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Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan says HC staying Rahul Mamkootathils arrest is a routine judicial process
Congress sheltered him, knows his whereabouts; police not at fault, says Chief Minister
Kerala Local Body Polls: Campaigning to conclude tomorrow
The public campaigning for the first phase of Keralas local body elections will end at 6 pm on Sunday.Kerala State Election Commission has cautioned political parties to ensure that their final campaign activities remain peaceful and do not create ...
Man held for rape, assault of elderly woman in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram: A 20-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping and assaulting an 85-year-old woman and abandoning her on the roadside in this district, police said on Saturday. The incident took place under Venjaramoodu police station limit on Wednesday evening. Agin, a lottery agent, was apprehended on Friday, they said. According to police, the elderly 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 .
20-Year-Old Man Held For Rape, Assault Of 85-Year-Old Woman In Kerala
A 20-year-old man was arrested for raping and assaulting an 85-year-old woman in Thiruvananthapuram. The victim was also brutally beaten with a stick.
Watch: Kerala HC protects MLA Rahul Mamkootathil from arrest till December 15
Kerala High Court Stays Arrest Of Rape-Accused MLA Rahul Mamkootathil
The Kerala High Court on Saturday gave interim protection from arrest to expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in a case of rape and forced abortion against him.
Kerala High Court stays arrest of Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in rape case
The bench of Justice K Babu considered the MLA's anticipatory bail plea and directed that detailed arguments would be heard. The matter is scheduled to be taken up again on December 15.
Kerala HC Blocks Arrest Of Expelled MLA Rahul Mamkootathil In Rape Case
Kerala High Court shields expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil from arrest in a rape case until December 15, as police probe two other cases.
IFFK 2025: Nishanth Kalidindis Theatre explores the fragile world of Indianostrum and indie cinema
After its IFFR Rotterdam premiere, Nishanth Kalidindis Theatre, inspired by Puducherrys Indianostrum experimental troupe, comes to Kerala
The Kerala High Court has granted temporary protection from arrest to MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who is facing serious allegations of rape and has been recently expelled from the Congress. Justice K. Babu issued an interim order preventing the police from taking Mamkootathil into custody until the matter is examined further by the court. This relief [] The post Kerala High Court grants interim relief, halts arrest of former Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in rape case appeared first on India Legal .
Kerala HC gives interim protection from arrest to MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in rape case
Justice K. Babu says court will hear Mamkootathil's anticipatory bail plea on December 15 and till then he should not be arrested
Alleged non-compliance with court verdict regarding evacuation, demolition, and reconstruction of the twin towers
Utterly ridiculous: CM Pinarayi Vijayan on ED show cause notice to him in KIIFB case
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan dismissed the ED's show-cause notice over alleged FEMA violations in the KIIFB case as utterly ridiculous, attributing it to approaching elections. He asserted that KIIFB projects adhered strictly to RBI guidelines for infrastructure development. BJP's Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticized the CM, alleging misuse of public funds and questioning foreign borrowings.
Kerala local body polls: Delimitation redraws Alappuzha districts political battleground
Beyond vote share trends lie regional issues, including growing disenchantment among paddy farmers and fears of displacement over the coastal highway project, that have the potential to change political ground
Kerala local body polls: Land crunch shrinksMunnarsward count after delimitation
Absence of land for house construction has resulted in families shifting to nearby panchayats, which has led in the ward numbers decreasing to 20 from 21 after delimitation
Set in Kerala during the early 2000s, Kalamkaval unfolds around a case of communal tension sparked by a misunderstanding over a girl's elopement.
Mammootty's latest crime thriller, Kalamkaval, has made a strong debut at the Kerala box office.. The film, directed by debutant Jithin K. Jose, saw impressive occupancy, particularly during evening and night shows, surpassing Mammootty's previous release, Bazooka. Read on to know how much it earned.
Kerala local body polls: LDF seeks mandate with measured confidence amid political crosswinds
Facing both achievements and controversies, the LDF approaches the local body elections seeking momentum for a third term in Kerala. While its decade-long welfare and development record anchors the campaign, internal frictions, high-profile cases, and shifting community dynamics shape a complex political terrain.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 6, 2025 Live: Karunya KR-733 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 6-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Karunya KR-733 for Saturday, December 6. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
From criticism to curiosity: How BJPs manifesto grabbed eyeballs
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In an election season dominated by long, text-cluttered manifestos, the NDA has thrown a curveball. Its Thiruvananthapuram corporation manifesto, released on November 30, has become one of the most talked-about campaign documents in the city not for its content alone, but for its strikingly unconventional, infographic-driven design that looks more like a colourful route map than a political pledge sheet. The moment the pamphlet is opened, voters are greeted with a bright roadmap graphic winding across the pages, carrying the partys promises like pit stops on a journey to 2030. Instead of marathon paragraphs, the BJP also presented its core commitments in seven punchy, quick-read boxes a format insiders say was crafted to make the manifesto instantly readable. But what truly propelled the manifesto into public conversation was not its visuals alone it was the oppositions furious reaction to a single line: the BJPs proposal that Thiruvananthapuram could be pitched as one of the event venues of the 2036 Olympics. We have mentioned that we would request the Centre to make Thiruvananthapuram one of the event venues for the 2036 Olympics, a senior BJP leader overseeing campaign coordination said. But the UDF and LDF went after us aggressively on this proposal. Ironically, that made our manifesto go viral. Everywhere we went, people asked us to show them our Olympics proposal and wed pull out the pamphlet. Even ground-level BJP workers admit the new look caught them off guard. We didnt expect this level of excitement. People look at the design first, then start asking questions about the Olympics, a party volunteer said. Party sources said that BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar personally pushed for the clean, modern format, insisting that the voter should understand the partys priorities in one glance. One councillor candidate described the reaction from colleagues: Some were sceptical. Some feared it would be subject to trolls. But the leadership said, lets take the risk. And it became a hit. Designers involved in the project said they were initially worried people might mock the roadmap look. But this time, the gamble paid off. Whether well repeat it in the Assembly elections thats a secret, said a member of the graphics team. While some voters welcomed the change and others dismissed it, many agreed that the format is undeniably different. Im unlikely to read an entire manifesto because of my schedule, but I went through the BJPs version since the points were easy to grasp. Im not sure if this approach will work, but it is impressive, said Tom Joseph, a software engineer and city resident. I personally prefer the old style of manifestos. I dont like this new format, but I must admit it caught my attention, said Divya Gopinath, a senior citizen. Insiders hint that the party is already brainstorming more innovative formats for upcoming manifestos. If everyone starts copying this style for the Assembly polls, why should we repeat it? a senior leader quipped. Well bring in a new surprise. For now, the BJPs colourful roadmap manifesto has become a curious subplot in the citys campaign trail a reminder that in politics, how you present your promises can sometimes create more buzz than the promises themselves.
Vietnamese films to be screened at IFFK
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Vietnamese films will take the centre stage at the Country Focus section in the 30th edition of the International Film Festival Of Kerala (IFFK) scheduled to commence in the state capital from December 12. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the festival will screen five critically acclaimed Vietnamese movies Glorious Ashes directed by Bui Thac Chuyn, The Tree House by Truong Minh Qu, Cu Li Never Cries by Pham Ngoc Lan, Dont Cry Butterfly by Duong Dieu Linh and Once Upon A Love Story by Trinh Dinh Le Minh highlighting the cultural, emotional and political aspects of the nation. The attempt is to underscore cinemas role in documenting historic resistance, cultural survival and the profound human costs of conflict. Global favourites Festival Favourite package will have globally celebrated movies including It Was Just An Accident by Iranian director Jafar Panahi, Sentimental Value by Danish-Norwegian filmmaker Joachim Trier, A Poet by Colombian director Simn Mesa Soto, The Mastermind by American director Kelly Reichardt, No Other Choice by South Korean director Park Chan Wook, Bugonia by Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, The Secret Agent by Brazilian director Kleber Mendona Filho, If I Had Legs Id Kick You by American director Mary Bronstein, Father Mother Sister Brother by American director Jim Jarmusch, The Presidents Cake by Iraqi director Hasan Hadi, Dreams by Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud, Sirat by French-Spanish director Oliver Laxe and Young Mothers by Belgian filmmaking duo Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne.
Twin LDF terms helped bring changes, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan; Kochi Corporation praised
KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said the two consecutive terms of the LDF government in 2016 and 2021 helped bring major changes and achievements in Kerala. He was inaugurating the LDFs Kochi corporation election convention held on the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium premises in Kaloor on Friday. When the LDF assumed office in 2016, Kerala was in deep crisis due to years of mismanagement, Pinarayi said, adding that sectors including education and health were on the verge of collapse. We put forward proposals to create changes. People accepted them. The devastated sectors were revived. People gave us a second term as the government met their expectations, he said, citing the example of the social security pension dues in 2006 and 2016. When the LDF came to power in 2006, there were 28 months of social security pension dues. The first thing we did after coming to power was clear the pending pension dues. In 2016, it was 18 months. Thats how the UDF functioned. The LDF government, which cleared the arrears, increased the welfare pension from Rs 600 to Rs 1,600 and now to Rs 2,000, the chief minister said. The event was presided over by CPI Ernakulam district secretary N Arun. The chief minister also appreciated the Kochi corporation council for its performance in the past five years. Highlighting a few projects, he said the corporation brought about a change in the city through the initiatives.
ECI extends SIR schedule by one week for Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday decided to extend by one week the SIR schedule for Kerala in view of the upcoming local body polls in the state. The local body polls will be held in the state on December 9 and 11 in two phases and the votes will be counted 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 .
INTERVIEW| People will decide on Pinarayi 3.0, party will take a call on me
KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday tackled questions on a wide range of issues at a meet-the-press organised by the Ernakulam Press Club. He spoke on local-body polls, KIIFB, appointment of vice chancellors, and more. Edited excerpts: Will the local body election outcome be an evaluation of the governments performance? The evaluation of my government happens every day, through peoples lives. The final evaluation will be done by voters in assembly election. There are reports John Brittas acted as a mediator for the state government on PM SHRI scheme. Congress says this shows an unholy nexus between CPM and BJP... (Laughs) All MPs from Kerala are expected to engage with the Centre to secure the states rightful share. Before this Parliament session, we held a detailed meeting of all MPs, explaining what is due to Kerala and what each of them should do to ensure those issues are taken up effectively. Unfortunately, in the last Lok Sabha, Opposition MPs from Kerala were not willing to confront the Centres discriminatory attitude. This time, we are seeing a slight but welcome change, with MPs taking a more united stand on matters concerning the state. As a CPM member of the Rajya Sabha, John Brittas has been making strong, effective interventions. He has done nothing wrong, despite attempts to portray it otherwise. We will have the assembly election soon. Can we expect a Pinarayi 3.0? That will be decided by the people. But it is for party to take a call on me. In the Sabarimala gold theft case, a CPM district committee member is in jail. Why is the party not taking action? As CM, I should not go into details because the High Court is monitoring the probe... [which] is comprehensive. As a party, we have made it clear that the guilty will not be protected. The governor has forwarded new names for VCs of KTU and the Digital University, ignoring your governments priority list. The Centre and governors in many states are taking steps to undermine federalism. The Supreme Court directed me to submit a priority list...and the governor is expected to select a person from that list. How can he violate the SC directive so openly? IAS officer B Ashok has moved the HC against appointment of K Jayakumar as TDB president. There are also reports of a rift within the board... This should not have happened a serving officer approaching the court against his own government. Jayakumar was appointed because of his expertise in matters relating to Sabarimala. Devotees have welcomed his appointment. There is no friction within the board. All members have accepted his leadership wholeheartedly. ED has faulted the deployment of proceeds from KIIFBs masala bonds. Is this political? Such actions often appear close to elections. KIIFB was created as an alternative funding mechanism, and every project has followed RBI norms. Over Rs 90,000 crore worth of projects have been taken up. There has not been a single violation... We stand firmly by KIIFBs work.
Post Rahul Mamkootathil's exit, Congress to see major realignment
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A day after Congress expelled Rahul Mamkootathil, MLA, and as the aura around his mentor Shafi Parambil fades, the partys factional map is being ripped apart and redrawn. The once prominent power axis that ran the organisation, has started to crumble almost overnight, triggering realignment inside the party. Sidelined youth leaders, who had long been suppressed, have seized the moment and asserted themselves. Congress insiders say that this is only the beginning of a deeper shake up as various factions attempt to reposition themselves in the changed political landscape. Emboldened by Rahuls exit and Shafis diminishing clout, a group of youth leaders is reportedly uniting across factional lines to challenge the organisations celebrity culture. Muvattupuzha MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadans Facebook post on Friday, is seen as an indicator of this emerging realignment. In his post, Mathew urged the party to reflect on the Rahul episode, warning that artificial creation of celebrity politicians undermines organisational values. Taking a subtle dig at Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, he said, When political work is handed over to celebrities, they tend to protect individuals as part of a commercial mindset rather than safeguarding the party. It is time for internal cleansing in Congress. Several youth leaders such as T Siddique, V T Balaram, C R Mahesh, M Liju, Chandy Oommen, and Abin Varkey reportedly align with this view point. Many of them had earlier opposed the reel culture promoted by the Shafi- Rahul duo during the Nilambur by-election. These leaders now share the common sentiment of ordinary workers. They recognise that if celebrity- reel driven political culture dominates, people will abandon the Congress, said a senior leader. Meanwhile, senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, though out of power for almost four years, is gaining support among leaders for his stern stand against the new power axis. MLAs such as Anvar Sadat, T J Vinod, Eldos Kunnapally, I C Balakrishnan, Sajeev Joseph share Chennithalas stance. Satheesan camp which is now reduced to a few loyalists with him such as M Vincent MLA, has also begun maneuvering to reclaim lost ground. An online article critical to both Shafi and UDF convenor Adoor Prakash for protecting Rahul is seen as an attempt to regain the influence. Meanwhile, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal, has emerged as a unifying figure, accepted by youth leaders and the divided A and I groups. Many previously ineffectual leaders have now sought shelter under him, said a senior party leader.
2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Pulsar Sunis jail letter pulls Dileep into shadow of conspiracy
KOCHI: In the days following the horrific assault inside a moving SUV in Kochi, Malayalam film industry insiders joined hands in grief and outrage. Among them was actor Dileep, who publicly expressed solidarity and vowed to support his colleagues pursuit of justice. But within months, that atmosphere of empathy would be overshadowed by a startling turn of events. A letter smuggled out of jail, beginning with the desperate plea, I need money, now triggered a chain of revelations that would eventually place Dileep in the shadow of suspicion. Penned by N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, the prime accused, and passed on through fellow inmates, the letter hinted at a prior connection and agreement between the two. Each new piece of evidence tightened the noose around Dileep, leading to his arrest on July 10, 2017 a development that stunned the public and shook the film fraternity. ...ever since I got involved... it feels like my life itself has come to an end, the letter further said. On June 3, the survivor issued a statement to the police, implicating Dileep for nurturing deep enmity towards her since 2012. He had been telling everyone that it was the survivor who had ruined his marriage to Manju Warrier. According to police records, Dileep told the survivor in a threatening tone that no one who stood against him in the industry had ever succeeded. As it turned out, Dileeps letter dated May 1, 2017 to the state police chief also rebounded on him. While objecting to Dileeps bail plea, the investigation team filed a report stating that his complaint to the DGP said that his friend, actor-director Nadirshah, received a phone call from a person claiming to be the friend of Suni. This was besides a letter that had been received on his drivers WhatsApp. Both the phone call and letter sought to extort money from Dileep, by threatening to implicate him in the case if he does not pony up. The investigation revealed that Suni had managed to get hold of a mobile phone and SIM card, through accused Vishnu, who was a fellow prisoner in Kakkanad district jail, which were used to make calls to Dileeps associates. It also came to light that the SIM card was stolen from Coimbatore. And, according to the confession of accused Sanal alias Mesthiri Sanal, the phone and SIM card were recovered from his house in Pathanamthitta. The probe further said the letter was originally written by accused Vipinlal in jail and handed over to Vishnu to be passed on to Dileep. The police report objecting to the bail plea of Dileep further said that when questioned in jail, Suni confessed to having entered into a criminal conspiracy with Dileep at their meeting in room 410 of Kochis Abad Plaza Hotel in March-April of 2016. They were both in the city in connection with the rehearsal for a stage show. This was confirmed using witness statements and hotel bills. The room was booked in the name of Dileep for the period from March 26 to April 7. There was a quarrel between Dileep and the victim over the latter having informed on him to Manju. This happened during the rehearsal in the presence of other members of the movie industry, the report stated. Police records stated that Suni confessed to having hatched the plot with Dileep at various shooting locations. The investigation into his statement revealed that the two had met at the Kinattingal Tennis Club in Thrissur, CIFT Junction on Willingdon Island, Ernakulam, and Thodupuzha Santhigiri College in connection with the shooting for the film Georgettans Pooram. Dileep argued that the case against him was the result of a deep-rooted conspiracy, and that it was without any basis. (to be continued) 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No more, no less... only the truth
Muslim organisations scrambling to meet waqf registration deadline
MALAPPURAM: As the deadline to upload waqf property records to the Centres UMEED (Unified Management for Ensuring Efficient Digitalisation) portal expires on Saturday, Muslim organisations in Kerala are grappling with what many describe as the communitys most alarming administrative crisis in decades. With thousands of mahals unable to secure or compile the century-old land deeds, pattayams, and revenue records required for registration, the fear of losing vast tracts of waqf land has escalated into a statewide panic. The Centres insistence on completing the digital transition within just six months despite chronic documentation gaps across Indias eight lakh waqf properties has triggered widespread allegations of targeted exclusion, bureaucratic insensitivity, and political motive. In Kerala, where there are around 50,000 waqf properties under 13,000 mahals, only 17,000 have been registered so far. The Kerala Waqf Board states that only 8,000 mahals have been able to complete the process. The scramble has exposed deep procedural flaws, limited access to legacy documents stored in various government departments, and growing public distrust over the consequences of missing the deadline. Muslim organisations say the primary bottleneck is documentation. Many waqf properties some dating back generations either lack formal land deeds or have records scattered across taluk offices, survey departments, and revenue archives. Mustafa Mundupara, leader of Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulamas youth front Sunni Yuvajana Sangham, warned that the challenge is far beyond what a six-month window can accommodate. Legal documents of many waqf properties throughout the country are not with the mutawallis (waqf property caretakers) of the mahal committees. Maybe they are with state governments. Availing these documents from government agencies is not easy. Six months for registration is a very small period to complete this process, Mustafa said. He added that though the Supreme Court suggested approaching the Waqf Tribunal for interim relief, it does not solve the core problem. If the documents are not uploaded to the UMEED portal, thousands of waqf properties will be lost. There is no doubt that this new system is targeting the Muslim population. It is not for the welfare of our people in any way, Mustafa said. According to him, with nearly 80% of Indias waqf properties lacking proper documentation, the consequences could be disastrous if the Centre refuses to extend the deadline. There is a high chance that land worth crores across India will be lost. The least the central government can do is to extend the time for uploading documents, he added. The crisis has also triggered sharp political reactions. IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty criticised the Centre for pushing the process at what he called breakneck speed. Under the BJP government, the Muslim community is facing severe crisis. Every new law introduced by the BJP triggers anxiety among minorities. Modi governments move to implement SIR and waqf registration at breakneck speed is part of a strategy to exclude minorities, Kunhalikutty said. He also accused the state government of failing to support the process. The Kerala government is also failing to ensure timely and proper registration of waqf properties on the UMEED portal, he added. Meanwhile, the mahal committees across Kerala report persistent technical glitches on the UMEED portal, difficulty uploading scanned documents, and uncertainty over what constitutes valid evidence for older properties. Many mahals also lack the digital literacy and resources required to complete the process independently. Across Keralas 13,000 mahals, many waqf properties are decades old and lack proper documentation. The UMEED portal requires title deeds, tax receipts, and several other records that simply do not exist for many properties. Kerala has nearly 50,000 waqf assets, and the majority do not have complete legal documents, said V C Iqbal, secretary of Taaleemul Islam Training College, a waqf property under the Tha-Aleemul Islam Committee in Nadapuram. Although the central government began the process six months ago, many mahal committees and muttawallis were unaware of the requirement until a few days ago. The Kerala Waqf Board also failed to communicate the urgency on time. Meetings were called only last week. Many muttawallis are elderly and have no formal education, so they struggled to understand the process. And even when they do, obtaining old records from taluk offices is time-consuming. For very old land, securing documentation is an enormous challenge, he added. The only option is the Waqf Tribunal extending the period for registration, many felt. Though organisations like Samastha approached the Supreme Court, seeking more time, the court said the only way is to approach the National Waqf Tribunal with screenshots of the portals technical glitches, so that a three-month grace period can be granted to each specific mahal, said Kerala Waqf Board member Sainudheen. With the deadline now upon them, community leaders are urging both the Centre and the Kerala government to intervene immediately. They pointed out that the issue is not merely administrative: it has the potential to alter the ownership and protection of waqf assets that have historically supported mosques, madrassas, orphanages, hospitals, burial grounds, and social welfare initiatives within the community. Unless the deadline is extended or an alternate mechanism for phased documentation introduced Keralas waqf properties could face one of the most significant property losses in its history. Tight window UMEED portal was officially launched on June 6, 2025, as part of Waqf Act Purpose: Centralised, transparent, and digitally verified system for the management of all waqf properties across India Documents needed Identity and address proof of the muttawalli (Aadhaar, PAN or Voter ID, recent photo) Copies of any waqf deed / declaration / registration document (if available) Land-revenue / survey / patta / khata / khasra / land-record documents of the property Latest map / survey map / site plan, or obtain GPS coordinates / geo-tagging Photos of the property including boundary and landmarks If the property is rented or leased: rental agreement, tenant details, rent receipts If property produces income (offerings, rent, etc.): income/expense records, bank statements, audit/finance documents (if any) Details of any legal or encroachment issues court orders, FIRs, notices, etc
Ernakulam tops state in per capita GDDP
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ernakulam district retained the top slot in nominal Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP) figures for 2024-25 released by the economics and statistics department recently. The districts GDDP was Rs 1,67,661.90 crore (quick estimate), up from Rs 1,50,991.63 crore (provisional estimate) in the previous financial year. Residents in the district recorded the highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,67,428. In terms of nominal GDDP, the value of goods and services produced in a district at current market prices, Ernakulam was followed by Thrissur (Rs 1,30,104.05 crore), Thiruvananthapuram (Rs 1,24,342.30 crore), Kollam (Rs 1,19,217.76 crore) and Malappuram (Rs 1,08,492.85 crore). All these districts had the same ranking in 2023-24 as well. At the bottom of the list was Wayanad with a GDDP of Rs 2,27,19.57 crore. Alappuzha came second in per capita GDDP, a key indicator of a districts economic health and peoples standard of living. The per capita GDDP, a districts GDDP divided by its population, helps in measuring the average income and economic output per person. Kollam recorded the third-highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,41,719, followed by Kottayam (Rs 4,08,523) and Idukki (Rs 4,04,881). The lowest per capita GDDP was reported in the most populous district of Malappuram Rs 2,20,533. According to C Veeramani, director of the Centre for Development Studies, per capita GDDP is an indicator of a districts development and the residents standard of living. It reveals the inequality in income distribution among residents of different districts. Ideally, the gap between districts should be low, he told TNIE. Growth rate At 10%, Pathanamthitta recorded the highest year-over-year growth rate in per capita GDDP. The growth rate was based on the real GDDP or the total value of goods and prices produced in a district, adjusted for inflation. Kottayam, 8%, recorded the second highest growth rate and Malappuram the lowest, at 2%.
Kerala: Standing ground, amid the barrage
KOZHIKODE: here is unlikely to be any change in the majority of Muslim voters inclination for the UDF in the local-body polls as it had played out in the 2024 Lok Sabha election and the subsequent by-elections to the Palakkad and Nilambur assembly constituencies. This has more to do with the communitys antagonism towards the CPM, driven by a host of factors, than its enthusiasm for the policies of the Congress-led front. The CPMs reluctance to denounce SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesans anti-Muslim remarks remains a major irritant. There is a strong feeling in the community that the left party is quietly backing Vellappally to come out with more remarks disparaging Muslims. Politburo member A Vijayaraghavan has said the party doesnt view Vellappallys remarks as communally coloured. Quizzed on the SNDP chiefs stand, party state secretary M V Govindan remarked that using religion for political gains is the definition of communalism, thereby hinting that Vellappally is not communal. During a recent interaction with mediapersons, Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) state president T P Abdulla Koya Madani said it is quite unfortunate that the leader of a renaissance movement is using communally charged language. The Muslim community is thoroughly unhappy that Vellappally remains chairman of the committee formed to protect renaissance values and a trusted ally of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, he said. Developments in the Sunni group led by Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar also dont bode well for the CPM. Though some LDF leaders have been working overtime on social media, not all in the rank and file are happy with the positions the CPM has adopted on certain issues.The campaign that the CPM is smuggling in liberal values has also not sat well with Kanthapuram Sunnis. The CPMs game plan of unleashing all-out attacks on the Jamaat-e-Islami also has not paid the expected dividend in the campaign. While opposing the Jamaat ideology in its entirety, Muslim organisations suspect the sincerity of the CPM is raking up the issue in every election. While Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama leaders including Umar Faizi Mukkam and Abdul Hameed Faizi have repeatedly laid into the Jamaat, its president Syed Muhammad Jiffiri Muthukoya Thangal has been more guarded. He refused to be drawn into the controversy over the Welfare Party of India-UDF tie-up, saying Samastha is not concerned about political alliances. The functioning of the home department is another area of worry for the Muslims. The CMs perceived tolerance of ADGP Ajith Kumar, despite his alleged links to RSS leaders, is continuously quoted to attack the CPM. The intervention of spiritual leader Sri M in ending the political violence in Kannur is recalled to buttress the argument that there exists a secret deal between the RSS and the CPM. Ironically, the UDF is also palpitating over happenings. Consolidation may help the front improve its position in Malabar, where Muslims are a strong presence, but its impact in the central and southern regions of the state remains to be seen. Secondly, some Muslim groups have opposed the UDFs attempt to normalise the Jamaat, which they believe is a threat to the community. If such groups decide to defeat Welfare Party candidates, who are backed by the UDF, it will spell trouble for the front in local bodies where one or two seats will prove to be the deciding factor.
Political stability a dream for Koothattukulam
KOCHI: Six chairpersons in 10 years! For the Koothattukulam municipality, formed in 2015, political stability remains a dream. For years, the urban body with 14,625 voters has been craving for wider roads to end congestion. In the past two terms, independent councillors were crucial in deciding the fate of the council as frequent defections kept disrupting governance. Though the UDF grabbed power in Koothattukulam in 2015 with 13 councillors in the 25-member council, the municipality saw four chairmen during the five-year term as independents switched loyalties. The LDF gained control of the municipality in the last one-and-a-half years of the first council. The Left returned in 2020 with the support of 13 councillors, including an independent. However, CPM member Kala Raju and independent P G Sunilkumar supported UDFs no-confidence motion this August, ending LDF rule. Subsequently, Kala assumed charged as chairperson while Sunilkumar was made vice-chairman for the remaining three months. Kala had severed ties with CPM last year alleging the party did not support her when she faced financial crisis and the bank served an auction notice. On January 18, Kala was allegedly abducted in the official car of chairperson Vijaya Sivan when she arrived at the municipal office to vote for UDFs no-confidence motion, and was reportedly kept captive at the CPM area committee office till 4.30pm. Six months later on August 6, UDF moved another no-confidence motion and managed to ouster the LDF. Kala said she opted out of contesting this time as LDF had invoked the anti-defection law against her. She accused LDF of spreading fabricated stories against her at corner meetings. They have foisted cases against my son, too, she said. This year, four ex-chairpersons of the municipality are in the fray. Prince Paul John, the first chairman of the municipality, is the UDF candidate from Ward 10, while Roy Abraham, who was elected as a Congress rebel in 2015 was made chairman with LDF support, is contesting on a BJP ticket. Biju John, a Congress rebel in 2015, is the partys candidate in Ward 3. Vijaya Sivan, the chairperson from 2020 to August 2025, is CPMs pick for Ward 23. The UDF has allocated three seats to Kerala Congress (Jacob) and one to KC. Congress has fielded 22 candidates. In LDF, CPM is contesting from 18 seats, CPI six, and KC(Mani) and NCP one each. The LDF is confident of returning to power. We achieved complete housing in the municipality and ensured 24-hour medical care at Koothattukulam government hospital. In our manifesto, we have promised to raise the hospitals stature to that of a taluk hospital and construct a bypass to end congestion in Koothattukulam town, said leader of opposition in the council Sunny Kuriakose (CPM). Though UDF claims an upper hand, rebels in two wards are posing a challenge to the front. We will return to power with good majority. People are frustrated with LDF as there has not been any development in five years. Besides, there are allegations of corruption. We have fielded leaders with integrity and the response from voters is positive. Rebels do not pose a challenge, declared Prince Paul John, the parliamentary party leader of the council. The NDA, which failed to get any representation in previous councils, is contesting in 19 wardsBJP in 18 and BDJS in one. We dont want to make tall claims, but there is positive response from voters. We are urging them to give us a chance to bring the good governance of Modi regime to Koothattukulam, which has not seen development for 10 years. We are confident of winning a few seats, said BJP state committee member M D Divakaran.
Decide or well appoint VCs: Supreme Court to Kerala
Pawan Wants Kerala-Type Education In AP Involving Parents
Addressing a large gathering at the Mega Teachers-Parents Meeting (PTM) held at Sarada ZP High School in Chilakaluripet of Palnadu district on Friday, Pawan Kalyan said harmonious relations between parents, teachers and students play a crucial role in shaping a childs positive mindset.
Growing tribe of migrant voters find voice in local body polls
Debutant faces veterans in Ponnurunni East poll battle
LDF candidate Beena Divakaran, though a newcomer, is confident of the dominance of the front in the division where it has not tasted defeat in over four decades; three-time councillor Sunitha Dixon, BJP candidate, and UDFs Jain Gray are her opponents
Development works worth 700 crore implemented in Kannur Corporation, claims UDF
'Name VCs or we step in,' SC tells Kerala govt, governor
The Supreme Court has warned the Kerala Governor and government. If they cannot agree on Vice Chancellor appointments for two universities, the court will make the decisions. A committee had recommended names. The Governor chose two, but the Chief Minister disagrees. The court wants a consensus by Tuesday. Otherwise, judicial intervention is the only option.
Kerala High Court orders KELSA to provide 5 lakh to acid attack survivor
Two youths held with 20 grams of suspected MDMA in Kochi
ECI Revises SIR Schedule for Kerala in View of Local Body Polls
Under the revised schedule, the draft electoral roll will be published on December 23 as against the earlier date of December 16.
For the first time after COVID-19, foreign tourist arrivals decline in country
The decline is expected to leave a huge impact on Kerala
ECI Revises SIR Schedule for Kerala in View of Local Dody Polls
The local body polls will be held in the state on December 9 and 11 in two phases.
Temple Money Not to Bail Out Sick Banks: SC
The Kerala High Court had ordered five cooperative banks to close the Devaswoms fixed deposits and refund the entire amount within two months after repeated refusals to release matured deposits
Case registered after CCTV footage of State-run cinemas leaked online
'No means no, only yes means yes': Shashi Tharoor introduces bill to criminalise marital rape
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday introduced three private members bills in the Lok Sabha, including one seeking to criminalise marital rape, asserting that India must move from a no means no framework to only yes means yes. In a post on X, the MP from Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram said criminalising marital rape is an urgent necessity in India's legal framework and introduced his private member's bill to amend the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and remove the marital rape exception, reaffirming that marriage cannot negate a woman's right to grant or deny consent. India must uphold its constitutional values and move from 'No Means No' to 'Only Yes Means Yes'. Every woman deserves the fundamental right to bodily autonomy and dignity within marriage, protections our legal system fails to provide. Marital rape is not about marriage but about violence. The moment for action has arrived, he said. The criminalisation of marital rape is an urgent necessity in Indias legal framework. I introduced my Private Members Bill today to amend the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and remove the marital rape exception, reaffirming that marriage cannot negate the womans right to grant or pic.twitter.com/FLd2OxCvvj Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 5, 2025 The statement of objects and reasons accompanying the bill noted that Section 63 of the BNS, 2023, currently excludes marital rape from punishable offences, allowing men to engage in non-consensual sex with their wives provided they are over 18. This, the statement added, is a colonial-era legal relic rooted in patriarchal notions that treat wives as property, leaving married women legally defenceless and undermining their rights to dignity, safety, and bodily autonomy. Allowing a husband to force sex upon his wife disregards her autonomy and perpetuates a culture of control and gender-based violence. Similarly, factors unrelated to a woman's autonomy, such as her caste, profession, clothing choices, personal beliefs or past sexual conduct, should never be used to presume her consent. Such assumptions not only perpetuate gender-based inequality but also violate her fundamental rights and dignity. They must be unequivocally rejected, the statement said. Tharoors second private members bill seeks to establish a permanent States and Union Territories Reorganisation Commission. According to the bills statement, this body would guide future state and Union territory reorganisation based on objective data, administrative efficiency, economic viability, national unity, and public consent. A pre-planned, consistent study of reorganisation will ensure informed decision-making and stable administrative units rather than knee-jerk reactions, it noted. His third bill proposes amendments to the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, in response to overwork and burnout among Indias workforce. Highlighting that 51% of workers log more than 49 hours a week and 78% report burnout, Tharoor emphasised the need to legally secure the right to disconnect, limit working hours, and establish grievance and mental-health support mechanisms.By focusing on employee well-being, this Bill seeks to create a more sustainable and productive workforce for Indias future, the statement said. Today I introduced a Private Member's Bill to amend the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020. With 51% of Indias workforce clocking over 49 hrs/week and 78% experiencing burnout, tragically exemplified by the death of young Anna Sebastian Perayil, it is pic.twitter.com/9M3UzLS33U Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 5, 2025 Private members bills allow MPs to propose legislation on issues they deem important, though most are withdrawn after government responses. (With inputs from PTI)
Coconut Growers in Andhra Pradesh Seek 20,000 MSP As Prices Crash
Traders were blaming increased exports from Tamil Nadu and Kerala for the price fall in Andhra Pradesh, he said.
HC orders live webcasting, more police personnel in hypersensitive booths
BJP alleges corruption in Corporation, CPI(M) leaders to take legal action
BJP alleges graft in selection of service provider for biocompost kitchen bin project and in tendering of civil works. V.K. Prasanth says a Vigilance inquiry has rejected all the allegations and roadwork rates are fixed as per CPWD rates
Cheating doctor of 1.1 crore: prime accused arrested from Ahmedabad
Party chiefs outline development, welfare projects for Kozhikode
A pre-poll discussion organised by the Calicut Press Club saw three district chiefs of mainstream political parties outlining their visions, priorities, expectations, and manifesto commitments ahead of the three-tier local body elections 2025
Rahul Mamkootathils staff member, driver named accused
Fazal and Alwin allegedly helped the legislator, who has been accused in a sexual abuse case, go absconding
Left rule achieved progress across key sectors: CM
Govindan defends govts stand in Sabarimala case
As IndiGo crisis continues, airlines take advantage charging high fare
The airfares to Kerala from various cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, are jacked up tenfold, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded in various cities
ED seeks case records in Sabarimala gold theft case
Sabarimala gold theft case: N. Vasu moves Kerala High Court for bail
Former administrative officer of Sabarimala B. Murari Babu too approaches HC seeking bail
Kerala Governor, Chief Minister lock horns over selection of Vice-Chancellors
Pinarayi accuses Arlekar of violating SC directive regarding the appointment of Vice-Chancellors to KTU and digital university by picking a candidate the CM had found ineligible. Lok Bhavan says SC had clearly said that the Chancellor was free to have his reservations about the candidates recommended by the CM
Surendran alleges attempts to protect Rahul Mamkoottathil
The former BJP State president claims that the Kerala government is playing a hide-and-seek game by delaying the arrest of the suspect
97 new recruits join Fire and Rescue Services
DG Nitin Agrawal says the exemplary rescue operations carried out by the force have earned immense public trust and admiration
Part of under-construction highway collapses in Kollam
Grinding stone in the middle of railway track in Kochi triggers panic, probe on
Tourists rescued as houseboat sinks at Kumarakom
Pinarayi ridicules ED notice to KIIFB
Chief Minister says government and the board will legally fight the ED move highlighting the fact that funds have been raised for infrastructure development through the masala bonds in accordance with the guidelines laid down by the Reserve Bank of India
Kerala government hints at concessions for small hospitals under KCE Act
Kerala local body polls 2025: municipalities to witness tight contests in Kozhikode
While the Left Democratic Front swept the Kozhikode Corporation and retained control over major rural local bodies, the United Democratic Front gained a narrow edge in the municipalities, winning four of the seven
Under Construction NH Stretch Collapses in Kerala
Multiple vehicles, including a school van carrying 30 students, were trapped in the holes caused by the impact
Former CPI(M) MLA to announce stance on Saturday
Kerala local body polls 2025: open campaigning for Phase 1 to end on December 7
Seven districtsThiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Ernakulamgo to the polls on December 9 in the first phase
Commission to hold online public hearing on proposal to remove 10 paise cap on surcharge on December 23
Kerala government bars non-teaching staff in aided colleges from uploading internal marks colleges
Following a detailed review, the government concluded that internal marks of students in aided colleges must be uploaded only by the heads of departments or designated teaching staff.
Kozhikode has 26.82 lakh voters on final electoral roll
The updated list, according to officials, aims to ensure maximum participation and accuracy ahead of the polling process
Probe links of international racket in Sabarimala gold loss case, says Congress leader Chennithala
Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala demands a probe into international smuggling links in the Sabarimala gold loss case. He alleges a global racket is involved, with stolen gold potentially worth Rs 500 crore. Chennithala criticizes the state government and CPI(M) for protecting accused leaders.
CM Pinarayi accuses Congress of shielding suspended MLA; flags Governors violation of SC directive
KOCHI: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday sharply criticised the Congress over its handling of allegations against suspended MLA Rahul Mankootathil, accusing the party of having shielded him for long despite being aware of his perverted behaviour. Speaking at a Meet the Press organised by the Ernakulam Press Club, the Chief Minister said the information emerging about the MLA was deeply shocking and unacceptable, and that Congress leaders must introspect instead of projecting their action as a model of political probity. Pinarayi also rejected Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesans claim that the CPM had not acted against its own leaders in similar situations. How can they call this model action? There are Congress MLAs who have gone to jail. Were they expelled from the party? he asked. Referring to former home minister Ramesh Chennithalas remark that he would have ensured the MLAs arrest within 24 hours, Pinarayi said, Police are doing their job effectively. Some people have taken steps to protect the accused and help him evade the police. At least now, they should stop protecting him, he said. Pinarayi came down strongly on the Congress leadership, saying the nature of the allegations would shock any society. These are not things one can expect in normal life. I dont want to repeat the allegations, but the sexual perversion reported is totally unacceptable, especially from a public representative. The Congress knew about his behaviour from the beginning, yet presented him as an asset with a future. Any party with a legacy would distance itself from such people. They must think about how they allowed this. Rahul Mamkoottathil approaches Kerala HC seeking anticipatory bail in alleged rape case On the Sabarimala gold theft case, in which a CPM district committee member is currently in jail, the Chief Minister declined detailed comment, pointing out that the High Court is supervising the investigation. A comprehensive probe is underway and monitored by the High Court. The CPM has made it very clear that the party will not protect anyone if found guilty, he said. The Chief Minister strongly criticised Governor Rajendra Arlekars decision to forward alternative names to the Supreme Court for appointing Vice Chancellors to APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University and the Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology, ignoring the priority list submitted by the government as mandated by the court. The Centre has taken several steps that undermine the federal structure, and governors are acting in ways that weaken it further. The Supreme Court had directed that if a panel of names comes before the Chief Minister, he must send a priority-ordered list to the Governor, and the Governor should appoint someone from that list. This is a clear directive. How can the Governor openly violate it? Pinarayi asked. He is not even considering the names in the list. This is a blatant violation. On IAS officer B. Ashok moving the court against the appointment of K. Jayakumar as Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president, Pinarayi said such a move by a serving bureaucrat against the government was inappropriate. The government had appointed Jayakumar, a retired civil servant, citing his proven expertise in Sabarimala-related matters. When Jayakumar was appointed, it received wide public acceptance. Ayyappa devotees welcomed it. The government believes he can make meaningful interventions at Sabarimala. There is no friction between board members and Jayakumar, all have accepted his leadership, the Chief Minister said. Woman IPS officer to lead probe in second rape case against Rahul Mamkootathil
A candidate in pursuit of happiness
Equator Geo wins start-up challenge
NH66 cave-in near Kottiyam halts traffic; school bus among vehicles trapped
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Raising panic in the region, a major portion of the National Highway collapsed in Kollam on Friday. No casualties were reported. A portion of NH 66 and an adjacent service road caved in near Mylakkadu in Chathannur, close to Kottiyam, in the evening. The recently constructed retaining wall and service road collapsed, trapping several vehicles, including a school bus. The sudden cave-in has raised serious concerns about the construction quality of the road. People and children inside the trapped vehicles were evacuated safely. According to onlookers, a major tragedy was averted during the collapse. Traffic flow towards both Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam came to a complete standstill following the incident. Chathannoor MLA G A Jayalal visited the spot. District Collector Devidas is expected to visit the site soon. PWD Minister P A Mohammad Riyas has ordered a detailed probe into the incident. He has directed the PWD Secretary to seek a report from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) immediately. Senior Congress leader K C Venugopal MP came out with serious criticism against NHAI. There are repeated lapses from the part of NHAI, he alleged. Youth Congress too came out with a protest over the incident.
Current situation risks rendering ongoing operations untenable: ISL clubs to AIFF
The 12 ISL clubs are FC Goa, Sporting Club Delhi, NorthEast United FC, Jamshedpur FC, Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Chennauyin FC, Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters, Punjab FC, Odisha FC and Mohammedan Sporting.
Row over construction at Shakthikulangara harbour
Fishers association has drawn fierce opposition against a museum and hall construction project at the harbour
The first phase, which began on 1 December involves systematic data gathering across tiger habitats
Rape allegations: Rahul Mamkootathil, MLA approaches Kerala High Court, seeks anticipatory bail
NEW DELHI:: The Supreme Court on Friday said that money belonging to a temple deity cannot be used to prop up financially distressed cooperative banks. The sharp observations were made by a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi while hearing appeals filed by a few cooperative banks challenging a direction of the Kerala High Court asking them to return the deposits to the Thirunelly Temple Devaswom. You want to use the temple money to save the bank? What is wrong with directing that the temple money, instead of being in a cooperative bank which is breathing with great difficulty, should go to a healthy nationalised bank which can give maximum interest, the CJI asked. Temple money belongs to the deity and hence, the money has to be saved, protected and utilised only for the interests of the temple and it cannot become a source of income or survival for a cooperative bank, the CJI said. The pleas against the high court order were filed by Mananthawady Co-operative Urban Society Ltd and Thirunelly Service Cooperative Bank Ltd. The high court had directed five cooperative banks to close the Devaswom's fixed deposits and refund the entire amount within two months, following repeated refusals by the banks to release the matured deposits. The bench was unconvinced with the submissions of the banks that the abrupt direction of the high court was causing difficulties. The bench said the banks should establish credibility among the people. If you are unable to attract the customers and deposits, that is your problem, it said. The top court refused to entertain the pleas. It, however, permitted the banks to approach the high court for extension of time to comply with the impugned order. The case arose from a plea filed by the Thirunelly Devaswom after several cooperative banks refused to repay the temple's fixed deposits despite repeated requests. The high court had directed Thirunelly Service Cooperative Bank Ltd, Susheela Gopalan Smaraka Vanitha Cooperative Society Ltd, Mananthawady Cooperative Rural Society Ltd, Mananthawady Co-operative Urban Society Ltd, and Wayanad Temple Employees Cooperative Society Ltd to return the funds within two months.
Kerala Reports Surge In Brain-Eating Amoeba Infections With 170 Cases, 42 Deaths This Year
Kerala has reported 170 cases and 42 deaths due to amoebic meningoencephalitis, commonly known as brain-eating amoeba infection, in 2025, the government informed the Parliament on Friday.
ED Approaches Court Seeking Copies of Documents in Sabarimala Gold Loss Case
The petition sought copies of two FIRs and statements recorded by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the incident, to initiate an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
Temple money belongs to deity, cannot be used to save cooperative banks: SC
NEW DELHI, Dec 5: The Supreme Court on Friday said that money belonging to a temple deity cannot be used to prop up financially distressed cooperative banks. The sharp observations were made by a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi while hearing appeals filed by a few cooperative banks challenging a direction of the Kerala High Court asking them to return the deposits to the Thirunelly Temple Devaswom. You want to use the temple money [] The post Temple money belongs to deity, cannot be used to save cooperative banks: SC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Reach a consensus on most meritorious names for VCs by December 9: SC to Kerala Governor, CM
If you are unable to do so, the intervention of the court is the only option You would have to work it out or the court will make the appointment, SC said
The Supreme Court earlier had intervened on August 18 to appoint Justice Dhulia to head search-cum-selection committees to recommend names for appointment as Vice-Chancellors of the two varsities
Information revealed in relation to allegations against the PalakkadMLA is shocking and beyond comprehension, says CM
Information revealed in relation to allegations against the PalakkadMLA is shocking and beyond comprehension, says CM
Rahul Mamkoottathil approaches Kerala HC seeking anticipatory bail in alleged rape case
KOCHI: Rahul Mamkoottathil, MLA, has approached the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail in a case registered against him for allegedly raping a woman and forcing her to terminate her pregnancy. According to the petition, the complainant, who claimed to be separated from her husband, developed an intimate relationship with the petitioner. They regularly communicated, met on several occasions, and grew closer over time. The complainant allegedly told the petitioner that after taking a long leave from work, her company asked her to submit a written statement acknowledging her relationship with the petitioner and explaining that differences of opinion had led to her absence. Only then, she claimed, would she be allowed to rejoin. The petition further states that certain voice clips circulated on social media harmed the complainants privacy. It argues that the source of the leaked conversations and chats must be identified. This breach of privacy allegedly created mistrust and disputes between the two, despite their close relationship. The complainant reportedly feared that the petitioner might have leaked the chats. The petition also claims that political motives are influencing the case, particularly with elections approaching. It says the complainant was worried about media propaganda and felt compelled to deny the relationship to protect herself. The petitioner claims to have communication records supporting his version but says he needs time to produce them because he was being pursued by the police before he could approach the court, and the investigation continued without waiting for judicial direction. According to the petition, political influence has affected the investigation, and the complaint was submitted belatedly, directly to the Chief Minister, instead of through the proper channel. The petition states that the petitioner has not been given copies of the FIR and FIS despite applying for them. It cites the lower courts reference to the Lalita Kumari judgment, noting that in delayed complaints, the prosecution is required to conduct a preliminary inquiry. It also argues that the allegations in the FIS do not constitute rape and notes that the claim of miscarriage and forced abortion surfaced later. The petitioner alleges this was an attempt by the investigating agency to distort facts and says he has sufficient documents to establish the truth.
SC rejects plea for prohibiting sale of Arundhati Roy's book whose cover depicts her smoking
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea seeking to prohibit the sale, circulation, and display of Arundhati Roys book, 'Mother Mary Comes to Me', as its cover depicted her smoking a 'bidi' or a cigarette, which is in contravention of the law. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi dismissed the appeal filed by one Rajasimhan against the Kerala High Court order dismissing a PIL on the issue. She is a renowned author. She has not promoted such a thing. There is a warning in the book, and she is a prominent person as well. Why do such a thing for publicity? There is no hoarding in the city with the picture of the book. It is for someone who will take the book and read it. Her picture with it does not portray any such thing, the CJI said. The bench said that the author and the publisher Penguin Hamish Hamilton have not violated Section 5 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003. This provision prohibits the advertisement, promotion, and sponsorship of cigarettes and other tobacco products, anning direct ads, surrogate ads, promoting through media, displays, leaflets, and any activity suggesting tobacco use, with strict penalties. It, however, allows health warnings on packages and some specific retail point displays. We see no reason to interfere with the impugned High Court order, the CJI said. The counsel for the petitioner said, We don't know it's a 'ganja beedi' or a 'normal beedi'. She is herself shown smoking it. He added that the book has a very small disclaimer and does not contain a prominent warning as provided under the law. Book, publisher or author has nothing to do with advertising for cigarettes etc. This is not an advertisement. You may disagree with the views of the author... but that does not mean such a case can lie, the CJI said. The book is a memoir authored by Roy.
