Traders forum in Keralam to boycott UPI transactions on October 15
Kerala HC directs Kochi Corporation to complete rectification work on S.A. Road within four months
The court says a revised estimate that was not communicated earlier cannot justify delaying the work
Thachankary contends that the prosecution had miscalculated his rental income, property income, payments made by his relatives, and properties acquired by his wife
ED inventing new stories as old ones have crumbled, says CPI(M) Keralam secretary M.V. Govindan
He says ED attempting to pursue Exalogic-CMRL pay-off case using the Congress-led United Democratic Front government, having realised that it does not have enough material to proceed
Warehouse storing plastic products gutted at Veerakeralam in Coimbatore
In an affidavit before High Court, govt. says the circular was not intended to prohibit the practice of any religion or to curtail the religious rights that the Constitution guaranteed
Eight MLA wards gain attention as local body bypolls near in Keralam
These wards fell vacant following the election of incumbent representatives to the State Assembly
Eight MLA wards gain attention as local body bypolls near in Keralam
These wards fell vacant following the election of incumbent representatives to the State Assembly
Devikulam range in Keralams Idukki witnesses three deaths due to wild elephant attack in four months
Devikulam range in Keralams Idukki witnesses three deaths due to wild elephant attack in four months
SFI secures massive victory in Kerala University union elections
SFI wins 29 out of 31 contested colleges in Thiruvananthapuram district, wresting control of four significant campuses from the KSU. The elections at two colleges were postponed due to disputes over nominations, leading to a dramatic standoff between both sides.
Keralam effects reshuffle in Forest department
Several senior Indian Forest Service officers have been reassigned
Keralas GST department reveals 7.56 crore tax evasion linked to railway parking services, intensifying enforcement actions. Kerala Government Uncovers 7.56 Crore GST Evasion in Parking Services
The service was stopped following an order from the Beypore Port Officer after a social worker complained to the District Collector that the existing ferry was old and being operated after temporary repairs, posing a potential safety risk. The Collector subsequently directed the authorities to inquire into the complaint and submit a report
CPI Keralam secretary Binoy Viswam slams LDF for discriminatory policies
Accuses the previous administration of adopting double standards towards toddy shops and bars in Keralam
Amendments made to industrial land allotment regulations in Keralam
To facilitate optimal utilisation of industrial assets subleasing in industrial parks and estates will now be permitted for a maximum of 10 years subject to certain conditions. Renewal of sublease will require new written approval of KINFRA or KSIDC, the land allotment agencies
Kochi to host 13th edition of Kerala Travel Mart on September 24th
Of the total, 1,200 buyers will attend as hosted buyers, while 300 will participate as non-hosted buyers, taking the total to 1,500 buyers
Keralam Forms Anti-Narcotics Team to Intensify Operation Toofan
At a press conference, Chennithala said the special team will operate through three dedicated units based in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode.
Kerala CM cracks down on GST evasion, Rs 7.56 crore unearthed
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) The Satheesan government has stepped up its crackdown on tax evasion, with the State GST Department detecting alleged evasion of Rs 7.56 crore in vehicle parking services at railway stations across Kerala. The Chief Minister's office brought the evasion to light on Friday. The GST Intelligence and Enforcement wing detected the evasion during a statewide operation on September 16. Officials inspected 69 locations linked to 22 taxpayers providing parking services on railway premises. The inspections covered their main business premises, residences, and additional business locations. The department found that the turnover declared in GST returns was substantially lower than the actual revenue generated from parking services. Preliminary investigation indicated suppression of turnover worth Rs 42 crore and tax evasion of Rs 7.56 crore. The inspections also detected the use of multiple QR codes to collect payments. Investigators collected transaction details for 13 taxpayers from software systems, while obtaining information for others from books, registers, and mobile phone chats. The investigation is continuing, and the operation is set to widen beyond railway stations. The State GST Intelligence wing has collected details of more than 1,000 vehicle parking facilities operating at KSRTC premises, hospitals, shopping malls, and theatres across the state. Further inspections will be conducted at locations where tax evasion is suspected. The action comes as the government seeks to strengthen revenue collection by plugging leakages and bringing more transactions into the tax net. Satheesan, who also holds the Finance Ministers portfolio, is overseeing the states revenue administration. The government has invited the public to report suspected tax evasion in the parking sector confidentially. Information can be sent to inform.sgst@kerala.gov.in. The State GST Commissioner said enforcement and investigation against establishments involved in tax evasion would be strengthened. The railway parking operation could therefore be the first phase of a wider exercise. With more than 1,000 parking facilities already identified for scrutiny, the GST department is preparing to extend its tax-evasion hunt to other high-footfall parking centres across Kerala.
Mumps cases reported in parts of Keralams Thrissur; DMO urges public to stay vigilant
Children aged 5 to 15 most vulnerable; patients advised to stay home and avoid contact with others
Kerala Tourism showcases unique offerings at Arabian Travel Market 2026
Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunadh interacts with Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, UAE, and Abdulla Niyas, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Maldives
Kerala University imposes blanket ban on campus politics under new code of conduct
Regulations introduce strict disciplinary mechanisms, swift inquiry timelines and severe financial liabilities on political organisations
Keralam mulls floating solar projects to meet power demands: Minister Sunny Joseph
The power crisis can be addressed with innovative projects that are feasible given the States unique geographical and climatic conditions, Sunny Joseph said
Former Keralam DGP Tomin Thachankary Sentenced 4 Years in Prison
Thachankary was sentenced to four years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 30.84 lakh for amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. He was later shifted to Poojappura Central Jail
Kerala Crime Branch armed with legal opinion, PSC faces fresh test
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) The standoff between the Kerala Crime Branch and the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) over alleged irregularities in the State Planning Board examinations appears headed for a fresh confrontation after the investigating agency secured a legal opinion backing its authority to question PSC members. According to sources, the legal opinion states that the constitutional status enjoyed by the PSC does not exempt its chairman or members from appearing before investigating officers at a venue specified by the probe agency. The Crime Branch is expected to formally communicate the opinion to the Commission in the coming days. The latest development could compel the PSC to reconsider its earlier stand that its members need not appear at the Crime Branch headquarters for questioning. The Commission had argued that its members occupy constitutional positions and had instead offered to facilitate recording of their statements at the PSC office. The PSC had also cited an earlier Kerala High Court order that granted relief to PSC officials when they were asked to appear before a Legislative Assembly committee. However, the Crime Branch has maintained that constitutional status does not provide immunity from a criminal investigation and that PSC members are duty-bound to cooperate with the probe. The latest legal opinion is widely seen as strengthening the Crime Branch's position in the ongoing tussle. The PSC is now expected to examine its legal options, with the possibility of seeking judicial intervention if it decides to challenge the investigating agency's stand. The dispute stems from an investigation into alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the PSC for senior posts in the State Planning Board. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Crime Branch has reportedly detected serious lapses in the conduct and evaluation of the examinations and recommended a review of appointments made on the basis of the test. Investigators are also examining whether the irregularities were procedural in nature or part of a deliberate attempt to favour certain candidates. The SIT has already issued notices to the PSC chairman and its members for questioning. One member, S.A. Saif, failed to appear before the Crime Branch on September 15 despite being directed to do so. What began as a probe into alleged examination irregularities has now evolved into a broader contest over the extent of the PSC's constitutional protections and the powers of criminal investigators. With the Crime Branch armed with a favourable legal opinion, the focus now shifts to how the PSC responds.
CPIs Binoy Viswam Criticises Previous LDF Govt Over Liquor Policy
Viswam questioned the logic behind the different distance limits prescribed for toddy shops and bars from schools and religious places in Keralam under the previous LDF government's liquor policy
With just a day left for contract to end, Kerala CM Satheesan caught in bind over chopper politics
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) Kerala's government helicopter is once again at the centre of a political storm and this time the decision is sitting on Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan's desk. The lease of the helicopter hired during the previous LDF government expires on Saturday, September 19. The State Police Chief has already recommended extending the contract, leaving Chief Minister Satheesan to decide whether the chopper should continue flying or finally be grounded. The DGP has reportedly recommended continuing it at the existing rate for another two years. The irony is hard to miss. When Pinarayi Vijayan was Chief Minister and Satheesan was Leader of the Opposition, the Congress leader had repeatedly attacked the helicopter arrangement, questioning the wisdom of spending Rs 80 lakh a month on a government chopper when the state was facing financial pressures. In 2023, Satheesan criticised the monthly rental for the helicopter, which covered a fixed number of flying hours. Then the political seats changed. Satheesan became Chief Minister and Vijayan became Leader of the Opposition. And when Satheesan took his first flight in the government helicopter, the Left Opposition was quick to remind him of his own words from the Opposition benches. However, Chief Minister Satheesan's defence was equally pointed, whether he flew or not, the government had to pay the contracted monthly rent until September 19. The helicopter was already under lease and flying it within the contracted hours did not mean any additional expenditure, he argued. In other words, the chopper had already been paid for, so it might as well fly. Now comes the more uncomfortable part. The police want the helicopter to stay. The DGP has cited its usefulness during emergencies, including disaster response and other urgent operations, and has recommended renewal. The existing arrangement costs Rs 80 lakh a month for the contracted flying hours, with additional charges for flying beyond the stipulated limit. That puts Chief Minister Satheesan in the hot seat. If he renews the contract, the Left can point back to his Opposition era criticism of the very arrangement he is now allowing to continue. If he scraps it, the police will have to do without a dedicated helicopter and the government may have to depend on fresh hiring whenever an emergency arises. So the helicopter that once gave Chief Minister Satheesan political ammunition against Vijayan has now handed him a political dilemma of his own. The chopper may be running out of flying hours under the present contract. But its political mileage appears nowhere near exhausted.
Thrissur tops Keralam in Oxford Economics Global Cities Index
Cultural capital ranks seventh among Indian cities, while New York retains global top spot
Kerala Government to Launch Knowledge Valley and Research Park to Boost Higher Education
Kerala plans to establish a Knowledge Valley and Research Park to enhance its status as a global education hub, as announced by the Higher Education Minister. Kerala Government to Launch Knowledge Valley and Research Park to Boost Higher Education
From a modest Kurichya tribal settlement in Wayanad and a four-kilometre walk to school, Sreedhanya Suresh has risen to become Keralas first tribal woman district collector.
Kerala: CPI intensifies criticism of Pinarayi and LDF after poll defeat
Digital Desk | Kottayam, Sep 18 (IANS) The Communist Party of India (CPI), the second-largest constituent of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), is turning up the heat on its larger ally CPI(M) in the aftermath of the Lefts crushing defeat in the Assembly elections. CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam has now trained his guns directly on the previous LDF government and former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, accusing the government of failing to protect the toddy industry and its traditional workers. His latest attack comes as the LDF, now in Opposition, is under pressure to explain why it lost several of its traditional strongholds. The CPI(M) itself faced sharp criticism over the electoral debacle at its recent extended state committee meeting. On Friday, speaking at the state conference of the Kerala State Toddy Workers Federation (AITUC) in Vaikom, Viswam said the CPI had repeatedly raised the toddy sectors problems at LDF meetings. The CPI had sought a reduction in the 400-metre distance restriction for toddy shops from places of worship and educational institutions. But the government did not act, he said. At the same time, the distance restriction for bars was reduced to 50 metres. This amounted to two different standards for toddy shops and bars, Viswam alleged. He said Vijayan had admitted at an LDF meeting that the CPIs demand was justified, but nothing was done during the governments five-year term. It is not enough to say that something will be corrected. It has to be corrected, Viswam said. The CPI leader also delivered a broader message on the election defeat. He said the LDF must conduct an honest introspection. Even the Lefts own people did not vote for it in the election, he claimed. The fact that party workers did not vote for the LDF was wrong, he said, but the leadership must also ask why they reached that point. Did we give our comrades enough importance? Did we listen to them? Did we understand them? Viswam asked. He said the LDF should not have lost traditional strongholds such as Vaikom, Taliparamba, Payyannur, Kodungallur and Ambalappuzha. Defeat is defeat. If there was a failure, we must admit that it was a failure, he said. The remarks underline the CPIs growing insistence that the Left cannot explain away the electoral setback without examining the previous government's functioning and its relationship with its own cadre and supporters. For the CPI(M), already facing an internal debate over responsibility for the defeat, the latest criticism from its principal ally adds another layer to the post-poll reckoning.
Kerala Government Launches Major Initiative Against Drug Trafficking with Special Investigation Team
Keralas government expands its anti-drug campaign, forming a special investigation team to tackle international drug networks. Kerala Government Launches Major Initiative Against Drug Trafficking with Special Investigation Team
PM Modi fostering resilience, innovation to achieve Viksit Bharat@2047: Rajnath Singh
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 18 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is serving the nation with a special focus on fostering resilience, innovation and a sense of national identity among citizens to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Speaking at an event in Kochi, Kerala, the Defence Minister asserted that before 2014, India faced challenges such as corruption and misgovernance, which had weakened the morale of the people, and the nations progress in the last 12 years has been shaped by its ability to convert challenges into opportunities. Over the last 12 years, the world has faced a pandemic such as Covid-19 and witnessed several wars, which have had a profound impact on the global economy. Despite global challenges, we are moving steadily on the path towards becoming a self-reliant and developed nation, he said. Rajnath Singh stated that Operation Sindoor is proof of Indias willingness to cross the border to eliminate those who threaten the sovereignty and integrity of the country. He added that Maoism, too, has been brought to an end. On the governments aim to continuously bolster indigenous capabilities, the minister stated that indigenous defence production, which was just Rs 40,000 crore in 2014, has now reached nearly Rs 1.80 lakh crore. He added that defence exports have risen from nearly Rs 600 crore to around Rs 40,000 crore, with Indian equipment reaching around 100 countries. Voicing the nations resolve to work tirelessly towards its goals with courage and determination, Rajnath Singh described youth as the countrys greatest strength. Our youth are building start-ups, creating unicorns, developing drones, building hydrogen trains, and making rockets and satellites. They are leaving no stone unturned to make India a developed nation, he said. Rajnath Singh emphasised the importance of making the younger generation more aware of Indias history, culture and heritage. He said greater awareness among youth would contribute to stronger national consciousness and help build confidence in Indias place in the world. He called upon the youth to contribute to Indias economic, social and technological transformation, saying that a confident, capable and socially inclusive India can emerge as a developed nation and play a greater role in shaping the future of the world. On the crucial role of media in todays times, the Defence Minister stated that journalism is rightly called the fourth pillar of democracy, terming an independent and impartial press as one of the strongest instruments for ensuring accountability. The role of the media is not merely to report the news. It is also to ask difficult questions, bring the truth before the people, and hold those in power accountable, he said.
Kerala Government Considers Floating Solar and Storage Solutions Amid Energy Crisis
Kerala faces a severe energy crisis, prompting the government to explore floating solar projects and storage options to meet rising demand. Kerala Government Considers Floating Solar and Storage Solutions Amid Energy Crisis
Kerala PSC Final Answer Key 2026 - Download Assistant Public Prosecutor Grade II
Kerala PSC Final Answer Key 2026 has been released on 17 September for Assistant Public Prosecutor Grade II and Project Officer exams. Download the final answer key PDFs, check exam dates, question paper codes, and answer details here.
Kerala govt to roll out knowledge valley, research park
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) Kerala will roll out a Knowledge Valley and Research Park to turn the state into a global knowledge hub, Higher Education Minister Roji M. John said here on Friday. The project will build on Keralas existing higher education and research base, seek greater participation from the private sector and explore partnerships with international universities. The proposal was discussed at a roundtable on the concluding day of the three-day Reimagining Keralam event. John and Higher Education Principal Secretary B. Ashok led the discussions. John said the project would not be another standalone institution but would create a platform linking education, research, industry and global opportunities. The aim, he added, was to create economic value and more opportunities for young people. Ashok emphasised that the focus should be on converting Keralas research capabilities into practical applications and economic opportunities. The proposed Research Park will have strong links with industry, provide shared advanced infrastructure and centres of excellence, and support technology transfer, prototyping and deep-tech development. Participants stressed the need for closer links between universities, research institutions and industry, saying research should move beyond conventional academic structures. They suggested PhD programmes could give greater importance to real-world problems and industry-linked research instead of being largely dissertation-based. Healthcare research was cited as one area where industry partnerships could help. Such links could turn research into products, services and commercial opportunities. A large amount of academic research in Kerala remains underused. Participants proposed a systematic review of postgraduate dissertations to identify promising research. Artificial intelligence could be used for initial screening, followed by expert assessment. Retired professors could also be involved in reviewing and developing promising research. The Knowledge Valley could be linked to the Centres University Township programme, bringing domestic and international universities together with shared laboratories and infrastructure. A global virtual classroom was another proposal. Participants also proposed a knowledge audit to map Keralas research institutions, expertise, infrastructure and intellectual assets. Kerala has about 47 research institutions working in areas including space, agriculture and minerals, which could become part of the proposed knowledge network. The project will also explore the use of underutilised spaces in existing colleges and universities, reducing the need to create new physical infrastructure. The government wants the initiative to produce measurable results over the next five to ten years and create a distinctive knowledge-led growth model for Kerala.
Ramesh Chennithala defends actions of Kerala Policethat raided the office of Reporter TV and maintains that the governments approach has been entirely transparent
Operation Toofan enters second phase, takes fight to grassroots: Chennithala
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) The Kerala government is taking its anti-drug campaign Operation Toofan to the ward level, while setting up a specialised investigation team to go after high-value narcotics networks with inter-state and international links, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced on Friday. Home Minister Chennithala said an Anti-Narcotics Investigation Team has begun functioning. The team, headed by Toofan nodal officer and North IG Putt Vimaladitya, will have three units based in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. Each unit will comprise 10 police personnel, including a DySP, two Circle Inspectors, two Sub-Inspectors, and other officers. The specialised teams will focus on high-value drug trafficking cases and networks with links outside Kerala and abroad. The government said the move was aimed at making investigations more scientific, focused and coordinated, particularly in cases involving major suppliers and sources. At the other end of the campaign, the government will establish Toofan Jana Jagratha Samitis at ward level in association with the Local Self-Government Department. The committees will involve elected representatives, Kudumbashree members, ASHA workers, Haritha Karma Sena, youth organisations and other community groups. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will inaugurate the state-level launch of the ward-level initiative at Vengara in Malappuram on September 28. Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty will preside. The second phase will also shift greater emphasis towards reducing demand and rehabilitation, besides continuing the crackdown on supply. Under Toofan Care, around 35 major hospitals have expressed willingness to join the programme, while a rehabilitation protocol will be implemented with the Indian Medical Association. A Toofan app is also being developed to enable people caught in drug abuse to seek help and speak openly about their problems. Amrita University's IT division is providing technical support. Chennithala said Operation Toofan had brought down drug supplies to Kerala by 20 to 30 per cent, according to the government's assessment. The operation, he said, had now moved beyond distributors and was reaching the sources of supply. Those who provided financial assistance to the accused for purchasing drugs will also face action, Chennithala said, indicating that the investigation would extend beyond the immediate drug suppliers to the financial network supporting the trade.
Keralam LSGD Minister KM Shaji Under Fire For Using Luxury SUV
The Indian Union Muslim League leader, has said he would not claim even a rupee from the government for travelling in the Range Rover belonging to his friend
MDMA trail reaches classroom: college teacher held in Keralams Nilambur
The arrest comes amid growing concern over the alleged involvement of teachers in drugs-related activities. Earlier, three teachers were arrested in Kozhikode in a case involving synthetic drugs
MDMA trail reaches classroom: college teacher held in Keralams Nilambur
The arrest comes amid growing concern over the alleged involvement of teachers in drugs-related activities. Earlier, three teachers were arrested in Kozhikode in a case involving synthetic drugs
Keralam reclaims over 120 acres from legacy waste landfills
Remediation completed at 29 out of 59 legacy dump sites so far
New Anti-Narcotics Team Launched In Kerala
Kerala has formed a new Anti-Narcotics Investigation Team to intensify its anti-drug drive, Operation Toofan. This team will focus on high-value drug cases with interstate and international connections, operating from three units across the state. The announcement follows significant drug seizures and arrests, including a major MDMA haul and the apprehension of key network members involved in other serious crimes.
Keralam forms Anti-Narcotic Investigation Team as Operation Toofan set to enter second phase
Four arrested in interstate drug case
Palestine ambassador meets Keralam CM, discusses bilateral ties
New Delhi: Palestine Ambassador to India Abdullah M Abu Shawesh on Friday, September 18, met Chief Minister V D Satheesan and discussed possible programmes between the West Asian country and Keralam. Speaking to reporters after the meeting held in New Delhi, Abu Shawesh said it was his first meeting with Satheesan and described it as 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 .
Reporter TV Managing Editor Anto Augustine denied bail in alcohol seizure case
The alcohol recovery was made during an investigation on the alleged sports scam on bringing Messi and Argentina team for a friendly match to Keralam
Kerala Court denies bail to Reporter TV MD Anto Augustine in liquor possession case
A Kerala court on Friday denied bail to Reporter TV Managing Director Anto Augustine, who was arrested in connection with a case alleging possession of liquor beyond the permissible limit under the Kerala Abkari Act. Judicial First Class Magistrate Adheena Biju at Sulthan Bathery had remanded Augustine to 14 days judicial custody late Thursday night. [] The post Kerala Court denies bail to Reporter TV MD Anto Augustine in liquor possession case appeared first on India Legal .
Kerala sports-tech startup Dartle raises $100,000 to expand US footprint
Dartle operates a vertical business-to-business (B2B) software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform designed for youth sports and football academies
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 18 (IANS) Actor Nivin Pauly, who has played the lead in director Girish AD's recently released blockbuster Malayalam film 'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit', on Friday penned a note of gratitude in the wake of the film's collections going past the Rs 300 crore mark. Taking to his Instagram page, Nivin Pauly wrote, 300+ Crores Worldwide Gross!Thank you for the endless love! The frame would have been truly complete with our music magician Vishnu Vijay in it. Sending you all the love! The film has emerged as the highest grossing film in Keralam and has come in for praise from various quarters. In fact, producer and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan had recently congratulated Nivin Pauly and the team of the film. Mythri Movie Makers, the production house that is distributing the film in the Telugu states, on Saturday released a video clip of the core team of the film calling on Kamal Haasan. The clip released showed Kamal Haasan warmly welcoming the 'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit' team led by one of its producers Fahadh Faasil. The team was seen having a conversation with Kamal Haasan after which each of the team members got a photo of themselves clicked with the star. For the unaware, the film has emerged a roaring blockbuster. It may be recalled that the makers of the film had recently appealed to the public not to record or share theatre snippets and key scenes of the film on social media. Bhavana Studios, the production house that has distributed the film, issued a statement, which actor Nivin Pauly had shared on his social media timelines. Sharing the statement of the production house, the actor had said, Request your attention! In its statement, the production house had said, Thank you for the global blockbuster love! We're overwhelmed by the unprecedented bookings and the incredible joy you're bringing to theatres. It then made a request. The production house said, A humble request: Kindly avoid recording or sharing theatre snippets and key scenes on social media. Let everyone experience the magic and surprises of the film on the big screen. Let's keep the experience special for everyone. See you at the theatres! The film, which hit screens worldwide on August 21 this year, has gone on to emerge a massive blockbuster. The story of the film has been penned by director Girish AD along with Kiran Josey. Cinematography for the film is by Ajmal Sabu while music for the film has been scored by Vishnu Vijay. Akash Joseph Varghese was the editor for the film, which was distributed by Bhavana. Production for the film, which Nivin Pauly had said was going to be very special, had kicked off in September last year. Bhavana Studios is a company partnered by director Dileesh Pothan, actor Fahadh Faasil and scenarist Syam Pushkaran.
We will never intimidate journalists: Kerala Home Minister Chennithala
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 (IANS) The Congress-led UDF government will never put pressure on the media or intimidate journalists, Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said on Friday, asserting that the action against Reporter TV Managing Director, Anto Augustine, was not connected with the channels work. The media is free to do its job and we are very clear about it. The UDF government will never ever put pressure on the media through intimidation, Chennithala told reporters. His remarks came a day after Augustine was arrested by the Excise Department in an Abkari case and as the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court at Sultan Bathery rejected his bail plea on Friday. Chennithala said the government had taken note of several instances involving journalists during the previous decade under the Pinarayi Vijayan government. He alleged that many journalists had faced pressure in connection with their news coverage during that period. Many journalists during the previous one decade came under duress with regard to news. What happened with Reporter TV was nothing to do with news, he said. According to Chennithala, the police and investigating agencies had the necessary documents and legal authority when they entered the Reporter TV office as part of the investigation. The police had all the papers according to law when they entered the office of Reporter TV, he said. Augustine was arrested hours after a Special Investigation Team probing alleged financial irregularities surrounding the proposed visit of football star Lionel Messi and the Argentina team to Kerala, conducted searches at the Reporter Broadcasting Company office and premises linked to Augustine and his brothers in Kochi and Wayanad. The Excise Department subsequently arrested him in connection with the seizure of liquor from his ancestral house at Vazhavatta in Wayanad. The Bathery court had on Thursday remanded him in judicial custody for 14 days before rejecting his bail plea on Friday. The government has maintained that the Excise case and the SIT investigation into the proposed Messi event are separate. Chennithala said the SIT headed by ADGP P. Vijayan was constituted on the basis of a report submitted by the Sports Secretary and handed over to him by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. The SIT is doing its job according to law. It has acted only in accordance with the prevailing laws. The Home Minister does not intervene, he said.
Renigunta: Passenger Climbs Atop Train, Tries To Catch High Tension Power Wires
Reportedly, the man alighted the Thiruvananthapuram-New Delhi Kerala Express and got on to the same train screaming. When he tried to catch the high tension wires, the officials switched off the power supply. Then the staff of the RPF, GRP and fire departments together brought down the man safely, after struggling for nearly an hour
Reporter TV chief Anto Augustine denied bail, to remain in judicial custody
Digital Desk | Wayanad (Kerala), Sep 18 (IANS) Reporter TV Managing Director Anto Augustine, arrested in an excise case following the seizure of liquor from his ancestral house in Wayanad, will remain in judicial custody as a Kerala court on Friday rejected his bail plea. The decision was announced by the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court at Sulthan Bathery. Augustine was arrested by the Excise Department early on Thursday, shortly after a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged financial irregularities surrounding the proposed visit of football star Lionel Messi and the Argentina team to Kerala completed searches at his office and properties. The Bathery court had on Thursday sent Augustine to judicial custody for 14 days. He was subsequently to be shifted to the District Jail at Mananthavady. The Excise case relates to the alleged possession of liquor beyond the permissible limit. The arrest followed the seizure of about 67 litres of liquor and wine from Augustines ancestral house at Vazhavatta in Wayanad during the SIT search on Wednesday. Excise officials said the seized stock included foreign-made liquor and wine and other liquor allegedly not authorised for sale in India. The case has been registered under Sections 55(a), 55(i) and 58 of the Kerala Abkari Act. An Excise team led by Assistant Commissioner Baiju reached the Reporter TV office in Kalamassery around 2.30 am on Thursday and arrested Augustine there. He was subsequently taken to Wayanad and produced before the court. The arrest came after the SIT conducted searches for several hours at the Reporter Broadcasting Company office and premises linked to Augustine and his brothers in Kochi and Wayanad. Investigators were probing alleged financial irregularities connected with the proposed Messi-Argentina event. The police action is separate from the excise case. The SIT searches had led to the seizure of documents and other records, including material relating to the Kaloor stadium, while investigators also examined financial transactions linked to the proposed event. A separate tax-related inquiry has also flagged alleged financial irregularities involving Reporter Broadcasting Company. The timing of Augustines arrest, coming hours after the SIT searches, triggered criticism and questions over the action against the head of a news organisation. Augustine had denied the liquor allegations and said he had cooperated with the investigation into the Messi episode, handing over the documents sought by the investigators. The Kerala Police SIT is investigating alleged cheating and financial irregularities surrounding the proposed football event, while the Excise case before the Bathery court concerns the alleged possession of liquor beyond the legally permissible quantity.
Palestine Ambassador Meets VD Satheesan, Discusses Bilateral Ties
Abu Shawesh said Keralam had been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause and expressed hope that it would continue to extend its support
Both are doctors: Supreme Court seeks parity in stipends for Indian, Foreign medical graduates
The Supreme Court on September 17 directed the National Medical Commission (NMC) to verify whether stipends have been paid to foreign medical graduates (FMGs) in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat and Jharkhand. A bench of Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice M. Pancholi passed the direction after petitioners alleged that an NMC affidavit falsely stated that [] The post Both are doctors: Supreme Court seeks parity in stipends for Indian, Foreign medical graduates appeared first on India Legal .
Older Gen Z girls in Keralam delaying marriage
Sociologists say the shift is most visible among educated, working women
Kerala start-up FalconFeeds inks pact with UAE Cybersecurity Council
Both entities to organise cross-sector cyber exercises, technical workshops, and international conferences
Kerala Widens Lionel Messi Event Probe, Ex-Sports Minister Likely To Be Quizzed
A probe is being conducted into alleged irregularities in the previous government's move to host Argentina's national team's match featuring Lionel Messi in Kochi in 2025.
Watch: Why are these Paniya families still living in tents seven years after Kerala floods?
Keralas Human Rights Commission has ordered urgent rehabilitation for 26 Paniya tribal families living in temporary shelters since the 2019 floods.
Weather today, September 18: IMD forecasts widespread thunderstorms across north and northeast India
The IMD has forecast rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across India from September 17-23, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall likely in states including Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and parts of the Northeast. South Peninsular India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Kerala and coastal Andhra Pradesh, may see gusty winds reaching up to 60 kmph alongside sustained rainfall through the week, with strong surface winds also expected in some areas.
Elucidations on Population Based Reservation
By Melarbor L Thabah Innumerable arguments have been made that Reservation based on population and Section 16 of the KHADC Land Bill 2026 are not feasible. An elucidation in public interest is necessitated to clarify through this column. Reservation Issue: In the case of the Kerala Government versus M. Thomas in 1976, a five-judge bench [] The post Elucidations on Population Based Reservation & KHADC Land Bill 2026 first appeared on Highland Post .
NCB Disrupts Inter-State Cocaine Trafficking Network in Kerala, Seven Arrested
The NCB has arrested seven individuals linked to an inter-state cocaine trafficking network in Kerala, seizing over 33 grams of cocaine. NCB Disrupts Inter-State Cocaine Trafficking Network in Kerala, Seven Arrested
Former Keralam DGP gets four-year jail term in DA case
A Kottayam Vigilance Court has sentenced former Kerala DGP Tomin J Thachankary to four years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 30.84 lakh in a disproportionate assets case. This marks the first time a DGP-rank officer in Kerala has been convicted for such an offence, with the court finding him guilty of amassing wealth 135.80 per cent in excess of his known income between 2003 and 2007.
Relatives allege delay in C-section led to foetal death at Thalassery hospital
Migrant worker killed in wild elephant attack in Idukki
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on the road between Ayyanpara and Kampani estate near Pethotty
Puthoor zoo a model for relocation: expert
Says it is evident that the Thiruvananthapuram zoo faces space constraints
Decomposed body of woman found in car in Ernakulam
NCB arrests seven traffickers, including two foreigners; seizes 33 gm cocaine
Digital Desk | Kozhikode, Sep 17 (IANS) The NCB disrupted an interstate cocaine trafficking network with the arrest of seven accused, including three persons deported from the UAE and two foreign nationals, and seized 33.1 grams of cocaine valued at Rs 16.55 lakh, an official said on Thursday. The Narcotics Control Bureau, Cochin Zonal Unit, made the arrests on September 10 based on credible information regarding certain persons who had been deported from the UAE in connection with drug-related offences, the official said. The NCB had been closely monitoring their activities and their linkages with a drug trafficking network operating between Bengaluru and Kerala, he said in a statement. On September 10, the NCB intercepted Gurpreet Singh of Kapurthala, Punjab, Hamdan Ahammed of Beypore (N), Kozhikode and Aflah P of Arakkinar, Kozhikode, at Faroke Railway Station, Kozhikode, and arrested them with 8.12 grams of cocaine. Preliminary interrogation revealed that the contraband had been procured from Bengaluru, said the statement. The interrogation of the accused revealed the involvement of Sidharth Damor, who was intercepted while travelling from Thiruvananthapuram to Kozhikode on September 10, said the statement. Damor is an upcoming DJ associated with the party scene in Kerala and also owns a resort in Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. His examination led the NCB to Arun Rajkumar, who was identified as a key facilitator in the network. Accordingly, Rajkumar was also arrested, the NCB said. Rajkumar, a Tamilian based in Bengaluru and employed in the IT sector, was found to be sourcing cocaine from certain foreign nationals and facilitating its supply to other peddlers as well as consumers. Based on the interrogation of Damor and Arun Rajkumar, the NCB identified the involvement of two foreign nationals in the cocaine trafficking network. Chizoba Helen Anthony alias Sonia, a Nigerian national, who had entered India on a Medical Attendant Visa and had been overstaying for the past 10 years, and Mufukare Vittalis Tadiswanashe, a Zimbabwean national, who had entered India on a Student Visa and had been overstaying for the past two years, were apprehended from Bengaluru on September 12 and 13, respectively, the NCB said. They were found in possession of 16 grams and 8.98 grams of Cocaine, respectively, it said. During interrogation that NCB found out that Sidharth Damor, Hamdan Ahammed and Aflah P had earlier been convicted and incarcerated in the UAE in connection with drug-related offences before being deported to India. During their period of incarceration, Aflah, Gurpreet and Sidharth had come in close contact and subsequently attempted to establish a stronger drug trafficking network, the NCB said. Further trails are being pursued to identify and disrupt the remaining linkages of the network and to completely destroy the trafficking chain, the NCB said.
Kerala High Court directs Railways to shift electrical infrastructure at Pachalam
Court issued the direction based on a public interest litigation filed in this regard
The total material costs owed to the panchayats in the State is estimated at over 500 crore
Kerala Brahmana Sabhas Kalanjali arts fest to begin in Alappuzha on September 19
The seventh edition of the arts fest will have nearly 700 participants competing in 61 events
Vigilance seeks action against Pallassana village officials
Vigilance inspection finds that owners of a private quarry acquired government and private land using forged documents with the support of village officials
Anto Augustine remanded in judicial custody in Abkari case
The managing director of Reporter TV was arrested on September 17 by the excise officials on charges of alleged possession of liquor in excess of the legally permissible limit
Exhorbitant price of patented life-saving medicines: Kerala HC reserves verdict
100-week Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan to begin with nationwide Rashtriya Sankalp Samaroh tomorrow
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) The Department of Youth Affairs will launch on Friday a 100-week nationwide Youth Pledge and Signature Campaign to mobilise support for a collective commitment for a Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat through awareness and community-led activities, an official said. The Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, through Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) and the National Service Scheme (NSS), will commence the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan with the Rashtriya Sankalp Samaroh, said the official in a statement. The Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 2 through a virtual address to spiritual organisations, industry associations, NGOs and university associations. The campaign is structured around four pillars Prevent, Protect, Recover and Lead. Since its launch, the initiative has recorded participation from over 30,200 locations, more than 2.5 crore viewership and over 1 crore pledges. As part of the opening phase, the Rashtriya Sankalp Samaroh will be organised by NSS from September 18 across 300 identified locations. The participating network comprises educational institutions located across States and Union Territories and includes colleges, universities and other institutions identified through NSS Regional Directorates, the statement said. The identified institutions include, among others, institutions in Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Maharashtra and Kerala. The first Sunday of the 100-week Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan will be observed on September 20, with activities being organised across 485 MY Bharat units, including MY Bharat District Offices and Youth Hostels. The Rashtriya Sankalp Samaroh will centre on a collective Youth Pledge and Signature Campaign, complemented by thematic street plays, slogan writing and youth-led discussions. These activities will provide young people with platforms to participate in awareness-building and reaffirm their collective commitment towards a Nasha Mukt Bharat. The opening of the 100 Weeks Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan will be followed by a structured 12-week activity calendar from September to December 2026, with three thematic phases My Health, My Pride, Fit Youth, Addiction-Free Youth and Life Skills Month, said the statement. The programme will feature health check-up and BMI camps, meditation and wellness sessions, health walks and runs, Yuva Melas, yoga sessions, traditional sports, mini marathons, cyclothons, sports leagues, decision-making workshops, discussions on peer pressure, problem-solving activities and youth-led role plays and street plays, said the statement. Under the NSS component, activities will subsequently be conducted on Fridays and Saturdays, with 200 locations planned for each of the following 11 weeks, taking the projected NSS coverage to 2,500 events during the 12-week period, it said. MY Bharat will undertake weekly activities across its designated units, with the implementation plan providing for 3,235 MY Bharat unit-level activities during the period, it said.
Drop decision to impose fee on UPI transactions: Pinarayi
Oil India to spend 15,000 cr over three years on deepwater drilling
State-run Oil India plans to drill deepwater exploration wells across the Andaman, Krishna-Godavari, Mahanadi and Kerala-Konkan sedimentary basins over three years.
Parasuram Express to be upgraded to LHB coaches
Kerala's former DGP Thachankary convicted in corruption case, sentenced to four years jail (Lead)
Digital Desk | Kottayam (Kerala), Sep 17 (IANS) A court in Kerala's Kottayam on Thursday convicted former Kerala Director General of Police Tomin J. Thachankary, once regarded as one of the most influential and controversial officers in the state police, in a disproportionate assets case that had remained pending for nearly two decades and sentenced him to four years rigorous imprisonment. The Kottayam Vigilance Court also imposed a fine of Rs 30,84,892 on Thachankary. With the sentence being four years, Thachankary cannot seek bail from any lower court and will have to approach the Kerala High Court for relief. The sentence was pronounced by Kottayam Vigilance Court Judge K.V. Rajneesh, hours after the court found Thachankary guilty of accumulating assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. Thachankary becomes only the second IPS officer in Kerala to be sentenced to imprisonment. The first was retired Inspector General of Police Lakshmana, who was convicted in a firing case. Thachankary becomes the first Kerala IPS officer to retire from the rank of Director General of Police and subsequently be sentenced to imprisonment . The case relates to the period between January 2003 and July 2007, when the Vigilance alleged that Thachankary had accumulated assets 135.80 per cent in excess of his known sources of income. The agency had quantified the disproportionate assets at Rs 64.70 lakh. The Vigilance registered the case in 2007 following allegations that Thachankary had acquired houses, flats and other properties disproportionate to his known income. The investigation was completed, and the charge sheet was filed in 2013. Thachankary had challenged the proceedings and sought discharge, contending that some of the properties had come to him through family partition and gifts. The court rejected his plea and proceeded with the trial. The trial assumed particular significance because Thachankary continued to rise through the police hierarchy while the Vigilance investigation was underway. He had become Additional Director General of Police by the time the charge sheet was filed and later rose to the rank of DGP before retiring in 2023. The Public Prosecutor described Thursday's verdict as a significant one, pointing out the difficulties faced by the investigating officers when the accused was a serving senior police officer. It was a tough time for the then investigating officers, who were Deputy Superintendents of Police, as the accused was a serving ADGP, the Public Prosecutor said. He said Thachankary would be taken to Thiruvananthapuram Central Jail and that Vigilance Department officials would complete the necessary procedures. When the court asked Thachankary whether he had anything to say before sentencing, he referred to his health condition and told the court that he had suffered chest pain two days ago and was physically unwell. The defence produced medical documents and sought maximum leniency. The prosecution, however, sought the maximum punishment. The verdict brings a major judicial setback to an officer who held several key posts in the Kerala Police and was once considered close to the top political leadership of the state. The case, which began when he was a senior serving officer, has now ended with his conviction and imprisonment after almost two decades.
Construction of rural district jail moves at a snails pace in Kozhikode
The Puthuppanam project remained on paper for nearly a decade before gaining momentum earlier this year. Although 60 cents of land has been transferred from the Irrigation department to the Home department and work on the compound wall sanctioned, the new jail is still far from becoming operational.
With southwest monsoon set for withdrawal, rain deficit in Keralam widens to 28%
State likely to receive showers around September 19 and 20, followed by widespread rain, as a low-pressure area develops in the Andaman Sea and nearby areas. With El Nio firmly established, experts do not anticipate a normal or above-normal northeast monsoon season too this year
Former Kannur University Physics head gets six-year RI in forgery case
Vigilance court convicts former Thiruvananthapuram Corporation officials and building owner
For sanctioning the construction of a building in violation of the Kerala Municipality Building Regulations
Vigilance court convicts former Thiruvananthapuram Corporation officials and building owner
For sanctioning the construction of a building in violation of the Kerala Municipality Building Regulations
Union Minister Suresh Gopi praises V.D. Satheesan government
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 17 (IANS) Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi on Thursday praised the Kerala government led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, saying the Centre was receiving unprecedented cooperation from the state in taking forward development projects. Gopi said the state government was now extending support in a manner that had not been seen during the previous 10 years. He said he could approach Chief Minister Satheesan and other members of the state government on matters concerning development and central projects. Today, we can approach Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and others for anything, he said. He said the improved coordination between the Centre and the state would help bring more Central government projects to Kerala. Gopi's remarks assume significance as the BJP and the Congress-led state government have often been political rivals in Kerala. His comments indicate a willingness to work with the new state government on development projects despite political differences. Gopi also came out in support of the police action in the recent raid on the office of Reporter TV in connection with the investigation into alleged financial fraud. Defending the police action, he said raids were part of normal procedure and could take place at any time. He questioned the different reactions to police searches depending on whether the person being searched was a journalist or an ordinary citizen. When police enter the house of an ordinary person, nobody usually reacts, he said. Gopi said officials conducting searches would normally take possession of phones and carry out inspections as part of the procedure. He also rejected the suggestion that journalists should be treated differently during such searches, saying journalists were also ordinary citizens. His remarks come amid a political controversy over the police action against Reporter TV and its Managing Editor Anto Augustine. Opposition parties and others have questioned whether the action could have implications for media freedom. The Kerala government has maintained that the police action was connected to the investigation into alleged serious offences and had nothing to do with the functioning of the media organisation or its news coverage. Gopi, however, backed the police action and questioned the basis of objections raised in the name of press freedom. Asked specifically about media freedom in the context of the raid, the Union Minister responded sharply, asking the questioner: Who are you? His comments on both issues, cooperation with the Satheesan government and the Reporter TV raid, came at a time when relations between the Centre and the newly elected state government are being closely watched. While the BJP remains the principal political opponent of the Congress in Kerala, Gopi's statement suggested that political differences need not stand in the way of cooperation on development projects. His support for the police action, meanwhile, is likely to add another dimension to the ongoing debate over the raid and the limits of police powers when a media organisation is involved.
THINK Gas urges State agencies to Dial Before You Dig
Against the backdrop of a recent gas pipeline leak during roadwork in the capital
THINK Gas urges State agencies to Dial Before You Dig
Against the backdrop of a recent gas pipeline leak during roadwork in the capital
Kader Attia to unveil curatorial vision for seventh edition of Kochi Muziris Biennale on November 14
The noted Algerian-French artist has initiated site visits and conversations in Kochi ahead of the next edition of the international art event, say KMB organisers
Two arrested on charges of rape
Water supply to Sabarimala faces tariff hurdle ahead of season
Schoolteachers union to take out protest march in Keralam
Demands include reversal of the States educational policies that align with the communal policies of the Union government
