Politics / The Times of India
Sterilise, Vax and Shift Them to Shelters
CM: Guilty Must Face Action, Even Ajit Will Agree
A 20-year-old man suffered over 70% burn injuries in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district after being allegedly tied to an electric pole and set on fire by three minors. The victim identified his attackers, who have been detained. Preliminary investigation suggests the victim may have purchased the petrol himself, with CCTV footage collected.
Bihar's first phase saw record voter turnout, sparking debate on whether it favors the incumbent Nitish Kumar or signals anti-incumbency. Both NDA and Mahagathbandhan claim the surge benefits them. Historical trends suggest high turnout often indicates a regime change, but analysts point to recent government schemes potentially aiding the NDA.
As Bihar's election enters its second phase, the BJP is shifting its campaign focus to infiltration, with Prime Minister Modi highlighting the issue in border regions. He accused the opposition of shielding infiltrators for votes, framing it as a national security challenge. This narrative aims to counter traditional opposition strongholds in Seemanchal, emphasizing identity and security over development.
Union minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar criticizes Congress for appeasement politics before the Jubilee Hills by-poll. He claims Hindus in the constituency are supporting the BJP. Kumar alleges Congress is pandering to Muslim voters and calls the party the 'Indian Muslim Congress'. He urges the Hindu community to consolidate votes for the BJP in the upcoming election.
India has identified 44 nationals serving in the Russian Army amid the Ukraine conflict and urged Moscow for their release. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with Russian authorities and affected families, warning citizens against dangerous recruitment offers. This comes as families protest, seeking government intervention for their relatives allegedly misled into fighting.
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has dismissed rumors of a leadership change in Karnataka, stating it's not easy for Congress to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He described Siddaramaiah as a capable leader, having known him from his JD(S) days. Kumaraswamy also commented on Deputy CM DK Shivakumar's aspirations, suggesting his ambitions are a matter between him and God.
Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport faced significant disruption Friday as a glitch in the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS) led to over 300 flight delays. Air traffic controllers were forced to revert to manual procedures, drastically slowing down operations. Airlines issued advisories, urging passengers to check revised schedules and expect longer waits as teams worked to restore the system.
A viral video captured a man urinating near Delhi's Red Fort metro station, sparking outrage and debate. Foreign influencer and local volunteers confronted the individual, highlighting a lack of civic sense. The incident reignites discussions on public hygiene and the effectiveness of shaming as a deterrent, emphasising the urgent need for greater public awareness.
Rahul Gandhi has accused the Maharashtra government of land theft. He alleges government land worth 1,800 crore, meant for Dalits, was sold for 300 crore to a company linked to Ajit Pawar's son. Stamp duty was waived in the transaction. Gandhi claims this exposes corruption and that the government came to power through vote theft.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a year-long national celebration for 'Vande Mataram'. He inaugurated a special portal and released commemorative stamps and coins. The Prime Minister described the song as a symbol of devotion and national unity. Millions across India joined in singing the full version of the iconic anthem. The event honored freedom fighters and the timeless composition.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the 1937 Congress government of removing stanzas from Vande Mataram, claiming it fractured the song and sowed seeds of partition. He emphasized the song's enduring inspiration for nation-building and highlighted India's civilisational ethos of the nation as a mother and Shakti.
A significant security lapse occurred at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) when a British national, Fitz Patrick, reportedly bypassed immigration after arriving from Bangkok. Authorities have launched a manhunt using technical and human intelligence to locate the individual, who is believed to have exited without completing mandatory checks.
Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP of electoral malpractice, alleging chunav chori (election theft). He claimed systematic manipulation, citing Haryana as an example of wholesale chori and one man, multiple votes, and stated the Prime Minister came to power through such means.
In Offences Like Hit-And-Run, Can Inform Grounds Later: Court
'Voted For Jobs, Development & Accountability'

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