CMRL-Exalogic payoff case: Ex-Keralam CM Pinarayi Vijayan to skip questioning by ED on October 23
Counsel for Pinarayi informs ED officials in Kochi that he will not appear for questioning as Supreme Court has stayed a Kerala Police probe into FIR registered against him, daughter T. Veena and son-in-law Mohamed Riyas in the case
Three accused in Pilathara gold robbery case in Keralams Kannur arrested
In June 2026, the accused attacked a car carrying a family from Maharashtra and looted gold and around 55 lakh in cash
Three accused in Pilathara gold robbery case in Keralams Kannur arrested
In June 2026, the accused attacked a car carrying a family from Maharashtra and looted gold and around 55 lakh in cash
Desalination project, proposed by previous LDF govt, was envisaged as a solution to persistent drinking water crisis in coastal regions of Ernakulam district. A new 190 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Aluva has received administrative sanction
Keralamto form special panel to study Labour Codes, implementation
Committee to include trade union representatives and will be tasked with submitting practical recommendations required for framing State rules
Keralamto form special panel to study Labour Codes, implementation
Committee to include trade union representatives and will be tasked with submitting practical recommendations required for framing State rules
Keralam to Form Panel With Trade Union Representatives to Examine Labour Codes
The new labour codes by the Union government came into force in November 2025, and the Keralam government maintained that it would implement them only after a detailed scrutiny
Liquor worth 6,600 stolen from Bevco outlet in Keralam
Theft at a premium outlet at Muvattupuzha near Kochi. It came to light when Kerala State Beverages Corporation officials checked stock on October 21
Sri Lanka-based NTJ's collapse forces Al Qaeda, Islamic State to rethink South India strategy
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 22 (IANS) The collapse of the Sri Lanka-based National Thowheed Jamaat (NTJ) dealt a major blow to both Al Qaeda and the Islamic State, which had sought to expand their influence in the region. The organisation had evolved into a dangerous extremist outfit, as demonstrated by its capacity to carry out the deadly Easter bombings in Sri Lanka. Both Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State had sought to use the NTJ to extend their reach in Sri Lanka and South India, in particular. However, the NTJ appeared to be more closely aligned with the Islamic State, whose emphasis on violent jihad and its methods of operation appealed more strongly to the group. An official said that both Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State had realised that they could not operate Mujahideen-style terror outfits in Sri Lanka and South India, noting that this model of terrorism had found success only in Jammu and Kashmir. In the rest of the country, groups such as the Indian Mujahideen and the Popular Front of India (PFI) found success. However, their operations were markedly different from those carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed or Lashkar-e-Taiba in Jammu and Kashmir, the official said. An Intelligence Bureau official said that Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State were focusing heavily on radicalisation efforts in South India and Sri Lanka. However, both outfits had realised that radicalisation alone would not suffice and needed to be backed by ground operations, such as the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka. The official said both outfits were currently encouraging their operatives and sympathisers to form groups along the lines of the NTJ or the PFI. Both terror outfits have also understood that when it comes to operations in South India, potential recruits have leaned more towards localised terror groups. Al Qaeda and the Islamic State do have traction when it comes to ideology, but recruits prefer local terror outfits such as the NTJ and PFI. This is because such groups are more capable of undertaking operations on the ground. Moreover, these groups connect more easily because of common language and other traits that are local in nature, the official said. Another official said that states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala are more charged when it comes to radicalisation. The Islamic State and Al Qaeda have managed to penetrate their ideology in Tamil Nadu and Kerala respectively. However, it has failed to launch even one major operation in these states. In the absence of such operations, recruitment is hard, and both these outfits realise that. Intelligence inputs suggest that groups such as the NTJ and PFI are not capable of an immediate revival. The agencies, both in India and Sri Lanka, are closely monitoring those sympathetic towards these groups. Moreover, neither group has made any serious attempt at a revival since they were banned. Post the Easter bombings, the Sri Lankan government cracked down heavily on the NTJ, and this effectively eliminated the group. In the case of the PFI, the crackdown was hard, and this led to multiple raids and subsequent arrests. The financial choking of these terror groups also has ensured that a revival anytime soon would not be possible, officials say. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of Al-Ummah re-emerging in South India. The group, which was linked to the Coimbatore bombings, has reportedly been sending signals suggesting a possible comeback. According to the officials, Al-Ummah is under the control of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), with some of its members continuing to find shelter in Pakistan. Given the current situation and the ambitions of Al Qaeda and Islamic State, these groups would either wait for an Al-Ummah resurgence and ride on it or would focus entirely on creating completely new entities to run their operations in South India and Sri Lanka, an official said.
Kerala Government to Draft New Labor Code Rules After Consulting Trade Unions
The Kerala government plans to finalize new labor code rules after extensive consultations with trade unions, focusing on workers rights. Kerala Government to Draft New Labor Code Rules After Consulting Trade Unions
CMRL-Exalogic case: Vijayan moves Kerala HC to block further action of ED, Vigilance
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 22 (IANS) Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has moved an appeal in the Kerala High Court against the Vigilance probe into the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment case, besides seeking to prevent further action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Vijayan has submitted the Supreme Court order staying the Vigilance investigation before the High Court and is making arrangements to bring his appeal before the Division Bench as early as Saturday. The petition he had earlier filed against the Single Bench order is expected to be assigned a fresh number and placed before the Division Bench. The legal strategy also includes the possibility of filing a separate writ petition to restrain the ED from proceeding with further action until the appeal is decided. If the agency issues fresh summons or initiates other proceedings, Vijayan, his son-in-law and CPI(M) leader Mohammed Riyas, and his daughter T. Veena are likely to consider approaching the High Court. Vijayan is not likely to appear before the ED on Friday, according to the report. His legal team is preparing to deploy senior advocates to argue the appeal, banking on observations in the Supreme Court order that, in their assessment, leave room for the challenge before the High Court. The Division Bench will be asked to halt all further proceedings in the case, including the ED investigation, pending a decision on the appeal. The immediate legal battle is thus likely to centre on whether the High Court should intervene to prevent the agency from taking further steps while the appeal remains pending. The ED, however, maintains that the Supreme Court order has not barred it from continuing its investigation. The agency's assessment is that the apex court has not invalidated the ED's communication of information under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Pinarayi. It also maintains that the evidence remains available and that the legal validity of the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) has not been questioned. The case's progress was reviewed on Thursday at the ED's Kochi office under the supervision of the Special Director. The agency is preparing to strongly oppose Vijayan's appeal before the High Court. The coming hearing could therefore determine whether the ED can continue its proceedings unhindered or whether further action will be held in abeyance pending the High Court's decision.
The Keralam government has decided to form a special committee comprising trade union representatives to examine issues related to the implementation of the Labour Codes and submit recommendations, according to Keralam Chief Minister's Office (CMO). The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister V D Satheesan at the Secretariat. The meeting, attended by Labour Minister Bindu Krishna, saw the participation of representatives from 22 trade unions. The committee will submit practical recommendations for framing the state rules under the Labour Codes. The Labour Department Secretary will be the convenor, while the Additional Secretary of the Law Department will be a member. The committee will also include seven representatives from various trade unions and officials from the Labour Department. It must submit its report within 10 days of its formation. CM Satheesan said a final decision on implementing the Labour Codes would be taken only after hearing the views of all stakeh...
Keralam forms committee with trade unions to review Labour Codes
The News Mill
CMRL Case: Kerala Minister Joseph Expects Criticism To Subside
Kerala Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph stated that criticism regarding the state government's initial handling of the CMRL payments case, involving CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan and his family, would diminish following a recent Supreme Court verdict. The ED had sought a case against Vijayan, his daughter, and son-in-law, but the state initially opted for a preliminary inquiry. Joseph also addressed internal party criticism, advocating for internal channels for dissent.
Bike crash leads to discovery of 21 gm of MDMA in Keralam mans pocket
Narcotic substance found during a medical examination at hospital
ESA row triggers political showdown in Keralams central Travancore
CPI(M) and Congress trade charges over Keralam governments handling of the issue. Pathanamthitta emerges as focal point of controversy, with CPI(M) calling a hartal in seven villages on October 24
Landslide Derails Locomotive in Keralam, Train Services Restored
The locomotive was found derailed after the train stopped at the location, the railways said
Qatar Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre burglary: Local BJP leader surrenders before police in Kozhikode
Parappil Balakrishnan, the accused, had previously contested as a BJP candidate in local body elections
Heavy rain alert in Kerala; services restored after landslide derails train near Parassala
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 22 (IANS) Kerala faces another spell of heavy rain, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing orange alerts for seven districts until Sunday and warning of isolated very heavy rainfall over the coming days. The latest weather warning comes against the backdrop of a landslide near Parassala that disrupted train services in the early hours of Thursday. Orange alerts have been issued for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Saturday, and Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad on Sunday. The IMD has forecast isolated very heavy rainfall, ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm in 24 hours, in the districts under orange alert. The IMD has also issued yellow alerts for several other districts on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, warning of isolated heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms are likely to accompany the rain. The State Disaster Management Authority has advised people in hilly and coastal areas to remain vigilant as the wet spell is expected to continue through Sunday. The impact of the rain was evident near Parassala in Thiruvananthapuram district, where a landslide affected railway operations in the early hours of Thursday. Train No. 22619 Bilaspur-Tirunelveli Express was stopped at around 2.19 a.m. in the Neyyattinkara-Parassala section, near Parassala railway station, after a landslide occurred around kilometre 249. The locomotive was subsequently found to have derailed. All passengers and railway personnel were reported safe. Railway authorities immediately arranged a relief locomotive and dispatched an Accident Relief Train, along with personnel and equipment, to carry out restoration work. The Railways later confirmed that the derailed locomotive had been removed and track restoration completed. Train services resumed after the necessary safety inspections. The Mangaluru-bound Parasuram Express departed Parassala and safely passed through the affected section. The IMD defines heavy rainfall as 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm in 24 hours. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution and follow official advisories as Kerala braces for more rain over the next few days.
Bihar native arrested for attempting to derail train in Keralam
Surveillance camera footage from Shoranur railway station, the railway yard and nearby areas helped investigators identify the suspect as Shuklal Marari, 24
Keralam: Landslide derails locomotive, disrupting train services, work on to clear tracks
Case against MSF, SFI students in Keralam for trampling on PM Modis photograph
Incident allegedly happened during finale of a college union election campaign in Palakkad
Keralam on high alert as rain intensifies; IMD sounds orange alert for four districts on October 22
The eastern ghat regions, southern Keralam and parts of Central Travancore received heavy overnight rain, disrupting normal life and causing waterlogging in several areas
Wifes father paid for joint house; Kerala HC orders husband to vacate
The dispute involved a couple who got married in 2012. The woman told the court that her father had paid Rs 30 lakh to purchase the house for her future security. Although the property was registered jointly, she maintained that her husband had contributed nothing towards the purchase and therefore had no independent entitlement to half of it.
No injuries reported. Train traffic along Thiruvananthapuram and Nagercoil route disrupted
LA mayoral race: Indian-American Nithya Raman apologises over Gates remark, wins Horvath backing
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 22 (IANS) Indian-American Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nithya Raman has apologised for invoking former police chief Daryl Gates, even as she picked up the endorsement of county supervisor Lindsey Horvath days before vote centres open across the city. Raman apologised privately to a South Los Angeles community group and on a podcast for her reference to Gates, Politicos California Playbook newsletter reported on Wednesday. The Los Angeles Times reported on October 16 on the controversy over the remark in Ramans race against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. Gates led the Los Angeles Police Department during the 1992 riots and remains a deeply divisive figure in the city, particularly in South Los Angeles. Separately, Horvath, a member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, endorsed Raman on October 20, the Los Angeles Times reported. She is the only county supervisor backing Raman, the paper said. The endorsement gives Raman, a member of the Los Angeles City Council, a prominent ally as she seeks to unseat Bass. Meanwhile, businessman Rick Caruso, who lost to Bass in the 2022 mayoral race, praised the mayor but endorsed neither candidate, NBC Los Angeles reported. Caruso criticised Ramans plan to remove Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell, according to the station. Raman has also proposed an audit of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power as high utility bills become a key campaign issue, ABC7 reported. Raman did not post on her X account about the apology or the endorsement during the past day. Los Angeles voters can begin casting ballots in person when 11-day vote centres open on October 24, ahead of the November 3 election. Raman, born in Kerala and raised partly in Zambia before moving to the US as a child, was first elected to the city council in 2020, becoming the first Indian-American and Asian-American woman on the council. She has positioned herself as a progressive challenger focused on homelessness, housing affordability and city services, while Bass has highlighted her record on reducing street homelessness and the citys recovery from the January 2025 wildfires, including in Pacific Palisades. Policing has emerged as one of the sharpest lines of division in the race. Ramans plan to replace McDonnell has drawn criticism from Caruso and others who say the city needs stability at the top of the department, according to NBC Los Angeles. The Bass campaign did not immediately respond to the apology. A Raman victory would make her the first Indian-American mayor of Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States.
Kerala Infant Murder: Mother Held, Search On For Other Accused
Police in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, have arrested the mother of an eight-month-old girl, Manju, nearly three years after the infant was allegedly killed by a man who became angry when she cried. The baby's body was dumped in a marsh in August 2023, and two other accused, Sivan and Shakthi, are currently being sought.
Malayalam actor Soubin Shahirs 6,300-square-foot Kochi apartment combines lush greenery with earthy interiors inspired by Keralas traditional homes. The foyer features a fallen tree trunk as sculptural seating, surrounded by plants such as pandanus and papyrus. Soubin revealed how childhood memories of watering plants shaped his love for nature. The home also features black micro-cement flooring, woven cane details and a customised walnut dining table.
The United Nations designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The objective is to raise awareness about the role of women farmers. Generally, our higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir organize seminars, rallies, and other activities to mark important national and international days. However, to the best of my knowledge, no such celebrations have taken place so far in connection with this initiative. Chancellor of the universities Mr Manoj Sinha, has described campuses as hubs of ideas where every lecture becomes a doorway. Faculty members and students need to spend time in the countryside to experience the challenges and rewards of harvesting in Kashmir. Chairman Mao Zedong famously spoke of his education at the university of green forests. This article is a modest attempt to understand some of the issues concerning women farmers and their evolving identity. Definitional issues Women farmers are individuals engaged in agricultural activities such as crop cultivation, livestock management, horticulture, fisheries, food processing, and other farm-related operations. Their work extends from land preparation to harvesting, storage, processing, and marketing. The state of Maharashtra has taken a commendable step by introducing legislation that recognizes women farmers through an activity-based definition independent of land ownership. The Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, passed by Maharashtra in July 2026, grants women independent recognition as farmers irrespective of whether they own agricultural land. This legislation represents a significant shift from recognizing the owner of agricultural land to recognizing the person who actually cultivates it. Maharashtra has shown the way for other states in the Indian Union to follow. Earlier, the National Policy for Farmers, based on the recommendations of the National Commission on Farmers, had also broadened the definition of a farmer. The commission was chaired by the eminent agricultural scientist Dr. M. S. Swaminathan. The perception that only men can be farmers must therefore be abandoned. In 2025, agriculture employed approximately 110 million women and 127 million men, indicating that the gender gap in agricultural employment had narrowed considerably. There is an urgent need to remove loopholes in policymaking and institutional practices so that women are recognized as farmers in their own right. This would enable them to benefit from various welfare schemes offered by the Union and state governments in keeping with the spirit of the Indian Constitution. Founding mothers of the Indian republic In recent years, several noteworthy works on the Indian Constitution have questioned the use of the term Founding Fathers, a phrase rooted in the American tradition of recognizing a group of eminent men. These writings seek to bring greater visibility to the women who played noticeable roles in framing the Indian Constitution. A new book, Founding Mothers of the Indian Republic: Gender Politics of the Framing of the Constitution, by Achyut Chetan, sheds light on the contributions of Indian women who participated in the constitution-making process. It is heartening to note that Amrit Kaur, a member of the Constituent Assembly, emphasized the concept of constructive citizenship. Her approach sought to move beyond identifying and regulating women primarily as members of particular religious communities and instead recognize them as citizens of the new nation, enjoying equal legal status with men. Similarly, Dakshayani Velayudhan, the only Dalit woman in the Constituent Assembly, envisioned an educational role for the state in transforming a caste-ridden society into an independent and egalitarian Indian republic. Constitutional provisions Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. In the context of gender equality, this principle supports womens claims to equal treatment, dignity, and protection against discrimination. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on specified grounds, including sex, while Articles 15(3) and 15(4) empower the state to make special provisions for women and children and for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes and other constitutionally specified groups. Article 19(1)(g) guarantees citizens the right to practise any profession or carry on any occupation, trade, or business, subject to reasonable restrictions permitted by the Constitution. Article 42 directs the state to make provisions for securing just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief, thereby laying an important foundation for a just and equitable social order. Various state governments and Union Territories have introduced measures intended to strengthen womens participation in national development. The constitutional framework provides important guarantees and protections for women across different sections of society. Women farmers in Indian states The newly enacted Maharashtra legislation broadens the definition of a woman farmer to include women residents engaged in agriculture for at least one agricultural season in a year, irrespective of the nature of their landholding. The proposed Women Farmer Certificate explicitly recognizes categories such as landless cultivators, landless livestock rearers, agricultural labourers, plantation workers, and pastoralists. In principle, this creates a pathway through which women who do not own land can gain access to government welfare schemes and agricultural credit. In Kerala, women farmers play an important role in the agricultural economy and environmental sustainability through grassroots collectives. The Kudumbashree collective farming initiative organizes neighbourhood groups into Joint Liability Groups to cultivate fallow land. Meghalaya offers another interesting example. Approximately 48 per cent of women reportedly own land, a proportion higher than the national average. In some communities, the inheritance of family property by the youngest daughter reflects the states distinctive matrilineal traditions. These examples demonstrate that institutional recognition, collective organization, and property rights can strengthen womens participation in agriculture. The J&K Experience In May 2018, the then Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, announced a zero-stamp-duty policy for properties registered in the names of female family members. The initiative reflected the progressive spirit of the 1944 Naya Kashmir programme. However, the measure was short-lived and was revoked in 2019. It is worth noting that asset ownership in Jammu and Kashmir remains largely dominated by men. In terms of land ownership, only 23 per cent of women in the region reportedly hold property in their names, compared with 73 per cent of men. Despite these constraints, women farmers in Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly demonstrating their capabilities and emerging as a distinct and important category of agricultural entrepreneurs. Zainab Wani, a Kashmir-based freelance journalist, has brought several success stories to public attention under the theme Farm Heroines of Kashmir. She writes about how Kashmiri women such as Shaziya, Gulshana, and Tahira are transforming the Valleys agricultural landscape through determination, innovation, and a willingness to create employment opportunities where few previously existed. Shaziya, who holds LLB and LLM degrees and comes from a village in the Shopian area, oversees a dynamic agro-enterprise that functions more like an integrated ecosystem than a conventional farm. Her model emphasizes sustainability and avoids the use of fertilizers. Her work has been recognized by a zonal body of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Similarly, Gulshana, from Pulwama, has established a dairy farm and demonstrated how dedication and hard work can provide a model for others to emulate. She reportedly supplies more than 150,000 litres of milk annually. She has benefited from the National Livestock Mission, which, among other objectives, seeks to improve feed and breed quality across India. In Kulgam, Tahira, a young woman without land of her own, has demonstrated that even a small shed-sized space can become an important source of income through mushroom cultivation, potentially providing employment throughout the year. These encouraging stories demonstrate the potential of women farmers to transform local economies. The Jammu and Kashmir government must build on this momentum by taking further measures to support and empower them. The Way Forward The Jammu and Kashmir government should consider enacting a Women Farmers Empowerment Act along the lines of Maharashtras initiative. Globally, women continue to face substantial legal and institutional barriers to land ownership and inheritance. In India, women constitute a significant proportion of the agricultural workforce and self-employed agricultural workers, yet their ownership of agricultural land has historically remained disproportionately low. Anil Agarwal, chairman of Vedanta Limited, has argued that economies grow faster when women are empowered. The Jammu and Kashmir government could draw inspiration from Gujarats experience with women-operated Amul milk parlours in villages, adapting the model to local conditions and opportunities. Block Development Officers, working in partnership with Gram Sabhas and other local institutions, could invite women recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization as Women Heroes in Agrifood to share their experiences. Such interactions could inspire local women farmers and help disseminate effective agricultural practices. More than a hundred women around the world have received recognition through initiatives celebrating their pioneering contributions to agrifood systems. Women farmers should also receive childcare support to reduce their unpaid care burden and enable them to devote more time and energy to agricultural work. Through initiatives such as the Namo Drone Didi programme, women can be trained in drone operations, precision agriculture, and smart irrigation. Such skills could help improve productivity, reduce costs, and create new employment opportunities in rural areas. Jammu and Kashmir also faces an administrative challenge: its government machinery has relatively limited staffing in some critical service-delivery roles, while several institutions lack the technical expertise needed to implement complex development programmes effectively. The government must therefore rethink the role of the developmental state, ensuring that effective public services and ease of doing business extend to the village level. The author is a Kashmir-based political scientist.
Kochi pharma firm loses 99 lakh in alleged impersonation fraud
According to the FIR, the accused hacked a mobile phone used by the companys accounts department and managed to save a phone number as that of the CEO, using the WhatsApp display picture used by him
Row over SMA drug distribution in Keralam unwarranted, say experts
SAT Hospital authorities deny the claim of parents of SMA children that the drug given free of cost at the hospital clinic was an experimental drug. Hospital authorities say what was given was the generic version of Risdiplam, the patented original formula by Roche, now manufactured by the Indian firm Natco Pharma and which has been approved by drug regulatory bodies in the country
SC stays CMRL-Exalogic probe against Pinarayi Vijayan, daughter for a week
The Supreme Court has stayed the investigation into corruption FIRs against Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena T, and PA Mohammed Riyas. They are allowed to challenge a Kerala High Court order that prompted the registration of these FIRs. The court clarified that its observations do not reflect any opinion on the merits of the cases. It also expressed concern regarding the urgency with which the matter was taken to the high court.
Kerala Police to conduct intelligence-based operations against spas: Ravada Chandrasekhar
Probe under way into alleged sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl from Andhra Pradesh at a spa in Kovalam
India-Australia joint military exercise begins in capital
CMFRI launches open-sea mussel longline farming unit at Vizhinjam
Thiruvananthapuram Corporations dog shelters face opposition from nearby panchayats
Kuttichal panchayat comes out against a private dog shelter in which around 200 dogs from the Corporation are being housed
Weather tomorrow, October 22: The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, and Kerala and Mahe on October 22. Heavy rain is also likely in parts of Andhra Pradesh and Lakshadweep, while Karnataka and other regions may experience rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Check the state-wise weather forecast, rainfall alerts and warnings for tomorrow.
Man booked for alleged defamatory remarks against Aluva MLA
The accused has been booked on charges including criminal defamation
Student run over by train in Kozhikode
Police say she was attempting to cross the railway tracks when the Vande Bharat Express, travelling towards Thiruvananthapuram, struck her
Forest dept. all set to build elephant crossings on Gap Road in Idukki
Plan includes building three elephant underpasses, crossing ramps, culverts, and an animal over-bridge along the MunnarBodimettu section of NH 85 to safeguard elephant corridors and curb human-wildlife conflict. The NHAI has already sanctioned 6.96 crore for the project.
Mr. Shivakumar said people speaking Telugu from Andhra Pradesh, Malayalam from Keralam, and Tamil from Tamil Nadu were among those participating in the festival.
Mr. Shivakumar said people speaking Telugu from Andhra Pradesh, Malayalam from Keralam, and Tamil from Tamil Nadu were among those participating in the festival.
Jalaj Saxena equals Bishan Bedi as Kerala notch up innings win against Odisha
This was Jalajs 35th five-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy, a phenomenal number that puts him level with the great Bishan Singh Bedi for the joint fifth-most five-fors in the tournaments history. Odisha, meanwhile, became the 20th Ranji team he has taken five wickets against.
Around 8,000 children embark on their educational journey at Thiruvullakkavu temple in Thrissur on Vijayadashami; nearly 50 acharyas lead the Vidyarambham ceremony
Telangana, Keralam CMs attend grand Dasara celebrations in Mysuru
Mysuru: The world-renowned Mysuru Dasara celebrations ended in the palace city on Wednesday, October 21, with a spectacular Vijayadashami procession, the grand finale of the 11-day festivities. Celebrated as Nada Habba (state festival), the Dasara, or Sharan Navaratri, festivities were a grand affair this year, showcasing Karnatakas rich culture and traditions, reminiscent of royal pomp 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 .
MBBS first-year students get five attempts to clear exams
Till now, the total number of permitted attempts was four. Supplementary examinations to begin on November 9
Rock removal operations on KochiDhanushkodi NH continue in Munnar
Kerala High Court directs SBI to refund 3.73 lakh to victim of cyberfraud
The court observes that she is entitled to the refund as she reported the fraudulent transaction to the bank and the police within the prescribed time
Keralam to approach Centre for elevated KottayamKochi corridor
Ranji Trophy: Kerala, Mumbai and Hyderabad seal big wins
All set for panoramic rail travel on KollamSengottai line
Elampalloor panchayat expands Poshakatottam project to anganwadis
Mysuru Dussehra Concludes, Jambo Savari,Tableaux Enjoyed by Thousands
Keralam and Telangana Chief Ministers V D Satheesan and Revanth Reddy took part in the celebrations at the invitation of their Karnataka counterpart D K Shivakumar
TDB under fire from employees union over Sabarimala road repair delay
Traffic gridlocks have persisted along the Pampa-Chalakkayam route since the temple opened for the monthly puja season on October 17, 2026. Travancore Devaswom Employees Front flays TDB for alleged delay in granting permission for the Public Works department to repair the 4.5-km stretch
TDB under fire from employees union over Sabarimala road repair delay
Traffic gridlocks have persisted along the Pampa-Chalakkayam route since the temple opened for the monthly puja season on October 17, 2026. Travancore Devaswom Employees Front flays TDB for alleged delay in granting permission for the Public Works department to repair the 4.5-km stretch
Luhnu Cricket Ground: Tanay Thyagarajan finished with 11 wickets, after hitting an unbeaten half-century as Hyderabad thrashed Andhra by 267 runs in an Elite Group B Ranji Trophy match in Mulapadu on Wednesday. Thyagarajan, who had taken five wickets in Andhra's first innings, returned to claim six more as Andhra, set 398 to win, were dismissed for 130. He was named Player of the Match for the second game running, after having won the award against Tripura last week. In Thiruvananthapuram, veteran off-spinner Jalaj Saxena's five-wicket haul helped Kerala beat Odisha by an innings and 36 runs in Elite Group C game. Following on, Odisha resumed on 102/4, and Kerala needed just 23.3 overs on the fourth morning to bowl them out for 143. Mumbai completed their second successive bonus-point win, beating Himachal Pradesh by an innings and 97 runs in Elite Group D at the Luhnu Cricket Ground in Bilaspur, with pacer Mohit Avasthi taking 5-44. Trailing by 388 on the first innings and made to follow on, Himachal resumed on 144/3 and dragged the contest into the second session of the final day. Vaibhav Kalta (63) and Pukhraj Mann (50) offered stout resistance, but Mumbai's experienced attack eventually bowled the hosts out for 291. In New Chandigarh, Aayush Pandey's gritty 111 could not prevent Chhattisgarh from slipping to a seven-wicket defeat to Punjab. Forced to follow on, Chhattisgarh resumed on 123/3 and, on the back of Pandey's century and some handy lower-order runs, posted 335. That left Punjab a target of just 86, which they reached in 16.5 overs, with captain Uday Saharan unbeaten on 40. In the Plate Group, Meghalaya edged Manipur by three runs in a nail-biting finish in Shillong. Chasing 276, Manipur were bowled out for 272 despite half-centuries from Karnajit Yumnam and Rex Rajkumar. Kevin Christopher (3-31), Abhishek Kumar (3-64) and Aryan Bora (2-59) shared the wickets for Meghalaya. In Pune, Shikhar Mohan's 127 led a determined rearguard as Jharkhand batted out on the final day to draw with Maharashtra, who took the first-innings lead and three points. Resuming on 130/1 and still 228 runs behind, Jharkhand finished on 344/8. Utkarsh Singh (58 off 139 balls), Aditya Singh (50 off 159 balls) and Virat Singh (41 off 135 balls) all played long, patient knocks to deny the hosts a shot at victory. Off-spinner Hrithik Shokeen picked up 5-143 as hosts Delhi settled for three points after securing a 169-run first-innings lead over Gujarat in a drawn Elite Group C contest at the Palam 'B' ground. Having won the toss and declared at 648/6, Delhi bowled Gujarat out for 479 after the visitors resumed on 363/5. Following on, Gujarat were 15/1 when the two sides agreed to call it a draw. In Jaipur, an unbeaten century from Mohammad Saif helped Railways save their game against Rajasthan. Railways resumed on 305/6 in their first innings but were bowled out for 338, conceding a lead of 159, with Kukna Ajay Singh taking four wickets. Asked to bat again, they reached 176/2 by stumps as Saif (103 not out) and Eshaan Goyal (59 not out) shared an unbroken 157-run stand for the third wicket. Spinner Parth Bhut claimed eight wickets in the match and was named Player of the Match as Saurashtra took three points from their drawn Elite Group B clash against Karnataka thanks to taking first-innings lead. Resuming on 99/2, Karnataka declared their second innings at 243/7 in 64.1 overs. KL Shrijith made 52 off 76 balls with five fours, KV Aneesh also reached a half-century, and Karun Nair (37) and Manvanth Kumar (31) added useful runs. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Set 237 to win, Saurashtra comfortably batted out the remaining overs to finish on 137/2 in 42 overs. Chirag Jani anchored the effort with an unbeaten 63 off 117 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes, while Hetvik Kotak made 25 and Jay Gohil was not out on 22. Manvanth and Shreyas Gopal took a wicket apiece for Karnataka. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Fake cash offer link: Milma files police complaint
Milma officials said they have filed a police complaint and has also moved legally to take down the fake links that are being circulated.
Supreme Court stays Kerala Police probe against Pinarayi Vijayan, family for seven days
The Supreme Court has stayed for seven days the Kerala Police investigation into the CMRL-Exalogic corruption FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, T. Veena and P.A. Mohamed Riyas, directing the Kerala High Court to hear their appeals.
Mumbai Dominates Himachal Pradesh in Ranji Trophy 2026-27, Four Matches Conclude on Final Day
Mumbai thrashes Himachal Pradesh by an innings and 97 runs in the Ranji Trophy 2026-27, while Kerala and Punjab also secure impressive victories. Mumbai Dominates Himachal Pradesh in Ranji Trophy 2026-27, Four Matches Conclude on Final Day
The commission ruled that the non-refundable ticket condition did not absolve the parties of their responsibility for failing to arrange the trip properly and communicate the cancellation in advance.
Orange Alert in Five Keralam Districts As Rain Lashes State
Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam are under orange alert, with isolated very heavy rainfall likely over the next 24 hours, the India Meteorological Department said in its latest update
Kerala BJP accuses Congress of shielding Pinarayi Vijayan in CMRL corruption case
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 21 (IANS) The Kerala BJP on Wednesday accused the Congress and the CPI(M) of working in tandem to protect former chief minister and Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL corruption case, questioning why Chief Minister V.D. Satheesans government was reluctant to defend in court a case registered by its own Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). State BJP president and MLA Rajeev Chandrasekhar said the Supreme Court on Wednesday had not quashed the FIR or stayed the Enforcement Directorates proceedings in the case, and therefore could not be projected by the CPI(M) as a major victory for Vijayan. The apex court directed the division bench of the Kerala High Court to hear his appeal, which was disallowed earlier this month. The investigation had been suspended for only seven days to enable the Kerala High Court to consider Vijayans appeal, Chandrasekhar said, adding that the Supreme Court had also questioned why the state government had not filed an appeal. Why are V.D. Satheesan and the UDF government trying to save Pinarayi Vijayan from the CMRL corruption case? Chandrasekhar asked, alleging a national-level understanding between the Congress and the CPI(M) to protect the former chief minister. The BJP leader also questioned the silence of the Congress and the Indian Union Muslim League on the issue, pointing to what he described as a contradiction between the Congress campaign rhetoric and its present position. Rahul Gandhi had said during his election campaign in Kerala that Vijayan should go to jail, Chandrasekhar recalled. However, the Congress was now unwilling even to take a position in court, he alleged. Describing this as part of Rahul Gandhis politics of deception, Chandrasekhar said the latest Supreme Court order had strengthened the BJPs allegation that the Congress was protecting Pinarayi at the direct instructions of its national leadership. The state BJP chief further claimed that the CPI(M) was now dependent on the Congress goodwill, arguing that the two parties, despite being political rivals in Kerala, were acting together to protect each others interests. The Congress and the CPI(M) have ceased to be two separate parties in Kerala and have become one, he said. The remarks come amid the continuing legal proceedings linked to the alleged financial dealings between Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) and Exalogic Solutions, a company linked to Vijayans daughter, T. Veena. The case has emerged as a major political flashpoint, with the BJP seeking to portray the Congress response as evidence of an understanding between the two parties. The Supreme Courts interim order, however, does not amount to a final decision on the allegations against Vijayan, with the legal proceedings continuing.
KCC triennial assembly to begin in Kollam on October 27
Mysuru Dasara: Shivakumar flags off Jamboo Savari
Digital Desk | Mysuru, Oct 21 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday evening accorded floral tributes to the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed in the 750-kg golden howdah at the Mysuru Palace, marking the commencement of the historic 417th Jamboo Savari procession as part of the Mysuru Dasara celebrations. The ritual was performed at the auspicious Shubha Meena Lagna on the palace premises, marking the commencement of the grand procession. Thousands of people gathered at the Mysuru Palace, where they had been waiting since morning for the moment, cheered and raised slogans in praise of Goddess Chamundeshwari. Shivakumar's wife, Usha Shivakumar, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, Minister for Urban Development and Mysuru district in-charge Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Tangadgi, Mysuru Police Commissioner Seema Latkar, Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, Mysuru royal scion and BJP MP Yaduveer Wadiyar, and Deputy Commissioner Lakshmikantha Reddy were among those present on the occasion. The idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari was adorned in a green saree for the procession, one of the major attractions of the Mysuru Dasara celebrations. This year, the golden howdah was placed on elephant Captain Prashanth, who has participated in the Jamboo Savari procession 16 times. However, this is the first time he has led the procession carrying the golden howdah bearing the idol of the presiding deity. Twelve well-trained elephants are participating in this year's Jamboo Savari. Captain Prashanth is being flanked on either side by the kumki elephants Roopa and Cauvery. The Jamboo Savari, the grand finale of the Mysuru Dasara festivities, draws lakhs of people to the cultural capital of Karnataka every year. Jamboo Savari is the grand finale procession of Mysuru Dasara, Karnataka's 10-day state festival on Vijayadashami. It features the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed inside a 750 kg golden howdah carried by a caparisoned elephant from the Mysore Palace to Bannimantap. Decorated elephants, police bands, military cavalry, folk dancers, and colourful government tableaux will lead the procession. The parade concludes at Bannimantap with a traditional Torchlight Parade. The Vijayadashami procession got underway in the city of palaces on Wednesday morning, marking the grand finale of the 11-day Mysuru Dussehra festivities. Celebrated as 'Nada Habba' (state festival), the Dussehra, or 'Sharan Navaratri', festivities were a grand affair this year, showcasing Karnataka's rich culture and traditions, reminiscent of royal pomp and glory.
No light at the end of the tunnel for KAS rank-holders
In the Assembly, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan cited a July 27 Chief Secretary meeting, saying no appointments can proceed because the vacancies created for deputation are temporary and not permanent, while rank-holders contend similar deputation provisions exist in other states and that Cabinet clearance, promised by the government, has stalled for over a month.
Rains lash Keralam, IMD issues orange alert for 5 districts
Thiruvananthapuram: Several parts of Keralam received rain accompanied by thunder and lightning on Wednesday, October 21, with the IMD issuing an orange alert in five districts and a yellow alert in five others. Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam are under orange alert, with isolated very heavy rainfall likely over the next 24 hours, the 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 .
CMRL bribery case: SC pauses probe against ex-CM Vijayan for a week
New Delhi: In a temporary relief to former Keralam chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the Supreme Court on Wednesday, October 21, stayed for a week the investigation against him, his daughter and her husband in the alleged Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) bribery case. A vacation bench of justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana permitted 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 .
Non-monsoon timetable comes into effect on Konkan route
Sabarimala pilgrimage: KSRTC to deploy over 1,000 buses
A total of 461 buses will be arranged for Mandala pooja and 561 for Makaravilakku, in addition to leased vehicles. Special services will run from major depots across the State to key hubs like Pampa and Nilakkal, and chartered trips will be arranged through the Budget Tourism Cell.
Orange alert for 4 Keralam districts amid heavy rain warning
Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram have been placed on a yellow alert.
Odisha Man Arrested In Keralam Rape Case
Keralam police have arrested Siddhab Gamidanga, 24, from Odisha in connection with a rape case in Ernakulam. He allegedly sexually assaulted the complainant, took nude photos, and threatened to circulate them. He fled to Odisha after the case was registered but was traced and brought back to Keralam on a transit warrant.
Kochis waste management facilities under scanner after Perumbavoor yard fire
There are around 15 non-biodegradable waste management companies empanelled by the Suchitwa Mission, including the one which was gutted in fire, while several unauthorised firms also operate in the secto
Ganja Smuggler Arrested In Kochi With 20 Kg Contraband
Kochi City police seized approximately 20 kg of ganja in Eloor and arrested Sukhchand Sekh, a West Bengal native, for allegedly smuggling the contraband from Odisha to Keralam via Karnataka using a specially fabricated train compartment.
Kerala Pursues Central Government Assistance For Thiruvananthapuram City's Infrastructure Projects
Sanju Samsons Kerala home is the epitome of elegant and serene. Although the home costs crores, the decor is minimalistic and warm, avoiding excess yet looking cosy. The talented cricketers abode is a testament that sometimes, prioritising a subdued, cosy look with warm, muted shades can also make your house appear elegant.
Pinarayi Vijayan Gets 7-Day Relief In Bribery Case, CPI(M), BJP Trade Charges
The Supreme Court clarified that the FIR would remain intact and that the Kerala High Court was free to independently consider the appeal and decide whether any further interim relief should be granted.
SC Stays CMRL Case Probe Against Pinarayi, Others for a Week
A bench of Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana allowed Vijayan and others to approach the division bench of the Kerala High Court against a single judge order
SC grants 7-day relief to Pinarayi Vijayan, family in CMRL-Exalogic case
A Bench of Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana stayed the investigation into the FIR registered by the Kerala Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) for seven days, allowing the petitioners to approach the High Court's Division Bench and seek interim relief
UDF using political power to target SFI leaders in Kozhikode: CPI(M)
Non-bailable sections under the BNS were invoked against SFI district leaders related to a campus incident, says CPI(M) district secretariat
Children in Kochi begin formal learning on Vijayadashami as CM Satheesan leads event
Holding the hands of around 25 children at the ceremony in Kochi, the CM guided them to write Harishree in Malayalam with their index finger on rice-filled platters
CMRL bribery case: SC stays for a week probe against former Keralam CM Pinarayi Vijayan, others
The Supreme Court issued a one-week stay on the investigation involving former Keralam chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his family. This stay allows Vijayan and his family to appeal against a recent High Court order. The Kerala High Court had previously rejected their application to challenge the order directing the investigation. Allegations against them involve fraudulent payments made to Veena's company for IT consultancy services.
SC Stays CMRL Bribery Probe Against Vijayan
The Supreme Court has temporarily halted the investigation into the alleged CMRL bribery case involving former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena T, and son-in-law P A Mohamed Riyas. This decision allows them to appeal a Kerala High Court order that had previously rejected their applications to challenge a directive for an FIR. The case stems from allegations of fraudulent payments made by CMRL to Veena's company.
SC sets aside Kerala HC order in CMRL payoff case, stays FIR probe for 7 days
The Supreme Court clarified that it had made no observations on the merits of the FIR. It also refrained from expressing any opinion on the validity of a subsequent Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered against the petitioners
Man repeatedly sent unsuitable matrimony profiles; commission orders Rs 37,000 relief
A consumer commission in Kerala has criticized a matrimonial agency for not fulfilling its service promises. The agency engaged in unfair trade practices, deceiving clients into buying pricier packages. In response to a complaint by Akhil Vinod, the commission mandated a refund and additional compensation. They highlighted the importance of matrimonial agencies transparently detailing their services to prevent consumer deception.
Low-Cost SMA Drugs in Keralam Follow Expert Advice: K Muraleedharan
On the issue of medicines labelled 'doctor's sample' and 'for clinical trials' being given to SMA patients, Muraleedharan said that no written complaints have been received
Kerala Agro Machinery Corporation (KAMCO) has invited online applications for 7 vacancies, including Machinist/ Turner/ CNC Operator and Tractor Mechanic/ Fitter posts. Applications can be submitted at asapkerala.gov.in till 25 October 2026.
Real-time air pollution monitoring stations in Keralams Vyttila and Kaloor non-functional
Officials said that manual testing of air pollution levels is being carried out; the third station at Eloor is functional, though its annual maintenance contract had expired a year ago
