A voter turnout of 64.86 per cent was recorded in the 43 Assembly constituencies in Jharkhand where polling was held in the first phase on Wednesday, officials said. Lohardaga district topped the list with 73.21 per cent polling while Hazaribag district recorded the lowest at 59.13, officials said and added that polling continued till 5 pm. The poll percentage in other districts were Seraikela--Kharsawan (72.19), Gumla (69.01), Simdega (68.66), Khunti (68.36), Garhwa (67.35), Latehar (67.16), West Singhbhum (66.87) , Ramgarh (66.32), East Singhbhum (64.87), Chatra (63.26), Palamu (62.62), Koderma (62), Ranchi (60.49) and Hazaribag (59.13). Former CM Champai Soren and ex-MP Geeta Kora were among the 683 candidates in fray in the first phase. While the JMM-led coalition is seeking to retain power riding on its welfare schemes, including Maiyan Samman Yojna, the BJP has been campaigning with its aggressive Hindutva agenda, infiltration and alleged corruption by the current dispensation. Bengal: TMC worker killed Sporadic incidents of violence, including a crude bomb attack in Bhatpara near Naihati Assembly constituency that killed a local TMC worker, marred the WB bypolls, while the voter turnout across six constituencies stood at 69.29% till 5pm. The killing of local TMC worker Ashok Shaw sparked political accusations of voter intimidation, prompting the Chief Electoral Officer’s to seek a report. Landslide survivors cast their votes Tears, hugs, and emotional scenes were witnessed at the polling stations set up for Wayanad landslide survivors, who gathered to cast their votes in the Lok Sabha bypoll for the hill constituency on Wednesday. The turnout in the Wayanad LS constituency was 50.63 per cent at 3.10 pm and in Chelakkara it was 50.86 per cent at 2.50 pm. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
14 November,2024 08:21 AM IST | Ranchi | AgenciesPolling in the first phase of elections to 43 assembly seats in Jharkhand remained peaceful, with over 66.18 per cent of 1.37 crore voters exercising their franchise on Wednesday, officials said. Despite almost half of the 15,334 booths, where polling took place, being in the critical category, no Naxal violence was reported barring one of two incidents in which Maoists tried to prevent voters from reaching booths in West Singhbhum district but the attempts were thwarted by the police and administration, they said. "Approximately 66.18 per cent voter turnout was recorded as per data calculated till 9.50 pm, with Lohardaga district topping the list with 73.21 per cent polling and Hazaribag district recording the lowest at 62.78 per cent," a poll official said. The overall polling percentage in the state surpassed 63.9 per cent recorded in the 2019 assembly polls, according to the Election Commission. With this, the fate of 683 candidates, including former Congress MP Geeta Kora and Rajya Sabha MP Mahua Maji among 73 women nominees, in fray in the first phase has been sealed,. Barring Lohardaga and Hazaribag, the poll percentage in other districts were Seraikela-Kharsawan (76.02), Gumla (69.01), Simdega (68.74), Khunti (68.36), Garhwa (68.42), Latehar (67.16), West Singhbhum (66.87), Ramgarh (66.32), East Singhbhum (67.10), Chatra (64), Palamu (62.97), Koderma (62.15) and Ranchi (62.56).West Singhbhum, one of the most Maoist-affected districts in the state saw increase in voting. West Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Kuldeep Chaudhary told PTI, "Polling was peaceful and overall turnout increased in all five constituencies -- Chaibasa, Majhgaon, Jagannathpur, Manoharpur and Chakradharpur -- to 69.96 per cent, 70.80 per cent, 69.84 per cent, 64.03 per cent and 68.61 per cent, respectively, from 66.49 per cent, 68.03 per cent, 65.02 per cent, 61.19 per cent and 65.80 per cent, respectively, in 2019." Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar said, "The election process was peaceful and remained free of incidents. Voting in urban areas was not as per expectations while in rural areas the turnout has increased." IG (Operations) Amol V Homkar said polling was peaceful despite 7,851 booths being in the critical category, and 2,249 in the extreme critical category, out of a total of 15,334 booths. A total of 600 companies of central armed forces, 60 companies of Jharkhand Armed Police, 15,291 personnel of state armed forces and 14,000 homeguards were deputed in view of sensitivity and Naxal menace, he said, adding that monitoring was being done through flying squads besides special communication system was established for 286 booths where communication was a challenge. A total of 683 candidates -- 609 men, 73 women and one of the third -- are trying their luck in the 43 seats. These seats are divided into 17 general, 20 reserved for Scheduled Tribes, and six for Scheduled Castes. Former chief minister and BJP candidate Champai Soren is pitted against JMM rival Ganesh Mahali in Seraikela seat, while the ex-CM's son Babulal Soren is contesting from Ghatsila against JMM candidate and Jharkhand cabinet minister Ram Das Soren. Former CM Madhu Koda's wife and ex-MP Geeta Kora is trying her luck from Jagannathpur on a BJP ticket against sitting Congress MLA Sona Ram Sinku. In Potka, former Union minister and ex-CM Arjun Munda's wife Meera Munda is contesting against sitting JMM MLA Sanjib Sardar. Congress leader Rameshwar Oraon is up against AJSU's Shanti Bhagat in Lohardaga and JD(U)'s Saryu Roy is facing Congress's Banna Gupta in Jamshedpur West. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed two rallies in the state during the day, attacked the Congress, a constituent of Jharkhand's ruling coalition, accusing its "shehzada" of conspiring to scrap reservations for people belonging to SC, ST and OBC communities in an attempt to "weaken" them.He also alleged that the ruling JMM-led alliance "helped infiltrators become permanent citizens" of the state. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, on the other side, accused the BJP of maligning his and the state's image through "shadow campaigns", an allegation that the saffron camp dismissed, claiming the JMM leader had already "conceded defeat" in the assembly polls. Soren alleged that the saffron camp has been "spending crores of money on various social media platforms" and "created 95,000 WhatsApp groups" to campaign against the JMM-led coalition in the state. At various booths prominent persons cast their votes including Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar and former team India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Besides, during the day, Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, former chief minister Champai Soren and JD(U) candidate from Jamshedpur West seat and Saryu Roy, were among those who cast their votes in the first phase of assembly elections. While the JMM-led coalition is seeking to retain power riding on its welfare schemes, including Maiyan Samman Yojna, the BJP has been campaigning with its aggressive Hindutva agenda, infiltration and alleged corruption by the current dispensation. The second phase of voting will take place on November 20, and counting is scheduled for November 23. In the 2019 elections, the JMM secured 30 seats, the BJP won 25, and the JMM-led alliance with Congress and RJD won a majority with 47 seats. The current assembly consists of 74 members, with the JMM-led coalition holding 26 seats, Congress 17, and RJD one. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 November,2024 11:21 PM IST | Ranchi | PTIEquating 'bulldozer justice' with a lawless state of affairs where might is right, the Supreme Court on Wednesday laid down pan-India guidelines and said no property should be demolished without a prior show cause notice and the affected must be given 15 days to respond. The executive cannot assume judicial powers to punish citizens by demolishing their properties without following due process, the apex court said while terming such excesses "high-handed and arbitrary" and ruling that they need to be dealt with the "heavy hand of the law". A bench of Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan described as "chilling" the sight of a bulldozer demolishing a building, rendering women, children and aged persons homeless overnight. "If the executive acts as a judge and inflicts penalty of demolition on a citizen on the ground that he is an accused, it violates the principle of 'separation of powers'," the bench said in its 95-page judgment. "The chilling sight of a bulldozer demolishing a building, when authorities have failed to follow the basic principles of natural justice and have acted without adhering to the principle of due process, reminds one of a lawless state of affairs, where 'might was right'," it said. The bench said such high-handed and arbitrary actions have no place in the Constitution, which rests on the foundation of the rule of law. Passing a slew of directions, the bench made clear that they will not be applicable if there is an unauthorised structure in a public place such as road, street, footpath, abutting railway line or any river or water bodies and also in cases where there is an order for demolition made by a court of law. "No demolition should be carried out without a prior show cause notice returnable either in accordance with the time provided by the local municipal laws or within 15 days time from the date of service of such notice, whichever is later," the bench directed. The top court also observed that constitutional ethos and values would not permit any such abuse of power and such misadventures cannot be tolerated by the court of law. "The executive cannot become a judge and decide that a person accused is guilty and, therefore, punish him by demolishing his residential/commercial property/properties. Such an act of the executive would be transgressing its limits," the bench said. In order to allay the fears in the minds of citizens with regard to arbitrary exercise of power by the officials of the State, the top court finds it necessary to issue certain directions in exercise of power under Article 142 of the Constitution, it said. Article 142 empowers the apex court to pass any decree or order necessary for doing complete justice in any case or matter pending before it. Even after orders of demolition are passed, the bench said, the affected party needs to be given some time so as to challenge the order before an appropriate forum. And even in cases of persons who do not wish to contest the demolition order, sufficient time needs to be given to them to vacate and arrange their affairs, the apex court said. "Heavens would not fall on the authorities if they hold their hands for some period," the bench said. It directed that notice shall be served upon the owner/occupier by a registered post. Additionally, the notice shall also be affixed conspicuously on the outer portion of the structure in question. "The time of 15 days, stated herein above, shall start from the date of receipt of the said notice," it said. To prevent any allegation of backdating, the bench directed that as soon as the show cause notice is duly served, intimation shall be sent to the office of the concerned collector or district magistrate digitally by e-mail. "The collector/DM shall designate a nodal officer and also assign an e-mail address and communicate the same to all the municipal and other authorities in charge of building regulations and demolition within one month from today," it said. The notice shall contain details regarding the nature of unauthorised construction, specific violation and the grounds of demolition, it directed. The designated authority, the court added, shall give the person concerned an opportunity of personal hearing and pass a final order. It said the final order should contain the contentions of the 'noticee', and if the designated authority disagrees with the same, the reasons for it. The bench said the final order shall also contain why the extreme step of demolition is the only option available and other options like compounding and demolishing only part of the property are not available. It also said the proceedings of demolition shall be videographed. "Needless to state that the authorities hereinafter shall strictly comply with the aforesaid directions issued by us. It will also be informed that violation of any of the directions would lead to initiation of contempt proceedings in addition to the prosecution," the bench said. Justice Gavai, who penned the verdict, started his judgement with a few lines of famous Hindi poet Pradeep to highlight the importance of having a home. The top court delivered its verdict on pleas seeking framing of guidelines on demolition of properties. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 November,2024 09:24 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIThe Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Wednesday condemned the attack on an oncologist by a patient's family member at a Chennai hospital and called for exemplary punishment for the accused and proactive safety measures. The oncologist, Dr Balaji Jagannathan, was stabbed multiple times by the son of the patient at Kalaignar Centenary Super Speciality Hospital on Wednesday morning allegedly over grievances regarding the treatment of his mother, according to hospital officials. The accused has been arrested and the doctor's condition is stated to be stable, the officials said. In a statement, the IMA said Jagannathan was stabbed seven times by the son of a patient who suffered from stage IV ovarian cancer. The doctor has been stabilised with great effort. He lost a considerable amount of blood since he was on anticoagulants, it said. "The medical profession of the country is stunned... (in) disbelief. No amount of superficial damage control exercises by governments is going to make doctors work without fear in this country. Strong deterrent legislations, exemplary punishments and proactive safety measures are required now and here," the IMA said. All governments have been put on notice with this heinous crime. The medical community of the country is deeply disturbed and is skeptical of the remedial measures, it said. "Only a comprehensive overhaul of the security atmosphere in hospitals could restore the confidence of doctors. The nation owes this to its doctors," the IMA said. After the attack, angry doctors and nurses protested in front of the entrance of Kalaignar Centenary Super Speciality Hospital and government doctors announced a strike. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 November,2024 09:17 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIIndian Railways Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched two new Bharat Gaurav train packages aimed at offering affordable and immersive religious and cultural tourism experiences across India, an official statement said on Wednesday. The packages are part of the Ministry of Railways’ Bharat Gaurav Policy, designed to promote affordable and experiential travel for all segments of the population, from budget to premium. Guru Kirpa Yatra and Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra The two newly introduced Bharat Gaurav trains are the Guru Kirpa Yatra and the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra, both of which offer an all-inclusive, hassle-free travel experience, including food, accommodation, travel insurance, and tour escorts, the statement said. It said that these trains will cater to the growing demand for organized religious and cultural tours, providing a unique opportunity for devotees and tourists to explore India’s rich spiritual heritage. Gaurav Jha, Group General Manager – West Zone, shared details and said, “The Bharat Gaurav trains are a significant step toward making travel accessible and enriching for people across the country. These tours are not just about sightseeing; they are an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and cultural exploration at an affordable price." Guru Kirpa Yatra: A Sacred Pilgrimage Across Five Takhts The Guru Kirpa Yatra is a 9-night, 10-day tour starting from Mumbai on November 30, 2024. This tour will take pilgrims to five of the most revered Takhts (seats of authority) in Sikhism, offering a unique opportunity to visit Sri Akal Takht Sahib (Amritsar), Takht Sri Damdama Sahib (Bhatinda), Takht Sri Anandpur Sahib, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib (Nanded), and Takht Sri Patna Sahib (Patna). The tour is priced starting at just Rs. 19,650 for the Sleeper class (Rs. 1,965 per day), Rs. 28,505 for the 3AC Comfort class (Rs. 2,850.50 per day), and Rs. 38,770 for the 2AC Comfort class (Rs. 3,877 per day). The tour is designed to be affordable and accessible for a wide range of devotees, ensuring that the sacred pilgrimage to these five iconic sites is within reach for the masses. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar The Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra will be another transformative journey, taking passengers through important places associated with the life of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, as well as Buddhist heritage sites. This 8-night, 9-day tour package offers followers of Dr. Ambedkar an opportunity to visit key locations such as Nagpur, Deekshabhoomi, and more, priced starting at Rs. 17,425 for the Sleeper class (Rs. 1,936 per day), Rs. 25,185 for the 3AC Comfort class (Rs. 2,798 per day), and Rs. 34,185 for the 2AC Comfort class (Rs. 3,798 per day). Jha highlighted that the honors the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar and also offers an opportunity to explore the Buddhist circuit, making it a unique offering for both religious and historical enthusiasts. Key Features of Bharat Gaurav Trains The Bharat Gaurav trains are designed with the comfort and convenience of passengers in mind. The trains feature a variety of amenities including one 2AC, three 3AC, seven sleeper coaches, two power cars, and one ultra-modern pantry car with flameless cooking technology. The trains also have a centralized CCTV system and a public announcement system to ensure smooth management and monitoring during the journey. Additionally, fire-fighting equipment is deployed on board, and the crew is well-trained in its use. The packages are all-inclusive, covering onboard meals, unlimited drinking water, housekeeping for hygiene and sanitation, security, and tour escorts for each coach to guide passengers throughout the journey. Passengers also enjoy travel insurance, accommodation, road transportation, and wash-and-change facilities as part of the package.
13 November,2024 07:37 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarAhead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray appealed to Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) rebels to keep their personal ambitions aside and instead, dream big in the interest of Maharashtra, reported the PTI. Addressing a rally in coastal Sawantwadi in the Konkan region for Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Rajan Teli, Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said that there can be a tug-of-war during seat-sharing talks but alliance partners eventually stay united. "The Congress wanted some seats and even we were (inclined) for some more. But when we have decided to align with the larger interests of the state, we need to follow the coalition dharma," as per the PTI. "All our MVA partners are doing it. I want to appeal to (MVA) rebels still in fray not to help the 'Maharashtra-drohi' (anti-Maharashtra) elements," he said, urging them to dream big in the interests of the state. Shiv Sena (UBT) is a partner in the opposition grouping Maha Vikas Aghadi, which also comprises the Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP). In the Sawantwadi constituency, rival Shiv Sena headed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has fielded minister Deepak Kasarkar against Teli. The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena is a constituent of the ruling Mahayuti with BJP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP as its allies. According to the PTI, Uddhav Thackeray also targeted Eknath Shinde, accusing him of blaming sea winds for the collapse of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad fort in the Malwan taluka of Sindhudurg district in August. "The Sindhudurg fort constructed by the warrior king has remained strong and sturdy braving sea winds for several centuries. People who blame sea winds for the collapse of Shivaji Maharaj's statue should be ashamed," Uddhav Thackeray said. The Shiv Sena (UBT) said when he became the CM in 2019, the first decision he took was to provide funds for the restoration of the Raigad fort and farm loan waiver, adding that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj 'is not an EVM'. "Had my government not been toppled, I would have again waived farm loans. But the Mahayuti remembered women and farmers only after the Lok Sabha election," he said. Of the 48 seats in the state, the Mahayuti won only 17 in the Lok Sabha polls earlier this year. The Bal Thackeray-founded Shiv Sena vertically split in June 2022, resulting in the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray government, after CM Shinde rebelled against the party leadership and aligned with the BJP to become the CM. Uddhav Thackeray lamented that the people of Konkan did not give the desired support to his party. "I appeal to you to put faith in the MVA so that Konkan can be led on the path of prosperity. Just like Mumbai is being given to the Adani group on a platter, the farmland and mines in Konkan can also be given to the group. We have to protect Konkan," he claimed, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
13 November,2024 06:04 PM IST | Sawantwadi | mid-day online correspondentA medical oncologist at the Kalaignar Centenary Super Speciality Hospital was stabbed multiple times on Wednesday by the son of a patient allegedly over grievances regarding the treatment of his mother at the same facility, a hospital official said. The man assaulted the doctor inside the outpatient room during a conversation regarding his mother's treatment. He was immediately apprehended by the hospital staff and handed over to the police, and he was arrested. The doctor is being treated, and he is stable, the official said. The attack led to an outrage and doctors and nurses gathered in front of the hospital entrance to mark their strong protest. "We do not have safety while doing our duty," one of the protesting KCSSH doctors said. Government doctors announced a strike and Health Minister Ma Subramanian is set to hold talks with them. Expressing shock, Chief Minister M K Stalin said the assailant had been arrested and that he had ordered a detailed probe. All steps will be taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future, the CM said. AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami said there was no security for a 'government doctor in a government hospital,' and it showed the status of the law and order situation. Palaniswami, the leader of the opposition, sought tough action against the culprit. BJP state unit chief K Annamalai blamed CM Stalin and the DMK regime over the incident. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, alongwith Subramanian, inspected the hospital and assured stringent legal action. They met the oncologist, being treated at the ICU. Later, AIADMK leaders D Jayakumar and C Vijayabaskar also met the doctor under treatment. The hospital official said the assailant had been identified as Vignesh, a resident of a suburban neighbourhood and his mother Kanchana was the patient. The victim, Balaji Jagannathan, is a renowned oncologist and is serving as an associate professor in the medical oncology department in the hospital. Police Commissioner A Arun inspected the hospital and reviewed the security arrangements. He said a police outpost would be set up on the premises. Udhayanidhi said the assailant had been visiting the hospital for six months for treatment of his mother and there was no suspicion about him. The Deputy CM said, "For half an hour he (Vignesh) had discussed with the doctor. Based on what he was told in a private hospital, he had taken this decision out of anger. Stern legal action will be taken against him and steps will be taken to prevent recurrence." The official, an emergency medicine anesthesiologist, told reporters: "He closed the OP room (from inside) and stabbed the doctor in his neck, behind his ear, chest, forehead, on his back, head and stomach. There was huge blood loss. He is a heart patient and has undergone surgery for his heart ailment." Claiming that he wanted to talk about his mother, Vignesh entered the OP room and since the door was closed it could not be opened immediately and later with the help of security personnel, staff and others, the doctor was brought out. The oncologist, who had also undergone pacemaker implantation, was resuscitated and immediately operated upon by a multidisciplinary team of surgeons. The victim bled excessively and his medication for his heart ailment is the likely reason for more blood loss. Two units of blood were transfused and all wounds were sutured. "We have to wait and see for another six to eight hours for his recovery; the oncologist is under anaesthesia," the official added. The official said the assailant claimed that his mother was provided chemotherapy six times in the hospital. After shifting to a private hospital, they were told that her lungs were affected. The official said exactly what transpired between the victim and the assailant is not clear. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 November,2024 06:03 PM IST | Chennai | PTIIn a shocking incident, a driver of an SUV allegedly drove his Mahindra Thar car onto the railway tracks between the Kanakpura and Dhankya railway stations in Rajasthan's Jaipur and an alert locomotive pilot spotted the vehicle just in time helping in avoiding a potential tragedy on the railway line, the officials said on Wednesday. They said that the incident took place on Tuesday evening at around 4 pm when the driver of car allegedly attempted to cross the tracks illegally, and the vehicle got stuck in the middle of the railway tracks. At the same time, a goods train was approaching the spot and the train’s locomotive pilot spotted the SUV on the tracks and quickly stopped the train at a safe distance, the officials said. The pilot then informed the railway staff through the walkie-talkie about the vehicle blocking the tracks. Stunt on Railway Track, Vehicle Seized, Driver FleeingOn Tuesday, an SUV driver drove onto the railway track between Kanakpura-Dhankya stations in Jaipur, getting stuck as a goods train approached. The train driver halted and alerted the railway staff. The Railway Protection… pic.twitter.com/wW5Y0LeY2s — Mid Day (@mid_day) November 13, 2024 "When the Railway Protection Force (RPF) arrived at the scene, the SUV driver tried to escape by driving the vehicle off the tracks and fled on foot after abandoning the car about 4 kilometers away. The RPF chased the vehicle but the driver managed to escape on foot," said an official. The officials said that the SUV was seized by the RPF, and a case was filed under sections 153, 174, and 147 of the Railway Act. The identity of the driver has been confirmed, and legal action is being taken against him. Under section 153 of the Railway Act, the driver could face up to 5 years in prison. Sections 147 and 174 provide for punishment, fines, or both. The railway authorities have urged all road users to cross railway tracks only at designated and authorized locations. Crossing the tracks illegally or engaging in any kind of stunts is a punishable offense under the Railway Act, which can lead to fines, imprisonment, or both. Moreover, such actions are extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening. The railway authorities has also stated that using mobile phones or cameras to record videos or take pictures on railway tracks is also a criminal offense. It has warned that strict actions will be taken against individuals involved in such activities.
13 November,2024 05:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarBhojpuri actress Akshara Singh has received a death threat call with the caller reportedly demanding Rs 50 lakh from her, the Bihar police said, reported the PTI. Akshara Singh filed a written complaint with the Danapur police station on Wednesday, the police said. Talking to reporters, the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Danapur-1, Bhanu Pratap Singh, said, "A written complaint has been received from Akshara Singh that she received threat calls from two different numbers on Monday. The caller also demanded money from her," according to the PTI. The matter is under investigation, he said. Meanwhile, the Station House Officer of Danapur police station, Prashant Bhardwaj, told PTI the actress in the complaint claimed the caller demanded Rs 50 lakh. Talking to the news agency over the phone, Bipin Singh, the actress' father said, "Yes, she received a call from two unidentified numbers. The caller abused her, demanded Rs 50 lakh, and threatened to kill her if she did not pay the money within two days. We immediately brought the matter to the notice of the local police station," as per the PTI. "A team from Danapur police station visited our house on Wednesday, and Akshara submitted a written complaint to the police personnel regarding the matter," Bipin Singh said. Akshara Singh is one of the highest-paid actresses of Bhojpuri cinema. Akshara Singh made her acting debut opposite Ravi Kishan in the 2010 action drama 'Satyamev Jayate'. She subsequently appeared in the 2011 film 'Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye'.Singh also appeared in the 2016 romantic drama 'A Balma Bihar Wala' opposite Khesari Lal Yadav and the 2017 action drama 'Satya, Tabadla, Maa Tujhe Salaam'. Over the years, she has become one of the biggest names in the Bhojpuri film industry, having worked with top actors like Pawan Singh and Khesari Lal Yadav. She is known for her versatile acting skills and commanding screen presence, Akshara is regarded as one of the highest-paid actresses in Bhojpuri cinema. In addition to her success in the regional film industry, she has also ventured into Hindi television, further expanding her fan base and marking her presence in mainstream entertainment. (with PTI inputs)
13 November,2024 04:48 PM IST | Patna | mid-day online correspondentA police constable, suspected to be a part of a drug syndicate was arrested for reportedly selling heroin on a hospital premises in Jammu, an official said on Wednesday, PTI reported. Constable Mohammad Mukhtiya of the Armed Police 12th Battalion in Zewan in Srinagar was found in possession of a substance similar to heroin along with cash of Rs 9,000, he said. As per the official, the police initiated a search operation on Tuesday, acting on a tip-off about a police personnel's involvement in selling drugs at the premises of Jammu's Government Medical College and Hospital. They stopped Mukhtiyar on his motorcycle near the hospital mortuary and took the heroin-like substance and Rs 9,000 in cash from him, he added, PTI cited. A case has been registered against him at Bakshi Nagar Police Station and is suspended from service. The official stated that Mukhtuyar is suspected to be part of a drug syndicate that is recurrently active in Jammu and is responsible for selling drugs to innocent youth for illegal profit. This syndicate is also suspected of being involved in drug overdose deaths in the area, PTI reported. "SP City North, Brijesh Sharma, is personally supervising the investigation to uncover the connections of these drug peddlers and dismantle the entire drug ecosystem established by this syndicate," he said. "Their financial investigation is also ongoing to identify properties acquired through narcotics proceeds, to attach these illegitimate assets," he added. In a similar incident on November 7, constable Parwaiz Khan was arrested along with his two wives during a raid on their house. Heroin and more than Rs 2.5 lakh in cash were seized from them. Navy officer arrested in human trafficking racket from Jammu The Crime Intelligence Unit (CIU) of the Mumbai Crime Branch arrested one more senior officer of the Indian Navy along with his girlfriend and two civilians from Jammu and Kashmir. According to the crime branch, the Indian officers had been involved in this racket for the past 1.5 years, charging Rs 10 lakh-12 lakh per candidate. The candidates applied through them because wages in South Korea are higher than in other countries, and the involvement of Indian Navy officials increased people's trust. Earlier, the CIU busted a human trafficking racket where candidates would go to South Korea, destroy their passports to seek asylum, and secure jobs with higher wages compared to any other country. (With inputs from PTI)
13 November,2024 01:29 PM IST | Jammu | mid-day online correspondentThe voter turnout for the first phase of Jharkhand Assembly elections was nearly 13.04 per cent till 9 am on Wednesday, officials said, PTI reported. According to PTI, polling for the 43 assembly seats of Jharkhand began around 7 am across 15 districts and will go on till 5 pm. A total of 683 candidates are contesting, including former CM Champai Soren and ex-MP Geeta Kora. As per officials, polling in 950 booths will end at 4 pm, though the people standing in the queue will be able to exercise their franchise. Long queues of voters were seen outside several voting booths this morning. The highest voter turnout was recorded in the Simdega seat at 15.09 per cent, followed by Ranchi at 12.06 per cent and Seraikela-Kharsawan at 14.62 per cent, PTI reported. The Governor of Jharkhand Santosh Kumar Gangwar has cast his vote at the ATI polling booth in the state's capital Ranchi. "Today is the first phase of voting for the Jharkhand Assembly elections. I urge all voters to exercise their constitutional right to vote as soon as possible and vote with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy. Remember, first vote and then refreshment!" Gangwar said. झारखंड विधानसभा चुनाव में आज पहले दौर की वोटिंग है।सभी मतदाताओं से मेरा आग्रह है कि वे जितनी जल्दी हो सके मतदान करने के अपने संवैधानिक अधिकार का प्रयोग करें और लोकतंत्र के इस उत्सव में पूरे उत्साह के साथ मतदान करें। याद रखें पहले मतदान फिर जलपान !!! https://t.co/kisvkOHRwQ pic.twitter.com/KBwRqGeOtf — Santosh Gangwar (@santoshgangwar) November 13, 2024 Chief Minister Hemant Soren sought the people's support. In a post on X, he said, "If you like our work, please support us. I promise that I will do 10 years of work in the next 5 years so that no one can stop our pace of progress." साथियों, मतदान से पूर्व हमारे किए गए कार्यों और भविष्य की योजनाओं को अवश्य जानें।मैंने पूरी पारदर्शिता के साथ अपना कार्य-विवरण आपके सामने रखा है। मैं स्वीकार करता हूं कि अभी हमारे बुजुर्गों, युवाओं और माताओं-बहनों के लिए बहुत कुछ करना शेष है, जिसे हम पूरी निष्ठा, समर्पण एवं… pic.twitter.com/4Pxyq8r9Yi — Hemant Soren (@HemantSorenJMM) November 13, 2024 While the JMM-coalition is hoping to retain power riding on its welfare schemes, including Maiyan Saman Yojna, the Bharatiya Janata Party has been campaigning with its aggressive Hindutva agenda, accusing the government of infiltration and alleged corruption. Top BJP leaders, which includes Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and BJP chief JP Nadda, held multiple rallies where they criticised the JMM-led coalition of alleged corruption and infiltration. INDIA bloc leader, which includes Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, its president Mallikarjun Kharge, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren and his wife and legislator Kalpana Soren highlighted welfare schemes and criticised the BJP-led Centre for making all the central agencies, including ED, CBI and I-T against the opposition leaders. A total of 1.37 crore voters are eligible to vote on Wednesday, PTI reported. Altogether 683 candidates - 60 men, 73 women and third gender persons are contesting in the 43 seats. According to PTI, out of 43 assembly seats in Jharkhand, 17 seats are reserved for general, 20 for scheduled tribes and 6 seats for scheduled castes. A total of 15,344 polling stations have been set up for the first phase of Jharkhand elections. Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar said that all the preparations for voting have been completed, PTI cited. The responsibility of the entire polling process at 1,152 polling stations will be in the hands of women, said Kumar, further adding that the 24 booths will be manned by people who are handicapped. Since the Model Code of Conduct has been in force, a total of Rs 208.78 crore worth of illegal material and cash has been seized, he said, PTI cited. Till Tuesday, 58 cases have been registered for violation of the Model Code of Conduct, including a maximum of 29 registered cases in Jharkhand's Garhwa district. Both the NDA and INDIA blocs have pulled out all the stops to ensure their victories in this election with the BJP focusing on 'Roti, Beti, Maati' and the INDIA bloc on the 'suppression of the voice of a tribal CM'. PM Modi did a mega road show in Ranchi on Sunday which saw huge crowds gathered. As far as key seats are concerned - former CM Champai Soren, contesting on the BJP ticket in Jharkhand's Seraikela, is facing JMM's Ganesh Mahli. BJP's Geeta Kora, wife of former CM Madhu Koda, is in competition with Congress's Sona Ram Sinku in Jagannathpur. Congress veteran Rameshwar Oraon will compete against AJSU's Shanti Bhagat in Lohardaga. In Jamshepur West, JD (U) candidate Saryu Roy is up against Congress's Banna Gupta, PTI reported. The second phase of Jharkhand Assembly Elections 2024 will be held on November 20, while the vote counting will be on November 23. The 2019 Jharkhand assembly elections saw close competition with the JMM winning 30 seats and the BJP winning 25, down from 37 seats in 2014. The JMM-Congress-RJD alliance won a majority with 47 seats. At present, the strength of the assembly stands at 74, with the JMM-led ruling alliance comprising 26 from the JMM, 17 from Congress and one from RJD, PTI reported. (With inputs from PTI)
13 November,2024 11:41 AM IST | Ranchi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
