3 women killed, 2 injured after being buried under debris of mound in UP's Sonbhadra
Three women died and two were injured after a mound collapsed in Sonbhadra district, burying them under debris. Villagers and rescue teams worked to free the women, who were collecting mud for home plastering ahead of festivals. Officials are investigating the incident to prevent future tragedies.
'Shamshan no place for festivities': Kashi Vidvat Parishad opposes 'Masane Ki Holi' in Varanasi
A council of Sanskrit scholars, the Kashi Vidvat Parishad, has raised objections to the 'Masane Ki Holi' tradition in Varanasi. They claim the practice of playing with ashes at cremation grounds does not align with ancient scriptures. Organisers, however, defend the custom, citing religious texts and historical revival.
BLW dispatches 10th diesel-electric locomotive to Mozambique
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Firing on student sparks panic at BHU, FIR registered
Firing reported at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) after student dispute; security tightened
Tension erupted at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) following a student dispute that led to a firing incident. Police recovered four empty bullet casings from the scene, prompting a heightened security presence on and around the campus. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.
BJP Yuva Morcha stages protest against Cong stir at AI Summit
16 arrested for chain snatching in Gkp, 5 vehicles seized
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Varanasi woman turns beekeeping roots into Banarasi honey business
In Odar village of Varanasi district, Shivani Patel runs a small honey enterprise built on a practice she grew up watching. Beekeeping was familiar
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Varanasi is slated for a worldwide release on April 7, 2026.
Missing teen's head found hanging from tree in Varanasi forest
A grim discovery was made in Sonbhadra district as a teenager's head was found hanging from a tree in a forest. The 16-year-old, missing since January 19th, was identified by his brother. Authorities are investigating the case, with initial assessments suggesting the remains are several weeks old. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community.
Varanasi cruise project follows full regulatory compliance: minister
Kashi-themed modern headquarters for VMC
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Four inter-state robbers held after encounter in Mirzapur
New Casting Rumour: Sudeep To Join SS Rajamoulis Varanasi?
Prakash Raj plays Mahesh Babu's father in this April 2027 release.
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Officials told to speed up priority schemes in Kashi
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Rs 300 crore for 25 min: Grand scene planned in SS Rajamoulis Varanasi
Hyderabad: Varanasi, a fantasy-mythological action-adventure film directed by S. S. Rajamouli and starring Mahesh Babu, is quickly becoming one of the most ambitious and expensive projects in Indian cinema. This movie, set to release on April 7, 2027, is already creating significant buzz globally due to its grand scale and massive budget. A 25-Minute Sequence 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 .
Mahamagham Mahotsav 2026 (January 18 February 3, 2026), widely described as the Kumbh Mela of Kerala concluded recently on the sacred banks of the river Nila (Bharathapuzha), reaffirming Thirunavayas ancient stature as a Maha-tirtha and the revered Gaya of the South . Mohanji with Mahamandaleswar Swami Anandavanam Bharathi Maharaj and the team of priests who conducted the sacred Nila Aarti throughout the Mahamagham Mahotsav 2026 Organised under the leadership of Mahamandaleswar Swami Anandavanam Bharathi Maharaj of Sri Juna Akhada, the 17-day congregation marked an extraordinary revival of a tradition at a grand scale, after over 270 years. According to organisers, more than two million devotees took part across the festival period, with peak-day footfall rising into the lakhs! Mohanji Foundations Nila Aarti: Bringing the living lineage of Kashi to Kerala A central spiritual highlight of Mahamagham Mahotsav 2026 was the daily Nila Aarti (Nila Aarathi), organised by Mohanji Foundation under the guidance and blessings of Brahmarishi Dr. Mohanji. From January 19 to February 3, the riverbank transformed each evening into a vibrant field of devotion as thousands gathered to witness the sacred Aarti Seva. Mohanji Foundation arranged to bring an expert team of pandits from Varanasi to Thirunavayya, bringing the recognizable sanctity and discipline of the Kashi tradition into Keralas spiritual landscape, and symbolising a powerful unification of North and South Indian lineages through shared worship. Ammucares Annadaan: Compassion at scale, every day Alongside the spiritual programs, Ammucare (Ammucare Charitable Trust) - a platform founded by Mohanji and dedicated to supporting the needy, led Anna Prasada Samarpanam, providing nutritious meals to pilgrims, sadhus, volunteers, and visitors through a continuously operating Annakshetra (free food service) during the festival. Devotees partook of breakfast, lunch and dinner, with the kitchen and facilities running for almost 24hours everyday, throughout the festival. In the final phase of the gathering, meal service scaled dramatically, with Ammucare reporting almost 50,000 pilgrims served in a single day, reflecting the true Kumbh spirit of inclusiveness and selfless service. Mohanji personally joined volunteers in serving pilgrims, offering a lived example of shared joy of serving, and reinforcing the Mahotsavs message that spirituality is not separate from compassion in action. A historic congregation and a living renaissance Throughout the Mahotsav, pilgrims, saints, and sadhus from across India and abroad participated in holy dips, rituals, ancestral rites, cultural programmes, and spiritual discourses. An ancient tradition was revived on a historic scale after over 270 years, marking the start of a new era for the tradition in this part of Bharat. Sharing his reflections on this grand event, Brahmarishi Mohanji said, The Mahamagham festival at Thirunavaya was a grand cultural and historic revival. A great union of various traditions. A cultural revival is the rejuvenation of a nation . Mohanji Foundation brought the living Aarti tradition from Varanasi to Thirunavaya, adding a special character to this festival. Likewise, Ammucares daily anna prasadam seva fed thousands, but touched the hearts of everyone at the festival . We were privileged to support this historic gathering and participate in this rejuvenation of ancient traditions . The closing ceremony was joined by eminent saints, with sadhus being honoured and thanked for their esteemed presence, and with organisers expressing strong intent to continue building this sacred convergence in the years ahead. ammucare.org
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Ravindra Jaiswal alleged large-scale irregularities in the voter list revision process in Varanasi, claiming that nearly one lakh votes were reduced from his assembly segment
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Over 9L devotees offer prayers at KVT
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Security beefed up as courts in Uttar Pradesh receive bomb threat emails
The 18 districts which received the threats include Lucknow, Varanasi, Moradabad, Meerut, Ayodhya among others
The Supreme Court of India on Monday declined to entertain a petition raising concerns about the worsening water quality of the river Ganga in Varanasi. The plea had been filed by Badaravada Venugopal, who is also known as Baba Khatarnak, seeking judicial intervention over the alleged discharge of untreated sewage into the river. A Bench [] The post Supreme Court declines to hear plea on Ganga Pollution in Varanasi, asks petitioner to move High Court appeared first on India Legal .
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Sacred gifts for KVD from 63 temples from country and abroad
UP Shocker: Husband Marries Wife To Nephew After Affair Surfaces In Baghpat
A shocking case of an alleged extramarital relationship culminating in a public marriage has surfaced from the Doghat police station area of Baghpat district. According to local reports, a married woman, who tied the knot with Pankaj eight years ago and has two children aged five and three, had been in a relationship for nearly five years with her nephew by marriage, the 22-year-old son of her husbands elder brother. , pic.twitter.com/Lc6S29DeR8 Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) February 15, 2026 When the affair came to light, the family convened several village panchayats and attempted to counsel the couple, urging them to respect familial ties. However, both reportedly remained adamant about living together. On Valentines Day, the matter reached Doghat police station. In a dramatic turn of events, the womans husband allegedly decided to formally separate and handed her over to his nephew. Outside the police station, in the presence of family members and villagers, the two exchanged garlands, symbolically solemnising their union. They were later sent away from the village. UP: Man Ends 25-Year Marriage, Arranges Wife's Wedding ToLover In Varanasi - VIDEO The womans two children have remained with their father. Her parental family reportedly expressed anger over the development and refused to attend the ceremony. Doghat SHO Suryadeep Singh said no written complaint had been received. He confirmed that the garland exchange took place outside the police station with mutual consent and, in the absence of any complaint, police did not intervene.
A video shared by X user Nitin Prajapati has taken social media by storm, showing an unusual scuffle at the ghats of Varanasi just days before Maha Shivaratri. In the now-viral clip, two boys dressed as Lord Shiva are seen fighting on a Banaras ghat. The elder boy is seen pinning the younger one down as bystanders gather around in curiosity. When a passer-by intervenes and asks what the fight is about, the elder boy replies, I was trying not to hit him but he's on my nerves now. The younger boy quickly responds with, 60 rupayee nahi diya toh maar raha hai. The seemingly serious scuffle turns unexpectedly mundane, the fight is over 60. 60 pic.twitter.com/z1W8HXaw5q Nitin Prajapati (@Prajapat204) February 15, 2026 A 60 dispute As the situation unfolds, the passer-by offers to pay the 60 himself but asks the boys to stop fighting. The moment, caught on camera, has struck a chord online not just because of the argument but because of the boys attire. Dressed as Mahadev, complete with costume and makeup, the irony of the situation amused viewers. The timing of the incident, with Maha Shivaratri around the corner, added another layer of intrigue and debate to the viral moment. Sandesh chaturvedi (@SandeshChaturv8) February 15, 2026 Netizens react Social media users were quick to react, offering a mix of humor and criticism. One user commented, The entire fight is going on for money. These fake Mahadevs or the moneyed Mahadevs who are roaming around dressed up as such, they dont care about anything except money. Wearing the cloak of religion, they are fooling the whole world. Another user took a lighter tone, writing, This little drama of Banaras's Mahadevs felt so cute. With humble request to the big Mahadev, please return the 60 rupees, honesty is important even in friendship. Otherwise the little Mahadev will keep narrating the same story every time we meet and the laughter just won't stop. , , 60 , Ravi Kumar Yadav (@RaviKumarIT2026) February 15, 2026 A third user added, Those people who are making fun after watching this video, let me tell you, he is acting a character, so what exactly is there to make fun of? After all, he is a human being. What began as a minor altercation over 60 has now become a talking point online, blending humor, religion, and social commentary in equal measure.
From Kashi To Rameswaram: How Maha Shivratri Is Celebrated Across India
Maha Shivratri, meaning The Great Night of Shiva, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Celebrated every year in the month of Phalguna, the festival marks the divine union of Shiva and Parvati and symbolises spiritual awakening. Across India, devotees observe fasting, engage in nightlong prayers, and visit temples. Many keep a strict fast throughout the day, consuming only fruits and milk, while some observe a nirjala (without water) fast. The night is considered especially sacred, and devotees stay awake, chanting Om Namah Shivaya and offering prayers during the four prahars (quarters) of the night. #Mahashivratri2026 Falling on the darkest night of the waning moon, Maha Shivaratri symbolises the journey from outer noise to inner silence, where Lord Shiva is realised as the witness within. Devotees fast, hold Jagarana, practice meditation and Mantra-japa of Om Namah pic.twitter.com/eQ52kx32W7 Bharat Ki Soch (@BharatKiSoch_) February 15, 2026 Maha Shivratri celebrations across India In Varanasi (Kashi Vishwanath Temple), thousands of devotees gather for grand rituals and processions. In Ujjains Mahakaleshwar Temple, a special Bhasma Aarti is performed. Somnath in Gujarat and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu also witness elaborate ceremonies and long queues of worshippers. In Kashmir, the festival is celebrated as Herath by Kashmiri Pandits with traditional feasts and rituals. In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, temples are beautifully decorated, and cultural programs are organised. Meanwhile, in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, large crowds visit famous Shiva temples such as Siddhivinayak and Neelkanth Mahadev. 2026 ! 25+ Maha Shivratri Hindi Wishes, Messages & Greetings To Send Devotees On This Day Devotees practice meditation Beyond temple rituals, Maha Shivratri has a strong spiritual dimension. Many followers practice meditation and yoga, believing that the planetary alignment on this night enhances spiritual energy. In places like Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, large-scale meditation programs and cultural performances attract thousands of participants from across the world. For many, the festival is not only about celebration but also about self-discipline and inner transformation. Staying awake throughout the night symbolises overcoming ignorance and darkness. Maha Shivratri ultimately represents devotion, resilience, and the quest for higher consciousness, making it one of Indias most deeply revered spiritual observances.
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh is slowly moving out of the winter phase as temperatures continue to rise across most regions. Clear skies and dry weather are dominating, leading to warmer afternoons, while mornings and nights are still relatively cool. The change is being clearly felt by residents, especially during peak daytime hours. Weather Forecast Looking ahead, the weather is expected to remain dry across Madhya Pradesh for the next few days. Clear skies will continue, and there is no sign of rainfall in the immediate forecast. Day temperatures may rise further by 1 to 2 degrees, while night temperatures are also likely to increase gradually. In Bhopal, the maximum temperature is around 30C, which is about 2 degrees higher than the previous days. The minimum temperature is close to 14C. Residents are experiencing comfortable mornings, but the afternoon sun is becoming stronger, making outdoor movement slightly uncomfortable after noon. Indore is also seeing warmer conditions. Day temperatures have reached nearly 31C, showing an increase of around 2 to 3 degrees. Night temperatures remain near 15C. People in busy areas and markets are feeling mild heat during the afternoon, though evenings remain pleasant. In Gwalior, the heat is more noticeable compared to other cities. The maximum temperature has touched about 32C, nearly 3 degrees higher than earlier this week. Morning temperatures are still low at around 13C, causing a clear difference between cool mornings and warm afternoons. Travel Tales: Ganga Aarti In Madhya Pradesh? Watch How Sagars Famous Lakha Banjara Lake Lights Up To Give Varanasi Feels Jabalpur has recorded daytime temperatures close to 30C, with a rise of about 2 degrees. The minimum temperature remains around 14C. Residents say the weather feels pleasant overall, but the increasing heat in the afternoon is now clearly felt. A Red Road? Madhya Pradesh Gets Indias First Wildlife-Safe Road Design Heres How It Saves Animals From Accidents Residents across the state are adjusting to the changing weather. Many people are avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, drinking more water, and choosing lighter clothing. Students, office-goers, and outdoor workers are especially feeling the warmer afternoons. Though the heat is not severe yet, it signals the steady shift toward a warmer season in Madhya Pradesh.
As anticipation builds for the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, fans across the country turned to faith, performing havan and special poojas in temples to pray for Team Indias triumph. The blockbuster encounter, one of crickets fiercest rivalries, coincides this year with the auspicious festival of Maha Shivratri, adding a deeper spiritual significance to the occasion. From early morning, devotees gathered at prominent temples. Priests conducted havans, chanting Vedic mantras while offering prayers for the health, focus, and success of the Indian players. Many fans were seen holding placards with messages of support, while others performed rudrabhishek rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. 'PKMKB' Pizza Deal At '1971' On Swiggy Goes Viral Ahead Of IND Vs PAK ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Clash; Netizens REACT VIDEO | Uttar Pradesh: Prayers are being offered at a temple in Kanpur for India's victory in today's T20 clash against Pakistan. Arch-rivals India and Pakistan will clash in a T20 World Cup match at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Full video available on PTI pic.twitter.com/L5rAUgxL4D Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 15, 2026 Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Special prayers were offered at Sarangnath Temple on Mahashivratri for Indias victory in the ICC T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan pic.twitter.com/dA9j76EFjX IANS (@ians_india) February 15, 2026 #WATCH | Varanasi, UP: Fans perform hawan and pooja for Team India's victory ahead of the India-Pakistan match today in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. pic.twitter.com/ozmKD1XdVv ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2026 India To Go With Extra Spinner? Suryakumar Yadav Hints At Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion During IND Vs PAK ICC T20 WC26 Clash Maha Shivratri, which celebrates devotion to Lord Shiva and symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, amplified the emotional fervor. Supporters expressed hope that the blessings sought on this sacred day would translate into a strong performance on the field. Cricket and faith often intertwine in India, especially ahead of marquee contests against Pakistan. Social media platforms were flooded with images and videos of devotees lighting diyas, breaking coconuts, and chanting prayers for victory. With national pride at stake and spiritual faith running high, fans believe that divine blessings combined with on-field excellence can guide Team India to a memorable win in todays much-awaited showdown. IND vs PAK T20 World Cup: What Happens If Colombo Match Is Washed Out? Rules & Implications Explained There is a big rain threat over the India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, and fans are wondering what happens if the match gets washed out. The blockbuster Group A encounter is scheduled to be played in Colombo, but weather forecasts suggest showers could interrupt or even prevent play. According to the playing conditions set by the International Cricket Council, a minimum of five overs per side must be completed for a T20 match to produce a result. If rain does not allow at least five overs each, the game will be declared a No Result. In that case, both teams will share one point each. #WATCH | #IndvsPak T20 WC Colombo weather update before match FPJ exclusive Cloudy scenes in Colombo on Saturday evening ahead of the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan at Premadasa stadium. Catch all the LIVE Updates of weather, latest updates, top match pic.twitter.com/ML379m6a1P Free Press Journal (@fpjindia) February 14, 2026 There is no reserve day for this group-stage match. Reserve days are usually kept only for the semifinals and final. So if rain washes out the game completely, it will not be replayed on another day. If the match ends with no result, both India and Pakistan will get one point each in the group table. That could still keep both teams in a strong position to qualify for the next stage, depending on their other results and net run rate. If some overs are possible but rain interrupts the match, the result can be decided using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. But if conditions do not improve enough to complete the minimum overs, fans may unfortunately miss out on one of crickets biggest rivalries this tournament.
10 lakh devotees take holy dip on Mahashivaratri at Sangam ghats in Prayagraj
Large crowds gathered for the Mahashivratri holy dip at Prayagraj's Sangam ghats. Uttar Pradesh ATS monitored the Magh Mela 2026. Devotees also flocked to Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Similar celebrations occurred at temples nationwide. Mahashivratri marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival is celebrated with devotion across India.
Gorakhpur has emerged as a devpt model under PMs guidance: Yogi
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Gorakhpur, February 14: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, Today Gorakhpur reflects as a model that demonstrates how development takes place. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh is proving how development should be carried out. Today, Gorakhpur has everything and so does Uttar Pradesh. CM Yogi was addressing a public gathering after inaugurating the citys fifth 'Kalyan Mandapam' in Bichhiya Colony of Ward No. 22, Jungle Tulsiram. The Kalyan Mandapam is being constructed by the Gorakhpur Development Authority at a cost of 2.47 crore from the Chief Ministers MLA development fund. During the inauguration ceremony, the CM extended greetings and best wishes to the people on the occasion of Mahashivratri. He said, Development works are being carried out at every level. The budgets of both the central and state governments include numerous schemes for youth, women and every section of society. As these schemes are rolled out from time to time, their benefits will reach not only the people of the state but also the residents of Gorakhpur. 2.47 ( ) EWS/LIG - pic.twitter.com/YP9vFyVJYy Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) February 14, 2026 Utility of Kalyan Mandapams Explaining the need and importance of Kalyan Mandapams, CM Yogi said, 15 to 20 years ago, weddings were often organised by putting up tents on roads. At that time, population density and traffic were low, so it did not cause major problems. However, today both the host side and the guests require proper venues that do not inconvenience anyone. Not everyone can afford expensive hotels or marriage halls. Kalyan Mandapams now offer facilities similar to hotels and marriage halls at minimal user charges. Their utility has further increased as thousands of weddings often take place on the same day. The Chief Minister informed that five Kalyan Mandapams have already been completed in Gorakhpur city. In addition, five more are under construction in Jungle Beni Madhav, Basharatpur, Nakaha Number Two, Mahadev Jharkhandi and Semra. He said that he has contributed funds from his MLA quota for most of these projects. For the newly inaugurated Bichhiya Kalyan Mandapam, he contributed 2 crore from his MLA fund. He added that funds from the municipal corporation, development authority and allocations of councillors, the mayor, MLAs and MPs are also being utilised for civic works. Kalyan Mandapams will truly benefit the poor and also generate employment. Transformation of Bichhiya area CM Yogi said, Everyone is aware of the earlier condition of Bichhiya, which faced problems of poor roads and waterlogging. Today, the roads are such that traffic jams will no longer occur. The Goddhoiyaa drain passing through the area, which earlier remained clogged with sludge and caused waterlogging during the monsoon, is now set to become a model of drainage management. Once the drain is completed and the sewage treatment plant becomes operational, people will visit the area to see it. Bichhiya is emerging as a new model of good roads and effective drainage. Chief Minister said that housing facilities are now being provided to every section of society. In Rapti Nagar Extension, a sports complex is being developed along with housing facilities for all income groups. Similar housing schemes are being implemented in other areas as well. A large housing project is also coming up near Maniram. Infrastructure and connectivity push CM Yogi said, Gorakhpur now has all essential facilities. An AIIMS has been established, the medical college has been strengthened, and the fertilizer factory has resumed operations. The city is connected by good roads and four-lane highways in all directions. There are four-lane roads connecting Gorakhpur to Lucknow, Varanasi, Nepal, Deoria and Kushinagar. Bypass roads are also being constructed, which will ensure that traffic congestion does not occur. He emphasised that traffic jams lead to stagnation and therefore Gorakhpur must be made congestion-free. He appreciated the continuous cooperation of the people of Gorakhpur, which has contributed to positive development outcomes. Industries are now also being set up in the city. Call for cleanliness and environmental protection Appealing to the public to pay special attention to cleanliness, CM Yogi said, As the Prime Minister had pointed out, previous governments encouraged corruption and brought disease. We have curbed corruption and eliminated disease. Illnesses like encephalitis no longer exist. However, CM emphasised that maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is a collective responsibility. People should not litter roads or drains and should avoid the use of single-use plastic. The Chief Minister stressed that protecting the environment is essential for human well-being. Referring to the situation in Delhi, he said people there are forced to live in suffocating conditions, with very poor air quality causing eye irritation and breathing difficulties. Doctors advise the elderly, the sick and children to stay indoors. In contrast, Gorakhpur enjoys a clean and healthy environment. He said that when people fulfil their responsibility toward Mother Earth, nature will also bless them in return. Everyone must contribute by maintaining cleanliness, preventing damage to public property and ensuring others do the same. CM Yogi said, Ramgarh Tal has become a beautiful site, yet some people still litter the area with used plates and containers. This leads to unhygienic conditions, mosquito breeding and disease. Such behaviour must be stopped and if someone does not comply, the matter should be reported to the administration. He emphasised that a sense of collective responsibility is essential for development. Before the stage programme, CM Yogi formally inaugurated the Kalyan Mandapam by cutting the ribbon and inspected the facilities. On the stage, he distributed allotment certificates to 10 beneficiaries from the LIG and EWS categories under the Rapti Nagar Extension Sports City Scheme. Addressing the ceremony, Member of Parliament Ravi Kishan Shukla said, CM Yogi Adityanath has presented a historic budget for the development and welfare of all sections of society. Under his leadership, Uttar Pradesh is moving toward becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy. He said that a state once troubled by organised crime has now emerged as a top investment destination due to strong law and order. Welcoming the Chief Minister, Mayor Dr. Manglesh Srivastava said, The realisation of the Kalyan Mandapam concept is the result of CM Yogi Adityanaths visionary approach to social welfare. He added that the Chief Minister consistently works for the all-round development of Gorakhpur. The Mayor also presented details of completed and ongoing Kalyan Mandapam projects in the city. Also Watch: Uttar Pradesh Budget 202627 Boosts Religious Tourism With Major Funding For Pilgrimage Site Development On the occasion, MLAs Vipin Singh, Fateh Bahadur Singh, Shriram Chauhan, Mahendrapal Singh, Dr. Vimlesh Paswan, Pradeep Shukla, Vice Chairperson of the State Womens Commission Charu Chaudhary, GDA Board members Durgesh Bajaj, Pawan Tripathi, Radheshyam Srivastava, local councillor Rajesh Kumar, Mahant Ravindradas of Kalibari and other dignitaries were present.
Varanasi, Feb 14: A shocking case of cyber fraud has surfaced in which the PAN card of a UPSC aspirant was misused to take loans worth over Rs 25.59 crore, leaving a negative lien in his bank account. The fraud came to light when the student tried to make a small online payment of Rs 3,500 and his transaction failed. Transaction failure reveals irregularity The victim, Anurag Mishra, who is preparing for the UPSC examination in Delhi, attempted to pay his library fee through Google Pay on January 17. When the transaction failed, he checked his account and was stunned to find that his ICICI Bank account showed a negative lien of more than Rs 25 crore. Fake firm and loans under investigation A panicked Anurag immediately contacted customer care and later approached the bank branch. During the preliminary inquiry, it emerged that an unknown person had misused his PAN card to open a current account in Varanasi and availed loans worth crores in his name. The account was allegedly used to register a fake firm under GST and route financial transactions. Following the complaint, the cyber crime team swung into action. Cyber crime in-charge Gopalji Kushwaha said a case has been registered on the complaint of Kamlesh Kumar Mishra. Initial findings have raised suspicion of possible internal collusion at the bank level, which is also being probed. Verification lapses raise concern Officials said Anurag has no connection with the fake company and had never applied to open any current account in Varanasi. Despite this, loans running into crores and GST-related actions were recorded in his name, exposing serious loopholes in verification processes. Also Watch: Mumbai Cyber Fraud: 63-Year-Old Malad Businessman Duped Of 7.71 Crore In Fake Online Share Trading Scam; FIR Registered The case has raised major concerns over cyber security and identity misuse. Police and concerned departments are now working to trace the fraudsters and identify how a single identity document was used to create such a large financial liability in the name of an ordinary student.
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