National

Opinion: JDU and Nitish Kumar's Existential Crisis

30-Dec-2023 182

Nitish Kumar has taken over the reins of the Janata Dal United (JDU) again and will perform the double role of party president and Bihar Chief Minister. Four months ahead of the general elections, Lallan Singh, his predecessor, offered his resignation to focus on contesting in the Lok Sabha elections.

Nitish Kumar was, reports suggest, not very happy with Lallan Singh's growing proximity to rival-turned-friend Lalu Yadav's family. The move suggests Nitish Kumar wants control over the party organization as well, at a time when there are questions about the future of JDU.

Lallan Singh joins the long list of leaders whom Nitish Kumar has sidelined over the years, including George Fernandes, Sharad Yadav, RCP Singh, Upendra Kushwaha, and Jiten Ram Manjhi, for his political gains. In Bihar's political circles, the popular saying goes, "Aisa koi saga nahin, jise Nitish ne thaga nahin".

Nitish Kumar is reportedly upset about being left out of the race for convenor of the INDIA bloc of which his party claims he is the founding member. The poor showing by the Congress in Hindi heartland states in recent polls may also have seeded doubts in his mind about INDIA's prospects in 2024. With opinion polls and analysts predicting 2024 is a done deal for the BJP, Nitish has bigger things to worry about.

The JDU is not a family-controlled regional party, unlike most others like RJD, Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, YSRCP, TDP, BRS, DMK, SHS, and NCP, so no leader has wider acceptance, apart from Nitish Kumar. He hasn't declared a successor like Naveen Patnaik has in Odisha. So the future of JDU after Nitish Kumar is a big question. What is his gameplan for 2024 and 2025?

The JDU mostly consists of leaders from the former Janata Dal, who left when Nitish Kumar and George Fernandes broke away over differences with Lalu Yadav and formed their own outfit, Samata Party, in the 1990s. Over the years, leaders from the RJD, Congress and even the BJP have hopped on to the party for power. The party is bereft of any core ideology, so after Nitish retires, the JDU faces the risk of a split, with leaders switching to either the RJD or the BJP.

Nitish has indicated that the Mahagathbandhan (MGB) could fight under the leadership of Lalu Yadav's son Tejashwi Yadav in state elections due in 2025. However, no one can really read what's on his mind. He may not give up the chair so easily (kissa kursi ka).

Nitish Kumar has two most pressing priorities.

How he can ensure the JDU retains a maximum of the Lok Sabha seats won by the party in the 2019 elections?

How he can ensure he remains Chief Minister of Bihar as long as he chooses?

To stay chief minister, he has been flipping between the BJP and RJD as he holds a crucial 15%-16% vote share comprising largely of Kurmis, Koeris/Kushwahas, Economically Backward Classes and Mahadalits, without which neither Lalu nor the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah duo can form a government in Bihar.

In order to hold on to most of his party's Lok Sabha seats, Nitish needs to make a gharwapsi to the BJP-led NDA. But he does not share a good rapport with Modi-Shah. Besides, his credibility will dwindle further, as the unflattering moniker of "palturam" (flip-flop man) of Indian politics is reinforced. The BJP may not wish to take him back but for their Mission 400 in 2024, the NDA needs allies to sweep Bihar and bolster its numbers..

With the Congress party's poor showing, Nitish may well reconcile to his prime ministerial dreams shattered for good. This means a national presence may not matter to him anymore. And the second priority of how he remains chief minister till 2025 and beyond attains greater importance. He may not trust the BJP for fear of a Shiv Sena-like strike.

The bigger question for Nitish Kumar is - to whom does he want to pass on his legacy - BJP or RJD? The RJD, for the sake of power and to enjoy the Deputy Chief Minister position, has to support Nitish unless it is able to break the JDU, which appears to be difficult at this stage. The RJD, though, is likely to flex its muscles closer to the 2025 Bihar polls, with Lalu Yadav demanding chief ministership for son Tejashwi and pole position for him in the campaign.

Nitish Kumar will be 74 years then and nearer to retirement, by some accounts, though people senior to him, like Naveen Patnaik and Pinayari Vijayan, still remain chief ministers. This could tempt him to bargain for 2025 as his last election with the RJD, be the chief minister face again, hold the top post at least for a brief period if he wins and then hand over the mantle to Tejashwi.

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Being the junior partner but still occupying the chief minister's chair makes an alliance with any party tricky for Nitish, with the RJD plus allies just short of a majority by 7 seats. The Mahagatbandhan excluding JDU has 115 MLAs; NDA has 82, JDU has 45 MLAs in a house of 243 where 122 is needed for a simple majority.

The future of Nitish Kumar and the JDU hangs in the balance. Will Nitish remain in INDIA or rejoin the NDA? Will the BJP take back Nitish Kumar to bolster its Mission 400 prospects? Or will the JDU merge with RJD to prevent a split with the condition that he would be chief minister face in 2025?

Trains, Flights Delayed Due To Low Visibility As Dense Fog Blankets Delhi

30-Dec-2023 142

New Delhi: A thick layer of fog has blanketed several states across the country on Saturday morning. Delhi, too, is covered by a dense layer of smog, resulting to the delay of several flights and trains due to low visibility. Passengers who arrived at the stations and airport on time have to wait for long hours, as trains and flights are delayed as a precautionary measure considering low visibility. The India Meteorological Department has also issued a notification of dense to very dense fog conditions in northern India.

Weather Forecast:

India Meteorological Department has forecasted dense to very dense fog conditions over northern states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi until December 31 morning and in some areas for the subsequent three days.

Areas around the national capital and neighboring states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have been dealing with dense fog over the past few days with temperatures dipping to all-time lows and peak winter season in sight.

Section 144 Imposed In Mumbai Along With These Cities For New Year Celebrations: Check Full List Of Restrictions

29-Dec-2023 270

New Delhi: Section 144 and other restrictions have been imposed in several cities across the country for safe New year celebrations. While strict measures have been implemented in some cities and other places, tight security has been arranged for the celebrations on New Year’s eve. Take a look at city-wise restrictions in the country.

Traffic Restrictions Imposed In Hyderabad

Apart from other cities, traffic restrictions have also been imposed in Hyderabad and the city police has released a set of guidelines to ensure public safety in Hyderabad on December 31 (Sunday).

The advisory released by the Deputy Commissioner of Police gives details about the closure of several roads in the city, regulations for cab/taxi/auto-rickshaw operators, guidelines for bars, pubs, and other similar establishments and general instructions for the public.

Hyderabad Police said certain road closures have been made compulsory on the night of December 31. The Nehru Outer Ring Road and PVNR Expressway will remain closed for light motor vehicles, except those heading towards the Airport, during the late hours from 10 PM to 5 AM.

Section 144 Imposed In Mumbai Till January 18

Last week, the Mumbai Police imposed section 144 in the city till January 18 and said as part of the restrictions, the flying of drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, paragliders, para motors, hand gliders and hot air balloons over the city will be banned for 30 days

However, the flying of such objects will be allowed for aerial surveillance by police or under specific permission in writing by the deputy commissioner of police (operations).

The Mumbai Police said the prohibitory order will be in force from December 20, 2023, to January 18, 2024 that was issued under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

Section 144 Imposed In Lucknow Till Jan 2

In the similar manner, section 144 has also been imposed in Lucknow and the gathering of members of the public has been limited in malls, bars, restaurants, hotels and other public places in view of New Year celebrations. The Lucknow district administration has imposed Section 144 in the city.

“Section 144 will be in place for 10 days starting from December 24 to January 2, 2024. This is being done to maintain peace and law and order on the occasion of Christmas and New Year,” the Lucknow Police said in a notice.

“Tickets and access will not be granted to more individuals than the designated capacity, regardless of whether the entertainment programmes are held inside or outside the premises. The management or organiser of the hotel, mall, bar, restaurant, or other public space is in-charge of regulating the loudspeakers’ sound level within the set parameters to ensure that the general public is not inconvenienced,” Lucknow Police said.

“In case of violation, action will be taken considering it a violation of Section 144 of CrPC in addition to the relevant law,” the statement further added.

Restrictions Imposed in Bengaluru

For New Year’s Day celebrations, the Bengaluru Police recently implemented strict measures—with stringent checks on drunk driving and traffic restrictions—in key areas of the city to prevent any untoward incident during the celebrations.

Bengaluru Police said they have fixed a deadline of 1 AM for New Year parties after which no hotels, clubs, and pubs, will be allowed to remain open. Bengaluru Police also launched a campaign against ‘Drink and Drive’ across the city.

Giving details, Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayanand said to curb traffic congestion, restrictions have been imposed around MG Road, Brigade Road, Museum Road, Rest House Road, and Residency Cross Road. No vehicular movement will be allowed except police and essential services vehicles, between 8 pm on December 31 and 1 am on January 1.

Cold Wave Grips North India: IMD Says Dense Fog To Continue For Next 2 Days, Schools Closed In Noida | What We Know SO Far

29-Dec-2023 205

New Delhi: A severe cold wave has gripped entire North India with temperatures going down in several states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Delhi-NCR. Moreover, the IMD said the dense fog situation will continue for the next two days in Delhi-Noida region. The weather office said dense fog is likely to cover most parts of North India including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh for the next two days. Because of the cold weather conditions, all schools across Noida and Greater Noida will remain closed on Friday and Saturday.

Dense Fog Warning Issued

In the meantime, the IMD has also issued a dense fog warning for Delhi, Haryana and Chandigarh during the late and early hours until December 31.

The weather department has issued an advisory and asked drivers to use fog lights and travellers to stay updated on the schedules of airlines, railways and state transport.

IMD said the minimum temperature in Delhi is expected to hover around seven to eight degrees Celsius for the next five days. Delhi on Thursday recorded a minimum temperature of 8.4 degrees Celsius, one notch above the season’s average, while the maximum temperature settled at 21.4 degrees Celsius, one notch above normal, according to IMD.

Schools Closed in Noida, Greater Noida

Because of the cold wave and foggy weather conditions, the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration on Thursday ordered the closure of all schools across Noida and Greater Noida on Friday and Saturday due to cold weather conditions. However, it said the teachers and other staffers would continue to work on Friday and Saturday, according to the order issued by Basic Education Officer Rahul Panwar.

“In compliance with the instructions given by District Magistrate, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Maneesh Kumar Verma in view of the dense fog and extreme cold, all the boards (CBSE/ICSE/IB and others) recognised schools, council schools, government schools or non-government aided schools will observe holiday on December 29 and 30,” Panwar said.

In A First, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Named In Probe Agency Chargesheet

28-Dec-2023 172

New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has been named in an Enforcement Directorate chargesheet - for the first time - over the alleged purchase and sale of five acres of land in Haryana. Her husband, businessman Robert Vadra, is also named but neither is listed as an "accused", sources told NDTV Thursday morning.

The chargesheet was filed against CC Thampi, an NRI businessman, and Sumit Chadha, a British national of Indian origin. The ED believes they helped fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari - who is accused of violating the Official Secrets Act, among other laws - hide the proceeds of his crimes.

The agency - often accused of acting against opposition leaders on orders from the centre - has referred to Ms Gandhi Vadra's transactions with HL Pahwa, a Delhi-based real estate agent who sold her agricultural land in Faridabad in 2006 and, four years later, re-purchased the same tract.

In addition, ED sources told NDTV, a house was allegedly purchased in Ms Gandhi Vadra's name, in Faridabad's Amipur village, in April 2006 and sold back to Mr Pahwa at the same time as the land.

Mr Pahwa is the same agent from whom Robert Vadra allegedly bought 40.8 acres of land in Amipur between 2005 and 2006, and sold it all back to him in December 2010. A similar deal - for 486 acres- was executed by Mr Thampi, out on bail after his arrest in 2020. The ED had named Mr Vadra - who the agency claims has a "long and thick relationship", with Mr Thampi - in earlier chargesheets.

Mr Vadra has been previously questioned by the ED in other cases and has denied all wrongdoing, but this is the first time the Congress leader's husband has been named in this particular case.

Political Reactions

Ms Gandhi Vadra has not reacted so far, but senior Congress leaders have, including Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the party's Maharashtra boss, Nana Patole.

In a swipe at the ruling BJP, which is accused of using central agencies like the ED to target opposition leaders, Mr Sukhu said "names of several leaders are attached with ED right before Lok Sabha elections". Mr Patole said the ED naming Ms Gandhi Vadra showed "BJP is... scared of Congress".

"The British were scared of Gandhi then and, even today, the central government is scared of the Gandhi family... BJP is trying to divert people from the real issues," he told news agency ANI.

The Aam Aadmi Party, a member of the Congress-led INDIA opposition bloc, hit out at the ED for "continuously taking action against opposition leaders". AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said, "The law is 'guilty until proven innocent' for opposition and 'innocent until proven guilty' for the country..."

Congress' Big Changes Before 2024 Lok Sabha Polls

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was at the centre of a major organisational reshuffle in the Congress last week; she was replaced, by Avinash Pandey, as the General Secretary in-Charge of Uttar Pradesh, a politically significant state as the party preps for the Lok Sabha election due in less than four months.

Ms Gandhi Vadra remains the Congress' General Secretary but "without any assigned portfolio", fuelling speculation she will finally make her electoral debut.

Earlier this month sources told NDTV Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is on a (very) short list of political heavyweights - the others are Nitish Kumar and Arvind Kejriwal - who may be fielded against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in UP's Varanasi, seen as a particularly impregnable BJP stronghold.

Midea Input

Ammonia Gas Leak Detected In Ennore, Tamil Nadu; Many People Hospitalised

28-Dec-2023 136

New Delhi: Gas leak is an extremely dangerous phenomenon that is man-made and causes grave danger to life; deaths being a most likely outcome. In an unfortunate accident, an Ammonia Gas Leak has been detected in Ennore, Tamil Nadu. The gas leak has resulted in the hospitalisation of many people who felt uneasy after inhaling the strong smell of ammonia. Know more about this incident..

Gas Leak In Tamil Nadu, Many People Hospitalised

As mentioned earlier, a gas leak was detected in a sub-sea pipe in Ennore, Tamil Nadu. The moment this gas leak was noticed, it was stopped. According to the production head, the leak resulted in a strong smell which made five people uneasy after which they were shifted to a health facility. According to the officials, the five people affected by this, are fine now.

DIG, Joint Commissioner Avadi Posts Update

An update on the gas leak incident has been given by the DIG, Joint Commissioner Avadi, Vijayakumar on the social media platform ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter). He said, “No need to panic. Stabilised. No more gas (ammonia) leaks at Ennore. People reassured and are back home. Medical and police teams present.”

'Manipur To Mumbai': Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Nyay Yatra' From Jan 14

27-Dec-2023 176

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to embark on a yatra connecting the northeastern and western parts of the country with an eye on next year's national elections. Mr Gandhi will begin his 'Bharat Nyay Yatra' from January 14, a 6,200-km tour from Manipur to Mumbai.

The yatra, set to conclude on March 20 ahead of the elections, is dubbed as the second and East-West phase of his north-south Bharat Jodo Yatra last year that was credited by the party for its election victories in two southern states.

The BJP, however, took a jibe at the Congress announcement and said the people had rejected the idea of Bharat Jodo Yatra.

Mr Gandhi will cover 14 states and 85 districts during the 'Bharat Nyay Yatra', which will be flagged off by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Imphal.

Manipur, Nagaland, Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra will be among the states he will cover. This will include stretches of bus rides as well as footmarches.

The Nyay Yatra will be for securing economic, social and political justice for the people of the country, the Congress said.

On choosing violence-hit Manipur as the starting point, the Congress said the party wanted to begin the process of healing the wounds of people.

'Duplicity In Approaches'

The BJP said the people cannot be fooled by coining some slogans.

"The people of India had clearly rejected the idea of Bharat Jodo Yatra because Rahul Gandhi and the Congress cannot have duplicity in these approaches. They think the people of India can be fooled by coining some slogans," said BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli.

The "real nyay (justice)" is being delivered by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government since 2014, he added.

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Mr Gandhi had embarked on his Bharat Jodo Yatra in September last year from Kanyakumari. The five-month footmarch that saw the participation of thousands of Congress workers as well as Opposition leaders ended in Srinagar in January.

Congress leaders had widely credited the Bharat Jodo Yatra behind the party's electoral performance in Karnataka and Telangana. The Congress had snatched power from the BJP in Karnataka and BRS in Telangana in elections held this year.

Young UP Cop Dies Of Gunshot Injury In Encounter. He Was To Marry In Feb

26-Dec-2023 174

Sachin Rathi had been rushed to a Kanpur hospital after he was shot. The young cop had lost a lot of blood and breathed his last at midnight.

Lucknow: Police constable Sachin Rathi's family was making preparations for his wedding a month later. Now, there will be a funeral. The 30-year-old Uttar Pradesh cop succumbed to injuries last night after he was shot during an hour-long encounter between cops and a notorious criminal.

Rathi was part of a four-member police party that went to arrest Ashok Yadav, a murder accused wanted in at least 20 cases, from his home in Kannauj. They were in for a surprise. Ashok Yadav and his son Abhay opened fire on the cops and tried to escape. Rathi was shot in the thigh.

Under heavy fire, the police party called in reinforcements. Soon after, cops from at least four police stations were at the spot. After an encounter that lasted nearly an hour, the Yadav father-son duo were taken into custody. They had been shot in the leg as they tried to flee during the gunfight.

Rathi had been rushed to a Kanpur hospital after he was shot. The young cop had lost a lot of blood and breathed his last at midnight.

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Originally from Muzaffarnagar, Rathi had joined the police force in 2019. He was to marry a woman constable on February 5. The family, which was gearing up for wedding celebrations, is now in mourning.

Police officers said the young constable would be honoured with a gun salute at the police lines.

Delhi Air Pollution: Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’, Check Pollution Level In Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram

26-Dec-2023 129

Delhi Air Pollution: The air quality in the national capital plunged to a very poor category with AQI at 372. Similarly, other areas in the city recorded air quality in the same category with AQI above the 300 mark. Anand Vihar recorded AQI at 384, Lodhi Road at 330, Airport at 344, Pusa at 388, Noida at 328, Greater Noida at 332, Ghaziabad at 302, Gurugram at 285 and Faridabad at 299.

The city on Monday morning recorded ‘very poor’ air quality as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Check Air Quality in Your Area

Delhi: 372

Anand Vihar: 384

Pusa: 388

Noida: 328

Greater Noida: 332

Ghaziabad: 302

Gurugram: 285

Faridabad: 299

As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), dense fog is predicted to persist from December 25 to December 28. IMD said foggy conditions are anticipated from December 29 to December 30, accompanied by a likely decrease in the minimum temperature.

On Christmas Day, as the cold wave tightened its grip on North India, the national capital woke up to an even colder morning accompanied by dense fog on Monday. The temperature in Delhi on Monday morning was recorded at 9.4 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Visibility dropped to 125 meters in several parts of Delhi, and most parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) also experienced low visibility. On Sunday, the minimum temperature had settled at 9.1 degrees Celsius.

Due to the chilling cold, many sought refuge at night shelters in various parts of the national capital. Similar scenes unfolded elsewhere, with locals gathering near fires in the Lodhi Road area to seek comfort.

Visuals from Lodhi Road, Munirka, RK Puram, and Ring Road near AIIMS depicted a thick layer of fog hanging overhead, with only a few vehicles and commuters venturing out into the streets.

Additionally, Delhi’s air quality on Monday remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering around 400, according to data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, 401 and 450 severe, and above 450 severe-plus.

In response to the prevailing conditions, all non-essential construction work has been banned in the Delhi-National Capital Region.

Is There A Hijab Ban In Karnataka Schools, Colleges? The BJP Vs Congress Puzzle Explained

25-Dec-2023 147

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's recent statement of lifting the ban on wearing hijab in education institutions in the state has revived the year-old debate on the issue that led to massive protests in Karnataka. CM Siddaramaiah said at an event, while answering a question, that those who want can wear hijab and eat "whatever you want".

Reacting to the statement, the Karnataka BJP criticised Siddaramaiah, expressing apprehensions about the "secular nature" of educational environments.

Taking to X, Karnataka BJP chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa said: "CM Siddaramaiah's decision to withdraw the hijab ban in educational institutions raises concerns about the secular nature of our educational spaces. By allowing religious attire in educational institutions @siddaramaiah govt is promoting dividing young minds along religious lines, potentially hindering the inclusive learning environment."

Is There A Ban On Wearing Hijab In Education Institutes In Karnataka?

After CM Siddaramaiah made the announcement, former CM and BJP leader Basavraj Bommai said there was no question of lifting the ban as there was no ban at all.

"When the Hijab is not banned where is the question of lifting the ban," he questioned. "As per the comprehensive education policy, the school uniform policy came into being but it was brought into effect by the previous government. Siddaramaiah has spoken about the withdrawal of the Hijab ban order when the case was still pending in the Supreme Court. The issue has been raised only for political gains which would be condemned in the strongest words," the former CM said while speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Saturday.

Later, as the matter gained momentum, CM Siddaramaiah clarified that the administration was only contemplating lifting the ban on wearing hijab in educational institutions, and that a decision would be taken after holding discussions at the government level.

"We are thinking of withdrawing the decision (of hijab ban). We will discuss it. I have said this in response to a question. We have not done it yet," the CM said.

On Sunday, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said the decision to lift the hijab ban in educational institutions in the state will be done after a thorough examination and within the constitutional framework. "Basavaraj Bommai (former CM) clarified that they have not made any order (regarding hijab). CM Siddaramaiah himself said that even if it is done, we will check it. The government will make appropriate decisions after a thorough examination. No need to get confused about it... Some confusion and interpretations were made on it after the BJP came to power in Karnataka...We will take the decision within the constitutional bounds," he said.

What Karnataka HC Said On Hijab

On March 15, 2022, the Karnataka High Court dismissed petitions filed by a section of Muslim students of the Government Pre-University Girls College in Karnataka's Udupi seeking permission to wear the hijab inside classrooms, ruling it is not a part of the essential religious practice in the Islamic faith. Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi pronounced the verdict and dismissed all petitions challenging the ban on hijab in educational institutions. The verdict was pronounced after the HC heard the case on a day-to-day basis for 11 days from February 10 and later reserved the judgment on February 25.

In its interim order, the bench asked the state government to reopen the educational institutions, which were hit because of the protests and restrained students from wearing hijabs and saffron scarves in the classroom until the final order was delivered.

Petitioners Move SC, Matter Back To Square One After Split Verdict

After no relief from the Karnataka High Court, the petitioners moved the Supreme Court. However, the apex court in October last year gave a split verdict in the case as Justice Hemant Gupta dismissed appeals challenging the Karnataka HC order that had upheld the state government's order to ban wearing hijabs in educational institutions of the state, while Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia allowed the appeals and set aside the HC order.

"It’s a matter of choice, nothing more, nothing less," Justice Dhulia said while pronouncing the order.

Justice Hemant Gupta said the matter is being referred to the Chief Justice Of India for appropriate direction.

Then, on Mar 3, 2023, the Supreme Court said it would set up a three-judge bench to hear a plea of Muslim girl students to sit in examinations in Karnataka government schools while wearing hijab.

"I will create a bench," said a bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala when a woman lawyer sought an urgent hearing of the plea saying girls are on the verge of losing another academic year as the exams are being held in government schools which are not permitting wearing of a headscarf.

How It All Began

On January 1, 2022, six girl students of a college in Udupi attended a press conference held by the Campus Front of India (CFI) protesting against the college authorities denying them entry into classrooms wearing headscarves. This was four days after they requested the principal permission to wear hijab in classes, but were not allowed to do so.

College principal Rudre Gowda had said students until then would come to the campus wearing the headscarf but would remov it while entering the classroom.

"The institution did not have any rule on hijab-wearing since no one used to wear it to the classroom in the last 35 years. The students who came with the demand had the backing of outside forces," Gowda had said.

Later, some Hindu students turned up in saffron shawls protesting against the hijab even as the government insisted on a uniform norm.

As the issue of hijab versus saffron scarves spread to several educational institutions in Karnataka, the state government announced a holiday from February 9 to February 15 in all the pre-university colleges, and from February 9 to February 16 in degree and diploma colleges.

The girls then approached the Karnataka HC seeking relief and quashing the government order restraining students from wearing anything that could disturb, peace, harmony and public order.

Kalyan Banerjee Mimics V-P Dhankhar Again, Says 'Will Keep Doing It'. BJP Says People Won't Forgive

25-Dec-2023 109

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee again mimicked Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, days after a similar act led to a massive showdown between the BJP and the opposition during the winter session of Parliament. This time, Banerjee mimicked Dhankhar in West Bengal where he called it an "art perform", adding that he will continue to do so as he has all the fundamental rights to express his vie,s.

During the recently concluded winter session, 146 MPs were suspended from both Houses due to indecent behaviour. Kalyan Banerjee was also among the suspended MPs. They held a protest at the Makar Gate of the Parliament complex on December 19. Kalyan Banerjee was seen imitating the Vice President during the protest and at the same time, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was seen making a video of Kalyan Banerjee on his mobile phone.

"I will keep doing the mimicry. It is an art form. If needed, I will do it a thousand times. I have all the fundamental rights to express my views. You can put me in jail. I will not step back," India Today quoted Banerjee as saying in the viral video, reported Hindustan Times.

BJP Reacts To Banerjee's Comment

The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) said no one is jailed for being uncultured but in the court of the people, the party and 'ghamandiya' alliance will be punished.

"No one is jailed for being uncultured. Backed by Mamata Banerjee, arrogance is at its peak in TMC. If they will mock a constitutional post, if they will mock a farmer's son, if they will mock someone coming from a backward caste, they will not be jailed but the people will never forgive them... This 'ghamandiya' alliance can't accept the popularity of the Modi government." Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said.

What Dhankhar Said On Mimicry

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he will not tolerate any insult to Parliament or the position of vice president, while also expressing his deep anguish at TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee's impersonation of him. The chairman of the Rajya Sabha said the act of mimicking him and its videography was an "insult" to the honour of the vice presidency, farmers, and his own community.

Dhankhar expressed his anguish over the incident and asked the Congress party, including Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, to reflect on it when the House reconvened at 11.45 am after the third adjournment. "I'm not bothered if someone insults Jagdeep Dhankhar, but I can't stand it if I can't defend the honour of my position. It is my duty to protect the House's honour," Dhankhar stated.

594 fresh Covid cases in India

21-Dec-2023 140

NEW DELHI: India on Thursday recorded 594 fresh Covid-19 infections while the number of active cases increased to 2,669 from 2,311 the previous day, according to Union health ministrydata. The country's Covid-19 tally stands at 4.50 crore (4,50,06,572). The death toll climbed to 5,33,327 with six more people -- three from Kerala, two from Karnataka and one from Punjab -- succumbing to the viral disease, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has increased to 4,44,70,576. The national recovery rate stands at 98.81 per cent, according to the health ministry's website.

The case fatality rate stands at 1.19 per cent.

According to the ministry's website, 220.67 crore doses of Covid-19 vaccine have been administered in the country so far.

Navy A Step Closer To Getting Its Own Rafales, France Sends Detailed Bid.

21-Dec-2023 141

New Delhi: The Indian Navy is now one step closer to getting Rafale fighter jets to operate off the deck of its aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.

France has officially responded to the Navy's request for 26 fighter jets with a detailed bid. New Delhi will now evaluate the bid closely before entering contract negotiations with Paris. The deal is expected to be in the range of 5.5 billion euros - about ₹ 50,000 crore. Earlier, 36 Rafale aircraft have been procured for the Indian Air Force.

The Navy plans to get the Rafale jets to supplement the MiG-29K jets onboard the two carriers. The MiG-29K has been plagued with reliability issues. Underlining the issues, a Comptroller and Auditor General report in 2016 had said, "The MiG-29K, which is a carrier-borne multi-role aircraft and the mainstay of integral fleet air defence, is riddled with problems."

"[In] a best case scenario, a MiG-29 jet will be fully fit for operations less than 50 per cent of the time it is required to be deployed," it had said.

While the Navy has improved on the availability of MiG-29K, it still wants the Rafale at a time when China is getting set to induct its third aircraft carrier. "Currently, MiG-29 jets are part of the INS Vikrant fighter fleet. The state-of-the-art French fighter jets Rafale-M will replace MiG-29s,'' Navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar said in August.

Navy sources have said there is every possibility of China operating a carrier battle group in the Indian Ocean in the near future. The decision to get Rafale jets also needs to be seen against this backdrop.

China already operates its first overseas base in the Indian Ocean in Djibouti, where it has started docking warships.

NDTV had last year sourced satellite images that indicated that China's naval base in Djibouti, on the Horn of Africa, is fully operational and supports Chinese warships deployed in the Indian Ocean region.

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China's base in Djibouti is its first overseas military base, built at a cost of $590 million. It is located by the strategic Bab-El-Mandeb Strait which separates the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea and guards the approach to the Suez Canal, one of the most critical channels of international commerce.

China's Djibouti base "is built in a fortified way, with layers of defences which appear almost medieval, like a modern day colonial fort. It is clearly designed to withstand direct assault,'' says Naval Analyst HI Sutton of Covert Shores.

Indian Navy Warship Comes To Aid Of Malta Vessel Hijacked In Arabian Sea

16-Dec-2023 243

New Delhi: The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a developing hijack situation of a ship which appears to now be heading to the coastline of Somalia. The Indian warship responded to the mayday call from the cargo carrier MV Ruen, a Maltese vessel in the Arabian Sea.

An Indian Naval Maritime Patrol Aircraft and warship on Anti Piracy patrol has been immediately diverted.

"The vessel, with 18 crew onboard, had sent a Mayday message on UKMTO portal, PM 14 Dec 23, indicating boarding by approx six unknown personnel. Responding swiftly to the developing situation, Indian Navy diverted its Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft undertaking surveillance in the area and its warship on Anti Piracy patrol in the Gulf Aden to locate & assist MV Ruen," Indian Navy said in a statement.

A Navy warship has intercepted the hijacked vessel and is closely monitoring its movement.

The ship, MV Reun, was heading towards Somalia when it was attacked on Thursday. UK's Marine Trade Operations said that the crew has lost control of the vessel.

Parliament Security Breach: TMC MP Derek O’Brien Suspended From Rajya Sabha For ‘Unruly Behaviour’

14-Dec-2023 196

New Delhi: Amid discussion over Lok Sabha security breach during Parliament’s winter session proceedings, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O’Brien was on Thursday suspended from Rajya Sabha for unruly behaviour. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Derek O’Brien to leave the House for ‘disorderly conduct’.

The incident happened when O’Brien sought a discussion on the incident, which saw two individuals leaping into the Lower House from the visitors’ gallery and setting off canisters of yellow smoke. During the face off, the Rajya Sabha Chairman asked the Bengal politician and directed him to leave the House.

Notably, Derek O’ Brien will not be able to participate in the rest of the winter session of parliament for a “gross misconduct” and “defying the Chair” during the proceedings on Thursday morning. The winter session is scheduled to run till December 22.

The Upper House of the Parliament has adopted a motion for the suspension of the Trinamool member.

O’Brien had demanded a discussion on the security breach incident, in which two men jumped from the visitors’ gallery into the Lok Sabha and burst yellow smoke canisters.

Soon after, the Trinamool MP was named by the Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and was asked to leave the House.

Despite the warning from the Chair, O’Brien and some other opposition members continued to protest, and demanded that Union Home Minister Amit Shah be present in the House to answer for yesterday’s security breach incident.

Speaking outside Parliament Trinamool MP Dola Sen also demanded action against BJP MP Pratap Simha who had reportedly helped the accused Manoranjan get a visitor pass for Parliament.

“Why is the Ethics committee is quiet on this? Pratap Simha who is a BJP MP, why is he not being expelled. We seriously want to know if the security of parliamentarians is compromised then what will happen to the people of the county? Home minister did not even give statement on this. TMC needs a proper investigation” Dola Sen said.

Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha secretariat suspended eight security personnel on Thursday over security lapses that led to a major security breach in Parliament on Wednesday.

The security breach happened on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack. Two people–Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D–jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the public gallery during Zero Hour, released yellow gas from canisters and shouted slogans before being overpowered by the MPs.

Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers inside the Parliament over security breach. While the opposition leaders are demanding statements in both houses.

The new security set-up looks similar to that of the airport where shoes, especially long boots or a few made of leather, are asked to open during security check. Only MPs are being allowed to enter the Parliament building from Makar Dwar, and all persons entering the building are being checked thoroughly.

As per the Ministry of Home Affairs, the enquiry committee will investigate into the reasons for breach in security of Parliament, identify lapses and recommend further action. “The Committee will submit its report with recommendations, including suggestions on improving security in Parliament, at the earliest,” the MHA had said.

Expulsion of Mahua Moitra from Lok Sabha sparks furore in Krishnagar

09-Dec-2023 178

AGENCY

Rukbanur Rahman, Trinamool Congress Nadia north district chairman, condemned the move, stating, “This action was expected. They (BJP) have done it intentionally to silence her, but their efforts will not be fruitful because Krishnagar people will punish the BJP at a proper time.”

Awave of conversations and discussions followed at Krishnagar parliamentary area in Nadia following the expulsion of Trinam00l Congress leader Mahua Moitra from the Lok Sabha. The controversy surrounding Moitra’s expulsion continues to polarize opinions in Krishnagar.

The expulsion was a result of allegations surrounding the ‘cash-for-query’ controversy, where Moitra was accused of sharing her credentials and accepting gifts from a businessman to influence parliamentary proceedings.

The expulsion occurred after a contentious debate in the ethics committee’s report, leading to an opposition walkout and subsequent accusations of an unfair investigation. Trinam00l Congress leaders expressed their dissatisfaction, with minister of state Ujjal Biswas asserting that Moitra’s vocal stance against the BJP in Parliament was the reason behind her expulsion. He vowed to send her back to Parliament in the next election, anticipating public support against the BJP.

The news of Moitra’s expulsion left Trinamool Congress leaders in Krishnagar shocked, prompting discussions among the public, especially the youth, who were seen passionately debating the decision in various places.

On the other hand, BJP workers and leaders in Krishnagar were jubilant, asserting that the central government made the right decision. Saikat Sarkar, BJP’s Nadia north district vice-president, expressed happiness over Moitra’s expulsion, alleging that she never advocated for the development of Krishnagar but instead spoke in favour of a businessman. He called for an immediate election in the parliamentary area to elect a representative who would prioritize the concerns of Krishnagar residents.

Amid the conflicting opinions, a resident of Krishnagar, Jatin Biswas, expressed concern about the potential danger to democracy. He emphasized the need for a fair and transparent process, stating, “If Mahua is proven to have taken bribes for raising questions in the Lok Sabha, then she should be punished. But, if the whole process is framed to block her, then it will be very dangerous for democracy.”

Sukesh wishes to donate gold crown for Ram Lalla’s idol at Ayodhya temple

04-Nov-2023 345

New Delhi: Alleged conman Sukash Chandrashekhar has penned a two-page letter to the head of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, outlining his intention to donate a crown for the Ram Lalla’s idol at Ayodhya temple.

Addressed to the trust’s head, the letter says that he plans to donate the crown on a personal basis.

As per the letter, the crown is a creation made of solid 916.24 carat gold, weighing approximately 11 kilograms.

It is adorned with 101 diamonds of VVS1 clarity, each weighing 5 carats, and a central emerald stone, an astonishing 50 carats in size.

The crown has been designed and crafted under the expert guidance of one of South India’s most reputable jewelers. The jeweler, renowned for their expertise in exclusive jewelry craftsmanship since 1900, has a rich history of creating exceptional pieces for various sacred temples, including the Lord Balaji Tirumala Temple, the letter reads.

Cliaming that Chandrashekhar and his family’s unwavering devotion to Shri Ram has inspired them to make this magnificent offering, the letter states that he describes the opportunity to donate the crown as a dream come true and a profound blessing.

Everything in his life is a result of Lord Rama’s blessings, making this contribution a significant milestone for him and his family, he said.

To facilitate the donation, Chandrashekhar has authorised his staff member and his legal advisor, Anant Malik, who will be responsible for presenting the crown to the trust.

They will ensure all legal formalities are met, including providing the necessary bills, receipts, and certificates related to the crown. The gold crown is expected to be completed by the first week of December.

Chandrashekhar and his family “would be grateful if the crown could be placed on Ram Lalla’s Idol on the Consecration Ceremony on January 22, 2024,” the conman added.

Currently, he is incarcerated at Mandoli’s Jail-11 in the national capital.

Delhi: Amid air pollution crisis, massive fire broke out at factory

04-Nov-2023 164

New Delhi: A massive fire broke out at a factory in outer Delhi’s Bawana area on Saturday morning, a fire department officer said.

The Director of Delhi Fire Service (DFS) Atul Garg said that the call regarding the blaze in a factory at Bawana Industrial area, sector -5 was received at 9:05 a.m.

“A total of 20 fire tenders have been rushed to the site. So far, no injuries have been reported,” said Garg.

Further details are awaited.

In Maharashtra, six killed and another 5 still missing, besides seven injured in massive fire followed by multiple explosions in a pharmaceutical factory at Mahad MIDC on November 3.

Delhi Air quality

The air quality in several areas of Delhi was recorded in the “severe” category on Saturday morning while the minimum temperature in the national capital settled at 16.6 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season’s average, officials said.

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 407 at 9 am.

The AQI at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range and Shadipur was recorded at 453. It was 448 at Anand Vihar, 442 at Wazirpur, 435 at Punjabi Bagh, 434 at Bawana, 432 at Okhla and 431 at R K Puram, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The air quality in other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) was also similar to the city. The AQI in Ghaziabad was recorded at 377. It was 490 at Greater Noida, 449 at Faridabad and 392 at Gurugram, the CPCB said.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered “good”, 51 and 100 “satisfactory”, 101 and 200 “moderate”, 201 and 300 “poor”, 301 and 400 “very poor”, and 401 and 500 “severe”.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast shallow fog during the day. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 30 degrees Celsius, it said.

The humidity was recorded at 88 per cent at 8.30 am.

(with inputs from IANS and PTI)

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Sukesh wishes to donate gold crown for Ram Lalla’s idol at Ayodhya temple

Delhi: Amid air pollution crisis, massive fire broke out at factory

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