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Chhattisgarh News

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CPM stalwart V S Achuthanandan passed away on July 21 at the age of 101, leaving an indelible imprint on not just the Communist movements political markings, but on every milestone woven into the states socio-cultural fabric. Poverty eradication sustained? On November 1, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared Kerala free of extreme poverty making it the first state in the country to achieve the status. Though the nature of the announcement, with Mammootty in attendance, made it seem as much a PR moment as a policy milestone, the state government deserves credit for making a sustained effort to identify extremely poor families. Rajeev Chandrasekhar succeeded K Surendran as the states new BJP chief. Initially branded an outsider , Rajeev emerged as a power player after the partys victory in TPuram corporation. The Malayalam film fraternity came together to pay rich tributes to actor, screenwriter, and director Sreenivasan , whose satirical films reshaped popular cinema and made generations laugh. Gold-clad plates being removed from the sanctum sanctorum of the Sabarimala temple as part of the SIT probe into the alleged misappropriation and sale of gold, carried out by falsifying records to show them as copper during refurbishment in 2019, exposing systemic fraud and potential links to smuggling rings. Fierce sea surges and relentless coastal erosion have displaced dozens of fisher families, laying bare the vulnerability of Keralas 590-km-long shoreline. According to various studies, over 55% of Keralas coastline is at risk of erosion. There has also been a staggering loss of 647 acres of coastal land along a 58-km stretch in Thiruvananthapuram district alone over the past 14 years, highlighting the urgent need for effective coastal protection measures in the state From the start, the state governments Messi project was riddled with confusion, shifting sponsors, and half-baked plans that kept fans guessing whether Argentine superstar Lionel Messi would ever set foot in the state. The anticipation, however, ended in vain. The AMMA made history, electing Shwetha Menon as its president the first woman to hold the post in the film bodys 30-year history A stray dog stands atop a boundary wall marked with civic poll campaign graffiti and posters, capturing a striking contrast between the feverish political outreach across the state and the persistent issue of stray dog menace, which continues to trouble the public. Last respects being offered by the family of N Ramachandran , a 65-year-old Kochi native who was among the 26 civilians killed in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 this year Mundakkai natives Radha and Pathumma embrace at Puthumala graveyard on the first anniversary of the devastating Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslides in Wayanad . The day was marked by sombre remembrances, prayers, and reflections on the tragedy that struck on July 30, 2024, claiming over 298 lives Mother Eliswa , the first nun of the Catholic Church in Kerala, was elevated to the rank of blessed in November. It was on April 14 that Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of Mother Eliswa People throng the Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court premises following the acquittal of Dileep in the actor assault case after the prosecution failed to establish conspiracy charge against him. Six accused were convicted. The lynching of Ramnarayan Baghel , a migrant worker from Chhattisgarh, on suspicion of theft at Walayar in Palakkad sits uneasily with Keralas image as a fully literate state. Ramnarayans wife, Lalitha, breaks down on seeing his body. This is the 5th lynching of a migrant in the state in the past decade Kochi-Muziris Biennale began in December, featuring 22 venues and seven collaterals, significantly widening the socio-historical as well as political footprints of the new-age art exhibition

The New Indian Express 28 Dec 2025 9:24 am

Light, flower show becomes favourite weekend spot in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The streets along Kanakakunnu Palace were flooded with people and crammed with vehicles not a new sight to a Trivandrum resident in the festive days. Big-sized reindeer leading the way for Santa Claus sleigh at the mega entrance to the palace, trees lit up in colourful lights, and thematic light designs the Vasantholsavam light and flower show has become the best weekend getaway for all Trivians, with people of all age groups coming up to see how lights tell tales! The 8-year-old Parie from Chhattisgarh was full of surprises the colours made a lasting impact on her. My favourite was the dragon. and I loved the flowers too, she said, by listing out the colours she saw inside. Her parents, both working at the ISRO at Veli here, said that they came here early that evening so that the child could enjoy everything inside peacefully. Not just them, tourists from different districts and states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh were actively part of the programmes here. Standing outside the mirror maze was Bhavya, a college student, who still seemed not to be out of how mirrors around the room and lights inside gave her an out-of-the-world experience. Another youngster remarked that rather than decorating the entire stretch of roads with lights, as done during Onam time, creative works like the designs of spores would be better. Coming from Kollam, Class XI student Devananda said that the celebrations resembled those of the Kollam festival. As usual, the nights are busier here than the evenings. While parents led the children to see the lights, the children led their parents towards the stalls that sell snacks and attractive toys. However, not all people have the same opinion about the festival. Athul Sivadas, a media student, mentioned that this years show is not as good as that of the previous years. Being a resident of this city, I know how well-arranged the programme was in the previous years, but this time, everything feels like a rushed, last-minute arrangement, he opined. Getting mixed reviews The festival has recieved mixed reviews from the public. For families, the festival seems to be the perfect getaway, as kids find the illuminations fascinating. For others, this years festival appeared to not be as good as that of the previous years

The New Indian Express 28 Dec 2025 8:44 am

Coal mine protest turns violent in Chhattisgarh's Raigarh; several cops injured, vehicles torched

Violence erupted in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, during a protest against a coal mining project. Protesters clashed with police, resulting in injuries and the torching of vehicles. The mob also targeted a coal handling plant. Officials intervened, but the situation escalated.

The Economic Times 28 Dec 2025 8:25 am

Chhattisgarh: Govt To Set Deadline For Maoist Surrender

Security forces in hot pursuit of 5 surviving top ultras: Reports

Deccan Chronicle 27 Dec 2025 11:13 pm

28 excise officers granted bail by SC also named in ED liquor scam case in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR: The 28 state excise officers who the Supreme Court granted bail in the liquor scam chargesheet filed by the Chhattisgarh Bureau for Investigation of Economic Offences (EOW) are also among the 81 accused in an alleged Rs 3000-crore liquor fraud investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED filed a 29,800-page Relied Upon Documents, cited as the concluding challan, before the special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Raipur in the liquor scam. The key arrests in the case include former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, a six-time Congress MLA Kawasi Lakhma, former deputy secretary to the chief minister office Soumya Chaurasia, retired IAS Niranjan Das, special secretary Excise department Arun Pati Tripathi, businessman Anwar Dhebar among others. There is no mention of former chief minister and Congress MLA Bhupesh Baghel in the ED chargesheet. The central probe agency claimed that the excise department had played a major role in acquiring funds for a political party during the 2023 Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh. The officials of the excise department who were bestowed with the responsibility to gather the amount were given to excise officials Dinkar Vasnik, Naveen Singh Tomar, Vikas Goswami, Nitu Notani and Iqbal Khan, it stated. The liquor fraud practices were carried out in as many 15 districts of the state and the liquor supply for distribution among candidates stated to have been arranged during the Assembly polls. The ED has also contended the roles of Chaitanya (son of ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel) and Yash Tuteja (son of former IAS) as major in the liquor syndicate, which according to the federal probe agency operated illegal bribe collections by controlling the high-level management of key state departments in Chhattisgarh. The probe agency investigating the liquor scam from 2022 has produced the final charge sheet in Raipur on Friday. Around two dozen have been arrested so far in connection with the case. The SC had earlier asked the ED to produce the final challan within 3 months as the case was being probed since 2022. We will go ahead with the pending bail plea for accused in custody and further move applications for others made accused but not arrested. The hearing of the entire case will now continue in the trial court, said Faisal Rizvi, defence lawyer.

The New Indian Express 27 Dec 2025 2:54 pm

Video of Dhirendra Shastri arriving in Raipur in govt aircraft, cop touching his feet sparks row

A controversy has erupted in Chhattisgarh after a video showed a police officer touching the feet of spiritual preacher Dhirendra Shastri, who arrived on a government aircraft. The Congress has alleged misuse of public funds, while the BJP defended the officer's act as personal faith and accused the opposition of opposing Sanatana Dharma.

The Economic Times 27 Dec 2025 2:06 pm

ED files final prosecution complaint in Chhattisgarh liquor 'scam'; 59 more named as accused

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a final charge sheet in the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. Fifty-nine more individuals are now accused, bringing the total to 81. The scam allegedly occurred between 2019 and 2022. Proceeds of crime are estimated to be around Rs 3,000 crore. Several prominent figures, including politicians and former officials, have been named.

The Economic Times 27 Dec 2025 8:25 am

CGPSC admit card 2025 for Subedar, Sub Inspector Cadre and Platoon Commander recruitment released: Direct link here

The Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission has released admit cards for Subedar, Sub Inspector Cadre, and Platoon Commander recruitment 2025. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official CGPSC website, which contain essential details like name, roll number, exam date, and centre. It is crucial to carry a printed admit card and a valid photo ID on the exam day.

The Times of India 27 Dec 2025 8:14 am

A 2 Z from Kerala in 2025

AMMA For the first time in its three decades of existence, women assumed charge of Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), with Shwetha Menon and Cuckoo Parameswaran elected president and general secretary respectively. The leadership change followed the resignation of the 17-member executive committee, which included Mohanlal, in September last year after the release of the Hema Committee report. Brain-eating amoeba The brain-eating amoeba (Naegleria fowleri) claimed 45 lives in the state, according to the health department. Kerala witnessed a surge in the number of cases in August and September, raising serious concerns about public health surveillance. Chirakkal Dr Haris Chirakkal, head of the urology department, flagged a shortage of equipment at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital, triggering an internal probe. Following the revelation, Dr Haris was subjected to targeted attacks for criticising the government and slapped with a show-cause notice. The health department drew more fire when the portion of a building at Kottayam MCH collapsed, killing a woman and injuring two others. Dadasaheb for Mohanlal Actor Mohanlal was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Indian cinemas highest honour, making him the second Malayali to receive the recognition after filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan. 'Empuraan' The Prithviraj-Mohanlal film 'L2: Empuraan' found itself in the eye of a storm following its April release after right-wing groups claimed that its riot scenes bore resemblance to the 2002 Gujarat violence. They forced the makers to carry out cuts, alleging anti-Hindu narrative. Fresh Cut controversy Kozhikode witnessed fierce protests against Fresh Cut Organic Products poultry-waste processing plant over air and water pollution, and foul odour. Tensions escalated in October following violent clashes between residents and police, which led to injuries to officers and cases being registered against leaders of the agitation. The issue triggered political involvement and regulatory scrutiny, including National Green Tribunal (NGT) intervention and disputes over the units licence. GOAT Kerala missed out on Lionel Messis GOAT India Tour primarily due to logistical issues, lack of FIFA-standard facilities, funding delays, bureaucratic hurdles, and disagreements between organisers and the Argentine Football Association, leading to cancellation of the planned November event and its replacement with a Hyderabad leg to cover the southern region. Honey M Varghese Honey M Varghese, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Ernakulam, hit the spotlight after presiding over the 2017 actor abduction and assault case and delivering the verdict in December. The judgment convicting six accused, and acquitting actor Dileep, the eighth accused, drew both praise and criticism. Invest Kerala The state government organised the Invest Kerala Global Summit on February 21 and 22, offering a platform for investors, multinational companies, and startups to explore investments. After 10 months, according to Industries Minister P Rajeeve, the state was able to attract investments worth `35,463 crore and 50,000 new job opportunities. Joblessness Unemployment in the state saw a spurt with the number of jobless youths in rural areas rising to 76 per thousand in 2023-24, from 65 in the previous year, way above the respective national average of 25 and 24. Kerala had the fourth-highest rural unemployment rate in both years, according to the Handbook of Statistics on Indian States. Over the past 10 years, Kerala recorded its highest rural unemployment rate 107 per thousand in 2014-15. Killer in the family In one of Keralas most macabre family murders of the year, 23-year-old Afan went on a killing spree in Venjaramoodu, murdering his grandmother, uncle, aunt, teenage brother, and girlfriend, while his mother survived with serious injuries. Police said he travelled between three crime scenes on a motorcycle before surrendering. He was hospitalised after claiming to have consumed rat poison, before attempting suicide in custody. 'Lokah' 'Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra', Mollywoods first female-led superhero film, was released in August. Starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and directed by Dominic Arun, it became the first Malayalam flick to enter the `300-crore club. Mob lynching Ramnarayan Baghel, a migrant worker from Chhattisgarh, was killed in a mob attack in Walayar, Palakkad. The crowd allegedly assaulted the 31-year-old while shouting Bangladeshi, triggering statewide outrage over hate crimes and migrant safety. Nimisha Priya The case of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who is on death row in Yemen, saw major developments in the year. Her scheduled execution in July was postponed amid intense negotiations over blood money. Organ donation Organ donations in Kerala reached a five-year peak. Ernakulam General Hospital became Indias first district-level hospital to perform a heart transplant when woman from Nepal received the heart of Shibu, a Kollam resident. Polls The local body elections, widely seen as the semi-final ahead of the 2026 assembly polls, delivered a sharp political message. The UDF emerged as the biggest gainer, wresting control of four corporations. The BJP made headlines by capturing Thiruvananthapuram corporation, while the LDF was left with just Kozhikode corporation. The year also saw a by-election to the Nilambur assembly seat in June, where Congress Aryadan Shoukath defeated CPMs M Swaraj. Quality of national highways The national highway network in the state has been undergoing a major upgrade. However, cave-ins of under-construction stretches in Malappuram and Kollam exposed serious lapses and violations, raising questions about the quality of the work. Rahul Mamkootathil Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil courted controversy following sexual misconduct allegations and rape cases by multiple women. The party suspended the 36-year-old and followed it up with expulsion. Sabarimala The special investigation teams probe into the Sabarimala gold theft case exposed a nexus involving former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) officials. A total of 4.5 kg of gold went missing from the hill shrine following repair work in 2019. Former TDB officials, including A Padmakumar, N Vasu and Murari Babu, were arrested. Following new developments, the SIT expanded its investigation into other states. Transshipment terminal The Vizhinjam Transshipment Terminal was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May, establishing it as Indias first deepwater hub. It achieved rapid operational success, handling 1 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) and major vessels like MSC Irina by the year-end, all while preparing for phase II expansion to extend berths and the breakwater for even greater capacity, solidifying its role as a global competitor to Colombo. Universities The year saw a standoff between the governor and the government over appointments of vice-chancellors to APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (Digital University Kerala, DUK). Following the deadlock, the apex court intervened, leading to the formation of a committee to recommend candidates. A consensus was arrived at and Dr Ciza Thomas (KTU) and Dr Saji Gopinathan (DUK) were appointed as VCs. Vedan Rapper Hirandas Murali aka Vedan was arrested in a narcotics case and later booked over sexual assault allegations. The governments decision to honour him with the state film award for best lyricist sparked debate. Wild animal attacks Wild animal attacks continued, with four people killed by tigers alone in 2025. From 2016 to early 2025, 919 persons have been killed and nearly 9,000 injured in encounters with wild animals. Kerala officially requested the Centre to amend the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The main goal is to allow the culling of wild animals that are a direct threat to people and property. Xtreme poverty eradication The state government declared Kerala as extreme poverty-free in November, through the Extreme Poverty Eradication Project (EPEP). The project identified 64,006 families as extremely poor. The announcement, however, sparked controversy, with the opposition questioning the lack of transparent and census-based data, and alleging political motivation. Year of Youth Youth emerged at the forefront of politics, particularly during the local body elections, with major parties fielding candidates from student wings such as KSU and SFI. Zoological Park, Thrissur Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the long-awaited Thrissur Zoological Park in Puthur in October. The designer zoo is expected to transform the region into a global tourism destination. Tributes P Jayachandran (Jan 9) Legendary playback singer P Jayachandran died, leaving behind melodies that defined an era. With his rich, emotive voice and thousands of unforgettable songs, he remains etched in the musical memory of South India. Shaji N Karun (Apr 28) Acclaimed filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji N Karuns passing marked the loss of one of Indias most poetic cinematic voices. Through internationally acclaimed films and visionary storytelling, he carried Malayalam cinema to the global stage. V S Achuthanandan (July 21) Former chief minister and Communist stalwart V S Achuthanandan affectionately known as VS passed away at the age of 101. A towering public figure, he leaves behind a legacy of principled politics, uncompromising integrity, and decades of unwavering service to the people of Kerala. M K Sanoo (Aug 2) Leaving behind a life devoted to literature and human values, writer, critic, and social activist Prof M K Sanoo died, aged 96. A compassionate public intellectual and cultural guide, his works and interventions shaped Keralas literary and social landscape. T J S George (Oct 3) Renowned journalist and thinker T J S George passed away, closing a luminous chapter in Indian public discourse. A Padma Bhushan awardee and prolific columnist, his fearless commentary and deeply insightful writing enriched journalism over six decades. Sreenivasan (Dec 20) Veteran actor, writer, and filmmaker Sreenivasan bid farewell after a remarkable journey in Malayalam cinema. For nearly five decades, his sharp wit, humane storytelling, and timeless humour shaped the soul of popular cinema, touching generations of viewers and creators alike. text: Anna Jose and Rajesh Abraham EDITING: Prasad V Mathew and Niharika Pramod DESIGN: arjun k j

The New Indian Express 27 Dec 2025 7:44 am

More Than 2,000 Maoists Have Surrendered: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday said that the government appealed to the Maoists to abandon the language of violence and gunfire and join the mainstream of development.

NDTV 27 Dec 2025 6:13 am

Chhattisgarh liquor scam: ED files final prosecution complaint

Among the new 59 accused are former Deputy Secretary at Chief Minister's office Soumya Chaurasia, former IAS officer Niranjan Das, liquor licence holders, liquor manufacturers and excise department officials

The Hindu 27 Dec 2025 12:25 am

Bhupesh Baghel vs Bageshwar Baba Over 'Superstitious Beliefs'

A fresh political-religious confrontation has erupted in Chhattisgarh after former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and spiritual preacher Dhirendra Shastri or Bageshwar Baba traded sharp remarks over superstition and faith.

NDTV 26 Dec 2025 10:47 pm

ED files final prosecution complaint in Chhattisgarh liquor scam

Raipur: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday filed a final prosecution complaint in the alleged liquor scam case in Chhattisgarh, naming 59 persons, taking the total number of accused in the money laundering case to 81. The final prosecution complaint was filed before the PMLA court here complying with the directions of the Supreme Court, 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 .

The Siasat Daily 26 Dec 2025 10:10 pm

Chhattisgarh family forced to 'reconvert' to Hinduism after locals oppose alleged Christian burial

RAIPUR: A deceased woman's family was forced to 'reconvert' to Hinduism after locals objected to her burial allegedly according to Christian customs in Borai village of Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district. The latest incident comes just a few days after communal clashes broke out due to a dispute over a 'Christian burial' in Amabeda village of Kanker district. Locals claimed that the deceased woman, Punia Sahu (65), supposedly converted to Christianity and had been attending prayers at the Church. While the woman's family was preparing for her funeral, villagers reportedly backed by a Hindutva brigade began protesting against her burial. When the family tried to take the body to a different burial ground, villagers once again protested and demanded that the family perform last rites in accordance with Hindu customs. The land dug up for burial was refilled with soil, and the body was safeguarded by the family for a day and a half. Only after the family finally agreed to conduct last rites according to Hindu customs, a dignified burial was allowed. The district administration along with the police swung into action to prevent the situation turning volatile as Thursday was a Christmas day and the tension prevailed in the region. All disputes were sorted out, and the burial was conducted this morning (Friday) as per Hindu rituals with the agreement from the samaj pramukh (community leaders), Dhamtari district police chief Suraj Singh Parihar told TNIE . A local town inspector camping at Borai village, Narendra Singh, said that the deceased woman belonged to the Sahu community which has a tradition of burying the body. He said that in this incident, the issue was the woman's alleged conversion to Christianity. The district administration and police intervened to pacify the agitated villagers, and helped the family to work out an amicable solution. The administration was on alert mode, Singh said. Following the setting ablaze of two churches during the violence that flared up in Kanker district on December 18, Senior Superintendent of Police Indira Kalyan Elisila was shifted to Sarguja as DIG Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF).

The New Indian Express 26 Dec 2025 9:26 pm

Vandals target Christmas decorations at Assam school, mob attacks mall in Raipur

Right-wing vandals disrupted Christmas celebrations in Assam and Chhattisgarh on Christmas Day. In Assam, four activists were arrested for smashing decorations at a school, while in Chhattisgarh, an FIR was filed against 25-30 individuals for vandalizing a mall during a shutdown protest.

The Times of India 26 Dec 2025 4:33 am

40 Masked Men Vandalise Christmas Decor In Chhattisgarh's Raipur

Unidentified persons were booked for vandalising Christmas decorations at a mall in Chhattisgarh capital Raipur, a police official said on Thursday.

NDTV 25 Dec 2025 11:40 pm

Holding Her Hand, Pulling Towards Self, Saying I Love You Amounts Outraging A Womans Modesty: Chhattisgarh HC

Therefore, the act done by the appellant with the victim very much falls under the offence under Section 354 of the IPC as it was done by him to outrage the modesty of the victim, the judgement said

Deccan Chronicle 25 Dec 2025 11:28 pm

No More Guard Of Honour: Chhattisgarh Ends Ceremonial Salutes For Ministers, Senior Police Officers

The government said the move will allow police personnel to be used more effectively, especially at a time when maintaining public safety.

News18 25 Dec 2025 11:23 pm

40 Charged For Vandalising Christmas Decorations At Raipur Mall

Around 40 unidentified persons have been charged for vandalising Magneto Mall on VIP Road in Raipur during the state-wide 'Chhattisgarh Bandh' on Wednesday. A group of protesters entered the mall, damaged property, and allegedly misbehaved with staff

NDTV 25 Dec 2025 11:11 pm

Boost for Mumbai! Jaiswal likely to play Vijay Hazare before end of year

Indias Test and ODI opener Yashasvi Jaiswal will join the Mumbai team in Jaipur for the Vijay Hazare Trophy on December 29. TOI has learnt that Jaiswal could therefore feature for Mumbai in their Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Chhattisgarh on December 29 and the following matches. Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Shivam Dube will also turn out for Mumbai for matches on on January 6 and 8.

The Times of India 25 Dec 2025 8:32 pm

Snubbed in Bihar, JMM looks to Assam for political expansion

RANCHI: After being denied any seat in Bihar by the Mahagathbandhan during the Assembly polls, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has begun exploring avenues in other tribal-dominated states across the country. According to party leaders, a four-member delegation will soon visit Assam to assess ground realities by holding a series of meetings with local party workers. Despite being a key coalition partner during the Bihar Assembly elections, the RJD did not concede a single seat to the JMM, while the Congress also remained silent on the issue. Subsequently, the JMM decided not to contest the Bihar polls, claiming the decision was taken in the wake of a political conspiracy by its allies RJD and Congress, which allegedly deprived it of seats under the Mahagathbandhan arrangement. JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya said that a decision would be taken by the partys top leadership based on the feedback submitted by the delegation. A four-member delegation of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha will soon visit Assam to explore avenues for the upcoming Assembly polls in the state. The leaders will stay there for a few days and hold meetings with local party workers to take stock of the partys ground situation, Bhattacharya said. He added that the delegation would submit a report after returning from Assam, on the basis of which a decision would be taken. The delegation will include minister Chamra Linda, MP Vijay Hansda, and MLAs M T Raja and Bhushan Tirkey. Bhattacharya said the party is keen on contesting the Assam Assembly elections as the state has a significant tribal population. Notably, during its 13th general convention held in Ranchi in April this year, the JMM had announced plans to increase its political activism in selected seats in Assam, Odisha and West Bengal. Party leaders had also said they were planning to contest elections in Assam by organising migrants from the state. As part of its broader expansion strategy, the JMM is working to establish its presence in various parts of the country with the aim of emerging as a national party. The party is also preparing to field candidates in the West Bengal Assembly elections and strengthen its position in other states. The JMM is actively working on shedding its image as a regional party and expanding its footprint in Delhi, West Bengal, Assam and Chhattisgarh. Preparations for this expansion are already underway. Although the party has not officially confirmed the details, sources indicate that the JMM plans to open offices in several states. Following its resounding victory in Jharkhand, the party is also considering opening an office in New Delhi.

The New Indian Express 25 Dec 2025 7:49 pm

Hindutva mob vandalise Christmas mall decor during Chhattisgarh Bandh

Raipur: During the Chhattisgarh Bandh, on Christmas Eve, Hindutva workers armed with sticks vandalised Raipurs Magneto Mall, forcibly taking down festive decorations, alleging illegal religious conversion. The mob barged into the mall on Wednesday and thrashed the place, removing decorations and installations despite the security personnel trying to stop them. During the Chhattisgarh Bandh, on 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 .

The Siasat Daily 25 Dec 2025 2:27 pm

Saying love you outrages modesty of women: Chhattisgarh HC

RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh High Court, hearing the appeal against the conviction judgment order of the trial court, ruled that saying I love you, holding hand and pulling woman towards self amounted to offence as it outrages the modesty of a woman. The accused, 19 years at the time of incident in Raigarh district, was sentenced to rigorous imprisonment (RI) for 3 years besides a fine of `1,000 under Section 354 of IPC (criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act by the Fast Track Special Court in 2022. The victim had lodged a written police complaint in November 2019 alleging that the appellant stopped her saying I love you, held her hand and pulled her towards him. An FIR was then lodged against him. A single judge bench of Justice Naresh Kumar Chandravanshi found that the conviction for the offence under the POCSO Act was not sustainable as the prosecution has failed to prove the victim as minor on the date of incident but said that the Fast Track Special Court did no mistake in holding the accused guilty.

The New Indian Express 25 Dec 2025 9:28 am

Kerala govt announces Rs 30 lakh solatium to family of mob lynching victim

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has announced a financial assistance of Rs 30 lakh to the family of Ramnarayan Baghel, the migrant worker who was lynched to death by a mob in Palakkad. A sum of Rs 5 lakh each will be given to Ramnarayans mother and wife, while Rs 10 lakh each will be allotted to his children as fixed deposit. The amount will be disbursed from the Chief Ministers Disaster Relief Fund, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday. Lashing out against the Sangh parivar for the incident, the chief minister said that the incident should be seen as a move to replicate the tried-and-tested mob-lynching occurrences from North India. We should take this as a responsibility to prove to them that Kerala will not be a ground for such practices... (Sangh parivar) even labelled the youngster a Bangladeshi refugee, he said. Adding that the death of Ramnarayan Bhayar has shaken the conscience of Kerala, CM also said that some of the convicts have criminal backgrounds. The incident took place on Monday, when a group of people lynched Ramnarayan from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, after mistaking him for a thief. Following the incident, the CM stated that stringent action would be taken against the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the political dimension of the incident broke out when CPM leaders accused the RSS of being behind the assault. Connecting this to other recent incidents, the chief minister also mentioned the attacks launched during the Christmas celebrations of other states. Mentioning that such moves disgrace the festival, which gives light to the world, he said the Sangh is part of all these. The same people who visited Christian homes with cakes last year are now launching these attacks, he said. Pinarayi also mentioned the attack on the Christmas carol group in Palakkad, pressure from RSS-affiliated organisations against schools that organised Christmas celebrations, and the BMS move to sing RSS ganageetam during Christmas celebrations in postal offices. Senior BJP leaders even made insulting remarks against the carol teams that they generally drink alcohol and perform indecently, he said.

The New Indian Express 25 Dec 2025 7:59 am

Mob lynching: Kerala govt announces Rs 30 lakh aid to victims family

KOCHI, Dec 24 : Kerala government on Wednesday announced financial assistance of Rs 30 lakh to the family of Chhattisgarh native Ramnarayan, who was killed in an alleged mob lynching incident near Walayar in the northern Palakkad district. Addressing a press conference here, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said a Cabinet meeting decided to grant the aid to the family of Ramnarayan, from the Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund. Of the total Rs 30 lakh being granted, Rs five lakh each [] The post Mob lynching: Kerala govt announces Rs 30 lakh aid to victims family appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 25 Dec 2025 4:26 am

Chhattisgarh: Rightwing Bodies Protest Against Religious Conversions Evokes Mixed Response

The stir comes in the wake of the recent violent clash between the tribals and Christian community members in a village in Kanker district in Bastar in the state over burial of a villager.

Deccan Chronicle 25 Dec 2025 1:42 am

Mixed response to Chhattisgarh Bandh; Christmas decorations vandalised in Raipur

Demands were made for the the enactment of a stringent anti-conversion law

The Hindu 25 Dec 2025 1:28 am

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Kohli, Rohit, Suryavanshi Smash Centuries; Karnataka And Bengal Complete Big Chases

Narendra Modi Stadium Ground: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, along with Ishan Kishan and Devdutt Padikkal, smashed centuries to benefit their respective teams in Round One of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 Season on Wednesday. It was a day on which a record 22 individual centuries were scored on the opening day of the competition. From a team perspective, Karnataka and Bengal completed mammoth successful run chases to make a big statement on Day One of Indias premier domestic mens one-day tournament. Kohli marked his return to Bengaluru with a commanding century as Delhi chased down 299 against Andhra with more than 12 overs to spare in their Elite Group D opener on Wednesday. Kohli's 58th List A hundred - 131 off 101 balls with 14 fours and three sixes - at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground overshadowed Ricky Bhui's 122 for Andhra as Delhi secured a four-wicket victory. Delhi pacer Simarjeet Singh was adjudged Player of the Match for picking 5-54. Meanwhile, in Jaipur, another former India captain, Rohit Sharma, produced a masterclass in front of over 20,000 spectators at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing an unbeaten 155 off 94 balls to guide Mumbai to an eight-wicket victory over Sikkim in Elite Group C. Rohit raced to his 37th List A century in just 62 balls before adding another 50 runs off 29 deliveries, cutting and driving at will against an inexperienced Sikkim attack that had posted 236/6, as Mumbai chased down the target in 30.3 overs. In Ranchi, Bihar posted a staggering 574/6 - now the highest score in men's List A cricket - as teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls and captain Sakibul Gani blasted an unbeaten 128 off 40 balls - the fastest by an Indian batter in men's List A cricket - to crush Arunachal Pradesh by 397 runs in a Plate Group match on Wednesday. Suryavanshi struck 16 fours and 15 sixes in his blistering knock at a strike rate of 226.19, adding 158 runs for the opening wicket with Mangal Mahrour (33) before combining with Piyush Singh (77 off 66 balls) for a 103-run second-wicket partnership. Wicketkeeper Ayush Loharuka continued the carnage with 116 off 56 balls, including hitting 11 fours and eight sixes, before Gani unleashed mayhem in the final overs by hitting 10 fours and 12 sixes to propel Bihar past the 500-mark. Bihar's bowlers then completed the rout, dismissing Arunachal Pradesh for just 177 in 42.1 overs with Akash Raj (3-29), Suraj Kashyap (3-31) and Himanshu Tiwari (2-33) sharing eight wickets between themselves. In Rajkot, Dhruv Jurel and Rinku Singh hit half-centuries as Uttar Pradesh opened their campaign with an 84-run win over Hyderabad at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. Apart from the duo, Abhishek Goswami and Aryan Juyal were among their other half-centurions. UP's spin trio - List A debutants Zeeshan Ansari (4-31) and Prashant Veer (3-47), along with Vipraj Nigam - stifled Hyderabad's chase of 325 after the UP top-order posted 324/5. Hyderabad captain Tanmay Agarwal's 53 off 43 balls threatened briefly before the lower-order collapsed, as they were bowled out for 240. Defending champions Karnataka pulled off a stunning run chase, overhauling a record target of 413 against Jharkhand with 15 balls to spare at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground B in Ahmedabad. Player of the Match Devdutt Padikkal's brilliantly-paced 147 off 118 balls eclipsed Ishan Kishan's explosive 125 off just 39 balls - the second fastest List A century by an Indian male batter - as Karnataka romped home despite losing five wickets on the way. Captain Mayank Agarwal (54 off 34 balls) and Padikkal added 114 in the first 11.5 overs before Abhinav Manohar (56 not out) and debutant Dhruv Prabhakar (40 not out) sealed Karnatakas victory with an unbroken 88-run stand off 41 balls. Kishan had earlier clubbed 14 sixes in his whirlwind knock, helping Jharkhand amass 151 runs in the final 10 overs to post 412 for nine. Meanwhile, at the main Narendra Modi Stadium, Tamil Nadu opened their campaign with a 101-run victory over Pondicherry, with Pradosh Ranjan Paul (73) and captain N. Jagadeesan (67) laying the foundation for a total of 310/9. Bengal completed a successful chase of 383 against Vidarbha, with Abishek Porel (56 off 35 balls), captain Abhimanyu Easwaran (71), Sudip Gharami (68), and Shahbaz Ahmed (71 off 58 balls) guiding them to a stunning victory. Shubham Khajuria smashed an unbeaten 129 as Jammu and Kashmir thrashed Chandigarh by 10 wickets, with Nasir Lone taking four wickets and recent IPL auction pick Auqib Nabi claiming two. Himachal Pradesh defeated Uttarakhand by 95 runs as Akash Vasisht took three wickets, while Arzan Nagwaswalla's four-wicket haul powered Gujarat to an eight-wicket victory over Services. Saurashtra successfully chased down a 346-run target against Odisha with five wickets in hand, powered by Gajjar Sammar's unbeaten 132. Odisha's Swastik Samal had earlier smashed 212 with Biplab Samantaray contributing 100. Kerala thrashed Tripura by 145 runs after posting 348 for eight, with Baba Aparajith taking 5-15. Vignesh Puthur created List A cricket history by taking six catches as a fielder - the most ever in an innings, surpassing the previous record of five shared by 21 fielders. Punjab defeated Maharashtra by 51 runs, with Naman Dhir's 97, Anmolpreet Singh's 85, and Prabhsimran Singh's 60 laying the foundation for their big win before debutants Sukhdeep Bajwa and Krish Bhagat claimed two wickets each. Brief scores: Andhra 298/8 in 50 overs (Ricky Bhui 122; Simarjeet Singh 5-54, Prince Yadav 3-50) lost to Delhi 300/6 in 37.4 overs (Virat Kohli 131, Nitish Rana 77; Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy 2-6, Satyanarayana Raju 2-74) by four wickets Sikkim 236/7 in 50 overs (Ashish Thapa 79, Shardul Thakur 2/19) lost to Mumbai 237/2 in 30.3 overs (Rohit Sharma 155) by 8 wickets. Bihar 574/6 in 50 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 190, Sakibul Gani 128 not out; Tadakamalla Mohith 2-99, Techi Neri 2-83) beat Arunachal Pradesh 177 in 42.1 overs (Kamsha Yangfo 32 not out, Techi Doria 28; Akash Raj 3-29, Suraj Kashyap 3-31) by 397 runs. Odisha 345/6 in 50 overs (Swastik Samal 212, Biplab Samantaray 100) lost to Saurashtra 347/5 in 48.5 overs (Gajjar Sammar 132 not out, Chirag Jani 86) by five wickets Services 184 in 42.2 overs (Arzan Nagwaswalla 4-34) lost to Gujarat 185/2 in 34.5 overs (Aarya Desai 77 not out) by eight wickets Haryana 267/9 in 50 overs (Himanshu Rana 126, Parth Vats 57) lost to Railways 270/4 in 43.4 overs (Ravi Singh 109 not out, Upendra Yadav 80) by six wickets Uttar Pradesh 324/5 in 50 overs (Abhishek Goswami 81, Dhruv Jurel 80) beat Hyderabad 240 all out in 43 overs (Tanmay Agarwal 53, Rahul Buddhi 47; Zeeshan Ansari 4-31) by 84 runs Jharkhand 412/9 in 50 overs (Ishan Kishan 125, Virat Singh 88; Abhilash Shetty 4/72) lost to Karnataka 413/5 in 47.3 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 147, Abhinav Manohar 56 not out) by five wickets Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Punjab 347/6 in 50 overs (Naman Dhir 97, Anmolpreet Singh 85) beat Maharashtra 296/8 in 50 overs (Ramakrishna Ghosh 73, Prithvi Shaw 46) by 51 runs Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chhattisgarh 233 in 48.5 overs (Amandeep Khare 76, Mayank Verma 64; Deepraj Gaonkar 4/35) lost to Goa 234/4 in 44.1 overs (Snehal Kauthankar 107 not out) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 24 Dec 2025 10:22 pm

Chhattisgarh Bandh over religious conversions evokes mixed response

Raipur: The day-long Chhattisgarh Bandh called by Hindu organisations against alleged religious conversions received a mixed response across the state on Wednesday, with normal life getting disrupted in several cities while partial impact was seen in others. Barring a few incidents of vandalism, the situation across the state remained largely peaceful, police said. The bandh 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 .

The Siasat Daily 24 Dec 2025 8:18 pm

Holding a woman's hand, pulling her and saying 'I love you' amounts to outraging her modesty: Chhattisgarh HC

The Chhattisgarh High Court has ruled that holding a womans hand, pulling her, and saying I love you amount to outraging her modesty under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The case relates to a man who was sentenced to three years of rigorous imprisonment by a trial court after being found guilty under various provisions of the IPC and the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He was 19-years-old at the time of the incident. The man was convicted for holding the victim's hand, pulling her towards him and saying I love you when she was returning from school. Justice Naresh Kumar Chandravanshi, while hearing an appeal filed against the man's conviction, held that the act amounts to outraging the victim's modesty. In the instant case, the appellant not only held the hand of the victim, rather he also pulled her towards him by saying I love you. Such behaviour of a young boy with any girl particularly of rural area is considered highly objectionable, the court observed in its order. While upholding the conviction, the court modified the sentence, reducing it from three years to one year. It noted that the accused was a 19-year-old boy at the time of the incident and that, apart from holding the victims hand, pulling her and saying I love you, he had not committed any other objectionable act. Noting that the accused is currently on bail, the high court directed him to surrender before the concerned court and undergo the remaining portion of the jail sentence. The trial court, in its 2022 order, had convicted the accused not only for outraging the womans modesty but also for sexual assault under the POCSO Act. However, the high court set aside the POCSO conviction, holding that it was not sustainable as the prosecution had failed to prove that the victim was a minor on the date of the incident. While examining the issue, the high court elaborated on the meaning of modesty. It noted that the term denotes the quality of being modest and, in relation to a woman, refers to womanly propriety of behaviour; scrupulous chastity of thought, speech and conduct. Referring to Websters Third New International Dictionary, the court said 'modesty' is defined as freedom from coarseness, indelicacy or indecency: a regard for propriety in dress, speech or conduct. It also cited the Oxford English Dictionary, which defines 'modesty' as womanly propriety of behaviour; scrupulous chastity of thought, speech and conduct (in man or woman); reserve or sense of shame proceeding from instinctive aversion to impure or coarse suggestions.

The New Indian Express 24 Dec 2025 7:11 pm

Chhattisgarh NEET PG counselling 2025 round 1 seat allotment result released: Direct link to download here

Chhattisgarh has released its NEET PG 2025 round 1 seat allotment results, with 273 candidates securing MD/MS seats. The cut-off ranged from AIR 697 to AIR 1.35 lakh. Candidates must report to their allotted colleges between December 24-28 with necessary documents to finalize admissions. General Medicine at Raipur's medical college was the most sought-after program.

The Times of India 24 Dec 2025 5:20 pm

Two killed, one injured as spark from motor triggers major factory fire in Chhattisgarhs Bilaspur

As per preliminary information, when turpentine oil was being transferred from a tanker into jerry cans using a motor, a spark from the motor ignited one of the cans

The Hindu 24 Dec 2025 3:33 pm

Assault on Baghel deliberate',marked by intense brutality

PALAKKAD: Details from the investigation into the mob lynching of Ramnarayan Baghel, 31, a migrant labourer from Chhattisgarh, reveal a pattern of sustained and deliberate violence preceding his death in Walayar, Palakkad. According to post-mortem findings and remand-report details from investigative sources, he suffered extensive, repeated assaults with sticks and kicks, particularly targeting his head, face, chest and back, suggesting prolonged torture rather than a single episode of violence. Medical examinations indicated more than 40 major injuries across the body, with internal bleeding and grievous head wounds recorded as the immediate cause of death. One doctor involved in the autopsy stated that there was no part of the body without injuries, underlining the extent of the brutality. The victim reportedly collapsed, vomited blood and later succumbed to severe blunt-force trauma at the Palakkad district hospital. The emerging evidence depicts a deliberate, hate-tinged act of mob violence marked by intense brutality. This is indeed a targeted cruelty, with possible caste bias, said a senior police officer. The attack is believed to have involved a large group. Preliminary investigative reports and family accounts claim that around 15 individuals took part directly in the beating, though only five arrests were initially recorded, with further arrests and searches continuing. The Special Investigation Team has since identified several additional accused, some of whom are absconding. Authorities note that the remand report establishes clear murderous intent: the accused repeatedly hit the victim with sticks, continued to kick him after he fell and discouraged intervention by threatening bystanders. Dalit identity and hate-crime dimensions The case has also sharpened focus on the caste and hate-crime angles. Ramnarayan belonged to a Satnami Samaj, a Scheduled Caste community with a significant population in Chhattisgarh, a fact that has prompted the family to demand charges under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in addition to murder. Police officers have noted that the accusations stemmed from suspicions of theft and xenophobic hostility, with some assailants reportedly branding him a Bangladeshi moments before the assault. Authorities have indicated that the atrocity-law provisions will be invoked after verifying the caste status formally, recognising the possibility of a targeted hate crime. At present, the FIR includes Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which covers murder. However, police sources acknowledge that the statute does not yet explicitly codify mob lynching as a distinct offence, necessitating reliance on other provisions and special-law charges to address the collective nature of the crime. Ramnarayan had arrived in Kerala only days before the incident in search of daily-wage work, leaving behind a wife and two young sons. He was attacked by the local resident alleging burglary, but police officials have confirmed that there was no evidence of theft recovered from the victim, underscoring the arbitrariness of the attack. Probe into hate crime angle Police officers have noted that the accusations stemmed from suspicions of theft and xenophobic hostility, with some assailants reportedly branding him a Bangladeshi moments before the assault.Authorities have indicated that the atrocity-law provisions will be invoked after verifying the caste status formally, recognising the possibility of a targeted hate crime We have been following mob lynching of migrant workers in Kerala. What is worrying is the narrowing gap between cases. In the last three years there has been at least one death. For every death, there are several cases of mob attacks that result in serious injuries. Such cases seldom get reported. While in December 2025 we witnessed the death of Ramnarayan Baghel, there was a mob attack on Mominul Islam from Assam in October 2025, less than two months ago. He survived. The narrowing gap of mob lynching cases in Kerala is worrying Benoy Peter, executive director of Centre for Migration and Inclusive Development

The New Indian Express 24 Dec 2025 8:06 am

Two more held in lynching case; probe extended across Kerala-TN border

PALAKKAD: Two more persons have been arrested in connection with the lynching of migrant worker Ramnarayan Baghel, 31 , at Attappallam in Walayar, taking the total number of accused in custody to seven. The newly arrested are Vinod Kumar, 54, and Jagadeesh Kumar, 49, both residents of Kizhakke Attappallam. They were taken into custody in a joint operation led by the Crime Branch and the Walayar police. Police said several suspects in the case are believed to have fled to Tamil Nadu, and efforts are under way to trace and apprehend them. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) indicated that more arrests are likely in the coming days. The incident occurred on the evening of December 17, when Baghel, a native of Chhattisgarh, was allegedly surrounded by a mob at Attappallam and brutally assaulted after being questioned on suspicion of being a Bangladeshi. He sustained severe injuries in the attack and succumbed while undergoing treatment on Wednesday night. Earlier, police had arrested A Anu, C Prasad, C Murali, K Bibin and Ananthan, all local residents, in connection with the case. The investigation is being led by a Special Investigation Team under the supervision of Crime Branch DySP P M Gopakumar. Investigators said the delay in making arrests during the initial days may have enabled several accused to escape. A coordinated search is now being extended to Tamil Nadu to track down the remaining suspects. The inability to secure more video footage of the assault has also emerged as a major setback in the probe, with police suspecting that mobile phones used to record the incident may have been destroyed. Meanwhile, Baghels body was flown to his native village in Chhattisgarh for last rites. It is learnt that the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has demanded Kerala government stringent action against those responsible for the lynching and ensure exemplary punishment. The Chhattisgarh government has announced an ex gratia payment of `5 lakh to Baghels family. Ramnarayan Baghel belonged to the Satnami Samaj, a Scheduled Caste community with a significant population in Chhattisgarh. He is survived by his ailing mother, wife, and two minor sons aged 10 and nine. Palakkad mob lynching: CPI(M) alleges RSS role, says victim branded Bangladeshi; BJP denies charge

The New Indian Express 24 Dec 2025 8:03 am

Mob in Kerala shatters Chhattisgarh migrants dream of roof over head

THRISSUR: Lalitha sat on the verandah in the Welfare Partys office in Thrissur, frozen, her eyes blank. A numbness has enveloped the 35-year-old since Sunday night, when she saw the lifeless form of her husband Ramnarayan Baghel, a Chhattisgarh resident who was lynched by a mob at Attappallam in Palakkad on December 17 over suspicions of theft and being a Bangladeshi. It had not let go of her when TNIE spoke to her on Monday night. Nearby, her children, aged 10 and 9, watched videos on the mobile, blissfully unaware of the tragedy that had struck the family. Lalitha was at her home in Karhi, Chhattisgarh, when she received the devastating news. It was our dream to construct our own house. Brick by brick, we built it. However, we needed more money to concrete the roof and complete it, Lalitha said. On December 13, Ramnarayan, a mason who earned `250 back home, left for Kerala. That was the last Lalitha saw or spoke to him. He took the train dreaming about a job that paid better so that our house could be built swiftly, she said. Upon arriving at Kerala, Ramnarayan called his brotherLalitha doesnt have a phonesaying he had reached. I didnt even get a chance to talk to him, said Lalitha. Palakkad mob lynching: CPI(M) alleges RSS role, says victim branded Bangladeshi; BJP denies charge It took me some time to understand what had happened, says cousin The next call was from the police telling the family about what happened. The family Lalitha, children and her mother left for Kerala and reached Sunday evening. Sasikanth, Ramnarayans cousin who has been working in the construction sector in Kanjikode, said around 25 people from their village are engaged in the sector in Palakkad alone. It was why Ramnarayan also took the leap. However, for some reason, he found it hard to adjust with the lifestyle and job here. Though we didnt speak about it much, I know he was not happy. On the morning of December 17, he went out to have food while we went to work. I was later informed by the police about the incident. When I reached the MCH, I was informed about the death, Sasikanth said. He said it was the first time they had come across such an experience in Kerala. It took me some time to understand what had happened and tell the family, he said. The police have arrested seven people so far and said more will be nabbed in the coming days. Meanwhile, Revenue Minister K Rajan, on behalf of the government, has promised them at least Rs 10 lakh as immediate relief. However, with an education till Class 5, no source of income, and two children and a mother to take care of, Lalitha is clueless about what the future holds. Though Ramnarayans brothers and families live in Karhi, Lalitha remains concerned about survival. As she held her two children close and left to Karhi from Nedumbassery with her husbands body in the early hours of Tuesday, Lalitha had a thousand questions in her mind, but no answers.

The New Indian Express 24 Dec 2025 7:27 am

22 Chhattisgarh Reds lay down arms in Odisha

Odisha's enhanced surrender package, offering nearly 20% higher rewards than Chhattisgarh, enticed 22 Maoist insurgents to lay down arms. This mass surrender, including 10 women and weapons valued over Rs 2 crore, marks a significant blow to the CPI (Maoist) ahead of the Centre's deadline to end left-wing extremism.

The Times of India 24 Dec 2025 5:38 am

Renowned Hindi writer Vinod Shukla dies at 88

Renowned Hindi writer Vinod Kumar Shukla passed away at 88 after a lung ailment. The first Jnanpith awardee from Chhattisgarh, Shukla was known for his quiet grace and focus on ordinary people's inner worlds. He continued writing even in the ICU, leaving behind a legacy of profound literature.

The Times of India 24 Dec 2025 3:25 am

Chhattisgarh: BJP Leader Killed by Unidentified Assailants in a Village in Korba District

The slain BJP leader Akshay Garg, a civil contractor, was attacked with sharp weapons by three masked men in the village of Keshla under Katghora area when he was supervising the road construction work in the morning, police said.

Deccan Chronicle 24 Dec 2025 12:55 am

Accused Of Molestation, Foreign Student Falls From 4th Floor In Chhattisgarh

A Liberian national studying MBA in Chhattisgarh died under suspicious circumstances after allegedly falling off a residential building in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar.

NDTV 24 Dec 2025 12:12 am

GAIL plans fertiliser unit in Chhattisgarh

GAIL India is exploring a significant venture with the Chhattisgarh government. The plan involves establishing a large gas-based urea manufacturing plant. This strategic location will leverage GAIL's existing natural gas pipeline. Detailed studies will determine the final investment. The Chhattisgarh government will provide crucial support for land, approvals, and infrastructure. This project promises to boost fertilizer production.

The Economic Times 24 Dec 2025 12:08 am

22 Maoists surrender in Odisha's Malkangiri

Twenty-two Maoists have surrendered to police in Odisha's Malkangiri district. They handed over nine firearms and 150 live rounds. Explosives and improvised explosive devices were also surrendered. Most of these Maoists operated in Odisha but hailed from Chhattisgarh. The Odisha government recently revised its surrender policy, increasing rewards.

The Economic Times 24 Dec 2025 12:04 am

GAIL inks MoU with Chhattisgarh for greenfield urea fertiliser project

The plant is planned with a capacity of 12.7 lakh tonnes, strategically located along GAILs MumbaiNagpurJharsuguda Natural Gas Pipeline corridor.

The Hindu Businessline 23 Dec 2025 10:47 pm

Nearly 95 lakh voters removed from draft rolls after SIR in three states, UT

Nearly 95 lakh voters have been removed from the draft electoral rolls published on Tuesday after the contentious Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Andaman and Nicobar. In Madhya Pradesh , names of 42.74 lakh electors (7%) out of the total 5.74 crore were removed from the draft rolls. In Kerala, the names of 24.08 lakh of the over 2.78 crore electors were removed from the draft rolls. In Chhattisgarh, out of 2.12 crore electors, names of as many as 27.34 lakh were removed. In case of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, out of 3.10 lakh electors, 64,000 electors did not figure in the draft rolls. Madhya Pradesh Out of the 42,74,160 names that were removed from the electoral rolls, 19.19 lakh were men, while 23.64 lakh were women. The total number of voters who filled up the SIR enumeration forms stands at over 5.31 crore. As many as 8,65, 832 voters remained unmapped, as the details of their parents or grandparents were not found in the 2003 voter roll. These voters will be given a week's time to appear personally with any of the 13 documents mentioned by the Election Commission and get their names added in the final list, which will be published on February 21, 2026. According to the state's Chief Electoral Officer S K Jha, out of the excluded voters, 31.51 lakh were absent (shifted out of the state or were absent during the enumeration exercise), 8.46 lakh were deceased, and 2.77 lakh were duplicate (whose name was found to be existing in multiple constituencies). Large number of deletions were recorded at Indore, Jabalpur and Bhopal. Indore topped the list with the highest number of absent and unmapped voters, while it was second in the list of shifted, deceased and duplicate voters. Indore houses nine assembly segments, all of which were won by the ruling BJP in the 2023 state elections. The highest number of dead voters was recorded at Jabalpur while Bhopal topped the list of shifted voters. Burhanpur housed maximum number of duplicate voters in the state. The newly created Pandhurna, Alirajpur, Umaria and Sidhi recorded lesser number of deletions. To handle grievances and speed up corrections, 725 additional Electoral Registration Officers have been appointed. Kerala Of the deleted names , 6,49,885 pertain to deceased persons, 6,45,548 voters were found to be untraceable, and 8,16,221 voters were identified as having permanently shifted from their registered addresses. In addition, 1,36,029 duplicate voters and 1,60,830 voters falling under other categories were identified. Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar, addressing a press conference, said the draft list has been published on the Election Commission's website and copies have also been handed over to political parties. Kelkar said that as part of the SIR, a voter mapping exercise was also carried out till December 18. We were able to complete 93 per cent of the voter mapping by December 18. Most of the unmapped cases were reported from urban and semi-urban areas such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and Ernakulam, he said. He said that the mapping exercise is still continuing. After the mapping process is completed, electoral registration officers (EROs) will decide on hearings for non-mapped voters. Notices will be issued to voters to be heard. The hearings will be decentralised so as not to cause inconvenience to the public, he said. He said the notices would contain detailed instructions, including the reasons for the hearing and the documents to be produced, and would be served through booth-level officers. Responding to queries on the high number of untraceable voters, Kelkar said booth-level officers had visited the addresses three times to serve enumeration forms but were unable to locate the voters. We made all efforts to trace the voters as directed by the Election Commission, he said. Kelkar said those whose names are not included in the draft list will have to submit fresh applications for inclusion in the electoral roll. According to the EC, the draft electoral rolls can be accessed through the poll body's website or the Booth Level Officers. Claims and objections can be filed until January 22, and any eligible voter whose name has been removed can apply for inclusion using Form 6. The second phase of the SIR will run from January 22 to February 14, after which the final electoral roll for the states and UT will be published on February 21. (With inputs from PTI) Uttarakhand SIR: 90,000 voters must choose to retain service status or remain on local list

The New Indian Express 23 Dec 2025 9:35 pm

Nearly 95 lakh electors do not find name in draft rolls of three states, one UT

A significant number of voters in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, and Andaman and Nicobar are missing from draft electoral rolls. Over 94 lakh electors across these regions did not find their names. Those affected can still apply for inclusion. Final rolls will be published next year. Elector registration officers will make the final decisions.

The Economic Times 23 Dec 2025 9:24 pm

Retired IAS Officer Arrested In Rs 2,500-Crore Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam

In a major development in the high-profile Chhattisgarh liquor scam case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Raipur Zonal Office, has arrested a retired IAS officer, Niranjan Das.

NDTV 23 Dec 2025 9:24 pm

Jnanpith winner Vinod Kumar Shukla passes away at 88

The Hindi writer, who has received several recognitions, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, is the first writer from Chhattisgarh to receive the Jnanpith, Indias highest literary honour

The Hindu 23 Dec 2025 8:41 pm

Jnanpith Awardee Hindi Author Vinod Kumar Shukla Dies At 89

Eminent Chhattisgarh-based Hindi writer and Jnanpith Award recipient Vinod Kumar Shukla died on Tuesday evening due to age-related ailments at a government hospital here, his family members said.

NDTV 23 Dec 2025 7:24 pm

News18 Evening Digest: EC Publishes SIR Draft Voter Lists For MP, Kerala, Chhattisgarh And Other Top News

We are also covering: BJP Alleges Police Action Against Kolkata Protests Over Bangladesh Lynching and other top stories.

News18 23 Dec 2025 7:12 pm

Who was Vinod Kumar Shukla? Jnanpith Award winning Hindi writer passes away at 89

Prominent Chhattisgarh-based Hindi writer and Jnanpith Awardee Vinod Kumar Shukla died on Tuesday evening after suffering from age-related illnesses at AIIMS, Raipur, his family members informed.

DNA India 23 Dec 2025 6:59 pm

SIR Draft Rolls Out: 42 Lakh Names Removed In MP, 27 Lakh In Chhattisgarh, And 22 Lakh In Kerala

The publication of the draft rolls comes days after the Election Commission released similar figures for West Bengal and Tamil Nadu

News18 23 Dec 2025 6:31 pm

Shree Cement withdraws lockout at Baloda Bazar plant in Raipur

Shree Cement has ended its lockout at the Baloda Bazar plant in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The company and its workers reached an amicable settlement. The lockout was imposed due to non-cooperation from workmen. This action is now withdrawn. The plant's operations will resume. No damage to company property was reported during the lockout period.

The Economic Times 23 Dec 2025 4:00 pm

Bhupesh Baghel's Son Got Rs 250 Crore In Liquor Scam: Chargesheet

Chaitanya, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, received Rs 200 crore to Rs 250 crore as his share from an alleged liquor scam in the state, the Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offence Wing (ACB/EOW) claimed in its chargesheet.

NDTV 23 Dec 2025 3:12 pm

BJP leader hacked to death by unidentified assailants in Chhattisgarhs Korba

Three masked men attacked Akshay Garg, a construction contractor and a member of the Katghora Janpad panchayat, with sharp-edged weapons, Korba SP Siddharth Tiwari said

The Hindu 23 Dec 2025 1:38 pm

Ex-Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's Son Gained Rs 250 Crore In Liquor Scam: EOW Chargesheet

Chaitanya Baghel, son of Bhupesh Baghel, allegedly gained Rs 200250 crore in a Rs 3,074 crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh, involving politicians, officials, and Anwar Dhebar.

News18 23 Dec 2025 1:02 pm

Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel's son got Rs 250 crore as his share from Chhattisgarh liquor 'scam': Chargesheet

Chhattisgarh's Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offence Wing claims Chaitanya Baghel, son of the former CM, received Rs 200-250 crore from an alleged Rs 3,000 crore liquor scam. The chargesheet alleges he played a key role in establishing and coordinating an extortion racket within the excise department.

The Economic Times 23 Dec 2025 9:14 am

Ex-CM Baghel's son got Rs 250 crore as his share from Chhattisgarh liquor 'scam': Chargesheet

RAIPUR: Chaitanya, son of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, received Rs 200 crore to Rs 250 crore as his share from an alleged liquor scam in the state, the Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offence Wing (ACB/EOW) has claimed in its chargesheet. The state police's ACB/EOW, in its seventh supplementary chargesheet in the multi-crore liquor scam filed before a special court here on Monday, claimed Chaitanya Baghel played a key role in establishing, coordinating, and protecting an extortion racket (syndicate) within the excise department (during the previous Congress government, which was in office from 2018-23). The voluminous document, running into around 3,800 pages, has named Chaitnaya Baghel as an accused in the alleged scam pegged at more than Rs 3,000 crore, an ACB/EOW statement said. With this, a total of eight chargesheets have been filed in the case so far. The latest chargesheet details the current status of the investigation against the arrested accused, along with digital evidence reports about all those in custody. The document also outlines the progress of the ongoing probe against the accused persons. The statement quoting the chargesheet said Chaitanya Baghel acted as coordinator among officials such as Anil Tuteja, Soumya Chaurasia, Arunpati Tripathi, and Niranjan Das, who worked in line with the syndicate's interests at the administrative level and as ground-level operatives of the network, such as Anwar Dhebar, Arvind Singh, and Vikas Agarwal (all co-accused), and issued instructions to them. Chaitanya Baghel worked through his trusted associates to transfer and manage proceeds of the scam collected by businessman Anwar Dhebar's team, moving the funds to higher levels, it claimed. He allegedly received his share of the proceeds through various firms belonging to liquor businessman Trilok Singh Dhillon, transferring it through banking channels to his family firms and using it in real estate projects. Furthermore, he was also found to have received and invested large sums of money generated out of the scam through banking channels via his family members, friends, and associates, the chargesheet claimed. The probe agency said, Evidence indicates that Chaitanya, along with managing the proceeds of the crime at a higher level, received around Rs 200 crore-Rs 250 crore as his share. The investigation has also revealed that high-level protection, policy/administrative intervention, and influence provided to the syndicate by Chaitanya Baghel enabled this crime to be perpetrated for a long period, it claimed. The ongoing investigation suggests the amount involved in the liquor scam is estimated to be approximately Rs 3,074 crore. However, further investigation suggests the total amount of the proceeds of crime generated out of the alleged scam could exceed Rs 3,500 crore, it added. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is probing the money laundering angle in the alleged scam, arrested Chaitanya Baghel on July 18 following a search at his house, which he shares with his father, a Congress politician, in Bhilai town of Durg district. As per the ED's prosecution complaint (chargesheet) filed earlier, Chaitanya Baghel handled more than Rs 1,000 crore worth of proceeds of crime generated from a liquor scam in the state. The central agency has stated that the alleged scam resulted in a massive loss to the state exchequer and filled the pockets of beneficiaries of a liquor syndicate. The scam was orchestrated between 2019 and 2022 when then-CM Bhupesh Baghel headed the Congress government in Chhattisgarh. Money was illegally collected from every bottle of liquor sold in Chhattisgarh (between 2019 and 2022), said the anti-money laundering agency. Chaitanya Baghel was arrested by the ACB/EOW in September while he was in jail under judicial custody. The ED in January arrested former excise minister and Congress leader Kawasi Lakhma, businessman Anwar Dhebar (brother of Congress leader and former Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar), former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, Indian Telecom Service (ITS) officer Arunpati Tripathi and a few others as part of their probe in the case. The EOW/ACB registered an FIR on January 17, 2024, in the alleged scam, naming 70 individuals and companies, including Lakhma and former chief secretary Vivek Dhand. After his son was arrested, former CM Baghel claimed that the action was taken because the Congress, during its rule, tried to stop the cutting of forests and mining activities in the state. The Congress leader also alleged that the probe agencies were being misused to target Opposition leaders.

The New Indian Express 23 Dec 2025 9:00 am

Dalit labourer lynched in Kerala over suspicion of being Bangladeshi

Kerala government pledged at least Rs 10 lakh compensation to the family of Ramnarayan Baghel, a Chhattisgarh labourer lynched in Palakkad after being mistaken for a thief or Bangladeshi. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the unacceptable killing, ordering a swift investigation. Five suspects have been arrested, and the body will be flown home at state expense.

The Times of India 23 Dec 2025 1:31 am

'Dead' man returns, Chhattisgarh murder case on 4 collapses

A murder investigation in Chhattisgarh took a strange turn when the victim, believed dead and buried for 61 days, reappeared after working in Jharkhand. His family had reported him missing, and four acquaintances were arrested for his alleged murder based on a charred body and confessions.

The Times of India 23 Dec 2025 12:35 am

Chhattisgarh Government Delivered on Its Words, Even Beyond Them: Nadda

The Sai government has delivered on its words and went beyond what was promised, he said

Deccan Chronicle 22 Dec 2025 10:23 pm

JP Nadda Targets Congress Over Jhiram Ghati Naxal Attack In 2013, Says Party Insiders Were Involved

The BJP president further said he was in charge of the BJP for Chhattisgarh during the 2013 Jhiram Valley naxal attack and closely witnessed developments related to it.

News18 22 Dec 2025 9:24 pm

'Protectors turned predators': Nadda accuses Congress of colluding with Naxalites during 2013 Jhiram Ghati attack

Union Health Minister and BJP President J P Nadda on Monday targeted the Congress, accusing some party insiders of facilitating the 2013 Jhiram Ghati Naxal attack, which led to the killing of its state leaders. Addressing the 'Janadesh Parab' (people's mandate festival) event held to mark the completion of two years of the Vishnu Deo Sai-led BJP government in Chhattisgarh, Nadda alleged, Today, I say this with great responsibility that no one else was providing information and inside details about the Jhiram Valley incident. People from within were involved in getting their own people killed, and they were in contact with Naxalites. When protectors turn predators, the common people suffer the most, he added. Nadda said he was in charge of the BJP for Chhattisgarh during the 2013 Jhiram Valley naxal attack and closely witnessed developments related to it. On May 25, 2013, Maoists attacked a convoy of Congress leaders during the party's 'Parivartan Rally' ahead of the assembly elections in the Jhiram valley in Bastar district, killing 32 people, including then state Congress chief Nand Kumar Patel, former leader of opposition Mahendra Karma, and former union minister Vidyacharan Shukla. Further alleging that the previous Congress governments had colluded with the Naxalites, Nadda claimed that the double-engine government under PM Narendra Modi confronted Left-wing extremism head-on. Nearly 2,500 Naxalites have surrendered in the last two years, 1,853 have been arrested, and top leaders such as Hidma and Basavaraju have been neutralised, he said. Under Modi's leadership, the double-engine government acted decisively, and under Sai's leadership, it was firmly implemented on the ground. In the coming time, Naxalism will be uprooted and eliminated, he said. Targeting the previous Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government, he said, people still remember the corruption in administration, failure to deliver on its promises, and the appeasement policy. The biggest problem was an understanding with Naxalism, the BJP leader reiterated. He added that the public had uprooted such an ineffective and deceitful government in the 2023 assembly elections and voted the BJP to power. (With inputs from PTI)

The New Indian Express 22 Dec 2025 7:52 pm

Nadda accuses Congress of facilitating Jhiram Valley Maoist attack

A decisive action has been taken against Maoism under the double-engine government at the Centre and Chhattisgarh: Nadda

The Hindu 22 Dec 2025 7:09 pm

Migrant worker from Chhattisgarh beaten to death in Kerala, mistaken to be...

The incident occurred on December 17 in the Attapallam area under Valayar police station limits, where local residents detained him on suspicion of theft and questioned his identity.

DNA India 22 Dec 2025 2:16 pm

Kerala Minister Blames RSS' Politics Of Hate As Mob Kills Migrant Worker

Days after a migrant worker from Chhattisgarh was beaten to death in Kerala, state minister MB Rajesh said the man was a victim of the politics of hate propagated by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) across the country.

NDTV 22 Dec 2025 2:14 pm

Maoist arms-manufacturing facility busted in Chhattisgarhs Sukma

Based on intelligence inputs, a joint team of 150th battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and local police busted illegal weapons-manufacturing unit in forest hills near Meenagatta village on December 22, says Superintendent of Police

The Hindu 22 Dec 2025 1:59 pm

CAF jawan shot dead by colleague in Chhattisgarhs Khairagarh

RAIPUR: A Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) constable shot his colleague dead inside the barrack camp during the intervening night of Sunday-Monday in Khairagarh district, about 130 km west of Raipur. The firing incident occurred in 17 CAF battalion at Ghagra base camp following an altercation between the accused jawan and his colleague. There was some heated arguments between the accused constable Arvind Gautam and the deceased Sonbir Jaat, a mess commander, over some issue late at night. The argument led to a scuffle between the two. Later, Gautam, during his patrol duty around midnight, took the extreme step and killed his colleague with his INSAS rifle while Jaat was sleeping inside the barrack. He died on the spot, Mamta Ali Sharma, sub-divisional police officer Khairagarh, told TNIE . The incident created panic and shock inside the barrack. The accused CAF constable has been taken into custody and is being interrogated. Both Gautam and Jaat are residents of Uttar Pradesh, Sharma stated.

The New Indian Express 22 Dec 2025 1:33 pm

Kerala mob lynching: CM Pinarayi Vijayan vows strict action after mob beats Dalit labourer to death; orders probe

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured strict action and justice for Ram Narayan Bakel, a Dalit migrant labourer from Chhattisgarh, who was beaten to death by a mob in Walayar, Palakkad. A special investigation team has been formed to probe the incident, which the CM termed unacceptable in a progressive society.

The Times of India 22 Dec 2025 11:22 am

Palakkad mob lynching: CPI(M) alleges RSS role, says victim branded Bangladeshi; BJP denies charge

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government on Monday assured stringent action in the mob lynching of a Chhattisgarh native who was allegedly beaten to death after being mistaken for a thief, and promised justice to the victims family, even as the ruling CPI(M) accused the RSS of being behind the assault, an allegation strongly denied by the BJP. Ramnarayan (31) was allegedly beaten to death on Wednesday after being accused of involvement in a theft at Kizhakeattappallam near Walayar in Palakkad district. As the incident sent shockwaves across the state, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described it as deeply disturbing and said such acts tarnish the image of a progressive society like Kerala and are completely unacceptable. Assuring justice to Ramnarayans family, who have since arrived in the state, Vijayan said strict action would be taken against those responsible. In a statement issued by the Chief Ministers Office, Vijayan said a special investigation team of the district police was probing the incident and that instructions had been issued to thoroughly examine all details of the case and initiate necessary legal proceedings. The government would also review the matter and ensure appropriate compensation to the victims family, he added, while calling for collective vigilance to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. State Minister M B Rajesh claimed that racial slurs were used against the victim and alleged that the attackers were RSS workers. Ruling CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan also alleged that RSS-BJP workers were behind the crime. Vijayans remarks came a day after the opposition Congress and the victims family demanded compensation and an investigation under stringent laws, including the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The brother of the deceased told reporters on Sunday that the family would not accept the body until their demands, including compensation of 25 lakh, were met. Kerala ministers K Rajan and M B Rajesh strongly condemned the incident, saying it was not merely a case of mob lynching but also involved racial abuse. They said the accused had attacked Ramnarayan after branding him a Bangladeshi and beat him to death. The government will ensure a foolproof probe into the incident, and no one involved in the crime will be spared, Revenue Minister Rajan told reporters in Thrissur. He said an amount of not less than 10 lakh would be granted from the Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) to the victims family, and that a cabinet meeting would take a decision in this regard. LSGD Minister Rajesh also said Ramnarayan was branded as a Bangladeshi by his attackers. Speaking to reporters in Palakkad, he alleged that those who brutally assaulted and killed Ramnarayan were RSS workers. The Chhattisgarh native, who had come to Kerala in search of a job, became a victim of what he described as the divisive politics of the Sangh Parivar. Branding a person as Bangladeshi stems from racial politics. Ramnarayan was a victim of the racial poison spread by the Sangh Parivar in the country, Rajesh alleged, also accusing a section of the media of concealing the RSSs alleged involvement in the assault. Stepping up the attack on right-wing groups, CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan claimed that RSS-BJP workers were behind the crime. Those involved were accused in various criminal cases and were linked to the RSS. All of them have been identified. Such cruelties should not be allowed to repeat in the state, he said, adding that a society committed to democratic values and secular principles cannot accept such crimes. Senior BJP leader Kummanam Rajasekharan strongly rejected the allegations against the BJP and the RSS. Why should politics be mixed with such crimes? When a heinous crime like mob lynching occurs, shouldnt it be treated purely as an anti-social act? he asked. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan urged the government to take urgent steps to provide financial assistance to Ramnarayans family. Meanwhile, Palakkad Superintendent of Police Ajit Kumar said the case had been registered under sections relating to murder, and that additional sections would be added after a detailed probe. After verification of the deceased mans caste certificate, provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act would also be invoked, he said. A 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed under the Deputy Superintendent of Police (district crime branch) to probe the incident, and will function under the direction and supervision of the Palakkad SP. Responding to queries about the political background of the accused, the officer said it was being verified. Five people have been arrested so far for allegedly beating Ramnarayan to death on suspicion of theft. The injured man was taken to the Palakkad District Government Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. (With inputs from PTI and Express News Service)

The New Indian Express 22 Dec 2025 11:16 am

BTech student of OP Jindal University dies by suicide in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh

RAIPUR: A 20 year old engineering student of O P Jindal University in Chhattisgarh's Raigarh district allegedly died by suicide in her hostel room on Saturday late night. The deceased has been identified as Princy Kumari, 20, a native of Jamshedpur in Jharkhand who was pursuing her second year B.Tech Computer Science. Speaking to TNIE, Raigarh ASP Akash Markam said the incident came to light after the hostel warden found her body hanging from a ceiling fan. The body was sent for post-mortem examination, and the autopsy report is awaited. The body was later handed over to the family. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway. Markam said the exact circumstances leading to the suicide are yet to be ascertained. We are examining the contents of the suicide note recovered from her room, and statements of hostel staff, university officials and others are being recorded, he said. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

The New Indian Express 22 Dec 2025 11:03 am

Kerala: Family seeks 25 lakh compensation

The brother of the 31-year-old victim, Ramnarayan Bhayar, told reporters on Sunday that they would not accept the body until their demands are met. Bhayar, who hailed from Chhattisgarh, was allegedly beaten to death on Wednesday evening after being accused of involvement in a theft at Kizhakeattappallam near Walayar.

The Economic Times 22 Dec 2025 12:45 am

AP, Chhattisgarh Striving To Root Out Maoists, Says CM Vishnu Deo Sai

All steps are being taken in this direction. The development of Chhattisgarh had been hampered by Maoists. In future, it will not happen: Vishnu Deo Sai

Deccan Chronicle 21 Dec 2025 11:01 pm

Vikasit Chhattisgarh within reach as anti-Naxal operations gain ground: Chief Minister

Vishnu Deo Sai says ending Left Wing Extremism will unlock the States mineral and forest wealth and accelerate development through improved inter-State connectivity

The Hindu 21 Dec 2025 8:52 pm

Dalit migrant worker lynched to death in Kerala, called Bangladeshi

Palakkad: A 31-year-old Dalit migrant worker from Chhattisgarh was lynched in Keralas Walayar on suspicion of theft, and was asked, Are you a Bangladeshi? during the assault. Ram Narayan Baghel had left Karhi village in Chhattisgarh in search of a job. He reached Kerala on December 16. However, unable to find a job, he planned 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 .

The Siasat Daily 21 Dec 2025 8:05 pm

Centre sanctions financial assistance to give boost to semiconductor, electronics industry in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR: The Centre has sanctioned significant financial assistance to promote the development of semiconductor and electronics industries at the new capital city Nava Raipur in Chhattisgarh. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has sanctioned the release of the first instalment of Rs 22.50 crore for the Common Facility Centre (CFC) being set up in Nava Raipur under the Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme. The CFC project is being developed in Sector-22 of Nava Raipur and implemented by the Nava Raipur Atal Nagar Vikas Pradhikaran (NRANVP). According to official sources, the fund has been released after obtaining the approval of the President of India, enabling the project to move into the implementation phase. As per the approved process, the proposal was first examined by the Project Management Agency, Software Technology Parks of India (STPI). Subsequently, the Project Review Committee recommended the release of 30 percent of the approved central financial assistance as the first instalment, which has now been sanctioned by the ministry. The Common Facility Centre is expected to provide shared infrastructure such as advanced machinery, testing facilities and technical support for electronics and semiconductor units. These facilities will be particularly beneficial for small and medium enterprises, allowing them access to high-end infrastructure at a lower cost. Officials said the project would help attract industrial investment to Chhattisgarh and create new employment opportunities for local youth. The initiative is also expected to strengthen Nava Raipurs position as an emerging hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing. The ministry has clarified that the grant will be utilised strictly in accordance with prescribed financial rules and only for the approved objectives of the project. The project accounts will be subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India to ensure transparency and accountability.

The New Indian Express 21 Dec 2025 7:42 pm

VIDEO: Chhattisgarh girl develops stone-like skin due to rare disorder; family seeks help

A viral video from Chhattisgarh shows a 14-year-old girl suffering from a rare skin condition believed to resemble Ichthyosis Hystrix, hardening her skin and affecting mobility. Her family has appealed for medical assistance.

Web Dunia 21 Dec 2025 4:32 pm

DRG jawan killed in accidental firing in Chhattisgarh

NARAYANPUR: A jawan from the District Reserve Guard was killed after a weapon went off accidentally in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Sunday, police said. The incident occurred in Kadenar camp in the morning when a team of security personnel returned from an area domination operation in the forest under the Naxalite-affected Chhotedongar police station area, an official said. The operation was launched on Saturday. The patrolling team reached the camp in the early hours, and while security personnel were boarding a vehicle, a weapon accidentally discharged, he said. The bullet struck Constable Baldev Singh Hurra (33) near the head, leaving him critically injured. He was immediately rushed to Dhaudai hospital, where doctors provided primary treatment, but he succumbed to his injuries due to excessive bleeding, the official said. Police did not immediately confirm whether the weapon that accidentally discharged belonged to the deceased jawan or one of his colleagues. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and further investigation into the incident is underway, the official added.

The New Indian Express 21 Dec 2025 1:39 pm

Rs 1,500 Crore Allegation Against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Sparks Row

A series of viral posts and videos have surfaced on social media alleging that BJP senior leader and National Working President Nitin Naveen collected Rs 1,500 crore from Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

NDTV 20 Dec 2025 10:00 pm

Walayar mob lynching: rights activists allege bid to trivialise crime, demand 25 lakh compensation

Protest meeting in Thrissur calls the killing of Chhattisgarh native Ram Narayan a chilling reflection of growing Islamophobia in the State

The Hindu 20 Dec 2025 8:47 pm

Two Chhattisgarh Based Ganja Peddlers Arrested In Bolangir

Police investigation is underway to ascertain possible links to a larger inter-state drug trafficking network

Deccan Chronicle 20 Dec 2025 2:04 pm

How Codewords, WhatsApp Groups Exposed Coal Scam In Chhattisgarh

Secret codewords, WhatsApp chats, and seemingly harmless group names have emerged as the hidden language of corruption in Chhattisgarh, exposing multiple layers of power, money, and influence in the coal and liquor scams that have rocked the state.

NDTV 20 Dec 2025 9:30 am

Chhattisgarh: Tension Prevails In Bastar Village Over Burial Dispute

Prayer room set on fire, sarpanch house vandalized

Deccan Chronicle 20 Dec 2025 12:37 am

350-km Chase, 2-Hour Hostage Drama: Chhattisgarh Cop Stabbed By Ex Army Man

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Tomesh Verma, posted in the Naxal-affected Jagargunda area of Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, was brutally attacked with a knife in broad daylight in Dantewada.

NDTV 19 Dec 2025 10:58 pm

DSP stabbed by couple in Chhattisgarhs Dantewada over old dispute

The woman had registered a case of rape against the police officer in Durg district late last year but the latter was acquitted this September

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 10:56 pm

Chhattisgarh: Maoist, Carrying Rs 5 Lakh Bounty, Gunned Down in Bijapur Encounter

The slain Naxal has been identified as Fagnu Madvi, a member of Bhairamgarh area committee of Maoists

Deccan Chronicle 19 Dec 2025 10:04 pm

Mosquitoes Take Detour To Civic Body As Raipur Man Delivers Biting Protest

In a protest that was as sharp as the sting that triggered it, a young man in Chhattisgarh's capital literally carried his complaint to the authorities sealed in a plastic bag.

NDTV 19 Dec 2025 9:44 pm

Migrant worker lynched to death in Kerala over false theft charge, autopsy reveals over 80 injuries

A 31-year-old migrant worker from Chhattisgarh died after being brutally assaulted by a group of local residents near Walayar in Palakkad district, allegedly on suspicion of theft. The deceased was identified as Ramnarayan Bhayar (31), a native of Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh, who had been residing in Kanjikode. Police said the incident occurred at Attappallam East on Wednesday (December 17) evening, when a group of persons allegedly attacked Bhayar with the intention of causing grievous harm. He sustained multiple injuries in the assault and was taken to the Palakkad District Government Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries later that night. Local residents claimed the incident occurred around 3 pm after Bhayar allegedly entered multiple houses in the area in an attempt to commit burglary. They said he was injured during an altercation and was taken to hospital by the police around 4.30 pm. Police on Friday said five persons have been arrested in connection with the incident. The arrests were formally recorded late Thursday night and all the accused were booked for murder under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. They were produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody. Police initially stated that Bhayar hailed from Jharkhand, but later clarified that he was a native of Chhattisgarh. A relative of the deceased told reporters that Bhayar had arrived in Kerala only four days ago in search of work and was planning to return home after failing to find suitable employment. He was new to the area, did not know the routes and got lost. That is how he landed at the place where the incident occurred, the relative said, adding that Bhayar had no criminal record and is survived by two children aged eight and 10. Bihar man lynched over religious identity in Nawada; four arrested, police probe underway According to police, Bhayar was attacked on allegations that he was involved in a theft at Kizhakeattappallam near Walayar. As per the FIR, the incident occurred before 7.40 pm. Police said a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain the exact sequence of events. According to a report by Onmanorama , the autopsy revealed that Bhayar was brutally assaulted with a stick and had sustained more than 80 injuries from head to toe. The post-mortem report confirmed that he died due to severe assault and excessive bleeding caused by head injuries, and also noted internal bleeding. The report said Bhayar, who was intoxicated at the time, had not committed any theft. Following the assault, he collapsed after vomiting blood and was allegedly abandoned on the roadside for nearly four hours before being taken to hospital by the police. Onmanorama further reported that after visuals of the brutal assault surfaced, police took around 10 people into custody, following which the arrests of five accused were formally recorded. Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, the State Human Rights Commission ordered a probe and directed the Palakkad district police chief to submit a report within three weeks. The killing has revived memories of the 2018 lynching of Madhu, a tribal youth from the Kadukumanna settlement in Attappady, who was beaten to death by a mob after being accused of theft. Disturbing visuals of that assault had triggered nationwide outrage, and 13 of the 14 accused were later sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh each.

The New Indian Express 19 Dec 2025 8:08 pm

Cops injured after burial dispute spark violence in Chhattisgarh

Kanker: Violence erupted in Amabeda village in Chhattisgarhs Kanker district after a burial dispute between different tribal communities, leaving several police personnel injured. The issue began on December 16, when Rajman Salam, sarpanch of Badetevda village under the Amabeda police station area, buried his father Chamra Ram Salams body on his familys private land. Villagers 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 .

The Siasat Daily 19 Dec 2025 4:29 pm

Chhattisgarh's Bijapur encounter: Naxalite with 5 lakh bounty killed

A Naxalite carrying a Rs 5 lakh reward was killed in an encounter with security forces in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. The exchange of fire occurred during an anti-Naxal operation. The killed cadre was identified as Fagnu Madvi. Security forces also seized weapons and explosive materials. This incident brings the total Naxalites killed in Chhattisgarh this year to 285.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 2:52 pm

Encounter breaks out between security personnel and Maoists in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur

The exchange of fire started in the morning in the forested hills of Bhairamgarh-Indravati area when a District Reserve Guard team was out on an anti-Maoist operation, according to a police official

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 11:54 am

Churches set ablaze as burial dispute sparks violence in Chhattisgarh village

RAIPUR: Two churches were torched, a grave was dug up and clashes left several people injured as tensions over a disputed burial spiralled into violence in Amabeda village of Chhattisgarhs Kanker district, about 150 km south of Raipur, on Thursday. Tension erupted in Bade Tewda gram panchayat after the family of sarpanch Rajman Salam, whom some locals claim had converted to Christianity, buried the body of his father, Chamraran Salam, 70, on private land. Chamraram had been ill and died during treatment on December 15. The burial sparked protests, with villagers alleging it was conducted secretly and not in accordance with tribal customs, police said. Based on the villagers' complaint, the Executive Magistrate issued an order for exhumation of the body on Thursday. The probe on the incident and post-mortem of the exhumed body will be carried out, and the legal actions will be taken. Properties were also damaged during the scuffle incident, Kanker police said. The situation, which had remained tense since Wednesday, escalated into clashes between villagers, including stone-pelting. Around 20 police personnel, including additional superintendent of police (Antagarh) Ahish Banchhor, and several villagers were injured. Police resorted to a lathi charge to bring the situation under control. The district administration and police intervened and held a meeting between the two opposing groups on Thursday, after which the body was exhumed and taken out of Amabeda, as many locals opposed allowing a burial site for the deceased. The sarpanch is stated to have been converted to Christian belief, but his father, Chamraram, remained a follower of Hindu religion. The sarpanch reportedly performed the last rite in accordance with the belief and customs of Christianity, leading to strong protest by the villagers, said Anjor Singh Paikra, additional collector, Antagarh, in Kanker district. District officials have been camping in Bade Tewda for the past two days to ensure the situation does not escalate further. At least two churches were set ablaze and a few houses belonging to Christian minority members were attacked. There was a riot-like situation in the village. The sarpanch has not embraced Christianity. He buried the body of his father as per the rituals of the tribal community in his own land, said Arun Pannalal, president of the Chhattisgarh Christian Forum. The confrontation resulted owing to misleading information propagated among villagers that the body of a converted Christian had been covertly buried, Pannalal added. The injured police personnel and villagers were admitted to hospital.

The New Indian Express 19 Dec 2025 11:38 am