1st Test: Rishabh, Axar Return As South Africa Opt To Bat First Against India
India have welcomed back Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel into their playing eleven as South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first in the Test series opener at the Eden Gardens on Friday. South Africa, the current World Test Championship winners, come on the back of a 1-1 draw in Pakistan and are playing a Test match in India after six years. India, meanwhile, arrive after beating the West Indies 2-0 at home last month. Pant, returning from a right foot fracture, has reclaimed the wicketkeeping duties and comes in place of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was released from the squad to play India A 50-over games against South Africa A in Rajkot. Axar, meanwhile, comes into the playing eleven at the expense of B Sai Sudharsan, with India fielding all four spinners and another keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, whos slated to bat at number seven. Interestingly, off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar is slotted to bat at number three, as per the team sheet. I think the only toss that I'm going to win is hopefully in the WTC finals. Looks like a good surface. Hopefully, we'll get some movement early, hopefully we're able to extract that. Dressing room is pretty amazing. This Test bunch is very hungry and is always determined to perform every time we come out. These two test matches for us are very crucial and we're as hungry as ever. Looks like a good surface. It's going to be a good surface for the first day or a couple of days. Then, hopefully, we'll get some turn as the game goes on, said India skipper Shubman Gill. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said fast bowling spearhead Kagiso Rabada misses out with a rib injury, and Corbin Bosch comes into the playing eleven. The boys just came back from Pakistan. I was with the A team. From a preparation point of view, we've done as best as we can. It's not every day you get to play against 50,000-60,000 people in the stands. So, I'm looking forward to the challenge. Being back in India, it's always an eye-opener. Looking forward to everything. It's been sitting well at the moment (on being the World Test Champions). Hopefully, nothing really changes. For the performance point of view, work around with a lot more pride. But to keep doing what we've been doing. The pitch is on the dry side. Not much grass. It's a typical Indian wicket. First innings runs is the key, he said. Playing XIs Being back in India, it's always an eye-opener. Looking forward to everything. It's been sitting well at the moment (on being the World Test Champions). Hopefully, nothing really changes. For the performance point of view, work around with a lot more pride. But to keep doing what we've been doing. The pitch is on the dry side. Not much grass. It's a typical Indian wicket. First innings runs is the key, he said. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score South Africa: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Keshav Maharaj Article Source: IANS
Gaikwad guides India A to win over South Africa A
Rajkot, Nov 13: Ruturaj Gaikwad made a fine 117 off 129 balls as India A comfortably chased down 286 to register a four-wicket win against South Africa A in the first unofficial ODI here on Thursday. Out of the Indian team from both ODI and T20 format, Gaikwad anchored the run chase with his solid []
Sayajibaug Zoo to welcome pair of white tigers from Rajkot
India A vs South Africa A, 1st unofficial ODI: Preview
India A will take on South Africa A in a three-match ODI series at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
Nitish Kumar Reddy Released From Indias Squad For First Test Against SA
Nitish Kumar Reddy: All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from Indias squad for the first Test against South Africa, set to begin at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday. The decision was confirmed by the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who said that Reddy will link up with the India A side for their upcoming One-day series against South Africa A in Rajkot. The three-match series between India A and South Africa A will be played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium from November 13 to 19, with matches scheduled for Thursday, Sunday, and Wednesday. Reddy, a seam-bowling all-rounder, will return to the senior Test squad for the second Test following the completion of the A series, Saikia confirmed in the statement. Reddy will return to the squad for the second Test post the conclusion of the A series, said BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Wednesday. The team management decided to release him to ensure he gains valuable match time in competitive conditions before the limited-overs leg of the South Africa tour. Reddy had a modest outing during Indias 20 Test series win in the West Indies, bowling only four overs in the opening Test and going wicketless. With the bat, he managed 43 runs from one innings. In the subsequent ODI series in Australia, he contributed 19 not out and 8 in two appearances. Having recently drawn the two-match unofficial Test series 11 against South Africa A in Bengaluru, the visiting side now prepares for the One-day leg in Rajkot, which will serve as further preparation ahead of the IndiaSouth Africa ODI series, beginning with the Ranchi one-dayer on November 30. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant returns to the Indian squad after recovering from a foot injury sustained during the England series. The opening Test lineup will feature both Pant and Dhruv Jurel, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain and Pant as vice-captain. Indias updated squad for the first Test: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK) (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep. Indias updated squad for the first Test: Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Tilak Varma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy. Article Source: IANS
Nitish Kumar Reddy released from Test squad to play South Africa 'A' ODIs
Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from the Test squad. He will now play in the ODI series against South Africa A starting Thursday in Rajkot. Dhruv Jurel will replace Reddy in the playing XI as a specialist batter. Rishabh Pant is also back after recovering from injury. This assignment provides Reddy with valuable match time.
On Camera, Speeding BMW Runs Over Scooter In Gujarat, Rider Dies On Spot
A scooter rider was killed in a gruesome accident after being hit by a speeding BMW car in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Monday.
On Cam: 20-Year-Old Student Dragged, Killed As Speeding BMW Rams Scooter In Rajkot
The video shows the victim approaching from the opposite direction on a two-wheeler when a speeding BMW suddenly appears and crashes into him.
PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey
NEW DELHI, Nov 9 : Edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah, which remains bullish on the online medium of education, is also betting big on its offline expansion by opening new learning centres in cities where demand is high, its co-founder and CEO Alakh Pandey said. The company plans to set up centres in several new locations, including Muzaffarpur (Bihar), Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Akola and Latur (Maharashtra), Rajkot (Gujarat), Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), Bhatinda (Punjab), Jorhat (Assam), and Chennai (Tamil Nadu), according to the draft [] The post PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Passenger Slams IndiGo For 3-Hour Delay, Claims Pilot Was Late, Airline Responds
The passenger booked an IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Rajkot, which was delayed by over three hours as the captain was allegedly late.
How 'admin123' Led To Hospital Footage Of Women Being Uploaded On Porn Sites
A lack of digital housekeeping led to footage of women undergoing gynaecological checkups at a maternity hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot being uploaded to porn websites, an investigation has revealed.
Gujarat fruit seller recovers Rs 60,000 accidentally dumped in garbage
A Rajkot fruit seller, Altaf Kadri, has recovered Rs 60,000 cash. The money was accidentally thrown into a dustbin and then a garbage van. Municipal officials and van workers helped Kadri sift through the waste at a transfer station. The cash was found just before the garbage was compacted. Kadri expressed immense gratitude for the recovery.
50,000 Patient Videos Ended Up On Porn Sites Because Of Gujarat Hospital's Weak CCTV Password
The scandal surfaced when teaser clips from a Rajkot hospital appeared on YouTube, directing viewers to Telegram groups where the full videos were allegedly sold for Rs 700-4,000
Gujarat Congress alleges BJPs municipal empire mired in corruption, internal revolt
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Congress has launched a scathing attack on the BJP government, alleging massive corruption across municipalities in the state. From North Gujarat to Saurashtra, the Congress claims BJP-run local bodies are mired in scams, inflated tenders and internal revolts, with even BJP members writing complaints against their own leaders. Calling the situation pathetic and corrupt to the core, the Congress demanded immediate state action, saying the municipal system has become a den of loot while public services collapse. The storm of allegations against Gujarats BJP-ruled municipalities is intensifying and this time, the thunder comes not just from the Opposition, but from within the BJPs own ranks. Gujarat Congress, sharpening its political blades, has accused the ruling party of turning local governance into a bazaar of corruption across the state. Addressing the media, Congress spokesperson Dr Hiren Banker dropped a dossier of evidence, asserting that BJPs corruption is no longer an allegation its a confession. He claimed that BJPs own leaders are now penning letters against their party-run municipalities, exposing what he called a systematic loot of public money under saffron cover. The Congress highlighted how Amreli district has allegedly become a symbol of the rot. In Chalala Nagar Palika, the internal power struggle has boiled over 20 out of 24 members have filed a no-confidence motion against the BJP president and vice-president. Banker said the municipal board has failed to even convene basic meetings, holding only one budget meeting in seven months, leaving members excluded from administrative decisions and citizens deprived of development. According to Congress, the rot does not stop there. In Central Gujarats Lunawada Municipality, Congress revealed shocking details of a swimming pool project worth 40.69 lakh, allegedly cleared with manipulated payments. The complaint, ironically, has been lodged by 11 BJP members against their own president, Kirti Patel. Further, a glaring scam allegedly surfaced in streetlight procurement lights worth 300 were purchased for 2,978, turning public funds into private gains. From Saurashtras Upleta to Rajkot, the pattern allegedly repeats. Upleta Municipality, according to Congress, spent 20 lakh on tube lights, but each light costing 800 was billed at 1,900, reflecting what the party called a factory of fraud under BJP rule. Banker said, The BJP has not just normalised corruption; it has institutionalised it. The Congress further alleged that the situation in 67 municipalities across Saurashtra-Kutch has reached a breaking point. Municipal treasuries are reportedly empty, and several civic bodies are borrowing money at interest to pay pending electricity bills worth 395 crore. Banker mocked, The BJP talks of development, but its municipalities cant even keep the lights on. Taking a direct swipe at the ruling party, Hiren Banker thundered, The condition of Gujarats municipalities is pathetic the BJP has reduced them to dens of loot. These are not administrators; they are self-serving tyrants filling their pockets while citizens suffer. He demanded immediate and strict action against those involved, urging the state government to stop the bleeding of municipal treasuries before the crisis deepens.
Gujarat Congress warns govt of 'Nepalwali' agitation if farmers demands ignored
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat Congress President Amit Chavda on Wednesday issued a two-month ultimatum to the Bhupendra Patel government, warning of a mass agitation and Nepalwali (As happened in Nepal) style revolt if farmers demands remain unfulfilled. Addressing a gathering at Rajkot, Chavda, joined by top Congress brass, launched a blistering attack on the BJP government, accusing it of corruption, arrogance, and indifference toward farmers pain. Amit Chavda tore into the BJP-led government over its alleged neglect of farmers. Speaking at the Krishak Andolan Kshetriya Mahapanchayat and Jan Akrosh Sabha, Chavda accused the state of turning its back on the very hands that feed Gujarat. In a gathering buzzing with farmers, activists, and senior Congress leaders including Mukul Wasnik, Shaktisinh Gohil, and Geniben Thakor, Chavda declared that if the government fails to address farmers grievances within two months, the Congress will mobilize villagers across Gujarat to surround the Assembly in Gandhinagar and launch a relentless agitation until justice is served. If the government does not work in the interest of farmers, we will surrender 100 percent of our seats but we will not surrender our fight! He warned the ruling dispensation that public anger is swelling, adding, If pushed further, we will do Nepalwali and this time, the throne will not survive. The Congress chief linked the rising farmer distress to the governments complete policy failure, citing unseasonal rain losses, lack of compensation, and poor insurance support under the Prime Ministers Fasal Bima Yojana. The party demanded fair prices for crops, immediate relief packages, and timely aid for affected farmers. Shifting his attack to the BJPs internal power politics, Chavda took sharp jabs at the recent cabinet reshuffle, alleging it was a smokescreen to hide corruption. The entire team was corrupt thats why they were removed, In a stinging swipe at government, Chavda alleged, In BJP, honest leaders linked with the land and people are sidelined. Those under whose liquor, gambling, and hooliganism rise they get promotions.
After cabinet overhaul, Gujarat BJP now plans major organizational reshuffle
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats political scene is changing again. After appointing a new BJP state president and reshuffling the state cabinet, the ruling party is now preparing for another big organizational change. The BJP plans to bring in new leaders to key posts and redraw its power structure from the state capital Gandhinagar to the district level a clear sign that the party is getting ready for the next big election. According to party sources, the next major step will be appointing new State General Secretaries one of the most powerful roles in the partys state unit. These appointments are expected within a week. Currently, the Gujarat BJP has four General Secretaries. Among them, Kutch MP Vinod Chavda is likely to keep his position, while the other three posts may go to new faces. The move aims to strengthen the partys organization and prepare for upcoming political challenges. Party insiders say this reshuffle is not just routine. It is part of a larger strategy to tighten control and improve coordination after the recent cabinet changes, in which ten ministers were dropped. The BJP wants to strengthen its structure at the district level to improve governance and maintain political balance. As part of this plan, new in-charge ministers will be appointed for 20 districts. The government now wants each minister to handle only one districtespecially those with important departmentsto improve focus and accountability. Earlier, many ministers managed two districts, which often reduced efficiency. Even Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi may see changes in his responsibilities. He currently oversees both Vadodara and Gandhinagar districts for the BJP, but he may now retain only Gandhinagar, reflecting the leaderships push for more focused roles. The 20 districts expected to get new in-charge ministers include Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Botad, Bharuch, Bhavnagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Dang, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Surendranagar, Junagadh, Patan, Narmada, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, and Valsad. Each new appointment will aim to balance political representation and improve administration, helping the BJP strengthen its control both at the grassroots and state levels. With these changes on the way, the Gujarat BJP is reshaping not just its cabinet but also its political strategy getting ready for the road ahead.
GROUP B Rajkot, Oct 18: Karnatakas reluctance for an early declaration robbed them of the time to bowl out Saurashtra in their second innings as the Ranji Trophy Elite B match ended in a draw on the fourth and final day here on Saturday. Saurashtra were 128 for five in their second innings on an []
Air India announces 174 weekly flights as part of Northern Winter Schedule
NEW DELHI: Air India has announced the addition of 174 weekly flights on key domestic and short-haul international routes, operated by its single-aisle aircraft, as part of the Northern Winter Schedule.The domestic additions are effective from October 26. This expansion enhances connectivity to major cities in India and Southeast Asia which are in high demand. An official release listed additions to these international routes:Delhi-Kuala Lumpur:Increasing from seven to 10 weekly flights (from November 15) andDelhi-Denpasar (Bali):Increasing from seven to 10 weekly flights (from December 1). These are the additions to domestic routes, all of which are effective from October 26: Flights to Rajasthan: Delhi-Jaipur (new route):three daily flights;Delhi-Jaisalmer (new route):two daily flights;Delhi-Udaipur:Increasing from two to three daily flights;Mumbai-Jaipur:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Mumbai-Udaipur:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Mumbai-Jodhpur:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Flights toMadhya Pradesh: Delhi-Indore:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Delhi-Bhopal:Increasing from two to three daily flights; andMumbai-Indore:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Flights to Gujarat:Mumbai-Bhuj:Increasing from one to two daily flights andDelhi to Rajkot:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Other frequency additions, effective from the same date: Delhi-Varanasi:Increasing from two to threedaily flights;Delhi-Raipur:Increasing from two to three daily flights;Delhi-Port Blair:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Aurangabad:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Guwahati:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Nagpur:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Mumbai-Dehradun:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Mumbai-Patna:Increasing from one to two daily flights andMumbai-Amritsar:Increasing from one to two daily flights.
Ink thrown on PM Modis photo ahead of Gujarat BJP chief Jagdish Vishwakarmas Rajkot visit
AHMEDABAD: Tension flared in Gujarats Rajkot city on Wednesday during the visit of Gujarat BJPs newly appointed state president, Jagdish Vishwakarma, after an unknown person threw black ink on a banner carrying Prime Minister Narendra Modis photo. The banner was swiftly removed by the Municipal Corporation, but no police complaint has been filed so far. Rajkot turned politically charged on Wednesday as BJPs newly appointed Gujarat state president, Jagdish Vishwakarma, arrived in the city to address party workers at the Race Course Ground. Streets from Greenland Chowk to Race Course were adorned with grand banners to mark his maiden visit. However, the celebratory mood briefly soured at Bahumali Chowk, where an unknown person splashed black ink on Prime Minister Narendra Modis photo displayed on one of the banners. The act, seen as a symbolic affront, triggered a swift administrative response. The Municipal Corporation team rushed to the spot the moment the ink stains were noticed. Without delay, the banner was pulled down to prevent further escalation. The incident created murmurs within political circles even as preparations for Vishwakarmas rally continued. Meanwhile, Rajkot Pradyumnanagar Police Station PI V.R. Vasava confirmed that no formal complaint had been lodged yet. The banner was immediately removed by the responsible authorities. If any complaint is filed, we will register an FIR and initiate appropriate action, Vasava said. The BJPs top brass is closely watching the development, as the act comes amid heightened political activity surrounding Vishwakarmas first major appearance in Rajkot as state president. While the identity of the accused remains unknown, the political undertone of the alleged ink attack has not gone unnoticed in the power corridors of Rajkot.
BJP set for strategic cabinet overhaul in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: A cabinet reshuffle in Gujarat appears imminent following a high-stakes meeting in Delhi between Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, BJPs top state and national leadership. With regional and caste equations, upcoming local body elections, and the rising influence of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in play, major political realignments are expected within days. Many sitting ministers are likely to be dropped, while younger, strategically chosen MLAs are tipped for elevation. All eyes are now on the BJPs political balancing act in Gujarat. A late-night power huddle on Monday in Delhifeaturing CM Bhupendra Patel, BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma, organizational general secretary Ratnakar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shahhas set the stage for a sweeping cabinet overhaul. The urgency and strategic nature of the meeting signal that the reshuffle is not just likelyit is inevitable. Sources indicate that a final list of ministers is in the works and could be finalized within two to three days. As anticipation builds, the buzz is deafening: whose chair will be pulled, and whose Diwali will shine brighter? The reshuffle is the culmination of months of political calibration. Internal dynamicsfrom caste arithmetic to the looming challenge posed by AAPhave reached a tipping point. With local body elections approaching and AAP leader Gopal Italia gaining traction, especially among Leuva Patidars, BJPs central leadership has decided to reengineer Gujarats political landscape. Reliable sources suggest that many senior ministers are on their way out. Finance Minister Kanu Desai, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel, and Social Justice Minister Bhanuben Babaria are reportedly at the top of the exit list. Only five current ministersmost notably Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel and Industries Minister Balvantsinh Rajputare expected to retain their portfolios. The reshuffle signals a generational shift within the party. Young MLAs like Jayesh Radadiya (Dhoraji), Uday Kangad (Rajkot), and Rivaba Jadeja (Jamnagar North) are strong contenders for cabinet positions. Saurashtrapolitically volatile and currently a stronghold of AAPs growing influenceis expected to receive special attention. A Leuva Patidar from Amreli or Junagadh may be included to counter the Italia effect. The BJPs caste balancing act extends beyond Saurashtra. With CM Bhupendra Patel representing the Patidar face and Jagdish Vishwakarma as the OBC state president, the party is fine-tuning its social equations. South Gujarat may see the induction of a tribal or female MLA, while in North Gujarat, Alpesh Thakors name is being considered if his community alignment works in BJPs favor. Interestingly, while Congress turncoats like Arjun Modhwadia and C. J. Chavda are still in the mix, only Modhwadia appears to have a strong chancelargely due to a lack of political rivals in Porbandar. Meanwhile, Hardik Patel, once a prominent Patidar youth icon, seems sidelined. Despite his proximity to Amit Shah, sources claim his recent dissent and waning political influence have diminished his chances of a ministerial berth. The reshuffle is not without risks. Elevating defectors over longtime BJP loyalists may spark internal discontent. Striking the right balance between new faces, caste representation, regional expectations, and party loyalty is the BJPs biggest challenge. Former Congress leaders are especially vulnerable, as the party looks to realign around its grassroots cadre. Adding to the political significance is the timely visit of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to Gujarat on Tuesday, coinciding with the Delhi deliberations. The synchrony between the Sangh and the BJP suggests that the reshuffle is part of a broader strategic resetnot just a routine political exercise. In short, Gujarat is on the cusp of a major political reconfigurationdriven by performance, perception, caste equations, and rapidly shifting political dynamics influenced by AAPs rise. What unfolds in the next 48 hours will shape not just the BJPs strategy for upcoming local polls, but also set the tone for 2027 and beyond.
RTI reply exposes audit lapse of over Rs 2 lakh crore in eight Gujarat Municipal Corporations
AHMEDABAD: A massive accountability crisis has exploded in Gujarat as eight major Municipal Corporations have not been audited for several years, leaving a budget worth over Rs 2 lakh crore unaudited and unverified. The revelations, made through an RTI response, expose systemic neglect, violation of audit laws, and a stunning breakdown of financial transparency. Citizens of these cities have effectively been left in the dark about how public money is being spent. Now, Gujarats urban governance is staring at a financial storm. RTI documents have exposed that not a single audit has been completed for several years for eight major Municipal Corporations: Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Surat and Vadodara. The data, obtained from the Director of the Local Fund Accounts Office in response to an RTI filed under Section 4(1) of the Act, reveals how thousands of crores of rupees in civic funds have remained unaudited, violating the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The backlog means that over Rs 2 lakh crore of municipal expenditure across Gujarats largest cities has never undergone mandatory financial scrutiny. With an annual budget of around 12,000 crore in 202425, the Ahmedabad civic body hasnt completed an audit since 201718, which roughly translates to approximately 50,000 crore in unverified accounts for just one city. Similar patterns are seen in Surat and Vadodara, while other corporations have remained unaudited for four to six years. Experts say that this is not a mere technical lapse, but a deep governance failure. Ignored directives, defied laws This financial vacuum exists despite clear legal obligations and repeated directives. Notably, the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963, under Section 4 mandates annual audits of all local bodies. The 11th Central Finance Commission (200005) had recommended that the audit of Municipal Corporations be done under the guidance of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), with reports submitted to the State Assembly. A Finance Department resolution on May 6, 2005, and later a circular on December 23, 2011, made this legally binding. The CAG had also flagged the non-compliance in August 2009, urging Gujarat to ensure timely audits. In 2011, Section 108A was added to the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, to reinforce the obligation. Yet, the RTI reply confirms that none of these directives have been implemented effectively. Last Audited Year, Municipal Corporation and Pending Years. The failure has also meant that no audit reports have been tabled in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly for years, as the audits were never done. The Finance Departments 2011 circular was meant to bring in accountability through CAG-supervised audits of Municipal Corporations. These reports were to be presented before the Assembly, debated, and acted upon. Instead, the process has been derailed for over a decade. Neither the CAG nor the Local Fund Audit Office has enforced strict timelines, and successive governments have allowed this crisis to deepen. RTI applicant raised red flag RTI Activist and Professor Hemant Kumar Shah has slammed the government, alleging a deliberate shielding of irregularities. In a democracy, the audit report for the previous financial year should be presented in the new year, debated by corporators, and acted upon as per rules. If the audit itself is not done for years, transparency collapses, and irregularities get buried, Shah claimed. He further alleged, This is a clear violation of the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The State Assembly has failed in its duty to ensure annual presentation of audit reports. Transparency is a fundamental principle of democracy. When 2 lakh crore goes unaudited, the publics right to know how their money is used is crushed. Citizens kept in the dark The lack of audits not just weaken financial scrutiny but also denies Gujarats urban citizens of transparency over how civic budgets are spent on critical services like roads, water, housing, and sanitation.Over two crore people live in these eight municipal areas. However, no red flags were raised, no mismanagement was officially recorded. Political and governance questions mount The revelation has triggered serious concerns: Why has the State not enforced its own audit rules for over a decade? How is financial scrutiny being bypassed despite repeated CAG interventions? Who is responsible for this 2 lakh crore transparency vacuum? Legal experts say this is not just an administrative lapse, but a potential violation of constitutional principles governing local self-government. What next? With RTI evidence out in the open, pressure is likely to mount over the State government to immediately initiate pending audits and present reports in the Assembly. Activists and former bureaucrats argue that independent CAG oversight and public disclosure of audit findings are the only way to restore credibility. However, with seven years already lost in some corporations, the process of auditing such massive backlogs will be long, complex and politically sensitive. Whether the State acts decisive or let the lapse unchecked will determine the future of transparency and accountability in Gujarats urban administration. Notably, Hemant Kumar Shah said,If audits are not done, irregularities remain invisible. And when irregularities remain invisible, accountability dies.
Gujarat BJP to elect new state president on October 4
AHMEDABAD: After months of speculation and a year-long delay, the Gujarat BJP is finally set to elect its new state president. With the form-filling process beginning on 3 October and voting scheduled for 4 October, the suspense over caste and regional equations has intensified. Sources say the next president is likely to be an OBC leader, balancing against the Patidar chief minister and shaping the partys strategy ahead of local polls in December and the 2027 Assembly elections. The one-year-long uncertainty over the Gujarat BJPs state president has finally reached a decisive point. After prolonged deliberations, the party has officially announced the election schedule, ending months of speculation and backroom manoeuvring. According to the programme, forms will be filled on 3 October between 11 am and 2 pm, followed by verification from 3 pm to 4 pm. Candidates will have the option to withdraw between 5 pm and 5:30 pm. The next morning, voting will be conducted from 10 to 11 am on 4 October, with the counting and announcement of results by 11:30 am. This election holds unusual significance because of the caste and regional balancing act the BJP leadership has been struggling with for nine months. While Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hails from the Patidar community and represents Ghatlodia in central Gujarat, outgoing state president C.R. Patil represents South Gujarat. That makes it almost certain, insiders say, that the new president will be chosen from the OBC community, most likely from Saurashtra or North Gujarat. The importance of this exercise is not merely symbolic. With local body elections scheduled in December and the 2027 Assembly polls on the horizon, the new state president will carry the responsibility of ensuring a united front while managing the factional pulls of leaders like Amit Shah, Anandiben Patel, and C.R. Patil, each of whom commands significant influence within Gujarat BJP. Meanwhile, the political buzz at Kamalam, the party headquarters in Gandhinagar, has reached fever pitch. Preparations are underway, with a pavilion being built, as leaders and workers keenly debate caste equations and ideological leanings. Since the chief minister is a Patidar, the consensus is that the presidents chair is reserved for an OBC leader, a move aimed at electoral arithmetic and broader social outreach. Adding to the intrigue is the role of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Traditionally watchful, the RSS has been unusually assertive this time. At the 25 August Kamalam meeting held to plan Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday Seva Pakhwada, RSS Gujarat Prant Karyavah Shailesh Patel was seen alongside BJP MLAs, MPs, and office-bearers, the first such joint appearance in years. Sources suggest that the Sangh is keen on a president with a clear ideological grounding, further complicating the already delicate selection process. The political shadow of Anandiben Patel, now Governor of Uttar Pradesh, also looms large. Her recent Gujarat visit, including a stop at Khodaldham in Kagwad, Rajkot, is being read as significant. Sources claim she met several state leaders and may have conveyed the ground mood to the national leadership, shaping the final choice of president. For the BJP, the stakes could not be higher. The party knows that in Gujarat, where caste and regional identity can tilt the political balance, the choice of the next state president will decide not just the December civic polls but also lay the foundation for the 2027 Assembly battle.
Gujarat monsoon forecast: Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch experience active monsoon conditions. Extremely heavy rain occurred in isolated areas. A low-pressure area influences weather patterns. It may intensify into a depression. The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain for the next seven days across the region. Heavy showers are expected in South Gujarat and Saurashtra.
IMD forecasts rise in night temperatures by up to 5 degrees in northwest India
NEW DELHI: As the monsoon withdraws from most parts of Northwest India, the intrusion of dry air from the northwest has led to hot and humid conditions in the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that night temperatures are expected to rise by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal in Northwest India over the next five days. This is said to benefit the kharif crops. According to IMD, when maximum temperatures are 3 degrees Celsius above normal, combined with above-normal relative humidity, the weather is classified as hot and humid. However, scientists predict that temperatures will drop after October 5 due to the arrival of a fresh patch of western disturbances, which will bring mild cool winds and rainfall to the plains of North India. Currently, the line marking the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon passes through Veraval, Bharuch, Ujjain, Jhansi, and Shahjahanpur. In Delhi, the maximum and minimum temperatures over the past 24 hours ranged from approximately 35 to 38 degrees Celsius and 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, respectively. The minimum temperature was above normal by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature exceeded normal by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. The IMD has also issued a flash flood alert for Saurashtra and Kutch due to a well-marked low-pressure area over the Gulf of Cambay. The districts likely to be affected by flash floods include Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Junagarh, Porbandar, Rajkot, Surendranagar, and Morbi. Low-lying areas in these regions may be inundated due to extreme rainfall, with isolated places in Konkan and Gujarat expecting more than 210 mm of rain. The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the Arabian Sea along the Konkan coast off Goa for the next four days, until October 4. In its agricultural advisory, the IMD has recommended that farmers take necessary measures to drain excess water from fields of rice, sugarcane, cotton, pigeon pea, groundnut, maize, pearl millet, castor, as well as vegetable and fruit orchards in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, it has advised providing mechanical support to horticultural crops and staking or supporting vegetables and young fruit-bearing plants to prevent lodging due to strong winds. Moreover, an increase in rainfall activity is expected, with isolated heavy rainfall likely over East India starting from October 2. In the Southern Peninsula, light to moderate rainfall, along with isolated heavy rainfall, is predicted for Tamil Nadu until October 2.
Two more held in Gujarat's Rs 194 crore turmeric farm scam, total arrests rise to 12
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Rajkot witnessed one of the biggest-ever financial scams where traders were lured in with hopes of a high-return turmeric farming, only to be duped of Rs 64.80 crore. The traders were duped by Maharashtra-based A.S. Agri & Aqua LLP, which later defaulted on a total payment of Rs 194 crore as per the agreement. Two key engineers-turned-marketing-executives, who played a pivotal role in the racket, were arrested by the Crime Branch in Maharashtra, taking the total arrests to 12. The duo has been remanded till September 30. However, seven accused, including the mastermind and the companys 55 per cent owner, Prashant Jade, still remain absconding. The arrested have been identified as Kamlesh Mahadevrao Ozhe and Avinash Baban Sangle, from Maharashtras Kalwar and Narpoli areas. Both are engineers-turned-marketing executives and 2.5 per cent partners in the company. Investigations revealed that Rs 62 lakh was funneled into Kamleshs account and Rs 92 lakh into Avinashs account directly from the companys funds. Initially investors themselves, the duo later joined the company as partners in 2021, aggressively marketing the scheme to other investors. They collected sensitive data, built investor networks, and convinced traders with slick presentations and YouTube videos showcasing successful turmeric farms. The complaint, filed by Rajkot businessman Prashantbhai Pradeepbhai Kanabar, details how the scam took place. In 2021, Kanabar invested Rs 64.80 crore after being promised Rs 1.20 crore returns per acre every year for six years. He leased 108 acres of land across Gujarat for the project. The agreement stated that the company would build polyhouses, manage cultivation, and handle sales. However, after receiving the funds, the company did none of what was promised. When payment became due in January 2023, the company only gave written assurances, promising to return Rs 58.32 crore after administrative deductions. Suspicious of delays, Kanabar personally met company chairman Ivan Albert D'Cruz in Mumbai, who again verbally assured repayment, however, no money was returned. The scam deepened further as investigators uncovered frauds in Vadodara, Amreli, Thane, and Pune, suggesting a multi-state network. Rs 194 crore, due between 2023 and 2025, remains unpaid. The Crime Branch, led by PI Manoj Damor, has formed multiple teams to trace the remaining absconding accused. It is reported that Prashant Jade had hired over 100 marketing agents and made use of a massive promotional campaign to lure unsuspecting investors. Police are now tracking the flow of money through the accounts of several Maharashtra-based individuals to expose the full scale of the operation.
Rajkot: A 20-Year-Old Man Was Stabbed To Death In A Fit Of Rage. Reason? A Laughing Emoji
The man posted about his grandfathers demise on Facebook. His friend reacted to it with a laughing emoji. This led to an ugly fight, in which Bipin allegedly stabbed Prince
Gujarat killer gunned down by police during 'escape bid' at murder scene reconstruction
AHMEDABAD: The psycho killer who brutally stabbed a youth to death and attacked a young woman near Gandhinagars Ambapur Narmada Canal in Gujarat was gunned down by police during a dramatic encounter on Wednesday evening. The accused, Vipul Parmar, who had stabbed 22-year-old Vaibhav Manwani to death and injured a young woman during a brutal robbery, turned violent during the murder scene reconstruction, attempting to snatch a police revolver and injuring three officers before being shot dead. According to Gandhinagar Range IG Virendra Yadav, Parmar was handcuffed and being escorted by LCB PI Diwan Singh Wala and PI H.P. Parmar when he lunged at PSI Patadia, snatched his revolver, and opened fire. Head Constable Rajendra Singh was shot in the left hand as chaos erupted. Parmar then fired at police vehicles, shattering a front windshield and hitting another door, while attempting to flee through the canals service road. The police responded immediately, with PI Diwan Singh and PI H.P. Parmar firing back and fatally shooting Parmar. Emergency services were immediately informed, and 108 paramedics declared him dead on the spot. Three policemen were injured in the exchange, with Rajendra Singh currently undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital. This dramatic shootout was the culmination of a four-day manhunt. The shocking incident began on September 20 at 1:15 am, when Vaibhav and his female friend were sitting in a car near the canal celebrating a birthday. Vipul, roaming the area with robbery on his mind, ambushed the couple on a deserted stretch near Ambapur Canal Bridge. When Vaibhav resisted, Parmar stabbed him multiple times, killing him on the spot. The young woman was also brutally attacked and remains under treatment at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. Parmar fled with their car, cash, and valuables, but abandoned the vehicle shortly after it broke down. Following the murder, Parmar evaded police, taunting them while moving between Challa and Dehgam areas. With mounting pressure, the Ahmedabad Crime Branch joined the hunt and tracked him to Manda Dungar, Rajkot, where he was arrested on September 23. Interrogation revealed that Parmar was mentally unstable and prone to violent outbursts when provoked. On Wednesday, Parmar was brought back to the crime scene for reconstruction, but his violent attempt to escape turned into Gandhinagars first-ever police encounter, ending his reign of terror. The deceaseds body was taken to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital, where the area was sealed off for a detailed panchnama. Today, a panel postmortem will be conducted in the presence of FSL experts, with the entire procedure being videographed to determine the exact sequence of gunfire. Forensic tests will also confirm how many rounds Parmar fired and how many were fired by the police in retaliation. IG Virendra Yadav clarified that the victims family was not present during the reconstruction, and Parmars relatives have been informed. As news of the encounter spread, locals who had been living in fear finally breathed a sigh of relief, marking the end of a chilling saga that began with a birthday celebration but ended in bloodshed and justice.
Laughing Emoji On Grandfather's Death Post, Then A 20-Year-Old's Murder
A 20-year-old was stabbed to death during a physical altercation over a Facebook post in Gujarat's Rajkot. The victim, identified as Prince, was admitted to the hospital, where his condition deteriorated.
AHMEDABAD: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched various cooperative initiatives on his whirlwind Navratri tour in Gujarat and asserted that PM Modi has provided GST reduction for farmers as a 'Navratri gift'. Urging farmers to embrace organic farming, Shah emphasised boosting Indias global share in organic produce while also strengthening the cooperative movement rooted in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patels legacy. Starting his day in Surat, Shah laid the foundation stone for a grand ISKCON temple, a symbolic gesture marking the Navratri's spiritual significance. From Surat, Shah flew to Rajkot, where the focus shifted sharply to the rural economy and the cooperative sector. He unveiled statues of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and former cooperative leader Vitthalbhai Radadiya as a tribute to Gujarats historic cooperative movement. The event, attended by leaders of seven cooperative institutions also witnessed Jayesh Radadiya announce an increase in farmers accident insurance cover to Rs 15 lakh, a move aimed at providing direct relief to rural families. Linking past legacies to future reforms, Shah remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given farmers a Navratri gift and a Diwali gift rolled into one as a 'GST reduction' that will directly benefit crores of farmers across the nation. He highlighted that Indias cooperative structure had been doubled in three years and consistently expanded 12 per cent annually, ensuring that farmers, fishermen, and animal husbandry workers earn more revenue. Shah urged farmers to switch to organic farming, pushing for a global organic market share led by India. Reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. Lets improve the nations health while also opening a massive global market for Indias organic products, he appealed to farmers in Saurashtra. He also praised the establishment of Bharat Organic, a cooperative that returns profits directly to farmers. Celebrating the Rajkot District Bank, which has bagged multiple awards, Shah credited its success to cooperative leaders and farmers. The tradition of Vallabhbhai and Vitthalbhai lives on today through the efforts of Jayeshbhai Radadiya, he said, asserting that the cooperative movement is the backbone of Gujarats agrarian economy. Shahs visit positioned the cooperative sector and organic farming at the heart of Gujarats rural growth strategy, a mix of Modis reforms and Patels legacy, stitched together with political finesse.
Political row erupts in Gujarat as BJP refuses to bear former CM Rupani's funeral expenses
AHMEDABAD: A political storm has erupted in Gujarat after revelations that the BJP has refused to bear the expenses of the late former Chief Minister Vijay Rupanis grand funeral, leaving his family shocked to settle bills of nearly Rs 25 lakh. State BJP President and Union Minister CR Patil dodged direct questions on the controversy during his visit to Rajkot, igniting speculation of deep internal rifts within the partys Saurashtra faction. Rajkot was simmering with political tension on Sunday when State BJP President and Union Water Resources Minister CR Patil refused to answer questions about the partys refusal to pay for former Chief Minister Vijay Rupanis funeral expenses, estimated at a staggering Rs 25 lakh. The controversy came to light three months after Rupanis grand funeral procession, held on June 16, 2025, in Rajkot, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and several top BJP leaders had walked alongside thousands of party workers and citizens to bid farewell to the late leader. Gujarat bids farewell to former CM Vijay Rupani; Rajkot shuts down in mourning But behind the ceremonial grandeur, a shocking twist was brewing: the bills for flowers, tents, and other arrangements were quietly passed on to Rupanis grieving family, instead of being covered by the BJP. According to sources, by July, family members discovered the truth when traders who supplied the funeral materials turned up at their doorstep, demanding payment. Forced into an awkward position, Rupanis family has since begun clearing the debts, even as murmurs of betrayal spread through the party ranks. This explosive issue erupted publicly on Sunday when Patil arrived in Rajkot to attend a Namotsav program at the Racecourse ground. Earlier, he held closed-door meetings with MLAs and organisational leaders at the Circuit House. When reporters cornered him outside the event, Patils reaction was 'telling'. Asked about the India-Pakistan cricket match, he simply ignored the query and kept walking. But when confronted about the Rupani funeral expense controversy, Patil deliberately sidestepped the issue, remarking vaguely, This is a Namotsav matter, I will definitely answer later, briskly moving away. According to BJP insiders, the decision to deny payment was driven by two powerful Saurashtra leaders, indicating a power struggle simmering beneath the surface. While some party veterans claim Patils silence reflects the sensitivity of the issue, others believe it signals a looming political shake-up in Gujarat. The controversy has now engulfed Rajkot and the wider Saurashtra region, with grassroots workers openly expressing discomfort. The sight of Rupanis family, already mourning their loss, now burdened with financial strain, has sparked outrage among loyalists and laid bare fault lines in the Gujarat BJPs leadership. What began as a solemn farewell to a former Chief Minister has spiraled into a political flashpoint, threatening to tarnish the partys image ahead of crucial elections. CR Patils continued silence only intensify the questions and the crisis.
Gujarat scam complaints pile up, just Rs 7.5 crore recovered out of Rs 402 crore
AHMEDABAD: On Day 1 of the Gujarat Assembly session, Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani grilled the state government on scam complaints under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act-2003. The Home Department revealed 81 complaints were filed in the past two years, with a staggering Rs 402.21 crore trapped. To recover the money, the state seized and auctioned properties of two companies, but only Rs 7.53 crore has been returned to duped investors so far leaving a massive gap still unresolved. The monsoon session of the Gujarat Assembly opened with a storm on Monday, as Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani dropped the bombshell on the state government. On Day 1, Mevani asked the Home Department about the fraudulent Ponzi schemes and scam companies that duped thousands of investors across Gujarat. In his query, Mevani demanded details on how many complaints were filed under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act, 2003, how much public money is stuck, and how much has actually been recovered. The governments reply shocked the House as 81 complaints were lodged in the past two years, trapping a staggering Rs 402.21 crore of investors' money. Despite this massive figure, action was taken against only two companies, with seized assets auctioned off. The recovery? A meagre Rs 7.53 crore returned to investors. This revelation comes against the backdrop of two mega scams that rocked Gujarat in the last two years. In 2024, Bhupendrasinh Zala, CEO of BZ Group, allegedly pulled off a Rs 6,000-crore Ponzi scam by luring over 14,000 investors with promises of double returns in three years and lucrative monthly payouts. Gandhinagar CID Crime teams raided multiple locations across Sabarkantha, Vadodara, Gandhinagar, and Rajasthan, uncovering transactions worth Rs 175 crore linked to the group. BZ Financial Services, at the scam's core, was found to be completely unauthorised. As the BZ scandal was still unfolding, 2025 brought another crypto-fueled scam, this time in Rajkot. A company named Blockora duped 8,000 investors, including 40 from Rajkot alone, siphoning off Rs 300 crore. The scheme promised daily returns of Rs 4,000 on an initial investment of Rs 4.25 lakh. Investors were pushed to buy a fake cryptocurrency called TABC, only for the companys founders and partners to vanish overnight.
Show courage, impose 75% tariff on US imports: Kejriwal dares PM Modi
RAJKOT: Aam Aadmi Party's convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show some courage and impose 75 per cent tariff on imports from the US in response to its 50 per cent tariff on Indian exports. At a press conference here, Kejriwal claimed the Centre's decision to exempt 11 per cent duty on cotton imports from the US till December 31, 2025 would hurt the Indian cotton farmers. It will make the US farmers rich and Gujarat cultivators poor, he added. India currently has an import duty exemption for raw cotton until December 31 this year to support the textile industry and lower input costs. Kejriwal said, We demand from the prime minister to show courage, the whole country is standing behind you. America has imposed 50 per cent tariff on exports from India. You impose 75 per cent tariff on imports coming from America, the country is ready to bear it. Just impose it. Then see if Trump bows down or not. He also demanded 11 per cent duty on cotton imported from the US, fixing Minimum Support Price and procurement of cotton at Rs 2,100 per 20 kg, as well as subsidy on fertilizers and seeds to help the Indian farmers. The former Delhi chief minister claimed USA's 50 per cent tariff on India has also affected diamond workers because the Modi government has fallen on its knees in front of President Donald Trump. The Centre last month said its decision to extend the import duty exemption on cotton until December 31 will strengthen India's position in export markets, reviving orders for small and medium enterprises as well as export-oriented units. The move comes at a time when the steep 50 per cent tariffs imposed on Indian goods by the US come into effect, with America being the largest export market for the country's textile and apparel exports. Kejriwal was in Gujarat to attend 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' at Chotila in Surendranagar district, which was adjourned due to heavy rains. When Trump imposed 50 per cent tariff on India, Modi did not increase it in return but reduced it (on cotton imports from the US) by 11 per cent, Kejriwal said and questioned why the PM owed down and became weak. India is the world's biggest market and people here stand behind Modi, the AAP leader pointed out. The whole country is standing behind Modiji. He (Trump) imposed 50 per cent tariff, Modiji should have imposed 100 per cent tariff on cotton. Trump would have had to bow down. Trump is a coward, a timid person. He had to bow down to all countries that defied him. Shut down four American companies and they will be in trouble, he claimed. Due to India's policy decision to remove 11 per cent duty on cotton imported from the US, the produce of Indian farmers will not be sold when they take it to the market in October-November, Kejriwal said. When cotton from the US will arrive (in India), farmers here will get less than Rs 900 in the market. This is what is happening with the farmers -- their (US) farmers are being made rich and the farmers of Gujarat are being made poor, he further claimed. The central government first removed this duty for 40 days - from August 19 to September 30. But now it has been extended and removed till December 31, Kejriwal said. Now, farmers of our country have no way to sell their cotton. The farmer of our country has bought seeds and fertilizers by taking a loan, has paid money to (farm) labourers, now how will he repay the loan? He will have no option left except to commit suicide, the AAP convener claimed. He also questioned India's helplessness in front of America. Under Trump's pressure, our central government forced farmers of the country to commit suicide, by removing the 11 per cent duty, he charged. The other countries on which Trump imposed tariffs responded strongly and the US president had to ow down and remove tariff, but India did not take any action, Kejriwal claimed.
Kejriwal dares PM Modi to impose 75 pc tariff on US imports to India
Rajkot: Aam Aadmi Partys convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday, September 7, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show some courage and impose 75 percent tariff on imports from the US in response to its 50 percent tariff on Indian exports. At a press conference here, Kejriwal claimed the Centres decision to exempt 11 percent duty 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 .
Gujarat on red alert as IMD warns of torrential rains for two days
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat is bracing for two days of torrential rains as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts. The state government has swung into action, deploying 12 NDRF and 20 SDRF teams across the state, while urging citizens to stay safe, especially during Ganesh Visarjan celebrations and the GPSC examination scheduled for tomorrow. As dark clouds loom over the state, Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi convened an emergency review meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), Gandhinagar, on Saturday, to assess preparedness. With heavy rainfall predicted on September 6 and 7, the IMD has sounded red alerts for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mehsana, and Surendranagar districts on Saturday, and in Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana, and Kutch for Sunday. Meanwhile, orange alerts have been issued in Patan, Gandhinagar, Morbi, Rajkot, and Botad. During the high-level meeting, attended by Additional Chief Secretary Jayanti Ravi and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey, district collectors were directed via video conference to stay on high alert. Joshi ordered round-the-clock presence of officials at district headquarters and directed them to monitor water levels in dams, release excess water when needed, and warn low-lying villages in advance. With large crowds expected for Ganesh Visarjan, the Chief Secretary emphasised strict crowd management near immersion sites. Ensure safe immersion by keeping people away from dangerous water bodies, Joshi instructed, highlighting the dual challenge of heavy rains and mass gatherings. The upcoming GPSC examination also came under focus, with orders issued to strengthen security and maintain vigilance at all exam centers. Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF deployment will be reinforced in red-alert districts, and an additional NDRF team has been kept on standby in Vadodara. The review also saw coordination with multiple departments, including Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, Energy, Health, Panchayat, Urban Development, Irrigation, and Roads, to ensure readiness for any emergency situation. So far, Gujarat has received 98% of its seasonal average rainfall, and the next 48 hours could prove crucial as authorities race to prevent floods, ensure public safety, and maintain order amid natures fury.
Gujarat on high alert as IMD predicts extreme rainfall; red alert in six districts
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat is bracing for two days of torrential rains as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts. The state government has swung into action, deploying 12 NDRF and 20 SDRF teams across the state, while urging citizens to stay safe, especially during Ganesh Visarjan celebrations and the GPSC examination scheduled for tomorrow. Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi convened an emergency review meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), Gandhinagar on Saturday, to assess preparedness. With heavy rainfall predicted on September 6 and 7, the IMD has sounded red alerts today for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mehsana, and Surendranagar districts. Red alert has been issued for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana, and Kutch for tomorrow. Meanwhile, orange alerts have been issued in Patan, Gandhinagar, Morbi, Rajkot, and Botad. During the high-level meeting, attended by Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Jayanti Ravi and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey, district collectors were directed via video conference to stay on high alert. Joshi ordered round-the-clock presence of officials at district headquarters and directed them to monitor water levels in dams, release excess water when needed, and warn low-lying villages in advance. With large crowds expected for Ganesh Visarjan, the Chief Secretary emphasised strict crowd management near immersion sites. Ensure safe and smooth immersion by keeping citizens away from dangerous water bodies, Joshi instructed, highlighting the dual challenge of heavy rains and mass gatherings. The upcoming GPSC examination also came under focus, with orders issued to strengthen security and maintain vigilance at all exam centres. Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF deployment will be reinforced in red-alert districts, and an additional NDRF team has been kept on standby in Vadodara. The review also saw coordination with multiple departments, including Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, Energy, Health, Panchayat, Urban Development, Irrigation, and Roads, to ensure readiness for any emergency situation. So far, Gujarat has received 98% of its seasonal average rainfall, and the next 48 hours could prove crucial as authorities race to prevent floods, ensure public safety, and maintain order amid natures fury.
Three engineering students killed, eight injured as SUV overturns on Gujarat highway
RAJKOT: Three students from an engineering college were killed and eight others sustained injuries after their SUV overturned on a highway in Gujarat's Rajkot district on Saturday, police said. The accident occurred near Jangvad village in Jasdan taluka around 1.30 am, when a group of students was travelling to Diu, an official said. The deceased were identified as Naresh Kodavati (19), Mothi Harsha (17) and Afrid Syed (17), all hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Inspector R S Sakaria of Atkot police station said. A group of 12 students from RK University in Rajkot were travelling to the coastal town of Diu in a rented SUV for a holiday, he said. One of the students who was driving lost control of the vehicle at a bend, causing it to overturn on the state highway and killing three occupants, the official said. Of the eight injured students, two sustained fractures and were discharged after treatment, the official said, adding that the bodies of the deceased were shifted to Rajkot civil hospital for postmortem.
Gujarat cops crack global cyber-slavery syndicate; three arrested
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Surat Cyber Crime police have cracked a shocking cross-border human trafficking and cyber-fraud racket. At least 40 youths from India and abroad, including several from Gujarat, were duped with fake job offers in Thailand, smuggled across borders into Myanmar, and forced to work in illegal Chinese-run call centres carrying out online investment frauds. Three accused have been arrested so far, while a wider nexus involving 12 people, including a Pakistani agent, has come to light. The racket first surfaced when Surat cyber sleuths traced suspicious mobile numbers linked to foreign call centres. Further investigation revealed a sinister chain: unsuspecting jobseekers were flown to Thailand on tourist visas, pushed across rivers into Myanmar, and handed over to Chinese gangs. Once inside, they were stripped of their freedom and forced to run cyber scams using fake Facebook and Instagram IDs. Police raids led to the arrest of three key players: Nipender alias Nirav Lavkush Chaudhary, HR manager with a Chinese company; Preet Rasiklal Kamani of Rajkot; and visa agent Ashish Ramanlal Rana of Surat. All three worked as recruiters, luring youths with promises of high-paying computer jobs. Investigations revealed the racket had been running for over 18 months. Nipender, working with Chinese handlers, pocketed Rs 3 lakh commission per person routed to Myanmar. Preet, once trapped himself, was forced to bring in replacements earning Rs 40,000Rs 50,000 per recruit. He even dragged his Haryana friend Rajneesh Banna into the same nightmare under threats. Rana, the visa agent, charged commissions of Rs 37,000 per head for arranging travel documents. Victims testimonies paint a chilling picture. Preet Kamani confessed that after being smuggled to a Myanmar call centre named KK3, he and others were forced to cheat Indians in fake investment schemes. Those who refused were told to either pay up in dollars or supply fresh recruits. Many were coerced into dragging friends and acquaintances into the racket. According to DCP Surat Vishakha Jain, Chinese companies are using agents in India and abroad to lure youths into cyber crime call centers. They operate on commissions, trapping the vulnerable with false promises of jobs. Police confirmed at least 40 youths were trafficked: 37 Indians, 2 Sri Lankans, and 1 Pakistani. So far, 12 masterminds have been identified, including Pakistani agent Alex and Chinese coordinators Alexander, Enzo, William, King, and others. The network spread across Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia, making millions through cyber scams while exploiting trafficked youths as front-line callers. With three arrests made, Surat Cyber Crime is now digging deeper into the money trail, agents links in India, and the possibility of more victims still trapped in foreign cyber-slavery hubs.
One WhatsApp Call, 45 Days Of Fear: Gujarat Couple Duped Of Rs 88 Lakh In Cyber Scam
Dinesh Dalwadiya and his wife in Rajkot lost over Rs 88 lakh to cyber fraudsters posing as Delhi Crime Branch.
Accused Planned To Attack Delhi Chief Minister With Knife, Also Visited Supreme Court: Sources
Rajesh Sakriya, a resident of Gujarat's Rajkot, told the police that he attacked Rekha Gupta after she allegedly ignored his appeals against removing stray dogs from Delhi.
Delhi police team visits Rajkot, questions five in CM Rekha Gupta attack case
Sakaria has been booked on charges of attempted murder
Police Questions 5 Persons In Gujarat Over Attack On Delhi Chief Minister
A team of Delhi police visited Rajkot city in Gujarat and questioned five persons associated with Rajesh Sakaria, a local resident arrested for allegedly attacking Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Delhi CM Attack: Police Detain Accuseds Friend in Rajkot
The Delhi Police is currently tracking ten people who were in contact with the accused through calls and messages
Delhi Police detains CM Rekha Gupta's attack-accused's friend in Rajkot, tracks ten others
Delhi Police detained a friend of Rajesh Khimji, accused of attacking CM Rekha Gupta, for allegedly transferring him money. Police are tracking 10 contacts and recording statements in Rajkot. Gupta, attacked during a public hearing, vowed to continue serving Delhi. She has been granted Z-category CRPF security. Central agencies, including the IB, are aiding the investigation.
Delhi Chief Minister Attack: Man Detained Over Money Transfer To Accused
As the investigation into the attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta continues, police have detained a friend of the accused, Rajesh Khimji, from Rajkot.
Rajesh Sakriya, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's Attacker, Sent To 5-Day Police Custody
Following the attack, the accused was identified as 41-year-old Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakriya, a resident of Gujarats Rajkot.
Man Who Attacked Rekha Gupta Serial Offender, Charged Several Times: Cops
The man who was arrested for attacking Rekha Gupta during 'Jan Sunwai' at her camp office in Civil Lines here on Wednesday is a serial offender and several cases have been registered against him in Rajkot in Gujarat, officials said.
He Handed Her Court Papers, Then Slapped Her: How The Attack On Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unfolded
During initial questioning, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's alleged attacker identified himself as 41-year-old Rajesh Khimji Sakariya, claiming to be a resident of Rajkot
First Photo of Delhi CM Rekha Guptas Attacker Released; 41-Year-Old Accused Is From Gujarat
The first image of the man accused of attacking Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during a public event earlier today has surfaced, according to Times Now. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning at the CMs Civil Lines residence during a Jan Sunwai programme. The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Rakesh Bhai Khimji from Rajkot, Gujarat, has been detained and is being questioned.Sources said the man initially handed over some documents to the CM before allegedly attacking her. He had reportedly sought help to secure the release of a relative facing an ongoing court case. Senior officials are present at the spot, and authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack. n18oc_indian18oc_breaking-newsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Man Who Attacked Delhi Chief Minister A Dog Lover, Was Upset, Claims Mother
The man who attacked Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has been identified as Rajesh Sakaria, originally from Rajkot in Gujarat
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Attacked During Jan Sunwai, Accused Detained
New Delhi, Aug 20: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a Jan Sunwai programme at her camp office in Civil Lines on Wednesday morning, her office said. According to a senior police officer, the accused has been detained, and he is being interrogated. North Delhi DCP and other senior police officers are at the spot. Sources in Delhi Police said the accused has been identified as Rajesh Bhaiji, a resident of Rajkot in Gujarat. [] The post Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Attacked During Jan Sunwai, Accused Detained appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta faced an attack during her public hearing at her residence. The attacker, Rajesh Sakariya from Gujarat, is now in police custody. He is being questioned about his motive. The incident led to a minor head injury for the Chief Minister. Political leaders have condemned the attack. Security protocols for public events are under review.
Marriages can be dissolved through mubaraat, rules Gujarat HC
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court has ruled that a Muslim marriage can be dissolved through Mubaraat, a form of divorce wherein couples can end their marriage through verbal mutual consent without a written agreement in place. A bench of Justices AY Kogje and NS Sanjay Gowda made the observation while recently setting aside a Rajkot 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 .
AHMEDABAD: In a significant ruling, the Gujarat High Court has held that a Muslim marriage can be dissolved through Mubaraat mutual consent divorce without any written agreement, overturning a Rajkot family court order that had insisted on such a document. The Gujarat High Court has ruled that a Muslim couple can end their marriage through Mubaraat without a written record of consent, declaring that neither the Quran, Hadith, nor Muslim personal law demands it. A bench of Justices AY Kogje and NS Sanjay Gowda set aside a Rajkot family courts decision that had rejected a joint divorce plea solely because no written agreement existed. The family court had dismissed the case under Section 7 of the Family Courts Act, saying a written record was essential. The couple, married in 2021, had been living apart for over a year due to irreconcilable differences and had mutually decided to separate under Mubaraat. They challenged the lower courts ruling, arguing that under Shariat law, written documentation is not a prerequisite for divorce by mutual consent. Agreeing with the couple, the High Court cited Section 2 of the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937, explaining that Mubaraat is a dissolution initiated by both spouses, unlike Khula, which is sought by the wife. The Court does not find that recording an agreement in any written format is essential for dissolution. For Mubaraat, mutual consent alone is sufficient, the bench said, adding that even the Nikahnama or marriage registration is not an essential element of the marriage process under Muslim personal law nor is a written record necessary for divorce by Mubaraat. Finding error in the lower courts interpretation, the High Court directed it to reconsider the case on merits within three months.
Kanwar Yatra turns tragic: Four pilgrims die in stampede amid uncontrolled influx of devotees
BHOPAL: At least four devotees from Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Chhattisgarh have died in the past two days during the massive Kanwar Yatra at Kubereshwar Dham in Madhya Pradeshs Sehore district, as authorities struggled to manage the overwhelming influx of pilgrims. The victims include Jaswanti Ben (56) from Rajkot, Gujarat, and Sangita Gupta from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, who reportedly died in a stampede on Tuesday, just hours before the main procession led by religious preacher Pradip Mishra began at midnight. The same day, two more devoteesChatur Singh (50) from Gujarat and Ishwar Singh (65) from Rohtak, Haryana, collapsed and died, likely due to heart complications after being trapped in suffocating crowds amid humid weather. The fatalities occurred as over 2.5 lakh devotees from across India descended upon the religious site, overwhelming infrastructure and leading to a complete breakdown of basic amenities, including drinking water, food, and sanitation. Traffic chaos compounded the crisis, with the Indore-Bhopal Highway gridlocked since Tuesday night, leaving vehicles stranded for hours. Despite official restrictions on heavy vehicles and alternate routes, enforcement was either poorly executed or ignored entirely. Madhya Pradesh cabinet minister Govind Rajput acknowledged the lack of preparedness, stating, Such a massive crowd wasnt expected, which has actually led the system to fall short. I urge the administration to take control and ensure that such a tragedy doesnt repeat. Meanwhile, former MP minister and Congress MLA Rajendra Singh questioned accountability, asking, Who will take the responsibility for the deaths which happened at the Kubereshwar Dham in the last two days? Will the authorities or those associated with the religious event, who is to be held responsible for it? The incident has raised serious concerns over crowd management at large religious gatherings, with calls for stricter safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
Lumpy skin disease resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 cattle infected across eight districts
AHMEDABAD: The dreaded lumpy skin disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.
Lumpy Virus Resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 Cattle Infected Across Eight Districts
AHMEDABAD: The dreaded Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.
Retired forest official from Gujarat's Rajkot duped of Rs 8.93 lakh in digital arrest scam
AHMEDABAD: In a cyber fraud mirroring the recent Rs 19 crore scam in Gandhinagar, a retired forest head clerk from Gujarats Rajkot, has fallen prey to a digital arrest con and lost Rs 8.93 lakh. Posing as officials from TRAI and Maharashtra Cyber Crime, the scammers extorted money from the elderly man by threatening him with criminal charges and arrest. The victim, a former Forest Head Clerk at Bahumali Bhavan, lives near Patidar Chowk in Rajkot. On November 28, 2024, he received a call from a woman identifying herself as Diya Sharma from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). She claimed that two Jio SIM cards linked to his number were being misused and needed to be deactivated immediately. Minutes later, a second call came, this time from someone posing as Inspector Mohit Handa from the Maharashtra Cyber Crime Cell. The caller alleged that an HDFC Bank account had been opened using the victims Aadhaar-linked SIM, through which Rs 68 lakh had been fraudulently transacted. The scammer claimed the money belonged to a woman who had since died by suicide and that an arrest warrant had been issued against the retired clerk. As the victim hesitated, the imposter escalated the pressure. Through a video call, he showed a man in police uniform seated at what appeared to be a police station and claimed the only way to avoid arrest was to provide a security bond of Rs 2 lakh. Terrified, the retired official agreed to cooperate. The accused then shared a WhatsApp link during the video call. Following the instructions, the victim unknowingly transferred Rs 8.93 lakh via UPI in multiple transactions to different bank accounts. Realising he had been duped, the victim immediately contacted the cybercrime helpline 1930 and filed a complaint with the Rajkot City Cyber Crime Police Station. The police have launched an investigation using phone numbers, video call metadata, and other digital traces. The FIR names multiple unknown account holders under charges of cheating and breach of trust. Investigators believe the fraud is linked to a larger inter-state racket exploiting fear and authority to extort money under the guise of digital arrests. Recently, a woman doctor in Gujarat was digitally trapped and defrauded of Rs 19 crore by cybercriminals who pressured her over months with threats and surveillance. The fraudsters made her transfer money into 35 accounts, even taking a loan against her gold. Realising the scam too late, she alerted her family, prompting a CID Cyber Crime probe on July 16. One suspect has been arrested in Surat; a massive manhunt is on for the rest of the syndicate. With similar high-stake scams emerging across Gujarat, police have issued fresh advisories urging citizens to remain vigilant against fake officials and to never share sensitive information or make payments under threat.
ANAND: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday assured the district unit chiefs of his party in Gujarat that their opinions will be taken into account while selecting poll candidates. Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, during his address at the Congress' district presidents' training camp under the 'Sangathan Sujan Abhiyan' (campaign to strengthen the party organisation), also slammed the Election Commission for being iased and asserted it was important to defeat the BJP in its main base of Gujarat. The party has organised the camp for the newly-appointed presidents of District Congress Committees at a resort near Anand city in view of the 2027 state assembly elections. The camp, aimed to prepare a road map for the party's Mission 2027, will conclude on July 28. Rahul Gandhi guided the district presidents and assured that the leadership is fully with the party workers, Gujarat Congress chief Amit Chavda told reporters after the meeting. Rahul Gandhi asked us to take up issues concerning people. He assured that city and district unit chiefs will be consulted before candidates for various elections are chosen, Rajkot Congress chief Rajdeepsinh Jadeja said. Another leader said Gandhi used cricketing terms to accuse the Election Commission of India of being a iased umpire, because of which the Congress has been losing elections. In cricket, if you get out time and again, you can start doubting yourself. But then you realise you are getting out not because of your fault. It is the umpire who is biased. Rahul ji said this and gave us confidence. He asserted we lost the 2017 Gujarat polls due to the ECI's dubious voters' list, the Congress' Surendranagar district chief Naushad Solanki said. Rahul ji emphasised it was very important to defeat the BJP in its main base of Gujarat. He told us the party used to believe that we must work hard (to defeat the BJP) in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and some other states. He said if we can defeat the BJP in Gujarat, then the party can be defeated everywhere, Solanki added. Backing Rahul, Siddaramaiah warns Bihar is next, accuses BJP, ECI of electoral misconduct In another example, the LoP in Lok Sabha likened the nation to a temple where everybody can come and pray, but the BJP-RSS is controlling who gets what as prasad, Solanki said. They (BJP-RSS) decide what is to be given if a SC, ST or OBC comes and if Adani or Ambani comes, Solanki said quoting Gandhi. Later at around 3 pm, Gandhi will hold a discussion with cooperative sector leaders and dairy farmers who are members of various cooperative milk unions or dairies. This meeting is being held in the backdrop of recent protest organized by the dairy farmers outside Sabar Dairy in Himmatnagar town of north Gujarat over the issue of milk procurement prices. In a bid to strengthen the party's organisation at district levels ahead of 2027 state assembly elections, the Congress party had recently appointed new presidents of all the District Congress Committees. 'Have 100% proof': Rahul Gandhi claims EC allowed vote fraud in Karnataka Rahul Gandhi warns of Maharashtra-like voter list manipulations in MP ahead of 2028 assembly polls
185 displaced persons granted Indian citizenship under CAA in Gujarat
Beneficiaries from Pakistan receive citizenship certificates in Rajkot after years of waiting; Gujarat Minister calls it restoration of dignity and rights
Gujarat government grants citizenship to 185 Pakistani refugees, CAA push intensifies
AHMEDABAD: In a sharp push under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 185 Pakistan-displaced individuals were granted Indian citizenship in Gujarat on July 25. At a Rajkot event, MoS Harsh Sanghvi handed over certificates to refugees settled in Kutch, Morbi, and Rajkot, assuring them full government support and access to welfare schemes. In a deeply emotional ceremony held in Rajkot, Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi declared that 'a new life has begun' for 185 displaced persons from Pakistan as they were officially granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Only two granted citizenship via CAA in Assam The crowd erupted in chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai as Sanghvi said, Keep smiling... from now on, you are citizens of India. Linking their plight to the religious persecution in Pakistan, Sanghvi did not mince words. He said, When you hear the stories of these people -- Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists -- you cannot hold back tears. A few lost their husbands, others lost their homes to flames. And yet they endured. I salute their strength. He contrasted Indias pluralism with Pakistans oppression, saying, India is a land where every religion is respected. If the world truly wants to witness human rights in action, they must look at India, especially Gujarat. He also raised a sharp question: Why is there no global outrage over the atrocities on minority Hindus in Pakistan? Amid emotional moments, newly naturalised citizens shared their stories of pain, resilience, and pride. Bhavanaben Maheshwari, originally from Pakistan and now living in Rajkot, said, I faced a lot of hardships there. But today, after years of struggle, I proudly call myself an Indian. Another recipient, Champa Khambhala from Morbi, echoed the sentiment: Life in India is far better than in Pakistan, where Hindus cant even celebrate festivals freely. With her voice trembling, she added, Many of my family members are still stuck in Pakistan. I hope they, too, get the chance to unite with us in India someday. The ceremony wasnt just about documents it marked a loud and clear message about Indias stance on human dignity, national belonging, and justice for persecuted minorities. Citizenship to 60-yr-old under CAA, 1st in Bihar
From suffering to citizenship: Gujarat government grants citizenship to 185 Pakistani refugees
AHMEDABAD: In a sharp push under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 185 Pakistan-displaced individuals were granted Indian citizenship in Gujarat on July 25. At a Rajkot event, MoS Harsh Sanghvi handed over certificates to refugees settled in Kutch, Morbi, and Rajkot, assuring them full government support and access to welfare schemes. In a deeply emotional ceremony held in Rajkot, Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi declared that 'a new life has begun' for 185 displaced persons from Pakistan as they were officially granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Only two granted citizenship via CAA in Assam The crowd erupted in chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai as Sanghvi said, Keep smiling... from now on, you are citizens of India. Linking their plight to the religious persecution in Pakistan, Sanghvi did not mince words. He said, When you hear the stories of these people -- Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists -- you cannot hold back tears. A few lost their husbands, others lost their homes to flames. And yet they endured. I salute their strength. He contrasted Indias pluralism with Pakistans oppression, saying, India is a land where every religion is respected. If the world truly wants to witness human rights in action, they must look at India, especially Gujarat. He also raised a sharp question: Why is there no global outrage over the atrocities on minority Hindus in Pakistan? Amid emotional moments, newly naturalised citizens shared their stories of pain, resilience, and pride. Bhavanaben Maheshwari, originally from Pakistan and now living in Rajkot, said, I faced a lot of hardships there. But today, after years of struggle, I proudly call myself an Indian. Another recipient, Champa Khambhala from Morbi, echoed the sentiment: Life in India is far better than in Pakistan, where Hindus cant even celebrate festivals freely. With her voice trembling, she added, Many of my family members are still stuck in Pakistan. I hope they, too, get the chance to unite with us in India someday. The ceremony wasnt just about documents it marked a loud and clear message about Indias stance on human dignity, national belonging, and justice for persecuted minorities. Citizenship to 60-yr-old under CAA, 1st in Bihar
Shivraj Chouhan Leaves Wife Behind At Gujarat Event, Makes U-Turn With 22-Car Convoy
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan left Junagadh for Rajkot, unknowingly leaving his wife behind. Realizing after 10 minutes, he returned to fetch her.
