Rahul Gandhi uttered lies, misled people on guarantees, says KCR

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) President K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi misled the people of Telangana during his public meeting at Nirmal by uttering a blatant lie that every woman in the state is receiving Rs 2,500 per month under his partys government. Addressing a roadshow in Jagtial, the former Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

AICC High Command will Replace Revanth After LS Poll Results: Amit Shah

Hyderabad: Union home minister Amit Shah claimed that the Congress leadership would not allow Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to continue in the post after June 4, once the Lok Sabha election results are declared. He said Revanth Reddy was collecting `RR Tax (Rahul and Revanth Tax) at the behest of the party high command by squeezing the people. The Congress was using the money for its election campaign across the country. Addressing a public meeting at Parade Ground here, in support of party Malkajgiri candidate Etala Rajendar, and in Nizamabad for Dharmapuri Arvind, on Sunday, Shah assured that the BJP government at the Centre would ensure that the corrupt ATM of the Congress would be devoid of any cash, if the Telangana people blessed the party with 12 Lok Sabha seats and an MLA from the Secunderabad Cantonment Assembly bypoll. Referring to a case filed against him by the city police after children were seen on the dais with him, Shah said that he will not cry like Revanth Reddy and that the case would be quashed in the High Court. Asking the people to elect Etala Rajendar from Malkajgiri, who belonged to the BC community, Shah said that the BJP would remove Muslim reservations and extend the same to the BCs, SCs and STs. The Congress was rephrasing this message and indulging in a false campaign against him. The Modi government had not removed any reservations. It banned triple talaq, abrogated Article 370 and constructed the Lord Rama temple in Ayodhya. As long as Modi and BJP are in this country, no one can remove reservations, he said. Alleging that the I.N.D.I alliance was a group without any acceptable leader, Shah asked people to choose between the Congress, which had indulged in scams to the tune of `12 lakh crore, and Modi, who had not faced a single corruption charge in his 10-year stint as Prime Minister nor when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat. Modi celebrates Diwali with jawans at the border, while Rahul Gandhi goes on a jolly trip to Bangkok, unable to bear the rising temperatures, he mocked. Addressing a public meeting in Nizamabad, Shah said that the Modi government would root out Naxalism. It had checked Pakistan-sponsored terror incidents. After the surgical strikes, Pakistan had realised that it was Modi and not Manmohan Singh who was in power in Delhi. Charging the Congress and BRS with adopting vote bank politics, Shah said that AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, the BRS and Congress, were known as the `ABC of Telangana and were busy in appeasement politics. The Congress government had not given permission for the Rama Navami Shobha Yatra to appease Owaisi, he said. Reacting to the doctored video featuring him, Shah said that Delhi police would approach Revanth Reddy in this regard. How can they spare you for releasing a fake video, he wondered. The Union home minister found fault with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge for his remarks that people of the southern states were no way concerned about Jammu and Kashmir. He called upon people to elect Dharmapuri Arvind from Nizamabad for the second time in order to strengthen Modis leadership. Arvind had pursued the matter with the Prime Minister and secured the Turmeric Board for Nizamabad, he said. He said that the BJP-led Centre would establish a bidi workers hospital in Nizamabad and also reopen the Nizam Sugar Factory. Stating that people were searching for Congress candidate T. Jeevan Reddy, who has been the MLC for over five years, Amit Shah said that, on the contrary, Arvind will always be available for the people. Unlike the conventional trend of having a big public meeting for multiple constituencies and leaders, Rajendar opted for a big meeting for only the Malkajgiri constituency at Parade Ground on Sunday. Fans and followers of the party ensured a big turnout despite the sweltering hot weather.

Largest constituency in Telangana to witness battle of turncoats

The constituency adjoining the twin cities, but bereft of sufficient civic infrastructure, has gained prominence because its last representative has been none other than Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy himself. He had, in fact, resigned from his MP seat to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Telangana in December last.

Only Cong Can Ensure All-Round Progress: Ranjith

Hyderabad: Chevella Congress candidate Dr G. Ranjith Reddy on Sunday said that the BJP and BRS candidates were making false promises only to divert the attention of voters. The Congress, which introduced and implemented welfare schemes in Telangana state, would also introduce similar welfare schemes on a national scale after it comes to power at the Centre, he said. Ranjith Reddy participated in an election campaign at Nagaram, Amir Pate, Kolla Padakal, and Maheshwaram villages in Maheshwaram mandal. Later, 400 activists of the BRS and the BJP joined the Congress party in his presence in Nagaram village. Speaking on the occasion, Ranjith Reddy said that the Congress would give importance to the constituencys development and welfare schemes. He said that a vote for the BJP meant that it was goodbye to reservations. People are not in a position to trust the BRS. We will waive loans of farmers of up to Rs 2 lakh by August 15, while the welfare of all sections remains our partys priority. Around 3,500 houses will be built for the homeless in each constituency every year, Reddy said. JDP chairperson Thigala Anita Harinath Reddy and local leaders Nerella Sharada and K. Laxma Reddy participated in the programme.

KCR May Form a Liquor Front in Delhi, says Kishan Reddy

Hyderabad: The Revanth Reddy government would fall if the BJP won a majority Lok Sabha seats, TS BJP president G. Kishan Reddy said, but his party was not interested in it as the leadership was clear that it should focus on strengthening itself in the state. It may be the agenda of Congress dissidents to dethrone the Revanth government or that of the BRS. We want the Revanth government to continue, he said at a meet-the-press programme organised by the Telangana Union of Working Journalists. He said the BRS had become irrelevant and would not win a single seat. He called BRS president K. Chandrashekar Rao's statement of a coalition government at the Centre a day-dream. KCR can play a Liquor and Brandy Morcha or Front in Delhi, he said. On the comments by BRS leader K.T. Rama Rao that Hyderabad would be made a Union Territory if the BJP won a third term, Kishan Reddy said the nightmares of BRS leaders had increased after they lost power. The issue is not being discussed or debated anywhere, he said. Listing the achievements of the Modi government, Kishan Reddy said that he is finding the most favourable atmosphere for the party. A tsunami kind of under-current is sweeping even in rural areas and it would reflect on the counting day on June 4, he said. He challenged Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for a debate on financial assistance from the Centre in the last 10 years to the state. The people are laughing at Revanth for his comment that the Centre had given `gadida guddu (donkeys egg) when the Centre has given `9.5 lakh crore to the state, he said.

KCR to Address Corner Meeting in Nizamabad

Nizamabad: BRS president, former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will address a corner meeting in Nizamabad on May 6. He will enter the district at Kammarpally from Jagtial on Monday evening and will reach Nizamabad by 5.30 pm. A road show will be conducted from the old collectorate to Nehru Park in the town. KCR will address the public seeking votes for BRS MP candidate Bajireddy Govardhan. He will halt at night in Nizamabad and meet people of different sections on Tuesday morning. Then, ge will leave for Kamareddy district. Balkonda MLA V. Prashanth Reddy on Sunday urged the people to make a grand success of the BRS road show on May 6. He added that the people were showing separate Telangana movement-like respect to KCR during his road shows. BRS MP candidate Bajireddy Govardhan, BRS district president A. Jeevan Reddy, former MLA Bigala Ganesh Gupta and others were present.

BJP Committed to Preserving Caste-Based Reservations for SC, ST, and OBC Communities: Amit Shah

BJP Committed to Preserving Caste-Based Reservations for SC, ST, and OBC Communities: Amit Shah Reservations for SC, ST, OBCs would not end as long as there is even one BJP MP in Parliament, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday. Shah, who addressed election rallies at Kagaznagar and Nizamabad in Telangana, said Congress fights elections on the basis of lies and referred to the grand old party's campaign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would end quotas if BJP is given 400 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The Congress said Modi would scrap reservations if he gets a majority, but Modi has been having a full majority for the last 10 years, he said. The prime minister did not use the advantage (majority seats) to scrap reservations but only to remove Article 370, end triple talaq, ban the Popular Front of India (PFI) and construct a Ram temple in Ayodhya, he said. ''They want to say that we will end reservations. I give you a Modi guarantee today. As long as there is even a single BJP member in the country's parliament, we will not let Dalit, Adivasi, OBC reservations end,'' he said. Referring to the case over his doctored video being circulated on social media, Shah alleged that Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy also forwarded the video. On Reddy's allegation that the Delhi police are after him (in the case of doctored video), Shah asked as to what else would happen if a fake video is made. Observing that Muslim reservation is not Constitutional, he said the BJP would scrap it when it forms government in Telangana and would increase the quotas for Adivasis and Dalits. The Congress curtailed the reservations of OBC, ST, SC and gave to Muslims, he said. PM Modi removed triple talaq but Congress leader Rahul Gandhi says his party, if it comes to power, would bring triple talaq again, the BJP top leader alleged. The Congress wants to run the country as per Muslim personal law, he claimed. The senior BJP leader also alleged that AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi did not attend the Ram Temple consecration despite being invited for fear of their vote bank. He said the vote bank of Congress and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi is the same. There are two camps in the present elections - NDA led by PM Modi and the 'Indi alliance' led by Rahul Gandhi, he said. While there is Modi, who works tirelessly and even celebrates Deepawali with soldiers, there is ''Rahul baba who goes to Bangkok, Thailand for holiday with a slight increase in temperatures,'' he said. Alleging that the BRS and Congress are scared of Owaisi, Shah questioned whether Congress or BRS could save Telangana from Owaisi. ''They have done ABC of appeasement. A - Asaduddin Owaisi, B- BRS, C- Congress,'' he said. The Congress has made Telangana its ATM, he charged. While GST is imposed in the entire country, 'RR tax' is imposed in Telangana, he alleged. 'RR tax' is 'Rahul-Revanth tax', he claimed. Shah exuded confidence that the BJP would win more than 10 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana out of the total 17. The state goes to polls on May 13. In his address at another rally in Hyderabad, Shah said as long as Modi and BJP are there, none will be allowed to scrap reservations in the country. Alleging that Congress, BRS and AIMIM indulge in appeasement, he said the parties are such that they cancel permission for the Ram Navami procession for the sake of the Muslim vote bank. He asked as to who will be prime minister if the INDI Alliance comes to power, though it is not going to happen. Mentioning the names of leaders, including Sharad Pawar, Mamata Banerjee, M K Stalin, Uddhav Thackeray and Rahul Gandhi, he asked whether they could be made prime minister. Shah said when a query was put to the INDIA bloc leaders by a journalist, they stated that, by turns, all will become prime minister for one year. The country is not like a shop that will run on partnership, he said. Urging the people to vote for BJP candidate D Arvind in Nizamabad, Shah said the EVM button should be pressed so strongly that the ''current is felt in Italy''. Referring to the case registered against him in Hyderabad, Shah said he will not ''weep'' like Revanth Reddy over the case but get quashed in high court. The city police have registered a case against Shah, BJP Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency candidate K Madhavi Latha and other BJP leaders for allegedly using minors in a poll campaign here recently. In a complaint to the Telangana Chief Electoral Officer, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee vice-president Niranjan alleged that on May 1 during a BJP rally from Laldawaza to Sudha Talkies, a few minor children were on the dais with Shah. The Congress leader alleged that a child was seen with a BJP symbol, highlighting that it was a clear violation of the guidelines of the Election Commission.

BJP will ensure reservation for SC, ST, OBC: Amit Shah

Amit Shah pledges to safeguard SC, ST, OBC reservations as long as a BJP MP is in Parliament. He criticized Congress for spreading falsehoods about PM Modi. The BJP leader mentioned various key issues during his Telangana election rallies.

People in SCB Area Trust Me, Says Sri Ganesh

Hyderabad: Sri Ganesh, Congress candidate for the Secunderabad Cantonment Assembly bypoll, said that two elevated corridor projects that were pending for years under the BRS regime were started within 100 days of the Congress coming to power in the state, with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy resolving land acquisition issues to ensure seamless connectivity from Secunderabad to northern Telangana. In an interview with Deccan Chronicle . Sri Ganesh said he had empathy towards the family of former Cantonment MLA Lasya Nanditha, who died in a road accident, but emotions alone would not develop a constituency. Taking on BRS candidate G. Niveditha, sister of Nanditha, he said that BRS members had protested when she was declared as the candidate. Excerpts: Q. How do you rate the 100 days of Congress administration? Apart from implementing the guarantees promised during the Assembly elections, the Congress government under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has brought two new elevated corridors to improve the connectivity between Secunderabad and northern Telangana. While the BRS failed to do it for years, this government did it within 100 days of coming to power. Q. Five-time MLA G. Sayanna died last year, and his daughter G. Lasya Nanditha died in a road mishap this year. How will these deaths impact the bypoll? I have empathy towards the Sayanna family for their loss, but emotion will not develop a constituency. When Niveditha was declared as the BRS candidate, her own party members protested against the decision. The Sayanna family has been representing Secunderabad Cantonment in the Assembly for several years. But this area does not have basic amenities like a good education health infrastructure and water supply. While the rest of the city pays 7.5 per cent stamp duty for property registration, people in Secunderabad Cantonment pay 11 per cent. Obtaining a building permit is a strenuous task. To date, 40 per cent of people dont have pattas and the residents pay more property tax compared to others. Is this what the Sayanna family achieved after holding the post of MLA for so many years? 3. You have joined the Congress from the BJP ahead of the polls. How is your rapport with the cadre? Revolutionary balladeer Gaddars daughter G.V. Vennela is the Congress incharge for the Secunderabad Cantonment constituency. She is extending her full support. The Congress cadre is working for my victory and also for the victory of the (Malkajgiri) Lok Sabha candidate Patnam Sunitha Mahender Reddy. Q. The closure of roads by the Local Military Authority (LMA) has always been a poll issue. How will you address it? The acquisition of defence land, which seemed to be an impossible task, was completed within 100 days by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The issues related to road closure will be resolved. Q. What impact will the Lok Sabha election have on your prospects in the bypoll? People across the country are with the Congress. So the Lok Sabha polls will benefit me. People in Secunderabad Cantonment have seen the work I did for this constituency. I provided education to the poor, health camps, and civic works with my money. I am far ahead in the battle compared to the BRS and the BJP, and more accessible to people compared to the other contestants. Q. The SCB-GHMC merger is also a poll issue. Revanth Reddy is keen on the merger of the Secunderabad Cantonment area with GHMC. As soon as I get elected I will speed up the process.

Telangana Voters Have Lost Trust in Cong and BRS: Vishweshwar

Hyderabad: BJP candidate for the Chevella Lok Sabha seat Konda Vishweshwar Reddy said that the people of the state have endured myriad hardships during the ten years of K. Chandrasekhar Rao's familys misrule. The Congress came to power with unviable promises and now the people have seen through those empty promises, Vishweshwar Reddy said while addressing a rally at Rajendranagar. Reddy said, The Congress has no moral right to question Prime Minister Narendra Modi's contributions to nation-building. During the Congress rule, the city saw bomb blasts like many other cities. Not a single such incident occurred during Modis rule. Like an ever-vigilant soldier, Modi has safeguarded the nation with unwavering dedication. He is ensuring that the poor have enough to eat, he said. His wife, Sangita Reddy addressing residents of gated communities in Narsingi, said that Modi had achieved much more than what his predecessors had accomplished since independence. His vision, policies, and unwavering commitment have propelled India to make rapid strides across all sectors, she said.

Poll Season Sees Uptick in Wildlife Poaching Attempts

Hyderabad: Its not just leaders of political parties who are being poached by their rival parties. Even the wildlife in Telangana, if the goings on in the states forests are any indication, are being poached by hunters who are having a somewhat free run as a result of some of the forest department staff being deployed for election duties. In the latest such incident, three would-be poachers were nabbed during a hunt in the Madhira forest range in Khammam district on the night of May 3. The forest officials confiscated a single-barrel country-made rifle nine live cartridges and two spent cartridges from their possession. This was the third in a series of arrests of poachers in the district since the first week of April. In the first incident, two persons from Hyderabad and one from Andhra Pradesh were caught in the Talleda forest range. That hunt was arranged by a local mediator. On April 29, two were arrested after they killed a sambar deer in the Madhira forest range, and efforts are on to nab them with the help of AP police who bought the meat from the poachers. According to Siddharth Vikram Singh, district forest officer for Khammam, two of the three arrested on May 3 night were from AP and the third was a local person who facilitated the attempted hunt. They had taken two shots at some deer near a water hole but missed. Some of our staff who noticed torchlight beams along an incline in the forest went to investigate. Taking great risk in the face of two armed people, forest beat officer Nageshwar Rao and forest section officer U. Suresh, overpowered and arrested them, Vikram Singh said. The arrested were identified as Anumolu Srinivasa Rao, Poola Krishna Rao from NTR district of AP, and Parisee Mareswara Rao from G. Goparam village in Khammam district. According to some department officials, such increased poaching activity usually occurs during large festivals when forest staff is also deployed for bandobast duties but this was the first time that this was being noticed during elections. While in some districts, the deployment of forest staff for poll duties is around 10 per cent of the staff, in some cases, it is up to 60 to 70 per cent, forest officials said. Poaching is easier in summers as most water sources dry up and animals begin congregating near the few sources that still can provide water for drinking. And we are stepping up our vigil at all water bodies in the forest, the official added.

Triangular contests in the offing in Telangana as BRS fights for its survival

Congress, BJP locked in a straight fight in several constituencies; communal polarisation visible in the rhetoric of the BJPs national leaders, as the Muslim votebank consolidates in favour of the Congress

Amit Shah vows BJPs commitment to safeguard SC, ST, and OBC reservations

Adilabad (Telangana), May 5 (UNI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged that the BJP will uphold the reservations of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Addressing an election rally in Kagaznagar in this district on Sunday, Shah expressed confidence in the Modi governments prospects for a third term in... The post Amit Shah vows BJPs commitment to safeguard SC, ST, and OBC reservations first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

KCR exhorts BRS cadre to brace up for reconstruction of Telangana

Telangana: Heatwave kills leopard in Narayanpet

Hyderabad: A leopard was found dead in Jadavaraopally, located within the Maddur mandal of Narayanpet district, recently. Forest officials reported the discovery of a deceased leopard in the scorched paddy fields of Maddur. Divisional Forest Officer Veen Vani from Narayanpet expressed concern, stating that the areas lack of vegetation presents a significant challenge to wildlife Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Cong vows 'Rohith Vemula Act' for caste, communal issues on campuses

Congress vows to enact a 'Rohith Vemula Act' targeting caste and communal atrocities on campuses if elected. The promise, part of their social justice agenda, follows criticism of BJP's handling of Vemula's death. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal pledges support to Vemula's family and criticizes Telangana Police's closure report. BJP demands apology from Rahul Gandhi, citing ruth prevailing in the case.

IMD issues orange alert for 13 districts of Telangana amid heat wave conditions

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Expect thunderstorm, rain in parts of Telangana today

BRS will regain past glory, asserts party Karimnagar LS nominee Vinod

Karimnagar: Karimnagar had proved lucky for BRS on a number of occasions, particularly during separate Telangana movement. BRS party chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao won the Karimnagar Lok Sabha seat three consecutive times before Telangana emerged as a new state. After formation of Telangana, Boinapally Vinod Kumar, a close associate of KCR, won the Karimnagar LS seat in 2014 LS elections. In the November 2023 assembly polls, even though BRS lost four of the seven assembly segments of Karimnagar Lok Sabha seat to Congress, the now opposition party has an overall majority of 5,429 votes in the LS constituency. BRS has re-nominated Vinod Kumar as its candidate from the Karimnagar parliament seat. He is hoping to win the Lok Sabha constituency by building up on the 5,429-vote majority BRS got in the 2023 November polls. In an interview with Deccan Chronicle, Vinod Kumar explains how BRS will win from Karimnagar and regain its past glory with empowerment of the youth, farmers and women in the state. Deccan Chronicle: All the three key contesting candidates (Sitting MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar of BJP, V. Rajendra Rao of Congress and Vinod Kumar of BRS) are claiming that they developed Karimnagar. What is the development done by you? Vinod Kumar: BJP and Congress parties are claiming to have developed Karimnagar district only to confuse people. It is only during my tenure as MP that the Smart City project got implemented with the release of 1,000 crore. My initiatives led to the alignment of railway line from Manoharabad to Kothapalli and sanctioning of national highway from Jagtial to Warangal via Karimnagar. During its tenure of 10 years, BRS government took up several developmental works in erstwhile Karimnagar district, including sanctioning of medical colleges, upgrading hospitals and providing advanced medical equipment. DC: In the recently held assembly elections, Congress won four assembly segments and BRS three of the total seven seats in Karimnagar parliament constituency. Dont you think Congress has an edge over BRS and BJP? VK: We cannot compare assembly elections with Lok Sabha polls. Before going to LS elections in 2019, BRS had all the seven assembly segments of Karimnagar parliament in its kitty. But BJP won. Now, Congress has four assembly segments and BJP has not won even a single assembly seat. But the vote share of BRS is more compared to Congress. That way, BRS is far ahead of Congress and BJP in Karimnagar LS seat. DC: Congress is alleging that BRS has a secret understanding with BJP. BJP says BRS is secretly colluding with Congress. VK: Both BJP and Congress are trying to blame BRS. Both are wrong. The two are afraid of BRS, as it has a very strong cadre and ground-level network in Telangana. DC: What are you promising for being elected as MP from Karimnagar? VK: People know Vinod Kumar is a politician who keeps his promises and also implements projects that have not been promised. I am committed to empowerment of the youth and providing employment opportunities to them. An international-standard skill development technical institute like that of Singapore will be opened in Karimnagar to provide professional training to youth in around 150 different professions. I will also take initiative to establish a packaging and textile park, food processing units, IT incubators and open Navodaya schools in every district. DC: Do you think Karimnagar people are with BRS? VK: Within six months, the people of all sections are vexed with the Congress government. They have realised that the Congress has made false promises and come to power. Farmers, women and youth of Karimnagar are with the BRS, as they feel it is their inti party.

Modi guarantee means price rise and unemployment: Madhu Yaskhi

Malkajgiri campaign reviewed

Maulvi held for plotting Hindu leader's murder: Gujarat minister's 'inspire' allegation irks Congress

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat minister Harsh Sanghavi on Sunday targeted the Congress over the arrest of a maulvi a day earlier for allegedly planning to kill a Hindu leader and threaten a BJP MLA on orders of his handlers in Pakistan and Nepal and said the opposition party must not inspire such persons. The comment from the minister of state for home in the BJP government here evoked a sharp response from the Congress, which said the ruling party was trying to hide its own incompetence in controlling crimes. Surat police on Saturday arrested maulvi Sohel Abubakr Timol (27) for allegedly planning to murder the leader of a Hindu organisation in Surat and threatening the chief editor of Sudarshan TV, former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma and Telangana MLA Raja Singh in connivance with handlers from Pakistan and Nepal. The maulvi was hatching a big plan to murder BJP and Hindu leaders. The chat messages and Rs 1 crore supari (for the purpose) offered by his masters sitting in Pakistan has been exposed. The way the maulvi was instigating youth and children for anti-national activities stands exposed, Sanghavi told a Gujarat news channel. I want to tell the Congress that you will get many political opportunities but it is a sin to save maulvis like him. It is a sin to inspire these type of clerics. The Congress should stop making indirect efforts in this direction, he added. Hitting back, chairperson of social media and digital platforms of the Congress Supriya Shrinate said the BJP had made it a habit to blame everything on her party. By making such statements, the minister was trying to hide his own incompetence in controlling crimes that are taking place under his nose, she said here. For over three decades the state government has been yours. You have been in power at the Centre for a decade. It is for you to take action and find out about such criminal activities. How is it happening under your nose? Will you blame Congress for everything? You blame the Congress while saving Prajwal Revanna and Brij Bhushan, questioned Shrinate. Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said Sanghavi does not understand the dignity of his post and neither does he keep himself informed about facts emerging from his home ministry. If anyone has committed an anti-national act, then there is a law to tackle it. At the same time, the minister should reply as to how Surat has emerged as the crime capital of the state? How has Gujarat become a drug hub? Doshi said.

Hyderabad records 53.7% surge in electricity demand on May 3

Hyderabad: The managing director of Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL), Musharraf Ali Faruqui, reported a staggering surge in electricity consumption within GHMC. The highest consumption of 89.71 million units was recorded on Friday, May 3, marking a significant increase of 53.77% as compared to May 3, 2023. Faruqui further highlighted April 30 Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Leopard succumbs to heatwave in Telangana

Tragic discovery highlights the impact of scorching temperatures on wildlife, emphasising the pressing need for conservation measures amidst worsening climatic conditions

Week-long prolonged heatwave conditions, scattered thunderstorms in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh - NewsTap

Week-long prolonged heatwave conditions, scattered thunderstorms in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh NewsTap

Telangana: Agniveer recruitment rally to be held at Secunderabad from June 20

The News Mill

Both Congress, TRS are afraid of Owaisi: Amit Shah in Telangana

The News Mill

Election campaign in Warangal lacks enthusiasm amidst scorching heat

My Fake Video Was Forwarded By Telangana Chief Minister: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah alleged on Sunday that Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy forwarded his fake video about the reservation.

Will convince CM to provide special package to Hyderabad Old City: Sameer Waliullah

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Lok Sabha candidate for Congress, Mohammad Sameer Waliullah, said on Saturday, May 4, that he would convince the Telangana chief minister, A Revanth Reddy, to declare a special package of Rs 5,000 crore for the advancement of the Old City. To address the long-standing issues being confronted by the citys people, he Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

TCEI to host 3rd TCEI SIWPC GLOBAL, 7th TCEI Events Excellence Awards at Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Telangana Chamber of Events Industry (TCEI) - India`s largest Regional Events Industry Association, is hosting the 3rd Edition of South Indian Wedding Planners Congress, the 3rd TCEI SIWPC GLOBAL 2024 and the 7th TCEI Events Excellence Awards 2024, on June 18th and 19th, 2024 at Hitex Exhibition Centre. Hyderabad. The details of the largest congregation of national and international Wedding planners, was formally announced by Chief Guest TG Srikant, Head -HITEX Exhibition Centre; Alla Balaram Babu, President-TCEI, Ravi Bura, General Secretary- TCEI, Md Toufiq Khan, Treasurer- TCEI, at the curtain raiser event held today at MAAYA Convention, Kondapur. Members of TCEI spearheading both the initiatives Sai Shravan Madiraju, Convenor-SIWPC Global 2024 and Ramm K Muppana, Convenor - TCEI Event Excellence Awards 2024 and Co-Convenors Hirish Reddy, Kumar Raja, Sudhakar Yarabadi, Dr Saurabh Sureka; graced the occasion. Speaking on the occasion Chief Guest TG Srikant said, the wedding industry in India is valued at $130 billion, according to The Economist. Given its unorganized nature, the actual figures could be significantly higher, with this estimate representing just the tip of the iceberg. The size of the Industry suggests that weddings for Indians are not merely ceremonies; they are lifetime celebrations intertwined with emotions, traditions, and bonding. People are increasingly opting for destination weddings, with popular choices being Jaipur, Udaipur, and the backwaters of Kerala. Surprisingly, Hyderabad does not seem to be among these favoured locations. TCEI hosting an event of this magnitude, focused on wedding planning, is a significant initiative aimed at elevating Hyderabad to the status of a preferred destination for such celebration. Hyderabad doesnt lag behind any other destination be it infrastructure, mesmerising venues, proficient wedding planners, best connectivity to the rest of India and the world. We must vigorously strive to establish Hyderabad as a prominent wedding destination on the global map. Alla Balaram Babu said, the TCEI Events Excellence Awards, have set a new benchmark for the events industry, both nationally and internationally, filling us with pride at the Telangana Chamber of Events Industry. The SIWPC hosted by TCEI has evolved into a highly anticipated event, not only among wedding planners in Hyderabad and across India but also among renowned planners from around the globe. Its reputation for excellence, innovation, and networking opportunities has transcended borders, making it a must-attend gathering for professionals in the wedding and event planning industry worldwide. This year's event promises an array of enticing offerings, designed to captivate and inspire the delegates. From engaging keynote speeches by industry leaders to immersive workshops and interactive panel discussions, participants can expect a wealth of knowledge and insights to enhance their skills and expertise. Additionally, there will be opportunities for networking with peers and exploring the latest trends and innovations in the wedding and event planning realm. With an exciting line up of activities, this year's event is poised to be a transformative experience for all who attend. SIWPC brings together experts from various facets of the Indian wedding industry. This event aims to showcase South India's significant contributions to the world of weddings and provide a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. Renowned national and international speakers from the events fraternity will grace the conference, delivering insightful sessions on different aspects of the Indian wedding industry. Delegates will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights, learn from industry experts, and exchange ideas with like-minded professionals. This Convention is eagerly awaited by all the Wedding Planners, Wedding Designers, Wedding Stylists, Decorators, Event Managers and all other crafts of Event Industry across India and more than 20 Countries. The event is poised to showcase the upsurge of Grand scale weddings and events in Telangana and across India. This event will be attended by globally acclaimed Industry Experts and Peers including John Emmanuel, Australia; Teddy Emmanuel, Philippines; Michael Ruiz, Philippines; Nicolas (Roni Flowers), France; Bryan, Ghana, Africa and several other stalwarts from Industry from across the globe. Anticipated to host a distinguished gathering, this esteemed event is poised to welcome over a thousand delegates from both India and abroad. Dubbed 'Event Bazaar,' the expo will feature a grand display of more than 60 stalls, each showcasing a diverse array of products, services, and cutting-edge trends prevalent in the dynamic event industry. Other Salient Features of the Event will be Master Classes delivered by Industry Leaders and peers; Panel Discussions & Workshops by Stalwarts; Parallel sessions on several key topics such as Event Safety, role of technology etc., Business Networking Lounges; widely spread cuisines for all meals, served by the top most hospitality catering companies in the country and an array of multi diverse entertainment performances to enthrall the audience of all genres. The glittering awards ceremony focused on Wedding Industry achievers, SIWPC Global Wedding Academy Awards, is scheduled on June 18th, 2024, from 5.00 pm onwards. The 7th Edition of TCEI Event Excellence awards is set to be organized on 19th June, 2024 from 5.00 pm onwards in concurrence with 3rd TCEI SIWPC Global 2024. The event has garnered a Great distinction of being the most sought-after Event Industry Awards in the region. The transparency of the Awards selection process has been commended by many Industry leaders and delegates. Primarily there are 2 Categories of awards, Pearl of Hyderabad, is awarded to an exceptional Event or achiever who hails from Telangana region. The Award is symbolic resonance of Hyderabad which is also called as City of Pearls. The Gem of India award is bestowed on an exceptional Event or Achiever, hosted or performed in any part of India. There are special recognitions for industry veterans such as * Jade of India, Special recognition to Industry leaders who have an experience of working with Event Industry for more than 15 years. * Lifetime Achievement, a distinct recognition to industry leaders and peers who have an experience of working in Event Industry with more than 30 years. * Koh-E- Noor of India, the highest honour and distinction to the Event Manager or Company who have organized or managed an Event in Hyderabad which has brought worldwide recognition and acclaim to Hyderabad. The entire Event is fully organized by Telangana Chamber Of Events Industry. With the able support of its allied Associations, the Telangana Event Managers Association, Telangana Event Facilitators Association, Telangana Sound Light Vendors Association, Telangana Entertainers Association, Telangana Event Venues Association, Telangana Event Caterers Association and Telangana Entertainers Association.

Rahul Gandhi Dares PM Modi To Remove 50% Cap On Reservations, Says `Congress Will If Elected`

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Congress leader while addressing an election rally in Telangana claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is against reservation and wants to take it away.

Pictures: Bangalore to Spiti with my wife on our Himalayan 411

BHPian shyamg28 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. This was a trip we took back in 2021 on our beloved RE Himalayan. Bengaluru to Spiti - The One with the visuals Let the pictures do the talking before any of my words spoil this log Leaving home. Bangalore to Hyderabad. NH44 - our home for the next few days. Entering Telangana. Towards Hyderabad. Hyderabad to Nagpur. Getting out of Nagpur city. Exited Nagpur and stopped for a small photo shoot. Getting out of Nagpur city. Continue reading BHPian shyamg28's travelogue for more insights and information.

BJP Not to End SC, ST, OBC Reservation as Long as Party Has Even One MP: Amit Shah in Telangana

BJP Not to End SC, ST, OBC Reservation as Long as Party Has Even One MP: Amit Shah in Telangana (Eds: Replaces a word) Will not allow reservations for SC, ST and OBC to end as long as there is even one BJP MP in Parliament: Amit Shah in Telangana.

Amit Shah Asserts BJP's Commitment to Reservation Policies for SC, ST, and OBC

Amit Shah Asserts BJP's Commitment to Reservation Policies for SC, ST, and OBC Will not allow reservations for SC, ST and OBC to end as long as there is even a BJP MP in Parliament: Amit Shah in Telangana.

Shah: Congress and AIMIM exploit similar vote banks in Telangana

Shah: Congress and AIMIM exploit similar vote banks in Telangana Vote-banks of Congress and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi are the same: Amit Shah at rally in Telangana.

PM Modi wants to end reservation system: Rahul Gandhi in Telangana

Hyderabad: Mounting his attack on the BJP, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was against reservations and wanted to take away quotas from the people. Addressing an election rally at Nirmal under Adilabad (ST) Lok Sabha constituency in Telangana, he claimed that the ongoing general elections is taking place between two ideologies in which Congress is trying to safeguard the Constitution, while the BJP-RSS combine wants to end it and people's rights. Narendra Modi ji is against reservation. He wants to take away reservations from you. The biggest issue before the country is increasing reservation from 50 per cent, he added. The Congress has in its manifesto promised that if the party forms the government at the Centre, it will breach the 50 per cent limit and increase the quotas beyond 50 per cent, he said. BJP leaders also want reservations to end, he claimed.

Telangana Padma Shri Awardee Overcomes Adversity to Excel

Telangana Padma Shri Awardee Overcomes Adversity to Excel Awarded with the prestigious Padma Shri two years ago and given a purse of Rs one crore by the state government, popular folk artiste Darshanam Mogulaiah is now working as a daily wager to make ends meet. The 73-year-old artiste, who is popular for playing the rare musical instrument 'Kinnera', was awarded the Padma Shri and the then BRS government honoured him with Rs one crore, which he spent on various family exigencies. A father of nine, Mogulaiah said he used the Rs one crore and performed the marriage of two of his children and took up the construction of a three-storey house after purchasing a house site. However, the construction work stopped after he ran out of money, he told PTI here. Of the nine children, three died and another son needs medication due to ill-health. About Rs 20,000 a month has to be spent on medicines for his son and himself as he is diabetic and hypertensive, he said. Though the state government provides a financial assistance of Rs 10,000 every month, it is not adequate to meet his needs. Meanwhile, BRS Working President K T Rama Rao extended financial assistance to Mogulaiah when he met him on Sunday, Rama Rao's office said. Rao had earlier promised to help Mogulaiah after coming to know about the artiste's plight from media reports and a video of Mogulaiah working at a construction site here appearing on the internet.

Rahul Gandhi vows to replicate Telangana model of pro-poor governance across the country

He alleged that Agnipath programme and the contract system of employment were introduced by the BJP dispensation at the Centre with intent to remove reservations

TS DOST Admission Schedule 2024 Out: Check Timetable at dost.cgg.gov.in

The Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE) has announced the Degree Online Services, Telangana Admission Schedule (DOST) 2024 for undergraduate degree courses. Here's a comprehensive guide on the registration process, important dates, and other essential details for aspiring candidates.

Congress Will Ensure Justice To Rohith Vemula's Family: KC Venugopal

Amid the row over a closure report filed by the Telangana Police in connection with the death of PhD scholar Rohith Vemula, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Sunday said Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and his government will ensure justice and

Telangana: Modi wants to take away reservation, says Rahul in Adilabad

Hyderabad: Mounting his attack on the BJP, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was against reservations and wanted to take away quotas from the people. Addressing an election rally at Nirmal under Adilabad (ST) Lok Sabha constituency in Telangana, he claimed that the ongoing general elections is taking place Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Telangana TSPSC Group 1 2024 Exam Date Revealed: Check Schedule at tspsc.gov.in

The Telangana State Public Service Commission (TSPSC) has announced the schedule for the Group-I Services preliminary test in Telangana, marking an important milestone for aspirants seeking prestigious positions within the organization. Here's all you need to know about the exam schedule, admit card availability, and exam pattern.

PM Modi wants to take away reservation, says Rahul Gandhi at Telangana rally

PM Modi wants to take away reservation, says Rahul Gandhi at Telangana rally Mounting his attack on the BJP, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was against reservations and wanted to take away quotas from the people. Addressing an election rally at Nirmal under Adilabad (ST) Lok Sabha constituency in Telangana, he claimed that the ongoing general elections is taking place between two ideologies in which Congress is trying to safeguard the Constitution, while the BJP-RSS combine wants to end it and people's rights. ''Narendra Modi ji is against reservation. He wants to take away reservations from you. The biggest issue before the country is increasing reservation from 50 per cent,'' he added. The Congress has in its manifesto promised that if the party forms the government at the Centre, it will breach the 50 per cent limit and increase the quotas beyond 50 per cent, he said. BJP leaders also want reservations to end, he claimed.

Telangana Govt to raise 3,000 crore market borrowings on May 7 to fulfil financial commitments

Telangana Government to raise 3,000 crore through auction of securities from RBI primarily for completing Rythu Bandhu for Rabi season

Poll Race: Youth play catch up

10 lakh new voters drive parties to target 18-21 year-olds. Hyderabad students show lack of awareness about candidates and MPs, while some strive to be informed voters. Youth push for leaders prioritizing youth involvement, rural issues, and women participation.

Telangana: After failing to get a job, 22 yr old man dies by suicide

Hyderabad: A 22-year-old man died by suicide after falling into depression after failing to get a job. Akula Lavan Kumar, from Boppapur village of Yellareddypet mandal, died by suicide by jumping into the pond. The family of Lavan Kumar informed the police that the deceased was trying to find a job and failed in several Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Rahul Gandhi Misrepresents PM Modi's Stance on Reservations at Telangana Rally

Rahul Gandhi Misrepresents PM Modi's Stance on Reservations at Telangana Rally PM Narendra Modi is against reservations. He wants to snatch away your reservations: Rahul Gandhi at poll rally in Telangana.

Discrepancies in probe into Rohith Vemula's death, will ensure justice: Congress

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Sunday said there were many discrepancies in the investigation conducted previously into Rohith Vemula's death in 2016 and asserted that its government in Telangana will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice for his family. Police in Telangana have filed a closure report before a court in its probe into the death of Rohith Vemula, a student of the University of Hyderabad, claiming he was not a Dalit and died by suicide in 2016 as he feared that his eal caste would be discovered. Congress general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal, said Rohith Vemula's death was a grave atrocity that completely exposed the anti-Dalit mindset of the BJP. The Congress, including Rahul Gandhi ji, has stood with Rohith Vemula's family through this difficult period, he said in a post on X. As has been clarified by the Telangana Police, the closure report concerned was prepared in June 2023, Venugopal said. There were many discrepancies in the investigation conducted previously. The Congress government in Telangana will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice for Rohith's family, he asserted. The Congress came to power in the state last year by defeating the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). Not only that, when we form a government at the Centre, we will pass a Rohith Vemula Act, specifically addressing the issue of caste and communal atrocities on campuses to ensure no student coming from socio-economic backwardness has to face the same plight as Rohith ever again, he said. Venugopal's remarks came a day after Rohith Vemula's mother Radhika Vemula met Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad and urged him to see to it that justice is done to the family. Reddy assured her that an investigation would be conducted again into the University of Hyderabad student's suicide in 2016 and that justice would be done. The chief minister assured that a fair and transparent investigation would be conducted further, Rohith Vemula's brother Raja Vemula said. Talking to reporters on Saturday evening at the University of Hyderabad, Rohith Vemula's mother Radhika Vemula took exception to the observation in the closure report that her son did not belong to the Scheduled Castes (SC). My son belongs to SC. I am a Dalit. How can police say that my son is not SC. Police don't enquire about caste (it is not their job). That is a false campaign, she had said. She also found fault with an argument that Rohith Vemula died because he did not excel in studies. Her son excelled in studies, she claimed. Telangana DGP Ravi Gupta has already announced to conduct further investigation into the case in view of the doubts expressed by Rohith Vemula's mother and others on the closure report.

Discrepancies in probe into Rohith Vemulas death, will ensure justice: Congress

New Delhi: The Congress on Sunday said there were many discrepancies in the investigation conducted previously into Rohith Vemulas death in 2016 and asserted that its government in Telangana will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice for his family. Police in Telangana have filed a closure report before a court in its probe into Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Maulvi Sohel Abubakr Timol Arrested: Alleged Plot to Assassinate BJP Leaders in Surat Uncovered

Surat: A 27-year-old man was arrested in Gujarat's Surat on Friday over an alleged plot to kill BJP leaders and a leader of a right-wing organisation.The accused, Maulvi Sohel Abubakr Timol, threatened the chief editor of Sudarshan TV channel, BJP's Telangana MLA Raja Singh, and the party's former spokesperson Nupur Sharma in connivance with his handlers from Pakistan and Nepal, Surat senior police official Anupam Singh Gehlot said. Abubakr Timol worked at a thread factory as a manager and also offered private tuition on Islam to Muslim children, he added. Police had received information that a man was connecting people on a WhatsApp group, and posting content to hurt religious sentiment, and instigate communal violence during election. Based on the tip-off, police launched an investigation. Timol's mobile chats revealed he was conspiring with people from Pakistan and Nepal to offer Rs 1 crore 'supari' (contract for killing) and procure weapons from Pakistan to kill his first target, national president of Hindu Sanatan Sangh Upadesh Rana, said Gehlot. After his detention, we found several objectionable contents in his mobile phones, including the one regarding offering Rs 1 crore for the murder of Updesh Rana. For this, he was continuously in touch with persons/numbers from Pakistan and Nepal, Gehlot said.Photos and other details found on his phone number show they (accused and associates) were discussing on a secure app about targeting and threatening editor-in-chief of Sudarshan TV Suresh Chavhanke, political leader Nupur Sharma, and Hyderabad MLA Raja Singh. For this purpose, they were planning to collect funds and procure weapons, Gehlot said. Chat records showed Timol wanted to disturb communal harmony during the ongoing general elections, a senior police official said, adding that Surat police was taking the help of other agencies to find out if they had more targets in mind.Preliminary investigation revealed that Timol was in contact with two people identified as Dogar and Shehnaz having phone numbers belonging to Pakistan and Nepal, respectively.Around a year and half ago, the two people contacted the accused through social media on phone numbers belonging to Pakistan and Nepal. They instigated the accused by claiming the Nabi had been mocked by Hindu organisations in India and these need to be straightened out. On the chat app, Timol wrote speeches against Hinduism and threatened Rana that he would be murdered like Kamlesh Tiwari, police said, adding that a member of his chat group had sent Rana's photo with a Rs 1 crore offer to murder him. Kamlesh Tiwari (Uttar Pradesh-based president of the Hindu Samaj Party was killed on October 18, 2019 in Lucknow).The arrested accused was in contact with holders of Whatsapp numbers with codes of different countries like Pakistan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Laos, police official said. Deadly Rains and Flooding: Rio Grande do Sul Struggles to Cope Australian Police Shoot Dead Teenager in Perth After Stabbing Attack Suspected of Terrorism Uttarakhand Forest Fires: Video Surfaces, Culprits Boast About Setting Fires

Congress Demands Justice in Rohith Vemula Case, Citing Investigation Inconsistencies

Congress Demands Justice in Rohith Vemula Case, Citing Investigation Inconsistencies The Congress on Sunday said there were many discrepancies in the investigation conducted previously into Rohith Vemula's death in 2016 and asserted that its government in Telangana will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice for his family. Police in Telangana have filed a closure report before a court in its probe into the death of Rohith Vemula, a student of the University of Hyderabad, claiming he was not a Dalit and died by suicide in 2016 as he feared that his ''real caste'' would be discovered. Congress general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal, said Rohith Vemula's death was a grave atrocity that completely exposed the ''anti-Dalit mindset'' of the BJP. ''The Congress, including Rahul Gandhi ji, has stood with Rohith Vemula's family through this difficult period,'' he said in a post on X. As has been clarified by the Telangana Police, the closure report concerned was prepared in June 2023, Venugopal said. ''There were many discrepancies in the investigation conducted previously. The Congress government in Telangana will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice for Rohith's family,'' he asserted. The Congress came to power in the state last year by defeating the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). ''Not only that, when we form a government at the Centre, we will pass a Rohith Vemula Act, specifically addressing the issue of caste and communal atrocities on campuses to ensure no student coming from socio-economic backwardness has to face the same plight as Rohith ever again,'' he said. Venugopal's remarks came a day after Rohith Vemula's mother Radhika Vemula met Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad and urged him to see to it that ''justice'' is done to the family. Reddy assured her that an investigation would be conducted again into the University of Hyderabad student's suicide in 2016 and that justice would be done. The chief minister assured that a fair and transparent investigation would be conducted further, Rohith Vemula's brother Raja Vemula said. Talking to reporters on Saturday evening at the University of Hyderabad, Rohith Vemula's mother Radhika Vemula took exception to the observation in the closure report that her son did not belong to the Scheduled Castes (SC). ''My son belongs to SC. I am a Dalit. How can police say that my son is not SC. Police don't enquire about caste (it is not their job). That is a false campaign,'' she had said. She also found fault with an argument that Rohith Vemula died because he did not excel in studies. Her son excelled in studies, she claimed. Telangana DGP Ravi Gupta has already announced to conduct further investigation into the case in view of the doubts expressed by Rohith Vemula's mother and others on the closure report.

8 Engineering Colleges in Telangana Accepting TS EAMCET Score

Crops are withering in Telangana: K Chandrasekhar Rao

ADILABAD: Hitting out at the state government, BRS supremo K Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday said people are facing drinking water issues, irrigation problems and power cuts within five months of Congress assuming power in the state. Campaigning for party Peddapalli Lok Sabha seat nominee Koppula Eshwar in Mancherial, the former chief minister said that crops in lakhs of acres were drying up. He also attacked Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy saying that the latter wanted to make people forget his contribution to the state by merging Mancherial, Kumurambheem Asifabad and Nirmal districts with Adilabad. Can Revanth remove KCR from the soul and face of Telangana, he asked amid claps and shouts from the gathering. The BRS government helped realise the long-pending demand of Mancherial districts. People should protest against this decision by voting against the Congress, KCR added. The former chief minister also shared that he took part in agitations for more than 15 years, which helped Telangana achieve separate statehood. Alleging that the government was looking to privatise the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), the BRS chief claimed that Revanth was going to hand it over to the Adani Group. Revanth met Adani in Davos during the World Economic Forum and agreed to the latters proposal for privatisation, he alleged. Now, Revanth will import coal from Australia through Adani, KCR added.

Agniveer recruitment rally at 1 EME Centre Secunderabad from June 20

Join Agniveer recruitment rally in Hyderabad for sons of war widows/ex-servicemen, offering various opportunities in different categories

Telangana: Jeevan didnt slap me, clarifies woman labourer

NIZAMABAD: A day after a clip of Nizamabad Congress candidate T Jeevan Reddy purportedly slapping a woman labourer in Govindpet village of Armoor mandal, she issued a clarification that the former MLC didnt assault her. She said the Congress leader asked her to vote for the party to enjoy the benefits of government programmes. The woman, who didnt give her name, told reporters on Saturday that Jeevan was being unnecessarily blamed. The Congress candidate had visited Govindpet village on Friday as part of his election campaign, where he engaged with Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGREGA) labourers at their work site. During the interaction, the woman labourer expressed her grievances to Jeevan, mentioning the lack of land or garden to grow crops apart from the non-disbursal of monthly pensions. She also said she would vote for the flower symbol. In the video, the Congress nominee is reportedly seen getting angry and then telling her to vote for the hand symbol. Meanwhile, a video showing Jeevan slapping the woman on her cheek went viral on social media, leading to criticism from one and all. On Saturday, the woman labourer clarified to the media that Jeevan did not slap her but merely touched her cheek. She emphasised that the incident was being misconstrued and misrepresented by others.

Hyderabad: Millet Experience Hub to offer chaat in its menu

HYDERABAD: At a time when avoiding rice and wheat was becoming almost impossible, emerged Dr Bharath Reddy, a cardiologist, actor, and wellness experts brainchild Millet Marvels. Millet Marvels a social cause initiative Start Up in Changing the way India Eats, is foraying into Millet chaats and unveiling Indias maiden Millet Experience Hub at Don Bosco Nagar, Hyderabad. The Hub will offer the countrys first-of-its-kind millet chaat developed in association with IIMR and Nutrihub, the global centres of excellence in Millets. Millet Marvels has earned the esteemed title of being Indias foremost millet kitchen by consistently receiving the prestigious Poshak Anaj Award from the Central Government for the past three years in a row. The newly launched Millet Experience Hub, with its environment, provides guests with plenty of room to unwind and savour their experience. This garden cafe can comfortably accommodate up to fifty guests at once. Millets, known for their high nutritional value and gluten-free nature, add a healthy twist to these popular snacks. Millet chaat offers a delightful fusion of flavours and health benefits, making it a unique and enticing dining experience for all. It will be an appealing and health-conscious alternative for the younger generation, drawing them away from disease-promoting fast foods, says Chief Guest, Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, Mentor and Guide for Millet Marvels. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recognised the importance of millets and Indias special place in cultivating millets. The prime minister has widely promoted millets, just the way he did for yoga earlier. In Chevella, the focus should be on millet cultivation. Indias biggest millet research centre, funded by the Central Government, Indian Institute of Millets Research and Nutrihub, the incubator for millet start-ups, is located in Rajendranagar. Millet Marvels will launch its distinctive millet chaats across all its seven outlets beginning with the Hyderabad Airport outlet, next one month. It intends to extend its presence beyond Hyderabad by opening an outlet at the GMR domestic terminal in the national capital this financial year.

Traffic diversions for Shahs visit in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: In view of Union Home Minister Amit Shahs public meeting at Parade Grounds on Sunday, the city traffic police issued an advisory and set up nine diversion points across the city between 5 pm and 9 pm. The police advised commuters to avoid the route from Panjagutta - Greenlands - Begumpet - Secunderabad Parade Grounds. While traffic congestion is to be expected in the surrounding roads of Parade Grounds, the road between Tivoli X Roads and Plaza X Roads will remain closed. Travellers coming from Alugaddabi and Secunderabad railway station will be diverted at Sangeeth X roads towards Clock tower - Patny - Paradise. Those travelling from Tukaram Gate will be diverted at St Johns Rotary towards Sangeeth - Clock tower - Patny -Paradise. Commuters travelling towards Begumpet from Sangeet X Roads will be diverted at YMCA towards Clock Tower - Patny - Paradise - CTO - Rasoolpura - Begumpet. For those coming from SangeetX Roads towards Begumpet, will be diverted at CTO X roads towards Balamrai - Brooke Bond - Tivoli -SweekarUpkar - YMCA - St Johns Rotary - Sangeet X roads. Travellers coming from Bowenpally and Tadbund towards Tivoli will have to take a diversion at Brooke Bond towards CTO - Ranigunj - Tank Bund. Traffic police will divert commuters coming from Karkhana, JBS towards SBH-Patny at Sweekar Upkar towards YMCA - Clock Tower - Patny or towards Tivoli-Brook bond - Balamrai-CTO. Commuters from Patny towards SBH-Sweekar Upkar will be diverted towards Clock Tower-YMCA or Paradise-CTO. Travellers from Jubilee Hills Check Post towards Begumpet will be diverted at Panjagutta towards Khairatabad and at Green lands towards Raj Bhavan.

Hyderabad police arrest five GST officials for Rs 46 cr refund fraud

HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad police on Friday arrested five GST officials for their alleged involvement in seven cases of GST refund fraud that amounts to about `46 crore. The accused were identified as Peetala Swarna Kumar (Dy Commissioner, GST, Nalgonda Division), Kelam Venu Gopal (Asst Commissioner (State Taxes), Abids Circle), Podila Viswa Kiran (Asst Commissioner (State Taxes), Madhapur-1 Circle), Vemavarapu Venkata Ramana (Dy State Tax Officer, GST, Madhapur-II Circle) and Marri Mahitha (Sr. Assistant, Madhapur-III Circle). The Detective Department revealed that five GST officers criminally conspired with seven persons who allegedly started bogus e-bike manufacturing units in Hyderabad. After starting these bogus units under different firm names, the accused collected electricity bills and registered the firms on the GST portal by submitting fabricated documents of rental agreements. They then conspired with their tax consultant and created fake invoices in the name of the bogus firms to file GST refunds. The accused then offered bribes to the state government GST officials and claimed the GST refunds, the police said.

Officials asked to ensure no power supply disruption in Telangana

HYDERABAD: Amidst sizzling heat in the state, the demand for and consumption of electricity has also increased significantly. Following this, the chairman and managing director of Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL), Musharraf Ali Faruqui has instructed officials to stay alert to ensure that there is no disruption in power supply. He held a review meeting with chief general managers, superintending engineers and divisional engineers at the head office here on Saturday. Greater Hyderabad has already recorded the highest demand of 4214 MW this season as on April 30. The highest consumption of 89.71 million units was recorded on May 3, which was 53.7 percent higher than last years consumption of 58.34 million units recorded on the same day. On May 4, the demand touched 4,209 megawatts and consumption is also expected to exceed 90 million units. Sources said that the demand is likely to increase significantly by the end of this month. The MD said that till the end of summer, one engineer should be appointed in charge of every 11 KV feeder on a shift wise basis. In this regard, around 300 engineers working in the companys head office, other circle and zonal offices have been appointed for operational duties. He has also ordered the accounting staff working in the circle offices to be assigned operational duties. This year, as many as 4,353 additional distribution transformers have already been installed. In addition to these, another 250 distribution transformers have been made available at field level offices. Where necessary, the electricity staff has been instructed to arrange them on a war footing and ensure that there is no inconvenience to the consumers.

BJP seeks bar on CM Revanths campaign

HYDERABAD: Accusing Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of spreading rumours that the BJP would scrap reservations in the country if it returned to power, the BJP on Saturday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India seeking a bar on campaigning by the TPCC chief. A BJP delegation, led by G Premender Reddy, met ECI officials and submitted a copy of their complaint. The complaint says: Revanth Reddy is making slanderous allegations by misquoting BJP national general secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam regarding the removal of the constitutional provision of reservations to the scheduled communities in the country. The BJP delegation claimed that the allegations by the CM were not only mischievous but also slanderous in nature. If allowed, they will cause irreparable damage to the very fabric of the society and also undermine the constitutional guarantees. The CMs comments may also lead to social unrest by creating confusion in the minds of the people at large, the complaint said. The BJP said that the slanderous comments of Revanth were not only false and baseless, but also misquotes. The saffron party urged the ECI to initiate immediate action against the chief minister by prohibiting him from election campaign, to avoid any such false and baseless allegations while campaigning, especially with respect to the constitutional provisions.

Nama Nageswara Rao reaches out to TDP cadre

KHAMMAM: BRS Khammam candidate Nama Nageswara Rao on Saturday reiterated his demand for Bharat Ratna for former chief minister and TDP founder NT Rama Rao. In an interaction with TDP workers here, the former MP said he joined politics inspired by NTR and had worked under yellow party supremo N Chandrababu Naidu. He also spoke of his efforts to install a statue of NTR in the Parliament complex in New Delhi. The BRS leader recalled that he had written many letters to the Union government demanding that the countrys highest civilian honour be bestowed upon NTR. Nageswara Rao said he continued to enjoy a healthy relationship with TDP workers. They (TDP cadre) have helped me whenever I needed them. In return, I have tried to support the TDP in my personal capacity whenever I could. This party helped instil this culture in me, the BRS nominee said, urging the TDP cadre to support him so that he could continue serving society.

Lets debate development: Kishan to CM Revanth

HYDERABAD: Responding to the Gadida Guddu campaign of the Congress, BJP state president G Kishan Reddy on Saturday challenged Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to a debate on the development of Telangana during the UPA rule (2004-2014) and NDA rule (20214-2024). I am ready for a debate anywhere, whether it is in Kodangal or at the Martyrs Memorial in Hyderabad, Kishan said. In an open letter, Kishan objected to Revanth spreading lies against the BJP. He said that every political party is free to campaign its achievements and make promises, but it is not good for democracy to spread lies against opponents. Kishan took objection to the chief ministers comments that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given Gadida Guddu (donkeys egg) to Telangana in the past 10 years. In the last 10 years, the Modi government gave about Rs 9 lakh crore to Telangana while the UPA gave only Rs 1.32 lakh crore to erstwhile AP, of which Telanganas share was Rs 45,000 crore, he said.

Harish sees coalition government, suspects Cong-BJP tie-up in Telangana

HYDERABAD: Predicting a coalition government at the Centre, former minister T Harish Rao on Saturday alleged that Congress and BJP have struck a secret deal to win eight Lok Sabha seats each of the 17 in Telangana. The BRS leader also said that the Congress should seek votes only after implementing its six guarantees. The Congress bond paper has bounced. The people have decided to punish the Congress, Harish said, asking Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to explain why he was not denying the claims of BJP leaders D Arvind and A Maheshwar Reddy that he would join the saffron party. Harish participated in a meet the press programme organised by Telangana Union of Working Journalists (TUWJ) here. He alleged that there was no governance in the state since the chief minister was focused on revenge politics. The Congress failed to fulfil its promises made during the Assembly elections. BRS social media workers are being harassed by the police. The Congress said in its manifesto that it was against defections, but after coming to power, it is encouraging defections, the former minister said He said that people hailing from residuary Andhra Pradesh want Hyderabad to be continued as a common capital for both states. Revanth Reddy has Andhra roots. People of Telangana should be alert. BJP and Congress gave seven mandals from Telangana to AP for political reasons. People want the BRS to win to protect the interests of Telangana. Protecting the interests of the state is only possible with the BRS, the former minister said. He alleged that in the past 10 years, BJP did nothing for Telangana and hence it has no right to seek votes. The BJP rule has not benefited any section. Prices of gas, diesel and petrol have increased and have caused trouble to the people, he said. Asserting that KCRs bus yatra was getting good response from the people, Harish said that the BRS would get more votes than the Congress and BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. I see a silent revolution on the horizon. BRS belongs to every community. BRS is a party that treats Hindu- Muslims as two eyes. I am asking Muslims, Christians and other minorities to support BRS, Harish said.

Its Gujarat vs Telangana: CM Revanth

KHAMMAM/HYDERABAD: Stating that the coming election was a fight between Gujarat and Telangana, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday exhorted the people to vote for the Congress and defeat the Gujarat team. The chief minister participated in a Jana Jatara Sabha in Kothagudem of Khammam constituency and a corner meeting in Kothakota of Mahbubnagar district as well as a roadshow in Secunderabad. Addressing a massive gathering in Kothagudem, Revanth said that the December 3 elections results were a semi-final while the finals would be played on May 13. Stating that the erstwhile Khammam district has a great fighting history, the chief minister that the separate Telangana slogan first rent the air in Palvoncha. As Lord Rama of Bhadrachalam is my witness, I swear that farm loans would be waived before August 15, Revanth said. He also disclosed that Rythu Bharosa amounts would be credited into the accounts of the remaining four lakh farmers by May 9. The coming election is a fight between Gujarat and Telangana and we should win the championship by defeating the Gujarat team. Though the Congress-led UPA government had included many issues favouring Telangana in the AP Reorganisation Act, Narendra Modi cheated the people by not implementing them, Revanth alleged. Alleging a tacit understanding between the BJP and BRS to defeat the Congress, the TPCC chief appealed to the people to defeat all nefarious plots against the grand old party by voting for it in the General Elections. The BRS car has gone to the mechanics shed and it will never come back. In fact, it should be sold as scrap, Revanth said. Accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of insulting even the bifurcation of the state, the TPCC chief said that it was ridiculous that the former was now coming to the people seeking votes. He also reiterated his allegation that the BJP was conspiring to scrap reservations for the marginalised sections and would do so if it gets a third term in power. Turning his attention to the BRS, Revanth alleged that former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao left Telangana debt-ridden by taking loans worth `7 lakh crore. He advised BRS Khammam candidate Nama Nageswara Rao not to become a scapegoat of KCR by believing the latters words of a Union Cabinet berth. Revanth appealed to the people of Khammam to ensure Congress candidate R Raghuram Reddy and Mahabubabad candidate Balaram Naik win by at least three lakh votes each. Addressing a public meeting at Kothakota, Revanth said: Even if KD (KCR) comes from Gajwel and Modi from Delhi, the Congress cannot be defeated in Mahbubnagar. He said: To shift Mudiraj community from BC- D to BC - A and to include Valmiki Boyas in the ST list, Congress candidate Vamshi Chand Reddy should win. He accused BJP candidate DK Aruna of colluding with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and filing cases in Delhi to bring down Revanth Reddy. Addressing the Khammam crowd, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said that closed thermal power stations in the state would be revived. He also announced that interest-free loans worth `1 lakh crore would be provided to self-help groups in the coming five years. Vikramarka also accused KCR of falsely claiming that he turned SCCL into a profit-making enterprise. Ministers Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy and Thummala Nageswara Rao were among those present.

BRS: Remaining Sircilla corporators are loyal

KARIMNAGAR: A day after 11 BRS corporators joined the Congress in the presence of Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in Sircilla, senior pink party leaders arrived in the town to control the situation and arrest the defections. In a press conference on Saturday, Karimnagar MLA Gangula Kamalakar and party nominee B Vinod Kumar expressed confidence that 99% of the remaining corporators will not leave the BRS. They are loyal to the pink party, they told reporters. The 11 corporators, prior to joining the Congress, actively participated in the election campaign for the BRS in their respective divisions. Addressing the media, Vinod said that he was saddened by their decision to leave the party just 10 days before the poll. What mistake did I make that necessitated this move, he asked. I have worked sincerely for the party and helped develop the city as a representative of the people. Additionally, he urged the locals to chase the 11 corporators away if they go to houses and seek votes for the Congress now. Vote for development, not destruction, he opined. Reflecting on his tenure at MP from 2014 to 2019, Vinod said he brought development works worth Rs 1,000 crore. He said that if the people of Karimnagar voted him into power, he would raise their concerns in Parliament and demand the setting up of an IIIT, which, the BRS leader claimed the sitting MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar had failed to deliver, apart from establishing a skill development centre for the youth. Most of the youths are unable to secure jobs in the private sector due to a lack of requisite skills, he added.

Despite stiff Congress challenge, how BJP plans to grab low-hanging fruit in Telangana

Despite stiff Congress challenge how BJP plans to grab lowhanging fruit in Telangana

KCR spreading lies on rivers, SCCL: Minister Uttam

SURYAPET: Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy lambasted BRS supremo K Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday alleging that the latter was spreading misinformation about the Godavari river and Krishna river waters and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), among others. Speaking to the media, he dismissed the recent accusations levelled by the former chief minister against the state government. Instead of reflecting on his behaviour during the [48-hour] ban [imposed by the ECI], KCR resumed his campaign with a speech filled with more lies and has continued to blame the Congress for acts done during his tenure. As the saying goes, Old habits die hard, he said. The minister also urged people to be cautious of BJP leaders who use false promises and hatred to win elections.

BRS wont join NDA or INDIA: KTR

HYDERABAD/ RAJANNA-SIRCILLA: Claiming that the people of India will reject both the BJP and Congress, BRS working president KT Rama Rao said the pink party would not join either the NDA or INDIA bloc after the Lok Sabha elections. There are 13 major political parties not aligned with either of the major coalitions who will hold the key to who forms the next government in New Delhi, he said. Addressing a public meeting after roadshows in Malkajgiri segment on Saturday, the Sircilla MLA said the image of the city would be completely destroyed due to communal tensions if the BJP were to be elected. For peace and growth of the city, vote for the BRS, he said. Additionally, stating that the Congress was not in a position to challenge the BJP anywhere in the country, Rama Rao mentioned that only regional parties can counter the saffron party in the Lok Sabha elections. In the Assembly polls, it was not the Congress, but the BRS, which defeated the BJP MPs who were nominated for state elections, he said. The BRS working president also criticised Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi and questioned his decision to run away to Kerala instead of fighting the BJP in his stronghold Amethi. Rama Rao also accused Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of conspiring with the BJP and fielding weak candidates against them. He said that if BRS secures over 10 Lok Sabha seats, it will voice all concerns of Telangana people in Parliament. The BRS working president alleged that despite being a Congress chief minister, Revanth was toeing the line of BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, not Rahul Gandhi. He also took a swipe at Modi saying that the latter was resorting to cheap politics and campaigning to gain more Lok Sabha seats by provoking people on religious lines. Reorganisation of districts Earlier in the day, Rama Rao, addressing the media in Sircilla, said Revanth has done nothing but make unnecessary statements in the last four-and-a-half years. He alleged that the state was in the control of a single unstable person. Claiming that Revanth was trying to undo the good work of former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, he said the BRS government created new districts and named them after prominent personalities, but the Congress wanted to remove them. Rama Rao said the decentralisation of administration helps execute the welfare schemes in villages. He said the BRS would hold public protests if Revanth changed the layout of the state. Congress leaders are saying that one district should be enough per Lok Sabha segment. They should clarify which districts would be removed of the 33 in the state, he added.

BRS leaders stir the pot with comments on Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: BRS leaders, especially partys working president KT Rama Rao and former minister T Harish Rao, have stirred the political cauldron in the state with their recent statements regarding the status of Hyderabad after June 2. It all began with Rama Rao claiming that the BJP would make Hyderabad a Union Territory if it is returned to power at the Centre. Given the fact that there was not even a mention regarding the status of Hyderabad in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Rama Raos statement sparked speculation within political circles. Meanwhile, Harish Rao suggested that the BJP could continue Hyderabad as a common capital for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. As per the AP Reorganisation Act, Hyderabad will remain a common capital for both the states for 10 years after bifurcation. This period will conclude on June 2. Harish also accused Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of clandestinely supporting the common capital idea as he has ties to Andhra Pradesh. While there is no proof of the claims by the BRS leaders, the fact that they are being repeated has led to analysts wondering about the motive behind these statements. Interestingly, both the BJP and Congress have preferred to remain silent on these comments, fueling speculation. Analysts say that extending Hyderabads common capital status is unlikely without amendments to the AP Reorganisation Act. They believe that Rama Raos Union Territory claim is merely a political tactic. Meanwhile, the BRS leaders continue to repeat these statements, hoping to get public support. Whether they are able to swing the voters in the favour of the BRS is a question that can only be answered when the votes are counted.

Strategy-wise, Telangana BJP way ahead of its rivals

HYDERABAD: With the Lok Sabha elections looming large and campaigning reaching a crescendo, the Telangana unit of the BJP is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to connect with voters at the grassroots level. The party has intensified its ground-level campaigning while its leaders monitor daily reports on the situation and issue instructions to candidates and in-charges. Election management wings have been established at the state headquarters. These wings are going through updates on the progress of campaigning efforts and voter outreach. The party is maintaining a database of beneficiaries of Union government schemes over the past decade. Booth committee members are now approaching them and seeking support for the partys candidates. The party workers are knocking the door of every beneficiary with pamphlets and copies of the BJP manifesto highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modis guarantees and the developmental work done of the past decade. Simultaneously, the party is cracking down on any negligence in the campaign, with the national leadership issuing warnings whenever needed. Additionally, BJP leaders appointed as in-charges for each Lok Sabha constituency are providing feedback on campaign progress and gauging public sentiment. Party leaders say that the in-charges are working tirelessly to ensure the success of Modis and Amit Shahs rallies in the state. Senior BJP leaders are closely monitoring developments from the party headquarters, addressing any issues at the ground level in real-time. The national leadership is optimistic that the party would achieve its target of winning eight to 10 of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state. According to party sources, BJP candidates have an edge 12 constituencies Adilabad, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Medak, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad, Zaheerabad, Chevella, Mahbubnagar, Bhongir, Warangal and Nagarkurnool. Senior leaders told TNIE that despite the challenge from their rivals, the BJP expects a favourable result in most constituencies, and has a clear advantage in eight constituencies with less than 10 days left for polling. The remaining four are too close to call, given the fact that the contest is triangular in these seats.

Ryots in Telangana await release of crop loss compensation

ADILABAD: Many farmers in the erstwhile Adilabad district hit by the unseasonal rains and hailstorms in the last crop cycle are preparing their fields for the upcoming Kharif season. Ryots are hoping that the government releases the funds in time so that they can begin cultivation as soon as possible. However, with the Lok Sabha polls underway, the government has to seek clearance from the Election Commission of India (ECI). District agriculture officials said crops in 576 acres of land spread across Talmadugu, Echoda and Boath mandals were destroyed. While the jowar crops were the most impacted, several other mandals also saw partial damage to crops, they mentioned, adding that a report in this regard has been submitted to the government. Many farmers expect that the government will release the Rs 10,000 per acre compensation in the coming week. Rythu Swarajya Vedika district president Sungarapu Boranna said the compensation announced by the previous BRS government last year was yet to be disbursed. The BRS government released Rs 1.43 crore, which was deposited in the treasury but not transferred to the farmers accounts due to technical issues in the system, he alleged. Additionally, Boranna mentioned that although the Congress government had announced compensation, it had not yet been deposited. Referring to the recent crop loss of around 2,000 acres due to unseasonal rains, he said there were discrepancies in the reports submitted by agriculture officials regarding the number of farmers eligible for compensation. He emphasised the necessity for field visits by agriculture officials to accurately assess losses, which, he said, had not yet occurred. District agriculture officer Pulliah stated that they had not received any orders from the government regarding the release of compensation for crop loss but anticipated receiving them soon.

Toddy tappers in Telangana reap rich harvest of Haritha Haram

SIDDIPET: Haritha Haram programme, launched with a view to increasing the green cover in Telangana, has come as a boon in disguise for toddy tappers. The toddy saplings that were planted about eight years ago have now grown to full size and are ready for tapping alcoholic beverage. With a lot of trees yielding plenty of toddy, there is no shortage of unadulterated beverage a win-win situation for both consumers and toddy tappers. About 50 families from Kishtasagar village, which is two-and-a-half-km away from the district headquarters of Siddipet, tap toddy and sell it to consumers from 5.30 am to 10.00 am and earn a cool Rs 1,000 a day. People from Siddipet town and surrounding villages make it a point to go to Kishtasagar to consume unadulterated toddy. To keep the faith of their loyal costumers, Kishtasagar Geetha Karmika Sangam (KGKS) has decided to cancel the membership of those who resort to adulteration of toddy. When Nara Chandrababu Naidu was the chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, about 21 acres of land was allocated to toddy tappers to raise trees, according to Ensanpally Ramulu, president of KGKS. After bifurcation of the state, excise official planted toddy trees in eight acres in the village as part of the Haritha Haram programme of the previous BRS government. Out of 3,000 saplings planted in the village, 1,000 are yielding toddy now and helping toddy tappers to become financially independent, said Ramulu. According to him, each tree yields two-five litres of toddy every day and a litre of the brew fetches Rs 100. Mostly they have costumers coming from Siddipet and there is more rush on Saturdays and Sundays. Some times, consumers from as far as Hyderabad, Dubbak, Gajwel and other towns also come to the village for toddy. They tap toddy for three months and leave the palm trees untouched for a year. This one year holiday ensures higher yield of toddy from the tree, Ramulu explained. A graduate, Ramulu has chosen his family profession after failing to get a suitable job. He said he encouraged others from his community to take up toddy tapping.

Hyderabad records 44.5C as heatwave continues to scorch Telangana

HYDERABAD: The city experienced yet another highest maximum temperature of this summer season as the mercury levels soared to 44.5C in Quthbullapur and Chandanagar on Saturday. The temperatures in the GHMC limits remained well above 42C as the city was under orange alert as per a Telangana State Development and Planning Society report. The maximum temperatures also continued to see a rise with Jagtial and Karimnagar topping the charts at 46.8C, followed by Nalgonda at 46.7C and Narayanpet and Nizamabad at 46.4C, reported the TSDPS. Red alert was in place in 26 districts where the temperatures remained above 45C, while seven districts which recorded temperatures above 43C were on an orange alert. Following the pattern of Friday, 95 mandals experienced heat wave conditions, indicating the extreme weather the state is exposed to at the peak of the summers. Severe heatwave conditions were recorded at isolated places in Jogulamba Gadwal and Mahbubnagar districts, while heatwave conditions prevailed over 20 districts including Rajendranagar and Medchal-Malkajgiri. The maximum temperatures recorded the same day in the previous year was 39.8C in the state with a stark difference of seven degrees, showing the severity of summer this year. The city recorded a sharp difference of 10.8C compared to the maximum temperatures for the same day last year. As per the IMD, the minimum temperatures also remained significantly high with Rajendranagar recording the highest minimum temperature of 29C, with a departure of 4.2C. As per the IMD reports, light to moderate rains and light thunderstorms were experienced at isolated places in Khammam and Suryapet districts. The IMD said that under the influence of a cyclonic circulation prevailing over Marathwada and neighbourhood and extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea-level, the state will experience light to moderate rains or thudershowers at isolated places for the next six days till May 10. In addition, prolonged heatwave conditions will prevail over the districts of Adilabad, Nirmal, Nizamabad, Jagtial, Rajanna Sircilla, Kamareddy, Mahbubnagar, Nagarkurnool, Wanaparthy, Narayanpet, Jogulamba Gadwal and for next two days and an orange alert has been issued for the same. The state is likely to experience light to moderate rains and thunderstorms with gusty winds around 30-40 kmph and a yellow alert has been issued for the same from May 6 to May 8.

IMD Hyderabad issues yellow alert as four days of rainfall expected

Hyderabad: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Hyderabad has issued a yellow alert as rainfall is expected in Telangana for the next four days. Until May 9, almost all districts of Telangana are likely to witness thunderstorms, lightning, squalls, etc. Rainfall to bring temperature down, forecasts IMD Hyderabad The weather department has forecasted that the rainfall Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Migrant workers urge Odisha, Telangana govts to rescue them from brick kiln

BHUBANESWAR: A group of labourers from Balangir, who were allegedly assaulted at a brick kiln in Makthal village of Telangana, have appealed to the governments of Odisha and Telangana to rescue them. The migrant labourers belong to Sukuan village under Deogaon block of Balangir district. Sources said at least 26 labourers including seven children were brought to a PVC brick kiln in Makthal in October last year allegedly by labour sardar of Belpada block of Balangir, Biranchi Kumbhar, after payment of an advance of Rs 20,000 per person. On April 28 this year, when the labourers urged the brick kiln owner Ajay Chaudhury to let them return to their village as they had completed six months of work and made bricks worth the money paid to them as advance, the latter assaulted one of the workers, Tankadhar Kumuria. Subsequently, some of the workers reported the matter to local police. The next day, Chaudhury forced them to make a video stating they were fine and wanted to continue working. However, after this episode, the workers again sent a message to us stating that the owner continued to assault them, said a relative of one of the labourers, Angada Chinda. Chinda along with relatives of the labourers have written to Telangana Police and labour officials seeking their intervention in the case. They further alleged the brick kiln owner forced all the labourers and the children to work for 14 to 15 hours a day under inhuman conditions. Sources said none of the workers had registered themselves with Balangir police or labour officials before migrating to the neighbouring state for work.

Rohith Vemula's mother meets CM Revanth Reddy, demands fresh probe into sons suicide

HYDERABAD: Asserting that the Cyberabad Police had submitted the closure report to tarnish the image of her scholar son, Radhika Vemula, mother of Rohith Vemula, demanded a full-fledged reinvestigation into her sons suicide case. Radhika was speaking at a press meet organised by the Ambedkar Students Association (ASA) at the University of Hyderabad on Saturday evening, following her meeting with Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy earlier in the day, where she pressed for justice for her son. Radhika, along with students of University of Hyderabad (UOH), submitted a representation to the CM, stating: The observations in the report clearly indicate the falsification of facts and highhandedness of the investigating officers. Calling her sons suicide an institutional murder, Radhika said, My son was a topper in the university and always excelled in academics. He was a hard-working, sincere and positively motivated young man, who believed in the ideology of social justice and strove for the cause even while he was pursuing his PhD in the university. Those calling his Dalit status as fraudulent and that his interests lay not in academics but in politics, have left no stone unturned to twist the facts and ensure that the truth behind my sons suicide will never come to light. A person with such strong morale was pushed to take his own life and then declared as a fraudster. This is really heart-breaking and disgusting. Radhika further said that she met the CM to request a fair inquiry and reinvestigation into the case and also withdraw cases against students and faculty members of UoH who were involved in the Rohith Vemula movement. She expressed gratitude for his assurance of justice in the case. Protests erupt in University of Hyderabad as cops close Rohith Vemula case 'Rohith Vemula was not a Dalit', claim Telangana cops in closure report; DGP orders further probe It may be recalled that Telangana DGP Ravi Gupta on Friday stated that as some doubts were expressed by the mother of Rohith Vemula on the investigation, it was decided to conduct further investigation into the case. More than eight years after Rohiths suicide in January 2016, which sparked widespread protests across the nation, the police, in their closure report before the Telangana High Court, stated the reasons for suicide were personal and no one abetted it. The deceased himself was aware that he did not belong to SC. This could be one of the constant fears as the exposure of the same would put him to loss of his academic degrees, the report said. ASA members also criticised the university administration and said that all the evidence indicating Rohith was coerced into suicide had been overlooked by the investigation officer and the other authorities concerned to protect the then vice-chancellor P Appa Rao, the then Labour minister Bandaru Dattatreya and former HRD minister Smriti Irani and former BJP MLC N Ramachandra Rao. It is crucial to understand what unfolded in the one month before Rohiths suicide, when he was subjected to atrocities by the then VC. He was barred from public places in the campus and the university hostel for his entire course work duration, and not just for a few months, as has been reported. We condemn the narrative set by the BJP, RSS and the ABVP through the closure report and look forward to a fair investigation by the government, said an ASA member. No stone left unturned to twist facts Those calling Rohiths Dalit status as fraudulent and that his interests lay not in academics but in politics, have left no stone unturned to twist the facts and ensure that the truth behind my sons suicide will never come to light, says Radhika Vemula

Rohith Vemula's family punches holes in police report, CMO orders re-probe

Telangana police await court approval for reinvestigation due to Rohith Vemula's family's doubts. Closure report filed by Cyberabad police stated Rohith not Dalit but OBC. Allegations include harassment by VC and caste status dispute.

Desperate BBC passes off Congress worker, arrested for spreading fake news, as Telangana Chief Minister to create Darr ka Mahol

The BBC later tweaked its headline to refer to Arun Reddy as 'top India opposition official,' which too is a misleading description of the arrested Congress worker.

Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Cong playing with fire by attempting Hindu-Muslim divide:Rajnath

Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Cong playing with fire by attempting Hindu-Muslim divide:Rajnath Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has no fire while his party is playing with fire by attempting to create Hindu-Muslim divide for electoral dividends, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said. In an interview to PTI, Singh also indicated that the BJP will implement its big-ticket plans like rolling out of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and implementing the 'One Nation One Election' push if it retains power for the third consecutive term. The defence minister also said that he was confident that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will cross 400 seats and the BJP will get over 370 as these projections were made after detailed assessment of the ground situation and not made only for public consumption. On the overall political landscape, the defence minister accused the Congress of attempting to disturb social harmony and trying to create tensions on religious lines. ''They are attempting to create Hindu-Muslim divide for electoral gains. The Congress is trying to create tensions on religious lines,'' he alleged. ''The Congress wants to disturb social harmony. They look at the Muslim community only as a vote bank. I have a suggestion for them -- politics should not be done only for forming governments. The aim of politics should be for nation building,'' he said. ''Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Congress is playing with fire,'' he said. Singh said people of the country will repose their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's tally will improve significantly based on the performance of the government in the last five years. ''Our seats will increase in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal and we will get some seats in Tamil Nadu. Our account will open in Kerala as well. We are winning a good number of seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,'' the senior BJP leader said. ''We will increase our tally in Odisha, Jharkhand and Assam. We are sweeping Chhattisgarh,'' he said, asserting that the BJP will cross the 370-mark. Asked whether the BJP's seats in Maharashtra will come down, he did not give a direct reply but said there may be some adjustments here and there. The BJP leader also came down hard on the Congress for its plan to ''redistribute'' wealth, saying it will have disastrous consequences for the country's economy. ''The concept of redistribution of wealth will trigger recession. Argentina and Venezuela implemented it and faced disastrous consequences. The investors will lose confidence in India,'' Singh said. On the BJP's big-ticket plans like implementation of the UCC and 'One Nation One Poll' push in if it retains power, Singh said it fulfils promises that it makes to the people of India. In its manifesto, the BJP pledged to implement the UCC if it returns to power after the general elections. It also mentioned that the party will move forward with a resolve to realise the idea of 'One Nation, One Election'. ''We always fulfil our commitments. We will never allow any question mark on our credibility and will not compromise on the country's unity and integrity. We implement whatever we say in our manifesto. We have to do whatever we say,'' Singh said. ''We will go for 'One Nation One Election. We will take views of every quarter, including all political parties on it,'' he said. On the UCC, the defence minister said even the Constitution-makers felt a need for it, as it is mentioned in the directive principles. ''The Congress wants to create fear psychosis; they want to use the Hindu-Muslim card,'' he said. ''They do not have any issue. They want to form a government by dividing the society in the name of caste, creed and religion and they have always done it,'' he alleged.

Ice apple sales surge amid heatwave in Telangana's Karimnagar

KARIMNAGAR: Amidst scorching heat waves, people flock to purchase ice apples, locally known as Thati Munjalu, to seek relief from the sweltering temperatures. Vendors who bring them from villages are witnessing brisk business in Karimnagar city. Possessing great medical properties, these fruits are making rampant sales. Ice apples, priced at Rs 100 for a dozen pieces, are quickly shelled and sold. As its the peak season for the sale of this fruit, vendors are making Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000 per day, said T Venkanna, an ice apple vendor. Ice apples, derived from the fruit of the sugar palm tree, serve as natural coolants and are an essential summer treat in India. Situated along the Collector Road, vendors set up their shops under the shade of trees. At the Telangana Martyrs Memorial Circle, women vendors attract the attention of the passersby by displaying the se fruits in their baskets. Meanwhile, taking the benefit of the ongoing election season, vendors gather and hold meetings to discuss the elections. Besides, ice apples are also playing a part in providing essential hydration for party activists who eat them while carrying out campaign activities. Ayurvedic doctors also sing praises of the medicinal virtues of ice apples, emphasising their rich mineral content. Dr K Amarnath, an Ayurvedic physician, told TNIE, Ice apples act as a natural remedy for various stomach ailments and digestive issues. They are known for their ability to cure acidity and stomach ulcers. The fruits potassium and zinc content renders them beneficial for patients with hypertension, he said, adding that it helps an individual in bolstering their overall immunity as well.

How Harsha never gave up the dream to become GM

HYDERABAD: Till 2017, there were no grandmasters in Telangana. By the end of 2018, the state had three! Arjun Erigaisi, Harsha Bharathakoti and Karthik Venkatraman had become GMs during that year in that order. For Bharathakoti, the joy was double, as that was the year when he became eligible to vote as well. It was not exactly my life goal, but it was a target I was really hoping to achieve in my chess career, the 24-year-old told TNIE over the phone from Missouri, US, where he is now pursuing both chess and higher studies. However, things were a rollercoaster for the Telangana chess prodigy a decade ago. When I was 14 years old, I was doing very well, and then suddenly my game stagnated for almost three years. It was as if I did not know what was going wrong, Bharathakoti recollected, adding, But I did not give up and kept working and went on to become an International Master (IM) at the age of 17. Rewind ten years. It was at the age of seven when Bharathakoti, originally from Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh, was introduced to the game of 64 squares by his uncle, NVS Ramaraju. A renowned coach in the chess circles of Hyderabad, Ramaraju also holds the distinction of having trained Erigaisi as well as grandmaster Dronavalli Harika. I started playing chess when I was 7 years old. Ramaraju sir has been my coach since the beginning of my chess career. I got introduced to chess by him, and I was just so interested in it, Bharathakoti said. For Ramaraju, his disciple achieved good standards in the first couple of years. He came third in the U-12 nationals, after which he qualified for the Slovenian World Youth Games (U-12). In that tournament, he was unbeatable up to the seventh round but lost in the eighth, the coach, who has run RACE Academy in Madhapur for over two decades now, told TNIE. Bharatkoti then went on to win nationals in the U-15 and U-19 categories and achieved second place in the Asian continental tourney. He has also lifted the Hoogeveen Open in the Netherlands and stood second in Spains Sants Open. With a FIDE rating of 2569, he currently stands in the 294th spot globally and 24th in India. Im fortunate to have parents who supported me throughout the journey to GM and my uncle Ramaraju; without them, it wouldnt have been possible. We were financially very unstable, but because of my parents and coach, I was able to become GM, a nostalgic Bharathakoti reminisces. Both his parents play chess, even though his father, B Uday Chander, used to accompany him to tournaments until he achieved the coveted GM title. Only his uncle Ramaraju plays. He would also decide tournaments for him to participate in. So, without Ramaraju, there would not have been any Harsha. All credits go to him only. He is like a godfather to him, asserted Bharathakotis old man while speaking to TNIE. For him, the only way to provide comfort to his son if he suffers a setback in the game is to treat him to good food. I dont scold him or give advice about the game, as I do not know much about it, nor does his mother (B Saradha). He likes chicken biryani, so I get him that. Now pursuing a bachelors in psychology from Webster University in Saint Louis, Bharathakoti was hooked on the Candidates event which Indian teenage chess prodigy D Gukesh won all while attending his classes. I feel this was the best Candidates I have ever seen. It was very exciting, and many upsets took place. Though I didnt have any particular expectations, I was completely surprised by Gukeshs playing style. His game was so mature and calm, and thats what made him win the event, Bharathakoti summarised. Bharathakoti is now gearing up for the Sahibkiran Amir Temur Cup in Uzbekistan, to be held later this month. I want to reach 2600 this year, and ultimately, around 2670 is my goal at the end of this year. To improve my game, I am working with other students at my university. For Ramaraju, his students strength is his ability to analyse the game deeply. His opening and middlegames are good, but he can work more on his endgame. Bharathakoti, who is inspired by former world chess champion Magnus Carlsen, wants the state government to provide scholarships and organise rated chess tournaments so that many people can play in the state itself. Private MNCs should come ahead along with the government, suggests his father.

Expired stocks found during raid at famous bakery in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The task force of the Food Safety Department in Telangana conducted raids on Saturday at a famous bakery and an ice cream parlor located at Moazzam Jahi Market area, Hyderabad. During the inspections, violations were found. Karachi Bakery* Expired stocks of Rusks, biscuits, candy, chocolate cakes, toasts and buns worth Rs 5,200 were discarded* Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Caste dynamics and former friendship to influence Warangal election result

Established in 1952, the Warangal Lok Sabha constituency was reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC) in 2009. Over the years, the seat has seen diverse political victories, with the Congress securing it seven times, the TDP five times and the TRS now BRS, clinching it four times

Amit Shah to address poll rallies in Hyderabad, 3 other places in Telangana

Hyderabad: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will campaign in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on Sunday in support of the BJP candidates for the upcoming elections. According to a release from the BJP Telangana unit, Shah would be addressing three separate rallies at Sirpur Kagaznagar, Nizamabad and Hyderabad. A release from AP BJP wing said the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Ice cream parlour, restaurant raided in Hyderabad; unhygienic conditions found

Hyderabad: The task force of the Food Safety Department, Telangana conducted inspections at an ice cream parlour and a restaurant in Himayatnagar, Hyderabad, on Saturday. During the inspection, they discovered fungus and unhygienic conditions. Unhygienic conditions found at restaurant in Hyderabad At Clove Vegetarian Fine Dine, expired products such as cheese, syrup, ATC spices, sandwich Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Fake videos of Modi aides trigger political showdown in India election

Fake videos of Modi aides trigger political showdown in India election Manipulated videos are taking centre stage as campaigning heats up in India's election, with fake clips involving two top aides of Prime Minister Narendra Modi triggering police investigations and the arrest of some workers of his rival Congress party. In what has been dubbed as India's first AI election, Modi said last week fake voices were being used to purportedly show leaders making statements that we have never even thought of, calling it a conspiracy o create tension in society. Indian police -- already investigating the spread of fake videos showing Bollywood actors criticizing Modi -- are now investigating a doctored online clip that showed federal home minister Amit Shah saying the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party will stop certain social guarantees for minorities, a subject sensitive for millions of voters. Shah retorted on X, posting his original and the edited fake speech and alleging -- without providing any evidence -- that the main opposition Congress was behind the video it created to mislead the public. The minister said directions have been issued to the police to address this issue. Indian police arrested at least nine people, including six members of Congress' social media teams, in the states of Assam, Gujarat, Telangana and New Delhi last week for circulating the fake video, according to police statements. Five of the Congress workers were released on bail, but the most high-profile arrest made by the cyber crime unit of New Delhi police came on Friday, when they detained a Congress national social media coordinator, Arun Reddy, for sharing the video. New Delhi is one region where Shah's ministry directly controls police. Reddy has been sent into three-day custody. The arrest has sparked protests from Congress workers with many posting on X using the #ReleaseArunReddy tag. Congress lawmaker Manickam Tagore said the arrest was an example of authoritarian misuse of power by the regime. Congress' head of social media, Supriya Shrinate, did not respond to messages and an email seeking comment. MISINFORMATION India's election from April 19 to June 1 will be the world's largest democratic event. With nearly a billion voters and more than 800 million internet users, tackling the spread of misinformation is a high stakes job. It involves round-the-clock monitoring by police and election officials who often issue take down orders to Facebook and X as investigations start. In India's most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, more than 500 people keep tabs on online content, flagging controversial posts and coordinating with social media companies for their removal when needed, police chief Prashant Kumar told Reuters on Saturday. Another fake video that sparked a storm last week showed Yogi Adityanath, the state's chief minister, criticizing Modi for not doing enough for families of those who died in a 2019 militant attack. Though fact checkers said the video was created using different parts of an original clip, state police called it an AI generated, deepfake. Using internet address tracking, state police arrested a man named Shyam Gupta on May 2 who had shared the fake video post on X a day earlier, receiving over 3,000 views and 11 likes. The police have accused Gupta of forgery and promoting enmity under Indian law provisions that can carry a jail term of up to seven years if convicted. Reuters could not reach him as he is currently serving a 14-day custody period. This person is not a tech guy. Had he been tech savvy, arresting him quickly would not have been possible, said police officer Kumar.

Silent period for Phase-3 poll sets in from May 5

BENGALURU: All sorts of loud political campaigning using loudspeakers, microphones, banners and mega rallies will end at 6 pm on Sunday (May 5). After which political parties and candidates can only carry out door-to-door campaigning. This is because 14 parliamentary constituencies -- Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davangere and Shimoga -- are going to the polls on May 7. The office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka (CEO) said that from 6 pm on Sunday, state borders in districts going to the polls will also be sealed. Additional CEO Venkatesh Kumar R told The New Sunday Express that from the silent period till the polls are over, the sale of liquor is not permitted. Liquor cannot be brought from other states also. As per Election Commission directions, liquor outlets in other states falling within 5km of the Karnataka border too should remain closed. Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Yadgir, Ballari, Uttara Kannada, Belagavi and Vijayapura share borders with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra. The CEOs office also requested state governments of neighbouring states to give all employees and labourers paid holiday on May 7 to allow them to vote. The state government has declared a general holiday that day for all government offices, educational institutions and public sector undertakings falling within these constituencies. Also, business enterprises, industries and other institutions have been directed to sanction a paid holiday to allow daily wagers and permanent staff working with them to vote. Kumar said that many people in North Karnataka work in Maharashtra, Hyderabad and other places. The district administrations were directed to call them and persuade them to come to their respective constituencies to vote. The election officials said that no opinion polls are permitted. Restrictions on opinion polls were imposed from Phase-1 elections. There is a ban from April 19 to 6.30 pm on June 1, Kumar said. The election officials have also directed all parties and candidates to ensure that no one except residents remain in the constituency.

Doctored video of Amit Shah: FIR now includes charge of criminal conspiracy, says Police

NEW DELHI: Criminal conspiracy charges have been added to the FIR registered in connection with the doctored video of Union Home Minister Amit Shahs speech, the Delhi Police said on Saturday, a day after it arrested a national coordinator of the Congress social media team. Arun Beereddy, a native of Telanganas Hyderabad, who handled the Spirit of Congress account on X, was arrested from Delhi on Friday, police said. This is the first arrest made by the Delhi Police in the case. We have added section 120B (punishment of criminal conspiracy) of the IPC in the FIR as investigation has indicated to a larger conspiracy, a police officer said. Beereddy is among the prominent members of the Congress social media team and he is accused of being among those who uploaded the doctored video on social media and also shared it with other members of the party, according to officials. Following his arrest, he was produced before a court here on Friday night and it sent him to three days in custody for further interrogation by the polices Special Cell. Initially, the cell had registered the FIR on Sunday under IPC sections 153 (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot), among others.

Union minister, two MLAs from same party in rare tricornered contest

HYDERABAD : In the narrow lanes and bylanes of Secunderabad, there are striking black-and-gold engravings that read: Foundation stone laid by T Padma Rao Goud; Guest of Honour: G Kishan Reddy. While the latter is the sitting BJP MP from Secunderabad, the former is a BRS MLA from the Assembly segment bearing the same name. In the Lok Sabha elections in Secunderabad, Goud, Reddy and BRS MLA Danam Nagender are locked in a tricornered contest. Nagender, who won on a BRS ticket from Khairatabad Assembly segment in the December 2023 Assembly polls, jumped ship but hasnt yet resigned as a legislator and is now contesting on a Congress ticket. All the three candidates have years of political experience. Kishan Reddy is the state BJP president and a Union minister; Padma Rao is a four-time MLA and former state minister; and Nagender is a six-time MLA. Internal surveys of the parties currently place Kishan slightly ahead of Nagender, with the BRS candidate a close third. In the Secunderabad and Musheerabad assembly segments, there is support for the BRS with some voters even calling it a fight between the BJP and the pink party. Danam has been switching parties every now and then. He was in Congress, then TDP, then Congress again, then BRS, now back in Congress, said Satyanarayana, a 70-year-old resident of Khairatabad. For his part, Nagender told this newspaper, My career started in the Congress. People recognise my service and will give a befitting reply to the BJP. Despite his party-hopping, Nagender, appears to enjoy the support of the minorities. For instance, a Muslim voter in Nampally said his vote would go to Nagender. Ill vote either for patang (kite) or Congress. The constituency is home to over 20 lakh voters, 27.4% of whom are Muslims. Another voter, Rajesh (40), a juice vendor in Musheerabad, said there is anti-incumbency against the BJP and Danam might benefit from it. Former captain of the Indian cricket team Mohammed Azharuddin, who has been campaigning along with Nagender, said that he was confident the Congress will wrest Secunderabad. Azhar, who was the party candidate from the Jubilee Hills Assembly segment in the 2023 elections, told this newspaper, Kishan Reddy has not done anything. I dont think he spent his MP funds properly. Speaking to this newspaper during the Hyderabad Dialogues recently, Kishan said, The Modi government has done a lot for the state. The Centre spent about Rs 10 lakh crore in Telangana. However, there are also voters who said Kishan is not accessible whereas the BRS candidate is a grassroots leader. Padma Rao walks around our road, waves at me and asks how Im doing; but we cannot expect that from Kishan Reddy, a voter in Secunderabad said. At KBR National Park in Jubilee Hills, a brisk morning walker said, In this part of the city, we mostly know Kishan Reddy and Danams work. In the other part, they would probably support Padma Rao. Whoever comes to power, just make sure you take care of the traffic, roads and other civic issues, he sighed.