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Patna / The Times of India
In a dramatic turn of events, former RJD MLA Ritlal Rai is under scrutiny by the Enforcement Directorate due to a Patna police report uncovering a suspected organized crime ring. Accusations against Rai and his accomplices include siphoning off crores through rampant land grabbing and illicit construction projects on government-owned land in Danapur.
Patna is hosting a 16-day campaign against gender-based violence until December 10, featuring diverse activities like rallies and street plays. The initiative aims to boost societal sensitivity and commitment to ending violence against women and girls. Training covers identifying violence, referral processes, and awareness of support systems, with a strong emphasis on zero tolerance.
Rabri Devi, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, is under increasing scrutiny as she prepares to vacate her official residence. With reports of her family hastening the completion of their private house in Danapur's Mahuabagh, insiders speculate they might prefer this new abode over the designated 39, Hardinge Road bungalow.
In a commendable display of law enforcement efficacy, Patna police celebrated a pivotal achievement in crime control, securing convictions for 668 individuals in the month of October. This landmark success, credited to thorough investigations and cooperative judiciary efforts, showcased the swift administration of justice in serious offenses, including POCSO, NDPS, and homicide.
Patna Municipal Corporation has launched an automated crackdown on illegal parking, issuing 53 challans using AI-powered cameras. Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology scans vehicles in no-parking zones, instantly generating fines sent to owners' phones. This initiative aims to reduce congestion on major city routes, with penalties starting at Rs500 and escalating for repeat offenders.
Patna's Special Investigation Team has successfully detained Ashish Ranjan, the alleged mastermind behind the tragic bombing incident at BN College, during an operation in Rajasthan. Ranjan, whose skills as a bomb-maker made him a target with a bounty of Rs 20,000, was arrested along with Amit Kumar, a fellow criminal sought for a reward of Rs 25,000.
The iconic Kalidas Rangalaya in Patna is on the verge of a magnificent transformation with a Rs 7 crore renovation project. This upgrade is set to elevate the performing arts experience to new heights, featuring full climate control, contemporary seating arrangements, cutting-edge lighting and sound systems, and a grander stage.
Patna Municipal Corporation offers a significant relief, waiving all interest and penalties on property tax dues until March 31, 2026. Property owners can now settle outstanding taxes by paying only the principal amount in a single installment. This one-time settlement scheme applies to all property types and even those with pending legal cases, provided they withdraw them.
In a bid to maintain order during the Bihar Assembly's winter session from December 1-5, Patna officials have implemented stringent regulations. All forms of assembly, protests, and possession of weapons are strictly restricted in specified zones to facilitate uninterrupted legislative activities. Authorized officials will be exempt from these rules, while those who breach them will be subject to legal consequences.
Nalanda University hosted an international conference on Dharma and global ethics, drawing scholars and policymakers from across the globe. Discussions centered on civilisational wisdom, sustainability, and contemporary moral challenges. Experts highlighted the relevance of Indian knowledge traditions for ethical leadership and fostering global cooperation, emphasizing compassion and interdependence for collective well-being.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar disbursed Rs 10,000 each to 10 lakh women under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, totaling Rs 1,000 crore. This initiative, aimed at empowering women and boosting livelihoods, has now reached 1.56 crore Jeevika Didis. The CM highlighted the government's long-standing commitment to women's empowerment through reservations and self-help group formation.
In a bold stride towards modernization, the Bihar Assembly has introduced cutting-edge electronic display boards, allowing MLAs to instantly access government responses. This significant upgrade coincides with the inaugural session of the 18th Assembly, which boasts a vibrant roster of 243 representatives.
Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar shocked many with his impromptu morning visit to the state secretariat, where he meticulously checked on departmental attendance and performance metrics. With a focus on instilling a strong work ethic, he appealed to officials to embody punctuality and commitment, as he stressed that discipline and attentiveness are key.
On its 25th foundation day, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) took the opportunity to celebrate its successful electoral journey. In a virtual address, party leader Chirag Paswan took a stand against the RJD, calling out their divisive tactics and emphasizing his party's commitment to empowering women and youth.
The allegations of vote manipulation by opposition parties in Bihar have been thoroughly dismissed by the Election Commission. They confirmed that no requests for EVM verification were logged, and the routine VVPAT audits showed alignment with the official counts.
Patna has launched a two-week family planning campaign, deploying 48 'Sarthi chariots' e-rickshaws to spread awareness and provide contraceptive services. This initiative, part of Mission Parivar Vikas, aims to stabilize population growth and improve the district's Human Development Index. Targets include over 3,000 sterilization procedures.
During a recent visit to the newly revamped emergency unit at PMCH, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar evaluated the state-of-the-art medical facilities, which include an advanced modular OT and an enhanced ICU. He prioritized the swift completion and safety measures for the air ambulance section, marking a significant stride towards modernizing healthcare in the region.
While on her way to drop her son off at school in Kankarbagh, Patna, a woman fell victim to a brazen robbery committed by two assailants riding a motorcycle. The stolen gold chain, worth Rs 1.5 lakh, adds to the alarming trend of recent chain-snatchings in the area.
Bihar has witnessed the demolition of homes by bulldozers, triggering a political uproar. Critics in the opposition are calling it Hitler Raj, emphasizing the emotional toll on affected families, including a bride-to-be whose wedding has abruptly been upheaved. The ruling BJP stands firm, portraying the demolitions as necessary governance, with little regard for the freezing conditions or the electoral calendar.
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a mother tragically passed away during a post-delivery transfusion at an unregistered hospital, prompting a firm directive from the Patna High Court. The court has mandated that Bihar's health department must establish stricter regulations for smaller healthcare facilities.
In a bold move to tackle the city's traffic woes, Patna's Divisional Commissioner has initiated a rigorous campaign against traffic infringements and illegal encroachments. All old vehicles, roadside repair shops, and cars awaiting buyers must be cleared by the deadline of December 1st, with hefty fines for those who fail to comply.

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