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Mon, 26 February 2018
Rotomac case: I-T dept files 6 chargesheets against Vikram Kothari
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23:26 Rotomac case: I-T dept files 6 chargesheets against Vikram Kothari
The Income Tax Department today said it has filed six charge sheets against Rotomac owner Vikram Kothari for alleged tax evasion.
The prosecution complaints were filed in a special court in Lucknow under various sections of the Income Tax Act, they said.
The taxman had earlier attached four immovable assets of the Rotomac group and its promoters in this case.
It had attached 14 accounts of the group in various bank branches in Uttar Pradesh.
These assets were attached to 'recover outstanding tax demands' of about Rs 106 crore from the group, they said.
The Kanpur-based group is being probed by the Central Bureau Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the alleged swindling of Rs 3,695 crore of loan funds advanced by a consortium of seven banks.
The CBI had filed a criminal case against Rotomac Global Pvt Limited, its director Vikram Kothari, his wife Sadhana Kothari, son Rahul Kothari and unidentified bank officials based on a complaint from Bank of Baroda and conducted raids against them.
The ED also registered a money laundering case against them.
It will probe if the allegedly defrauded bank funds were laundered and the proceeds of crime subsequently used by the accused to create illegal assets and black money.
This is the second major financial scam to break out after the sensational Rs 11,400-crore fraud allegedly committed by billionaire jewellery designer Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, who is a promoter of Gitanjali group of companies. -- PTI
The prosecution complaints were filed in a special court in Lucknow under various sections of the Income Tax Act, they said.
The taxman had earlier attached four immovable assets of the Rotomac group and its promoters in this case.
It had attached 14 accounts of the group in various bank branches in Uttar Pradesh.
These assets were attached to 'recover outstanding tax demands' of about Rs 106 crore from the group, they said.
The Kanpur-based group is being probed by the Central Bureau Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the alleged swindling of Rs 3,695 crore of loan funds advanced by a consortium of seven banks.
The CBI had filed a criminal case against Rotomac Global Pvt Limited, its director Vikram Kothari, his wife Sadhana Kothari, son Rahul Kothari and unidentified bank officials based on a complaint from Bank of Baroda and conducted raids against them.
The ED also registered a money laundering case against them.
It will probe if the allegedly defrauded bank funds were laundered and the proceeds of crime subsequently used by the accused to create illegal assets and black money.
This is the second major financial scam to break out after the sensational Rs 11,400-crore fraud allegedly committed by billionaire jewellery designer Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, who is a promoter of Gitanjali group of companies. -- PTI
22:38 Nirav Modi, wife, Choksi skip ED summons
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Punjab National Bank's Managing Director and CEO Sunil Mehta in connection with with the Rs 11,400 crore PNB scam allegedly involving diamantaire Nirav Modi and owner of Gitanjali Gems Mehul Choksi, officials said today.
The ED today also examined the state-owned bank's Executive Director K V Brahmaji Rao to understanding how the alleged fraud was detected and other banking procedures.
Mehta, officials said, will be asked similar questions when he meets ED officials this week. They said the two officials are not being examined as an accused.
The CBI had examined the two senior PNB officials last week in the same case.
Meanwhile, beleaguered diamond merchant Modi, his wife Ami and his uncle Choksi today skipped their scheduled appearance before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Mumbai.
It was not immediately known if the agency will issue fresh dates to them.
If it does not issue them fresh summons, it is understood, the ED is expected to move a special court in Mumbai seeking non-bailable arrest warrants against them. -- PTI
The ED today also examined the state-owned bank's Executive Director K V Brahmaji Rao to understanding how the alleged fraud was detected and other banking procedures.
Mehta, officials said, will be asked similar questions when he meets ED officials this week. They said the two officials are not being examined as an accused.
The CBI had examined the two senior PNB officials last week in the same case.
Meanwhile, beleaguered diamond merchant Modi, his wife Ami and his uncle Choksi today skipped their scheduled appearance before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Mumbai.
It was not immediately known if the agency will issue fresh dates to them.
If it does not issue them fresh summons, it is understood, the ED is expected to move a special court in Mumbai seeking non-bailable arrest warrants against them. -- PTI
22:26 Need to amend AFSPA: Chidambaram
Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram today said it is time to amend the Armed Forces Special (Powers) Act now in force in Jammu and Kashmir and other places.
"There is a need to amend the AFSPA if you cannot repeal it. The law and order should be entrusted to the Jammu and Kashmir police and not on the paramilitary forces," Chidambaram, former Union minister, said at a programme in Kolkata.
The act gives the security forces special rights and immunity in carrying out various operations in disturbed areas.
There has been a long-standing demand from various quarters in J&K and the Northeast to withdraw it.
Chidambaram, also chairman of the panel on home affairs in the RS, said the presence of paramilitary forces in the northern state should be stepped down drastically and this would lower the graph of violence there. -- PTI
"There is a need to amend the AFSPA if you cannot repeal it. The law and order should be entrusted to the Jammu and Kashmir police and not on the paramilitary forces," Chidambaram, former Union minister, said at a programme in Kolkata.
The act gives the security forces special rights and immunity in carrying out various operations in disturbed areas.
There has been a long-standing demand from various quarters in J&K and the Northeast to withdraw it.
Chidambaram, also chairman of the panel on home affairs in the RS, said the presence of paramilitary forces in the northern state should be stepped down drastically and this would lower the graph of violence there. -- PTI
21:39 Sridevi's body to be embalmed tomorrow
Sridevi's body is not being embalmed today, it is likely to be done tomorrow, reports Khaleej Times.
Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Amar Singh said that Sridevi 'never drank hard liquor'.
"Sridevi ji did not drink hard liquor, she used to have wine sometimes like me and like many others in public life. I have talked to Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Al Nahyan, he assured me that all formalities and reports are complete. Her mortal remains should reach India by midnight," Singh told ANI.
Shocked celebrities and fans of Sridevi flocked to the residence of her brother-in-law Anil Kapoor, as they tried to come to grips with the sudden death of the versatile actor who had ruled over hearts and Bollywood for decades.
Mourners gathered at the Kapoor bungalow, where Sridevi and her husband Boney Kapoor's daughters, Khushi and Jhanvi, have been staying since yesterday.
Among those who visited the Kapoors to express their grief were filmmakers Farah Khan, Karan Johar, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani and others such as Resul Pookutty, Saroj Khan and Honey Irani.
Shekhar Kapur, who directed Sridevi in the mega-hit, 'Mr India, was also present, as were actors Tabu, Ritesh Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Akshara, Shruti Haasan, Ameesha Patel, Divya Dutta and Sara Ali Khan. -- PTI, ANI
Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP Amar Singh said that Sridevi 'never drank hard liquor'.
"Sridevi ji did not drink hard liquor, she used to have wine sometimes like me and like many others in public life. I have talked to Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Al Nahyan, he assured me that all formalities and reports are complete. Her mortal remains should reach India by midnight," Singh told ANI.
Shocked celebrities and fans of Sridevi flocked to the residence of her brother-in-law Anil Kapoor, as they tried to come to grips with the sudden death of the versatile actor who had ruled over hearts and Bollywood for decades.
Mourners gathered at the Kapoor bungalow, where Sridevi and her husband Boney Kapoor's daughters, Khushi and Jhanvi, have been staying since yesterday.
Among those who visited the Kapoors to express their grief were filmmakers Farah Khan, Karan Johar, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani and others such as Resul Pookutty, Saroj Khan and Honey Irani.
Shekhar Kapur, who directed Sridevi in the mega-hit, 'Mr India, was also present, as were actors Tabu, Ritesh Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Akshara, Shruti Haasan, Ameesha Patel, Divya Dutta and Sara Ali Khan. -- PTI, ANI
21:26 Over 90 per cent votes cast in Tripura re-poll
Altogether 90.58 per cent votes were polled in six booths in as many assembly constituencies of Tripura, where re-polling was held peacefully today, state CEO Sriram Taranikanti said in Agartala.
The EC ordered re-polling in one booth each in Sonamura, Teliamura, Sabroom, Ampinagar, Kadamtala-Kurti and Dhanpur Assembly constituencies after elections were held on February 18.
Dhanpur is the home turf of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar since 1998.
"It was an incident free election. Around 90.58 per cent of voters exercised their franchise today," Taranikanti said.
Of the 5,582 voters in the six booths, 5,056 cast their votes, the chief electoral officer said.
Polling for 59 of the 60 assembly seats was held in the north-eastern state on February 18 and 91.54 per cent polling was reported on that day.
Polling was countermanded in the Charilam constituency due to the death of CPI-M candidate Ramendra Narayan Debbarma ahead of the election.
The results will be declared on March 3. Taranikanti said postal ballots would be added to the candidates' kitty later.
There was also no report of malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines today. Glitches in EVMs were reported at various places during polling on February 18.
The CPI-M had earlier raised questions on the neutrality of the state election department, claiming that re-polling was ordered only in those constituencies where the ruling Left Front had clear winning prospects. -- PTI
IMAGE: A woman shows her id card during re-polls at Kurti Village in Kadamtala constituency of Dharmanagar subdivision on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo
The EC ordered re-polling in one booth each in Sonamura, Teliamura, Sabroom, Ampinagar, Kadamtala-Kurti and Dhanpur Assembly constituencies after elections were held on February 18.
Dhanpur is the home turf of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar since 1998.
"It was an incident free election. Around 90.58 per cent of voters exercised their franchise today," Taranikanti said.
Of the 5,582 voters in the six booths, 5,056 cast their votes, the chief electoral officer said.
Polling for 59 of the 60 assembly seats was held in the north-eastern state on February 18 and 91.54 per cent polling was reported on that day.
Polling was countermanded in the Charilam constituency due to the death of CPI-M candidate Ramendra Narayan Debbarma ahead of the election.
The results will be declared on March 3. Taranikanti said postal ballots would be added to the candidates' kitty later.
There was also no report of malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines today. Glitches in EVMs were reported at various places during polling on February 18.
The CPI-M had earlier raised questions on the neutrality of the state election department, claiming that re-polling was ordered only in those constituencies where the ruling Left Front had clear winning prospects. -- PTI
IMAGE: A woman shows her id card during re-polls at Kurti Village in Kadamtala constituency of Dharmanagar subdivision on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo
21:03
Kamal Haasan reaches Anil Kapoor's residence in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI
19:58 Court allows ED to seek info of assets of Nirav Modi from 6 countries
A special court today allowed an Enforcement Directorate (ED) plea seeking issuance of Letters Rogatory (LRs) to six countries for obtaining information about the overseas businesses and assets of diamantaire Nirav Modi in the over Rs 11,000-crore Punjab National Bank fraud case.
Nirav Modi is a key accused in the PNB fraud case being investigated by the ED and other agencies.
The central agency approached a special court set up under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) this morning with the plea seeking issuance of LRs in the case.
The ED, in its plea before the court, sought 'issuance of LR under the PMLA for recovery/seizure of proceeds of crime and collection of documents, evidence lying in Hong Kong, the USA, the UK, the UAE, South Africa and Singapore which are required in connection with the investigation'.
Letters Rogatory are a formal request from a court of a sovereign nation to a court of another sovereign nation for judicial assistance in a case.
The ED told the court that Nirav Modi established various firms, including Diamond R US, Solar Exports, Stellar Diamond, Firestar Diamond. He became an integrated diamond manufacturer who bought rough diamonds, sold polished ones and other stones and also designed jewellery.
His business consisted of trading in rough and polished diamonds, private label jewellery manufacturing and sale in the name and style of 'Nirav Modi' and 'Firestars' as well as production of unlabelled jewellery for third parties, the ED said.
'He spread his business operations in various countries, including Hong Kong, USA, UK, UAE, South Africa and Singapore. He had apparently got issued multiple high value Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) in favour of his firms/ companies from Punjab National Bank which resulted in disbursement of funds as per the SWIFT messages sent by PNB,' the ED told the court.
'It was later found by the bank that the same were issued fraudulently since there was no record of the said LoUs in the bank's records,' it said.
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications) is a messaging network for securely transmitting instructions for all financial transactions through a standardised system of codes.
The ED said that by this criminal act of cheating and conspiracy, the accused generated huge proceeds of crime amounting to Rs 6,498 crore which had been siphoned off by them and thereby laundered and amalgamated in mainstream financial system to project it as untainted property.
'Certain part of the proceeds of crime involved in money laundering are reasonably believed to be parked in (countries abroad),' the application said. -- PTI
Nirav Modi is a key accused in the PNB fraud case being investigated by the ED and other agencies.
The central agency approached a special court set up under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) this morning with the plea seeking issuance of LRs in the case.
The ED, in its plea before the court, sought 'issuance of LR under the PMLA for recovery/seizure of proceeds of crime and collection of documents, evidence lying in Hong Kong, the USA, the UK, the UAE, South Africa and Singapore which are required in connection with the investigation'.
Letters Rogatory are a formal request from a court of a sovereign nation to a court of another sovereign nation for judicial assistance in a case.
The ED told the court that Nirav Modi established various firms, including Diamond R US, Solar Exports, Stellar Diamond, Firestar Diamond. He became an integrated diamond manufacturer who bought rough diamonds, sold polished ones and other stones and also designed jewellery.
His business consisted of trading in rough and polished diamonds, private label jewellery manufacturing and sale in the name and style of 'Nirav Modi' and 'Firestars' as well as production of unlabelled jewellery for third parties, the ED said.
'He spread his business operations in various countries, including Hong Kong, USA, UK, UAE, South Africa and Singapore. He had apparently got issued multiple high value Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) in favour of his firms/ companies from Punjab National Bank which resulted in disbursement of funds as per the SWIFT messages sent by PNB,' the ED told the court.
'It was later found by the bank that the same were issued fraudulently since there was no record of the said LoUs in the bank's records,' it said.
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications) is a messaging network for securely transmitting instructions for all financial transactions through a standardised system of codes.
The ED said that by this criminal act of cheating and conspiracy, the accused generated huge proceeds of crime amounting to Rs 6,498 crore which had been siphoned off by them and thereby laundered and amalgamated in mainstream financial system to project it as untainted property.
'Certain part of the proceeds of crime involved in money laundering are reasonably believed to be parked in (countries abroad),' the application said. -- PTI
19:21 Large number of terrorists waiting at launch pads across LoC: Lt Gen Bhatt
A large number of terrorists are waiting at launching pads across the Line of Control (LoC) to cross over into Kashmir and cease-fire violations by Pakistan are also an attempt to push infiltrators, a top Army commander said in Srinagar today.
"We have inputs of many infiltrators waiting at the launching pads and we think infiltration will start sooner this year because of less snow," General Officer Commanding of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lt Gen A K Bhatt, said.
"But we are taking counter measures. One reason for the firing can be this (to push infiltrators). Whenever there is firing by Pakistan, it is certain there is an attempt to push infiltrators. The same thing happened in Kupwara and Tangdhar," he told reporters on the sidelines of a passing out parade at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Centre in Srinagar.
The terrorists waiting across the LoC were in groups of 30-40 at many places from Lepa valley to Mandal area, near 161 brigade, Rampur, and other areas, Bhatt said, citing inputs from security forces.
Asked about reports of announcements made by Pakistan asking villagers to evacuate, Bhatt said they were not for the villagers on this side of the LoC.
"They advised a few of the villages there to vacate for safety reasons and my input is that those villages have also not vacated completely," he said.
"The ceasefire violations, initiated by Pakistan, have been appropriately responded to. But I would also like to tell you, it is more of a local affair where due to their actions we have reacted at specific places.
"We do not intend to open the entire front. Our only thing is that we will retaliate if Pakistan indulges in any aggressive action or pushes infiltrators across," he said.
An attempt by a Border Action Team of Pakistan to sneak into Kupwara was foiled and such attempts will always be dealt in the same manner, he said.
On the use of heavy artillery along the LoC in Uri sector, the Army commander said specific situations determine the kind of artillery used.
Referring to the killing of two policemen in separate attacks yesterday, Bhatt said militants were looking for easy targets.
He said the security forces would continue to target the terrorist leadership and there is complete synergy and coordination between all the agencies.
On the Shopian firing incident, the Army commander said forces do not fire until there is extreme provocations and there is danger to life and property.
"If our jawans fired that day, it was because the situation was such. There were apprehensions of lynching and loss of life and property. I want to tell you that we have never opened fire on civilians and we will never do so," he said.
On local youth joining militancy, Bhatt said the youth should join armed forces and other jobs to strengthen the country.
"My primary aim is to ensure that there is peace and prosperity in Kashmir. My primary focus will be to carry out people friendly operations so that Kashmir, which is moving towards mainstream, continues doing so," he said. -- PTI
"We have inputs of many infiltrators waiting at the launching pads and we think infiltration will start sooner this year because of less snow," General Officer Commanding of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lt Gen A K Bhatt, said.
"But we are taking counter measures. One reason for the firing can be this (to push infiltrators). Whenever there is firing by Pakistan, it is certain there is an attempt to push infiltrators. The same thing happened in Kupwara and Tangdhar," he told reporters on the sidelines of a passing out parade at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Centre in Srinagar.
The terrorists waiting across the LoC were in groups of 30-40 at many places from Lepa valley to Mandal area, near 161 brigade, Rampur, and other areas, Bhatt said, citing inputs from security forces.
Asked about reports of announcements made by Pakistan asking villagers to evacuate, Bhatt said they were not for the villagers on this side of the LoC.
"They advised a few of the villages there to vacate for safety reasons and my input is that those villages have also not vacated completely," he said.
"The ceasefire violations, initiated by Pakistan, have been appropriately responded to. But I would also like to tell you, it is more of a local affair where due to their actions we have reacted at specific places.
"We do not intend to open the entire front. Our only thing is that we will retaliate if Pakistan indulges in any aggressive action or pushes infiltrators across," he said.
An attempt by a Border Action Team of Pakistan to sneak into Kupwara was foiled and such attempts will always be dealt in the same manner, he said.
On the use of heavy artillery along the LoC in Uri sector, the Army commander said specific situations determine the kind of artillery used.
Referring to the killing of two policemen in separate attacks yesterday, Bhatt said militants were looking for easy targets.
He said the security forces would continue to target the terrorist leadership and there is complete synergy and coordination between all the agencies.
On the Shopian firing incident, the Army commander said forces do not fire until there is extreme provocations and there is danger to life and property.
"If our jawans fired that day, it was because the situation was such. There were apprehensions of lynching and loss of life and property. I want to tell you that we have never opened fire on civilians and we will never do so," he said.
On local youth joining militancy, Bhatt said the youth should join armed forces and other jobs to strengthen the country.
"My primary aim is to ensure that there is peace and prosperity in Kashmir. My primary focus will be to carry out people friendly operations so that Kashmir, which is moving towards mainstream, continues doing so," he said. -- PTI
18:48 Further delay expected in release of Sridevi's mortal remains
JUST IN: Further delay in return of mortal remains of Sridevi expected as Dubai police, which earlier gave clearance, now awaits clearance from prosecution magistrate.
Police reportedly informed Indian authorities that the body can only be handed over after nod from prosecution magistrate, ANI reports quoting sources.
Photograph: ANI
Police reportedly informed Indian authorities that the body can only be handed over after nod from prosecution magistrate, ANI reports quoting sources.
Photograph: ANI
18:19 Sridevi drowned in hotel bathtub after losing consciousness: Report
Sridevi died of accidental drowning in her hotel bath tub, the Dubai government said today.
The Dubai police, it said on its official Twitter handle, has transferred the case to the 'Dubai Public Prosecution' which will carry out regular legal procedures followed in such cases.
'Following the completion of post-mortem analysis, Dubai police headquarters today stated that the death of the Indian actress Sridevi occurred due to drowning in her hotel apartment's bath tub following loss of consciousness,' the Dubai government's media office said on Twitter.
The Dubai-based Gulf News said in a report that the actor was under the influence of alcohol.
She fell into the bathtub and drowned, it added.
It also attached a copy of the United Arab Emirates government's forensic report on its Twitter handle.
The report, citing accidental drowning as the cause of death, has a stamp of the 'Ministry of Health UAE' and the director of preventive medicine, Dubai, Dr Sami Wadie.
The report mentions the actor's full name, 'Sreedevi Boney Kapoor Ayyappan', her passport number, date of the incident and cause of death.
'The investigation is still going on to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident as the forensic report only says that she drowned,' Gulf News quoted an official as saying.
Her body has been sent for embalming, the newspaper said. -- PTI
The Dubai police, it said on its official Twitter handle, has transferred the case to the 'Dubai Public Prosecution' which will carry out regular legal procedures followed in such cases.
'Following the completion of post-mortem analysis, Dubai police headquarters today stated that the death of the Indian actress Sridevi occurred due to drowning in her hotel apartment's bath tub following loss of consciousness,' the Dubai government's media office said on Twitter.
The Dubai-based Gulf News said in a report that the actor was under the influence of alcohol.
She fell into the bathtub and drowned, it added.
It also attached a copy of the United Arab Emirates government's forensic report on its Twitter handle.
The report, citing accidental drowning as the cause of death, has a stamp of the 'Ministry of Health UAE' and the director of preventive medicine, Dubai, Dr Sami Wadie.
The report mentions the actor's full name, 'Sreedevi Boney Kapoor Ayyappan', her passport number, date of the incident and cause of death.
'The investigation is still going on to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident as the forensic report only says that she drowned,' Gulf News quoted an official as saying.
Her body has been sent for embalming, the newspaper said. -- PTI
18:10 Aadhaar helped cancel 3 cr fake, duplicate ration cards: Minister
Nearly three crore fake and duplicate ration cards have been cancelled during the three years of the National Democratic Alliance government, C R Chaudhary, Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said today.
It had also saved the country Rs 17,000 crore every year during this time, he added.
Linking the ration card to the holder's Aaadhaar number had allowed the government to clean up the system, the minister said.
He was speaking at the 21st National Conference on e-Governance in Hyderabad.
"Out of 23 crore ration cards in the country, 82 per cent (19 crore) are linked with Aadhaar. We have removed 2.95 crore fake or duplicate ration cards in the country in the past three years which has resulted in a saving of Rs 17,000 crore annually. It has ensured that foodgrains are being delivered to the rightful person," he informed.
Chaudhary said that e-governance could help in increasing the ease of doing business in the country which, in turn, would help attract foreign investment. Telangana's Minister of IT and Industries, K T Rama Rao, who also addressed the conference, said that 4,500 'Me-Seva' centres in the state were handling 1.5 lakh transactions every day.
He informed that these centres had completed 10 crore transactions since they began seven years ago.
He added that an upgraded version of the project, covering 180 government services, would be launched soon.
He informed that 6,000 clearances had been given to industries under the state industrial policy called TS-iPass, and this involved an investment of Rs 1.2 lakh crore and had the potential to create three lakh jobs. -- PTI
It had also saved the country Rs 17,000 crore every year during this time, he added.
Linking the ration card to the holder's Aaadhaar number had allowed the government to clean up the system, the minister said.
He was speaking at the 21st National Conference on e-Governance in Hyderabad.
"Out of 23 crore ration cards in the country, 82 per cent (19 crore) are linked with Aadhaar. We have removed 2.95 crore fake or duplicate ration cards in the country in the past three years which has resulted in a saving of Rs 17,000 crore annually. It has ensured that foodgrains are being delivered to the rightful person," he informed.
Chaudhary said that e-governance could help in increasing the ease of doing business in the country which, in turn, would help attract foreign investment. Telangana's Minister of IT and Industries, K T Rama Rao, who also addressed the conference, said that 4,500 'Me-Seva' centres in the state were handling 1.5 lakh transactions every day.
He informed that these centres had completed 10 crore transactions since they began seven years ago.
He added that an upgraded version of the project, covering 180 government services, would be launched soon.
He informed that 6,000 clearances had been given to industries under the state industrial policy called TS-iPass, and this involved an investment of Rs 1.2 lakh crore and had the potential to create three lakh jobs. -- PTI
17:46
Amul's tribute to Sridevi.
17:46
NDTV reports that Sridevi's body is expected to reach Mumbai at around 9 pm.
17:28
The Dubai Media Office tweets that the Dubai police has transferred the case to the Dubai Public Prosecution, which will carry out regular legal procedures followed in such cases.
17:03 Sridevi died of accidental drowning
To recap, Sridevi died of accidental drowning, the Dubai-based Gulf News said today. The paper quoted the UAE government's forensic report on its official Twitter handle. The cause of death is listed as accidental drowning in the report. A copy of the forensic report, attached with the post, has a stamp of the "Ministry of Health UAE" and the director of preventive medicine, Dubai, Dr Sami Wadie.
The newspaper also said in a report that the actor was under the influence of alcohol. She fell into the bathtub and drowned, it added. Sridevi, 54, died on Saturday late night in a Dubai hotel. She had stayed back in Dubai after a family wedding.
Also read: Sridevi's last moments: What happened that evening.
The newspaper also said in a report that the actor was under the influence of alcohol. She fell into the bathtub and drowned, it added. Sridevi, 54, died on Saturday late night in a Dubai hotel. She had stayed back in Dubai after a family wedding.
Also read: Sridevi's last moments: What happened that evening.
16:55
The forensic report says death due to accidental drowning.
16:54 Another four hours for Sridevi's body to be released to her family
It will take another four hours for Sridevi's body to be released to her family. The death certificate states the cause of death as 'accidental drowning'. The autopsy report, which has not been released yet, according to reports, say there were traces of alcohol in her blood. Gulf News says she suffered a cardiac arrest, slipped in the bathtub and drowned.
16:40 Death due to accidental drowning, says Sridevi's death certificate
Gulf News reports that the Dubai Police have released the forensic report on Sridevi's death to her family and the Indian Consulate representative. The death certificate states the cause of death as accidental drowning. India Today also reports that traces of alcohol were also found in her blood.
Her body will be released shortly from the police postmortem department and sent for embalming.
Her body will be released shortly from the police postmortem department and sent for embalming.
16:30 Death by drowning after cardiac arrest: Sridevi's autopsy report
Sridevi drowned in her bathtub following a cardiac arrest, the autopsy report has confirmed, reports the Khaleej Times. Social workers are working with the family members to complete the procedure of repatriation - the cancellation of passport, issuance of death certificate among others. Once all the documents are collected, the family members will be handed over the body after submitting the documents. The family is hopeful that the body might be ready for repatriation within next one hour.
16:17 ED seeks LRs to probe Nirav Modi's overseas biz and assets
The Enforcement Directorate investigating the over Rs 11,000-crore PNB fraud case today approached a Mumbai court seeking issuance of Letters Rogatory (LRs) for obtaining information about the overseas businesses and assets of diamantaire Nirav Modi.
"It is an application for issuance of LR under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act for recovery/seizure of proceeds of crime and collection of documents, evidence lying in Hongkong, USA, UK, UAE, South Africa and Singapore which are required in connection with the investigation," the ED said in its plea before the PMLA court.
Letters Rogatory are a request from a court of a sovereign nation to a court of another sovereign nation. Judge M S Azmi today heard the arguments of special public prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar.
The ED told the court that Nirav Modi established various firms, including Diamond R US, Solar Exports, Stellar Diamond, Firestar Diamond, and became an integrated diamond manufacturer who bought rough diamonds, sold polished ones and other stones and also designed jewellery.
His business consisted of trading in rough and polished diamonds, private label jewellery manufacturing and sale in the name and style of 'Nirav Modi' and 'Firestars' as well as production of unlabelled jewellery for third parties, the ED said. -- PTI
"It is an application for issuance of LR under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act for recovery/seizure of proceeds of crime and collection of documents, evidence lying in Hongkong, USA, UK, UAE, South Africa and Singapore which are required in connection with the investigation," the ED said in its plea before the PMLA court.
Letters Rogatory are a request from a court of a sovereign nation to a court of another sovereign nation. Judge M S Azmi today heard the arguments of special public prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar.
The ED told the court that Nirav Modi established various firms, including Diamond R US, Solar Exports, Stellar Diamond, Firestar Diamond, and became an integrated diamond manufacturer who bought rough diamonds, sold polished ones and other stones and also designed jewellery.
His business consisted of trading in rough and polished diamonds, private label jewellery manufacturing and sale in the name and style of 'Nirav Modi' and 'Firestars' as well as production of unlabelled jewellery for third parties, the ED said. -- PTI
15:41 Delhi Chief Secy assault case: CCTV tampered, claims police
Delhi Police on Monday said the CCTV footage in the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash was tampered with and the Forensic Science Laboratory would examine it soon.
"The meeting was not held in the camp office but in drawing room of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence. The CCTV timings are different and it's tampered," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Harendra Singh told the media.
On February 24, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijalon met Home Minister Rajnath Singh in connection with the same case.
The meeting took place at the residence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh.
On February 20, the Chief Secretary had alleged that he was beaten up by two AAP MLAs Amanatullah Khan and Prakash Jarwal on Monday night at the Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence, where he had been called for an emergency meeting.
Following this incident, Secretary of Indian Civil and Administration services Manisha Saxena conducted a meeting on Friday with the Minister of State Home Affairs Hans Raj Ahir and Union Minister Jitendra Singh.
She had also demanded the Delhi government to provide security to the officers and guarantee them protection from any further instances of violence or misconduct.
As of now, the AAP MLAs have been sent to 16-day judicial custody by a Delhi Court.
Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs had sought a report from Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal regarding the matter. -- ANI
Image: The IAS Joint Forum addresses the media over the alleged assault on the Delhi Chief Secretary sporting black bands.
"The meeting was not held in the camp office but in drawing room of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence. The CCTV timings are different and it's tampered," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Harendra Singh told the media.
On February 24, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijalon met Home Minister Rajnath Singh in connection with the same case.
The meeting took place at the residence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh.
On February 20, the Chief Secretary had alleged that he was beaten up by two AAP MLAs Amanatullah Khan and Prakash Jarwal on Monday night at the Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence, where he had been called for an emergency meeting.
Following this incident, Secretary of Indian Civil and Administration services Manisha Saxena conducted a meeting on Friday with the Minister of State Home Affairs Hans Raj Ahir and Union Minister Jitendra Singh.
She had also demanded the Delhi government to provide security to the officers and guarantee them protection from any further instances of violence or misconduct.
As of now, the AAP MLAs have been sent to 16-day judicial custody by a Delhi Court.
Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs had sought a report from Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal regarding the matter. -- ANI
Image: The IAS Joint Forum addresses the media over the alleged assault on the Delhi Chief Secretary sporting black bands.
15:08 Indian consulate receives Sridevi's autopsy report
Update on Sridevi's death. Indian consulate receives Sridevi's autopsy report, India Today reports.
An Indian consulate official and a member of Boney Kapoor's family, who were summoned inside the Dubai morgue where Sridevi's body lies, have left the premises at around 2:30 pm, the Khaleej Times reports. They have been asked to return by 3:30 pm. The Khaleej Times added that matters should conclude by 3:30 pm. (All IST).
Sridevi's mortal remains will be flown back to India from Dubai today, her family said in a statement. Reliance Communications chairman Anil Ambani has reportedly offered to fly her remains back home in his private jet.
Sridevi, 54, wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late Saturday night reportedly due to a cardiac arrest in Dubai's Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
An Indian consulate official and a member of Boney Kapoor's family, who were summoned inside the Dubai morgue where Sridevi's body lies, have left the premises at around 2:30 pm, the Khaleej Times reports. They have been asked to return by 3:30 pm. The Khaleej Times added that matters should conclude by 3:30 pm. (All IST).
Sridevi's mortal remains will be flown back to India from Dubai today, her family said in a statement. Reliance Communications chairman Anil Ambani has reportedly offered to fly her remains back home in his private jet.
Sridevi, 54, wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late Saturday night reportedly due to a cardiac arrest in Dubai's Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
14:45
Actress Madhuri Dixit arrives at the residence of Anil Kapoor in Mumbai.
Here's who else arrived at the Kapoor home to pay their condolences.
Here's who else arrived at the Kapoor home to pay their condolences.
14:10 No second autopsy into Sridevi's death
Dubai Forensic Department officials have confirmed to Khaleej Times that a second autopsy will not be conducted on Sridevi's body.
The actress, often described as the first female superstar of India, passed away in Dubai after a cardiac arrest late on Saturday night. She was just 54.
The Dubai police forensics' department is however yet to submit blood test results to the Dubai police for the release of Sridevi's body. The report says it is not clear what the hold-up is, but the results are expected to be filed in the next couple of hours.
The actress, often described as the first female superstar of India, passed away in Dubai after a cardiac arrest late on Saturday night. She was just 54.
The Dubai police forensics' department is however yet to submit blood test results to the Dubai police for the release of Sridevi's body. The report says it is not clear what the hold-up is, but the results are expected to be filed in the next couple of hours.
14:00
Militants hurl hand grenade at a police station in Jammu and Kashmir's Tral area: Police.
13:50 Rare signed photo of Gandhi may fetch USD 10k at auction
A signed vintage photo of Mahatma Gandhi, walking alongside Madan Mohan Malaviya, is expected to fetch USD 10,000 at an auction in the US. Signed in fountain pen, "M K Gandhi," the rare photo was taken after the second session of India's Round Table Conference in London in September 1931.
The reverse of the photo bears two Associated Press of Great Britain copyright stamps, as well as collector's ink notations identifying Malaviya and the date.
The photo dates to a period in which Gandhi, suffering from pain in his right thumb, opted to write with his left hand, a temporary inconvenience that lasted from August 8-December 19, 1931, according to US-based RR Auctions.
As the delegate acting on behalf of the Indian National Congress, Gandhi attended the second session of the British-organised Round Table Conference, a three-part conference series held in London from 1930 to 1932, with the aim of discussing the ongoing constitutional reforms in India.
Malaviya, who had formerly been president of the Congress and played a significant role in the Gandhi-led non-cooperation movement, joined him as a representative advocating for a free India. The bidding for the photograph ends on March 7. -- PTI
File pic
The reverse of the photo bears two Associated Press of Great Britain copyright stamps, as well as collector's ink notations identifying Malaviya and the date.
The photo dates to a period in which Gandhi, suffering from pain in his right thumb, opted to write with his left hand, a temporary inconvenience that lasted from August 8-December 19, 1931, according to US-based RR Auctions.
As the delegate acting on behalf of the Indian National Congress, Gandhi attended the second session of the British-organised Round Table Conference, a three-part conference series held in London from 1930 to 1932, with the aim of discussing the ongoing constitutional reforms in India.
Malaviya, who had formerly been president of the Congress and played a significant role in the Gandhi-led non-cooperation movement, joined him as a representative advocating for a free India. The bidding for the photograph ends on March 7. -- PTI
File pic
13:31 Bhaichung Bhutia resigns from TMC
Former Indian footballer Bhaichung Bhutia on Monday announced that he has resigned from All India Trinamool Congress party and is no longer associated with any political party.
Taking to twitter to announce his decision, Bhutia wrote, "As of today I have officially resigned from the membership and all the official and political posts of All India Trinamool Congress party. I am no longer a member or associated with any political party in India."
Bhutia retired from professional football in 2011 and later joined TMC in 2013. He unsuccessfully contested the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from the Darjeeling constituency. -- ANI
Taking to twitter to announce his decision, Bhutia wrote, "As of today I have officially resigned from the membership and all the official and political posts of All India Trinamool Congress party. I am no longer a member or associated with any political party in India."
Bhutia retired from professional football in 2011 and later joined TMC in 2013. He unsuccessfully contested the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from the Darjeeling constituency. -- ANI
13:13 Dubai police forensic dept yet to submit Sridevi's blood test results
The Khaleej Times reports that the Dubai police forensics' department is yet to submit blood test results to the Dubai police for the release of Sridevi's body. The report says it is not clear what the hold-up is, but the results are expected to be filed in the next couple of hours.
The Khaleej Times reports that Indian consulate officials reveal that after receiving the police clearance and the forensic report, other procedures including, immigration and embalming would be completed in the next three to four hours.
While officials are hopeful that Sridevi's body will be ready for repatriation with all completed procedures by 1 to 2pm, Dubai time (3.30 pm IST), it seems unlikely now. Sridevi's body is still inside the forensic department as of now.
Image courtesy Sridevi's Twitter account.
The Khaleej Times reports that Indian consulate officials reveal that after receiving the police clearance and the forensic report, other procedures including, immigration and embalming would be completed in the next three to four hours.
While officials are hopeful that Sridevi's body will be ready for repatriation with all completed procedures by 1 to 2pm, Dubai time (3.30 pm IST), it seems unlikely now. Sridevi's body is still inside the forensic department as of now.
Image courtesy Sridevi's Twitter account.
12:41 Parrikar is stable, says Goa minister
Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is "absolutely fine and stable", a state minister said today, a day after he was admitted to a Goa hospital following complaints of uneasiness.
Parrikar, 62, was taken to the Goa Medical College and Hospital last evening on a wheelchair. He was discharged from Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital on February 22, a week after he was admitted there and treated for a pancreatic ailment.
"The chief minister remains admitted in hospital but he is absolutely fine and stable," state Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said.
He was suffering from mild dehydration at the time he was taken to GMCH. Expert doctors are attending to Parrikar, who is in ward number 121 of the GMCH, located near here, sources at the hospital said. The chief minister had presented the budget in the Goa assembly on February 22 after returning from Mumbai. -- PTI
Parrikar, 62, was taken to the Goa Medical College and Hospital last evening on a wheelchair. He was discharged from Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital on February 22, a week after he was admitted there and treated for a pancreatic ailment.
"The chief minister remains admitted in hospital but he is absolutely fine and stable," state Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said.
He was suffering from mild dehydration at the time he was taken to GMCH. Expert doctors are attending to Parrikar, who is in ward number 121 of the GMCH, located near here, sources at the hospital said. The chief minister had presented the budget in the Goa assembly on February 22 after returning from Mumbai. -- PTI
12:22
Actor Farhan Akhtar and his mother Honey Irani arrive at Anil Kapoor's residence to pay their condolences in the aftermath of Sridevi's death.
12:17
The unintended consequences of India's policy on citizenship for Tibetan refugees. Read
12:12 Former Cabinet Secretary TSR Subramanian passes away
Former Cabinet secretary TSR Subramanian has passed away, officials said today. He was 79.
"Extremely shocked to hear the sad news of the demise of TSR Subramanian. He was the tallest amongst all and is a big loss for the IAS fraternity and the nation. Deepest condolences to all family members. We hope and pray that your ideas and thoughts will continue to guide us," the IAS association said in a tweet.
His cremation will take place at the Lodhi Road crematorium in Delhi at 5.30 pm, the association said.
Subramanian was the Cabinet secretary from August 1, 1996, to March 31, 1998. The cause of death and other details were immediately not known. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh and other senior IAS officers have condoled his death. -- PTI
"Extremely shocked to hear the sad news of the demise of TSR Subramanian. He was the tallest amongst all and is a big loss for the IAS fraternity and the nation. Deepest condolences to all family members. We hope and pray that your ideas and thoughts will continue to guide us," the IAS association said in a tweet.
His cremation will take place at the Lodhi Road crematorium in Delhi at 5.30 pm, the association said.
Subramanian was the Cabinet secretary from August 1, 1996, to March 31, 1998. The cause of death and other details were immediately not known. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh and other senior IAS officers have condoled his death. -- PTI
12:06
Fogging being done at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai in preparation for the last rites of Sridevi.
12:01
Filmmaker Farah Khan and actress Tabu arrive at Anil Kapoor's residence in Mumbai.
11:47 Sridevi's body will be ready to be flown back at 3.30 pm IST
Sridevi's funeral, who died in Dubai on Saturday evening, is expected to take place in Mumbai today.
The Khaleej Times reports that Sridevi's body will be ready for repatriation between 1 and 2pm, Dubai time, Indian Consulate officials revealed. Dubai is 1.30 hours behind India.
While the autopsy was completed last evening, the report is yet to be released.
Sridevi, 54, collapsed in her hotel room in Dubai on Saturday evening. A medical team called in failed to revive her.
Image: Sridevi in a Sabyasachi outfit. She had captioned this picture: @sabyasachiofficial always makes me feel royal.
The Khaleej Times reports that Sridevi's body will be ready for repatriation between 1 and 2pm, Dubai time, Indian Consulate officials revealed. Dubai is 1.30 hours behind India.
While the autopsy was completed last evening, the report is yet to be released.
Sridevi, 54, collapsed in her hotel room in Dubai on Saturday evening. A medical team called in failed to revive her.
Image: Sridevi in a Sabyasachi outfit. She had captioned this picture: @sabyasachiofficial always makes me feel royal.
11:24
Manish Malhotra posts this picture on Instagram, saying, "This was our last picture together and just 4 days ago .. I will never able to get over this loss."
The picture was shot at Boney Kapoor's nephew, Mohit Marwah's Dubai wedding.
The picture was shot at Boney Kapoor's nephew, Mohit Marwah's Dubai wedding.
11:10 You were more than a legend, mourns Sridevi's nephew Mohit Marwah
Sridevi's nephew, Mohit Marwah, posts this picture on Instagram, writing, "You were more than a legend. Your vacuum will always be felt."
The superstar passed away in Dubai yesterday. She was there to attend Boney Kapoor's nephew Mohit Marwah's wedding. The last pictures of Sridevi were from this wedding.
Sridevi's mortal remains will reach India today. "Late Sridevi Kapoor's body will arrive in India tomorrow. We will update you on all further information as and when it's available to us," an official statement by the Kapoors said.
The superstar passed away in Dubai yesterday. She was there to attend Boney Kapoor's nephew Mohit Marwah's wedding. The last pictures of Sridevi were from this wedding.
Sridevi's mortal remains will reach India today. "Late Sridevi Kapoor's body will arrive in India tomorrow. We will update you on all further information as and when it's available to us," an official statement by the Kapoors said.
It added: "Boney Kapoor, Jhanvi, Khushi and the entire Kapoor, Ayyappan and Marwah family are deeply bereaved and shocked with the untimely loss of Sridevi Kapoor. They thank the entire media for their prayers, support, and sensitivity during their time of grief," the statement reads.
The actor, who was in Dubai for a wedding, reportedly had a fainting spell in her bathroom after which she was immediately rushed to Rashid Hospital in Dubai but could not be saved.
The demise of the first female superstar of Bollywood, Sridevi has left the film industry and her fans in a deep state of shock.
10:33 Sridevi in Telugu films: farewell Sridevi, you will be missed
"On Sunday, as the nation woke up to the news of actor Sridevi's demise, its ripples were felt deeply in the Telugu film industry. Her appeal spanned across generations of movie lovers, and having worked with two generations of actors as a child artiste and later as a leading lady, she shared a bond of mutual respect with several members of the Telugu film industry."
Read the column on the Hindu.
Read the column on the Hindu.
10:07 Anil Ambani offers to fly Sridevi's body home to Mumbai
Veteran actor Sridevi's mortal remains will be flown back to India from Dubai today, her family said in a statement. Sridevi's body could not be repatriated yesterday as the final investigation reports from the Dubai Police were not ready last evening.
Reliance Communications (RCom) chairman Anil Ambani has reportedly offered to fly her remains back home in his private jet.
Sridevi, 54, wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late Saturday night reportedly due to a cardiac arrest in Dubai's Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
The actress and family were in town after attending the wedding of her nephew and actor Mohit Marwah which took place in Ras Al Khaimah. Indian Ambassador to the UAE Navdeep Singh Suri and Consul General of India in Dubai Vipul, Indian Consulate representatives were coordinating with Dubai Police and other authorities concerned.
However, the procedures to sent her body to India could not be completed yesterday before office hours in local departments here. The Kapoor family in a statement issued last night said that her body will arrive in India today. -- PTI
Reliance Communications (RCom) chairman Anil Ambani has reportedly offered to fly her remains back home in his private jet.
Sridevi, 54, wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late Saturday night reportedly due to a cardiac arrest in Dubai's Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
The actress and family were in town after attending the wedding of her nephew and actor Mohit Marwah which took place in Ras Al Khaimah. Indian Ambassador to the UAE Navdeep Singh Suri and Consul General of India in Dubai Vipul, Indian Consulate representatives were coordinating with Dubai Police and other authorities concerned.
However, the procedures to sent her body to India could not be completed yesterday before office hours in local departments here. The Kapoor family in a statement issued last night said that her body will arrive in India today. -- PTI
09:39 Kashmiri student goes missing from Bhubaneswar AIIMS
A student from Jammu and Kashmir, studying at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar, has been missing for over a fortnight, police said today.
Suhail Aijaz, a resident of Kupwara district in the northern state and pursing MBBS at the institute since 2016, left his hostel on February 9, and has been missing since then.
The second year student had informed the authorities of the institute that he was going to Chandigarh with his friends to attend a wedding ceremony there and would be back on February 17, Commissioner of Police Y B Khurania said.
The authorities had lodged a missing complaint with the police on February 18, a day after the student's scheduled date of returning to the institute.
A note has been recovered from the hostel, Khurania said, without elaborating on its content.
"Efforts are on to trace the student. We are questioning the institute officials and the friends of the missing student," Khurania said.
He said the youth's last known location was somewhere in Howrah in West Bengal.
Meanwhile, Suhail's father Aijaz Ahmed met senior police officials seeking their help in tracing his son.
Ahmed told reporters that he had spoken to Suhail over phone for the last time on February 7.
He also said that the institute authorities were the first ones to tell him that his son had gone missing.
-- PTI
09:16 REVEALED: Last moments of Sridevi in Dubai hotel room
Sridevi was getting ready for a dream dinner date with her husband Boney Kapoor in Dubai before she reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest at their hotel room and died on Saturday evening, according to a report in the Khaleej Times.
According to a source close to the family, Kapoor flew back from Mumbai and went to her room at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel around 5:30 pm to "surprise" her with dinner.
He woke her up and the couple chatted for about 15 minutes before he invited her for dinner. The Chandni-fame star then went to the washroom. After 15 minutes passed and Sridevi did not come out, Kapoor knocked on the door to check on her.
When he got no response, he forced open the door to find the legendary actor lying motionless in the bathtub full of water. "He tried to revive her and when he could not, he called a friend of his. After that, he informed the police at 9 pm," said the source.
The police and paramedics rushed to the site, but she was pronounced dead. Her body was taken to the General Department of Forensic Medicine for an autopsy.
Sridevi, Boney Kapoor, and younger daughter Khushi Kapoor were in Ras Al Khaimah early last week to celebrate the wedding of her nephew Mohit Marwah. Boney Kapoor had returned to Mumbai after the wedding, but decided to come back to 'surprise' his wife.
09:07 ISRO working on 'igloos' for future outposts on moon
In what's likely to become India's biggest science programme in the next few years, Isro has started work on building igloos on the Moon. These 'lunar habitats', as scientists call them, will be built by sending robots and 3D printers to the Moon, and by using lunar soil and other material.
Read the full story HERE
08:40 In a letter, Smriti Irani pays tribute to her 'favourite star' Sridevi
Following the sudden death of Sridevi who died late at Saturday night reportedly due to cardiac arrest in Dubai, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Smriti Irani wrote an emotional letter remembering her "favourite star who defined joy in my childhood".
Recounting her last meeting with the superstar, Irani -- in a letter published by News18 -- wrote, "She stood there on a huge stage all alone. But she filled up the space with her charm and mighty presence as only she could. That's my last living image of Sridevi as she graced the International Film Festival of India in Goa last November.
"As I thanked her for her gracious presence in this celebration of cinema, she said something that would stay with me forever "where else would I be if not here?"
The Union minister described Sridevi as the first female superstar of the Indian film industry, who shouldered many '90s blockbusters alone.
"That her male co-stars had to depend on her magic for their box office success was an ode to her calibre," she added.
She further wrote, "My memories of Sridevi are built through my journey from being a fan girl to an actor and then my role as a politician. I have had opportunities to meet Sridevi in public engagements and industry events, and each time I went back knowing a little more about her."
Read the full letter HERE
08:18 Michelle Obama to soon share memoir
Former US First Lady Michelle Obama said she cannot wait to soon share her first memoir BECOMING, which is a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling.
According to the wife of former US President Barack Obama, writing BECOMING has been a deeply personal experience for Michelle Obama, who has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era as First Lady of the US -- the first African-American to serve in that role.
"I talk about my roots and how a girl from the South Side found her voice. I hope my journey inspires readers to find the courage to become whoever they aspire to be. I can't wait to share my story," she tweeted.
The former US First Lady has established herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the US and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives.
The memoir addresses readers' world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her-from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world's most famous address.
-- ANI
07:56 Sridevi's mortal remains to be brought to Mumbai today
The country is mourning Bollywood icon Sridevi, who died on Saturday evening in Dubai following a cardiac arrest. The 54-year-old, who had dominated the silver screen in the 80s, had gone to Dubai to attend a family wedding.
Sridevi had fainted in the bathroom of the Jumeirah Emirates Towers, where she was staying with her family. A medical team had failed to revive her and she was declared dead at a hospital, Indian ambassador in UAE Navdeep Suri was quoted as saying.
Senior airport officials said a 37-seater private aircraft flew from Mumbai to Dubai around 1.35 pm on Sunday. The Embraer 135 landed at Dubai around 4.40 pm (IST). Officials said the flight would return to Mumbai only after all the procedures and after the post-mortem were performed in Dubai.
This could be around Monday afternoon, officials said.
Boney and Khushi will fly back with the actor's body, the officials added.
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