Orange alert for 4 Keralam districts amid heavy rain warning
Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram have been placed on a yellow alert.
Ganja Smuggler Arrested In Kochi With 20 Kg Contraband
Kochi City police seized approximately 20 kg of ganja in Eloor and arrested Sukhchand Sekh, a West Bengal native, for allegedly smuggling the contraband from Odisha to Keralam via Karnataka using a specially fabricated train compartment.
Kerala Pursues Central Government Assistance For Thiruvananthapuram City's Infrastructure Projects
Sanju Samsons Kerala home is the epitome of elegant and serene. Although the home costs crores, the decor is minimalistic and warm, avoiding excess yet looking cosy. The talented cricketers abode is a testament that sometimes, prioritising a subdued, cosy look with warm, muted shades can also make your house appear elegant.
Two Woman die in Keralam as Their Scooter Lose Control, Goes under Bus
The scooter was moving behind a car when it suddenly lost balance, and the women fell sideways onto the road, leaving the bus driver with little time to brake
Pinarayi Vijayan Gets 7-Day Relief In Bribery Case, CPI(M), BJP Trade Charges
The Supreme Court clarified that the FIR would remain intact and that the Kerala High Court was free to independently consider the appeal and decide whether any further interim relief should be granted.
CMRL bribery case: SC stays for a week probe against former Keralam CM Pinarayi Vijayan, others
The Supreme Court issued a one-week stay on the investigation involving former Keralam chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his family. This stay allows Vijayan and his family to appeal against a recent High Court order. The Kerala High Court had previously rejected their application to challenge the order directing the investigation. Allegations against them involve fraudulent payments made to Veena's company for IT consultancy services.
SC Stays CMRL Bribery Probe Against Vijayan
The Supreme Court has temporarily halted the investigation into the alleged CMRL bribery case involving former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena T, and son-in-law P A Mohamed Riyas. This decision allows them to appeal a Kerala High Court order that had previously rejected their applications to challenge a directive for an FIR. The case stems from allegations of fraudulent payments made by CMRL to Veena's company.
SC sets aside Kerala HC order in CMRL payoff case, stays FIR probe for 7 days
The Supreme Court clarified that it had made no observations on the merits of the FIR. It also refrained from expressing any opinion on the validity of a subsequent Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered against the petitioners
Man repeatedly sent unsuitable matrimony profiles; commission orders Rs 37,000 relief
A consumer commission in Kerala has criticized a matrimonial agency for not fulfilling its service promises. The agency engaged in unfair trade practices, deceiving clients into buying pricier packages. In response to a complaint by Akhil Vinod, the commission mandated a refund and additional compensation. They highlighted the importance of matrimonial agencies transparently detailing their services to prevent consumer deception.
Low-Cost SMA Drugs in Keralam Follow Expert Advice: K Muraleedharan
On the issue of medicines labelled 'doctor's sample' and 'for clinical trials' being given to SMA patients, Muraleedharan said that no written complaints have been received
Kerala Agro Machinery Corporation (KAMCO) has invited online applications for 7 vacancies, including Machinist/ Turner/ CNC Operator and Tractor Mechanic/ Fitter posts. Applications can be submitted at asapkerala.gov.in till 25 October 2026.
Real-time air pollution monitoring stations in Keralams Vyttila and Kaloor non-functional
Officials said that manual testing of air pollution levels is being carried out; the third station at Eloor is functional, though its annual maintenance contract had expired a year ago
Thousands of Toddlers Take First Steps into Learning on Vijayadasami in Keralam
The ritual, marking the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival, saw children, mostly aged between two and three years, introduced to learning by scholars, writers, teachers, priests and other prominent personalities
Reminded me of younger days: Keralam CM's moving review of Bethlehem Kudumba Unit
Reminded me of younger days: Keralam CM's moving review of Bethlehem Kudumba Unit
The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 26, with Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh also likely to receive heavy rain. Chennai and neighbouring districts have declared school holidays on October 21 following heavy rainfall. A low-pressure area is expected to develop over the southwest Bay of Bengal, bringing further rain to southern India.
On paddy field conservation in Keralam
Neglecting paddy fields as a socio-ecological system that regulates local biodiversity, the hydrological cycle, and microclimate constitutes a grave failure, amid rising food insecurity and floods
After spending decades abroad in the Gulf, Rajan Mathew returned to his roots in Kerala and embarked on a new venture: lemon farming. He transformed his family's rubber tree plantation into a vibrant lemon orchard featuring different varieties. As the pandemic fueled local demand, he began selling directly to consumers, illustrating a growing trend among Kerala farmers who are pivoting to alternative crops for improved economic viability.
Ranbir Kapoor, Yash Starrer Ramayana Declared Tax Free In West Bengal
The Ramayana film has been made tax-free. The Kerala Story, The Kashmir Files and The Bengal Files, all of these will be or have been made tax-free, and the same will apply to Ramayana. In the days to come, we will see films on Shri Krishna and Arjuna, as well as the Mahabharata, the West Bengal CM said
Keralam seeks FSSAI clarity on high fat, sugar, salt food
The State will strengthen all legal measures to curb unhealthy eating habits among children and prevent excessive consumption of junk food, says Health Minister K. Muraleedharan
Health Department issues circular on maintaining medicine stocks in hospitals
The circular directs that an updated list of the medicine stocks in hospitals be provided to doctors in the OP (outpatient) departments. This will help doctors have a clear idea about the medicines available in the hospital and to prescribe the same to patients.
Weather updates, October 21: The IMD has forecast rain across several Indian states and Union Territories from October 20 to 26, with isolated very heavy rainfall likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal from October 20 to 22. Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also likely to receive heavy rain. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected in several regions.
Kanthapuram Sunni faction calls off protests against Waqf board reconstitution in Keralam
The faction will have a nominee in the board, says Minister Samsudheen
Kanthapuram Sunni faction calls off protests against Waqf board reconstitution in Keralam
The faction will have a nominee in the board, says Minister Samsudheen
Arrest made in Sakthikulangara skeletal remains case
The gruesome incident came to light on September 30 when workers cleaning the harbor's septic tank found decomposed remains concealed beneath a mat
Retired principal duped of Rs 3.73 lakh; SBI to return it on High Court order.
In Kerala, a retired college principal's account was defrauded of 3.73 lakh after he shared an OTP. The Kerala High Court has now ordered SBI to return the money.Retired principal duped of Rs 3.73 lakh, SBI to return it on High Court order.Cyber criminals are using various tactics to...
Parents Of Two-Year-Old Who Died Of Malnutrition In Keralam To Face Legal Action: Minister
The government was committed to protecting children and would take steps to prevent such incidents: Keralam Women and Child Welfare Minister Bindu Krishna
Keralam Spa Assault Case: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Health Inspector Arrested
Following his arrest, Anuroop was suspended by Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Mayor V V Rajesh: Reports
Ranji Trophy: Jalajs late strikes boost Keralas push for victory
Odisha ends the penultimate day at 102 for four after following on as bad weather forces an early close; the visiting side needs 78 more on an uneven wicket to make the home team bat again
Consensus Arrived At With Factions Aggrieved Over Non-Representation In Waqf Board: Samsudheen
The Keralam government had last Friday dissolved the Waqf Board headed by K S Hamsa: Reports
5th Edition Of Austrahind Joint Military Exercise Commences In Keralam
The fourth edition was held at Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia, from October 13 to 26 last year: Reports
Eco-Tourism Centres In Keralam To Be Made Waste-Free, Says Forest Minister
Projects such as Sholay and workation facilities would create opportunities for workers to earn additional income: Reports
Special trains between Thiruvananthapuram North and Mangaluru on October 20th and 21st
South Western Railway will operate one trip each of an express special train in both directions between Thiruvananthapuram North and Mangaluru Junction to clear the extra rush of passengers during the festival season.
CPI(M) Backs Rahul Gandhi, BJP Criticizes Congress-Left Alliance
CPI(M) leader defends Rahul Gandhis foreign trip, prompting BJP to revive criticisms of Congress-Left ties in Kerala. CPI(M) Backs Rahul Gandhi, BJP Criticizes Congress-Left Alliance
KLEE 2026 Stray Vacancy Round 2 Deadline Extended to 22 October, Register Options by 10 AM
Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala, has extended the KLEE 2026 second-round stray vacancy option registration deadline to 22 October 2026 at 10 AM. The extension applies to both the three-year LL.B. and integrated five-year LL.B. admission processes. Eligible candidates can register fresh college options through their respective CEE Kerala candidate portals. Option registration fees are 1,000 or 500 for eligible categories, with exemptions for certain first-round participants.
Kovalam spa sexual abuse: probe widens as health inspector arrested
The survivor, a native of Andhra Pradesh, was allegedly trafficked by her maternal aunt and the aunts husband. The accused couple was tracked down and arrested from Andhra Pradesh
Ex-gunman of Veena George will face action for false statement: Keralam Health Minister
Muraleedharan says the gunman, in his latest statement to SIT constituted to probe the incident, has admitted to having lied allegedly on the instructions of Veena George
Family cruise trip cancelled without notice; commission orders Rs 54K payout
A family's dream cruise was abruptly canceled without warning, leaving them in distress. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Kerala found both the holiday company and cruise operator at fault. Despite repeated attempts to secure a refund after the cancellation, the complainant was denied compensation. The commission mandated a refund along with additional compensation for the trouble caused, allowing one month for compliance before penalties escalate.
Ex-Minister K. Krishnankutty blames UDF mismanagement for power tariff hike in Keralam
Krishnankutty says basis for calculating losses needs to be clarified
TN Man Held for Fake Bomb Threats to Keralam Govt Offices
The accused, Sarath Subramanian, who had lived in the United States for several years, has 36 cases registered against him in Thiruvananthapuram alone
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas holds that without any extension of the time granted by the Supreme Court, it was not proper for the High Court to direct a delayed registration or even to direct the consideration of an application for time extension
Yellow alert for seven districts from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam on Tuesday, where isolated heavy showers are expected during the next 24 hours
Trouble mounts for ex-Kerala Minister Veena George after gunman retracts statement
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 20 (IANS) The case over the alleged attack on former Kerala Health Minister Veena George by KSU activists has taken a fresh turn, with her gunman telling the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that he gave a statement alleging an armed attack at her instruction. Gunman Abhilash has told the SIT that he did not see the Kerala Students Union (KSU) activists attacking Veena George and that he gave his statement to the Railway Police on the instructions of the then minister. His earlier testimony had formed the basis for imposing serious charges, including an attempt to murder, against the arrested KSU activists. The disclosure comes months after the incident, which occurred towards the end of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government's tenure early this year. The arrested KSU activists had spent time in jail before securing bail, making the latest development particularly damaging. The episode had triggered widespread criticism after Veena, who had alleged that she was injured in the incident at Kannur railway station, was discharged from a government hospital near Kannur within two days and travelled by road. Questions were raised over the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack and the subsequent handling of the case. The latest revelation adds to the political setbacks suffered by Veena, who was seeking a third consecutive victory from Aranmula in the Assembly elections but lost. Though she remains an invitee to the CPI(M) state committee, her political standing has diminished considerably. Veena's rise had been swift. In 2016, Pinarayi Vijayan handpicked her from a television newsroom and fielded her as the CPI(M) candidate in Aranmula. She won her maiden election and retained the seat in 2021. Vijayan later elevated her to the Health Ministry, bypassing several seasoned party leaders. However, her performance as Health Minister became a subject of debate towards the end of her tenure. The Kannur episode further dented her public image, and the latest disclosure is likely to intensify questions over how the case was handled.
BJP leaders slam Sanjay Raut over remarks on Albania protests, demand apology
BJP leader Guru Prakash Paswan questioned whether Raut was presenting the events in Albania as an example for India. He also referred to a social media post by the Congress in Kerala concerning the Chief Justice of India
Voluntary groups pledge support for Wayanads e-waste-free drive
Wayanad aims to become the countrys first completely e-waste-free district by November 1
CMRL-Exalogic payoff case: RMP, outside ally of ruling UDF in Keralam, opposes govt stand in HC
K.K. Rema says government stand undermines its declared position on corruption
Posing As Couple, Assam Man, Bengal Woman Ran Ganja Trade From Kerala Migrant Quarters
During the search, officials recovered 4 kg of ganja stored in two packets inside their room, along with Rs 1,19,600 in cash, suspected to be proceeds from drug sales.
Engineer Arrested Over Kerala Bomb Threat Emails
A 37-year-old engineer from Tamil Nadu, Sarath Subramanian, has been arrested in Kerala for allegedly sending fake bomb threat emails to various government offices, including the Secretariat and court complexes. He confessed to 34 of 36 registered cases, stating his motive was revenge against a Tamil Nadu political party. The emails were sent via the dark web, and investigations are ongoing.
From defiance to plea for protection, Pinarayi Vijayan seeks SC relief
Digital Desk | New Delhi/ Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 20 (IANS) From daring his political adversaries to seeking protection from arrest before the Supreme Court, the contrast in Pinarayi Vijayans positions has come into sharp focus as the 82-year-old CPI(M) leader faces legal challenges in the CMRL-Exalogic case. His petition will be heard on Wednesday, and all eyes are on it. In 2017, Vijayan, then Kerala Chief Minister, delivered a fiery speech at a political rally in Mangalore, targeting the RSS and recalling the threats he had faced. Then, I had walked amidst the knives you had drawn out and amidst the swords you held up. When you couldnt do anything to me during those times, what do you think you are going to do to me today? he had declared, projecting an image of fearlessness and political defiance. Nearly a decade later, the former Chief Minister finds himself invoking the protection of the law against the possibility of arrest. In his appeal before the Supreme Court challenging the Kerala High Court Division Bench order upholding the direction to register an FIR in the CMRL-Exalogic case, his senior counsel Siddharth Luthra reportedly told the court: An 82-year-old man facing possible arrest. We are seeking protection from arrest or any other coercive action. It is a matter of liberty. Vijayan, named as the first accused in the case, has challenged the High Court order directing an investigation into payments made by Kochi-based Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd to Exalogic Solutions, the now-defunct IT company owned by his daughter, T. Veena. The contrast is particularly striking given Vijayans continued political activity despite his age. Earlier this month, he travelled to Delhi to participate in a protest and was detained by Delhi Police for around eight hours, spending part of the time in a police vehicle and the remainder at a police station. Seeking legal protection is a legitimate exercise of the right to personal liberty and does not imply guilt. Yet, the contrast between his combative political rhetoric and the plea now advanced in court offers a telling glimpse of the different challenges confronting a leader long associated with political defiance. The immediate test, however, lies in the Supreme Court on Wednesday, where the legal battle could determine the next course of the investigation.
Kerela: 35-year-old man dies after falling under moving train at Aluva station
A 35-year-old man identified as Althaf died after allegedly attempting to jump off a moving train at Kerala's Aluva railway station between 3 am and 4 am on Tuesday. Police said he lost his footing and slipped under the train. Inquest proceedings are underway
Greens see red over Keralam govts move to permit sand mining in 17 rivers
Society for the Protection of the Environment, Kerala (SPEK) says though the govt decision has been presented as a flood mitigation step, no environmental impact assessment appears to have been conducted. Activists also point out that this may serve as a pretext for indiscriminate extraction of sand from all rivers and streams
Keralam to Seek FSSAI's Clarity on Junk Food Rules
Although foods high in fat, sugar and salt can be classified as HFSS products, clear standards are needed to determine the levels at which these ingredients become excessive
Ramesh Chennithala assures job for Pothundy murder victims daughter
Trial court had directed Keralam government to provide employment to one of the children. Chennithala said he would discuss the matter with Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and ensure that an appointment order was issued soon
SC to hear on October 21 Vijayans plea in CMRL case, YSRCP petition on local body polls
A special Bench of Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana will hear Pinarayi Vijayans plea in the CMRL case and YSRCPs challenge to the Andhra Pradesh HCs refusal to extend civic poll nomination deadlines
Man arrested for sexually harassing British tourist at Varkala in Keralam
The police identified the accused with the help of a video recorded by the tourist and arrested him
SBI cyber fraud: Kerala HC orders 3.73 lakh refund. Can you get a refund after sharing an OTP?
Kerala High Court directed SBI to refund 3.73 lakh to a retired college principal who lost money after sharing an OTP with a fraudster posing as a bank official. Here is how the scam worked, five lessons every bank customer should take from the case, and what the RBIs zero-liability rule says.
SC To Hear On Oct 21 Vijayan's Plea In CMRL Case, YSRCP Petition On Local Body Polls
The Kerala High Court on October 9 directed the VACB to register a case based on a report submitted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the state police.
Keralam government to seek Centre's clarity on junk food rules
Keralam seeks clarity from the central food safety authority on rules to identify and regulate foods high in fat, sugar and salt. The development comes as the state steps up efforts to reduce unhealthy eating habits among children. Clear standards are needed to determine the levels at which these ingredients become excessive. The state is implementing various initiative to promote safe and nutritious food at educational facilities.
U.P. tourist rescued after falling 800 feet near pool in Keralams Idukki
The 28-year-old fell while crossing a hilly path near the pool at Wagamon
Farhan Akhtars Shah Rukh Khan starrer Don: The Chase Begins Again(2006) completed 20 years today. The film was a remake of Chandra Barots Don (1978), starring Amitabh Bachchan. Produced by Excel Entertainment and also starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Om Puri, Boman Irani, Arjun Rampal and Isha Koppikar, the action flick became a success at the box office. It was a major moment for mainstream Hindi cinema as sequels werent a regular feature back then. Even after two decades, Don doesnt appear old. A major reason for this is the visuals provided by cinematographer KU Mohanan. Interestingly, this was the first time he had worked in a mainstream commercial film. Mohanan revealed that there were apprehensions because of this before he came on board in an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama. He said, At that time, I was mainly doing advertising work. I was quite big in advertising films. Maybe, thats why Farhan got an idea about my work. But he knew I hadnt done any big feature film before. He was a little apprehensive also in the beginning if I would be able to pull it off. This was a huge film. He expressed his concerns and asked me if I would like to do it. I said I will try because even I was not very sure about myself. But I took it as a challenge and accepted the film. Challenges of shooting action sequences Mohanan faced that challenge of shooting high-octane action sequences for the first time. It was very challenging, he said. But we had a good team, like the second unit director and the action team. The main person was from Australia. He had worked in many Hollywood and international films. We really wanted to make it look world class. Most of the action scenes were done in real. The chase sequences were done in that speed. There wasnt too much of cheating. Certain things which we couldnt do in real were done with a little VFX. At that time, VFX was not very popular. It wasnt easy to do VFX. Shah Rukh Khans daredevilry made things easier Mohanan shared that SRK made things easier and he was amazed by his commitment towards shooting action scenes. He will do anything you tell him, he recalled. He used to get very excited for action, even at times when I used to get scared. I was sitting behind him in the car with the hand-held camera during a chase scene. He was driving the car and hitting the water barrel that was coming on the windscreen and then hitting a road roller. Everything is done by him. There was no duplicate. One particular scene involving fire astonished Mohanan about the kind of risks Khan was ready to take. There is also a scene where the car is going through a fireball. That car is driven by Shah Rukh Khan. It wasnt a stunt double. There was a camera mounted in front of the car, so you can see the actor. He did it twice. He is the greatest star I have worked with. He is a such a great, gentle and warm human being. He is a very hardworking actor and very supportive to everybody. He is a dream to work with. More than a star, I am a huge fan of Shah Rukh Khan as a person, he said. Don started a good professional bond between Mohanan and SRK, which continued in various projects in the years to come. Shah Rukh is very fond of me maybe because of the quality of work I come with. He really appreciated the way I worked in Don. Thats the reason I did Raees (2017) and Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017). After that, I did innumerable TV commercials with him, he recalled. The end twist played a major role in Dons box office success Interestingly, KU Mohanan is a big fan of the original Don. It released when he was a school student in Kerala. He was glad to know that Farhan Akhtars remake threw in a major twist in the end. It was so exciting for me to re-do that film as a cinematographer, he said. When I read the script and saw the twist, I felt it was very interesting. Otherwise, what is the point of making it exactly like before? Thats a great twist that Farhan brought in. Maybe thats one of the reasons why the film worked at the box office. We had a very strong team along with the great vision of Farhan Akhtar. He is very supportive as a director and a great producer, along with Ritesh Sidhwani. Dons international look was an effort to break the existing pattern in Bollywood back then Don had an international look to it. Mohanan said that this is what they always aimed for. We were trying to break the regular pattern of Bollywood cinema existing at that time, he said. Anyways, I am exposed to international cinema. Actually more than Hollywood, I am exposed to other kind of cinema the cinema from Europe, Japan, etc. So, I have a different kind of way of looking at things. Maybe that worked in the film actually. Thats why it looks different. Mohanan made it clear that despite taking inspiration from international cinema, his aim was never to copy anything from foreign films. You can get inspired by someone elses work. You can get influenced by people who worked before us. Its like carrying a baton forward. I tried to make it look very unique and our own. To an extent, I think, I succeeded in doing Don. It wasnt a copy of Hollywood. But it also wasnt like the regular Hindi cinema of that period, he said. The green colour palette One can easily notice the green colour palette to the film right from the onset. Sharing the thought behind this, Mohanan said, When we did the camera and look test, Farhan, myself, the production designer Aradhana Seth and the costume designer Aki Narula discussed decided that we will go with one particular colour palette. Its a collaborative work, actually. We also decided that we will cut off certain type of a colour. For example, there are no warm colours in the film; its a very cold film. You have shades of blue, green and black. We thought this looks like a good colour palette for the film. Otherwise, Hindi cinema was not doing any colour palette at that time. There wasnt a properly paletted film. It was all haywire. There is only one song (Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar Ka Deewana) where there is a lot of warmth, like red, orange, etc. Don started a healthy working relationship between KU Mohanan and Excel Entertainment Don was a pleasurable experience for KU Mohanan. It became a start to a long collaboration with Excel Entertainment, with movies like, Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012), Fukrey (2013) and Raees. He laughingly said, Most of my filmography is produced by Excel Entertainment. They are very good producers. They are very straightforward and very quality conscious. Thats the reason I did most of my films with them. Ritesh Sidhwani is a very great producer. Surprisingly, Mohanan wasnt a part of Dons sequel Don 2: The Chase Continues (2011). When pointed this out, he said, I was busy with some other work actually. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Shah Rukh Khans birthday to witness a KING-sized BLAST; Siddharth Anand gears up to launch EXPLOSIVE teaser on November 2
Delhi to get warmer in coming days; IMD issues rain alert for South India
Delhi is forecast to remain dry on October 20, with temperatures of 17-33C; IMD has warned of heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala
India-Australia military exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 begins in Keralam
The November 1 conclusion will mark two weeks of joint planning, tactical drills and combat-oriented training under realistic operational conditions.
Weather Today, October 20: The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh from October 20 onwards. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal may receive isolated very heavy rainfall till October 21, while Kerala is likely to see heavy rain till October 25. The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and a possible depression over the southwest Arabian Sea.
Kerala government announced a 2% hike in DA and DR for employees and pensioners, bringing it to 37% of basic pay, effective from January. Here's a look at which employees and pensioners are eligible for an increase in the dearness allowance and who is not
Supreme Court to Hear Petition by Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on October 21
The Supreme Court will review petitions from Pinarayi Vijayan and others regarding a corruption case on October 21. Supreme Court to Hear Petition by Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on October 21
Weather Update For October 20: Heavy Rain And Thunderstorms Forecast For Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh
Weather Forecast October 20: As per IMD, neighbouring Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep are also set for widespread rainfall along with gusty winds.
Congress Leaders in Kerala Advised Against Publicly Voicing Disputes
Congress leaders in Kerala are cautioned against publicly airing grievances amid rising internal tensions over the CMRL-Exalogic case. Congress Leaders in Kerala Advised Against Publicly Voicing Disputes
SC to hear Pinarayi Vijayan's plea against vigilance probe in CMRL-Exalogic case on October 21
The Supreme Court on Wednesday will hear a plea by former Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking a stay on vigilance proceedings in the Rs 278-crore CMRL-Exalogic case, despite his apprehension of imminent arrest. A vacation bench of Justices Joymala Bagchi and V Mohana will hear the plea of Keralam Leader of Opposition Vijayan. His daughter and son-in-law also approached the apex court against the direction for FIR in the case. On October 16, senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for Vijayan, mentioned the matter for an urgent hearing, saying that the 82-year-old leader faced the possibility of arrest. An 82-year-old man facing possible arrest. We are seeking protection from arrest or any other coercive action. It is a matter of liberty, Luthra said, seeking an urgent hearing. He challenged the Kerala High Court's order directing registration of an FIR, arguing that it was passed by a single judge in proceedings resembling public interest litigation. The CJI then said...
Weather update for tomorrow October 20, 2026: The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, with heavy rain likely over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala and Mahe. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected across several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Odisha, Konkan and Goa, and Madhya Maharashtra. A well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest Arabian Sea is likely to move towards the Somalia coast by October 22.
Kerala Government Launches Investigation into Furniture Purchases for Ayurvedic Hospitals
Keralas health minister orders an investigation into alleged irregularities in furniture purchases for Ayurvedic hospitals during the Vijayan government. Kerala Government Launches Investigation into Furniture Purchases for Ayurvedic Hospitals
Tourist Harassment: Man Held In Varkala
A man named Shahad was arrested in Varkala, Kerala, for allegedly sexually harassing a British woman tourist late on Sunday night. The woman reported the incident to the police on Monday morning, leading to the arrest of the accused, who was identified with the help of a video.
WPL auction: Check date, time, full list of players going under the hammer and other details
The TATA Womens Premier League 2027 auction will take place in Kochi, Kerala. A total of 146 players are available for the five franchises to choose from. Of these, 119 are Indian players, while 27 players are overseas cricketers. The auction will begin at 5:30 PM, allowing teams to strengthen their squads with strategic choices.
Munambam Residents Should Not Be Evicted: New Keralam Waqf Board Chief
More than 600 families in Munambam, a coastal village in Ernakulam district, are affected by a dispute over around 400 acres of land claimed by the Waqf board
Yet another probe ordered into Kerala health sector purchases during Vijayan regime
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (IANS) The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) will investigate alleged irregularities in furniture purchases for government Ayurveda hospitals during the Pinarayi Vijayan government's rule, the latest in a series of probes ordered by Health Minister K. Muraleedharan, ever since the V.D. Satheesan government assumed office in May. The minister on Monday ordered the comprehensive investigation after rejecting a recommendation by the Health Department Principal Secretary that an enquiry by the Finance Department would suffice. The probe will primarily focus on P.R. Saji, former State Programme Manager of the National AYUSH Mission. At the Government Ayurveda Hospital in Pinarayi, Kannur, furniture worth Rs 11.45 lakh was purchased before construction of the hospital building was completed. Irregularities have also been detected in large-scale furniture purchases at government Ayurveda hospitals in Mattannur, Chalakudy and Venganoor, allegedly in violation of prescribed rules. The latest order adds to a widening scrutiny of procurement and financial decisions in the state's health sector, with investigations spanning medical equipment, medicines and other purchases made through government agencies. In July, Muraleedharan ordered a comprehensive departmental enquiry into major medical equipment purchases made by the Health Department over the past 10 years. The probe followed reports that expensive equipment, including mobile mortuaries, was lying unused at government hospitals and medical colleges. It covers purchases made using Plan funds and the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), besides equipment supplied by the Centre during the Covid-19 pandemic. In August, the minister referred alleged irregularities in the Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited's (KMSCL) purchase of bleaching powder, involving a reported potential unnecessary expenditure of Rs 7.32 crore, to the Vigilance Bureau after an earlier departmental enquiry was found inadequate. He also sought a Vigilance enquiry into alleged financial irregularities, construction contracts and procurement discrepancies at Oushadhi, the state-owned Ayurvedic pharmaceutical company. The successive probes signal the government's focus on reviewing public expenditure and procurement practices in the health sector. Their findings could determine whether procedural lapses or financial misconduct occurred and who, if anyone, should be held accountable.
Kerala govt toughens action against drunk driving after 10,000 drivers caught
Kerala govt toughens action against drunk driving after 10,000 drivers caught Thrissur: With road accidents raising serious concerns in Kerala, the police have caught more than 10,000 people driving under the influence of alcohol in a two-day statewide enforcement drive, prompting Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala to warn of stringent action, including cancellation of driving licences. [] The post Kerala govt toughens action against drunk driving after 10,000 drivers caught appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
IUML to Address Kanthapuram Factions Waqf Board Concerns: Kunhalikutty
The Keralam government on Friday dissolved the Waqf Board headed by K S Hamsa, constituted by the previous LDF government in March this year, and appointed a new nine-member board despite more than four years remaining in the tenure of the old board
Former Electricity Minister Blames UDF for Keralam Power Tariff Hike
Krishnankutty said the LDF government had transformed the Kerala State Electricity Board into a profitable enterprise during its 10-year tenure through proper planning
UDF govt to announce new liquor policy by November: Keralam minister
Discussions on the UDF governments new liquor policy nearing completion, Excise Minister M. Liju said
Who Is Ravleen Varghese? Kerala Model Makes Her Victoria
For Ravleen Varghese, walking the Victoria's Secret runway marks a milestone she once found difficult to imagine. The model, who grew up in Kodumon in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, has now made her debut at one of fashion's most recognisable shows, joining
Kerala Panchayat Clash: School Certificate Row Leads To Cases
A clash erupted between UDF councillors and a woman assistant engineer in Paipra panchayat, Muvattupuzha, over the delayed processing of a school's fitness certificate renewal application. Cases have been registered against both parties, and an investigation is ongoing.
Keralas Home Minister Warns of Strict Action Against Illegal Activities in Spa Centers
Keralas Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala vows to crack down on illegal activities in spas amid rising sexual exploitation cases. Keralas Home Minister Warns of Strict Action Against Illegal Activities in Spa Centers
CMRL-Exalogic case: Rema salvo, Chandy flex boards pile pressure on Kerala CM Satheesan
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (IANS) Independent MLA K.K. Rema's sharp criticism of the UDF government's handling of the cases against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, coupled with the appearance of pro-Oommen Chandy flex boards in Kottayam, has brought growing discontent over the issue into sharper focus, putting Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan in a difficult political position. The latest developments indicate that the objections first raised by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan over the government's legal stand in the CMRL-Exalogic case involving T. Veena, daughter of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, are finding wider resonance within the UDF camp. In a strongly-worded Facebook post, Rema questioned the government's position in Vijayan's appeal against the High Court Single Bench order directing registration of an FIR and a Vigilance investigation. While backing the decision to conduct an independent investigation into the evidence handed over by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), she said the subsequent stand taken by the government lawyer before the Division Bench was disappointing and weakened the UDF's stated position against corruption. Rema argued that the government had no obligation to act according to the ED's script, but said the evidence should be examined independently and the law allowed to take its course. She called on the government to consider the criticism constructively. Rema is an independent MLA who won with the support of the Congress-led UDF . Her husband T.P. Chandrasekharan was brutally killed by CPI-M workers in 2012 because he split with CPI(M) and formed his own party at his home turf in Kozhikode. The political undercurrent was also visible in Kottayam, where flex boards appeared at four locations, including Gandhi Square and near the District Congress Committee office. Carrying messages such as We have forgotten nothing, Vijayan and Even if you forget, we will not forget, the boards invoked the memory of Oommen Chandy and the political battles he faced during the previous LDF government's tenure led by Vijayan. The messages reflect the anger of a section of Congress workers who question why Vijayan should receive what they perceive as more favourable treatment than the former Congress Chief Minister Chandy who was targeted. Kuzhalnadan had earlier questioned the government's position, recalling Chandy's appearance before the Justice G. Sivarajan Commission and the political attacks against him. His intervention has helped bring the issue into an open debate within the party. However, Chandy's son and Puthuppally MLA, Chandy Oommen, has urged restraint, saying that the injustice suffered by his father should not become a reason to persecute another person. For Satheesan, the challenge is to defend the government's insistence on an independent, legally sustainable investigation while addressing growing unease among Congress leaders and workers. With criticism extending beyond Kuzhalnadan, the issue is increasingly becoming a test of the UDF government's credibility on corruption and its ability to maintain unity within its own ranks. Vijayan has been asked to appear before the ED at their Kochi office on Friday, while his petition is before the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the High Court verdict, which had put Vijayan as first accused in an FIR registered by the Vigilance in the CMRL-Exalogic case.
Man Held In Pune For KSEB Fuse Tampering
A man from Kaitharam, Kerala, has been arrested in Pune for allegedly removing a KSEB transformer fuse during a power outage last month. The accused, Vishnu, was traced with cyber cell assistance after going into hiding following the incident.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday reacted to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons to former Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL-Exalogic case, saying the development was not a new story and that due process should be followed. This is not a new story. Pinarayi Vijayan's CMRL connections have been questioned for a long time, including by Congressmen who were in the opposition, Tharoor told ANI. He stated that the central agencies had now taken a step forward, and that too not through the government but through the court. Tharoor also said that the Congress did not want anyone to be made a victim of unfair investigations. If anything has happened is that the central bodies, ED, CBI, and so on, have now taken a particular step forward, and that too not through our govt, but through the court. They've gone to the court and said this should be done. The court has given instructions. We are following the court. Having been victims ourselves of unfair investigations,...
Congress, Left, CJP protests in Delhi for 'regime change', not over CEC, SIR: Keralam BJP chief
BJP Keralam president Rajeev Chandrasekhar alleged the protests in Delhi by Congress, CJP and the Left parties have nothing to do with the CEC or SIR and intends to bring about a regime change akin to what happened in Bangladesh. He further claimed that opposition parties were united by their hatred for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The oppostion parties have not responded to the allegations.
Keralam: Minor Girl's Aunt, Husband Detained from Andhra in Spa Assault Case
The girl's maternal aunt and her husband subsequently went missing, prompting police to trace them to Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh's Sri Sathya Sai district
Kerala High Court says Supreme Court
The Kerala High Court has ruled that neither the State government nor the High Court can extend the deadline fixed by the Supreme Court for temples and Devaswoms to register with the District Committee under the Kerala Captive Elephant (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas made the observation while dismissing a petition [] The post Kerala High Court says Supreme Courts deadline for temple registration under captive elephant rules cannot be extended appeared first on India Legal .
Kerala HM warns of stringent checks against illegal activities in spas
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 19 (IANS) Kerala Home Minister, Ramesh Chennithala, on Monday warned that stringent checks and monitoring would be introduced against illegal activities operating under the guise of spas, making it clear that no wrongdoer would be allowed to escape the law. The warning comes amid a disturbing series of cases in which women seeking employment and a minor girl have allegedly been subjected to sexual exploitation, raising serious questions about the functioning and regulation of some spa and wellness centres in Kerala. The latest case to shock the state is the alleged sexual exploitation of a 16-year-old girl from Andhra Pradesh at spas in Kovalam. The girl, who had lost both her parents, was allegedly brought to Kerala by her maternal aunt and the latters husband and exploited over several months. Two spa operators have been arrested, while police have formed a Special Investigation Team, including cyber experts, to trace others involved. Investigators are also probing suspected benami links involving a municipal health inspector. The case has reinforced concerns that some establishments may be operating as fronts for organised exploitation rackets, with the possibility of wider networks involving intermediaries and customers. In Kochi, a woman who responded to a job offer at a spa was allegedly lured to a lodge in Edappally and sexually assaulted after being drugged. Four persons have been arrested in connection with the case, and police are examining the alleged links between the accused and other spa establishments. The investigation has also raised suspicions that the principal accused may have interests in several spas operating in the city. In another disturbing incident reported from Thiruvalla earlier this year, a woman employee at an Ayurvedic spa was allegedly sexually assaulted after a group demanded extortion money from the establishment. Police said the attack followed the refusal to pay the money sought. The recurrence of such cases has brought the regulatory framework governing spas under scrutiny. Questions have also been raised about how establishments operate without valid licences and whether inspections are adequate to detect exploitation, trafficking and other illegal activities. The police have launched statewide inspections under 'Operation Spa'. Of the 821 registered spa centres, 586 were inspected, 14 cases were registered and notices were issued to 44 establishments found violating legal provisions. The challenge now is to ensure that enforcement does not remain a temporary response to sensational crimes. Spas providing legitimate therapeutic and wellness services should not be tarred with the same brush. However, those using such establishments to exploit women or minors must face swift and uncompromising action. Effective licencing, regular inspections, employee verification and sustained police monitoring will be crucial to prevent further abuse.
G Sudhakaran Asserts Role in Keralam Bridge Project, Takes Swipe at Inauguration
The controversy erupted after PWD Minister P K Basheer and former CPI(M) MP A M Ariff sparred over credit for the bridge at its inauguration
