, he pressed hard with pointed questions. Why are upper castes distancing themselves from Congress? he asked bluntly, challenging leaders to confront the shifting political landscape. How is Gujarat Congress addressing the real issues of the people? he further questioned, signaling a demand for sharper engagement and a concrete strategy. With Congress struggling to reclaim its lost ground in Gujarat, Gandhis tough interrogation made one thing clearmere rhetoric wont cut it. The party needs answers, and it needs them fast. The final session saw Gandhi interacting with the heads of 18 Congress cells, including the Kisan Cell and Doctor Cell, focusing on actionable programs and ways to deliver justice to Gujarats citizens. With three back-to-back strategy meetings wrapped up, Gandhis Gujarat outreach has set a decisive momentum for the Congress campaign. Rahul Gandhi has arrived in Gujarat for two days of intense interaction with party workers, said Seva Dal National Coordinator Lalji Desai, setting the stage for a Congress resurgence. Following Rahul Gandhi's visit, Gujarat CM meets families of Rajkot fire victims month after the incident He will sit with leaders from the grassroots up, dissect what went wrong, and map out the road ahead. In the Lok Sabha, he declaredWe will defeat you in Gujarat. Now, every Congress worker is gearing up to make that a reality, Desai asserted. A unified battle plan is in the works. Congress will hit the streets with a Pad Yatra, directly engaging with the people and cornering the government. Elections in Gujarat are not being fought democratically; they are being controlled by IAS-IPS officers. But we will fight together, head-on, he added. Slamming the BJPs internal strife, Desai took a sharp dig: There is no factionalism in Gujarat Congress, but the BJP is drowning in it. Anandiben Patels camp, Amit Shahs faction, and now C.R. Patils growing power struggleBJP is battling itself.
Gujarat leads nation in mangrove afforestation; covers 19,020 hectares under MISHTI scheme
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat has emerged as the national leader in mangrove afforestation, covering 19,020 hectares in just two years under the Centres MISHTI scheme. Launched in 2023, the initiative aims to expand Indias mangrove cover while strengthening coastal livelihoods. With Gujarat spearheading the efforts, the program is rapidly transforming the nations coastal ecosystem. The Central government launched the MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes) scheme in 2023 to expand mangrove forests across coastal states and union territories, securing a sustainable future for both communities and ecosystems. In just two years, Gujarat has surged ahead, planting mangroves across more than 19,000 hectares, making it the national frontrunner in the initiatives success. Gujarat remains committed to environmental conservation, aligning with the vision of Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat. This commitment has positioned Gujarat at the forefront of the Central Governments MISHTI scheme implementation, said Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera. Gujarats mangrove ecosystem is strategically distributed, with Kutch leading the charge at 799 sq. km. The Gulf of Kutch, home to the Marine National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, along with districts like Jamnagar, Rajkot (Morbi), Porbandar, and Devbhoomi Dwarka, accounts for 236 sq. km. The central and southern belt, spanning Bhavnagar, Ahmedabad, Anand, Bharuch, Surat, Navsari, and Valsad, holds 134 sq. km, covering critical areas like the Gulf of Khambhat and Dumas-Ubhrat. Meanwhile, Saurashtra, including Amreli, Junagadh, and Gir-Somnath, maintains a moderate 6 sq. km of mangrove cover. Mangrove forests serve as a crucial green barrier, preventing coastal erosion while supporting fish breeding and sustaining coastal livelihoods. During cyclones, they shield vulnerable regions, curb rising salinity, and protect agriculture. With a 1,650 km-long coastline, Gujarat fosters diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrasses. Under the MISHTI scheme, the Central government aims to plant 540 sq. km of mangroves in five years. Gujarat has already raced ahead, completing plantation across 190 sq. km in just two years.
Gujarat: Seven rapists sentenced to life imprisonment in one day in Amreli, Vadodara and Rajkot
In an unprecedented move, courts in Gujarat's Amreli, Vadodara, and Rajkot sentenced seven rapists to life imprisonment in POCSO cases on a single day. The state government, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has committed to taking strict action against perpetrators to ensure justice for victims.
Gujarat Maternity Hospital CCTV Leak Sparks Privacy Concerns
Cyber Crime Unit Investigates Hacked Server Claim as Rajkot Maternity Hospital Staff Questioned
How Delhi Lab Technician Was Linked To Gujarat Maternity Home Videos Case
A man from Delhi has been arrested in connection with the racket of making and selling videos of women being checked up at a maternity hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot.
Man arrested for selling women patient's CCTV videos; seven held so far
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Police has arrested one more person in connection with the alleged hacking of a hospital's CCTV network to obtain videos of women patients for online sale, officials said here on Wednesday. The arrest of Rohit Sisodia, a Delhi resident, took the tally of those held so far to seven. Sisodia allegedly converted hacked CCTV footage into QR codes and sold them to the co-accused who then shared the videos through YouTube and Telegram channels, Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch said in a release. The Cyber Crime Branch on February 17 registered a case after videos of women patients being examined by doctors inside the labour room of a hospital were found to have been circulated on some subscription-only YouTube and Telegram channels. The police arrested six persons including a hacker named Parit Dhamelia from Surat and the owner of a YouTube channel Prajwal Taily, a resident of Latur, Maharashtra. Dhamelia, a commerce graduate, had allegedly hacked into the CCTV system of a maternity home in Rajkot and shared videos with Sisodia, as per the police. UP man held by Gujarat cops uploaded videos of women bathers in Mahakumbh After converting the clips into QR codes, Sisodia allegedly sold them to Taily and some others. A few clips were subsequently shared by three YouTube channels, including one owned by Taily, with the description carrying a link to a Telegram group. Members of the Telegram group were charged Rs 2,000 per video, said the release. Besides the maternity home in Rajkot, Dhamelia and his accomplice Rayan Perera allegedly hacked into nearly 50,000 CCTVs of hospitals, offices, schools, colleges and even CCTVs installed in people's bedrooms, said Deputy Commissioner of Police, Cyber Crime, Lavina Sinha. All seven accused persons have been booked for criminal conspiracy and voyeurism under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and for cyber terrorism under section 66(f)(2) of the Information Technology Act, said the release.
50,000 Videos From Rajkot Maternity Ward Leaked On Telegram Over 9 Months, 6 Arrested
Three accused were produced in court for hacking CCTV footage of Payal Hospital and sharing explicit videos on Telegram. They have been remanded till March 3
Gujarat: 28 couples duped as organisers disappear on wedding day
Hyderabad: A mass wedding function turned into a disaster after 28 couples were left stranded as their wedding organizers vanished without a trace. The incident transpired in Rajkot, Gujarat, where the couples paid Rs 30,000 each for wedding arrangements but were left shocked after they reached the venue in Rail Nagar on Saturday, February 22. 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 .
Organizers flee with money abandoning 28 couples at mass wedding in Gujarat
A mass wedding function turned into a disaster after 28 couples were left stranded as their wedding organizers vanished without a trace. The incident has come to light from Rajkot city of Gujarat where couples paid Rs 30,000 each for wedding arrangements but were left majorly disappointed after they reached the venue in Rail Nagar 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 .
UP man held by Gujarat cops uploaded videos of women bathers in Mahakumbh
AHMEDABAD: One of the three persons arrested by Gujarat police's Cyber Crime Branch for allegedly uploading videos of women being medically examined in hospitals had also done the same with clips of women pilgrims bathing during Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, a police official said on Friday. Chandra Prakash, a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, had started a YouTube channel named 'CP Monda' a few months ago and uploaded videos of women pilgrims bathing at the ongoing Mahakumbh, Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Deputy Commissioner of Police Lavina Sinha told reporters. Chandra Prakash was held from Prayagaj on Wednesday along with Prajwal Taili and Praj Patil from Latur and Sangli in Maharashtra for uploading objectionable videos of women patients, including from a Rajkot based hospital, with aim of making money from subscribers on Telegram app. While Taili and Patil had acquired the videos of women patients from hackers, Chandra Prakash had downloaded the videos from other YouTube channels and uploaded them on his channel recently. We are probing if he too had intention of selling these videos. The duo from Maharashtra are not linked to Prakash, Sinha said. Taili and Praj knew each other as they have cleared Class 12 and were preparing for NEET in Latur. The three accused have been remanded in police custody till March 1, Sinha informed. In the videos, which appeared to be from CCTV footage, women patients could be seen being examined inside a closed room of a hospital by a female doctor or being given injection by a nurse. A police probe found the viral videos were part of CCTV footage of Rajkot-based Payal Maternity Home. Some hackers breached the hospital's CCTV system and acquired the footage, as per police. Later, Taili and Praj Patil acquired these footage and shared them on their YouTube channels, with the description carrying a link to a Telegram group. Using Telegram, the duo used to sell these clips for Rs 800 to Rs 2000 each. Both had made Rs 8 to 9 lakh in 7-8 months by selling such obscene clips online. We found nearly 2,000 clips, including of public places, from their devices, said Sinha.
Gujarat budget 2025: Rs 3.70 lakh crore outlay, five lakh jobs, major boost for farmers
AHMEDABAD: Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai, in his fourth consecutive Gujarat budget presentation, outlined key initiatives targeting youth, farmers, and women. During his 85-minute speech, he unveiled a Rs 3.70 lakh crore budget focused on economic growth and employment generation. A major highlight was the announcement of five lakh new jobs, reinforcing the state's push for workforce expansion. In a significant relief for farmers, he also introduced a provision allowing them to obtain a farmer certificate even if all their land becomes uncultivated, ensuring continued access to agricultural benefits. Gujarat's budget charts an ambitious course for economic growth, infrastructure, and social welfare, with six new growth hubs planned across key regions - Surat, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Saurashtra Coastal, and Kutch - set to drive regional development. Strengthening connectivity, the state will develop two Greenfield Expressways and 12 high-speed corridors, including the Namo Shakti Expressway linking Deesa in North Gujarat to Pipavav in Saurashtra and the Somnath-Dwarka Expressway, enhancing access to major pilgrimage sites. In a bid to bolster air connectivity, a new airport in Dahod has been announced, alongside upgrades to airports in Vadodara, Surat, Bhavnagar, and Porbandar. Complementing this, tourism is set to receive a boost with the development of the Ambaji Corridor and the Dharoi Tourism Development Project. Urban development remains a priority, with 2025 declared as Urban Development Year and a 40 per cent budget increase dedicated to enhancing infrastructure in newly formed municipal corporations. Addressing water conservation, Gujarat will roll out the 'Catch the Rain' campaign across urban areas, aligning with the Prime Ministers call to raise groundwater levels through public participation. Meanwhile, housing support under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has been enhanced, increasing financial assistance per beneficiary to Rs 1.70 lakh. Welfare initiatives remain at the forefront, with Rs 30,000 crore allocated for Vanbandhu development, focusing on education, employment, and infrastructure in the tribal belt from Ambaji to Umargam. Gujarat's fisheries sector, backed by the countrys longest coastline, will receive a record Rs 1,622 crore package to enhance fish production and job creation. Agriculture modernization is another key focus, with Rs 1,612 crore set aside to strengthen the sector and support farmers. To prepare youth for the AI era, the government will establish AI labs in seven technical institutes and create an ecosystem fostering startups, including four new i-Hubs. Womens empowerment takes center stage with the launch of the Sakhi Sahas Yojana, which will provide self-help groups with equipment support, loan guarantees, and other resources for self-reliance. Additionally, child nutrition has been prioritized, with a 25 per cent budget increase pushing the allocation to Rs 8,460 crore. Social security measures have also been reinforced, with insurance coverage under the Janata Juth Aksmat Vima Yojana doubling from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, benefiting over 4.45 crore people. Through this comprehensive budget, Gujarat aims to balance economic expansion with social upliftment, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hailed the Rs 3.70 lakh crore Gujarat budget as a landmark financial plan, calling it he largest in the state's history and a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to development. With a 21.8 per cent increase in capital expenditure over the previous year, this budget strengthens Gujarat's growth trajectory and paves the way for a brighter future, he stated. Highlighting the transformative vision behind the budget, CM Patel emphasised its role in enhancing the quality of life for citizens. This budget is a successful effort to make the lives of Gujarat's people more comfortable, prosperous, and fulfilling, he said, adding that the state is consistently reaching new milestones in progress and development.
Hacked videos of women in labour room sold online; 3 held
The Gujarat police have arrested three individuals for allegedly acquiring hacked videos of women patients and selling them through YouTube and Telegram. The accused, who hail from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, reportedly used international hackers to obtain the clips, which appeared to be from CCTV footage of a Rajkot-based hospital. The police identified and arrested the trio who were allegedly running this racket, after videos of women patients being examined by doctors inside the labour room of a hospital were circulated online.
Gujarats cybercrime branch busts racket selling videos of female patients; three arrested
AHMEDABAD: Ahmedabad Cyber Crime has arrested two suspects from Maharashtra and one from Uttar Pradesh in connection with the viral videos of female patients undergoing treatment and examinations at Payal Maternity Home & Surgical Hospital near Raiya Circle in Rajkot. The accused were allegedly selling these illicit videos on a Telegram channel, charging hefty amounts from subscribers. Investigators have uncovered further evidence of the financial transactions linked to the illegal activity. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad Cyber Crime has confirmed that the hospitals CCTV IP system was hacked, allowing unauthorised access to private footage. One such video, showing a woman receiving treatment in a gynecological hospital, recently went viral on Telegram, with group members being invited to access similar content. The circulation of such videos is a direct violation of patient privacy, prompting authorities to register a case and take strict legal action. Gujarats Ahmedabad Cyber Crime and Crime Branch teams conducted coordinated raids across multiple states, leading them to Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, where they apprehended three suspects. Among them, Pragnesh Patil and Prajwal Teli were arrested from Sangli and Latur in Maharashtra, while another suspect was caught in Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, investigators are interrogating seven more individuals linked to the case, hinting at a larger operation. The case revolves around the illegal sharing of private videos capturing female patients undergoing sensitive medical procedures, including sonography, breast check-ups, gynecological treatments, childbirth, and CT scans at a Rajkot maternity hospital. These videos were allegedly uploaded and sold through Telegram and YouTube channels, exposing victims to severe privacy violations. Cyber Crime ACP Hardik Mankadia confirmed earlier that viral videos on YouTube and Telegram have come under the cybercrime department's radar, linking the probe to their spread. Investigators are analysing the content, he said, adding that the video surfaced on YouTube on January 6 and a Telegram channel was created in September 2024. Mankadia stated that legal action is imminent. A case registered under Sections 66E and 67 of the Cyber Crime IT Act, reinforcing the departments strict stance. According to the crime branch, the two arrested suspects were actively profiting from this illicit trade by charging substantial amounts for access to the content. As the investigation deepens, officials are preparing to transfer the suspects from Maharashtra to Ahmedabad for further legal action, strengthening their crackdown on the perpetrators. Preliminary findings suggest a nationwide racket exploiting hospital CCTV footage, with cybercriminals operating across Gujarat and at least two other states. The misused footage was traced back to Rajkot's Payal Maternity Home & Surgical Hospital, prompting an immediate raid by Ahmedabad Cyber Crime officials. Statements from doctors and staff have been recorded, as authorities work to dismantle the larger network behind the privacy breach.
Smaller cities like Thrissur and Nagpur are emerging as potential business hotspots, as observed in the latest Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 report. With government initiatives improving infrastructure and job creation, interest from homebuyers and investors in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities is on the rise.
Videos Capturing Women Undergoing Gynaecological Treatment in Gujarat Leaked Online
Videos of women undergoing gynaecological check-ups at a Rajkot hospital were uploaded online, raising privacy concerns. Police and Ahmedabad cybercrime are investigating.
Rajkot mayor travels to Kumbh in official vehicle
Naynaben Pedhadiya, mayor of Rajkot city in Gujarat has sparked a controversy after photos of her journey to Prayagraj to attend the Maha Kumbh in her official vehicle went viral.
IND vs ENG: THIS star spinner joins India's squad for upcoming ODI series, Jasprit Bumrah left out
He picked 14 wickets, which included a five-wicket haul in Rajkot in the recently concluded 5-match T20I series against England.
Gujarat BJP faces internal strife amid allegations of favouritism, corruption
AHMEDABAD: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat, once renowned for its disciplined organisational structure, is grappling with a series of controversies that critics claim reflect the very political culture it once condemned in the Congress party. The latest turmoil stems from Rajkot, where an anonymous letter has accused BJP organisation in-charge Dhaval Dave of impropriety in distributing party positions, further intensifying the party's internal discord. According to the letter, Dave has allegedly favoured women with whom he shares close relationships while appointing individuals to party posts. It also claims that he orchestrated a smear campaign against state unit vice-president Bharat Boghra under instructions from a party general secretary. This revelation follows the unresolved Amreli letter controversy, in which similar allegations were levelled against sitting MLA Kaushik Vekaria. Adding to the BJPs woes, the party was recently rocked by a Rs 500-600 crore ponzi scheme scandal, with BJP leader Bhupendrasinh Zala from Sabarkantha identified as the mastermind. The CID crime branch has since arrested Zala. Political analysts argue that the BJP, long admired for its disciplined structure, appears to be adopting characteristics it once criticised in the Congress. The term Congress-Yukt BJPsuggesting the partys increasing resemblance to Congress-style politicshas gained traction as more former Congress leaders secure influential roles within the party and government. Amid these developments, internal dissent within the BJP has become more pronounced. Party workers have voiced their frustration over what they perceive as a shift away from meritocratic principles in appointing leaders. Sources suggest that loyalty to top leadership, rather than dedication to party ideology or grassroots work, has become the primary criterion for political advancement. The impact of this internal strife has been evident in electoral setbacks, with rebel leaders successfully contesting official party candidates in various elections, from assembly polls to local body contests. This growing indiscipline signals a major departure from the BJPs traditional emphasis on organisational unity and ideological commitment. As factionalism deepens, the BJP faces mounting challenges in maintaining its distinct political identity while managing an expanded support base and addressing internal power struggles that once plagued its chief political rival.
Watch: Sanju rolls like Dhoni! Helps SKY with a spot-on DRS call
India wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has done an MSD from behind rge stumps during the third T20I against England on Tuesday night. On the last ball of the 10th over, England skipper Buttler played a reverse sweep close to the stumps. He failed to connect and the ball safely stuck in Samson's gloves. Almost instantaneously Sanju started celebrating and appealing. However, no player including the bowler - Varun Chakaravarthy nor the Indian Skipper Suryakumar Yadav looked interesting. Nevertheless, Samson was successful in convincing SKY for a DRS. His actions helped India dismiss the dangerous opener. #VarunChakaravarthy breaks the partnership! A successful review by #TeamIndia and #JosButtler has to walk back! Start watching FREE on Disney+ Hotstar: https://t.co/cA9YJDYNul #INDvENGOnJioStar 3rd T20I LIVE NOW on Disney+ Hotstar & Star Sports! | #KhelAasmani pic.twitter.com/8AUu2FMPOU Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 28, 2025 Meanwhile, a disciplined bowling and a quickfire 51 by Ben Duckett helped England bounce back to win the match against India and to keep the series alive. Duckett's 28-ball knock set up England to make 171-9 despite a collapse triggered by Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who returned figures of 5-24 in Rajkot. England's bowlers then combined to limit India to 145-9, sealing a 26-run win in a five-match series now only led 2-1 by India. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid impressed with figures of 1-15 from an excellent four-over spell, while England's fast bowlers struck regularly. Jamie Overton took three wickets while Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse claimed two each. Hardik Pandya stuttered to 40 off 35 deliveries before being dismissed by Overton when the required run-rate climbed to more than 20 an over. Wickets kept tumbling as Rashid bowled Tilak Varma and Overton sent back Washington Sundar to reduce India to 85-5 and Pandya never seriously threatened to take India over the line. Both teams will go head-to-head again on Friday at the Maharashtra Crikcet Association Stadium in Pune.
Indian batters falter against England in 3rd T20I
Rajkot, Jan 28: Indian batters faltered against an incisive England bowling attack as the visitors raised their game in a must-win scenario to win the third T20I by 26 runs and keep the five-match series alive here on Tuesday. Mohammed Shami made a solid comeback to international cricket after 14 months but it was Varun [] The post Indian batters falter against England in 3rd T20I appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Dew didn't set in, that played in their favour: Varun Chakravarthy on Rajkot pitch
India lost the third T20I against England by 26 runs, making the series score 2-1. The pitch slowed down in the second innings, helping England's bowlers, particularly Adil Rashid. Rashid's tight spell made it difficult for India to chase the target despite Varun Chakravarthy's impressive five-wicket haul in the first innings.
England cricket team celebrating after defeating India in 3rd T20 match at Rajkot.
England cricket team celebrating after defeating India in 3rd T20 match at Rajkot. The post England cricket team celebrating after defeating India in 3rd T20 match at Rajkot. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India suffered a 26-run defeat against England in the third T20I match held in Rajkot.
Ind vs Eng Live Streaming: When and where to watch the 3rd T20I between India and England
India is set to seal the series against England in the third T20I at Rajkot on Tuesday. India has already won the first two matches in Kolkata and Chennai. The second T20I was a thriller, with India winning by two wickets. The live streaming will be available on Disney+ Hotstar and the Star Sports network.
Shami fit but SKY, Gautam will decide on his workload
Rajkot, Jan 27: Pacer Mohammed Shami is not facing any fitness concerns but the call on him playing the remaining games in the T20I series against England will be taken by the captain and the head coach, Indias new batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Monday. The 34-year-old not being picked for the first two [] The post Shami fit but SKY, Gautam will decide on his workload appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Have certain things in mind for Rohit, Kohli; will talk with them at right time: Kotak
Rajkot, Jan 27: Indias new batting coach Sitanshu Kotak feels familiarity with the current bunch of young players will help in his role and he is looking forward to work with under-fire veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the teams build up to the Champions Trophy. Kotak, who has worked extensively at NCA and [] The post Have certain things in mind for Rohit, Kohli; will talk with them at right time: Kotak appeared first on The Shillong Times .
IND vs ENG third T20I: High-scoring encounter beckons both teams in Rajkot
While the Men in Blue found success with their deep batting line-up and a spin-heavy bowling attack, the visitors decision to back its pace battery struck out in the first two matches.
Eyes on Suryakumar as India chase series win against England
Rajkot: India captain Suryakumar Yadav will be expected to get back to his belligerent best after a prolonged lean run when his uber-aggressive unit takes on a struggling England in the third T20 International, aiming for a series-sealing win here on Tuesday. Since Suryakumar took over as captain last year, India have hardly put a wrong but his own form has dipped. The year gone by was the least productive for arguably the world's best T20 batter as he totalled 429 runs in 17 innings at an average of 26.81. Suryakumar averaged close to 35 in 2021, his first year in international cricket, before raising it to 45 plus in the following two years. The 34-year-old from Mumbai is yet to fire in the five-match series against England and has a point to prove following his exclusion from the ODI Champions Trophy squad. Though he is India's very own 'Mr 360', Suryakumar is at his finest when he is toying with the opposition attack with runs behind the wicket. He perished while attempting his signature pick up shot of a slower ball in the series-opener before playing one on to his stump in the last game. Tilak Varma's individual brilliance got India over the line in Chennai but besides Suryakumar's lack of runs, Sanju Samson's short ball shortcomings were highlighted. Samson, who had a memorable series in South Africa, has been dismissed to the short ball from Jofra Archer twice in the series. It is something he would look to correct on a Rajkot pitch which is usually full of runs and is expected to be another happy hunting ground for the Indians after wins in the first two games of the five-match rubber. Though Archer and Mark Wood have posed a few challenges to the home batters, one man who has totally looked comfortable against extra pace is Tilak. The southpaw's pick up shot off Archer at Chepauk spoke a lot about his class. With Rinku Singh and Nitish Reddy unavailable due to injuries, there is a possibility of either Shivam Dube or Ramandeep Singh getting a game. Dube, who was tasked with smashing the spinners in the middle overs during the T20 World Cup, could come in handy against the leg-spin of Adil Rashid. Arshdeep Singh has been the lone specialist pacer in the playing eleven thus far with Hardik Pandya providing support. The team management is likely to keep that combination. India, who prefer to play with eight batters, have been relying on Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakaravarthy to do the job in the middle overs and have used as many as five spin options in Chennai. We've been playing with an extra batter since the last two-three series. We want that cushion and also that batter gives us two-three overs in the game, said Suryakumar following the close finish on Saturday night. In a must-win situation to keep the five-match series alive, England would be hoping to put a much improved performance with the bat. Skipper Jos Buttler has looked the most assured England batter thus far while the others have struggled against quality spin. Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse showed potential in the last game and they would be looking to build on that. On the bowling front, Archer would be aiming for the early wickets but at the same time, he will also look to stem the flow of runs, having conceded 60 off his four overs in Chennai. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid has been frugal as ever and it's the batting that needs to step up and do the job. Squads: India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Ramandeep Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel. England: Jos Buttler (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood, Philip Salt, Mark Wood. Match starts 7 PM IST.
Shivam Dube is expected to link up with the national squad before the third T20I in Rajkot on January 28.
Ind vs Eng, T20Is: Shivam Dube to replace injured Nitish Kumar
Mumbai: Mumbai all-rounder Shivam Dube is set to replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in the Indian squad for the last three T20 Internationals against England after the young power-hitter sustained a side strain. An official communication is still awaited but according to BCCI sources, the 21-year-old Reddy could require around four weeks of rest and rehabilitation before he can come back to competitive cricket. This could effectively mean that Reddy's comeback will happen only during the Indian Premier League for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Incidentally, the last time Reddy was forced out of the Indian team due to injury was during his maiden T20I tour of Zimbabwe and even then it was Dube, who had replaced him. Dube is expected to link up with the national squad before the third T20I in Rajkot on January 28. The imposing big-hitter, who last played for India during the series against Sri Lanka in July last year, had a layoff due to a back injury and recently returned to domestic cricket after rehabilitation. The 31-year-old didn't find a place in the squad against England because of Reddy's recent exploits. He was part of the Mumbai team that lost to Jammu and Kashmir in a Ranji Trophy match on Saturday, bagging a pair (duck in both innings) during the game. He has so far played 33 T20Is, scoring 448 runs at a strike rate of nearly 135. He has picked up 11 wickets with his military medium pace bowling.
Jailed Guj scribe booked for extorting realty agent
Jailed journalist Mahesh Langa, already facing multiple charges, has been booked in a fresh case for allegedly extorting Rs 40 lakh from a real estate agent by threatening to malign his image and implicate him in a false case. This is the fifth FIR registered against him since his arrest in October 2023 for an alleged Goods and Services Tax (GST) scam. The latest case was registered based on a complaint by Janak Thakor, a real estate agent, who alleged that Langa threatened to write negative articles about him and trap him in a false case unless he paid the money. Langa has been in jail since his arrest in October and is facing charges in four previous cases registered by Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Rajkot police.
Shami's comeback in focus as team India prepare for England challenge
Kolkata: Fit-again pacer Mohammed Shami's comeback would be keenly watched when the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian T20 team takes on an evenly-matched England in a five-match series starting here on Wednesday, aiming to make up for the recent Test disasters that have caused considerable turmoil and heartbreak. The white-ball rubber, comprising five T20Is and three ODIs after that, presents an ideal platform for both the teams to experiment with combinations and assess form before next month's Champions Trophy. Shami, despite missing four matches, emerged as India's leading wicket-taker in the ODI World Cup 2023 with 24 scalps, including a sensational 7/57 in the semifinal against New Zealand at the Wankhede. Interestingly, the pacer has claimed the same number of wickets -- 24 at an average of 29.62 -- in his limited T20I career and will aim to improve on that while proving his fitness. Shami was sidelined after the lost final against Australia on November 19, 2023 due to an ankle injury that required surgery. The recovery from that was followed by swelling on his left knee during the domestic comeback some weeks back. Following his inclusion in India's Champions Trophy squad, Shami's return will garner national attention. With pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah nursing a back injury and his Champions Trophy participation doubtful, Shami's comeback assumes greater significance. The 34-year-old made his competitive return in the Ranji Trophy for Bengal, guiding them to their first win of the season with a seven-wicket haul. He followed it up with impressive performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (11 wickets) and the Vijay Hazare Trophy (five wickets). Shami's T20I career has been sporadic, with just 23 appearances since his debut in 2014. His last outing in the format was against England in the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal. With the Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test set-up still reeling from a horror tour of Australia, a good performance from the T20 side has become imperative especially after the Board had to step in to reinforce diktats on team discipline. Axar's new beginning ============== All-rounder Axar Patel will debut as India's vice-captain in the T20I format. He has been rewarded for his stellar all-round contributions in India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign in the Caribbean last year. Axar played a crucial knock of 47 off 31 balls in the final against South Africa and took nine wickets at an average of 19.22 across eight matches. The Gujarat player has already outlined his vision for India's middle order, emphasising a flexible approach with players floating between No. 3 to 7 depending on match situations. Curious case of Sanju Samson All eyes will also be on Kerala's Sanju Samson, who faces another critical juncture in his career after being omitted from India's Champions Trophy squad. He was subsequently ignored by Kerala selectors for their Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh. The wicketkeeper-batter has proven his mettle several times, becoming the first Indian to score successive T20I centuries in the recent series against South Africa being a case in point. Promising all-rounder Nitish Reddy, who scored his maiden Test century against Australia in December at Melbourne, has also earned a spot in the squad, giving the team another option pace-bowling all-rounder along with the redoubtable Hardik Pandya. England's fresh start For the Jos Buttler-led England, the series marks a new chapter under head coach Brendon McCullum, who signed a three-year contract following Matthew Mott's resignation following their T20 World Cup exit. Known for revolutionising Test cricket with his aggressive 'Bazball' approach, McCullum will now seek to replicate that success in the limited-overs format. It would not be a new territory for the New Zealand great, who was also at the helm of Kolkata Knight Riders after playing for the franchise in the inaugural IPL. England will miss key players Reece Topley, Sam Curran, and Will Jacks, but promising 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, who impressed in the ODI series against the West Indies last year, will look to shine. Bethell has averaged 57.66 and struck at 167.96 in his seven T20I appearances. Like Shami, England's fiery pacer Jofra Archer will be under the spotlight as he returns from injury to lead their pace attack ahead of the Champions Trophy. But conditions in India, with the possibility of heavy evening dew, could pose a challenge for bowlers. The squad also includes pace bowler Mark Wood following his recovery from a right elbow injury. After Wednesday's game, the series would move to Chennai for the second T20I (January 25), followed by matches Rajkot (Jan 28), Pune (Jan 31) and Mumbai (February 2). The ODI leg will start in Nagpur on February 6, followed by Cuttack (February 9) and Ahmedabad (February 12). Teams (from) India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Axar Patel (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar and Dhruv Jurel (wk). England: Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook (vc), Phil Salt (wk), Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood, and Mark Wood. Match starts: 7pm.
Virat Kohli set to play Ranji Trophy after 12 years
New Delhi: Indian superstar Virat Kohli is set to play his first Ranji Trophy game since 2012 after making himself available for Delhi's tie against Railways scheduled here from January 30. Kohli could not make it for Delhi's upcoming away clash against Saurashtra, beginning in Rajkot on January 23, due to a neck sprain but he has communicated to DDCA that he is available for the team's last league match of the Ranji Trophy. Virat has conveyed to DDCA president (Rohan Jaitley) and team management that he is available for the game against Railways, Delhi head coach Sarandeep Singh told PTI. The BCCI has made playing domestic cricket mandatory for its contracted cricketers unless there is a fitness issue following the series loss in Australia earlier this month. Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy match in November 2012 when Delhi took on Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad. Thanks to BCCI's directive, the last two rounds of Ranji Trophy will be star-studded affairs. Kohli's India and Delhi teammate Rishabh Pant will play his first Ranji game in six years when he takes the field in Rajkot. He too could be seen alongside Kohli in the Railways game. After the Champions Trophy squad announcement on Saturday, India captain Rohit Sharma confirmed his availability for Mumbai's match against Jammu and Kashmir at home. Other India stars including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravindra Jadeja will also be seen in action in the next round of Ranji Trophy for their respective sides. The clamour for Rohit and Co to play red-ball cricket had grown after India lost their second successive Test series. After being blanked 3-0 by New Zealand at home, India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-3 in Australia. Both Rohit and Kohli had a series to forget in Australia. While Rohit decided to bench himself for the final Test in Sydney due to poor form, Kohli was caught in the slip cordon off balls outside the off-stump as many as eight times in the series. India next play a Test against England in June but both Rohit and Kohli would like to be among the runs heading into the Champions Trophy next month.
Jadeja to play Saurashtras Ranji Trophy tie against Delhi
NEW DELHI, Jan 19: India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is set to play in Saurashtras Ranji Trophy tie against Delhi from January 23 after turning up for the teams practice session in Rajkot on Sunday. Jadeja last played for Saurastra in January 2023. Following the tour of Australia, the BCCI had made participation in domestic cricket mandatory unless the player is unavailable due to an injury. Jadeja has turned up for training today. He will play the next match, Saurashtra Cricket [] The post Jadeja to play Saurashtras Ranji Trophy tie against Delhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Virat Kohli opts out of Delhis Ranji Trophy due to injury
New Delhi: On a day when India skipper Rohit Sharma confirmed his availability for Mumbais next Ranji Trophy game against Jammu and Kashmir, megastar Virat Kohli intimated that he wont be there for Delhis fixture against Saurashtra in Rajkot due to a neck niggle. The Ranji Trophy resumes on January 23. The Delhi selection committee 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 .
Cryptocurrency scam: Blockara Company swindles Rs 300 crore from 8000 investors
AHMEDABAD: A massive scam has been uncovered in Rajkot City in Gujarat as the Blockara company is accused of duping over 8,000 individuals in the state. The company swindled an estimated amount of Rs 300 crore allegedly promising high returns from cryptocurrency investments. Authorities are now investigating the fraudulent operations, which have left many investors devastated, questioning the legitimacy of crypto ventures. On January 18, Multani Mosin Rasidbhai, a victim of the Blockara company scam, filed an application at the Rajkot City Police Commissioner's Office. The application reveals that 12 investors in Rajkot have collectively lost around Rs. 70 lakhs, lured by promises of a 1 per cent daily return on an investment of Rs. 4.25 lakhs, with a maturity payout of over Rs. 12 lakhs. It is now alleged that 8,000 people across Gujarat have been duped out of Rs. 300 crores in this fraudulent scheme. A complaint has also been lodged with the Surat Crime Branch against the company's managers, while discussions are underway with the Rajkot Police Commissioner to determine whether a separate case will be filed in Rajkot. In the application submitted to the Police Commissioner, Firoz Dilawar Multani, the founder of Blockara Company from Ankleshwar, along with his associates Nitin Jagatyan, Amit Manubhai Multani from Limbdi, Azhruddin Satak Multani, the marketing head from Saurashtra, and Maqsud Syed, the Gujarat head, have been named as the main culprits. The complaint also reveals that the accused organized a caste convention in Limbdi, where investors were lured into sinking Rs. 4.25 lakh into the launched cryptocurrency TABC. Promises of a daily return of Rs. 4,000 enticed many to invest, contributing to the ongoing fraudulent scheme. The accused in the Blockara scam promised investors that the value of the TABC cryptocurrency would soar to $300 in the future, with potential profits running into crores of rupees. As a result, many investors from Rajkot poured lakhs of rupees into the scheme. In addition, they were assured that they could sell their crypto IDs for returns. To further entrap victims, the fraudsters organised a meeting at a hotel, where a Zoom call was broadcast to multiple locations, including a hotel in Mumbai and to several five-star hotels. This strategic move aimed to recruit even more unsuspecting investors. According to Mosin Multani, the victim of this fraud, I live near Kotharia Solvent and have been scammed of Rs. 13 lakh in the name of crypto. Along with 12 others, we've filed a petition for a total fraud of Rs. 70 lakh. Firoz Dilawar Multani and his partners lured us during a meeting in Limbdi. 30-35 thousand from Rajkot and 7-8 thousand from across Gujarat have fallen victim. After two years of false promises, we've presented our case to the Police Commissioner, he added. DCP Jagdish Bangarwa addressed the situation, stating, We have received a complaint from Multani Mohsin, who alleges that millions of rupees were defrauded by Blockara company under the false pretext of cryptocurrency investment. He further explained, The accused took money from the complainant, promising returns from cryptocurrency investments, but failed to deliver, as all associated companies were shut down and the perpetrators have gone into hiding. Bangarwa also noted, A formal complaint has been filed with the Surat Crime Branch against the companys managers. Discussions are underway with senior officials to determine whether a separate case should be registered in Rajkot, after which appropriate actions will be taken, he added.
Over 1000 women ascetics to receive 'diksha' during Mahakumbh
LUCKNOW: Besides the rare celestial alignment leading to Pushya Nakshatra after 144 years, the ongoing Mahakumbh is all set to be historical in many other ways. Deemed to be the biggest religious congregation of humanity, the event will witness the women power in the spiritual realm at play. The 13 Akharas (Hindu monastic orders) are gearing up to hoist the flag of Sanatan tradition yet again by inducting a new generation of women ascetics through Diksha during the upcoming Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya on January 29. The Snan would take place under the rare and pious Pushya Nakshtra. Mahakumbh 2025: 2.5 Crore Devotees Take Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam | Drone Visuals The event is also set to script a new chapter in Sanatans history as Prayagraj Mahakumbh records an unprecedented 1000 women ascetics receiving diksha. Sanyasini Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara Divya Giri mentioned that more than 200 women are set to receive sanyas diksha (initiation) under their Akhada during this Mahakumbh. The cumulative count of women to receive Diksha may exceed the 1000 mark, reaching a historic milestone. Registration for diksha ceremonies is already underway, and the ritual will tentatively be scheduled for January 27. MahaKumbh 2025: Over 7 crore pilgrims bathed at Sangam from Jan 11 to 16 In Sanatan Dharma, the decision to renounce worldly life and embrace asceticism is often driven by spiritual awakening or transformative life events, such as personal loss or disillusionment with materialism. According to Divya Giri, this year, those receiving initiation include highly educated women who are choosing the spiritual path for deeper self-realisation. Among them is Radhenand Bharti, a PhD scholar in Sanskrit at Kalidas Ramtek University in Gujarat. Hailing from Rajkot, Bharti shared that despite hailing from a prosperous business family, her quest for spiritual fulfilment led her to renounce worldly pursuits. She has been extending services to her Guru for the last 12 years and is now ready to enter the world of asceticism. The Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara has been at the forefront of acknowledging and elevating the contributions of women devotees within the Akhara system. Recently, it granted a new, prestigious title to its womens wing, renaming it Sannyasini Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara. This decision come after female ascetics proposed the change to their patron Mahant Hari Giri who approved it. For the first time, the womens wing will have its own dedicated camp at the Mahakumbh, bearing its new title. Divya Giri mentioned that this recognition symbolises progress in acknowledging the contributions and aspirations of Matrushakti (women power) within the traditionally male-dominated Akhara framework.
Virat Kohli, KL Rahul to miss Ranji Trophy games?
India premier batter Virat Kohli had communicated to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he had a neck pain and won't be participating in the next leg of the Ranji Trophy beginning January 23, according to a report on ESPN Cric info. Just days after the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia that ended in favor of the hosts, the talismanic batter had taken an injection for neck pain, claimed the report. With the pain still persisting, Kohli told the BCCI medical staff that he would not join the Delhi side for their game against Saurashtra in Rajkot. In addition, KL Rahul is also likely to miss Karnataka's Ranji Trophy match against Punjab, beginning in Bengaluru on Thursday, to continue his recovery from an elbow niggle. The PTI has learnt that the India batter has conveyed to the BCCI medical staff his concern about the issue, and they are monitoring him currently. However, both the batters have a chance to play in the season's last final round, starting on January 30. Virat and Rahul are in contention and mostly likely to find a spot in the squad for the upcoming England ODIs and Champions Trophy. Kohli last appeared in a Ranji Trophy match in 2012, while Rahul played in the domestic league in 2020. Meanwhile, star players including Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are likely to appear in the premier domestic tournament. The BCCI has made it mandatory for top players to appear in domestic matches as part of a 10-point diktat which was issued on Thursday. Players will need permission of the chairman of selectors to avail an exemption from this stipulation.
Virat Kohli to play Ranji Trophy for first time since 2012 but there is a catch
Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant have been included in Delhi's Ranji Trophy 2025 squad for their upcoming match against Saurashtra in Rajkot.
Ireland fined 10 percent of match fee for slow over-rate in WODI against India
RAJKOT, Jan 16: The Ireland womens cricket team was on Thursday fined 10 percent of its match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in the third and final ODI against India, which the hosts won by a massive 304 runs to make a clean sweep of the series. The hosts, powered by fine centuries from Smriti Mandhana (135) and Pratika Rawal (154) on Wednesday, scored a mammoth 435/5, the highest total by an Indian team mens or womens [] The post Ireland fined 10 percent of match fee for slow over-rate in WODI against India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India women must make this year their best in ODIs: Smriti Mandhana
RAJKOT, Jan 16: Smriti Mandhana believes Indias back-to-back 3-0 series wins against the West Indies and Ireland have provided the perfect momentum for making it their best year in one-dayers as the team gears up for the 50-over World Cup at home. India will host the womens ODI World Cup later this year and the team, which has been able to rediscover its form with six consecutive ODI wins, should drive home the advantage now, says Mandhana. Two 3-0 sweeps [] The post India women must make this year their best in ODIs: Smriti Mandhana appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India beat Ireland by 304 runs in third womens ODI
RAJKOT: India completed a whitewash of Ireland with a massive 304-run win in the third and final womens ODI here on Wednesday. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal scored a century each to power India to their highest-ever total of 435. Mandhana (135) and Rawal (154) shared a whopping 233-run stand to give a solid start to India after opting to bat. The post India beat Ireland by 304 runs in third womens ODI appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Meet Pratika Rawal, daughter of BCCI umpire who smashed historic maiden century against Ireland
Pratika Rawal hit her maiden ODI century, scoring 154 runs against Ireland in Rajkot. She formed a 233-run stand with captain Smriti Mandhana, who also scored a century. Their efforts led India to their highest ODI total of 435 for five. Rawal's background in psychology has significantly aided her cricket career.
Pant confirms his availability for Delhis Ranji Trophy match
New Delhi: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has confirmed his availability to play for Delhi in the next Ranji Trophy match Saurashtra. Rishabh Pant, who last played in the Ranji Trophy was during the 2017-2018 season, may join the team in Rajkot directly, where the match is scheduled to take place from January 23. Rishabh Pant 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 .
Six Dead, hundreds injured as kite strings cause injuries during Gujarats Uttarayan festival
AHMEDABAD : As Gujarat celebrates Uttarayan on January 14th, tragedy has struck, with six lives claimed by kite strings. The sharp, glass-coated strings have caused severe injuries, with many victims being rushed to hospitals after suffering throat cuts. On the day of the festival itself, the state's emergency services were stretched thin, with 108 ambulances deployed in response to urgent calls from various cities. By 9 PM on January 14th, the 108 emergency helpline had already fielded 4,256 calls, highlighting the scale of the crisis amidst the festivities. Amid Makar Sankranti celebrations in Gujarat, six people have tragically lost their lives due to kite strings. In Rajkot, a biker was killed when a kite string cut his throat. Similarly, in Surendranagar's Odu village, Ishwarbhai Thakor also died from a kite string injury. In another incident, 5-year-old Kunal from Rahatlav village in Halol died when a kite string severed his throat while he was riding with his father. Despite being rushed to Halol Sub-District Hospital, Kunal succumbed to his injuries shortly after treatment began. In Kadi's Kasba area, a woman was electrocuted while attempting to remove a kite string tangled in an electric wire, and tragically, her brother also died from electrocution while trying to save her. Another tragic incident occurred in Mehsana district during the Uttarayan celebrations. Mansaji Ragunji Thakor, 35, from Vadbar village, Vadnagar taluka, died from a fatal rope injury. The incident unfolded when Mansaji was returning home on his bike after work in the afternoon, and a rope suddenly struck his neck. He was rushed to Vadnagar Civil Hospital with severe injuries, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his wounds during treatment. Six throat-slitting incidents have been reported in Vadodara city during the Uttarayan festival, with five victims currently receiving treatment. Among the casualties, 35-year-old Madhuri Kaushikbhai Patel from Chhani tragically died after being strangled by a rope. Increased injuries to animals, birds, and people have been reported during the Uttarayan festival. By 6 PM, Karuna Animal Ambulance had fielded 1,402 emergency calls, with 758 for animals and 644 for birds. Jashwant Prajapati, Chief Operating Officer of 108 Emergency Services, confirmed that extensive preparations were made in advance to handle medical emergencies during both Uttarayan and Vasi Uttarayan. The two-day festival typically sees a surge in vehicle accidents, falls from roofs, kite string injuries, assaults, and electric shocks, all of which the 108 service is ready to manage continuously. Normally handling 3,000 to 4,000 emergency cases daily, 108 anticipates a 70% increase in calls on January 14 and 15, with an estimated 4,900 cases on the 14th and 4,500 on the 15th.
Four Dead In Gujarat Due To Kite String Injuries
A death each was reported in Rajkot, Panchmahal, Mehsana and Surendranagar districts while numerous cases of injury were reported across the state.
Jemimah breaks into top-20 in ICC rankings after maiden international ton
DUBAI, Jan 14: Riding on her maiden international century, Indian middle-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues climbed three spots to enter the top-20 at 19th in the ICC Womens ODI rankings released on Tuesday. Ending a seven-year wait, the 24-year-old struck 102 to power India to their highest ever total of 370 in the second womens ODI against Ireland in Rajkot. India won the match by 116 runs to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Jemimah now has 563 [] The post Jemimah breaks into top-20 in ICC rankings after maiden international ton appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Delhi player skips Ranji camp to attend IPL net session
New Delhi, Jan 13: Delhis senior wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat on Monday joined his new IPL team Gujarat Titans training session in Surat despite the state teams ongoing camp at the Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead of its next round Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra at Rajkot. At a time when the BCCI brass is adamant that [] The post Delhi player skips Ranji camp to attend IPL net session appeared first on The Shillong Times .
2nd WODI: Jemimah scores maiden ton as India post 370 for 5 against Ireland
Rajkot, Jan 12: Jemimah Rodrigues scored her maiden century in 50-over cricket as Indian top order pulverised a listless Ireland to post a mammoth 370 for 5 in the second Womens ODI here on Sunday. It was the elegant skipper Smriti Mandhana, who was off the blocks in a flash to score 73 off just 54 balls, laid the foundation while Rodrigues first hundred 102 off 91 balls ensured a smooth finish for the hosts. Newcomer Patika Rawal (67 [] The post 2nd WODI: Jemimah scores maiden ton as India post 370 for 5 against Ireland appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shami returns after 14 months as BCCI names Indian squad for England T20Is
Mumbai: Nearly 14 months after he last played an international game, veteran seamer Mohammed Shami on Saturday returned to the Indian team for the upcoming five-match T20I series against visiting England. The 34-year-old Shami's last outing for India was the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia at Ahmedabad on November 19, after which he was out of the team for a long time due to an ankle injury for which he underwent surgery in the UK last year. Shami's rehabilitation process was a long and arduous one and a swelling on his knee then prevented him from joining the Indian team for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, leaving Jasprit Bumrah to shoulder the bulk of the pace bowling load. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the 15-member team in the series starting in Kolkata on January 22. It is understood that Shami has been picked because he will also be a part of the Champions Trophy squad and will be gradually working on his bowling load. He is not going to play all five games against England. From the team that played against South Africa in an away series in November, Ramandeep Singh was replaced by the find of the BGT trophy, Nitish Kumar Reddy, while Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal made way for Shami and Harshit Rana, respectively. Wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma was dropped with Dhruv Jurel making the cut. All the players who were picked for the Bangladesh home rubber and South Africa away series have been dropped because the top T20 stars were back then busy with the red-ball season. The four spinners in the squad are Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy and Washington Sundar. Incidentally, Shubman Gill, who was made the vice-captain after the last T20 World Cup, hasn't found a place in the team. Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal will open the innings followed by Tilak Varma and skipper Surya. Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh are expected to bat at No. 5 five and No. 6, respectively, and they will be followed by Axar in the batting order. The two pacers for the first couple of games will be Arshdeep Singh and Shami, with Pandya as the third seamer. The two wrist spinners -- Chakravarthy and Bishnoi -- will come into the equation to complete the expected playing XI. The T20I series against England starts with the first T20I in Kolkata on January 22, followed by matches in Chennai (Jan 25), Rajkot (Jan 28), Pune (Jan 31) and Mumbai (Feb 2). India and England will then face off in a three-match ODI series from February 6. Team: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel (vc), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel (wk).
Ind W vs Ire W live streaming: Here's when and where to watch India vs Ireland 2nd ODI
India women vs Ireland women: India will play against Ireland in the second ODI on Sunday at Rajkot. India won the first match with a comprehensive victory. Stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana and youngsters Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis performed well. Regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur is resting. The match will start at 11:00 am and will be telecast on Sports18 network and streamed on Disney+Hotstar.
IND-W vs IRE-W: Get details on the India Women vs Ireland Women 2nd ODI cricket match as India Women take on Ireland Women in Rajkot on Sunday.
Shivaji statue collapse: Bombay HC grants bail to Sculptor Jaydeep Apte
MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court on Friday granted bail to Jaydeep Apte, the sculptor who made the 28-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Malvan that collapsed in August last year. A single bench of Justice N R Borkar granted Apte bail on a personal bond of Rs 25,000. Apte, in his plea filed through advocate Ganesh Sovani, had sought bail claiming that the statue fell because of gusty winds. The statue, which was inaugurated on December 4, 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rajkot Fort in Malvan, collapsed on August 26 last year. It was erected on a 12-feet pedestal at a cost of Rs2.44 crore. The collapse of Shivaji statue is an insult to history Advocate Sovani submitted that no one was injured in the incident and that further custody of Apte was not warranted. An FIR was lodged on the complaint of state Public Works Department (PWD) personnel under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. Apte, proprietor of M/s Artistry, said he made the bronze statue on the basis of the work order issued on September 8, 2023 by the Naval Dockyard. His plea contended that the Naval Dockyard authority never complained of any artistic deficiency or shortcomings. His plea pointed out that the FIR was registered within nine hours of the incident on the complaint of PWD personnel who have no technical expertise in metallurgy. Sovani also told court co-accused Chetan Patil was granted bail in November last year. Uddhav: Throw MahaYuti out for collapse of Shivaji statue
IND-W vs IRE-W: Get details on the India Women vs Ireland Women 1st ODI cricket match as India Women take on Ireland Women in Rajkot this Friday.
Mandhana-led India eye continued dominance in first-ever womens bilateral series against Ireland
RAJKOT, Jan 9: Riding high on a dominant performance against the West Indies, India under Smriti Mandhana will look to carry forward their winning momentum when they take on Ireland in the first-ever womens bilateral series, with the opening ODI scheduled here on Friday. India had swept the West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, following a 2-1 triumph in the T20 series. Mandhana emerged as the top run-scorer across both formats, scoring 148 runs in the ODI series, including [] The post Mandhana-led India eye continued dominance in first-ever womens bilateral series against Ireland appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat BJP's organizational festival has stirred political circles as the announcement of city and district presidents looms before January 15. Sources reveal that BJP election officers and three general secretaries returned from Delhi with approvals, finalizing the list of district and city heads. Intense lobbying is underway in key cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot, with both current and former office-bearers vying for positions. In Vadodara, factionalism surfaced amid clashes between a BJP vice president and a former corporator. Controversies, including claims of age manipulation during ward president appointments, have further fuelled tensions surrounding this years organizational process. Infighting within Vadodara city BJP came to the forefront during the form-filing process on January 4, 2024. A heated exchange between city BJP vice president Sunita Shukla and former corporator Gopi Talati exposed a deep power struggle. Shukla accused Talati of making a statement that insulted women, while Talati countered, claiming the allegations were false and aimed at undermining his candidacy. In another incident, BJP leader Bharti Bhanvadiya called on the party to block the reappointment of senior leader Satish Nishaliya as district president. In Surat district, a controversy erupted over the BJP president nomination process as 17 candidates filed forms for the post. Surat District BJP SC Morcha president Rajesh Kataria, also a candidate, voiced his anger after his nomination was rejected without explanation, criticizing the process as unfair. In a bid to bypass age restrictions for ward and taluka president posts, several BJP leaders resorted to submitting fake birth certificates. With a rule barring those over 40 from the posts, leaders in Rajkot and Ahmedabad manipulated the system by lowering their ages. They colluded with municipal and panchayat office bearers to issue falsified certificates, claiming to be under 40. Rift in Gujarat BJP deepens as former party MLA wins in Kheda However, rivals exposed the fraud by presenting official documents, like school leaving certificates and Aadhaar cards. One such case involved a Rajkot worker submitting a fake certificate, followed by the revelation of a similar case in Ahmedabad. A total of 30 contenders, including current president Mukesh Doshi, filed nominations for the Rajkot city BJP president post. Sources reveal that representatives from three different BJP factions in Rajkot have petitioned the high command, urging them not to reselect Doshi for a second term.
With Asaram Bapu out on bail, security tightened for rape victim's family
SHAHJAHANPUR: The family of the victim in the 2013 rape case against Asaram Bapu has been provided with additional security, a day after he was granted interim bail on medical grounds by the Supreme Court, police said on Wednesday. Additional Superintendent of Police (City) Sanjay Kumar Sagar said after the Supreme Court's order, he personally visited the victim's residence and interacted with the family. A police guard is already deployed at the victim's home and her father has a gunner for security. Additional police personnel are now being assigned, and necessary instructions have been issued to the relevant police station and circle officer to ensure the family's safety, Sagar said. Orders have been given to repair the dysfunctional CCTV cameras around the victim's house, and the victim's father has been advised to inform authorities before stepping out. We are continuously monitoring the family's safety as this is a high-profile case, Sagar added. The victim's father expressed that he was shocked to learn that Asaram had been granted interim bail. He said, I haven't been able to sleep since, as I am deeply concerned about my family's safety. Even while in jail, Asaram was responsible for the murder of four witnesses -- Rajkot's Amrut Prajapati, Akhil Gupta (a cook), Lucknow's Rahul Sachan, and Shahjahanpur's Kripal Singh. He alleged, While in jail, Asaram orchestrated false cases against me in Jammu, Jodhpur, Delhi, and Surasagar. Two of my witnesses, Bholanand and Sureshanand, are still missing. The government says laws are in place to ensure capital punishment for crimes against minors, but in Asaram's case, the court continues to show leniency. Asaram, who is serving a life sentence in a case related to the sexual assault of a minor, was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court until March 31, 2025, on medical grounds. The court imposed specific conditions before granting him bail. Previously, Asaram was granted a 7-day parole in 2018, which was extended by five days. More recently, he received a 17-day parole on December 10, 2024. In 2013, Asaram was convicted of sexually assaulting a minor from Shahjahanpur at his Jodhpur ashram. The case, filed by the victim's father in Delhi, led to Asaram being sentenced to life imprisonment.
Smriti to lead India as Harmanpreet rested from womens ODIs against Ireland
Mumbai: India have rested captain Harmanpreet Kaur and fast bowler Renuka Singh Thakur for the upcoming three-match womens ODI series against Ireland, set to begin on January 10 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. In Harmanpreets absence, left-handed opener Smriti Mandhana will be Indias captain, while senior all-rounder Deepti Sharma will serve as the 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 .
Harmanpreet, Renuka rested for India women's home ODI series against Ireland, Smriti to lead
Opener Smriti Mandhana will lead the side in the series, beginning on January 10 at Rajkot, in the absence of Harmanpreet
Smriti to lead India as Harmanpreet, Renuka rested for ODI series against Ireland
New Delhi: Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and pacer Renuka Singh Thakur have been rested for India women's three-match home ODI series against Ireland, the BCCI announced on Monday. Opener Smriti Mandhana will lead the side in the series, beginning on January 10 at Rajkot, in the absence of Harmanpreet. Harmanpreet had suffered a knee injury during the home series against the West Indies last month, forcing her to sit out of the last two T20Is before returning to play three ODIs. Before that, the 35-year-old had sustained a neck injury during the match against Pakistan in the Women's T20 World Cup in Dubai in October last year. Lead pacer Renuka was the player of the series in the one-dayers against the West Indies after taking 10 wickets from three matches. In the past, a stress fracture on the back had troubled her, so the move to rest her for the series against Ireland could be to ease her workload. India's squad for the three-match ODI series against Ireland: Smriti Mandhana (C), Deepti Sharma (VC), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Uma Chetry (wk), Richa Ghosh (wk), Tejal Hasabnis, Raghvi Bist, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Tanuja Kanwer, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Sayali Satghare. Schedule (All matches in Rajkot, starts at 11 AM) 1st ODI: January 10 2nd ODI: January 12 3rd ODI: January 15.
Harmanpreet, Renuka rested for India womens home ODI series against Ireland, Smriti to lead
New Delhi, Jan 6: Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and pacer Renuka Singh Thakur have been rested for India womens three-match home ODI series against Ireland, the BCCI announced on Monday. Opener Smriti Mandhana will lead the side in the series, beginning on January 10 at Rajkot, in the absence of Harmanpreet. Harmanpreet had suffered a knee injury during the home series against the West Indies last month, forcing her to sit out of the last two T20Is before returning to play [] The post Harmanpreet, Renuka rested for India womens home ODI series against Ireland, Smriti to lead appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
After Atul Subhash and Puneet Khurana, another tragic incident unfolded in Gujarat's Rajkot as a husband died by suicide, alleging 'mental torture' against his wife, Times of India has reported.
Meet IPS officer from Haryana, who overcame financial struggles and setbacks to clear UPSC and now serves as DCP Traffic in Rajkot.
BJPs leadership race in Gujarat sparks controversy amid intense lobbying
AHMEDABAD: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has commenced the process of selecting district and civic presidents in Gujarat as the new year begins. Today, 4th January, marks the start of the application process for these coveted positions, igniting fierce competition within the party. Key cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot are witnessing a flurry of activity as both current and former office bearers vie for the top posts. The selection process has triggered intense lobbying, with contenders jostling for influence and dominance. Tensions came to a head in Vadodara, where a public clash between a former deputy mayor and a former corporator over the city president post has grabbed headlines. A video of their heated confrontation has since gone viral, adding further drama to the selection process. The simmering feud within Vadodara city BJP erupted during todays (4th January) candidate sensitisation process. As application forms were being accepted at the city BJP office, a heated exchange broke out between Sunita Shukla, Vice President of BJP Mahila Morcha, and former corporator Gopi Talati. Shukla accused Talati of making a statement demeaning to women, while Talati countered, claiming the allegations were an attempt to undermine his candidacy. Dirty comments about women have been made, alleged Sunitaben Shukla, Vice President of Vadodara City Mahila Morcha. Speaking to the media, she stated, I will first brief the president personally before addressing the media. Any further action will follow the president's approval. Emphasising discipline, she added, In a party like BJP, ask what has been saidnot me. As a woman, if something inappropriate happens at this office, I must speak up. Shukla hinted that the issue could escalate, saying, The matter will be discussed with the president and may reach the high command. I havent spoken about any worker; the allegations are baseless, said former corporator and presidential aspirant Gopi Talati. He claimed the accusations stem from fears over his challenge to the current president. Theyre making dirty allegations because my candidacy is strong, he added. Pointing fingers at his accusers, he remarked, Everyone, including Sunitaben, knows who is behind this. Talati emphasised his adherence to party procedures, stating, I have filed my candidacy as per the rules, and anyone has the right to make allegations. As the BJP marks its Sangathan Parv - Sadasyata Abhiyaan, the hunt for city and district presidents gains momentum. Leaders are now set to deliberate and finalise candidates for eight municipal corporations and 33 districts in this high-stakes selection exercise.
Rajkot incident: Mosque trustee and 8 arrested for shopkeeper eviction
Rajkot: A trustee of a mosque in Gujarats Rajkot city and eight others have been arrested for allegedly evicting three shopkeepers by citing a Waqf Board order, the police said on Friday. The shops, rented out by the trust to Hindu traders, are situated on the ground floor of Nawab Mosque in Danapith area. On 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 .
Three dead, 12 injured as bus collides with tanker in Gujarat
Palanpur: Three persons from Rajasthan were killed and 12 others injured after a bus collided with a tanker in Banaskantha district of Gujarat on Wednesday, police said. The accident occurred around 1.30 am on a national highway near Soneth village in Suigam taluka of the district, in-charge police inspector H M Patel said. The bus was on its way to Rajkot in Gujarat from Rajasthan when it collided head-on with a tanker, he said. Three bus passengers died on the spot and 12 others were rushed to nearby hospitals where they are undergoing treatment, he said. All the deceased were male in the age group of 30 to 45 years, and hailed from Balotra in Rajasthan, Patel said.
Man Kills Friend, Burns Body To Fake Death, Cops Suspect An Insurance Plan
A 46-year-old man from Gujarat's Rajkot is on the run after he allegedly murdered his friend as part of a chilling plot to fake his death, apparently to claim an insurance payout.
Billed as the super year of elections, 2024 saw 64 nations across the world going to polls. In India, there were the Lok Sabha election, eight assembly elections and several bypolls. The general elections held in April-May saw Narendra Modi-led BJP segueing into a third consecutive term, albeit with lesser numbers. For the first time, the saffron party, which wielded an undisputed majority in the last two terms, had to onboard two coalition partners Chandrababu-led TDP and Nitish Kumar-led JD(U). The mandate also proved to be a leveller in the countrys politics, maintaining the BJPs dominance while giving more teeth to the Opposition. The BJP secured 240 seats and the main Opposition Congress one seat short of 100. Among the assembly elections, the verdicts cemented the positions of incumbent governments in five states Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. Curiously, the November verdict in Maharashtra saw Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis switch roles, but not without high drama. In Jharkhand, Hemant Soren consolidated his image as the states true tribal leader despite the rival camps outsider taunts during election campaigns. In October, Nayab Singh Saini too proved his mettle in Haryana. The same month saw Jammu and Kashmir where all elections were suspended since the scrapping of Article 370 in August 2019 going to polls once again after the hiatus, catapulting an initially hesitant Omar Abdullah to the chief ministers chair. In Odisha, the regional superpower BJD faced a crushing defeat under the BJP juggernaut. The five-time CM Naveen Patnaik was ousted after an uninterrupted 24-year rule. The Congress camp saw two firsts Rahul Gandhi, who won the Wayanad and Rae Bareli seats, assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. The ensuing bypoll in Wayanad marked Priyanka Gandhi Vadras entry in electoral politics. Uttar Pradesh Ram temple consecration, mandir-masjid rows The year opened on a religious note with the consecration of Ram Lalla in the Ayodhya temple in January. Later, an ASI report established the presence of a pre-existing Hindu temple under the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, and the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah dispute cropped up as well. Mid-February saw massive student protests over paper leak during the constable recruitment exam. In March, the death of jailed gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari due to cardiac arrest grabbed the headlines. Two communal flare-ups, one at Bahraich in October and another at Sambhal in November shook the state. In the last leg, a sitting HC judge caused flutter with his political speech. Maharashtra A complete political turnaround The highlight of the year was the MahaYuti alliances landslide victory in the assembly elections, just six months after a drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls. The Opposition Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) had won 30 out of the 48 parliamentary seats during the general elections. But in a complete turnaround during the Assembly polls, the MahaYuti consisting of the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawars NCP faction secured 230 out of the 281 seats. In contrast, the MVA comprising the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP (SP), could garner only 46 seats. Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as CM for a third. time. Jharkhand Champais fallout, Kalpanas rise Jharkhand plunged into a political crisis when CM Hemant Soren was jailed in a graft case. Two results ensued: Champai Soren, who held the fort, was disenchanted when Hemant wrested back power after his release, and joined BJP. Two, the state saw the rise of a new woman tribal leader in Hemants wife Kalpana Soren. The year also saw the launch of Mukhyamantri Maiyan Samman Yojana, under which all women aged 21-50 years receive an aid of Rs 2,500 a month. West Bengal Where the mind is without fear At the stroke of the midnight hour on August 15, thousands of people thronged the streets of West Bengal, with songs of resistance and calls for justice for the trainee doctor of RG Kar Hospital, who was raped and murdered while on duty. The brutal murder at a government hospital finally restored the voice of a population that had for long remained complicit to enduring violence. An entire generation of disenfranchised people stormed into the streets yearning for a life without fear. What came about was a watershed, surrounding the question of women and workplace security, exposing the rot proliferating the system. As the year turns to a close, much of that zeal has dissipated into the monotony of injustice. The CBI, the flag-bearers of justice, is yet to chargesheet some of the key accused in the RG Kar rape-murder. Jammu and kashmir High poll percentage amid dip in militancy The first assembly election after the abrogation of Article 370 saw an unprecedented poll percentage of 63.9%, as people overwhelmingly came out to vote without fear. This was also the first election since 1990, that was bereft of boycott calls from militants or separatists. The Valley also saw further decline in militancy compared to the previous years, though two major militant attacks on civilians took place: In June, militants attacked a pilgrim bus in Reasi, killing nine persons. In October, terrorists stormed into a construction site of AFCO Infra in Ganderbal, killing seven people. The security forces killed one militant in an encounter. Stone peltings have dropped significantly. As 2024 draws to a close, the Valley is facing a severe power crisis in the bone-chilling cold of Chilai Kalan, the 40-day harsh winter period. Punjab Setbacks mark political landscape, SAD story Punjabs political landscape was marked by an upheaval, with the Aam Aadmi Party facing setbacks in Lok Sabha and civic polls despite key bypoll victories. Congress dominated, winning seven of 13 LS seats, while AAP secured three. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) faced internal rebellion, with leader Sukhbir Singh Badal undergoing religious penance mandated by the Akal Takht, and narrowly missing the bullet shot by a former militant. Farmers intensified protests demanding a legal guarantee for the minimum support price on crops, with marches blocked at state borders. Tardy paddy procurement further fuelled discontent among farmers. BJP remained ineffective, with state chief Sunil Jakhar stepping back post-poll losses. Uttarakhand Impending UCC, forest fires, drop in tiger deaths In 2024, Uttarakhand became the first state in India to pass the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, with implementation expected in January 2025. Apart from this major development, the hill state also faced a staggering rise in forest fire incidents, reporting over 21,000 cases across its 13 districts a 293% increase compared to 2023. However, this surge in forest fires had no noticeable impact on the scenic states tourism sector, which attracted 6.5 crore visitors to its hill stations and religious sites. The Himalayan state is also known for its wildlife. Uttarakhand saw a significant decline in tiger mortality in 2024, with only eight deaths reported during the year, marking a remarkable 62% drop from the 21 deaths recorded in 2023. Northeast Ganges river dolphin, Bryan Adams concert The gun did not fall silent in Manipur in 2024, even 18 months after the ethnic violence broke out. In sharp contrast, there was absolute peace elsewhere in the Northeast. The first serious effort to restore peace was initiated in Jiribam on August 1, when Meitei and Hmar leaders met at a CRPF facility, though the agreement was short-lived. What followed was a series of civilian killings and arson attacks, and irate mob attacks on homes of Imphal Valley-based legislators. There are no signs of reconciliation yet and the wounds still remain deep. Other headlines from the Northeast included the first-geotagging of a Ganges river dolphin in Assam, a Bryan Adams concert in Meghalaya, and protests against a proposed hydro-power project in Arunachal Pradesh. Himachal Of cross-votes, jungli murga, samosas & toilet tax The Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government survived a BJP bid to topple it by engineering cross-voting during the February Rajya Sabha polls. This led to the disqualification of six Congress MLAs, who later fought bypolls on BJP ticket. While Congress managed to win six of the nine seats in the bypolls, the simultaneous general elections saw BJP sweeping all four seats, and mark the political entry of Kangana Ranaut from Mandi seat. The state was hit by a financial crisis, delaying payments for 2.15 lakh employees and 90,000 pensioners in September. Some unsavoury controversies cropped up over claims of the CM prompting aides to eat the endangered jungli murga, a CID probe into the missing samosas at an official event and reports of a `25 toilet tax. Chhattisgarh A final solution to Maoist menace in Bastar Every now and then, a dozen odd bodies are recovered from the forest, riddled with bullets. The uniforms identify them as left wing extremists, unearthing their weapons, propaganda. Zero tolerance towards Maoists, the home minister declares, The country will be free from the Maoist problem by March 2026. In the remote tribal belt of Bastar, 219 Maoists were neutralised by security forces in separate encounters this year, a staggering spike from the mere 50 eliminated in 2022 and 2023 combined. Parallelly, the Nagarnar steel plant in Bastar produces over 2 MT of hot metal, in the name of sustainable industrial development. Rajasthan BJP comeback amid Gehlot-Pilot divide Rajasthan was turbulent with major political shifts. The BJP rode on its December 2023 state polls victory, but the euphoria faded by summer. Despite dominating the states 25 LS seats in the past two general elections, BJP lost 11 seats this time. Controversies plagued the government one after another. First, agriculture minister Kirori Lal Meena criticised own government, reportedly after denied a prominent cabinet position. Then, education minister Madan Dilawar drew ire for seeking DNA tests of tribals and demanding curriculum changes. In Congress camp, besides the Gehlot-Pilot divide, new factions sprang up. Haryana BJP beats anti-incumbency, creates history The BJP created history when it aced the Haryana assembly election this year and secured a third consecutive term, defeating the Congress and other regional parties. Months before, the party replaced Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with Nayab Singh Saini, a move that helped the BJP clinch 48 seats, while Congress won 37. The election was marred by internal strife within Congress, with several senior leaders defecting to the BJP, including Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti. The election also saw the political entry of wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia on Congress tickets. Bihar Nitish somersault, emergence of a new party Bihar witnessed several twists and turns in 2024. It began with Nitish Kumar taking oath as the Chief Minister for a ninth time on January 28. He snapped ties with Lalu Prasads RJD, and drifted away from the INDIA bloc, to form the government with new ally BJP. The somersault left the top Opposition leaders flummoxed ahead of Lok Sabha polls. However, NDAs tally from Bihar reduced from 39 to 30 in the LS. With the double-engine government back in power, Bihars expectations on development front ran high. The year also saw the formation of a new political entity, Jan Suraaj Party, led by former analyst Prashant Kishor. Gujarat Major tragedies, Congs Banaskantha moment Gujarat began 2024 with two tragic incidents. On January 18, a boat tragedy on Vadodaras Harni Lake claimed 14 lives including 12 schoolchildren and two teachers during a picnic. Four months later, a deadly fire at the TRP Game Zone in Rajkot on May 25 killed 28 people, mostly youths. On the political front, the BJP saw its unmistakable dominance in Gujarats 26 Lok Sabha seats crumble, with the Congress wresting the Banaskantha seat. This marked the end of its clean sweep streak in the state since 2014. The loss came after a fiercely contested election, marked by internal turbulence and strategic defections. Madhya Pradesh Factory fire, jumbo deaths amid BJP comeback The first half of the year saw the BJP achieving its long-standing goal of winning all the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh. And understandably, the Congress faced its worst-ever defeat, failing to secure even a single seat. Additionally, a major accident at a firecracker factory in Harda resulted in 11 fatalities and injured 200 others. Other significant events during the course of the year included the deaths of 10 wild elephants in Bandhavgarh national park, possibly due to Kodo millet crop mycotoxin poisoning. The year also saw the dismantling of several major crime rings, an impact likely to be felt in 2025 as well. Longest Bridge Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, the longest bridge in India that connects Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, on January 12 . Missile test The Defence Research and Development Organisation conducted a successful flight-trial of Indias first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on November 16 Chalo india Chalo India, a global campaign that seeks to make Indian diaspora members ambassadors of Incredible India, was announced in September. Under this, 1 lakh foreign tourists will be exempted from visa fee in the coming times World heritage Moidams the mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam in Charaideo district was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in July Classical Language In October, the Union government granted classical language status to five languages Bengali, Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, and Assamese taking the number of classical languages to 11 River-linking On December 25, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation for the ambitious Ken-Betwa river linking project, which plans to transfer excess water from the Ken river to the Betwa river to address concerns of irrigation in arid Bundelkhand of Madhya Pradesh Solar mission Indias solar mission, Aditya-L1, was inserted into its orbit on January 6. On July 2, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft completed its first halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point. It takes 178 days to complete a revolution around the L1 point. Narendra Modi , Prime Minister The Lok Sabha election was projected as a referendum on Modis popularity. And he strode into a third term, becoming the third longest serving Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi , Leader of Opposition The yatras paid off. Congress improved its tally substantially in the general election, and Rahul Gandhi assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha for the first time. Priyanka Gandhi , Congress MP When brother Rahul relinquished his Wayanad seat to retain his mothers bastion Rae Bareli, it paved the way for Priyanka Gandhi Vadras debut in electoral politics. Devendra Fadnavis , Maharashtra CM Rivals trolled him for his Mee Punha Yein refrain in 2019. In 2022 MahaYuti govt, he had to stoop to conquer. But he emerged brighter and stronger in the November polls. Hemant Soren , Jharkhand CM Incarcerated in a graft case, fallout with a close aide who had held the fort for him, and storming back to power the 2024 chapter of his career is straight out of a story book. Omar Abdullah , J&K CM After his Lok Sabha poll debacle, when the first election in the UT was held, Omar was quite resigned, until Congress came to prod. A huge victory seated him in the CMs chair. Nayab Singh Saini , Haryana CM Anti-incumbency, farmers ire, a resurgent Congress hurdles were aplenty before the CM. Despite all, he steered the BJP into a third consecutive term, proving himself to be a worthy substitute for the veteran ML Khattar. Mamata Banerjee , Chief Minister Facing a high-octane BJP campaign in the Lok Sabha elections, the fiesty and formidable Didi proved all pollsters wrong by bettering her partys performance. She managed to retain TMCs complete dominance in Bengal polity. Akhilesh Yadav, Samajwadi Party chief Out of power for two consecutive terms, Akhilesh Yadavs Samajwadi Party clinched 37 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, proving that it is still a formidable force in the crucial Hindi heartland state. Eknath shinde , Duputy Chief Minister As CM, he remained the most accessible leader to public. His Ladki Bahin scheme was widely credited for the MahaYutis landslide victory in assembly polls. The win also corroborated him as the true inheritor of Balasaheb Thackerays Shiv Sena.
AHMEDABAD: The country's second Light House Project (LHP) in Rajkot is marred by complaints of corruption and substandard construction. Constructed under the PM Awas Yojna, the project was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself two years ago. The first LHP is located in Chennai. Built at a staggering cost of Rs 118 crores, the Rajkot project comprises 1,144 flats, touted to be constructed using advanced German technology. However, instead of fulfilling its promise, the only such project in Gujarat has left locals grappling with persistent issues like moisture, cracks, crumbling walls, and overflowing drains. Despite repeated appeals to the administration, no action has been taken, prompting residents to threaten protests to demand accountability. The Light House Project in Rajkot comprises 1,144 houses across 11 towers of 13 floors, each tower spread over 6,741.66 sq.m. With eight flats per floor. Each house costs Rs 10.39 lakh, funded by Rs 5.50 lakh from the Central Government, Rs 1.50 lakh from the State Government, and Rs 3.39 lakh paid by beneficiaries. The flats were handed over to the deserving people two years ago by the Prime Minister himself. However, the project's promises now appear overshadowed by allegations and concerns from its residents. There are a total of 1,144 flats in the Light House project in Rajkot, and most of them have severe dampness issues, said Jaideep Bhatt, a resident of the project, during a media interaction. In just two years, cracks have started appearing on the walls, crusts are peeling off, and drains are overflowing. Some electric points dont even have holders, and there are no shades on the windows. These problems have made life extremely difficult for us. Bhatt further alleged discrepancies between what was promised and what was delivered. As per the brochure, we were supposed to get lights, fans, and safety doors, but none of these have been provided. The sample flats shown to us were completely different from the ones handed over to the beneficiaries, he claimed. A view of the overflowing drain in the LHP, Rajkot The lack of promised amenities has left residents feeling deceived. During the rainy season, water continuously leaks into the house from the terrace walls, Bhatt added. Despite repeated representations to the builder and the administration, no action has been taken to address these issues. It feels like no one is listening to us. Frustrated residents have voiced their concerns, but the silence from authorities has only fueled their anger and desperation The BJP MLA Darshita Shah asserted that last years complaints, including key issues, had been resolved and assured, Any remaining concerns will be addressed promptly. This is the Prime Minister's dream project in a prime area of Rajkot, provided to beneficiaries at a nominal rate, Darshita Shah added. She noted its importance as an affordable housing scheme and highlighted resolving past complaints about an Anganwadi, a community hall, and water and sewage issues. If new concerns arise, I will address them promptly, she assured. An exterior view of the LHP in Rajkot. Light House Project Under Scrutiny: Key Highlights Location & Cost: Built near Raigad, Rajkot, at a cost of 118 crore. Project Overview: 1,144 houses across 11 towers (13 floors each), with towers spanning 6,741.66 sq.m. Funding Structure: 1. Rs 5.50 lakh from Central Government 2. Rs 1.50 lakh from State Government 3. Rs 3.39 lakh paid by beneficiaries Amenities Promised: Vitrified tiles, piped gas, cabinets, good ventilation, light, and two toilets per flat. Technology Used: Promoted as a German construction marvel. Current Issues: Allegations of poor-quality materials raised by residents just two years after completion.
Gujarat BJP MP Mansukh Vasava publicly opposes party's taluka president pick
AHMEDABAD: Internal disputes have surfaced in Gujarat BJP over the appointments of Mandal, city, district and taluka presidents ahead of local body elections in the state. Controversies gained momentum after state BJP chief and Union Water Resources Minister CR Patil announced the names of mandal presidents in several districts. Known for outspoken remarks against the government and officials, Bharuch BJP MP Mansukh Vasava has stirred controversy -- this time by criticising his own partys decision. Vasava has openly opposed the selection of Sandeep Patel as Jhagdias president. He took it to social media to express his dissatisfaction. He also highlighted widening cracks within the party and exposed the internal dissent. MP Mansukh Vasava wrote on social media, I welcome the appointment of organization presidents across all talukas, cities, and units in the Bharuch Lok Sabha constituency. However, I strongly oppose the appointment of Sandeep Patel as president of Jhagdiya taluka. Sandeepbhai Patel has never contributed to BJPs work in the taluka and remains confined to his village, he alleged. He criticised the selection, saying, Dedicated workers who have served the taluka and district organisations for years have been overlooked, while someone with no contribution to the party -- and even a record of working against the party -- has been chosen. Citing specific grievances, Vasava added, Sandeep Patel actively tried to sabotage my program in Phulwadi village. He was absent from the Sevsetu program and other initiatives. His connections are limited to business circles, and these interests have misled the state leadership into making this decision. Jhagdiya is a tribal-dominated taluka, Vasava pointed out. He emphasised the BJPs historical support from tribal, Patel, and Rajput communities. He criticised the choice and stated Sandeepbhai doesnt belong to any of these communities and has opposed me while working against the partys interests. The president could have been chosen from among tribals, Patels, or Rajputs -- those who truly represent the taluka and the partys values. Thats why I stand firmly against the appointment, he said. Resistance is mounting against the newly appointed president in Navsari too. In Aravalli, heavy backlash forced a change. The opposition to BJPs local appointments is not new. Similar resistance erupted earlier over the appointments of Mandal presidents in key regions, including Aravalli, Navsari, Vadnagar, Vadodara, and Rajkot.
Two Killed, Two Injured as Fire Guts Trucks in Gujarat Crash
Ahmedabad: Two persons were killed and as many injured in a massive fire that destroyed three trucks following an accident in Gujarat's Ahmedabad district in the early hours of Thursday, police said. Four trucks were involved in the accident that occurred around 2 am on National Highway 47 near Bagodara village, about 50 km from the district headquarters, they said. Superintendent of Police Om Prakash Jat said two occupants of the truck that triggered the accident died on the spot. Two individuals from the other trucks sustained injuries and were admitted to a nearby hospital, he said. A truck carrying rolls of some packing material was headed towards Ahmedabad from Rajkot, while two trucks loaded with rice were moving in the opposite direction. An empty cement bulker was behind those Rajkot-bound two trucks, he said. The driver of the truck coming from Rajkot lost control over the wheel and the vehicle hit two other trucks in the opposite lane after jumping the divider. The cement bulker then rammed into the three trucks, said the police official. Soon after the accident, a fire erupted and spread quickly due to the packing material, said Jat. Three trucks were gutted in the fire while the cement bulker remained unaffected. The driver of the first truck and another person travelling on it lost their lives. The highway remained shut for nearly half an hour due to the fire. Traffic resumed after local police removed the wreckage and cleared the road, said the SP.
Jailed Journalist Mahesh Langa Now Sent To Rajkot Cops' Custody In GST Case
Journalist Mahesh Langa, who has been in jail for an alleged Goods and Services Tax scam in Gujarat, has now been sent to Rajkot Police's custody for four days.
Rajkot police take custody of jailed journalist Mahesh Langa in GST evasion case
While Mr. Langa was already in jail over an alleged GST scam, the police said the latest action is in connection with another case of alleged GST evasion registered by the crime branch last month.
Ahmedabad Diary | APMC polls bring BJP internal rift out in open
BJPs internal squabble intensified on Tuesday, with row erupting over the Unjha APMC elections. With 36 candidates vying for 14 seats, the chaos unfolded like a family feud. The counting of votes began at 9am on Tuesday. Out of 10 BJP-backed candidates, five had to face humiliating defeats. The panel backed by BJP MLA Kirit Patel was wiped out, while the candidates supported by former chairman Dinesh Patel emerged victorious. To complete this picture of the party in complete disarray, Naran Lallus grandson, Supreet Patel, also bit the electoral dust. Rajkot leader caught in birth cert tampering BJPs ongoing organisation festival in Rajkots Ward No. 14 has turned into a comedy show. Vipul Makhela, Baksi Panch Morcha city president, has been caught tampering his birth certificate and Aadhaar card. He has reduced his age by six years to contest as the ward president. However, an alert party insider has blown the whistle, leading Rajkot BJP election in-charge Mayaben Kodnani to demand proof from Makhela. Now, the party gears up to reward his creativity with suspension order as the fiasco has escalated to the state level. Controversy over AMCs study tour to Kashmir While the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) grapples with debt and shortage of funds, its cooperators and officials seem more focused on scenic mountains of Kashmir. On December 18, at least 225 people 192 corporators and men from BJP and Congress will head to Kashmir for a study tour. A disgruntled BJP worker has penned a letter questioning the point of the educational excursion. The civic body is all set to splurge around Rs 2 crore on the trip. For perspective, cost of Kashmir tour hovers around Rs 50,000 per person, but the AMC seems happy to shell out Rs 88,000 per head. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
MahaYuti tables Rs 35K cr supplementary budget
MUMBAI: The MahaYuti government on Monday tabled `35,788 crore supplementary budget on the first day of the winter session of the Assembly in Nagpur. The majority of supplementary budget is required to meet various welfare schemes such as the Ladki Bahin. Minister and Shiv Sena MLA Uday Samant tabled the supplementary budget, seeking additional funds over the budgetary allocations. The supplementary budget includes a provision of Rs 1,400 crore for the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, Rs 7,490 crore for PWD, Rs 4,112 crore for the industry, power and labour departments. The Urban Development Department has been granted Rs 2,774 crore, the Rural Development Department Rs 2,007 crore, and the Tribal Development Department Rs 1,830 crore, and a provision of Rs 36 crore allocated for the construction of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Malvan taluka of Sindhudurg district. In the last annual budget, the government announced Rs 46,000 crore to provide a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500 to women in the age group of 21-60 years under the Ladki Bahin scheme. More than 2.5 crore women have received the monthly instalments. However, the government has decided to scrutinise the applications of the beneficiaries and put stringent norms before releasing the monthly financial aides. The state government has also allocated Rs 1,204 crore for margin money loans to sugar cooperative factories and Rs 3,050 crore for the Mukhyamantri Baliraja Scheme aimed at providing free electricity to farmers using agricultural pumps of up to 7.5 horsepower. Meanwhile, discontent is brewing with senior leaders of the ruling coalition expressing their displeasure over being denied ministerial berths during the swearing-in of 39 ministers in Devendra Fadnavis cabinet in Nagpur a day before. NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and BJPs Sudhir Mungantiwar, both of whom overlooked for cabinet positions, appeared unhappy on Monday after the ministry expansion along with some legislators from the Shiv Sena who also felt ignored.
Gujarat groundwater crisis: Alarming contamination levels across districts revealed
AHMEDABAD: The Government of India, in a concerning update to the Rajya Sabha, has flagged an alarming situation regarding groundwater pollution in Gujarat. According to the data wise Number of Partly Affected Districts (cumulative) with major Contaminants in Ground Water of India in 2022-23, major contaminants have affected numerous districts across the state. Salinity levels exceeding 3000 micro mhos/cm (EC) were detected in 28 districts, while fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/l plagued 30 districts. Nitrate contamination, surpassing the safe limit of 45 mg/l, was found in 32 districts, and arsenic levels above 0.01 mg/l affected 12 districts. Additionally, 14 districts reported iron concentrations exceeding 1 mg/l. Fluoride levels exceeding 1.5 mg/L have been recorded in several districts across Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, Amreli, Anand, Arvalli, Banaskantha, Bhavnagar, Botad, Chhota Udepur, Dahod, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Kachchh, Mahesana, Morbi, Narmada, Panchmahal, Patan, Porbandar, Rajkot, Sabarkantha, Surat, Surendranagar, and Vadodara. In a Reply by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti in response to MP R Girirajan's question in the Rajya Sabha, the government highlighted the grave health hazards posed by contaminated groundwater. Long-term consumption of water containing arsenic, fluoride, or mercury above permissible limits can lead to severe health complications. Arsenic contamination has been linked to poisoning, skin disorders, and cancers of the skin, bladder, kidney, and lungs. Excessive fluoride levels can cause crippling skeletal or dental fluorosis, while high concentrations of heavy metals like mercury increase the risk of kidney diseases, poisoning, and cancer. The government informed the Rajya Sabha that water management, including improving groundwater quality and addressing contamination, is primarily the responsibility of state governments, as water is a state subject. The Central Government supports these efforts by offering technical assistance and financial aid through various centrally sponsored schemes. The Central Government informed the Rajya Sabha that in Gujarat, a total of 1,52,507 drinking water samples were tested during 2023-24. Of these, 14,922 samples were found contaminated. Remedial measures, including interim actions and water supply restoration, were taken for 13,834 affected samples. While Ground water pollution remains a pressing issue in many parts of Gujarat, the government is simultaneously taking measures to address the challenge, Under the Central Government's Jal Jeevan Mission for 2023-24, Gujarat reported significant financial activity. The state began with an opening balance of 1,088.66 crore, while the Centre allocated 2,982.85 crore. Of this, 2,237.14 crore was drawn, bringing the total available funds to 3,325.80 crore. Gujarat reported utilizing 2,377.83 crore, with an additional 2,676.40 crore spent under the state's share of the program.
NIA detained Madrasa worker in Sanand, Ahmedabad for suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed links
AHMEDABAD: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has detained Adil, a suspect linked to the terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed, from a madrasa in Sanand near Ahmedabad. The suspect is currently under intense interrogation by the NIA as part of an ongoing operation. Police sources reported that a central agency had received intelligence indicating that an individual named Adil, who allegedly works at a madarsa in Chekhala village, Banas Kantha district, had links to the terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed. Acting on this information, the agency, with assistance from Ahmedabad district police, arrested Adil during a late-night operation. Authorities are investigating Adil's role in the organization and his suspected involvement in its activities. Sources reveal that in recent years, the roots of terrorist organizations have shifted significantly to online platforms. Special groups are being formed on various social media networksboth online and offlineconnecting individuals to different ideological modules. These modules then align recruits with the ideology of terrorist organizations. Investigative agencies have repeatedly uncovered links between terrorists and online platforms during past investigations. In August 2023, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) made a significant breakthrough by arresting three individuals in Rajkot for their suspected connections to the terrorist organization Al Qaeda.
