Chandigarh: FIR lodged after HC lawyer reports threat from gangsters in jail

An advocate at the Punjab and Haryana High Court has reported threats from gangsters in jails related to a case he is handling, leading to a police FIR. Justice NS Shekhawat prompted the action after advocate Gobind Singh Randhawa received intimidating calls concerning his client's petition, which challenges false narcotic charges. The FIR addresses criminal intimidation and conspiracy allegations.

No more trips to Chandigarh Estate Office, property services now a tap away

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria launched two citizen-centric initiatives, the e-Sampada CHD mobile app and faceless service delivery, aimed at enhancing property-related service accessibility for Chandigarh residents at the Samaadhaan Shivir. The app allows residents to manage property services digitally, while faceless delivery eliminates the need for physical visits. Kataria addressed local grievances, emphasizing collaborative solutions on civic issues.

Rajya Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh: How predictable numbers game acquired spicy political flavour

The Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, initially predictable with the BJP poised to win eight seats and the SP two, gained intrigue with the nomination of corporate executive Dhanraj Parimal Nathwani as a Samajwadi Party candidate. His connections to the BJP and the corporate world sparked speculation about strategy and resource mobilization for upcoming elections. The dynamics shifted as the SP aims for a potential third seat, making this election particularly significant amidst political maneuvering.

Mohali court slaps contempt notice on GMADA collector over compensation dispute

The additional district judge has issued a show-cause notice to GMADA's LAC for failing to comply with a court order regarding compensation for land from Motiaz Royale Estate. Despite an earlier directive to deposit ₹4,06,09,241, only ₹1,25,81,455 was recorded. The court cited contempt of court, investigating alterations in compensation records and setting a future hearing for October 30, 2026.

SIT summons Majithia, Bhola on Oct 5 in 2021 drug case

The Punjab Police's special investigation team has summoned Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia and former officer Jagdish Bhola for questioning on October 5 regarding a 2021 drug case. The SIT is facing challenges in advancing the investigation despite previous accusations and multiple teams formed. Majithia, charged under the NDPS Act, denies wrongdoing amidst ongoing scrutiny.

Former AIADMK minister Semmalai joins TVK with his supporters

Former AIADMK minister S Semmalai officially joined the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) at a rally in Dharapuram, citing his inability to contest in future elections with AIADMK post-Jayalalithaa's death. The bypolls, triggered by resignations, feature ex-AIADMK leaders as candidates. Semmalai’s decision follows years of disappointment in the party since he joined AIADMK in 1984.

Foreign spouses of Indians not entitled to visa: Kerala HC

The Kerala High Court ruled that foreign nationals, including spouses of Indian citizens, lack a vested right to be issued visas to enter India. This decision arose from a writ petition by a Kerala man and his Pakistani wife seeking a tourist visa for a wedding. The court emphasized that visa issuance involves national security and is governed by law, with Pakistani visa applications suspended due to security laws.

Mother held for drowning two children in Keralam: Police

A mother in Kozhinjambara, Kerala, has been arrested and charged with murdering her two young children, Jennifer Juliet (5) and Robin Christopher (3), who were found drowned in a bathtub. Initially claiming to be unaware of their deaths, Nivedya later confessed, citing her desire for independence as motivation. Investigations revealed doubts about her account from family and neighbors.

2 people held for aiding Telangana arms heist

Telangana police detained two armoury in-charges, Vinod and Sheshu, for aiding retired army havildar Upputholla Mallesh in the theft of arms from the Madras Regiment in Secunderabad on August 31. Mallesh, arrested on September 11, stole the weapons due to dissatisfaction with his early retirement, prompting a police investigation into financial links and possible accomplices in the crime.

KPSC scam candidates gave blank cheques for favourable selection: ED

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) revealed that candidates allegedly paid ₹30-40 lakh for favorable selection in Karnataka's Veterinary Officers exam, initially demanding ₹80 lakh, and signed blank cheques as guarantees. Key figures, including KPSC Controller Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, were arrested for facilitating exam paper leaks. Investigations show proceeds were laundered through various means, including bank transfers and gold purchases.

CCMB study links viral infections to Parkinson’s

A study by Hyderabad's CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology reveals that viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2 may trigger neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s, by promoting abnormal protein clumping. Researchers discovered that viral RNA structures accelerate alpha-synuclein amyloid formation, although a cellular defense mechanism may counteract this. Continued virus exposure could increase the risk of neurodegeneration.

Andhra to develop Tirupati as global wedding destination

The Andhra Pradesh government aims to transform Tirupati into a global wedding destination, integrating it with its religious tourism. Mukesh Kumar Meena emphasized diverse accommodation options for all economic segments and promoting wedding tourism as a comprehensive economic activity. Plans include enhancing infrastructure and developing tourism packages linking spiritual attractions, targeting a robust economy by 2047.

CCB charges Veeramani with abetment of victim’s suicide

The Central Crime Branch of Tamil Nadu police has filed a new case against industrialist R Veeramani, 84, for abetting suicide linked to a minor's 2004 death. The complaint surfaced after a co-accused's text revived the allegations of sexual abuse, prompting renewed investigations and arrests. Calls are growing for a CBI inquiry into the case's handling and previous investigations.

5-commissionerate plan set to be placed before cabinet

The Karnataka government plans to split the Bengaluru City Police Commissionerate into five units, potentially creating 6,633 police posts at a cost of ₹764.87 crore. Each unit, led by high-ranking officers, aims to enhance coordination with civic administration following Bengaluru’s expansion. Concerns about jurisdictional disputes and model variations have emerged amid this initiative announced by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.

19-yr-old B’luru college student stabbed to death during clash

A 19-year-old college student was fatally stabbed in Bengaluru during a clash between student groups Wednesday afternoon. The confrontation erupted over unspecified issues, escalating into violence. The student, a first-year BCom student, was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Police are investigating the incident, gathering clues, and reviewing CCTV footage to identify those involved. The student had attended class prior to the incident.

Former Thane mayor, husband behind leader’s murder: Shiv Sena (UBT)

The murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar has ignited political turmoil in Thane, with allegations against former mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband from the opposing faction. Purnekar's family claims political rivalry led to his death, prompting Uddhav Thackeray and other leaders to criticize the government. Strikingly, this incident underscores the fractious political landscape in Thane post-2022 party split.

Plea seeks recall of SC order on challenge to CEC appointment law

An application seeks to withdraw a Supreme Court order referring a challenge to the CEC and ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 to a Constitution bench, citing undisclosed bias from Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, whose son represents the ECI. This plea claims the lack of disclosure compromised fairness, impacting previous hearings.

Multiple flex-fuel cars in the next two months: Nitin Gadkari at HT Auto Leaderboard Awards and Summit

India's green mobility initiative is poised for a significant advancement, with automakers like Mahindra and Toyota set to launch flex-fuel vehicles running on 100% ethanol within two months, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari. This shift aims to lessen dependence on imported fossil fuels and enhance agricultural markets. The government anticipates robust growth in the EV sector, aiming for ₹20 lakh crore by 2030 while bolstering safety and pollution control measures.

What Marathas gained from Jarange stir

Manoj Jarange-Patil's Maratha quota agitation, launched on August 29, 2023, demands Kunbi certificates for community members to access OBC reservations. The Maharashtra government issued 1.4 million certificates, benefiting many; however, challenges remain. Individual stories illustrate the agitation's impact: job placements and educational access increased for some, while others faced uncertainties with the SEBC quota.

NIA begins probe into AQIS bid to recruit from sub-continent

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched an investigation into a conspiracy to recruit youth for al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS) in West Bengal, targeting 'Ghazwa-e-Hind.' An FIR has been filed against 19 suspects, including key members, following the home ministry's directive. Established in 2014, AQIS seeks to establish an Islamic state in South Asia.

Former aide held in Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar’s murder

In Thane, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot dead in his office, leading to the arrest of his former aide Prakash "Papya" Shinde. Investigators suspect Shinde's involvement due to his close presence during the attack. Purnekar's family claims political rivalry, implicating former mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband, and demands justice before cremating his body.

Drugs worth ₹3,000cr seized from Iranian boat, 5 Pak crew held

The Indian Coast Guard has seized over ₹3,000 crore worth of drugs from an Iranian dhow operated by five Pakistani nationals, arrested after a 16-day operation in the Arabian Sea. The seizure includes 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine; investigations are ongoing. This operation underscores India's commitment to combating drug smuggling and securing its maritime borders.

$100,000 H-1B fee blocked again: California judge halts Trump admin’s measure

A federal judge in California has blocked President Trump's $100,000 fee on certain new H-1B workers, ruling against US agencies due to failure to follow required procedures. This follows a similar ruling in Boston. The case, brought by various organizations, highlights ongoing legal challenges to the administration's immigration policies affecting skilled foreign workers.

‘Cornell 7’ row: Tri-Delta in focus as lawyer shares details about Jane Doe

Jane Doe has filed a lawsuit against Cornell University and seven male students, dubbed the ‘Cornell 7’, accusing them of drugging and gang-raping her in 2024, following which the DA has reopened the investigation. A member of the Tri-Delta sorority, she dropped out due to trauma from the incident, which she details alongside her attorney. Tri-Delta, founded in 1888, has a significant presence at Cornell.

Bringing child to workplace may have triggered Kathua fratricide

A CISF head constable, Avdesh Kumar, shot dead four colleagues at a hydropower project in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, reportedly following an argument about bringing his child to work. The incident occurred during a shift change, leading to an internal inquiry. The CISF is also enhancing mental health support for its personnel to prevent such tragedies.

MPSC secretary to be transferred, judicial probe ordered

The Maharashtra government announced an immediate transfer of the MPSC secretary and a three-month judicial inquiry following a significant paper leak, which prompted widespread protests from aspirants. Chief Minister Fadnavis met with students who temporarily suspended their agitation, seeking reforms and increased vacancies. Background includes prior examination cancellations due to leaks, intensifying calls for accountability.

Cabinet hikes MSPs of Rabi crops; oilseeds, pulses get biggest boost

The Centre has raised the minimum support prices (MSPs) for all six Rabi crops for the 2027–28 season, notably boosting oilseeds and pulses. This aims to ensure fair returns for farmers and promote crop diversification. Safflower saw the highest increase at ₹675 per quintal, while wheat had the smallest rise. The government allocates ₹90,962 crore for procurement amidst climate uncertainties.

IIT Bombay suicide: Protesting students claim security personnel tried to clear agitation site

Mumbai: Protests by IIT Bombay students over a Dalit student's suicide on September 18 escalated as security attempted to evict them from "Justice Corner." Demands include a transparent investigation and resignations of key officials, reflecting concerns about caste discrimination. Amidst escalating tensions, the deceased's parents remain on hunger strike, fearing for their safety amid the inquiry.

Andhra, Meghalaya to get more time for SIR

The Election Commission of India has extended the special intensive revision schedule for electoral rolls in Andhra Pradesh and Meghalaya, with Andhra Pradesh's final publication now set for October 16 and Meghalaya's for October 26. Following scrutiny of prior decisions, the commissioners maintain that all significant decisions are made unanimously. This follows political controversy regarding the Commission's operations.

Accused can use unrelied prosecution documents in trial: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court ruled that an accused can inspect documents seized in investigations not relied upon by prosecutors and request their use in trial if relevant to their defense. This decision addresses ongoing issues in high-profile criminal cases, emphasizing the accused's rights while clarifying procedural distinctions regarding such materials. Historical context shows similar disputes have arisen repeatedly in legal precedents.