After Basavaraju, another jolt to maoists: Sudhakar killed
Security forces killed top Maoist leader Gautam alias Sudhakar in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. Gautam carried a reward of Rs 40 lakh. He was a Central Committee Member. He was responsible for violence and radicalizing youth. This is a major blow to Maoist leadership in Dandakaranya region. Security forces recovered an AK-47 and explosives.
Big success in fight against Naxalism: Top ultra Sudhakar gunned down in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur
Senior Maoist leader Narasimha Chalam alias Sudhakar, carrying a Rs 40 lakh bounty, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. This operation follows the recent neutralization of CPI (Maoist) chief Basavaraju, marking another significant blow to the banned outfit.
Senior Maoist leader Sudhakar killed in Bijapur encounter
RAIPUR: A senior maoist commander who was a Central Committee Member (CCM) was killed in an encounter in the National park area of Bijapur on Thursday. The deceased has been identified as Narasimha Chalam alias Sudhakar, 67, in-charge of the Maoist ideological training school (RePOS). An AK -47 rifle was recovered beside his body. Sudhakar's death came just a week after the elimination of CPI (Maoist) General Secretary Basavaraju on May 21. Speaking to TNIE, P Sunderraj, Inspector General of police (Bastar range) said, Acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of senior Maoist leaders and cadres in the region, a joint team comprising personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) launched targeted operation on June 5 inside the remote forest of Indravati National Park. During the operation, security forces engaged in an encounter, resulting in the death of Sudhakar. The IG added that reliable intelligence inputs had indicated the presence of Gautam alias Sudhakar, along with Telangana State Committee member Bandi Prakash, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee member Pappa Rao, and several other armed Maoist cadres in the area. Chhattisgarh police cited the death of Sudhakar as a major blow to the Maoist leadership, particularly in the Dandakaranya region of the state adjoining Telangana, Odisha and Maharashtra. So far this year, security forces have recovered the bodies of 186 Maoist cadres in the Bastar region, which spans seven districts in south Chhattisgarh. According to a press release issued by the Bastar police, it is believed that other Maoist cadres may have fled the encounter site. Further details, including the exact number of casualties and recoveries, will be shared once the operation is complete. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reaffirmed the BJP government's commitment to meeting the March 31, 2026 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate the Maoist threat from the region.
Key Maoist ideologue Sudhakar killed in Chhattisgarh
Originally hailing from Andhra Pradesh, the 67-year-old was involved in indoctrination and radicalization of youth and also responsible for numerous Maoist attacks in Chhattisgarh, resulting in the death of civilians and security personnel, they said.
Opposition slams AAP over appointment of key posts to Delhi leaders in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: A political row has erupted in Punjab after a series of appointments made by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led government drew critisim from the opposition. The appointment of Shaleen Mitra, an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to former Delhi Cabinet Minister Satyendar Jain, as the OSD to Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh. This comes just days after two other Delhi-based party leaders, Reena Gupta and Deepak Chauhan, were appointed as chairpersons of the Punjab Pollution Control Board and Punjab Large Industrial Development Board, respectively. The opposition questioned the government over these appointments and claimed that the appointment of individuals from outside the state on important administrative roles is harming the Punjabi pride. They allege that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has surrendered Punjab to the Delhi leadership Mitra was also the project manager of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. A photograph of Mitra sitting with Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh in a meeting went viral yesterday. Last month, Gupta, who was the spokesperson of AAP Delhi and former secretary of the Delhi unit of the party, became the first woman to be appointed as the chairperson of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). She had earlier worked with Rajya Sabha Member Sandeep Pathak. Both appointments had sparked a political furore in the state. Senior Congress leader and leader of opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa took to social media asking why Punjab was being remote-controlled from Delhi, AAP govt appoints Delhi neta Satyendar Jains PA Shaleen Mitra as OSD to Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr Balbir Singh. Why is Punjab being remote-controlled from Delhi? Jobs for Punjabis or rewards for Delhi aides? @BhagwantMann surrendered Punjab to Delhi wallas, Bajwa wrote on X. Also, Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira wrote on X, I urge @BhagwantMann & @Arvind Kejriwal to explain as per vedio 125 @AamAadmiparty people whove been deputed from Delhi to keep watch on different departments and ministers of Punjab from where are they getting their salaries, perks and other daily expenditure like houses, care, fuel etc?Is this money coming from all ill-gotten wealth earned through corrupt means? In another tweet earlier, Khaira wrote, This is how @ArvindKejriwal is remote controlling the Punjab government! Below is the appointment of Shaleen Mitra as OSD to Health Minister @AAPbalbir! -@ArvindKejriwal has slow by slow captured all vital positions in Punjab, and @BhagwantMann is just a Dummy CM has been kept to tell jokes, dance around, cut ribbons, enjoy his security and cavalcade of cars ! Utilising the opportunity the Shiromani Akali Dal hit at the government on its X handle, the party posted, Another shocking development. Jailed Delhi Aam Aadmi Party minister Satyendra Jains OSD Shaleen Mitra will now be OSD to the Punjab Health minister. This effectively means this ministry has also been taken over by the corrupt AAP leadership of Delhi. It seems the AAP leadership wants to expedite the loot of Punjab, knowing well that its countdown to being ousted from power has started. The Shiromani Akali Dal is committed to unmasking and punishing each & every corrupt deed once it assumes power in the State. While the ruling AAP government and its leadership hit back at the opposition. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema wrote on X, Wasnt Prashant Kishors appointment as Chief Advisor to CM a blow to Punjabs Pride? An outsider was handed reins with no accountability, no questions then. @Partap_Sbajwa is now crying foul over an OSD which is pure hypocrisy. AAP is here to deliver, not outsource governance. AAP spokesperson Neel Garg wrote on X, When @INCIndia made Prashant Kishor the de facto CM of Punjab, not a single question was raised. No accountability. No protest. Silence from @Partap_Sbajwa. Arusa Alam a Pakistani agent, had free access to the CM Office under Congress rule no files moved without her approval. Bhupesh Baghel, Congress leader of Chhattisgarh, is Punjabs Congress Prabhari a clear message that Punjab Congress is on remote control. This is not about governance. This is about Congresss entitlement. #AAP is not Congress. We dont outsource Punjab, we empower Punjabis. We are building systems, not sycophancy.
Senior Maoist leader killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh
BIJAPUR: A senior Maoist leader carrying Rs 40 lakh bounty was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, official sources said. According to the sources, Maoists' Central Committee member Gautam alias Sudhakar was gunned down in the latest gunfight, which comes days after CPI (Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju was killed by security forces in the Bastar region, dealing a major blow to the armed movement. However, Sudhakar's death is yet to be officially announced. The exchange of fire broke out in the forest of Indravati National Park area when a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation based on inputs about the presence of senior cadres, a senior police official posted in Bastar Range told PTI . Personnel belonging to the Special Task Force, District Reserve Guard, both units of the Chhattisgarh police, and CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action - an elite unit of CRPF) were involved in the operation, he said. The offensive was launched based on inputs about the presence of Maoist leader Sudhakar, Telangana State Committee member Bandi Prakash, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) member Pappa Rao, and a few other armed cadres, the official said. Preliminary reports suggest a strong possibility of major success for security forces in the operation, he said. Search operations were still underway in the area and more details will be shared later, he added.
Vedanta Aluminium partners PwC India to scale up sustainability initiatives in Odisha, Chhattisgarh
Vedanta Aluminium is growing its sustainability work with PwC India. The focus will be on projects in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The partnership will now include all operational areas. Decarbonisation, water conservation, and biodiversity are key goals. Vedanta aims for carbon neutrality by 2050. This supports India's net-zero target for 2070. The company wants to lead a more sustainable aluminium industry.
Following the recent death of CPI (Maoist) leader Nambala Keshav Rao, sources report another senior Maoist, Gautam alias Sudhakar, has been killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. Sudhakar, a central committee member with a Rs 40 lakh bounty, was reportedly gunned down during an anti-Naxalite operation in the Indravati National Park area.
Key Maoist Leader Killed In Encounter In Chhattisgarh, Carried Rs 50-Lakh Bounty
Key Maoist leader killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh, carried Rs 50-lakh bounty
Naxal Killed In Encounter In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur, Operation Underway
Chhattisgarh: Encounter breaks out between security personnel and Maoists
Bijapur: An encounter broke out between security personnel and Maoists in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Thursday, June 5, a police official said. The exchange of fire started in a forest of the Indravati National Park when a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Maoist operation following inputs about the presence of senior 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 .
Encounter breaks out between security personnel and Maoists in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur
The exchange of fire started in a forest of the Indravati National Park
CSPGCL Assistant Law Officer Result 2025 Released: The Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company (CSPGCL) has officially declared the CSPGCL Result 2025 for the post of Assistant Law Officer today, 05-06-2025, and candidates can now check their qualifying status online by entering their roll number and date of birth on the official website cspdcl.co.in.
E-Ball Revolution: How A Chhattisgarh Scientist Is Cleaning India's Waters With Microbes
Dr Prashant Sharmas e-ball cleans polluted water naturally and affordably, offering a lasting eco-solution
Watch: Baby Elephant Rescued From Pit In Chhattisgarh Thanks Its Saviour Before Returning To Jungle
A heartwarming rescue operation in Chhattisgarh's Raigarh district saved a baby elephant trapped in a muddy pit.
Odisha to get National Disaster Management Authority funds to tackle wildfires
BHUBANESWAR: Odisha, one of the worst forest fire-affected states, will receive funds from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to fight the menace effectively. Sources in the Forest department said Odisha along with Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and a few other states have been identified by the NDMA as highly vulnerable to forest fire incidents. Speaking to The New Indian Express, PCCF and HoFF Suresh Pant said a proposal of Rs 63 crore has already been given to the government for submission to the NDMA for sanction of funds. The funds will be utilised for installation of AI camera tower, community engagement and other programmes to deal with forest fire incidents more efficiently in the state from the next season onwards, Pant said. A senior official from the Forest department said NDMA has already identified 17 vulnerable territorial and wildlife divisions including Baliguda, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Paralakhemundi and Sambalpur for necessary fire preventive measures during forest fire season. The NDMA authorities have also appreciated our proposal and assured to place funds by June. The proposal is also expected to be approved within a month, he added. However, about 10 pc of the `63 crore fund will be borne by the state government under the state specific scheme. A major portion of the funds will be utilised to install AI camera towers to check forest fires. The AI-integrated thermal cameras in the towers will have a range of at least 5 km to 6 km. This will help us detect forest fire and contain their spread in a much faster way, the officer said adding, the cameras will also help improve forest security and monitoring wildlife movement. This apart, he said, the funds will also be used in taking up the forest officer community programme. The programme will be taken up in a total of 425 villages - 25 villages in each of the 17 divisions - where local youths will be engaged in forest fire prevention and provided equipment for the same. This apart, forest officials said self-help groups will also be engaged to fight wildfire outside forests and check their spread. The SHGs will be provided an incentive of up to Rs 1.5 lakh, while their villages will also be given Rs 1 lakh towards incentive based on performance. Odisha has reported over 29,600 forest fire points since January 1 in the current forest fire season. Over 8,800 of these fire points have been detected outside forest boundaries. The early onset of monsoon has helped in containing incidents of forest fire naturally this season that continues till June-end.
Explosives loot by Naxals could bring back CRPF camps in Sundargarh
BHUBANESWAR: Days after left-wing extremists (LWEs) looted about 5 tonne explosives from a truck headed to a stone quarry in Sundargarh, Odisha government is mulling to revive Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camps in the district to avoid resurgence of Naxal activity. Sources said, the state police may soon request the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in this regard. Security measures were massively scaled down in Sundargarh after the district was removed from the Centres security related expenditure (SRE) scheme last year. The strength of Odisha Polices Special Operations Group (SOG) was reduced too, as Sundargarh did not witness Naxal activity in the last few years. Preliminary investigation suggests a group led by Naxalite Anmol alias Lalchand Hembram was behind the loot of the explosives. It was possibly an act of desperation. The left ultras were apprehensive that security forces will turn their focus on Maoist hotbed Saranda forests after Abujhmad in Chhattisgarh with the Centre aiming to eradicate Maoism by March, 2026, said the sources. In such circumstances, the state police is unwilling to let its guards down and take strong preventive measures to ensure Sundargarh does not report resurgence of Maoist activity. Since the district will not be covered under the SRE scheme, the government is likely to request the MHA to set up CRPF camps near eight villages in the state bordering Jharkhand, sources added. It might require recalibration of the forces deployed in Jharkhand and additional support, said the sources. Odisha Police has already enhanced deployment of SOG in Sundargarh. The State Police Headquarters has also asked the district police to improve intelligence collection related to movement of the Naxals in the bordering areas of Odisha and Jharkhand to prevent infiltration bids by the left ultras. Earlier in the day, DGP YB Khurania told mediapersons here that the security forces recovered about 3.8 tonne of explosives looted by the Naxals. A special investigation team led by an additional SP rank officer is probing the case. Joint operations with Jharkhand police will continue to recover the remaining volume of the explosives, he said. On May 27, members of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) operating from Saranda forests in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand looted the explosives, prompting the Odisha Police to enhance security in Sundargarh district.
One Killed, 3 Injured As Innova Driver Opens Door At 100 KMPH To Spit Tobacco In Chhattisgarh
The horrific crash was captured on CCTV, showing the vehicle flipping down the road and a passenger being thrown out and violently hitting a pole.
Collector, SP visit LWE-hit village in Malkangiri
MALKANGIRI: Malkangiri collector Ashish Iswar Patil and SP Vinod Patil visited the Left Wing Extremism-affected Tulsi village under Mathili block bordering Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. The duo along with Mathili BDO Pramod Behera and other officials inspected the progress of the ongoing road construction from Temurupally gram panchayat to Tulsi village. The collector instructed the Rural Division-I officials and the executing agency to ensure that the under-construction culvert on the road is completed before the monsoon so that the Border Security Force (BSF) deployed in the area doesnt face communication disruptions during the rainy season. Both the collector and SP engaged with the villagers on various local issues and assured them of continued government support. Ashish directed the Mathili block administration to ensure that benefits of all government schemes reach the village. Tulsi village is a strategically important location due to its proximity to Chhattisgarh. The presence of BSF there aims to prevent the possible influx of Maoists from the neighbouring state.
Greener side of Bastar as forest cover increases
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarhs Bastar region, in recent years, has been making headlines for Maoist-related campaigns involving security forces. At the same time, the extensive area has also witnessed the Chhattisgarh forest departments diligent engagement in achieving a remarkable feat of improving the forest cover density, reinforcing the regions reputation as a thriving green landscape. The India State of Forest Report (ISFR), published by the Forest Survey of India in Dehradun, reflects the results of these consistent efforts, including the utilisation of a satellite-based sensor with a spatial resolution of 23.5 metres. The report highlighted a significant enhancement in forest cover across multiple regions of the Bastar zonean area larger than the state of Kerala and boasting several tourist attractions and sightseeing spots. With the acknowledged commitment to sustainable forest management and associated conservation initiatives in recent years, the forest department has undertaken various measures to enhance forest cover, thereby strengthening the green footprint. The progress in forest cover density is attributed to multiple factors, including continuous monitoring by the forest department, an effective soil and water conservation programme, removal of invasive weed species and community-led afforestation initiatives, as well as the deep-rooted environmental ethos of Bastars tribal communities. The inspired vision of the Chhattisgarh government gave a boost to the state forest departments proactive and scientific approach that yielded impressive conservation results. The ISFR 2023 data reaffirms the states commitment to sustainable forest where strategic interventions and active community participation has yielded a major boost on augmenting the forest cover, V Sreenivasa Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, told this newspaper. Several areas in Bastar have shown an upward transition in forest classification. Notable improvements are seen in Jagdalpur Circle covering forest divisions of Bastar, Bijapur, Sukma and Dantewada and Kanker Circle that includes Keshkal, Bhanupratapur, south Kondagaon and Narayanpur forest divisions, a senior officer elucidated quoting the ISFR report. The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis confirmed that approximately 152 sq km of forest area have transitioned from Moderate Dense Forest to Very Dense Forest. Additionally, 93 sq km of land have improved from non-forest to open forest, while 156 sq km have progressed from open forest to moderate dense forest.
Chhattisgarh government nod for policy to promote tourism in tribal-dominated areas
Bastar and Sarguja are the two tribal-dominated regions of the State and are known for their natural beauty
Chhattisgarh govt. nod for policy to promote tourism in tribal-dominated areas
The Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board (CG Vyapam) is set to release the CG Vyapam ADEO Admit Card 2025 on June 6, 2025. Candidates who have registered for the CG Vyapam Assistant Development Extension Officer (ADEO) examination can download their admit cards by visiting the official website at vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in.
Drivers bid to spit out gutkha causes fatal road accident in Chhattisgarh
Since the vehicle was at a high speed, the driver lost control and hit the divider breaking its railings, causing the vehicle to flip over
Chhattisgarh State Eligibility Test 2024 Results Announced
The Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board has announced the results for the CG SET 2024. Candidates can download their results and final answer keys from the official website. The exam was conducted on July 21, 2024, covering 19 subjects. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to access the results and additional resources related to the exam.
RPF Rescues 7 Child Trafficking Victims At Secunderabad Railway Station
The victims and traffickers were found to be traveling from Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh: RPF
Over 12 shops destroyed in fire at market in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur
Prima facie, it seems a short-circuit triggered the fire, an official said, adding an investigation was underway.
Fire destroys over 12 market shops in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur
BILASPUR: More than a dozen shops were gutted after a fire broke out at a market in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur city early on Wednesday, police said. The blaze erupted at around 3 am at Sanichari Bazar located under City Kotwali police station limits. No person was reported to be injured in the incident, Station House Officer (SHO) Vivek Pandey said. After being alerted, fire tenders were rushed to the spot, he said. Before the blaze was brought under control in the morning, 12 to 15 business establishments, including a godown, garments shops and an eatery, were gutted, the official said. The assessment of losses due to the fire was yet to be done, he said. Prima facie, it seems a short-circuit triggered the fire, the official said, adding an investigation was underway.
The Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board, Raipur (CG Vyapam) has officially released the CG Vyapam SET Result 2025 for the State Eligibility Test (SET) 2024 on 03-06-2025, and candidates who appeared for the exam held on 21-07-2024 can now check and download their results by entering their roll number and date of birth on the official website vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in.
Parliaments laws out of contempt ambit : SC
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has rejected a 2012 contempt plea filed by sociologist and former Delhi University professor Nandini Sundar and others, who claimed that the enactment of the Chhattisgarh Auxiliary Armed Police Force Act, 2011 to curb Maoist activity was in contempt of the courts landmark verdict against vigilante group Salwa Judum that year. Every State Legislature has plenary powers to pass an enactment and so long as the said enactment has not been declared to be ultra vires the Constitution or, in any way, null and void by a Constitutional Court, the said enactment would have the force of law, a two-judge bench comprising justices B V Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma said. Sundar had alleged failure of the Chhattisgarh government to comply with the Supreme Courts directions in 2011 to stop support to vigilante groups like Salwa Judum and arming tribals in the name of special police officers (SPO) in the fight against Maoists. However, the bench observed that it was the duty of the state government and the Centre to take adequate steps for restoration of peace and rehabilitation of the residents who have been affected by violence from whatever quarter.
Allahabad HC declares arrest of two accused in Chhattisgarh liquor scam as 'illegal'
LUCKNOW: In a major ruling, Allahabad High Court declared that the arrest of Anwar Dhebar, a Chhattisgarh-based businessman and brother of former Raipur mayor and former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, both accused in a money laundering case of Rs 2000 crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam, as illegal. A division bench, comprising Justice Siddharth Varma and Justice Madan Pal Singh, granted bail to Dhebar in connection with the FIR lodged against him in Meerut. The bench noted that the arrest memos did not have any column for the ground on which the petitioner was arrested, nor was given the reason for arrest. The court in its order stated that here being a definite non-compliance of the mandate of Section 50 of the CrPC and Article 22(1) of the Constitution of India, we are of the view that the arrest of the petitioner be declared illegal and all subsequent arrest memos be quashed and also the remand orders be set aside, said the bench. In connection with the chain of events related to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam, an FIR was lodged against Dhebar in Uttar Pradesh under sections 420, 468, 471, 473, 484 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code on July 30, 2023. Almost 11 months later, on June 18, 2024, Dhebar, who had been granted bail by the Chhattisgarh High Court, was again arrested by UP police just 20 minutes after his release in Raipur. Following the arrest, the Investigation Officer (IO) applied for a transit remand under Section 167 of CrPC before the magistrate at Raipur and it was granted for 48 hours. Subsequently, Dhebar was produced before the special judge (Prevention of Corruption Act) of Meerut, who remanded him to judicial custody until July 1, 2024. Finally, Dhebar moved Allahabad High Court and his plea was clubbed with the petition filed by the other accused ex-IAS officer Anil Tuteja who was arrested separately in the connection with the same case. As both the petitions sought the court to declare their arrest illegal, they were heard together by the court. On the other hand, the Additional Advocate General for the state submitted that since there was a memo of arrest and the son of the petitioner Dhebar had been informed about the arrest, the arrest could not be held illegal as the reason for it was known to the petitioner. The bench however was not satisfied with the Additional Advocate General's contention, and it stated that neither in the memos of arrest nor in the information given to Dhebar's son or in the remand orders were given the ground of arrest communicated to the petitioners. Furthermore, the court also observed that the petitioners were given no opportunity of hearing to oppose the custodial remand. The court concluded that the petitioners were never furnished the grounds of arrest as mandated under Section 50 of CrPC. Declaring their arrests illegal, the court refused to interfere with the charge-sheet submitted by the investigation officer. The Court, however, clarified that the proceedings following law as per the charge-sheet may continue in the case.
No contempt of court if Parliament, state legislature simply make laws: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has ruled that laws passed by Parliament or state legislatures cannot be considered contempt of court. This decision came while addressing a 2012 plea concerning the Chhattisgarh government's actions against Maoists. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between different branches of government.
A tribal girl, Anuradha Kolasi, from Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, has made her state proud. She helped her team secure a bronze medal at the 43rd Junior National Softball Championship in Chandigarh. The Chhattisgarh team defeated Himachal Pradesh and Odisha. They reached the semi-final, where they lost to Haryana.
Sital Sasthi concludes in Sambalpur
SAMBALPUR: As the week-long festival concluded on Monday afternoon with the divine couples return to their respective temples, demand for the official recognition to Sambalpur Sital Sasthi festival grew stronger. BJD district president and former minister Rohit Pujari urged the Centre to grant the national recognition to the festival. Sital Sasthi is not merely a festival, it has evolved into a grand platform for promoting art and culture. It brings together diverse dance and music traditions from across India, giving them a distinct identity, he said. Former chief minister Naveen Patnaik had approved financial grants for various Sital Sasthi committees, acknowledging the festival at the state level. It is now time for the central government to step in and grant it the national recognition it truly deserves, he added. This year, Revenue and Disaster Management minister Suresh Pujari and his wife assumed the ceremonial role of Goddess Parvatis parents on behalf of Jhaduapada Sasthi Committee, offering her hand in marriage to Lord Shiva. The tradition, originating in the 17th century at the Someswar Baba temple in Balibandha, now includes several temples across the city. The festival rituals, which began on May 27, transformed Sambalpur into a cultural and devotional hot spot. Around 8,000 artistes from across Odisha and other states performed in the vibrant carnival organised by Jharuapada, Nandapada, and Mudipada committees. The district administration deployed around 75 platoons of police to ensure safety and manage crowds, with devotees arriving from across western Odisha and neighbouring Chhattisgarh. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Deputy CM KV Singhdeo and several other dignitaries attended the festivities on Sunday.
Raipur Diary: RSS invites Bastar tribal leader to Nagpur event
RSS invites Bastar tribal leader to Nagpur event Arvind Netam, a veteran tribal leader from Bastar and former Union Minister, has been invited to a national-level function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at its headquarters in Nagpur on June 5, leading political analysts to speculate if the move is a form of tribal outreach by the saffron organisation. Though Netam parted ways with the Congress party in August 2023 in protest against the Bhupesh Baghel-led state government of the day, he has remained vocal about issues confronting the tribal community. It remains to be seen if the invitation is an attempt to court him and persuade him to join the BJP. 295 cops promoted for helping combat Maoists As many as 295 police personnel in Chhattisgarh have been promoted out of turn for showing bravery in combating Maoists. The state director general of police, AD Gautam, recognised their valour and determination during the operations. Among those elevated are low- as well as middle-rank officials from the district police, special task force and intelligence units. As many as 206 constables will now take charge as head constables, and 37 head constables will take on the role of assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs). Further, 15 ASIs have been made sub-inspectors (SIs), and 16 SIs are inspectors now. 3 babus accused in coal levy scam walk out of jail Three bureaucrats, including two suspended IAS officers, and three others accused in the Chhattisgarh coal levy scam were recently granted interim bail by the Supreme Court. IAS Ranu Sahu and Sameer Vishnoi as well as Saumya Chaurasia who served as Deputy Secretary to CM Bhupesh Baghel and others walked out of the Raipur Central Jail following the apex court relief. They were arrested by the ED in the money laundering case around two years ago, wherein a syndicate of government servants and private persons were accused of illegally levying money for the movement of coal. Two others accused in the case remain in judicial custody. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com
16 maoists lay down arms, 6 had 25 l reward on their heads
In Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, sixteen Maoists, including six carrying significant cash rewards, surrendered to the police, citing disillusionment with the Maoist ideology and atrocities against local tribals. The surrender of nine Maoists from Kerlapenda village has led to it being declared Maoist-free, making it eligible for development projects worth Rs 1 crore under a state government scheme.
16 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district
RAIPUR: Sixteen Maoist cadres, including two active members of Peoples' Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) company, surrendered in Sukma district, about 450 km south of Raipur on Monday. According to the police, six of the surrendered rebels were carrying a collective reward of Rs 25 lakh. With this, as many as 571 Maoists have surrendered so far in 2025 in Chhattisgarh's Bastar. Interestingly, nine out of the 16 cadres belonging to Kerlapenda village panchayat falling under the Chintalnar police station limits. Police sources said these villagers were notably influenced by the Chhattisgarh government's latest initiative that incentivises Maoist-free panchayats. Under the scheme, if any panchayat in the Naxal-affected area becomes Maoist-free, it will become entitled to get Rs 1 crore grant for local development works. According to the Sukma district police chief, all 16 cadres, including a woman cadre, surrendered before senior police and CRPF officials expressing their frustration with the hollow and anti-people ideology of the left-wing extremists. Among the notable names was Rita alias Dodi Sukki, an active member of the Central Regional Committees PLGA company no. 2, and Rahul Punem, a party member in PLGA battalion no. 1. Both carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh each, the SP said. The district police chief further noted that many of the surrendered rebels were inspired by the states Niyad Nellanar (Your Own Good Village) campaign, which not only promotes development in remote and conflict-hit areas but also strengthens the states broader surrender and rehabilitation policy. While part of the states formal Maoist Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy-2025, the Niyad Nellanar scheme has introduced a more targeted approach, leveraging local aspirations and infrastructure support to win over disillusioned Maoists. In several instances, the Chhattisgarh Police and central paramilitary forces have collaborated to engage with cadres and even senior Maoist leaders, urging them to abandon violence and rejoin mainstream society.
Centre calls for proposals to set up de-addiction centres in 291 gap districts
The highest number of gap districts have been identified in Chhattisgarh, where 31 of the States 33 districts have figured in the list
16 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh; Kerlapenda village becomes Maoist-free, say police
Of the sixteen, nine cadres belonged to Kerlapenda village panchayat under Chintalanar police station limits.
Following NIA's multi-state raids targeting Pakistan-linked espionage, Chhattisgarh's Deputy CM Vijay Sharma asserted the BJP government's firm stance on national security. He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy, stating that those involved in anti-India activities would face imprisonment rather than leniency. The NIA's searches across eight states uncovered electronic devices and financial documents, revealing a Pakistan-based espionage network.
ACB-EOW arrests liquor businessman in Delhi in Chhattisgarh scam probe
Bhopal: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and Economic Offences Wing (EOW) have arrested liquor businessman Vijay Bhatia from Delhi in connection with the Chhattisgarh liquor scam case. He is being transported to Raipur while authorities carried out raids at six of his properties in Durg-Bhilai (Chhattisgarh). Early in the morning, at around 6 a.m., EOW officials []
Divine wedding solemnised as part of Sital Sasthi, celebration in Sambalpur
SAMBALPUR: Thousands of people from across western Odisha converged at Sambalpur as the divine marriage of Lord Shiva with his consort Goddess Parvati was solemnised as part of the ongoing Sital Sasthi celebrations on Saturday. While rituals of the week-long festival began on May 27, the ritualistic wedding was solemnised as per the Vedic rituals in small hours of Saturday. The city streets bustled with excitement as the temples were adorned for the festive occasion. The significance of the festival is that people perform the role of parents of Goddess Parvati and offer her hands to Lord Shiva. This year, Revenue and Disaster Management minister Suresh Pujari and his wife have taken on the responsibility as the parents of Parvati from Jhaduapada Sasthi Committee. In a magnificent procession, Lord Shiva departed from the citys temples and proceeded to the residence of the Parvati. The procession included local deities, senior residents of the area, and thousands of artists. The preparation for Sital Sasthi festival starts from the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya with Thala Utha which marks the collection of funds for the festival. The festival begins with various rituals including Patrapendi (engagement) followed by Niuta (invitation) before the sacred marriage takes place, said member of Mudipada Sita Sasthi Yatra committee, Jagadish Panda. Sambalpur's Sital Sasthi celebrations life-support for dying folk dance, music forms As per the tradition, the newlywed deities will embark on a grand procession through the city on Sunday night before entering their respective temples after the wedding. The ritual is called Nagara Parikrama. People get the opportunity to witness the Jugal Murti during the procession. Around 8,000 artists from across Odisha as well as other states have been invited by Jharuapada, Nandapada, Mudipada Sital Sasthi organising committees this year to perform in the carnival, also known as home-coming procession of the divine couple. The artists accompanying the couple will perform on the road during the carnival. The festival will conclude on June 2 when the deities enter the temples. The district and police administration have made adequate arrangement for the carnival. Around 75 platoons of police have been deployed across the city in view of the festival and security measures have been heightened as the city is expected to record a surge in crowd with people thronging from nearby districts of the region as well as from neighbouring Chhattisgarh. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan and deputy chief minister KV Singhdeo will attend the festival on Sunday.
From tribal village to Asian gold: Sprinter Rajitha races toward Olympic dream
VIJAYAWADA: Kunja Rajitha (19), a young sprinter from the remote tribal village of Ramachandrapuram in Koonavaram mandal, Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district, has made headlines by winning gold in the womens 4400m relay at the 26th Asian Athletics Championships held in Gumi, South Korea. Her rise from poverty to the continental stage is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of opportunity. Born into a family of migrant workers who relocated from Chhattisgarh to Andhra Pradesh four decades ago, Rajitha is the youngest of six siblings. She lost her father, Mariah, when she was just 3-year-old, and was raised by her mother, Bhadramma, under financial constraints. Her athletic talent came to light at Arrupe High School in Katukapalli, run by the Loyola Integrated Tribal Development Society (LITDS) in Chintoor mandal. It was here that Fr Yesu Ratnam noticed her potential when she was in Class VII. She has speed and focus. I saw a spark in her, he recalled. Encouraged by him, Rajitha began competing in school-level events, winning her first 100m race in 2016. After school, she pursued Intermediate at CK Junior College, Mangalagiri, and later joined SAAP (Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh) in Nellore in 2018. Trained by coaches Vamsi Kiran and Krishna Mohan, she continued to excel despite challenges such as financial hardship and delay in obtaining caste certificate. Her breakthrough came at the 2020 Khelo India School Games in Guwahati, where she won silver in the U-17 girls 400m with a timing of 57.61 seconds. The performance earned her a place in the national camp. After the closure of the Tenvic Centre of Excellence in Guntur during Covid pandemic, she trained briefly under Jamaican coach Mic Rassel before being picked up by the Gopi Chands Mythri Foundation in Hyderabad. Under the mentorship of Dronacharya awardee Nagapuri Ramesh, she continued her training while enrolling for a B Com at SRM University-AP. She later moved to the SAI camp in Kerala, training under Jamaican coach Jerry. Her performances led to her selection in the national womens relay squad. At the Asian Championships in Gumi, Rajitha ran alongside her teammates to secure a gold medal for India in the 4400m relay. Speaking to TNIE over the phone from South Korea, she said, Its a proud moment. I thank SAI for believing in me. My dream is to win an Olympic medal for India in 2028. Rajitha has represented India in international meets twice before and has won medals in multiple national and South Indian competitions. Despite her achievements, financial difficulties remain. We are proud of her, but she needs government support to continue her journey, said her brother Jogaiah. SRM University-AP Vice-Chancellor Prof Manoj K Arora said, Rajitha reflects our vision of holistic student development. We are proud to support her aspirations.
Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel seeks answers from govt on Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor 'ceasefire'
JABALPUR: Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should explain why there was no security for tourists in Pahalgam, where terrorists attacked them on April 22, and did the government agree to a ceasefire with Pakistan under pressure from the United States. Following the horrific Pahalgam attack which claimed 26 lives, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 , striking at terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan. The neighbouring country retaliated with drones and missiles but failed to cause harm. The two nations announced cessation of hostilities on May 10. Speaking at the opposition Congress' 'Jai Hind' rally here on Saturday, former Chhattisgarh chief minister Baghel accused the BJP of politicising Operation Sindoor and asserted the country's armed forces do not belong to any party. The Congress' event coincided with the PM's mega women empowerment event in Bhopal, 300 km from here. Tell people why there was no security arrangement in Pahalgam. Where are those four terrorists? Was the ceasefire done under pressure from the US and who took the decision on the ceasefire, officers or the government? Baghel said addressing the gathering. The Congress leader's comments came in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump repeatedly asserting that he got India and Pakistan to end hostilities triggered by Operation Sindoor. India has stuck to its stand that the US had no role to play. During a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur on Friday, PM Modi said Pakistan egged for a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor. The Congress is holding 'Jai Hind Sabhas' across the country to salute the armed forces, while the ruling BJP has been carrying out 'Tiranga Yatras' to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor. BJP is politicising Operation Sindoor. Bharatiya Janata Party activists will distribute vermilion, Baghel alleged, adding that a woman applies sindoor for her husband's well-being and it is her husband who applies sindoor to her forehead. Notably, the BJP has denied that it was planning to distribute sindoor. Our armed forces belong to the whole country and its people, and not just to any political party or government. We all are extremely proud of the bravery and valour of our Army, Baghel said, asserting that doubts are being raised about the BJP government's decisions and policies. He also lauded former PM Indira Gandhi for emphatically defeating Pakistan in the 1971 war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. 'When will PM break his silence?' Congress on Trump's truce claims The former Chhattisgarh CM said Modi should apologise for objectionable comments made by Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah and state deputy chief minister Jagdish Devda following Operation Sindoor. The PM must set an example by ensuring they are sacked from the MP government, Baghel said. Shah made an objectionable remark about army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi during his speech at a public function at Mhow near Indore on May 12. An FIR has been registered in the matter and both the Supreme Court and MP High Court have severely admonished Shah. On May 16, Devda claimed armed forces and soldiers of the country were atmastak (bowing down with their heads at the feet) in front of PM Modi for giving a befitting reply to terrorists and Pakistan. Baghel also sought to point out similarities between the Pahalgam terror attack and the infamous May 2013 Jhiram valley attack in Chhattisgarh in which Naxalites killed 27 persons, including some prominent Congress leaders. I remember May 25, 2013. Naxalites attacked Congress leaders, killing former Union minister Vidya Charan Shukla among others after asking their names, he said. In Pahalgam, terrorists asked victims their religion. Another common thing in both incidents was there was no security at the respective spots, he added. What is the relation between the two incidents? How they happened calls for pondering, Baghel said. Speaking at the rally, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said those who played no role in India's freedom struggle and remained slaves of the British are today claiming that armed forces are bowing at the feet of PM Modi. Military chief admits IAF jet loss in Op Sindoor, says tactics 'rectified' to strike deep inside Pakistan
India On Track To Eradicating Maoism By Next Year? What The Numbers Show
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has repeatedly said that the government is committed to eradicating Maoism from India by March 2026, and the goal got a fillip when at least 27 Maoists were killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh earlier this month.
Chhattisgarh: Three Maoists with Rs 21L bounty held in Sukma
Raipur: In a significant breakthrough, security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district have successfully apprehended three Maoists, each carrying a substantial bounty on their heads. The individuals, identified as Dodi Podia, aged 36, Dodi Pandu, aged 18, and Dodi Nandu, aged 28, were taken into custody by a joint team comprising personnel from the Central Reserve 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 .
BASTAR: This year, 21 May emerged as an epoch-making day marked by exceptional operational efficiency in the ongoing battle against Indias single biggest internal security challenge, the CPI (Maoist). On that day, the valiant District Reserve Guard (DRG) in south Chhattisgarhs Bastar eliminated the dreaded supreme commander of the Naxals, Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju, who was the general secretary of the banned outfit. The DRGs are well-trained forces with combat capabilities raised in the strife-torn Bastar zone with a mission, to take on the Maoist challenge that has persisted as a virtual war against the state for over four decades. The DRG, a special combat team of the Chhattisgarh police force, came into existence in 2012 in Narayanpur and Kanker. Witnessing its effective and successful outcome, it was later established in the remaining five districts, Bijapur, Jagdalpur, Sukma, Kondagaon, and Dantewada, across the Bastar range. They operate under the command of the respective district police chiefs. DRG are young men and women recruited from remote tribal interiors of Bastar. They represent a unique, effective counter-insurgency model that blends local knowledge with rigorous training and operational excellence, Sundarraj P, Inspector General of Police (Bastar), told this newspaper. The personnel of the DRG are locally recruited, with relaxations given in educational and physical eligibility conditions, though candidates are preferably required to have passed Class 10 or 12. Compared with other forces, the DRGs possess explicit and decisive advantages, as they are innately familiar with the local geography, forested and hilly terrain, regional dialects, and customs. They operate with unmatched stealth, speed, and strategic mobility in challenging situations. The strength of such forces in Bastar is over 3,000 and also includes surrendered Maoists, who prove vital in any intelligence-based operation. Their remarkable physical endurance, tactical skills, and courage have earned them national recognition, the IG added. They continue to actively engage in strategically planned battles against the banned outfit, beat the odds, and participate in anti-Maoist campaigns to blunt the ambitions of the Naxalites across the seven districts of Bastar, with a determined mission to wipe out Maoists by March 2026. DRG personnel, in collaboration with other elite central paramilitary and state police forces, have led a series of successful joint operations aimed at eradicating the menace of left-wing extremism. DRGs and new battalions occupying the blank areas and establishing their network like a grid system, mutually supporting the security operation, have begun yielding outstanding results, opined Brigadier (Retd) B K Ponwar, the guerrilla warfare expert. DRG men have accessed guerrilla combat training in Kanker and other states, returning as warriors. They don soldier uniforms with modern weapons and are seen as battle-ready forces. Their consistent efforts and accomplishments in deterring and neutralising Maoists have created a strong sense of fear among the leaders and cadres of the left-wing extremists.
Chhattisgarh HC Refuses To Quash FIR Against Professors Accused Of Forcing Namaz At NSS Camp
Heavy rains trigger landslides and floods across northeast and south India; at least a dozen dead
Heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Karnataka, and Kerala, claiming at least many lives and affecting tens of thousands. Heavy rains claimined 11 lives in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura . Assam saw five deaths from landslides in Kamrup Metropolitan district, including three women killed in a landslide near Guwahatis Bonda area, Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed. Flooding affected more than 10,000 people in six districts, including Kamrup, Cachar, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Golaghat, where two relief camps and one distribution centre have been set up. A red alert remains in effect for 18 districts amid heavy rain and gusty winds. Massive waterlogging was reported in Guwahati, forcing closure of schools and special leave for government employees. In Arunachal Pradesh, flash floods caused by the overflowing Sigin River in Upper Subansiri district inundated Daporijo town and several colonies, damaging at least 117 houses and critical infrastructure. Authorities have issued prohibitory orders urging evacuation of vulnerable areas. In West Kameng district, landslides near Jamiri stranded hundreds along the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road, and major road blockages disrupted connectivity. A landslide in Bomdila washed away parts of roads and culverts, while power supply was disrupted. Mizorams Lawngtlai town witnessed the collapse of five houses and a hotel due to landslides on Friday night. Several Myanmar nationals staying in the hotel are feared trapped under debris, one person is feared to have died in the incident. Rescue operations involving the State Disaster Response Force and local volunteers are underway. The state has been hit by torrential rains since Friday, causing multiple landslides and rockfalls. In Meghalaya, three people died in East Khasi Hills district from rain-related incidentsa 50-year-old woman killed by a landslide in Lumkyntung, a 35-year-old man drowned in Pomlakrai Mawbynna, and a 15-year-old boy died after a tree fell on him in Mawkynrew Block. Over 1,000 residents across 25 villages have been affected by landslides, flash floods, and power outages. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the victims families. Flooding also damaged roads and inundated schools. Rescue efforts for a missing couple from Indore in Sohra have been suspended due to heavy rain and landslides but will resume as weather permits. Nagaland and Tripura each reported one death on Friday due to rain-related incidents. Karnatakas Dakshina Kannada district on Friday reported five deaths due to landslides triggered by heavy rain. A house collapse in Montepadavu Kodi buried six family members, including two toddlers and their grandmother. One mother was found unconscious but alive, clutching her children amid the debris. A compound wall collapse in Mangaluru claimed the life of a six-year-old girl. Additionally, a 27-year-old lineman died of electrocution while repairing a high-tension power line during the rain. Rescue operations have been hampered by continued rainfall and unstable terrain. In Uttarakhand, a 38-year-old man died and five others were injured after a landslide struck a vehicle on the Kedarnath National Highway near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district. The vehicle was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath when it was hit by debris. Rescue and relief operations were launched immediately by the local administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The injured were rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Officials said two of the pilgrims were seriously injured, while three others suffered minor injuries. The deceased was identified as Rajesh Singh Rawat, a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal, who was driving the vehicle. The injured are between 19 and 25 years old and belong to Chhattisgarhs Durg district. Monsoon rains have caused severe flooding across several districts in Kerala, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate low-lying areas and seek shelter in relief camps. In Kasaragod district, overflowing Madhuvahini River submerged roads and flooded homes, with residents moving to upper floors to escape rising waters. Similar flooding and heavy downpours have affected Kozhikode and Kannur districts, where locals have kept wooden and fiber boats ready amid fears of further displacement. Authorities have opened 46 relief camps in Kottayam district, sheltering over 1,100 people, while Alappuzha district currently hosts 851 evacuees across 26 camps, with 19 houses destroyed on Friday alone. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by strong surface winds reaching gusts of up to 50 kmph in multiple districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Alappuzha, and Kottayam. The situation remains critical as swollen rivers and tributaries continue to inundate vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, several higher-altitude areas in Jammu and Kashmir received fresh snowfall on Saturday, including Tulail and Razdan Top in Gurez valley, Peer Ki Gali in Shopian, and Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway. Authorities closed the Bandipora-Gurez road as a precaution. Meanwhile, the plains, including Srinagar, were lashed by rain, causing temperatures to drop with minimums falling by up to 3 degrees and maximums 3-5 degrees below normal. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers with light snow are expected over the higher reaches in the next 24 hours. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms hit Ramban district, disrupting normal life. Parts of Srinagar saw moderate to heavy rain, welcomed by tourists as a refreshing change from recent heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across Kashmir, with isolated heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph. Srinagars temperatures will range between 24C and 11C. Jammu Division will also see light to moderate rain with isolated heavy showers and winds up to 60 kmph, with Jammu city experiencing partly cloudy skies and temperatures between 37C and 21C. The IMD has advised residents to stay alert amid the possibility of heavy rain and strong winds. The IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim on Saturday following heavy rains and rising water levels in the Teesta River, warning of possible floods and landslides in Mangan, Gyalshing, and Soreng districts. Based on a Nowcast Weather Alert from Baluwakhani, Gangtok, severe rainfall was forecasted for 2 to 3 hours starting at 6:15 am. The District Magistrate of Gangtok urged the public not to panic but stay alert, while directing all disaster management officers to remain on high alert and maintain communication with field staff along the Teesta river belt. Landslides were reported in North Sikkims Theeng and Chungthang areas, damaging properties. Emergency services are actively monitoring water levels, with disaster response teams on standby. The IMD advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors, and steer clear of riverbanks and vulnerable slopes. No casualties have been reported yet, but the situation remains tense due to continuous rains and rising river levels, with authorities promising timely updates. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple red alerts in vulnerable districts across these states, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, and strong winds reaching up to 60 kmph in gusts. Authorities have urged residents to avoid risky areas and follow evacuation and safety advisories. National and state disaster response teams remain deployed to conduct rescue and relief operations as the monsoon continues. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
17 Maoists surrender; cops ask public to report activity in Telangana
KHAMMAM: As many as 17 banned Maoist party members surrendered before Bhadradri Kothagudem police and CRPF on Friday. Briefing the media at the police headquarters at Ramachandrapuram near Kothagudem town, Superintendent of Police (SP) B Rohith Raju said, Unidentified armed Maoist members found moving in Telangana cannot escape the long arm of the police. The death of 31 Maoists in encounters across various areas, including the Karregutta hillocks, in 2024 should serve as an example. Telangana will never be allowed to serve as a haven for Maoist activities. The era of accepting outdated and impractical ideologies has long passed. Maoists must now realise that seeking a peaceful resolution is better than continuing their armed struggle. Since January this year, a total of 282 Maoist cadres of various ranks have surrendered and joined the mainstream of society, receiving appropriate rehabilitation facilities from the government, said the SP. He appealed to the residents of the villages bordering with Chhattisgarh not to provide any help to Maoist armed cadres under any circumstances. If any Maoist activity is observed, it should be immediately reported to the nearest police station, said the SP. Bhadradri Kothagudem district police are actively working to curb Maoist activities and facilitate the reintegration of surrendered cadres into the mainstream of society, said Bhadrachalam ASP Vikranth Singh Kumar.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveils VIMSARs new super-specialty block in Odisha
SAMBALPUR: The much-awaited super-specialty building of Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences And Research (VIMSAR), Burla was inaugurated by Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday evening. Developed at a cost of approximately Rs 125 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the super-specialty block is equipped with 272 beds including 58 ICU ones. It features nine super-speciality departments of urology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, paediatric surgery, plastic surgery, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and clinical haematology. Speaking on the occasion, Pradhan emphasised the need for doctors trained in Odisha to serve within the state. If our medical students choose to stay and work in Odisha, only then can the state become a leader in healthcare. He announced addition of 50 more seats to VIMSARs current intake and said the state is mulling to redevelop the medical institute through a comprehensive master plan. The government has already announced the establishment of a unified dental college on VIMSAR campus in the current budget. Hinting at introduction of multidisciplinary programmes through collaboration between VIMSAR and VSSUT to develop medical and technical education, the union minister said plans are underway to introduce cutting-edge facilities such as MedTech, Biotech and AI-enabled treatment as part of a larger commitment to quality education, good governance, and healthcare innovation. Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling said VIMSAR is the third major super-specialty medical institution in Odisha after Cuttack and Berhampur. Odisha government has approved establishment of four new medical colleges in the state along with four dental colleges in Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Balangir and Berhampur. Under the Ayushman Bharat and Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, beneficiaries will soon receive an integrated pan-India health card usable across over 29,000 hospitals in the country, he added. Among others, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Rabinarayan Naik, Sambalpur MLA Jaynarayan Mishra, IG (Northern Range) Himanshu Lal, district collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, SP Mukesh Bhamoo, SMC commissioner, Vedbhushan, VIMSAR dean Dr Pradeep Mohanty, and medical superintendent Prof Lal Mohan Nayak were present. The super-specialty block of VIMSAR has been developed with a funding ratio of 70 per cent from the Centre and 30 per cent from the state government. The facility is expected to benefit people of Sambalpur and 13 districts of western Odisha besides neighbouring states like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.
Uttarakhand: One killed, five injured in landslide on Kedarnath National Highway
RUDRAPRAYAG: A 38-year-old man died and five others injured in a landslide on the Kedarnath National Highway in Rudraprayag district. A vehicle carrying devotees from Chhattisgarh was struck by the landslide near Kund, close to Guptkashi, authorities said on Friday. The administration and Station Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams reached the spot and began the rescue and relief operations, officials said. The injured were taken out of the vehicle and admitted to the nearby Augustmuni Hospital, they said. Two people were seriously injured, while three others sustained minor injuries. The deceased was identified as driver Rajesh Singh Rawat, a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal district. He was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath. The injured, aged between 19 and 25, are Chhattisgarh's Durg district.
Security forces engage in encounter with Naxalites in Jharkhand's Jhariakela
Security forces in Jharkhand engaged in an encounter with CPI (Maoist) Naxalites, who fled into the forests. Explosives were recovered during the search. This follows a major anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh that eliminated 27 Naxals, including top commander Basavaraju.
Cops get swift promotions in Chhattisgarh for anti-Maoist ops
Chhattisgarh government has granted out-of-turn promotions to 295 police officers for their bravery in combating Maoists, aiming to eliminate Naxal insurgency by March 2026. These promotions recognize the exceptional courage displayed by lower and middle-rank personnel during anti-Naxal operations. Deputy CM Vijay Sharma emphasized the security forces' role in ending the era of Red terror in Bastar.
Arvind Netam Invited To RSS Event As Chief Guest, Creates Flutter In Chhattisgarh Politics
I have been invited to the RSS function as chief guest. I am going to attend the function - Arvind Netam
Chhattisgarh family forced into hiding after harassment by Hindutva groups
Pastor Jose Thomas and his family, residing in Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh, have been forced into hiding after constant harassment by members of the Hindutva organisation Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). On May 18, a mob led by leaders of Bajrang Dal and VHP stormed into a church service, alleging religious conversion. 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 .
Crocodiles are Neighbors to Indian Villages: Is this coexistence possible?
One such village called Bawa Mohtara in Chhattisgarh is revealed to domesticate a gentle and friendly crocodile that the villagers have regarded as their champion naming the crocodile Gangaram.
Seventeen Maoists surrender in Telanganas Bhadradri Kothagudem district
Hyderabad: Seventeen Maoists active in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur and Sukma districts surrendered before police in Telanganas Bhadradri Kothagudem district Friday. The members of the banned CPI-Maoist surrendered in the presence of Superintendent of Police Rohit Raju and CRPF officials at the district police headquarters. According to police, the Maoists, including two Area Committee members, four party []
17 Maoists surrender in Telanganas Bhadradri Kothagudem
Hyderabad: Seventeen Maoists from Chhattisgarh surrendered to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Telanganas Bhadradri Kothagudem on Friday, May 30. Among the 11 men and six women who surrendered, two served as Area Committee Members (ACM), the Bhadradri Kothagudem Superintendent of Police (SP) Rohit Raj said during a briefing with the media. 17 Maoists 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 .
Three injured, including teen, as Naxal-planted IED explodes in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur
BIJAPUR: Three persons, including a teenage boy, were injured on Friday when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Naxalites went off in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district, police said. The incident took place around 9 am near Bandepara village under Madded police station limits, a police official here said. As per preliminary information, Gote Joga (45), Badde Sunil (20) and Vivek Dodhi (17), all residents of Dampaya village in the area, were walking to Bandepara for some work when they came in contact with a pressure IED. The IED blew up, causing serious injuries to their legs and faces, he said. After learning about the incident, the authorities sent an ambulance to the spot, and efforts are being made to shift the victims to the hospital, the official said. Maoists often plant IEDs along roads, dirt tracks and in forests to target security personnel during patrolling in interior pockets of the Bastar region, comprising seven districts, including Bijapur. Several civilians have fallen prey to such traps in Bastar, police said.
CG Vyapam Pre MCA Result 2025 Out at vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in How to check Results Here
The CG Vyapam Pre MCA Result 2025 has been released on 29-05-2025 by the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board, Raipur (CG Vyapam) for the Pre Master of Computer Application Examination, and candidates can now check their results online through the officially activated link at vyapamcg.cgstate.gov.in.
Maoist with Rs 4 lakh bounty arrested along with arms, ammunition in Odisha
JEYPORE/KORAPUT: Kuniam Hidma, a hardcore Maoist carrying reward of Rs 4 lakh on his head, was arrested during a combing operation jointly carried out by Koraput police and the District Voluntary Force (DVF) near Petguda village in Boipariguda during the wee hours on Thursday. Addressing mediapersons, Koraput SP Rohit Verma said Hidma alias Mohan (33) of Janaguda village in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district was an area committee member (ACM) of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist). A most-wanted Maoist operative in Odisha, Hidma was nabbed when he was trying to flee during the combing operation. Revealing details about the operation, the SP said acting on a tip-off, a team led by Jeypore SDPO Partha Kashyap launched a search in the forest near Petguda on Wednesday night. During the operation, the team spotted four Maoist cadres. In the early hours of Thursday, the Maoists opened fire at the police team. The cops responded with controlled retaliation, ensuring no casualties on their side. While three of the Maoists managed to escape, Hidma was apprehended. A huge cache of arms and ammunition besides Maoist materials were seized from the encounter site. The seized items included one AK-47 rifle, 35 rounds of ammunition, 117 electric and non-electric detonators, gunpowder, walkie-talkies, gunpowder, knives and Maoist literature. During interrogation, Hidma revealed that he joined the Maoist movement in 2007 at the age of 14. Since then, he has been actively involved in extremist operations across Malkangiri and Koraput districts in Odisha besides Sukma and Bijapur in Chhattisgarh. He is linked to several violent incidents including encounters with security forces at Chandameta, Kondajhari, Kumbhikharri and Kolengabida between 2020 and 2023.
Andhra HC dismisses contempt petition on slain Maoists cremation
VIJAYAWADA: The High Court on Thursday dismissed a petition filed by the family members of slain Maoists Nambala Keshava Rao and Sajja Venkata Nageswara Rao seeking action against Chhattisgarh police for contempt of court. The petitioners argued that despite the court directives to hand over the bodies, Chhattisgarh police cremated the bodies instead of complying with the order. However, the High Court bench ruled that it lacked jurisdiction in the matter, stating that since both the encounter and cremation occurred in Chhattisgarh, any contempt proceedings should fall under that States jurisdiction. Earlier, the families of the slain Maoists had petitioned the HC, requesting directions to the police to hand over the bodies. During the hearing, Advocate General Prafull Bharat, representing the Chhattisgarh government, assured the court that postmortem procedure would be completed and the bodies of slain Maoists would be handed over to their families. However, the families claimed that the police disregarded these assurances, and conducted the cremation in Chhattisgarh.
Tamil Nadu cracks down on opinion trading apps
CHENNAI: About four weeks after the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA) sent show cause notices to 15 firms running opinion trading apps, a few of them have stopped offering their services in Tamil Nadu, while others are expected to soon follow suit, official sources said. Opinion trading application, better known as prediction markets, is a relatively new concept to India in which users are allowed to place bets on the outcomes of future events, not restricted to sport alone. According to a senior official, these opinion trading applications, although operate on similar lines as any other betting applications, they use the terminology of shares for the payout instead of money. For instance, from a sporting perspective, users can bet on whether a particular IPL team would win or not and buy 100 shares worth Rs 5 each. Similarly, users could also bet on political developments like whether a politician will get a particular post or win an election. If their prediction comes true, the value of the shares they purchased goes up, which can in turn be monetised. Though it is marketed as a game of skill, it is a game of chance and an outright form of gambling according to me, a senior Tamil Nadu government official, who requested anonymity, said. TNIE could verify that one of the 15 popular applications which received a show cause notice, Probo, has enabled geofencing (location restriction) for users in Tamil Nadu. The official said that the firms had proactively taken this step after the TNOGA notices, as they may not have wanted to risk their entire website/app offering other games getting banned in Tamil Nadu. According to official sources, some of the opinion trading platforms which have received notices from TNOGA include Probo, MPL and SportsBaazi. They were all flagged for allowing opinion trading. Probo and SportsBaazi recently shut operations in Haryana after the state introduced the Prevention of Public Gambling Act, 2025. Chhattisgarh too banned opinion trading apps recently. This development also comes a month after the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) had issued a warning against opinion trading platforms. In some cases, opinion trading platforms are designed in a manner so as to resemble an investment platform as they use terminologies such as profits, stop loss, trading, etc., which are terms closely associated with trades in securities. In view of the above, investors are advised to note that in general, opinion trading does not fall within regulatory purview of SEBI, as what is traded is not security, the SEBI warning said.
Odisha Police arrests dreaded CPI (Maoist) leader
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police arrested one dreaded Maoist leader following an exchange of fire with the CPI (Maoist) cadres in Koraput district Thursday. The arrested red ultra, Kunjam Hidma alias Mohan, hails from Janaguda village in Bijapur district of neighbouring Chhattisgarh. Kunjum was an Area Committee Member (ACM) in the banned Communist Party of India []
'Surrender or get eliminated like Basavaraju': Bastar top cop's warning to Maoist leaders
RAIPUR: In a stern and explicit warning, the Bastar range inspector general of police has asked top Maoist leaders to give up arms and surrender or else be prepared to face the same fate meted out to the general secretary of the CPI (Maoist) Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju. Basavaraju was among the 27 Maoists killed in Abujhmad area of Narayanpur district in south Bastar during a fierce encounter with security forces on May 21. Amid the ongoing offensive against the left-wing extremists in Bastar region, the range IG Sundarraj P stated that following the killing of the top Maoist commander Basavaraju, their leaders must now be fully aware that there remains no place safe for them anywhere in Bastar. Why Chhattisgarh police cremated bodies of Maoists killed on May 21 despite Andhra HC's directive We consistently get solid information about the locations of the top Maoist leaders and they can be eliminated anytime by security forces. They now have only one option remaining. Either surrender and join the mainstream or get killed in upcoming decisive operations by the troops. The banned Maoist organisation has begun crumbling, said Sundarraj, while issuing the warning to Maoist leaders including Ganapathy, Devji, Sonu, Hidma, Sujata, K Ramchandra Reddy, Barse Dewa and others who have reportedly gone into hiding. The Maoist organisation is facing a serious crisis of leadership and there are rifts emerging within. The death of Basavaraju, the highest-ranking Maoist leader, represents not only a severe operational blow but also a psychological setback to the already demoralised Maoist network, the IG added. The Maoist movement, once feared for its brutality, is now breathing its last, as peace and development take root across Bastar, he asserted. Over 400 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters across Bastar zone during the last 17 months.
RAIPUR: Tension prevailed at Bhatanpali after a Dalit family that got converted into Christianity dismantled a temple built by them, leading to a protest by cadres of Bajrang Dal in the outskirts of Chhattisgarh's Raigarh town. The police arrested five, including three members of the Dalit family after the incident. A senior police officer told TNIE that the Sarthi family had built the temple in 2020 on government land, though there was no idol placed inside and only the structure existed. The family accepted the Christian faith a year ago, and the temple was dismantled by a JCB machine. As the news spread, a group of Bajrang Dal cadres arrived and, claiming that their religious sentiments were hurt, attempted to reach out to a nearby church to vandalise it in retaliation, but the police intervened and prevented it, the officer said. The existing church was built on private land some 25 years ago. According to eyewitnesses, some Bajrang Dal protestors managed to enter the church, raised a saffron coloured cloth and tried to remove the cross. There was a scuffle between the activists of Bajrang Dal and the police, who asked the protestors not to take the law into their hands. We have arrested five persons including three members of the Sarthi family and an operator of a JCB machinery that was used to demolish the temple, the officer added. The locals close to Nirmal Sarthi claimed that the family was initially taken to a police station to safeguard them from the protestors, and later they were arrested by the police. The demolished temple was a 6 ft x 6ft structure built by the Sarthi family close to the entrance of their residence. The Hanuman temple didn't have any idol installed, nor did anyone ever come to worship there. A Dalit family stands victimised in the incident. While Sarthi, his two sons and Bogilal Sarthi were arrested and sent to jail, no stern action was taken against those who created disharmony and agitation in the name of religion, said Degree Prasad Chouhan, human rights activist based in Raigarh.
RANCHI: The Jharkhand government on Thursday suspended IAS officer Vinay Chaubey and Joint Excise Commissioner Gajendra Singh following their arrest in the alleged liquor scam. The suspension order, issued by the Department of Personnel, takes effect from May 20the day both officials were arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). After an interrogation for nearly six hours, the State Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) had arrested Chaubey in connection with the alleged liquor scam in Jharkhand. Singh was also arrested on the same day. Both Chaubey and Singh were taken into custody and subsequently sent to judicial custody. According to ACB officials, both officers are accused of misusing their official positions and causing significant financial losses to the state exchequer. Preliminary findings suggest irregularities in the management of excise operations, prompting a wider probe into the states liquor distribution and licensing system. As per government service rules, any official held in custody for over 48 hours is liable to be suspended from service, a provision invoked in this case. Jharkhand IAS officer Vinay Chaubey arrested by ACB in connection with alleged liquor scam In the liquor scam that took place in Chhattisgarh, it is alleged that a syndicate based in Raipur supplied liquor to Jharkhand using fake holograms in a scam of crores of rupees. Former IAS officers Anil Tuteja, AP Tripathi and businessman Anwar Dhebar, among others, have been made accused in this scam. The heat of the alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh also reached Jharkhand between 2019 and 2022, with Chaubey being named in it. He was made an accused along with Chhattisgarh officials. The case was registered by the Economic Offences Wing on the basis of the statement of by Vikas Singh, a resident of Argora police station area in Ranchi. Vikas Singh had accused Chhattisgarh officials Tuteja, Dhebar, Tripathi and others of causing a loss of revenue worth billions of rupees to the Chhattisgarh government by committing a liquor scam. Following an FIR (36/2024) registered by the Chhattisgarh Economic Offences Wing, the ACB Ranchi also registered a preliminary investigation. During the investigation, the ACB questioned former Excise Secretary Choubey and Singh multiple times. Based on information obtained during the initial questioning, the ACB registered a regular FIR related to the liquor scam with government approval. After completing the investigation of the FIR registered in Chhattisgarh in March 2025, the Economic Offences Wing wrote to the Jharkhand government, requesting sanction for prosecution against Choubey and Singh.
Village Panchayat in Jharkhand passes resolution to reject witchcraft-related complaints
RANCHI: A village panchayat in Jharkhand's Jamshedpur has passed a resolution for not hearing any case related to witch-hunting. According to the Gram Pradhan of Sarjamda village under Jamshedpur Block of Jamshedpur, the decision has been taken in the wake of the growing incidents of killing women and elders after branding them as witches during Panchayat meetings. Not only that, the Gram Panchayat has also amended the rules of the traditional self-governance system, under which, if anyone approaches the Gram Sabha with a complaint accusing a woman or anybody of practicing black magic, his or her complaint will not be entertained. As per the amended constitution, there is no such thing as a witch or witchcraft. Gram Pradhan Suresh Hansda, also known as Manjhi Baba, informed that if someone comes to the Gram Sabha with an application accusing someone of being a witch, it is rejected outrightly and the person referred for counselling, during which, they are told that it is nothing but superstition. Not a single case of witchcraft has recorded in the region after the resolution was taken by the Gram Sabha a few years back, which clearly indicates that the purpose has been solved, said Hansda. Earlier, our forefathers were illiterate, who used to believe in such superstitions, but now after becoming literate, there should not be any space for such thing in society, he added. The resolution not taken orally, but in writing formally on the Panchayat register, said Hansda. Block Development Officer (BDO) Malay Kumar also lauded the initiative taken by Gram Panchayat, calling it a welcome step. As most of the witch-hunting cases are targeted towards the women and elderly, it is really a welcome step, which will further help in checking such incidents, said the Block Development Officer. Other Panchayats should also follow the suit as it has effectively worked in this particular Panchayat, he added. Civil Society Organisations also called it a landmark decision. Such initiative will further inspire other Panchayats to take similar decision as more than 2000 women have been killed the name of practicing black magic across Jharkhand since the state came into being in the year 2000, said Secretary of Association for Social and Humar Awareness (ASHA) Ajay Jaiswal. Padma Shri recipient and social worker, known for raising her voice against the witch-hunting, Chhutni Mahato, also believes that the incidents of murder on the pretext of being a witch could only be stopped when the society becomes aware. Panchayats have an important role to play to check this menace as the decisions of Panchayats are paramount in tribal villages. If initiatives are being taken against such superstitions in tribal panchayats, then it will yield positive results, said Chhutni Mahto. Notably, there are a lot of instances in Jharkhand where people were killed following a decision taken by the Panchayat, branding them as witches. Tribal-dominated Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Telangana are the worst affected states. Hundreds of women have been persecuted, tortured and killed in the garb of witchcraft in past few decades in these four states.
Key Maoist Leader Arrested In Odisha, AK-47 Rifle, Detonators Recovered From Him
Key Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) was arrested in Odisha's Koraput, days after top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju was killed, along with 26 others, in a Chhattisgarh encounter.
Special task force formed to curb rising communal tensions in Karnatakas coastal districts
BENGALURU: The Karnataka Government has constituted a Special Action Force (SAF), headed by a DIG-rank officer, to prevent communal violence in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga districts. The move comes in the wake of a recent spate of murders and communal tensions in these coastal and Malnad regions. The force, comprising 248 officials, will have three companies stationed in the respective districts that have frequently witnessed communal clashes over the last few years. The SAF will monitor fundamentalist elements and track communal or hate speeches and statements. It will also monitor content on social media platforms and take appropriate action to prevent any escalation of communal violence. The SAF officials will assist local police in handling incidents of communal nature. Speaking to media persons in Bengaluru on Thursday, Home Minister G Parameshwara said the force will begin operations immediately. The Government has considered Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga as sensitive districts and is taking all measures to prevent communal violence and ensure peace and harmony in the region. Stern action will be taken against those fanning communal tensions and their supporters, the minister said. Parameshwara added that the State Government has taken serious note of the recent incident in Mangaluru, where a pick-up vehicle driver, Abdul Rahiman, was murdered at Bantwal taluk near Mangaluru on Tuesday. This marks the third murder in Dakshina Kannada in the last one month. On April 27, Mohammed Ashraf, who hailed from Kerala, was lynched by a mob during a cricket match near Mangaluru. A few days later, on May 1, a Hindutva activist was murdered at Bajpe near Mangaluru. According to a Government Order dated May 28, 248 officials from the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) have been reassigned to the new task force to tackle communal violence. The ANF, which previously had 656 personnel, will now have 376 officials. The State Government has decided to continue the ANF for another three years following intelligence reports about the possible movement of Naxals from Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand to the border areas of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
CRPF jawan sacked for marrying Pakistani woman moves J&K High Court
SRINAGAR: A CRPF jawan from Jammu and Kashmir, Munir Ahmed, who was dismissed from service for marrying a Pakistani woman, has moved the Jammu and Kashmir High Court to challenge his termination. Ahmed, through his counsel Ankur Sharma, a BJP leader, filed a petition in the Jammu wing of the High Court contesting his sacking. Justice Javed Iqbal Wani has issued notices to the respondents Director General CRPF, and Commandants of the CRPFs 41 Battalion at Bangrasia, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), and 72 Battalion at Sodra, Sunderbani in J&Ks Rajouri district. The court has directed the respondents to file their objections on or before the next date of hearing, which has been scheduled for June 30. Munir Ahmed, who joined CRPF in 2017 and has served in Chhattisgarh, Bihar, J&K and Madhya Pradesh, was dismissed from service on May 2 for marrying a Pakistani woman, Menal Khan, who is also his cousin. Ahmed maintains that he had informed the CRPF headquarters about his intention to marry a Pakistani national. My marriage with Pakistani national Menal Khan, who is also my cousin, was decided by our elders during my childhood. In 2022, I informed the CRPF officials of my intent to marry a Pakistani national (Menal Khan) and sought permission for marriage. Responding to a letter dated 24/01/2023 by CRPF in which some queries were raised, I submitted required documents on 18/10/2023. Again, on 05/11/2023, I sought clearance/NOC for marriage with Menal, Munir told The New Indian Express . He said that on 30/04/2024, the office of the Director General CRPF, New Delhi, informed him that issuing a NOC is not required, as those intending to marry a person other than an Indian national only need to intimate the authorities. He claimed that he had completed the necessary formalities by informing the government about his marriage to a foreign national, in accordance with the rules. Munir said his marriage (nikkah) with Menal Khan took place on 24/05/2024 in online mode through a video call. After my nikkah, I submitted marriage pictures, nikkah papers and marriage certificate to the 72 Battalion headquarters in Bhopal, MP, where I was posted, he said. Menal Khan arrived in India on a 15-day visit visa on 28 February. We applied for a Long-Term Visa (LTV) on 4 March and all necessary formalities including the interview were completed. The mandatory 21-day period after which it is deemed to have been granted has already passed, Munir said, adding that they were waiting for the LTV when the Pahalgam terror attack took place. Following the 22 April terror attack in Pahalgam in which 25 tourists and a local resident were killed, India suspended visas for all Pakistani nationals in the country and downsized diplomatic ties with Pakistan. As Menal was among the Pakistani nationals due for deportation, Munir approached the J&K High Court, which on 29 April stayed her deportation until 14 May, when the next hearing was scheduled. Following the court order, Menal was brought back from the Attari border to Munirs residence in J&K.
SBI Employee Accused of Sexually Harassing Staff, Customers: Chhattisgarh HC Upholds Penalty
CUDDALORE: Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL) has emerged as the preferred bidder for two strategic mineral blocks, Raipura and Semhardih, in the Tranche V auction conducted by the Ministry of Mines. Both blocks, located in Chhattisgarh, contain reserves of phosphorite and limestone, which are essential for Indias fertiliser and industrial sectors. In a press statement on Wednesday, NLCIL said, With production of phosphorite from these mines, the huge dependence on imports can be reduced and can greatly contribute to the sustainability and growth of the agriculture sector in the country. The company stated that the Raipura block was secured with a final price offer of 8.60%, while the Semhardih block was won with a final offer of 11.05%. These acquisitions are aligned with NLCILs long-term strategy to expand its presence in the mining of critical minerals, which are increasingly vital for clean energy technologies, fertilisers, electronics, and industrial processes, the statement added. CMD of NLCIL, S Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, said, The acquisition of these critical mineral blocks is a proud moment for NLCIL and a significant step in supporting the Governments vision of ensuring a resilient and sustainable mineral ecosystem. Phosphorite is crucial for food security and the fertiliser industry, and securing these resources strengthens our countrys journey towards self-reliance. He added, As we progress towards a sustainable and decarbonised future, critical minerals will be the building blocks of new-age technologies, green energy solutions, and national prosperity. NLCIL said these assets will complement its existing portfolio, which includes thermal power, lignite mining, renewable energy, and upcoming green hydrogen projects. The company reiterated its commitment to contributing to Indias energy transition and resource security framework. The statement also highlighted the support provided by the Ministry of Mines through policy reforms and the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission. NLCIL stands proud to be a leading stakeholder in this national transformation, the company concluded.
Bogatha Waterfall springs to life with early rains in Telangana
MULUGU: With the onset of the monsoon season, Bogatha Waterfall has begun receiving copious inflows of water from the upper catchment areas in Chhattisgarh. Tourists have already started flocking to the waterfall, which is nestled deep within the dense forests of Wazeedu mandal in the district. Bogatha Waterfall has emerged as a major attraction for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The early arrival of rain has made it an even more refreshing escape from the summer heat. For tourists, the early monsoon is a boon, providing a perfect opportunity to spend time at the waterfall. With the summer holidays drawing to a close, children, youth, and vacationers are making their way to Bogatha in increasing numbers. Often referred to as the Niagara of Telangana, Bogatha Waterfall continues to draw large crowds and has established itself as a premier destination for eco-tourism. Speaking to TNIE, Wazeedu Forest Range Officer B Chandramouli said, Bogatha Waterfall has been receiving water for the past week. Every day, more than 300 tourists are visiting with their families. We have constructed a permanent safety fence, and we welcome nature lovers to experience the serene forest environment. However, we urge visitors not to litter the area with plastic waste. Chandramouli noted that the forest department has prohibited access to Mutyaladara Jalapatham and Kongala waterfalls due to their remote locations within thick forested areas. Our staff is currently conducting field inspections in those regions. We have instructed local tribal communities not to assist tourists in reaching those isolated waterfalls, he said. He further recalled warnings from locals regarding past incidents involving landmine blasts in the forest, emphasising the need for caution.
Family of slain Maoist leader Basavraju alleges Chhattisgarh police refuse to give ashes, moves HC
SRIKAKULAM: Family members of top Maoist leader Nambala Keshava Rao, also known as Basavraju, sought the ashes following his reported cremation on Tuesday. However, police at Narayanpur allegedly detained them and asked them to sign a document written in Hindi. Keshava Raos younger brother, Ram Prasad, who understands Hindi, refused to sign the document, claiming it was prepared by police to shield themselves from responsibility. The family reached the Jiyyannapeta on Wednesday. The issue has since circulated widely on social media and among Left-aligned and civil rights groups, which have criticised both Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh police for allegedly violating human rights by not handing over Keshava Raos body to his family for last rites. They also alleged that a minister from Andhra Pradesh pressured a superintendent of police to provide misleading information asking the Chhattisgarh police to conduct cremation to avoid law and order issues locally. A contempt petition filed by advocates on behalf of the family has been posted for hearing on Thursday in the High Court, with petitioners hoping for a favourable order to address what they describe as excessive police action.
Family of Maoist Leader Keshava Rao Files Contempt Petition After Chhattisgarh Police Defy HC Order
AP High Court order defied as Chhattisgarh police cremate Nambala Keshava Raos body without family
Fearless Force That Scripted The End Of Maoist Terror In Bastar
The lush but deadly jungles of Abujhmad in Chhattisgarh -- long considered the impenetrable heartland of Naxal operations -- recently witnessed a turning point.
'They Threatened to Kill Us': Christian Family & School Attacked in Chhattisgarh
VHP-Bajrang Dal goons disrupted a Sunday prayer and physically attacked Pastor Jose's family.
Divorced Wife Living In Adultery Not Entitled To Maintenance: Chhattisgarh High Court
Chhattisgarh PSC Announces Mining Inspector Exam Schedule for 2022
The Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission has announced the exam schedule for Mining Inspector positions, set for September 7. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website ten days before the exam. This recruitment drive aims to fill 35 vacancies. For detailed steps on how to access the admit card, read the full article.
Hardcore Maoist carrying Rs 4 lakh bounty on head lays down arms in Odisha
BERHAMPUR: A hardcore Maoist carrying a bounty of Rs 4 lakh on his head surrendered before Rayagada police on Tuesday. Police identified the Maoist as Bijay Punem alias Ajay of the Bansadhara-Ghumusar-Nagavali (BGN) division of the banned CPI (Maoist). Bijay is a native of Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh. At the time of surrender, he was carrying a pistol, eight rounds of ammunition and a walkie talkie. Rayagada SP S Swathi Kumar said Bijay was a member of the BGN divisions Ghumsar area committee and wanted in several cases. He was involved in multiple Maoist activities including armed encounters with security forces in Odishas Kandhamal district and neighbouring Chhattisgarh. The SP said Bijay joined the CPI (Maoist) in 2009. After receiving initial training, he worked as a personal security guard for Modem Balakrishna alias Manoj. He was promoted to area commander member in 2014 and worked for the BGN division. In 2024, he came to Odisha and took leadership of the Ghumsar area committee. However, Bijay faced various difficulties including mental torture from top Maoist leaders, food and water scarcity, and frequent operations by the security forces. He also faced language barriers and differences within the Maoist camp, which led him to surrender, said Swathi. The SP further said Odisha governments surrender and rehabilitation policy has been instrumental in encouraging Maoists to give up violence and join the mainstream. Under the policy, surrendered Maoists receive financial assistance, housing support, education and vocational training to help them become self-reliant. Steps would be taken to provide the assured facilities to Bijay, she added. Bijay has reportedly told police that his wife and others in the banned outfit would surrender soon.
Ranchi Diary | Birsa zoo eyes lion pair from Chhattisgarh
Wildlife lovers rejoice! Raipurs Nandanvan Jungle Safari and Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park have struck a major deal for animal exchange. As part of the swap, the Birsa zoo will receive a pair of lions, while Nandanvan will welcome a pair each of porcupines, hyenas and gharials. According to officials privy to the matter, the Central Zoo Authority has given the green light to the agreement. If everything goes as planned, a lion and a lioness will be shifted to the Birsa zoo as early as the first week of July. Currently, the Birsa zoo is home to just one lion, Shashank. Though a pair of lions was brought in from Shankar Bagh zoo in August 2019, they later died. JMM looks to expand footprint in urban areas Traditionally backed by tribal and rural voters, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is now shifting its attention towards urban constituencies. According to party sources, the JMM is strategically targeting city wards. Government schemes such as the CM School of Excellence, Ambedkar libraries and urban slum welfare programmes have been designed with urban beneficiaries in mind, they said. A series of infrastructure projects, like flyovers and enhanced public transport, are also said to be a part of the JMMs strategy to woo the urban voters. The party seeks to strike a balance and expand its footprint in cities. Girls outperform boys in Class X JAC board exams The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) recently announced the results for the Class X board examinations. This year, the pass percentage stands at a remarkable 91.71%, reflecting a strong overall performance. Once again, girls managed to outshine boys with a higher pass percentage. But thats not all. The topper is also a girl, Geetanjali of Hazaribagh Indira Gandhi Balika High School. She secured an impressive 98.60% in the exams. Further, of the 14 students who have bagged the top five positions, 12 are girls. And all of them except for one are from the same Hazaribagh high school. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
18 Naxals, including top Battalion members, surrender in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
In Sukma, Chhattisgarh, eighteen Naxals, including four from Battalion No. 1, surrendered to police, influenced by the 'Niyad Nellanar' rehabilitation initiative. This surrender boosts anti-Naxal efforts in South Bastar, following the neutralization of 27 Naxals in Narayanpur, including CPI (Maoist) leader Basavaraju. Authorities assure support for surrendered militants and express hope for the end of Naxalism.
India fails to meet target of doubling farmers' income: Report
NEW DELHI: Most of the states in India failed to achieve the goal to double farmers' incomes (DFI) by the 2022-23 period, a target set by the Narendra Modi government in 2016-17. However, Bihar, Uttarakhand, along with the Union Territories, have successfully achieved this goal. This information was revealed in a new policy paper titled Doubling Farmers Income: A Promising Target Fraught with Challenges, released by former Union Agriculture Secretary Siraj Hussain. The analysis indicates that India has fallen short of the DFI goal by 25 per cent. Furthermore, the contribution of the farm sector to doubling farmers' incomes has decreased compared to the non-farm sector. In 2016-17, the Indian government set the goal of doubling farmers total income by 2022-23, using 2015-16 as the baseline year. The study extrapolated farmers' income from 2018-19 to 2022-23 and compared it with the governments target. It showed that only two statesBihar and Uttarakhandand the combined North-eastern states achieved the target. The study suggests that the possibility of attaining DFI in the near future is higher in states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, as these states have registered income growth trends ranging from 20% to 50%. However, the study emphasizes the slim chances of achieving the DFI goal in five states: Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and West Bengal. Madhya Pradesh, in particular, has shown minimal growth, largely due to negligible increases in gross state domestic product in agriculture and allied activities (GSDPA) from 2018-19 to 2019-20. Nevertheless, there is a silver lining as Madhya Pradesh has recently reported an average GSDPA growth of nearly 7%, indicating substantial growth potential, according to the study. Overall, the study highlights distress in agricultural growth. The increase in income from wages, salaries, and non-farm businesses suggests that the non-farm sector has performed better than the farm sector in several states. The study also found that direct relationship between farm size and income. India has 86% small and marginal farmers who need special attention to increase income. Further, inter-state and social disparities in income remain wide. The income of farmers of Punjab and Haryana is almost five times more than that of farmers in Bihar and West Bengal. Similarly, the income gaps between large and marginal farmers and SC-ST and OBC-Other caste farmers remain wide. The policy paper was prepared by a group of economists and sector experts, Seema Bathla, Anjani Kumar, Navneet Kumar, and Siraj Hussain. The study has examined the last two decades' trends, composition, and growth in farmers total net income between 200203 and 201819 across the states to assess the possibility of DFI. It also analyses the increment in income whether equitable and inclusive. The data is based on National Sample Survey- Situational Analysis Survey (NSS-SAS) undertaken during 200203, 201213 and 201819.
Hardcore Maoist With Rs 4 Lakh Bounty Surrenders in Odisha
The surrender marks a significant setback for the outlawed CPI (Maoist), especially in the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border regions where the group has remained active
Chhattisgarh EOW files charge-sheet against ex-CM deputy secretary, former collector in DMF scam
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh State Bureau for Investigation of Economic Offences (EOW) on Tuesday filed a 6,000-page charge-sheet before the Special Court (Anti-Corruption), Raipur, against Saumya Chaurasia, former deputy secretary to ex-Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel; the then Korba collector, Ranu Sahu; and several others in connection with the multi-crore District Mineral Fund (DMF) scam. Besides Chaurasia and Sahu, businessman Suryakant Tiwari, Maya Varriar, Manoj Dwivedi, Bhuneswar Singh Raj, Barosa Ram Thakur and Virendra Rathore have also been named in the charge-sheet. They have been accused of direct involvement in corruption and financial embezzlement by manipulating the tender process to benefit favoured proprietors and suppliers. They allegedly collected illegal commissions amounting to around Rs 75 crore in the DMF scam in Korba district. According to investigators, these substantial bribes were paid in exchange for securing DMF tenders. The state EOW stated that an FIR had been registered against all the accused under Sections 7 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, in addition to Sections 120-B, 420, 467, 468 and 491 of the Indian Penal Code. The accused named in the charge-sheet are currently lodged in Raipur Central Jail under judicial remand. Chaurasia, during her tenure as a deputy secretary in the then Chief Ministers Office, allegedly misused her official position and exercised undue administrative influence to facilitate the receipt of illegal commissions in return for awarding DMF tenders in Korba. In May this year, the Chhattisgarh High Court rejected the bail plea of the accused in the DMF scam.
Right to respectful cremation denied, says kin of slain Maoist leader
The last rites were conducted for all unclaimed bodies, said a statement by the Chhattisgarh police officials
