Sikar Man Kills Wife In Cow Sale Dispute
A man in Rajasthan's Sikar district allegedly mowed down his wife with a pick-up vehicle following a dispute over selling a cow. He later confessed to the crime at the local police station and has been arrested.
Will motivate youth to join Army: Agniveer aspirants welcome two-year service extension
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) As the government approved an extension of Agniveers service by two years, paving the way for absorption of their absorption into the Armed Forces, the move has been welcomed by aspirants and enthusiasts hoping to enrol themselves in national service. Agniveer aspirants, from across the country, described the move as positive and progressive , stating that this will encourage and motivate more youth to join the Armed Forces. In Rajasthans Sikar district, many students preparing for Agniveer recruitment examinations spoke to IANS, explaining how the service extension from 4 years to 6 years has boosted their morale and also expectations. As per the provisions of the revamped law, 25% of Agniveers will be inducted into the regular army; however, the remaining 75% will also be given an additional opportunity to get themselves enrolled, subject to their willingness and operational efficiency. Many youths in Sikar district of Rajasthan said that the extension will make the scheme more appealing and will draw more aspirants. In Uttar Pradeshs Hardoi district, those preparing for recruitment under the Agniveer scheme said that it was in the best interest of youth and deserves to be welcomed. Siddharth Singh Chauhan, preparing for 'Agniveer' screening in Hardoi, shared that two of his cousins have already been selected as Agniveers. Inspired by them, he is now preparing with the dream of joining the Army and serving the nation. Welcoming the government's decision, Siddharth said he was more than ready to serve the nation and the Army. Devendra Singh, Siddharth Singh Chauhans maternal uncle, also welcomed the government's decision. He remarked that the move is commendable, as it offers youth a chance to progress and build a future within the Army. This initiative is in the best interest of the youth and deserves to be welcomed, he remarked. Earlier in the day, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General NS Raja Subramani announced in a press conference that the Union Cabinet has decided to give Agniveers an option to continue in service for two more years, beyond their four-year tenure, and apply for absorption into the armed forces at the end of this extended period. This has effectively paved the path for absorption of all the Agniveers as regular soldiers post the two-year extension, provided they meet the selection criteria.
Khatu Shyam Temple to Remain Closed on Diwali, Committee Appeals to Devotees
The Khatu Shyam Temple in Sikar will be closed on November 8 for Diwali celebrations, with special worship and decorations planned. Khatu Shyam Temple to Remain Closed on Diwali, Committee Appeals to Devotees
Rajasthan Police raid Naresh Meena's ancestral home in Nahargarh forest office attack case
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Nov 3 (IANS) The Rajasthan Police intensified their search for Naresh Meena, chief of the Bhagat Singh Sena and a farmers leader, in connection with the alleged attack on the Forest Department's range office in Nahargarh town of Baran district, conducting a raid at his ancestral residence in Nayagaon on Tuesday. However, Meena was not present at the house, and the police team returned empty-handed. Meena has announced through a social media post that he will surrender at the Nahargarh police station on November 6 at 5 p.m. Meanwhile, police have arrested four other accused in the case and are conducting raids to trace the remaining suspects. The case relates to an incident in which a group of people allegedly barged into the Forest Department's range office, vandalised government property, assaulted forest personnel and took away a generator seized by the department. Acting on the directions of Baran SP Abhishek Andasu, a special police team was constituted to apprehend Meena. The team included Atru Circle Officer Ramanand Yadav, Mothpur SHO Kamal Singh, Baran Sadar SHO Nawalkishore Meena and personnel from the District Special Team (DST). The team reached Meena's ancestral residence in Nayagaon early Tuesday morning. However, he was not found there. Police officials said efforts were underway to identify and apprehend others involved in vandalising government property, obstructing government officials from performing their duties, and allegedly threatening forest personnel. Following the police raid, Meena posted a message on social media claiming that the police had reached his residence at 5 a.m. to arrest him. He announced that he would surrender at the Nahargarh police station on November 6 at 5 p.m. In the same post, he appealed to voters in Rajasthan to move beyond the Congress and BJP and support what he described as a Third Front. He urged people to vote for the BSP (elephant symbol) or the RLP (bottle symbol), support strong Independent candidates and vote for Left candidates in Sikar. His announcement comes amid heightened political activity in the state ahead of the ongoing Panchayati Raj elections. The incident occurred on November 1 when Pradeep Singh Rathore, in charge of the Nahargarh forest check-post, along with a forest guard and other personnel, seized a generator allegedly being used for an illegal tubewell on forest land in Jhiri Tapra. The generator was subsequently brought to the Forest Department's range office. According to the allegations, Naresh Meena arrived at the office with hundreds of supporters, who allegedly threatened to set the premises on fire, assaulted forest personnel and tore badges and nameplates from their uniforms. They also allegedly damaged official documents, including the seizure panchnama, before taking away the confiscated generator in a mini transport vehicle. The incident reportedly caused significant damage to government property and led to a police investigation. Nahargarh SHO Vivek Harsana said police had arrested four persons on Monday in connection with the incident. They were subsequently produced before a court and sent to jail. The arrested accused have been identified as Jitendra Nagar (36), a resident of Nahargarh; Devendra Kushwaha (22), a resident of Balapura; Pappu Bhil (25), a resident of Lakdai; and Murari Gurjar (20), a resident of Murari. Police said efforts were continuing to apprehend the remaining accused, including the main suspect, Naresh Meena.
Nepal Fugitive Drug Peddler Arrested In Sikar
An alleged drug peddler, Hariram Jat, who had been hiding in Nepal for nearly a year, was arrested in Sikar, Rajasthan, with 98.40 grams of MDMA. Police had offered a reward for his capture, and he was apprehended on Saturday based on a tip-off.
Rajasthan HC acquits 11 in Sikar double murder, orders SOP for electronic evidence
Sikar man killed after argument, police launch probe
Cyclone 'Arnab' brings rain, hailstorms to Rajasthan; weather alert issued
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 30 (IANS) The impact of Cyclone 'Arnab' continues to be felt across Rajasthan, with strong winds, rainfall and hailstorms affecting several parts of the state. The Meteorological Department has issued yellow and orange alerts for thunderstorms and rain in 28 districts on Friday. In Jaipur, intermittent rainfall has continued since Thursday afternoon, accompanied by cold winds that have intensified the chill. Several areas of the city also reported hailstorms. Over the past 24 hours, rainfall has been recorded in Karauli, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Alwar, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Bhilwara, Ajmer, Nagaur and Tonk, among other districts. The change in weather has brought a significant drop in temperatures. Maximum temperatures in around 20 districts have declined by up to 5 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures in some areas have fallen by as much as 10 degrees Celsius. Intermittent rainfall has been continuing since late Thursday night in Pratapgarh village under Thanagazi Panchayat Samiti of Alwar district. The rain has caused inconvenience to voters arriving at polling stations, with many carrying umbrellas to cast their votes. Despite the widespread change in weather, western Rajasthan continued to experience relatively warmer conditions. Maximum temperatures remained below 30 degrees Celsius in most parts of the state, barring some western districts. Barmer recorded the state's highest maximum temperature at 35.8 degrees, while several other districts witnessed a drop of up to 5 degrees Celsius. Rainfall that began in Jaipur on Thursday afternoon continued into the night and early Friday. Light to moderate showers were reported in several areas, including Tonk Road, Gopalpura, Malviya Nagar, Jagatpura, Ajmeri Gate and the Collectorate. The city's maximum temperature dropped by 4 degrees to 27.4 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department has forecast further rainfall in Jaipur on Friday. Alwar experienced intermittent light rainfall from Thursday morning, bringing a noticeable chill to the weather. The maximum temperature remained around 27 degrees Celsius, and further rain is likely on Friday. In Udaipur, cloudy conditions prevailed from Thursday morning, with occasional sunshine. A slight chill was also felt, while the maximum temperature was recorded at 30 degrees Celsius. In Kota, the sky remained overcast on Thursday morning, although no rainfall was reported. Sunshine appeared in the afternoon. The city recorded a maximum temperature of 30.9 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 21.6 degrees Celsius. A rain alert has been issued for Friday. Jodhpur also witnessed fluctuating weather conditions. Although rainfall was forecast for Thursday, the city remained dry under cloudy skies. The maximum temperature was recorded at 34.2 degrees Celsius, which was 0.4 degrees below normal, while the minimum stood at 20.4 degrees Celsius, around 3 degrees above normal. The department has issued a yellow alert for Friday. In Ajmer, cloudy skies prevailed throughout Thursday, with limited sunshine keeping temperatures relatively low. The city recorded a maximum temperature of 29.1 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 18 degrees Celsius. Sikar also experienced the impact of Cyclone 'Arnab', with cloudy conditions throughout Thursday and a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures. The district recorded a maximum temperature of 30.5 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 10.5 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for rainfall in Sikar district for the next two days. Residents across Rajasthan have been advised to remain alert as thunderstorms, strong winds and rainfall are expected to continue in several districts.
Aanand L. Rai: When we thought of Nakhrewaalii, the song felt like it belonged here
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) Anand L. Rai has talked about bringing back Kishore Kumars classic Nakhrewali from the 1956 Hindi movie New Delhi for his upcoming film Nakhrewaalii. The filmmaker said that he felt the song belonged here. Producer Aanand L Rai was keen to bring the classic into the film, finding a special connection between the song and the world of Nakhrewaalii. Talking about this Rai said in a statement: Kishore Kumar jis voice has a beauty that is truly eternal. There is so much warmth, mischief and charm in this song, and it has stayed with us across generations. When we thought of Nakhrewaalii, the song felt like it belonged here. It brings back nostalgia, but there is also something incredibly timeless about it and I am sure the younger generation will cherish this version as much as we have loved the older one. For the film, the classic song has been reimagined with vocals by Priyankit Jaiswal alongside archival vocals by late Kishore Kumar. This new track has lyrics written by Vayu and the music has been created by Vayu and Vaibhav Pani alongside the archival composition by Shankar-Jaikishan. The original song was written by Inder Raj Anand and Radha Kishan. Its music by Shankar Jaikishan. The film 1956 New Delhi was directed by Mohan Segal. The film starred Vyjayanthimala and Kishore Kumar in the lead, with Jabeen Jalil, Nana Palsikar, Nazir Hussain, Prabhu Dayal, Dhumal, Brahm Bhardwaj, Radhakrishan, Mumtaz Begum, Mirza Musharraf and Shivraj as the ensemble cast. The story is about the Punjabi boy Anand and the Tamil girl Janaki who fall in love with each other, but are unfortunately separated by their families. Directed by Rahul Shanklya, Nakhrewaalii features newcomers Ansh Duggal and Pragati Srivastava as its lead pair. Produced by Jio Studios and Colour Yellow, Nakhrewaalii releases in cinemas on 30 October 2026.
Rain, thunderstorms likely in several Rajasthan districts today
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 29 (IANS) The Meteorological Department has issued weather alerts for several districts of Rajasthan, forecasting rain, thunderstorms and strong winds till October 30. Wind speeds of 40-50 kmph are likely in parts of the state, while some districts may experience heavy rainfall and hailstorms. According to the forecast issued by the Meteorological Centre, Jaipur, the weather is likely to be affected by a cyclonic system and a Western Disturbance. Areas in Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer, Kota and Udaipur divisions are likely to witness thunderstorms and rainfall during the two-day period. Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the northern parts of the Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions, with hailstorms possible at isolated places. Parts of the Ajmer, Kota and Udaipur divisions may also experience cloudy skies, lightning and light to moderate rainfall. In western Rajasthan, light rain is likely in parts of the eastern areas of Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions. However, weather conditions in the western border areas are expected to remain largely dry. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for 28 districts of eastern Rajasthan. These include Ajmer, Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Beawar, Bharatpur, Bhilwara, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Dausa, Deeg, Dholpur, Dungarpur, Jaipur, Jhalawar, Jhunjhunu, Karauli, Khairthal-Tijara, Kota, Kotputli-Behror, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Salumbar, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Sirohi, Tonk and Udaipur. An alert has also been issued for five districts of western Rajasthan: Churu, Didwana-Kuchaman, Jodhpur, Nagaur and Pali. According to the forecast, light to moderate rainfall may occur at isolated places in eastern Rajasthan on October 31. Thereafter, dry weather is likely to prevail across the state. The changing weather conditions may also lead to a drop in daytime temperatures in Jaipur and other parts of Rajasthan. The maximum temperature in Jaipur was recorded at 31.6 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, down 1.4 degrees from the previous day. The minimum temperature stood at 18.7 degrees Celsius, an increase of 0.5 degrees. The Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain alert to local weather updates and take precautions during thunderstorms, strong winds and possible hailstorms.
Dotasra seeks clarity over scrapping of Sikar Master Plan 2041
Traders shut shops, protest closure of Sikar Road cut for six months
Over 90% Turnout at Sikar Army Agniveer Rally; Strong Measures Ensure Fair Recruitment
The Sikar Army Agniveer Recruitment Rally concluded with over 90% turnout, strict anti-touting and drug screening, and enhanced transparency measures. Over 90% Turnout at Sikar Army Agniveer Rally; Strong Measures Ensure Fair Recruitment
Dotasra alleges political vendetta as Raj govt scraps Sikar master plan
Western Disturbance brings rain, hail in Rajasthan; temperatures dip
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 19 (IANS) Rajasthan witnessed a change in weather conditions over the past two days, with rainfall in several districts and hailstorms in Jaipur and Ajmer bringing down temperatures, the weather department said on Monday. Sawai Madhopur received intermittent rain from around 3 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Monday under the influence of a Western Disturbance, raising concerns among farmers about potential crop damage. In the Khandar region of Sawai Madhopur, crops are nearing maturity, and farmers fear that further adverse weather could affect their produce. On Sunday, rainfall was reported in several districts, including Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Tonk, Baran and Ajmer. Hail was also reported in Jaipur and Ajmer. Cloudy conditions and limited sunshine kept daytime temperatures below normal in several areas, while cooler nights brought a noticeable chill. The minimum temperature dropped below 20 degrees Celsius in more than 10 cities across Rajasthan on Sunday. Mount Abu recorded the lowest minimum temperature among the cities listed, at 15.3 degrees Celsius. According to the recorded figures, minimum temperatures were 19.4 degrees Celsius in Tonk, 19.5 degrees C in Alwar, 19.3 degrees C in Pilani, 18.8 degrees C in Sikar, 19 degrees Celsius in Pali, 19.7 degrees Celsius in Sri Ganganagar, 18.6 degrees Celsius in Dungarpur, 16 degrees Celsius in Sirohi, 17 degrees C in Fatehpur and 19.7 degrees Celsius in Jhunjhunu. The rainfall, hail and reduced sunshine have contributed to a fall in temperatures in several parts of the state, making mornings, evenings and nights noticeably cooler. Several cities recorded relatively low maximum temperatures on Sunday. Alwar registered 31.8 degrees C, Hanumangarh 31.2, Karauli and Jhunjhunu 32.4 degrees Celsius each, and Sikar 32 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Centre in Jaipur has forecast dry weather across Rajasthan for the next three to four days, beginning Monday. Skies are expected to remain largely clear, with sunshine returning to most areas. However, another Western Disturbance is likely to become active around October 22-23, potentially triggering a fresh change in weather conditions.
Ashok Gehlot has accused the BJP government of delays in the Jal Jeevan Mission affecting 44 lakh households. He highlighted that the state's tap water connection coverage is significantly below the national average. Gehlot also raised concerns regarding the mid-day meal scheme in Sikar, where many schools lack food supplies. Payments for cooks involved in the program have been reportedly delayed for eight months.
Navratri Festivities Commence at Jeenmata Temple in Rajasthan
The Jeenmata Temple in Sikar kicks off Navratri celebrations with special rituals and a grand display of devotion. Navratri Festivities Commence at Jeenmata Temple in Rajasthan
Rajasthan police crackdown on CJP's Delhi protest; 24 detained in Jaipur, 12 trains cancelled
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 10 (IANS) Police authorities in Rajasthan have detained 24 people preparing to travel to Delhi for the CJP stir. Allegations have also surfaced that police are taking similar action in Sikar and Alwar. The Railways has also cancelled 12 trains passing through Rajasthan and rescheduled two others, citing anticipated traffic disruptions in Delhi. By Friday night, police in Jaipur had taken preventive legal action against protesters planning to attend the demonstration. According to reports, eight people were bound over by the East District police, one by the North District police and eight by the South District police. The action was reportedly aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any untoward incidents. In Sikar district, advocate Surendra, also known as Sanju Verma, was allegedly detained at his residence in the Reengus area on Friday as he prepared to travel to Delhi for the protest. CJP organisational co-in-charge Deepak Baliyan alleged that police personnel took him from his residence in Mankheda village late Thursday night and brought him to the Govindgarh police station area. He claimed that he was pressured not to participate in the protest, that a scuffle took place, and that his mobile phone was confiscated. Party co-in-charge Ashutosh Ranka also alleged that police personnel forcibly took him away and assaulted him. However, Kathumar Station House Officer Chandrashekhar Sharma rejected the allegations as baseless. He said Baliyan had been taken for counselling in connection with the imposition of Section 163 in Delhi and was dropped back at his home at around 2 a.m. Police have denied allegations of formal detention or assault. Meanwhile, the Railways has cancelled 12 trains operating to and from Rajasthan and rescheduled two others by five hours each ahead of the protest. The decision was reportedly taken in anticipation of heavy traffic and possible road blockages around New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations on October 10. The cancellations affect services operating on the Sabarmati, Udaipur, Sri Ganganagar and Delhi routes. The changes are expected to inconvenience passengers travelling to and from the affected destinations. Travellers have been advised to check the latest train schedules before leaving for their journeys.
Youth Stabbed to Death During Bali Yatra Festival in Rayagada; Locals Block Road
What was meant to be a joyful celebration at the annual Sikaripai Bali Yatra in Rayagada district turned into a nightmare late last night, following a violent, bloody clash that claimed the life of a young man and left another critically injured. The deceased has been identified as Mahesh Kadraka, while the injured youth, Rohan [] The post Youth Stabbed to Death During Bali Yatra Festival in Rayagada; Locals Block Road appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Jaipur ED attaches properties worth Rs 34 crore in Nexa Evergreen investment fraud
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 9 (IANS) In fresh action in an investment fraud, the ED provisionally attached immovable and movable properties having a total value of Rs 34.91 crore and held by entities and individuals associated with Nexa Evergreen, an official said on Friday. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Jaipur Zonal Office, provisionally attached the properties under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, said the official. The attachment order was issued on October 6, 2026, in connection with the money laundering investigation related to the Nexa Evergreen fraud case, the official said in a statement. The attached properties comprise 69 immovable properties valued at approximately Rs 29.37 crore, including land parcels and residential plots situated at Dholera and Dhandhuka in Ahmedabad district, Gujarat, residential flats at Ahmedabad and Sikar, a plot at Sikar, and a 45 per cent shareholding in Shining Sand Beach Resort, Calangute, Goa, the ED said. In addition, balances amounting to Rs 5.54 crore lying in 26 bank accounts and term deposits maintained in the names of various Nexa Evergreen entities have also been provisionally attached, the ED said. The attached properties were held in the names of various entities and individuals associated with the Nexa Evergreen network, including Nexa Evergreen Private Limited, Nexgen Evergreen Energy LLP, Cristal Builders and Developers LLP, Cambridge Builders LLP and M/s Shree Shardha Nath Infra LLP, as well as Ranveer Singh, Subhash Chandra Bijorniya and their family members, the ED said. The ED investigation was initiated on the basis of multiple FIRs and chargesheets filed by Rajasthan Police against the Nexa Evergreen Group in connection with a large-scale investment fraud. The investigation revealed that the accused, in conspiracy with their associates, lured investors by falsely claiming that the funds would be invested in land development and plotting projects at Dholera Smart City, Gujarat, the ED said. Investors were induced to invest on the promise of assured weekly returns of 3 per cent for 60 weeks or allotment of plots, while additional commissions and rewards, including laptops, motorcycles and cars, were offered for enrolling new investors under a multi-level referral scheme, the statement said. The scheme continued till January 2023, when the weekly payments were abruptly stopped, and the website, mobile application and offices were shut down, said the ED. The ED investigation revealed that Ranveer Bijarniya and Subhash Chandra Bijorniya exercised complete control over the entire fraudulent operation. They floated and operated a web of companies, LLPs, partnership firms and proprietorship concerns in the names of associates and investors for layering and routing the proceeds of crime, it said. These entities and their bank accounts were systematically used for collection of investors' funds, inter-account transfers, payment of returns to earlier investors in the nature of a Ponzi scheme, and acquisition of immovable properties, thereby concealing the true source and ownership of the funds, the agency said. The investigation revealed that about Rs 2,676 crore was collected from a large number of investors between 2019 and 2023 through the Nexa Evergreen Group by Ranveer Singh alias Ranveer Bijarniya and Subhash Chandra Bijorniya alias Subhash Chandra Bijarniya, along with their associates, the ED said. As per software data of the company, 47,664 investors received less than the amount invested by them, resulting in an aggregate shortfall of about Rs 932.54 crore, the ED said. Earlier, the ED had conducted searches under Section 17 of the PMLA in June 2025 at 25 premises located in Jaipur, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Ahmedabad. The searches resulted in the seizure of cash amounting to Rs 2.05 crore, various incriminating documents, records and digital devices. Funds amounting to Rs 15.31 crore lying in bank accounts and crypto accounts linked with various Nexa Group entities and their associates were frozen, the ED said. Subhash Chandra Bijorniya was arrested by the ED on August 10, 2026, under Section 19 of the PMLA and is presently in judicial custody at Jaipur Central Jail, the ED said. With the latest provisional attachment of assets worth Rs 34.91 crore, the total value of assets attached or frozen in the case has reached approximately Rs 52 crore, comprising properties and cash, bank and crypto account balances seized during the course of investigation, the ED said.
Tragedy at Sikarapai Bali Yatra: One Dead, Another Critical Following Deadly Stabbing
What was supposed to be a festive celebration turned into a scene of horror as a violent altercation led to a fatal stabbing at the Sikarapai Bali Yatra under Kalyansinghpur block in Rayagada district. The incident resulted in the death of a young man, identified as Mahesh Kadraka, while another individual, Rahan Kadraka, sustained severe [] The post Tragedy at Sikarapai Bali Yatra: One Dead, Another Critical Following Deadly Stabbing appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Sikar Factory and Boilers Inspector Arrested While Allegedly Taking Rs 20,000 Bribe
Jaipur, September 28, 2026: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested Mohit Sharma, an Inspector in the Office of the Inspector, Factory and Boilers, Inspection Department, Sikar, while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. The action was carried out on Monday by the ACB Jaipur City III unit on the directions of the ACB headquarters. Bribe ... Read more Sikar Factory and Boilers Inspector Arrested While Allegedly Taking Rs 20,000 Bribe
Researchers have identified the Sistan sand boa in Rajasthans Sikar district, marking its first scientific record in India. The findings, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, highlighted key characteristics of the species. Comparisons were made with the red sand boa, noting differences in tail shape. The study indicates that the species might inhabit human-influenced dry landscapes, including farmlands.
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 26 (IANS) The election result for the Khatushyamji Municipality in Sikar district was declared on Saturday, with Congress candidate Vinita Poonia elected as the Municipality Chairperson by a margin of just one vote. The counting of the 19 votes cast on September 21 began at the municipal office at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Congress's Vinita Poonia secured 10 votes, while BJP candidate Prem Devi received 9 votes. Congress supporters celebrated after Poonia was declared the winner. The ballot box containing the 19 votes was brought from the strongroom to the municipal office in compliance with an order of the Rajasthan High Court. The ballot box was retrieved in the presence of Returning Officer (RO) Kapil Upadhyay, ASP Deepak Garg, Deputy Superintendent of Police Rajesh Kumar Jangid, other police officials and Congress candidate Vinita Poonia. Tight security arrangements were made during the process. BJP candidate Prem Devi did not reach the strongroom. The counting of the 19 votes subsequently began at 10 a.m. With 10 votes, Poonia defeated Prem Devi by one vote and was declared the Chairperson of Khatushyamji Municipality. The result followed an order of the Jaipur Bench of the Rajasthan High Court on September 24. Vinita Poonia, a councillor from Ward 11 and a candidate for the Chairperson's post, had approached the court. The court cancelled the re-polling that had been scheduled for September 25 and directed the authorities to count the 19 votes cast on September 21 and declare the result. Following the court's directions, the Returning Officer conducted the counting on Saturday, bringing the election process to a conclusion. The Khatushyamji Municipality has a 20-member board, comprising 8 BJP councillors, 8 Congress councillors, three independents and one RLP councillor. Of the 20 councillors, 19 cast their votes in the September 21 election for Chairperson. Lakshmi, the Congress councillor from Ward 10, did not turn up to vote. Police had located Lakshmi following a complaint filed by her husband, Harlal. After voting concluded on September 21, the ballot box containing the 19 votes was sealed and placed in safe custody. Following the High Court's directions, those votes were counted on Saturday, resulting in Vinita Poonia's election as Chairperson by a one-vote margin.
Forget Jaipur or Jodhpur, Khatu Shyamji makes Sikar the top tourist destination in Rajasthan
Sikar has emerged as Rajasthan's top tourist destination in the first half of 2026, recording 1.56 crore visits between January and June. The surge was driven largely by Khatu Shyamji, which has become a major religious tourism destination in the state.
Landslide Paralyses Train Services on Koraput-Rayagada Route Amid Heavy Rain
Continuous heavy rainfall has severely disrupted train operations in Odishas Rayagada district. A major landslide triggered by unrelenting downpours caused earth and massive boulders to collapse onto the railway tracks near Tunnel No. 29, located between Keutguda and Sikarapai railway stations. As a result, rail traffic along the crucial Koraput-Rayagada (K-R) line has come to [] The post Landslide Paralyses Train Services on Koraput-Rayagada Route Amid Heavy Rain appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 22 (IANS) The election for the posts of Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Khatushyamji Municipality in Sikar district was postponed amid a late-night dispute over the absence of Congress councillor Lakshmi Devi from the voting process. The controversy began after Lakshmi Devi, the Congress councillor from Ward 10, failed to appear for voting. The voting deadline was extended several times to allow her to cast her vote. According to local reports, the process continued late into Monday night, with the voting records eventually sealed after midnight. The Returning Officer subsequently announced that the election had been postponed until further orders following directions from the State Election Commission. The dispute is significant because the 20-member Khatushyamji Municipality has an equal number of BJP and Congress councillorseight eachalong with three Independents and one RLP councillor. Eleven votes are required for a majority. The political drama continued throughout Monday after Lakshmi Devi did not reach the polling venue. The Returning Officer extended the voting time repeatedly, with reports putting the final extension at around 11:30 p.m.. BJP leaders and supporters staged a sit-in outside the municipality, demanding that Lakshmi Devi be allowed to vote. A complaint was also lodged with the police over allegations concerning her disappearance. These allegations have been made by her family and BJP supporters; they have not been established as fact. Congress leaders, meanwhile, objected to the repeated extensions. Congress MLA Virendra Singh, district president Sunita Githala and former Pradhan Bhanwarlal Verma reportedly approached the District Collector, questioning the extension of the polling deadline. The sit-ins by supporters of both parties continued amid the uncertainty. BJP leaders alleged that Congress had deliberately kept its councillor away from the voting process, while the councillor's family levelled allegations against the Congress. Lakshmi Devi is the councillor from Ward 10 and was elected on a Congress ticket. Election records show that she won the ward with 172 votes, defeating BJP's Mamta Devi by 37 votes. BJP candidate Prem Devi and Congress candidate Vinita Poonia are contesting for the Chairman's post. Reports have described Lakshmi Devi as a relative of Prem Devi, adding another dimension to the dispute. After the protests ended, supporters of both parties left the municipality premises. Memorandums containing their respective demands were submitted to the election authorities. The voting records were secured and sealed in the presence of representatives of both parties. BJP leaders also contacted senior state-level officials to apprise them of the developments. Late on Monday night, Returning Officer Kapil Upadhyay told the media that, following instructions from the State Election Commission, the elections for Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Khatushyamji Municipality had been postponed until further orders. The final outcome of the Chairman's election will, therefore, be known only after the election authorities issue further directions.
Breathing in death: How mining dust in the Aravallis is killing residents
Residents of Syalodra village in Sikar say silicosis has claimed more than 50 lives, and that the Supreme Court-appointed Aravalli panel did not visit them
Death by breath: How mining dust in Aravallis is killing residents
Manisha (27) sits with a group of women on a mattress laid out in one corner of her house's veranda in Rajasthan's Sikar's Syalodra village. In the other corner, there are stacks of large oxygen cylinders, used by her 32-year-old husband, Manjeet, for breathing up until his recent death. Manjeet was a labourer at a nearby stone crushing unit, and for more than three years, he suffered from a debilitating, incurable lung illness called silicosis. Its trigger: inhaling silica dust, fine particles that are a by-product of rampant mining operations such as drilling, blasting, and stone crushing in the region. Silicosis has claimed more than 50 people's lives over the years in Syalodra, part of the Aravalli range, say residents. However, the Supreme Court-appointed panel, which concluded its field visits to assess several aspects of the Aravallis on August 11, did not come to the village, much like it skipped going to many other mining-affected areas across Kotputli-Behror and Sikar ...
Tensions Erupt in Sikar After Congress Victory in Local Elections
Violence broke out in Sikar following Congresss win in local elections, with clashes reported in Ward 17. Tensions Erupt in Sikar After Congress Victory in Local Elections
Former Mayor Jyoti Khandelwal loses Jaipur civic poll, BJP wins 23 wards
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 14 (IANS) In a major upset in the Jaipur Municipal Corporation election, former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who switched from the Congress to the BJP, has suffered defeat. Khandelwal was considered one of the BJP's prominent faces and a potential contender for the mayor's post if the party secured a majority. Her defeat is a significant setback to the BJP's calculations for the mayoral race and could further expose internal differences within the party. Khandelwal's defeat comes amid reports of dissent over her candidature and local-level opposition during the election campaign. Meanwhile, the BJP has taken the lead in the Jaipur civic polls. According to the latest results, the BJP has won 23 of the 150 wards, while the Congress has secured 16 and Independents four. Results for 132 wards have been declared so far, with counting continuing for the remaining wards. The verdict in the closely watched electoral battle across all 150 wards of the Jaipur Municipal Corporation will be revealed on Monday, with vote counting underway at the counting centre established at Shri Bhawani Niketan College on Sikar Road. Polling for the 150 wards was held on September 11, with Jaipur recording a voter turnout of 63.55 per cent. A total of 723 candidates were in the fray, and their electoral fate was sealed in the EVMs. As counting progresses, the results will determine which political party will control the municipal board in the Pink City. The two principal contenders, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, had both claimed before counting that they would form the municipal board with a clear majority. However, the presence of Independent candidates and party rebels in several wards has added uncertainty to the final outcome. The District Election Commission has organised the counting process in phases, with 15 control rooms and more than 150 counting tables deployed for the exercise. Meanwhile, one of the biggest upsets of the election has been the defeat of former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who had switched from the Congress to the BJP. Political observers believe that a combination of internal dissent, local-level opposition and a strong Congress challenge may have contributed to her defeat. The result could also intensify factional differences within the BJP as the party assesses its prospects for controlling the municipal board. According to the latest results recorded so far, the BJP has won 69 wards, while the Congress has secured 49. Independent candidates have won 14 wards, taking the total number of declared results to 132. With results still awaited in some wards, the final composition of the Jaipur Municipal Corporation will determine whether the BJP can cross the majority mark on its own or whether Independents and other candidates will become crucial to government formation. The outcome is particularly significant because control of the Jaipur municipal board will determine the political leadership of one of Rajasthan's most important urban centres. The remaining ward-wise results are being declared as counting continues, with the final numbers expected to provide a clearer picture of the contest for the mayoral post.
Sikar civic poll: Clash erupts after Congress victory; stone-pelting reported in Ward 17
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 14 (IANS) Tensions erupted in Sikar shortly after the municipal election results were announced, with supporters of the Congress and an Independent candidate clashing in Ward 17. The Congress emerged as the largest party in the Sikar municipal elections, winning 38 of the 65 wards and securing a clear majority. The BJP won 22 wards, while Independents secured 4 seats and the RLP won 1 ward. The result in Ward 17 was particularly significant as Congress candidate Tasleem defeated Independent candidate Arshin to win the ward. However, a confrontation ensued soon after the results were announced, with stone-pelting between the two groups, leaving several people injured. Police reached the spot after receiving information about the clash and detained several people in connection with the incident. The situation was brought under control, and further action is being taken. The Congress' strong performance gives it a clear advantage in the formation of the municipal board. However, the post-result violence in Ward 17 has raised concerns over tensions between rival groups following the election. Police are monitoring the situation in the area to prevent any further escalation. Meanwhile, in Jodhpur, vote counting for a seat in Ward No. 50 was halted after a technical glitch was reported in an EVM at a polling booth. Following the issue, the Returning Officer sought guidance from the State Election Commission. A decision on the next course of action will be taken after receiving the Commission's directions. A re-poll at the affected booth is likely. For now, counting for the seat has been put on hold by election officials. District Election Officer and District Collector Sandesh Nayak said vote counting in Jaipur was conducted across 2,254 polling booths covering 150 wards. More than 5,000 candidate agents were present during the counting process, which was completed in 302 rounds. So far, the BJP has secured 66 seats, Congress 43, while Independent candidates have won 13 seats.
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 14 (IANS) In a major shake-up, Congress has managed to retain control of Jhalawar, the stronghold of former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, as results for Rajasthan's 47 Municipal Councils and 252 Municipalities have started coming in. In the Jhalawar Municipal Council, the Congress party has won 29 of the 45 wards. The BJP secured 13 wards, Independents won two, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won one. Also, Independent candidates have pulled off a major upset in the Bharatpur Municipal Corporation election, winning 36 of the total 65 wards and emerging as the dominant political force. The BJP secured 20 wards, while the Congress won seven, the BSP one, and the RLP one. The BJP has secured a majority in the Barmer Municipal Council after 15 years. The party won 29 of the 55 wards. The Aam Aadmi Party has emerged as a surprise winner in the Baran Municipal Council, securing a clear majority with victories in 31 of the 60 wards. The Congress party won 18 wards, the BJP nine, and Independents two. In the Churu Municipal Council, the BJP has won 30 of the 60 wards, while Congress secured 24 and Independent candidates won six. The BJP is leading in the Nagaur Municipal Council, although former district president Ramniwas Sankhla suffered defeat in Ward 7. In Ward 10, Praveen Solanki of the Congress, son of former chairman Kriparam Solanki, won the election. Praveen's maternal uncle and former chairman, Mangilal Bhati, had supported the BJP candidate. Yash Jaldhari of the BJP, grandson of former MLA Ratanlal Jaldhari, has won from Ward 11 of the Sikar Municipal Council. In the Jaisalmer Municipal Council, results for 21 wards have been declared so far. BJP candidates have won 12 wards, while Congress has secured six, and Independents three. The results will determine the political fate of more than 35,000 candidates contesting elections across Rajasthan's Municipal Councils and Municipalities. Voting for the urban local body elections was conducted in two phases on September 9 and 11. The first phase recorded a voter turnout of 76.41 per cent in 162 urban bodies, while 71.69 per cent turnout was registered in the second phase in 147 urban bodies.
Caught on CCTV: Jaipur Man Accused of Killing Wife, 3 Daughters Arrested Outside Hotel In Reengus
A major breakthrough in the Jaipur family murder case as police arrest 45-year-old Rahul Jha, accused of killing his wife and three daughters. Jha was tracked through CCTV footage and arrested outside a hotel in Reengus, Sikar. Police say he has confessed to the murders. Blood-stained clothes and his switched-off mobile phone were recovered from the family home. Investigators are probing the reported family discord and the motive behind the killings.
Jaipur Municipal Corporation Election 2026: Complete list of ward and party-wise winners
Voting for the Jaipur Municipal Corporation elections began on Monday, with counting underway after 63.55% of voters exercised their franchise across all 150 wards on September 11. Shri Bhawani Niketan College of Pharmacy on Sikar...
Flipkart's Super.money bets on AI agents to take on bigger rivals
The fintech has begun rolling out its consumer agents and plans to cover all of its customer base in the next two months, Chief Executive Officer Prakash Sikaria said
Victory processions banned in Jaipur till September 25 amid local body elections
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 10 (IANS) In view of the Jaipur local body elections and to maintain peace, public order and law and order, the Jaipur Police Commissionerate has imposed a complete ban on victory processions from September 13 to September 25. The prohibitory order has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, by Additional Police Commissioner (Law and Order) Rajiv Pachar. As per the order, no elected member, chairperson, vice-chairperson, candidate or supporter will be permitted to organise or participate in any victory procession within the Jaipur Police Commissionerate area during the specified period. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the restrictions. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the election process and subsequent declaration of results are conducted peacefully and without any disruption. Polling for the first phase of the local body elections was held on September 9, while voting for the second phase is scheduled for September 11. Counting of votes will take place on September 14. Elections for the posts of chairperson and vice-chairperson are proposed to be held on September 21 and September 22, respectively. A total of 2,256 polling stations have been established for the elections, of which 551 have been identified as sensitive or hypersensitive. Around 9,000 additional police personnel will be deployed to strengthen security arrangements. Two police personnel will be deployed at each polling station, while five personnel will be stationed at sensitive polling booths. The police have also intensified area domination and security measures. On Wednesday, Jaipur South Police conducted a flag march in the Mansarovar Circle area to boost public confidence and assure voters of a peaceful and fear-free election environment. The flag march was led by DCP (South) Rajarshi Raj, with police officials also inspecting sensitive and hypersensitive polling stations and reviewing security arrangements at the strong room. Campaigning for the Jaipur Municipal Corporation elections concluded at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. Following the end of the campaign period, rallies, roadshows, public meetings and other forms of public campaigning have been prohibited. Candidates and their supporters are now relying on door-to-door contact with voters and personal outreach. A total of 723 candidates are contesting elections across 150 wards of the Jaipur Municipal Corporation. Polling parties for the 2,256 polling stations are being dispatched in two shifts from Bhiwani Niketan College on Sikar Road. The teams are being provided with EVMs, election materials and necessary documents, along with final instructions and training for polling day.
Crossing party lines, rebels and rows: Rajasthan civic polls take a dramatic turn
Jaipur, Sep 7 (IANS) Rajasthan's urban local body elections are producing scenes that go far beyond the usual Bharatiya Janata Party-versus-Congress contest. In the final days before voting, party lines appear blurred in some wards, political friendships are taking centre stage in others, while rebellion, protests and unusual campaign tactics are adding drama to the electoral battle. From Nathdwara to Sikar, Kota to Jodhpur and Dungarpur to Jaipur, the campaign trail has witnessed everything from a BJP candidate openly supporting a Congress rival to a Congress candidate blessing a JP contestant and even dogs being released outside the office of a BJP rebel. One of the most striking developments has emerged from Nathdwara in Rajsamand district, where BJP candidate Dinesh Prajapat announced his support for Congress nominee Ajay Gurjar in Ward 23, just days before polling. Prajapat, however, made it clear that his political identity remains with the BJP and that he would continue to remain associated with the party. The episode has added an unexpected twist to what would ordinarily be a straightforward BJP-Congress contest. It also highlights the importance of personal equations and local-level dynamics in municipal elections, where candidates often face voters with whom they have long-standing social and personal relationships. An equally unusual scene unfolded in Sikar's Ward 15, where former Municipal Council chairman and Congress candidate Jeevan Khan was seen blessing BJP candidate Simran during campaigning. Khan placed his hand on Simran's head in a gesture of goodwill, creating a striking image of political rivals sharing a moment of warmth during an otherwise fiercely contested election. The incident underlines how local elections can sometimes produce relationships that do not fit neatly into conventional party politics. Kota provided another example of political civility. In Ward 54, BJP candidate Vivek Rajvanshi and Congress candidate Manish Sharma reportedly shook hands when they came face-to-face during campaigning. Elsewhere in Kota, candidates adopted more unconventional campaign styles. BJP candidate Pratibha Suman was seen roasting peanuts on a roadside pushcart in Ward 64, while BJP candidate Soma Ahluwalia reportedly bowed before elderly residents during her campaign in Ward 56. Not every story from the campaign trail has been about political drama. Residents of Royal Suncity Colony in Kota's Ward 33 have announced a boycott of voting, alleging inadequate development work in their area. The protest puts local civic issues at the heart of the election debate and signals that candidates must answer not only for party politics but also for visible work or the lack of it on the ground. Kota also witnessed an unusual voter-list error in Ward 29. In Part 12, the details of a voter named Jagdish, including his name, father's name and house number, were reportedly correct, but the photograph displayed against the entry was that of Lord Hanuman. The unusual error has raised questions about the accuracy of electoral rolls and the verification process. The election battle took a particularly unusual turn in Dungarpur's Ward 31. On Friday, a Municipal Council shelter-home vehicle reportedly released around 15 dogs outside the office of Sunil Jain, a BJP rebel contesting as an independent. Jain alleged that the incident was an abuse of official machinery intended to weaken his campaign. The allegation has added another layer to the growing tensions between official party candidates and rebels contesting independently. Political tensions also surfaced in Jaipur's Ward 149, where residents reportedly surrounded the vehicle of Amer MLA Prashant Sahdev Sharma during his campaign visit in support of Congress candidate Anjali Brahmbhatt. The protesters allegedly waved black flags as the MLA arrived in the Handipura area, turning the campaign visit into a moment of confrontation. Amid the local-level turbulence, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma continued the BJP's campaign pitch. Addressing a gathering in Bikaner, he said people were moving from a double-engine government towards a riple-engine government, referring to coordination between governments at different levels. He in fact has organised roadshows in Bikaner, Udaipur and Ajmer. However, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, verbally attacking the BJP government in the state, said, It is the first time a Chief Minister feels compelled to conduct a roadshow for local self-government elections, including municipal corporations, municipal councils, and municipalities. This isn't a positive sign; it is their biggest drawback. They have effectively proved that the government has been non-functional for the past two and a half years, leading to widespread public anger. The Rajasthan civic elections are increasingly looking less like a simple BJP-versus-Congress contest and more like a collection of local political dramas. Candidates are crossing traditional lines, rivals are exchanging gestures of goodwill, rebels are challenging party establishments, residents are threatening boycotts, and campaign events are producing unexpected confrontations. Ultimately, however, the decisive actor remains the voter. Behind the headlines, the real question is whether these unusual campaign moments translate into votes on polling day or remain memorable episodes from one of Rajasthan's most colourful municipal election campaigns.
Sikar's Smriti Van gets 685.393-metre green pergola walkway
Sikar (Rajasthan) [India], September 2: Smriti Van in Sikar has added a major green infrastructure feature with the development of a 685.393-metre-long metal pergola walkway covered with living green creepers. The structure has a height ranging from 4.76 to 4.88 metres and has been developed to provide pedestrians, walkers, joggers, runners and sportspersons relief from direct sunlight while promoting greenery and awareness about nature conservation.
Tensions Rise in Bihar Village as Police Clash with Locals Over Dispute
Patna, September 1: A police team investigating a dispute between two factions in Katsikari village, under the Ramnagar police station, faced significant resistance from locals on Monday afternoon. The situation escalated into a scuffle, resulting in damage to a police vehicle. According to police reports, tensions flared when officers attempted to intervene in the ongoing ... Read more Tensions Rise in Bihar Village as Police Clash with Locals Over Dispute
Bihar: Police face resistance in West Champaran village dispute probe, 3 detained
Patna, Aug 31 (IANS) A police team investigating a dispute between two groups in Katsikari village under Ramnagar police station faced resistance from villagers on Monday afternoon, leading to a scuffle and damage to a police vehicle. According to police, tension escalated when personnel attempted to intervene in the dispute. Villagers allegedly pushed and shoved []
Rajasthan Police Busts Inter-State Gang Stealing High-Tension Power Cables
Jaipur, August 29: Rajasthan police have reportedly dismantled an inter-state gang involved in stealing high-tension power cables worth approximately 5-6 crores. A joint operation by the Special Team (DST) of Sikar district and the local police led to the arrest of twelve gang members. Vehicles used in the theft, including a Thar, a car, a ... Read more Rajasthan Police Busts Inter-State Gang Stealing High-Tension Power Cables
The race for viral reels and huge view counts has inspired plenty of unusual stunts, but one such attempt in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior ended with a young man facing traffic police action. Gwalior resident Aditya Sikarwar turned his car into a kissing car by covering it with thousands of lipstick marks before taking it onto the road for an Instagram reel.
Express New Route: The route of Delhi-Jaisalmer Runicha Express changed from 21st August to 24th September. This train will now run via Shekhawati instead of Jaipur, which will benefit many cities including Jhunjhunu, Sikar. Doubling of the railway line is underway between Pali and Khori stations. For this reason, the operating route of train number [] The post Indian Railway: Route of Delhi-Jaisalmer Runicha Express train changed, now the train will run via Sikar and Jhunjhunu. first appeared on informalnewz .
ACB Trap: 4 Policemen Arrested for Taking Rs 2.80 Lakh Bribe
Jaipur, August 18: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Sikar unit arrested four police personnel of the Cyber Crime Police Station in Ayodhya after allegedly catching them red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 2.80 lakh. The action was carried out on Tuesday under the directions of the ACB headquarters. The arrested personnel have been identified as ... Read more ACB Trap: 4 Policemen Arrested for Taking Rs 2.80 Lakh Bribe
Five child marriages stopped through court-issued injunctions on a single day in Rajasthans Sikar
Issued by the court of the Judicial Magistrate under Section 13(1) of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, an injunction order empowers the authorities to proactively prevent a child marriage before it occurs
