Haryana Polls Now On October 5

NEW DELHI, Aug 31: The Haryana assembly election will be held on October 5 instead of 1 to honour the voting rights and respect the traditions of the Bishnoi community, whose festival falls during this period, the Election Commission (EC) announced today.

Accordingly, the counting day for both Haryana and the Jammu and Kashmir elections has been revised from October 4 to October 8.

The EC acknowledged that the Bishnoi community has upheld a centuries-old practice to participate in the Asoj Amavasya festival in remembrance of Guru Jambeshwar.

The EC had received representations from the All India Bishnoi Mahasabha based in Rajasthan's Bikaner for rescheduling voting day in Haryana. The Bishnoi group said that for generations numerous families from Punjab, Rajasthan and Haryana have observed a tradition of visiting their village Mukam in Rajasthan during "Amavas" in the month of "Asoj", for their annual festival in Bikaner in the memory of their Guru Jambheshwar.

This year, the festival falls on October 2 and thousands of Bishnoi families living in Sirsa, Fatehabad and Hisar would be travelling to Rajasthan on voting day, denying them their voting rights, the EC said.

The EC has often adjusted election dates to respect the sentiments of various communities.

For instance, during the Punjab assembly election in 2022, the EC postponed the election by a week to accommodate devotees travelling to Varanasi for Guru Ravidas Jayanti.

Similarly, in Manipur during the 2022 assembly elections, the EC changed the polling dates to respect the Christian community's Sunday prayers.

In the 2023 Rajasthan assembly election, the EC rescheduled polling originally scheduled on Devuthani Ekadashi, a day significant for mass weddings in Rajasthan.

In the Uttar Pradesh assembly election 2012, the poll date was changed due to Barawafat. Coincidentally, the revised polling day would also resolve any concerns of a six-day holiday by taking a one-day leave on September 30, the EC said.

'Bharat Dojo Yatra Soon': Rahul Gandhi

NEW DELHI, Aug 29: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi today shared a video of him taking martial arts sessions, which he said were held during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra earlier this year. Taking to his official X account, he also said that a "Bharat Dojo Yatra" is coming soon. Dojo broadly refers to a training hall or school for martial arts.

"During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometers, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite. What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and young martial arts students from the towns where we stayed," Gandhi wrote on X.

He undertook the over two-month-long Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Manipur to Mumbai. It came over a year after his Bharat Jodo Yatra, which was held between September 2022 and January 2023.

In the eight-minute video, he can seen teaching the children various techniques. He can also be heard saying that he is a black belt in Aikido and a blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu.

"Our goal was to introduce these young minds to the beauty of the 'Gentle Art'-a harmonious blend of meditation, jiu-jitsu, Aikido, and non-violent conflict resolution techniques. We aimed to instill in them the value of transforming violence into gentleness, giving them the tools to build a more compassionate and safer society," he said.

On this National Sports Day, I want to share our experience with all of you, hoping to inspire some of you to take up the practice of the 'Gentle Art', Gandhi said.

"PS: Bharat Dojo Yatra is coming soon," he added.

Won't Contest J&K Elections, Says Mehbooba Mufti

SRINAGAR, Aug 28: People's Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti has said she would not contest in the coming assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir, since given the current situation, it is not possible to implement her party's agenda even if she becomes the Chief Minister.

Instead, her daughter, Iltija Mufti, will be making her electoral debut this time.

"I have been Chief Minister of a government with the BJP which revoked FIRs against 12,000 persons (in 2016). Can we do that now?" a news agency quoted her as saying.

"As the Chief Minister of a government with (PM) Modi, I wrote a letter to separatists to invite them for talks. Can you do that today? I got a ceasefire (implemented) on ground. Can you do that today? If you cannot take back an FIR as Chief Minister, what does one do with such a post?"

Asked about National Conference chief Omar Abdullah's change of heart about contesting the assembly polls, she said, "Omar himself said he would have to be at the door of the Lieutenant-Governor for the transfer of a peon. I am not bothered about the transfer of the peon but can we implement our agenda?"

Asked about the lack of any pre-poll alliance for the party at a time when the Congress and the National Conference have joined hands, Ms Mufti said, "We have always fought alone".

"Ever since our party was formed in 1999, we have fought alone. We fought with the help of the people. To help people. We were part of the Congress, I was a CLP leader, Mufti (her father Mufti Mohammad Sayeed) was an MP. But we left and formed such a platform so we could end teb sufferings of the people," she added.

In their election manifesto, the PDP has promised efforts to restore Articles 370 and 35A -- which gave the state its special status -- initiate diplomatic dialogues between India and Pakistan, and ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to Kashmir Valley.

In the 2014 assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference won 15, and the Congress won 12. The PDP won 28 seats and formed government with the BJP. But the alliance between the two parties with disparate ideologies fell through in 2018 and Jammu and Kashmir was placed under President's Rule.

In 2019, the state's special status granted under the constitution was scrapped and it was split into two Union Territories.

In ₹ 175 Crore Hyderabad SBI Branch Fraud, 'Mule Accounts' Used To Send Money

HYDERABAD, Aug 28: The manager of a State Bank of India (SBI) branch in Hyderabad and his associates have been arrested in a fraud case worth ₹ 175 crore.

The SBI branch manager in the city's Shamsheer Gunj area colluded with fraudsters, facilitating the opening of current accounts, aiding in withdrawal of funds, and orchestrating diversion of money, all in exchange for commissions, said officers of the Cybersecurity Bureau Headquarters in Hyderabad.

The branch manager Madhu Babu Gali, 49, and a gym trainer, Upadhya Sandeep Sharma, 34, have been arrested in the ₹ 175 crore scam. A case has been filed against them.

The Cybersecurity Bureau's data analysis team had detected numerous complaints reported on the NCRP portal against six bank accounts in SBI, Shamsheer Gunj. The team focused on this issue, and on verification, it was found that large sums of money were transacted through these accounts within a short period of two months - March and April 2024. The account holders were suspected of being involved in large-scale cyber fraud. Approximately 600 complaints are linked to these accounts.

The main fraudster, operating from Dubai, and his five associates lured poor people into opening bank accounts and supplying them for use in cybercrimes and hawala operations on a commission basis.

On August 24, the Cybersecurity Bureau arrested two individuals, Mohammed Shoeb Tauqeer and Mahmood Bin Ahmed Bawazir for their involvement in the ₹ 175 crore scam.

Shoeb played a key role in opening bank accounts and preparing documents. After opening the accounts, the signatures of the account holders were taken on cheques, which were then kept in the custody of one of the associates. Some of the money was sent to Dubai through cryptocurrency.

The associates withdrew the money following the directions of the main fraudster and distributed it to individuals through his agents.

Following the main fraudster's directions, Shoeb and the others convinced poor people to open six current accounts in SBI's Shamsheer Gunj branch in February 2024, luring them with commissions. In March and April, significant transactions happened in these six accounts, totalling approximately ₹ 175 crore.

The public is cautioned not to open a bank account for someone else or engage in suspicious transactions, the police said. If you have already opened a mule account, report it to 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.

This operation was organized by Deputy SPs Hari Krishna and KVM Prasad under the supervision of SP Devender Singh. Inspectors D Srinu, Mahender, and constables Venkat Goud, Syed Taher, Krishna Swamy and Shanker participated in the operation.

US Delegation Visits Kashmir Ahead of Elections

SRINAGAR, Aug 27: A three-member delegation of US diplomats visited Srinagar on Monday ahead of the Assembly elections in the Union Territory after a gap of 10 years.

“The visit is well within the boundaries of diplomatic outreach mechanism of the US State Department,” according to a government official.

According to the official, the visits are not unusual as similar visits with diplomats were common in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. "They get a chance to make on-ground assessments," he said.

The delegation included Minister-Counselor for Political Affairs Graham Mayer, First Secretary Gary Applegarth, and Political Counselor Abhiram. They met political leaders from Kashmir including former chief minister Omar Abdullah as well as former mayor of Srinagar Junaid Azim Mattu.

“The presence of CIA station head Graham Mayer in Srinagar is an indication that US is observing elections minutely, especially in backdrop of US interests in Pakistan and recent reports of Chinese inroads in Ladakh,” a source said.

An official said that US and India have increased coordination to ensure security in Ladakh. According to him, Mayer had also visited Srinagar in 2023 and met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

Interestingly, the visit comes at a time when terror attacks in the Valley have increased. "India has been insisting that terror is being exported from Pakistan and weapons are being smuggled from Afghanistan. The recovered weapons bear clear US markings. So there is ample proof to establish connection,” an official said.

National Conference Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said that the delegation's discussions addressed a wide range of issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir and the broader region. Former chief minister Omar Abdullah also raised the recent travel advisory issued by US for the region.

In July, US had asked its nationals not to travel to Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border, and parts of central and eastern parts of the country where Maoists are active.

"Some areas have increased risk. Do not travel to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest," the advisory said.

US is among several countries that have issued travel advisories, asking their citizens not to visit Jammu and Kashmir.

K Kavitha Released From Tihar Jail 5 Months After Arrest In Liquor Policy Case

NEW DELHI, Aug 27: K Kavitha, in jail since March over alleged corruption and money laundering charge in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case, was released from jail on Tuesday evening, hours after Supreme Court granted conditional bail to the Telangana politician.

BRS workers and supporters played drums and burst crackers as she stepped out of the prison complex. Ms Kavitha's brother and BRS working president KT Rama Rao was also present.

"We are fighters, we will fight it out legally and politically. They have only made the BRS and KCR's team unbreakable," said the combative leader in her first comments after walking out of the jail.

Earlier today, the top court said 46-year-old Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader's custody was no longer required as both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have completed their probe against her.

"The appellant (Kavitha) is directed to be released forthwith on bail ... on furnishing bail bonds in the sum of ₹ 10 lakh in each of the cases," the bench said, while allowing her appeals against the July 1 verdict of the Delhi High Court which had denied her bail in the two cases.

The two central agencies came in for some sharp criticism over the "fairness" of their investigation, with the top court observing "Sorry to see this state of affairs".

"The prosecution has to be fair. You can't pick and choose anyone. What is this fairness? A person who incriminates himself has been made a witness," the bench said, adding, "Tomorrow you will pick up anyone as you choose and leave anyone as you choose as an accused? Very fair and reasonable discretion!".

Senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Ms Kavitha, argued that the probe against her was complete and the charge sheet and prosecution complaint have already been filed.

He also referred to the August 9 top court verdict granting bail to co-accused and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia in the two cases.

The ED had arrested Ms Kavitha from her Banjara Hills residence in Hyderabad on March 15 and the CBI arrested her from Tihar jail on April 11.

12 Members Elected Unopposed To Rajya Sabha, NDA Touches Majority Mark

NEW DELHI, Aug 27: The ruling NDA reached majority mark in the Rajya Sabha today as nine BJP members and two from allies were elected unopposed in the by-polls for the upper house. With the nine, BJP's strength has reached 96, taking NDA to 112 in the upper house. Among the three others to get elected unopposed were one each from NDA allies NCP faction of Ajit Pawar faction and Rashtriya Lok Manch. The ruling alliance also has the support of six nominated and one independent members.

One member of the Congress also got elected, taking the Opposition numbers in the Upper House to 85.

Rajya Sabha has 245 seats, though currently there are eight vacancies -- four from Jammu and Kashmir and four nominated. With the house's current strength of 237, the majority mark is 119.

The BJP candidates elected unopposed included Mission Ranjan Dass and Rameshwar Teli from Assam, Manan Kumar Mishra from Bihar, Kiran Chadhary from Haryana, George Kurien from Madhya Pradesh, Dhirya Sheel Patil from Maharashtra, Mamata Mohanta from Odisha, Ravneet Singh Bittu from Rajasthan and Rajeev Bhattacharjee from Tripura.

Congress's Abhishek Manu Singhvi was elected unopposed from Telangana. NCP Ajit Pawar faction's Nitin Patil got elected from Maharashtra and RLM's Updendra Kushwaha made it to the upper house from Bihar.

A majority mark in the Rajya Sabha for which the NDA has been trying for a decade, is going to make the passage of contentious bills painless.

Over the years, the huge Opposition numbers had often held up contentious government bills in the upper house. Some of them could be passed with the help of non-aligned parties like Naveen Patnaik's Biju Janata Dal and YS Jaganmohan Reddy's YSR Congress.

But now, with both parties losing power in their respective states – one to the BJP and one to its ally Chandrababu Naidu -- their support cannot be counted on.

51 to NC, 32 to Congress: Allies overcome Valley hitch, seal J&K deal

SRINAGAR, Aug 26: The Congress and National Conference have reached a deal to share Jammu and Kashmir's 90 Assembly seats ahead of next month's election, senior leaders from each side said Monday evening, bringing talks to a successful end hours before the deadline to file nominations for the first phase.

The NC will contest the majority of seats - 51 - and the Congress will contest 32, the latter's J&K unit chief, Tariq Hameed Karra, told reporters, adding two will be left for the CPIM and Panthers Party.

Significantly, there will be a "friendly but disciplined contest" on five seats, which suggests that differences between the two parties - both of whom are part of the INDIA opposition bloc - were not fully ironed out, even after the Congress rushed two senior leaders to Srinagar this morning.

This will be the first Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir in a decade; the 2019 poll was not held after the centre scrapped Article 370 and 35A, and bifurcated J&K into two union territories.

"It is a matter of great happiness... we started this campaign together against forces trying to divide people here. The INDIA bloc was formed so we can fight forces that want to communalise, divide, and break the country," NC boss and former ex Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah told the press.

"Today we have completed negotiations and have completed coordination in a very good (and) cordial atmosphere. The Congress and the National Conference will fight the election together..."

Congress leader KC Venugopal, one of the two big names deployed, echoed the sentiment.

"We have completed our discussion and reached a formula... we will fight together and we will win the J&K election. The Congress and National Conference are coming together to form the next government..." the Lok Sabha MP declared, accusing the BJP of "trying to destroy the soul of J&K".

J&K will hold its first Assembly election in a decade over three phases beginning September 18. Voting will also take place on September 25 and October 1, with the results due on October 4.

Kangana Ranaut says farmers' protest could have led to Bangladesh-like situation

NEW DELHI, Aug 26: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut stirred yet another controversy by suggesting that the farmers' protests could have led to a Bangladesh-like situation if strong measures had not been taken by the government.

In a video shared by the actress on social media platform X, she alleged that “bodies were seen hanging and rapes were taking place” during farmers protest against the now-repealed three farm laws.

The MP from Mandi also blamed vested interests and "foreign powers" for the continuation of the protests even after the laws were rolled back.

"What happened in Bangladesh, it could have easily happened here too. There is a conspiracy by foreign powers and these filmy people thrive on it. They don’t care if the country goes to the dogs," she alleged.

UP Man Fined For Driving Car Without Helmet By Noida Police

RAMPUR, Aug 25: A man who claims that he has never been to Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar district in his car, has been slapped with a fine of ₹ 1,000 by Noida police for driving the vehicle without a helmet.

Tushar Saxena initially received a text message informing him about the fine but he ignored it, thinking it to be a mistake. However, things became serious when this was followed by an email and another message. The car owner - who lives in Rampur district, some 200 km from Noida - contacted the traffic police and was told that he was fined for driving his four-wheeler vehicle without a helmet.

Police told him that if he fails to pay the amount then he will have to appear in court.

"The challan was issued on November 9, 2023. If you are violating traffic rules, then it is common to receive a fine but that is not my case. I have never driven my car to the NCR area. And if there's any rule that says we have to wear a helmet inside a car, then the authorities must give this to me in writing," Saxena said.

Saxena said he bought his car in March last year and got the vehicle's registration transferred from Ghaziabad to Rampur.

He has appealed to Noida traffic police to investigate this matter and revoke his fine.

A similar case happened in Jhansi when the city's traffic police fined a man ₹ 1,000 for not wearing a helmet while driving his Audi car. Bahadur Singh Parihar, a resident of Jhansi's Nandu colony, approached traffic police officials, but was told they would look into the matter after the ongoing Lok Sabha election is over.

Until then, Parihar wore a bike helmet while driving to avoid more fines.

Centre Launches Unified Pension Scheme for Govt employees

NEW DELHI, Aug 24: In a big announcement ahead of assembly elections in one state and a Union Territory this year, the government has launched the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) amid protests by several non-BJP-ruled states over the New Pension Scheme (NPS).

"This scheme will benefit 23 lakh central government employees (under the National Pension Scheme)," announced Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The new scheme will be implemented from April 1, 2025 and employees will have the option to choose between the NPS or UPS.

The UPS, approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to give assured pension, family pension and assured minimum pension to government employees:

1. Assured Pension: The scheme assures 50 percent of the average basic salary for the last 12 months before retirement as the pension for government employees who complete a minimum of 25 years in service. It will be proportionate for a shorter service period up to a minimum of 10 years of service.

2. Assured Family Pension: In case of death, the family will get 60 percent of the last-drawn amount by the pensioner.

3. Assured Minimum Pension: The scheme also assures ₹ 10,000 per month after retirement for government employees after minimum 10 years of service.

As per the current pension scheme, employees contribute 10 per cent while the central government contributes 14 percent, which would be increased to 18.5 percent with the UPS.

"Some central employees met with the Prime Minister today. They were with the UPS in the meeting," said Mr Vaishnaw.

Modi said the centre is "proud of the hard work of all government employees who contribute significantly to national progress".

"The Unified Pension Scheme ensures dignity and financial security for government employees, aligning with our commitment to their well-being and a secure future," he added.

Last year, a committee under Finance Secretary TV Somanathan was set up to review the pension scheme for government employees and suggest changes in the light of the existing framework and structure of the National Pension System.

The finance ministry formed the committee after several non-BJP-ruled states decided to revert to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and calls by employee organisations for the same.

Under the OPS, retired government employees received 50 per cent of their last-drawn salary as monthly pensions. The amount keeps increasing with the hike in the Dearness Allowance (DA) rates.

Caste Census Needed For 90% People Sitting Out Of System: Rahul Gandhi

PRAYAGRAJ, Aug 24: Pressing the demand for a nationwide "caste census", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said 90 per cent people of the country are sitting out of the system and the step should be taken in their interest.

He also said for the Congress, the "caste census" is the foundation and a tool for policy making.

Addressing the "Samvidhan Samman Sammelan" here, Rahul Gandhi said, "90 per cent people are sitting out of the system. They have skill, knowledge but no connections (with the system). That is why we have raised the demand for a caste census."

Asserting that before ensuring the participation of various sections of the society, there is a need to ascertain their numbers, the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha said, "For the Congress, the caste census is the foundation of policy making. It is a tool for policy making. We cannot make policies in the reality of India without a caste census." Rahul Gandhi said just like the Constitution, the "caste census" is a policy framework and a guide for the Congress.

"Just like our Constitution, which is a guide in a way and it is being attacked every day, a caste census, a socio-economic survey, an institutional survey will be our second guide," he said.
AD

"We want the data. How many Dalits, OBC (Other Backward Classes), tribals, women, minorities, general caste people are there. We are trying to protect the Constitution through this demand for a caste census," he added.

Rahul Gandhi said the Constitution is not for the 10 per cent of the country's population, it is for all the citizens.

"The Constitution is protected by poor people, labourers, tribals and not (industrialist Gautam) Adani. If 90 per cent people do not have participatory rights, the Constitution cannot be protected.

"Our aim is to protect the Constitution. This (the Constitution) is a protective shield for the poor, farmers and labourers. Without it, the situation would be as it used to be earlier in the times of kings and emperors, who did whatever they wanted," he said.

The former Congress chief alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to replicate the model of kings and emperors.

"You (Modi) consider yourself non-biological. You consider yourself connected with the god. Right after the (Lok Sabha) election, you had to bow down before the Constitution. This was not done by us but by people," he said.

Rahul Gandhi said those who think that the "caste census" can be stopped or the 50-per cent ceiling on reservation cannot be lifted are dreaming.

"This will definitely happen. It cannot be stopped. Neither the caste census nor an economic survey or an institutional survey can be prevented and the 50-per cent barrier will also fall. All of these will happen," he said.

The Congress leader asserted that the people of the country have made up their mind in favour of a "caste census".

"The order of the people has come. The prime minister should accept it and implement it. If he does not do so, someone else will become the prime minister," he said.

Hitting out at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre, Rahul Gandhi said ever since he joined politics in 2004, he has been "bothered and disturbed" by the leaders of the saffron party.

"I consider them (BJP leaders) as my guru, those who taught me what not to do. This is an ideological fight (with the BJP) and it will continue," he added.

"Unlike Prime Minister Modi, I do my work considering it as my responsibility and not for others to remember me. It is Narendra Modi's way of doing his work so that he is remembered. My thinking is that 90 per cent of the country's power is utilised in making it," the Congress leader said.

Rahul Gandhi recalled that he recently met a cobbler in Uttar Pradesh who told him that he does not get due respect from others and that people ridicule him.

"He has so much skill but he does not get any respect. There are thousands of people like him," Rahul Gandhi said, stressing the need for their involvement and participation in the society.

Talking about skilled workers, such as cobblers, barbers, carpenters, washermen and others, he said, "Certification centres can be opened in all districts in which the network of these skilled workers can be utilised...."

"My vision is that it should be known how much wealth is in the hands of the OBC, Dalits and labourers. What is the participation of these people in the institutions of India, be it the bureaucracy, the judiciary or the media?" he asked while claiming that 90 per cent Indians have no representation in the country's top corporations, judiciary or media.

"The prime minister waived loans worth ₹ 16 lakh crore of 25 people but no Dalit, tribal or minority-community member was there on the list," Rahul Gandhi said.

Brij Bhushan Sexual Harassment Case: Court Records Wrestler's Statement

NEW DELHI, Aug 23: The Rouse Avenue court on Friday recorded the statement of a woman wrestler, one of the complainants in the sexual harassment case against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Her testimony was taken in a vulnerable witness room.

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Priyanka Rajpoot recorded the statement of victim Further recording of her statement has been deferred for September 10.

The statement of the victim was recorded through the Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Atul Srivastava.

Former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was also present during the hearing.
AD

During the day, the court said that the statement of the victim is to be recorded in the vulnerable witness room. Media won't be allowed during the recording of victims' statement.

Defence counsel Rajiv Mohan had objected that he wouldn't cross-examine the victim through video conferencing.

He had said that the provision of cross-examination through video conferencing is only for the minor not for adult victims.

On the other hand, counsel for complainants submitted that this victim squarely covered under the provision of vulnerable witness.

Earlier, DCP New Delhi appeared before the court and submitted that security was not withdrawn. There was some miscommunication and the same has been rectified.
AD

After the recording of the statement, DCP joined the proceeding through video conferencing (VC). On query, he submitted that they don't have any plan to withdraw the security till the deposition of witnesses is completed.

In January 2023, some women wrestlers protested against Brij Bhushan accusing him of sexual exploitation and intimidation.

Delhi police filed a chargesheet against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Vinod Tomar on June 15, 2023. This case was lodged on a complaint lodged by female wrestlers.

'Have Blood Relationship With People Of J&K': Rahul Gandhi On Pre-Poll Visit

SRINAGAR, Aug 22: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Thursday claimed "blood" ties with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and declared restoration of statehood - J&K was bifurcated into two union territories in August 2019, after the centre scrapped Article 370 - a "priority" for both him and his party.

In a swipe at the Modi government, the Leader of the Opposition remarked, "We expected this (restoration of statehood, a demand of many opposition parties and activists) to be done prior to the election... but it is okay. Elections have been declared... it is a step forward."

Gandhi also urged the people of J&K - who vote September 18, 25, and October 1 for a first Assembly election since 2014 - to "open shops of love in the market of hatred"; the reference was to his 'nafrat ke bazaar mein, mohabbat ki dukaan khol' war cry from the Bharat Jodo Yatra.

"I love the people of J&K... I have a very old relationship, a blood relationship with them," he said at a party event in Srinagar that was also attended by Congress boss Mallikarjun Kharge.

"And it is our priority, and of the INDIA bloc, to restore statehood as soon as possible. We expected this would be done prior to the election but it is okay... elections have been declared and we hope statehood will also be restored, and the democratic rights of J&K people will (also) be restored," Gandhi told reporters after meeting with Congress leaders in Srinagar.

"In India, after independence, many UTs were made into states... but there is only instance in which a state was downgraded... this is the first time. It never happened before," he thundered.

"For us (the Congress) representing the people of J&K is important. I will tell you why... I protect democracy all over the country but, for me, the aim is to remove the pain in the hearts of the people of J&K," he continued, stressing, "This is not a political statement I am making."

This is not the first time Gandhi has claimed blood ties with J&K; in October 2012, at a ceremony to lay the foundation stone for a road tunnel connecting Kargil to the Kashmir Valley, he said, "I am a Kashmiri. I want to have a lifelong relationship with the people of J&K.

Congress boss Kharge, who is the LoP in the Rajya Sabha, also appealed to voters.

"... as Rahul Gandhi said, his relationship with J&K is not limited to likes or dislikes. He is related to J&K by blood... and we hope J&K will stand by us in this coming election," he said, adding, "We need your votes to save the country... to save your culture and rights."

SC raps govt on RG Kar probe, tells doctors to return to work; Bengal medics say protest will go on

NEW DELHI, Aug 22: The Supreme Court on Thursday took a stern stance on the ongoing doctors' protests across India, particularly in light of the disturbing developments at Calcutta's RG Kar Medical College.

Addressing the critical need for public health infrastructure to remain functional, the apex court called on protesting doctors to return to work while ensuring that no punitive action will be taken against them once they resume their duties.

From questioning delays in police investigations to directing urgent measures for the safety of healthcare professionals, the court's intervention comes at a crucial moment in the fight for justice and healthcare reform in the country.

The Supreme Court urged resident doctors to return to duty while assuring them that no adverse action would be taken against them after they rejoin. A bench led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud highlighted the impact of their absence on the public health infrastructure, stating, "How will public health infrastructure run if the doctors do not work?"

The court promised to prevail upon authorities to ensure no punitive measures against the doctors once they return to work.

The Supreme Court expressed its concern over the delay in registering the information regarding the victim's unnatural death at RG Kar Medical College. Justice Pardiwala noted, "This is extremely disturbing," questioning why it took from 6:10 p.m., when the post-mortem was conducted, until 11:30 p.m. to register the unnatural death with the Tala police. The court asked for clarification in the next hearing.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, informed the Supreme Court that the Kolkata police had delayed registering the FIR until after the victim had been cremated.

"The most shocking fact is that the FIR was registered at 11:45 p.m. after the postgraduate medic was cremated," Mehta said. He added that the victim’s friend suspected a cover-up and insisted on videography during the post-mortem, further raising concerns about the police's conduct.

17 killed, 20 injured in reactor blast at pharma company in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli

AMARAVATI, Aug 21: At least 17 workers were killed and 20 others sustained burns in a major fire that broke out reportedly after a reactor blast in Escientia Advanced Sciences Private Ltd. in the Special Economic Zone at Atchutapuram, in Anakapalli of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday. The company manufactures intermediate chemicals and pharmaceutical ingredients.

The death toll is likely to go up, as bodies of several workers were feared trapped under the rubble of the slab of the first floor of the four-storey building. The impact of the blast was so strong that the severed body parts of some workers were thrown to some distance on the company premises.

'Nation Can't Await Another Rape For Real Changes On Ground': Supreme Court

NEW DELHI, Aug 20: The Supreme Court, hearing the Kolkata rape-murder incident today, said the nation cannot wait for another rape for changes on the ground. The CJI DY Chandrachud-led bench also expressed strong dissatisfaction with the West Bengal government and the authorities at the hospital over the delay in filing the FIR and other procedural lapses in handling the case.

"Medical professions have become vulnerable to violence. Due to ingrained patriarchal biases, women doctors are targeted more. As more and more women join the workforce, the nation cannot wait for another rape for things to change on the ground," CJI Chandrachud noted.

During the hearing, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud raised several pressing questions regarding the actions of the hospital's administration and the local police.

"Why was FIR registered three hours after the body was handed over for cremation," the Supreme Court bench asked.

The Supreme Court has taken up the investigation into the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old post-graduate trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. The incident has triggered widespread protests across the country and raised questions over women's safety, particularly in medical colleges.

The three-judge bench is led by CJI Chandrachud and comprises Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.

"What was the principal doing? FIR was not filed; the body was handed late to the parents. What is the police doing? A serious offence has taken place, the crime scene is in a hospital... What are they doing? Allowing vandals to enter the hospital?" CJI Chandrachud asked.

In response to the bench's questions, Sibal countered that people at the hospital had taken photos, a case of unnatural death was immediately started, and a board was set up with a judicial magistrate present. However, CJI Chandrachud said that it was the hospital's duty to file the FIR, especially in the absence of the victim's parents.

Justice Pardiwala questioned the timeline of the FIR, asking, "Who is the first informant who filed the FIR? What is the time of the FIR?" Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, responded that the first informant was the father of the victim, who filed the FIR at 11:45 pm, followed by the Vice Principal of the hospital.

The CJI Chandrachud questioned the time at which the victim's body was handed over for cremation, which was reportedly at 8:30 pm, and pointed out that the FIR was filed three hours later. The autopsy, conducted between 1:45 pm and 4:00 pm, revealed that the doctor had been murdered, yet the FIR was registered much later. "What was the principal, and the hospital board, doing during this time?" asked CJI Chandrachud.

Sandip Ghosh, who resigned as the principal of RG Kar Medical College just two days after the incident, has been under scrutiny by the CBI and questioned for nearly 53 hours over the past four days regarding his actions following the doctor's death.

The Chief Justice also noted that after the principal's resignation, he was reassigned as principal in another college.

The Calcutta High Court instructed the West Bengal Health Department not to appoint Ghosh to any other medical college until further notice. This order followed his brief and contentious appointment as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital, which was met with protests from students and junior doctors.

Rage, Protests After 2 Nursery Girls Sexually Assaulted In Thane School

MUMBAI, Aug 20: The massive protest in Maharashtra's Thane over the sexual assault of two four-year-old girls at a school, has been quelled by police batons and tear gas. The Badlapur railway station that was a seething mass of slogan-shouting people for over six hours, emptied in a matter of seconds and a huge police force cracked down. People - many of them sitting down on the railway tracks -- started running as batons flashed.

From the other side of the station, protesters responded with stones, till the station turned into a war zone. But the police prevailed, giving chase to the protesters as they ran helter skelter.

The outrage over the sexual assault has grown as more details emerged. Thousands of protesters had flocked to the local train station in Badlapur in the morning and blocked the movement of trains. Six hours on, the crowds grew, leading to concerns about train movement and law and order. The government's efforts to defuse the tension was answered by chants of 'hang, hang" from the crowd, who are demanding the death penalty for the 23-year-old cleaner allegedly involved.

What has further enraged the protesters is the Opposition claim that the parents of the girls were made to wait 11 hours at a local police station for a First Information Report. The three police personnel involved have been suspended by the government.

Coming in the backdrop of the rape-murder of a young doctor in Kolkata that has created furore in the medical community, the Thane protest had apparently drawn people from surrounding areas.

Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra assembly Vijay Wadettiwar said the incident in Badlapur is "bigger" than the rape murder of Kolkata since the girls are just four years old.

"Atrocities are committed on a three-and-half years old girl, a four-year-old girl, and at the police station, they (parents) are made to wait for 11 hours when they seek to file a complaint... Is there any sensitivity left? I spoke to the police commissioner and told him that the woman police officer responsible for this delay must be suspended immediately," said Wadettiwar.

The two girls were sexually assaulted inside the girls' toilet at an English Medium school on August 16. The accused has been arrested. The school administration has suspended the principal and dismissed the class teacher and nanny.

Investigation revealed several lapses on part of the school - there were no female attendants in the girls' toilets, a basic safety requirement. Many of the school's CCTV cameras were not working either.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team, which will be led by a woman IPS officer. The police have also been asked to submit a proposal for a fast-track court to try the case.

NDA divided over lateral entry into bureaucracy: JD(U), LJP oppose, TDP supports move

NEW DELHI, Aug 19: Differences emerged in the BJP-led NDA on Monday over the Union Public Service Commission’s (UPSC) decision to fill 45 government posts through lateral entry. The Janata Dal (United) and the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) opposed the move while the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) came out in support, saying that lateral entry into bureaucracy “will enhance the quality of governance and delivery of services to the common citizen”.

“We are a party that has been asking governments to fill quotas since inception. We are followers of Ram Manohar Lohia. When people have been socially disadvantaged for centuries, why are you seeking merit? This order by the government is a matter of serious concern for us,” said JD(U) national spokesperson K C Tyagi.

Tyagi also suggested that by doing this the government was handing over an issue to the Opposition on a platter. “Those opposed to the NDA will misuse this advertisement. Rahul Gandhi will become a champion of the socially disadvantaged. We should not be giving a weapon in the hands of the Opposition,” Tyagi said.

LJP (Ram Vilas) president and Union Minister Chirag Paswan, too, expressed his unhappiness about the advertisement, which was published on Saturday. “Reservation provisions must be there in any government appointment. There are no ifs and buts in this. No reservation exists in the private sector and if it is not implemented in government positions as well … The information came up before me on Sunday and it is a matter of concern for me,” said Paswan.

Paswan said as a member of the government he had the platform to raise the issue and he would. The Union Minister also said as far as his party was concerned, it was “absolutely not in support” of such a measure.

High Court Relief For Siddaramaiah In Land Scam Row

BENGALURU, Aug 19: The Karnataka High Court on Monday directed the trial court to take no action against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah following Governor Thawaar Chand Gehlot sanctioning the Congress leader's prosecution in the alleged MUDA land scam case.

The interim relief for the embattled Chief Minister will be in effect till August 29, when the High Court will hear this case next.

Siddaramaiah had moved the High Court against Gehlot's nod to prosecute him and sought this interim relief on grounds the Governor's action was "illegal and without authority of law", and that allowing his prosecution posed "a grave and imminent risk of irreparable harm (to his) reputation" as well as "disrupt governance... and potentially result in political destabilisation".

"Since the matter is heard by this court and pleadings are to be completed... till the next date of hearing the concerned court (the trial court) should defer its proceedings..." the High Court said.

In its order the court noted that documents submitted by the petitioner (i.e., Chief Minister Siddaramaiah) had "referred to several points of order... to prima facie demonstrate that (the) order (granting sanction to prosecute) bears non-application of mind (by the Governor).

The court also noted the Chief Minister's submission - that the Governor had sanctioned prosecution of the former at "breakneck" speed following filing of a complaint on July 26.

During the hearing senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Siddaramaiah, had urged the court to direct "no precipitate action" and claimed the sanction granted by the Governor is "part of a concerted effort to destabilise the duly elected government of Karnataka..."

He argued the Governor had "picked this complaint (filed by activist TJ Abraham) ... out of 12 to 15 still pending, without single reason". He further argued that conditions to be met for application of Section 17 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, under which the Chief Minister has been charged, were missing.

Singhvi also flagged what he said were other errors that betrayed the order was passed "without application of mind", including the show-cause notice sent to Siddaramaiah referring to one complaint and the Governor's sanction to prosecute referring to "other complaints".

"Mr Abraham's complaint is received and, on the same day, the Governor issues the show-cause notice... legal malice (against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah) has to be inferred. Somebody goes to a 'friendly governor', gives a complaint, and he issues notice..." Singhvi jibed.

Singhvi also referred to the Cabinet's "detailed, legal, and reasoned order" on this topic, and continued, "What did he decide? Order is silent on reasons why sanction should be granted."

Hours earlier the Chief Minister had said he had not done anything illegal in a political career spanning four decades, and expressed confidence the judiciary would come to his aid.

The senior Congress leader declared he had been a Chief Minister and a Minister over the course of his career and had "never misused power for personal gains". He also dismissed protests by the BJP, saying, "In politics it is natural that parties will protest... so let them protest, I am clean."

Siddaramaiah's Swipe At Governor Amid Calls For Resignation

BENGALURU, Aug 17: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today launched a fresh attack on Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, calling him "a puppet" of the central government, after the Governor gave the green light to act against Siddaramaiah in a land allotment "scam".

Gehlot's move has opened the door to probe agencies to investigate the allegations against Siddaramaiah linked to land allotment in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).

Following the announcement, the BJP has been demanding Siddaramaiah, who belongs to the Congress, to resign. This is the first major challenge to the 15-month-old Congress government in Karnataka.

Siddaramaiah has indicated he will give a huge fight. "Tell me why I should resign? According to me the Governor has to resign, because he acted like a puppet in the hands of the government of India... Tell me, what is the offence that I have committed?" Siddaramaiah told reporters.

In the case now known as "MUDA scam", compensatory sites were allegedly allotted to Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi in an upmarket area in Mysuru, which had higher property value compared to the location of her land which had been "acquired" by MUDA.

The Opposition BJP in Karnataka has alleged the "MUDA scam" is in the magnitude of ₹ 4,000 crore to ₹ 5,000 crore. State BJP chief BY Vijayendra said Siddaramaiah should resign to ensure a transparent and unbiased investigation.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also called the Governor's move "unconstitutional" and "undemocratic", and claimed the entire Congress party and the state government stand with Siddaramaiah.

"The [Opposition] INDIA bloc has expressed its solidarity with the Chief Minister. These are false allegations and we will fight it legally and politically," Shivakumar said.

Siddaramaiah, too, said the decision by the Governor who is "functioning like a puppet in the hands of the central government" was expected. The Chief Minister said they will question the Governor's move in court and will fight it legally.

In Bengaluru, a massive protest was organised by Congress workers and members of the Karnataka Pradesh Kurubara Sangha, demanding removal of the Governor. Raising slogans against Gehlot, they burnt his effigies and carried placards saying, "Remove Governor, Save State".

The Governor had said his order was necessary to conduct a neutral, objective, and non-partisan investigation, adding he is prima facie "satisfied" that the allegations and the supporting material disclose offences have been committed.

Gehlot also termed as "irrational" the decision taken by the Council of Ministers advising him to withdraw his show cause notice to the Chief Minister and to reject the application seeking prosecution sanction.

3-phase JK polls begin on Sept 18, Haryana votes on Oct 1

NEW DELHI, Aug 16: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana's Assembly elections.

The election for Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's 90 seats will be held on September 18, September 25, and October 1, with results to be announced on October 4.

The assembly elections will take place in Haryana in October 1 and results will be out on October 4.

All regional and national political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the decision to hold the Assembly elections in line with the directions of the Supreme Court.

The terms of the legislative assembly of Haryana ends on November 3. The poll panel also plans to hold assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir before September 30, the deadline set by the Supreme Court.

The Election Commission has visited Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana recently to oversee the poll preparedness but is yet to visit Maharashtra.

Nurse Raped, Killed On Way Home From Uttarakhand Hospital, Body Found 9 Days Later In UP

RUDRAPUR, Aug 15: A nurse was raped and killed while she was returning from a private hospital in Uttarakhand to her home near the Uttar Pradesh border.

She left the hospital on the evening of July 30 and was seen taking an e-rickshaw from Indra Chowk in Rudrapur in CCTV footage but did not reach her rented accommodation on Kashipur Road in Uttar Pradesh's Bilaspur where she stayed with her 11-year-old daughter.

The next day, her sister filed a missing complaint. Eight days later on August 8, the Uttar Pradesh police found her body in an empty plot, nearly 1.5 km from her house in Dibdiba village.

The police sent the body for post-mortem and formed a police team to find the accused. They traced the victim's stolen mobile phone which led them to the accused, Dharmendra. The accused, a daily wage labourer from Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly, was arrested from Rajasthan on Wednesday.

Dharmendra, who was drunk, saw the victim, followed her and attacked her while she was about to enter her apartment building, police said.

"He dragged her to the nearby bushes. Raped and strangled her using her scarf," said Manjunath TC, Senior Superintendent of Police, Udham Singh Nagar.

He also stole her phone and ₹ 3,000 from her purse, the police officer added.

This comes amid a nationwide outrage over the rape and murder of a woman trainee doctor during her duty hour in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The 31-year-old's semi-naked body was found in the seminar hall of the government-run hospital last week.

The brutal incident has reignited calls for better safety of doctors at their workplaces. Resident doctors across the country are protesting, demanding an assurance that the Central Healthcare Protection Act would be passed to curb attacks on medical personnel.

Woman, 22, Gang-Raped In UP, 5 Men Detained: Cops

BIJNOR, Aug 15: Police have detained five men for allegedly raping a 22-year-old woman here and making a video of the act, officials said on Wednesday. The incident took place on the night of August 9, the police said citing the rape survivor.

The complainant alleged that the five accused forcefully took her from her house me to a secluded place where they raped her, the police said.

She also alleged that they made a video of the act and threatened to kill her, they added.

Circle Officer Anjani Kumar said the woman reported the matter to police after the accused started threatening her that they would post the video on social media.

"The FIR was lodged on Wednesday and we were able to detain all the accused. Interrogation is underway after which they will be put under arrest," Kumar said.

The five accused are said to be residents of the same village as the rape survivor, he added.

Centre withdraws draft of Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024

NEW DELHI, Aug 12: The ministry of information and broadcasting on Monday has withdrawn the latest draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024 by asking all stakeholders to return physical copies given to them between July 24 and 25.

The draft was circulated for feedback as part of an ongoing process of consultations that began on November, 2023 when the first draft was uploaded by the ministry.

An official, on the condition of anonymity, said that it is currently not yet clear whether it will be redrafted in its entirety or if only particular sections would be redrawn from the latest draft, which was not shared publicly but with some stakeholders, who received watermarked copies.

The latest version of the bill, drew significant concerns over some of the provisions and how the consultation process was being carried out. In particular controversy were draft provisions that could potentially tag most online influencers as broadcasters if they dealt with matters of current affairs in their work.

The latest version of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, or BSRB, can classify all online content creators—a classification that covers independent journalists on YouTube and Instagram to “thought leaders” on LinkedIn to newsletter writers --- as either OTT broadcasters or as digital news broadcasters, as the case may be.

Consequently, these broadcasters, if they were above a threshold defined by the government, would then have been required to set up Content Evaluation Committee (CEC) to pre-certify content, amongst other things.

The latest version, amongst other things, also sought to lay down due diligence guidelines for intermediaries with respect to programmes broadcast through them. The bill also sought to regulate advertising intermediaries.

The stakeholders were told that their comments are no longer required.

2 Soldiers Killed In Gunfight With Terrorists In J&K's Anantnag

SRINAGAR, Aug 10: Two soldiers were killed in action during a fierce gunbattle with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district today. A soldier and two civilians were injured.

The police said the encounter began in Anantnag district's Ahlan Gadole this afternoon.

Terrorists targeted the army patrol while they were carrying out an anti-terror operation in the forest in the Kokernag subdivision.

The army's special forces - paratroopers - are part of the operation to flush out terrorists who are believed to be foreigners.

Today's gunbattle is the second major encounter in Kokernag in the last one year. In September 2023, a Commanding Officer, a Major, and a Deputy Superintendent of Police were among the personnel killed during a gunbattle with terrorists in Kokernag forest.

"Two civilians have also been reported injured due to indiscriminate, desperate and reckless firing by terrorists in the ongoing operation; they have been provided immediate medical aid and evacuated further. Operations are under progress," the Indian Army's Chinar Corps said in a post on X.

Reinforcement has been rushed to the area to flush out terrorists, believed to be entrenched in Ahlan Gadole forests.

After 60-Km Chase, Parsvnath Landmark CEO Arrested From Delhi Airport

NEW DELHI, Aug 4: Sanjeev Jain - the director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of realty firm Parsvnath Developers' subsidiary, Parsvnath Landmark Developers - was arrested after a 60 km chase, said Delhi police.

Jain, a resident of DLF Phase-2 in Gurugram, was arrested from Delhi airport by a team of Delhi Police Special Task Force (STF) Shahdara.

"Jain was arrested on Saturday by the STF team of Shahdara from the IGI airport following non-bailable warrants issued against the CEO for his inability to appear before the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Surendra Choudhary said in a statement.

The warrants against Jain were issued in connection with a case filed by one Rajat Babbar, the statement said.

"Four non-bailable warrants and one bailable warrant from the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission were pending at the Shahdara police station against Jain," it added.

Jain was produced before the commission on Sunday, the statement said.

Supreme Court Says Sub-Classification Of SC/ST Permissible, CJI Points To 'Systemic Discrimination'

NEW DELHI, Aug 1: The Supreme Court on Thursday ruled by majority that sub-classification within the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes is permissible. The court held that states are empowered to make this classification for granting quota in jobs and admissions.

In a significant move, the top court — by 6:1 majority — set aside its own 2004 judgment in the EV Chinnaiah case that ruled against sub-classification of scheduled castes (SC).

The seven-judge constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, said sub-classification is permissible to grant separate quotas for more backwards within the SC/ST categories. It delivered six separate judgements.

“There are six opinions. A majority of us has overruled EV Chinnaiah and we hold sub-classification is permitted. Justice Bela Trivedi has dissented. The members of SC/ST are often not able to climb up the ladder due to the systemic discrimination faced,” said Chief Justice Chandrachud.

The SC said historical evidence shows that depressed class were not homogenous class, and social conditions show that all classes under that is not uniform. “The struggles that a class faces does not disappear with the representation it receives in the lower grades,” the CJI said while pronouncing the order.

Justice BR Gavai, who read out the concurring opinion, said a policy must be evolved to identify creamy layer among the SC/ST categories and “take them out of the fold of affirmative action (reservation)”. “…This is the only way to gain true equality,” he said.

The bench, also comprising justices BR Gavai, Vikram Nath, Bela M Trivedi, Pankaj Mithal, Manoj Misra and Satish Chandra Mishra, was hearing 23 petitions including the lead one filed by the Punjab government challenging a 2010 verdict of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The CJI wrote for himself and Justice Misra. Four judges wrote concurring judgments while Justice Trivedi dissented.

This ruling will impact Karnataka, which, in January, wrote the central government to insert Article 341(3) into the Constitution to enable states to provide internal reservation among SCs. In the Congress-ruled state, the SC-Left subsects are demanding for internal reservation but, politically, they are considered to be backing the BJP.

Here are the key takeaways from the SC verdict:

Sub-classification among reserved categories permissible

SC/STs cannot be considered to be homogenous

Sub-classification only possible if supported by quantifiable data

Permissible for Centre and states to earmark most backward classes within the reserved category of SC/STs

Writing a dissenting verdict, Justice Trivedi said states cannot tinker with the SC list notified under Article 341 of the Constitution. She said affirmative action of states has to be within constitutional fold. The state’s action to provide reservation even if well intentioned cannot be justified by the Supreme Court using powers under Article 142, she added.

The Supreme Court verdict came after there were references to revisit the five-judge constitution bench judgement of 2004 in the case of EV Chinnaiah vs State of Andhra Pradesh. The court had reserved its verdict on February 8 on pleas seeking this judgment’s review.

In 2004, the apex court had ruled that all SC communities, which suffered ostracisation, discrimination and humiliation for centuries, represented a homogeneous class incapable of being sub-categorised. States cannot further sub-classify them to grant quota inside quota for more deprived and weaker castes in these groups, it had said while pronouncing the previous judgment.

Siddaramaiah Calls Supreme Court's Quota Order 'Historic'

BENGALURU, Aug 1: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday called the Supreme Court's ruling on internal quota for Scheduled Castes and Tribes 'historic', and said that a major obstacle in the implementation of internal reservation has been removed thanks to the verdict.

The Supreme Court today held that states are constitutionally empowered to make sub-classifications within the Scheduled Castes that form a socially heterogeneous class, for granting reservation for the uplift of castes that are socially and economically more backward.

Posting on social media platform X, Siddaramaiah said that the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the authority of state governments to identify and provide internal reservations for the most backward among the Scheduled Castes is a historic one. "I wholeheartedly welcome this judgment."

He elaborated: "With the Supreme Court's verdict, a major obstacle in the implementation of internal reservations has been removed. We will consult with Scheduled Caste leaders and legal experts regarding the contentious aspects of the verdict, including the issue of the creamy layer, and take appropriate action." He gave the assurance that the Congress party is committed to providing internal reservation within the Scheduled Castes category.

"Our government is committed to implementing the report of the committee chaired by Justice A J Sadashiva, which was created by the Congress party, as promised in our last assembly election manifesto," he said.

"Meanwhile, before the last assembly election, the BJP government in the state hurriedly made a decision on internal reservations and sent it to the central government. Despite the Usha Mehra Committee, created by the central government, clearly stating that internal reservations within the Scheduled Castes could be implemented through a constitutional amendment, the central government has so far failed to take any decision and has pushed it aside," he alleged.

In the light of the current Supreme Court decision, the state government will thoroughly study the recommendations of the Justice A J Sadashiva Committee, he said. If necessary, considering recent developments, a clear decision regarding internal reservations will be taken through consultation and negotiation, he added.

Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi meet victims of Wayanad landslide: ‘I feel how I felt when my father died’

WAYANAD, Aug 1: Following a series of landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district, which has so far led to more than 277 deaths and 200 injured, former Wayanad MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi visited the district along with his sister and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Thursday.

Both Gandhi and his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, first visited the landslide-hit Chooralmala area of Wayanad.

Rahul Gandhi said he was “deeply pained” to see people who have lost family members and homes in the tragedy, calling it a “national disaster” and demanding an urgent comprehensive action plan.

“I feel how I felt when my father died. People have not just lost their father, they have lost the whole family,” said Rahul Gandhi. Priyanka spoke along similar lines as her brother, saying the pain people in the area were experiencing was unimaginable.

Rahul and Priyanka were previously scheduled to visit Wayanad on Wednesday but put off the trip due to poor weather conditions.

The brother-sister duo also visited a relief camp at St Joseph UP School in Wayanad to meet the survivors of the landslide.

“In these difficult times, Priyanka and I stand with the people of Wayanad. We are closely monitoring the relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that all necessary assistance is provided. The UDF is committed to extending all possible support,” Rahul Gandhi said.

The death toll has risen to 277, with over 200 injured as of Thursday morning, following a series of devastating landslides in the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district.

In Mundakkai, Wayanad district, heavy machinery was deployed to aid rescue operations in the aftermath of devastating landslides that have buried houses under mud and uprooted trees.

Candidates, Parents, 'Kingpins' Named In CBI's 1st NEET Chargesheet

NEW DELHI, Aug 1: Filing its first chargesheet in the NEET-UG paper leak case on Thursday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has named 13 people, including four candidates, a junior engineer and two kingpins.

The paper leak for the medical entrance exam had sparked protests in several parts of the country and prompted demands for a re-test, but the Supreme Court had ruled against that, noting that there had not been a systemic breach.

Stating that the parents of some students were also named in the document, officials from the CBI said that the agency will also file at least one supplementary chargesheet as the investigations are in an advanced stage.

Nitish Kumar and Amit Anand are the two kingpins while the four candidates who feature in the chargesheet are Ayush Kumar, Anurag Yadav, Abhishek Kumar, and Shivnandan Kumar. Sikander Yadvendu, a junior engineer from Bihar's Danapur Town Council, is also named in the document.

All 13 accused, including the four examinees, were booked under sections dealing with criminal breach of trust and criminal conspiracy.

During its investigation so far, the CBI believes that Nitish Kumar, a resident of Patna's Gopalpur, is the main accused and allegedly one of four "setters". He, along with Amit Anand and Sikander Yadvendu, hatched a conspiracy to leak the paper for a price of ₹ 30-32 lakh per student.

The probe also revealed that Yadvendu had told Kumar and Anand that he had four students who were ready to buy papers. "Four students were called by Amit on the night of May 4 (the eve of the exam) and made to solve the leaked question paper and memorise answers," states the chargesheet.

An official said the CBI utilised advanced forensic techniques, artificial intelligence, CCTV footage and location analysis, among others, to gather evidence against the accused, which has been presented before the court.

"The CBI is continuing further investigation against other accused/suspects and on other aspects of the case. Several other accused are already in custody. When the investigation against the other people is complete, one or more supplementary chargesheets will be filed," the official said.

So far, the central agency has arrested 40 people in this case - including 15 who were arrested by Bihar Police - and conducted searches at 58 locations.