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Elections 2026Uttar Pradesh / The Times of India
A tragic outing turned fatal in Ayodhya's Saryu River as three women from the same family drowned. While bathing, one woman ventured into deep water, leading others to attempt a rescue, resulting in their deaths. Two teenage girls remain missing, prompting an intensive search by rescue teams and the SDRF.
Uttar Pradesh electricity consumers are set to receive refunds for overcharged smart meter fees. Approximately five lakh individuals who obtained new connections between September 2025 and March 2026 will see adjustments in their July bills. This follows a regulatory commission directive after a media investigation exposed discrepancies in meter pricing, leading to an estimated Rs 150-200 crore refund.
K.C. Tyagi, a former JD(U) leader, has been appointed chairman of the RLD's parliamentary board, a key decision-making body. This move signals a strategic shift by RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary to incorporate experienced political managers and broaden the party's appeal beyond its traditional base. The party also aims to build a strong social coalition by balancing various caste and religious groups ahead of the UP assembly elections.
A young man's religious conversion to Islam and subsequent marriage ignited a major controversy in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh. Accused of coercion by his family, he faced legal action and protests. However, the narrative took a sharp turn when he reappeared in a video, announcing his return to Hinduism and apologizing to his parents, a move his father confirmed as a reconnection with family traditions.
Tragedy struck in Gonda as a 24-year-old man, Vimal, died electrocuted while accompanying his sister to her B.Ed exam. His 20-year-old sister, Prachi, sustained severe injuries while attempting to rescue him and is currently hospitalized. The incident occurred near a municipal street light that had become live during light rain. Authorities are investigating the cause of the electrical fault and potential negligence.
A 56-year-old transporter was found brutally murdered near Bahraich after stepping out for a mysterious phone call. Ajay Dwivedi's family suspects foul play, noting his severe injuries and an undamaged motorcycle, suggesting the scene was staged to look like an accident. Police are investigating the unknown caller, call records, and digital footprints to uncover the truth behind this shocking crime.
A tragic incident in Firozabad saw a father and his young son lose their lives after a gas tanker crushed them while they slept outside their home. The family's teenage daughter is critically injured and receiving medical attention. Authorities have apprehended the tanker's driver and seized the vehicle following the devastating early morning accident.
Uttar Pradesh is championing its ancient Maatikala art through the Mukhyamantri Maatikala Rozgar Yojana. This initiative, managed by the UP Maatikala Board, offers bank loans up to Rs. 10 lakh to traditional clay artisans for setting up enterprises. The scheme supports toy manufacturing, household items, building materials, and decorative products, aiming to boost livelihoods and preserve cultural heritage across all 75 districts.
In a commendable move, Uttar Pradesh is increasing financial assistance for leprosy-affected persons via the Kushthavastha Pension Yojana. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government has now elevated the monthly pension to 3000, benefiting over 13,000 citizens. Eligibility is based on residency, leprosy-related disability, and defined income limits, ensuring comprehensive backing for those impacted. Interested individuals can apply online or visit local government centers.
Ayodhya police have intensified their probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations, recording statements from former Trust general secretary Champat Rai and other functionaries. Investigators are meticulously examining the entire donation management process, from receipt to deposit, to identify procedural lapses and establish accountability. This crucial step aims to reconstruct the movement of funds and uncover any conspiracy, with financial records and evidence being corroborated.
To Examine Unusual Deposits, Withdrawals, Fund Transfers Linked To 8 Accused