Demand for Air conditioners soar as temperatures continue to rise, some companies raise prices by 3-5 per cent

Demand for Air conditioners soar as temperatures continue to rise, some companies raise prices by 3-5 per cent The demand for air conditioners (ACs) have surged during the April month due to the increase in temperature, especially in North and Central India. It has prompted a strong outlook for AC demand until mid-June 2024. According to a report by Anand Rathi Financial Services Limited, after the surge in demand for AC's the manufacturing companies have increased prices. The AC manufacturing company Blue Star has increased prices by 3-5 per cent across various models. The report highlights that in South India, particularly Tamil Nadu, AC volumes soared by 40-50 per cent year-on-year (y/y). While Karnataka and Telangana witnessed a 15-20 per cent y/y growth in AC volumes. In Central India, including Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Madhya Pradesh (MP), AC volumes grew by 15-20 per cent y/y. However, the local dealers have reported shortages of the ACs across brands, leading to increased delivery times. In North India, particularly in Rajasthan and Haryana, AC demand has surged post-Holi, with volumes growing by 20-25 per cent in April 2024. The report highlights that some dealers anticipated further growth in AC demand by 25-30 per cent in May. In the Eastern region, Odisha saw a 25-30 per cent increase in AC volumes, while Jharkhand experienced a 10-15 per cent y/y growth. Despite rising demand, no pricing action was observed by any brand in the region, and dealers are facing a shortage in giving timely supply. The demand for AC in the Western region including Gujarat and Maharashtra have surged in the latter half of April, with volumes growing by 15-20 per cent y/y. According to the report several brands in Gujarat increased prices by 3-5 per cent across various models. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday that most parts of the country are likely to record above-normal maximum temperatures in May. The IMD, however, stated that some parts of northwest and central India and adjoining areas of northeast peninsular India are likely to record normal to below-normal maximum temperatures. According to IMD, the average minimum temperature (22 degrees Celsius) in April in east and northeast India was the highest since 1901. (ANI)

Viveka murder case: Telangana HC refuses to cancel YSRCP MPs bail

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Friday dismissed a petition to cancel anticipatory bail granted to Kadapa MP Y. S. Avinash Reddy in Y. S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case. The petition was filed by Shaik Dastagiri, an accused-turned-approver, in the case. Justice K Lakshman had reserved orders on the petition last month. The High Court Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Video: Leopard Rescued In Telangana Village, Will Be Released In Forest

A leopard was rescued in Telangana today and it will be released into the wild tomorrow, the Forest Department said.

Amit Shah Doctored Video: X Reveals Origin Of Fake Video To Police

Four Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) membersShiva Kumar Ambala, Asma Tasleem, Satish Manne, and Naveen Pettemwere being targeted by a Delhi Police squad stationed in Telangana.

Hyderabad: JUH urges imams to mobilize voters in Friday sermons

Hyderabad: The Jamiat Ulama Hind Telangana and A.P. (Mahmood Madani group) is urging its members and mosque administrators to motivate Muslims to pledge their votes in the upcoming LS elections. As a socio-religious organization primarily consisting of Muslim clerics, Islamic scholars, and imams, the Jamiat is highlighting the importance of political participation among the Muslim Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Congress vows to remerge 5 villages near Bhadrachalam to Telangana from AP

Hyderabad: The Congress party in its special Lok Sabha poll manifesto for Telangana promised to remerge 5 villages near Bhadrachalam to Telangana from Andhra Pradesh if the party comes to power at the Centre. The villages are Yetapaka, Gundala, Purushottam Patnam, Kannegudam and Pichukalapadu and the residents of these five gram panchayats located on the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

KTR vows help to struggling Padma awardee musician from Telangana

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K T Rama Rao (KTR) promised help to Padma Shri award winner and legendary Kinnera instrument musician from Telangana, Darshanam Mogiliah who is reportedly struggling financially to make ends meet. Responding to a post on X by senior journalist Sucheta Dalal citing a newspaper article on Mogilaiahs dire Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi: Rae Bareli's tryst with Congress

Indira Gandhi contested from two seats in 1980 -- Rae Bareli and Medak in Telangana -- and chose to retain the Medak seat. Arun Nehru won the 1980 bypoll and subsequently in 1984. From Arun Nehru, who was late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's right-hand man, to Sheila Kaul, another Gandhi kin, Rae Bareli returned several of the Gandhi family members and aides to the Lok Sabha. The seat was held by Congress' R P Singh in the 1960 bypoll after the demise of Feroze Gandhi, and by another Congress leader Baij Nath Kureel in 1962.

Rae Bareli: A Congress bastion from Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi

Rae Bareli: A Congress bastion from Feroze Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi The surprise nomination of Rahul Gandhi from Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli brings the focus back on the VVIP segment which was first represented in the Lok Sabha by the former Congress president's grandfather Feroze Gandhi, who held the seat in the first two elections after Independence. The strong foundations that Feroze Gandhi laid in the constituency were later nurtured and strengthened by his wife and former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who won from the seat in 1967, 1971 and 1980, followed by friends and family members of the Gandhi family. Indira Gandhi contested from two seats in 1980 -- Rae Bareli and Medak in Telangana -- and chose to retain the Medak seat. Arun Nehru won the 1980 bypoll and subsequently in 1984. From Arun Nehru, who was late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's right-hand man, to Sheila Kaul, another Gandhi kin, Rae Bareli returned several of the Gandhi family members and aides to the Lok Sabha. The seat was held by Congress' R P Singh in the 1960 bypoll after the demise of Feroze Gandhi, and by another Congress leader Baij Nath Kureel in 1962. Sheila Kaul, an aunt of Indira Gandhi, represented the seat in 1989 and 1991. In 1999, another friend of the Gandhis, Satish Sharma represented the Rae Bareli constituency, till Sonia Gandhi shifted there. The only time the Congress did not represent the seat was in the wake of the Emergency in 1977 when Janata Party's Raj Narain defeated Indira Gandhi, who was then the prime minister, and BJP's Ashoke Singh in 1996 and 1998. Although Sonia Gandhi upon entering electoral politics chose to make her electoral foray from neighbouring Amethi Lok Sabha seat in 1999, a seat her husband Rajiv Gandhi had held earlier, she soon vacated it for her son Rahul's debut in politics in 2004. Sonia Gandhi subsequently held Rae Bareli four times between 2004 and 2019, although of late, her winning margins began dwindling. The party's calculation behind fielding Rahul from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi, also rests on the conclusion that Rae Bareli is a better, safer seat for the former Congress president, who lost Amethi to BJP's Smriti Irani in 2019 by nearly 50,000 votes. Amid criticism that the Congress had given a walkout to Irani in Amethi, sources said, the party in its wisdom believed that Rae Bareli's historical, emotional and electoral importance for the Gandhi family was higher than that of Amethi. In her farewell message to the people of Rae Bareli, Sonia Gandhi had expressed confidence that the seat which always stood by her and the Gandhis will continue to support her family in future also. In the message on February 15, former party chief Sonia Gandhi informed voters of her Rae Bareli constituency that she will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls due to health and age issues. In an emotional message to the constituents of the segment she has represented since 2004, the 77-year-old also threw subtle hints of a possible entry of a member of her family from Rae Bareli. ''I am proud to say that whatever I am today, I am because of you and I have always done my best to honour your trust. Now on account of health and age issues, I will not contest the next Lok Sabha election,'' she said in the message. ''After this decision, I will not have the opportunity to serve you directly but my heart and soul will always remain with you. I know that you will stand by me and my family in future, just as you have in the past,'' she said in the message. The message to the voters came a day after she filed her nomination for the Rajya Sabha seat from Rajasthan. She entered the Rajya Sabha for the first time and was the second member of the Gandhi family to do so, after Indira Gandhi who was a member of the upper house from 1964 to 1967. In the message to voters, Sonia Gandhi further said, ''My family in Delhi is incomplete without you. It completes when I come to Rae Bareli and meet all of you. My ties with you are very old. I have inherited these ties as a good fortune from my in-laws.'' Noting that ties of her family with Rae Bareli are ''very deep rooted'', she said Rae Bareli sent her father-in-law Feroze Gandhi to Lok Sabha in the first general election held after Independence. After that, you accepted my mother-in-law Indira Gandhi, she noted, adding that ever since, our relationship grew stronger on the difficult road to affection despite the highs and lows of life and our faith in this bond grew stronger. ''You allowed me space to walk along on this shining path. I came to you after losing my mother-in-law and husband and you accepted me with open arms,'' the former Congress chief said. Sending her respect to elders and love to youngsters, she had said in her message, ''I will see you soon''.

Revanth takes flight to UP for Rahul Gandhis nomination process

Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy along with AICC national chief Mallikarjun Kharge took a special flight from Begumpet airport in Hyderabad to Uttar Pradesh on Friday, May 3, to participate in the nomination process of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who has been nominated by the party from Rae Bareli. Former Congress president Sonia Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Will end KCR's family dominance in Medak after August 15: Revanth Reddy

Revanth Reddy aims to defeat Harish Rao by August 15, contingent on Congress's loan waiver. Criticizing KCR's family dominance in Medak, he urged support for Neelam Madhu, emphasizing social justice and Indira Gandhi's legacy.

All eyes on YS family bastion Pulivendula

KADAPA: Election to the Pulivendula Assembly constituency will be closely watched as the segment holds a record of sorts for electing members of the same family for the past 46 years. In 1978, YS Rajasekhara Reddy, the former Chief Minister, won the Assembly segment for the first time on a Congress ticket. Since then, members of his family have consecutively won the seat for 13 elections, including three by-polls. YSRs son and current Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has represented the seat for the last two terms and is now vying for a hat-trick win. Is TDPs Mareddy Ravindranath Reddy (BTech Ravi), who defeated YSRs brother YS Vivekanada Reddy in the 2017 MLC elections, capable of winning the family bastion that Pulivendula is? Will Jagans vote margin drop from the previous 90,110. Will YS Sharmila contesting the elections from the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat impact the poll prospects of her cousin and two-time MP YS Avinash Reddy? These are all million-dollar questions, whose answers will be known once the results are out on June 4. Both YSR and Jagan strived for the development of Pulivendula and transformed it into a model town. Till a few decades ago, Pulivendula was bereft of even basic infrastructure. In recognition of the contributions of the former chief minister, Kadapa district was renamed after YSR. A number of differences emerged within the YS family, following the sudden demise of Rajasekhara Reddy. His wife YS Vijayalakshmi, popularly known as Vijayamma, contested the by-election in 2010 and won unanimously on a Congress ticket. The first split in the family came to the fore when Jagan departed from the Congress. Vijayamma once again contested the by-election, but this time against her brother-in-law YS Vivekananda Reddy, who represented the Congress at the time. She won the elections with a resounding mandate as she polled 81,373 more votes against Viveka. Following the bifurcation of the State, Vivekananda Reddy, too, quit the Congress and joined his nephews party YSRC. Just before the elections in 2019, he was murdered. The YSRC won the 2019 elections with a thumping majority as it swept 151 of the total 175 Assembly and 22 of the 25 Parliament seats. However, post the poll, the YS family saw a rift between the siblings YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and YS Sharmila. Ulimella Lake Sharmila founded the YSR Telangana Party, but did not contest the 2023 Assembly elections in the neighbouring State as she merged her party with the Congress. Later, she was appointed as the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president. Now, she is all set to take on her cousin YS Avinash Reddy, an accused in the murder of YS Vivekananda Reddy, in the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat. Fishing in these troubled waters are TDP and its allies, who want to take advantage of the situation and gain from the split in the votes of the YS family. Jagan has lost popularity. People want Chandrababu Naidu to come back to power. We are confident of victory, asserted BTech Ravi. Pulivendula constituency encompasses seven mandals Simhadripuram, Lingala, Thonduru, Pulivendula, Vemula, Vempalle, and Chakarayapeta which is located in the western part of Kadapa district. After the constituency was formed in 1955 as per the Delimitation Orders (1955), Penchakala Basi Reddy from Congress won the first election. He lost to Chava Bali Reddy, an independent candidate, in 1962. However, he won the seat again in 1967 and retained it in the 1972. YS Rajasekhara Reddy held the seat from 1978 to 1989. In the 1989 elections, he contested for Kadapa Lok Sabha and his younger brother YS Vivekananda Reddy won Pulivendula. In the 1991 by-election, their other brother YS Purushothama Reddy won the seat. In 1994, Viveka won the seat. However, in 1999, YSR returned to State politics and held the seat till his demise in 2009. It may be noted that the TDP has never won the Pulivendula Assembly constituency. When YSR served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for five years and three months from 2004 to 2009, Pulivendula saw a spurt of growth. It was upgraded to a Grade-II municipality from a Panchayat. Not just Pulivendula, but the whole of Kadapa district, which was formed 200 years ago and ranked the lowest in terms of growth, saw significant development. During YSRs era, the Kadapa PG centre was upgraded to Yogi Vemana University, and Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), a medical college, airport, Kopparthy Industrial Park and Kadapa Ring Road were built. Beautification works of Buggavanka were also taken up during his regime. In Proddatur town, an engineering college was established and a ring road was constructed. In Pulivendula constituency, JNTU College, IIIT-Idupulapaya, Food Technology College, APCARLA (Andhra Pradesh Centre for Advanced Research on Livestock), Industrial corridors and spinning mills were established. Most importantly, Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) was set up to mine Uranium. YSR also completed the construction of Pulivendula - Kadiri Ghat Road and lift irrigation for Lingala canal. However, after his demise, the development works in the district were stalled until Jagan was elected. Pulivendula government school In the last five years, Jagan ensured the establishment of a medical college, a new hospital, a nursing college, and APSRTC bus stand, beautification of the town, a mini-secretariat, and advancement in agriculture and horticulture. The YSRC president also established the Aditya Birla garment unit, which has so far 1,500 jobs under phase-1. The project is expected to create a total of 2,100 jobs. The Apache unit is still under construction. With Jagan staying at Tadepalle as he is also the Chief Minister, Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy took care of the constituency in his steed. Micro-irrigation was neglected, disappointing farmers engaged in horticulture. Out of 7,000 Jagananna houses proposed, not even 300 were constructed. Works for the water grid, taken up with `480 crore, are going on at a snails pace. Works to provide safe drinking water to villages affected by UCIL have also not been completed yet. Voters in the region believe that work done in the district was not as expected as several proposed industries are yet to be set up. Some sections of the people in the constituency thought that instead of focusing on beautification and infrastructure, focus on job creation would have been better. There is no doubt that the YS family has developed the constituency. However, had the focus been on improving job opportunities, it would have been much better, said M Ramprasad, a businessman in Pulivendula.

Aadhar Housing IPO price brand at Rs 300-315

MUMBAI: Aadhar Housing Finance on Thursday fixed the price band for its Rs 3,000 crore initial public offer (share) at Rs 300-315 per share, valuing the global private equity major Blackstone-owned affordable housing loan player at around Rs 13,400 crore. The issue consists of Rs 1,000 crore in fresh issue and Rs 2,000 crore or 20,000 million shares in offer for sale by the promoter group (BCP Topco VII), and opens on May 8, and closes on May 10, the company told reporters. Blackstone bought out Aadhar, originally promoted by the now bankrupt housing loan major HDFL, which went bankrupt and was since then picked by the Piramal group through an NCLT resolution) bought the a controlling 97.7% stake in June 2019 for about Rs 2,200 crore and since then infused Rs 1,300 crore. Pre-sale, it was fully owned by Wadhawan Global Capital and Dewan Housing Finance. Aadhar, which has business interests across 20 states and Union territories, proposes to utilize the proceeds from the fresh issue to meet future capital requirements towards onward lending and for general corporate purposes. The equity infusion will increase its capital adequacy by nearly 10%, Rishi Anand, the managing director and chief executive said here. Amit Dixit, the head of private equity for Blackstone Asia, said, the listing is a significant milestone for Aadhar as this comes after scaling its network, bringing in the best global practice. Though present in all states barring northeast and J&K, the company nets about all its business from Maharashtra, UP, Andhra, Telangana, Rajasthan and Gujarat, to the tune of 13-14% each Anand told The New Indian Express here and that expansion this fiscal will also be in these states. In the first nine months of the last fiscal, the companys AUM grew 21%, while disbursement clipped at a higher 24% and profit jumped 35%, Rajesh Vishwanathan, the chief financial officer told this news paper. SK Finance gets Sebi nod for Rs 2,200 crore IPO MUMBAI: Vehicle financier SK Finance on Thursday said it has received the Sebi approval for its Rs 2,200-crore initial public offer. The Jaipur-headquartered non-deposit taking non-banking finance company was established in 1994 and is also into funding small businesses. According to the draft red herring prospectus filed with the markets regulator Sebi, through the initial public offering it plans to raise up to Rs 2,200 crore. The issue comprises fresh issue of equity worth Rs 500 crore and an offer for sale by the promoters for up to Rs 1,700 crore.

Revanth vows to liberate Siddipet from clutches of feudal lords

HYDERABAD : Launching a scathing attack against BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao and former minister T Harish Rao, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday said that he will liberate Siddipet from the clutches of Raos. The chief minister addressed a Jana Jatara public meeting at Asifabad under the Adilabad Lok Sabha constituency, a street-corner meeting in Siddipet under the Medak segment and a roadshow in Quthbullapur of Malkajgiri constituency. During his speeches, he described the BRS duo as Bramha rakshasas (demons) and Harish Rao as Shanishwar Rao. Referring to Harish Raos challenge on farm loan waiver, Revanth said: I will waive farm loans by August 15. Siddipet will get independence on August 15. Siddipet will get a new MLA after August 15. I will hold a meeting with one lakh people in Siddipet after waiving farm loans. Harish should be ready with his resignation letter. Do you want Congress candidate Neelam Madhu or BRS candidate P Venkatram Reddy, who snatched lands from farmers in the name of construction of Mallannasagar project? he asked the gathering and added that Harish Rao illegally constructed a farmhouse at Ranganayakasagar project. Alleging that Harish Rao threatened leaders and filed false cases against those who contest elections in Siddipet, he said: Isnt it a dorala rajyam (feudal rule)? How many days will this kingdom last in Siddipet? If Siddipet is not liberated, people will have to live as slaves forever. Venkatram grabbed hundreds of acres The CM also criticised BRS candidate P Venkatram Reddy and alleged that when he was Siddipet collector, he grabbed hundreds of acres and harassed people. Venkatram is like Kasim Razvi for KCR and Harish Rao. You should ensure that Venkatram loses his security deposit. If he wins the election, he will crush people like an Anaconda. Revanth also said that BJP candidate M Raghunandan Rao is a Dubbak dora. Does this area belong only to KCR, Harish Rao, KTR and Raghunandan Rao? They belong to different parties during daytime but in the night, they are all one party, he said. Addressing the Asifabad public meeting, Revanth alleged that during the BRS regime, KCR neglected the podu land issue. Farmers of Adilabad suffered a lot as the BRS government failed to construct the Tummidihetti project. He alleged that though BJP MP Soyam Bapu Rao sought funds for development of Adilabad, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah ignored his pleas. The BJP insulted Bapu Rao by denying him the ticket in this elections.The BJP did not induct the Gond leader in the Union Cabinet, he said. Alleging that BJP candidate G Nagesh behaves like a dora, he said: Till now, no party has allotted the Adilabad ticket to a woman. For the first time, the Congress has fielded a woman Atram Suguna. I am ready to take on Delhi Sultans Referring to the doctored Amit Shah video, the CM said he is ready to face Modi and Shah, whom he referred to as Delhi Sultans. When I questioned them about scrapping of reservations, Shah lodged a case against me in Delhi. KCR lodged about 200 cases against me during his rule and sent me to Cherlapally and Chanchalguda jails. Did I get scared by such tactics? I have the strength and power to face the Delhi Sultans who are trying to attack Telangana, he said.

Democracy will be in danger if BJP retains power at the Centre: Uttam

HYDERABAD : Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy on Thursday said that democracy would be in peril if the BJP retains power at the Centre and Narendra Modi takes oath as the prime minister for the third time. Addressing a series of meetings in Mothe, Nadigudem, Munagala and Kodad in Suryapet district in support of Congress Nalgonda Lok Sabha candidate K Raghuveera Reddy, Uttam alleged that Modi did not categorically say that the BJP would not change the Constitution if it retains power. If the BJP wins again, theres a danger of reservation system getting scrapped, Uttam alleged. The BJP government may not change the cover page of the Constitution. But step-by-step, it will replace the provisions to implement the RSS agenda of scrapping reservations, he added. Uttam alleged that Modi, Union Minister Amit Shah and other BJP leaders were targeting the four per cent Muslim reservations in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The RSS and BJP have historically opposed reservations and advocated changing the Constitution, he added. The Congress stands for social justice. It increased reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs proportionate to their population. If we regain power at the Centre, we will lift the 50 per cent ceiling on reservations, he said. The Irrigation minister also slammed BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao for spreading false propaganda against the Congress government in Telangana.

Congress minister trying to cover up phone-tapping case, says Bandi

HYDERABAD : Karimnagar BJP candidate Bandi Sanjay Kumar on Thursday accused a Congress minister from Karimnagar of having links with BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao and trying to cover up the phone-tapping case. Speaking to reporters here, the former state BJP president alleged that former Intelligence chief T Prabhakar Rao, who is an accused in the case, has sent money to Delhi through this minister. The BJP leader said that Radha Kishan Rao, a police officer accused in the case, carried out the alleged phone-tapping from Pratima Hotel in Karimnagar and the residence of Ashok Rao, an associate. Ashok Rao is now looking after the affairs of Congress Karimnagar MP candidate Rajender Rao. Prabhakar Rao is the main reason behind Rajender Rao getting the Congress ticket, Sanjay alleged. Stating that he was a victim of the alleged phone tapping, Sanjay claimed that Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and BRS MLA T Harish Rao too were victims of this scandal. Sanjay Kumar demanded that the phone-tapping probe should be handed over to the CBI. Expressing suspicion that phones are still being tapped, he said that the investigation should also be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) if necessary.

Muslims on our side, Congress will lose deposits: BRS Karimnagar candidate B Vinod Kumar

KARIMNAGAR : While refusing to comment on the new-found friendship between the AIMIM and Congress, BRS Karimnagar candidate B Vinod Kumar on Thursday claimed that the Muslims are with the pink party. In an exclusive chat with TNIE during his morning walk at the Arts College ground here, he said that the Congress candidate will not be able to secure his security deposits in the Lok Sabha election. When asked about the AIMIM moving away from the BRS and leaning towards the Congress, the ruling party in the state, and whether it will have any impact on his electoral prospects, he said: I dont want to comment on the AIMIMs decision. But all I want to say is that the minorities are with the BRS. The minorities will definitely support us because they have benefited from the welfare schemes introduced by the BRS government. We have also started residential schools for their children, which are on par with the corporate institutions, he said. When queried about the Congress fielding Velichala Rajender Rao from the Karimnagar segment, he said: The Congress is nowhere in the picture. It will be a battle between the BRS and BJP. The Congress candidate will not be able to secure deposits. In the 2019 LS elections too, Congress candidate Ponnam Prabhakar finished a distant third. Referring to the allegations being levelled against the BRS by the BJP and Congress over the Sircilla powerloom sector crisis and the Rs 270 crore pending bills, he said in the last 10 years, Sircilla has witnessed tremendous development and weavers have prospered. The weavers benefited from the orders placed by the BRS government. But the situation has changed after the Congress formed the government. Revanth Reddy cancelled all orders, leading to Sircilla powerloom sector slipping into crises, he said. Vinod, meanwhile, appealed to the Election Commission to take appropriate action against the BJP leaders as well as state Congress president and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy over provocative and objectionable comments they have been making during their elections rallies against the BRS. The former MP, however, refused to comment on EC banning BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao from campaigning for 48 hours after he allegedly made some derogatory remarks against the Congress and its leaders.

Cong, BRS invoke NTR to attract Kamma voters in Khammam

KHAMMAM : Expecting a tough battle in Khammam Lok Sabha constituency, the Congress and BRS are invoking TDP founder and former chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao to woo Kammas, a dominant community in the segment. In fact, the leaders of these two parties are praising late NTR and his policies with the sole aim of luring the Kamma voters to their side. BRS president and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, during a recent roadshow, described NTR as the saviour of the downtrodden and recalled how thousands of poor people benefited from his Rs 2 per kg rice and other welfare schemes introduced by him. BRS candidate Nama Nageswara Rao, who is seeking re-election from Khammam, is playing the Kamma card in an attempt to woo the voters of this community. Not to be left behind, the Congress leaders too joined the bandwagon of praising the former CM. Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy is leaving no opportunity go waste in praising NTR during public meetings and roadshows being held in the constituency. He is even demanding that the TDP founder be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. The Congress has also roped in popular actor Daggubati Venkateshs daughter Aashritha to campaign for its candidate Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy. Aashritha, who is married to Raghurams eldest son Vinayak Reddy, has been campaigning vigorously, reaching out to as many people as possible especially in high-rise apartment complexes. Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddys daughter Swapni, who is married to Raghurams second son Arjun Reddy, is also campaigning on behalf of her father-in-law. Actor Venkatesh too would be joining his daughter to campaign for Raghuram on May 7. BJP candidate Tandra relies on Modis popularity BJP candidate Tandra Vinod Rao, meanwhile, is on a whirlwind tour of the constituency, visiting even remote areas to reach out to maximum number of people. Vinod Rao, who belongs to the Velama community, is highlighting the achievement of Narendra Modi government during his campaign even while projecting himself as a local who will strive to turn Khammam into a model constituency if people give him the opportunity to serve as an MP.

Krishanks arrest illegal, says KTR, issues jail dare to CM

HYDERABAD : Asserting that last years circular of Osmania University declaring holidays tweeted by BRS social media coordinator Manne Krishank was genuine, BRS working president KT Rama Rao declared his willingness to be sent to Chanchalguda jail if proven wrong. Terming the arrest of Krishank as illegal, he asserted that the BRS would fight it legally. Releasing WhatsApp chats and other evidence to the media here on Thursday, Rama Rao alleged that the circular posted by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy was fake. He said that Krishank, who proved that the CMs post on X was fake, was currently in jail. He asserted that Revanth should instead go to jail for posting a fake circular, which said that during BRS rule, the OU declared holidays in summer due to shortage of water and electricity. The BRS MLA said that OU students themselves stated that the circular posted by Revanth was fake. He alleged that the CM misled the people on the issue and the chief warden stamp was also changed in the circular. If the CM or OU students prove what I said is wrong, then I am prepared to go to Chanchalguda jail. Is the CM ready to go to jail if his circular is proved fake? asked Rama Rao. He wondered why the ECI was not taking any action against Revanth for posting a fake circular. He also lamented that the ECI did not take any action against the CM for using derogatory language during campaigning. BRS social media convener Krishank Manne was arrested on Wednesday on forgery charges after a complaint was lodged by the Osmania University chief warden for allegedly circulating fake news regarding the closure of messes and hostels. Rama Rao said that the EC did not even take any action against BJP leaders who were using Lord Ramas photos in the election campaign. He alleged that the BJP was spreading venom against Muslims on social media. ECI did not take action against PM for making adverse remarks on Muslims Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi made adverse remarks on Muslims, the ECI did not take any action against him, he said and pointed out that the poll panel instead sent notices to BJP president JP Nadda. He clarified that during a press conference in Sircilla, BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao tried to give answers over the allegations levelled by Revanth. Instead of taking action against the CM for using objectionable language, the ECI barred KCR from campaigning for 48 hours, Rama Rao alleged.

Congress, BJP snare BRS leaders, but cadre stays behind

HYDERABAD : The strategy by the Congress and BJP of putting in motion Operation Akarsh to attract top BRS leaders into their fold appears to have had only partial success, leaving the two parties fretting as the Lok Sabha elections loom closer. The Congress and BJP extended invitations to sitting and former MPs and MLAs, as well as prominent figures from the BRS, following which the leaders started migrating from the BRS to the two national parties. However, the situation has proven to be more complex than the Congress and BJP expected since second-tier BRS leaders and the original cadre remain loyal to the pink party. With this, the calculations of the two parties have gone awry since securing the support of these grassroots members was crucial to their long-term goal of winning a majority of the LS seats in the state. In its bid to sway BRS loyalists, the BJP gave tickets to turncoats from the BRS in constituencies like Zaheerabad (BB Patil) and Nagarkurnool (P Bharat, son of P Ramulu). While Peddapalli MP Venkatesh Netha who joined BJP is not contesting, former BRS MP Godem Nagesh is the saffron party candidate for the Adilabad LS seat and former MLA Wardhanpet Aroori Ramesh is contesting from Warangal. Former Huzurnagar MLA S Saidi Reddy is contesting for the Nalgonda seat. However, the assertive campaigning by BRS supremo K Chandrasekhar Rao has put pressure on the BJPs prospects in these areas. The BJP expected at least a 10% vote shift, but this does not appear to be happening due to KCRs aggressive campaigning. The Congress too adopted a similar strategy, fielding candidates who migrated from the BRS in constituencies such as Malkajgiri (P Suneetha Mahender Reddy), Chevella (G Ranjith Reddy), Secunderabad (Danam Nagender) and Warangal (Kadiyam Kavya, daughter of Kadiyam Srihari). The aim was to win by tapping into at least 5% to 8% of the BRS vote bank. The Congress also welcomed ex-MLA Madhan Reddy from Narsapur (under Medak LS), former minister A Indrakaran Reddy from Nirmal (under Adilabad LS), former MLA and BJP leader Kuna Srisailam Goud from Quthbullapur (under Malkajgiri LS) and others into its fold. Both the parties are aware that the BRS vote share will be key in determining the outcome in several segments. This has been the reason they are now focusing on wooing these voters. However, with the BRS working hard on retaining the partys support base, the success of these efforts remains uncertain.

TS govt releases Rs 43 crore to reopen sugar factories

HYDERABAD : The government has released Rs 43 crore as a one-time settlement to help reopen closed sugar factories across the state. Sources said that the government held discussions with bankers to clear the dues of sugar factories as a one-time settlement and the bankers agreed to the same. Following the agreement, the government decided to clear the dues. The government has been trying to reopen the closed sugar factories for the last four months. The Congress government had constituted a cabinet sub-committee under the chairmanship of Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu to explore the chances to reopen the Nizam sugar factories in Bodhan and Muthyampet. The panel held a series of discussions with the bankers on the same. CM Revanth Reddy had assured that the sugar factories would be reopened by September 17.

Any error during polls will be unpardonable, officials told

HYDERABAD : The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday took stock of the situation in Telangana before going ahead with the fourth phase of the elections to Lok Sabha with the polling slated for May 13. Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Nitesh Vyas interacted with observers, district collectors, superintendents of police (SPs) and returning officers (ROs) of the 17 Lok Sabha Constituencies in the state through a video conference from Commissions headquarters at New Delhi. He took feedback from each observer and issued directions as required to DEOs/ROs. They assured Vyas that all arrangements are in place and are ready for polls. From Hyderabad, the conference was attended by Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vikas Raj, Expenditure Nodal Officer Mahesh Bhagawat, Additional DG and SPNO, Sanjay Jain, Additional CEO DS Lokesh Kumar and others. Vyas advised them to be impartial and transparent and treat every candidate and political party on an equal footing without giving any scope for criticism. Attend whatever genuine complaint is brought to your notice by the candidate/political party he said. There must not be any error on any matter, especially statutory process. Efficient personnel must be posted as sectoral officers with multi-booths in charge and make foolproof arrangements. Officials should be alert and vigilant and take extra care during the last 72 hours before the polling. Any error will be unpardonable, the senior deputy election commissioner said. Vyas asked the officials to check every aspect of the arrangements, such as voter information slips (VIS) and EPIC Card distribution, ballots, EVMs and facilities being provided at polling stations such as drinking water, dedicated medical teams and security to be provided to strongrooms, among others. The collectors, CPs/SPs and ROs briefed Vyas on the situation in their respective areas while he issued dos and donts to them depending on the local situation. Officials of Hyderabad and Secunderabad Lok Sabha constituencies sought extra forces to be deployed in some Assembly segments in the city.

'You see only Razakars in Old City, get an eye checkup done', Owaisi tells Amit Shah

HYDERABAD : By saying that Razakars have been representing Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency for the past 40 years, Amit Shah has insulted Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Indias first Home Minister), said AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday, adding that the Union Home Minister also insulted all those who made sacrifices for the formation of Hyderabad after Independence. Addressing a rally in Malakpet, Owaisi asserted that Shah should have read the Pandit Sunderlal Committee report (on annexation of Hyderabad) and asked, Is Hyderabad not an unbreakable part of India? Indicating that the commitment of the people of Hyderabad towards the nation should not be questioned, Owaisi called them loyalists and claimed that the Razakars had already fled to Pakistan. He questioned Shah over what the latter has been doing in his capacity as home minister if Hyderabad has been occupied by the Razakars. Owaisi asked Shah why he only sees Razakars in the Hyderabad segment. In the Old City, Hindus, Dalits, ST, BC, Marathas, Rajasthanis, Marathas, Munnar Kapu, Gowd and Yadavs live, but you only see Razakars. You should get an eye checkup as you are not able to see properly. Challenging the home minister, Owaisi suggested that Shah should have fought against him. But you got afraid and went to Ahmedabad instead.

Graduate segment bypolls: Three file nominations on 1st day

NALGONDA : As part of the Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda Graduate Constituency Legislative Council bypoll, three candidates filed their nominations on the first day Thursday. Bandaru Nagaraju, an independent candidate, filed one set of nominations, while Srikanth Reddy from Prajavani party filed another set, and Nandipati Janaiah from Telangana Sakala Janula Party submitted one set of nominations. Following the Election Commission of Indias (ECI) instructions, the notification for the bye-election was issued by the district collector and MLC Returning Officer Dasari Hari Chandana on Thursday. Following this, the nomination process commenced. The returning officer confirmed that three candidates had submitted their nominations on the first day of the process.

Hyderabad Metro hits 50 crore passenger mark

HYDERABAD : Confirming its tag of being the the transportation lifeline of the city, the Hyderabad Metro Rail has recorded a ridership of 50 crore passengers since its inception in 2017, officials announced on Thursday. According to a press communique, the L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad) Limited (L&TMRHL) and the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) are going to celebrate the occasion and launch the customer loyalty stall and Green Miles loyalty club at Ameerpet Metro Station on Friday Currently, the Hyderabad Metro operates along three corridors covering approximately 69.2 km: Corridor-I, running from Miyapur to LB Nagar; Corridor-II, connecting JBS to MGBS; and Corridor-III from Nagole to Raidurgam. Launched in 2017, through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model initiated in 2008, the Hyderabad Metro has quickly become Indias third-longest operational Metro network, following the Delhi Metro and Namma Metro in Bengaluru, the release added. Expansion planned Amidst overwhelming citizen response, the state government, earlier this year, finalised and approved new routes for the proposed Phase-2 expansion of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL), covering a distance of 70 km to connect the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) from all corners of the city. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed officials to prioritise the expansion of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project, particularly to enhance connectivity to RGIA and in view of the escalating traffic congestion apart from addressing future public transportation needs. Officials said the Metro rail has become a reliable option for commuters in Hyderabad. As the city continues to grow, it will help many more connect to different commercial and residential areas, they added. They mentioned that the Metro will assume more significance as the population and the number of private vehicles grow in the city. During heavy traffic congestions, the Metro will help save time on travel and connect major parts of the city. The sources also believe that the Metro Rail will open up opportunities for commercial growth apart from attracting investments and boosting the real estate market.

HMWSSB MD directs officials to finish ORR reservoir works by June

HYDERABAD : HMWSSB Managing Director C Sudarshan Reddy inspected the under-construction water reservoirs at Tukkuguda, Pahadishareef, Sultanpur, Kashangutta, Gurramguda, Kammaguda, Tirumala Nagar and Nandi Hills taken up under Package 1 of the ORR Project Phase-2. He directed the officials to complete the works by next month. Later, he visited the Saheb Nagar division office and reviewed the records of the tankers at the filling station. The MD said that under the current package, 33 water reservoirs are under construction. Works for 22 of them are already completed and they are now operational, he said, adding that the construction works of the remaining 11 reservoirs are 90% completed. Sudarshan directed officials to complete the works by June. Additionally, he highlighted the laying of a new pipeline covering 1522.27 km is nearing completion. The focus is given to inspecting inlet and outlet works and officials have been directed to expedite the works. ORR project phase-2 Phase-2 of the ORR project is progressing with an investment of Rs 1,200 crore. It includes the setting up of 73 new service reservoirs with a capacity of 138 million litres and the expansion of the pipeline network by 2,988 km. Upon completion, it is projected to benefit 3.6 lakh families and 25 lakh people. Seven municipal corporations, 18 municipalities and 24 gram panchayats are set to benefit from the initiative. Package-1 and 2 In this segment, 33 service reservoirs and 1,522 km of pipeline network are being constructed at a cost of `613 crore. It will cover seven mandals: Saroornagar, Maheshwaram, Shamshabad, Hayathnagar, Ibrahimpatnam, Ghatkesar and Keesara and is expected to benefit 4.36 lakh people. The second package covers the construction of 38 new service reservoirs and a pipeline network covering 1,270 km at a budget of `587 crore. This package covers five mandals Rajendranagar, Shamirpet, Medchal, Quthbullapur, Patancheru, RC Puram and Bollaram and is expected to benefit 1.96 lakh people.

Over 2.3 lakh water tanker trips made in April: Hyderabad Water Board

HYDERABAD : With the temperatures crossing the mid-40s, Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) officials predict an uptick in the demand for water tankers. To address this, Water Board managing director (MD) C Sudarshan Reddy has already instructed authorities to increase the water supply. At a review meeting on Thursday, he said that 2,37,570 water tanker trips were recorded across the city in April. Anticipating a rise in demand, he asked officials to increase the number of water tankers available, filling stations and points accordingly. Steps should be taken to reduce the delivery time as much as possible, Sudarshan said. The number of tankers has increased from 613 on April 1 to 840 at present, he mentioned, adding that more such vehicles will be procured. The MD also directed officials to resolve the complaints received at the local offices on priority apart from the Metro Customer Care. Sudarshan informed officials that 48.96% of the tankers were booked through a mobile app, 36.78% via IVRS (customer care), 14.16% through the official HMWSSB website and the rest 0.1% through other means.

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar blackmailing granite bizmen: BJP leader Rudrama

KARIMNAGAR : Levelling fresh accusations against the ruling Congress, BJP Sircilla Assembly segment in-charge Rani Rudrama claimed that the grand old party sold the ticket for the Karimnagar Lok Sabha constituency to the highest bidder. Additionally, she also accused Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar of extorting money from granite businesspersons. Claiming that the minister was threatening to cancel the licences of those transporting fly ash from NTPC, she said that one of the blackmailing victims even gifted him a Toyota-brand car. Reacting to the allegations, TPCC spokesperson M Rohit Rao asked how much the BJP had taken from MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar, who is seeking re-election from Karimnagar, to nominate him, Additionally, he challenged Rudrama to provide evidence for her accusations. Swearing on a portrait of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy, Rohit said all the claims by the BJP are false. Additionally, the TPCC spokesperson claimed that Rudrama was making such comments to get recognised by the high command. Congress district women wing president Karra Satya Prasanna alleged that Rudrama took an `18 crore loan from the Laxmi Vilas Bank and never repaid it. She returned to normal life with her luxury cars. People should ask where she got the money to buy those high-end vehicles, she asked.

NMDC records best-ever April in terms of sales & dispatch

HYDERABAD : Following a record 45 metric tonnes in FY24, the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) produced 3.48 million tonnes and sold 3.53 million tonnes of iron ore in the first month of FY25. While production matched up to the corresponding period last year, the company registered close to 3% growth in sales, when compared with figures from April 2023. The companys Kirandul and Donimalai iron ore mining complexes delivered their best April month production to date, with 13.59 long tonnes (LT) and 11.33 long tonnes, respectively. The Bacheli complex dispatched 14.86 LT in April 2024, which is 12% more than April 2023 and its highest-ever dispatch in April since inception. Amitava Mukherjee, Chief Managing Director (Additional Charge), NMDC, said, We are targeting north of 10% growth in our volumes in FY25 attuned to the growth trajectory of Indias iron ore output and demand. All our mining complexes have delivered a promising start and are geared up to harmonize with the new mining technologies, navigate sectoral challenges, and achieve 50 MT.

Groundwater levels in Kamareddy plummet, its time for sample taking

KAMAREDDY : With summers reaching a peak, several districts across the state have seen a drop in the groundwater table. To take stock of the situation and availability, Kamareddy district groundwater officer M Sathish Yadav said they are testing the water level by collecting samples using the mobile hydrology laboratory, under the National Hydrology Project. On Thursday, he along with other officials and staff members collected samples from Old Rajampet, Narasannapally, Maddikunta, Visannapally, Adlur, Gargul and Ramareddy villages. Officials said that they will take up the process to gauge the water table regularly in a bid to protect groundwater, which is critical for drinking and cultivating crops.

Students postcard push to reform school education

A State-wide student-led postcard campaign, led by a non-profit think-tank, is advocating for better-equipped schools by addressing issues such as poor infrastructure and teacher shortages among others. Over 20,000 postcards have reached the Chief Ministers office in Hyderabad, from various parts of Telangana. Their collective voice amplifies calls for change, aiming to transform the education sector, reportsP. Laxma Reddy

Man held while trying to snatch gold chain

NIZAMABAD : A man was caught by locals while he was trying to snatch a gold chain in Subhash Nagar here Thursday. Police said the accused, Om Prakash, who resides in Adarsh Nagar, confessed to his crimes during interrogation and was later, remanded to judicial custody. The complainant, Chikoti Pushpa, a resident of Hamalwadi, was returning on a gearless scooter with her granddaughter after offering prayers at the Ramalayam, when a masked man, the accused, stopped his vehicle and pulled the three tola gold chain from Pushpas neck before escaping, the complaint stated. When they chased him, he threw the chain away in a bid to escape but the locals caught him and handed him over to the police. Prakash was subsequently arrested and sent to judicial remand. Three Town SHO L Praveen Kumar said they analysed the CCTV footage before arresting him. During the questioning, Prakash confessed to the crime, he added.

Cong re-suspends rebel leaders in Adilabad

ADILABAD: Days after rebel leaders former market committee chairman A Sanjeev Reddy, former DCC president Shajid Khan and former TPCC general secretary G Sujatha rejoined the Congress, the party high command, taking cognisance of the wave of protests, reportedly issued fresh orders to continue their suspension, which was set to last six years. After they were re-inducted to the party, followers of Congress Adilabad segment in-charge Kandi Srinivas Reddy have been protesting demanding that they be asked to serve the rest of the suspension period. Taking cognisance of the opposition, the leadership reportedly re-suspended them on Thursday. Left before polls The leaders, who had left prior to the Assembly polls, were suspended for anti-party activities after Sanjeev contested as an Independent while the other two leaders supported him in the polls

Tata Motors fined Rs 10,000 for delaying refund

HYDERABAD : The District Consumer Redressal Commission, Khammam, has directed Tata Motors to pay Rs 10,000 to a woman as compensation for failing to return the amount she submitted in regard to the extension of the warranty period on her vehicle. The forum also directed the company to refund the amount Rs 20,640 that the customer paid for the service. The complainant, Maddisetti Nirmala of Khammam, said she purchased a Nexon in December 2020, on which a warranty of two years was provided. Three years later, she applied to purchase an extended warranty of another two years and paid Rs 20,640 for the same. However, a Tata Motors representative denied her application citing company policies. The extended warranty comes into force once the manufacturers standard warranty expires, which has a validity for a period of 24 months from the date of sale of the car or until it covers a distance of 75,000 km, whichever happens earlier. The commission, in its order, observed that despite rejecting the consumers request, the company did not repay the amount immediately, which amounts to a deficiency in service and unfair trade practices. It awarded the complainant, Nirmala, a compensation of Rs 10,000 and asked Tata Motors to comply with the order within 45 days from April 4, granting her the withdrawal of Rs 20,640 from the commission, which was deposited by the company.

Shah deepfake probe: Political leaders skip police summons

NEW DELHI: Not even a single member of any political party on Thursday appeared before Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit of the Delhi Police special cell in connection with the sharing of Union Home Minister Amit Shahs fake video, officials said. We have asked some of the leaders from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and one person from the Northeast. But no one turned-up for questioning on Thursday, a senior police officer said. The Delhi Police is likely to serve a second notice to the members of the Telangana Congress in connection with the uploading and sharing of the fake video of Shah. The four members of the Telangana Congress, who were supposed to appear before the office of the IFSO, did not come on Wednesday. We will again ask them to appear before the IO (investigating officer), as they did not come on Wednesday, an officer said. The summonses were issued to Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and four Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) members, Shiva Kumar Ambala, Asma Tasleem, Satish Manne and Naveen Pettem, under sections 91 and 160 of the CrPC. According to the police sources, if a person is served notice under section 160/91 of the CrPC, the person can either make a physical appearance before the IO or send a legal representative. According to police, about 22 people from various parties in Jharkhand, UP, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have been served notices in connection with the case On Wednesday, Reddys lawyer appeared before Delhi Police and asserted that his client had nothing to do with creating or posting the doctored video. Noida man held for sharing Yogi deepfake A man was arrested on Thursday by the Special Task Force of UP Police for allegedly posting an AI-generated deepfake video of CM Yogi Adityanath, officials said. The purported video was used to spread misleading information and anti-national narrative, the police said.

Yadadri visitors pray for deliverance

NALGONDA : The authorities at the Yadadri Devasthanam, which receives substantial donations from devotees every day, are facing allegations from pilgrims of failing to arrange adequate number of buses. Devotees say that due to fewer buses, those available are usually overcrowded, posing a risk to their lives while travelling on the ghat road. They allege that temple authorities have made cost cutting a priority instead of arranging additional buses for convenience and safety of devotees. They also allege that some staff at the bus stand are coercing devotees to overcrowd the buses with excuses like, there wont be another bus for half an hour. If you wait, youll miss darshan time and the queue will grow. Following the renovation of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, the number of devotees visiting it has increased to 40,000 to 50,000 per day, and this number climbs to 60,000 to 70,000 on weekends. A parking fee of Rs 500 is charged for each vehicle going to the hill, prompting many devotees from various areas to opt for free bus services. Overloaded buses According to sources, TSRTC operates 10 to 15 minibuses for this purpose, with an additional five to 10 buses on weekends. The temple authorities pay Rs 18,000 for each free bus arranged for the devotees convenience, provided the bus completes a journey of 250 km. The authorities have appointed two officials at the Yadagirigutta depot to record the number of kilometres the bus has travelled. However, due to an influx of devotees, buses are not running to the hilltop. In minibuses with a capacity of 30 seats, an additional 15 to 25 devotees travel standing. According to norms, ghat road buses should not exceed their passenger capacity. However, there are allegations that the temple authorities avoid arranging more buses to the hillock to avoid paying more to the RTC. Sources stated that the temples daily income ranges from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 40 lakh and over Rs 50 lakh during weekends and other holidays. S Niranjan, a devotee from Hanamkonda, alleged that despite the high number of visitors, fewer buses are in service. He said: I waited with my family, including two children, for half an hour to go to the hill, but only one minibus arrived. Due to the rush, the bus filled up in two minutes, leaving some passengers standing. Moreover, those with small children and elderly family members are unable to board the bus. M Srinivas, a devotee from Secunderabad, told TNIE: I visit Yadadri every two months with my family. And every time we come we have to travel standing in the bus as there are not enough buses to take the devotees to the hillock. I face a similar situation even while returning after darshan. Despite receiving substantial donations from devotees, the Yadadri temple authorities are reluctant to allocate funds for devotees comfort. During the reopening of the temple on March 21, 2022, the then chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao announced free bus services to the hilltop. Danger lurks Sources said that when the authorities sought the state government to cover the cost of these buses, they were denied. Consequently, the temple authorities were instructed to manage the expense by themselves. Since then, devotees have been alleging that the temple authorities have reduced the number of buses to cut costs. Devotees recalled that on September 11, 2018, around 61 people were killed when an RTC bus carrying more devotees than its capacity fell into a valley on Kondagattu Ghat Road in Jagtial district. Concerns persist on Yadadri Ghat Road as well, where RTC mini-buses, with a capacity of 30, are often packed with over 50 passengers. It is alleged that even after experts warning of danger if overloaded buses overturning, both uphill and downhill, no additional buses are put into service. Many urge the state government to act swiftly, increase the number of buses, adhere to seating capacities and prioritise devotees safety. Speaking to TNIE, Yadadri temple DEO Bhaskara Sharma said: Buses are operating to and from the hill based on the number of devotees. I admit that minibuses are usually overcrowded, but it should be noted that devotees are disregarding the available buses, despite announcements from staff at the bus stands urging them not to stand during the journey. Yadagirigutta TSRTC depot manager B Srinivas asserted that they are sending buses to the hilltop as per the request of Yadadri temple officials.

13-year-old Secunderabad girl defies 45 fractures, fate to script dream TT tale

Vijaya Deepika Gangapatnam defies odds with Brittle Bone Disease to excel in para table tennis, winning medals. Home-schooled in Secunderabad, using wheelchairs due to frequent fractures, inspired by brother Vijaytej, introduced to TT after delivery fractures.

Telanganas torrid Thursday: Temperature touches 46.6C

HYDERABAD : Telangana continued to experience torrid temperatures on Thursday, with the mercury exceeding the 46C mark in 11 districts. As per the TSDPS, Nalgonda recorded 46.6C, the highest in the state. It was closely followed by Bhadradri Kothagudem, Mulugu and Suryapet districts at 46.5C. Jagtial, Khammam and Peddapalli districts recorded 46.4C on Thursday, followed by Mahabubabad district at 46.3C. In Hyderabad, Quthbullapur recorded the highest temperature of 43.4C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Hyderabad has predicted prolonged heatwave conditions at isolated pockets in various districts of the state, with an orange alert being issued till May 5. Prolonged heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at isolated pockets in Jagtial, Rajanna-Sircilla, Karimnagar, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem and Khammam districts. However, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are very likely to bring respite at isolated places over Telangana from May 6. The city is anticipated to experience partly cloudy skies with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 42C and 29C respectively for the next 48 hours. Surface winds are likely to be North-westerlies with wind speeds around 4 and 8 kmph, the IMD forecast.

I-T raids on Sangareddy MLAs aide

SANGAREDDY : Income Tax officials conducted searches on Wednesday night on the residences and chit fund enterprises of S Vijayender Reddy, the former chairman of the market committee, who has close ties with Sangareddy MLA Chinta Prabhakar. The searches commenced late on Wednesday and extended into the early hours of Thursday. During these operations, Rs 80 lakh in cash and 3 kg gold jewellery were seized from Vijayender Reddys residence. Additionally, I-T officials discovered Rs 8 lakh in chit fund holdings. The proprietors of the chit fund clarified to the authorities that these funds belonged to their customers. However, despite the explanation, the authorities seized the money.

2 years on, Padma Shri awardee Mogulaiah toils as daily wager

Padma Shri awardee 'Kinnera Mogulaiah' struggles as a laborer in Turkayamjal after exhausting a 1 crore grant on family needs. Despite meeting officials like CM Revanth Reddy, unresolved aid issues persist, leaving him in dire straits.

Depleting water at Kondapochamma reservoir marks raise nostalgia levels

SIDDIPET : The rapidly plummeting water level of the Kondapochamma reservoir in Gajwel constituency is leaving oustees of the project nostalgic. The oustees are being reminded of the past by the sight of monuments and graves in their villages that were submerged to make way for the reservoir. The Kondapochamma project is of 8 tmcft capacity, and the submerged villages are now once again visible with the water level receding. It may be noted that four villages Bailampur, Mamidala, Thanedarpally and Thanedarpally thanda were submerged in the project after the government diverted water into the project in 2020. Singham Raju, once a resident of Thanedarpally village said that traces of three villages, except Bailampur, are now visible. He said that when they look at the village, they remember their past, their family members, relatives and close friends. He said that when the villagers left, some started living in the resettlement colony while others moved to Gajwel town or Hyderabad. He said that when they were in the village, they used to greet each other affectionately, but now many of them are living in different areas and their lifelong ties have been broken. Along with Thanedarpally, the landmarks of Mamidala village are also visible. Officials of the Irrigation department said that the project, which has a capacity of 8 tmcft, currently has only 4.5 tmcft. If the water level dips further, all the four submerged villages will be visible. Officials expect the villages submerged for the Mallanna Sagar project to be visible in a few more days as the water level there is dipping too. Officials said that drinking water is being supplied to many areas every day from the project.

Doctored video of Amit Shah: 5 Congress SM in-charges held by Hyderabad cops

HYDERABAD : Hyderabad police detained five Congress members on Thursday in connection with the circulation of a doctored video by the Congress on their X handle featuring Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Two complaints have been filed against the Telangana Congress in Hyderabad and Delhi alleging that the team had reportedly morphed and circulated a video of Shahs statement on reservations. After several tweets and retweets, the video was later deleted from the Congress X handle. In their complaint in Hyderabad, the BJP stated that Amit Shah said: If Bharatiya Janata Party forms the government, then we will cancel the unconstitutionally given Muslim reservations. In Telangana, SC/ST and OBC rights will be given but Muslim reservation will be cancelled. However, the BJP alleged that TPCC chief Revanth Reddy, in his X account, had doctored the video to instead convey, If Bharatiya Janata Party forms the government, then SC/ST and OBC reservations will be cancelled. Following the complaints, a team of Delhi police earlier visited Gandhi Bhavan and issued notices to Revanth and five other Congress leaders asking them to join the investigation on May 1 at New Delhi. However, due to the CMs involvement in the election campaign, his legal team represented him and requested a four-week extension. The Delhi police also reportedly arrived in Hyderabad on Thursday for further investigation into the case. However, the five accused were already detained at the Central Crime Station here, sources said. Interestingly, though two FIRs were filed against the Congress on the same issue, the sections invoked by the Hyderabad police are different from that of the Delhi police. While the Delhi police registered a case under IPC Sections 153, 153-A, 465, 469 and 171G read with Section 66-C of the Information Technology Act, the Hyderabad Cyber Crime police booked the accused under IPC Sections 469 and 505(1) C. Notably, 153-A is a cognisable and non-bailable offence. The Delhi Police is likely to serve a second notice to the members of the Telangana Congress. The members of the Telangana Congress, who were supposed to appear before the office of the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO), have not done so till now. We will again ask them to appear before the IO (investigating officer), as they did not come on Wednesday, an officer privy to the investigation was quoted as saying by agencies. Earlier, advocate Soumya Guptha, representing Revanth Reddy before the officials of IFSO in New Delhi, said the video was not posted from the personal account of the TPCC chief. She clarified that the CM was not the owner of the Telangana Congress X handle.

Telangana HC bench upholds lifer for Suris killer

HYDERABAD : A bench of the Telangana High Court on Thursday upheld the life sentence awarded to Malisetty Bhanu Kiran, also known as Bhanu, for the murder of Gangula Suryanarayana Reddy alias Maddilacheruvu Suri. Suri was a key figure in the 2005 assassination of TDP MLA Paritala Ravi. Earlier in 2018, an additional sessions judge had sentenced Bhanu Kiran to life imprisonment. Bhanu had shot dead Suri at Yousufguda in Hyderabad when they were travelling together in a car in January 2011. Challenging the local courts verdict, Bhanu Kiran had appealed in the high court. The decision came after a thorough consideration of the criminal appeal filed by Bhanu Kiran challenging the trial courts verdict. Despite Bhanus contention of insufficient direct evidence and alleged contradictions in witness statements, a bench comprising Justice K Lakshman and Justice P Sree Sudha affirmed the conviction. Public Prosecutor Palle Nageswara Rao argued that Bhanu meticulously planned and executed the murder. According to Rao, Bhanu was travelling with Suri on the day of the incident, positioned strategically behind him in the car. Bhanu fired fatal shots at Suri from behind, causing injuries consistent with his position in the vehicle. Refuting the defences claim of unidentified gunmen attacking Suri, Nageswara Rao pointed to medical evidence indicating bullet wounds on the right side of Suris neck and scalp, inconsistent with shots fired from outside the car. Bhanu also attempted to evade justice by fleeing to MP, assuming a new identity as Mukesh Kunjam. The prosecution highlighted Bhanus manipulation of Suris associates to carry out the murder, implicating him in a premeditated scheme. Assistant Public Prosecutor Shalini Saxena and advocate Sahala Kamalla supported the prosecutions argument before the bench. The bench endorsed the trial courts meticulous examination of evidence and declined to intervene in its 2018 verdict.

Revanth Reddy to voters: Don't let BJP govt 'abolish' quotas

A Revanth Reddy accuses NDA govt of skipping 2021 census to end reservations. Urges support for Congress candidate Atram Suguna in Asifabad. Warns about the need for more than 50% reservation for SCs, STs, OBCs.

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

Konda Vishweshwar Reddy moves HC for shield against namesake poll rival

Hyderabad's Konda Vishweshwar Reddy petitions Telangana high court to prevent voter confusion in Chevella Lok Sabha election. Requests Election Commission to eliminate the presence of a namesake from Forward Bloc among 42 rivals.

Man hides Rs 20 lakh cash, 275 grams of gold in special vest, arrested in Telangana

Man hides Rs lakh cash grams of gold in special vest arrested in Telangana

Symbol trouble comes back to haunt BRS again

Five lactation mgmt centres opened for new mothers in city slums

Poll season causes migrant exodus, blow to realty sector

Bharat Biotech stresses on Covaxins safety record

Govt releases 43 crore to revive NSF

Higher mix of pollutants sent temps soaring in city: Study

BJP mulled fielding Leftist Dalit faces in reserved seats

Gang involved in attack on CRPF cop nabbed

History-sheeter trespasses into Hyd mayors home

Danams next jump may be into BJP: KTR

Court upholds Bhanu Kirans life term in Suri murder case

Youth held with illegal firearm

No coercion on Vasavi Infra: HC

IGBC green property show returns to Hyd

Tganas political game hinges on reserved stakes

HC confirms life imprisonment to Suris killer Bhanu Kiran

Harish & Revanth too victims of phone tapping, says Bandi

2 years on, Padma awardee toils as a daily wager in Hyderabad

Honoured two years ago with Padma Shri for reinventing the rare musical instrument Kinnera, Darshanam Mogulaiah was recently spotted toiling as a daily wager at a construction site near Hyderabad. Life struck another jarring note when a post-award grant of Rs 1 crore in cash from the Telangana govt was spent on family exigencies, leaving the 73-year-old artiste popular as Kinnera Mogulaiah struggling for two square meals.

No Competition for Congress in Mahabubabad, Says Balram Naik

Warangal : Since 1957, voters of the Mahbubabad Lok Sabha constituency have always elected the candidate from the ruling party in the state. With such a past record, the constituency will see a triangular fight between Porika Balram Naik of the Congress, Prof. Azmeera Seetharam Naik of the BJP, and Maloth Kavitha of the BRS. In an interview with Congress candidate Balram Naik, Deccan Chronicle tried to find out more about his plans to develop the constituency if he elected as Mahbubabad MP. Excerpts: Q. Why should people vote for you? All the development that took place in the Mahbubabad constituency was executed by me, when I was MP. Roads were laid in Yellandu, Kothagudem and Mahbubabad regions. I brought in model schools, Eklavya schools and Kendriya Vidyalayas. Without the Congress and Sonia Gandhi, statehood would not have become possible. At the time of bifurcation, the Congress government issued orders for the establishment of tribal university and Bayyaram steel factory to provide employment to tribal youth. People are fully aware of this and will vote for the Congress in the Lok Sabha elections. Q. How are you going to attract youth ? It was Rajiv Gandhi who brought the software industry to India, which allowed lakhs of youth to reach greater heights. At Kakatiya University, I observed that many students belonging to the SC, ST and BC communities were facing a lot of hardships without hostel facilities. Some even slept on the roads. I spoke with the Vice Chancellor and got hostels built for them along with an engineering college. The BJP and the BRS have cheated the youth by making false promises of providing employment opportunities nd sanctioning of unemployment dole. So the youth are looking at the Congress. Q The BRS says it respect to the tribal people by converting thandas into villages and constructing the Seva Lal building. By converting thandas into villages, it created panchayats (disputes) among the people of tribal and Adivasi communities who were living in peace and harmony. Many of them had sold their properties, unaware of the BRS politics. What is the use of converting thandas into villages, when the BRS government did not sanction funds for their development? Q. How will you handle podu land and water shortage issues? The Congress government will reglarise Podu and assigned land. The BRS government took up Mission Bhagiratha only to loot public money. Because of the poor quality works, pipelines are leaking at several places. The Congress government will take steps to supply water to people for irrigation and drinking. Q. How will you address the conditions of schools and hospitals? Poor Adivasi and tribal people are facing a lot of hardships as they have to go to private colleges and hospitals. I will upgrade the schools, colleges and hospitals and establish a delivery ward in every hospital. Q How will Prime Minister Narendra Modis charisma impact the elections? It does not work in the agency areas and in the regions like Mahbubabad. The BJP has done nothing for Telangana or Mahbubabad. During the Congress regime, the Wazedu bridge was constructed along with the National Highway. The BJP government did not establish a steel factory, it did not sanction the Kazipet railway coach factory and took 10 years of time to start the tribal university. Q Which is your competitor to the Congress in Mahbubabad? There is no competition for the Congress. It is going to win easily in Mahbubabad. It is left to the people to decide how much majority they wish to give to the Congress.

Jittery over his namesake, BJP nominee moves HC for shield

EC raises objection over TDs plea for reserving Glass Tumbler to Jana Sena

The Election Commission has allotted Glass Tumbler as the symbol for the Jana Sena in 32 Assembly segments from where it intends to contest the upcoming polls in Telangana. (Twitter) The Election Commission has allotted Glass Tumbler as the symbol for the Jana Sena in 32 Assembly segments from where it intends to contest the upcoming polls in Telangana. (Twitter) Vijayawada : The Election Commission has told the Andhra Pradesh High Court that since the election process has started already, any plea to reserve the Jana Sena symbol Glass Tumbler to the regional party is not maintainable. A single judge bench of Justice B. Krishna Mohan held hearing here on Thursday on a petition filed by the Telugu Desam urging the court to direct the EC to do this in all Lok Sabha and Assembly segments in the state. The court was informed by EC that the election process had begun and it would not be possible for any change at the present juncture. Any issue of an order by the court on the issue would be tantamount to disputing the election process. Senior advocate representing Telugu Desam, Dammalapati Srinivas, urged the court to give some time to consult the petitioner. He said party symbol would play a key role in the elections as the illiterate voters would recognise the party they intend to support based on its symbol. ECIs counsel Avinash Desai argued that there was no provision in the law to recognise the alliance of political parties and reiterated that the election process had already begun. After hearing both the parties, the court adjourned the next hearing on the matter to May 6.

Cyber crimes police quiz five from TPCC social media team

Support for Congress Swells Day After Day: Danam Nagender

Hyderabad: Danam Nagender, Congress candidate for the Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat, said that people's support for the party in the constituency was swelling the day and expressed confidence that the Congress would regain the seat after a gap of 10 years. Nagender pointed out that the Congress last won Secunderabad seat in 2004 and 2009, when the Congress-led UPA government came to power at the Centre. This 'sentiment' will be repeated this time and Congress will wrest the Secunderabad seat and return to power at the Centre, Nagender said. He undertook an election campaign in Filmnagar in Jubilee Hills division of Khairatabad Assembly segment on Thursday. Local leaders Mamidi Narsing Rao, Katuri Ramesh besides women leaders participated in campaigning. They interacted with people and explained about the successful implementation of five out of the Six Guarantees promised by the Congress during the Assembly polls within 100 days of coming to power. They also explained about Congress national manifesto of 'Paanch Nyay, Pachees Guarantee' which promised welfare schemes to all sections if voted to power at the Centre. Nagender said the Congress party's Six Guarantees in Telangana state and 'Pachees Guarantee' at the national level would empower all sections and urged voters to to elect him with a big majority on May 13.

Portable NIRS devices to revolutionise crop testing: ICRISAT

Hyderabad: Researchers at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) are introducing a transformative technology for crop testing, combining AI-driven models and pocket-size near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices. These portable sensors allow for quick evaluation of nutrition levels in the indigenous food grains right at the farmers gate or in research fields. Dr Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

GHMC collects 827 crore in property tax

No Political Affiliation in Amit Shah's Alleged Fake Video Case as No Witnesses Appear

No Political Affiliation in Amit Shah's Alleged Fake Video Case as No Witnesses Appear Not even a single member of any political party on Thursday appeared before Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit of the special cell of the Delhi Police in connection with the sharing of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's fake video, the officials said. ''We have asked some of the leaders from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and one person from the Northeast. But no one turned-up for questioning on Thursday,'' a senior police officer said. The Delhi Police is likely to serve a second notice to the members of the Telangana Congress in connection with the uploading and sharing of the fake video of Shah. The four members of the Telangana Congress, who were supposed to appear before the office of the (IFSO), did not come on Wednesday. ''We will again ask them to appear before the IO (investigating officer), as they did not come on Wednesday,'' an officer, privy to the investigation said. The summonses were issued to Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and four Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) members -- Shiva Kumar Ambala, Asma Tasleem, Satish Manne and Naveen Pettem -- under sections 91 and 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). According to the police sources, if a person is served notice under section 160/91 of the CrPC, the person can either make a physical appearance before the IO or send a legal representative. On Wednesday, Reddy's lawyer appeared before the IO and asserted that the Congress leader had nothing to do with creating or posting the doctored video of Shah's speech. According to police, about 22 people from various political parties in the states of Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have been served notices in connection with the case and they have been asked to appear before the police on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The special cell of the Delhi Police had on Sunday registered an FIR after the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which is under the ministry of home affairs (MHA), filed a complaint about the doctored video of Shah where his statements indicating a commitment to abolish quota for Muslims on religious ground in Telangana were changed to make it seem that he was advocating scrapping of all reservations.

Any error before 72 hours of polling unpardonable: ECI to Telangana officials

Hyderabad: Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Nitesh Vyas has asked the state government officials to be alert and vigilant, and to take extra care during the last 72 hours before the polling for the general elections, cautioning them that any error will be unpardonable. On Thursday, Vyas interacted with the observers, district collectors, superintendents of police, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

BJP Intensifies Campaign Efforts in Telangana Ahead of May 13 Polls

HYDERABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, home minister Amit Shah and party president J.P. Nadda will hold several meetings in the state ahead of the May 13 polls, TS BJP general secretary G. Premender Reddy said on Thursday. Modi will also hold a public meeting in Hyderabad on May 10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: May 8: 9 am, Vemulawada in Karimnagar LS constituency, in support of Bandi Sanjay; 10.30 am at Madikonda in support of Warangal candidate Aroori Ramesh. May 10: 2 pm, Narayanpet, for Mahbubnagar candidate D.K. Aruna, at 2 pm; 4 pm, public meeting at Lal Bahadur Stadium in Hyderabad in support of G. Kishan Reddy (Secunderabad), Etala Rajendar (Malkajgiri) and K. Madhavi Latha (Hyderabad). Home minister Amit Shah: May 5: 11.30 am, Sirpur-Kagaznagar, for Adilabad candidate Gudem Nagesh; 1.30 am at Nizamabad for Dharmapuri Arvind; 4 pm public meeting in Malkajgiri for Etala Rajendar. BJP chief J.P. Nadda: May 6: 11 am, public meeting at Peddapalli for Gomasa Srinivas; 1 pm, public meeting at Bhuvanagiri in support of Dr Boora Narsaiah Goud; 3.30 pm, public meeting at Nalgonda for Shanampuri Saidi Reddy.

Telangana Cops Arrest 5 Congress Workers In Doctored Amit Shah Video Case

Five Congress workers were arrested by the Telangana Police in connection with Union Home Minister Amit Shah's fake video case.

Soaring temperatures scorch Eastern and Southern India: Nandyal records sweltering 46.2 degrees Celsius

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.

Telangana Police arrests five Congress workers in Amit Shah fake video case

The News Mill

Telangana: TPJAC to hold statewide campaign against Modi, BJP

Hyderabad: Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS) chief Prof M Kodandaram said that a statewide campaign has been launched cutting-across political party affiliations to expose the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led governments failures and anti-people policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The campaign, by the Telangana Peoples Joint Action Committee (TPJAC) will continue till May 11, a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Telangana Inter Board Extends Deadline for Supplementary Exam Fee Payment

Hyderabad: The TS Board of Intermediate Education has extended to May 4, the deadline for the payment of examination fee for the May-June Intermediate Public Advanced Supplementary Examinations. This follows requests from students, parents and colleges. Junior colleges have been permitted to use internet banking and payment gateway available on the TSBIE's official website.

Amit Shah video: Cybercrime cops question TPCC social media staff

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad cybercrime police, who on April 27 registered cases against TPCC social media staff in connection with Union minister Amit Shah's morphed video, questioned five staff members, including two women, here on Thursday. The police did not confirm their arrest. When the Delhi police were trying to serve the second notices, the Hyderabad cybercrime police allegedly detained the five persons Manne Satish Kumar, Naveen, Siva Shanker, Geeta and Asma Tasleema and questioned them in connection with the case. On April 27, the police received a complaint from G. Premender Reddy, BJP state general secretary, against the TPCC president for fabricating and morphing the speech of Shah. While Shah stated if the Bharatiya Janata Party forms government then our government will cancel the unconstitutionally given reservations to Muslims. In Telangana SC/ST and OBC rights will be given but Muslim reservation will be cancelled. The video was morphed to modify the statement as if the BJP party forms government, then the SC/ST and OBC reservations will be cancelled. The morphing/fabricating is an offence under the IT Act (sic), said Premender Reddy in his complaint. The cybercrime police blamed the TPCC social media wing but no specific name was mentioned as accused. A few days back, the Delhi Police Special Cell registered cases and served notices to four members of TPCC social media asking them to appear before them on May 1. TPCC president and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddys advocate Soumya Gupta submitted a letter seeking one month time while M. Ramachandra Reddy, advocate, on behalf of four social media members, sought 15 days. It was also reported that the Delhi police are all set to serve second notices to TPCC social media wing members asking them to appear before the police based on the intensity of the case.

Will liberate Siddipet from Shaneeshwara Rao after August 15, declares Revanth

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has announced from Siddipet that Congress candidate Neelam Madhu will win the Medak Lok sabha seat by over 1 lakh votes. He also declared that after waiving off crop loans of farmers by August 15, he will hold a public meeting with 1 lakh farmers near the Old Bus Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

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).

CM for Cabinet post to leader from Mudiraj community

No Shortage of Beer, Sales Have Increased This Year: Telangana Excise Dept

The Prohibition and Excise Department has said that liquor must be sold at the maximum retail price (MRP) printed on each bottle and that action will be taken against wine shops flouting the norm. The Prohibition and Excise Department has said that liquor must be sold at the maximum retail price (MRP) printed on each bottle and that action will be taken against wine shops flouting the norm. Hyderabad: The state excise department has clarified that there has been an increase in beer sales, which stand at around 50 lakh cases. The sales of beer as of April last year was 44 lakh cases, which translates to a 13 to 14 per cent increase in sales. The average sale between February and June, the products peak season, was 48 lakh cases per month last year. Officials say that they have approximately six lakh cases of beer at the TSBCL (Telangana State Beverages Corporation Limited) and breweries that are ready to be lifted. An official source said, The state breweries, on average, produce two lakh cases per day. The propaganda of shortage has actually fuelled demand. There is no shortage of liquor, whatsoever. In fact, we have noticed additional lifting of stock, which is over and above the normal. Enforcement staff has been deployed to check the volume of business. We are also keeping a close tab on retailers and depots to see if there has been any abnormal sale. The buzz about shortage is being spread by retailers and beer producers, they added.

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.

Telangana CM Revanth shared forged OU notice on hostels: KTR

Hyderabad: Accusing Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of sharing a forged notice of the Osmania University (OU) administration on his X handle, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) demanded stringent legal action against Revanth. Addressing media in Hyderabad on Thursday, KTR dubbed the arrest of Krishank, BRSs social media convener Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

I will win with Highest Majority in TG: Raghuveer

Nalgonda: Congress Nalgonda candidate Kunduru Raghuveer Reddy was confident of his victory in the May 13 Lok Sabha elections with the highest majority in the state, on the back of support of ministers from the district and the work and influence of his father Jana Reddy. Excerpts from an interview with Raghuveer Reddy. Life before politics After my education, I started a business at the age of 19 years and became a successful entrepreneur. I started helping my father in politics from the 1999 elections and learnt a lot from him. I quit the business and became a Congress politician from 2004. His selection, 20 years after entering politics. I requested the Congress high command for the party ticket in the 2014 Assembly polls. The party high command did not consider my request due to the one family-one ticket principle. Then, I became more active in the politics of Nagarjunasagar Assembly constituency. Now, the party has provided me an opportunity to contest the Lok Sabha elections. On what he will bring to Nalgonda. Completion of the Udaya Samudram lift irrigation scheme (Brahmanavellemla), SLBC tunnel and Dindi lift irrigation scheme would permanently solve irrigation problems and change the lives of farmers. Luckily, irrigation minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy is from the Nalgonda Lok Sabha constituency. I will assist in the efforts of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to complete these projects and to secure the required clearances. What can the youth expect. I will spend the maximum amount of my MPLADS funds to developing sports facilities. Sports can inculcate a sportive spirit in the youth and help them be physically fit. It will also keep them away from bad habits. As the Congress is in power in the state, I will bring in the funds for development works from the state government. On the battle on May 13 The BRS has lost ground in the erstwhile Nalgonda district. It has won only one Assembly segment out of the 12 last year. In the Assembly elections, the Congress got 2.97 lakh votes more than BRS in the Assembly segments under the Nalgonda Lok Sabha constituency. I will not mention the figure, but I will win from the Nalgonda Lok Sabha constituency with the highest majority of votes in Telangana state.

ECI biased towards Modi, Shah and Revanth: KTR

Konda name confusion in Chevella ballot papers: HC refuses to pass orders

Hyderabad : A division bench of the Telangana High Court, comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Anil Kumar Jukanti, refused to pass any orders in the petition filed by BJP Chevella Lok Sabha candidate Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, seeking changes in the serial numbers on the ballot paper. He said an independent candidate, whose name was the same as his Konda Vishweshwar Reddy from Padmanagar of Karmanghat is listed just after his name in the ballot paper. This could confuse the voters, he contended. The BJP candidate sought a direction to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to maintain a distance of ten numbers in the ballot paper between him and his namesake so that voters are not confused. The petitioner sought a direction to the ECI not to finalise the serial numbers till his plea was redressed. Chief Justice Aradhe observed that it was the ECIs discretion to take a call on the plea of the petitioner. He observed, it is for them (ECI) to accept your representation or reject it there is no adjudication of the writ petition. Avinash Desai, standing counsel for ECI, said that the poll panel could not take a call on the representation of the petitioner as the model code of conduct was in vogue.