Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad seeks reconstitution of governments health task force
It does not include members who have directly worked within the States public health sector, possess practical experience with its healthcare system, or have conducted significant research on the health issues
Kochi Corporation clears 30 projects worth 1,500 crore for Urban Challenge Fund
Projects include mobility hubs, civic tower, cultural district and waste-processing facility under Kochi@2050 vision; Union government to provide 25% of project cost as grant; Opposition councillors raise concerns over prioritising revenue-generating projects and use of land earmarked for welfare initiatives
Keralam CM Satheesan says social media trends, ratings race threaten journalistic credibility
Inaugurating the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Thiruvananthapuram Press Club, CM says established mainstream media organisations, despite their rich traditions and heritage, were increasingly following trends set by social media
Student Arrested After Minister's Event Disruption
Police in Kochi have arrested a former student, Sidharth Sunil, in connection with the disruption of an event at Maharajas College last week where Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M John was speaking. Another former student has also been taken into custody. The disruption was reportedly by SFI activists protesting the suspension of students from another university.
The 17-year-old prime accused was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board and placed in an Observation Home until November 10, subject to further orders
Kerala Launches Digital Systems for Real-Time Crime Monitoring and Complaint Management
Keralas Home Minister launches digital platforms to enhance police efficiency and ensure timely action on complaints and crime data. Kerala Launches Digital Systems for Real-Time Crime Monitoring and Complaint Management
Oachira religious school in Keralams Kollam sealed following arrest in minor abuse case
Its director was arrested for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl under the pretext of exorcism
Hartal in ESA-affected areas of Palakkad on Nov. 6
First import container at Vizhinjam bolsters Keralams development aspirations
Boys death in Parassala: panel registers suo motu case
Seeks reports from police and child protection officer after 14-year-old dies at wedding function; relatives blame faulty ornamental light installation
Keralam to announce new womens policy on March 8
Deputy Speaker calls for 50% reservation for women in policy framing committees
KSSP demands reconstitution of task force on public health
Says panel lacks representation of public health experts and government doctors; warns against giving commercial interests precedence over peoples healthcare needs
Report identifies banned potassium chlorate as the cause of the explosion that killed 16 people and injured 40
Demand to open Nadakkavu overbridge ahead of Kalpathy fest in Keralam
Nadakkavu Overbridge Action Council says nearly 95% of the construction work has been completed; keeping the bridge closed during the festival will cause inconvenience to local residents and motorists, it adds
Planning Board Vice-Chairman to visit Idukki on Nov. 30
The Vice-Chairman and his team will visit the district to discuss ideas, recommendations, and problem-solving strategies related to the hilly regions development
17-year-old Rudresh from Thiruvananthapuram donates organs, offering six people a new lease of life
Following the consent given by the family, Rudreshs both kidneys, pancreas, liver, both corneas, and the abdominal fascia and vessels were harvested
Three Arrested, Including 18-Year-Old Girl Student, In Kerala Teen's Murder
A special investigation team has been constituted to probe the case.
Extension of MEMU to Ernakulam raises concerns among Kottayam-Kollam commuters
Under the revised arrangement, the 66315 MEMU, which currently leaves Kottayam for Kollam at 5.40 p.m, will instead originate from Ernakulam at 5.25 p.m. and reach Kottayam at 6.45 p.m.
Urvil Patel Shines with Unbeaten Double Century Against Kerala in Ranji Trophy
Urvil Patel scores an unbeaten double century, leading Gujarat to a strong position against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy match. Urvil Patel Shines with Unbeaten Double Century Against Kerala in Ranji Trophy
Trial in Kerala Assembly ruckus casegets under way
A key witness identifies all six accused, including former Ministers V. Sivankutty, E.P. Jayarajan and K.T. Jaleel, who were in the dock.
Joint training for India-Sri Lanka NCC cycling expedition commences in Kollam
Nirmalam campaign launched in Keralams Kozhikode Corporation
The campaign aims at bringing about a comprehensive transformation in waste management through public participation
Controversy Erupts Over DSP Recruitment in Kerala, Home Minister Orders SIT Investigation
Keralas Home Minister directs an SIT to investigate allegations of irregularities in a police recruitment process. Controversy Erupts Over DSP Recruitment in Kerala, Home Minister Orders SIT Investigation
Opposition creating anarchy to come to power: Karandlaje
Opposition creating anarchy to come to power: Karandlaje
Revenue department to conduct hearing for landowners in Keralams ecologically fragile Chokramudy
Move follows a recent High Court order directing the Devikulam Subcollector to grant landowners an opportunity to submit relevant land records and to conduct a formal hearing
Revenue department to conduct hearing for landowners in Keralams ecologically fragile Chokramudy
Move follows a recent High Court order directing the Devikulam Subcollector to grant landowners an opportunity to submit relevant land records and to conduct a formal hearing
Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala assures strict action in Adoor police station incident
Youth Congress workers, led by Pathanamthitta district panchayat member Sreenadevi Kunjamma and Feni Ninan, was accused of allegedly trespassing into the police station and confronting a person in the lock-upon July 11
Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala assures strict action in Adoor police station incident
Youth Congress workers, led by Pathanamthitta district panchayat member Sreenadevi Kunjamma and Feni Ninan, was accused of allegedly trespassing into the police station and confronting a person in the lock-upon July 11
Court sentences man to 13 years RI for assaulting minor
PWD sets target to build 350 bridges, 15,000 km of BMBC roads in five years in Keralam
PWD sets target to build 350 bridges, 15,000 km of BMBC roads in five years in Keralam
Fishers demand continuous Coast Guard patrols off Colachel coast following mid-dea attack
Keralam announces 50% concession on traffic fines under e-challan amnesty scheme
The offer covers violations recorded up to March 31, 2026, and applies to fines imposed by both the MVD and the police
Belagavi artist participating in Kerala charity show
K. Rupesh Kumar bags ICRT Global award for contributions to responsible tourism
Rupesh Kumar is currently the chief executive officer of the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society and has played a key role in taking responsible tourism initiatives beyond the State, helping activate programmes across several Indian States and Asian countries
Meghalaya Lok Bhavan celebrates foundation day of 15 states, UTs
Shillong, Nov 3: Meghalaya Lok Bhavan on Tuesday organised a grand cultural programme to commemorate the foundation and statehood days of 15 States and Union Territories, celebrating Indias unity in diversity. The states and UTs celebrated were Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Andhra Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya [] The post Meghalaya Lok Bhavan celebrates foundation day of 15 states, UTs first appeared on Highland Post .
Chennithala orders SIT probe into alleged fast-tracked DSP recruitment for SFI leader
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 3 (IANS) Kerala Home Minister, Ramesh Chennithala, on Tuesday directed the Crime Branch Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations that the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) attempted to appoint an SFI leader as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) through special recruitment in violation of prescribed rules. Chennithala asked Ajitha Begum, head of the Crime Branch SIT, to investigate a complaint filed by Save University Forum chairman, R.S. Sasikumar. The complaint alleges that the recruitment move was pushed under the leadership of PSC chairman M.R. Baiju. The PSC had decided to appoint K.J. Jithin, an SFI leader from Ernakulam, through the special recruitment route. The complaint alleges that the move was intended to secure his appointment before the previous LDF government's term ended. As many as 17,392 candidates had applied for the post and the last date for applications was September 10, 2025. The written examination was held on December 31, followed by the physical efficiency test on March 16, 2026. Interviews were conducted on April 22 and the final rank list was published on May 6. The complainant alleged that the entire process was completed in unusual haste. He also questioned how Jithin could be considered for direct appointment as a DSP when, according to the complaint, he had passed his B.Com examination only with grace marks and failed to figure even in the main list of candidates in the Police Constable recruitment examination. The complaint further alleged that Jithin was facing several criminal cases and that his direct appointment as a DSP amounted to a serious violation of recruitment norms. The issue had surfaced on Monday, adding to the mounting scrutiny of the PSC over alleged irregularities in recruitment. The PSC chairman and three members had earlier been questioned by the Crime Branch SIT in connection with another recruitment-related controversy. Jithin had denied any irregularity in the selection process and maintained that the complaint was aimed at blocking his appointment. The latest direction from Chennithala is expected to bring the special recruitment proposal under the SIT's scrutiny.
CPI(M) protests sharp cut in Kerala Sahitya Akademi funding
Party demands withdrawal of October 11 government order slashing allocation to 50 lakh; alleges funding crunch has disrupted Akademis functioning and delayed staff salaries
The initiatives are aimed at improving grievance redressal, strengthening police administration and enabling real-time monitoring of crime statistics in Keralam.
The single judge had on October 30 allowed the suspended students to write the exams, scheduled to commence from November 4, and directed the university to accept the necessary examination fees
The Division Bench of Justices Anil K. Narendran and S. Muralee Krishna held that the single Bench erred in issuing the directions in the absence of evidence from the students demonstrating their eligibility to appear for the examinations
The Division Bench of Justices Anil K. Narendran and S. Muralee Krishna held that the single Bench erred in issuing the directions in the absence of evidence from the students demonstrating their eligibility to appear for the examinations
School holiday news: The IMD has issued heavy rainfall warnings for parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Odisha and Chhattisgarh on November 4, 2026. The weather alerts have raised the possibility of school closures in affected districts. However, no statewide school holiday has been confirmed, and the final decision will depend on local administrations and state authorities.
Keralam CM Satheesan questions CAG audit methods
The estimated loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore in the 2G spectrum allocation was not an actual realised loss but a hypothetical, presumptive projection, he said
Kerala Man Accused In Child Abuse Case Walks Out Of Jail, Tries To Kill Her
Weeks after walking out of jail, Mohammed Adnan, a resident of Perumani near Arakkappady, allegedly broke into the girl's house in the afternoon, assaulted her and tried to kill her with a knife.
UDF poised to recast LDFs permissive liquor policy as it prepares to promulgate it on November 30
Excise Minister M. Liju told The Hindu that the UDF would dismantle the rules and amendments that gave deputy excise commissioners the power to grant bar licenses
The late Communist leader T.V. Thomass role in Punnapra-Vayalar uprising sparks CPI-CPI(M) row
The controversy, which has played out largely on social media, centres on a special edition of Chintha, the CPI(M)s ideological publication, brought out to mark the uprisings 80th anniversary as CPI leaders took strong exception to the way it documented the struggle and its leaders
Excise departments 'hasty granting' of bar licenses wrong-foots UDF government
The contentious granting of licences, which reportedly angered the UDFs prohibitionist base comprising Christian and Muslim social organisations, occurred as the Cabinet formulated the States liquor policy for the current fiscal year
IAS Reshuffle in Kerala To Facilitate Corrupt Activities: CPI(M)
So, they (government) are moving senior bureaucrats, who are their favourites, to sectors where corruption is possible, CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan alleged
Rubber at Rs 300, but Relief Remains Elusive for Keralam's Growers
Rising cultivation costs, a shortage of skilled tappers and declining yields continue to eat into their earnings
After keeping her relationship away from the spotlight, Malayalam singer Rimi Tomy has finally revealed who she plans to marry. Her fianc is Libin Mathew, a bodybuilder and fitness trainer from Kerala who is currently based in Mumbai. The two are set to get married this November in a low-key ceremony in Dombivli.
Keralam Home Minister introduces HM Acts and HOMeS to enhance ministry and police coordination
The News Mill
Student Federation of India Returns to Campus Protests Amid PSC Controversy Silence
The Student Federation of India resumes protests in Kerala after government change, raising questions over its silence on PSC recruitment issues. Student Federation of India Returns to Campus Protests Amid PSC Controversy Silence
Coimbatore prisoner who escaped custody twice questioned for second day
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 3 (IANS) A 25-year-old remand prisoner, who escaped from police custody twice within 24 hours before being arrested from the Sathyamangalam forest area in Erode district, was questioned by Coimbatore police for the second consecutive day on Tuesday. The accused, Raghavan, also known as Kozikaran, is being interrogated by the Racecourse police to establish how he managed to evade security personnel and travel to the forest area after escaping from the premises of Coimbatore Central Prison. Police sources said investigators were examining whether Raghavan received assistance from anyone during his escape and subsequent movements. His statement has been recorded, and further questioning is underway to reconstruct the sequence of events. Raghavan was apprehended during a nighttime operation after a special police team located his hideout using drone surveillance. Following his escape, six special teams were constituted to trace him. The search extended across Erode and the Nilgiris districts, besides neighbouring Karnataka and Kerala. Acting on intelligence that he was hiding in the Sathyamangalam forest region, police intensified surveillance and deployed drone cameras to identify his location. The team surrounded the area and arrested him. Raghavan, a resident of the Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Centre at Bhavanisagar in Erode district, faces several criminal cases, including robbery and theft. The accused has a history of escaping from police custody. In June 2026, he reportedly escaped while being transported to Bengaluru. Police arrested him on October 30, but he managed to escape from Annur police station that evening. However, officers immediately pursued and apprehended him. Later that night, four police personnel, including a sub-inspector, escorted him to Coimbatore Central Prison for remand. While being taken into the prison premises, Raghavan allegedly assaulted the accompanying personnel and escaped once again, triggering a major security alert. The incident prompted authorities to suspend all four escorting police personnel for alleged negligence. A separate case was also registered in connection with the escape. Investigators are examining the circumstances that enabled the accused to repeatedly evade custody despite being under police escort. Police are expected to produce Raghavan before the jurisdictional court after completing the interrogation and make arrangements for his detention under enhanced security to prevent another escape.
SFI returns to campus protests, but silence on Kerala PSC row raises questions
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 3 (IANS) The Students Federation of India (SFI), the student wing of the CPI(M), has returned to aggressive campus activism in Kerala following the change of government in the state. However, its silence on the ongoing Public Service Commission (PSC) recruitment controversy has drawn attention and criticism. SFI protests have been reported at several universities, including Calicut, Kalady and Kerala universities, since the Congress-led government under Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan assumed office. Some of these demonstrations have also resulted in clashes with the police. Several of these protests have also led to clashes with the police. But what is drawing attention is not just the return of SFI to street politics, but its conspicuous silence over the ongoing Public Service Commission (PSC) recruitment controversy. During the Pinarayi Vijayan government, SFI protests were relatively rare. One major exception was its agitation against then Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, who was also the Chancellor of state universities. Now, with a change in government, the student organisation is back in an aggressive mode. Last week's incident at Maharaja's College in Kochi was particularly striking. State Higher Education Minister Roji M. John faced protests from SFI activists when he arrived to attend a convocation ceremony. The incident underlined the sharp change in the political atmosphere on campuses. The Satheesan government and Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala have taken a firm position on such protests, and confrontations with the police have become more visible. But on the PSC issue, SFI's silence has surprised many. The investigation into alleged irregularities in PSC examinations and appointments has already led to the arrest of a senior commission official and a former employee. The Special Investigation Team has questioned PSC Chairman M.R. Baiju and three other members. Notices have also been issued to the remaining 12 members of the 16-member commission, all appointed during the previous Vijayan government. The issue concerns the credibility of a recruitment system that thousands of young people depend on for government jobs. It is also a matter that directly affects students and job aspirants, a section SFI claims to represent. That makes the organisation's silence particularly difficult to overlook. SFI may have returned to the streets over the change of government, but its reluctance to speak on an issue affecting the future of thousands of young job seekers raises a larger question -- where is the student organisation when the interests of students and job aspirants are at stake?
LDF seeks to galvanise coastal community against UDFs proposed high-value economic maritime corridor
The LDF has raised the spectre of large-scale displacement of fisherfolk, including the lack of free access to the coastline and the loss of homes and traditional livelihoods
The Kochi City Cyber police have registered a case against 18 social media handles for allegedly revealing the identity of a 17-year-old accused in the Cheranalloor luxury car crash case
Smuggled Gold Heist Attempt Foiled By Kerala Police at Calicut Airport
The gang attacked a female smuggled gold carrier at the airport, but the attempt was prevented by the police officers in the airport. One officer was injured in the clash
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) The BJP on Tuesday rallied behind Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks on infiltrators. Justifying his remarks, many BJP leaders concurred that that several opposition parties, who apparently banked on support of 'infiltrators' in influencing the poll outcome, were now apprehensive as the process of deleting such names from electoral rolls has begun. BJP Bihar President Sanjay Saraogi said that Amit Shah was absolutely right and had repeatedly raised the issue on various platforms. Amit Shah was absolutely right. He has been saying this repeatedly on every platform, but these people are neither able to see nor hear it. In Congress-led states like Karnataka and Kerala, one crore names have been deleted in Karnataka. Senior ministers there are saying that the SIR was conducted properly, he said. BJP Telangana President Ramchandar Rao said that Amit Shah's padayatra in Hyderabad had received a good response and that the Home Minister had clarified the party's position on the issue. Yesterday, Amit Shah's padayatra was a great show in Hyderabad. He clarified to the people that Congress wants infiltrator voters to remain on the voter list so that they can win elections. They have won elections in many states because of infiltrators, and now that the process of deleting these voters has started, they are afraid, he said. Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav also backed the Home Minister's remarks, saying that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise had identified three crore people who had allegedly got their names illegally included in the country's electoral rolls and were consuming its resources. Home Minister Amit Shah was absolutely right. The SIR exercise clearly identified three crore people who had illegally got their names added to the country's voter list and were consuming the country's resources. Action must be taken against such people, he said. However, JD(U) National General Secretary Shyam Rajak said that ensuring the accuracy of electoral rolls was the government's responsibility and that officials and election authorities should also be held accountable for any irregularities. The question is not about Rahul Gandhi or Amit Shah. It is the government's responsibility to do its job. If someone is here illegally, has come from another country and got their name registered, then somewhere your own officials and election authorities are responsible for these mistakes. There is no need to look for who made the mistakes now. Remove whatever is incorrect and re-enter the names of those who are eligible, he said. Meanwhile, addressing a gathering during his padayatra in Hyderabad on Monday, Amit Shah alleged that the Congress was opposing the SIR exercise to protect Bangladeshi infiltrators from being removed from electoral rolls. By opposing the SIR, the Congress party wants to protect Bangladeshi infiltrators in the country's electoral rolls. But I have come here today to say that Rahul ji and Revanth Reddy ji can put in as much effort as they want. The BJP will ensure that every single infiltrator is removed from the voter list and driven out of the country, he said. He further alleged that the Congress and its allies were opposing the SIR because infiltrators constituted their vote bank, adding that the BJP stood firmly behind the exercise. Only those who are citizens of this country will be allowed to vote here, HM Shah said.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan launches the initiative at Dr Joy Alukkass 70th birthday celebrations Kochi: Joyalukkas Group has announced a 100 crore allocation towards expanding its charitable initiatives and strengthening its support for underprivileged and vulnerable communities across the country. The announcement was made by Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan during the 70th birthday celebrations []
Kerala SIT gives clean chit to KSU activists in ex-Minister Veena George attack case
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 3 (IANS) In a major development in the alleged attack on former Kerala Health Minister Veena George, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Tuesday informed the court that none of the charges against the five KSU activists involved in the case can be sustained. SIT head U. Preman submitted the final report before the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Kannur, stating that the activists had not committed any of the offences mentioned in the charge sheet. The report says charges of rioting and trespassing into the railway premises will not stand. It also makes it clear that the protesters did not obstruct the police from performing their official duties. A black-flag protest, the SIT says, does not amount to a criminal offence. The latest report marks a significant turn in the case, which had attracted considerable political attention after the police invoked serious charges, including attempt to murder, against the five Kerala Students' Union (KSU) activists. The SIT has found that the activists did not attack Veena George. It has also said that the protesters never managed to reach her during the demonstration at Kannur railway station, early this year. The alleged assault charge could not be established after the former minister's gunman, Abhilash, changed his statement before the investigating team. He told the SIT that he had not seen the protesters attempting to attack Veena George. The original case was based largely on his statement that the protesters had attempted to assault the minister using weapons. However, the SIT could not recover the weapons allegedly used in the incident. The investigation found that what took place was a scuffle between the KSU activists and the police. The team had earlier submitted a report to the Director General of Police (DGP), pointing out that the protest had been exaggerated and that the activists had not reached the former minister. The gunman also reportedly told the SIT that he had given a false statement at Veena George's direction. This disclosure had raised questions over the original version of the incident. The latest report before the court now places the entire case in a different light, with the SIT concluding that the protesters cannot be prosecuted for the offences originally alleged against them. The case had become a major political controversy, with the Congress and the CPI(M) taking sharply opposing positions over the incident. The CPI (M), as soon as the incident occurred in February, staged protest marches as elections were round the corner.
Kerala Man Loses Rs 7.7 Lakh To Fake SIR Name Correction Scam
Thrippunithura: A 72-year-old man lost Rs 7.7 lakh after cyber fraudsters allegedly targeted him with a fake message about discrepancies in his Special Intensive Revision (SIR) records and tricked him into sharing his banking details. The victim, identified as Parameswaran Nair, a resident of Eroor West in Thrippunithura, lost the money from two bank accounts []
The Most Influential Person in the Room May Not Be the One in Charge
Kerala : As organisations become more collaborative and decisions increasingly cross functional boundaries, the ability to command attention, build trust, and influence without authority is emerging as a defining capability for tomorrows senior leaders. Imagine a senior manager presenting a carefully developed business strategy to an executive committee. The analysis is rigorous, the recommendations are []
Termination of NHM staffs job contract likely to affect services in govt. hospitals in Keralam
Job contracts of 1,495 temporary staff working under the National Health Mission have been terminated from October 31; ninety-nine people have lost their jobs in Kozhikode district alone
Termination of NHM staffs job contract likely to affect services in govt. hospitals in Keralam
Job contracts of 1,495 temporary staff working under the National Health Mission have been terminated from October 31; ninety-nine people have lost their jobs in Kozhikode district alone
Cyclone Murasu: Heavy rain lashes TN; schools in Cuddalore closed
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 3 (IANS) Schools across Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu have been declared closed on Tuesday following heavy rainfall triggered by Cyclone Murasu, which has made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The Cuddalore District Collector issued the holiday order as thunderstorms, lightning and persistent rain disrupted normal life in several parts of the district. The holiday applies to schools in Cuddalore taluk, including areas affected by intense rainfall around Cuddalore town, Reddichavadi and Nellikuppam. The precautionary decision was taken to ensure the safety of students amid continuing adverse weather conditions Cyclone Murasu, which developed over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal, crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur after intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm. Its influence has brought widespread rainfall and unsettled weather conditions to northern Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the cyclones impact, combined with an atmospheric circulation prevailing over southern Kerala and adjoining areas, is likely to produce rainfall across several districts of Tamil Nadu. The weather department has forecast heavy rainfall at one or two places in the Nilgiris district on Tuesday. Moderate rainfall is also expected in parts of the Western Ghats districts, northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. Chennai and its surrounding suburban areas are likely to experience moderate rainfall during the day, with cloudy skies expected to prevail. According to the forecast, interior districts of Tamil Nadu may receive moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning on Wednesday. Heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in Theni and Dindigul districts on Thursday. In the Cuddalore district, the weather conditions have deteriorated following intense thunderstorms and lightning in several localities. The district administration announced the school holiday after assessing the rainfall situation and potential risks to students travelling to educational institutions. The authorities are closely monitoring the weather situation as the cyclonic system moves inland and gradually weakens. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms, avoid unnecessary travel through waterlogged roads and follow official weather advisories. The IMD is expected to continue issuing updates on rainfall intensity and the movement of the weakened cyclonic system over the coming days.
CEC Faces Heat Over Kerala Corruption Charges
As CEC Gyanesh Kumar faces protests over electoral roll revisions, a 20-year-old Kerala corruption case resurfaces.
The Union Cabinet raised the dearness allowance for central government employees and pensioners by 3%, from 60% to 63% of basic pay, effective 1 July, ahead of Diwali. Here are the other states that have also hiked DA amid the festive season.
Malayalee community comes together for Kerala Piravi, the state formation day
Former Ranji trophy cricktercremated
Panel proposes 10-year roadmap for stray dog issue in Keralam
Committee of experts call for a shift from the conventional sterilisation-and-release approach to model centred on adoption by individuals and institutions, alongside scientific waste management to reduce the street dog population; recommends monthly maintenance subsidy for those adopting adult dogs, promotes institutional adoption of strays
VACB seizes files on 12-cr Kannur district panchayat contracts
The Vigilance team seized the files from the district panchayat office
Valapattanam river samples reveal alarminglevels of chemical pollutants, bacteria
Test reports from the PCB have revealed severe pollution in the Valapattanam river, raising concerns about public health, aquatic life and the quality of drinking water in riverside areas
Kozhikode drinking water projects to be reviewed ahead of summer
The initiative follows instructions from the State government to address mounting public complaints about drinking water shortages in various Assembly constituencies
Bandipora Police Intensify Crackdown on Drugs, Crime in October; Six Arrested in UAPA Case
BANDIPORA : District Police Bandipora intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking, theft, illegal mining, timber smuggling and other unlawful activities during October, reporting multiple narcotics recoveries, arrests, recovery of stolen property and security-related operations across the district. Among the major developments during the month was the arrest of six persons in connection with an alleged clandestine module linked to the banned organisation Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen. Police registered FIR No. 168/2026 under Sections 10 and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act at Police Station Bandipora. According to police, the investigation has brought to light suspected links involving a Pakistan-based handler, alleged prison-based coordination, propaganda activities and financial transactions. Further investigation is underway. In anti-drug operations, police reported the recovery of 9.052 kilograms of charas-like substance at Pashwari, Sumbal, and approximately 5.010 kilograms at Hajin. Recoveries were also reported from Mantrigam Pethkoot, Gunchipora Sumbal and Ajas. In the latest operation on October 31, a police party from Police Station Pethkoot apprehended two persons during naka checking at Lal Qila Morh and recovered 1.030 kilograms of charas-like substance from their possession. The accused were identified as Gh. Mohd Bhat and Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, both residents of Wewan. FIR No. 31/2026 under Sections 8/20/29 of the NDPS Act was registered, and further investigation was taken up. Police also conducted checking drives at medical shops, SIM card vendors, fertilizer shops and scrap dealers to ensure compliance with prescribed regulations. In other crime-related cases, police recovered six stolen horses in Ajas and arrested an accused person. Police Station Sumbal recovered a stolen motorcycle within 12 hours of receiving a complaint, while two persons were arrested in a theft case registered at Nowgam and stolen property was recovered. Two absconders wanted in a cheating and forgery case registered at Police Station Sumbal were arrested after allegedly evading arrest for 16 years. Another absconder wanted in a 2010 case was also apprehended. Action was also taken against illegal timber smuggling, with Police Post Sumlar seizing six heavy logs of Kail wood at Samthan Dardpora and arresting an accused person. In its crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals, police reported the seizure of at least 27 vehicles, including tractors, tippers and a truck, under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. On the security front, police conducted multiple joint exercises with other security agencies to assess operational preparedness. A Counter-Insurgency Response System mock drill was held at Hajin Bridge with the participation of SOG Hajin, 13 Rashtriya Rifles and 45 Battalion CRPF. Another Anti-Fidayeen exercise was conducted at District Police Lines Bandipora. On October 31, Bandipora Police and 13 Rashtriya Rifles conducted another Anti-Fidayeen mock drill at Aragam, involving Police Station Aragam and other agencies. The exercise included a simulated counter-terror response, area sanitisation and assessment of casualty management and emergency medical arrangements. Community policing also remained a focus, with Thana Diwas meetings held at different police stations. DIG North Kashmir Range Vinod Kumar and SSP Bandipora also interacted with residents at Police Stations Gurez and Tulail to hear public grievances and discuss local issues. During the month, a T20 cricket tournament under the Civic Action Programme concluded at Gurez Stadium, with 16 teams from Gurez and Tulail participating. Chontiwari defeated Wanpora by 16 runs in the final. Police also organised volleyball and badminton championships, debate competitions, seminars, cultural programmes and drug awareness activities in educational institutions. Police Commemoration Day was observed at District Police Lines Bandipora on October 21, with Deputy Commissioner Indu Kanwal Chib attending as chief guest. The programme was attended by senior officers, security personnel and families of police martyrs. On October 31, police organised a series of programmes across the district to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Run for Unity events were held at Garoora, Hajin, Sumbal and other locations, while the main district-level run was organised in coordination with the District Administration and 3rd Battalion CRPF from Mini Secretariat Bandipora to Chitternar. Pledge ceremonies were also conducted at all police stations and police posts. At District Police Lines, SSP Tahir Saleem-JKPS administered the Ekta Diwas pledge, followed by a ceremonial march past. The event was attended by officers from the civil administration, police and CRPF, besides students. As part of the celebrations, District Police Bandipora also released a research booklet titled Little Voices, One Nation National Integration Through the Eyes of School Children. The publication brings together the writings and creative expressions of students from different schools, focusing on national integration, unity in diversity, communal harmony and patriotism. During October, Tahir Saleem-JKPS took over as SSP Bandipora and held an introductory meeting with district police officers on October 16. He emphasised professional and people-friendly policing, accountability, timely grievance redressal and intensified action against drug trafficking. He also interacted with media representatives at District Police Lines on October 28. In another public-oriented initiative, police rescued four bikers from Kerala who had become stranded at Zadkusi along the Bandipora-Gurez road. The travellers were shifted safely to Police Post Izmarg, while their motorcycles were handed over to BSF personnel stationed in the area. Traffic Police Rural Kashmir also issued an advisory for the Wular Ultra Marathon-3.0 held on October 4, regulating vehicular movement and announcing alternative routes for commuters. The month's activities reflected a combination of crime-control measures, security preparedness and community engagement, with police maintaining that action against drug trafficking and other unlawful activities would continue. On October 31, Bandipora Police also organised live streaming of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas March through screens installed at District Police Lines and all police stations across the district. Police officers, officials and members of civil society participated in the programme and witnessed the march commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The initiative aimed at promoting national unity, integrity and solidarity, while reinforcing the values of communal harmony and unity in diversity. (KNS)
Private bus strike in Keralam called off
17-year-old student found murdered in Thiruvananthapuram; three taken into police custody
Kerala Government Under Scrutiny Amid Multiple Investigations
Keralas V.D. Satheesan government faces scrutiny with 16 investigations launched, many linked to the previous LDF administration. Kerala Government Under Scrutiny Amid Multiple Investigations
Contractors reluctant to take up road works in local bodies in capital district
Search continues for missing auto-rickshaw driver
Major Reshuffle Of IAS Officers In Kerala
The government moved K R Jyothilal from Finance to Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Vigilance, while Additional Chief Secretary Minhaj Alam shifted to Finance.
Fake posts: M.V. Govindan seeks legal action
Cancel order on 1-crore Cliff House maintenance: CM
Public Works Secretary asked to submit report on issue of order without the knowledge of the Chief Minister or his office.
Services of 29 contract staff at Ernakulam Government Medical College terminated
The employees, aged 60 and above, were asked to discontinue service from November. They alleged that they had been treated unfairly and their services terminated without proper notice.
Missing Kerala Teen Found Dead In Sack
A 17-year-old boy, Abhiram, was found dead, stuffed inside a sack among banana plants in Thiruvananthapuram. He had been missing since Sunday afternoon. Preliminary examination suggests strangulation. Police have taken several persons, including minors, into custody for questioning, but no arrests have been made yet. The family seeks answers regarding the circumstances of his death.
Gurnam Singh Charuni warns against Indo-U.S. trade agreement
Inaugurating a Kisan Mahapanchayat at Plachimada in Keralams Palakkad, Charuni says the agreement will allow unrestricted imports and affect not only agriculture but also small businesses, fisheries, poultry farming and the dairy sector
Friendship Ends In Murder; Teen Killed Over Girl, Body Dumped In Sack In Kerala's Capital.
The deceased has been identified as Abhiram, a resident of Sreekaryam. His body was discovered inside a sack on Monday.
