Keralam Assembly passes resolution for removal of CEC
Thiruvananthapuram: The Keralam Legislative Assembly on Monday, October 12, passed a resolution seeking the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar amid a raging controversy over the SIR of electoral rolls, with top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spearheading an aggressive agitation against the official. The resolution, perhaps the first such in the country, was moved by Chief 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 .
Keralam Assembly Passes Resolution Seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's Removal
The resolution was moved by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan was passed with amendments
Keralam Assembly passes resolution seeking CEC's removal over SIR irregularities
A resolution in the Keralam state Legislative Assembly urging the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over allegations against the Election Commission's functioning and seeking changes to the panel responsible for appointing Election Commissioners. The resolution was moved by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan was passed with amendments. Three BJP members opposed the resolution. Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan on Monday presented the resolution which raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, including the reported removal of eligible voters without clear criteria or prior notice. It alleged that marginalised communities, minorities, migrant workers and young voters were at risk of being denied their voting rights due to technical manipulations and irregularities in the revision process. The resolution also cited media reports alleging that the Election Commission had curtailed the powers of Electora...
A Single Bench of the court had earlier directed the registration of an FIR including offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
VACB registers two FIRs against Pinarayi Vijayan, family in CMRL case
The move follows legal advice and a Kerala High Court directive to register a case based on a report submitted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the state police
Protests During Amit Shah Visit Will Affect Centre-State Ties: Keralam BJP Chief
Chandrasekhar warned that the fallout could affect investments and employment opportunities in Keralam
BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar warns protests against dignitaries could affect Centre-state relations
Concerns were voiced by Rajeev Chandrasekhar regarding the protests targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, warning of potential friction between the Centre and states. Noting disruptions during recent visits of Union officials to Keralam, he lambasted these confrontational acts as counterproductive to the needs of ordinary citizens in their quest for jobs and progress.
In Keralam Assembly Question Hour, A Tap Replaces Raised Hand
Members of the Keralam Assembly no longer need to raise their hands to seek supplementary questions during Question Hour.
I Truly Wish I Could Be There: Vijay Sethupathi Thanks Kerala For Baththa Success
According to Sacnilk, Baththa earned Rs 3.10 crore in net collections on Sunday, October 11, taking the total to Rs 23 crore.
ISL 2026: Kerala Blasters kick off new season with 2-0 win over Inter Kashi
Vibin Mohanan and Andre Green struck a goal each to help Kerala Blasters FC begin their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign with a 2-0 victory over Inter Kashi here on Sunday. Mohanan opened the scoring in the 18th minute before Green struck in stoppage time to seal all three points for the Blasters. Kerala Blasters started on the front foot, with Freddy Lallawmawma firing from distance in the fifth minute. Kashi responded a minute later as Rosenberg Gabriel tested goalkeeper Arsh Shaikh with an effort from the left side of the box, but the Kerala custodian was equal to the task. Manvir Singh also threatened for Inter Kashi, sending an attempt over the crossbar as both sides looked to establish control in the opening exchanges. Korou Singh provided the assist, setting up Mohanan to finish with a right-footed effort from the centre of the box and give Kerala the advantage. Blasters continued to push for a second goal after the restart, with substitute Momo Yansane sending an effort
Keralam Assembly to move resolution seeking removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar
The Keralam Assembly is set to propose a resolution urging the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This resolution includes demands to restore voting rights for eligible citizens removed from electoral rolls. The opposition Left Democratic Front has pledged support, ensuring its passage. Concerns have been raised regarding the electoral process and the impact on marginalized communities.
CMRL-Exalogic scam: Pinarayi Vijayan, Riyas named first accused in two separate cases
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 12 (IANS) The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) will register two FIRs in the controversial cases at the Vigilance Court here on Monday, naming former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPI(M) legislator and former Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas as the first accused in separate cases. The first case pertains to the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payments, in which Vijayan is the first accused. The second case involves the alleged corruption money received by Riyas, who was the tourism minister in the second LDF cabinet and is the husband of T. Veena, the daughter of Vijayan. Veena is the second accused in both the cases. The move follows a Kerala High Court single bench directive to register cases and conduct a full-fledged investigation into allegations arising from monthly payments made by the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) to Exalogic Solutions, a company owned by Vijayan's daughter, Veena, and alleged benefits extended to the company by those holding public office. In the first case, relating to the CMRL-Exalogic transactions, Vijayan will be the first accused and Veena the second accused. In the second case, Riyas will be the first accused and Veena the second accused. The two FIRs will examine the distinct allegations against the accused and the circumstances surrounding the payments and alleged favours. The High Court had directed the Vigilance to register cases on the basis of the Enforcement Directorate's report instead of conducting a preliminary inquiry. The order marks a significant step in the politically sensitive controversy, which has remained under investigation by Central agencies and has triggered a prolonged political confrontation in Kerala. The court had also set aside the police chief's order constituting a special investigation team without the government's approval. The government is expected to issue a fresh order appointing a special team recommended by the Vigilance Director, in accordance with the court's observations on the authority to constitute such a team. All relevant documents held by the Crime Branch have been handed over to the Vigilance. The agency's position is that prior sanction is not required to proceed with the investigation in view of the High Court's specific direction. Meanwhile, sources familiar with the developments said Vijayan is moving ahead with a petition before the High Court's division bench later on Monday, challenging the single bench order. His move could open a fresh legal battle over the scope and procedure of the Vigilance investigation. The registration of the two FIRs is expected to intensify the political and legal ramifications of the CMRL-Exalogic case, with the investigation now required to establish whether the payments were linked to any undue official favours.
Mandya University Students' Keralam Trip Ends in Tragedy; Two Dead
According to police, the accident occurred around 1.30 am at the 54th Mile in Sultan Bathery, when the van, carrying 15 people, including students from the university, was returning from a trip to tourist destinations in Keralam.
Noted architect N.M. Salim passes away
Salim was active in the architecture field for over five decades, playing a key role in transforming the face of urban centres in Keralam and other South Indian States
Kochi Mini Cooper Crash: 3 Youngsters Killed, 19-Year-Old Driver Under Scanner
Three young people have been killed after a speeding Mini Cooper, believed to be driven by a 19-year-old man, collided into their scooter near Cochin International Airport in Kerala's Nedumbassery area early Sunday. The alleged remarks of the accused following the
Navi Mumbai police arrest man in WhatsApp impersonation scam
Navi Mumbai Cyber Police arrest Kerala man; probe reveals links to six other cyber fraud complaints
Vijay Sethupathi thanks Kerala audience for 'Baththa' success
Removing Inconsistencies, Reducing Friction
The 57th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, held on 8 October 2026 in New Delhi under the chairpersonship of Honble Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marked a decisive shift in Indias indirect tax journey. The participants included Chief Ministers of Delhi, Goa, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Meghalaya, Deputy Chief Ministers of Manipur and Telangana, the Finance Ministers and senior members of States/Union Territories with Legislative Assembly, Secretary, Department of Revenue, Chairman and Members of Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance. Coming roughly a year after the major rate rationalization that introduced a predominantly two-rate structure (The Next-Gen or GST 2.0 Reforms of September 2025), this meeting deliberately set rate changes aside. Instead, it focused on reforms, refunds, registrations, returns, process, compliance, enforcement, and ease-of-doing-business reforms that many observers are describing as the operational backbone of GST 3.0. Finance Minister made it clear that rate-related matters would henceforth be taken up only once a year in a dedicated meeting. The 57th Council concentrated on removing inconsistencies, reducing friction for genuine taxpayers, speeding up cash flows, and recalibrating enforcement towards a more trust-based system while retaining deterrence against fraud. Most of the recommended process reforms are slated for implementation from 1 April 2027, giving businesses and tax administrations time to prepare. From Rate Rationalization to Process Maturity The 2025 rate reforms had simplified the multi-slab structure, reduced rates on a large number of items, and aimed to correct inverted duty structures in several sectors. Early data presented around the meeting indicated healthy growth in taxable supplies and improved reporting of supplies to consumers, suggesting the rate changes had broadened the base without collapsing revenue. With the rate architecture largely settled, the natural next phase was to address the day-to-day pain points that still plagued businesses like delayed refunds, complex registration amendments, blocked or disputed input tax credit (ITC), high compliance burden on small taxpayers, and an enforcement framework that sometimes felt disproportionate. Enforcement Reforms The most widely reported decisions concerned enforcement. The Council recommended the complete removal of the power of arrest under GST (by omitting the relevant provision, commonly referred to as Section 69 of the CGST Act). Arrest powers had long been a source of anxiety for the business community, their withdrawal signals a clear preference for prosecution only after a proper case is built, rather than anticipatory action. Complementing this, the monetary threshold for launching prosecution was raised five-foldfrom `1 crore to `5 crore. Minimum mandatory punishments were also recommended for removal, leaving the nature of penalty (fine, imprisonment, or both) to judicial discretion. The general penalty under section 125 was proposed to be reduced from `25,000 to `10,000. A materiality threshold of `10,000 was introduced for the issuance of show-cause notices & no notices for demands below this amount (covering CGST, SGST/UTGST, IGST and Cess combined), with existing low-value notices to be withdrawn. These changes collectively aim to reserve criminal and heavy civil proceedings for serious cases while treating routine errors and delays through recovery, interest, and proportionate penalties. Automated Refunds Refunds have historically been one of the biggest sources of working-capital stress, especially for exporters and businesses facing inverted duty structures. The Council approved significant process improvements. The time limit for acknowledging a refund claim (or issuing a deficiency memo) was cut from 15 days to 10 days, with deemed acknowledgement, if the tax authority fails to act. A large proportion of eligible refundsreports mention around 90 per cent in many casesare to be sanctioned automatically within a few working days of acknowledgement on a risk-based basis. Cash-ledger refunds are expected to become fully automatic. Crucially, the inverted-duty-structure refund facility was expanded. Refunds of accumulated ITC on input services will be available for credit availed on or after 1 November 2026. Refunds relating to plant and machinery (for both exporters and inverted-duty cases) are proposed from 1 April 2027, to be spread over 60 months. These measures should free locked-up capital for manufacturers and exporters. Expansion of Input Tax Credit Scope The Council broadened the scope of eligible ITC. Credits will now be available on health and life insurance premiums paid for employees, telecommunication towers, and pipelines laid outside factory premises. Certain other previously restricted items, such as free samples and goods requiring destruction on expiry, also received relief. These changes reduce the cost of doing business and improve the integrity of the credit chain. A standing officers committee was recommended to examine residual issues around ITC eligibility, particularly protection of genuine buyers from supplier defaults under Section 16(2)(c) of GST Act, 2017. Registration, Returns and Small-Taxpayer Relief Registration & cancellation processes are to become more automated. Routine amendments (including addition of places of business) will see a high percentage of automatic approvals. Low-risk registrations already benefit from three-day automated processing, the system is expected to cover a larger share of applicants. Small e-commerce sellers received facilitative norms, including possible use of the operators warehouse as the principal place of business under certain ITC limits. For the smallest businesses, the Council approved in principle an optional scheme under which taxpayers with turnover up to `5 crore, who supply only to consumers (B2C), may file a single annual return while paying tax quarterly. This is estimated to benefit a large number of the smallest filers who collectively contribute a very small share of total tax liability, thereby reducing compliance costs without significant revenue risk. Detailed rules are to be finalized at a subsequent meeting. Movement of Goods and Other Facilitation Physical interception of goods in transit is to be restricted and vehicles may be stopped only by officers of the suppliers or recipients state, and only on the basis of specific intelligence and proper authorization. This should reduce harassment and delays at check-posts. Measures to facilitate export of services and improve GST Seva Kendra support for multi-jurisdictional taxpayers were also endorsed. Faceless assessment for certain CGST taxpayers registered across states is on the roadmap. Significance & Conclusion: In summary, the 57th GST Council decisions represent a maturation of the GST system. After nearly a decade of implementation and a major rate overhaul, the focus has shifted to making the tax administration itself simpler, faster, more predictable, trust based tax regime, and less adversarial for compliant taxpayers. The reforms address long-standing trade & industry grievances while preserving the ability to pursue serious evasion. Implementation from April 2027 will test the systems capacity to deliver automated processes reliably and to maintain revenue buoyancy. Businesses should watch for the detailed notifications, circulars, and statutory amendments that will give legal force to these recommendations. Early preparationupdating internal processes, training staff on new ITC eligibility, and monitoring refund claimswill help capture the intended benefits. For Indias broader ease-of-doing-business agenda and formalization drive, the 57th meetings emphasis on process excellence under the GST 3.0 umbrella is a welcome and necessary evolution. In the 10th. Year of GST since its implementation in July, 2017, the GST 3.0 Process Reforms has moved to much maturity phase for a trust based tax regime. Author is All India Master Trainer in GST & writes on Indirect Taxes. Presently works as State Taxes Officer in Srinagar.
Michigan Senate candidate blasts rival over Muslim brotherhood accusations
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 12 (IANS) Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed said on Sunday (local time) that his Republican rival Mike Rogers tried to link him to the Muslim Brotherhood only because he really wanted to repeat the word Muslim, as faith and heritage attacks shadow minority candidates, including several Indian Americans, ahead of the November 3 midterms. El-Sayed made the remarks in an interview with NBC's Meet the Press, recorded on Friday at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. Host Kristen Welker said Rogers, a former Congressman, had epeatedly tried to tie you and members of your family to the Muslim Brotherhood, making oughly ten references in a debate and in campaign ads. You know Kristen, the only reason he said those things is because he really wanted to repeat the word Muslim, El-Sayed said. Asked whether he or his family had any ties to the group, he replied, No. His only strategy is to point to me and my name and my faith and to say that we're different. And that you should suspect people simply because they are different than you in how they pray, El-Sayed said. He said such tactics were he approach of small people with small ideas, who don't really care about solving big problems. He noted that he was a junior in high school with 9/11 and called the attacks ruly shameful. El-Sayed, a physician, cast the issue in terms wider than his own faith. I know what it's like to be discriminated against for how I pray, he said. I don't want anybody to face that in the United States of America, whether they're being discriminated against because they're Jewish or Sikh or Hindu or Muslim or Christian. He also recalled telling former President Bill Clinton in 2007 that People like me with names like mine can't run for office. El-Sayed is locked in a tight race with Rogers that could help decide control of the Senate, Welker said. El-Sayed did not mention Indian-American candidates. But several of them have faced similar attacks over heritage or faith this election cycle. In Ohio, Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, the son of immigrants from Kerala, has been targeted by far-right commentator Nick Fuentes, who called him an anchor baby who got your birthright citizenship from your H-1B parents, according to the Texas Tribune. If you believe in normalizing hatred towards any ethnic group toward Whites, toward Blacks, towards Hispanics, towards Jews, towards Indians, you have no place in the future of the conservative movement, Ramaswamy said at Turning Point's AmericaFest in December 2025, as quoted by The Washington Post. In Texas, Democrat Pooja Sethi, who would be the first Indian American and first Hindu in the state Legislature, replied on X to a Turning Point commentator earlier this year. My heritage isn't an insult. It's my story, Sethi wrote. Another Texas Democrat, India-born Sandeep Srivastava, who is challenging Republican Matt Shaheen in House District 66, faced online attacks over his accent, American Bazaar reported. Ten Indian Americans are on the November 3 ballot for the US House, four of them incumbents. Three more, including Ramaswamy, are running for governor or other statewide office.
'Jailer 2' Kerala advance booking: Crosses Rs 1.61 cr
Kerala State Biodiversity Board submits policy document to mitigate threats due to invasive species
Document suggests laying emphasise on prevention and monitoring of the spread of invasive alien species and generating public awareness and capacity-building to handle the menace
Four held in 37-lakh cheating case
The accused allegedly cheated the complainant, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, by promising returns up to five-fold on investment in a company exporting frozen food.
Chief Minister inaugurates IAP House
The IAP House, located behind the Kaloor metro station, will also be home to the Arike Pain and Palliative Care Unit, which focusses on pediatric palliative care.
Forum proposes draft Bill seeking protection for advocates, their kin, staff in Keralam
Keralam Advocates Protection Bill, 2021, seeks to protect them from assault, criminal force, intimidation and threats; it proposes a punishment of imprisonment up to five years and a fine of 1 lakh
Man from Kerala arrested for defrauding logistics company of Rs 62 lakh by posing as their director
Tripura strengthens district hospitals, drug rehab centres being set up: CM Saha
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 11 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Sunday that the state government is strengthening healthcare infrastructure across the state, with drug rehabilitation centres being set up in various districts and work progressing rapidly on a facility at Bishramganj in Sepahijala district. The Chief Minister also added that the number of patients referred to hospitals outside Tripura had declined by around 80 per cent, reflecting improvements in the state's healthcare services. CM Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, said this while launching the 'Emicizumab for All Persons with Severe Haemophilia A in Tripura' programme at the Nursing College in the Agartala Government Dental College and Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) hospital complex here. Speaking at the programme, the Chief Minister described the initiative as a significant step towards improving treatment facilities for people suffering from severe haemophilia A. He said that he had been associated with the Haemophilia Society for a long time. Emicizumab treatment for haemophilia patients has already been introduced in several states, including Uttar Pradesh and Kerala, he added. Chief Minister Saha said the state government had also launched the 'Mask Campaign' after assuming office, keeping in mind the health and future of children. The ninth phase of the campaign would begin soon, he added. The Chief Minister said the state government was taking steps to improve healthcare services, including providing free vaccinations to eligible patients suffering from breast cancer, oral cancer and other treatable cancers. Referring to improvements in healthcare in Dhalai district, CM Saha said that deaths caused by water-borne diseases, which were previously reported frequently, were no longer occurring. The state government was also making efforts to ensure that people living in remote areas were not deprived of medical services, he added. Chief Minister Saha said that trauma care centres had been established in almost all district hospitals, while cardiac care centres had also been introduced in several places. The infrastructure of district hospitals was being upgraded to improve the availability and quality of healthcare services, he added. He also said that a new dental building was being constructed next to the Dental College, while work was underway to build a mother-and-child hospital at Agartala Government Medical College. Emphasising the importance of the Emicizumab programme, the Chief Minister added that IGM Hospital had been designated as the nodal hospital for its implementation. Making the treatment available at district hospitals in the future would further benefit patients across the state, he said. Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Hospital Director Debashree Debbarma and other officials were present at the programme.
'Father Will Take Care Of It': Kerala Teen After Killing 3 With Mini Cooper
Investigators found that the accused had allegedly consumed alcohol at multiple bars before the accident.
Keralam Assembly session begins on October 12, 2026
Session is expected to witness stormy confrontation between the ruling Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF).
BJP demands Keralam CMs and Pinarayis resignation
BJP State general secretary says the party, the real Opposition in Keralam, has been questioning the State governments failures over the past few months
Youth activists of Congress, CPI(M) clash in Adoor; ex-MLA Mamkootathil booked
Police say three cases registered against activists of the Kerala Students Union, Youth Congress, Students Federation of India, and Democratic Youth Federation of India. Tension began following college union elections at the College of Engineering, Adoor
Kerala Blasters begin ISL campaign with win over Inter Kashi
Kerala Blasters FC defeated Inter Kashi 2-0 in their Indian Super League season opener on Sunday. Goals from Vibin Mohanan in the 18th minute and Andre Green in stoppage time secured the victory for the Blasters.
Alleged sale of spoiled fish: authorities to intensify scrutiny of fish markets in Kozhikode
Food Safety squads and local health authorities are closely monitoring fish markets and storage and transportation practices amid allegations that poor-quality consignments brought from other States are entering the local market
In a video posted on her YouTube channel, Ms. Sreelekha said that some residents had reacted harshly to the delays in the wards WhatsApp group, causing her mental distress
37 arrested in anti-drug combing drive in Kochi
Raids were conducted at 153 locations. The police seized 13.83 grams of suspected MDMA and 91.84 grams of suspected ganja during the raids.
Kerala bakeries gained prominence due to the European community that demanded bread and baked goods. Ignatus Rozario was the first to establish a bakery in Kochi in 1852, creating puff pastries. Besides Rozario, the Mambally family of Thalassery became notable for baking the first Christmas cake in the state. In the 1960s, the Thalassery brothers introduced meat-filled puff pastries, known as mota puffs.
Kerala Chief Minister to Propose Removal of Chief Election Commissioner in Assembly
Keralas CM V.D. Satheesan plans to propose the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in the assembly, addressing electoral irregularities. Kerala Chief Minister to Propose Removal of Chief Election Commissioner in Assembly
Woman killed, three others injured in wild boar attack in Keralams Malappuram
The incident occurred when a group of people were on their way to a religious centre for dawn prayers and encountered a sounder of wild boars
Odisha Thrashes Kerala In Hockey Nationals
Odisha secured a dominant 9-0 victory over Kerala in the Hockey India Senior Men National Championship, marking their second consecutive win. Other teams like Uttarakhand, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Jharkhand, and Himachal also registered wins in their respective Pool B matches.
Several flights between Keralam and Saudi Arabia cancelled amid West Asia tensions
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), in a statement, said some airlines operating services between Kochi and destinations in Saudi Arabia had reported cancellations for October 11 to 13 due to the prevailing geopolitical situation.
Devaswoms Minister K. Muraleedharan says TDB president K. Jayakumar has told him that all arrangements have been made to ensure an adequate supply of aravana
Kerala Blasters begin new era with 2-0 win over Inter Kashi in ISL opener
Kerala Blasters begin new era with 2-0 win over Inter Kashi in ISL opener
Urgent University Revaluation Alerts 2026: Cotton, BU Bhopal, and Kerala VHSE Deadlines
Urgent student alerts! Cotton University and BU Bhopal revaluation deadlines are closing fast. Check the latest Kerala VHSE results and application steps for 2026. Act now to secure your marks and academic standing before windows shut.
Kerala CM to move resolution seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumars removal
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 11 (IANS) Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan will move a resolution in the Assembly on Monday, seeking the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, restoration of voting rights to eligible citizens excluded from electoral rolls and changes to the panel that appoints election commissioners. An Assembly bulletin issued on Sunday lists the resolution for introduction under Rule 118. The proposed motion raises concerns over the Election Commissions functioning and alleges that irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls have undermined public confidence in the institution. The resolution cites complaints that lakhs of eligible citizens were removed from voter lists without clear criteria or prior notice. It identifies marginalised communities, minorities, migrant workers and young voters as groups whose voting rights could be compromised by procedural deficiencies and alleged manipulation. Such exclusions, the draft argues, violate democratic principles and threaten the constitutional guarantee of adult suffrage. It calls for correction of errors and restoration of voting rights to every eligible person left out of the rolls. The motion also questions the software used to prepare and verify electoral rolls. It alleges that the system has curtailed the statutory authority of electoral registration officers under the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. It alleges that Form 6 was amended contrary to the rules and refers to media accounts suggesting that a majority of Election Commission members had expressed disagreement with these measures. The draft says the Commission must function independently of government influence and maintain transparency. Electoral roll manipulation, it argues, amounts to undermining the public mandate. Another demand concerns the selection of election commissioners. The resolution seeks a committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and the Chief Justice of India. It contends that subsequent central legislation excluding the Chief Justice and giving the executive a majority on the selection panel weakened the Commissions independence. The motion also seeks steps to remove the Chief Election Commissioner facing allegations, arguing that this is necessary to restore institutional credibility. Its concluding appeal urges the Election Commission and the Union government to act on all three demands to protect democracy and constitutional values. The bulletin schedules the resolution for introduction; it does not record its adoption.
Seven-year-old girl dies after falling into pond during cleaning drive in Kannur
The accident occured around 7 a.m. when residents were engaged in their routine cleaning activities in the area
Kerala Blasters FC Triumphs Over Inter Kashi 2-0 in ISL Opener
Kerala Blasters FC secured a 2-0 victory against Inter Kashi in their ISL season opener, showcasing strong performances throughout the match. Kerala Blasters FC Triumphs Over Inter Kashi 2-0 in ISL Opener
Four held with suspected MDMA in Kozhikode
Police seized 20.7 grams of the suspected drug in separate operations
Ramesh Chennithala selected for this years A. Pachan award
The award will be presented on October 23, the death anniversary of A. Pachan
Toxic gas inhalation: one more fisherman dies in Kozhikode
Another worker had died earlier in the incident; both men were employed on the fishing boat Tesla
RANJI TROPHY | Shikhar notches up this editions first ton as Jharkhand wins the initial exchanges
Kerala works its way back in to the contest thanks to fine spells of off-spin by Jalaj and Vaisakh as the visitor puts a brake on the hosts march
Vetrix 2026 opens new avenues for agri-entrepreneurs
The national-level ideathon organised by K-AgTech LaunchPad of KAU and KVASU provided a platform for students, researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase innovative ideas in veterinary science, animal husbandry and allied sectors
NIA arrests one more in Bangladesh-linked outfit's terror conspiracy targeting Bengal, Northeast
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested one more accused from West Bengal in connection with a terror conspiracy orchestrated by an offshoot of the proscribed terrorist organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), an official said. Several digital devices, including mobile phones and memory cards, were seized from the possession of the accused during the arrest, the NIA official said in a statement. The arrest follows the arrest of 13 accused persons on September 29, after searches conducted at 16 locations across Assam, West Bengal and Kerala in connection with the same conspiracy. Earlier, on June 25, the NIA filed a chargesheet against 11 accused before the NIA Special Court, Guwahati (Assam), under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The NIA investigation revealed the involvement of the accused in a conspiracy hatched by Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), an offshoot of JMB, to spread the banned outfit's extremist ideology and expand its terrorist network in West Bengal and the north-eastern states of India. The conspiracy involved the radicalisation of vulnerable youth, the propagation of extremist ideology and the recruitment of individuals into the organisation, the NIA said. The investigation revealed that Imam Mahmud Habibullah, a senior member of JMB, had established IMK with the objective of promoting the banned organisation's agenda in India, the NIA said. The accused allegedly conspired to expand the activities of IMK/JMB through clandestine meetings, religious indoctrination programmes, circulation of extremist literature and misuse of digital platforms, including Telegram, for radicalisation and dissemination of anti-India propaganda, the statement said. They also sought to promote allegiance to the leadership of IMK/JMB and strengthen the organisation's network in India, it said. The NIA said that it is carrying out further investigation in case RC-01/2026/NIA/GUW to find other aspects of the larger conspiracy.
KVASU hosts summit to explore agripreneurship opportunities
The programme brought together faculty members, entrepreneurship experts, and key stakeholders to discuss business prospects and ways to promote agripreneurship
Five healthcare centres in Mavelikara constituency set for major upgrade
Funded through the Central Finance Commission and the National Health Mission, these initiatives are designed to strengthen public health infrastructure and expand access to quality medical services
IMA Thiruvananthapuram gets new office-bearers
Child rights panel files case over forced apology at school assembly
Video of a student, who was made to apologise during a school assembly at Valamangalam Higher Secondary School in Cherthala, has been circulating on social media.
AICC general secretary says that the agitation will continue until Gyanesh Kumar is removed from the post of Chief Election Commissioner
Ranji Trophy: Shami Takes Four-wicket Haul; Smaran Smashes Century On Captaincy Debut On Opening Day
Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA: India fast bowler Mohammed Shami reminded the national selectors of his capability yet again as he took a four-wicket haul for Bengal in their opening Group C clash against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani on Sunday. Shami, who has been overlooked by Indian selectors despite his consistent performances in the domestic circuit, took 4-30 in 17.3 overs as Bengal bowled Delhi out for 240. The veteran also sent in nine maiden overs and bowled at a mingy economy of 1.70, showing his class once again. Other India internationals, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, were also among the wickets, with Akash taking 2-74 in his 17 overs (4.40 economy) and Mukesh scalping 1-43 in 17 overs (2.50 economy). Off-spinner Aamir Gani took three wickets for 45 as he also played a crucial role with Bengal. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Smaran marked his Karnataka captaincy debut with a stellar hundred against Andhra in a Group B clash at the Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA Cricket Ground in Vijayawada. Karnataka were in trouble at 22/4, but Smaran smashed 126 from 218 balls to bail the team out of trouble, with wicketkeeper Krishnan Shrijith hitting 58 and Madhav Bajaj scoring 33 to help Karnataka make 274. In reply, Andhra ended the day 16/2 with Shikhar Shetty and Madhav Bajaj taking a wicket each. In another Group B fixture between Saurashtra and Chhattisgarh at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten at 72 at the end of Day 1 as Saurashtra made 308/4. Prerak Mankad also went back unscathed on 92, while opener Chirag Jani had scored 83 earlier. Umesh Yadav also struck twice for Punjab in their fixture against Assam in New Chandigarh, but bad light forced an early stumps as Assam were 68/3. In other Group C matches, Jharkhand's Sikhar Mohan made 143 as his team ended the Day 1 strong at 289/5 against Kerala at Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur. Gaurav Choudhary scored an unbeaten 121 to power Odisha to 272/3 against Gujarat in Ahmedabad, while Ankeet Bawne hit a hundred for Maharashtra to help them end Day 1 against Services at 289/5. Prithvi Shaw also made 70. In Group A, Akshay Wadkar and Yash Rathod scored centuries to help Vidarbha end the day at 292/5 against Pondicherry after they were in trouble at 54/5. J&K seamer Rohit Sharma took his maiden five-wicket haul, playing after two years as Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 196. Baroda ended Day 1 at 204/3 after opener Shivalik Sharma made 62, while Deepak Hooda, having returned to his former team, remained unbeaten on 38. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. In Group D, India Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck, but Mumbai's new captain went back unbeaten on 80, with Musheer Khan also scoring 65 as Mumbai ended the day on 249/5. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Several Flights Between Keralam, Saudi Arabia Cancelled Amid West Asia Tensions
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), in a statement, said some airlines operating services between Kochi and destinations in Saudi Arabia had reported cancellations for October 11 to 13 due to the prevailing geopolitical situation
The board is constituted under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
CISF officer Akshay Badola secures second place in cybersecurity competition
CISF Assistant Commandant Akshay Badola secured second place in the Law Enforcement Agencies Capture the Flag (LEA CTF) 2.0 competition held in Kochi on October 9 and 10. Organised by Kerala Police and ISRA during c0c0n 2026, the event tested cybersecurity and digital investigation skills
Keralam Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas Claims Police Manhandled Him in Delhi
Speaking to reporters in Delhi, a visibly out of breath Brittas claimed that he was manhandled by the police and personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) despite him telling them that he was Member of Parliament (MP)
E-autos remain out of service as Rs. 30,000 subsidy per auto delayed in Kerala
Thirty of the 105 e-autos run by the Ernakulam Jilla Autorickshaw Drivers Cooperative Society have been idle for a year, with the society moving the High Court over the stalled subsidy
Several Kerala-Saudi flights cancelled amid West Asia tensions
Kochi: Several flights connecting Kerala with Saudi Arabia and other destinations in West Asia have been cancelled amid the prevailing geopolitical tensions in the region, airport officials said on Sunday. Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), in a statement, said some airlines operating services between Kochi and destinations in Saudi Arabia had reported cancellations for October 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 .
Keralam govt. to pay 12.5 lakh compensation to Muthanga custodial torture victim
K.K. Surendran, a teacher tortured in custody after his arrest during the 2003 Muthanga land agitation, will receive the compensation after a 23-year legal battle
Although I told them I am an MP, the CRPF personnel continued to attack me; they pinned me to the seat and tried to choke me; this is the plight of an MP in this country, said John Brittas
Women and Child Development Minister Bindhu Krishna stated that action will follow the Vigilance report on corruption allegations. The Kerala Women's Commission is under investigation after allegations of misconduct in various programs. Krishna emphasized the seriousness of the situation regarding the commission's responsibility for women's welfare. Any decisions, including possible dissolution of the commission, will depend on the findings of the Vigilance report.
Child marriage in India declines, but millions of girls remain at risk
With the 2030 target to end child marriage approaching, India still accounts for one in three child brides across the world, while one in every five Indian young women was married before turning 18. While the prevalence of child marriages has come down sharply from over 50 per cent in 1996 to little over 20 per cent now, experts, on the occasion of International Day of the Girl Child, have warned not to get swayed by the national average, emphasising that the problem is a lot more acute in some states. Five states -- Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh -- account for more than half of the total child marriages in the country, according to UNICEF and government data. States and union territories that are doing well include Kerala and Lakshadweep. This year's International Day of the Girl Child theme, End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls' Rights, calls for sustained investments throughout adolescence so that girls stay in school, remain healthy and
Satheesan Says BJPs Dream of Ruling Keralam Will Remain Unfulfilled
Even as the BJP has made electoral inroads in the state, winning three Assembly seats and the Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation, Satheesan attributed its success to the political failures of the CPI(M)
Violence Erupts in Kerala as Youth Congress Leaders Accused of Assaulting SFI and DYFI Members
Youth Congress leaders face charges after allegedly assaulting SFI and DYFI members at a hospital in Pathanamthitta, Kerala. Violence Erupts in Kerala as Youth Congress Leaders Accused of Assaulting SFI and DYFI Members
Three youth killed as speeding car crashes into bike in Kochi, driver booked
The deceased are Eyas of Coorg in Karnataka, Gopika from Mannarkkad in Palakkad, and Devika from Wayanad. They were employees of an antique shop in Thrikkakara
Cong Differs on SIR in Keralam, National Level: BJP State Chief
The BJP state president said that SIR was a crucial process designed to strengthen and safeguard democracy
Congress differs on Special Intesive Revision in Keralam, national level: BJP state chief
BJP Keralam president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has criticised the Congress for having differing views on the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. He highlighted that Chief Minister V D Satheesan praised the SIR in Keralam while opposing it in Delhi alongside Rahul Gandhi. Chandrasekhar questioned Satheesan's position if the elections were deemed illegal by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.
'Good behaviour', 'maintaining peace' placed as conditions for CJP leaders' release: Delhi Police
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) The Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) court in New Delhi on Sunday placed 'maintaining peace and good behaviour' as a condition for releasing the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders, police said. CJP's legal affairs head Ratna Singh earlier confirmed that the outfit's leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were released by the SEM court after they were placed under preventive arrest by the Delhi Police. In a post on X, Delhi Police said: Preventive arrest u/s 126/170 BNSS of Sh. Abhijeet Dipke, Sh. Ashutosh Ranka and Sh. Saurav Das was done on 10.10.2026. All due legal procedures were followed and they were produced before the SEM Court, Delhi Cantt on 11.10.2026. A bail bond as Surety Bond of Rs 50,000/- was filled for maintaining peace and good behaviour, for a period of one year, and they were released by the SEM Court, it added. The three CJP leaders were detained on Saturday at the Indira Gandhi International Airport as they arrived in the national capital to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI). This came against the backdrop of the CJP's planned demonstration against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police have registered over 20 FIRs in connection with attempts to forcibly stage protests, officials said on Sunday. The FIRs were filed for offences including taking the law into one's own hands, obstructing official duties, and assaulting police personnel, as the protesters gathered around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar. On Saturday, over 3,000 anti-CEC protesters, including opposition leaders like former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, were detained in Delhi as law enforcers threw an unprecedented security ring around the national capital to prevent chaos at Jantar Mantar, forcing the proposed agitation to break into several small gatherings across the city. The authorities had earlier denied permission for the demonstration, warning against unauthorised gatherings, imposing internet restrictions, roadblocks and traffic diversions to prevent a repeat of the CJPs July protest at Jantar Mantar that turned violent. The detained protesters were taken to different destinations, including Chhatrasal Stadium and various police stations, the police said. Most of them, including the opposition leaders, were released later in the evening.
ISL 2026: All-Indian Inter Kashi face star-studded Kerala Blasters
Digital Desk | Balewadi, Oct 11 (IANS) A fascinating battle of contrasting squad make-ups awaits as domestic-only Inter Kashi host a Kerala Blasters FC in their Indian Super League opening clash at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex on Sunday. With the venue set to serve as Inter Kashis home ground for the season, the occasion presents an added challenge as they look to make home advantage count. The hosts will look to draw confidence from their 2-1 victory over the Blasters in Kochi earlier this year, while Kerala arrive with a revamped squad under head coach Ashley Westwood, including four new overseas signings. Inter Kashi enter the season with an all-Indian squad after registering 22 players ahead of a fresh FIFA transfer-registration ban. Their recruitment has brought in several players with ISL experience, including goalkeeper Albino Gomes from Jamshedpur FC, defender Laldinliana Renthlei from Chennaiyin FC, winger Rosenberg Gilbert Gabriel and forward Manvir Singh, both from Jamshedpur, and striker Ayush Chhikara from Mumbai City FC. The challenge will be to turn that experience into a competitive unit against a Kerala Blasters side that has undergone significant changes ahead of the new campaign. The clubs new ownership has overseen an extensive recruitment drive, with head coach Ashley Westwood bringing back the clubs heartbeat, Adrian Luna, while adding four overseas players: English defender James Bolton, winger Andre Green, Montenegro international midfielder Neboja Kosovic and Guinean forward Momo Yansane. The Blasters have also strengthened their Indian contingent, bringing in experienced goalkeeper Amrinder Singh and midfielder Mohammad Yasir, alongside younger attacking options. Amrinders arrival is particularly noteworthy against an Inter Kashi side that also features a goalkeeper with previous Blasters experience in Gomes. Skipper Luna expects a competitive test against Inter Kashi, saying, Every game here in India is tough. It doesn't matter if you play with an Indian squad or with foreigners. Westwood, meanwhile, has made his ambitions clear ahead of the opener: Our sole aim is to win every football match and to win trophies. The Blasters will also be without defender Bikash Yumnam, who is expected to miss around a month with a calf injury. With Inter Kashi seeking to show that their domestic core can hold its own against a revamped Kerala Blasters side, Westwoods men will be keen to turn their summer recruitment into results. Sundays clash will offer an early test of both sides ambitions for the new campaign.
Delhi Police register over 20 FIRs in CJP Jantar Mantar stir case
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) The Delhi Police have registered over 20 FIRs in connection with attempts to forcibly stage protests in the national capital, officials said on Sunday. The FIRs were filed for offences including taking the law into one's own hands, obstructing official duties, and assaulting police personnel, as the protestors gathered around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the conduct of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Meanwhile, the Executive Magistrate on Sunday ordered the release of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka after the three were placed under preventive arrest by Delhi Police, according to CJP's legal affairs head, Ratna Singh. Singh had earlier said that the three were scheduled to appear before the Executive Magistrate at Delhi Cantt Police Station after being placed under preventive arrest. Abhijeet, Ashutosh and Saurav will be produced before the Executive Magistrate at Delhi Cantt Police Station at 9 AM today. A Delhi police official informed me about this in the morning. As CJP's Legal Head, I will be at the police station along with other advocates representing us, Singh had said in a post on X, earlier on Sunday. The three were detained earlier on Saturday at the Indira Gandhi International Airport as they arrived in the national capital to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI). This came against the backdrop of the CJP's planned demonstration against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. On Saturday, over 3,000 anti-CEC protesters, including opposition leaders like former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, were detained in Delhi as law enforcers threw an unprecedented security ring around the national capital to prevent chaos at Jantar Mantar, forcing the proposed agitation to break into several small gatherings across the city. The authorities had earlier denied permission for the demonstration and warned against unauthorised gatherings, imposing internet restrictions, roadblocks and traffic diversions to prevent a repeat of the CJPs July protest at Jantar Mantar that turned violent. The detained protesters were taken to different destinations, including Chhatrasal Stadium and various police stations, the police said. Most of them, including the opposition leaders, were released later in the evening. Social media influencer Dhruv Rathee was also detained at his residence in Gurugram on Saturday and released early on Sunday. Meanwhile, CJP leader Ajinkya Shinde announced that the protesters will once again march towards Jantar Mantar on Sunday and will rest only after the resignation of the CEC.
Press bodies condemn detention of journalists covering Delhi protests; demand apology, inquiry
New Delhi, Oct 11: Four journalists' organisations, including the Press Club of India (PCI) and the Indian Women's Press Corps (IWPC), condemned the detention and harassment of several journalists covering protests in the national capital demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the organisations highlighted that police detained several journalists despite their displaying press identity cards, and seized the phones and equipment of some reporters. The statement was issued by the PCI, IWPC, Delhi Union of Journalists (DUJ) and the Kerala Union of Working Journalists (Delhi unit). The organisations said Delhi Police detained hundreds of protesters demanding Kumar's resignation on Saturday. Journalists covering the police action were also bundled into buses and taken to detention centres, including the Chhatrasal Stadium and the Chanakyapuri police station. Reporters from The Quint, The Wire, Scroll, Reporter TV, Navbharat Times, Newslaundry, and senior journalist Paranjoy Guha Thakurta were among those detained. The reporters said they were detained while filming detentions, despite prominently displaying their press cards, the statement said. It pointed out that police dismissed the journalists' claims of being members of the press, with some officers reportedly saying, Everybody claims to be a journalist these days. The organisations also said they received complaints that official reporting phones belonging to the detained journalists were snatched and seized. Describing the detentions as a blatant attack on the freedom of press, the organisations questioned Delhi Police's earlier position that only journalists accredited by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) would be allowed to cover the protests. Press freedom in India cannot be conditional on PIB accreditation. A large section of digital and independent media does not have PIB cards, yet they are recognised press under the law, the statement said. The organisations said they had raised these concerns in a joint memorandum submitted to the Delhi Police commissioner earlier this week but alleged that the police disregarded their suggestions. They demanded immediate and unconditional release of all the detained journalists, return of the seized phones and equipment, and a public apology from Delhi Police. The organisations also sought an inquiry into the conduct of senior police officers who allegedly ordered the detention of journalists despite being shown press identity cards. They also demanded a clear assurance that journalists wont be prevented from covering protests. The statement also criticised the extensive security arrangements in the capital, alleging that 22,000 police and paramilitary personnel had been deployed, metro stations closed and internet services shut down to prevent protests. Preventing journalists from doing their job, detaining them without reason, and creating a fortress-like situation in the capital with 22,000 police and paramilitary, closed metro stations and unprecedented internet shutdowns, to stop peaceful questioning of institutions is reminiscent of a fascist state, the organisations said. Expressing solidarity with the detained journalists, the four bodies asserted that reporters must be allowed to discharge their professional duties without intimidation or interference.
New session begins against the backdrop of protests in Delhi seeking removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and the Kerala High Court order on registering an FIR against Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL-Exalogic pay-off case
New Delhi, Oct 10:An unprecedented security clampdown and the detention of over 7000 protesters, including CJP leader Abhijit Dipke, four former chief ministers and YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, helped the government thwart a planned mass mobilisation at Jantar Mantar on Saturday to press for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Jantar Mantar, a designated protest site, wore a deserted look throughout the day, with the deployment of over 30,000 security personnel and waves of barricades in Lutyens' Delhi to keep the protesters away from the area. Opposition parties likened the situation to one worse than the Emergency, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urging the youth to keep protesting and asserting that we are going to ensure that this regime and the people who have attacked the Constitution are defeated. Several INDIA bloc leaders, including former chief ministers Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan and Manik Sarkar, were detained from multiple locations across the capital as they tried to join the protest called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. This has gone beyond an Emergency; it has become a Super Emergency, Banerjee said. CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby, veteran Left leader Brinda Karat, CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya, activist Yogendra Yadav, lawyer Prashant Bhushan and All India Students' Association (AISA) president Neha were also detained. Gandhi, who was in Chennai for his Chhatron Ki Goonj event, also said the core characteristic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS is cowardice. The Congress, which has been holding protests demanding the resignation of the CEC over alleged vote theft, however, maintained its distance from the CJP protest. Dipke and two CJP leaders, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, were detained by Delhi Police from inside the aircraft as soon as their flight from Mumbai landed in the national capital. In a video shared by the CJP, Dipke could be heard telling police officers who entered the aircraft, We are here to be arrested, come and arrest us. Before the detention, police personnel told the CJP leaders that they did not have permission to hold their protest at Jantar Mantar. Dipke said CJP leaders were being detained as if they were criminals. He said that even former prime minister Indira Gandhi did not do this, adding that it amounted to dictatorship. Rathee, who lives abroad and had come to join the CJP protest against CEC Kumar, was detained by police from his residence in Gurugram's Sector 56 on Saturday. Around 1 pm, scores of protesters hurled stones at security personnel near Akashwani Bhawan on Imtiaz Ali Marg after jumping barricades, injuring two police personnel. The protesters were quickly detained by security personnel. In the evening, a similar incident happened near Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place, where some protesters threw stones at security personnel. A total of seven personnel sustained injuries during the detention of protesters. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal also sustained injuries to his hand during the detention of Left leaders, including AISA's Neha. Police are likely to file multiple FIRs in connection with the alleged assault on police personnel during the protest, a senior officer said. New Delhi virtually turned khaki on Saturday, with the deployment of over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel ahead of the CJP protest. Waves of barricades lining the streets, the closure of 45 metro stations and intensive checks at the city's border points, railway stations, bus terminals, hotels and other sensitive locations left the capital gridlocked. More than 7000 protesters were detained today across Delhi, including more than 2,000 in New Delhi area, police sources said. In a pre-recorded video message released soon after his detention, CJP leader Dipke said the organisation's in-charge, Ajinkya Shinde, would lead its protest at Jantar Mantar. The CJP asserted that the protest would continue nationwide, with or without its leaders. Police informed Dipke about the death of his grandmother in Maharashtra and offered possible facilitation for his journey to his hometown on humanitarian grounds. Dipke's paternal grandmother, Savitribai Shankarrao Dipke, 85, died at her home in Santuk Pimpri village in Maharashtra's Hingoli district around 11:30 am on Saturday following a prolonged illness, family sources said. Hitting out at the Opposition, the BJP said that the protest meant to take the city hostage turned out to be a flop show, accusing Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of spreading anarchy in cahoots with foreign powers, likening him to historical figure Mir Jafar. It was a victory of democracy over mob rule, BJP leader Sambit Patra said, as hundreds of youths and several politicians who headed to Jantar Mantar were detained by Delhi Police. A large number of police personnel detained groups of protesters from several places, including Hanuman Temple, Akashwani Bhawan, Safdarjung Flyover and Kerala House. Regular announcements were being made by the police at Jantar Mantar, instructing people and mediapersons not to gather in one place. The police also picked up a few protesters who managed to reach Jantar Mantar. The massive security arrangements by Delhi Police thwarted attempts by protesters to reach Jantar Mantar. BJP president Nitin Nabin accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Kejriwal and the CJP of attempting to destabilise the country with the backing of foreign forces. He asserted that the government would deal sternly with their ill intentions, while party workers would foil their design on the ground. The ruling party had back-to back press conferences on Saturday and deployed its senior leaders for the counter-offensive. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta asserted that the capital will not be held hostage and accused Gandhi and Kejriwal of trying to turn the city into a attleground, in league with their B-Team CJP. Several journalists claimed that they were detained. Reporters alleged that they were detained despite displaying their press identity cards, and that their official phones were seized by police personnel before they were taken to detention buses along with other protesters. Visuals circulating showed journalists displaying their press identity cards from inside the buses. Top leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), including Kejriwal, who openly supported the CJP, also failed to reach Jantar Mantar. Kejriwal, who had earlier announced that he would join the protest along with his family members, alleged that the security clampdown in central Delhi to prevent the protest and detain CJP leaders was worse than the Emergency. Kejriwal gave the Delhi chalo call, urging youth across the country to reach the national capital to demand the resignation of the chief election commissioner over vote theft, shortly before he was detained by the Delhi Police. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge lashed out at the Modi government over the detentions by Delhi police, saying it has turned the mother of democracy into a muzzled democracy. The Congress chief alleged that the cowardice of the BJP-RSS is on full display today. More than 120 companies of Central Armed Police Forces assisted Delhi Police in managing the security situation. Personnel were deployed at strategic locations, while mock drills were conducted at several places to assess preparedness and response mechanisms. Authorities also monitored social media platforms for attempts to mobilise people for the protest. More than 200 content creators were reportedly under scrutiny as police examined online posts and messages linked to the proposed gathering. Liquor shops across Delhi were closed as a precautionary measure. With restrictions affecting major transport hubs and several parts of the city, commuters were advised to check official announcements and plan their journeys accordingly. 200 DETAINED IN MUMBAI Police detained around 200 people, including members of activist Tushar Gandhi-led organisation and supporters of the CPI (M), for protesting at the August Kranti Maidan in Mumbai in solidarity with the Cockroach Janata Partys demonstration in New Delhi, officials said. In a separate action, several workers of the Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) were detained while demonstrating near Hutatma Chowk in south Mumbai to back the CJP, they said. Hundreds of people, including those belonging to Tushar Gandhi-led Hum Bharat Ke Log organisation, and activists of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) assembled at the August Kranti Maidan in south Mumbai without permission and around 200 of them were detained for protesting, an official said. The process of registering an FIR against them was underway, he said. One of the protesters, Rubaid Bhojani, alleged that the police took the protesters into custody very brutally. We voted for the Prime Minister, but he betrayed us. We demand Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumars resignation, Bhojani said. Earlier in the day, Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, was picked up from Bandra and taken to D N Nagar police station. A large number of people gathered outside the police station. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray also visited the police station. Gandhi, who heads the organisation Hum Bharat Ke Log, had shared a poster in a post on X, urging citizens to join a protest gathering at August Kranti Maidan at 3.30 pm. Activist Feeroz Mithiborwala was also taken into custody from his residence and shifted to the MIDC police station. Meanwhile, additional police personnel, including women officers, were deployed at the Shivaji Park in Dadar to prevent CJP members from staging a demonstration. Security was also stepped up at other locations across Mumbai. Authorities maintained that August Kranti Maidan is not designated as a protest site in accordance with a Bombay High Court order, prompting preventive action to maintain law and order. The CJP has called a demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the CEC over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and changes relating to Form 6, used for voter registration.
Kerala Chief Minister Demands Immediate Release of Pinarayi Vijayan from Delhi Police Custody
Keralas CM criticizes the detention of former chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, urging for his immediate release from Delhi police custody. Kerala Chief Minister Demands Immediate Release of Pinarayi Vijayan from Delhi Police Custody
Former Mayor alleges bid to move Thiruvananthapuram Zoo animals to Vantara, Puthur
He says meeting will be held at Sathyan Memorial Hall at 5 p.m. on Monday to form a Thiruvananthapuram zoo protection committee
Melpadom Chundan finishes first in Champions Boat League race in Keralams Kochi
INDIA bloc's major protest in Delhi on Monday, to meet CJI
AICC general secretary K C Venugopal announced that the INDIA bloc will stage a major protest in Delhi on Monday to protect voting rights, following meetings with the President and a planned meeting with the Chief Justice of India. He accused PM Modi and Amit Shah of attempting to protect Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and criticised the Centre for denying an AIIMS facility to Keralam despite past assurances. Venugopal affirmed the bloc's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections and expressed hope for AIIMS if they come to power.
Murali Shreesankar Questions Keralas Support for Athletes, Considers Tamil Nadu Option
Indian long jumper Murali Shreesankar criticizes Keralas athlete support and hints at representing Tamil Nadu if conditions dont improve. Murali Shreesankar Questions Keralas Support for Athletes, Considers Tamil Nadu Option
Effective policing must as cybercriminals target vulnerable groups, says Keralam Minister
C0c0n-2026, the cybersecurity summit concludes in Keralams Kochi
Coach Asnodkar wants Kerala to do well in all the formats
Kerala eyes good start against a strong Jharkhand side
Watch: CPI(M) protests in Keralas Kannur over arrests of leaders and protesters in Delhi
CPI(M) supporters staged a protest in Kannur, Kerala, condemning the arrests of leaders and protesters in Delhi. They raised slogans against the police action and called for protests to spread across the country.
Minister Bindu Krishna pledges full support to survivor of alleged gang rape in Kochi
The alleged gang rape took place on October 2, 2026, at a lodge in the city
