Newborn Baby Found Abandoned in Kochi After Concealed Pregnancy
Newborn Baby Found Abandoned in Kochi After Concealed Pregnancy A 23-year-old woman, suspected to be a victim of sexual assault, concealed her pregnancy, delivered a baby in the early hours of Friday in her apartment bathroom, and allegedly threw the newborn on the street in front of her flat complex situated in a posh residential area in this port city of Kerala. Police said the woman has been taken into custody after being traced using the address on the Amazon delivery packet in which the child was wrapped and thrown. The newborn was found dead in the abandoned parcel. Conservancy workers of Kochi Corporation found the body of the child along a street in posh Panampilly Nagar here around 8 AM and alerted the police. According to City Police Commissioner S Syamsundar, the woman has confessed that she gave birth to the child in her bathroom at around 5 - 5.30 AM today (Friday) and later threw the baby as she panicked. It is said that the parents of the woman, with whom she was staying, were unaware of her pregnancy. They were also not aware of the delivery, as it happened inside the bathroom, which was locked by the woman, he said. ''The parents did not know about the pregnancy until the police came to the flat and questioned them,'' the commissioner said after the police interrogated the parents and the woman in connection with the incident. However, in this matter, the police suspect coercion or a rape element. ''It is suspected that the girl was subjected to rape. In this matter also investigation will be done,'' Syamsunder said. ''We have shifted the survivor to the hospital to provide her proper medical attention. The girl will be arrested on charges of murder,'' the police official said. The commissioner said that whether the baby was stillborn or it was a live birth can only be ascertained after the post-mortem. She allegedly threw the baby onto the street three hours after the delivery, he added. The city police chief also stated that the woman is unmarried, and she is in a state of shock. The entire matter can be clarified only after detailed interrogation, the official added.
Rahul's Strategic Chess Move: Amethi to Rae Bareli Shift in Lok Sabha Election
Rahul's Strategic Chess Move: Amethi to Rae Bareli Shift in Lok Sabha Election Rahul Gandhi describes himself as the best chess player among Indian politicians, and his latest gambit appears to be his decision to contest from Rae Bareli instead of his home ground Amethi. Gandhi obviously hopes that the move will checkmate opponents but the BJP sees it as a cowardly retreat from the battleground. ''He is an experienced player of politics and chess. The party leadership takes its decisions after much discussion, and as part of a larger strategy. This single decision has befuddled the BJP, its supporters, and its sycophants,'' Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said in a post on the much-anticipated decision. ''The BJP's self-proclaimed Chanakya, who used to talk about 'paramparagat seat' is now not sure how to respond,'' he said. The chess reference by Ramesh comes days after the Congress put out a video of Gandhi talking about his interest in the board game and its similarities with politics. In the video, when Gandhi is asked who is the best chess player among Indian politicians, he said, ''Me''. Gandhi filed his papers from Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli constituency in the afternoon, barely an hour before nominations closed for the Lok Sabha seat on Friday. He was accompanied by Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as he filed his papers around 2 pm. Gandhi had made his poll debut from Amethi in 2004 and saw relative smooth sailing in the first 10 years with the UPA being in power, while the last 10 years have been challenging. He won the 2014 polls against the BJP's Smriti Irani by over a lakh votes but she had run a spirited campaign and made inroads into the Congress citadel of Amethi. She finally breached the fortress in 2019, beating the Gandhi family scion by over 55,000 votes. However, Gandhi's 'Plan B' seemed to have worked as he contested the polls from two constituencies and won from Kerala's Wayanad, ensuring that his stint in Parliament continued. Some of the earlier electoral gambles of Gandhi such as pitching the 2019 polls campaign of the Congress on the Rafale issue have not paid off but Gandhi has always stuck to his convictions and maintained his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including on the Adani issue. He has been at the receiving end of criticism from various quarters and often been dubbed a ''reluctant politician'' or ''part-time politician'', but he has remained unfazed by such criticism. At a press briefing in Ghaziabad a couple of weeks ago, Gandhi had taken a swipe at the media for dubbing him a ''non-serious'' politician. He had cited his involvement with the MGNREGA scheme, the Land Acquisition Bill, the Bhatta Parsaul movement, Niyamgiri Hills matter, and had said for the media all this was ''non-serious while talking about Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Virat Kohli was serious''. In 2004, Gandhi announced his entry into Indian politics, contesting his first election from Amethi, the same seat that was represented by his mother Sonia Gandhi (1999-2004) and his late father Rajiv Gandhi between 1981-91. Rahul Gandhi won by an overwhelming margin of almost three lakh votes. He again won in 2009 but his margin was reduced in 2014 and was defeated by Irani in 2019. He had been criticised for not spending enough time in the constituency, allowing the BJP to make inroads into the Congress fortress. Gandhi was appointed vice president of the Congress in 2013 and took over the reins of the party on December 16, 2017. He stepped down as its president in May 2019 after the drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls. Since then, he has taken out to yatras -- a cross country Kanyakumari to Kashmir march on foot and a hybrid Manipur to Mumbai yatra, initiatives which were hailed by Congress leaders for galvanising cadres and enthusing supporters. Gandhi had recently said it is now his life mission to ensure justice for the SCs, STs, OBCs and the deprived people. He has pitched the Congress campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha on five Nyays -- Yuva Nyay, Nari Nyay, Kisan Nyay, Shramik Nyay and Hissedari Nyay. Born on June 19, 1970 to Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi, he is the elder of the two siblings and spent his formative years in New Delhi, studying at St. Columba's School and then went on to study at the Doon School in Dehradun. His father Rajiv Gandhi then entered politics and became prime minister after the assassination of Rahul's grandmother and then prime minister Indira Gandhi. Due to constant security threats, Rahul and his sister Priyanka were home-schooled. A year after attending St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi, for his undergraduate studies, he moved to the US to attend Harvard University. Following the assassination of his father and the security concerns that surfaced, Rahul Gandhi shifted to Rollins College in Florida. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1994. Thereafter, he went on to pursue and complete his M.Phil. in Development Studies from the University of Cambridge (Trinity College) in 1995. Upon graduation, Rahul started his professional journey at the Monitor Group, a management consulting firm in London. He later returned to India and eventually joined politics. Gandhi is a certified scuba diver and is known for his fitness. He also holds a black belt in Aikido, a Japanese martial art.
Amit Shah Proclaims Rahul Will Face Crushing Defeat In Raebareli
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday declared that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi would face defeat with a huge margin against the BJP candidate in Raebareli. The Congress has fielded Rahul Gandhi as its candidate from Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh, a constituency held by his mother Sonia Gandhi since 2004. Rahul is concurrently contesting from Wayanad, Kerala. During an election rally in Hukkeri of the Chikkodi constituency on Friday, Amit Shah took a swipe at 'Rahul Baba'. Modi attempted and successfully launched Chandrayaan once. However, Sonia Gandhi ji attempted to launch Rahul Baba (Rahul's career) twenty times without success. Now, for the twenty-first attempt, he has shifted from Amethi and is contesting from Rae Bareli, Shah remarked. I can confidently state that Rahul will lose by a huge margin against our candidate Dinesh Pratap Singh. Take it in writing, Shah declared. Amit Shah attacked the Congress, contending that it fails to maintain national unity or security. In the past 10 years, Modi has provided electricity, water, housing, free ration, toilets, and most importantly, free Covid vaccination. Rahul, who once ridiculed the vaccination drive as the 'Modi vaccination', was later seen taking it with his sister. Individuals who politicize such critical matters should feel ashamed, he asserted. Belagavi and Chikkodi have a significant Hindutva presence. Shah addressed issues like the Ram Mandir and the Kashi Corridor and also chanted slogans like Jai Sri Ram, and Jai Shivaji. During the second term as the PM, Narendra Modi performed the Bhoomi Poojan and Pran Pratistha at Ayodhya. Although Kharge ji and Rahul Baba were invited, they did not attend, fearing repercussions from their vote bank, which we are not afraid of, Shah added. Previously, there was no corridor at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple after Aurangzeb demolished it. Modi ji has constructed that. The Somnath Mandir is being adorned in gold. Kedarnath and Badrinath are also undergoing development, Shah highlighted. He criticized Congress leaders for terming the murder of Neha Hiremath as a personal issue. A girl who resisted conversion was murdered. I met her parents. Her mother spoke about the pressure. If the state government fails to handle the case adequately, they should hand it over to the CBI. We know how to ensure justice, Shah asserted. Shah also accused the Congress of wreaking havoc on the state within a mere 10 months of coming to power. I ask Rahul Baba and Kharge Maharaj, why did the state government cease providing its Rs 4,000 per year share to farmers under the Kisan Samman scheme? he questioned. Water scarcity and power cuts plague the state. Leaders threaten power cuts if Congress is not reinstated. In just 10 months, Congress has brought doom. Once again, put your trust in Modi ji, and he will propel the state forward, Shah assured.
Lok Sabha polls | Rahul Gandhi has abandoned people of Wayanad: T.N. BJP leader Annamalai
Mr. Annamalai, on a social media post, said Mr. Gandhis decision to file his nomination in Rae Bareli after the conclusion of polls in Wayanad, Kerala, reflected the moral decay of the Congress party
Kallakkadal alert: Coastal parts of Kerala, south Tamil Nadu warned of likely ocean swells
INCOIS, the central agency that issues weather warnings for fishermen in the country, has advised people to safely moor fishing vessels in harbours
Rahul Gandhi Files Nomination From Rae Bareli; Mallikarjun, Sonia, Priyanka Accompany Him
Rae Bareli/New Delhi, May 3: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi filed his papers from Uttar Pradeshs Rae Bareli constituency, barely an hour before nominations closed for the Lok Sabha seat on Friday. Earlier, in the morning, the Congress ended the suspense over Amethi and Rae Bareli, announcing his candidature from the seat held by his mother Sonia Gandhi for the last two decades. Gandhi had lost from the adjoining Amethi constituency in 2019, but won from Wayanad in Kerala a [] The post Rahul Gandhi Files Nomination From Rae Bareli; Mallikarjun, Sonia, Priyanka Accompany Him appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kallakkadal alert sounded: Coastal parts of Kerala, south Tamil Nadu warned of likely ocean swells
There is a possibility of rough seas due to high waves of 0.5 to 1.5 metres during this period, according to the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). INCOIS, the central agency that issues weather warnings for fishermen in the country, advised people to safely moor their fishing vessels in the harbour.
Rahul Gandhi files nomination from UP's Raebareli
Irani recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about Congress waiting for elections to conclude in Kerala so that a safe seat could be announced for Rahul Gandhi later
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) on Friday warned that there is possibility of swell surges and rough sea conditions associated with the effect of high period swell waves that are approaching from distant southern ...
Video Doesn't Show Kerala Congress Leader Delivering Controversial Speech
In the video, PC George can be seen targeting businesses led by Muslims.
New Angle Emerges in Amethi as Rahul Gandhi Shifts to Raebareli
In a surprising turn of events, the Congress party's decision to field Rahul Gandhi from the Raebareli Lok Sabha seat has sparked a fresh narrative in Amethi. Smriti Irani, Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi, wasted no time in interpreting this move as an implicit admission of defeat by the Congress. Irani, addressing reporters in Amethi, welcomed the decision but not without a hint of triumph. The absence of the Gandhis from Amethi's battleground signifies their acknowledgment of impending defeat. Their reliance on a proxy candidate speaks volumes about their confidence, she remarked. Emphasizing the strides made in Amethi under the Modi government's tenure, Irani questioned the decades-long dominance of the Gandhi family in the region. If significant progress could be achieved in five years, why was Amethi neglected for half a century under Gandhi rule? she queried, assuring continued development under BJP leadership. Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foresight, Irani highlighted his earlier prediction regarding Rahul Gandhi's search for a safer electoral haven post-Kerala polls. PM Modi had forewarned about this shift, indicating Congress's strategic retreat from contested territories, she asserted. The electoral landscape now witnesses Rahul Gandhi contesting Raebareli against BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh, while Irani vies for a renewed mandate from Amethi. The Congress, meanwhile, has nominated Kishori Lal Sharma, a loyalist from Amethi, echoing the 2019 electoral showdown between Gandhi and Irani. As both constituencies gear up for the fifth phase of polls on May 20, the historical significance of these electoral battlegrounds looms large. From Indira Gandhi to Sonia Gandhi, the Raebareli seat has remained a Congress stronghold, barring a few exceptions, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty in Indian politics. Meanwhile, in Amethi, the spotlight now shifts to Kishori Lal Sharma, who filed his nomination amidst the evolving political landscape. Sharma's entry adds a new dimension to the electoral contest, as he seeks to uphold the Congress legacy in a constituency once synonymous with the Gandhi family. Reflecting on the historical significance of Amethi, the transition from Rajiv Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi underscores the enduring connection between the Nehru-Gandhi lineage and this electoral bastion. However, Irani's victory in 2019 marked a significant departure from this established narrative, signaling a shift in the political winds. With the impending electoral showdown on May 20, both Raebareli and Amethi brace for a contest that transcends mere electoral arithmetic. It's a clash of ideologies, a testament to the shifting sands of Indian politics, and a reaffirmation of the democratic spirit that pulsates through the heartland of Uttar Pradesh. As the campaigns intensify and the rhetoric escalates, all eyes remain glued to these two pivotal constituencies, awaiting the verdict that will shape the political landscape for years to come. Here's What 2024 Lok Sabha Elections Schedule: Seven Phases from April 19 to June 1 Congress Announces Candidates for Lok Sabha 2024, Rahul Gandhi to Contest from Rae Bareli Rajnath Singh Revives Mahatma Gandhi's Call to 'Abolish Congress' Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections
Kerala Lottery Result Today on 3 May 2024: Nirmal NR 378 Prize Money & Winners
Kerala Lottery Nirmal NR 378 result today on Friday, 3 May 2024. Prize money details listed below.
Swell Surge Warning to Kerala, South Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Hyderabad: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) on Friday that there was a possibility of swell surges and rough sea conditions associated with the effect of high period swell waves that are approaching from distant southern Indian Ocean. Swell surges started at approximately 10,000 km away from Indian coast on April 26, 2024 in the southern Atlantic Ocean (15E and 60S) and slowly moved towards southern Indian Ocean (~35-55E; 60-50S) around April 28 2024. This caused the high energy swell propagation (~24 s) towards the Indian coastal regions which is expected to hit southern tip of India in the early hours 2.30 a.m. of May 4, 2024. These long period swells combined with high tide conditions can cause coastal flooding in the low-lying areas of Lakshadweep, Kerala, South Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Odisha and West Bengal coasts during May 4 and 5, 2024. The low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable. The INCOIS is presently monitoring the situation and the updates will appear on its website. The public is advised to check INCOIS website at www.incois.gov.in/portal/osf/osf.jsp for further information and updates on the event. Fishermen and coastal population are alerted to be cautious on possible surging of waves (gushing of sea water) intermittently in the nearshore or beach region, particularly in the low-lying areas. Small vessels not to ply nearshore. Boats may be anchored at a fair distance from each other, to avoid collision and damage. Total suspension of operational/recreational activities at beach/nearshore regions during 4-5, May 2024 INCOIS is continuously engaged in providing ocean information, warnings, advisories, and ocean state forecasts to various stake holders. INCOIS, as part of Ocean State Forecast (OSF) Services, forecasts wave height, direction and period (of both wind waves and swell waves), Sea surface currents, Sea Surface Temperature, etc. INCOIS also provides forecasts on the state of the ocean during extreme weather conditions like cyclones, high wave/swell conditions, etc. based on multi-model operational forecasting system built upon numerical ocean models assimilated with real time data from buoys deployed in the coastal waters as well as in the open ocean, even deep south in the southern Indian Ocean.
Devendra Fadnavis calls Rahul Gandhi a political tourist as Congress nominates him from Rae Bareli
In the 2019 general elections, Rahul Gandhi had lost to BJP's Smriti Irani on his home turf Amethi, which he had represented for three consecutive terms, but won from Wayanad in Kerala.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi files nomination from Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday filed his nomination papers from Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli seat for the Lok Sabha elections. Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accompanied Rahul Gandhi as he filed papers. Rae Bareli seat is considered traditional pocket borough of the Gandhi-Nehru family as its members have represented the seat for several decades. Besides Rae Bareli, Rahul Gandhi has contested Lok Sabha election from Keralas Wayanad as well. Gandhi is the sitting MP from Wayanad. The constituency will go to polls in the fifth phase of general elections, that is May 20. Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi: Rae Bareli's tryst with Congress
Rahul Gandhi picks Rae Bareli over Amethi: Will Gandhi's safe play help or hurt Congress?
Rahul Gandhi's surprise decision to contest from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi has stirred speculation. With Priyanka Gandhi Vadra abstaining from the race, the move signals a strategic shift for Congress. The choice reflects concerns over Amethi's electoral dynamics post-2019 and aims to reinforce the party's presence in northern India. Yet, it may impact Congress's prospects in Kerala, posing a strategic dilemma.
Congress has conceded defeat in Amethi...: Smriti Irani on Rahul Gandhi contesting from Raebareli
Irani recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about Congress waiting for elections to conclude in Kerala so that a safe seat could be announced for Rahul Gandhi later.
Fielding Rahul from Rae Bareli a responsibility not just a legacy: Congress
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Friday said it has taken a decision to field Rahul Gandhi from Rae Bareli after a lot of deliberation and strategy, and that the constituency is not just a legacy but also a responsibility. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said it is a long election process and there are a few chess moves still left to play. He also justified Priyanka Gandhi Vadra not contesting any election, saying she can reach Parliament by contesting any bypoll, but is currently taking on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to counter him on his alleged lies during campaigning. Many people have given different opinions on the news of Rahul Gandhi contesting elections from Rae Bareli. But he is a seasoned player of politics and chess. He makes his moves after careful consideration. The party leadership has taken this decision after a lot of deliberation and strategy, he said. Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi: Rae Bareli's tryst with Congress Ramesh claimed the decision to filed Rahul has devastated the BJP, its supporters and sycophants. The poor self-proclaimed Chanakya who used to talk about 'traditional seats' is not able to understand what to do now, he said. The Congress leader said Rae Bareli has not only been Sonia Gandhi's seat but also Indira Gandhi's seat. This is not a legacy but a responsibility, a duty, he asserted. He said as far as the Gandhi family's stronghold is concerned, not just Amethi-Rae Bareli, the entire country from north to south is the stronghold of the Gandhi family. Rahul Gandhi, he said, has become an MP three times from Uttar Pradesh and once from Kerala, ut why couldn't Modiji muster the courage to contest elections below Vindhyachal. One more thing is clear that the Congress family is the family of expectations and aspirations of lakhs of workers. An ordinary worker of Congress is superior to the big ones. Yesterday, a prominent journalist was sarcastically saying to a worker of Amethi that 'when will your turn come to get a ticket'? Look, it has come! An ordinary worker of Congress will break both the illusion and arrogance of the BJP in Amethi, Ramesh said justifying fielding of Congress workers Kishori Lal Sharma. Priyanka ji is campaigning vigorously and is alone shutting up Narendra Modi by answering his every lie with the truth. That is why it was necessary that she should not be limited to her constituency only. Priyanka ji will reach Parliament by contesting any by-election, he said. Ramesh said today Smriti Irani's only identity is that she contests elections from Amethi against Rahul Gandhi. Now Smriti Irani has lost that fame too. Now instead of making useless statements, she should answer about local development, the closed hospitals, steel plant and IIIT - that needs to be answered, he said. Nomination deadline for Amethi, Rae Bareli seats in UP ends today
Here's What 2024 Lok Sabha Elections Schedule: Seven Phases from April 19 to June 1
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are set to unfold in seven phases, spanning from April 19 to June 1, with results expected on June 4. The Election Commission has revealed the schedule, highlighting that April 19 will witness the highest number of constituencies, totaling 102, while the fifth phase, on May 20, will see the lowest number at just 49. Here's a breakdown of the election phases across different states: Single Poll Date (22 states): Arunachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Ladakh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu. Two-phase Voting (4 states): Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tripura, Manipur Three-phase Voting (2 states): Chhattisgarh, Assam Four-phase Voting (3 states): Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand Five-phase Voting (2 states): Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir Seven-phase Voting (3 states): Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal The Lok Sabha Election 2024 schedule is as follows: Phase 1 (April 19): 101 Seats Phase 2 (April 26): 89 Seats Phase 3 (May 7): 94 Seats Phase 4 (May 13): 96 Seats Phase 5 (May 20): 49 Seats Phase 6 (May 25): 57 Seats Phase 7 (June 1): 57 Seats Each phase covers various states and Union Territories, ensuring a comprehensive electoral process across the nation. In the first phase on April 19, a total of 102 seats will be contested across several states and Union Territories: Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal West, Arunachal East Assam: Sonitpur, Kaziranga, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Lakhimpur Bihar: Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Jamui Jammu & Kashmir: Udhampur Madhya Pradesh: Sidhi, Shahdol, Jabalpur, Mandla, Balaghat, Chhindwara Maharashtra: Ramtek, Nagpur, Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli-Chimur, Chandrapur Manipur: Inner Manipur Meghalaya: Shillong, Tura Mizoram: Mizoram Nagaland: Nagaland Rajasthan: Ganganagar, Bikaner, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Jaipur Rural, Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, Dausa, Nagaur Sikkim: Sikkim Tamil Nadu: Thiruvallur, Chennai North, Chennai South, Chennai Central, Sriperumbudur, Kancheepuram, Arakkonam, Vellore, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Arani, Viluppuram, Kallakurichi, Salem, Namakkal, Erode, Tiruppur, Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Pollachi, Dindigul, Karur, Tiruchirappalli, Perambalur, Cuddalore, Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Sivaganga, Madurai, Theni, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukkudi, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari Tripura: Tripura West Uttar Pradesh: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Moradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit West Bengal: Cooch Behar, Alipurduars, Jalpaiguri Chhattisgarh: Bastar Uttarakhand: Tehri Garhwal, Garhwal, Almora, Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar, Hardwar Andaman & Nicobar: Andaman Nicobar Islands Lakshadweep: Lakshadweep Puducherry: Puducherry These elections aim to engage citizens in the democratic process, allowing them to exercise their right to vote and shape the future of their nation. Congress Announces Candidates for Lok Sabha 2024, Rahul Gandhi to Contest from Rae Bareli Congress KL Sharma to Contest against BJP's Smriti Irani in Amethi Trinamool Congress Accuses Congress Leader of Promoting BJP Agenda
Kerala police arrests Tamil Nadu man for murdering Assam youth
GUWAHATI: The Kerala police have apprehended an individual from Tamil Nadu in connection with the alleged murder of a young man from Assam. The youth from Assam was allegedly killed while cleaning a concrete mixer near Vakathanam. Pandi Durai (29) was arrested by the Kerala police on Thursday (May 02). The remains of the Assam [] The post Kerala police arrests Tamil Nadu man for murdering Assam youth appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .
Congress has conceded defeat in Amethi: Smriti Irani
Amethi: After Rahul Gandhi was named by the Congress as its candidate from Raebareli Lok Sabha seat, Union Minister and BJP's candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani on Friday said that Congress has conceded defeat from the constituency even before a vote was cast, adding that the opposition party would not have fielded a proxy candidate (Kishori Lal Sharma) if they were hopeful about the outcome of the polls. I welcome the guests to Amethi. The fact that the Gandhis are not fighting in Amethi shows that even before a vote has been cast, they are losing from Amethi. If they had seen even a glimmer of hope, they would have contested and not put up a proxy candidate, Smriti Irani told reporters in Amethi. Smriti Irani said that Rahul Gandhi's candidature from Raebareli is a victory for the people in Amethi. There has been great development in Amethi...if this much has been accomplished in 5 years out of which two years were lost to the battle against Covid, then why was it not done for 50 years in Amethi by the Gandhi family? I want to assure the people of Amethi that the Modi government will return, and we will continue to work for people here, with development being the centre of our focus. Today before a vote has been cast, history has been made. I am grateful to the people of Amethi. Today is the victory of the people of Amethi, Irani said. Irani recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about Congress waiting for elections to conclude in Kerala so that a safe seat could be announced for Rahul Gandhi later. PM Modi had already warned the public that Rahul Gandhi will look for a new seat once voting concludes in Wayanad. Congress leadership is going away from the battlefield, she said. Rahul is pitted against the BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh in Raebareli. He currently represents Wayanad in the Lok Sabha, while Smriti Irani is bidding for a fresh term from Amethi. Raebareli was held by Sonia Gandhi, who became a member of the Rajya Sabha. The Congress party has also named Kishori Lal Sharma, a party loyalist from Amethi, the seat Rahul Gandhi lost in the 2019 general elections to BJP leader Smriti Irani. The Congress party has also named Kishori Lal Sharma, a party loyalist from Amethi, the seat Rahul Gandhi lost in the 2019 general elections to BJP leader Smriti Irani. Meanwhile, KL Sharma filed his nomination from the Amethi Lok Sabha seat. Sonia Gandhi contested elections from here in 1999 before passing the baton on to Rahul in 2004. Irani had earlier filed her nomination as the BJP candidate for Amethi. Both seats are going to polls in the fifth phase on May 20. Rahul represented Amethi in the Lok Sabha from 2004 to 2019. His father and former Prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, too, was an elected member of Amethi in the Lower House from 1981 till his death in 1991. The party has won the Congress bastion in all but three Lok Sabha elections since 1951. Before Sonia Gandhi, former Indira Gandhi had won from Raebareli three times. The constituency also elected Indira's husband and Congress leader, Feroze Gandhi, twice, in 1952 and 1957. A member of the Nehru-Gandhi family has not contested the seat just twice, in 1962 and 1999.
BARDHAMAN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday asserted that Congress' tally in the Lok Sabha polls will be an all-time low, as he mocked its leader Rahul Gandhi's decision to contest from Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli seat, sensing defeat at Wayanad where he is a sitting MP. Addressing a rally in the Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha seat, Modi said that if Congress is voted to power, it would snatch quotas meant for the Scheduled Caste, Dalits and OBCs and give those to its jihadi vote bank to pursue the party's appeasement politics. Rahul to contest LS polls from Rae Bareli, KL Sharma from Amethi Modi also slammed the opposition bloc INDIA and Congress for supporting the vote jihad comments made by a candidate of the Samajwadi Party (SP), an ally of the grand old party in Uttar Pradesh. There is no need for opinion polls or exit polls, as I had talked about their (Congress) defeat long back in Parliament. When their senior leader quit her Lok Sabha seat and entered Parliament through Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, it was evident that they sensed defeat, Modi said, in an apparent dig at Sonia Gandhi. Now, the shehzada' of Congress, who went to Wayanad (Kerala) after losing the Amethi seat, is also contesting from Rae Bareli. He knows he would lose Wayanad this time, Modi said, referring to Rahul Gandhi's decision to contest from Rae Bareli. The prime minister challenged the Congress to give in writing that it will not amend the Constitution to provide reservations based on religion. They (Congress and INDIA bloc) have to give a written statement that they will not take away the reservations for SCs, STs and OBCs and give those to their vote bank on the basis of religion, Modi said. He also came down heavily on the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, alleging that the party has made Hindus second-class citizens in the state. Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi: Rae Bareli's tryst with Congress
This Video Doesnt Show a Temple Converted Into a Meat Shop in Keralas Wayanad
The video is unrelated to India or Kerala and is being shared with a false communal angle.
The Supreme Court recently dismissed the Special Leave Petition (SLP) lodged by the State of Kerala against a 2019 judgment of the Kerala High Court which ordered the state to grant Rs 1 lakh compensation to a man who was illegally detained by the police on suspicion of being a Maoist. A bench of Justice []
Wayanad Reacts After Rahul Gandhi Agrees To Contest From UP's Raebareli
With Rahul Gandhi deciding to contest the Raebareli Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh as well, there were mixed reactions from people in Kerala's Wayanad.
Kerala Board Result 2024: SSLC, Plus 2 result dates announced
Kerala Board Result SSLC Plus result dates announced
Heavy Metal Contamination in Kochi Backwater Fish Threatens Public Health
Heavy Metal Contamination in Kochi Backwater Fish Threatens Public Health Heavy pollution from industries in Greater Kochi is getting into the water, which is then getting into fish and shellfish, making them dangerous to eat because they have harmful metals, according to a new study. The study by the Department of Marine Technology, Cochin University for Science and Technology (CUSAT), and the National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Chennai, revealed heavy metal contamination in various species of fish and shellfish in the Cochin Estuarine System (CES) in backwaters from Aroor in Ernakulam-Alappuzha border to Eloor, the industrial belt of Kochi. The report published in the international science journal Springer said that at least three metals, zinc, cadmium, and chromium, exceeded the toxicity threshold outlined in the sediment quality guidelines, and cadmium and lead exceeded the standards of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and the Food and Agriculture Organisation. The presence of cadmium in the muscle tissues of fish and shellfish considerably increases the cancer risk in humans. ''The carcinogenic risk index indicates that cadmium may lead consumers to a chronic cancer risk,'' the report said. All the dissolved metals in the backwaters in Kochi showed higher concentrations compared to all other estuaries in the world, the report said. However, the people of Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts, who are major consumers of the catch from the backwater, can breathe easy now as the study revealed that the estimated daily intake is very low compared to the permissible intake limits, and thus the potential health hazard from most of these metals were found to be low. But the study, titled 'Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in seafood resources from the southwest coast of India: human health risk assessment and importance of seafood security', pointed towards possible long-term risks, especially due to the intake of metals like cadmium and lead. It also urges the administration to take immediate steps to prevent contamination of the water resources in the Cochin backwaters. The water resources in Kochi, the commercial and industrial hub of Kerala, face increasing pressure from commercial and industrial activities, with approximately 95 per cent of red-category industries concentrated in Greater Kochi, located within the northern side of the estuary. Furthermore, contaminants from the adjoining Periyar River exacerbate coastal water pollution, posing a threat to fishery resources and other marine life. According to a study by the NGO Greenpeace in 2003, the lower Periyar has been described as a cesspool of toxins with alarming levels of heavy metal pollution. Various studies have underscored the severity of heavy metal pollution in the water and sediment of this area, according to the report. The Cochin Estuarine System stands out as one of the largest estuarine systems, which sustains exceptional biodiversity and functions as a crucial breeding and nursery habitat for diverse fish and shellfish species. It constitutes the northern segment of the Vembanad estuary, designated as a Ramsar site in India, with an annual fish landing of 3906.33 tons. Fishing has been a vital source of livelihood for the residents along the estuary. But, the contamination of the water resources in the area is posing a greater health risk to the people, as the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish has almost reached its threshold level. ''The health risk index indicates that consumers are in close proximity to experiencing the synergistic effects of heavy metals, and the most influential heavy metal during risk analysis was cadmium,'' Neethu Xavier, lead author of the paper, told PTI. She said that the study recommended a regular monitoring programme for all the heavy metals across a broader range of fish species within the study region. According to the study, the heavy metal zinc is most consumed, followed by copper, magnesium, nickel, chromium, lead, and cadmium in fish and shellfish. For the analysis, the study sourced all the study materials from the commercial fisheries catch in the area, representing native edible species with high consumer demand in Kerala. The study, which divided the Cochin Estuarine System into three zones, found that the northern zone has the highest metal accumulation compared to the central and southern zones. This aligns with previous findings of elevated metal concentrations in sediment and water on the northern side of the estuary, the study said. The presence of heavy metals in fish tissues was higher during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The contamination was reduced during the monsoon season. During the monsoon season, substantial rainfall and an increase in the water flow reduced the metal concentration in backwaters and rivers, the study said. ''The results indicate the need for regular monitoring and risk assessment of heavy metals, especially lead, cadmium, and chromium, in seafood resources across coastal areas to ensure food security,'' Neethu Xavier said. She said the study has not categorically talked about addressing the solution but broadly indicated the need for urgent action to contain the pollution of the water resources in the Cochin Estuarine System and reduce heavy metal contamination of fish and shellfish.
KOCHI: A dead body of a newborn baby wrapped in a plastic cover was found abandoned in the middle of the road at Vidya Nagar in Kochi's posh Panampilly Nagar on Friday morning. The investigation based on the CCTV footage found that someone staying at an apartment near the road threw the dead body from the flat at around 8.15 am. People travelling in a contract carriage vehicle first found the plastic cover abandoned in the middle of the road at Vidya Nagar. When people inside the bus checked the cover, the dead body of a newborn child was found. We are questioning the residents at the apartment. We have recovered the CCTV footage in which the dead body was wrapped and was found falling from the side where the apartment is located. We will soon identify the person behind the incident, K S Sudarshan, Deputy Commissioner of Police said. The police have asked the residents of the apartment not to leave the place. Based on the address found in the plastic cover, police have zeroed in on the suspects who reside at the apartment. Police team are questioning the family living at the apartment. We checked with ASHA workers here and they have no information about pregnant women staying in the flat. It was an inhuman act and the accused should be nabbed soon, TJ Vinod, Ernakulam MLA said. Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas also reached the place and spoke to residents in the nearby areas. Police are questioning the suspects. It is found that people dump waste at a nearby isolated plot. Maybe the attempt was to throw the body towards the waste dumping place and it failed. Stringent action should be taken against people involved in the incident, she said.
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All 3 Seats Are Dear: KC Venugopal On Rahul Gandhi's Raebareli Contest
After Rahul Gandhi decided to contest the Raebareli Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh besides seeking re-election from Wayanad in Kerala, Congress general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal on Friday said the party will decide at the
Congress Announces Candidates for Lok Sabha 2024, Rahul Gandhi to Contest from Rae Bareli
Congress has finally revealed its picks for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024, and it's all about the Gandhi family. Rahul Gandhi is set to contest from Rae Bareli, taking over the seat his mother, Sonia Gandhi, left vacant. Meanwhile, there's a surprise in store for Amethi, with K L Sharma chosen as the Congress candidate, a break from the usual Gandhi stronghold. After much anticipation and speculation, the Congress party announced their candidates just hours before the nomination deadline. Rahul Gandhi's decision to contest from Rae Bareli, instead of attempting to reclaim Amethi from BJP's Smriti Irani, has stirred some interest. The Congress has opted to field K L Sharma in Amethi, a trusted figure who has long managed the Gandhis' affairs in the region. The decision-making process involved intense discussions among top Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and K C Venugopal, along with the Gandhi siblings. Despite efforts to persuade Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to join the electoral race, she declined, preferring to focus on campaigning elsewhere. The news comes as a disappointment to many Congress workers who had hoped for Priyanka's entry into electoral politics. Speculation had been rife for days, with uncertainty over whether one or both of the Gandhi siblings would contest, or if there would be a swap of constituencies. Rahul Gandhi's choice to contest from Rae Bareli pits him against BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh, who had previously challenged Sonia Gandhi in 2019. The delay in announcing the candidates had fueled speculation, with some attributing it to strategic considerations following Rahul's candidacy in Kerala's Wayanad. For Congress loyalists, Rahul's decision to carry on the family legacy in Rae Bareli is reassuring, despite Priyanka's absence from the electoral fray. The Gandhi family has held significant sway in both Rae Bareli and Amethi for decades, making these constituencies crucial battlegrounds in the upcoming elections. The decision not to field Rahul in Amethi could be a point of contention, with opponents likely to seize upon it as a sign of weakness. Nonetheless, Congress remains determined to defend its strongholds amidst a challenging political landscape. Congress KL Sharma to Contest against BJP's Smriti Irani in Amethi PM Modi Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for Double Standards on Historical Atrocities
Newborn hurled to death in Kochi
KOCHI: Every film is a foreign film, foreign to some audience, somewhere around the world. It is through subtitles that an audience can experience different languages and cultures. And behind every foreign film that brings a culture to a viewer is a subtitler. These lines are from the short documentary The Invisible Subtitler.And yes, through subtitles we not only follow the plot but also the people and their lives beyond the screen. Whether its a French art film, a Mexican series, or a Hollywood action thriller, subtitles offer more than just a translation these one-inch strips of text at the bottom of the screen serve as a tool for cultural immersion, letting us explore, understand, and connect with worlds beyond our own. However, there lies one challenge. Not everyone in a multilingual country like India can read the rapidly scrolling English letters. The solution? Regional subtitles. The origin of regional subtitles traces back to 1993 when Doordarshan began adding them to movies from the Indian Panorama and broadcasting them. We had movies with English subtitles at the beginning. The regional subtitling practice was initially adopted in states like Maharashtra, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. We did it with the help of The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) during the 1980s, says Baiju Chandran, senior journalist and retired director of programmes at Doordarshan. In the late 1990s, Doordarshan began incorporating subtitles in various other regional languages, including Malayalam. The NFDC utilised the LIPS software (The CDAC developed the Language Independent Program Subtitles in Pune)to create regional subtitles, says Lakshmy Narayanan, one of the earlier subtitlers at NFDC. As a result, local channels in their respective languages could select the appropriate language for subtitles alongside the movies. Money Heist, Spanish series However, in Kerala, the scene is a bit different. Its the film societies and amateur groups that have been crafting Malayalam subtitles. The beginning follows thus: In October 2012, a group of movie enthusiasts from the Facebook film groupCinema Paradiso Clubembarked on a remarkable journey by producing Malayalam subtitles for MajidMajidis film Children of Heaven.The idea was led initially by members of the club, Sreejith Parippai and Gokul Dinesh. It took us three days to finish the task. We watched the movie with the English subtitles on. Yes, our subtitle had several mistakes and we didnt concentrate on decoding any cultural references or humour. Our motive was purely on introducing the thought to movie buffs and later grow the initiative according to peoples interest, says Sreejith. For the duo, the inspiration to make foreign content accessible to people from all walks of life came from a few articles. Especially, the articles published in periodicals discussing Malayalam subtitles by C S Venkiteswaran. Also, the successful efforts of Irumpanam School in creating subtitles for students was another turning point, says Sreejith. He is speaking about a film club at Irumpanam Vocational Higher Secondary School in Ernakulam, which screened Akira KursawasDreams with Malayalam subtitles for the students. This was way back in 2010. The initiative was the brainchild of their Malayalam teacher, Sanal Kumar. After releasing the first movie with subtitles on Cinema Paradiso ClubsFacebook page, Sreejith and Gokul were dissatisfied with its low reach. We recognised the need for a dedicated platform beyond the regular social media. So, we established a blog and formed a group called M-SONE (Malayalam Subtitles for Everyone).Many from the Cinema Paradiso Club also joined the blog, says Sreejith. C S Venkiteswaran M-SONE has now released 3,331 movies with Malayalam subtitles. All thanks to a team of 597 translators. The members claim that the total subtitle count may be over 7,000 if series episodes are also counted. Now anyone can contribute subtitles to movies. The earlier members of the group serve as the admins and they cross-check and verify the subtitles, adds Sreejith. Its not an easy task, especially since one is doing it out of pure passion. One such person, Ameya Shaji (name changed) has been a contributing member of M-SONE for a while now. According to her, dependingon the duration of the movie and the time she has in hand, it would take at least three to one week to provide subtitles for a movie. Most subtitlers use a software called Subtitle Edit. However, they dont just translate words literally, they analyse the dialogue in each scene to capture the full meaning without losing the core message. The software will have timestamps and the subtitler will translate the dialogues and save it asa.srtfile, Ameya explains the process.The groups subtitle collection is available on their website for all to download. Malayalam subtitles are not restricted to these online groups. The Open Frame Film Society, Payyanur, has also been at the forefront of promoting cinema through Malayalam subtitles. Their efforts have resulted in subtitling approximately 50 classic movies, including Hiroshima Mon Amour, Charulatha, Knife in theWater, TokyoStory and Death byHanging. It has completed three hundred other films too. P Premachandran, a higher secondary Malayalam teacher and a member of the film society, says the efforts have eased language barriers.When we organise film festivals, the older population can understand the craft better if we add Malayalam subtitles. In one such workshop, critic K F Mathews pointed out that he could acquire deeper knowledgeof the 1956 film Night In Fog, thanks to the subtitles, he says. Also, many older people drop by the Payyanur film festival as they dont want to miss out on experiencing a foreign movie in their mother tongue. Plans are now afoot at the society for its 9th Film Festival. Premachandran says the societys efforts have also facilitated the screening of academic films with Malayalam subtitles in many schools across Kerala,says Premachandran. He says, Malayalam subtitles is a way to introduce school children to world cinema. With subtitle files that are in WhatsApp groups to introduce classics and film related to education to young children. Afterall, cinema is also a tool for education, he smiles. The challenges Malayalam subtitling groups grapple with ethical dilemmas, and one of the most prominent issues is piracy. Interestingly, the acceptance of Malayalam subtitles owes much to the availability of foreign films on platforms like Telegram and Torrents. The audience for Malayalam subtitles often overlaps with those who consume pirated content. Another significant challenge faced by subtitlers lies in translating profanity. Rendering them into Malayalam without offending the audience is no small feat, especially as the viewers include schoolchildren to older audiences. Sreejith discusses another aspect double translation. Foreign films undergo double translation when rendered into Malayalam.Subtitlers, who are often unfamiliar with the original text, rely on English subtitles for their translations. And that means the authenticity and originality of the text is questionable. During this process of double translation, numerous words and meanings are inevitably lost, Sreejith says. Diversity in captions National award-winning film critic C S Venkiteswaran, however, ponits to an interesting phenomenon. There are several versions of Malayalam subtitles available for the same movie reflecting different dialects or slang. Hence, viewers from various regions in Kerala can select the version that truly speaks to them. Its all about the abundance of choices. Providing ample options ensures that viewers can find the one that suits their preferences, he says. Rajeev Ramachandran, a senior journalist and audio-visual translator, emphasises the importance of subtitles with closed captions and audio descriptions. Closed captions enhance inclusivity by providing a cinematic experience for the hearing impaired. However, modern cinema extends beyond mere dialogue it encompasses scenes, actions, and the audio track, all of which significantly contribute to the narrative. For me, closed captioning is akin to translating a visual and auditory cinematic concept into a different language, he says.
Kerala: M Vincent slams police in bus row case
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kovalam MLA and Transport Democratic Federation president M Vincent has come down heavily on the police for not filing a case against Mayor Arya Rajendran as per KSRTC driver H L Yadhus complaint. Kerala: KSRTC driver to take legal route as police refuse to act on his complaint Talking to reporters on Thursday, Vincent said that the police are yet to file an FIR against Arya in the incident. He also warned that if the state government shies away from taking action against those cops who refused to file a case, he will be forced to take up the issue legally. Taking a jibe at the chief minister, Vincent said if its the CPM leaders who are the accused, then its the communist penal code and not the Indian Penal Code which rules the roost. He demanded to know if the mayor took the law into her hands as she doesnt believe in the police and the home department. The evidence has been tampered with as there are discrepancies in checklists. As per the checklist, it was Yadhu who took the bus back to the depot, when in fact, he was at the Cantonment police station then, he said.
Kerala: You did lots of damage to IUML says Womens League leader tells Haritha girls
KOZHIKODE: Muslim Womens League national general secretary Noorbina Rashid has expressed some reservations over the re-induction of the former leaders of Haritha, who had raised a banner of revolt against their parent organisation. In a Facebook post on Thursday, she also expressed the hope that the girls will not be the propagators of Islamic feminism, which is against the basic ideology of the party. It may be recalled that the IUML leadership had withdrawn disciplinary action against the girls and had elevated them to the national leadership of the Muslim Youth League. The former Haritha leaders, including Fatima Thahliya and Najma Thabsheera, had filed a case against MSF state president P K Navas for insulting womanhood. Haritha is the girls wing of the MSF functioning on the campuses. In the post, Noorbina said the utterances of these girls had brought immense damage to the party. IUML workers were portrayed as anti-woman and those who nurture obsolete ideology. They (former Haritha leaders) still believe that all those were part of their struggle. They should think of lakhs of party workers whose heads were lowered in shame when the media framed headlines like Taliban League, she said. Noorbina said the girls were re-inducted into the party considering the letter they gave to the leadership and after the withdrawal of the case they filed. The party leaders asked you to refrain from such things like a father advising children. You had left the IUML to the mercy of the media and the communists, who were preying on the party, Noorbina said. She advised the girls to abandon the feminist ideology they have in their heads. Womens League is the feeder organisation of the IUML that enabled the women to uphold their identity and faith. It pained us a lot when some of these girls called us the Kitchen League, she said, adding that one can see many women who had swum against the current in the 30-year-old history of the organisation. Noorbina said Islamic feminism is an ideology coined to attract Muslim girls to liberalism. Those who imbibe the idea will be against the ideology of the IUML, she said. Noorbina expressed the hope that the re-inducted girls will not engage in any activity that promotes liberalism among Muslim girls.
Fellow of Royal Society of Chemistry title conferred on NIT-C Professor
Now, book a private train from Kerala
KOCHI: In a first, private trains will be available for tourists from Kerala to destinations such as Goa, Mumbai and Ayodhya. To begin with, the private train journey from the state to Goa will begin next month. The facility is being launched by SRMPR Global Railways, a Chennai-based tour operator, in partnership with the Kochi-based Princy World Travel Limited. An individual or a group of 600 passengers can book a private train journey to the three prominent destinations from Kerala, said officials. The inaugural journey is set to depart from Thiruvananthapuram on June 4 to Madgaon in Goa. The four-day tour package is available in three categories: 2-tier AC at Rs 16,400 per person, 3-tier AC at Rs 15,150 per person and non-AC sleeper at Rs 13,999. The package includes stay, food and sightseeing. Services like off-board travel and excursions by buses, stay at hotels, tour guides, meals and travel insurance are provided along with these train journeys and allied onboard services. Though the Indian Railways introduced the concept of private players operating tourist trains on theme-based circuits under the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains around a couple of years back, this is the first time that a private company is getting into this segment from Kerala. Earlier, such private train tours were launched from states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. For instance, the government of Karnataka in association with IRCTC operates private trains to Kashi Prayag, Gaya and Ayodhya. Similarly, private trains are operated between Coimbatore and Shirdi. Plan to import private trains from Germany According to officials of Princy Tours, the trains are purchased by SRMPR from the Indian Railways to operate exclusively for tourism purposes. From Kerala, there are mainly three tour packages Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram to Goa (four-day package) and Thiruvananthapuram to Ayodhya (eight-day package), said Devika Menon, director of Princy World Travel Ltd. Plans are on to operate around 12 trains from Kerala. Once the initial three routes gain maximum traction, new routes will be introduced, she said. This train is being introduced on a trial basis.The SRMPR group will import special trains from Germany to run them privately. Hopefully, the trains will arrive by this year's end, she said. The trains have limited stops and only those who have booked the tickets can enter the train. A total of 60 staff, including the paramedical team and pantry are available onboard, said Devika Menon. The train is equipped with CCTV cameras and WiFi. As per the initial plan, the tourist train will operate to the specific destinations with a weeks gap. We have received the slots to operate from June to September. The dates for Mumbai and Ayodhya will be released soon, she said. The trains will have boarding from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod from Kerala.
Valuables worth 1.20 crore were stolen from filmmaker Joshiys Kochi residence. Mohammed Irfan, the man accused, turned out to be a burglar from Bihar working alone, targeting premium residential colonies across six States. This was his biggest hit by far, reports M.P. Praveen
Kerala: Disciplinary action against 14 KSRTC drivers for absence from duty
KOLLAM: The KSRTC on Thursday took disciplinary action against 14 employees of the Pathanapuram depot citing absence from duty on April 29 and 30. While 10 permanent drivers were transferred, four temporary drivers were kept away from duty. The order was issued by the office of the Chairman and Managing Director of the KSRTC. Disciplinary action was taken due to the employees sudden absence from duty. This resulted in the cancellation of numerous services at the Pathanapuram KSRTC depot, causing significant inconvenience to passengers. Additionally, the KSRTC incurred a loss of Rs 1,88,665. Such irresponsible behaviour by the employees will not be tolerated, the order stated. According to sources, 14 services were cancelled due to the absence of drivers. On April 29, the vigilance team from Pathanamthitta carried out an inspection at the Pathanapuram KSRTC depot. During the inspection, two drivers were dismissed from service after being found in an inebriated state. On April 30, 14 drivers were absent from duty. Consequently, 14 services at the Pathanapuram depot had to be cancelled, an official source said. Sudden absence Disciplinary action was taken due to the employees sudden absence from duty. This resulted in the cancellation of numerous services at the Pathanapuram KSRTC depot, causing significant inconvenience to passengers, says KSRTC order 14 services cancelled According to sources, 14 services were cancelled due to the absence of drivers.
'Malayalee From India' review: An unsubtle and preachy melodrama
During festivals like Vishu or Eid, as a Malayalee, it is common to encounter photoshoots seemingly promoting unity in diversity, especially emphasizing Hindu-Muslim harmony. Malayalee From India is an overblown cinematic equivalent of such content you casually swipe past on your mobile screens. Aalpparambil Gopi (Nivin Pauly) and Malghosh (Dhyan Sreenivasan) are freeloaders who support the right-wing party currently in power. Gopi blindly defends his party leaders communal and xenophobic rhetoric, while Malghosh is a volatile loafer filled with bigotry in his mind. This makes way for some satirical and chucklesome jabs in the films opening scenes. Gopis mother (Manju Pillai) is the one trying to make ends meet in her household, which comprises her son and daughter. Manju Pillai, as evident from her recent performances, is once again in her element, skillfully portraying the anguishes of her character. In this first hour, we are also introduced to Krishna (Anaswara Rajan), Gopis one-sided love interest or his muse for exhibiting his stalking skills. One can only wonder about the relevance of this pointless track, which is anything but romantic. It only serves to prolong an already overlong narrative. The film makes a tonal shift when Malghosh is triggered enough to do something nasty, creating a rift between Hindus and Muslims that forces him and Gopi to go into hiding. The prevailing tensions force Gopi to move abroad, a prospect that he always loathed, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, just before the lockdowns. The beginning of the latter half sees Gopi trying hard to adapt to a completely new landscape somewhere in the Middle East with only one grumpy superior to take orders from, who happens to be Pakistani. In some of the following portions, Nivin gets to effectively showcase his penchant for comedy, even if it feels like a spoof on Aadujeevitham, as it is set on an agricultural farm in the middle of a desert. Gopi hates working under a Pakistani initially, and predictably enough, as part of his coming of age arc, they both form a special bond. The major issue of the film is unarguably the preachy monologues that bombard you one after the other. Of course, subtlety has never been a strong suit for director Dijo Jose Antony and writer Sharis Mohammed, who previously collaborated on Queen (2018) and Jana Gana Mana (2022). Unlike their previous successful films, Malayalee From India lacks the kind of gut punches or theatrically charged moments that can cleverly manipulate the audience. The only moment that comes close to achieving this is when Shine Tom Chacko delivers a rousing cameo. In the end, we get a middling film replete with topics about Hindu-Muslim tensions, biting off more than it can chew, while sermonizing the audience and stating the obvious as if there is no tomorrow. It even takes cues from Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), only to end with another melodramatic monologue about chasing dreams by a Pakistani teen, extolling the virtues of the people from Gods own country, with Gopi as her role model. As the film draws to a close, viewers may find themselves puzzled about its overarching message. The film initially delves into Keralas communal politics, but even after emphasizing the futility of hatred, Gopis stance on the outfits propagating hate remains uncertain. Malayalee From India ends up as another testament to the fact that storytelling requires more than just good intentions. Film: Malayalee From India Cast: Nivin Pauly, Dhyan Sreenivasan, Anaswara Rajan, Manju Pillai Director: Dijo Jose Antony Rating : 2/5
New regulations for test: Driving school owners ramp up stir in Ernakulam
KOCHI: As owners of driving schools across the state launched an indefinite strike on Thursday against the new set of regulations introduced by the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) for driving tests, the protestors in Ernakulam said they wont cooperate with activities of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) until the controversial order is withdrawn. While a few candidates and MVD officials turned up at the driving test ground in Kakkanad on Thursday morning, they had to return as the test was suspended due to the stir. There are around 80 driving schools in Kakkanad. We boycotted the tests today, and the indefinite protest will continue until the Transport Minister withdraws the circular issued in haste. We have decided not to cooperate with any affairs pertaining to the RTO office. Many working in the sector will lose their jobs with the implementation of the new regulations. The circular was issued one fine morning sans consulting any stakeholders, said T P Baiju, state vice-president of All Kerala Driving School Workers Union (CITU). However, the learners tests will be held for the moment. Among others, the new regulations seek to limit the number of driving tests to 30 per day. Also, the driving test ground should have separate tracks for holding tests like angular parking, parallel parking, zigzag driving and gradient test. The MVD had earlier decided to limit driving tests at each centre to 50 per day. However, the same was withdrawn following protests before the new regulations were implemented on May 1. Limiting driving tests from 120 per day to 50 and again to 30 has affected around 3,500 candidates in Ernakulam alone. Many were issued a date for the test earlier, which later got cancelled. The worst affected will be those who fail in the tests as chances of getting another date within six months, the validity period of Learners license, is close to impossible, said Augustine James, a driving school owner. Meanwhile, the MVD officials said they havent received any fresh circular and hence the new regulations will be strictly implemented. The driving schools in most regions observed Black Day today and didnt bring candidates. These schools will have to invest funds to adhere to the directives, which is why they are protesting, said a senior MVD official. Expressing concern, a candidate said, I did not receive a new date for the driving test after the earlier one was cancelled abruptly. I dont know when I can take the test. The validity of my learners license will expire in two months.
Kerala: KIMSHEALTHpioneers endoscopic spine surgery
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A medical team at KIMSHEALTH here has successfully performed an advanced full endoscopic spine surgery with fusion technique on a 52-year-old woman to treat lumbar canal stenosis, a condition causing narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. This minimally invasive procedure involves replacing the narrowed disc with an artificial one. It also marks the first of its kind in Kerala. The patient had been experiencing pain in the lower back which led to weakness in the legs, difficulty in walking, and sciatica. Having undergone a back surgery 15 years ago with only transient relief, the patient was now diagnosed with severe lumbar canal stenosis with listhesis -- a condition where the narrowed spinal canal pinches the spinal cord and nerves and an unstable spine. An MRI scan confirmed involvement of multiple nerves necessitating immediate intervention. The patient underwent the novel full endoscopic spine surgery and advanced fusion procedure, stabilising the spine. This fully endoscopic surgery, which was conducted in two stages, lasting five hours, involved the precise removal of the narrowed spinal segment and placement of an expandable artificial disc to restore its optimal height through wounds less than 1 cm in length with no collateral muscle damage. If left untreated, it could have resulted in permanent weakness in the legs eventually in a bedridden condition, said Dr Ajith R. Being one of the most advanced surgical methods for spinal degeneration, utilising an artificial expandable implant capable of regaining the desired height, it requires modern gadgets and equally good expertise to perform the procedure, he further added. The patient started walking from the next day and was discharged three days after the surgery. The surgical team was led by DrAjith R, senior consultant, department of neurosurgery. Dr Abu Madan, Dr Navas N S and Dr Bobby Iype, consultants, department of neurosurgery, along with Dr Susanth B, consultant, department of neuroanesthesia, were also part of the surgical procedure. First of its kind in state The surgery was performed on a 52-year-old woman to treat lumbar canal stenosis. This minimally invasive procedure involves replacing the narrowed disc with an artificial one. It also marks the first of its kind in Kerala.
CPI expect to win three LS seats in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPI is optimistic of winning three out of the four seats it has contested in the Lok Sabha elections, according to the preliminary parliament election review of the partys state executive. The meeting held on Thursday evaluated that the party candidates would win in Thiruvananthapuram, Mavelikkara and Thrissur. In Wayanad, CPI calculates that it could lower the majority by half compared to the 2019 election when Rahul Gandhi won by a huge margin. In the capital, the party expects to win by a margin of 20,000 votes over their nearest rival. The state executive has asked the district councils to submit election review reports before May 10. There was criticism against the meeting of senior CPM leader E P Jayarajan with middleman T G Nandakumar. Some members raised anguish over EPs remarks on the day of polling as it might have affected the prospects of LDF. However, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam asked the members to keep restraint as the subject is related to CPM. CPM is evaluating the situation. Let them come to an understanding first, the secretary reportedly said.
Kerala: Sreedhanya IAS registers Special Marriage at home
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: IAS officer Sreedhanya Suresh has set a model for those who wish to have a marriage registered at home under the Special Marriage Act. The Registration Department IG tied the nuptial knot with her long-time friend Gayak R Chand at a simple function held at her residence in Kumarapuram. Sreedhanya, who is from Wayanad, is the states first IAS officer from the tribal community. The ceremony was confined to the registration of marriage and the cutting of a cake. Registration Minister Kadannappally Ramachandran was the witness to the ceremony attended by both families. Our decision was to get married in a simple ceremony. We did exactly that, Sreedhanya told TNIE . Gayak, a Kollam resident, is a high court assistant. According to reports, the duo met while studying at a civil services coaching centre at Mannanthala in the state capital. Sreedhanya told reporters that she wanted to make use of the services provided by the registration department. As per the Special Marriage Act, anybody who pays Rs 1,000 can marry from home without visiting the registrars office. The officials will come home and complete the marriage registration formalities.
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Kerala: Man ends life after Congress-run bank fails to return deposit
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : A 52-year-old Neyyattinkara resident died by suicide on Thursday after the Congress-helmed Perumpazhuthoor Service Co-operative Bank allegedly delayed release of deposits he had saved for his daughters marriage. Somasagaram Y consumed pesticide on April 19, and was undergoing treatment at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. The Marayamuttom police have registered a case of unnatural death. An officer said Somasagaram had deposited his earnings from plantain cultivation and masonry work totalling Rs 5 lakh in the bank, and planned to use the savings to get his daughter Sumi married and renovate his house, which was in a dilapidated state. His father Yesudas said his Somasagaram had been seeking to withdraw the deposit for the past six months. However, the officials allegedly kept declining his requests. The bank administration killed my son.He had saved every single rupee earned from agriculture and masonry work for his daughters marriage. He also wanted to renovate the house, as the roof could come down crashing any moment. He visited the bank multiple times on the dates they had given. But, they did not dispense the cash, and sent him back on one pretext or the other, said Yesudas. Banks version The bank officials said they had released about Rs 1 lakh, in bits on various occasions, and claimed that they did not know that Somasagaram was so hard-pressed. He always spoke calmly, so we did not realise the urgency. We release funds based on urgency of the depositors. Somasagaram had told us that he needed cash to renovate his house, but we did not know he was on verge of suicide, said bank secretary (in-charge) Jaya Kumari.
Two die of heatstroke; Kerala gears up to meet the challenge
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOZHIKODE: On a day two suspected heatstroke deaths were reported in Malappuram and Kozhikode, the state government swung into action on Thursday rolling out a series of measures to cope with the prevailing heatwave conditions. A high-level meeting of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan decided to declare holiday for educational institutions, including professional colleges, till May 6. Meanwhile, a high level meeting attended by power minister K Krishnankutty and KSEB management decided not to go for load shedding in spite of the power crisis. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued heatwave alerts in Alappuzha, Palakkad, Thrissur and Kozhikode for Friday. It also issued a warm night warning in Alappuzha. Palakkad is likely to record a maximum temperature of 40 degree Celsius, Thrissur, Kollam and Kozhikode 39, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Kannur 38, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram and Kasaragod 37, on Friday. Palakkad remained the warmest district with a maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius on Thursday. Kozhikode city reported 39, which is 4.6 degree Celsius above the normal. Muhammad Haneefa, 63, a resident of Padinhattummuri in Malappuram, passed away while undergoing treatment for heatstroke at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital on Thursday. He collapsed while working in a field near Tamarakuzhi on Wednesday. Preliminary assessment indicates dehydration to be the cause of hisdeath. Bijesh, a 41-year-old painter from Chakkumkadavu in Panniyankara, Kozhikode died of suspected heatstroke at his work site on Thursday. Feeling the heat Holiday for educational institutions, including professional colleges, till May 6 IMD issues heatwave alerts in Alappuzha, Palakkad, Thrissur and Kozhikode for Friday Warm night warning issued in Alappuzha CM calls for adjusting working hours to avoid direct sun In a statement issued the review meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, the chief minister called for adjusting the working hours for construction workers, farmers, street vendors, fishermen and other labourers so as avoid the sun between 11 am and 3 pm. The meeting has also directed to adjust the working hours at workplaces with asbestos, tin roofs and other heat-intensive environments. The meeting also decided to reschedule the parade and training sessions of police, fire brigade, NCC, SPC and other armed forces units accordingly. The fire department has been directed to carry out fire audits in vulnerable areas like markets, high rise buildings and waste management facilities. The meeting also decided to relocate people and migrant labourers residing in areas prone to heatwaves to safer locations or camps. All the cultural and sports events should be rescheduled to avoid direct sunlight. To protect animals during the heatwave, instructions have been given to provide water and shelter. Hospital and major government institutions have been asked to adhere to necessary disaster preparedness protocols. Pet care To protect animals during the heatwave, instructions have been given to provide water and shelter.
Kerala: Police ignore bus drivers complaint against mayor
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Giving yet another twist to the road rage controversy, the Thiruvanannthapuram city police on Thursday refused to initiate action on the complaint lodged by the KSRTC driver against Mayor Arya Rajendran and her husband K M Sachin Dev, MLA, for allegedly obstructing his duty, resulting in the cancellation of the trip. However, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) has registered a case based on the complaint by driver B L Yadhu. Kerala: KSRTC driver to take legal route as police refuse to act on his complaint Meanwhile, Kovalam MLA and Transport Democratic Federation president M Vincent warned that he would move the court of law if the state government shied away from initiating action against those police officials who refused to act on Yadhus complaint. The memory card of the CCTV cameras installed on the bus went missing the other day adding a new dimension to the entire episode. The loss was detected by KSRTC officials. Following a complaint by the Transport Officer, Thampanoor police have launched a probe and started collecting details of the KSRTC officials who had access to the bus after the incident. The memory card possibly had visuals captured by three cameras installed on the bus - one each on the dashboard, rear side and behind the drivers cabin facing the passengers. The camera footage could have revealed whether there was a race between the bus and the car and if anyone had forcefully evicted the passengers, as Yadhu alleged. However, the cameras were not positioned to record the lewd gesture allegedly made by the driver, which Arya claimed was the main cause of the incident. Panel seeks reports from police, KSRTC City Police Commissioner C Nagaraju said the bus had operated a Thrissur trip after the incident. We have to get the statements of the staff who operated the trip. We will also prepare a list of those who work in the Thampanoor depot and have access to the bus. Their statements will also be recorded, he said. A police source said Yadhu filed the petition against the mayor and the MLA as a counter to Aryas complaint. Its his normal defensive mechanism when in trouble. He had employed the same strategy on at least two occasions in the past once when he was accused of committing serious offence against a woman and the other against a differently abled man. In both cases, the victims withdrew their complaint after Yadhu filed counter-petitions. He is resorting to the same tactics here, the source said. The KSHRC has sought reports from the police and the KSRTC on the action taken on Yadhus complaint. It has posted the case for hearing on May 9. Meanwhile, the City Cyber police have registered two cases for alleged cyber attacks on the mayor. Satheesan alleges conspiracy behind missing memory card from bus Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan has alleged a political conspiracy behind the missing memory cards from the CCTV cameras fixed inside the KSRTC bus that was waylaid by Mayor Arya Rajendran. He has also demanded the police register a case against the mayor and her relatives for stopping the bus from plying and urging passengers to leave. Satheesan alleged that Arya and her husband, Balussery MLA Sachin Dev, deliberately removed the memory card to escape the wrath of the people or else their claims would sound hollow.
UPDATE 1-India's opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to contest elections from Raebareli too
UPDATE 1-India's opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to contest elections from Raebareli too India's main opposition Congress party said on Friday that Rahul Gandhi, the face of the party and its former president, will contest general elections from the family bastion seat of Raebareli in north India as well. The decision of the party and the family to field Gandhi from the seat in Uttar Pradesh state signals their confidence to take on the political might of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is also expected to boost the morale of party members in a key state from which it has been almost wiped out by BJP and regional players. Uttar Pradesh is India's most populous and elects the most lawmakers and a party needs to win a large number of seats here to win power nationally. India's general elections got underway on April 19 and the country will vote in seven phases until June 1, with votes set to be counted on June 4. Congress has ruled India for 54 of its 76 years since independence from Britain, and members of the Nehru-Gandhi family were prime ministers for more than 37 of those 54 years. The adjoining seats of Raebareli and Amethi have been strongholds of the family for decades as they have elected generations of Gandhis or their close relatives since the 1950s. However, the party itself has sunk to historical lows since it was swept out of power by Modi in 2014 and has been struggling to revive itself. While Rahul Gandhi's Italian-born mother Sonia won from Raebareli in 2019 - the only seat Congress won of the 80 in Uttar Pradesh - Rahul lost from Amethi in a shocking defeat at the hands of BJP minister Smriti Irani. He entered parliament from the second seat he had contested from Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala. He is in the fray from Wayanad, which voted on April 26, this time as well. This year, Sonia decided against contesting from Raebareli and instead entered the upper house of parliament through indirect elections. Local media reports had since said that her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, 52, was likely to make her electoral debut and contest from Raebareli while Rahul Gandhi, 53, would stick to Amethi. India allows a candidate to contest more than one seat but they can keep only one if they record multiple victories.
Kerala: 2 die as truck carrying fish crashes into metro pillar
KOCHI: A truck carrying fish from Andhra Pradeshs Nellore to Kochi rammed a metro rail pillar at Muttom near Aluva in the wee hours of Thursday, killing the driver and his co-driver. The deceased have been identified as Sheik Habeeb Basha, 49, of Ahamad Nagar, Nellore, and Yallanthi Malikarjuna, 42, Bhagath Singh Colony, Nellore. According to police, the accident took place around 2am. The truck crashed into metro rail pillar no. 187 at Muttom. The entire front cabin of the truck was damaged in the impact. People who gathered at the accident spot immediately launched a rescue operation. After a half-an-hour-long attempt, both were pulled out of the truck and rushed to a nearby hospital. However, the duo succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Police suspect that Basha might have dozed off while driving. The bodies have been shifted to a hospital in Aluva. Their mortal remains will be handed over to relatives after post-mortem examination. The fish inside the lorry was later shifted to another container vehicle in the morning. Aluva police have registered a case and started a probe into the incident. Meanwhile, another accident took place at the same spot after a car slowed down to watch the lorry that hit the metro pillar. The car driver suffered minor injuries.
India's opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to contest elections from Raebareli too
India's opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to contest elections from Raebareli too India's main opposition Congress party said on Friday that Rahul Gandhi, the face of the party and its former president, will contest general elections from the family bastion seat of Raebareli in north India as well. The decision of the party and the family to field Gandhi from the seat in Uttar Pradesh state signals their confidence to take on the political might of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is also expected to boost the morale of party members in a key state from which it has been almost wiped out by BJP and regional players. Uttar Pradesh is India's most populous and elects the most lawmakers and a party needs to win a large number of seats here to win power nationally. India's general elections got underway on April 19 and the country will vote in seven phases until June 1, with votes set to be counted on June 4. Congress has ruled India for 54 of its 76 years since independence from Britain, and members of the Nehru-Gandhi family were prime ministers for more than 37 of those 54 years. The adjoining seats of Raebareli and Amethi have been strongholds of the family for decades as they have elected generations of Gandhis or their close relatives since the 1950s. However, the party itself has sunk to historical lows since it was swept out of power by Modi in 2014 and has been struggling to revive itself. While Rahul Gandhi's Italian-born mother Sonia won from Raebareli in 2019 - the only seat Congress won of the 80 in Uttar Pradesh - Rahul lost from Amethi in a shocking defeat at the hands of BJP minister Smriti Irani. He entered parliament from the second seat he had contested from Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala. He is in the fray from Wayanad, which voted on April 26, this time as well. This year, Sonia decided against contesting from Raebareli and instead entered the upper house of parliament through indirect elections. Local media reports had since said that her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, 52, was likely to make her electoral debut and contest from Raebareli while Rahul Gandhi, 53, would stick to Amethi. India allows a candidate to contest more than one seat but they can keep only one if they record multiple victories.
Kerala: V Sivanandan takes charge as Cusat registrar
KOCHI: Dr V Sivanandan Achari, professor in Chemistry, and former Syndicate member and director of the School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has assumed office as the registrar-in-charge of the university. Dr Achari succeeds Dr Meera V, whose tenure as the registrar ended on April 29. Dr Achari, an academician with 23 years of teaching and research experience in Cusat, has held the positions of Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Studies, coordinator of UGC-SAP-DRA Research Programme, chairman of the Board of Studies, consultant in industry-specific environmental issues, and process industries. A postgraduate with second rank in MSc Analytical Chemistry from the University of Kerala, Dr Achari completed his M Phil, PhD, and two post-doctoral research stints at the Technical University of Delft, Netherlands. He has guided 12 PhD Degrees and has been instrumental in procuring several high-value equipment enabling high-level research at the School of Environmental Studies.
Kerala government to increase Plus-I seats
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The cabinet has decided to allow more batches in government and aided schools in different districts to address the shortage of Plus-I seats. As per the decision, seats will be increased by 30% at government schools in seven districts -- Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. The cabinet has also decided to bring in a 20% increase in Plus-I seats in aided schools in these districts. In addition, a 10% increase in seats will be allowed at aided schools that demand more batches. The marginal increase in new batches will be made without creating an additional financial burden for the government. It is learned that sanction would also be given for a 20% increase in seats at all government and aided schools in Kollam, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts, in addition to Ambalappuzha and Cherhala taluks in Alappuzha district. There will be no increase in Plus-I seats in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts. The 77 higher secondary batches sanctioned on a temporary basis in 2022-23 and the 97 temporary batches in 2023-24 will continue, subject to clearance from the finance department. Sanctioning 178 additional batches would give the government a financial burden to the tune of about Rs 19 crore.
Abstract art depicts an artists subliminal thoughts, understood by a viewer who is willing to read forms in formlessness, silence in cacophony and somehow searching for tangibility in the artists visceral realm. The ongoing art show, Ores Of Trance, is about an open-ended discussion about the works of eight abstract artists who have intuitively assimilated unforeseen elements to invoke new layers of depth. The show, curated by eminent artist TK Harindran, features contemporary artists such as Akhilesh, Bhagwan Chavan, P Gopinath, Hemraj, Rashmi Khurana, Shobha Broota, Shridhar Iyer, and Yusuf. Let us witness each artists deep, solitary and meditative engagements with time, matter and space, says Harindran at the start of the gallery walkthrough, while pausing before the works of Yusuf. The Gwalior-born National Award-winning artist works with scattered and geometric forms with a restrained use of colours. In his Untitled, meticulous use of lines commands attention. The work vaguely depicts a broken window, criss-crossed by wooden frames where parts of it are weathered by time as if reflecting a fragmented state of mind. Yusuf uses the lines simply but strongly in a way that they neither attack the viewer nor make a statement. He has negated colours or too many elements to emphasise the patterns of lines, says Harindran. While the broken window is one way to interpret his work, Yusuf tells us that there is no reference point in abstract art. In figurative works, form is prominent and the line is secondary, but in mine, the line takes prominence as I let them wander according to my imagination. Jatra by Shridhar Iyer Of calm and storm While Yusufs work evokes a state of cerebral disorientation, in sharp contrast, Delhi-born artist Shobha Brootas Untitled produces a meditative effect. Her mixed media artwork features a rich red canvas woven with a deceptively simple thread work. Broota is a classical singer as well. So, just like music is based on the repetition of certain notes, her art is driven by the rhythmic repetition of geometric patterns. A long gaze at her minimalist works allows one to look deeper inwards and move beyond the ephemeral feelings, Harindran adds, as we stand before a work where the eye goes to its tiny squares. We move towards Delhi-based artist Shridhar Iyers stormy canvas, Jatra. Its wave-like effect, suggestive of a whirlwind, and a splatter of vital colours, purple, pink and red, seem to express mental tumult. The painting is like a tempest of thoughts unleashed upon the viewer much like Japanese artist Hokusais paintings that are visually striking and evocative with sea wave-like images. Theres a certain level of immediacy with which Shridhar draws the turmoil of the human mind on the canvas, says Harindran about the leading abstract artist who has previously exhibited at Perth, Melbourne, California, Paris and London. Between The Palm Trees/The Reflections by Bhagwan Chavan Culture in the roots The exhibition also reminds us of the primordial. In Bhopal-based Akhileshs Black Is Missing, absurd objects, human-like figures and bizarre signage serve as conduits to the primeval way of life in the Stone Age. Harindran points out that the inspiration comes from the rock-shelter paintings of Bhimbetka. Akhilesh wants to remind us of the start of the civilisation the aborigines. Its elements recall Egyptian hieroglyphs from the pharaonic civilisations. He wants to show how we are disconnected from our origins in the embrace of a new way of life steeped in superficiality, Harindran adds. Another artist, P. Gopinath, takes the viewer subliminally to regional culture. The Kerala-born artist, a founder member of the Cholamandal Artists Village in Chennai, is inspired by the rustic life. Vignettes of village life of Tamil Nadu are traceable in the artists Untitled works that show biomorphic forms of the bull that draw on the states Jallikattu Bull Festival and architectural forms. He makes the viewer ponder on lost language, people, culture, festivity and tribal history. But hes not making an in-the-face statement, its more an intellectual assertion, Harindran adds. In art, we tend to correlate subject matter to a definitive place, community or time. Gopinath, however, feels his works do not have a subject. Instead of figures, colours take prominence in my work, going beyond just a filling agent, he points out. Rashmi Khuranas Unrecited Melodies-II Unravelling the hidden As we walk around the room, Delhi-based self-taught artist Rashmi Khuranas work beckons us to look at her not-so-rosy artwork, Unrecited Melodies-II. After pulping papier-mch, the artist has crumpled them into balls, and layered them onto the canvas to mimic a soul in catharsis. The canvas is therefore a burst of colours and textures where electrifying pinks, purples, browns and magentas coalesce to express anguish. Her petals are not delicate, but violent, broken and detached. The composition can be seen as a way of venting, maybe a painful memory, based on her experiences of life its open to interpretation, says Harindran. The walkthrough ends with Hemraj and Bhagwan Chavans works, Eternal Reminiscence and Between The Palm Trees/ The Reflections respectively. They underline the power of abstract art to take the viewer into the depths of the human psyche. The artworks portray the subconscious thoughts of the artists, played in the moment of creation. They reflect the ebb and flow of their lives where some use lines, others use brush strokes, papier-mch or threadwork to depict it. Ores Of Trance is on display till May 20 at the new address of Gallery 1000 A, Daryacha building, Hauz Khas.
Kerala: A Theyyam that begins with azan
KOZHIKODE: As midnight falls, amidst the rumble of the chenda, a mesmerising ritual steeped in centuries of tradition and cultural richness unfolds in Kasaragod. A theyyam artist donning a white vest, checkered lungi, and skull cap offers a resounding call of the azan, and then performs namaz. This sacred moment marks the beginning of a Mappila Theyyam, a unique tradition upheld by artists from the Mavilan, Koppalan, and Vannan communities. It is viewed as a reaffirmation of the pluralistic nature of Kerala society and a celebration of secular values. The artist playing a Muslim imam of yore Mukri Pokker transforms into a divine figure, and bestows blessings upon devotees and onlookers. Each year, during the Malayalam month of Thulam (October), Kamballur Kottayil Tharavadu, a Nair mansion in Kasaragod, turns into a stage for a Mappila Theyyam in which the Mukri is joined by Goddess Karinchamundi, a deity of a sacred grove in the region. This unique performance captures a centuries-old bond between the Kamballur Kottayil family and the nearby Pulingome mosque. We share a profound connection with the mosque. My ancestors were once landlords in the northern Malabar region. It was our family that donated the land for the mosques construction in Cherupuzha. Since then, our festivals have been intertwined, shares Divakaran Nambiar, a member of Kamballur Kottayil family. The mosque committee visits our home to extend invitations to their Uroos celebrations. They also participate in our theyyam festivities. Divakaran underscores the significance of Mappila Theyyams at a time when there is friction along communal fault lines. I have come across discussions about a film that triggered communal debates in Kerala. The Mappila Theyyams are a testimony to secularism, and can dispel notions of distrust, he says. The Mukri-Karinchamundi Theyyam unfolds before a diverse audience. Believers from various communities gather to witness the spectacle. The Mukri kolam is enacted by a Hindu individual. This tradition has never triggered tensions, he added. Notably, there are several Mappila Theyyams in the Malabar region. Ashraf Thuneri, a journalist based in Qatar, sheds light on this unique cultural aspect of Kerala in his documentary Mukri with Chamundi: The Saga of Harmony in Theyyam Art. A few years ago, I came across a small article about Mukri Pokker Theyyam in a newspaper. The concept of Mappila Theyyam intrigued me, he recalls. Divakaran said further,I delved into the subject, and that research eventually led to this documentary. The most interesting part is that Mappila Theyyams are mostly performed in places where the Muslim population is relatively low. So the majority of spectators comprises members of the Hindu community. This is evidence of how religion becomes insignificant in the case of Theyyam. Ramachandran Panicker, a theyyam artist in Kannur, elucidates the cultural significance of the ritualistic art form as a unifying force transcending religious boundaries. No matter what religion we belong to, what we all bleed is blood, he says, citing the poignant lines ningale kothyalum chorayalle chovvare, njangale kothyalum chorayalle chovvare that are often rendered during Pottan Theyyam performances. Going beyond Mappila Theyyam, he offers more examples. In Malabar, Muslims contribute sugar for some temple rituals during the festival season. The Vishnumurthi Theyyam enters a mosque to illustrate the interfaith harmony. There is no discrimination based on religion or caste during the divine act, he says. The lone female performer In Keralas vibrant Theyyam tradition, comprising about 400 distinctive forms predominantly enacted by men, Devakoothu stands out as a singular piece performed by a female artist. And, M V Ambujakshi, hailing from the Malayan community in Kannur, has been the sole woman performing the divine art form. Ambujakshi took up Devakoothu in 2012, at the age of 45. The mantle, as part of the custom, was passed on to her after her relative K P Lakshmi Amma withdrew from Devakoothu due to declining health. Devakoothu has wrought significant changes in Ambujakshis life. Being a female Theyyam artist itself is a huge honour, a rare privilege, she says. Embodying a goddess fills me with pride. Before I took up Devakoothu, I was just an ordinary woman. Now, people have begun to respect me. They perceive a divine power within me. People who addressed me as chechi (sister) now call me amma (mother),she added. Devakoothu is performed in December at Cherukunnu Thekkumbad Koolom Thayankavu temple in Kannur. Before the Theyyam, Ambujakshi undergoes a rigorous 45-day fasting, mastering the manifold rites, rituals, and shlokas. Bappiriyan Theyyam It portrays Lord Hanumans quest for Sita devi in Lanka. The Bappiriyan Theyyam performers climb coconut trees during the ritual, symbolising Hanumans attempts to scan faraway lands from vantage points. Driven by frustration at his unsuccessful search, Bappiriyan vents his anger by kicking the tree, causing coconuts to fall. Kandakkoran Theyyam The narrative revolves around a young man from a marginalised caste who died after falling from a coconut tree. He is said to have attained divinity thereafter. To honour this legend, the Kandakkoran Theyyam re-enacts the tale by climbing a coconut tree, plucking the fruit, and descending in a posture mirroring the fatal fall. Police Theyyam This annual spectacle, enacted at Padannakkad near Kanhangad in the Kasaragod district, portrays the story of Padaveeran, a soldier of yesteryear. The artist dons the police uniform and would admonish members of the audience about illegal activities, including smoking in public. Ummachi Theyyam This Mappila Theyyam of Kasaragod is linked to the saga of Yogyar Nambadi, an army chief of the Nileswaram dynasty, who killed a Muslim woman for eating a handful of rice while at work. To placate her spirit, the woman was accorded divine status. Panniyum Makkalum Theyyam This representation of Pulaya culture delves into the complex dynamics of man-wildlife relationship. Here, the spirits of a boar, sow, and their offspring, having transcended mortality, bestow blessings upon people. WhatsApp groups Social media platforms and instant messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram have been connecting theyyam enthusiasts across the world. Many groups in WhatsApp, for instance, provide regular updates on theyyam performance at various sacred groves (kaavu) in north Kerala. One of the most popular one is the Theyyam-Thira Calendar WhatsApp group, which has around 3,500 members. The group was formed after a Polish tourist shared an experience. A tourist guide took her to a kaavu, saying that there would be a rare theyyam performance. Later, she realised that it was a regular theyyam, says Prabhakaran Kovoor, one of the groups admins. We decided to start a group that provides authentic info to theyyam enthusiasts in various corners of the world. Our updates help people plan their trips better, he added. Padma glory January 2024 marked a historic moment as, for the first time ever, a Theyyam artist was honoured with the Padma Shri award. At the age of 68, Narayanan Peruvannan was bestowed with this accolade in recognition of his lifelong dedication to the ritualistic art form. For Narayanan, the Padma Shri is not just a personal honour, but a validation of the entire community of Theyyam performers. Its been 64 years since I embarked on this journey. The entire Theyyam community rejoiced at the award. All my achievements are the blessings of my ancestors and gurus, he says. Renowned among Theyyam enthusiasts, Narayanan commenced his divine journey at the age of four with the Vedan Theyyam. Over six decades later, he is one of Keralas senior-most Theyyam artists, having embodied deities such as Muchilottu Bhagavathy, Kathivanoor Veeran, and Baali. Hailing from Taliparamba, Narayanan is the son of Panakkattu Othayana Peruvannan and Mambayil Panchu. Narayanan underwent comprehensive training in kalaripayattu, thotampaattu, mukhathezhuthu, weaving, and music under the gurukula system, mentored by Kadarkulangara Krishnan Peruvannan from the age of 14. My most significant achievement has been performing the Baali Theyyam for 50 consecutive years at Keezhattoor Vechiyoot Kavu, says Narayanan. Besides the divinity aspect, Theyyam, he adds, will forever be a powerful motif of resistance against caste discrimination and social injustice. Our community has endured socio-political discrimination. For some, Theyyam serves as a livelihood, but for others, it embodies our resilience, he says. Besides the Padma Shri, Narayanan has been honoured with several other accolades, including the Kerala Folklore Academys Guru Pooja Award in 2009, and the Kerala Folklore Academys Fellowship in 2018.
Kerala: Congress revives Sahithi Theatres as part of its efforts to boost social connect
KOCHI: As part of its strategy to get more involved in the field of the arts and culture, the Congress has revived its drama troupe Sahithi Theatres. To kick off, the drama troupe staged Vaikom Muhammed Basheers satirical short story 'Mucheetukalikkarante Makal' (The Card Sharpers Daughter) at Pastoral Orientation Centre in Kochi on Wednesday, with AICC general secretary K C Venugopal and KPCC interim president M M Hassan among the audience. Karunagappally MLA C R Mahesh, who is in charge of the troupe, said he decision to revive the partys arts and cultural activities was made at the Congress Chintan Shivir (brainstorming meet) in Kozhikode in 2022. At the meeting, we decided to become more involved in the field of art, culture, and charity.Revival of Sahithi Theatres was one of the initial decisions. As I have a background in the arts, I was picked to lead the troupe, said Mahesh, whose father C A Rajashekharan and brother C R Manoj were playwrights. Sahithi Theatres was initially launched in Thiruvananthapuram when Ramesh Chennithala was the KPCC president. However, the troupe became inactive after three or four plays. The comeback play was written by Hemanth Kumar, and directed by Rajesh Irulam. Preparations and practice took nearly 50 days, said Mahesh, adding that the audience response was great. There are six characters in the play. We have used the latest and modern technologies, including AI, to provide the best experience to the viewers. Besides Mahesh, the cast included Rajeev Alunkal, Anil Mala, Vakkom Maahin, Aadinad Sasi, and V R Prathapan. While inaugurating the play, Venugopal stressed on the need to make the cultural sphere more vibrant and vocal. Artists and writers hesitate to speak out because they are frightened in this fascist era. Everyone is silent. Perhaps the only bold response in recent times was that of M T Vasudevan Nair, he said. A lookback Sahithi Theatres was initially launched in Thiruvananthapuram when Ramesh Chennithala was the KPCC president. However, the troupe became inactive after three or four plays. the decision to revive the partys arts and cultural activities was made at the Congress Chintan Shivir (brainstorming meet) in Kozhikode in 2022. The comeback play was written by Hemanth Kumar, and directed by Rajesh Irulam.
Kerala: Climate change reality gets heatwave check
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Valerian Isaac, a traditional fisherman from Anchuthengu in Thiruvananthapuram, is deeply concerned about the impact of climate change on his livelihood and the overall quality of life. He used to enjoy his summer with the sea cooling down when folks in the town sweltered in the heat. The situation however has changed dramatically. The sea has warmed up significantly. Consequently, the fish have migrated to cooler waters away from the coast. Previously, we relied on good winds and occasional rains to alleviate the heat. But this summer has proven to be the toughest yet, Isaac said. With the dwindling catch, only a handful of fishermen dare to venture out into the sea in his area. And they are not the only ones suffering. Adverse weather has also affected autorickshaw drivers, tour operators, vegetable vendors and those in the construction sector. As the government considers imposing further restrictions on operations between 11am and 3pm, the livelihoods of even more sectors hang in the balance. Isaac, like many others, had not heard of the term El Nino, a climate phenomenon responsible for warming the sea surface temperature in the Pacific Ocean and often cited as a primary cause of harsh summers. However, he, along with the rest of the populace, has become acquainted with the term heatwave in recent times. Its sudden appearance in the vocabulary coincided with its confirmation in Palakkad on April 26, the day of the general elections. Such weather was once considered unusual, mostly associated with the traditional hot regions of the country. The India Meteorological Department first issued a heatwave alert in Kerala in 2016, the warmest year on record for the state, primarily focused on Palakkad. This year, the focus has again been on Palakkad which experienced scorching temperatures throughout April, with Thrissur following suit. Subsequently, heatwave alerts were issued for Kollam, Kozhikode and Alappuzha, as temperatures in these districts deviated from the norm significantly. A majority of those belonging to the fishing community in Perumathura in Thiruvananthapuram are spending their time under the shade of coconut palms. The reason being the roofs of their homes are made of asbestos and tin sheets, which increase the heat Weather experts assert the situation is similar across south and east India. An Asia-wide heatwave map published by international weather agencies depicts most countries in the region coloured in red. The temperature rise is attributed to global warming induced by climate change. The impact of El Nino exacerbates the situation, said D Sivananda Pai, senior scientist and ADGM of India Meteorological Department. According to him, the dry weather in Kerala has increased the temperature. In Palakkad, the relative humidity is now in the 30-40% range in comparison to the normal 60-80%. Thats why the temperature remains high. The condition is worse for people living in more humid areas as high moisture content does not help reduce body temperature, he said. Like this year, 2016 too was an El Nino year. While it was the warmest year in recent history, the damage, technically, was limited to a heatwave alert in Palakkad. What makes the conditions worse than 2016 is the absence of summer rain, especially in the northern districts, and the land use and land cover changes because of urbanisation, said Rajeevan Erikkulam, a meteorologist with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority. Weather experts pointed out the situation is likely to improve by the second week of May when summer rains are expected to be more regular. The El Nino effect is expected to be neutral during the time of monsoon, but the experts have a warning the next El Nino year could be much worse than 2024. What is heatwave? Qualitatively, heatwave is a condition of air temperature that becomes fatal to human body when exposed. Quantitatively, it is defined based on the temperature thresholds over a region in terms of actual temperature or its departure from normal. Criterion for declaring heatwave Heatwave is considered to be in effect if the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40Celsius or more in the plains, at least 30Celsius or more in hilly regions, and 37 Celsius or more in coastal regions. The departure from normal is 4.5 to 6.4Celsius. If the above criteria is met in at least two stations in a meteorological sub-division for at least two consecutive days, a heatwave is declared on the second day. A woman carrying a pedestal fan on a two-wheeler in Kochi. With mercury level going up, residents are opting for various methods to beat the scorching heat Heatwave prone states Heatwave generally occurs over the plains of northwest India and central, east and north peninsular India from March to June. It covers Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Sometimes, it occurs over Tamil Nadu and Kerala too. Impact of heatwave Water stress Health problems Livelihood problems Heatwave in Kerala First alert - Palakkad, in 2016 First alert - Kozhikode - 2020 First confirmation this year - Palakkad, on April 26 First alert in Alappuzha - April 30 Reasons for heatwave Global warming El Nino Absence of summer rain Urbanisation Number of days above 40 degrees Celsius in April in Kerala 2024 - 16 (15 in Palakkad) 2023 - 3 2016 - 14 1989 - 8
Kerala: Cracks in Akkulam glass bridge spark adventure tourism safety concerns
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Barely two months after the Varkala floating bridge accident, the glass bridge ready to be opened at Akkulam Tourist Village has developed cracks, raising serious concern over the quality and safety standards of the adventure tourism infrastructure in the state. The inauguration of the glass bridge slated for March was postponed following the floating bridge accident on March 9. Fifteen people fell into the sea after the 100-metre-long floating bridge collapsed due to rough waves. Now, cracks have appeared on the 52-metre glass bridge at Akkulam, which is touted by the tourism department as a key adventure infrastructure. The bridge is constructed at a height of 75ft. The adventure tourism activities at the Akkulam Tourist Village are jointly implemented by Vattiyoorkavu Youth Brigade Entrepreneurs Cooperative Society (VYBeCOS) and the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC). VYBeCOS alleged that the cracks in the glass bridge occurred due to suspected vandalism, and it has lodged a complaint with the Sreekaryam police. Crack on glass bridge: Call for probe to find out real cause of damage Following the incident, the agencies and departments involved in the project are scrambling for answers and indirectly blaming each another. Officials of VYBeCOS claimed that the glass bridge is intact and not broken as claimed by reports. The glass panels used for the construction of the bridge are of the highest quality and they meet the global standards, said Ratheesh C S, president of VYBECoS. We found some scratches in a portion of one of the glass panels of the bridge due to a suspected act of vandalism, he said. However, the officials in charge of the Village have ruled out the possibility of vandalism as it is a highly secured zone. Its impossible for somebody to sneak in and cause destruction, said an official at the Akkulam Tourist Village. Glass Bridge at Akkulam village gets safety clearance from NITC According to VYBECoS, the construction of the glass bridge started only after getting approval from the panel of engineers from the Public Works Department (PWD), constituted by the DTPC. The projects plan was vetted and approved by qualified structural engineers from the College of Engineering Trivandrum (CET). The entire construction was done under the monitoring of the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society, said Ratheesh. Former tourism minister Kadakampally Surendran said the matter should be thoroughly investigated. An investigation should be conducted to find out the real cause of the damage. Also, it is high time we strengthened the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society. There should be stringent monitoring from the part of an expert panel under the society on all the adventure infrastructures. Safety and security of the visitors should be given utmost priority, Kadakampally said. The effort to set up the Adventure Tourism Academy is also getting delayed inordinately. If we look at adventure tourism as a key product, the department should execute the academy project and strengthen KAPTS, he added. Meanwhile, Sreekaryam police said they are looking into the complaint. Recently, the glass bridge got the safety clearance from NIT, Kozhikode. According to tourism authorities, the final report from NIT is awaited.
Nixing Ernakulam Jn from Venad Express halt list sees other trains get punctual
KOCHI: May 1, 2024, proved to be an emotional day for scores of passengers who had been travelling to Ernakulam Junction railway station onboard 16302 Thiruvananthapuram - Shornur Venad Express. That was the first day in a long time when Venad Express didnt come chugging into the station. Nor did the platforms see a flurry of hasty steps of office-goers rushing towards the exit to catch the autorickshaw in a last-minute dash to reach their places of employment before the punching deadline. Even as those, for whom Ernakulam Junction railway station has been the main thoroughfare for years felt sad and angry, others who travelled beyond were a happy lot. The removal of Ernakulam Junction station from the list of halts of Thiruvananthapuram-Shornur Venad Express from May 1 although a temporary move, according to officials has elicited a mixed response from passengers. Even though those travelling to places beyond Ernakulam welcome the decision, regular commuters who work in the government and private sectors, Kochi corporation, etc., have raised objections. The move comes after demand was raised by various passenger associations in the state. Speaking about the amount of time that could be saved if Venad skips Ernakulam Junction, Paul Manvettom, president of the All Kerala Railway Users Association (AKRUA), said, This has been a long-standing demand of passengers. A delay of 30 or more minutes every day is not desirable in this day and age when time is precious. Passenger associations, including mine, had petitioned the railway board and ministry with the demand. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the train made the right time at Ernakulam Town enabling all the other trains coming right after it keep their dates with the corresponding stations. For the first time in years, I was able to reach Ernakulam Town railway station at 10:40 am, says Tibin Kuriakose who commutes in Nagercoil-Mangaluru Parasuram Express. Before the halt was removed, those travelling in Parasuram Express had to suffer long halts at Tripunithura followed by another 10 to 15-minute stop at the outer of Ernakulam Town station, he adds. But since yesterday, it was bliss. No halt overs and no delay, says Tibin. A lot of the issues faced by Ernakulam Junction station can be resolved once this happens. However, we have demanded that to ease office rush and cater to the needs of people who disembark at Ernakulam Junction, a MEMU service from Kayamkulam or Kollam via Kottayam be run at around 7:55am, said Paul. It is a time slot that falls between Palaruvi and Venad Express trains. Echoing the view, Sreekumar V, a passenger who depends on Venad to get to Thrissur, said, Why waste 30 or more minutes? Just because this train gets held up, all other services that follow also get affected. It has a domino effect. I once happened to travel by Parasuram Express. The train was stopped at a place which resembled a no mans land. After more than 15 minutes here, the long-distance train was held over again, this time in the outer area of Ernakulam Town station, all for Venad Express. However, Liyons J, secretary of Friends on Rails, said, To take away the Ernakulam Junction halt of Venad Express, citing the arrival of Kochi Metro service to Tripunithura, is not justified. Metro is no substitute. We have expressed our strong protest on this matter. Those who oppose the move say Venad is an office-timing train from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam Junction. If the junction is skipped without providing an alternative, it would become a problem for hundreds of commuters, said Sindhu R, a state government employee whose office in located near Maharajas College. They also point to severe traffic congestion on the Kottayam to Ernakulam route. If Ernakulam Junction is avoided, it will be a disservice to passengers. If Venad departs from Tripunithura at 9.20 am, it can reach Junction station at 9.40am. Anyway, Venad usually reaches the station before 10am. But if a person gets down at Tripunithura at 9.20am, it will take them at least 15 minutes to reach a metro station. The metro service runs at seven-minute intervals. From there it takes 20 minutes to reach the Junction. Taking into account the time taken to get out of the station, it is not so easy for a person alighting at Tripunithura to reach their offices on time. Also, a metro ticket between the two destinations costs Rs 30. The average person cannot afford this, Liyons added. The critical voices, however, said the new arrangement will work if a MEMU service from Tripunithura is started to coincide with the time Venad arrives there. Not the first time In 2019, railways planned to change the route of Venad Express, which would have seen it skip Ernakulam South station. It was then decided to nix the stop after the train switched to Linke Hoffman Busch (LHB) rakes. Unlike the old rakes, LHB coaches receive power from the engine. So electrical parts have to be disconnected before the engine is replaced. Then after reconnecting, the entire mechanism has to be inspected before the train can be allowed to proceed. This takes around 40 minutes. This is not the first time that Junction stop has been distanced from Venad. The train had run for around one-and-half years skipping the station, before it was reinstated following continuous representations by passengers and peoples representatives.
Kerala to launch digital course to foster responsible waste management
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Aiming to foster environmental consciousness and to promote sustainable and responsible waste management practices, the state government is launching a first-of-its-kind digital course on waste management. The Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) titled 'Solid Waste Management Systems in Kerala' will provide valuable insights into sustainable waste management practices, law enforcement, green protocol, and waste management technologies for households and communities. The course targets students, volunteers, residents associations, NGOs and traders. Designed by the Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA), the course will officially go live on May 6 and is expected to spread awareness about the new waste management-related amendments to the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994, and the Kerala Municipality Act, 1994. Besides, the digital course is expected to create awareness about the purpose of the Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam campaign spearheaded by the local self-government department (LSGD) to make the state garbage-free. Public participation is key to making the state garbage-free. Ever since the launch of the Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam campaign, many programmes and activities have been taken up. Awareness and participation are important to achieve our objectives. We decided to come up with such a course as behavioural changes are imperative. The public can attend the course at their convenience, a Suchitwa Mission official told TNIE . The course comprises self-study materials and recorded sessions in Malayalam. Scheduled to be completed in one month, the course is five to six hours long.The course comprises six sessions. After each session, those attending will have to clear a quiz to proceed to the other sessions, said a KILA official. The course features visual demonstrations, powerpoint presentations and sessions by experts. We have included only the basics, and if the feedback and response are good, we will upgrade and make the course more advanced, the official added. Those completing the course will be given a badge and a certificate. Topics under solid waste management course Waste management system overview decentralised waste management, operations of various agencies and service providers Activities under the Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam campaign Household and community level biowaste management systems aerobin composting, bio composter, ring compost, organic compost and more Segregating non-biowaste the importance of segregation and handing it over to Haritha Karma Sena Processing of special waste sanitary waste, construction and demolition waste, hazardous waste Offences as per the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, Municipality Act amendments Different categories of singleuse plastic items that are banned Green protocol waste reduction strategies
THRISSUR: 'Poacher', the miniseries streaming on Amazon Prime Video, has been receiving widespread applause since its release in February this year. The series based on elephant poaching, grabbed movie buffs attention for its storyline, visuals and cast. As the story is set in Kerala, Malayali actors also starred in the series, making it an instant hit in the southern state. Thiruvananthapuram native Ankith Madhav, who played the role of Vijay Babu, the lazy forest officer who later becomes an inevitable character as the story moves ahead, has been on cloud nine ever since the release of the series. Through his appearances in numerous advertisements, including sharing the screen with M S Dhoni, Ankith is now a pan-Indian face. Born and brought up in Kerala, Ankith carried his dream to be an actor since childhood. However, surrendering to societal and familial pressures, he pursued engineering and moved to Mumbai for a job. Practising in front of a mirror and challenging my own limitations helped me overcome my fear of cameras. Now, the camera is my best friend. As I lacked a godfather in the industry, I had to struggle a lot to prove myself. I was so obsessed with acting that I kept attending auditions and acted in ad films. It helped build professionalism in me, he shared. Before immersing into the field of cinema, Ankith pursued an acting course at Brian Timony Acting School in London. Though he made his debut through the Malayalam film 'Solo', it was the role in Madhavan-starrer 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' that garnered him a mark as an actor. Later, the role of Yogesh Yadav in Mammootty-starrer 'Kannur Squad' ensured a place for Ankith in the hearts of Malayalis. However, the character of Vijay in 'Poacher' stood entirely different. Acting in 'Poacher' was a learning lesson for me. I was initially auditioned for a short character named Babu. But later, Richie Mehta, the director of the show, decided to give me a big role, he said. With earning more attention for his roles, Ankith is all set to move on to the next projects, determined to keep the pace up.
Amid suspense, Rahul veering towards fighting from Rae Bareli
Congress delays announcing Amethi and Rae Bareli candidates. Rahul may contest from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi. Priyanka is unlikely to run, as per the sources. Indecision due to Wayanad's victory and concerns about Kerala optics. Party leaders like KC Venugopal, and Kharge are said to have discussed the subject in Shimoga in Karnataka after a public rally Thursday afternoon
Pinarayi Vijayan holds meet to assess heatwave, monsoon preparedness in Kerala
Pinarayi Vijayan holds meet to assess heatwave monsoon preparedness in Kerala
Heat sweeps east, south; more May heat waves likely
Intense heat swept through east India and parts of the southern peninsular region on Thursday, testing power grids and prompting the Kerala government to order closure of educational institutions till May 6.
Inscriptions in a temple submerged by Bhavanisagar dam reveal a trade route
According to the inscriptions found at Sri Madhava Perumal Temple, which has largely remained submerged in the water spread area of the dam in Erode district, there was a trunk road in the area, and traders crossed River Bhavani and River Moyar to reach Wayanad in Kerala and various places in Karnataka
Trucks Transporting Cash for Bank Operations Briefly Detained in AP
Trucks Transporting Cash for Bank Operations Briefly Detained in AP Four container trucks carrying ''soiled'' currency notes amounting to Rs 2,000 crore were detained here by the Andhra Pradesh Police on Thursday but released later as these belonged to banks, an official said. The trucks were released after verification of documents, and these currency notes belonged to the ICICI, IDBI and the Federal Bank, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), Anantpur Range, R N Ammi Reddy said. The officer said the trucks coming from Kerala were headed to the regional office of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Hyderabad. The trucks were detained as the Model Code of Conduct is in force in view of the Lok Sabha elections. Polling for parliamentary and assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh will be held simultaneously on May 13. ''It was basically a consignment of soiled notes which belonged to the ICICI, IDBI and the Federal Bank and amounted to Rs 2,000 crore. They were being taken from Kochi to RBI, Hyderabad,'' Reddy told PTI. The trucks had vehicles escorting them and all necessary transit documents were made available to police, the DIGP said and added that confirmation of the banks concerned and the RBI was taken and verified. Income tax department officials, the election returning officer and others were roped in for the verification process, the officer said. Reddy, however, said that there was no prior information with the state police about the movement of such currency notes.
Soaring temperatures scorch Eastern and Southern India: Nandyal records sweltering 46.2 degrees Celsius Intense heat swept through east India and parts of the southern peninsular region on Thursday, testing power grids and prompting the Kerala government to order closure of educational institutions till May 6. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said heat wave to severe heat wave conditions scorched parts of West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and coastal Andhra Pradesh. At least 17 places in these states recorded temperatures above the 44-degree Celsius mark. The mercury settled at 46.2 degrees Celsius at Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh, 45.3 degrees at Palwancha in Telangana, 44.3 degrees at Karur Paramathi in Tamil Nadu, 45 degrees at Bolangir in Odisha, and 44.3 degrees at Kalaikunda in West Bengal. As Kerala continued to reel under punishing heat, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed the closure of educational institutions in the state until May 6. The IMD said the ongoing heat wave spell in east and south peninsular India will continue till May 3 and abate thereafter. The Met office on Wednesday said above normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country in May and a significantly high number of heat wave days expected over the northern plains, central region, and adjoining areas of peninsular India. April saw record-smashing maximum temperatures in east, northeast, and southern peninsular India prompting health warnings from government agencies and some states to suspend in-person classes in schools. A number of stations recorded their highest ever April day temperature. Five active Western Disturbances led to rain, thunderstorm, and hail storms over north and central India at regular intervals in April, preventing heat waves. IMD data shows that heat waves in April this year were far worse than in 2023, the warmest year on record so far. This trend is likely to continue in May, with around eight to 11 heat wave days predicted over south Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Gujarat regions. The remaining parts of Rajasthan, east Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Chhattisgarh, interior Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, north interior Karnataka, and Telangana may record five to seven heat wave days in the month. Normally, the northern plains, central India, and adjoining areas of peninsular India experience around three days of heat waves in May. India saw two spells of heat waves in April from April 5 to 7 and April 15 to 30. The IMD attributes the prolonged heat wave spell over east, northeast, and south peninsular India in April to the absence of thunderstorms and an anticyclone at lower levels over the west central Bay of Bengal and the adjoining eastern coasts of India. This caused the sea breeze to cut off over Odisha and West Bengal on most days. The weather office said south peninsular India recorded an average maximum temperature of 31 degrees Celsius in April, which was the second-highest since 1901. The mean temperature (28.12 degrees Celsius) in April in east and northeast India was the highest since 1901, it said. The IMD said above normal maximum temperatures have become frequent over south peninsular India since 1980s. The region recorded 12.6 mm of rainfall in April, which was the fifth lowest since 1901 and the second lowest since 2001. According to IMD data, the number of heat wave days this April was the highest in 15 years in Gangetic West Bengal and nine years in Odisha. Odisha also experienced the longest heat wave spell (16 days) in April since 2016. Amid the prevailing but weakening El Nino conditions, the IMD had earlier warned of extreme heat during the April-June period, coinciding with the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Hundreds of thousands of voters had to cope with the searing heat when they stepped out to exercise their franchise in the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections on April 26. Polling for 94 constituencies across 12 states will take place on May 7. The weather office had earlier expected four to eight heat wave days in different parts of the country in April against a normal of one to three days. Ten to 20 heat wave days are expected against a normal of four to eight in the entire April-June period.
Intense heat sweeps east, south India; Nandyal in Andhra sizzles at 46.2 degrees
Intense heat wave affects East India and southern peninsular region, with record high temperatures. Kerala shuts schools. IMD warns of severe conditions. Western Disturbances prevent some heat waves. Pinarayi Vijayan orders closure. Ongoing heat wave to abate after May 3.
T20 WC: Virat's Strike-rate Is Not A Concern For Agarkar, Defends Making Rohit Captain
Indian Premier League: There may be a lot of concern being expressed over Virat Kohli's low strike rate in the Indian Premier League, but that was not the issue for the national selection committee as it picked the former India captain for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup to be played in the United States and the West Indies from June 1. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kohli has scored 500 runs in 10 matches so far in the IPL 2024 at an outstanding average of 71.43, hitting a century and four fifties. However, he has a strike rate of 147-49, which has at times gone down a notch or two, which many people feel has slowed down RCB, thus resulting in the former skipper facing criticism. Kohli has maintained that he has been essaying the role assigned to him by the team management, which is to hold the innings together. Though Kohli has led the batting charts, RCB are languishing at the bottom of the points table with just six points from 10 matches. On Thursday, the Chairman of the Selection Committee, Ajit Agarkar said Virat's strike rate was not a part of the discussion. I don't think we have been discussing it yet, no. Look, he's been in great form, fortunately in the IPL, so no concerns there at all with regards to how it's going in the IPL. You're still going to a World Cup, it's still international cricket. There is still that gap there, so you've got to prepare knowing that there is that gap there. That's where experience does matter a lot. So, no, I mean, if the tournament turns out to be like how the IPL is, I think we've still got enough in the team - the balance or the power - that you can match that. So no, there's no real point in overthinking. You look to try and take the positives that are happening in the IPL, form of some of the guys, some of the newer guys coming through those things. But at the end of the day, when you turn up for a World Cup game, the pressures are a little bit different, said Agarkar. The selection committee chairman also defended picking Rohit Sharma as captain despite him now leading his franchise. Generally, as selectors, you want a leader. Rohit has been a terrific leader. There have been six months between the 50-overs World Cup and this one. I know Hardik had been leading in a few series before that. Rohits form in the World Cup...Rohits a great player. It's not as if its forced on us. (There was) A little bit of a challenge. You try and plan before the IPL starts. We had a fair idea of what we were looking for. In IPL, you keep track oft he fitness levels of players. But if you start getting swayed by 3-4 weeks of cricket, there is something wrong with your thinking. All performances are noticed but it will help us in future anyway, he added. The former India pacer, who was part of the squad that won the 2007 T20 World Cup under the captaincy of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, also defended their decision to omit K.L Rahul despite his stellar performance in the ongoing IPL 2024. The main question the committee faced was related to the non-selection of K.L Rahul, the Lucknow Super Giants captain who is currently among the top five scorers in IPL 2024 with 406 runs to his name. Rahul is quite experienced and has been a consistent performer in the format as LSG captain and has been part of the Indian T20 teams earlier too. Though Rishabh Pant was considered a sure-shot selection after he made an impressive return from a 15-month injury break at the IPL, Rahul was in contention for the second spot. The selectors, however, opted for Kerala batter Sanju Samson as the second option ahead of Rahul. KL is a terrific player. We were looking at someone who bats in the middle. At the moment, he is batting at the top. Sanju, we like to believe he has the ability to come down the order if need be. Rishabh (Pant) is batting down the order for Delhi Capitals. It's about the slots we need. We felt these two are better and have spent more time down the order which might be needed at the World Cup, said Agarkar.
CSIR-NIIST opens innovation centre for start-ups
Facility envisages an inclusive ecosystem to develop and translate scientific and technical knowledge into innovations and convert them into commercial and technopreneurial ventures
Depositor commits suicide after being refused savings withdrawal by cooperative bank
Congress to Deploy National Leaders in Telangana for Election Push
Hyderabad: The Congress will step up campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana in the last leg by deploying national leaders like AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar between May 5 and 11. Their campaign will begin after the conclusion of the Lok Sabha elections on May 7. Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar had campaigned extensively during the Telangana state Assembly elections in November 2023. The party leadership has also decided to rope in leaders from Karnataka and Maharashtra for campaigning in the bordering areas of Telangana state. Besides, Congress leaders from Bihar, West Bengal, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Kerala etc will meet voters hailing from their states Chevella, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad and Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituencies. Rahul Gandhi: May 5: Rallies in Nirmal and Gadwal for Adilabad (Atram Suguna) and Mahbubnagar (Challa Vamshi Chand Reddy); May 9: Karimnagar and Saroornagar, for V. Rajender Rao (Karimnagar) and G. Ranjith Redddy (Chevella). Priyanka Gandhi: May 6, election rallies in Yellareddy, Tandur in support of T. Jeevan Reddy (Nizamabad), G. Ranjith Reddy (Chevella) and Secunderabad (Danam Nagender); May 7: Narsapur and Kukatpally for Neelam Madhu Mudiraj (Medak) and Patnam Sunitha Mahendar Reddy (Maljakgiri).
Gag on phone-tapping: BRS knocks on HC doors
Hyderabad: While a two-judge panel of the Telangana High Court closed a writ plea by the BRS seeking directions to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to gag discussions and references to the phone-tapping incidents, a single judge in an independent development directed the registry to verify and post a similar case before the appropriate court. Earlier in the day, a panel of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Anil Kumar recorded a statement of the senior counsel appearing for the ECI that it would pass orders on a grievance of the BRS. The BRS said it had lodged a complaint seeking directions to all political parties and its leaders to refrain from making derogatory and defamatory remarks based on unverified and unsubstantiated statements on the phone-tapping issue against the petitioner and its members which were in violation of the model code of conduct, the ECIs guidelines and the Representation of Peoples Act 1951. ECI senior counsel submitted that action would be taken on the petitioners representation in accordance with the law by Friday. The panel accordingly closed the writ plea. Later in the day, Justice N.V. Shravan Kumar heard a writ plea filed by the BRS, represented by its secretary M. Sreenivas Reddy, complaining that the Union ministry of electronics and the I&B ministry had failed to act upon a complaint raised by the party. According to the petitioner, BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao was being unjustly accused of involvement in the phone-tapping controversy. It was alleged that a section of the media was discussing involvement of the BRS leadership without basis. Senior counsel, appearing for the petitioner, pointed out that the authorities had failed to delete and direct removal/block derogatory and defamatory videos in connection with the case. The petitioner arrayed Google, YouTube, ABN Andhra Jyothi, NDTV and Siti Network among the respondents. Even as the judge was hearing the matter, the deputy solicitor general brought to the notice of the court that the subject matter was allotted to a different judge and accordingly it must be placed before the appropriate judge. HC seeks report on school facilities A two-judge panel of the Telangana High Court, comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Anil Kumar, on Thursday directed the government to take necessary steps to ensure hygienic kitchens, 52,000 toilets and 30,000 bathrooms in residential schools on or before the commencement of the next academic year. The panel required the government to place its report on the matter on June 12. The panel was dealing with a PIL filed by Keethineedi Akhil Sri Guru Teja attributing the death of three children and cases of food poisoning in residential schools and hostels to improper governance. The Chief Justice said that that over 7.58 lakh students of SC, ST, BC and minorities studying in these residential schools are national property. Chikkudu Prabhakar, counsel for the petitioner, alleged that failure on the part of the government to comply with earlier directions had resulted in the loss of lives. He said that the manner in which the government consistently overlooked the student community was not only defeating their rights but also jeopardising their life and future. No interim relief in GST case The Telangana High Court refused protection from arrest and coercive steps in a case relating to non-payment of GST. A panel, comprising Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice N. Tukaramji, was dealing with a plea filed by Maruti Ispat and Energy Private Limited. The petitioner challenged the vires of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 and the corresponding provisions of the Telangana Goods and Services Tax Act 2017. According to the petitioners, the provision provided for input tax credit only in cases where the supplier produced the invoice and proof of having paid GST. The said rovision was challenged on various grounds. The panel was of the opinion that it was not required to go into the issues at the present stage. Dominique Fernandes, counsel for revenue, contended that the provisions under challenge had been upheld by the Kerala High Court. The panel also rejected a similar relief sought by Navadurga Industries where the court found that there was no proof that the authorities were taking coercive steps or there was a threat of arrest.
Kerala reels under triple whammy of heatwave, warm night, and hot day conditions
Heat prompts State to close all educational institutions till May 6
Meeting of State Disaster Management Authority, chaired by CM, asks schoolchildren to avoid holiday classes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Workplaces with asbestos and tin sheet roofs should be closed during the day. Workers living in places with such roofs should be shifted
Congress allege political conspiracy in Mayor-KSRTC driver tiff
Memory card of the CCTV camera on board the KSRTC bus could have been deliberately removed and destroyed, fearing the crucial piece of evidence could weaken the Mayors case, says V.D. Satheesan
Elderly man, pushed out of bus by conductor, dies in hospital
A skirmish between the two over balance payment led to the conductor kicking the man out of the bus, who fell down and hit his head on a rock. Passengers say the conductor then hit the mans head repeatedly against the rock
IUML sure of thumping wins in Ponnani, Malappuram
Meeting of partys district working committee on Wednesday reviews election process
Two sunstroke-related deaths reported at Kozhikode MCH
The deceased, a painting labourer and a construction labourer respectively, were admitted to the hospital on Wednesday
Heatwave Condition Aggravates: Kerala Educational Institutions to Remain Closed till May 6
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government on Thursday issued a set of guidelines in the wake of sweltering heat wave conditions in the state. All educational institutions including professional colleges will remain closed till Monday. While most schools are closed for summer vacation, many institutions have organised summer camps and special classes. They have been asked to avoid the camps and special classes between 11 am and 3 pm. Daytime parades and drills should be avoided at training centres of police, fire brigade, other forces, NCC, Student Police Cadets etc. Workplaces with asbestos and tin sheets as roofs should be closed during the day. Arrangements should be made to shift people, including guest workers, living in houses with such rooftops to the camps. The government has directed to conduct fire audits in fire-prone areas such as markets, buildings, waste collection and investment centres and safety precautions should be taken. The fire audit of hospitals and major government institutions should be done immediately as per the norms issued by the State Disaster Management Authority. The instructions of the forest department should be strictly followed to avoid situations where there may be forest fires. Art and sports competitions/events should not be held from 11 am to 3 pm. These decisions were taken at a meeting of the Disaster Management Authority held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to assess the situation arising out of the heat wave conditions in the state. The district collectors briefed the meeting about the steps that are being taken to deal with the situation. To avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm, construction workers, agricultural labourers, street vendors, fishermen and those engaged in other hard work have been asked to reschedule their working hours accordingly. Ministers, top officials, including Chief Secretary Dr Venu V and Disaster Management Authority Member Secretary Sekhar Kuriakose, attended the meeting held online.
Kerala HRC Orders Probe into Bus Driver's Complaint Against Thiruvananthapuram Mayor
Kerala HRC Orders Probe into Bus Driver's Complaint Against Thiruvananthapuram Mayor The Kerala Human Rights Commission (HRC) on Thursday ordered a probe into a complaint by the driver of the KSRTC bus who had been accused by city Mayor Arya Rajendran of making sexually suggestive gestures towards her and her sister-in-law a few days ago. Acting Chairperson of the Commission and Judicial Member K Baijunath directed the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner and the Managing Director of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to conduct an investigation and submit a report within a week. The complainant driver, L H Yedu, had alleged that Mayor Rajendran and her family members prevented him from discharging his duty on April 27 by blocking the bus with their private vehicle. He also alleged that the SHO of Cantonment police station took no action when a complaint in this regard was lodged by him. In his complaint against Rajendran, her MLA husband and three others, the driver had alleged that they disrupted the bus journey, shouted obscenities against him and tried to make the passengers deboard the bus. The driver also sought that the Cantonment SHO be removed from the investigation and the probe be carried out by another agency. Last Saturday night, the mayor and her family had got into a heated argument with the KSRTC bus driver after allegedly blocking the vehicle at Palayam junction. Rajendran claimed the KSRTC bus was not blocked, but CCTV visuals aired by news channels showed her private car parked across the zebra line on the road. She had said that she spoke to the driver while the bus was stopped at the red signal area to raise her protest against his alleged sexually suggestive gestures towards her and her sister-in-law. The driver, who was booked in connection with the incident, has refuted the allegations.
Kerala: Congress booth agent assaulted by CPI-M workers in Kannur, say police
The News Mill
Case filed in Uttarakhand court against Patanjali Ayurved
Based on complaint by Kannur-based RTI activist and ophthalmologist K.V. Babu with the Prime Ministers office in January
New tardigrade species named after Chandrayaan-3 mission
New species discovered from southeast coast of Tamil Nadu. It is the thirdmarine tardigrade species to have been scientifically described from the Indian waters and the second from theeast coast
KHSTU to organise protest against delay in transfers on May 8
Miraculous escape for passengers as car gets trapped between truck and bus in Thrissur
Kerala posts 9% growth in GST revenue in April
GST collection rises from 3,010 crore in April 2023 to 3,272 crore last month
