31 C The Times of India
Elections 2026Lucknow / The Times of India
Uttar Pradesh Vigilance searched former ARTO Lalit Kumar's Lucknow residence for disproportionate assets. The searches recovered approximately 1.62 crore rupees in cash concealed within the premises. Valuables including thirteen kilograms of gold and nine kilograms of silver were also seized. Investigators identified ownership of at least fifteen properties across several Uttar Pradesh districts. The ongoing probe aims to determine the full extent of assets acquired beyond known income sources.
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at eleven locations in Jhansi and Lucknow. These searches are part of an ongoing money laundering investigation against a former Samajwadi Party MLA. The probe focuses on assets allegedly acquired through illicit means and criminal activities. Investigators are examining documents and digital devices seized during the operations. This action follows recent property attachments by Uttar Pradesh Police.
Uttar Pradesh has expanded social security for vulnerable groups. Pensions for the elderly and disabled have seen significant increases. Disability empowerment includes assistive devices and ID cards. Minority welfare programs address basic amenities and development needs. Food security and labor reforms aim for broader societal upliftment.
The USTTAD scheme aims to preserve India's rich traditional arts and crafts. It upgrades artisan skills and connects them to national and international markets. Minority youth are trained in traditional crafts through a guru-shishya model. Beneficiaries receive stipends and access to credit and market platforms. This initiative ensures a sustainable future for these valuable cultural practices.
Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna launched a statewide cybercrime drive named Operation Cy-Vajra. Police blocked over 2.9 lakh mobile numbers and 1.8 lakh devices linked to cyber fraud. Authorities also froze approximately 530 crore rupees involved in financial cybercrime cases. The state police are enhancing cyber policing and victim assistance mechanisms. This initiative aims to strengthen public confidence and improve cyber security across Uttar Pradesh.
Champat Rai broke his silence on the Ram Temple donation embezzlement controversy. He will respond to allegations after the Special Investigation Team completes its probe. CCTV footage allegedly shows theft during donation counting, triggering widespread public discussion. An Ayodhya court granted police custody of three accused for further interrogation. The Special Investigation Team found prima facie evidence of theft and pilferage during donation counting.
Lucknow division of North Eastern Railway introduced an AI sign language system. This system provides live train announcements and platform information on LED screens. Hearing impaired passengers can now access travel details independently without assistance. A successful trial was conducted with deaf and mute organization representatives. The project was developed with Techtron Infotech and implemented after a trial.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is considering appointing a Chief Executive Officer. This governance overhaul follows alleged donation embezzlement and administrative lapses. A committee is identifying suitable candidates for the new oversight position. The Trust treasurer admitted professional supervision was absent, contributing to the issues. An investigation is ongoing into the alleged theft and pilferage of donations.
A notorious criminal carrying a one lakh reward was killed in an encounter. Asif alias Vicky Chhaimar was a wanted gangster involved in several serious cases. He led a gang specializing in house-invasion dacoities and murders across multiple states. The encounter took place in Ambedkar Nagar district on Tuesday morning. His death is expected to provide closure to many pending investigations.
The Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya scheme provides residential education for disadvantaged girls. This initiative now extends classes up to grade twelve, enhancing educational access. Uttar Pradesh has established many such schools, enrolling thousands of young women. These institutions offer free boarding, lodging, and quality education in safe environments. The scheme aims to reduce dropouts and empower girls for future contributions.