London Spirit Appoint Mo Bobat As Director Of Cricket

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The Lords-based Hundred team will retain the name London Spirit after selling a 49% stake to the Silicon Valley consortium Tech Titans, with former England performance director Mo Bobat set to take over as director of cricket. It's an honour to join London Spirit at such an exciting time. The opportunity to shape the cricketing future of this franchise, working with MCC and our new partners, the Tech Titans, is incredibly exciting. I'm looking forward to building something special - on and off the field, Bobat said. MCC has been in talks with its new equity partner for some time and plans to unveil refreshed team branding - potentially incorporating the clubs iconic egg-and-bacon colours - ahead of the 2026 season. However, they have chosen to retain the London Spirit name to preserve an identity that embodies he capitals energy, diversity, and cricketing heritage. Bobats arrival marks the first major move by any Hundred franchise since the ECB approved six of the eight equity sale agreements last month. He will continue in his IPL role as Royal Challengers Bengalurus director of cricket while linking up with Spirit from October. MCC has been in talks with its new equity partner for some time and plans to unveil refreshed team branding - potentially incorporating the clubs iconic egg-and-bacon colours - ahead of the 2026 season. However, they have chosen to retain the London Spirit name to preserve an identity that embodies he capitals energy, diversity, and cricketing heritage. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score London Spirit men, led by coach Justin Langer, began their 2025 campaign with a heavy defeat, bowled out for just 80 in front of their new owners. However, they quickly recovered, securing a win over Welsh Fire at the weekend. Article Source: IANS

Daisy Ridleys formula for lasting Hollywood success

Popularly recognized for her role in the Star Wars franchise, Daisy Ridley is further cementing her Hollywood legacy with varied roles and smart career moves.

R Ashwin asks CSK for clarity ahead of IPL 2026

According to sources, he has told the franchise he doesn't mind parting ways with them if he doesn't fit their plans

Baaghi 4 teaser review: Tiger Shroff might break dull phase in Animal meets Marco mashup, Sanjay Dutt looks scene-stealer in done-to-death story

Baaghi 4: Tiger Shroff and the film franchise have taken a soft reboot. It seems like the clash between him and Sanjay Dutt with gore visuals might impress action junkies. However, Sonam Bajwa and Harnaaz Sandhu won't have much to do in the film.

Chewbacca through the years: A 'Star Wars' legends journey

Chewbacca, the illustrious Wookiee of the Star Wars franchise, has grown from an alien character to a much-loved figure of US cinema.

Rahul, Opposition MPs detained during protest march to EC against Bihar SIR

Opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi, have been detained during the protest march from Parliament House to the Election Commission headquarters here on Monday. The MPs took out a march to protest against the voter roll revision in Bihar. However, they were stopped by police midway at Transport Bhawan. Democracy being assaulted, murdered right outside Parliament, Congress's Jairam Ramesh said. It's a fight to protect the Constitution... We want a clean voter list, says Rahul Gandhi. Wearing white caps with a red cross on the words 'SIR' and vote chori, the protesting MPs raised slogans against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar while carrying placards and banners. Before embarking on the protest march at Parliament's Makar Dwar, they sang the national anthem. Police had made elaborate arrangements and placed barricades next to the Transport Bhawan on Parliament street to stop the protesting MPs from moving forward, The police asked the MPs not to proceed further and made announcement through a a loudspeaker, as they were prevented from moving forward to the Election Commission headquarters, a short distance from Parliament House. Prominent among those who participated in the march were T R Baalu (DMK), Sanjay Raut (SS-UBT), Derek O'Brien (TMC), Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav, as well as other MPs from opposition parties like the DMK, the RJD, Left parties. TMC MPs Mahua Moitra and Sushmita Dev and Congress' Sanjana Jatav and Jothimani climbed the barricades at Transport Bhawan and raised slogans against the EC when they were prevented from moving forward by the police. They held posters and raised slogans, demanding a rollback of the SIR. A banner in front of the protesting MPs read SIR+Vote Theft=Murder of Democracy. Another banner carried by the protesting MPs read SIR - Loktantra Par Vaar. The MPs also carried SIR par chuppi Kyu placards along with posters alleging collusion between the EC and the government. Several MPs also carried posters and placards alleging vote theft, a charge made out by Rahul Gandhi but denied by the EC. The opposition has been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the SIR, alleging that the EC's exercise is aimed at disenfranchising voters in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections due later this year. They have been demanding a discussion on the issue in both Houses. There has been a logjam in Parliament over the SIR in Bihar and both houses have seen frequent disruptions and insignificant legislative business has taken place ever since the Monsoon session of Parliament began on July 21. Barring discussions on Operation Sindoor in the two Houses, Parliament has seen little business ever since the Monsoon session began on July 21 due to repeated adjournments, mostly over the SIR issue.

Rod Fergusson leaves Blizzard after five years leading Diablo

Rod Fergusson, the general manager of the Diablo franchise for the last five years, is leaving Blizzard. Fergusson announced the move on social media, but didn't say where he's going next. Before joining Blizzard in 2020 to lead Diablo , Fergusson was studio head at The Coalition, where he oversaw Gears of War. After five years driving the Diablo franchise with four big launches, its time to step away from Blizzard/Microsoft, sword in hand, and see whats next, Fergusson wrote in a post on Bluesky . Im proud of what weve built and excited for whats ahead for Diablo, and for me. His departure comes after significant layoffs this summer at Microsoft , Blizzard's owner, which affected its gaming division . In a reply to Fergusson's announcement, Xbox head Phil Spencer posted, You brought strength, hellfire, and vision to one of gamings most iconic franchises. Playing Diablo IV with you was a blastthanks for everything you gave to the game and the community. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/rod-fergusson-leaves-blizzard-after-five-years-leading-diablo-180049767.html?src=rss

Village-led forest guards protect Buruma jungle in Jharkhand's Khunti for over 100 years

RANCHI: In one of its kind initiatives taken towards conservation of forests since ages, a meeting of Gram Sabha is held every year, during which a group of forest guards are appointed to protect the Buruma jungles under Murhu block of Khunti. Out of the seven revenue villages under Hetegoa Panchayat, a Gram Sabha is held in each of the four villages, to which this Buruma Forest belongs to, deputing one person from each of the households who will protect the forests from felling of trees. And if any one of those appointed persons fails to discharge his duties properly, he is imposed a fine ranging from Rs 150-200, depending upon the decision taken by the respective Gram Sabha. Buruma forest is spread over about 400 acres around four villages of Murhu block area. According to Mukhiya Jagmohan Singh Munda, this is a unique initiative taken to protect the forests which was taken long back by the Gram Sabha in the wake of rampant deforestation taking place in the area. They have been protecting the forest without any government help. The Mukhiya informed that they have been protecting their forests traditionally, but some changes have been made as per the requirement. People found cutting trees are imposed a fine of Rs 5000 by the Gram Sabha. Those appointed by the Gram Sabha for the protection of forests have the responsibility to protect the forests from felling of trees and theft from the jungles. Earlier, people from the adjoining villages used to cut the trees and take along with them without any obstruction due to which forests were diminishing. When the matter came to the notice of the Gram Sabha, it was decided to protect the forests and appoint people from within the village for the same, said Mukhiya Jagmohan Singh Munda. Though it is not known when this initiative was taken, felling of trees has completely been stopped in the area and forest cover has increased significantly, he added. The Mukhiya, however, informed that in case the villagers require wood for construction of their house or some other purpose, a demand is raised by him in the Gram Sabha and a permission is granted by it for cutting of desired number of trees. A close eye is kept on him so that he does not cut more than the sanctioned number of trees, he said. Villagers are allowed only to take datun and patta from the jungles. Sixty-two-year-old Anthony Odeya is also appointed by the Gram Sabha to protect Buruma jungles, who could be seen roaming around in the jungles with an umbrella, iron rod and a tonno in his hands with slippers on his feet. According to Anthony Odeya, people from other villages used to cut wood from the forest and take it away due to which this tradition was evolved several years back. According to tribal customs, tribal community themselves protect the forest as they believe that the forest is ours and we will protect it ourselves. The tradition of protecting the forest and guarding it has been in place for over 100 years, said Odeya. The villagers have been protecting the forest, water, and land traditionally since ages, he added.

INDIA bloc mulls joint candidate for VP polls; Kharge reaching out to Opposition parties: Sources

NEW DELHI: The INDIA bloc will put up a joint candidate for the vice presidential polls and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is reaching out to opposition parties to explore names and reach a consensus on it, sources said Sunday. They said that there was a strong feeling in the bloc that opposition parties should not shy away from a contest to send a strong political message irrespective of the outcome. Though there has not been any structured discussion on picking a candidate, backchannel talks are on among INDIA bloc partners to deliberate on names of possible candidates with Kharge reaching out to opposition parties for building a consensus. There is consensus among parties that the INDIA bloc will put up a joint candidate for the vice presidential polls, Congress sources said. However, a section in the opposition camp believes that the INDIA bloc must decide their candidate after the BJP announces its pick. This comes at a time of heightened unity among INDIA bloc constituents who have vowed to fight against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar and alleged poll rigging. In a show of unity, top INDIA bloc leaders held a dinner meeting at the residence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday and vowed to fight the electoral rolls' revision in Bihar as well as what they described as the vote chori model of the BJP-Election Commission. This was the first physical meeting of top leaders of the opposition bloc since they last met in June 2024, soon after the Lok Sabha elections at Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's residence. Several leaders from 25 parties were present at the meeting, which included Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar, National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah, PDP's Mehbooba Mufti, SP's Akhilesh Yadav, RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, TMC's Abhishek Banerjee, Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, DMK's Tiruchi Siva and T R Baalu, CPI(M)'s M A Baby, CPI's D Raja, CPI(ML)'s Dipankar Bhattacharya and MNM chief Kamal Haasan. During the meeting, Gandhi gave a presentation on the vote chori model being allegedly perpetrated by the BJP through the Election Commission. Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal termed the meeting as one of the most successful. Asked whether the vice presidential election was also discussed, he had said, There wasn't much discussion on the vice presidential election... There are other occasions for it. Kharge will also host a dinner for INDIA bloc MPs on Monday. In a sudden move, Jagdeep Dhankhar quit as vice president on the evening of August 4 citing medical reasons, though there have been consistent murmurs about other reasons behind his resignation. The effective strength of both the Houses together is 781 and the winning candidate will require to win 391 votes in the election for the vice president, considering all eligible voters exercise their franchise. All members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, including the nominated ones, vote in the vice presidential poll. The NDA seems to have the numbers on its side with a strength of around 422 members. The Election Commission last Thursday issued a notification for the September 9 vice presidential poll, kickstarting the exercise to elect Dhankhar's successor. Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Mody, the returning officer for the election, received three nomination papers, which were rejected for not being in order. According to the notification, August 21 is the last date for filing nominations and the documents will be scrutinised on August 22. The last date for the withdrawal of nominations is August 25. According to constitutional provisions, in case of a mid-term poll, the incumbent gets a full five-year term. A person cannot be elected as the vice president unless he is a citizen of India, has completed 35 years of age and is qualified for election as a member of Rajya Sabha. A person is also not eligible if he holds any office of profit under the government of India or a state government or any subordinate local authority.

Marico aims double-digit growth in India biz from next quarter: MD

NEW DELHI, Aug 10: Home-grown FMCG maker Marico expects to deliver double-digit growth in the next one or two quarters in the domestic market, helped by its core franchises and expansion of new businesses, its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Saugata Gupta said. The company, which reported a 9 per cent rise in domestic volumes, now aims for a revenue growth of around 25 per cent this year, led by pricing actions, Gupta told PTI. As far as [] The post Marico aims double-digit growth in India biz from next quarter: MD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Bihar SIR row: 'Not bound by rules' to disclose voters excluded from draft roll, ECI tells SC

NEW DELHI: Opposing the application filed by ADR seeking the publication of a list of persons not included in the draft roll, the Election Commission of India (ECI) -- by filing an affidavit -- told the Supreme Court that it was not bound by the Rules to publish a separate list of persons not included in the draft electoral roll. The apex court's two-judge bench, headed by Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymala Bagchi, is scheduled to hear on August 12, Tuesday, a batch of pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Bihar SIR. This was the third affidavit filed by the Commission in response to a notice to the Supreme Court on an application filed by NGO, Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), claiming 65 lakh voters in Bihar during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls have been left without disclosing reasons. It is not required under the Rules to furnish the reasons for the non-inclusion of persons in the draft Roll. It has shared the draft roll with the political parties, the ECI in its fresh affidavit told the apex court. The persons not included in the draft have the option of submitting a declaration for inclusion. Pleading to the SC for dismissing the batch of pleas in Bihar SIR issue, the ECI clarified that such electors would be afforded a reasonable opportunity of being heard and furnishing of relevant documents. As a matter of policy and in strict adherence to the principles of natural justice, no deletion of any elector's name from the draft electoral roll of Bihar published on August 1, 2025, as part of the Special Intensive Revision, would be undertaken without issuance of a prior notice and passing of a reasoned and speaking order by the competent authorit, the ECI told the apex court. Dismissing the allegations, the EC, in an additional affidavit filed on Saturday, said, the safeguards against deletion have been reinforced by a robust two-tier appeal mechanism prescribed under the relevant rules, thereby ensuring that every elector has adequate recourse against any adverse action. The petitioners in the Bihar SIR case are attempting to mislead the court. The petitioners have come to court with unclean hands and deserve heavy costs to be imposed upon them, the ECI said. ECs citizenship verification in Bihar defies SC verdicts, a fraud on voters: ADR tells Court The commission further told the top court that it was not required to provide reasons for non-inclusion along with the list of names, and it serves no practical purpose. Petitioners cannot ask for a list of deleted voter names as a matter of right. Thereby, the pleas should be dismissed by the apex court, the ECI added. The Commission had also said that it had deployed about 2.5 lakhs volunteers, most of whom are also officers of the Bihar government, to assist electors, including in procuring the requisite documents from various State departments, the affidavit said. To facilitate thorough scrutiny of the draft roll from August 1 to September 1, 2025, printed and digital copies of draft rolls have been made available to political parties, and online facility for the public at large. To ensure that no temporary migrant from Bihar is excluded, advertisements in Hindi were issued in 246 newspapers and the CEOs of all States/UTs, were requested to take forms from outside the State through both online and physical means, the ECI said. The Commission, further defending the Bihar SIR, stated that individuals whose names, for any reason, do not figure in the draft electoral roll published on August 1, such individuals can submit an application to lodge a claim for inclusion in the draft roll during the claims and objections period. Exclusion of a name from the draft electoral roll does not amount to deletion of an individual from the electoral rolls. The draft roll simply shows that the duly filled enumeration form of existing electors has been received during the Enumeration Phase. But, on account of human involvement in the execution of this exercise of scale, there is always a possibility that an exclusion or inclusion might surface due to inadvertence or error, the ECI said. The Supreme Court had earlier indicated that it would step in immediately if it came to know that there was mass exclusion in the SIR exercise of electoral rolls in Bihar, while hearing a batch of pleas challenging the revision of electoral rolls exercise in Bihar, ahead of the state assembly polls in November. Bihar SIR: 230 voters stay in single house On July 28, the Supreme Court in its order refused to stay the Election Commission from publishing draft voters list on August 1, 2025 after SIR exercise in Bihar. It also reiterated and asked the EC to complete the process of considering including Aadhaar and Voter ID cards to ensure their statutory correctness. Earlier on July 10, the apex court's two-judge vacation bench, in its last order -- while refusing to stay the Bihar voter list revision -- asked the ECI to complete the process. In our prima facie view, since the list is not exhaustive, in our opinion, it will be in the interest of justice, the ECI will also consider the Aadhaar card, Electoral Photo Identity Card issued by the Election Commission and the ration card, the bench had said. The apex court on July 10 had passed the direction after hearing a batch of petitions challenging the decision of the ECI to undertake the SIR of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar. On Monday, July 21, the ECI had told the top court that 90% electors had already submitted enumeration forms. Apart from ensuring no one is left out of the list, special focus on poor, marginalised etc is being given. The ECI also defended, in its affidavit, the Aadhar's exclusion from the list of 11 documents, saying it doesn't help in screening eligibility of voters under Art 326. It, however, maintained that the list of documents was indicative, not exhaustive. The ECI said the SIR Survey was being done after concerns were raised by the political parties across the spectrum For the first time, all the political parties have been so involved at this scale in intensive revision exercises, with all political parties appointing more than 1.5 lakh BLAs to work in tandem with BLOs, in reaching out to each eligible elector, added the affidavit of the ECI. The top court was hearing the pleas filed by NGO- Association For Democratic Reforms (ADR), People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), Yogendra Yadav, Lok Sabha Member of Parliament (MP) from Trinamool Congress Party, Mahua Moitra, Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha, Congress Party leader K C Venugopal and Mujahid Alam. The petitioners from the top court sought a direction to set aside the ECIs SIR order of 24, June, 2025. Issue a writ, order or direction setting aside Order and Communication dated 24.06.2025 and accompanying guidelines issued by ECI to conduct SIR of the electoral rolls in Bihar as being in violation of Articles 14, 19, 21, 325, 326 of the Constitution of India and provisions of Representation of People (RP) Act, 1950 and Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, said, the plea of ADR, filed in the top court. The SIR order, if not set aside, can arbitrarily and without due process disenfranchise lakhs of voters from electing their representatives, thereby disrupting free and fair elections and democracy in the country, which are part of the basic structure of the Constitution, said the NGO ADR, in its plea filed in the top court. Bihar SIR: Doing the right thing the wrong way

IPL 2026 trade window explained: How player transfers work, key dates, rules, here's all you need to know

The IPL trade window is a specific period before and after the auction when franchises can trade players. Teams can trade players through all-cash deals or player-to-player swaps. Here's all you need to know about IPL trade window.

'RR has meant the world to me': Samson breaks silence amid IPL trade rumours

Sanju Samson expressed deep gratitude for Rajasthan Royals amid speculation about his future with the franchise. Recalling his early days, Samson credited RR for providing him a platform and unwavering support. Despite leading the team to the 2022 final, IPL 2025 posed challenges as he missed matches due to injury.

Police officer conspired to frame Assam CM during Jkhand polls, to reveal details soon: Babulal Marandi

RANCHI/GUWAHATI, Aug 9: Jharkhand BJP president Babulal Marandi said on Saturday that he would soon reveal details about how a senior police officer of the state attempted to frame Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in a conspiracy. The police officer paid money to someone to travel to Delhi and Guwahati during the Jharkhand assembly []

IPL veteran who played alongside Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli joins adult site OnlyFans; says 'Will do stuff that...'

He featured in the IPL for the most famous and best franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru(RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI). The last time he played for England was in 2023. OnlyFans is a website known for adult content.

How Home Alone's Macaulay Culkin built a king-size empire. Here's what he earned from the blockbuster film

Macaulay Culkin, the iconic Home Alone star, amassed a king-size fortune before even reaching adulthood. His early roles, including Uncle Buck and the Home Alone franchise, rose him to fame and financial success. Culkins strategic career moves, coupled with savvy business ventures, have solidified his wealth and maintained his relevance. Read on to find out how he built that empire.

Derailed wagons collide with another train in Jharkhand; no casualties reported

RANCHI: A goods train heading towards Purulia on the down line derailed near Pitaki gate, about 200 meters away from the station, and fell away over the up line. Another goods train, coming on the up line, collided with it; the collision was so intense that a total of 21 wagons derailed, out of which two fell on the roadside. According to local sources, the accident took place at 4:15 am near pole number 375/22 near Chandil railway station in Jharkhand on Saturday morning. Initial reports suggest that the crash was caused by a technical fault and a signal failure. As soon as the information about the accident reached the railway officials, they rushed to the spot and started investigating the matter. Work is going on war footing to restore the railway track. Railway administration said that efforts are being made to restore the operation as soon as possible. The intensity of the collision could be gauged from the fact that the wheels of the train broke and fell far away, and the railway tracks were damaged for about 200 meters in the accident. Due to the accident, train services have been disrupted on ChandilTatanagar, ChandilMuri, and ChandilPuruliaBokaro routes. Many passengers remain stranded at various stations, while the route of some trains has been changed. Alternative transport is being arranged for the passengers who are affected. Due to the accident, many trains leaving from Tatanagar railway station have been cancelled. These include important trains like Tata-Patna Vande Bharat Express, Tata-Buxar Superfast Express, and Tata-Dhanbad Swarnarekha Express. Apart from this, the routes of some long-distance trains like Purushottam Express and Anand Vihar Express have also been changed.

Derailed wagons collide with another train in Jharkhand

RANCHI: A goods train heading towards Purulia on the down line derailed near Pitaki gate, about 200 meters away from the station, and fell away over the up line. Another goods train, coming on the up line, collided with it; the collision was so intense that a total of 21 wagons derailed, out of which two fell on the roadside. According to local sources, the accident took place at 4:15 am near pole number 375/22 near Chandil railway station in Jharkhand on Saturday morning. Initial reports suggest that the crash was caused by a technical fault and a signal failure. Some crew members have suffered minor injuries and been admitted to the nearest hospital. As soon as the information about the accident reached the railway officials, they rushed to the spot and started investigating the matter. Work is going on war footing to restore the railway track. Railway administration said that efforts are being made to restore the operation as soon as possible. The intensity of the collision could be gauged from the fact that the wheels of the train broke and fell far away, and the railway tracks were damaged for about 200 meters in the accident. Due to the accident, train services have been disrupted on ChandilTatanagar, ChandilMuri, and ChandilPuruliaBokaro routes. Many passengers remain stranded at various stations, while the route of some trains has been changed. Alternative transport is being arranged for the passengers who are affected. Due to the accident, many trains leaving from Tatanagar railway station have been cancelled. These include important trains like Tata-Patna Vande Bharat Express, Tata-Buxar Superfast Express, and Tata-Dhanbad Swarnarekha Express. Apart from this, the routes of some long-distance trains like Purushottam Express and Anand Vihar Express have also been changed.

CSK set to release senior players, free up purse for 2026 IPL auction: Report

Chennai Super Kings plan a squad overhaul after a disappointing IPL 2025 season. The franchise may release older players to free up funds for the auction. CSK eyes younger talents like Cameron Green and Ben Duckett. There is also interest in Sanju Samson. MS Dhoni is likely to play next season.

Tom Brady's statue unveiled outside Gillette Stadium before Patriots' preseason opener

Tom Brady, the Patriots' legendary quarterback, was honored with a statue outside Gillette Stadium, marking his remarkable two-decade career. He is the first player in franchise history to receive this honor. Owner Robert Kraft lauded Brady's leadership and competitive spirit. Brady, in his speech, expressed gratitude and humor, reminiscing about his time with the team and joking about his speed.

Is Vaibhav Suryavanshi the real reason? Former India star spills the beans on Sanju Samson's reported RR departure

Samson reportedly feels surplus after Vaibhav and Yashasvi Jaiswal secured the opening slots, while the franchise also shifted focus to promoting younger Indian talents. This has led to serious differences between Samson and the Rajasthan Royals management.

Will gherao EC if a single elector's name from Bengal is omitted from final voter list: Abhishek

Abhishek Banerjee threatened to gherao the Election Commission with one lakh people if even a single voter's name is unfairly removed during the proposed Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. He alleged the BJP is trying to implement SIR quickly, potentially disenfranchising poor people, and criticized the EC for acting on BJP directives.

Ashwin might not don CSK jersey next year

The off-spinner could explore new avenues if he doesnt feature in Super Kings plans, with a few other franchisees already expressing interest in his services

Ashwin Likely To Enter IPL Mini-auction After Parting Ways With Chennai Super Kings

Chennai Super Kings: Less than a year after a much talked about reunion with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), veteran off-spinner Ravichandran is likely to enter the mini auction ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after parting ways with the five-time championship winning side. Sources tracking the development have confirmed to IANS on Friday that Ashwin is indeed moving on from CSK, a franchise who he represented from 2008-2015 and became a two-time IPL winner. Its all but certain that he will be released by CSK whenever retention dates are announced. He will be only entering the auction pool, further said the sources. In last years mega auction, Ashwin was picked by CSK for INR 9.75 crore, marking his return to his home franchise after turning out for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals. In IPL 2025, where CSK had a bottom-place finish, Ashwin played nine games picking only seven wickets at a high economy rate of 9.13 and was even left out of the starting eleven at one point due to his underwhelming returns. Ashwin, who retired from international cricket after the Brisbane Test against Australia in last years Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, is also serving as the head of CSKs High Performance Centre and the Super Kings Academy. In last years mega auction, Ashwin was picked by CSK for INR 9.75 crore, marking his return to his home franchise after turning out for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals. In IPL 2025, where CSK had a bottom-place finish, Ashwin played nine games picking only seven wickets at a high economy rate of 9.13 and was even left out of the starting eleven at one point due to his underwhelming returns. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score A veteran of 221 IPL matches, Ashwin has picked up 187 wickets at a tidy economy rate of 7.29. He has also scored 833 runs at a strike rate of 118 which still makes him a valuable asset for franchises who would be seeking a highly experienced campaigner, apart from boosting their spin-bowling department. Article Source: IANS

AU Small Finance Bank to transfer promoter stake to NOHFC as part of transition to universal bank: CEO

AU SFBs Chairman HR Khan said that even after the conversion of AU SFB into an universal bank, the lender would continue to have a retail franchise

Lightning wreaks havoc in Jharkhand; seven killed

RANCHI: Jharkhand has been battered by severe weather conditions over the past 24 hours, resulting in the tragic loss of at least seven lives due to lightning strikes across multiple districts. In the last 24 hours, at least seven people were killed due to lightning accompanied by heavy rains in various districts of Jharkhand. The deceased include four in Palamu, two in Khunti and one in Chaibasa. The most devastating incident occurred in Palamu district, where three members of the same family lost their lives while transplanting paddy in the fields. Three more people were killed in separate lightning-related incidents at Torpa, located in Khunti district. Another fatality has been confirmed in West Singhbhum district, bringing the total toll to seven. According to the Meteorological Department, an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall has been issued in Garhwa, Palamu and Chatra districts. The districts identified to be at higher risk today include Pakur, Godda, Deoghar, Dumka, Jamtara, and Sahibganj, where heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected. Authorities have advised residents, particularly farmers, to exercise extreme caution during this period. Farmers have been specifically urged to refrain from working in open fields during rainfall, as lightning strikes are more likely in such conditions. Moreover, the IMD has also forecast intense weather activity in the Kolhan division, comprising East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Saraikela, and Chaibasa. Precautionary alerts have been issued for these areas. In Saraikela, the sky remained overcast since early morning, with intermittent light rain observed. As the monsoon intensifies in the region, officials continue to monitor the situation and have urged people to follow weather updates and safety guidelines issued by the authorities.

Two CRPF personnel injured in IED blast in Jharkhands Chaibasa, airlifted to Ranchi

RANCHI: Two CRPF personnel of the 209 CoBRA Battalion were injured on Friday in an IED blast planted by Maoists in the Saranda jungles of West Singhbhum. They were immediately airlifted to Ranchi for better treatment. The incident occurred around 11 am near Hindukocha village in the Saranda Forest under Jaraikela police station during a search operation conducted by a joint team of state police and CRPFs CoBRA Battalion. The injured personnel have been identified as Ram Pravesh Singh and Chhotu Kashyap. Following the incident, the search operation in the area has been intensified, with joint teams of Jharkhand Police and CRPF carrying out combing operations to trace the Maoists. According to police, the Maoists had planted IEDs in the forest to target security forces. Earlier, a major rail accident was averted when Maoists blew up a section of railway track, damaging it with an explosion between Karampada and Rengda railway siding under the Chakradharpur Rail Division late on the night of August 2. The movement of goods trains was halted for several hours due to the damage. In another incident on July 3, a gangman was killed and another injured in an IED blast on the railway track near Vimalgarh Railway Station at the Odisha-Jharkhand border under the Chakradharpur Rail Division while they were removing a banner from the track. Maoists are now largely confined to the Saranda jungles in Jharkhand, having been driven out from other parts of the state. Estimates suggest that around 8590 Maoists are hiding in the Saranda jungles, where they have planted thousands of IEDs, posing a major challenge for security forces. The state police launched a joint operation in the Saranda and Kolhan jungles in November 2022 following information that senior Maoist leaders, including Misir Besra and Patiram Majhi alias Anal Da, were hiding in the forest stretch, which is considered strategically important.

A Summer of Demolitions and Disenfranchisement in Delhi

It must take a very deliberate political will to attack the most vulnerable, writes Abhinandita Mathur.

Already Looking For Excuse: Amit Shah Mocks Rahul Gandhi In Bihar Voter Row

Amit Shah on Friday tore into the opposition's allegations - that the special intensive revision of the Bihar voter list, months before an Assembly poll, is meant to disenfranchise non-BJP voters - and mocked Rahul Gandhi for looking for an excuse f

Milap Zaveri gets emotional as film nears completion: `Hope I live up to legacy`

Milap, who had also written the first two instalments of the franchise, took to Instagram, where he shared two pictures posing with Vivek Oberoi, Riteish Deshmukh and Aftab Shivdasani from the sets of Masti 4 as he wraps up the shooting schedule in UK

Pundit suggests CSK sign Samson as Dhoni replacement by releasing Ashwin

Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals captain, may leave after the 2025 IPL season. He has reportedly told the franchise about exploring options. Aakash Chopra suggests Kolkata Knight Riders could be a good fit. Chopra cites KKR's need for an Indian wicketkeeper-batter. He also mentions concerns about Ajinkya Rahane's batting. Changes in Rajasthan Royals' strategy may have influenced Samson's decision.

Watch and decide: OUT or NOT OUT? Here's what cricket's laws say

A peculiar incident shared by Indian Premier League franchise Punjab Kings has ignited a debate. A batter's cap fell off, hitting the stumps after striking the ball. The fielding team appealed for a dismissal. Cricket laws state that if the cap dislodged the bails after the shot, it's not out. The decision hinges on the timing of the incident.

KKR Should Be The Most Desperate Team: Aakash Chopra On Samson's Potential Exit From Rajasthan Royals

Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samsons long-standing association with the Rajasthan Royals could be nearing its end. After a mixed 2025 IPL season, reports have emerged that the Kerala batter has formally expressed his desire to leave the franchise, stirring up the transfer market ahead of the mega auction. According to reports, Samson has informed the Jaipur-based franchise about his decision to explore opportunities elsewhere, marking a possible end to a near-decade-long IPL journey. While speculation has linked Samson to a move to the Chennai Super Kings - particularly after his meeting with CSK head coach Stephen Fleming during the MLC season in the US - former India opener Aakash Chopra believes theres another team far more desperate to acquire Rajasthan skipper. The first name that comes to my mind is not CSK. KKR should be the most desperate team, Chopra said on his YouTube channel. KKR dont have an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and that just ties their hands behind their back. Secondly, whats wrong if you get a captain? I am not denying that Ajinkya Rahane has captained well and has scored runs as well. Chopra pointed to Ajinkya Rahanes limitations as a batter and his age as key reasons for KKR to consider Samson seriously. Despite KKRs success in 2024 under Shreyas Iyer, the former cricketer believes the team lacks batting flexibility and depth in the wicketkeeper slot - an area Samson can immediately strengthen. Ajinkya Rahane as a batter -either he opens or else the batting order has been a bit of a problem, Chopra added. They have a player they can release as well. If they wish, they can release Venkatesh Iyer, free up nearly Rs 24 crore, and then they can actually make a difference. The 30-year-old Samson began his IPL journey with KKR in 2012 before rising to prominence with Rajasthan Royals, where he eventually became captain. But changes in RR's squad strategy ahead of the 2025 mega auction may have prompted the decision to move on. Notably, the team released England's Jos Buttler and opted for a stronger Indian core, promoting young domestic stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and breakout teenage talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Chopra suggested that this shift may have limited Samsons role and possibly influenced his decision. The 30-year-old Samson began his IPL journey with KKR in 2012 before rising to prominence with Rajasthan Royals, where he eventually became captain. But changes in RR's squad strategy ahead of the 2025 mega auction may have prompted the decision to move on. Notably, the team released England's Jos Buttler and opted for a stronger Indian core, promoting young domestic stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and breakout teenage talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score I felt there would have been a massive input from Sanju in the players they retained or released. However, now it seems it might not have been there. Vaibhav Suryavanshi has come, so two openers are already ready, and you also want to bat Dhruv Jurel up the order. So Sanju wishes to leave. If he is thinking like that, its possible. These are conjectures. I dont know whats in his and Rajasthans minds. Article Source: IANS

Who could take over Rajasthan Royals' captaincy if Sanju Samson parts ways?

Rajasthan Royals faces turmoil as captain Sanju Samson reportedly seeks a trade, potentially ending his long tenure with the franchise. With Samson's possible departure, young talents Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag emerge as potential captaincy candidates. The franchise is in a tough spot to retain its core Indian talent while maintaining dressing-room harmony.

Hemant Soren vows to fulfil father Shibu Sorens dreams; carry forward fight against injustice

RANCHI: Days after the death of his JMM founding patron and father Shibu Soren, Chief Minister Hemant Soren has written an emotional post on X, assuring that the struggle and sacrifices of the brave forefathers will never go in vain. Soren wrote that he would fulfil every dream of his father Shibu Soren. Baba Dishom Guru's son will fulfill every dream... The struggle and sacrifice of our brave men will never go in vain, aggrieved Hemant Soren posted on X. Notably, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founding patron and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren passed away in the early hours of August 4 at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. Hemant Soren, announcing his death, had posted on X, saying, Respected Guru Dishom has left us all. Today, I have become empty. Earlier, a day after the death of Shibu Soren, Hemant Soren had assured that his father's fight against injustice would continue . The Chief Minister also said he was passing through the most difficult phase of his life after the demise of his father. I am passing through the most difficult phase of my life, a pillar of Jharkhand's soul gone. No book can explain Baba's struggle, but I vow to continue his fight against injustice, the Jharkhand CM posted on X. Soren promised not to let Jharkhand bow down and vowed to work to realise his father's dreams by working for the oppressed and the poor. Hemant Soren said he will put his foot in his father's shoes to wage a war against injustice. My father's shadow has disappeared. He was my guide, the root of my thoughts. He inspired thousands and millions of Jharkhandis, like a forest protecting them from sunlight, Soren asserted in the long social media post written in Hindi. The Chief Minister also reminded that his father's beginnings were very simple. Soren further added that when he was a child, he used to ask him why people called him Dishom Guru. Then he used to smile and reply: Because I just understood their pain and made their fight my own, Soren said. The title was neither written in any book nor provided by Parliament it came from the hearts of the people of Jharkhand, he added, further saying, Dishom means society and Guru means the one who shows the path. And to tell the truth, Baba didn't just show us the path, he taught us to walk on this, said Soren. Hemant Soren also recounted that he saw his father only struggling and never afraid to wage a war against injustice. The making of a legend: Shibu Soren's evolution from Shivcharan to Guruji

Bad news for Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026 season as star player seeks exit from franchise due to..., his name is...

A piece of bad news has arrived for the fans of Rajasthan Royals as their star player might not be playing for the franchise in the upcoming season. Know more about him below.

SBIs fund deployment key to future growth: Sandip Agarwal

Sandip Agarwal notes the Indian investor's increasing maturity, moving beyond panic selling to strategic buying after initial market dips. He suggests PSU banks, like SBI, may outperform private sector banks due to their deposit franchise amidst NIM compression from rate cuts. Investors are keenly awaiting SBI's results and future strategies for deploying raised funds.

Kalyan Jewellers shares fall over 9% but target prices go up to Rs 700

Kalyan Jewellers' shares plunged 9.4% despite a 31% revenue surge, as India's gross margins dipped due to franchised store growth. Brokerages like Citi and Motilal Oswal remain optimistic, projecting a rally to Rs 700. The company maintains an aggressive expansion plan of 170 stores in FY26, focusing on the FOCO model.

Samson asks to be released by Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026 auction

ESPNcricinfo has learned that the franchise has not yet given him a definitive answer

'Its Great To See T20 Cricket Return To Mysuru, Says Gundappa Vishwanath

Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Cricket Stadium: The fourth edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 will take place at the Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Cricket Stadium in Mysuru. The two-week competition will run from August 11 to 28 and will be held as a closed-door event with no spectators in attendance. Legendary cricketer Gundappa Vishwanath, speaking on the tournament being held in Mysuru, said, It has happened before in Mysuru and it has always been a good centre. Mysuru has always been a rich catchment area for Karnataka cricket and it is great to see T20 cricket return to Mysuru. Its called the Maharaja Trophy, so it is a fitting venue. Arjun Ranga, owner of the Mysore Warriors, said, We are thrilled to have the Maharaja Trophy in Mysuru. This region has always been deeply passionate about cricket, and having the tournament return to Mysuru is a special moment for both our franchise and the city. It is a special occasion, and we are eager to begin our title defence. Mysore Warriors all-rounder Gowtham K, who was part of the sides title-winning campaign last year, added, We are very excited to get the season under way, with preparations and training in full swing. Lifting the trophy last year was special, and this year we have a fantastic team once again. We are looking forward to competing in our home city. The opening day on August 11 will see Gulbarga Mystics take on Mangaluru Dragons in the afternoon fixture, followed by defending champions Mysore Warriors facing last years runners-up Bengaluru Blasters in a highly anticipated evening clash. Double-header action will continue throughout the league phase, culminating in the play-offs from August 26 and the final on August 28. The six franchises are defending champions Mysore Warriors, Bengaluru Blasters, Hubli Tigers, Gulbarga Mystics, Shivamogga Lions and Mangaluru Dragons, who will battle for supremacy featuring top Karnataka talent including Prasidh Krishna, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Devdutt Padikkal, Abhinav Manohar, Shreyas Gopal and Manish Pandey. The tournament will be broadcast live on Star Sports 1 (English and Kannada) and streamed exclusively on FanCode. Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 schedule: 11 August Gulbarga Mystics vs Mangaluru Dragons 3.15 pm 11 August Bengaluru Blasters vs Mysore Warriors 7.15 pm 12 August Hubli Tigers vs Shivamogga Lions 3.15 pm 12 August Mysore Warriors vs Gulbarga Mystics 7.15 pm 13 August Bengaluru Blasters vs Hubli Tigers 3.15 pm 13 August Mangaluru Dragons vs Shivamogga Lions 7.15 pm 14 August Mysore Warriors vs Mangaluru Dragons 3.15 pm 14 August Gulbarga Mystics vs Bengaluru Blasters 7.15 pm 15 August Shivamogga Lions vs Bengaluru Blasters 3.15 pm 15 August Hubli Tigers vs Mangaluru Dragons 7.15 pm 16 August Shivamogga Lions vs Gulbarga Mystics 3.15 pm 16 August Mysore Warriors vs Hubli Tigers 7.15 pm 17 August Mangaluru Dragons vs Bengaluru Blasters 3.15 pm 17 August Mysore Warriors vs Shivamogga Lions 7.15 pm 18 August Mysore Warriors vs Bengaluru Blasters 3.15 pm 18 August Gulbarga Mystics vs Hubli Tigers 7.15 pm 19 August Gulbarga Mystics vs Shivamogga Lions 3.15 pm 19 August Mangaluru Dragons vs Hubli Tigers 7.15 pm 20 August Gulbarga Mystics vs Mysore Warriors 3.15 pm 20 August Hubli Tigers vs Bengaluru Blasters 7.15 pm 21 August Mangaluru Dragons vs Mysore Warriors 3.15 pm 21 August Bengaluru Blasters vs Shivamogga Lions 7.15 pm 22 August Hubli Tigers vs Gulbarga Mystics 3.15 pm 22 August Shivamogga Lions vs Mangaluru Dragons 7.15 pm 23 August Hubli Tigers vs Mysore Warriors 3.15 pm 23 August Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics 7.15 pm 24 August Bengaluru Blasters vs Mangaluru Dragons 3.15 pm 24 August Shivamogga Lions vs Mysore Warriors 7.15 pm 25 August Shivamogga Lions vs Hubli Tigers 3.15 pm 25 August Mangaluru Dragons vs Gulbarga Mystics 7.15 pm 26 August Qualifier I 3.15 pm 26 August Eliminator 7.15 pm 26 August Qualifier I 3.15 pm Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score 28 August Final 7.15 pm Article Source: IANS

David Wiese To Lead Saint Lucia Kings In CPL 2025

Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium: Defending champions Saint Lucia Kings have named veteran Namibian international David Wiese as the captain for the upcoming season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), startingAugust 14. The allrounder joined the franchise in 2022 and returned once again last season, where he played a key role in helping Kings win the trophy. Coming down the lower-middle order to bat, Wiese scored crucial 121 runs in 11 games at an explosive strike rate of 168.05 and an average of 40.33. He also proved to be an important factor in the bowling unit, picking 13 wickets in 11 matches. Thank you to the Saint Lucia Kings and all the fans for your belief and support. It is a huge honour to lead this team. I am absolutely humbled to be named your captain. This season, we will be playing with passion, heart and unity. You will see us give everything for each other and for you. And fans, we need you with us to pack the stadiums, lift the vibe and let's paint Saint Lucia blue. Let's make this a special season, Wiese said in a statement. Saint Lucia Kings will begin their campaign this season on August 23 at home ground at Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia, as they face off against Trinbago Knight Riders. Thank you to the Saint Lucia Kings and all the fans for your belief and support. It is a huge honour to lead this team. I am absolutely humbled to be named your captain. This season, we will be playing with passion, heart and unity. You will see us give everything for each other and for you. And fans, we need you with us to pack the stadiums, lift the vibe and let's paint Saint Lucia blue. Let's make this a special season, Wiese said in a statement. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon added, After the tremendous success in the previous edition, we knew we needed someone highly experienced and technically sound to lead the franchise as we defend this beautiful trophy. Wiese's commitment, passion, and professionalism have always been an asset to the Saint Lucia Kings family, and there is no doubt that he is the ideal pick to lead the side. Article Source: IANS

IIM Ranchi replaces mid-term exams with AI-driven business projects in major curriculum revamp

RANCHI: In a bid to provide future-ready education to students, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ranchi is all set to replace traditional hall-based mid-term examinations with AI-integrated business problem-solving projects in all courses. The initiative, called Working with AI (WAI), aims to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical, technology-driven business challenges, positioning the institute at the forefront of pedagogical innovation. The transformation builds upon IIM Ranchi's ongoing commitment to making its learning philosophy relevant to contemporary business challenges. Over the past academic cycle, the institution has systematically revamped its entire course structure, placing real-world business problem-solving at the centre of every curriculum component. We have recognized that the traditional model of isolated theoretical learning was becoming increasingly disconnected from the dynamic needs of modern business, said IIM-Ranchi Director Dr Deepak Srivastava, further adding, Our students needed to develop competencies that go beyond textbook knowledge they need to work collaboratively with emerging technologies to solve complex business challenges. According to Srivastava, the WAI initiative reflects a sophisticated understanding of how artificial intelligence is reshaping the business landscape. Rather than viewing AI as a disruptive force to be managed separately, IIM Ranchi has integrated it as a fundamental component of business education. Students are now required to demonstrate their ability to work alongside AI systems to develop innovative solutions for real business problems. This approach addresses a critical gap in traditional management education, where students often graduate with theoretical knowledge but lack practical experience in human-AI collaboration a skill increasingly essential in today's workplace. The initiative goes beyond simply learning about AI to actually working with AI as a collaborative partner in problem-solving processes. By embedding AI collaboration into the assessment process itself, students develop these competencies organically rather than through isolated technology courses. Despite the revolutionary changes to mid-term assessments, IIM Ranchi maintains traditional hall-based examinations for end-term evaluations. This hybrid approach ensures that students continue to develop fundamental analytical and reasoning skills while also building practical technological competencies. This approach reflects a mature understanding of adult learning principles, recognizing that motivated engagement produces better outcomes than mandated compliance. The policy change acknowledges that students may benefit from pursuing complementary learning experiences outside the classroom while maintaining accountability for core competency development. According to Dean (Academics) Prof. Tanusree Dutta, the institute is creating an environment where students take ownership of their learning journey. This requires balancing freedom with responsibility students have more autonomy in how they engage with content, but they're also held to higher standards in demonstrating practical competencies, she said. Chairperson of the Student Engagement and Development Committee (SEDC), Gaurav Marathe, said the institute is not discarding the strengths of traditional evaluation methods, but rather building a well-rounded assessment ecosystem that equally values foundational academic knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. The transformation extends beyond just examination methods. IIM Ranchi has simultaneously restructured its attendance policy, moving away from compulsory attendance toward a flexible attendance based on a positive reinforcement model, added Marathe. Students now receive incentives for participation while maintaining the freedom to pursue additional skill development opportunities, he said.

ED raids 12 locations, including six in Jharkhand, in Rs 750 crore fake ITC scam

RANCHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting searches at 12 locations across Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Maharashtra in connection with an ongoing investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The case pertains to a large-scale fake Input Tax Credit (ITC) fraud involving shell entities and unauthorised financial channels. According to sources, ED teams are conducting searches at six locations simultaneously, including a flat located on the fourth floor of Krishna Apartment in the PP compound. Necessary documents, digital records and possible evidence are being searched at all these places, they said. The investigation stems from the arrest of Shiva Kumar Deora, identified as the key mastermind behind the syndicate, who was charge-sheeted last month following his arrest in May 2025. The case pertains to generation of Rs 750 crore fake Input Tax Credit (ITC) involving shell entities and unauthorised financial channels in Jharkhand. The current searches are being undertaken based on credible evidence that indicates involvement of several individuals and firms in laundering proceeds of crime. Earlier, during the first round of raids in the GST scam, ED had arrested four people, including Shiv Kumar Deora from Kolkata and Amit Agarwal alias Vicky Bhalotia from Jamshedpur. During the interrogation, it was found that by making fake bills, paper trade was shown without purchase and sale of goods and Input Tax Credit (ITC) was misused. After getting information about the involvement of more people in this scam, second round of crackdown was launched by the ED. On June 25, 2024, Jamshedpur scrap businessman Bablu Jaiswal, alias Gyanchand Jaiswal, was also arrested on charges of GST scam. The GST department called Bablu to the Intelligence office in Sakchi on the evening of June 24 and interrogated him and then sent him to jail after his arrest.

IPL: MS Dhoni teases fans about his CSK future - Will the legend return?

MS Dhoni has hinted at a continued association with Chennai Super Kings, suggesting he'll be linked with the franchise for the next 15-20 years. While his exact role remains uncertain, Dhoni assured fans he will be seen in the CSK yellow jersey. He expressed gratitude for the fans' support, highlighting the IPL as the next best thing to representing India.

Bizman Duped Of 1.5 L In Franchise Scam

The incident began three months ago when he saw a Facebook advertisement for a company named Evergo Services. Interested in starting a courier business, he contacted the mobile number listed in the ad: According to the complaint filed by K. Srikanth

Jharkhand High Court denies bail to Chhavi Ranjan IAS in land scam case

The Jharkhand High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail application of former Ranchi Deputy Commissioner and IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan, accused of fraudulent sale-purchase of land in Ranchi. The rejection of his bail plea comes as a major setback for Ranjan. Earlier, on July 25, the court had reserved its order after hearing arguments from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the defence. Earlier, the Ranchi PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) court had also refused to grant bail to Chhavi Ranjan, prompting him to move the High Court seeking relief. Chhavi Ranjan, a 2011 batch IAS officer, has served as the Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi and was posted at the Department of social welfare, when he was arrested by the ED. Sources claimed that the ED is probing aspects of money laundering in illegal sale and purchase of 5.44 acres of Army land in Bargai circle of Ranchi. Ranjan was the Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi when stone mining lease was granted to Chief Minister Hemant Soren for stone mining at Angara in the outskirts of Ranchi. The ED has already filed a chargesheet against former Ranchi DC and IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan, noted businessman Vishnu Agrawal, Bargai circle revenue sub-inspector Bhanu Pratap Prasad, Pradeep Bagchi, and land dealers Afsar Ali, Imtiaz Khan, Talha Khan, Faiyaz Khan, Mohammad Saddam, Amit Agrawal, and Dilip Ghosh.

Opposition urges Lok Sabha Speaker to refer National Sports Governance, Anti-Doping Bills to JPC

NEW DELHI: Leaders of several opposition parties on Wednesday urged Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer the National Sports Governance Bill , 2025 and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025 to a joint committee of Parliament for further scrutiny. In a joint letter to the Speaker, the opposition leaders said the two significant bills are listed for consideration and passage in the House and there is need for a broader consensus on the bills considering their national importance. We the undersigned Members of Parliament representing various Opposition Parties write to respectfully draw your attention to two significant Bills listed for consideration and passage in the House: The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025 and The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, they said in their letter. The leaders said the bills propose wide-ranging reforms in the governance, regulation, and ethical oversight of sports in India. They have serious implications for our sportspersons, sports federations, and India's standing in international sporting bodies, they said. In view of their national importance, the need for broad consensus, and the value of consulting relevant stakeholders, we respectfully request that both these Bills be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberation, the opposition leaders said. A JPC would ensure a more comprehensive and participatory process, allowing for careful scrutiny of the provisions, potential implications, and alignment with international standards. We hope this request will be taken into account to help ensure fair and effective governance reforms in the Indian sporting ecosystem, they also asserted in their letter. The National Sports Governance Bill seeks to provide for recognition of national sports bodies and regulate their functioning while the National Anti-Doping Bill aims to strengthen India's anti-doping framework. The signatories to the letter include Congress' KC Venugopal, Gaurav Gogoi, K Suresh, NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule, TMC's Kakoli Ghosh Dastikar, DMK's K Kanomozhi, Shiv Sena (UBT) Arvind Sawant, RSP's NK Premachandran, VCK's D Ravi Kumar, MDMK's Durai Vaiko and IUML's ET Mohammed Bashir, among others. The government has said that if the opposition will create uproar in the House and not allow the House to function, they would be constrained to pass the legislative business in the din. The opposition has been creating uproar in both houses of Parliament on their demand for a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, which they allege is aimed at disenfranchising a large number of voters. Sports bill: Govt should guard against overreach

Bajaj Finance Launches Prime Loan Festival: Exciting Offers on Personal Loan

Bajaj Finance Ltd. ('BFL', 'Bajaj Finance', or 'the Company'), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

'Discussion not deletion': Opposition MPs step up pressure on governmemt to hold debate on SIR

NEW DELHI: With a banner reading 'discussion not deletion', several MPs of the INDIA bloc parties staged a protest in the Parliament House complex on Wednesday against the Election Commission's voter roll revision in Bihar , and demanded its rollback as well as a debate on it in both Houses of Parliament. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra slammed the government, saying hey have become so weak that neither they are able to face US President Donald Trump nor able to run Parliament. It is a very simple thing, we are only asking for a discussion (on Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar). It is very easy for them to resolve this within five minutes. They should discuss it, what the harm is? Our view point will come, their view point will come, it will be over, the MP from Wayanad said as she participated in the protest and raised slogans against the government and SIR. Holding banners and posters against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyanka Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Sanjay Raut, TMC's Mahua Moitra, as well as other opposition MPs raised slogans and demanded a rollback of the SIR as they staged their protest near Parliament's Makar Dwar. This was the eleventh day of their protest with only one day gap in between on Monday when the opposition skipped their protest in view of the demise of former Jharkhand chief minister Shibu Soren. There was a huge banner in front of the protesting MPs which read 'Discussion not deletion'. Another banner carried by the protesting MPs read 'SIR - Silent Invisible Rigging'. With 'Stop SIR' placards along with posters, alleging collusion between the EC and the government, in hand, the MPs of the opposition, including those of the Congress, DMK, TMC, and Left parties, among others, participated in the protest and also carried out a brief march. The opposition has been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the SIR, alleging the EC's exercise was aimed at disenfranchising voters in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections. They have been demanding a discussion on the issue in both Houses. Opposition's demand for discussion on 'votebandi' non-negotiable: Congress

Rahul Gandhi granted bail in 2018 defamation case over remarks against Amit Shah

CHAIBASA: Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was granted bail by an MP-MLA court in Jharkhands Chaibasa on Wednesday in connection with a case related to alleged defamatory remarks made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a 2018 rally. Gandhi appeared before the court at around 10:55 am. Rahul Gandhi ji appeared before the court as per the direction of the Jharkhand High Court. He sought bail, which was granted. We will now take the legal process forward, said the Congress MPs counsel. On 2 June, Gandhi had moved the Jharkhand High Court challenging an earlier order by the special court in Chaibasa, which had directed him to appear on 26 June. Derogatory remarks against Amit Shah: Rahul Gandhi to appear before Jharkhand court on August 6 His counsel informed the High Court on 10 June that he would not be able to appear on the specified date and requested 6 August instead. The court accepted the request. The defamation case was filed by Pratap Kumar, who alleged that Gandhi's remarks at the rally were defamatory and deliberately intended to tarnish Shahs image. Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, had arrived in Jharkhand on Tuesday to attend the funeral of veteran tribal leader and former Chief Minister Shibu Soren at his ancestral village, Nemra, in neighbouring Ramgarh district. Officials said Gandhi travelled by helicopter from Ranchi to Chaibasa, where a helipad had been set up at Tata College Ground.

Banned Maoist organisation chief with 15 lakh bounty gunned down in Jharkhands Gumla

GUMLA: In a major success for the Jharkhand Police, Martin Kerketta, the chief of the Peoples Liberation Front of India (PLFI), was gunned down during an encounter in the Parhi-Chhangabari forests of Gumla late on Tuesday night. Kerketta carried a bounty of 15 lakh on his head and had been on the police radar for a long time. According to police sources, Kerketta had assumed leadership of the PLFI following the arrest of its former chief, Dinesh Gope, in Nepal. Both Gope and Kerketta were childhood friends and had studied together, later working jointly to expand the organisation. Terming it a significant blow to the PLFI, an offshoot of the banned CPI (Maoist), police officials said the operation was launched following a tip-off that Kerketta was in the area to collect extortion money from a local businessman. A team, led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Nazir Akhtar, was dispatched to trace his location. On spotting the police, Kerketta and his squad opened fire. In retaliatory firing, Kerketta was killed on the spot, officials said. A few weapons have been recovered from the encounter site, said the Superintendent of Police. Two firearms were seized. A team of Gumla police was actively involved in the operation, he added. It is believed that two other Maoist operatives were also injured during the exchange of fire. Search operations are ongoing in the area. Earlier, former PLFI supremo Dinesh Gope, who carried a reward of 25 lakh, was arrested from Nepal in a joint operation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Jharkhand Police. Following his arrest, Kerketta took over the reins of the outfit. Kerketta, a resident of Redma village in Kamdara, was an active member of the PLFIs central committee. He played a key role in formulating strategies related to extortion, intimidation, and armed operations. His criminal activities largely revolved around extortion in the name of the PLFI. Police officials stated that Kerkettas influence in the organisation stemmed from his longstanding association with Dinesh Gope. The two were schoolmates in Mahugaon under the Lapung Block of Ranchi district.

INDIA bloc should be more dynamic outside Parliament: CPI(ML)'s Dipankar Bhattacharya

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Calling for more dynamic, movement-oriented initiatives outside Parliament, CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said the INDIA bloc was not formed solely for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. You can see many coordinated moves by the INDIA front in Parliament. Similar initiatives should be made outside too, Bhattacharya said. Delivering the 24th N Narendran Memorial Lecture at the YMCA Hall in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, Bhattacharya also emphasised on the need for united efforts to fight the fascist offensive in the country. Referring to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, he said, If they get away with this in Bihar, they will apply it everywhere else; it could be Kerala tomorrow. The CPI(ML) leader was speaking on the topic Bihar: Trial run for mass disenfranchisement. Calling the SIR an invasive reconstruction of electoral rolls, he said it was unacceptable to see 66 lakh people being ejected from the rolls despite a list with their names having been released in January this year. The ECI (Election Commission of India) officials want us to believe their claim that 22 lakh people died and 35 lakh people migrated from Bihar in six months. If you are a Dalit, a Muslim, or a woman, you could be considered dead in the list. But if you are a privileged NDA supporter, then you will make it to the rolls, he said. According to the SIR norms, most workers who migrate to different parts of the country will not be considered ordinary residents of the state, leaving them in an identity crisis, he said.

Alien Earth OTT release date in India: When and where to watch Adarsh Gourav, Sydney Chandler's sci-fi series

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'Dishom Guru' Shibu Soren cremated at Nemra village with full State honours

RANCHI: Jharkhand's iconic leader Shibu Soren, affectionately known as 'Dishom Guru', was consigned to flames with full state honours at his native village Nemra in Ramgarh. His son, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, performed the last rites, where Shibu Soren's mortal remains were immersed in the Panchtatva. A massive crowd gathered at Nemra to bid farewell to the veteran politician, with emotions running high as people paid their respects. The village was overwhelmed with grief as people struggled to come to terms with the loss of their beloved leader. Traditional rituals were performed before the cremation, and villagers showered flowers on the funeral procession. The road from Jharkhand Assembly to Nemra was lined with people waiting to catch a glimpse of Shibu Soren for the last time. The funeral procession moved through the narrow lanes of the village, accompanied by chants of Shibu Soren Amar Rahe (Long live Shibu Soren). Shibu Soren and the soil-soaked struggle for self-rule Several prominent leaders from across the country attended the funeral, including the leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who reached Nemra by road from Ranchi Airport. Union Minister Annapurna Devi and former Union Minister Arjun Munda also attended the cremation of the Guruji. As the news of his passing spread, people from all walks of life gathered to bid farewell to the veteran politician. The atmosphere was somber, with many in tears, as they paid their respects to a leader who had dedicated his life to the welfare of the tribal community. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) Founding Patron and Dishom Guru Shibu Soren passed away early in the morning on Monday. He breathed his last in Delhi's Gangaram Hospital, where he was admitted after his health condition deteriorated a week ago. He had a kidney infection and was also diagnosed with bronchitis, which led to his death. Hospital authorities declared him dead at 8:56 am on Monday. Dishom Guru's fight against injustice to continue: Jharkhand CM Hemant after Shibu Soren's demise The making of a legend: Shibu Soren's evolution from Shivcharan to Guruji

INDIA bloc reschedules EC protest to August 11 after Shibu Sorens death

The Opposition march to the Election Commission of India is now on August 11. This rescheduling happened after the death of Shibu Soren. INDIA bloc leaders will still meet for dinner on August 7 at Rahul Gandhi's residence. Opposition parties are protesting the Special Intensive Revision in Bihar. They fear it will disenfranchise voters.

Defamation case: Rahul Gandhi to appear in Chaibasa court on Wednesday

Ranchi: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, will appear before the MP-MLA Special Court in Chaibasa, Jharkhand, on Wednesday, August 6, in connection with a defamation case filed against him. The case pertains to his alleged derogatory remarks against the then Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President, Amit Shah. The complaint was lodged 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 years after Article 370 abrogation, normalcy prevails in Kashmir as leaders call it black day

SRINAGAR: On the 6th anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 , Kashmir is quiet and calm with normal life continuing unaffected, while mainstream political leaders have described August 5 as black day and called it a brutal reminder of undermining of democracy. There is normalcy in the Valley. The shops, business establishments and educational institutions are open and traffic is plying normally. All the offices are open, and life continues as usual. The police and paramilitary personnel are deployed on the roads and maintaining a close vigil. However, there are no security restrictions in any part of Jammu and Kashmir on the 6th anniversary of Article 370 abrogation. On August 5, 2019, the centre abrogated Articles 370 and 35A, which granted special status and special privileges to J&K residents, and downgraded and bifurcated the erstwhile J&K state into two Union Territories --- Jammu and Kashmir (with legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). The authorities had enforced a strict security clampdown in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Article 370 abrogation. The political leaders have described August 5 as black day. The ruling National Conference president and three-time former CM Farooq Abdullah reiterated the partys firm opposition to the unilateral and unconstitutional actions taken on August 5, 2019, stating that such steps continue to remain unacceptable to the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the party. Supreme Court likely to hear plea seeking restoration of statehood to JK on August 8 He affirmed that NC would continue its peaceful, democratic and constitutional struggle for the restoration of J&Ks democratic and constitutional rights. August 5 marks a black day not just for Jammu & Kashmir, but for the entire nation. On this day, the Constitution was subverted not by foreign hands, but from within, by a brute majority in the heart of our democracy. The unconstitutional abrogation of J&Ks special status was not an end; it was the beginning of a broader assault on constitutional values, PDP chief and former CM Mehbooba Mufti posted on X. She said J&K was turned into a laboratory, its people disempowered, its land dispossessed, its demography targeted. What many saw as a local issue was a warning for all. Today, that warning is unfolding across the country. In Bihar, the SIR threatens to disenfranchise lakhs. From Tamil Nadu to Kashmir, non-local voters are being added en masse, paving the way for demographic manipulation and electoral distortion. If India does not wake up now, what began in J&K will soon define the nation, Mehbooba said. August 5 marks a black day not just for Jammu & Kashmir, but for the entire nation. On this day, the Constitution was subverted not by foreign hands, but from within, by a brute majority in the heart of our democracy. The unconstitutional abrogation of J&Ks special status was pic.twitter.com/4zsCdi7XH8 Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) August 5, 2025 J&K Congress chief Tariq Hamid Karra has also described August 5 as black day. The party will observe August 5 as a Black Day across all 20 districts of the region to intensify its agitation for the restoration of Statehood, Karra said. AAP MLA Mehraj Malik also described August 5, 2019, as the darkest day in J&Ks history. A state was stripped of its identity, rights, and even statehood overnight. What they call integration we remember as betrayal, said Malik, whose party, AAP, had supported Article 370 abrogation and downgrading and bifurcation of the erstwhile J&K state into two UTs. Peoples Conference chairman and former minister Sajjad Gani Lone said August 5 will always be a brutal reminder of undermining of democracy, and an ugly example of selective targeting. This was the day when whatever little was left from the glories of the past was taken away. I will never lose hope. We will get what has been taken away. If the glories dont last, the inglorious wont last either, Sajad posted on X. Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari said August 5 is a painful reminder of a dark moment in our recent history. On this day in 2019, the sudden and sweeping constitutional changes by the Centre left deep scars on the hearts and minds of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi must uphold the dignity and democratic rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The restoration of these rights is not an act of generosityit is a constitutional and moral obligation, he said. Bukhari said this is the right time for New Delhi to initiate a genuine, inclusive, and meaningful dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in order to address their issues and grievances and moving toward a lasting resolution. However, J&K BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur said August 5, 2019, will be remembered as a defining moment that ended decades of uncertainty and paved the way for peace, prosperity, and equal rights in the region. Prior to the abrogation of Article 370, J&K remained trapped in a vicious cycle of hartals, stone pelting, and terrorism. But after August 5, 2019, that chapter has closed for good. Incidents of stone pelting have come down to zero and local recruitment of youth into terrorist ranks has almost stopped. This shift is proof that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have chosen books over bullets and laptops over stones, he said. Thakur said the last six years have witnessed unprecedented development across all regions of J&K. Whether its the construction of roads in far-flung areas, expansion of health and education infrastructure, return of tourism, or rising investor interestJ&K is on a new path of progress, he added. Meanwhile, rumour mills are rife in J&K that the centre may restore partial statehood to J&K or further bifurcate Jammu from Kashmir and grant statehood to Jammu, which is the strong support base of the BJP and from where all its 29 MLAs were elected to the 90-member J&K Assembly. According to these rumour mills, Kashmir will remain under the direct control of the centre and will remain a Union Territory without an Assembly.

Dishom Guru's fight against injustice to continue: Jharkhand CM Hemant after Shibu Soren's demise

RANCHI: A day after veteran tribal leader Shibu Soren, fondly known as 'Dishom Guru', died , Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that his father's fight against injustice would continue. The CM also said he was passing through the most difficult phase of his life after the demise of his father. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) co-founder breathed his last at a Delhi hospital at the age of 81 after battling illness. I am passing through the most difficult phase of my life, a pillar of Jharkhand's soul gone. No book can explain Baba's struggle, but I vow to continue his fight against injustice, the Jharkhand CM posted on X. Soren promised not to let Jharkhand ow down and vowed to work to realise his father's dreams by working for the oppressed and the poor. The chief minister said he will put his foot in his father's shoes to wage a war against injustice. My father's shadow has disappeared. He was my guide, the root of my thoughts. He inspired thousands and millions of Jharkhandis, like a forest protecting them from sunlight, Soren asserted in the long social media post written in Hindi. The chief minister also reminded that his father's beginning was very simple. , , , - Hemant Soren (@HemantSorenJMM) August 5, 2025 Born in a small house in Nemra village, where there was poverty and hunger, but there was courage. He (elder Soren) lost his father in his childhood, but exploitation of the landlords ignited a fire that made him a fighter throughout his life, Soren posted. When I was a child, I used to ask him: Baba, why do people call you Dishom Guru? Then he used to smile and reply: Because I just understood their pain and made their fight my own, Soren penned. The title was neither written in any book, nor provided by Parliament - it came from the hearts of the people of Jharkhand, the CM mentioned, adding that 'Dishom' means society and 'Guru' means the one who shows the path. And to tell the truth, Baba didn't just show us the path, he taught us to walk on this, he added. The CM recounted that he saw his father only struggling and never afraid to wage a war against injustice. If standing up against injustice is a crime, then I will be guilty again and again. He used to say, Soren said in the social media post. No book can explain Baba's struggle. It was in his sweat, in his voice, and it was in his cracked heels covered by slippers. Hemant Soren said, adding that when the Jharkhand state was formed, his dream came true, but he never considered power as an achievement. This state is not a chair for me. This is the identity of my people, Hemant Soren quoted Shibu Soren as saying. Baba (father) is not here today, but his voice echoes within me. I learnt to fight from you, Baba. I learnt to love Jharkhand from you without any selfish motive. Now you are no longer amongst us, but you are there in every path of Jharkhand. At every beat of the drum, in the soil of every field, you look through the eyes of every poor person. what you dreamt it is my promise to fulfil, Hemant Soren wrote on X. ... ! pic.twitter.com/iMG7lGkI5F Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (@JmmJharkhand) August 5, 2025 The chief minister asserted that he will ot let Guruji's name be erased or his struggle remain incomplete. Baba, now you take rest. You have done your duty. Now we have to follow in your footsteps. Jharkhand will remain indebted to you. I, your son, will keep your promise. Long live the brave Shibu - Long live, Long live Dishom Guru!, the CM concluded. In another post, the CM mentioned that Shibu Soren has embarked on an infinite journey.

Sonia, Priyanka join opposition protest against voter roll revision in Parliament premises

NEW DELHI: Several MPs of the INDIA bloc parties, including Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, staged a protest in the Parliament House complex on Tuesday against the Election Commission's voter roll revision in Bihar, and demanded its rollback. With banners and posters against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, as well as other opposition MPs, raised slogans and demanded a rollback of the SIR as they staged their protest near Parliament's Makar Dwar. This was the tenth day of their protest, with only one day gap in between on Monday when the opposition skipped their protest, given the demise of former Jharkhand chief minister Shibu Soren. Voter roll revision in Bihar a serious issue, govt must allow debate: Priyanka Gandhi There were two huge banners in front of the protesting MPs, one in Hindi and the other in English, which read 'Our Vote. Our Right. Our Fight'. Another banner carried by the protesting MPs read 'SIR - Silent Invisible Rigging'. With 'Stop SIR' placards along with posters, alleging collusion between the EC and the government, in hand, the MPs of the opposition, including those of the Congress, DMK, TMC, and Left parties, among others, participated in the protest and raised slogans. The opposition has been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the SIR, alleging the EC's exercise was aimed at disenfranchising voters in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections. They have been demanding a discussion on the issue in both Houses.

Sonia, Priyanka Gandhi, other Opposition leaders protest against SIR in Parliament premises

Opposition MPs, led by Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi, protested at Parliament against the Election Commission's voter roll revision in Bihar, demanding its rollback. Holding banners reading 'Our Vote. Our Right. Our Fight' and 'SIR - Silent Invisible Rigging,' they alleged the exercise aimed to disenfranchise voters before the Assembly elections.

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Mortal remains of Shibu Soren to be laid to rest at ancestral village with full state honours

RANCHI: The mortal remains of veteran tribal leader and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) co-founder Shibu Soren, fondly known as 'Dishom Guru' , will be laid to rest with full state honours at his ancestral village Nemra in Ramgarh district on Tuesday, officials said. Guruji, as he was popularly known, breathed his last at a private hospital in Delhi on Monday and tall political figures and leaders like President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the departed soul there. Preparations are in full swing for the last rites of the former chief minister and Rajya Sabha MP at his native place in Jharkhand's Ramgarh district, around 70 km from the state's capital Ranchi, the officials said. Soren, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha co-founder, who was undergoing treatment at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi for over a month for kidney-related problems, died at the age of 81. His last rites will be performed on Tuesday afternoon. Senior administrative officials, including Ramgarh deputy commissioner and the SP, visited Nemra to take stock of the preparations. Special traffic arrangements have been made for the funeral as several political leaders, including Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and others are likely to participate. Meanwhile, a pall of gloom has descended on Nemra village after Guruji's demise. Shibu Soren: A mass leader who could never complete his tenure in any constitutional posts Before his last rites, his body will be kept at the Jharkhand Assembly premises for people to pay their last respects at about 9 am. His demise marks the end of a defining political era, one that brought the tribal movement from the grassroots of Jharkhand to the forefront of national politics. Shibu Soren had been the leader of the JMM for the past 38 years. As a mark of respect, the Jharkhand government declared a three-day state mourning till August 6. Most of the schools in Jharkhand are closed on Tuesday, with many ensuring special prayers for peace to the departed soul. Rajya Sabha proceedings were also adjourned for the day on Monday as a mark of respect, following the death of sitting MP Shibu Soren. The ongoing monsoon session of the Jharkhand Assembly, which began on August 1, was adjourned sine die following the announcement of his death. Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahato said Soren's passing was an irreparable loss not only to Jharkhand but to the entire nation. He was known for his fight for the poor, Mahato had said, expressing grief on behalf of the House. Shibu Soren's mortal remains were flown to Ranchi in a special aircraft from Delhi. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, his legislator wife Kalpana Soren, and MLA brother Basant Soren also returned to Jharkhand. A flower-decked open carriage carried the mortal remains from the airport to Soren's Morabadi residence in Ranchi, with the chief minister and his legislator brother seated beside his father's body throughout the procession. CM Soren's wife was seen seated in the front of the vehicle, and remarked, Everything has become desolate. Your struggle, your love, your convictions - this daughter of yours will never forget. Shibu Soren and the soil-soaked struggle for self-rule

INTERVIEW | SIR is match-fixing, TMC will take to the streets in protest

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is match fixing, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev tells Parvez Sultan in an interview. She claims that it is a politically motivated attempt to tamper with voter rolls. She warns that if the process is initiated in West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress will take to the streets in mass protest. Excerpts: How does the TMC view the SIR exercise in Bihar? The Election Commission has every right to review a voters list, removing names of the deceased or those who have relocated. But how they are doing it makes it unconstitutional and an exclusionary exercise. The EC suddenly started it on short notice, without any discussion with any political party. The EC is seeking documents from three time periods: pre-1987, 19872004, and post-2004. If you look at Section 3 of the Citizenship Act 1955, the entire 1987-2004 period has been lifted from the Citizenship Act. The EC cannot enter into an inquiry on whether a person is a citizen or not. It suggests the poll panel is overstepping its mandate by entering the domain of citizenship verification. Hence, the TMC is certain this is a backdoor National Register of Citizens exercise to exclude voters under the guise of a routine revision. The timing of the exercise, after 2024 polls also raises suspicion. It is a motivated move triggered by the BJPs drop in support. What are your concerns regarding this process in West Bengal? Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee remains one of the strongest challengers to the BJP. Unable to counter her grassroots strength, the BJP is resorting to what Abhishek Banerjee calls a silent intensive rigging (SIR) through voter list manipulation. They cant beat our organisational strength. So they are going to en masse exclude people to tamper with the election result. Over 11,000 voters were removed from Bihars list as untraceable on July 22, which mysteriously jumped to over one lakh the very next day. All this, even as the EC claims it will help people submit documents between August 1 and September 1. They are abusing laws to turn it into an exclusionary exercise. I have every reason to believe that they have already done this exercise, the BJP as a party, and now they are working backwards through the EC. This is match-fixing. Mamata Banerjee said the SIR would not be allowed in Bengal. Can the party or a state government stop such an exercise? The TMC has already moved Supreme Court. Mamata Banerjee will not remain silent as genuine citizens are disenfranchised. She has more workers per booth than the Booth Level Officers, and they will be on the ground to resist any unjust exclusion. She wont hesitate to take to the streets if needed. EC recently asked for delinking the office of the Chief Electoral Officer from the West Bengal government for autonomy... The Trinamool Congress opposes this demand because it sees it as a strategic attempt to bypass state oversight and weaken the role of the elected state government in the electoral process. If this is not a predetermined exercise to tamper with and manipulate the West Bengal elections, then why are you worried? There have been reports of attacks on Bengali-speaking migrant workers in other states. Is TMC getting support from INDIA bloc partners on this? For us, the real issue isnt whether the INDIA bloc is supporting us or not. The core concern is that Mamata Banerjee has a constitutional and moral responsibility to protect genuine citizens of her state. We have been raising this issue in Parliament every single day. We have been asking for a debate. But the Union government is saying, This is not its business The Election Commission is doing it.

Jharkhand: Govt schools to remain shut on Tuesday in honour of Shibu Soren

Jharkhand government declares three-day state mourning following the death of former Chief Minister Shibu Soren. All government schools across the state will remain closed on Tuesday. Several private schools in Ranchi will also observe a holiday. State government offices will be closed on August 4 and 5. Scheduled government programs are cancelled during the mourning period.

Shibu Soren: A mass leader who could never complete his tenure in any constitutional posts

RANCHI: Dishom Guru Shibu Soren, who was admitted to Sir Gagaram Hospital in New Delhi due to prolonged illness, breathed his last on Monday. Shibu Soren's journey from a simple tribal up to occupying the chair of Jharkhand Chief Minister was quite challenging and full of ups and downs. Soren led the JMM as its president for 38 years until April 2025, when he was replaced by his son and the current Chief Minister Hemant Soren, making him the partys founding patron. Despite being a mass leader, Shibu Soren could not complete any of the constitutional posts as power always slipped off from his hands. After the formation of Jharkhand on November 15, 2000, Shibu Soren, who was a Rajya Sabha member at that time, was quite hopeful that he would get the key post of Chief Minister, but it went to Babulal Marandi of BJP. Later, Arjun Munda replaced Babulal Marandi after domicile row erupted in the state. Tribal titan Shibu Soren: A legacy of power, struggles and controversies Meanwhile, as no party had majority, manipulation continued in Jharkhand politics, during which, there were three such occasions when Shibu Soren got the privilege of sitting on the Chief Ministerial post. But Guruji could not play long innings, and the chair kept on slipping off from his hands. Soren served as Jharkhands chief minister three timesbriefly from March 2 to 11, 2005; from August 27, 2008 to January 12, 2009; and from December 30, 2009 to May 31, 2010. Each tenure was cut short by unstable coalition dynamics. On March 2, 2005, Shibu Soren got the opportunity for the first time to become chief minister of Jharkhand. But in just 11 days, he had to resign from the post on March 12, 2005, as he did not have the support of adequate numbers of MLAs in the Jharkhand Assembly. Then on August 28, 2008, Shibu Soren became Chief Minister for the second time, but had to leave the chair after just 4 months and 21 days, on January 12, 2009. Then again, he was given a third chance to become the Chief Minister on December 30, 2009. This time too, he lost power after five months on May 31, 2010. After that, he could never return to Jharkhand politics. Interestingly, Shibu Soren was the first sitting chief minister who lost the by-elections in January 2009. After taking over as chief minister, Shibu Soren contested the by-election from the Tamar seat, dominated by Munda tribals. Raja Peter of the Jharkhand Party proved to be the dark horse and defeated Shibu Soren by a margin of 8,972 votes. Shibu Soren lost a key assembly by-election he needed to win to remain in his post, and hence he had to resign once again. Shibu Soren was also elected to the Lok Sabha eight times and served as a Rajya Sabha MP for two terms. As a key figure in the UPA government, he served as the Union Coal Minister from May 23 to July 24, 2004; November 27, 2004 to March 2, 2005; and January 29 to November 2006. Not only the post of chief minister, Shibu Soren also could not enjoy the post of union coal minister for long and had to resign after being named in the Chirudih massacre case. During his tenure as coal minister, the 30-year-old Chirudih massacre case came to light, and there was a ruckus in the House, leaving Prime Minister Manmohan Singh under pressure. Due to fear of his arrest, Shibu Soren had gone underground, and the prime minister was not able to contact him. Therefore, on July 24, 2004, Shibu Soren sent his resignation to the Prime Minister through fax. However, after getting bail in the Chirudih case in September 2004, he was again made the coal minister on November 17, 2004. He did not hold this post for long either. On November 28, 2006, Delhi's Tees Hazari court convicted him guilty in the murder case of his personal secretary Shashinath Jha. With this, he had to leave the ministerial post again.

Shibu Sorens mortal remains to reach Ranchi this evening, says JMM leader

The late leaders mortal remains will be taken to his hometown in the Ramgarh district on Tuesday and his last rites will be performed there, a JMM leader said

Lok Sabha: Opposition protest continues as govt declines to discuss SIR undertaken in Bihar

NEW DELHI: The government on Monday declined to discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) undertaken in Bihar ahead of the state assembly elections, maintaining that the topic comes under the Election Commission of India (ECI), even as the opposition protest continued in the Lok Sabha. Following the protests, the Speaker held a meeting with opposition MPs representing various parties including the Congress, DMK and TMC wherein the opposition suggested that if the government is not willing to discuss SIR, then discussion can be had on electoral reforms, voter deletion etc, which comes under the law ministry. However, the government was firm on its stand and declined to concede to the demands of the opposition. Following this, chief whip and Congress MP Manickam Tagore said that since all the doors for discussion are closed the opposition is left with no other option but to carry on with the protests. Earlier, Manickam Tagore had moved an adjournment motion to discuss the SIR. Submitting the adjournment motion, Manickam Tagore alleged that the SIR has disproportionately affected marginalised communities, and warned that similar argeted disenfranchisement may soon spread to other states like Assam and West Bengal. The opposition also raised the issue of raising of about 6.5 lakh voters in Tamil Nadu. The EC rejected the contentions linking the SIR with the addition of voters in Tamil Nadu as absurd. Voter roll revision in Bihar a serious issue, govt must allow debate: Priyanka Gandhi

Jharkhand declares three-day mourning for Shibu Soren

RANCHI: The Jharkhand Government has declared three days of state mourning following the demise of JMM founding patron Shibu Soren on Monday morning. According to the notification issued by the Cabinet Secretariat, all government offices will remain closed on August 4 and 5, and all government-organised events will be suspended during this time. The national flag will also be flown at half-mast throughout the state for the duration of the mourning period. Sources indicated that Soren's mortal remains will be transported from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi to his official residence in Morhabadi, Ranchi, on Monday evening. On the morning of August 5, the body will be moved to the JMM party office, where workers and supporters can pay their final respects. Afterward, the former Chief Minister's body will be taken to the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, where a state honors tribute will be held. The final rites for the leader, who was a champion of the separate Jharkhand state movement in the 1970s, will be performed later on August 5 at his ancestral village Nemra in Ramgarh district. Meanwhile, the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly was adjourned sine die following the announcement of Soren's death. Speaker Rabindranath Mahto informed the legislators of the JMM supremo's passing before declaring the House proceedings concluded. The Speaker also posted on X, stating, The news of the demise of the pioneer of Jharkhand movement, our guide 'Dishom Guru' respected Baba Shri Shibu Soren ji is extremely sad. The demise of our guardian respected Guru ji has broken us from within. The Speaker further added, His departure is an irreparable loss not just for Jharkhand but for the entire India in the political world, in the social world and for his continuous protest against injustice. The making of a legend: Shibu Soren's evolution from Shivcharan to Guruji

The making of a legend: Shibu Soren's evolution from Shivcharan to Guruji

RANCHI: The founder patron of JMM, who dominated Jharkhand politics for over four decades, passed away during treatment at a hospital in New Delhi at the age of 81 on Monday. Though he became Chief Minister of Jharkhand thrice, his early life remained quite challenging and full of struggle. Born on January 11, 1944, at Nemra village under Gola Block of Ramgarh, Shibu Soren was fondly called Shivlal in his childhood, but he was enrolled in the primary school as Shivcharan Manjhi. After receiving his primary education at the village school, he moved to a state-sponsored high school in Gola block, where he continued his studies while staying in a tribal hostel. Despite belonging to the tribal community, his father, Sobaran Manjhi, was highly educated and worked as a teacher. Sobaran was involved in various activities for the upliftment of his community and raised his voice against the exploitation by moneylenders. As Sobaran gradually became a prominent voice among the tribals and continuously opposed the oppression by mahajans, he was allegedly killed by them on November 27, 1957. This incident became a turning point in the life of Shibu Soren, who was just 13 years old at the time. Shaken by his fathers murder, Shibu Soren left his studies and began opposing the moneylenders. This was no easy task, as many villagers were deeply indebted. He was disturbed to see tribal lands being seized over unpaid debts, with villagers tricked into giving thumb impressions on blank papers under the influence of alcohol. These incidents inspired Shibu Soren to launch a movement against the moneylenders. As he raised his voice, more people started joining him. At the same time, he began spreading awareness against the consumption of alcohol and hadia (rice beer). His social reform movement and resistance to the moneylenders gained traction across Gola and neighbouring areas like Bokaro and Dhanbad. Between 1972 and 1976, the movement gained momentum. He succeeded in reclaiming tribal land taken by moneylenders. His assertive approach won him admiration within the tribal community. Eventually, Soren became a widely popular figure at his call, thousands would gather with bows and arrows to harvest crops from seized lands. He also built an ashram at Pokhariya under Tundi block of Dhanbad, known as Shibu Ashram. People began calling him Guruji out of love and respect. However, his political identity took root in Santhal Pargana, where he earned the title Dishom Guru or Guru of the nation. In 1972, Soren and his colleagues decided to form a political party. This led to the formation of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Shibu Soren first contested elections in 1977 but faced defeat. Undeterred, he contested again in 1980 and began his political ascent. He went on to serve as Member of Parliament from Dumka Lok Sabha seat seven times. He played a pivotal role in the campaign for a separate Jharkhand state. Devoting his entire political career to the cause, he led a sustained movement that eventually led to the creation of Jharkhand from Bihar in 2000. Tribal titan Shibu Soren: A legacy of power, struggles and controversies

Former Jharkhand CM Shibu Soren dies at 81; 3-days state mourning declared

RANCHI, Aug 4: New Delhi: Shibu Soren, Rajya Sabha MP, former Union Minister, Jharkhand Chief Minister and one of the founders of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, died today. He was 81. He had been under treatment at Delhis Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for over a month and his condition was critical for the past [] The post Former Jharkhand CM Shibu Soren dies at 81; 3-days state mourning declared appeared first on Northlines .

SIR very big issue, govt must agree to debate in Parliament: Priyanka Gandhi

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressed the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. She called it a very big issue. She urged the government to discuss the matter. Opposition parties protested the voter roll revision in Bihar. They demanded its rollback. The Lok Sabha was adjourned due to the protests. The opposition alleges the EC's exercise aims to disenfranchise voters.

Voter roll revision in Bihar a serious issue, govt must allow debate: Priyanka Gandhi

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday described the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar as a very big issue and urged the government to agree to a discussion on the matter in Parliament. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, the Congress general secretary questioned why the opposition should not raise concerns when the matter directly affects the voters' list. It is a very big issue. If all this is being done to the voters list, why should we not raise it? she said. The government should agree to a discussion and move forward, why not? Her remarks came after the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm due to continued protests by opposition parties, who are demanding a debate on the Election Commissions voter roll revision exercise in Bihar. Several MPs from INDIA bloc parties have been staging daily protests in the Parliament complex, demanding that the EC roll back the revision process, which they allege is aimed at disenfranchising voters ahead of the state Assembly elections. While the protest was not held on Monday due to the death of former Jharkhand chief minister Shibu Soren, the opposition has maintained its stand, insisting that the issue be discussed in both Houses of Parliament.

Tribal titan Shibu Soren: A legacy of power, struggles and controversies

RANCHI: Shibu Soren, the veteran tribal leader who played a key role in Jharkhand's creation and founded the JMM, leaves behind a legacy that reshaped the country's politics. The death of 81-year-old Soren marks the end of a political era that saw tribal movement rise to national prominence. Born on January 11, 1944, in Ramgarh district's Nemra village (then in Bihar, now in Jharkhand), Soren, who was popularly known as 'Dishom Guru' (leader of the land) and patriarch of JMM, is one of the most enduring political figures in the country's tribal and regional political landscape. His political life was defined by continuous advocacy for the rights for tribals. According to Soren's family, his early life was marked by personal tragedy and deep socio-economic struggles. Soren was 15 years old when his father, Shobaran Soren, was allegedly killed by moneylenders in Lukaiyatand forest, some 16 km from Gola block headquarters on November 27, 1957. This left a deep impact on him and became a catalyst for his future political activism. In 1973, Soren co-founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) along with Bengali Marxist trade unionist AK Roy and Kurmi-Mahto leader Binod Bihari Mahto during a public meeting at Golf Ground Dhanbad. The JMM soon became the primary political voice for the demand for a separate tribal state and got support across the Chotanagpur and Santhal Pargana regions. Soren's grassroots mobilisation against feudal exploitation is said to have shaped him into a tribal icon. After decades of agitation, steered by him and others, the demand for a separate state was finally fulfilled with the formation of Jharkhand on November 15, 2000. Soren's influence was not confined to state politics. He was elected several times to the Lower House from Dumka , the eighth time between May 2014-2019 as member of the 16th Lok Sabha. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in June 2020. As a key figure in the UPA government, he served as Union Coal Minister from May 23 to July 24, 2004; November 27, 2004 to March 2, 2005; and January 29 to November 2006. However, his ministerial stints at the Centre were overshadowed by serious legal challenges. In July 2004, an arrest warrant was issued against him in connection with the 1975 Chirudih massacre case, in which he was named the main accused in the killing of 11 people. He went underground briefly before being arrested. After spending time in judicial custody, he was granted bail in September 2004 and re-inducted into the Union Cabinet in November. Later, a court in March 2008 absolved him of all charges. His legal woes didn't end there. On November 28, 2006, Soren, along with others, was convicted in the sensational 1994 kidnapping and murder case of his former personal secretary, Shashinath Jha. The CBI alleged that Jha was murdered in Ranchi because he possessed knowledge about a political payoff deal between the Congress and JMM during a no-confidence motion against the Narasimha Rao government in 1993. The case drew nationwide attention, though Soren later successfully appealed the conviction. The Supreme Court in April 2018 upheld Soren's acquittal in the case. Despite these controversies, Soren remained a towering figure in Jharkhand's political sphere. He served as Chief Minister of Jharkhand three times- in March 2005 (for just 10 days from March 2 to March 11), August 27, 2008 to January 12, 2009, and from December 30, 2009 to May 31, 2010. Each term was short-lived due to the fragile nature of coalition politics in the state. In June 2007, Soren survived an assassination attempt when bombs were hurled at his convoy near Dumaria village in Deoghar district while he was being escorted to jail in Dumka, after appearing in a court in Giridih, underlining the high stakes and volatile environment surrounding his political life. Yet, his political dominance in Jharkhand politics endured, both through his personal appeal and through his party, which he continues to lead as founding patron. Soren served as the JMM's chief for 38 years until April 2025, when he was made the party's founding patron. His son, Hemant Soren, who had served as executive president, was elected JMM president. The party is currently a member of the opposition INDIA bloc at the national level. Shibu Soren's personal life has also been closely tied to his political narrative. He is survived by wife Roopi Soren, three sons and daughter Anjani, who is the party's Odisha unit head. His elder son Durga Soren died in May 2009. The other son Hemant Soren, has carried forward the family's political legacy and currently serves as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, having held the position across multiple terms. His youngest son Basant Soren is a legislator. For many in Jharkhand, Shibu Soren remains a symbol of their long-fought struggle for identity and self-rulea legacy that continues through the next generation.

JMM founder Shibu Soren, father of Hemant Soren, dies at 81

Ranchi: JMM founder Shibu Soren died on Monday, his son and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said. He was 81. He was undergoing treatment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi for over a month for kidney-related problems. Respected Dishom Guruji has left us all I have become shunya (zero) today, Hemant Soren posted 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 .

INDIA bloc to have dinner meeting on August 7; march to EC office on August 8

NEW DELHI: Opposition INDIA bloc leaders are likely to have a dinner meeting on August 7 to discuss strategy over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue , sources said on Sunday. The opposition parties are also planning to take out a march to the office of the Election Commission of India on August 8 in protest against the SIR of electoral rolls exercise, they said. This comes amid a standoff on the SIR issue in the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which has been a near washout as the Opposition's demand for a discussion has failed to draw a positive response from the ruling alliance. According to the sources, the INDIA bloc party leaders will hold a dinner meeting on August 7 to discuss their strategy on the SIR issue. The meeting also comes as the election for the post of Vice President has been announced, and several opposition leaders have indicated that they may also field a joint candidate. Opposition parties have expressed apprehension over the SIR exercise in Bihar, warning that it would lead to disenfranchisement of many, and have termed it as vote-bandi and vote-chori. The INDIA bloc parties have been protesting inside and outside Parliament. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday cited a ruling by former Lok Sabha speaker Balram Jakhar that the House cannot debate the functioning of a constitutional body like the EC to suggest the government's disapproval of the Opposition's demand for discussion. ECI abusing its powers, must be fought politically, legally: Chidambaram He, however, added that it was for the chairs of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to take a call on the issue. Opposition parties have, meanwhile, said they will continue their protests to press for the debate, and if the government does not agree to a discussion on the issue in Parliament, the Monsoon Session may end up being a wash-out. Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Sunday said the Opposition will give utorials to the shaky Modi coalition on Parliament procedure and how to discuss the issue. The SIR (Silent Invisible Rigging) vote chori is a subject that can easily be discussed in both Houses. BJP scared & are disrupting. From Monday August 4 we will give the shaky Modi coalition free tutorials in Parliament rules & procedure to teach them how it can be discussed Derek O'Brien | ' (@derekobrienmp) August 3, 2025 The ruling BJP is scared of discussing the SIR underway in Bihar, he said and called the exercise silent invisible rigging. The SIR (Silent Invisible Rigging) vote chori is a subject that can easily be discussed in both Houses. BJP scared & are disrupting, the TMC leader said on X. From Monday, August 4, we will give the shaky Modi coalition free tutorials in Parliament rules & procedure to teach them how it can be discussed, he added. West Bengal CM Mamata to hold virtual meet with TMC MPs on Aug 4 amid Parliament logjam over SIR

Maoists blow up track near Jharkhand-Odisha border, trains get additional security

RANCHI: Freight movement was disrupted for several hours on Saturday night after Maoists triggered an explosion on the railway track between Karampada and Rengda sidings under Chakradharpur Rail Division. The Jharkhand Police confirmed the explosion and subsequent damage. There has been information about the blowing up of railway tracks in Rourkela, Odisha. Jharkhand Police is on high alert due to the bandh. A special campaign is being carried out against Maoists across Jharkhand, said Jharkhand Police spokesperson and IG (Operations), Dr Michael Raj. Notably, the CPI (Maoist) is observing Shahid Diwas (Martyr Week) from July 28 to August 3 and has called for a bandh in five states, including Jharkhand, on August 3. The Maoists had also put up a banner on the railway line in this regard. Maoist pamphlets and posters were spotted at several locations, appealing to the people for 'public resistance against police repression. In the wake of the bandh called by Maoists, a large number of security forces have been deployed on the borders of Jharkhand and Odisha. The Jharkhand government has already issued an alert in this regard, and additional forces have been provided to the trains. The explosion took place shortly after midnight on Saturday, when Maoists targeted the railway track. The blast was of low intensity and resulted in partial damage, affecting only a concrete sleeper. The railway department and local administration responded swiftly to the incident. Meanwhile, in another incident early Sunday morning, a railway gangman was killed and another injured in an IED blast while inspecting the track near Bimalgarh railway station at the OdishaJharkhand border under the Chakradharpur Division. According to railway officials, gangmen Atua Oram and Budhua Munda were injured in the blast and rushed to Bimalgarh Hospital in Odisha. While Atua succumbed to his injuries on the way, Budhua is undergoing treatment and is in stable condition. Currently, Maoist activity in Jharkhand is largely confined to the Saranda forest, as they have been pushed out of other strongholds. According to an estimate, around 8590 Maoists are supposed to be hiding in the Saranda jungles, where they have planted thousands of IEDs, which have become a challenge for the security forces. A joint operation was launched in the Saranda and Kolhan forest regions in November 2022, based on intelligence inputs suggesting that senior Maoist leaders like Misir Besra and Patiram Majhi alias Anal Da were present in the area, which is considered strategically crucial. The incidents, which took place under the Chakradhapur Railway Division, once again suggest that Maoist organisations are still not eliminated in the bordering areas and they know how to make their presence on some select occasions.

Mass disenfranchisement is serious issue: Chidambaram slams ECI over Bihar SIR row

Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram has criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the Special Intensive Revision exercise. He questioned the ECI's conclusion that lakhs of voters in Bihar have permanently migrated, leading to the deletion of their names from the voter list. Chidambaram also raised concerns about the reported addition of 6.

Kalyan Jewellers Eyeing Expansion Through Franchise Model To Reduce Debt

As of June 30, 2025, Kalyan Jewellers' total showrooms across India and the Middle East stood at 406 (Kalyan India - 287, Kalyan Middle East - 36, Kalyan USA - 2, Candere - 81), according to a regulatory filing.

ECI abusing its powers, must be fought politically, legally: Congress leader Chidambaram

While 65 lakh voters are in danger of being disenfranchised in Bihar, reports of adding 6.5 lakh persons as voters in Tamil Nadu is alarming and patently illegal, P. Chidambaram said

ECI Abusing Its Powers, Must Be Fought Politically, Legally: Chidambaram

New Delhi, Aug 3: Amid the raging row over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Sunday alleged that the Election Commission is trying to change the electoral character and patterns of states, and asserted that this abuse of powers must be fought politically and legally. The former home minister said the Bihar voter revision exercise is getting curiouser and curiouser. While 65 lakh voters are in danger of being disenfranchised in [] The post ECI Abusing Its Powers, Must Be Fought Politically, Legally: Chidambaram appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ECI abusing its powers, must be fought politically, legally: P Chidambaram

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram has accused the Election Commission of attempting to manipulate the electoral landscape of states. He alleges the Bihar voter revision exercise is disenfranchising voters while Tamil Nadu is illegally adding voters. Chidambaram asserts that these actions constitute an abuse of power that must be challenged through political and legal means.

MS Dhoni opens up CSK's future, hints this 28-year-old may lead the team in IPL 2026

In the 18th edition of the cash-rich league, the Chennai-based franchise finishes at the 10th spot after winning just four games out of their 14 games in the competition.

US job scam busted, five including mastermind arrested for human trafficking via 'donkey route' in Jharkhand

RANCHI: In a major breakthrough, Jharkhand Police have busted an international human trafficking network that allegedly duped several people, promising them illegal entry into the United States via the notorious donkey route. The operation led to the arrest of five individuals, including the alleged mastermind, after a survivor of the trafficking came forward with a complaint. Donkey route refers to an illegal and risky method of immigration, particularly from India to developed countries like the UK, US, or Canada, often facilitated by unscrupulous travel agents. It involves using unofficial or convoluted pathways, sometimes involving long and dangerous journeys, to bypass legal immigration procedures. According to an official communique from Jharkhand Police, Sonu Kumar, a resident of Bharajo under Tatijharia Police Station, had filed a detailed complaint on July 30, 2025, exposing a transnational trafficking conspiracy. According to Sonu Kumar, Uday Kumar Kushwaha, a native of the same village and reportedly residing in the US for over 45 years, lured him by promising him a job in America. In 2024, Kumar was allegedly sent to Brazil on forged documents, where he fell into the hands of the so-called donkey mafia. Two other victims Bikash Kumar and Pintu Kumar were reportedly trafficked similarly, travelling from Delhi to Brazil on separate dates, stated the official communique. According to the complaint lodged at Tatijharia Police Station, once in Brazil, the victims were handed over to an international smuggling network. The traffickers attempted to illegally move them across multiple countries Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Guatemala en route to the United States by land and river. Sonu Kumar remained in the custody of traffickers for 50 days. During this period, the accused allegedly extorted approximately Rs 45 lakh from Kumars family. His father, under pressure, reportedly sold ancestral property and transferred the funds through various means to associates of Uday Kumar, stated the official communique. The victim eventually reached San Diego via Mexico City but was apprehended at the US border and held at a detention centre for nearly four months, and was finally deported to India in March 2025, it said. After returning home, Sonus attempts to recover the extorted money were allegedly met with threats and physical assault by Uday Kumar and his brother Chohan Prasad. Fearing for his life, Sonu Kumar lodged a formal complaint, leading to FIR No. 32/25 dated 31/07/2025 at Tatijharia Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Later, following a direction from the Hazaribagh Superintendent of Police, a special task force led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Bishrugarh, was constituted and the five accused persons were arrested. During the investigation, police have uncovered a list of individuals allegedly trafficked to the US via the donkey route.

Election Commission has become PM Modi's 'puppet': Mallikarjun Kharge

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the Election Commission of being a puppet of PM Modi, alleging disenfranchisement of voters in Bihar and manipulation in Maharashtra elections. He claimed the Constitution is in danger under the BJP rule, accusing PM Modi of dividing society and stifling opposition voices in Parliament.

'EC is a puppet of Modi ji': Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge slams poll body; alleges systematic removal of minorities from voters list

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of acting as a puppet of Prime Minister Modi, alleging a deliberate conspiracy to disenfranchise marginalized communities. Kharge claims the ECI, in collaboration with the BJP government, is systematically deleting names of Dalits, backward communities, minorities, and the poor from electoral rolls.

Condition of Jharkhand education minister remains critical after brain injury

RANCHI: The Condition of Jharkhand Education Minister Ramdas Soren, who was seriously injured and airlifted to Delhi after falling in his bathroom at his residence in Jamshedpur Saturday morning, still remains critical. The reports about his demise on social media, which were also posted by some political leaders, were turned down by former MLA and JMM leader Kunal Sarangi. Informing that Ramdas Soren's condition is critical but stable, Sarangi has urged media organisations not to report anything about Ramdas Soren any without official confirmation. Sarangi said that he is accompanying Soren to Delhi. I urge my media friends not to share anything about Ramdas Soren ji without official information. I am with him and we are about to reach Apollo Hospital, Delhi. His condition is critical, but stable, Sarangi posted on X. His condition is definitely critical, but stable, he added. Jharkhand education minister Ramdas Soren suffers brain injury, to be airlifted to Delhi Earlier, State Health Minister Irfan Ansari shared the information about the incident through social media, where he posted that Minister Ramdas Soren suffered a head injury after he fell in the bathroom. There is a blood clot in his brain, and hence, his medical status remains critical, posted the Health Minister. Ramdas Soren, who started his political career in 1980 with JMM, is counted among the prominent leaders in the party. Currently, he is an MLA from Ghatshila. After Champai Soren joined BJP, Ramdas Soren replaced him in Hemant Soren's Cabinet. Hemant Soren made him a minister in his previous cabinet, projecting him as a prominent leader of Kolhan. After the 2024 Assembly polls, he retained the seat and was made a minister again. Notably, Soren is a kidney patient and has been undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital in Delhi. Therefore, as per the request of his family, it was decided that Ramdas Soren would be airlifted to Delhi.

Jharkhand education minister Ramdas Soren suffers brain injury, to be airlifted to Delhi

RANCHI: Jharkhand Education Minister Ramdas Soren, who suffered a head injury after he fell in the bathroom in his residence early on Saturday, was being airlifted to a Delhi hospital for better treatment, state minister Irfan Ansari said. Soren was admitted to a hospital in Jamshedpur this morning, he said. Ramdas Soren ji's health has suddenly deteriorated. He fell in the bathroom, which resulted in a severe brain injury and a blood clot, Ansari, the state health minister, said in a statement. Later, he told reporters that Soren was admitted to the Jamshedpur hospital, where doctors found blood clotting in the brain. We are preparing to airlift him to Delhi. I am constantly in touch and monitoring his condition, he added.

ECI Releases Bihar Draft Poll Roll Under SIR

With the draft list now available on the ECI website, Opposition parties have begun reviewing the data to identify discrepancies and determine how many genuine voters may have been disenfranchised: Reports

CM Hemant Soren terms SIR threat to constitutional rights, vows to block it in Jharkhand

RANCHI: Politics has intensified over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voters, coinciding with the commencement of the monsoon session of the Jharkhand Assembly on Friday. The ruling alliance has announced it will protest against the SIR both inside and outside the House on 4 August, while opposition parties have termed the planned protest as dishonest and absurd. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), which leads the ruling coalition, has declared that SIR will never be allowed to be implemented in Jharkhand under any circumstance. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, during a meeting with ruling party MLAs ahead of the monsoon session on Thursday, alleged that SIR poses a threat to the constitutional rights of ordinary citizens. The INDIA alliance is against this decision of the Election Commission, said Soren. Several issues were discussed during the meeting, including the SIR in Bihar. The INDIA bloc is against the decision of the Election Commission, and we also protest this, he said. Whatever is happening in Bihar regarding SIR itself shows how the constitutional institutions are being misused by the central government, he added. According to State Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore, a resolution will be passed in the Assembly opposing the implementation of SIR in Jharkhand, which will then be forwarded to the central government. SIR is just a political conspiracy; the BJP is deliberately imposing it on non-BJP ruled states through the Election Commission, he alleged. The poor and the weaker sections are affected by the governance and policies during the BJP regime. Through SIR, the BJP is trying to exclude the poor and the weaker sections from the opportunity to vote, said the finance minister. ECI directs SIR rollout in West Bengal after contentious Bihar exercise State Health and Disaster Management Minister Dr Irfan Ansari also opposed the SIR, claiming that a conspiracy is being hatched to remove the names of Muslims, tribals and Dalits from the voter list. BJP knows that Muslims, tribals and Dalits are not their vote bank, therefore efforts are being made to remove them from the voter list, which will never be allowed, said Ansari. However, JDU MLA Saryu Rai termed the ruling partys protest against SIR as dishonest and absurd, stating that the Election Commission possesses abundant powers that cannot be taken away by any governmentbe it Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha or Vidhan Sabha. Expressing displeasure over the INDIA blocs opposition, Rai said, A good initiative has been taken by the Election Commission, and the political parties should also keep an eye on it by making their workers at the lower level as booth-level agents. The Election Commission has also made arrangements for this and they are also given identity cards. BJP MLA Naveen Jaiswal alleged that by opposing the SIR, the Hemant Soren-led government is attempting to continue protecting Bangladeshi Rohingya infiltrators. Notably, preparations for the SIR process have already begun in Jharkhand, as officials in all districts have been instructed to remain in alert mode. According to sources, the process will begin once instructions are received from the Election Commission of India. Bihar SIR: Setting state for everlasting electoral angst