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Mon, 07 August 2023
Black day for Indian democracy: Kejriwal
Timeline Refresh
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23:55 Stalin leads peace march on Karunanidhi's death anniversary in Tamil Nadu
Late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi was remembered on his fifth death anniversary on Monday, with his son and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin leading a peace march in memory of the Dravidian stalwart.
Stalin led the march after garlanding a statue of the leader on the premises of the Omandurar government estate here and it culminated at the former CM's memorial at the Marina Beach.
Also, the chief of the ruling DMK, Stalin was joined by his sister Kanimozhi, son Udhayanidhi, cabinet colleagues and scores of party workers.
Paying his tributes, the DMK president said the 2024 Lok Sabha polls is not a "usual, once in 5-year polls" but an election that would determine the future of democracy in India. Tamil Nadu is the beginning for everything and it is the state that paved the way for the opposition alliance INDIA, which has spread across the nation, he said.
The vision and dreams of the late leader on the ideals of self-respect, social justice, equality, state autonomy and a federal India has been taken forward across the country by the party, he said.
In Delhi, top Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi paid floral tributes to a decorated portrait of Karunanidhi.
In Puducherry, Chief Minister N Rangasamy paid homage to the late leader.
The DMK leaders paid floral tributes here at the memorial of Karunanidhi, which was decorated with flowers. -- PTI
23:29 Drunk businessman held after his luxury car mows down 3 persons in Goa
A prominent businessman was arrested after the Mercedes car he was driving in an inebriated condition allegedly hit five vehicles in Banastarim village near Panaji in Goa, killing three persons, a police official said on Monday.
The accident, in which three cars, a motorcycle and a scooter were hit, took place at 7:30pm on Sunday on the Ponda-Panaji national highway, some 15 kilometres from the state capital, he said.
Paresh Sawardekar, who owns a chain of supermarkets, was arrested in the intervening night of Sunday and Monday, deputy superintedant of police Ashish Shirodkar said.
He identified the deceased as Suresh Fadte (58), his wife Bhavana Fadte (52) and one Anup Kamkar (26).
"The couple was on a motorcycle and Kamkar was riding a scooter. Sawardekar's car was plying on the wrong lane. Five vehicles, including three cars, were hit in the accident. He was drunk and a test revealed 94 milligrams of alcohol in his blood (100 millilitres), which is three times the permissible limit," the deputy SP said.
"The accused was accompanied by his wife, in whose name the car is registered, and three children. Mardol police is probing the case further," he added.
Sawardekar has been charged under Indian Penal Code sections 279 (rash driving), 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life of personal safety of others) as well as section 185 (drunken driving) of Motor Vehicle Act, Shirodkar informed. -- PTI
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal
23:20 Black day for Indian democracy: Kejriwal
Soon after the Rajya Sabha passed the Delhi Services Bill, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said it was a "black day" for India's democracy and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled Centre of trying to "usurp" power through the backdoor.
He also said that it was an "insult" to the right to vote of the people of Delhi.
Parliament on Monday passed a contentious bill that gives the Central government control over bureaucrats in the Delhi government with the Rajya Sabha approving it with 131 votes in favour and 102 against.
Home Minister Amit Shah defended the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, saying the proposed legislation is aimed at providing effective and corruption-free governance in the national capital.
In a video message, Kejriwal slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
He said the people of Delhi will not give even a single seat to the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Kejriwal claimed that the BJP was not able to compete with him and the AAP government's work and so was therefore "torturing" the people of Delhi.
Asserting that he is the "son of Delhi", Kejriwal claimed that people liked him. -- PTI
23:00 Indian-origin Vaibhav Taneja named Tesla CFO as finance chief
Indian-origin Vaibhan Taneja has been named Tesla's new chief financial officer as the previous finance chief Zachary Kirkhorn announced his decision to step down, the automaker said in a company filing on Monday.
Taneja, 45, was appointed Tesla CFO in addition to his current role as chief accounting officer of the US-based electric car major on Friday after Kirhorn, Tesla's Master of Coin and finance chief for the last four years, stepped down from the post.
Kirkhorn's 13-year tenure with the Elon Musk-led American EV giant was described as one of "tremendous expansion and growth" in the company filing.
"Tesla thanks Mr Kirkhorn for his significant contributions. Mr Kirkhorn will continue to serve Tesla through the end of the year to support a seamless transition," it said.
"This morning Tesla announced that I've stepped down from my role as Chief Financial Officer, succeeded by our Chief Accounting Officer, Vaibhav Taneja," Kirkhorn said in a LinkedIn post.
"Being a part of this company is a special experience, and I'm extremely proud of the work we've done together since I joined over 13 years ago. As I shift my responsibilities to support this transition, I want to thank the talented, passionate, and hard-working employees at Tesla, who have accomplished things many thought (were) not possible. I also want to thank Elon for his leadership and optimism, which has inspired so many people," he said. -- PTI
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22:43 Arms including rocket launcher seized in Odisha
The Border Security Force on Monday seized a huge stock of arms and ammunition including a rocket launcher from a Maoist arms dump in Odisha's Malkangiri district.
The BSF in a statement said that personnel of its 142 Battalion conducted a search operation in Bejangiwada Reserve Forest of the district on the basis of specific information about Maoists.
"During the search, the BSF personnel found a Maoist dump in the reserve forest near Amapadar-Elkanur village and Bodiluguda-Brundamamdi axis under Kalimela police limits in the district," the statement said.
The seized arms and ammunition included one 303 rifle, 11 barrel, 1 magazine of 303 rifle, 15 improvised hand grenades, three country-made guns, two 51 MM mortar bombs, a gas welding machine, 42 live cartridges, one country-made rocket launcher, two Bren 303 LMG spare barrels, 29 gelatin sticks, five packets of aluminium nitrate, 30 electric detonators and nine synthetic waist belts, it said.
The BSF has been carrying out operations in the Maoist-affected districts of Malkangiri and Koraput in South Odisha. Such recoveries would certainly dent Maoist strategy and dampen their spirits to take on ever-growing dominance of security forces, it said. -- PTI
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22:18 RS passes Delhi services bill, blow for AAP
The bill to replace an ordinance promulgated for handling the transfers and postings of senior officers in the Delhi government was was passed in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, with 131 members voting for and 102 against, posing a setback to the Aam Aadmi Party government in New Delhi.
Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 for consideration after the Upper House, which was adjourned earlier in the pre-lunch session, reassembled at 2 pm.
Shah also concluded the debate with his reply.
"Delhi services bill brought not to usurp powers of Delhi govt, but to stop encroachment on Centre's right by it," Amit Shah told the Rajya Sabha.
Among the RS MPs who spoke, former Chief Justice of India and Rajya Sabha MP Ranjan Gogoi said the bill to replace an ordinance for handling the transfers and postings of officials in the Delhi government was "perfectly, legitimately valid".
The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha last week.
Ardhendu Bose
22:07 Bose's nephew, a former Bombay Dyeing model, passes away
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's nephew Ardhendu Bose passed away in Mumbai on Monday.
The reason for Ardhendu's death was heart attack and he breathed his last at his residence in Mumbai, informed his wife Kermeen Bose.
Ardhendu was Netaji's younger brother Sailesh Chandra Bose's son. He was a model by profession and was a Bombay Dyeing model for many years. He had also acted in some movies.
Apart from wife Kermeen Bose, Ardhendu is survived by a son, Nedal Bose.
22:02 Manmohan Singh in RS to vote on Delhi bill
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh came to the Parliament in a wheelchair to participate in the crucial Rajya Sabha session where The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 is being discussed.
The bill empowers the central government to make rules in connection with the affairs of the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, including the functions, terms, and other conditions of service of officers and employees.
The Congress party has issued a three-line whip for its MPs, urging them to be present in the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
"Very important issues will be taken up for discussion in the Rajya Sabha tomorrow, i.e. Monday, August 7, 2023," Congress stated in a notification of August 4 which was made public on Sunday.
21:38 Fire breaks out in shut cinema hall in MP, doused; no one hurt
A fire broke out in a shut cinema hall in Indore in Madhya Pradesh on Monday evening, though no one was hurt in the incident, an official said.
The fire started at the upper level of Regal Talkies, which is at a busy junction here, the official added.
"The blaze has been doused. There is no report of anyone getting injured. Fire tenders reached the site a bit late due to traffic congestion," fire department assistant sub inspector Sunil Kumar Dubey said.
A probe has begun to find out the cause of fire, he said. -- PTI
21:36 Delhi services bill not for usurping power: Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said in Rajya Sabha that the bill to replace an ordinance for handling the transfers and postings of officials in the Delhi government has been brought to safeguard the rights of the people and not to usurp the power of the AAP government.
Replying to a debate on the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, Shah assured that the Upper House the objective of the bill was "only and only to provide efficient, corruption-free governance and popular government."
He also assured the members that there is not even a single provision that changes the status of the system prevailing since the Congress regime. Shah asserted that the bill is constitutionally valid and it does not violate the Supreme Court judgement from any angle.
He said Delhi is different from other states because it houses Parliament, embassies, the Supreme Court and regularly many state heads from different countries visit the national capital.
Therefore, Delhi was made a Union Territory.
"Delhi is a Union Territory with an assembly with limited powers," he said. In future, whoever fights elections in Delhi need to understand this character, Shah added. -- PTI
21:21 Panel submits report to Kalakshetra Foundation
An independent committee of inquiry set up by the Kalakshetra Foundation to look into the allegations of sexual harassment on its campus on Monday said it has submitted its report to the foundation chairman S Ramadorai.
The three member panel comprising retired judge of Punjab and Haryana high court, KKannan, former DGP of Tamil Nadu, Letika Saran, and Dr Shobha Varthaman said it has recommended "major punishment" and "considerable recommendations" for reforms in the administrative apparatus of the foundation.
A press release from the committee said: "Since the report contains extremely sensitive information, which if revealed, would invade the privacy of individuals, we have recommended to the chairman to keep it confidential, except the concluding part of the report and the disclosure that will become necessary to the delinquent employee Hari Padman to show cause against the findings of the report and the major punishment recommended by us."
Considering safety aspects and to promote Kalakshetra Foundation primarily as an institution of higher learning rather than a platform for public performers, the concluding part contains considerable recommendations for reforms in administration, the release added.
Levelling allegations of sexual harassment on the campus, a section of students staged protest in March this year seeking justice.
The police arrested on April 3 Assistant Professor (Dance) Hari Padman following a complaint against him from a former student and he was granted bail on June 3 by a court in Chennai.
The foundation had suspended Hari Padman and dismissed repertory artists Sanjith Lal, Sai Krishnan and Sreenath from service. -- PTI
Mark Zuckerberg
20:59 Zuckerberg takes to Threads to post on cage fight with Elon Musk
Meta co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg took to Threads on Monday to post about his 'cage-fight' with Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly Twitter).
The development comes as Musk on Sunday said that his potential in-person fight with Mark Zuckerberg would be streamed on his social media site X.
Sharing a screenshot of Musk's X post on Threads, Zuckerberg said, "Shouldn't we use a more reliable platform that can actually raise money for charity?"
On Musk's post about preparing for the fight, Zuckerberg replied on Threads, saying "I am ready today. I suggested Aug 26 when he first challenged, but he hasn't confirmed."
"Not holding my breath", the Meta top boss added.
The two tech billionaires purportedly agreed to a "cage match' face-off in late June.
Zuckerberg is trained in mixed martial arts and was recently promoted to blue belt in the Brazilian self martial art and combat sports jiu-jitsu.
Musk posted on X Monday morning that he would choose the World Wrestling Entertainment format for the fight.
"Am going with @WWE as my fighting style," the Tesla chief and richest person on the planet, said.
The banter between Musk and Zuckerberg has gained social media attention, especially after Zuckerberg launched Threads, which is seen as a rival to the Musk-owned Twitter (now X). It all started when Musk, who owns X, responded to a tweet about Meta preparing to release the purported 'Twitter-killer' Threads.
He took a dig about the world becoming "exclusively under Zuck's thumb with no other options' -- but then one Twitter user jokingly warned Musk of Zuckerberg's jiu-jitsu training. -- PTI
20:42 Buddhadeb Bhattacharya in better health, likely to be discharged this week
Former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya's health condition has improved and doctors are mulling discharging him in a couple of days' time, officials of the hospital where he is admitted said on Monday.
The 79-year-old Marxist leader though in better health, remained on intermittent non-invasive ventilatory support, they said.
"Mr Bhattacharya is alert and is responding to doctors and also talking to visitors. He is taking liquids orally," a senior doctor of the hospital said.
"The medical board after reviewing his condition has decided to discharge him with home care support later this week," he said.
Bhattacharya's 'out of bed mobilisation' is being done and conservative medical management, physiotherapy and lung rehabilitation are still on.
He is being given a trial on his home BiPAP machine and his overall clinical status remains stable, the doctor said.
Bhattacharya is suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other age-related ailments. He is admitted to a private hospital since July 29.
The Marxist leader took over as the chief minister of Bengal in 2000 from party senior Jyoti Basu.
He remained in the post till 2011, handling a tenure marked by agitations over the acquisition of private land for industries led by the present Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. -- PTI
20:24 20-year-old woman killed in Amethi honour killing
A 20-year-old woman was murdered in a village here allegedly by her family members over her relationship with a young man from another community, with police calling it a case of honour killing.
The family buried the body on the morning of August 5 and told neighbours that she died of an illness, they said, adding that it was exhumed on Monday on orders of the district magistrate and sent for an autopsy.
Local Piparpur police station SHO Sandeep Rai said it is a case of honour killing and necessary legal action is being taken.
Elaborating on the case, Rai said victim Afreen, a Class 12 student of Tikavar village, was taking a stroll at a local market with the young man last Friday when her father Niyamat Ullah and brother Haider Ali caught her and beat her up in public.
He said some local people recorded the incident using their mobile phones and informed the police.
The official added that Dhammaur Kotwali police took Afreen, her father and her brother to the police station and sent the woman home after calling her mother.
Rai said that according to villagers, the family beat Afreen up mercilessly after reaching home, resulting in her death.
The SHO said after the video of the woman being beaten up at the market surfaced on social media, the police took notice of the matter and investigations were started.
Later on a complaint by a local watchman, a case was registered against the father and the under section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Indian Penal Code.
Sub-divisional magistrate (judicial), Amethi, Mohammad Aslam said the body was exhumed and sent for a post-mortem examination and further action will be taken after getting its report comes in. -- PTI
19:36 14 arrested for provocative social media posts in UP
Fourteen people were arrested in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Monday for provocative social media posts on the charges of promoting enmity between different groups, a police officer said.
Superintendent of police Kuldeep Singh Gunawat said that three persons -- identified as Taiyyab, Junaid and Nihal Singh of Bhulabai village in Bania Dhear police station area -- posted comments on Facebook intended to create disharmony between the two communities.
An FIR was registered against them under sections IPC 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) and 505 (statements conducing public mischief) on Sunday night.
During the investigation, the involvement of Mohd Anas, Wajid Khan, Wasid, Saif Ali, Jayul, Atul, Arjun, Dilshad, Naushad, Faizan and Wahid was also found.
All the 14 persons were arrested, the police officer said, adding that they had made comments relating to Muharram.
The police officer warned that strict action would be taken against anyone trying to disturb communal harmony in the area. -- PTI
19:21 Chennai court grants ED 5-day custody of arrested TN minister Senthil Balaji
A Chennai court on Monday permitted the Enforcement Directorate to take custody of DMK minister V Senthil Balaji, who was arrested on June 14 in connection with a money laundering case, for five days.
Principal sessions judge S Alli granted the permission on a petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate.
The judge also informed the same to Balaji, who was produced through video conferencing from the Puzhal prison.
The order came on a day when the Supreme Court dismissed the pleas from Balaji and his wife Meghala challenging the Madras high court order upholding his arrest in the money laundering case.
The top court had also granted five day custody of Balaji to the ED till August 12.
Balaji was arrested in connection with a cash-for-jobs scam while being Transport minister in the earlier AIADMK regime. -- PTI
Palanivel Thiaga Rajan
19:16 SC junks plea for probe into TN minister's audio clip
The Supreme Court Monday dismissed a public interest litigation seeking a probe by a panel headed by a former apex court judge into the audio clips where Tamil Nadu Minister Palanivel Thiaga Rajan was purportedly heard making remarks about the wealth accumulated by the family of Chief Minister M K Stalin.
"This is an absolutely bogus petition...We would not use this as a political platform. (The plea is) dismissed," said a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
The top court said there has to be some actionable evidence, and its jurisdiction under Article 32 (under it pleas can be filed directly to the top court by citizens for violation of fundamental rights) of the Constitution cannot be allowed to be misused.
"There is allegedly an audio clip in which the former finance minister refers to the family of the CM. This has no evidentiary value. This is hearsay at best," the bench said, adding "You have sufficient remedy under the criminal law. Do not use this as a political forum."
PIL petitioner Pranesh Rajamanickam alleged the finance portfolio of Thiagarajan, the current minister of information technology and digital services, was changed due to the alleged audio clips.
The bench said it cannot go behind the political decisions related to the change of portfolios of ministers. -- PTI
18:52 Karnataka HC quashes FIR against BJP chief Nadda
The high court of Karnataka on Monday quashed the FIR and investigation against Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda for allegedly violating the model code of conduct in a speech during the Karnataka assembly elections held in May.
On May seven, 2023 during campaigning, Nadda held a BJP election rally at the IB Circle of Harappanahalli town in Vijayanagara district, where he allegedly said that if the BJP loses the polls, the voters will be deprived of Central government schemes.
He had also allegedly stated that if the Congress comes to power in the state, many projects of the Centre including 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' will be closed.
Officials of the Election Vigilance Division lodged a complaint with Harappanahalli police station stating that the speech violated the model code.
The police registered a case and started an investigation.
Nadda had filed the petition in the high court seeking quashing of this investigation. -- PTI
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18:22 LS clears Digital Personal Data Protection Bill
The Lok Sabha on Monday cleared the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill by a voice vote amid slogan shouting by opposition members over the Manipur issue.
Some amendments moved by opposition members seeking changes in the bill were defeated by a voice vote.
The bill seeks to protect the privacy of Indian citizens while proposing a penalty of up to Rs 250 crore on entities for misusing or failing to protect the digital data of individuals.
The bill which comes after six years of the Supreme Court declaring "Right to Privacy" as a fundamental right has provisions to curb the misuse of individuals' data by online platforms.
Moving the bill for consideration and passage, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "It would have been good had the opposition discussed the bill today (in the House). But no opposition leader or member is concerned over the right of the citizens."
He said the bill has been brought after extensive public consultation.
Referring to the salient features of the bill, the minister said its language is very simple so that even a common person can understand it.
Referring to certain principles on which the bill is based, Vaishnaw said that according to the principle of legality, data of a person has to be taken based on prevailing laws. -- PTI
17:59 BJP MP asks govt about cow as national animal
A Bharatiya Janata Party Lok Sabha member has asked the government in Parliament whether it intends to recognise gaumata (cow) as a "national animal" that is an integral part of the Indian culture.
Ajmer MP Bhagirath Choudhary asked this question to the Union minister of culture, in a written query in the Lower House of Parliament on Monday, to which no direct response was given.
He asked a series of questions, including as to "whether the Government intends to recognise 'Gaumata' an integral part of Indian Culture as a national animal," considering "protection and revival of Indian and sanatan culture" by bringing a legislation in the Parliament in this regard and if so, the details thereof.
Union Minister of Culture G Kishan Reddy, in his written response, said, "As informed by the department of animal husbandry, under the distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States, (Article 246(3) of the Constitution) preservation of animal is a matter on which the state legislature has exclusive powers to legislate".
"In order to complement and supplement the efforts made by the states and Union Territories, the department of animal husbandry and dairying is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission for development and protection of indigenous breeds including indigenous breeds of cattle. The mission is leading to increase in availability of indigenous breeds including cattle in the country. Department has also established animal welfare board of India for protecting animals including cow and its progeny," he said.
Reddy was also asked whether certain bird flower, animal etc. in the country have been designated as national bird, national flower and national animal and provided protection along with the special status keeping in view the sentiments of common people across the country. -- PTI
17:35 Plea in HC seeking to set aside Kerala film awards, alleges nepotism
A Malayalam movie director on Monday moved the Kerala high court seeking to set aside the recently declared annual state film awards for the year 2022 and raised bias and nepotism charges against state Chalachitra Academy chairman and filmmaker Ranjith.
Lijeesh Mullezhath, director of the movie Aakaashathinu Thaazhe, in a petition filed before the high court, sought an enquiry and action against Ranjith.
Mullezhath claimed that he was a victim of bias and nepotism by "the acts of Ranjith" and was entitled to be considered for the best positions of excellence in the Kerala State Awards For Malayalam Films and Writings On Cinema, 2022.
His plea is seeking an order to "set aside declaration of Kerala State Awards For Malayalam Films & Writings On Cinema 2022 dated 21-07-2023...(and) a direction or order directing the respondents 1&5 (Directorate of culture and Kerala police) to conduct an enquiry and take appropriate action against the 3rd respondent (Ranjith)."
In the petition, Mullezhath cited the recent allegations of popular filmmaker Vinayan against Ranjith, which accused him of influencing the award committee.
Vinayan had alleged that Ranjith misused his power as Academy Chairman and tried to prevent his latest movie Pathonpatham Noottandu from receiving major awards.
By releasing a purported voice clip of Nemom Pushparaj, one of the jury members who allegedly confirmed the interference of Ranjith in the award selection process,
Vinayan had also challenged the chairman to refute the charges. -- PTI
16:47 Manipur: 42 SITs to probe cases not with CBI
The Supreme Court on Monday said that it proposes to pass order that there will be 42 Special Investigation Teams (SIT) to look into cases in connection with Manipur violence which have not been transferred to Central Bureau of Investigation.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said cases have been transferred to the CBI, but to ensure faith in the rule of law, it is proposing to direct that there shall be five officers of rank at least Deputy SP who will be brought into CBI from various states.
"These officers will also be functioning within the four corners of the infrastructure and administrative structure of CBI. There will be 42 SITs looking at cases that have not been transferred to CBI," the top court said.
SITs already probing matters which are not transferred to CBI will supervised by six DIG level officers brought from outside Manipur.
The top court said it contemplates to appoint a committee of three former High Court judges which will look into the investigation, relief, remedial measures, compensation, rehabilitation, etc.
"The Committee of three former judges will be headed by Justice Gita Mittal, and also comprise Justice Shalini Joshi, Justice Asha Menon," the apex court said. -- ANI
16:14 Manipur: SC sets up panel of 3 women ex-judges
As Manipur sank deeper in ethnic violence, the Supreme Court on Monday announced setting up of a committee of three former women high court judges to look into relief and rehabilitation of those affected.
A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said the committee will be headed by former Jammu and Kashmir High Court Chief Justice Gita Mittal and include Justices (retd) Shalini P Joshi and Asha Menon.
The bench, also comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, said the effort of the apex court is to restore a sense of confidence and faith in the rule of law in the state. It said besides the judicial panel that will oversee relief and rehabilitation efforts among other things, senior police officers will be asked to supervise the investigation in criminal cases to be probed by the state SITs.
The bench said a detailed order will be uploaded on the apex court website later in the evening.
During the hearing, Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh appeared before the bench to answer queries on the ethnic violence and the steps taken by the administration so far to check it, besides the segregation of cases for the purpose of effective investigation.
Attorney General R Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and the state government, submitted a report, which the apex court had sought on August 1, on issues including the segregation of cases.
"The government is handling the situation at a very mature level," the attorney general told the bench. The government law officers said the state government proposed to set up Special Investigation Teams (SITs), headed by the superintendent of police at the district level, to probe sensitive cases. The CBI has been asked to investigate 11 cases. On August 1, the top court had said there was a complete breakdown of law and order and constitutional machinery in Manipur.
15:54 AAP+ Congress to contest Lok Sabha polls in...
Aam Aadmi Party's Gujarat unit chief Isudan Gadhvi on Monday caused a flutter by saying the AAP and the Congress will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Gujarat under a seat-sharing formula as both the parties are members of the opposition INDIA alliance.
Responding to Gadhvi's statement, the Congress said the party will abide by the directions of Central leadership.
The Bharatiya Janata Party said the likely tie-up between AAP and Congress will not affect the ruling party's poll prospects and dubbed AAP the "B team" of Congress.
"Both AAP and Congress are part of the INDIA alliance. This poll alliance will also be implemented in Gujarat. Though the talks of a tie-up are still at the primary level, it is sure that both AAP and Congress will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Gujarat under a seat-sharing formula.
"If everything goes as planned, I guarantee that BJP will not be able to win all 26 seats in Gujarat this time," Gadhvi told reporters.
He said the Arvind Kejriwal-led party has joined the INDIA bloc to defeat BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. "AAP's Gujarat unit has already started doing research about seats on which the party can field candidates," Gadhvi said.
Responding to the sudden announcement by the Gujarat AAP chief, the Congress said the final call will be taken by the Central leadership.
"I have just learned about his announcement. Seat-sharing agreements with other parties are finalised by the central leadership. It is their prerogative to decide pre-poll tie-ups. State leadership will discuss this issue when it is raised by the central leadership.
"Gujarat Congress will follow the directions of our national leaders in this regard," Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi told media persons. The BJP has downplayed Gadhvi's announcement.
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15:30 Delhi services bill introduced in Rajya Sabha
A bill to replace an ordinance promulgated for handling the transfers and postings of senior officers in the Delhi government was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on Monday Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 for consideration after the Upper House, which was adjourned earlier in the pre-lunch session, reassembled at 2 pm.
The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha last week. The ordinance was promulgated by the central government on May 19, a week after the Supreme Court handed over the control of services in Delhi excluding police, public order and land to the elected government, headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
The Delhi government had approached the Supreme Court for staying the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, promulgated on May 19. However, the Supreme Court last month refused to grant an interim stay on the Centre's ordinance on control over services in Delhi.
It referred the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, to a Constitution bench. In the discussion, Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi opposed the legislation saying it is a "retrogressive bill" that is "completely unconstitutional".
He also said it is a "frontal assault on the people of Delhi and violates federalism".
On the other hand, Sudhanshu Trivedi of the BJP rebutted the claims of the Opposition and defended the bill. He said the ordinance and subsequently the bill required considering how the AAP government in Delhi undertook "rampant large-scale bureaucratic transfers" after the Supreme Court judgement.
The National Capital Civil Services Authority will consists of the chief minister, chief secretary and the principal home secretary of Delhi. The bill empowers the Authority to make recommendations to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor regarding transfers and postings of officials and disciplinary matters. -- PTI
15:09 Actor Vijay Raghavendra's wife Spandana dies in Bangkok
Prominent Kannada film actor-director Vijay Raghavendra's wife Spandana died in Bangkok on Monday, the family said.
Spandana (44) had gone on a trip to Thailand's capital with her cousins, and Raghavendra too had joined them after completing his shooting schedules. "Last night she went to sleep and did not get up in the morning. We believe it (death) is due to (complications arising from) low blood pressure, Sri Murali told reporters, quoting his brother Raghavendra who called him up from Bangkok.
Spandana is the daughter of retired police officer B K Shivaram and niece of Congress MLC B K Hariprasad. She had acted in a movie Apoorva', making a guest appearance. Hariprasad said: Spandana did not get up in the morning. They are saying it's a heart attack". Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and several others expressed shock over her death and offered condolences. PTI
15:00 Manipur violence: SITs to be set up for probe
Update: The Supreme Court on Monday commenced hearing on a batch of petitions pertaining to ethnic violence in Manipur, with the state government proposing to set up SITs headed by district SPs to probe cases.
Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh also appeared before a bench headed by Chief justice D Y Chandrachud to answer queries on the ethnic violence and steps taken by the administration so far, besides the segregation of cases for the purposes of effective investigation.
Attorney General R Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and the state government, submitted the report, sought by the apex court on August 1, on issues including the segregation of cases.
The government is handling the situation at a very mature level, the attorney general told the bench which also comprised justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
They said the state government proposed to set up SITs, headed by the superintendent of police, at district level to probe sensitive cases, besides 11 cases which will be investigated by the CBI. The hearing is underway.
On August 1, the top court said there was a complete breakdown of law and order and constitutional machinery in Manipur. It had rapped the state police for a tardy and lethargic probe of incidents of ethnic violence, especially those targeting women, and had summoned the DGP to answer its queries on August 7.
The Centre had urged the bench that instead of the two FIRs related to a video showing women being paraded naked by a mob, 11 out of 6,523 FIRs linked to violence against women and children may be transferred to the CBI and tried out of Manipur.
The bench is hearing around 10 petitions relating to the violence seeking reliefs, including court-monitored probe, into cases besides measures for rehabilitation and other reliefs. PTI
People head to a relief camp in Manipur.
14:31 Manipur violence: State DGP appears in SC
Supreme Court begins hearing on a batch of pleas relating to ethnic violence in Manipur which has been going on since May.
State DGP Rajiv Singh appears in the Supreme Court to answer queries on ethnic violence and steps taken to curb the violence.
Attorney General R Venkataramani submits a report on the segregation of cases done by the state police. He tells the court that the government is handling the situation in Manipur at a "very mature level".
14:15 No leader like Modi at national level: Ajit Pawar
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday said he does not see any other strong leader like Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the national level today.
Speaking to reporters in Pune, Pawar said some people might be criticising him for his decision to join the Eknath Shinde-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, but a man can have a different opinion on the basis of his "experiences".
Ajit Pawar, the nephew of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) founder Sharad Pawar, joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government along with eight party MLAs on July 2.
On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah during an event in Pune said Ajit Pawar is now at the "right place after a long time", but "came very late". Asked about Shah's comments, Ajit Pawar said he earlier reiterated that he had taken the decision to join the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance to take the state towards development, transform the region, address several issues, and help the elected representatives complete their work in their constituencies.
"Today, I personally do not see any other leader as strong as Narendra Modi at the national level. I do not see any other alternative. Some people criticise me citing my past statements, but a man can have different opinions on the basis of his experiences," he said.
14:02 A statue of letters
Under the Smart City Project, Coimbatore City Corporation sets up a statue of Thiruvalluvar, a well known Indian poet and philosopher made by Tamil letters. It is the first-of-its-kind statue in India. More than 3,000 alphabets were used in this statue.
14:01 India asking for dynasty to 'Quit India': Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said certain people are trying to create roadblocks in making India a developed country, and citizens are now demanding ills, like corruption and appeasement to 'Quit India'.
Speaking on the National Handloom Day celebration at Bharat Mandapam here, the prime minister said a new revolution has come in the country regarding Swadeshi, and urged the citizens to give further push to local products during the forthcoming festivals.
He also said the country is witnessing rise of a 'neo-middle class', which provides a big opportunity to textile companies. In an apparent swipe at the Opposition bloc 'I.N.D.I.A', Modi said the country in one voice is now asking ills like corruption, dynasty politics and appeasement to "Quit India".
Referring to the increasing adoption of Khadi in the country, Modi said the sales have now increased to Rs 1.30 lakh crore from about Rs 25,000-30,000 crore before 2014.
"It is our endeavour to make India's handloom, Khadi, the textile sector a world champion," he said. The prime minister further said through 'One District, One Product' initiative, unique products made in different districts are being promoted, and 'Ekta Malls' are being set up similar to the one at 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat, across the country.
Modi also called upon the textile and fashion industry to expand their scope and work significantly to take India in the world's three top economies. PTI
13:41 Fire in endoscopy room of AIIMS Delhi, all safe
A fire broke out in the endoscopy room on the second floor of the old OPD at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Monday. All patients in the room were evacuated safely, officials said. Visuals from the spot showed black smoke billowing out of the windows.
The fire broke out on the second floor at the old Raj Kumari OPD of the main AIIMS building around 11.55 am, officials said, adding 13 fire tenders were put into service and the blaze was brought under control around 1 pm, officials said. No casualties were reported in the incident, they said.
The officials said the search operating continued in the affected area. The cause of the fire was not immediately known. AIIMS sources said said water from the underground water tank at the hospital was also used to douse the flames. -- PTI
13:36 Dehradun Lit Fest gets a new logo
The Dehradun Literature Festival (DDLF) today unveiled its new logo, a fusion of a butterfly and a book, symbolizing the rich blend of nature and literary heritage in the Doon Valley. The logo was unveiled by Ruskin Bond, the celebrated author and Padma Bhushan awardee, who has also been a mentor and inspiration for many aspiring writers and readers in the Doon Valley and beyond.
Launching the logo, Ruskin Bond said, "It has been a pleasure to see Uttarakhand's own festival grow and create so much love for literature in the community. I congratulate the entire team of Dehradun Literature Festival on the launch of the new logo and wish them great luck for the upcoming edition."
Now in its 7th year, the festival has become an important part of the literary landscape of Dehradun. In fact, the resonance and anticipation of the festival are such that the community considers the Dehradun Literature Festival as their own.
12:56 Rahul Gandhi changes his Twitter bio to...
With his Lok Sabha membership restored, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday changed his Twitter bio to 'Member of Parliament' from the earlier "Dis'Qualified MP" description.
Following his disqualification from the Lok Sabha in March, Gandhi had edited his bio on Twitter to "Dis'Qualified MP".
His status as the MP from Kerala's Wayanad was restored after the Lok Sabha secretariat issued a notification in the wake of the Supreme Court staying on Friday his conviction in a defamation case. His Twitter bio now describes him as a member of the Indian National Congress and Member of Parliament. PTI
File pic
12:30 Cong, Oppn MPs welcome Rahul in Parliament
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was on Monday accorded a warm welcome by Congress and other opposition MPs on his arrival in Parliament after his Lok Sabha membership was restored.
Gandhi reached the Parliament House complex around 12 noon and headed straight to the Mahatma Gandhi statue and paid floral tributes.
Congress MPs and those of the opposition INDIA bloc welcomed him at the gate number one of Parliament raised slogans. Rahul Gandhi's status as the MP from Kerala's Wayanad was restored after the Lok Sabha secretariat issued a notification in the wake of the Supreme Court staying his conviction in a defamation case on Friday.
12:26 Victory of truth! Cong, INDIA party on Rahul in LS
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday said the restoration of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Lok Sabha membership was a "victory of truth".
His reaction came after the Lok Sabha Secretariat issued a notification announcing that Gandhi's disqualification has been revoked and his membership restored.
Rahul Gandhi is likely to deliver a speech during the debate on no-confidence motion likely to be taken up in Lok Sabha on Tuesday.
All Congress MPs want Rahul Gandhi to speak, he said, adding that the party's leader in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, will decide which leaders will speak on the issue.
"The restoration of parliamentary membership of Rahul Gandhi is a victory of truth. Rahul Gandhi's fight and the immense support of the public forced a stubborn government to bow down," Gehlot tweeted. Rahul Gandhi will now be able to again raise the issues of public interest, he said. PTI
11:51 Curfew partially lifted in Nuh, 156 arrests so far
As many as 156 people have been arrested and 56 FIRs registered so far in connection with the violence and rioting at Haryana's Nuh district on Monday, officials said.
With this, six people have been confirmed dead and eighty-eight are injured so far in the district, officials confirmed. District Magistrate, Nuh, on Monday said, "Banks and ATMs will remain open in the district till 3 pm today during the relaxation of the curfew."
The curfew in Haryana's violence-hit Nuh district was lifted for the movement of the public from 9 am to 1 pm on Monday as part of the attempt to restore normalcy.
Earlier on Sunday as well curfew was lifted from 9 am to 12 noon.
Meanwhile, as illegal structures are being razed in the violence-hit Nuh from where stones were allegedly pelted on a religious procession during the clashes, Dhirendra Khadgata on Sunday said that ban on the internet in the district will continue till the situation normalises.
"Ban on the internet will continue for now. Once we will witness changes in the situation we will lift it. An extra one hour has been added to the movement of the public from tomorrow when the Curfew will be lifted," said Dhirendra Khadgata.
Rahul Gandhi with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and KC Venugopal. File pic
11:47 'Whole of Wayanad is very happy'
N D Appachan, President, District Congress Committee, Wayanad, speaking to Rediff.com this morning said, "We are very happy with the news of Rahul Gandhi's return to the Lok Sabha. The whole of Wayanad is very happy!
"He will come to Wayanad on Saturday (August 12) and we will hold a big public meeting on 12th or 13th at 3 pm to celebrate."
Asked if Rahul will win the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Wayanad, Appachan said, "He will win with an even bigger majority than 2019."
A RAF battalion in Haryana
11:29 Mazar burnt in Gurugram, Hindu caretaker files FIR
A mazar at a village in Gurugram was set on fire by some unidentified people in the early hours of Monday, police said.
According to a complaint filed by caretaker Ghasite Ram, a native of the Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh, it was all normal at the mazar in the Khandsa village when he left for home in the Feroz Gandhi Colony from the mazar at 8:30 pm Sunday.
"Around 01.30 am, I received a phone call from somebody living near the mazar that it has been set afire by some unknown people," he said in a complaint filed at the Sector 37 police station. He said the fire was brought under control with the help of people.
"But when I went there and saw, offerings kept inside the door of the mazar were burnt down. What I have come to know is that a group of 5-6 young boys gathered there and set the mazar on fire," he said in the FIR.
He said this has hurt the faith of the people and "can cause riots in society". "Action should be taken against the accused," he demanded. Ram said he has been working at the mazar for about seven years and has seen "people of all religions offering their respect there."
"This is a decades-old mazar of peer baba and all villagers worship here. It might be some outsiders who set the mazar on fire," he told PTI on Monday morning. This comes even as section 144 is imposed in Gurugram after communal clashes that began in the neighbouring Nuh district spread to parts of Gurugram last week.
11:10 SC dismisses pleas of Senthil Balaji, wife against his arrest
The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed pleas of Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji and his wife Megala challenging the Madras High Court order upholding his arrest in a money laundering case.
A bench of Justices A S Bopanna and M M Sundresh also referred to a large bench the issue that police custody is not permissible beyond first 15 days of remand. Balaji, who continues to be a minister without portfolio in the Tamil Nadu government even after his arrest on June 14, and his wife assailed a Madras High Court order upholding his arrest by the probe agency in a money laundering case arising out of the alleged cash-for-jobs scam in the state's transport department. PTI
10:52 INDIA leaders celebrate Rahul's LS membership
I.N.D.I.A alliance leaders celebrate following restoration of Lok Sabha membership of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
The Lok Sabha Secretariat on Monday restored the membership of Rahul Gandhi after the Supreme Court on August 4 stayed his conviction in the 'Modi' surname remark case.
The Congress leader who was disqualified from the lower house in March 2023 was reinstated as the Wayanad MP.
10:42 Rahul Gandhi's Lok Sabha membership restored
Update: The Lok Sabha membership of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was restored on Monday. The Lok Sabha Secretariat issued a notification announcing that his disqualification has been revoked and his membership restored.
Gandhi was disqualified as a Lok Sabha member on March 23 after a Gujarat court convicted him in a defamation case and sentenced him to two years in jail.
A punishment for two years and above automatically disqualifies a lawmaker. The Supreme Court on Friday last stayed his conviction, paving the way for restoration of his Lok Sabha membership. He represents Wayanad in the upper house. PTI
10:35 Rahul Gandhi's disqualification as LS MP revoked
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's disqualification as Lok Sabha member revoked: Notification.
10:20 Gyanvapi survey: 'Muslim side fully cooperating'
As the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) continues its scientific survey of the Gyanvapi complex, an advocate representing the Hindu side, said on account of the fifth Monday of the ongoing 'Sawan'month, there could be a small delay in starting the survey today.
Today is the fourth day of the ongoing survey by ASI. "Survey work is under progress. Anjuman Intezamia Committee is also cooperating with the survey. There can be a little delay to start the survey as today is the fifth Monday of 'Sawan' month," said Sudhir Tripathi, an advocate representing the Hindu side.
Another advocate, Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, representing the Hindu side in the case, said, "ASI is conducting the survey in a systematic and scientific manner.
Measurements are being done, it will take some time. They will submit the report to the court after the survey is completed.
"While talking to the reporters in Varanasi on Sunday, advocate representing the Hindu side, Vishnu Shankar Jain, said that the Muslim side has followed the court's order and has fully cooperated with the survey.
"The ASI is doing its work smoothly. The Muslim side has followed the court's order and has fully cooperated with the survey. Every modern technique is being used for the survey. In the future also the work will continue according to the court's order," he said.
10:10 The Dissident
Umar Khalid challenged Modi's anti-Muslim agenda. India accused him of terrorism and locked him up. Read the report here.
10:06 MS Aiyar's book launch on August 23
Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's first volume of his memoirs, titled 'Memoirs of a Maverick: The First Fifty Years (1941-1991)' is being launched at the IIC's Multipurpose Hall at 6 pm on Wednesday, 23 August.
The book will be available at bookstores around the country from Monday, 21 August onwards.
There are two volumes to follow: The companion volume, "The Rajiv I Knew, and Why He Was India's Most Misunderstood Prime Minister," and the second volume of my memoirs tentatively titled, " A Half-life in Politicas: 1991-2016-?".
File pic
09:56 2 terrorist likely killed along LoC in Poonch
Update: Two terrorist are believed to have been killed in a gunfight after Army troops guarding the Line of Control (LoC) scuttled an infiltration attempt from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district early Monday, officials said.
Troops in Degwar sector noticed the movement of some terrorists attempting to sneak into this side under the cover of darkness in the early hours of the day and engaged them in an encounter, the officials said.
They said two terrorists are believed to have been killed in the gunfight but their bodies are yet to be retrieved from the scene. Jammu-based defence PRO Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the two infiltrating terrorists were engaged by the joint team of Army and police in Garhi Battalion area around 2 am.
One terrorist fell down immediately while the second terrorist tried to run back to LoC. He was engaged and hit and was seen falling down on the ground, the officer said. The movement of the terrorists was picked up in the general area Degwar Terva, he said, adding the operation is in progress and further details are awaited. PTI
09:42 Manipur tribal body leaders to meet Shah in Delhi
Representatives of an influential tribal group from Manipur will fly to Delhi on Monday to attend a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss the prevailing situation in the strife-torn northeastern state, sources said.
The delegation of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), a body representing various Zo ethnic groups in Manipur, responded to an invitation extended by Shah.
The ITLF leaders reached the Mizoram capital from Churachandpur in Manipur and will fly to Delhi from Lengpui airport near here.
Chief Minister Zoramthanga, on his Instagram account, expressed hope that the talks will yield results. He said that the ITLF leaders held a day-long discussion on Saturday and consulted him on whether to respond to the invitation or not.
"I suggested they accept the invitation. I told them that it is a good opportunity to have a face-to-face discussion with the Home Minister," Zoramthanga said on his official Instagram handle. After careful consideration, the ITLF leaders unanimously agreed to meet Shah. Shah had earlier extended an invitation to the group to hold a meeting with him in the national capital to discuss the situation in Manipur.
Despite repeated attempts, leaders of ITLF could not be contacted for comments. Ethnic clashes broke out between Kukis and Meiteis in Manipur in May, and have been continuing for the last three months, claiming over 160 lives. PTI
09:32 Data protection bill can have adverse impact on press freedom: Editors Guild
The Editors Guild of India has expressed concerns over certain provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill, saying they can have an adverse impact on press freedom.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Guild said the DPDP Bill creates an enabling framework for the surveillance of citizens, including journalists and their sources.
The Guild has asked Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer the Bill to a parliamentary standing committee. It has also written about its concerns on the Bill to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and leaders of political parties in Parliament.
The government tabled the DPDP Bill in Lok Sabha on August 3. The proposed legislation aims to protect the privacy of Indian citizens by suggesting a penalty of up to Rs 250 crore on entities for misusing or failing to protect digital data of individuals.
The Bill comes six years after the Supreme Court held that right to privacy is a fundamental right.
Under Section 36 of the DPDP Bill, the Guild said, the government can ask any public or private entity (data fiduciary) to furnish personal information of citizens, including journalists and their sources.
It also voiced concerns over clause 17(2)(a) that allows the Union government to issue a notification exempting any "instrumentality of the State" from the provisions of this Bill, thereby keeping them out of the ambit of data protection restrictions, including internal sharing and processing of data.
Section 17(4) allows the government and its instrumentalities to retain personal data for an unlimited period of time, it added.
"We note, with dismay, that while the Bill, ostensibly to promote data protection, has failed to make any provisions that bring about the surveillance reform that is urgently needed, and in fact creates an enabling framework for surveillance of citizens, including journalists and their sources," the Guild said. -- PTI
09:30 Police, goons threatening Congress members to join TMC in Bengal: Adhir
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Sunday wrote to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that his party's victorious candidates in the panchayat polls are being threatened by the police and goons, compelling them to join the ruling TMC.
He urged Banerjee to look into the matter and take preventive steps before the formation of the panchayat boards.
"Despite violence (in West Bengal during the panchayat polls), wherever Congress candidates have won, police/political leaders/goons are threatening them by slapping murder and other charges, thus compelling them to save their lives through surrender by accepting TMC membership.
"If this goes on unchecked, it is bound to assume in the days to come a monstrous dimension, which will tell upon the democratic health of the nation as well as that of West Bengal," Chowdhury said in his two-page letter.
Chowdhury, the Bengal Congress president, also alleged that the insatiable thirst of TMC activits for more power and lucre is instrumental in shaping the concept of the monocratic rule in the state.
"Is this a civilised way of winning elections in the state of West Bengal, where you are the honourable chief minister for more than a decade! I would sincerely request you to desist from using police and goons by torturing, terrorising and forcing other parties' candidates and supporters to monopolise TMC's dominance," he added.
The last date for forming the panchayat boards is August 16, a state government official said. -- PTI
08:49 Delhi services bill to come up in in RS today
With the Delhi services bill set to be taken up in Rajya Sabha on Monday, the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party have issued whips to their MPs asking them to be present in the Upper House till its adjournment.
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, has already been passed by Lok Sabha.
Jairam Ramesh, the Congress' chief whip in the Upper House, issued a three-line whip on August 4, saying that "very important issues will be taken up for discussion in Rajya Sabha on Monday i.e. August 7, 2023".
"All members of Congress Party in Rajya Sabha are requested to kindly remain present in the House from 11 am onwards till the adjournment of the House on Monday, August 7, 2023, without fail and support the party stand," the chief whip said.
This may be treated as most important, Ramesh added.
On Sunday, a reminder was also sent to the party's MPs in Rajya Sabha.
"Be present positively in Rajya Sabha from 10:45 am onwards till the adjournment of the House on Monday i.e. August 7, 2023, and support the party stand, as important items of Legislative Business will be taken up for voting. Three-line whip in this regard has already been issued," the reminder said.
The AAP also issued a whip to all its MPs, asking them to be present in the Rajya Sabha on Monday and Tuesday.
In May, the Centre had promulgated the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, that effectively nullified a Supreme Court judgment that handed over control of "services" in the NCT administration to the Delhi government. -- PTI
08:18 Army foils infiltration bid in JK; 1 terrorist killed
A terrorist was gunned down in a gunfight as Army troops guarding the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday scuttled an infiltration attempt from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, officials said.
The alert troops in Degwar sector noticed the movement of some terrorists attempting to sneak into this side under the cover of darkness in the early hours of the day and engaged them in an encounter, the officials said.
They said one terrorist was gunned down but his body was yet to be retrieved from the scene.
Jammu-based defence PRO Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said an army ambush party established contact with terrorists in Garhi battalion area around 2 am.
"Two individuals were observed moving across LoC in the general area Degwar Terva. In the ensuing firefight, one terrorist was seen dropping while the second moved towards Pintu Nala," the officer said.
The whole area was cordoned off and a search operation is underway, officials said, adding further details are awaited. -- PTI
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