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Gujarat: Man held for sexually assaulting minor, extorting valuables worth Rs 46 lakh through photo threats Valsad (Gujarat), Nov 2 (IANS) A 21-year-old man was arrested by Gujarat’s Dungri police in Valsad district for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl, threatening to circulate photographs of the incident and extorting Rs 2.61 lakh in cash and gold ornaments worth around Rs 43.48 lakh from her, police said on Monday. The accused, identified as Dhruvil Patel, a resident of Shankartalav Mandir Faliya in Valsad, was arrested on October 29, approximately 10 days after the girl’s family lodged a complaint on October 19. According to the complaint, Patel allegedly lured the girl away from her guardians on August 31 and September 26 and took her to Hotel Aamantran on Tithal Road in Valsad. “He sexually assaulted her against her wishes and took photographs of the incident. He subsequently threatened to circulate the photographs and defame her, using them to intimidate her into arranging money and valuables from her home,” officials said. Police said the accused allegedly obtained Rs 2.61 lakh in cash on different occasions and various gold ornaments weighing approximately 32.4 tolas, valued at Rs 43.48 lakh. Following the registration of a case under Sections 308(2), 64(2)(m) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Sections 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a team led by Dungri Police Inspector U H Patel began efforts to trace the accused using technical analysis and human intelligence. Police said Assistant Sub-Inspector Hirenbhai Patel received a tip-off about the accused, following which a team was dispatched to the location and apprehended him. He was subsequently brought to Dungri police station and arrested on October 29. During police remand, investigators recovered gold ornaments weighing approximately 15.33 tolas, valued at Rs 19.54 lakh, along with Rs 5,000 in cash and a mobile phone worth Rs 5,000. A SIM card and a diary were also seized. The total value of the recovered property was estimated at Rs 19.64 lakh. The operation was carried out under the supervision of senior officials. Further investigation is underway. –IANS mys/uk

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Gujarat: Man held for sexually assaulting minor, extorting valuables worth Rs 46 lakh through photo threats Valsad

Gujarat Nov 2 (IANS): A 21-year-old man was arrested by Gujarat’s Dungri police in Valsad district for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl, threatening to circulate photographs of the incident and extorting Rs 2.61 lakh in cash and gold ornaments worth around Rs 43.48 lakh from her, police said on Monday. The accused, identified as Dhruvil Patel, a resident of Shankartalav Mandir Faliya in Valsad, was arrested on October 29, approximately 10 days after the girl’s family lodged a complaint on October 19. According to the complaint, Patel allegedly lured the girl away from her guardians on August 31 and September 26 and took her to Hotel Aamantran on Tithal Road in Valsad. “He sexually assaulted her against her wishes and took photographs of the incident.

He subsequently threatened to circulate the photographs and defame her, using them to intimidate her into arranging money and valuables from her home,” officials said. Police said the accused allegedly obtained Rs 2.61 lakh in cash on different occasions and various gold ornaments weighing approximately 32.4 tolas, valued at Rs 43.48 lakh.

Following the registration of a case under Sections 308(2), 64(2)(m) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Sections 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a team led by Dungri Police Inspector U H Patel began efforts to trace the accused using technical analysis and human intelligence. Police said Assistant Sub-Inspector Hirenbhai Patel received a tip-off about the accused, following which a team was dispatched to the location and apprehended him.

He was subsequently brought to Dungri police station and arrested on October 29. During police remand, investigators recovered gold ornaments weighing approximately 15.33 tolas, valued at Rs 19.54 lakh, along with Rs 5,000 in cash and a mobile phone worth Rs 5,000. A SIM card and a diary were also seized. The total value of the recovered property was estimated at Rs 19.64 lakh. The operation was carried out under the supervision of senior officials. Further investigation is underway. –IANS mys/uk

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Delhi L-G inspects DDA’s Narela flats, land for education hub New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Delhi Lieutenant Governor and DDA Chairman T.S. Sandhu on Monday visited Narela to inspect the housing authority’s flats and other facilities in the neighbourhood. In a message on X, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Visited Narela to review key development initiatives being undertaken by @official_dda.” “Inspected DDA’s ready-to-move flats, reaffirming our commitment to providing quality, affordable housing in Delhi. Also reviewed land allotted to State universities in Sectors G7/G8 for an integrated education hub, and the preparedness of Sector 8B (Zone P-II) – the first sector under the Land Pooling Policy,” wrote Sandhu. “These initiatives will drive planned, sustainable growth and strengthen Narela’s role in shaping a #ViksitDilli,” said Sandhu. Earlier, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) received an overwhelming public response to its housing scheme offering over 2,500 LIG flats in Narela. Buoyed by the enthusiastic response from home buyers, the DDA decided to offer 1,648 additional LIG flats in Narela under the Awaas Nivesh Yojana 2026 from October 29, an official said. Additional flats in Pocket 1, Sectors G2–G6, Narela, were offered at a flat 25 per cent discount, at approximately Rs 14.95 lakh per flat, the official said. Online booking for this lot of flats commenced on October 29 at noon through DDA’s Awaas Portal, a statement said. The earlier offering under the scheme witnessed tremendous public interest, with the flats being booked within two hours of the commencement of booking. This strong demand reflects the growing confidence of homebuyers in DDA’s affordable housing initiatives. Launched under the guidance of Delhi Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and DDA Chairman T.S. Sandhu, the scheme reaffirms DDA’s commitment to providing quality and planned housing opportunities to citizens, said the statement. The additional flats located in Pocket 1, Sectors G2–G6, Narela, have an approximate plinth area of 49.90 square metres each, including common areas. The flats will be allotted on a First Come, First Served (FCFS) basis, the DDA said. Narela is emerging as a promising residential destination, supported by planned urban infrastructure and improving connectivity. Key transport infrastructure includes the upcoming Delhi Metro station on the Rithala–Narela–Kundli corridor, a proposed Narela Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) station, and road connectivity through Urban Extension Road (UER)-I, UER-II and GT Karnal Road, the statement said. The area is also set to benefit from an upcoming Education Hub in Sectors G2–G6, where land has been allotted to multiple universities, the statement said. Sports infrastructure includes the Narela Sports Complex in Sector A-7 and a proposed Multi-Sports Integrated Stadium. Planned green spaces and civic amenities further enhance the area’s long-term residential potential, said the DDA. –IANS rch/dan
November 2, 2026
Gujarat: Man held for sexually assaulting minor, extorting valuables worth Rs 46 lakh through photo threats Valsad (Gujarat), Nov 2 (IANS) A 21-year-old man was arrested by Gujarat’s Dungri police in Valsad district for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl, threatening to circulate photographs of the incident and extorting Rs 2.61 lakh in cash and gold ornaments worth around Rs 43.48 lakh from her, police said on Monday. The accused, identified as Dhruvil Patel, a resident of Shankartalav Mandir Faliya in Valsad, was arrested on October 29, approximately 10 days after the girl’s family lodged a complaint on October 19. According to the complaint, Patel allegedly lured the girl away from her guardians on August 31 and September 26 and took her to Hotel Aamantran on Tithal Road in Valsad. “He sexually assaulted her against her wishes and took photographs of the incident. He subsequently threatened to circulate the photographs and defame her, using them to intimidate her into arranging money and valuables from her home,” officials said. Police said the accused allegedly obtained Rs 2.61 lakh in cash on different occasions and various gold ornaments weighing approximately 32.4 tolas, valued at Rs 43.48 lakh. Following the registration of a case under Sections 308(2), 64(2)(m) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Sections 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a team led by Dungri Police Inspector U H Patel began efforts to trace the accused using technical analysis and human intelligence. Police said Assistant Sub-Inspector Hirenbhai Patel received a tip-off about the accused, following which a team was dispatched to the location and apprehended him. He was subsequently brought to Dungri police station and arrested on October 29. During police remand, investigators recovered gold ornaments weighing approximately 15.33 tolas, valued at Rs 19.54 lakh, along with Rs 5,000 in cash and a mobile phone worth Rs 5,000. A SIM card and a diary were also seized. The total value of the recovered property was estimated at Rs 19.64 lakh. The operation was carried out under the supervision of senior officials. Further investigation is underway. –IANS mys/uk
November 2, 2026
Congress and Rahul Gandhi plotting against the Constitution: Maha CM Mumbai, Nov 2 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congress party and Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of orchestrating an international conspiracy to bring about a “regime change” and undermine the Indian Constitution. Addressing a Save Democracy and Constitution rally, CM Fadnavis stated that the country wants Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm and that the ruling alliance has taken to the streets to protect democracy. “This fight is not against Modi, the BJP, or the NDA; it is a hidden war. As long as the sun and the moon exist, the Constitution must remain, regardless of differences in ideology. Join us in this battle,” the Chief Minister urged. Accusing the Congress of trying to establish an “ultra-leftist system,” he remarked, “Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar has taught us how to protect democracy, but Rahul Gandhi wants to build an ultra-leftist setup.” Targeting Rahul Gandhi directly over his lineage and political standing, CM Fadnavis said, “This is India, and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution is here. Your grandmother [Indira Gandhi] tried; she was strong and a leader, but she couldn’t destroy it. Who are you, Rahul Gandhi?” He emphasised that the ongoing battle is not for the BJP, but for the safeguarding of the nation’s Constitution, calling on citizens to resolve not to stop until the current crisis is averted. CM Fadnavis alleged that Congress and its associates are organising daily protests under an international conspiracy to alter India’s Constitution and dismantle constitutional frameworks. “Political restructuring to change the Constitution and overhaul all national institutions is what they call ‘regime change,'” he said. Citing examples of neighbouring countries, the Chief Minister noted, “Regime changes and constitutional alterations took place in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. When asked four times, they openly admitted they want a regime change. Even Uddhav Thackeray—whether he understands the meaning or not—also spoke of regime change. As long as there is a drop of blood in our veins, we will not let regime change happen. We will not allow a crisis on democracy or permit the Constitution to be tampered with.” CM Fadnavis accused Congress of repeatedly trampling upon democracy and the Constitution. Recalling the Emergency era, he mentioned that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s election was declared invalid by the Supreme Court. “She could remain Prime Minister, but she could not speak or vote in the Lok Sabha. Yet, backed by brute majority, the Congress party claimed that the Prime Minister is above the Constitution.” He further claimed that Congress diluted fundamental rights in 1976 by freezing them and barring citizens from approaching the Supreme Court. It was only in 1977, under Morarji Desai and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, that constitutional amendments brought the Prime Minister under the purview of the Constitution and restored fundamental rights, he added. “Their intentions are not new; they have meddled with the Constitution multiple times. Now, Indira Gandhi’s grandson has resumed that very work. It is old wine in a new bottle,” CM Fadnavis quipped. Taking a strong stance on the red-colored booklets displayed by the opposition, CM Fadnavis said, “They carry a red Constitution; we have only known the blue one. That red book is the same one used to trigger regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, and to create anarchy in France and Denmark. They show a book of the Constitution, but there is nothing inside it.” CM Fadnavis also criticised attacks on constitutional institutions like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), election commissions, and the Supreme Court, stating that staging marches against these institutions instead of seeking legal recourse is unprecedented in the country. Expressing dismay over the silence of intellectuals, he remarked, “It is surprising that intellectuals have nothing to say. What kind of intellectuals are these? They are commercial, constantly crying that ‘democracy is in danger’ and chattering against PM Modi.” He concluded by alleging that their ultimate attempt is to dismantle the Constitution if institutions fail to rule in their favour. –IANS sj/dan
November 2, 2026
Delhi HC stays JNU’s order dismissing Congress MP Akoijam over sexual harassment allegations New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) The Delhi High Court on Monday granted interim relief to Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam by staying the operation of Jawaharlal Nehru University’s (JNU) order dismissing him from service following an inquiry into sexual harassment allegations levelled by 11 female students. A single-judge Bench of Justice Anup J. Bhambhani passed the interim order while hearing Akoijam’s plea challenging his dismissal from the university. The High Court also issued notice to JNU and listed the matter for further hearing in January. Meanwhile, Akoijam has approached the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi seeking anticipatory bail in connection with a case registered against him by the Delhi Police. The court is scheduled to hear his anticipatory bail plea on Tuesday. The developments come amid allegations of sexual harassment levelled against Akoijam – the Congress MP from Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency. According to the university’s order dated October 9, JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree D. Pandit had ordered Akoijam’s dismissal from service with immediate effect following an inquiry conducted by the university’s Internal Committee. The university had stated that the disciplinary action was taken on the basis of the committee’s findings and after following due process under the applicable service rules. The complaints against Akoijam were submitted by 11 female students in May this year, following which the university’s Internal Committee conducted an inquiry and found the allegations to be true. Akoijam had subsequently been dismissed from service on October 9. On October 15, Akoijam had appeared before the Delhi Police at the Vasant Kunj North police station in response to a summons to join the investigation. Describing the developments as a “political matter”, the Congress MP had said that he had appeared to cooperate with the investigation and did not want his absence to be construed as a lack of cooperation with the police. –IANS pds/vd
November 2, 2026
FS Misri travels to Kathmandu this week as Nepal and India set stage for Balendra Shah’s New Delhi visit Kathmandu, Nov 2 (IANS) Nepal and India on Monday simultaneously announced that Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri would visit Kathmandu on November 4-5, a visit expected to lay the groundwork for Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s upcoming trip to India. Prime Minister Shah is expected to visit New Delhi later this month, according to officials at the Prime Minister’s Office and Nepal’s Foreign Ministry. Separate statements issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday said that Misri will hold bilateral talks with Nepal’s Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai during his two-day official visit. “The two sides will review the full range of Nepal-India relations and exchange views on matters of mutual interest, with a view to further strengthening the long-standing, close and friendly ties between the two countries,” Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. Misri is also scheduled to pay courtesy calls on senior Nepali dignitaries, the ministry said. India’s MEA said the visit would cover bilateral, regional and global matters of mutual interest. “India and Nepal share strong and friendly ties which have seen substantial progress across diverse areas of cooperation,” it said “The Foreign Secretary’s upcoming visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and will help further enhance the comprehensive bilateral partnership.” During the visit, the two sides are expected to discuss the potential agenda for Prime Minister Shah’s upcoming trip to New Delhi. Nepali officials said Nepal aimed to make Shah’s visit meaningful by securing tangible progress on several issues on which it was seeking India’s cooperation. “Nepal will seek a substantial assistance package from India in the wake of the devastation caused by the August 26 floods. Nepal also wants notable progress on issues including the settlement of the border dispute, revision of the trade treaty and additional air entry points for international flights via India, among others,” a Nepali Foreign Ministry official said. The two sides are also expected to inaugurate several projects involving bilateral cooperation during Prime Minister Shah’s proposed visit. New Delhi had initially planned to send Misri to Kathmandu in the second week of May to engage with the new government after the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) formed a government under Shah’s leadership. However, the proposed visit was postponed, with protocol issues cited as a reason. –IANS scor/as
November 2, 2026
36-hour shutdown hits life in Arunachal districts; Congress demands scrapping of mega dam project Itanagar, Nov 2 (IANS) Normal life was disrupted in parts of Arunachal Pradesh on Monday as a 36-hour shutdown called by several organisations to protest against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) affected business establishments, educational institutions and public transport in the region. The impact of the shutdown was particularly visible in Upper Siang district, where several schools, government offices, shops and markets remained closed. Public transport, including buses, stayed off the roads, while protesters reportedly burnt tyres at several locations as part of the demonstration. The bandh was called by the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) and the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Affected Area Youth Association (SAAYA) across Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts. However, its impact varied across the region. While Upper Siang was severely affected and East Siang witnessed some disruption, normal activities continued in Siang district. Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner-com-District Magistrate Ashok Tajo said that many government offices and educational institutions remained closed, while shops and commercial establishments were shut, particularly in Yingkiong and Geku. Tajo, under section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, declared the 36-hour shutdown as illegal. “Such bandh call causes untold misery, hardship and disruption to the general public, including daily wage earners, school and college students, patients requiring emergency medical service, business establishments and daily commuters. Past instances of such shutdowns have led to breaches of peace, public tranquillity and potential damage or destruction to public and private properties,” the DM’s order said. On the other hand, a senior police official of Siang District said there was no impact of the bandh in the district, with government offices, schools and shops functioning normally. The protesting organisations are demanding the fulfilment of their charter of demands, which includes the immediate release of arrested demonstrators, withdrawal of additional security forces from the affected areas and suspension of ongoing survey activities for the proposed mega hydropower project. Meanwhile, the opposition Arunachal Pradesh Congress has strongly opposed the proposed project and demanded its scrapping, along with the immediate release of all those arrested during protests against the dam. A Congress leader said that no development initiative should be undertaken at the cost of indigenous communities’ ancestral land, identity, culture and livelihood. It stressed that the prior consent of people likely to be affected by the project must be obtained before proceeding with its implementation. The party also expressed concern over the arrest of protesters, suspension of government employees and alleged action against gaon buras (village headmen) who have opposed the project. Among its key demands, the APCC sought the withdrawal of cases registered under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, revocation of suspension orders against government employees, withdrawal of cases against gaon buras and removal of additional security personnel from the proposed project-affected areas. It further demanded adequate compensation for those who suffered losses and medical assistance and rehabilitation for protesters injured during the agitation. Calling for unity among indigenous organisations, student unions, youth groups, civil society bodies and traditional institutions, the Congress urged the state government and the Centre to resolve the issue through dialogue and confidence-building measures. It also appealed to all sections of society to continue the movement through peaceful and democratic means. Arunachal Pradesh Congress president Bosiram Siram, earlier referring to the concerns raised by local agitating organisations, claimed that the proposed SUMP could lead to the submergence of 27 villages following the construction of the dam. The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, envisaged as one of India’s largest hydropower initiatives, has faced sustained opposition from sections of the indigenous Adi community, particularly residents of areas likely to be affected by the project. The opposition is largely driven by concerns over the possible submergence of ancestral villages, displacement of local communities, loss of agricultural land and forests, and disruption of traditional livelihoods and cultural practices. According to reports, around 27 villages could be submerged, while several dozen others may also face adverse impacts. However, the project holds considerable strategic importance for the Centre, particularly in view of China’s proposed massive hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, which enters India as the Siang. With opposition gathering momentum and political parties joining the movement, the proposed mega project has emerged as a major point of contention in Arunachal Pradesh, bringing issues of development, environmental protection, indigenous rights and national strategic interests into sharp focus. Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on a number of occasions said that the state government remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders, including community organisations, student bodies, civil society groups and individuals who have expressed concerns over the project. As part of the consultation process, the Chief Minister also held separate all-party meetings of legislators and the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) and various Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and discussed the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) and assessed the viability of the proposed mega project. –IANS sc/uk
November 2, 2026

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Delhi L-G inspects DDA’s Narela flats, land for education hub New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Delhi Lieutenant Governor and DDA Chairman T.S. Sandhu on Monday visited Narela to inspect the housing authority’s flats and other facilities in the neighbourhood. In a message on X, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Visited Narela to review key development initiatives being undertaken by @official_dda.” “Inspected DDA’s ready-to-move flats, reaffirming our commitment to providing quality, affordable housing in Delhi. Also reviewed land allotted to State universities in Sectors G7/G8 for an integrated education hub, and the preparedness of Sector 8B (Zone P-II) – the first sector under the Land Pooling Policy,” wrote Sandhu. “These initiatives will drive planned, sustainable growth and strengthen Narela’s role in shaping a #ViksitDilli,” said Sandhu. Earlier, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) received an overwhelming public response to its housing scheme offering over 2,500 LIG flats in Narela. Buoyed by the enthusiastic response from home buyers, the DDA decided to offer 1,648 additional LIG flats in Narela under the Awaas Nivesh Yojana 2026 from October 29, an official said. Additional flats in Pocket 1, Sectors G2–G6, Narela, were offered at a flat 25 per cent discount, at approximately Rs 14.95 lakh per flat, the official said. Online booking for this lot of flats commenced on October 29 at noon through DDA’s Awaas Portal, a statement said. The earlier offering under the scheme witnessed tremendous public interest, with the flats being booked within two hours of the commencement of booking. This strong demand reflects the growing confidence of homebuyers in DDA’s affordable housing initiatives. Launched under the guidance of Delhi Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and DDA Chairman T.S. Sandhu, the scheme reaffirms DDA’s commitment to providing quality and planned housing opportunities to citizens, said the statement. The additional flats located in Pocket 1, Sectors G2–G6, Narela, have an approximate plinth area of 49.90 square metres each, including common areas. The flats will be allotted on a First Come, First Served (FCFS) basis, the DDA said. Narela is emerging as a promising residential destination, supported by planned urban infrastructure and improving connectivity. Key transport infrastructure includes the upcoming Delhi Metro station on the Rithala–Narela–Kundli corridor, a proposed Narela Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) station, and road connectivity through Urban Extension Road (UER)-I, UER-II and GT Karnal Road, the statement said. The area is also set to benefit from an upcoming Education Hub in Sectors G2–G6, where land has been allotted to multiple universities, the statement said. Sports infrastructure includes the Narela Sports Complex in Sector A-7 and a proposed Multi-Sports Integrated Stadium. Planned green spaces and civic amenities further enhance the area’s long-term residential potential, said the DDA. –IANS rch/dan
,
Congress and Rahul Gandhi plotting against the Constitution: Maha CM Mumbai, Nov 2 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congress party and Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of orchestrating an international conspiracy to bring about a “regime change” and undermine the Indian Constitution. Addressing a Save Democracy and Constitution rally, CM Fadnavis stated that the country wants Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm and that the ruling alliance has taken to the streets to protect democracy. “This fight is not against Modi, the BJP, or the NDA; it is a hidden war. As long as the sun and the moon exist, the Constitution must remain, regardless of differences in ideology. Join us in this battle,” the Chief Minister urged. Accusing the Congress of trying to establish an “ultra-leftist system,” he remarked, “Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar has taught us how to protect democracy, but Rahul Gandhi wants to build an ultra-leftist setup.” Targeting Rahul Gandhi directly over his lineage and political standing, CM Fadnavis said, “This is India, and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution is here. Your grandmother [Indira Gandhi] tried; she was strong and a leader, but she couldn’t destroy it. Who are you, Rahul Gandhi?” He emphasised that the ongoing battle is not for the BJP, but for the safeguarding of the nation’s Constitution, calling on citizens to resolve not to stop until the current crisis is averted. CM Fadnavis alleged that Congress and its associates are organising daily protests under an international conspiracy to alter India’s Constitution and dismantle constitutional frameworks. “Political restructuring to change the Constitution and overhaul all national institutions is what they call ‘regime change,'” he said. Citing examples of neighbouring countries, the Chief Minister noted, “Regime changes and constitutional alterations took place in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. When asked four times, they openly admitted they want a regime change. Even Uddhav Thackeray—whether he understands the meaning or not—also spoke of regime change. As long as there is a drop of blood in our veins, we will not let regime change happen. We will not allow a crisis on democracy or permit the Constitution to be tampered with.” CM Fadnavis accused Congress of repeatedly trampling upon democracy and the Constitution. Recalling the Emergency era, he mentioned that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s election was declared invalid by the Supreme Court. “She could remain Prime Minister, but she could not speak or vote in the Lok Sabha. Yet, backed by brute majority, the Congress party claimed that the Prime Minister is above the Constitution.” He further claimed that Congress diluted fundamental rights in 1976 by freezing them and barring citizens from approaching the Supreme Court. It was only in 1977, under Morarji Desai and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, that constitutional amendments brought the Prime Minister under the purview of the Constitution and restored fundamental rights, he added. “Their intentions are not new; they have meddled with the Constitution multiple times. Now, Indira Gandhi’s grandson has resumed that very work. It is old wine in a new bottle,” CM Fadnavis quipped. Taking a strong stance on the red-colored booklets displayed by the opposition, CM Fadnavis said, “They carry a red Constitution; we have only known the blue one. That red book is the same one used to trigger regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, and to create anarchy in France and Denmark. They show a book of the Constitution, but there is nothing inside it.” CM Fadnavis also criticised attacks on constitutional institutions like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), election commissions, and the Supreme Court, stating that staging marches against these institutions instead of seeking legal recourse is unprecedented in the country. Expressing dismay over the silence of intellectuals, he remarked, “It is surprising that intellectuals have nothing to say. What kind of intellectuals are these? They are commercial, constantly crying that ‘democracy is in danger’ and chattering against PM Modi.” He concluded by alleging that their ultimate attempt is to dismantle the Constitution if institutions fail to rule in their favour. –IANS sj/dan
,
Delhi HC stays JNU’s order dismissing Congress MP Akoijam over sexual harassment allegations New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) The Delhi High Court on Monday granted interim relief to Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam by staying the operation of Jawaharlal Nehru University’s (JNU) order dismissing him from service following an inquiry into sexual harassment allegations levelled by 11 female students. A single-judge Bench of Justice Anup J. Bhambhani passed the interim order while hearing Akoijam’s plea challenging his dismissal from the university. The High Court also issued notice to JNU and listed the matter for further hearing in January. Meanwhile, Akoijam has approached the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi seeking anticipatory bail in connection with a case registered against him by the Delhi Police. The court is scheduled to hear his anticipatory bail plea on Tuesday. The developments come amid allegations of sexual harassment levelled against Akoijam – the Congress MP from Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency. According to the university’s order dated October 9, JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree D. Pandit had ordered Akoijam’s dismissal from service with immediate effect following an inquiry conducted by the university’s Internal Committee. The university had stated that the disciplinary action was taken on the basis of the committee’s findings and after following due process under the applicable service rules. The complaints against Akoijam were submitted by 11 female students in May this year, following which the university’s Internal Committee conducted an inquiry and found the allegations to be true. Akoijam had subsequently been dismissed from service on October 9. On October 15, Akoijam had appeared before the Delhi Police at the Vasant Kunj North police station in response to a summons to join the investigation. Describing the developments as a “political matter”, the Congress MP had said that he had appeared to cooperate with the investigation and did not want his absence to be construed as a lack of cooperation with the police. –IANS pds/vd
,
FS Misri travels to Kathmandu this week as Nepal and India set stage for Balendra Shah’s New Delhi visit Kathmandu, Nov 2 (IANS) Nepal and India on Monday simultaneously announced that Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri would visit Kathmandu on November 4-5, a visit expected to lay the groundwork for Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s upcoming trip to India. Prime Minister Shah is expected to visit New Delhi later this month, according to officials at the Prime Minister’s Office and Nepal’s Foreign Ministry. Separate statements issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday said that Misri will hold bilateral talks with Nepal’s Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai during his two-day official visit. “The two sides will review the full range of Nepal-India relations and exchange views on matters of mutual interest, with a view to further strengthening the long-standing, close and friendly ties between the two countries,” Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. Misri is also scheduled to pay courtesy calls on senior Nepali dignitaries, the ministry said. India’s MEA said the visit would cover bilateral, regional and global matters of mutual interest. “India and Nepal share strong and friendly ties which have seen substantial progress across diverse areas of cooperation,” it said “The Foreign Secretary’s upcoming visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and will help further enhance the comprehensive bilateral partnership.” During the visit, the two sides are expected to discuss the potential agenda for Prime Minister Shah’s upcoming trip to New Delhi. Nepali officials said Nepal aimed to make Shah’s visit meaningful by securing tangible progress on several issues on which it was seeking India’s cooperation. “Nepal will seek a substantial assistance package from India in the wake of the devastation caused by the August 26 floods. Nepal also wants notable progress on issues including the settlement of the border dispute, revision of the trade treaty and additional air entry points for international flights via India, among others,” a Nepali Foreign Ministry official said. The two sides are also expected to inaugurate several projects involving bilateral cooperation during Prime Minister Shah’s proposed visit. New Delhi had initially planned to send Misri to Kathmandu in the second week of May to engage with the new government after the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) formed a government under Shah’s leadership. However, the proposed visit was postponed, with protocol issues cited as a reason. –IANS scor/as
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36-hour shutdown hits life in Arunachal districts; Congress demands scrapping of mega dam project Itanagar, Nov 2 (IANS) Normal life was disrupted in parts of Arunachal Pradesh on Monday as a 36-hour shutdown called by several organisations to protest against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) affected business establishments, educational institutions and public transport in the region. The impact of the shutdown was particularly visible in Upper Siang district, where several schools, government offices, shops and markets remained closed. Public transport, including buses, stayed off the roads, while protesters reportedly burnt tyres at several locations as part of the demonstration. The bandh was called by the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) and the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Affected Area Youth Association (SAAYA) across Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts. However, its impact varied across the region. While Upper Siang was severely affected and East Siang witnessed some disruption, normal activities continued in Siang district. Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner-com-District Magistrate Ashok Tajo said that many government offices and educational institutions remained closed, while shops and commercial establishments were shut, particularly in Yingkiong and Geku. Tajo, under section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, declared the 36-hour shutdown as illegal. “Such bandh call causes untold misery, hardship and disruption to the general public, including daily wage earners, school and college students, patients requiring emergency medical service, business establishments and daily commuters. Past instances of such shutdowns have led to breaches of peace, public tranquillity and potential damage or destruction to public and private properties,” the DM’s order said. On the other hand, a senior police official of Siang District said there was no impact of the bandh in the district, with government offices, schools and shops functioning normally. The protesting organisations are demanding the fulfilment of their charter of demands, which includes the immediate release of arrested demonstrators, withdrawal of additional security forces from the affected areas and suspension of ongoing survey activities for the proposed mega hydropower project. Meanwhile, the opposition Arunachal Pradesh Congress has strongly opposed the proposed project and demanded its scrapping, along with the immediate release of all those arrested during protests against the dam. A Congress leader said that no development initiative should be undertaken at the cost of indigenous communities’ ancestral land, identity, culture and livelihood. It stressed that the prior consent of people likely to be affected by the project must be obtained before proceeding with its implementation. The party also expressed concern over the arrest of protesters, suspension of government employees and alleged action against gaon buras (village headmen) who have opposed the project. Among its key demands, the APCC sought the withdrawal of cases registered under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, revocation of suspension orders against government employees, withdrawal of cases against gaon buras and removal of additional security personnel from the proposed project-affected areas. It further demanded adequate compensation for those who suffered losses and medical assistance and rehabilitation for protesters injured during the agitation. Calling for unity among indigenous organisations, student unions, youth groups, civil society bodies and traditional institutions, the Congress urged the state government and the Centre to resolve the issue through dialogue and confidence-building measures. It also appealed to all sections of society to continue the movement through peaceful and democratic means. Arunachal Pradesh Congress president Bosiram Siram, earlier referring to the concerns raised by local agitating organisations, claimed that the proposed SUMP could lead to the submergence of 27 villages following the construction of the dam. The proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, envisaged as one of India’s largest hydropower initiatives, has faced sustained opposition from sections of the indigenous Adi community, particularly residents of areas likely to be affected by the project. The opposition is largely driven by concerns over the possible submergence of ancestral villages, displacement of local communities, loss of agricultural land and forests, and disruption of traditional livelihoods and cultural practices. According to reports, around 27 villages could be submerged, while several dozen others may also face adverse impacts. However, the project holds considerable strategic importance for the Centre, particularly in view of China’s proposed massive hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, which enters India as the Siang. With opposition gathering momentum and political parties joining the movement, the proposed mega project has emerged as a major point of contention in Arunachal Pradesh, bringing issues of development, environmental protection, indigenous rights and national strategic interests into sharp focus. Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on a number of occasions said that the state government remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders, including community organisations, student bodies, civil society groups and individuals who have expressed concerns over the project. As part of the consultation process, the Chief Minister also held separate all-party meetings of legislators and the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) and various Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and discussed the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) and assessed the viability of the proposed mega project. –IANS sc/uk
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TN govt disburses Rs 167.12 cr Deepavali bonus to over 1.06 lakh transport employees Chennai, Nov 2 (IANS) Ahead of Deepavali, the Tamil Nadu government has disbursed Rs 167.12 crore towards bonus and ex-gratia payments to 1,06,001 employees of the State Transport Corporations for the financial year 2025–26, following directions from Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. Transport Minister Vijay Tamizhan Parthiban announced on Monday that the Deepavali bonus had been credited directly to the bank accounts of eligible employees across the state. In an official statement, the government said the decision was aimed at recognising the contribution of transport workers and extending financial benefits to them ahead of the festival. The government highlighted the crucial role played by the eight State Transport Corporations in ensuring affordable and accessible transportation, particularly for people living in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. According to the statement, the corporations collectively operate 21,333 buses across more than 10,172 routes, connecting villages, towns and major urban centres throughout Tamil Nadu. These services cater to approximately 2.18 crore passengers daily, making the state-run transport network one of the most important components of Tamil Nadu’s public infrastructure. Significantly, nearly 72 per cent of passengers travel either free of charge or at concessional fares under various government-supported schemes. The government said these concessions have helped improve mobility among women, students, senior citizens and other eligible sections of society while ensuring that public transportation remains affordable. The statement emphasised that transport employees play an indispensable role in sustaining daily operations despite the challenges involved in managing such a vast network. Recognising their contribution, the Chief Minister directed the authorities to release the Deepavali bonus and ex-gratia payments for the 2025–26 financial year. The government said the financial assistance was intended to motivate employees, acknowledge their services and strengthen morale across the transport corporations. The payments are expected to provide financial relief to thousands of transport workers and their families ahead of Deepavali celebrations. The government also underlined the importance of an efficient public transport system in supporting economic activity, facilitating workforce mobility and connecting rural communities with employment, education and healthcare facilities. With millions depending on government buses every day, the administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining reliable transport services while recognising the contribution of employees who keep the system functioning. The Deepavali bonus disbursement reflects the government’s emphasis on employee welfare alongside its broader responsibility to sustain affordable public transportation across Tamil Nadu. –IANS aal/dan
The Rahnuma-E-Deccan Daily is published from Hyderabad. Established in 1921, we are India's oldest circulated Urdu daily print newspaper
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