Two ex-employees surrender in Rs 69 lakh fraud case linked to BJP leaders daughters firm in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two former employees of BJP leader Krishnakumars daughter Diya Krishnas firm have surrendered in connection with a financial fraud case involving Rs 69 lakh. The accused, identified as Vinitha and Radhakumari, appeared before the Crime Branch office on Friday morning. Their surrender comes after the High Court rejected their anticipatory bail pleas. Another accused in the case, Divya, has not yet reported. The police had informed the court that the employees needed to be interrogated in detail, following which the court denied them anticipatory bail and directed the accused to appear before the investigation team. According to the complaint, the accused allegedly embezzled Rs 69 lakh from the firm by misusing QR codes during financial transactions.
Kerala Governor reappoints Ciza Thomas and Sivaprasad as interim VCs of KTU and Digital University
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Governor Rajendra Arlekar has re-appointed K Sivparasad and Ciza Thomas as interim Vice Chancellors of APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and Digital University, Kerala (DUK), respectively. According to separate notifications issued by the Raj Bhavan on Friday, both Sivaprasad and Ciza will exercise the powers and perform the duties of the office of the Vice Chancellor in the respective universities for a period of six months or till a regular Vice Chancellor is appointed, whichever is earlier. The Raj Bhavan issued the notification after the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that it was open for the Chancellor to issue a fresh notification appointing interim Vice-Chancellors in both universities, but the period in any case cannot exceed six months. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan picks academics of his choice as VCs in KTU, Kerala digital varsity Sivaprasad and Ciza, who were appointed by former Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, had stepped down on July 14 after a division bench of the High Court upheld a single judge's order invalidating their appointments. Governor Rajendra Arlekar had approached the apex court against the High Court verdict is that the appointment of interim VCs should only be from a panel of names submitted by the government. Even though the State government had submitted a panel of three names each for the appointment of interim vice chancellors in both universities, the Governor turned it down and went ahead with the reappointment of Sivaprasad and Ciza.
Keralas Green Moves: Glass Bottles For Liquor Priced Above Rs 800, Rs 20 Return Refund
In collaboration with the Clean Kerala Company, a pilot project will take place in September in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur
Kerala to celebrate Haritha Onam with strict green protocols
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government is gearing up to enforce a state-wide ban on single-use plastic products starting October 2, following a directive from the High Court. In the lead-up to the Onam festival season, the Local Self Government Department (LSGD) has issued strict orders to all Local Self Government Institutions (LSGIs) to implement green protocols and crack down on violators. The LSGD has instructed LSGIs to ramp up surveillance in markets and streets prone to high waste generation. Commercial establishments have been directed to maintain hygienic premises and install color-coded bins for segregating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. Monitoring squads will be deployed to ensure real-time compliance. We are fully prepared to enforce a strict ban on single-use plastics and plastic bottles, LSGD Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE . The coming festival season is an opportunity to raise awareness and bring about a shift in public behaviour. By October 2, we expect the public to be ready for this change. The minister acknowledged that banned plastic products are still being sold in the state and said LSGIs have been instructed to suspend trade licenses of those who violate the ban. Temporary licenses for Onam markets and vendors will be issued only to those who commit to following solid waste management norms. Large waste generators must have in-house waste management systems or partnerships with authorised Material Collection Facilities (MCFs). Enforcement teams and Haritha Karma Sena units will be on the ground to monitor waste handling, identify violators, and ensure safe disposal of biodegradable, sanitary, and e-waste. As part of the Haritha Onam campaign, local bodies have been asked to document compliance efforts, and outstanding performers among schools, residents associations, and traders will be honoured with green awards.
Kerala woman saves elderly man dangling from moving train at Tripunithura
KOCHI : A potentially fatal fall onto the railway tracks was narrowly averted on Thursday, thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of a woman passenger at Tripunithura station. Usha Suresh Babu, a nutritionist based in Tripunithura, saved the life of an elderly man who was left dangling from the handrail of the AC coach of the Ernakulam Junction Thiruvananthapuram Central Vanchinadu Express. The incident occurred as the train began pulling out of the station. Usha, who was standing at the door of one of the coaches, spotted the man stuck between the moving train and the platform, his body outside, his hand barely visible from inside the compartment. Without hesitation, she clung to him, trying to prevent a deadly fall even as the train gathered speed. Among those who witnessed the scene was Sumi Joy Oliyapuram, Head of the Malayalam Department at Maharajas College, Ernakulam. Recalling the tense moments, Sumi said, Death had to leave without its victim on Thursday. Sumi and her colleague, Santhosh T. Varghese, Head of the Economics Department, had just boarded the train at Tripunithura. I was seated near the door in the AC coach when I heard a cry from outside, said Sumi. I told Santhosh someone was calling for help. He too heard it and rushed to the door. What they saw was alarming, a woman desperately calling out that she couldnt hold on any longer, gripping a man wedged between the platform and the coach. My colleague immediately pulled the emergency chain, said Sumi. A young man from inside the coach joined in and managed to haul the old man up as the train came to a halt. As the train had only just left the station, it stopped quickly, allowing the rescue to succeed. According to Sumi, the rescued man appeared to be elderly and possibly homeless. He looked nomadic, thin, old, shirt torn at the buttons, hair flying, a swollen belly, and emaciated legs, she said. Perhaps it was his slight frame and loose clothing that saved him from more serious injury. Soon after, the trains TTE rushed to the spot. The man, who was bleeding from his sides, was moved to the platform and taken to hospital. The TTE later revealed that the man had earlier been removed from the train at Tripunithura for travelling without a ticket, but had apparently tried to reboard the moving train by entering another coach. The train resumed its journey about ten minutes later after the injured man was attended to. Sumi praised Usha Suresh Babus courage. She knew the man had jumped in illegally, but that didnt stop her from risking herself to save him, she said. The young man who helped pull him in and Santhosh, who didnt hesitate to pull the emergency chain despite possible legal consequences, deserve praise too. Together, they prevented a terrible tragedy.
Dogs trained by Jijesh S and Shaji Balaramapuram stole the limelight in the second season of the web series Kerala Crime Files
Probe UDF, BJP members role in fund fraud: CPM
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With local body elections around the corner, corruption allegations in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation are taking a new turn with CPM claiming that opposition leaders have been involved in a massive scam. CPM district secretary, V Joy, who pointed out that a total of Rs 1.47 crore has been scammed from the money allocated for women entrepreneurs from the SC, ST, BPL communities, said that the role of UDF and BJP councillors must be investigated in the issue. The new turn in the issue started when the vigilance arrested 14 persons on Wednesday, for the financial fraud associated with the provision of subsidy loans for women entrepreneurs from the SC, ST and BPL communities. The corporation has allocated Rs 1.26 crore under this scheme in 2020-21 for the SC/ST communities, and Rs 1.14 crore in 2021-22 for the BPL group. Joy, who is also the Attingal MLA, alleged that forged caste certificates were used for the financial fraud, and a racket is working behind this widespread corruption. Among the arrested people was the manager of the UDF-governed Pattom Cooperative Service Bank. Lakhs of rupees had been debited to various accounts, including that of the daughter of a Congress leader, through this officer, alleged the leader. He also cited the allegations of financial fraud by BJP councillors P V Manju (Punnakkamugal) and Asha Nath (Pappanamcode), and said, It is evident that BJP and Congress are behind these corruptions. However, BJP councillor P V Manju refuted the allegations against her. I have proper evidence to prove myself innocent, she said. Thirumala councillor K Anilkumar responded that no such corruption has taken place from the side of the opposition parties. The investigation and arrests were done by the state vigilance, and we can imagine how they will take the case, he said, adding that it was under the BJP pressure that the Mayor filed a case against these allegations in the first place. BJP urges probe in all cases Claiming that the speedy move of CPM against the Scheduled Castes fund fraud allegations is due to the fear of central agencies getting involved, BJP state secretary V V Rajesh urged that all cases related to the issue must be investigated. Alleging that CPM leaders and officers are misappropriating funds meant for people from Scheduled Communities, the leader said that the party leaders have requested the National Commission for Scheduled Castes chairman, Kishor Makwana, to further probe this. Of the three cases taken by Museum police, two cases registered in 2021 have CPM leaders as accused, and one registered in 2022 has Congress leaders and employees of UDF-led cooperative banks as accused, he said.
EV battery packaging system inaugurated
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Law Minister P Rajeeve inaugurated K-DISCs new resource facilities for electric battery packaging at C-DAC in the Technopark campus on Wednesday. It is aimed to promote indigenous manufacture and utilisation of electric vehicle (EV) components using locally sourced raw materials. The facility is part of a newly formed EV consortium to accelerate the states growth in the field of green mobility. The meeting, which was attended by K-DISC member secretary P V Unnikrishnan, C-DAC director Kalaiselvan, TrEST Park CEO Rajashree M S, TTPL general manager M K Prabhakaran, among others, included panel discussions with consortium members, including VSSC, IISER, TTPL, TrEST Research Park, C-DAC and K-DISC.
Kerala nuns arrest: BJP accuses Cong, Left of drama, political opportunism
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Thursday accused the Congress and the Left of engaging in drama and opportunistic politics over the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh, alleging that the protests in Kerala are aimed at reaping political gains rather than helping the affected. In a statement, Chandrasekhar said the demonstrations and agitations outside jails and courts in recent days have only aggravated and complicated the situation faced by the nuns. The Congress is trying to gain by politicising the issue, fully knowing that it will harm the case. This has only put pressure on the judicial system and led to confusion, he said. He pointed out that the case has now been transferred to a special court to ensure transparency and shield the investigation from external pressure. Forced conversion and human trafficking are extremely serious issues in states like Chhattisgarh, where strict laws exist to curb them. We must exercise restraint and avoid creating unnecessary controversies, the BJP leader said. Chandrasekhar also referred to a similar case registered in Kerala against nuns in 2022, which the court recently closed. In Chhattisgarh itself, under the Congress government, four Christian priests were arrested in 2021 under the Prohibition of Religious Conversion Act. Those who kept silent then are now attempting to stir trouble as elections are approaching in Kerala, he said. The BJP state president further said the fact that no Congress leader from Chhattisgarh joined the delegation or spoke in favour of the nuns was proof that local leaders were aware of the seriousness of the case. As a political party committed to the welfare of the people, we will stand with any Malayali in crisis anywhere in the world. The BJP has intervened in this case as part of that long-standing commitment, Chandrasekhar asserted.https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2025/Jul/31/kerala-nuns-arrest-church-heads-lead-priests-laity-in-protest-march Kerala nuns' arrest: Church heads lead priests, laity in protest march Take urgent steps: Major Archbishop Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, has demanded the immediate release of Sr Preeti Mary and Sr Vandana Francis, who he said were jailed in Chhattisgarh on baseless charges. He said urgent steps should be taken to provide justice to them. The Major Archbishop conveyed this demand to BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who visited the headquarters of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mount St Thomas, Kakkanad, as the PMs special envoy on Thursday. Not only the faithful, but the public is concerned about the acts of violence faced by the sisters who have been doing service for the good of society. The entire Churchs concern, pain and protest should be conveyed to the Prime Minister directly, he said. He demanded that positive steps be taken on the issue and that those who carried out the mob trial be punished. Meanw-hile, Rajeev informed the Major Archbishop about the positive stance taken by the Centre and the BJP on the issue, said Fr Tom Olikkaroth, PRO of the Church. He said steps are being taken to release the nuns soon and assurance has been given by the PM and Home Minister in this regard, he said.
Minister George Kurian slams congress over nun arrest row, cites double standards and legal lapses
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister of State George Kurian on Thursday criticised the Congress party for what he called double standards in responding to the arrest of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh , while also pointing out lapses in the legal process that followed their detention. The absence of the Congress partys lone MP from Chhattisgarh during the Delhi protests raised serious doubts about its sincerity, Kurian told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram. The Congress has only one MP in Chhattisgarh. Why did that MP not participate in the protest in Delhi? he asked. Stressing that the arrest was not politically motivated, he clarified, The application was filed before the procedures were completed. The nuns were not arrested by the BJP. It was the TTE who found the children suspicious. Kerala nuns arrest casts shadow over BJPs outreach When asked about allegations of religious conversion, Kurian reiterated that the matter was under judicial consideration. It is for the court to decide, he said, adding that bishops were within their rights to express dissent. He further underlined that mainstream churches in Kerala do not convert. Responding to a media query on BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhars earlier remark that no conversion had taken place, Kurian remarked, He must have said so because he is well-informed. Taking a dig at the Congress leadership in Kerala, Kurian recalled that when there was a protest against Pala Bishop, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan had demanded that a case be registered against him. Now the same Congress is raising this issue and trying to create the impression that they are even ready to die for Christians, he said. The arrest of the two nuns, both hailing from Kerala, has sparked widespread protests in Kerala and Chhattisgarh. Court will decide When asked about allegations of religious conversion, Kurian reiterated that the matter was under judicial consider-ation. It is for the court to decide, he said. He further underlined that mainstream churches in Kerala do not convert.
Kerala to launch bottle return scheme through Bevco to curb plastic menace
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In an effort to curb plastic menace, the state government is all set to introduce a deposit -return scheme through the Beverages Corporation (Bevco). The initiative will be rolled out on a pilot basis in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur this September. An amount of Rs 20 will be collected as deposit and QR code-enabled bottles can be returned in the respective outlets from where it is purchased. Annually 70 crore bottles are sold via Bevco annually, of which 56 crore are plastic bottles. Excise Minister M B Rajesh on Thursday, said the Tamil Nadu government has successfully implemented this scheme. He said the consumer will have to pay Rs 20 as deposit at the outlet while purchasing liquor bottles and the scheme aims to reduce littering of non-biodegradable bottles by incentivising consumers to return them. He said that the initiative is expected to reduce the volume of discarded bottles. The scheme is implemented jointly by Bevco and Clean Kerala Company Ltd (CKCL). CKCL will handle the logistics and ensure processing or recycling of the returned bottles. The minister said that the first-ever super premium outlet of Bevco will become operational in Thrissur with 4000 sq ft built-up space from August 5. Four more super premium outlets will be opened soon, he added. The super premium outlet will sell liquor brands that cost above Rs 900.
Remote centres outside Kerala force candidates to drop out of NEET-PG
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOCHI: With just two days remaining for the National Eligibility Entrance Test-Postgraduate (NEET-PG), on August 3, many medical graduates are shocked to get examination centres outside the state in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Many candidates had carefully chosen cities near their residences as preferred centres during the application process. However, many were stunned to be assigned locations hundreds of kilometres away. Im not appearing for the exam this time. Ive been allotted a centre in Telangana, and Im eight months pregnant. The travel and stay costs are too high for me and my family, said Dr Kavitha (name changed), a candidate from Thiruvananthapuram. Other young mothers in my batch are opting out too. Weve paid Rs 4,000 for the application, and now were forced to abandon the attempt. Surveys conducted by several junior doctor associations revealed that approximately 1,000 applicants from Kerala were given centres outside the state. The uncertainty over exact venue details only disclosed two days prior to the exam on July 31 adds to the logistical nightmare. If I had received Kollam as my centre, I could reach anywhere nearby without issues. But with a location like Visakhapatnam, I dont even know how close the centre will be to a hotel. How do we plan ahead? said Dr Ashik Basheer, state president of the General Practitioners Association. Candidates have also voiced concerns over inflated travel and accommodation prices. Although NBEMS guarantees at least one exam centre in every district, available slots fill up quickly due to the 20,000 applicants from Kerala. When submitting the application, candidates can choose a preferred city, and if its unavailable, the system assigns a centre near their home address, though theres no guarantee. Historically, slots were allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, but this time, candidates were shocked by what they believe is a random allocation. Dr Vivek K B, state secretary of the IMA Junior Doctors Network, Kerala, urged NBEMS to reopen the portal for centre change, allowing candidates to select more practical options. In the past, the Board cited a shortage of test centres as the reason for allocating centres outside the state. However, in previous years, changes to exam centres were made through court interventions or petitions from MPs. Last year, the exam was held in two shifts. This year, the exam has been postponed following an SC order directing NBEMS to conduct the exam in a single shift. Calls and emails sent to NBEMS by TNIE have gone unanswered. Allotment issues NBEMS guarantees minimum 1 exam centre in every dist but slots fill up fast due to 20K applicants from Kerala While applying, candidates can choose a city, and if its unavailable, the system assigns a centre near their home address Slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis
Kerala govts monsoon vacation proposal triggers debate
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a bid to address the loss of instructional days in schools owing to the monsoon havoc, the government has proposed shifting year-end vacation in April-May to June-July. Wary of the intense debate such a radical shift would generate in society, the government has initiated a public discussion on the proposal. In a Facebook post, General Education Minister V Sivankutty sought the views of all stakeholders on the proposal. According to the minister, education experts have repeatedly flagged the loss of instructional days during the school reopening phase in June, when the monsoon sets in in the state. We do not want an unnecessary furore and protest over the proposal. The government will take a decision only after arriving at a consensus with all stakeholders, Sivankutty said. The use of school buildings as relief camps for many days and the declaration of holiday by collectors at the eleventh hour owing to rain havoc in June-July have led to loss of up to 10 instructional days on average in worst-affected districts. According to official statistics, Kerala is among the states with least number of instructional days. Proposal should be implemented only after proper study Kerala has three sets of school exams - two terminal exams and one final exam. At a time when school education has more or less transformed into a semester system with two exams a year, adopting such a model would create additional instructional days in schools, opined Prof V P Joshith, Head of the Department of Education, Central University of Kerala. Pro-Left student and teachers organisations have stressed on the need for extensive discussions on the matter. The proposal involves a thorough restructuring of a system that has been followed for decades. It should be implemented only after a proper scientific study, said P S Sanjeev, state general secretary, SFI. D Sudheesh, state president of Kerala School Teachers Association (KSTA), said the organisation welcomes the proposal positively but it should be implemented only after consultation with all stakeholders. At a time when conducting exams in the afternoon in March is being opposed owing to the summer, the minister wants students to spend the entire day in classrooms in the peak summer months of April and May, said K P Abdul Majeed, state president of pro-Congress teachers union KPSTA. The climatic conditions in Kerala are distinct from those of other states. Any decision on re-scheduling the year-end vacation should be carried out after wide-ranging discussions, keeping in mind the interests of the students, said Aloysius Xavier, state president, KSU.
Kerala University unveils tribal language primer to aid indigenous education
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The same word or minor variations of it can hold different meanings for different people. The word kara can conjure up images of land in the minds of a Malayali. But imagine speaking the same word to a person from the Irula community, for whom the term karae means water. The variance becomes pronounced when students are made to learn words that convey another meaning in their native tongue. To combat this issue and support the primary education of tribal children, the Centre for Endangered Languages of Kerala (CELK), under the University of Kerala, is set to release a primer for three tribal languages Irula, Muduga, and Kurumba. CELK plans to launch the elementary book the result of close to three years of tedious effort this month. The loss of a language means the loss of a culture, said CELK co-ordinator S Prema. She said the primer will serve as a reference book for primary students. Divided into sections such as relations, animals, etc., each word is listed in its Irula, Muduga, Kurumba, Malayalam, Tamil and English versions, along with corresponding images. A simple listing of words and their translation may not have the desired impact. A book must be attractive in the first place, Prema said, adding that the primer was prepared as part of a state-funded project. However, it will require more government procedures, including SCERT approval, for the book to reach the hands of children, she said. As part of its compilation, the CELK team travelled to tribal settlements and engaged with residents, to better understand their languages. The team would show community members objects or images to gather what they were called in the corresponding languages. Not all communities were open to us in the beginning. Active engagement ensured that the team was treated like family on subsequent visits, Prema added. But reintroducing these languages can fly in the face of practicality and job prospects, opines Ravisankar S Nair, advisory committee member of CELK. The communities may question the benefit of learning their languages, when knowledge of Malayalam or English is what is required to land a job. It is in this context that we need the coordinated efforts of various institutions to help them understand the significance of their identity, Ravisankar points out. Tribal languages in themselves do not have a script and are passed down through oral traditions. Moreover, the invasion of mainstream languages in this case Malayalam, Tamil, and Kannada may leave them on the verge of extinction. The endangerment of a language is often measured by analysing the decline in the number of speakers in every subsequent generation, Ravisankar explains. With close to 90% of tribal languages expected to face a bitter fate within the next 15-20 years, he believes that the primer would prove to be a remarkable intervention. Sindhu Sajan, headmistress of the Karara Government UP School, in Attappadi, welcomed such initiatives. Kids begin learning by relating to things they already know. But as the medium of instruction is not their mother tongue, they face difficulties, she said. The students will have to make the effort to first understand what the teacher is trying to communicate, relate it to their mother tongue and map it to the medium of instruction. People often make insensitive remarks about tribal students, but are they aware of the difficulties these children face? she said. Having worked in tribal education for several years, Sindhus words offer insights into the wider topics of discussion, including the need for affirmative action in fields such as education and employment. Gifts of the Gab Key features of the three tribal communities/languages the primer concerns itself with Irula Relatively has the most number of speakers Tamils influence is more evident in the language Muduga They number less than the Irula The language exhibits both Malayalam and Tamil influences Kurumba Has the least number of users Kannadas influence is pronounced in the language Members live a more primitive life in distant settlements Generally, all these tribes reside in the Attappadi region of Palakkad. They generally earn their livelihood collecting forest produce and by engaging in farming. Many of them also work as forest watchers and daily wagers.
Southern Railway announces multiple Onam special trains to clear holiday rush
KOZHIKODE: Southern Railway has announced special trains for the Onam festival to clear the expected rush of passengers during the festive season. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 06119 Dr MGR Chennai Central Kollam Weekly Express Special will depart Dr MGR Chennai Central at 3.10 p.m. on 27 August, 3 and 10 September (Wednesdays) and will reach Kollam at 6.40 a.m. the following day. In the return direction, Train No. 06120 Kollam Dr MGR Chennai Central Weekly Express Special will depart Kollam at 10.40 a.m. on 28 August, 4 and 11 September (Thursdays) and will reach Dr MGR Chennai Central at 3.30 a.m. the following day. These trains will have a coach composition of 15 AC Three Tier Economy Coaches and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. The trains will stop at Perambur, Thiruvallur, Arakkonam, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam North, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli and Sasthankotta. Train No. 06041 Mangaluru Jn Thiruvananthapuram North Bi-Weekly Express Special will leave Mangaluru Jn at 7.30 p.m. on 21, 23, 28 and 30 August and 4, 6, 11 and 13 September (Thursdays and Saturdays), and will reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 8 a.m. the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 06042 Thiruvananthapuram North Mangaluru Jn Bi-Weekly Express Special will depart Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.15 p.m. on 22, 24, 29 and 31 August and 5, 7, 12 and 14 September (Fridays and Sundays), and will arrive at Mangaluru Jn at 6.30 a.m. the next day. These trains will have a coach composition of 1 AC Two Tier Coach, 2 AC Three Tier Coaches, 17 Sleeper Class Coaches, and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. The trains will halt at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Junction, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Ambalapuzha, Haripad, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli, Sasthankotta and Kollam. Train No. 06047 Mangaluru Jn Kollam Weekly Express Special will depart Mangaluru Jn at 11.15 p.m. on 25 August, 1 and 8 September (Mondays) and will reach Kollam at 10.20 a.m. the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 06048 Kollam Mangaluru Jn Weekly Express Special will depart Kollam at 5.10 p.m. on 26 August and 2 and 9 September (Tuesdays) and will reach Mangaluru Jn at 5.30 a.m. the following day. These trains will have a coach composition of 1 AC Two Tier Coach, 2 AC Three Tier Coaches, 17 Sleeper Class Coaches, and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. They will stop at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli and Sasthankotta. Advance reservations for these trains will commence at 8 a.m. on 1 August.
Supplyco rolls out mega Onam fairs with subsidised commodities, targets Rs 250 crore in sales
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:Supplyco is gearing up for the Onam season with an array of large-scale initiatives aimed at easing household expenses and boosting festive cheer across Kerala. Extensive market interventions have been planned to ensure essential commodities reach consumers at reduced prices. The highlight of the celebrations will be 10-day Onam Mega Fairs in all district headquarters and five-day fairs in 140 assembly constituencies. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the state-level fair at Putharikandam ground here on August 25. District-level fairs will begin on August 26 and 27, continuing till Uthradam (September 4). In assembly constituencies, fairs will be held from August 31 to September 4 in connection with major Supplyco outlets. Apart from this, mobile Onam markets will also be set up across all constituencies from August 25, ensuring delivery of rice, groceries, and branded products to rural and remote areas. In response to the surge in coconut oil prices, Supplyco will distribute subsidised coconut oil at Rs 349 per litre and Rs 179 per half-litre pack, while non-subsidised packs will be sold at Rs 429 per litre and Rs 219 per half-litre. Additionally, other branded coconut oils will be made available below their MRP through Supplyco outlets. A major relief initiative is the distribution of more than 6 lakh Onam kits containing 15 essential items, including cloth bags, to AAY cardholders and welfare institutions. The distribution will run from August 18 to September 2. Supplyco is to convert three of its hypermarkets into signature marts, which will provide a contemporary shopping experience, as part of a major overhaul to its retail network. The Thalassery Hypermarket will be the first to open under the new branding this Onam, followed by the Kottayam and Ernakulam hypermarkets. Last Onam, Supplyco registered sales worth Rs 183 crore. Relying on its extensive network of fairs, subsidised items, and enhanced customer experience to achieve its ambitious goal of Rs 250 crore this year.
There are no walls here, only questions, textures, and stories waiting to open up. TheMFA degree show, Rooms Without Walls, by the final-year Painting and Sculpture students of the College of Fine Arts, Thiruvananthapuram, is less of an exhibition and more of a dialogue with fragments of the world we live in. Sculptures formed from everyday industrial remnants, paper pulp, cardboard, and even discarded newspapers, challenge the idea of permanence. Paintings move between the meditative quiet of solitude and the raw urgency of environmental decay. Found and forgotten objects are pulled back into life on the canvas, layered with memory and meaning. Metal spikes, chains, and raw rubber tell the stories of Keralas long history of struggle and survival. Photographs and mixed-media works speak of empowerment, identity, and our fragile relationship with nature... And alongside these are pieces that invite viewers to explore the intricate layers that often go beyond what the artist explicitly conveys across the seven galleries of the college. Every year, the Fine Arts College hosts degree shows for its final-year BFA andMFA students to give them a platform to share their work with the world. This time, we wanted to approach it differently as a collective, and that is how Rooms without Walls came about, says Sandra Thomas, one of the 14 students participating in the exhibition, which was inaugurated by Bose Krishnamachari. The materials, mediums, and styles vary, but a strong connection runs through all the works, whether it is self-reflection, questions of existence, or responses to what is happening around us, she adds. That is why we felt a group show would make more sense. With the title, we are trying to say that these depictions will continue to live on; they are not confined to the walls of a gallery or a space. The artists describe the exhibition as a collective emergence of voices and processes, where material turns into a path that carries us to the unique world encompassed in each work. Instead of building strict themes, the students wanted to let the works resonate with each other, allowing connections to be discovered naturally. For them, this show is not an end but a beginning, something beyond an exhibition and one that stays alive in the continued conversations. In many ways, this show brings attention to things that were never included in or fully acknowledged by history. Its also an attempt to notice and respond to aspects of everyday life the subtle, often overlooked details. In that sense, the artworks here provoke the viewers. That, I believe, is one of the key aims of this exhibition, says Akhiljith, faculty, Department of Painting. The group show also features works by Adithya S Kumar, Amal Jith O J, Amal Puthukudi, Athul K P, Chandan Gour, Jinto Bijo, Nithin Das M V, Rahul Buski, Rahul P P, Rajaneesh K K, Sabhin S S, Shajith R B, and Vishnu Chandran R. And the exhibition is drawing many curious visitors. For medical student Aparna Menon from Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, it was a random flex board that invited her onto the campus. This is her first time seeing an art exhibition. They have all done a beautiful job with this show. I felt like each artwork holds so many meanings, she says. The college is also hosting a range of workshops, including doll-making sessions, sketching, film screenings, discussions and presentations. After six years of intense art practice, these students are now stepping out. Until now, they were students. From this moment onward, they are artists, says Manesha Deva Sarma, faculty of the Sculpture Department. However, Manesha is also concerned about the future of art in Kerala. Kerala is a state where people are highly educated, but how many truly engage with art? How many walk into a fine arts college? Are artists and their works being recognised by society? These are important questions, he says. He also draws attention to the lack of a strong art market in the state, where people hesitate to buy an original painting for their home. They prefer mass-produced, printed material over supporting living artists. This makes me wonder,do we, as a society, have the aesthetic sensibility to invest in art? he asks. Also, he adds, unlike cities such as Delhi or Mumbai, where large private galleries actively support emerging artists, Kerala lacks such infrastructure. This gap needs to be addressed to build a sustainable ecosystem for contemporary art, he asserts. The exhibition will conclude on August 3.
Try kombucha from tap launched by Vaisakh Gardens in Thiruvananthapuram
The brand introduced their line of kombuchas in 2018, flavoured with red-fleshed dragon fruit cultivated at their farm
The art exhibition by the outgoing batch of MFA course showcases works of 14 students from July 25 to August 3.
Southern Railway announces changes in pattern of services in Kerala to facilitate track maintenance
KOZHIKODE: Southern Railway announced several changes in the pattern of train services to facilitate track maintenance works in the Thiruvananthapuram division on various days. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 66609 Palakkad Junction Ernakulam Junction MEMU journey commencing on August 2, 3, 6, 9 and 10 from Palakkad Junction will be fully cancelled. Train No. 66610 Ernakulam Junction Palakkad Junction MEMU journey commencing on August 2, 3, 6, 9 and 10 from Ernakulam Junction will also be fully cancelled. Train No. 12511 Gorakhpur Junction Thiruvananthapuram North Raptisagar Express journey commencing on July 31, August 1, 7, and 8 from Gorakhpur Junction will be regulated by 100 minutes en-route. Train No. 16308 Kannur Alappuzha Express journey commencing on August 2, 3, 6, 9 and 10 from Kannur will be regulated by 90 minutes en-route. Train No. 22645 Indore Junction Thiruvananthapuram North Superfast Express journey commencing on August 4 from Indore Junction will be regulated by 90 minutes en-route. Train No. 20631 Mangaluru Central Thiruvananthapuram Central Vande Bharat Express journey commencing on August 2 and 9 from Mangaluru Central will be regulated by 55 minutes en-route. Train No. 17230 Secunderabad Junction Thiruvananthapuram Central Sabari Express journey commencing on August 1 and 8 from Secunderabad Junction will be regulated by 60 minutes en-route. Train No. 20910 Porbandar Thiruvananthapuram North Express journey commencing on July 31 and August 7 from Porbandar will be regulated by 45 minutes en-route. Train No. 66609 Palakkad Junction Ernakulam Junction MEMU journey commencing on August 8 from Palakkad Junction will be regulated by 45 minutes en-route. Train No. 13351 Dhanbad Junction Alappuzha Express journey commencing on August 3 from Dhanbad Junction will be regulated by 35 minutes en-route. Train No. 20632 Thiruvananthapuram Central Mangaluru Central Vande Bharat Express journey commencing on August 2 and 9 from Thiruvananthapuram Central at 4.05 p.m. will be rescheduled to depart at 4.50 p.m. on the same day.
CM Pinarayi Vijayan to launch Muthalapozhi harbour development work today
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Work on the Muthalapozhi harbour development project, aimed at enhancing fishers safety, will begin on Thursday. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the work on the I177-crore project being implemented under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana. Once completed, it is expected to bring a permanent solution to the frequent accidents and other issues that have plagued the harbour as a result of unscientific construction. The redevelopment is also focused on enabling the Muthalapozhi harbour meet the standards of a Green and Blue Port. Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian will preside over the inaugural ceremony which will also be attended by Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian. The current Muthalapozhi fishing harbour was commissioned back in June, 2020. As part of the construction of the Vizhinjam port, the breakwater at Muthalapozhi was partially destroyed to allow for the transportation of rocks via sea for the construction of the port. Despite large-scale dredging after the harbours commissioning, accidents and fatalities continued to rise, turning the harbour mouth into a death trap for fishers. Subsequently, the government entrusted the Central Water Power Research Station (CWPRS) to recommend safety measures. Based on the CWPRS report, the harbour engineering department submitted a detailed project report. The comprehensive development project involves extending the southern breakwater by 420 metres, repair and strengthening of breakwaters, dredging operations, and expanding wharf facilities on the Perumathura and Thazham Pulli sides.
Teen scientists humanoid ELSA to guide you rightly
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: What if robots could teach students or walk amid them as their understanding peers? This thought once felt like a distant dream. The students of Saraswathi Vidyalaya in Thiruvananthapuram have developed an AI-powered humanoid, that can navigate students in the school and even teach them. Named after a Disney character, ELSA was launched by music director M Jayachandran at the school on Saturday. The 4.5-ft-tall humanoid was the result of the hardwork of eight scientifically-spirited studentsVaibhav M, Krishnanunni Vidhu, Karthik Nair, Rishinath P R, Anamika Visakh, Narayani Sandeep, Avani Anand Kurup, and Arathi S P. The teenagers, who worked overtime after their academics, collaborated with Kollam-based Techosa Robotics to build ELSA. We just helped the students when they hit roadblocks. All the work, from ideation to execution, was done by them, Techosa Robotics CEO Sam H Sivan said, adding that the humanoid could be the first of its kind to be developed by students from Kerala. All textbook contents have been fed into ELSA. The humanoid can now teach students any content from the syllabus, and even direct a visitor to the school to the right place or person as per their needs. The first plan was to build a humanoid, which will revolutionise the teaching process, said Vaibhav from Class 9, who mostly handled the Python programming part of ELSA. He further said that their elaborate plans were later refined to the current one due to various challenges. However, the young scientist said that the humanoid can never replace their beloved teachers. Even our teachers find it difficult to handle students in class sometimes. So do I need to say how a robot fares? Vaibhav smiled. Karthik from Plus-One, who oversaw the mechanical part of the humanoid, said that everything, including component assembling for the humanoid, was done by the students. The entire process took the students less than a year to complete. Currently exhibited in the Robotics Lab of the school, ELSA, which has tyres attached to it for free movement, can be deployed to attend to visitors for big events like inter-school programmes, a teacher at the school said. The school is also considering age-appropriate content regulation at the next stage of the humanoid. Any additions to this can be done by a few changes in the programming, explained the teen scientists.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: To make things easy for women who love to peddle, the citys cycling enthusiasts, under the aegis of Indus Cycling Embassys She Cycling Project are hosting sessions to train women in cycling. The idea is also to encourage fitness and to help women break mindsets, according to Prakash P Gopinath, managing trustee of Indus Cycling Embassy. In Kerala, women are reluctant to take up cycling partly due to fear of injury, due to societal pressures, and due to lack of proper training at older stages of their life. To address such concerns and to empower women to be free to move about, the project was launched three years ago, says Prakash, who is also known as the Bicycle Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram. Until 2013, when Indus Academy used to organise cycle rallies, women were part of them, but in small numbers. From then, the effort was on to train women in his neighbourhood, says Prakash. The project got a boost in 2022. In Thiruvananthapuram alone, about 75 women were trained. The current initiative is at the behest of Vattiyurkavu MLA V K Prashanth. On Saturday, there would also be a Freedom Night programme organised for women, where they will be encouraged to participate in a late-evening cycling rally. The training sessions will be from 4.30pm to 6pm on weekdays at the Cycling Track, Kowdiar Pipeline Road. To register, call 8089494442
Kerala nuns arrest casts shadow over BJPs outreach
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The arrest of the Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh has snowballed into a political storm in Kerala with the Left parties, Congress, and various associations mounting a strong campaign that threatens to derail the BJPs outreach among Christians in the state. Senior BJP leaders acknowledged that the issue has shaken the partys recent gains in building closer ties with Church authorities. For some time, the Congress and Left were worried about our growing proximity to bishops and the Church. Unable to stop it, they are now using the Chhattisgarh arrests as a weapon to break that trust, a BJP leader said. The BJP had planned a ward-level campaign across Kerala from August 1 to 10, aimed at expanding its membership. Party insiders say the meetings will now double as a reality check on how much damage the controversy has caused. Even while firmly opposing forced conversions, the Kerala BJP moved quickly to intervene in the Chhattisgarh case. A delegation was sent to assist the arrested nuns after the state unit concluded there was no evidence of conversion attempts. We took a bold step, fully aware it might backfire, but it was clear this was a genuine case. Our priority is ensuring justice for the nuns, a senior leader explained.
Kerala nuns' arrest: Church heads lead priests, laity in protest march
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With their mouths gagged, heads of various rites of the Catholic Church in Kerala led hundreds of nuns, priests and laity in a silent march from the Martyrs Column to the Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, protesting the arrest of two Keralite nuns in Chhattisgarh . Addressing the protesters after the culmination of the march in front of the Raj Bhavan, Kerala Catholic Bishops Council president Cardinal Baselios Cleemis minced no words in criticising the BJP, which is in power in Chhattisgarh. Questions are being raised about some people arriving at palaces with cakes for Christmas and Easter... The Christian community expects a little more sincerity, he said in an apparent reference to the BJPs Christian outreach programme. Rajeev Chandrasekhar has admitted that the allegations against the nuns are not true. Then, why are they still behind bars? Why cant they be released? he wondered. The imprisonment of the nuns is a clear violation of religious freedom, Mar Cleemis said. Expressing anguish over reports that some had celebrated the rejection of their bail plea, he said, Is this the kind of secular democracy that we have been talking about? Those in power must show the will to resolve this issue. The nuns are not traitors. Besides Mar Cleemis, Thiruvananthapuram Latin Archdiocese Bishop Christudas Rajappan, Metropolitan Archbishop Thomas Jessayyan Netto and Mar Thoma Syrian Church Bishop Isaac Mar Philoxenos led the protest march. Cleemis slams Union ministers from state Cardinal Baselios Cleemis criticised Union ministers from Kerala, Suresh Gopi and George Kurien, for not intervening in the issue of nuns arrest. As far as I know, Suresh Gopi and George Kurien have not contacted the church or offered any help. The churchs position on BJPs Christian outreach programme will be decided on the basis of the justice delivered to those two innocent nuns, the head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church said. The church is not against talks. We know that dialogue will always lead to results. However, when attacks against Christians and priests in other parts of the country continue unabated, how would a harmonious condition prevail in Kerala? Attacking us on one hand, and making peace on the other is not acceptable, he added.
Holding the cards of tradition and culture with Malabar Shuffle
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rummy, Bluff, or Ass. Whatever the game, the cards are dealt and played with a poker face. And, with Malabar Shuffle adding colour and taste to the hustle, the familiar deck of westernised face cards now wears a fresh, local twist thanks to Kochi-based Anaswara Offset Printers and Dubai-based illustrator Treasa Maria Rajan. The result is playful yet elegant decks set in the traditional Kerala context. While kathakali-themed cards have been around for a while, Malabar Shuffle is the first deck to reimagine all the face cards in full Kerala flair. Treasa, who casually sketched the first illustrations out of personal interest, never imagined her drawings would become a commercial deck. I started it just for fun. Being from a design background and connected to our roots, I found the idea of fusioning face cards exciting, said Treasa. Thats when Blankverse, Anaswaras stationery brand, spotted her work and pitched the idea of developing it into a full deck. Every card is a cultural artefact. Kings draped in kasavu mundu, queens decked up in traditional jewellery and intricate hairstyles, jokers inspired by ottanthullal performers. All illustrated in rich detail. I once watched an ottanthullal performance and was fascinated by the humour and expression. That became my joker, Treasa recalled. For the other cards, she drew inspiration from Raja Ravi Varma paintings, royal portraits at Tripunithura Hill Palace, and historical flicks such as Pazhassi Raja and Urumi. I wanted a visually rich feel. I played with my craft to reflect the flamboyance of card games and the charm of our traditions, she explained. Launched in December at Blankverse, the deck quickly turned heads. By May, it was available online, and demand has been rising steadily since. Most buyers are in the 35-45 age group, but we have also seen younger customers being drawn by the aesthetics and print quality, said Arun Thomas, director of 43-year-old Anaswara. The design goes beyond just dressing up the face cards. Suits are layered with motifs such as lotuses and traditional patterns. Priced at Rs 325 a deck, Rs 600 for two, and Rs 800 for three, the cards are available in packs of up to 10 online and in the store. We also accept custom bulk orders. A new set featuring Indias original kings and queens is already in the works, added Arun. So, with every shuffle of the Malabar Shuffle, players get a sparkle of culture, while indulging in a good old card game, as Arun puts it.
Wayanad disaster a year on: Hearts heavy, but new dawn beckons
CHOORALMALA: Exactly a year after the ChooralmalaMundakkai landslides buried homes, hopes, and entire families under the debris of despair, the survivors are taking their first steps towards a new beginning. On the first anniversary of the disaster, a few of them visited the model house built as part of the governments ambitious rehabilitation project, offering, for the first time in months, a glimpse of something they had forgotten safety. Im so happy. Having a roof over our heads again feels like the biggest security, said Suhara Yusuf, a native of Chooralmala School Road, her voice quivering as she stood at the threshold of what will soon become her new home. Suhara and her husband were the only ones to survive from their household. We had nowhere to go. Were too old to work, and now we live on the daily allowance from the government. We never thought wed get a home again, she said, pausing. Were happy but we wish our loved ones were here to live with us.Suharas story echoes the grief and gratitude felt by hundreds. As part of the township project, the state is building 459 houses for the displaced families. The first cluster of 120 houses is rising on the slopes of Elston Estate in Kalpetta. Each two-bedroom house is spread across seven cents, offering 1,000 square feet of spacemodest but dignified. Chooralmala native sisters Ajitha and Ambika praying at their mothers grave The model house was completed in just five months, and 29 foundations are already laid. The work on 35 more houses will begin shortly. The government hopes to hand over the keys to all families by December 2025.But even as some look forward to rebuilding their lives, for many, the grief still feels rawetched in silence, scattered flowers, and the smell of camphor. At the Puthumala graveyard, where hundreds of victims are buried, the sky remained clear, an ironic contrast to the downpour that caused the tragedy a year ago. Families arrived early in the morning, many carrying incense sticks, garlands, and laminated photographs of those they lost. Tears flowed freely. Abhijith, 19, wandered quietly through the rows of graves. His eyes searched for the names of his lost onesnine in total, including his parents Subramanian and Babita. He was in Thiruvananthapuram, for his studies, that day, making him a lonely witness of the aftermath. His brother Girijiths body has not been found to this day. Elsewhere, 70-year-old Madhavi stood near a memorial stone placed at her granddaughter Avanthikas grave. She was so beautiful, with long, thick hair. That photo on the stone it doesnt do justice to her smile, she said, wiping tears. She had asked me what gift Id give her if she got full A+ in SSLC. She never waited for my answer. Mundakkai native Jyothi Mani crying near her sons grave The plantation community too turned up in solidarity. Workers from the Harrison Malayalam estatewhere 43 lives were lostlit candles and laid flowers for their colleagues who never made it back from the hills they once called home. A state-level commemoration was held at the graveyard with the presence of ministers K Rajan, P A Mohamed Riyas, and A K Saseendran. An all-religion prayer marked the solemn occasion, followed by floral tributes by government officials and the public. At the MSA Auditorium in Meppadi, the Meppadi panchayat organised a public meeting where Revenue Minister Rajan announced that 49 more families will be added to the rehabilitation beneficiaries list, offering much-needed relief to those living just beyond the officially declared No Go zones. Yet, while some survivors look ahead to newly built homes, others continue to fight for recognition. In Chooralmala town, a protest gathered strength on the anniversary day. The Chooralmala Traders Association demonstrated, demanding an urgent rehabilitation package for business owners devastated by the landslide and the subsequent closure of the town. Its been a year, and the government hasnt even prepared a list of traders affected, said Muhammed Niyas, an executive member of the association. Around 80 traderssmall and largelost everything. We tried restarting from Kalpetta and Meppadi, but most of those attempts failed. Our families are still waiting to eat two proper meals a day. We need to survive too. One year on, Chooralmala and Mundakkai remain landscapes of longingtorn between the ache of loss and the glimmer of a new dawn. But one thing is clear: the spirit of the hills has not been buried.
Four more wetlands in Kerala move a step closer to Ramsar tag
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a major boost to wetland conservation efforts in Kerala, four ecologically significant wetlands -- Vellayani and Akkulam-Veli in Thiruvananthapuram, Kottooli in Kozhikode, and the Kattampally-Valapattanam-Kuppam wetland complex in Kannur -- have moved a step closer to securing the Ramsar site status. The draft Ramsar Information Sheets (RIS) for these wetlands have been prepared by the State Wetland Authority Kerala (SWAK) and will be submitted to the Union ministry of environment, forests and climate change (MoEF&CC) soon. Once approved, these wetlands will be included in the prestigious Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, which currently includes 75 sites from India -- the highest number among Asian countries. Environment department director Suneel Pamidi told TNIE that getting the Ramsar site status will help the state make a more focused effort to conserve these sites. Its an international recognition and the status will help get international funding for conservation efforts. SWAK will send the proposal to the Union government which will then submit it to the Ramsar Secretariat. These sites will get the status once the Ramsar Secretariat approves it, Pamidi said. He said the process is going to be lengthy. We selected these sites which meet all the criteria designed by Ramsar. These are unique wetlands with rich diversity and important species of flora and fauna, birds and significant fish resources, he said. SWAK is expected to approve the proposal in the next meeting to be held in August. Currently, Kerala has three Ramsar Sites -- Ashtamudi, Sasthamkotta and Vembanad Kol. An official with SWAK said the action plans for these sites have already been set in motion and are being executed with the participation of the local community, NGOs, and multiple stakeholders including local bodies. The Ramsar Secretariat will review the proposals for the four new sites and may suggest corrections and revisions. We will have to incorporate all those, the official said. Once the Ramsar status is received, the state will get funds from the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA), an initiative aimed at conserving all types of aquatic ecosystems including wetlands, lakes, and rivers. Under the scheme, the Centre will give 60% aid for the project and the state has to chip in with the rest. There are also other internationally funded schemes for conservation, the official added. New sites in line Vellayani in Thiruvananthapuram Akkulam-Veli in Thiruvananthapuram Kottooli in Kozhikode Kattampally-Valapattanam-Kuppam wetland complex in Kannur
Kerala BJP, Sangh parivar divided over the arrest of nuns
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as the state BJP has been trying to contain the damage over the arrest of Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh , differences have cropped up between the state unit and Sangh parivar, with the latter strongly coming out against Rajeev Chandrasekhars statement giving a clean chit to the nuns. With the crucial 2026 assembly elections approaching, the BJP is using all the tricks up its sleeve to wriggle out of the situation with minimal political backlash as both the UDF and LDF have taken up the issue. Though the BJP has sent its general secretary Anoop Antony, who has a good rapport with national Sangh parivar leaders, to Chhattisgarh, it now knows that nothing more can be done till bail is granted to the nuns. The BJP is facing its worst dilemma with core Sangh parivar organisations toughening their stand against the arrested nuns and Rajeev Chandrasekhars statement supporting them. Before the judiciary and police come to a conclusion, any statement issued by anyone exonerating the nuns is an injustice to the victims, state president of Hindu Aikya Vedi, R V Babu, told TNIE. Rejecting the state BJP presidents stance that the nuns are innocent, Babu said that BJP as a political party might take a position. However, as organisations working on the basis of Hindutva ideology, we demand that the Christian Church must reject the religious conversion going on, including in states like Kerala. Why are these missionaries carrying out their service only on Hindus and not on Muslims? he asked. He said that Hindu Aikya Vedi will oppose any attempt to convert Hindus in the name of service or love. Kerala nuns' arrest triggers political slugfest; Chhattisgarh CM justifies action The VHP also slammed state BJPs stand without naming it. Instead of saying that the law should take its course, the law-makers have been trying to shield the law-breaker, VHP central joint secretary, Surendra Jain, said. The people of Kerala should tell the nuns coming from there to follow their religion and not get involved in any illegal activities or human trafficking. The leaders there should not stand in their favour at all, he said in a statement. However, what disturbs the BJP leadership the most is the fact that the entire episode has cast a shadow over its Christian outreach programme. To a certain level, we have been successful in making inroads into the community, a BJP core committee member told TNIE. Now we have to start it all over again. There is also apprehension in the Minority Morcha which had worked as a bridge between the Church authorities and state BJP leadership. The inflow of believers from Christian community to BJP will be affected by these developments, a national leader of the Minority Morcha told TNIE. At the time of Manipur violence, we did not face such a situation as there was no casualty involving Malayalis. This is altogether a different situation, he said. The BJP has already started fire-fighting by deploying leaders like Anoop to get the arrested nuns released and to keep the Church authorities in the loop. Kerala nuns' arrest: Church wary of politics, in talks with PMO Kerala CM Pinarayi slams alleged arrest of Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh, calls it Sangh Parivars 'true face'
Targeted attack on Christian, Adivasi communities: LDF, UDF
RAIPUR/KOCHI: The nuns, arrested on charges of forced conversion and human trafficking from Durg railway station in Chhattisgarh, will have to remain in jail after the Sessions Court refused to hear the bail plea. Session Judge Aneesh Dubey said the case fell outside the courts jurisdiction. The matter will now be heard by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court in Bilaspur. According to the members of the LDF, UDF, and BJP delegations, the court has stated that the nuns will have to approach a special court for relief. Sr Preethi Mary and Sr Vandana Francis, along with Sukaman Mandavi, were arrested by the Government Railway Police (GRP) at the Durg railway station on July 25 following a complaint by a local Bajrang Dal functionary, who accused them of forcibly converting three women from the states tribal-dominated Narayanpur district and trafficking them. According to the GRP, the group was allegedly preparing to travel to Agra where the three young women were to be trained and later employed. The nuns, booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 143 (trafficking) and Section 4 of the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968, (unlawful religious conversions), were remanded in judicial custody till August 8. Kottayam MP Francis George told TNIE, The things that happened on Wednesday were quite unexpected. As soon as the bail application was moved, the Sessions judge said that the plea could not be heard since it didnt have the power to hear human trafficking cases. The matter got complicated as Narayanpur and surrounding areas are Naxal-infested. Since human trafficking cases are prevalent in these areas, laws have been made in such a way that they come under the purview of NIA, he said. Nuns take part in a silent protest march, organised by the Thiruvananthapuram Catholic Forum to Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, condemning the arrest of the nuns Meanwhile, the delegation led by the CPM, CPI, and Kerala Congress (M) condemned the targeted attack on Christian and Adivasi communities in Chhattisgarh. The delegation met the nuns on Wednesday. CPM leader Brinda Karat termed the arrest unconstitutional and illegal, and demanded their immediate release. The nuns have been jailed as part of a malicious agenda of the BJP and the Chhattisgarh government. This is a targeted attack on Christians in the country, she claimed. The delegation condemned the free hand given to Bajrang Dal activists who intimidated the nuns in front of the police. However, Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma defended the police, saying, Such incidents (human trafficking and coercive conversions) have been reported from Narayanpur earlier also. So the issue should be investigated. The FIR has substantial grounds. Kottayam MP Francis George told TNIE, The things that happened on Wednesday were quite unexpected. As soon as the bail application was moved, the Sessions judge said that the plea could not be heard since it didnt have the power to hear human trafficking cases. The matter got complicated as Narayanpur and surrounding areas are Naxal-infested. Since human trafficking cases are prevalent in these areas, laws have been made in such a way that they come under the purview of NIA, he said. Congress state president Sunny Joseph, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, former party president V M Sudheeran and other leaders during a protest march to Raj Bhavan Meanwhile, the delegation led by the CPM, CPI, and Kerala Congress (M) condemned the targeted attack on Christian and Adivasi communities in Chhattisgarh. The delegation met the nuns on Wednesday. CPM leader Brinda Karat termed the arrest unconstitutional and illegal, and demanded their immediate release. The nuns have been jailed as part of a malicious agenda of the BJP and the Chhattisgarh government. This is a targeted attack on Christians in the country, she claimed. The delegation condemned the free hand given to Bajrang Dal activists who intimidated the nuns in front of the police. However, Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma defended the police, saying, Such incidents (human trafficking and coercive conversions) have been reported from Narayanpur earlier also. So the issue should be investigated. The FIR has substantial grounds. Protests to continue till nuns receive justice: All Kerala Catholic Congress Protest marches and meetings were organised all over Kerala expressing solidarity with the arrested nuns. According to Fr Philip Kaviyil, director, All Kerala Catholic Congress, protests were the strongest in Kannur and Kasaragod. People have been taking out marches since the news of the arrest of the nuns came in. Catholic Congress members even took out a march bearing lighted torches. The protests will continue until the nuns are released, he added. A symbolic protest march was taken out to the Raj Bhavan by the members and leaders of the Latin Catholic Archdiocese in Thiruvananthapuram. Chhattisgarh CMs intervention saw prosecutors go lenient, says Anoop Antony With the Sessions Court refusing to hear the bail plea citing a jurisdictional issue, the next step as to whether to approach the High Court or the NIA Court will have to be decided, BJP leader Anoop Antony Joseph told TNIE. According to him, a decision can be arrived at only after the courts order is received. The court had said that a bail application can be moved either before the HC or the NIA, he added. Meanwhile, on the Chhattisgarh CM providing every support, he said that it was because of his intervention that the prosecutors took a mild approach and supported the case.
VACB arrests 14 persons for fund scams in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation
Nuns arrest in Chhattisgarh: Bishops, priests, nuns march towards Kerala Guvs residence
Nuns arrest in Chhattisgarh: Bishops, priests, nuns march towards Kerala Guvs residence Thiruvananthapuram: Expressing their ire towards the BJP and the Chhattisgarh government in particular, for the arrest of two Kerala nuns, hundreds of people led by the Kerala Catholic Bishops Conference President, marched towards the official residence of Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar on [] The post Nuns arrest in Chhattisgarh: Bishops, priests, nuns march towards Kerala Guvs residence appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
TPuram, Kochi, feature in Nasscoms list of top GCC hubs
Big corporations are finding Keralas tier 2 cities attractive for setting up Global Capability Centres (GGCs), reads a report released by Nasscom. According to it, both Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi have registered over 20 GGCs, and together they employ more than 15,000 and 8,000 people, respectively. One major reason behind this trend is the fact that tier 1 cities like Bengaluru have become saturated, Infopark CEO Susanth Kurunthil tells TNIE. Other factors like high land cost and over-stretched infrastructure facilities elsewhere, too, have had many MNCs eyeing tier 2 cities, especially Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, he says. A source with a real estate firm that deals with IT infrastructure seconds Susanth. He says, Unlike other tier 2 cities in the country, the land value in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram is lower, even compared to nearby cities like Coimbatore. Then there is the advantage of having better connectivity and a huge concentration of educational institutions, he says, implying a larger talent pool. Susanth, too, points to this as yet another alluring factor. The availability of a big talent pool in Kerala has made it a favourite destination for setting up GCC among big companies like IBM, Nissan, EY, etc, the Infopark CEO says. Then, it is also about being part of a thriving, supportive ecosystem, and not always just about business growth, says Technopark CEO Col Sanjeev Nair (retd). Good infrastructure, a skilled workforce and an inclusive community ethos these are what made Thiruvananthapuram a preferred destination for GCCs, deep tech firms and startups alike, he says. While the news is indeed buoyant for Keralas ambitions in IT, what will bolster this even further is the state governments efforts to turn even more cities in the state into potential GCC hubs. One major step being taken to this effect is the formulation of a draft GCC policy. It will be released in September as a prelude to the GCC Conclave, organised in association with Nasscom, Minister for Industries P Rajeeve tells TNIE. The setting up of a Skill and Entrepreneurship University and industry corridors to connect various tier 3 cities in the state is yet another step taken towards this goal, says the minister. Kerala already hosts several GCCs from leading global companies such as IBM, Allianz, Nissan Digital, EY, Accenture, Equifax, H&R Block, Insight, NOV, Safran, Guidehouse, Icon and RM Education. The report, The Rise of Emerging Cities in the GCC, also paints an optimistic picture for the rest of India by highlighting how it has steadily become a GCC hub for large multinational companies. The GCC market size is expected to reach around USD 100 billion by 2030, and the headcount will cross 2.5 million, industry sources say.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A powerful body of senior Catholic clergy in Kerala on Wednesday indirectly cautioned the BJP that any prospective friendship would depend on securing justice for two nuns from the state jailed in Chhattisgarh over alleged conversion and human trafficking. Addressing reporters here, Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) president, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, said the incident would be a determining factor in the Church's political stance. If no justice is done, then what friendship can there be? How can we speak of perfect brotherhood? the Cardinal asked, expressing displeasure over the denial of bail to the two nuns, who were arrested following complaints made by Bajrang Dal members. The nuns are yet to get bail. This will be a criterion. Naturally, we will observe developments and decide accordingly, he said. Cleemis questioned the sincerity of outreach efforts when justice was being denied to the nuns. Everyone should act on what they preach and show sincerity. This is what we expect, he said, responding to questions about the BJP's attempts to engage with the Christian community in the state. While Cleemis did not mention the BJP directly, his remarks came at a time when the party's Kerala unit is intensifying efforts to woo the Christian community ahead of next year's Assembly elections. Reacting to BJP Kerala chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar's statement rejecting the allegations against the nuns, the Cardinal said the leader himself had clarified that the charges of forced conversion and trafficking were baseless. There is no need for further explanation, he added. Cleemis urged all political parties to rise above their affiliations and speak out in support of the nuns, calling for their freedom and constitutional rights to be upheld. He also thanked Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty for visiting him and expressing the state government's support. After the meeting, Sivankutty told reporters that the BJP's claims of minority outreach were hypocritical. He criticised union ministers from Kerala for maintaining silence on the issue and called it dangerous and disappointing. If they're targeting nuns today, priests could be next, the minister alleged, accusing BJP leaders of wearing a mask. The arrest of the two Kerala-based Catholic nuns in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh has triggered a political row, with the Congress and CPI(M) strongly criticising the move. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, however, accused the opposition of politicising the matter. Families allege foul play, say nuns always cared for underprivileged Kerala CM Pinarayi slams alleged arrest of Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh, calls it Sangh Parivars 'true face'
Technopak is not just about tech and work
July 28 was a monumental day for Technopark. It was on this day, 35 years ago, that a society was registered under the Travancore-Cochin Scientific and Charitable Societies Act. Named Electronic and Technology Parks Kerala, the society marked the foundation of Technopark an innovative space where tech-based ventures could sprout and flourish. For Thiruvananthapuram in the 1990s, this was a revolutionary idea. And it was not just about the tech boom. Until then, the workplace meant spaces were defined strictly by deadlines and job-related functions. With Technopark, a new concept emerged: a workplace that allowed room to unwind, share, care, and nurture ones creative and social self. Football teams battling it out during a sporting outing. Three-and-a-half decades later, Technopark stands not just as a tech hub but as a place where many have discovered their true calling beyond profession. Filmmakers Basil Joseph and Dijo Jose are two such names. Both were part of Technoparks early work culture and belonged to Natana, one of its first creative communities. We started this because we felt there were many who were interested in art and culture. We incorporated activities where Technopark employees could explore their artistic talents, says Shagin T V, entrepreneur and co-founder of Natana. Biking tours also are part of techies' leisure. Apart from organising contemporary art programmes, we also introduced traditional artforms like kathakali, koodiyattam, and mizhavu concerts. For those with a Bollywood streak, we had Jalwa, a hugely popular inter-Technopark dance competition held annually on a theme. Talents like Basil and Dijo began making films right here on campus. He recalls the making of one of Basils first short films on the campus. He wanted special permission to shoot. At that time, some TV serials had portrayed the tech community in poor light, so Technopark authorities were wary of the project. They, however, permitted the shoot after a caution to be careful. Basils film, A Short Film, was shot on the campus, Shagin shares. Natana also gave space to Sethunath U, who had studied kathakali for over 25 years. Performing in Technoparks amphitheatre to a crowd of 2,000 to 3,000 was a dream come true, he says. Elsewhere, one wouldnt get such a response. Natana was one of the best forums for coordinating not just contemporary but traditional arts too, says Sethunath, a cloud architect with Oracle. Before Natana, there was TPBazaar, which functioned from the early days to share information on rentals, food, and services for IT professionals. This was before web-based platforms like OLX became common. Slowly, it turned into a discussion forum, says a co-founder who did not want to be named. A parallel venture was Technopark Today, a digital magazine focused on community-specific news. Now it has a strong presence on social media, reporting on events and personalities unique to the campus. It recently featured Velayudhan Nair, the gardener who has been tending to Technoparks green spaces since inception. Social concern also has always been part of the fabric here, says Rajeev Krishnan, state convener of the techies forum Prathidhwani. Formed in 2012, Pratidhwani reflects employee voices. We now have several groups under our umbrella. We support students with materials, fees, and scholarships, and help longtimers facing crises, he says. Film festival time at Technopark. The facilitys blood bank forum, Thejus, is one of the most active in the capital. We get frequent requests for rare blood types, and respond swiftly, says Shagin. A collection centre has also been set up on the campus. Besides socio-cultural platforms, Technoparks 750-acre campus has chill groups as well. Last year, a bikers club was launched and is now planning its fourth ride. A travellers group is also actively organising tours. Sajna Ali, a solo traveller and former employee, found her true calling through Technoparks creative forums. I would go on solo trips, and people would ask how, where, and why. That led me to start a womens travel collective, Appooppanthaadi, nine years ago, she says. Technopark Today featured it, and the article was displayed on notice boards. That gave my initiative a big push. Two years later, I quit tech and pursued travel full-time. Today, Appooppanthaadi helps women live their travel dreams. Though I dont work at Technopark anymore, I still volunteer with Thejus. Breathing easy!!!! Another interesting platform is the literary club named Srishti, which seeks to bring out the writers in techies. We get over 400 entries for writing competitions, says Nezin Sreekumar, its convener. Our mother tongue poetry festival featured recitations in 19 languages. Some of our members are published authors six or seven books have emerged through the club. For visual artists, the Varakkoottam collective provides a canvas. They painted walls of government schools in Kazhakkoottam and Karyavattom. We encourage employees to send their children to these schools under our My Government School initiative. This helps children stay rooted, says Nezin. Together at work, together in fun. With over 75,000 employees entering Technopark each day, such initiatives foster connection and community. Whatever event we hold, the response is huge. Otherwise, the crowd disperses, seeking engagement elsewhere. For instance, music events draw over 1,000 people. Film festivals get packed. The Technopark Premier League saw 164 cricket teams compete for over four months. Football too has over 100 players. We just channel that energy creating a symbiosis between facility and people, Nezin adds. Technopark, thus, continues to thrive not just as a space for technology, but as an inclusive, soul-nurturing ecosystem where life at work also means life in full.
Around 33km from Kolkata is Achipur where a red tomb lies. It is the occupier of the grave that gave the locale its name. Tong Atchew, said to be from the Hakka community, was the first Chinese person to land on the Indian shores in the 18th century. Soon many joined him to work on the sugar plantations that he set up there. The community thrived, sprouting a culture that combined the charm of Chinese life with the vibrancy of Bengal. The careful sublimity of this marriage is still seen in two Kolkata localities the Tiretti Bazaar and Tangra. The food from here, which spread to the entire country, is what is now known as Chinese cuisine in India. Now, the Tangra food festival at The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, is recreating this splendour in Thiruvananthapuram. The food festival features 25 dishes the delicacies of Indo-Chinese cuisine curated by Chef Rakesh and his team. Our tasting session began with the veg Manchow soup sweet and tangy, with rich, silky texture reminding us of the intuitiveness of Chinese ways. There was also a burst of Indian spices, giving the dish a unique peppiness. The crispy noodle added to the chicken variant gave it more of this tinkle. The dishes in the festival menu have ample options for vegetarians too. Its 50-50 here. Almost every dish in the menu has a vegetarian variant, says Sarath Madathil, deputy general manager, marketing and special projects of The Leela Raviz. Starters soon followed the soup, in an endless trail. Baby corn dipped in Schezwan sauce, Tangra-style lollipops aptly named Drums of Heaven, Veg Manchurian, and Chicken Suimai (the dish stands almost needle-like) occupy the prime spot in this chart. But what took the cake is the king of dimsums the Crystal Dimsum with potato starch as the wrap, rendering the outer coating translucent. Glass skin rules in Oriental cuisine too! Another attraction is the array of dips and sauces. The quintessential soya, tomato-garlic, and onion-garlic sauce aside, the spread has quite a scintillating storm packed in the chilli-coriander sauce, with a chewy yet crunchy splurt of lingering flavour. The Lao Gan Ma sauce, made with chilli, garlic and black beans, then slow-cooked and ravishingly flaunted, is also a formidable presence. Chilli and garlic form the core of Tangra cuisine. The Schezwan noodles came with a layered taste of garlic, onion, chilli, and were cloaked in a tangy sweetness. The fried rice and its veg variant also bore the savouring fragrance of chilli and garlic. The prime spot is reserved for Lao Gan Ma fried rice. The star was, of course, the Schezwan Hakka noodles, which packed the culinary history of the Hakka community. Originally made of rice and potato starch, in India, it transformed into a wheat or maida variant, doing justice to the tag of Indo-Chinese. Another spectacle is the cluster of vegetables tossed in the legendary Chinese wok in garlic sauce. The zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms seemed pampered enough to create a tsunami of gastronomical ecstasy. The desserts section at the festival is a medley of flavours from panna cottas, to matcha cream brulee, kafir lime yoghurt, tiramisu, green tea cheese cakes, and chia puddings. The highlight, though, is the live station where Chinatown and Tangra Wok-tossed delicacies, momos and dumplings are freshly dished out. Arranged at The Terrace, adorned with Chinese decor, the experience transports one to the time and tides that brought Atchew and his clan to India. The fest will conclude on August 3.
Kerala nuns arrest: Sessions court in Chhattisgarh declines bail plea, refers case to Bilaspur HC
Kerala nuns arrest: Sessions court in Chhattisgarh declines bail plea, refers case to Bilaspur HC Raipur/Thiruvananthapuram: In a setback for two Kerala-based nuns currently lodged in Durg jail, a sessions court on Wednesday declined to entertain their bail plea, directing the petitioners to approach the NIA-designated bench at the Chhattisgarh High Court in Bilaspur. The [] The post Kerala nuns arrest: Sessions court in Chhattisgarh declines bail plea, refers case to Bilaspur HC appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Student dies by suicide in Kerala's Neyyatinkara
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A class 11 student of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Neyyatinkara, allegedly committed suicide on Tuesday night. Prathibha PR (16) was found hanging at her home. The cause of death has not yet been ascertained, said the school principal Deepa G. The school authorities were informed about the incident by 7 pm on Tuesday. The student is the only daughter of Rajesh and Sreetha from Ooruttukala, the family has been living there for several years, ward member PS Murali said. The principal said that the student comes from a financially weaker family. The police have filed a case of unnatural death on the incident. The body has been sent for post-mortem at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. Inquest procedures have been completed. The cremation will take place at the Maranalloor crematorium at 2.30 pm on Wednesday.
Congress leader arrested in Rs 4.5 crore property fraud case in Thiruvananthapuram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader Ananthapuri Manikandan has been arrested in connection with a high-value property fraud case involving forged documents and the illegal transfer of real estate in the city. Manikandan was arrested by the Museum Police on Tuesday morning from Bengaluru, where he had been hiding for several weeks. The case pertains to the alleged fraudulent acquisition and sale of a 10-room three-storeyed house and 14 cents of land in Jawahar Nagar, valued at approximately Rs 4.5 crore. The property originally belonged to Dora, an Indian-American doctor. It had been gifted to her by her parents before she moved abroad over two decades ago. According to police, fake documents were used to claim that the original property deed was lost. A newspaper advertisement was also published to support this claim. Vasantha, a woman from Mukkolakkal, is alleged to have impersonated Dora and she gave the property to another woman, Merin from Kollam, who posed as the foster daughter of Doras parents. Merin then sold the property for Rs 1.5 crore to Chandrasenan, the father-in-law of local Congress leader Anil Thampi. The fraudulent registration was carried out at the Sasthamangalam sub-registrar office. Officials from the office have confirmed that Manikandan appeared in person to facilitate the transaction. Police also tracked down the Aadhaar number used in the documentation. Manikandan, a DCC member, is the main accused in the case. His brother and fifth accused, E Mahesh, was arrested last week. Police say Maheshs credentials were used for the e-stamp and registration formalities though Manikandan holds a licence. Two women who were part of the fraud were arrested earlier. Their statements reportedly revealed that they acted under Manikandans instructions. A copy of the forged deed was found from his office. Further investigation is under way.
Suspended IAS officer Prasanth N accuses Kerala chief secretary of file tampering
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suspended IAS officer Prasanth N has come up with fresh allegations against Chief Secretary A Jayathilak-accusing him of file tampering and document fabrication in the states e-office system. In a strongly-worded Facebook post, Prasanth alleged that back-end manipulation of official e-office accounts was being carried out to illegally access files and suppress dissenting opinions. He claimed that on March 12, 2024, he first caught Jayathilak in the act of manipulating documents and has now released what he describes as proof to back his charges. According to Prasanth, forged documents were being used to make it appear as though officers had seen and cleared files they never actually handled. He said this not only amounted to blatant violation of the IT Act - a cognizable offence - but also undermined transparency in key decisions involving crores of rupees. Prasanth has been under suspension since November 2024 after making similar allegations against Jayathilak, who at that time was serving as the Additional Chief Secretary. More recently, on July 22, the state government appointed a two-member panel to probe complaints raised against Prasanth. With his latest salvo, sources say the inquiry panel now faces a tougher challenge. The suspended officer specifically cited a case where his written opinion on a sensitive file was allegedly deleted to prevent it from reaching the minister concerned. This was a deliberate attempt to mislead the minister by replacing facts with falsehoods and paving the way for corruption, Prasanth charged, adding that the manipulation created the illusion of a consensus file when in reality, he had opposed it. Prasanth also criticised the handling of his earlier complaints, saying that Right to Information (RTI) replies falsely stated that no complaint existed and no inquiry was under way. He contended that he already possessed official documents contradicting the RTI response, thanks to evidence handed over by the IT department. With corruption and conspiracy being treated as an insult, is the RTI Act itself being made inapplicable in Kerala? he asked. With Prasanth once again crossing swords with the states top bureaucrat, the controversy has snowballed into a fierce battle in the IAS ranks, leaving the government and the probe panel on a razors edge. Despite repeated attempts, Chief Secretary A Jayathilak was unavailable for comments.
College of Engineering Trivandrum hostel faces flak over unhygienic food, student strike erupts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The College of Engineering Trivandrum has come under fire for serving unhygienic food to students in its ladies hostel. More than three instances of spotting pieces of worms and centipedes were reported in the last two weeks. Owing to this, the ladies hostel union organised a strike demanding action on Tuesday. They also alleged that the well which supplies water to the hostel lies within a 10-m distance for the past few years, said Aishwarya, an inmate of the hostel. Food poisoning has also become a frequent among many students, with the most recent case being reported two days ago, she added. Online food delivery apps are enjoying a good time because of these repeated incidents, as students prefer to buy food from outside despite paying for the hostel mess, said another student. She further said that students were also bitten by mice inside the hostel rooms a few months ago. Another set of students reported that water has been seeping through a wall between the hostel rooms and the toilet. This has resulted in the growth of fungus on the walls. Many students have also suffered from allergy due to the same, said a student. They also pointed out that the hostel hosts over 700 students when fully functional, despite having a lesser capacity. They stated that these issues have been raised with the hostel authorities multiple times, but none of them have yielded any results. However, according to college principal Suresh K, no hygiene issues or complaints of food poisoning have been reported in the hostel since he took charge. The recent development is due to the worms from vegetables used for cooking. It could have possibly been a mistake by the mess workers, he told the TNIE. Following a meeting with the principal, union general secretary Karthika S said, The union is trying to connect with new vegetable dealers for the hostel mess. The union members will also have a meeting with their local MLA, hostel and college authorities on Thursday in light of this issue. A panel of teachers have already examined the hostel mess post the issue.
Kerala mulls wider role for VISL in port-linked infrastructure; key rail link under review
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government is set to consider a proposal to grant Vizhinjam International Port Limited (VISL) a more prominent role in the infrastructure development surrounding the port. A project implementation committee, chaired by Chief Secretary Dr A Jayathilak, convened on Monday to discuss the next steps. A positive government decision allowing VISL to acquire land for developing port-related infrastructure could prove to be a significant turning point. VISL can begin planning the necessary infrastructure even before the gateway traffic starts to flow. We need container yards, terminals, logistics parks, and warehouses in place to handle the large volumes of cargo once the port becomes operational. However, the final approval from the government is essential for this to move forward, an officer from the ports department said. Infrastructure development is moving at a slow pace, and even the Outer Ring Road project has not gained significant momentum. We should think of it not just as a road project, but as an essential infrastructure initiative that will support and benefit from the ports operations, the officer added. In its 58th board meeting, VISL emphasised its focus on creating infrastructure suited for port-driven economic growth. The board formally requested government permission to acquire approximately 100 acres of land near the port.These developments come as VISL is also expected to decide on the rail connectivity to the port. A committee formed by VISL is set to review the draft tender document submitted by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) for the Vizhinjam-Balaramapuram railway line by the end of the month. If approved, the tender will pave the way for the construction of a 10.7-km railway line, which includes a 9.43-km tunnel -- set to be the third-longest railway tunnel in India. This rail connectivity is expected to significantly boost cargo movement from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Additionally, VISL is exploring the possibility of establishing a railway container terminal between Parassala and Neyyatinkara.
Youth gets 50-year jail term for sexually abusing minor in Thiruvananthapuram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The fast track special court in Thiruvananthapuram has sentenced Sujith, 25, from Thiruvallam to 50 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 35,000 for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl after entering her house and staying there for several days. The judgment was delivered by Judge Anju Meera Birla. The court ordered that the fine amount be given to the survivor. If the convict fails to pay the fine, he will have to serve an additional one-and-a-half-years in prison. The incident happened on September 6, 2021. The accused entered the girls room and sexually assaulted her, threatening her to remain silent. He continued to stay inside the house for eight days and repeatedly raped her. The girl did not inform anyone initially as the accused had promised to marry her. Later that month, on the 21st, the accused again entered the girls house in Nemom. He was spotted by the father and handed over to the police. While out on bail in the case, the accused reportedly abducted the girl, took her to a lodge in Varkala and sexually abused her. A separate trial for this incident has been completed.
Govindachamys jailbreak exposes systemic failure at Kannur prison
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rape and murder convict Govindachamys jailbreak from the Kannur central prison has brought to fore the fear many have harboured for some time. Of systemic breakdown, owing to a myriad reasons, most noticeable being the over-politicisation of prison management. Insiders told TNIE that the day Govindachami escaped, the system was a total shambles. So much so, even after the lockup officer counted the number of inmates in the prison block where Govindachamy stayed, it did not come to the notice of the authorities that an inmate was missing. According to sources, the authorities often shy away from carrying out a head count of the Kannur prison inmates as many of them are politically well-connected, prompting prison officials to show leniency in order to avoid run-ins with them. In other central prisons, the prisoners are told to stand in lines and are counted before being escorted out of the cell. But in Kannur, this practice was irregular. A section of prison officials dont want to irk the prisoners, who are politically affiliated, and hence, turn soft towards them, said a source. On the day Govindachamy, who is serving a life sentence, scaled the prison walls, it was not the serving prison staff who recognised that he had fled. Sources said a trainee assistant prison officer, currently with the State Institute of Correctional Administration (SICA)s extension centre at the Kannur prison, found something amiss after he noticed a piece of cloth dangling from the prison wall. Till he rushed in and informed the seniors, no one knew the unthinkable had happened. The lapse did not end there. On the night Govindachamy escaped, an assistant prison officer who was initially deployed to scrutinise CCTV visuals was sent to escort a prisoner to hospital. When the CCTV footage was live-beamed in the control room, there was no one to monitor it, sources pointed out. Interestingly, that particular officer was among the staff suspended for alleged dereliction of duty. Further, another lapse from the prison staff helped Govindachamy collect the civil dress that he wore while fleeing. Sources said the civil dress some prisoners use while being taken to court are kept in the store. Again, inmates with political connections manage to sneak in track pants, which is against rules. They get it via visitors. They claim they want to use such outfits for games, and in many cases, the prison staff budge on such demands. Govindachamy seems to have managed to get hold of one such track pants, a source said. No one helped him escape: Jail DIG report The north zone jail DIGs report on Govindachamys jailbreak has revealed that systemic errors and a lack of proper overseeing of the Kannur central prison resulted in the fiasco that embarrassed the department. The report prepared by DIG V Jayakumar, which was handed over to Prisons Director General Balram Kumar Upadhyay, said Govindachamy received no assistance from any prison staff or inmates. It said Govindachamy exploited the languid approach of the prison officials to procure the materials he used to escape. He escaped wearing clothes used by remand prisoners and did not get any help from fellow prisoners, but how he managed to cut the iron grill of the cell without getting noticed need to be examined, the report said. Highlighting a dearth of prison staff, the report said the shortage has affected the proper functioning of jails. DIG's report reveals Govindachamy received no help from staff, inmates in jailbreak attempt from Kannur prison
Kerala to roll out SOP, boost staff strength to fast-track land conversion cases
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is set to introduce Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to assist district administrative officers in handling land conversion applications, aiming to bring clarity and speed to a process long criticised for delays and confusion. The state revenue department conducted a meeting regarding this matter. According to senior revenue officials, the move will leverage technology, including satellite imagery, to ensure that genuine cases are approved while preventing illegal conversion of wetlands and paddy lands. At present, such decisions rest primarily with revenue divisional officers (RDOs). The new system will also empower deputy collectors (DCs) to take up these cases, raising the number of decision-making officials from 27 to 72. Officials believe this expansion, along with the SOP, will reduce bottlenecks. Applicants have often been forced to run from pillar to post due to delays and lack of clarity. With more officers and a clear SOP, we expect faster and fairer decisions, said a senior official. According to the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act of 2008, conversion of wetlands for residential or commercial use, prior to 2008 will not have legal validity. To verify such claims, authorities intend to use satellite imageries in addition to supporting documentation like tax returns, building plans, and home loan documents. Property document writers point to shortcomings in the land data bank established under the 2008 Act to support their claim that the new system is necessary. Many entries were made without site visits, relying only on office records. As a result, lands converted decades earlier were still marked as paddy fields. An SOP and more decision-makers can finally resolve these long-pending issues, said P R Ramakrishnan, a document writer from Kottayam. The impact is expected to be significant for residents like Mariyakutty, a senior citizen, from Kanjirappally, who have struggled for approval to rebuild her family home. Our property was divided in 1990, but old records still show it as agricultural land. We have submitted all supporting documents, yet the wait continues. If the governments new measures are implemented, it would be a big relief for families like ours, she said. Officials say the new SOP is expected to be finalised soon, raising hopes for thousands of landowners awaiting clarity on conversion applications. Revenue Minister K Rajan said the government has increased the number of nodal offices from 27 to 72. We have decided to appoint 262 permanent staff for the documentation process. If a local body has over 100 pending land conversion files, additional support, including vehicles, will be provided for site visits, he said. Likewise, if paddy fields or wetlands are converted without government permission, the owner will be served a notice to restore the land to its original status. If the owner fails to comply, the government will undertake the restoration and recover the expenses through revenue recovery from the concerned landowner. For this purpose, a fund of Rs 1.5 crore has been created. All these will sort out errors in land records and clear pending files regarding land conversion without violating 2008 Act, he adeed.
Free cycling training in Thiruvananthapuram
Tharoor raises delinking of BrahMos Thiruvananthapuram unit from parent firm in Parliament
The Congress MPs submission was tabled on account of the debate on Operation Sindoor
After protests, Kerala lawmakers meet arrested nuns in jail
After protests, Kerala lawmakers meet arrested nuns in jail Chhattisgarh/Thiruvananthapuram: A delegation consisting of five lawmakers delegated by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), on Tuesday, met the two arrested nuns currently housed in a jail in Chhattisgarh. Permission was first denied to the delegation while the Kerala BJP General Secretary Anoop Antony was given [] The post After protests, Kerala lawmakers meet arrested nuns in jail appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Suspended IAS officer in Kerala raises fresh allegations against Chief Secretary Jayathilak
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The tussle within Kerala's IAS top brass has taken a new turn with suspended IAS officer Prasanth N charging fresh allegations against Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak, accusing of file tampering and document fabrication in the State's e-office system. In a strongly worded Facebook post, Prasanth alleged that backend manipulation of official e-office accounts was being carried out to illegally access files and suppress dissenting opinions. He claimed that on March 12, 2024, he first caught Jayathilak in the act of manipulating documents and has now released what he describes as proof to back his charges. According to Prasanth, forged documents were being used to make it appear as though officers had seen and cleared files, which they never actually handled. He said this not only amounted to blatant violation of the IT Act - a cognizable offence - but also undermined transparency in key decisions involving crores of rupees. Prasanth has been under suspension since November 2024 after making similar allegations against Jayathilak, who at that time was serving as the Additional Chief Secretary. More recently, on July 22, the state government appointed a two-member panel to probe complaints raised against Prasanth. With his latest salvo, sources say the inquiry panel now faces a tougher challenge. The suspended officer specifically cited a case where his written opinion on a sensitive file was allegedly deleted to prevent it from reaching the minister concerned. This was a deliberate attempt to mislead the minister by replacing facts with falsehoods and paving the way for corruption, Prasanth charged, adding that the manipulation created the illusion of a consensus file when in reality, he had opposed it. Prasanth also criticised the handling of his earlier complaints, saying that Right to Information (RTI) replies falsely stated that no complaint existed and no inquiry was underway. He contended that he already possessed official documents contradicting the RTI response, thanks to evidence handed over by the IT department. With corruption and conspiracy being treated as an 'insult,' is the RTI Act itself being made inapplicable in Kerala? he asked. Despite repeated attempts, Chief Secretary AJayathilak was unavailable for comments. With Prasanth once again crossing swords with the state's top bureaucrat, the controversy has snowballed into a fierce battle in the IAS ranks, leaving the government and the probe panel on a razor's edge.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The North Zone Jail DIG's report on the jailbreak of Govindachamy has revealed systemic errors and lack of proper overseeing of Kannur Central prison had resulted in the fiasco. It highlighted that it has brought embarrassment for the department. The report prepared by DIG V Jayakumar, which was handed over to Prisons DG Balram Kumar Upadhyay, said Govindachamy received no assistance from any prison staff or inmates. It said Govindachamy exploited the the prison officials' approach to procure materials that were then used for fleeing the prison. It added that Govindachamy escaped by wearing clothes that were used by remand prisoners. He did not get any help from the fellow prisoners, but how he managed to cut the iron grill of the cell without getting noticed need to be examined, it also said. The report also pointed out the dearth of prison staff and said the shortage has been affecting the proper functioning of the jails. Kerala prison officer suspended for negative remarks on Soumya murder convict Govindachamy Blade, cloth and midnight plot: How Govindachamy saws his way out
Congress leader Ananthapuri Manikandan arrested in property fraud case
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader Ananthapuri Manikandan has been arrested in connection with a high-value property fraud case involving forged documents. He was apprehended by the Museum Police on Tuesday morning in Bengaluru after weeks in hiding and is expected to be brought to Thiruvananthapuram by Tuesday evening. The case concerns the alleged fraudulent acquisition of a house and property worth approximately 4.5 crore in Jawahar Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram. Police said fake documents were used to take possession of a ten-room house and 14 cents of land belonging to a US-based doctor. The property was subsequently sold using the forged papers. Manikandan, who contested as a Congress candidate from the Attukal ward in the last local body elections, is the prime accused in the case. His brother and fifth accused, E Mahesh, was arrested last week. According to police, Manikandan used Maheshs licensed credentials to generate the forged documents, despite possessing a valid licence himself. The e-stamp and registration fees for the transaction were also processed using Maheshs credentials. Two others had been arrested earlier, and based on the information obtained from them, police were able to trace Manikandans whereabouts. Further investigation is currently underway.
Redressal on pending ORR project unlikely by July 31
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Confusion and delays continue to plague the long-pending Outer Ring Road (ORR) project as the disbursal of compensation to landowners affected by the project is unlikely to materialise by the previously promised deadline of July 31. Last month, PWD Minister P A Mohammad Riyas, after meeting the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, had announced that the final approval to the DPR will be granted by July end. Official sources say a team from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will reach the state by next week. A team from NHAI will be visiting the state and the authority has suggested some revisions in the ORR passing through hilly areas, said an official source. Meanwhile, NHAI sources said that the finalisation of the K Raveendran Nair, one of the landowners, alleged that the DPR, a prerequisite to initiating compensation disbursal, remains incomplete. He alleged that the government has committed a huge violation by acquiring land for a project that didnt get the necessary approvals. For PPP projects, it is mandatory to obtain consent from 70 per cent of the landowners and this hasnt happened in the case of the ORR project. The 3a notification issued is illegal, he alleged. I have an RTI document that can prove that the project hasnt made any progress in the last two years and the government has no rights to acquire land, he added. Last December, the Centre had asked the state to revise the DPR by adding SGST exemptions and amendments to mining laws. The state submitted the revised DPR in January 2025. The I4,767 crore-worth ORR project is aimed at decongesting city traffic and improving connectivity to the Vizhinjam International Seaport. We met all authorities concerned and they have assured us to sort out the issues and start disbursal of compensation by next month. The PWD secretary informed us that the project will get the approval after the NHAI visit, said Chandramohanan Nair, chairman, Outer Ring Road Vizhinjam-Navayikulam Janakeeya Samiti.
VCs draw flak for attending Gyan Sabha conclave
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State ministers have lashed out against university vice chancellors for participating in the Gyan Sabha, which was attended by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. Our educational institutions have students from different communities, and it is impossible to let those spaces become preparation yards to build Hindu Rashtra, Higher Education Minister R Bindu stated in a release. Citing that working towards the RSS agenda will saffronise and destroy the reputation of the position of vice chancellors, she said that the participating officers will have to keep their heads down before the academic society. Adding that the Sangh Parivar has turned against Kerala, she mentioned that the outfit is trying to tie the state to the Brahminical values. Sangh is trying to create an ideological atmosphere in universities and higher education centres that will aid them to build a religious nation- based on Manus scriptures, she stated. Education Minister V Sivankutty said that the governor is using his powers to and forcefully make the vice-chancellors participate in these events. I am disappointed to say that the governor has become the biggest spokesperson of the RSS in Kerala today, he said. He opined that if the government representatives attended the programme without its permission, they should be removed. Keralas citizens dont wish to keep the people who attend RSS programmes in these posts, he said. Tourism Minister P A Mohammed Riyas said that the BJP is making active efforts to make universities in non-BJP-ruled states the centres for discord. LSG Minister M B Rajesh called the move not expected from vice chancellors, KPCC president Sunny Joseph too condemned the act.
Horticulture mission to back project for FPOs
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The State Horticulture Mission has announced special support project for Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) formed to improve agricultural production, value addition, processing, and marketing including exports. The project is being implemented through the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium Kerala (SFAC-K) under the agricultural department. An amount of I3 crore has been set aside for the scheme. Projects involving horticultural crops like fruits, vegetables, spices, plantation crops, mushrooms and honey will be supported. Priority will be given for projects that develop facilities for post-harvest processing, storage, value addition, marketing and export. Financial aid of up to 80 percent of the total project cost will be provided, with a maximum limit of I15 lakh. The projects must be carried out through loans from recognised banks. The loan amount should not be less than the subsidy offered. For details, FPOs can contact SFAC or approach the ATMA project directors at their district principal agricultural offices. An MoU has been signed between the State Horticulture Mission and SFAC-Kerala. The aim is to complete the project within this financial year.
Pooram row: Police HQ returns file on Ajith Kumar without remarks
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Police Headquarters (PHQ) has returned to the state government the report of former State Police Chief Shaik Darvesh Saheb on ADGP M R Ajith Kumars alleged lapses during the 2024 Thrissur Pooram, without adding any remarks. The file was returned to the government last week as incumbent Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar took a stand that there was no ground for him to add any remarks on the report, which was prepared by his predecessor after a detailed inquiry. Earlier, the state government had forwarded Shaiks report to the PHQ seeking remarks of the new head of the force. The move of the state government had appeared outlandish as the report was prepared after a detailed probe by the former police chief, who is senior to Ravada. Sources said the PHQ took a stand that it had no locus standi to give remarks on Shaiks report as the current police chief was never part of any investigation conducted against Ajith. The act of the state government referring the report to the PHQ had raised a few eyebrows. Many felt it was part of the ploy to delay acting on Shaiks report, which reportedly carried critical remarks against Ajith. If Ravada had given remarks suggesting a mild action against the officer, it could have given the government an excuse to go soft on the officer, sources felt. Shaik had filed his report with the government in the last week of June, just days before his retirement, where he reportedly stated that there were lapses from Ajiths part during the pooram. Revenue Minister K Rajan had testified that when the pooram faced disruption, he tried to reach Ajith over phone and that he did not respond. Kerala government approves promotion of ADGP M R Ajith Kumar to DGP rank despite ongoing probe Responding to this, the officer stated before the police chief that when the minister telephoned him, he had returned to his room after overseeing all security preparations and fallen asleep, because of which he did not see the calls. The report said the officers reply showed his failure in performing responsibilities. After Shaik filed the report with the government, the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) noted in the file that the matter was serious and forwarded it to the chief minister for action. Ajith was caught in the eye of the storm ever since former Nilambur legislator P V Anvar raised a slew of serious allegations against him, including allegedly hobnobbing with the RSS leaders to disrupt Thrissur Pooram. The opposition parties and a section of CPI leaders too had seconded the allegation and opined that the Pooram was sabotaged to give electoral gains for the NDA candidate in the Lok Sabha polls. Ajith appointed excise commissioner amid tractor row The government has appointed ADGP M R Ajith Kumar as the new excise commissioner as incumbent commissioner Mahipal Yadav, who is set to retire in August, has gone on commuted leave due to medical issues. Transfer of Ajith outside the police force comes at a time when he is embroiled in a row over his use of tractor in Sabarimala during a personal visit. The state government in May had transferred Ajith, who was ADGP (Armed Battalion), and posted him as excise commissioner. However, the transfer of Ajith and three other IPS officers was reversed after some of them expressed reservations.
Kerala records 66 electrocution deaths in four months amid safety failures
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state has reported a worrying spike in electrical accident deaths, with 66 people losing their lives between April 1 and July 20 this year. Among them, eight deaths were caused by snapped power lines alone. This number -- in just four months -- matches the total from the previous financial year and far exceeds earlier figures. In 2022-23, there were 12 such deaths in the entire year, and eight in 2023-24. Malappuram has reported the highest number of snapped wire deaths this year, with three cases. Kozhikode reported two while Ernakulam, Kollam, and Thrissur reported one each. G Vinod, chief electrical inspector with the state electrical inspectorate, has pointed to the absence of spacers as a major reason for snapped conductors. These spacers are designed to keep wires apart and prevent them from falling to the ground. Their absence has made the lines more vulnerable, especially during rain and wind, Vinod told TNIE. Other major causes of death include accidental contact with live wires, negligence in following safety protocols, faulty appliances, unauthorised electrical work, temporary wiring, and overhead line crossings. Another persistent danger is the lack of Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) or Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) in many households. These devices can prevent electrocution by detecting current leakage and automatically cutting off power. Although made mandatory in 2023, many older homes still lack them, the officer pointed out. Even after July 20, the fatalities have continued. Over the past two days, four more people died in separate incidents across the state. In Kasaragod, an elderly dairy farmer was electrocuted by a fallen power line in his field.
Kerala nuns' arrest: Church wary of politics, in talks with PMO
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJPs Christian outreach programme appears to be having a positive impact as the Catholic Church has decided to take a cautious and conciliatory path over the arrest of two nuns from Kerala in the saffron party-ruled Chhattisgarh. The Congress and the CPM have already raised the issue as an example of Sangh parivars true face against the Christian minority. However, on the ground, the intervention of the offices of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister has brought relief for both the Church and the BJP. Though the Church condemns the nuns arrest, it is conscious of the need to stay away from the trap of political controversies. The Church has no politics whatsoever, Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) deputy secretary general Fr Mathew Koyickal told TNIE. Church has no affiliation with any political organisation. The nuns were persecuted by alleged Bajrang Dal workers. We have contacted the PMO and the home ministers office, and they have assured us that action will be taken. Dialogues are going on in this regard, he said. According to Catholic Church authorities, this is the first time they are experiencing the results of the Christian outreach programme started by PM Modi. The relation between the Church and the Union government has been good ever since the PM hosted a Christmas programme and his visit to the CBCI centre premises in New Delhi, Fr Mathew said. It was on December 26, 2023, that Modi hosted a Christmas programme. On December 23, 2024, Modi took part in the Christmas celebration organised by CBCI. Christians living in fear of persecution, says CBCI president over detention and arrest of two Malayali nuns BJP sends party state vice-prez, gen secy to Chhattisgarh The BJP state unit also went into a firefighting mode soon after the news about the arrest of the nuns came out. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and vice-president Shone George contacted us several times and promised all help. They have also intervened in the issue, Fr Mathew said. Sensing a political backlash, the state BJP has sent its state general secretary Anoop Antony and Shone to Chhattisgarh to take stock of the situation and provide legal help. In 90 to 95% of the incidents in which minorities are attacked, the Sangh parivar has no direct link, Anoop Antony told TNIE. It is wrong to say that these attacks are planned by BJP. We will defend the accusations honestly. We will tell the public what we stand for and what happened there. The dialogue between the government and the Church must continue, he said. Kerala nuns' arrest triggers political slugfest; Chhattisgarh CM justifies action Two nuns, Preetha Mary and Vandana Francis from the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate under the Syro-Malabar Church, who were accompanying three girls, were arrested by the Chhattisgarh police at Durg railway station on Friday. They were charged with forced religious conversion and human trafficking. Both the Congress-led INDIA bloc and Left parties have raised a political issue over the arrest. However, the Church has adopted a cautious approach. On the attacks against Christians under BJP rule, Fr Mathew said: When the current Opposition (Congress) was in power at the Centre and in Chhattisgarh, right-wing forces had launched attacks on Christians. The Christians were ousted from villages and paraded nakedly. State BJP intervenes The state BJP has sent its state general secretary Anoop Antony and vice-president Shone George to Chhattisgarh to take stock of the situation and provide legal help.
Tharoor silenced, Pakistan defended: BJP MP Baijayant Panda's swipe at Congress
NEW DELHI: BJP leader Baijayant Jay Panda on Monday took a dig at the Congress, saying the party is not allowing its own member and noted orator Shashi Tharoor to speak in Lok Sabha. Participating in a special discussion in the House on 'India's strong, successful and decisive Operation Sindoor in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam', Panda alleged that the Congress governments on a number of occasions surrendered India's interests. There are several leaders in your (Congress) party who can speak well... My friend Shashi Tharoor Ji, who is a good speaker, is not allowed to speak by his party, he said, adding that Tharoor had earlier spoken in the interest of the country. According to sources, the Congress asked its Thiruvananthapuram MP Tharoor if he was interested in speaking during the debate on Operation Sindoor in Parliament, but the latter declined . There has been intense speculation on whether Tharoor, who led a delegation to the US, among other countries, will be picked as a speaker by the Congress given his enthusiastic endorsement of the government's action following the Pahalgam terror attack, which reportedly soured his ties with the party. The approach of the Congress governments in the past was only to increase cooperation with Pakistan and not to retaliate and teach them a lesson, Panda, who was among the MPs leading the seven multi-party delegations to convey India's message of zero tolerance against terrorism in May, said. The Kendrapara (Odisha) MP said that Operation Sindoor was an attack on terrorists in Pakistan, and not on civilians. This is not a reaction, this is Modi's doctrine, which Pakistan has understood This is a new normal, he said, adding that it is shameful that the opposition only questions Indian armed forces and not Pakistan. Citing various instances of terrorist attack on India, Panda accused the previous Congress governments of appeasing Pakistan instead of taking retaliatory actions. On the question that India was pressurised to announce a ceasefire (with Pakistan), he said the military operation was halted only after a direct request from Pakistan. He also said that the opposition is falling for the false narratives of Pakistan. Attacking the government, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda demanded that India should not play cricket with Pakistan at a time when Operation Sindoor is going on. Hooda also demanded modernisation of Indian defence forces and increase in the defence budget. He said that US President Donald Trump claimed 28 times that he brokered peace between India and Pakistan, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has never contradicted him. The government has to decide its relationship with the US, he said, adding that either India should ask Trump to stop speaking on India-Pakistan issues or the government should close down the operations of fast food giant McDonald's, a US-based firm, in India. The Rohtak MP added that the government should disclose the terms of ceasefire with Pakistan. He also said that no country has condemned Pakistan and the Indian government also failed to stop loans granted to Pakistan by multi-lateral bodies such as the IMF and ADB.
CBCI, Oppn parties slam arrest of two nuns by Chhattisgarh Police
CBCI, Oppn parties slam arrest of two nuns by Chhattisgarh Police Thiruvananthapuram: The president of the Catholics Bishop Conference of India ( CBCI) Reverend Andrews Thazhath, who is also the Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur, on Monday slammed the Chhattisgarh Police for arresting two nuns from Kerala and a man on accusations of alleged human trafficking [] The post CBCI, Oppn parties slam arrest of two nuns by Chhattisgarh Police appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
In what may be called a snub to his party, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor refused to lead the Opposition in the Lok Sabha debate over Operation Sindoor, taking place on Monday. Has he reached the point of no return?
Dishes from Tangra, home to hundreds of eateries serving Indian-Chinese food, at a pop-up currently on at The Leela Kovalam A Raviz Hotel
Sangh imposing Brahminical values through universities: Minister R Bindhu
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Adding to the long-ongoing conflicts in the higher education sector, Minister R Bindu has lashed out against university vice chancellors participating in the Jnana Sabha, which was attended by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. Our educational institutions have students from different communities, and it is impossible to let those spaces become preparation yards to build Hindu Rashtra, the minister stated in a release. Citing that working towards the dubious agenda of the RSS will saffronise and destroy the reputation of the position of vice chancellors, Bindu said that the participating officers will have to keep their heads down before the academic society. Adding that the Sangh Parivar has turned against Kerala with their hatred, she mentioned that the outfit is trying to tie the state to the Brahminical values. Sangh is trying to create an ideological atmosphere in universities and higher education centres that will aid them to build a religious nation based on Manu's scriptures, the minister stated. Criticisms were raised from multiple corners regarding the vice chancellors attending the Jnana Sabha, organised by a Sangh organisation, Shiksha Samskriti Utthan Nyas. Vice chancellors of Kerala, Calicut, Kannur and KUFOS universities reportedly attended the conclave.
Pookie canines capture hearts at dog show in Thiruvananthapuram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ever seen Siberian Huskies drinking tender coconut water to beat the scorching sun? Or the one-ft-tall Miniature Pinscher sharing serious glances with the nearly five-ft-tall Great Dane, like exchanging some encoded message. Ferocious-looking dog breeds turned pookies at the Dog Show organised by the Ananthapuri Canine Club at the Police Ground in Thycaud on Sunday. The programme offered a cherishable experience to visitors of all ages. Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, German Shepherds, the venue was a dog lovers dream come true. All trainers, who clearly shared a deep bond with their dogs, checked on their pals every now and then. They dont need to be trained strictly, just made to understand how to socialise, said Surjith Gopan, who has been taking his dogs to similar programmes for the past seven years. Not just seasoned trainers, but also young enthusiasts and their canine pals attended the show. Adithya S Rao, a student of Central Polytechnic, Vattiyoorkavu, came to the dog show with two Beagles, a male and female. Jhanvi (the female) was not in a good mood. In fact, she slept in the ring when she was asked to run, laughed Adithya. Children were the happiest and most excited group. Despite having a Persian Cat at home, Prahlad Praveen Nair, a Class 5 boy, urged his mother to get him a dog. Government employee Karthik T came with his daughters, Nakshatra and Nainika. While the elder Nakshatra did not touch the big pointer dogs the newbie Mark and the champion Ravanan Nainika gathered courage and patted the two. Annamma Mathew, in her seventies, came with her sons family. I like dogs, but havent been to such shows, said Annamma, with a wide smile. Social media personality Sowbhagya Venkitesh, who came to compete in the best lady trainer competition, said she has been to similar events, but it was her first time as a participant. Navaneeth Mohan, one of the organisers said, nearly 250 dogs from 30 breeds were brought for the show from various parts of the district. The footfall was around 8,000, he said, adding the number of participants was higher than the previous year. Awards were also given for the best junior handler at the event.
Techies in a fret as TCS delays onboarding of experienced hires
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the IT sector undergoes major AI-driven restructuring, concerns are mounting over Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Indias largest software services firm delaying the onboarding of experienced professionals. At least 13 candidates, interviewed by TNIE, said they remain in limbo after receiving offer letters from TCS to join its Kochi campus in early July, only to be left waiting indefinitely. These individuals, with 4 to 13 years of experience, had already resigned from their previous jobs, expecting a smooth transition. I left my previous job and moved to a hostel in Kalamassery to join TCS on July 9. Since then, theres been no proper communication and only vague assurances, said Veena (name changed), a Kollam native. In addition, she was told not to call back frequently for an update. Meanwhile, for 31-year-old Murugesh (name changed), the delay has disrupted major life plans. I was preparing for my wedding next month. Now Im worried about managing my loans and supporting my elderly parents, he said. TCS to cut 12,000 jobs as company shifts focus to AI, other emerging technologies Industry experts warn that such onboarding delays may not be isolated incidents, but rather part of a broader trend across IT companies grappling with rapid technological shifts. A social media post by Prathidhwani, the Welfare Organisation of IT Employees in Kerala, revealed the issue is not confined to Kochi or a small group, but appears widespread and systematic. Employees across India have reported similar experiences. What troubles employees most is the lack of clarity from the organisation. While official communication blames background verification delays, many candidates point out that this process typically follows the offer stage. Others were told over the phone that no suitable project allocations were available, but were simultaneously assured their jobs were safe. Sanal (name changed), a Kochi-based tech professional with 13 years of experience, left a job for a senior role at the TCS. In my past transitions, onboarding followed quickly after the offer. This is the first time I have experienced such a delay, he said. Prathidhwani has now escalated the issue, sending letters to the Union Ministers for IT and Labour. These professionals had resigned, served their notice periods, and planned their careers and personal lives based on TCSs formal offers. But just days before, or even on-the joining date, they received notices of postponement, said Prathidhwani state convenor Rajeev Krishnan. Meanwhile, an email seeking TCSs response remains unanswered.
Amid Kannur jailbreak row, security reforms suggested 12 years ago gather dust
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While the state government has launched a probe by a two-member special team to check security lapses in prisons following the jailbreak of Govindachamy , recommendations made by a similar panel to enhance prison security, 12 years ago, still remain on paper. Govindachamy, the convict in the Soumya rape and murder case, managed to escape the high-security Kannur Central Jail early on Friday and was re-arrested 6.5 hours later. The incident prompted the state government to order an investigation by the special team. Blade, cloth and midnight plot: How Govindachamy saws his way out However, in 2013, the government had set up a similar high-level committee to study security lapses in the Thiruvananthapuram Central Prison after two of its inmates escaped. The committee, which comprised of the then home principal secretary L Radhakrishnan, state police chief K S Balasubramanian and prisons DG Alexander Jacob, had made 18 recommendations, which were accepted by the state government. Some of the recommendations by the panel included the installation of barbed multi-coiled wire fencing, checking the feasibility of electric fencing on top of the outer wall, installation of alarm systems like motion sensors, touch sensors etc., as well as automatic alarm and door locking systems in all regular jail blocks. Another key suggestion made by the panel was to bar the entry of mobile phones into the prison complex by the prison staff. For communication purposes, the staff should be provided with wireless sets or other devices. Following this, the home department on September 2, 2013, ordered the prisons director general to implement the recommendations in jails in the state. However, most of the recommendations are yet to be implemented due to a lack of funds or government apathy. Though the department introduced TETRA Vehicle Mount Radio Operation System for official communications, the staff still carry mobile phones into the prison complex. The panel had also proposed to rotate the duty of prison staff every three months to avoid them developing bonds with prisoners. Meanwhile, sources said that the prisons department alone cannot enforce most of the proposals and needs wider government support. The proposal for installing sensors has been lying unattended for the past 13 years. Such gadgets could have made a difference in handling security predicaments in the prisons, said a department source. The panel also mentioned providing better accommodation for the inmates and increasing the sanctioned strength of wardens. The panel report had categorically pointed out to the need to increase the bench strength of staff in accordance with the Udayabhanu Commissions report and Model Prison Manual. However, these recommendations were also not implemented.
No regrets on entering politics, says MP Shashi Tharoor
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress MP and author Shashi Tharoor on Sunday said he neither regretted entering politics, nor had any intention of quitting it. He was responding to a question at an event where he was honoured with the P Kesavadev Literary Award. Not at all, he said when asked whether he ever regretted entering politics. In politics, you can make decisions and implement policies that impact millions. That is the true power of politics. I have no intention to quit, unless age forces me to, he said. Diabetologist Dr Banshi Saboo was conferred with the P Kesavadev Diabscreen Kerala Award at the event organised by the P Kesavadev Trust. Filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan presented the awards. He commended Dr Saboo for his work in diabetes care and awareness and congratulated Tharoor on his literary accomplishments, particularly his works about India. Tharoor praised author Kesavadev and his contribution in elevating the literary landscape by highlighting the lives of ordinary people. Dr Saboo spoke about type 1 diabetes in children and advocated for introducing health science as a subject in schools. Dr Jothydev Kesavadev, actor Maniyanpillai Raju and dignitaries attended.
18-year-old among three electrocuted in Kerala
Three people, including an 87-year-old woman and an 18-year-old boy, died of electrocution in the state on Sunday. The deaths come amid the recent political row over the electrocution of an eighth-standard student in Kollam. The Vengara police said Abdul Vadoodh, 18, a resident of Achanambalam in Kannamangalam, died after coming into contact with a live wire while bathing in a stream at Vettuthodu in Vengara on Sunday afternoon. In Palakkad, a 75-year-old Palayam Veettil Marimuthu died after accidentally stepping on a snapped power line in his coconut farm in Kodumbu grama panchayat. Residents said Marimuthu was collecting coconuts when the incident occurred. In Attingal in Thiruvananthapuram, Leelamani V, 87, was found dead with a snapped wire entangled in her hand. A banana plant in her yard had fell on a service wire to her home, snapping it. The next morning, when the electrician whom she had contacted regarding power outage in her home, arrived, Leelamani was found dead.
Leptospirosis cases rise as rain lashes Kerala; 88 deaths so far this year
KOCHI: With the monsoon winds bringing copious amounts of rain this season, Kerala is witnessing a rise in the number of leptospirosis cases and deaths reported. The state reported 1,494 confirmed leptospirosis cases and 88 deaths till July 22 this year. July alone has seen 287 cases and 22 deaths. More than 50% of the fatalities were reported in June and July. The disease is spread by leptospira, a bacteria present in the urine of several animals. Leptospirosis spreads during the monsoon season as the bacteria that live in biofilm under the soil become active and enter the human body through small cuts on the feet, said Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convener of the Indian Medical Association Research Cell, Kerala. These bacteria are also carried by animals, including rats, dogs and cattle, and naturally come out through their urine. Thus, people working in fields, farms, and engaged in cleaning work can easily get infected, he pointed out. Healthcare workers play an important role in educating workers and ensuring safety, said Dr Althaf A, epidemiologist and professor with the Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. Often, people involved in cleaning activities or farming are not educated enough to know diseases and their consequences. Also, the state has many migrant labourers. Healthcare workers need to educate them about the importance of wearing safety gadgets and taking precautionary medicine, Dr Althaf said. According to Dr Rajeev, early diagnosis is important. Most common febrile illnesses have similar symptoms, like fever and body ache. Hence, it is difficult to accurately identify who has this particular disease. Checking the patients work background or a test can help identify the disease and start antibiotics early, he said. Personal hygiene and precaution can also help prevent the spread of the disease. Doxycycline, a preventive medicine, is available at health centres. Local bodies and contractors should ensure the safety of workers and provide them with gadgets and preventive medicines, experts stressed. Leptospirosis toll touches 200 in 2024, up tenfold over last decade
Will quit post if UDF wins 100 seats in Kerala assembly election 2026: Vellappally Natesan
KOCHI: Asserting that the Congress-led UDF will not be able to win the 2026 assembly elections, SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan on Sunday challenged Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, saying he will resign from his post if the UDF secures 100 seats. Satheesan is merely boasting by saying that the UDF will win 100 seats. If it manages to win that many seats, then I will resign from the SNDP Yogam general secretary post. (Otherwise) Is he ready to go into political exile? The LDF will enjoy a third term in power... their (Congress) Thiruvananthapuram district president itself said so, Vellappally said. His continued tirade against Satheesan came at separate meetings of SNDP Yogam union leaders in North Paravoor and Kochi. Vellappally continues tirade against Satheesan, calls him arrogant leader Calling Satheesan an arrogant leader, Vellappally claimed that the same leader of Opposition who had called him three weeks ago, seeking a one-to-one meeting, was now raising charges against him. He thinks he is a superstar... He is trying to create confusion in the minds of the Ezhava community by claiming their support in his constituency. The community should be cautious against such false appeasing attempts, Vellappally said, while speaking at a meeting of the SNDP union leaders of Kanayannur taluk held at Palarivattom. Kerala will soon become Muslim majority state: SNDP leader Vellappally Natesan Pointing out that he was not against the Muslim community as such, Natesan said he was merely highlighting the plight of his community, and that vested interests are now labelling him a commu-nalist. What I said was in the context of the denial of several rights to the Ezhava community when they (Congress) were in power. What is wrong in that? The Ezhava community should get representation in power. Did they do anything to uplift the community in any way, he asked. Natesan has been training guns on Satheesan for the past two days, calling him the worst leader of Opposition Kerala has seen and even using offensive terms. Eye drops being administered to SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan during a meeting of organisation leaders in Kochi on Sunday A significant part of Vellappallys criticism revolves around the accusation that Satheesan is against the Ezhava community. Natesan implied that Satheesan is trying to sideline Ezhava leaders, specifically mentioning former KPCC president K Sudhakaran as someone the leader of Opposition allegedly tried to oust. Have nothing to say: Kerala LoP Satheesan on Vellappallys derogatory remark However, Satheesan has largely dismissed Natesans charges, stating that he was saying things that Sree Narayana Guru would not approve of. Satheesan also said a significant portion of the voters in his constituency were from the Ezhava community, with whom he maintains good relations. Notably, prominent Congress leaders have been silent or have offered lukewarm defence to Satheesan, possibly due to reluctance in antagonising a powerful community leader like Vellappally ahead of elections. Some speculate that certain Congress leaders disagreements with Satheesan might also be playing a role.
Tigress attacks supervisor at Thiruvananthapuram zoo
Tiger attacks zoo staff in Thiruvananthapuram; supervisor injured
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A tiger at the city zoo attacked a staff member on Sunday morning, leaving him injured. Ramachandran, a supervisor at the Thiruvananthapuram zoo, sustained a head injury and required four stitches. The incident occurred while Ramachandran was taking his morning rounds near the tiger enclosure. According to the zoo superintendent, the attack happened when he was at the keepers gallery. The tiger reportedly lunged at him, causing a wound on his head. The injured supervisor was immediately given medical attention. He has been administered the first dose of injections and will require three more in the coming days. The tiger involved in the attack had been brought to the zoo from Wayanad about a year ago.
Palode Ravi had resigned from the post after he came under fire from within the Congress for supposedly broadcasting a defeatist outlook on Congress prospects in the upcoming local body elections and the 2026 Assembly polls
Former assembly speaker N Sakthan given charge as Thiruvananthapuram DCC president
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The KPCC has given the temporary charge of Thiruvananthapuram DCC president to former assembly speaker N Sakthan, following the resignation of Congress leader Palode Ravi after a leaked telephone conversation in which he predicted a consecutive third term for the CPM and total doom for his party. The KPCC president Sunny Joseph, has conveyed the decision to Sakthan, who is also serving as KPCC vice president currently. The decision has been taken after consultation with senior leaders. The Congress leadership was keen to appoint a leader who is acceptable to all the sections. Considering his seniority and organisational capability in addition to his nature of taking into confidence all the sections before arriving at a conclusion, the leadership decided to put all its confidence on Sakthan. Though there were more leaders, the KPCC decided to put an old horse at the power centre in view of the local body election preparations. Earlier on Saturday night, Palode Ravi submitted his resignation letter to KPCC president after a leaked telephone conversation surfaced in which he predicted a third consecutive term for the LDF.
Yellow alert in Kerala districts as IMD warns of heavy rains
Thiruvananthapuram: A yellow alert has been issued in nine districts of Kerala Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod as the state continues to face intense rainfall and strong surface winds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the heavy downpour is likely to continue until July 30 due 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 .
Back-to-Labs programme helps Kerala women scientists return to research after career breaks
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marriage, maternity, and family the hurdles before aspiring women in a patriarchal society are numerous. Career break is not a pleasing term to be seen in a resume, but things have not hit a dead end for science researchers, as the Back-to-Labs programme tries to support those who had to take at least a year off from their respective fields. The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), which organises this scheme, has produced a startup grant, three awarded patents, four filed patents and several international publications, through its 86 scholars. Initiated in 2007, the programme began as a hand-holding system of support for women scientists who had to take a break from their research career due to various reasons. The council provides a monthly stipend of Rs 60,000 and an annual sum of Rs 75,000 to post-doctoral fellows for two years. After the age of 35, it is difficult for women to pursue a career in the research field. In such circumstances, programmes like these will help scholars, said scholar Minu P, who had to take a break due to familial situations and pandemic crises. Many women quit their research careers due to the lack of support, she added. Minu is planning to take her career forward in the research field. A patent holder for developing water purification nanocomposite films, Bindu M, expressed her happiness at being able to pursue her subject, which is relatively difficult. Another scholar, Chinthu T Udayarajan, who completed her post-doctoral fellowship in food sciences recently, is all set to get into the shoes of an entrepreneur of craft chocolates. Most of the researchers who come here would have taken their career break due to marriage, said the councils executive vice president, Prof K P Sudheer. Earlier, the council used to give fellowships to both doctoral and post-doctoral candidates, but the former was stopped after 2018. Currently, the council supports 12 women scientists in different streams like life sciences, physical sciences, nanomedicine, etc, among whom four joined in 2024. A career break is nearly inevitable for women in our society. Many of them lose their confidence, even to make eye contact with people, due to this. In such situations, many researchers find the scheme highly beneficial, said Jaya Mary Jacob, scientist B at KSCSTE. Yet, many of them might need financial support to carry their research forward after this period. But even with this, women can write their stories of success and resilience, and take their career forward; for there will be some light at the end of the tunnel.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader Palode Ravi stepped down as Thiruvananthapuram DCC president on Saturday after a leaked telephone conversation in which he predicted a consecutive third term for the CPM and total doom for his party put the Congress in a tight spot. The party leadership, which held detailed discussions at different levels, came to the conclusion that with back-to-back elections coming up and considering the embarrassment the party suffered after the audio clip surfaced, Ravis resignation would be the only possible damage control measure. The state leadership, which also consulted the AICC leadership, conveyed the decision to Ravi later in the evening, following which he resigned. No other leader has been given the DCC president charge for the time being. In the leaked phone conversation with a local party leader, which surfaced on Saturday morning, Ravi is heard saying that after the local body and assembly elections, the Congress party will perish in Kerala. The ex-deputy speaker is also heard saying that the Congress will finish third in the upcoming local body polls. Similarly, in the next assembly elections, the party will fall flat. You wait and see what the BJP is going to do in 60 assembly constituencies. Like in the Parliamentary elections, they will buy votes with money. The Congress will be relegated to third place, and the Marxist party will continue in power. This is what is going to happen in Kerala. The Congress will perish after this. Muslims who are now with us will shift their allegiance to the Left and other parties. The rest will shift to the BJP and other parties. Congress will become a party which is of no use to anyone, he is heard saying in the around eight-minute-long clip. The party leadership also took action against the local leader with whom Ravi spoke. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said Vamanapuram block general secretary A Jaleel has been expelled from party for anti-party activities. Former DCC president Palode Ravi looks on as Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan and Panakkad Sayyid Munavvarali Shihab Thangal engage in a chat at CMPs 40th birthday convention at Tagore Theatre, TPuram, on Saturday. Leaked phone call embarrasses party After the audio clip triggered a controversy, Ravi claimed that he had only asked the worker to be more careful. But the KPCC leadership took serious note of it and conveyed its concerns to the high command. Party state president Sunny Joseph consulted the central leadership and senior leaders in the state, including Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan and AICC general secretary K C Venugopal. After assessing the situation, the leadership felt that the BJP and the CPM would pounce on Ravis audio clip for political gains, and that immediate action was needed to prevent further damage. Ravis prediction of a third term for the Marxist party, just months away from the assembly elections next year, has put the Congress on the defensive. At a time when the Congress leadership claims it will win 100 seats, the leaked conversation has put the party in an embarrassing situation. Meanwhile, Congress sources told TNIE that the surfaced audio clip was recorded around April. Though the leaked audio triggered criticism against Ravis controversial remarks, leaders remain tight-lipped, given the coming organisational reorganisation. Everyone wants something during reorganisation, a veteran Congress leader told TNIE. Though Ravi was a former A group leader, his allegiance now lies with V D Satheesan. Hence, no one wants to be blacklisted, he said. This is not the first time Ravi has courted controversy. In March 2024, he rendered an incorrect version of the national anthem at a public function. In the 2019 Parliament election, party candidate in Attingal, Adoor Prakash, had reportedly criticised Ravi for a lack of support during party meetings. Soon after the video came out, Ravi claimed that he had only asked the worker to be more careful. Speaking to reporters, he said the DCC has always imparted the message to work as a team and to connect with the masses. People want a change in governance. I am a senior Congress leader, and allegations that I colluded with political opponents are baseless. We were asking workers to be cautious as the BJP is also in the election fray, he said.
Have nothing to say: Kerala LoP Satheesan on Vellappallys derogatory remark
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Replying to SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesans accusation that Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan harbours anti-Ezhava sentiments, the latter said that he has nothing to say. Satheesan said he had just pointed out the fact that Vellappallys statements were against the philosophy of Sree Narayana Guru. Earlier in the day, Vellappally had come down heavily against Satheesan for nursing chief ministerial ambition. Vellappally also said that Satheesan is keeping an anti-Ezhava stance. My voters knew better than anyone else. In my constituency, about 52% of voters are from the Ezhava community. What did I say against the Ezhava community? I like Guru and believe in his philosophy. I will oppose anyone who is making such communal statements, he said. He also downplayed the social media campaigns comparing the last journeys of former CMs Oommen Chandy and V S Achuthanandan. The vehicle which carried the body of Oommen Chandy travelled to Kottayam through MC Road and the funeral procession of VS travelled through MG Road and his body was cremated in Alappuzha. People liked these two leaders. The government arrested persons who made derogatory remarks against VS from their houses. However, the police did not act against those who denounced Oommen Chandy, he added. Satheesan also alleged that there were widespread irregularities in the voters list published by the State Election Commission. The names of many people who had voted in the last election were omitted. However, the names of those who died three or four years ago are included in the list. It is wrong to set the deadline to include names in the voters list as 15 days. The delimitation has been completed in violation of HCs instructions. If the commission did not take action to review the list, the UDF will take legal recourse, he said.
Thiruvananthapuram DCC president Palode Ravi resigns after leaked phone call embarrasses party
The discussion about the possibility of the LDF returning to power again in 2026 and the BJP striking deeper, making electoral gains in the Assembly elections, puts the Congress on the defensive. The tape also had disparaging predictionsaboutthe Congress faring poorly in the local body polls later this year
Train traffic to Ernakulam from Thiruvananthapuram via Alappuzha disrupted after tree fell reported near Mararikulam by 8.30 a.m.
Congress leader predicts setback for party in local body polls in leaked audio
A leaked phone call has created problems for Congress in Thiruvananthapuram. Palode Ravi, the district Congress president, expressed concerns about the party's future. He fears poor performance in local and assembly elections. Ravi cited internal issues and BJP's influence as reasons. He later clarified his comments were to motivate workers. Congress is preparing for the upcoming local body polls.
Bonacaud, a remote forest-fringed settlement in the state capital, is grappling with healthcare challenges due to the absence of medical facilities. Located on the edge of the Western Ghats, deep within the Vithura panchayat in Nedumangad, the area is vulnerable to human-wildlife conflicts, with wild elephants and bears often sighted. The nearest government hospital is over 20km away, leaving the ageing former tea estate workers living here without access to timely medical care. In emergencies, help often arrives only after a minimum delay of two hours. This delay could be fatal, say the residents. Selvaraj T, 62, a resident of the estate, had a near-death experience after a snakebite a few months ago. I thought I wouldnt survive. Another person was bitten earlier, and the only ambulance available took him first, he says. I had to wait for four hours before I was picked up. He was first taken to Vithura taluk hospital, from where he was referred to the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. He spent three days in the ICU and incurred an expense of Rs 30,000. Selvaraj is among the 180 families, mostly elderly, who reside at the estate. The residents have submitted a representation to the district collector and the Vithura panchayat, demanding a health sub-centre or a primary health centre in the area. Once a flourishing British-era plantation known as Bonaccord, Bonacaud was a hub of activity and employment for hundreds of workers, many of whom had migrated from Tamil Nadu. Established in the 19th century, the estate remained a major tea producer until its decline in the late 20th century, culminating in the factorys closure in 2000. An elderly woman with firewood at the Bonacaud estate. (Right) Ponnu, 78, and Bhadrakali, 75, walk to work under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme Elderly couple Karuppaswamy and Rajamma at the Bonacaud estate With their livelihoods affected, many residents moved out. Some stayed back at the layam dilapidated row houses near abandoned bungalows and overgrown tea bushes. Adding to their woes is the threat of wild animals. Saraswathi S, 73, a cancer patient, recalls a time when the tea estate ran a hospital dispensary for workers. Since the closure of the tea estate, the dispensary also shut down. Ever since, for every ailment we have to travel 20 km. After dusk, its impossible to step out as we have to wade through forests, says Saraswathi, who now travels to Nedumangad for treatment. Karuppaswamy and Rajamma, an elderly couple, echo the concern. I collapsed recently, and it was late at night. My son lives in Vithura, and he had to come all the way to take me to hospital. It takes two hours to reach here. We feel helpless. You can hear the calls of wild animals during the night. Anything can happen to us, says Rajamma. Notably, Bonacaud also serves as the base point for trekkers heading to Agasthyakoodam, one of Keralas most popular eco-tourism spots. In the event of accidents or sudden illness during trekking, there is no facility nearby to offer first aid or emergency care, placing both tourists and local residents at risk, says Rajesh G, a young estate resident. We have taken up the matter with the authorities. They always promise, but nothing has happened on the ground. We hope they act soon and help these people. Vithura panchayat president Manjusha Anand says a resolution to set up a health sub-centre has been passed. The estate is private property. There is an abandoned school where the facility can be set up. But the property belongs to the education department, and there are many hurdles. The MLA [G Stephen] has promised to sort this out. Selvaraj T, 62, survived a snakebite recently Saraswathi S, 73, a cancer patient living at the Bonacaud estate
CM Pinarayi Vijayan orders comprehensive enquiry into Govindachami's escape from Kannur Jail
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has ordered a comprehensive enquiry into the escape of prisoner Govindachami from Kannur central jail. In addition to the ongoing police investigation and departmental probes, a special, independent enquiry will be conducted. This will be led by former High Court Judge C N Ramachandran Nair and former State Police Chief Jacob Punnoose. The decision was taken at an emergency high-level meeting convened by the Chief Minister in the wake of the Kannur incident. Chief Secretary A Jayathilak, State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Bishwanath Sinha, Public Works Secretary K Biju, Prisons Director General Balram Kumar Upadhyay, and Additional DGP (Intelligence) P Vijayan attended the meeting. The Chief Minister said in the meeting that the incident at Kannur Central Jail was extremely serious and called for a thorough investigation and strict action. A decision was made to make electric fencing fully operational in the four major prisons in the state within the next three months. Intelligent CCTV cameras with high-resolution surveillance capabilities will be installed in these prisons, and action in this regard will begin immediately. Rape convict Govindachamy escapes from Kerala prison, police recapture him within hours To avoid issues caused by prison staff remaining in the same posting for extended periods, officers who have completed five years in one location will be transferred. Intelligence operations inside prisons will be strengthened. Many high-risk criminals are currently lodged in high-security prisons, and the government will also consider transferring such inmates to jails in other states. Though video conferencing facilities currently exist in prisons, steps will be taken to further strengthen them. Additional measures will be taken to improve amenities available to prisoners inside the jails. Due to the overcrowding in existing prisons, a new Central Jail will be established. Land will be identified in the Kottayam and Pathanamthitta regions for this purpose, the meeting decided. The Chief Minister also instructed that all ongoing investigations should be completed without delay.
Thevalakkara student electrocution death: Govt dismisses manager, takes over school administration
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following the death of a Class VIII student due to electrocution at High School for Boys, Thevalakkara in Kollam, the government has dismissed the manager of the aided school and entrusted administration of the institution to the District Education Officer (DEO). General Education Minister V Sivankutty told reporters here on Saturday that as per a report by the Director of General Education, there was serious dereliction of duty on the part of the manager R Thulasidharan Pillai. The manager has been removed as per Section 14 of the Kerala Education Rules (KER), 1958, he added. Last week, Suja S, the headmistress of the school was suspended from service after Kollam assistant education officer (AEO) visited the school and found lapses on her part in ensuring safety of the students. Senior Mathematics teacher G Molly was given the responsibility of headmistress. Midhun, a Class VIII student of the school was electrocuted on July 17 while trying to retrieve a footwear that had fallen from the roof of a bicycle shed on the school premises. The incident evoked widespared protests with the Opposition calling for a comprehensive safety audit in schools. Kerala to take strict action in Thevalakkara student electrocution death case; family to get house, aid
Heavy rains lash Kerala, IMD issues orange alert in seven districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rains since Friday night caused widespread damage in various parts of Kerala and raised water levels in rivers and dams, prompting the IMD to issue an orange alert in seven districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued an 'orange alert' for three hours in the morning in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts. An 'orange alert' indicates 'very heavy rainfall' between 11 cm and 20 cm in a day. In various parts of Kozhikode, overnight, heavy rains and strong winds uprooted trees and damaged several houses and vehicles. They brought down power lines and posts, disrupting the electricity supply. Similar incidents were reported from Kottayam and Kannur districts also. The shutters of the Banasura Sagar in Wayanad and Aliyar dam in Palakkad district have been raised and people living downstream of these reservoirs were directed to be cautious.
Man held for attempting to assault student on train in Thrissur
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A man has been taken into custody for allegedly attempting to assault a female student on a train. The survivor is a native of Thiruvananthapuram and a law college student in Thrissur. The accused, identified as Satheesh from Vattiyoorkavu, was booked by the police. The incident happened on Friday night on the Venad Express. According to the complaint, the attempted assault took place near Varkala while the train was en route from Ernakulam to Thiruvananthapuram. The student alerted the railway police and officers reached the train at Thampanoor station and held the accused. The student alleged that the man tried to grope her and behaved in an indecent manner.
Remote Bonacaud faces healthcare crisis amid wildlife threats
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Bonacaud, a remote forest-fringed settlement in the state capital, is grappling with healthcare challenges due to the absence of medical facilities. Located on the edge of the Western Ghats, deep within the Vithura panchayat in Nedumangad, the area is vulnerable to human-wildlife conflicts, with wild elephants and bears often sighted. The nearest government hospital is over 20km away, leaving the ageing former tea estate workers living here without access to timely medical care. In emergencies, help often arrives only after a minimum delay of two hours. This delay could be fatal, say the residents. Selvaraj T, 62, a resident of the estate, had a near-death experience after a snakebite a few months ago. I thought I wouldnt survive. Another person was bitten earlier, and the only ambulance available took him first, he says. I had to wait for four hours before I was picked up. He was first taken to Vithura taluk hospital, from where he was referred to the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. He spent three days in the ICU and incurred an expense of Rs 30,000. Selvaraj is among the 180 families, mostly elderly, who reside at the estate. The residents have submitted a representation to the district collector and the Vithura panchayat, demanding a health sub-centre or a primary health centre in the area. Saraswathi S, 73, a cancer patient living at the Bonacaud estate Once a flourishing British-era plantation known as Bonaccord, Bonacaud was a hub of activity and employment for hundreds of workers, many of whom had migrated from Tamil Nadu. Established in the 19th century, the estate remained a major tea producer until its decline in the late 20th century, culminating in the factorys closure in 2000. With their livelihoods affected, many residents moved out. Some stayed back at the layam dilapidated row houses near abandoned bungalows and overgrown tea bushes. Adding to their woes is the threat of wild animals. Saraswathi S, 73, a cancer patient, recalls a time when the tea estate ran a hospital dispensary for workers. Since the closure of the tea estate, the dispensary also shut down. Ever since, for every ailment we have to travel 20 km. After dusk, its impossible to step out as we have to wade through forests, says Saraswathi, who now travels to Nedumangad for treatment. Karuppaswamy and Rajamma, an elderly couple, echo the concern. I collapsed recently, and it was late at night. My son lives in Vithura, and he had to come all the way to take me to hospital. It takes two hours to reach here. We feel helpless. You can hear the calls of wild animals during the night. Anything can happen to us, says Rajamma. Elderly couple Karuppaswamy and Rajamma at the Bonacaud estate Notably, Bonacaud also serves as the base point for trekkers heading to Agasthyakoodam, one of Keralas most popular eco-tourism spots. In the event of accidents or sudden illness during trekking, there is no facility nearby to offer first aid or emergency care, placing both tourists and local residents at risk, says Rajesh G, a young estate resident. We have taken up the matter with the authorities. They always promise, but nothing has happened on the ground. We hope they act soon and help these people. Vithura panchayat president Manjusha Anand says a resolution to set up a health sub-centre has been passed. The estate is private property. There is an abandoned school where the facility can be set up. But the property belongs to the education department, and there are many hurdles. The MLA [G Stephen] has promised to sort this out.
Kannur jailbreak reveals negligence among top officials of prisons dept
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Though the jailbreak of Govindachamy has raised questions on the safety aspects of prisons , equally glaring is the lethargy of senior officers of the Prisons Department. Highly-placed sources said senior officials, starting from Prisons Department Director General Balram Kumar Upadhyay, have been turning a blind eye towards the daily monitoring of the functioning of the prisons. As per the Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services (Management) Act, the Prisons DG should visit the central prisons and the high-security prison once every six months. This practice helps the DG personally take stock of the security situations inside the prisons and suggest measures to address them. However, the incumbent DG has been reluctant to visit prisons, sources said. The central prisons, open prisons, women prisons and the high-security prison have jail advisory boards that meet every six months. The norm that was keenly followed earlier was that the DGs would go the prisons to take part in the advisory board meetings so that both purposes- attending the meeting and jail visit- were served. However, in the case of the incumbent DG, he prefers attending the meetings, which are held offline, online. Weight loss to hoarding tools: Govindachamy plotted jailbreak meticulously for over a year Sources told TNIE that during the last three years of his tenure as Prisons DG, Balram ideally should have visited Kannur and other central prisons at least six times, but he did not. He was not interested in going there physically. Even when the advisory board meetings were taking place, he attended via online. Some of the sessions judges, who are members of the board, had reservations against the officers act of attending the meetings online. He has not visited Kannur central prison even once in a year, said a source. Officers like Rishi Raj Singh, however, had a different approach, the source said. When the head of the department visits the prisons, it sends a message. The subordinates would be forced to remain proactive, while the DG can identify the issues that required swift redressal. By choosing to skip this, the DG has created missing links in the system, it added. Even the DIGs stayed way from functions like the Prisons Meet conducted in jails. This, sources said, was done to cut down fuel expenses that could have incurred if a DIG visited a jail far away from his office. Fingers pointed at DG As per rule, the Prisons DG should visit the central prisons and the high-security prison once every six months which the incumbent DG has been avoiding The DG has been attending the jail advisory boards, that must meet every 6 months, only online Soumyas mother demands death penalty after convicts escape and re-arrest
Kerala govt plans tax incentive to boost source-level waste management
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The state government is planning to introduce a 5% discount on property tax for households with source-level waste management systems in a bid to encourage people to adopt processing of biodegradable garbage at the place of origin. Disposal of biodegradable waste remains a major challenge for the local self-government department (LSGD) and its source-level management remains low despite the state governments flagship cleanliness campaign, Malinya Muktha Nava Keralam. A recent survey by the LSGD revealed that only 23% of households currently manage waste at source, prompting the government to think about incentives to woo the people to its processing at place of origin. The survey launched by the Suchitwa Mission in 94.58 lakh households found that only 25.12 lakh households possess some kind of waste management infrastructure like kitchen bins, ring compost, biogas plant or composting pits. LSGD Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE that the 5% discount is under governments serious consideration. Though the (Malinya Muktha Nava Keralam) campaign helped the local bodies in improving overall waste management, it failed to generate the expected impact on households. We want more households to adopt source-level waste management systems, he said. Centralised waste management facilities are only for major cities and will focus only on bulk waste generators, Rajesh said. A final decision on the tax discount will be announced next week after analysing its financial impact on the local bodies, the minister added. Waste mgmt campaign will be intensified, says minister Whether it will be made mandatory to all local bodies, or limited only to those showing interest will be decided by then, Rajesh added. The LSGD is planning to intensify the campaign in the next three months. The minister said the results of the Swachh Survekshan Survey has reenergised the local bodies. The next three months are going to be crucial for every local body. After the Swachh Survekshan survey results, the local self government institutions are showing greater interest and many local bodies want to perform better, he added.
3-day The Hindu Home Expo opens at LuLu Mall in Thiruvananthapuram
The expo features over 125 properties by top builders. The Hindu Home Expo will be conducted at LuLu Mall, Kochi, from August 1 to 3
Kerala mulling credits, semester system for higher secondary classes
Conclave in Thiruvananthapuram kicks off higher secondary curriculum revision in the State; public discussions to be held at district-levels from August 1 to 15
