Mentally unstable man clubs 2 to death, lynched

LUCKNOW: A mentally unstable man (29) allegedly clubbed two men in their 50s to death after which he was lynched in Noorpur village in Aligarh district on Wednesday. As per the district police sources, adequate police force was deployed in the area to ensure peace in the village. According to Aligarh Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanjeev Suman, a mentally unstable man, Afzal, a Dalit Muslim, was a resident of Mehndipur village in Gautam Budh Nagar district. He hit Lalaram Kumhar with a stick on his head and repeated blows till the victim fell unconscious. Afzal then removed his own clothes, put them on Kumhar, and set the clothes on fire which charred the body. Then he attacked Iqbal with a stick. Both Lalaram and Afzal were declared brought dead at the hospital, said the SPP. The villagers said that Afzal also attacked women who screamed after they saw him putting Lalaram on fire. Afzal had been in an asylum for three years and was undergoing treatment for his mental condition at a hospital in New Delhi. He had an appointment with the doctor on Wednesday but he fled his home on Tuesday and killed two persons before being killed by the mob. The police sources claimed that Afzal was under the influence of dry intoxication at the time of the incident. Legal action will be taken once our probe is completed. We have deployed a police force in the village to maintain peace, said the SSP. Asylum for three years Afzal was in an asylum for 3 years and was undergoing treatment for his mental condition at a hospital in New Delhi. He had an appointment with the doctor on Wednesday.

Mentally unstable man lynched after killing two in Aligarh

LUCKNOW: In a bizarre incident, a 29-year-old mentally unstable man allegedly clubbed two men in their 50s to death after which he was lynched by a violent crowd in Noorpur village in Aligarh district on Wednesday. As per the district police sources, adequate police force was deployed in the area to ensure peace in the village after three deaths. According to Aligarh Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanjeev Suman, a mentally unstable man, Afzal, a Dalit Muslim, who was a resident of nearby Mehndipur village in Gautam Budh Nagar district, hit Lalaram Kumhar with a stick on his head and then delivered repeated blows till the victim fell unconscious. Afzal then removed his own clothes, put them on the unconscious Kumhar, and set the clothes on fire which charred the body to a large extent. After Lalaram, Afzal shifted his focus to Jafar Iqbal who was working in the adjacent agriculture field. He attacked Iqbal with the stick. Both Lalaram and Afzal were declared brought dead at the hospital, said the SPP. Witnesses informed the police that Afzal also assaulted a group of women who screamed upon witnessing him setting Lalaram on fire. Subsequently, in a state of undress, Afzal chased after the women. Later, some villagers chased Afzal and lynched him before informing the local Tappal police station in the Aligarh district. As per police sources, Afzal had been in an asylum for three years and was undergoing treatment for his mental condition at a hospital in New Delhi and had an appointment scheduled with his doctor on Wednesday. However he fled his home on Tuesday night committing the two murders before being killed by the mob the following morning. Authorities reported that Afzal was under the influence of dry intoxication when he carried out the attacks on the victims and the women. The district police authorities, meanwhile, initiated an inquiry into the incident. Legal action will be taken once our probe is completed. We have deployed a police force in the village to maintain peace, said the SSP.

Kerala: Over 700 Cusat students get campus placements

KOCHI: The placement season at Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) began on a high note, with top companies recruiting students from the campus. Around 700 final-year students from various courses secured jobs in high-profile companies this year. The highest pay of this placement season stands at Rs 25 lakh per annum, while the average pay package is Rs 7.32 lakh. Approximately 75 companies visited CUSAT for placement, of which four companies are offering more than Rs 15 lakh per annum. The highest number of placements has been secured by the students of Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Law, MTech, MBA and MSc programmes. The major companies that took in students include CISCO, TCS, Accenture, Air India, TATA PROJECTS, IBM, MRF, Ernst & Young, UST, TATA ELXSI, Sobha Construction, L&T Construction, TATA Consulting Engineers, Hyundai, Visteon, Alstom, Zifo, SAP, Reliance Industries, TATA POWER, IOCL, Gail, Numaligarh Refinery, Worley, Cairn Oil, Shapoorji & Pallonji, Federal Bank, Gulf Asia, Vedanta, Nayara Energy. We had more placements for Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Law, MTech, MBA and MSc Programmes, said Girish Kumaran Thampi, Chief Placement Officer, Cusat. CAT 2024 exams to secure admission to various UG and PG programmes of Cusat for the academic year 2024-25 are scheduled for May 10, 11 and 12. The deadline for online registration for CAT- 2024 was March 20.

Aligarh man arrested after over a decade for murder of truck driver

NEW DELHI: The Special Cell of the Delhi Police has arrested a 37-year-old man from Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh as he was evading arrest since 2012 in a murder case, an officer said on Tuesday. The accused, identified as Mukesh Kumar, a resident of Bulandshahr district, had been declared a Proclaimed Offender by a court on July 30, 2012. The police officer said that they had received a tip-off about the presence of Mukesh aka Babloo hiding in Aligarh area. On April 27, it was further learned that Mukesh was working at some Dhaba with pseudo name Babloo in Kuldeep Vihar area of Aligarh. Subsequently, the police conducted a raid and the accused was nabbed under section 41.1(C) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPc) after following due procedure of law. On interrogation, it was revealed that he (Mukesh), along with his associates Vedprakash and one juvenile, had committed the murder of one Netrapal in the Timarpur police station area in January 2012 by strangulation with a rope in order to rob the truck and settle old enmity, the officer said, adding that Netrapal was working as a truck driver. Currently, Vedprakash, co-accused in the case, is facing trial before the court. Mukesh is the real uncle of Vedprakash. Soon after the murder, accused Mukesh, Vedprakash and the juvenile had absconded but later on Vedprakash and the minor were apprehended, the official added.

Mumbai girl, 15, who lost right arm after an electric shock, scores 92% in ICSE

Almost two years ago, Mumbai girl Anamta Ahmed - then 13 years old - suffered a massive shock and extensive burn injuries after she touched an 11KV cable while playing with her cousins on a visit to Aligarh. Her right arm had to be amputated and the left one was left only about 20% functional. She was bedridden for over 50 days and underwent extreme trauma. Eventually, she recovered and picked up the pieces of her life.

The new dawn needs to redeem deemed

During a casual conversation with a foreign university partner in North America, the Dean of its engineering school quizzed: When will deemed universities become universities? I was uncomfortably explaining the policy trajectory of deemed universities which is still undergoing a bumpy ride ever since its conceptual inception. After my explanation, he felt he was better off not asking the question. Here is why. The First Education Commission report of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1948-49) recommended that the government should evolve a method of creating university charters similar to many countries, where universities are set up not through acts of legislature but through charters granted by the head of the state. This course may also be adopted in our country, at any rate, with regard to the new universities, which are established by the conversion of existing institutions. Thus was born the concept of deemed university under section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. The deemed university avatar had reincarnations midwifed by various policies all of them failing to put to rest the deeming fiction which should have been phased out by now as envisaged by the Radhakrishnan Commission report. The Sankalp Patra of PM Modi which is a political gnanis social GYAN (Garib, Yuva, Annadata and Nari) is a good start for early relief to the deemed universities conundrum which has enough legal ammunition to trigger the policy solution. A Constitution bench of the Supreme Court in Azeez Basha vs Union of India (1968) in an issue concerning Aligarh Muslim University defined the word established in so far as universities are concerned along with the need to establish university under a central/state law. A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court in Premchand Jain vs RK Chabra (1984) rightly left it to the central government to interpret or amend, if necessary Section 23 of the UGC Act that can allow deemed universities to use the word university. Armed with this SC order, the union government in its best wisdom constituted a committee and permitted deemed universities to use the word university in the year 2006. Unfortunately, a two-judge bench of the SC in Orissa Lift Irrigation Corp. Ltd. vs Sri Rabi Sankar Patro (2017), while considering a completely different issue concerning four deemed universities, ordered that all 120 deemed universities to not use the word university resulting to this present terminological confusion. The interpreter of law allows the interpreter to inquire not into the subjective intent of the author, but rather the intent the author would have had, had he or she acted reasonably. This spirit of purposive construction highlighted by Aharon Barak in Purposive Interpretation in Law, (2007) was appreciated by the Supreme Court in New India Assurance Co. Ltd. vs Nusli Neville Wadia, (2008). The principles of Casus Omissus was appreciated by SC in UCO Bank vs Rajinder Lal Capoor (2008), which as per GP Singhs Interpretation of Statutes, is an application of the general principle that a matter which should have been, but has not been provided for in a statute cannot be supplied by courts, as doing so will be legislation and not construction. Reading the above two along with the SCs 1968 interpretation of the word established along with Section 22 and 23 of the UGC Act, it is by harmonious construct that an institution which once was not empowered to award degrees is empowered to do so by the central government under a central Act (UGC Act, in the case of deemed universities), its degrees are recognised for all practical purposes and should be treated as a regular university only. It is in this operational spirit that many progressive deemed universities built an ecosystem garnering academic repute and excellence. Private deemed universities continuously dominate the NIRF university rankings every year with almost 33 per cent in the top 100 of the recent NIRF 2023, marching ahead of many central and state universities. This being the case, the comity of deemed universities eagerly awaits redistribution and inheritance of a different type. The much-needed autonomy that still seems to be the exclusive privilege of the central and state universities needs to be redistributed bountifully to all deemed universities who are capable of inheriting best practices of not only better-ranked central/state university peers, but also reputed foreign universities. The autonomy provided to private un-aided institution by the Supreme Court in TMA Pai Foundation Case still holds the ground and the new dawns Sankalp Patra hopefully shall redeem the deemed. S Vaidhyasubramaniam Vice-Chancellor, SASTRA Deemed University vaidhya@sastra.edu

AMU allays fears over 'removal' of Indo-Islamic history topics from Class 11 admission test syllabus

The Aligarh Muslim University on Saturday allayed concerns over the emoval of certain topics on Indo-Islamic history from the syllabus for admission tests to Class 11. The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), in an official note, also described as otally baseless the allegations of deliberate tampering of the syllabus with the object of diluting the character of the institution.

Hamida Banu: All About The Incredible Life of India's First Woman Wrestler

Hamida Banu, widely considered India's first professional woman wrestler, was born in the early 1900s near Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.

Google Doodle pays tribute to Hamida Banu, India's first woman wrestler

The name Hamida Banu is probably unheard of to folks like you and I but in the world of sports, she stands out as the first woman wrestler in India. On Saturday, Google paid tribute to her through a doodle illustrated by Bangalore-based artist Divya Negi. The artist depicts the wrestler in a pink, polka-dotted ensemble, holding her hands in a fighting position and surrounded by flora and fauna. Diving more into the date's significance, it was on this day in 1954 when Hamida Banu defeated famed wrestler Baba Pahalwan in just one minute and 34 seconds. Additionally, this also serves as a reminder of a female's entry into a sport that was dominated by males in the 1940s and 50s. Also known as the 'Amazon of Aligarh,' Hamida Banu was born into a family of wrestlers near Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh in the 1900s. Despite the consistent discouragement of womens participation in athletics, she fearlessly pursued her passion for wrestling. She challenged male wrestlers openly, even wagering her hand in marriage to the first to defeat her. Banus triumphs echoed across newspapers wherein her feats, physical stature and dietary habits were reported widely. Her career even extended into the international arena, where she won against a Russian woman wrestler Vera Chistilin in less than two minutes. Hamida Banu was a trailblazer of her time, and her fearlessness is remembered throughout India and across the world. Outside of her sporting accomplishments, she will always be celebrated for staying true to herself, read Google's note. Banu passed away in 1986. Reports say that faced poverty in her later years, resorting to selling milk, dairy products, and homemade cookies to support herself.

'Amazon of Aligarh': Google Doodle pays tribute to India's first woman wrestler Hamida Banu

Hamida Banu, Indias first woman wrestler, defeated Baba Pahalwan in 1 minute 34 seconds, honored by Google doodle

Google pays tribute to Hamida Banu, Indias 1st female wrestler, who won over 300 matches and ate 2 plates of biryani daily!

Dubbed the Amazon Of Aligarh, Hamida Banu holds the distinction of being recognized as Indias inaugural female professional wrestler. Hailing from a lineage of wrestlers in Uttar Pradesh, she encountered familial resistance to her wrestling aspirations. Undeterred, she journeyed from her native Mirzapur to Aligarh, where she received training under the tutelage of Salam Pahalwan.

Google Pays Tribute to Hamida Banu via Doodle; Know about the Amazon of Aligarh

Google Doodle today, 4 May 2024: Know about Hamida Banu, India's first female wrestler, here.

Google Doodle Honors Hamida Banu, Pioneer of Women's Wrestling in India

Google Doodle Honors Hamida Banu, Pioneer of Women's Wrestling in India It was on this day in 1954 when Hamida Banu defeated famed wrestler Baba Pahalwan in just one minute and 34 seconds. While Baba Pahalwan deemed it fit to retire from professional wrestling, Banu's career expanded to international arenas and her victories reported across the globe. Commemorating Banu's victory and to pay tribute to her as ''India's first woman wrestler,'' Google on Saturday put up a colourful doodle on its homepage. Born into a family of wrestlers in the early 1900s near Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Banu grew up wrestling, winning over 300 competitions throughout her career that spanned the 1940s and 1950s at a time when women's participation in athletics was strongly discouraged. Banu, however, competed with men anyway, and issued an open challenge to all male wrestlers, wagering her hand in marriage to whoever defeats her, Google wrote in a post. Banu's success in international matches gained her further acclaim. One of these matches was the one against Russian woman wrestler Vera Chistilin, who she defeated in under two minutes. Having made newspaper headlines for years, Banu came to be known as the ''Amazon of Aligarh''. The bouts she won, her diet, and her training regimen were widely covered. According to a BBC report, she weighed 108kg and was 5ft 3in tall. ''Her daily diet included 5.6 litres of milk, 2.8 litres of soup, 1.8 litres of fruit juice, a fowl, nearly 1kg of mutton and almonds, half a kilo of butter, 6 eggs, two big loaves of bread, and two plates of biryani,'' the British media outlet reported. Reuters noted that she slept for nine hours and trained for six. A ''trailblazer of her time,'' Banu not only fought fellow wrestlers but the norms of her times. ''Hamida Banu was a trailblazer of her time, and her fearlessness is remembered throughout India and across the world. Outside of her sporting accomplishments, she will always be celebrated for staying true to herself,'' Google's note read.

Amazon Of Aligarh: Google Doodle Celebrates Hamida Banu, India's First Woman Wrestler

Today, Google is celebrating India's first professional woman wrestler Hamida Banu. The doodle, illustrated by Bangalore-based artist Divya Negi, depicts Ms Banu surrounded by local flora and fauna.

Exclusion of Rinku Singh was the toughest call, he has done nothing wrong: Agarkar

Mumbai: Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar Thursday described the omission of Rinku Singh from Indias T20 World Cup squad as the toughest call, saying the in-from swashbuckler has done nothing wrong and it all came down to combinations. Rinku, Kolkata Knight Riders big-hitting finisher from Aligarh, could not find a place in the 15-member squad []

Exclusion of Rinku Singh proved toughest, he has done nothing wrong: Agarkar

Exclusion of Rinku Singh proved toughest, he has done nothing wrong: Agarkar Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar on Thursday described the omission of Rinku Singh from India's T20 World Cup squad as the ''toughest'' call, saying the in-from swashbuckler has ''done nothing wrong'' and it all came down to combinations. Rinku, Kolkata Knight Riders' big-hitting finisher from Aligarh, could not find a place in the 15-member squad as the think-tank preferred Chennai Super Kings' Shivam Dube over him. The exclusion of Rinku, who has scored 356 runs at an average of 89 and strike rate of 176.24 in T20Is for India, became a major talking point since the Indian team's announcement two days ago and has caused a massive furore on social media. ''It (not picking Rinku) is probably the toughest thing we have had to discuss. He has done nothing wrong, not even Shubman Gill for that matter. It is not his fault that he missed out. It's about combinations,'' Agarkar said during a press conference here. ''A couple of wrist spinners were included to give Rohit (Sharma) more options. There are two keepers, we needed an extra bowler. It's just unfortunate. He's in the reserves, so that tells you how close he came into being in the 15. But at the end of the day, you can only pick 15 players in the squad,'' Agarkar added. Rinku, who is not having a great IPL season as he is not getting to face enough balls, though made it to the list of reserves. Rinku had been fast-tracked into the Indian T20I team after a fantastic run in the IPL last year but this season, he has managed just 123 runs in nine matches with a strike rate of 150.00, whereas Gill, captaining Gujarat Titans this time, has aggregated 320 runs from 10 matches at a strike rate of 140.97. The left-handed Yashasvi Jaiswal has been preferred over Gill. Meanwhile Abhishek Nayar, the head of KKR Academy and assistant coach of the franchise, did not feel Rinku was out of form and whatever runs he has scored this IPL season for KKR have been crucial for the team. Nayar played a key role in shaping Rinku's career, especially when the batter was suffering from ACL (anterior cruciate ligament injury), and the former Mumbai cricketer also worked on his hitting skills. ''I would not agree (that it is about) IPL form. I think he has not played enough balls barring one-odd game wherein he has not got runs. He has got runs in every game which have been critical runs for us. The form has never been in question,'' Nayar backed his ward. ''When you look at any cricketer in world cricket or even in T20 cricket, sometimes the role you play doesn't justify what numbers you have at the end of the day. ''Just in terms of the role he plays for us and for any team, which is a finisher's role, you tend to play 8-10 balls and you look at how well he does in 8-10 balls and not how many runs he scored.'' Over the last few years, Nayar has established himself as a prominent coach in domestic and franchise cricket. ''If you go back and look at his stats and his strike rate in comparison to the balls he has played, I think you will get your answer right there. It's not a form problem at all,'' Nayar said of Rinku. Later on, after his press conference, India captain Rohit joined the Mumbai Indians squad for their pre-match training ahead of the clash against Kolkata Knight Riders. Rohit was involved in a group discussion which included Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat and even Gautam Gambhir when he spotted Rinku coming towards him. Rohit moved away from the group and spoke with Rinku for a while.

What are UP's Muslim voters up to in this Lok Sabha election?

Till about a decade ago, the voting behaviour of Muslims in Uttar Pradesh used to be a decisive factor in about two dozen Lok Sabha seats. The main political parties in those elections, such as the Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and the Congress, whether in alliance or separately, used to bank heavily on the support of Muslims. This used to be the norm from the 1970s till the general election of 2014, when the Narendra Modi wave made all such factors redundant. Riding high on it, the Bharatiya Janata Party got the majority community to vote in such numbers so as to make the Muslim vote bank irrelevant. However, ten years of BJP rule at the Centre has taken away much of the wind from beneath that wave. With two phases of polling having already been completed in the state, the significance of the electoral heft of Muslim voters has once again come into play with both the SP-Congress alliance and the BSP renewing their efforts to wrest Muslim support. UP's Muslims have over the last few years and till this election been caught in a dilemma as they have not been able to consider any one party in the state their benefactor. Earlier, from the heydays of Mulayam Singh Yadav, the Samajwadi Party used to be their go-to party since the late former CM had made the welfare of Muslims nothing short of a sacred political pledge for himself and his party. But as Akhilesh Yadav inherited the party in 2017, he very quietly shelved the pro-Muslim policy and started pursuing a brand of ambivalent-- often so-called soft -- Hindutva. In the recent past, Akhilesh vociferously backed the construction of a statue of Parashuram, the deity revered by Brahmins, proposed the construction of a huge Krishna temple in Vrindavan, inaugurated a Lord Krishna statue in Saifai, and generally avoided having Muslim leaders in his core team of Samajwadi Party after the jailing and subsequent sidelining of Azam Khan. All this changed ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In order to counter the charge of ignoring Muslims, Akhilesh skipped the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, visited the family residence of late Mukhtar Ansari in Ghazipur to pay condolences (albeit belatedly) and risked disaffection in the party by ignoring upper caste-Hindus for key bye-elections. The importance of being Akhilesh Yadav in this Lok Sabha election Mayawati, meanwhile, had appeared to be softer towards the BJP in the beginning, but her Bahujan Samaj Party has still stuck to fielding Muslims in key elections in the past few years, and the trend is highly visible in this year's list as well. The party's candidates for 54 seats so far includes 14 Muslims. Then there is the AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who had declared his intention to fight from all seats in collaboration with Apna Dal (K) and some smaller parties with much fanfare, but the initiative seems to have lost steam. The Muslim vote in UP According to several estimates, Muslims account for 19% to 23% of the state's population. Based on figures from various organisations and development programmes, the districts with high Muslim population (above 25%) are: Rampur 50.57%, Moradabad 47.12%, Bijnor 43.04%, Saharanpur 41.95%, Muzaffarnagar 41.30%, Amroha 40.78%, Balrampur 37.51%, Bareilly 34.54%, Meerut 34.43%, Bahraich 33.53%, Shrawasti 30.79%, Baghpat 27.98%, Ghaziabad 25.35%, and Siddharthnagar 29.23%. Polling was completed in the first phase on April 19 in eight constituencies -- Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Moradabad, Rampur and Pilibhit. The eight constituencies where voting took place on April 26 were Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar, Aligarh, Gautam Buddha Nagar, and Mathura. Of these 16 constituencies, at least 11 constituencies have a Muslim population above 20%. There are indications that in these two phases, Muslim voters may have resorted to voting to bring about a change, and the candidate's faith may not be a factor. This has been often referred to as actical voting where the sole aim is to ensure the defeat of a candidate whose party is considered to be apathetic to Muslims interests. Advantage INDIA bloc? In this case, voting to ensure the BJP's candidates defeat could have led Muslim voters to support either the SP-Congress INDIA bloc, or the BSP. It appears that the community could have preferred the former in most places, while the BSP could be preferred only in places where the INDIA combine is thought to be weaker. This is endorsed by Professor Hilal Ahmad, a veteran political analyst and social scholar. He says that Muslim voters appear to be in favour of the INDIA bloc, regardless of the result. In many districts, there have been reports of voters, including women, having voted in favour of the SP-Congress combine, he said, but added emphatically that the Muslim voter is totally silent with no proclamations from community leaders whatsoever. This, however, does not mean that the results will be follow the same pattern in all the Muslim-dominated seats. For the record, the 2014 Lok Sabha election saw the BJP winning at least eight such seats, including Amroha, Bijnor, Moradabad, Muzaffarnagar, Nagina, Rampur, Saharanpur and Sambhal. But in 2019, the SP-BSP fighting in alliance, won 15 seats including in Muslim-dominated Amroha, Bijnor, Moradabad, Rampur and Sambhal. Another fact to be remembered is that despite general perception that Muslims were voting against the BJP, the party succeeded in getting a percentage of the Muslim votes in the 2022 Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. This came out in a post-election survey by CSDS-Lokniti which suggested that least eight per cent of the Muslim votes went to the BJP. Also, the BJP has gone into the 2024 election in alliance with the Rashtriya Lok Dal which has been favoured by Muslim voters in its stronghold areas. Even during the campaign for the first phase, BJP leaders accompanied RLD leaders in Muslim-dominated areas. UP battle shifts from Jat land to Yadav stronghold All this could mean on the one hand that Muslims are disillusioned that no party has shown faith in them, but rather than abstaining, they will vote for the candidate considered to be the BJP's strongest rival. On the other hand, they could also accept the BJP candidate for the simple fact that the state has a BJP government headed by Yogi Adityanath and no purpose may be served in getting identified as a non-BJP voter till 2027 (when the next Assembly election is scheduled). According to Anshuman Shukla, a veteran political analyst and columnist, although Muslims have increasingly voted in a unified way, political and social mobilization has highlighted divisions along sub-identities like caste and sect among them. This explains the BJP's outreach -- and success -- with Pasmanda Muslims, a term that includes backwards, Dalits and tribal Muslims. According to many researchers, the held belief of Muslims voting en bloc may not be completely true, an idea also suggested in a study Mapping Muslim Voter Behaviour in India by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Even some Muslim scholars agree that Muslims are increasingly getting divided along caste and sectarian lines, an example of which is the lukewarm response to Asaduddin Owaisi after he announced his decision to contest in UP with the Apna Dal (K). Anshuman Shukla says that even though figures show that Muslims could play a crucial role in deciding the result in more than 25 seats in UP, the results will show a different picture. Kashi: A date with the present

Agarkar: Exclusion of Rinku Singh a Difficult Decision Despite His Solid Performances

Agarkar: Exclusion of Rinku Singh a Difficult Decision Despite His Solid Performances Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar on Thursday described the omission of Rinku Singh from India's T20 World Cup squad as the ''toughest'' call, saying the in-from swashbuckler has ''done nothing wrong'' and it all came down to combinations. Rinku, Kolkata Knight Riders' big-hitting finisher from Aligarh, could not find a place in the 15-member squad as the think-tank preferred Chennai Super Kings' Shivam Dube over him. His exclusion became a major talking point as Rinku has scored 356 runs at an average of 89 and strike rate of 176.24 in T20Is for India. ''It (not picking Rinku) is probably the toughest thing we have had to discuss. He has done nothing wrong, not even Shubman Gill for that matter. It is not his fault that he missed out. It's about combinations,'' Agarkar said during a press conference here. ''A couple of wrist spinners were included to give Rohit (Sharma) more options. There are two keepers, we needed an extra bowler. It's just unfortunate. He's in the reserves, so that tells you how close he came into being in the 15. But at the end of the day, you can only pick 15 players in the squad,'' Agarkar added. Rinku, who is not having a great IPL season as he is not getting to face enough balls, though made it to the list of reserves. Rinku had been fast-tracked into the Indian T20I team after a fantastic run in the IPL last year but this season, he has managed just 123 runs in nine matches with a strike rate of 150.00. Whereas Gill, captaining Gujarat Titans this time, has aggregated 320 runs from 10 matches at a strike rate of 140.97. The left-handed Yashasvi Jaiswal has been preferred over Gill.

T20 WC: Rinku becomes casualty of 'Impact Player' rule

The 26-year-old left-hander from Aligarh, who captured attention with his remarkable feat of five sixes in an over during a previous IPL, found himself replaced by Shivam Dube in the primary national squad, while Rinku Singh ended up listed among the reserves. Dube's inclusion was primarily attributed to his higher involvement in matches for Chennai Super Kings during the initial 10 games of the league.

Delhi High Court Adjourns Sharjeel Imam's Appeal Sine Die

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court adjourned sine die the appeal of Sharjeel Imam challenging the framing of charges in connection with a 2020 communal riots case involving allegations of sedition. The Supreme Court heard a matter related to sedition, and all the matters emanating from the section of sedition (124A IPC) had been kept in abeyance in May 2022. A division bench headed by Justice Suresh Kumar Kait adjourned the matter sine die. It was informed that matters related to the law of sedition are pending before the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the bail plea hearing has been adjourned till May 16 as the ASG SV Raju was not available to argue the matter. On March 15, 2022, Delhi's Karkardooma court framed sedition and other charges against Sharjeel Imam for alleged inflammatory speeches delivered by him at Jamia area in Delhi in December 2019 and at Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, in January 2020 during the anti-CAA protest. He has pleaded not guilty and claimed trial. Additional sessions judge Amitabh Rawat had framed charges against Sharjeel Imam under Sections 124A (sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, etc.), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and 13 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The accused is one of the organizers of the Shaheen Bagh protest of December 2019. Sharjeel Imam was arrested in January 2020 by Delhi Police from Jahanabad, Bihar. It is a case of allegedly delivering inflammatory speech at Jamia Millia Islamia which allegedly led to violence outside the university in December 2019. The Delhi Police had filed a charge sheet against him in the present case, alleging that he gave speeches inciting hatred, contempt, and disaffection towards the Government of India. The Delhi Police had mentioned in the charge sheet against Sharjeel, He is accused of delivering seditious speeches and inciting a particular section of the community to indulge in unlawful activities detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. The matter is at the stage of recording evidence before the trial court. Arvind Kejriwal's Health is Fine, Says Bhagwant Mann After Meeting Jalandhar Police Seizes Gold Worth 60 Lakhs in Phillor Area Tragic Suicide: NEET Aspirant Found Dead in Kota

Salman Khurshid's Niece Maria Alam Khan Appeals for Vote Jihad

Farrukhabad: Seeking votes for the INDIA bloc candidate from Farrukhabad Lok Sabha seat, Samajwadi Party leader Maria Alam made an appeal for vote jehad, terming it as necessary in the current situation for the minority community to drive away the BJP government. Alam, who is also the niece of senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid, while addressing an election meeting on Monday in the presence of senior Congress leader and former external affairs minister Salman Khurshid, made an appeal for vote jehad, saying in the current situation, 'vote jehad' is necessary for the minority community. Speaking in Kaimganj in support of INDIA bloc candidate Naval Kishore Shakya, Alam said, Together do vote jehad -- with intelligence, without being sentimental and with silence. As we can only do vote jehad to drive away this Sanghi government. Stressing that it was time to join hands, she said otherwise this Sanghi government will succeed in wiping out our existence. People say that Constitution and democracy are under threat. But I say that insaniyat (humanity) is under threat. Now there is an attack on 'insaniyat'. If you want to save the country, its beauty and 'ganga-jamuni' (composite) culture, then vote very intelligently without getting influenced by anyone, she stressed. In the public meeting, Khurshid took part as the chief guest. The video of Alam's statement has also gone viral on social media. Asked to comment on the statement of his niece, Khurshid said generally he avoids using such words because its literal meaning is misinterpreted. Jehad means to fight against a situation. Her intention must have been to carry out vote jihad to protect the Constitution, he said. On his candidature from INDIA bloc from the Farrukhabad seat, Khurshid said he was offered Congress ticket from Aligarh from the Congress. But he politely declined clearly saying that I am Salman Khurshid from Farrukhabad and I stay that only. This was the first public meeting of the INDIA bloc in Farrukhabad with most of the senior leaders of the Congress and the SP present together on the dias.

Delhi HC adjourns sine die Sharjeel Imam's plea challenging framing of charges

Delhi HC adjourns sine die Sharjeel Imam's plea challenging framing of charges The Delhi High Court on Tuesday adjourned sine die the appeal of Sharjeel Imam challenging the framing of charges in connection with a 2020 communal riots case involving allegations of sedition. The Supreme Court heard a matter related to sedition and all the matters emanating from the section of sedition (124 A IPC) had been kept in abeyance in May 2022. The division bench headed by Justice Suresh Kumar Kait adjourned the matter sine die. It was informed that matters related to the law of sedition are pending before the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the bail plea hearing has been adjourned till May 16 as the ASG SV Raju was not available to argue the matter. On March 15, 2022, Delhi's Karkardooma court framed sedition and other charges against Sharjeel Imam for alleged inflammatory speeches delivered by him at Jamia area in Delhi in December 2019 and at Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh in January 2020 during the anti-CAA protest. He has pleaded not guilty and claimed trial. Additional sessions judge Amitabh Rawat had framed charges against Sharjeel Imam under Sections 124A ( sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, etc.), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and 13 of Unlawful Activities ( Prevention) Act (UAPA). The accused is one of the organisers of the Shaheen Bagh protest of December 2019. Sharjeel Imam was arrested in January 2020 by Delhi Police from Jahanabad, Bihar. It is a case of allegedly delivering inflammatory speech at Jamia Millia Islamia which allegedly led to violence outside the university in December 2019. The Delhi Police had filed a charge sheet against him in the present case. It was alleged that he gave speeches inciting hatred, contempt, and disaffection towards the Government of India. Delhi Police had mentioned in the charge sheet against Sharjeel, ''He is accused of delivering seditious speeches and inciting a particular section of the community to indulge in unlawful activities, detrimental to sovereignty and integrity of the nation.'. The matter is at the stage of recording evidence before the trial court. (ANI)

Limited Women Representation: Only 8% Female Candidates in First Two Phases of Lok Sabha Elections

Limited Women Representation: Only 8% Female Candidates in First Two Phases of Lok Sabha Elections Women constituted only eight per cent of the total 2,823 candidates in the first two phases of the Lok Sabha elections, with political activists saying it reflects a deeper issue of gender bias and that talk of women's empowerment rings hollow. There were 135 women candidates in the first phase of the elections and 100 in the second phase, bringing the combined total for the first two phases to 235. In the first phase of the elections on April 19, there total number of candidates in the fray was 1,625. In the second phase held on April 26, 1,198 candidates contested the elections. Of the 135 women candidates in the first phase, Tamil Nadu had the highest share at 76. However, that figure accounted for just 8 per cent of the total candidates in the state. Kerala had the maximum number of women candidates at 24 in the second phase. Partywise, the Congress fielded 44 women in the two phases and the BJP 69. This significant gender imbalance has sparked criticism from political analysts and activists, who asked why parties are waiting for the Women Reservation Act to be implemented instead of proactively fielding women. Dr Sushila Ramaswamy, an associate professor at Delhi University's Jesus and Mary College, said political parties should take concrete steps to promote women's candidacy. ''Political parties should have been more proactive and fielded more women candidates,'' she underscored, citing the effectiveness of seat reservations for women within party structures, as seen in the UK's Labour Party. With women constituting nearly half of India's electorate, their under representation in the candidate pool raises broader questions about the barriers hindering women's full participation in the political sphere, said Dr Iftekhar Ahmad Ansari, an associate professor at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Beyond the symbolic gestures and promises, he stressed the importance of structural reforms to ensure equal opportunities for women in politics. He also highlighted the critical role of party leadership in promoting gender diversity. ''Political parties must prioritise gender inclusion in candidate selection and provide adequate support to women aspirants,'' he emphasised. Farhat Jahan, a retired faculty member at AMU's Abdullah Women's College, said the issue of women's political representation extends beyond numerical quotas to encompass systemic changes in party dynamics and electoral processes. She also emphasised the need for gender-sensitive policies that address challenges faced by women in politics. ''The upcoming phases of the elections present an opportunity for political parties to demonstrate their commitment to gender equality through concrete actions. Initiatives such as mentorship programmes, capacity-building workshops and awareness campaigns can empower women to actively participate in the electoral process and pursue leadership roles,'' she added. Prof Mohammad Aftab Alam from the political science department at AMU pointed out the challenges women often face in forming independent political opinions amid societal influences. ''Even the ones elected are often relegated to symbolic roles,'' he remarked, highlighting broader issues of token representation. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is the only party that, as a policy, provides 33 per cent tickets to women. Meera Parida, state vice-president of the BJD's Biju Mahila Dal, stressed the need for substantive action in women's empowerment and praised her party's initiative of reserving 33 per cent of seats for women. ''Reserving seats alone is not enough. We need a cultural shift where women are seen as leaders and decision-makers,'' she emphasised, advocating for comprehensive reforms. Both major parties -- the BJP and the Congress -- have listed women-centric initiatives in their manifestos. The BJP's manifesto promises to implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women' Reservation Act) to honour and empower women, integrate women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into the service sector to enhance their economic participation and expand health services. The Congress has pledged legislative reforms for women's empowerment, including the immediate enactment of the Women's Reservation Act. However, these commitments are yet to translate into substantial numbers of women contesting the elections. Alka Lamba, chief of the Congress' women's wing, highlighted the party's commitment to gender equality across sectors. ''The Congress has extended political, economic and social rights to women,'' Lamba asserted, outlining ambitious targets for women's representation in leadership roles. As the Lok Sabha elections progress, the spotlight is on political parties to address these concerns and demonstrate tangible commitment towards fostering women's participation and representation in governance. The upcoming poll phases will be closely monitored to assess whether there is a meaningful shift towards greater gender inclusivity in the political landscape especially after the hype over passage of the Women's Reservation Act, Aftab said. Ramaswamy noted, ''While parties are vocal about empowering women, the lack of women candidates reflects a deeper issue of gender bias within political systems.'' The Lok Sabha polls are being held in seven phases beginning from April 19 and the counting of votes will take place on June 4. The second phase was held on April 26 while the other phases are scheduled for May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25 and June 1.

Many Samajwadi Party Leaders Join BJP amidst Lok Sabha Polls

Lucknow: In a blow to the opposition ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, several Samajwadi Party leaders switched allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Lucknow on Sunday. Former Samajwadi Party MLA Jai Choubey, along with several other leaders including Balram Yadav and Jagat Jaiswal, joined the BJP in a ceremony attended by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. Welcoming the new members, Deputy Chief Minister Pathak said, Former MLA and several district presidents have joined our party today. Welcome and congratulations to all of you. Those working at the block level are also joining us. They have a significant responsibility ahead of them.Addressing the gathering, Pathak emphasized, You all have decided to join the BJP... Under PM Modi's leadership, the BJP has connected with the masses. With PM Modi's guidance, we have committed to building a 'Developed India,' and I trust that all of you will contribute to this vision. Uttar Pradesh, the state with the highest number of parliamentary constituencies at 80, is undergoing polling in all seven phases of the Lok Sabha elections.The first phase of voting was conducted on April 19 in eight parliamentary constituencies, followed by the second phase on April 26 in another eight constituencies.During the second phase, constituencies including Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, Aligarh, Mathura, and Bulandshahr cast their votes. The state is scheduled for further polling in phases three and four on May 7 and May 13 respectively, and in phases five, six, and seven on May 20, May 23, and June 1. Vote counting is set for June 4. Controversy Surrounding Congress Manifesto and Allegations of Appeasement PM Modi Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for Double Standards on Historical Atrocities DK Shivakumar Slams Centre for Inadequate Relief Funds

Only 8 per cent of women candidates in first two phases of Lok Sabha polls

NEW DELHI: Women constituted only eight per cent of the total 1,618 candidates in the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls, with political activists saying it reflects a deeper issue of gender bias and that the talk of empowering them rings hollow. In the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls, there were 135 women candidates while in the second phase, there were 100 women candidates, bringing the combined total for the first two phases to 235 women candidates. Of the 135 women candidates in phase 1, Tamil Nadu had the highest share at 76, but they account for just 8 per cent of the candidates in the state, while Kerala has the maximum women candidates at 24 in phase 2. Party-wise, the Congress has fielded 44 women till now while 69 women have been fielded by the BJP in the first two phases. This significant gender imbalance has sparked criticism from political analysts and activists, who ask why parties are waiting for the Women's Reservation Bill to be implemented instead of proactively issuing tickets to women. Dr Sushila Ramaswamy, Associate Professor at Delhi University's Jesus and Mary College, said political parties should take concrete steps to promote women's candidacy. Political parties should have been more proactive and fielded more women candidates, she underscored, citing the effectiveness of seat reservations for women within party structures, as seen in the Britain's Labour Party. With women constituting nearly half of India's electorate, their under representation in the candidate pool raises broader questions about the barriers hindering women's full participation in the political sphere, Dr. Iftekhar Ahmad Ansari, Associate Professor at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), said. Beyond the symbolic gestures and promises, he stressed the importance of structural reforms to ensure equal opportunities for women in politics. He highlighted the critical role of party leadership in promoting gender diversity. The issue of women's political representation extends beyond numerical quotas to encompass systemic changes in party dynamics and electoral processes, Farhat Jahan, a retired faculty member at the Abdullah Women's College at the AMU said while emphasising the need for gender-sensitive policies that address challenges faced by women in politics. Political parties must prioritise gender inclusion in candidate selection and provide adequate support to women aspirants, she emphasised. The upcoming phases of the elections present an opportunity for political parties to demonstrate their commitment to gender equality through concrete actions. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, capacity-building workshops, and awareness campaigns can empower women to actively participate in the electoral process and pursue leadership roles, she added. Prof.Mohammad Aftab Alam from the political science department at the AMU pointed out the challenges women often face in forming independent political opinions amidst societal influences. Even the ones elected are often relegated to symbolic roles, he remarked, highlighting broader issues of token representation. The BJD is the only party, which as a policy, gives 33 per cent tickets to female candidates. Meera Parida, state vice president of the Biju Mahila Dal of the BJD, stressed the need for substantive action in women's empowerment and praised her party's initiative of reserving 33 per cent of seats for women. Reserving seats alone is not enough. We need a cultural shift where women are seen as leaders and decision-makers, she emphasised, advocating for comprehensive reforms. Both major parties -- the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress-- have listed women-centric initiatives in their manifestoes. The BJP's manifesto promises to implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam to honour and empower women, integrate women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into the service sector to enhance their economic participation and expand health services. The Congress has pledged legislative reforms for women's empowerment, including the immediate enactment of the Women's Reservation Bill. However, these commitments are yet to translate into substantial numbers of women contesting elections. Alka Lamba, Chief of Congress Women's Wing, highlighted the Congress's commitment to gender equality across sectors. The Congress has extended political, economic, and social rights to women, Lamba affirmed, outlining ambitious targets for women's representation in leadership roles. As the Lok Sabha elections progress, the spotlight is on political parties to address these concerns and demonstrate tangible commitments towards fostering women's participation and representation in governance. The upcoming poll phases will be closely monitored to assess whether there is a meaningful shift towards greater gender inclusivity in the political landscape especially after the hype over passage of the Women's Reservation Bill, Aftab said. While parties are vocal about empowering women, the lack of women candidates reflects a deeper issue of gender bias within political systems, noted Dr.Ramaswamy. The Lok Sabha polls are being held in seven phases beginning from April 19 and the counting of votes will take place on June 4 for the world's biggest election exercise. The second phase was held on April 26 while other phases are scheduled for May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25 and June 1.

Women Candidates Remain Underrepresented in Lok Sabha Polls

Women Candidates Remain Underrepresented in Lok Sabha Polls Women constituted only eight per cent of the total 1,618 candidates in the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls, with political activists saying it reflects a deeper issue of gender bias and that the talk of empowering them rings hollow. In the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls, there were 135 women candidates while in the second phase, there were 100 women candidates, bringing the combined total for the first two phases to 235 women candidates. Of the 135 women candidates in phase 1, Tamil Nadu had the highest share at 76, but they account for just 8 per cent of the candidates in the state, while Kerala has the maximum women candidates at 24 in phase 2. Party-wise, the Congress has fielded 44 women till now while 69 women have been fielded by the BJP in the first two phases. This significant gender imbalance has sparked criticism from political analysts and activists, who ask why parties are waiting for the Women's Reservation Bill to be implemented instead of proactively issuing tickets to women. Dr Sushila Ramaswamy, Associate Professor at Delhi University's Jesus and Mary College, said political parties should take concrete steps to promote women's candidacy. ''Political parties should have been more proactive and fielded more women candidates,'' she underscored, citing the effectiveness of seat reservations for women within party structures, as seen in the Britain's Labour Party. With women constituting nearly half of India's electorate, their under representation in the candidate pool raises broader questions about the barriers hindering women's full participation in the political sphere, Dr. Iftekhar Ahmad Ansari, Associate Professor at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), said. Beyond the symbolic gestures and promises, he stressed the importance of structural reforms to ensure equal opportunities for women in politics. He highlighted the critical role of party leadership in promoting gender diversity. ''Political parties must prioritise gender inclusion in candidate selection and provide adequate support to women aspirants,'' she emphasised. The issue of women's political representation extends beyond numerical quotas to encompass systemic changes in party dynamics and electoral processes, Farhat Jahan, a retired faculty member at the Abdullah Women's College at the AMU said while emphasising the need for gender-sensitive policies that address challenges faced by women in politics. ''The upcoming phases of the elections present an opportunity for political parties to demonstrate their commitment to gender equality through concrete actions. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, capacity-building workshops, and awareness campaigns can empower women to actively participate in the electoral process and pursue leadership roles,'' she added. Prof. Mohammad Aftab Alam from the political science department at the AMU pointed out the challenges women often face in forming independent political opinions amidst societal influences. ''Even the ones elected are often relegated to symbolic roles,'' he remarked, highlighting broader issues of token representation. The BJD is the only party, which as a policy, gives 33 per cent tickets to female candidates. Meera Parida, state vice president of the Biju Mahila Dal of the BJD, stressed the need for substantive action in women's empowerment and praised her party's initiative of reserving 33 per cent of seats for women. ''Reserving seats alone is not enough. We need a cultural shift where women are seen as leaders and decision-makers,'' she emphasised, advocating for comprehensive reforms. Both major parties -- the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress-- have listed women-centric initiatives in their manifestoes. The BJP's manifesto promises to implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam to honour and empower women, integrate women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into the service sector to enhance their economic participation and expand health services. The Congress has pledged legislative reforms for women's empowerment, including the immediate enactment of the Women's Reservation Bill. However, these commitments are yet to translate into substantial numbers of women contesting elections. Alka Lamba, Chief of Congress Women's Wing, highlighted the Congress's commitment to gender equality across sectors. ''The Congress has extended political, economic, and social rights to women,'' Lamba affirmed, outlining ambitious targets for women's representation in leadership roles. As the Lok Sabha elections progress, the spotlight is on political parties to address these concerns and demonstrate tangible commitments towards fostering women's participation and representation in governance. The upcoming poll phases will be closely monitored to assess whether there is a meaningful shift towards greater gender inclusivity in the political landscape especially after the hype over passage of the Women's Reservation Bill, Aftab said. ''While parties are vocal about empowering women, the lack of women candidates reflects a deeper issue of gender bias within political systems,'' noted Dr. Ramaswamy. The Lok Sabha polls are being held in seven phases beginning from April 19 and the counting of votes will take place on June 4 for the world's biggest election exercise. The second phase was held on April 26 while other phases are scheduled for May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25 and June 1.

Trailer of Danish Javed directed film Pyar Ke Do Naam is out now

Reliance Entertainment presents, produced by Vijay Goel and Danish Javeds film is set to release in cinemas on 3rd May. The trailer of Pyar Ke Do Naam is the first movie to be filmed on the campus of Aligarh Muslim University In the realm of Bollywood cinema, love has been defined time and again through [] The post Trailer of Danish Javed directed film Pyar Ke Do Naam is out now appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Blog: Blog | Lok Sabha Elections: Hopes, Aspirations And Rivalries In Aligarh

While Banias remain firmly with the BJP, Brahmins are divided between the two candidates from their community.

GST emerge as major poll issues for lock industry traders

Aligarh: High GST rates, pandemic effect and Chinese locks the triple whammy undercutting the livelihoods of thousands of workers and traders in Uttar Pradesh's famed 'Tala Nagri' has emerged as a major concern this election and voters are looking for a candidate who will pull the lock industry out of the slump. The Rs 4,000 crore industry of Aligarh, where lock making is likened to an art dating back to the Mughals, is not so robust anymore with shifting global market dynamics taking their toll. With Lok Sabha elections just two days away, the clamour for decisive action that will save the livelihood of the estimated one lakh people dependent on the lock industry is growing. And at the centre of the problems, say industry insiders, are high GST rates, which in turn have led to a surge in Chinese lock imports. The steep GST rates have made it increasingly challenging for us to compete with Chinese locks flooding the market at significantly lower prices, said Omvir Singh, owner of a cottage lock factory. Traditionally a BJP supporter, Singh said he would however like to give another chance to the ruling government in the upcoming elections. I was hopeful that the incumbent MP would be replaced because he did nothing for us in the past 10 years despite relying on our votes as we are his core-voter base but for Modi and Hindutva, I will give this government a last chance, he said. Several smaller manufacturers indicated that they have been compelled to cease operations due to their inability to withstand the competition, coupled with the burden of high taxes and the adverse effects of pandemic-induced lockdowns on their businesses. What they need, said several stakeholders, is a candidate capable of addressing their grievances and rejuvenating the industry's prospects. Aligarh votes on April 26 in the second phase of the elections. In the fray are incumbent BJP MP Satish Kumar Gautam, Samajwadi Party's Birendra Singh and Bahujan Samaj Party candidate Bunty Upadhyay. Many in this western Uttar Pradesh town, once synonymous with the craft of lock making, were wary of being identified. The workforce, estimated a lock unit owner, has dwindled to nearly half. He highlighted the disparity in tax rates and production costs, which leads to a stark difference in prices that renders locally produced locks less competitive compared to the Chinese ones. He also stressed the necessity for policies that bolster 'Make in India' initiatives, reduce GST rates, and address import challenges from China. He pushed for a government that could lower GST rates and invest in automation technology to enhance competitiveness. We would want someone who could drive change in our dying industry and bring more innovations because the competition is fierce, he said. The transition to GST at 18 per cent, replacing the former 5 per cent VAT, has triggered a cascade of issues, affecting even the workers whose wages have been cut. Anita, a worker in 'Tala Nagri', said she and her colleagues work longer hours for less money. Machines remain idle, demand is low, and wages have not kept pace with rising living costs, she said. Anita earns Rs 200 a day for nine hours of work in a windowless, cramped room. Her daily wage has increased by just Rs 50 since 2019, while inflation continues to soar. With a family of seven to support, most of my salary goes towards purchasing food, but even affording vegetables is a challenge now, she said. Despite her hardships, Anita expressed her intent to vote for the 'kamal' (BJP's party symbol) due to a perceived lack of alternative options. Her story finds resonance across the lock industry. While some like Anita continue to throw their support behind the BJP, there are also those seeking change. Anita's colleague, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, is one of them. Bahut ho gaya ab (Enough is enough), she said, feeding steel sheets into a roller, preparing them for the intricate lock production process. She wants an alternative that prioritises wage increases. Against the backdrop of the elections, she reflected on the challenges confronting artisans like herself. The steadily rising costs of raw materials and overheads have impacted our trade, she said, emphasising the need for governmental support to safeguard traditional industries like lock manufacturing.

Uttar Pradesh: RLD onboard, BJP looks for dominance

LUCKNOW: Having acquired more political muscle through Jat support by taking Jayant Chaudhury-led RLD onboard, the BJP is aiming for a dominance on the eight seats Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr, Aligarh and Mathura set to vote on April 26, while the Opposition bloc is ready to put a stiff fight. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP, while facing the challenge from SP-BSP-RLD grand alliance, won seven of these seats. Only Amroha was won by the alliance. In 2024, the BJP has reworked its strategy by allying with the RLD and allotting the Baghpat seat to the party that has Jats as its core support base. To regain lost ground, the SP has tied up with the Congress. The BSP is going it alone. In this phase, both SP and Congress are contesting on four seats each as per their seat-sharing arrangement. While the SP has fielded candidates in Meerut, Baghpat, Gautam Buddha Nagar and Aligarh, Congress will contest in Ghaziabad, Mathura, Amroha and Bulandshahr. The fate of former Union minister Mahesh Sharma, who is seeking a third term on the BJP ticket from Gautam Budh Nagar, Ramayan fame actor Arun Govil in Meerut and actress Hema Malini, who is seeking a hat-trick from Mathura, will be decided in this phase. Former Mumbai Police commissioner Satya Pal Singh is not in the fray this time. He had defeated RLD chief Ajit Singh in Baghpat in 2014 and Jayant Chaudhary in 2019. BJP has allotted Baghpat to the RLD and Dr Rajkumar Sangwan has been fielded as NDA candidate. Amroha is set to witness a contest among Congresss Danish Ali, BJPs Kanwar Singh Tanwar, and BSPs Dr Mujahid Hussain. The BSP suspended Ali, who was its MP from Amroha, last year for anti-party activities and he joined the Congress. The BJP stronghold Meerut will witness a three-way fight among BJPs Arun Govil, SPs Sunita Verma and BSPs Devvrat Kumar Tyagi. In Meerut, the S P has fielded dalit candidate Sunita Verma replacing OBC aspirant Atul Pradhan. The BJP won the seat in 1996, losing it to Congress in 1999 and BSP in 2004. BJPs Rajendra Agrawal, who has been denied the ticket this time, won the Meerut seat in 2009, 2014 and 2019. The BJP has replaced Agarwal with Govil. Baghpat, an RLD bastion, is in for a three-cornered contest among RLDs Rajkumar Sangwan, SPs Amarpal Sharma and BSPs Praveen Baisala. Former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh had won the seat thrice in 1977, 1980 and 1984. His son Ajit Singh won it in 1989, 1991, 1996, 1999, 2004 and 2009. However, BJP candidate Sompal won the seat in 1998. A BJP bastion since it came into existence in 2008, the Ghaziabad seat is set for a fight between BJPs Atul Garg, Congresss Dolly Sharma and BSPs Nandkishor Pundhir. The BJP is banking on the popularity of Garg to retain the seat, while BSP plans to cash in on anger among Rajputs in rural areas over denial of ticket to two-time BJP MP and Union minister General (retd) VK Singh. The Congress is working on the Brahmin-Muslim formula. In Gautam Budhh Nagar, Mahesh Sharma, who was elected to the Lok Sabha in 2014 and 2019, is seeking a third term as the BJP candidate. He is facing the SPs Rahul Awana, a Gujjar leader, and BSPs Rajendra Singh Solanki, a Rajput. The Bulandshahr reserved seat is all set for a contest among BJPs Bhola Singh, who won the seat in 2014 and 2019, BSPs Girish Chandra, MP from Nagina, and Congresss Shiv Ram Valmiki. In Aligarh, BJPs Satish Gautam (Brahmin), who won the seat in 2014 and 2019, is in the fray for a third term. The BSP has fielded a Brahmin candidate, Hitendra Kumar aka Bunty Upadhyay, a former BJP leader. The SP has nominated Bijendra Singh. In Mathura, two-time BJP MP Hema Malini is seeking a third term. She is pitted against Mukesh Dhangar of Congress and Suresh Singh of BSP. The Congress was earlier planning to field boxer Vijendra Singh in Mathura but he joined BJP.

BJP MP From Hathras Rajvir Diler, 65, Dies After Prolonged Illness

BJP MP from Hathras, Rajvir Diler, (65) passed away at a hospital in Aligarh following a prolonged illness on Wednesday, party leaders said.

MP Rajvir Singh passes away after prolonged illness

MP Rajvir Singh passes away after prolonged illness BJP MP from Hathras, Rajvir Diler (65), passed away at a hospital in Aligarh following a prolonged illness on Wednesday, party leaders said. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his condolences on Diler's demise. ''The untimely demise of Shri Rajvir Singh Diler Ji, MP from Hathras Lok Sabha constituency is extremely sad and an irreparable loss for the BJP family. My condolences are with the bereaved family,'' Adityanath said on X in Hindi. ''I pray to Lord Shri Ram to give a place to the departed soul in his feet and provide strength to the bereaved family and their supporters to bear this immense loss,'' he added in his post. Diler was elected on the Hathras seat on a BJP ticket in 2019. For 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP denied him a ticket and has named Anoop Balmiki as its candidate from the seat.

Lock Industry In Aligarh Grapples With High GST Rates And Chinese Imports Ahead Of Polls

The Rs 4,000 crore industry of Aligarh, where lock making is likened to an art dating back to the Mughals, is not so robust anymore with shifting global market dynamics taking their toll.

Campaigning on eight LS seats for second phase in UP ends today

Lucknow: Campaigning for the second phase of Lok Sabha elections in eight seats of western will conclude on Wednesday evening. The eight seats where polls will be held in the second phase are Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr, Aligarh and Mathura. Polling for the second phase will be held on April 26. 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 .

Aligarh Lok Sabha polls: Opposition highlights high GST rates, MSP as key issues, BJP bats on development of 10 yrs

In the lead-up to the upcoming elections in Aligarh, concerns about high GST rates, MSP for farmers, inflation, and unemployment have taken center stage. The opposition parties are highlighting these issues, while the BJP is banking on its developmental work over the past decade.

PM Modi doesn't do politics on religion basis: Rajnath Singh

Noida: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has never done politics on the basis of religion or by dividing the society and stressed that his predecessor Dr Manmohan Singh had in 2006 talked about extending reservation for the Muslims.The defence minister made the remarks at an election rally in Greater Noida in support of BJP's Gautam Buddh Nagar Lok Sabha candidate Mahesh Sharma. Prime Minister Modi on Sunday suggested that if the Congress comes to power, it would redistribute wealth of people to the Muslims and cited Dr Singh's remark that the minority community had the first claim on the country's resources. Addressing a rally in Rajasthan's Banswara, Modi also alleged the Congress plans to give people's hard-earned money and valuables to infiltrators and hose who have more children. Addressing a gathering at Bisahda village in Greater Noida, the defence minister attacked the opposition for creating a ruckus at this time and trying to put a question mark on Prime Minister Modi. Sisters and brothers, it's not that I know the prime minister from today. We have had very good relations for a long time. He has never done politics of Hindu, Muslim and Christian. Our prime minister never thought of doing politics by dividing the society, Singh said. He (Modi) said at one place that Congress has said in its manifesto that we will get the properties surveyed. If it is said in the manifesto then why should people have any objection to it. What do you want to do by getting the properties surveyed? Do you want to distribute the country's resources equally? What do you want to do? he asked. The veteran BJP leader also asked the Congress to clear its position on the matter. Dr Manmohan Singh ji was the prime minister of India. I respect Dr Manmohan Singh ji even today, I have respect for him, brothers and sisters. Dr Manmohan Singh himself in the meeting of the National Defence Council at the Vigyan Bhawan on December 9, 2006, had said that if anyone has the first right on the property of this country, it is the minority and especially he had said that it belongs to the Muslims, Singh said. Sisters and brothers, whatever property and whatever resources there are in this country, everyone should have equal rights, he had said this, we did not say this. Now when the prime minister said this, these people created an uproar over it, he added. Singh said the Congress-led government had in the past formed several commissions, which had recommended in their report that out of the 27 per cent reservation for the OBCs, 6 per cent should be for the Muslims and 2 per cent should be for the minorities. We did not make this commission, he added. Escalating his attack on the Congress, Singh said, It did not stop at this. If someone from the Scheduled Caste converts, he should be given reservation despite the change of religion. Not only this, they (Congress) also ended the reservation of SC-ST in Jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University. These people have formed the government by dividing the country equally on the basis of Hindu and Muslim, he alleged. The senior BJP leader stressed that his party does not want to make the country by dividing it on the basis of caste, creed, religion, Hindu, Muslim or Christian, but wants to make India a great country of the world by keeping everyone together. Singh also slammed the opposition parties for their critical comments over the victory of a BJP Lok Sabha candidate in Surat, Gujarat, after he was elected unopposed. One of our candidates has won unopposed in Surat, Gujarat, the process of BJP's victory has started. But people of Congress and other political parties are saying that this is a threat to democracy. I want to ask this, I want to say to the friends of the Congress, I want to say to the people of the other party -- do not do politics by throwing dust in the eyes of the public, do politics by looking the public in the eye if you have the courage, Singh said. You also had your governments. Many times the MPs were elected unopposed. If your MP wins unopposed, democracy becomes stronger and if one of our MPs wins, democracy becomes weaker, he added. The BJP leader reminded that Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav had won unopposed in the by-election in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, in 2012. At that the time the Congress or the BSP did not see democracy in danger. Where do these people want to take the country? Singh asked. I say this often that don't do politics by misleading the public, instead look them in the eyes and do politics. They have made a 'tamasha' of everything. They want to seek public support by misleading them, he said. Also I urge the friends from the press, if I say something wrong, print it in newspapers and run it in on the television. I am someone who would acknowledge if I make a mistake. I am saying this because I have never engaged in politics by deceiving the public, he added.

Modi tarnished dignity of PMs post: Namrta

Mahila Cong resents PMs remarks Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 23: J&K Congress has not only termed the statement given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Aligarh on Monday, targeting the Congress, pointing towards the Mangalsutra of women, completely irresponsible but has also termed it as a cruel joke along with the dignity of the post of Prime Minister. Partys general secretary and woman leader Namrta Sharma flanked by senior leader Kanta Bhan, general secretary PCC Santosh Majotra, secretary Jyoti Vaid, [] The post Modi tarnished dignity of PMs post: Namrta appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

My mom sacrificed her mangalsutra for this nation: Priyanka Gandhi

The day following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement in Aligarh, reiterating that Congress would not hesitate to seize even the mangalsutras of our mothers and sisters, AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra highlighted instances of sacrifice within her family. She mentioned that her mother, Sonia Gandhi, had sacrificed her mangalsutra for the country, while her grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had donated gold to support the nation during times of war.

PM Modi Escalates Political Attacks On Congress Over The 'Redistribution Of Wealth' | N18V | News18

PM Modi Escalates Political Attacks On Congress Over The 'Redistribution Of Wealth' | N18V | News18PM Modi doubles down on 'asset redistribution' charge in Aligarh, skips Muslim reference. Continuing from his previous remarks in Banswara, Rajasthan, PM Modi criticized the Congress for advocating the Maoist plan aimed at wealth redistribution.

Lot of work has to be done in next five years...: BJP candidate Hema Malini

Lot of work has to be done in next five years...: BJP candidate Hema Malini Bhartiya Janta Party Lok Sabha Candidate and two-term Member of Parliament from Mathura, Hema Malini, said on Tuesday that many developmental works have been completed and a lot of work has to be done in the next five years in Mathura with the support of the party. Hema Malini told ANI, I feel proud that I have done a lot of work and I have to do a lot of work in the next five years with the support of Prime Minister Modi Ji, Amit Shah Ji, Nadda ji and Yogi Ji. A lot of good development work has been done here, including the 84 Kos Parikrama, the purification of Yamuna, centres for girls education, and theatres as centres for cultural activities. Along with the darshan of the temple, you will get to see various cultural activities here. Responding to the question of how many seats the BJP will win this time, Hema Malini said that they will win 80 out of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. Our party is saying that we will win from Mathura by a margin of more than 5 lakh votes. We will win by more votes than before. I appeal to all the people to vote when voting takes place on April 26th. Everyone should participate in it. I also appeal to the people of India that everyone should go and vote; each of your votes is very important, she said. Further, speaking on the Srikrishna Janambhoomi dispute, the BJP candidate from Mathura said that the issue is in the court and the court will decide but we are planning to make corridor for Banke Bihari Ji very beautiful, which is very congested and very soon work will start. Challenge is a challenge. You should not take it lightly. So, we will work hard, we have the capability to win. We have our work to show. Who will vote for someone who has not done anything? What has the INDIA bloc done till date? We will definitely cross 400, she added. The seats which will go to polls in the second phase on April 26 included-- Amroha, Meerut, Mathura, Baghpat, Aligarh, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddh Nagar and Bulandshahar. (ANI)

Who is Naima Khatoon, AMU's first female VC in a century?

Naima Khatoon, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), marks a historic milestone as the institution's first female VC in over a century. With a distinguished career spanning academia and administration, Khatoon brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Meet Naima Khatoon, Aligarh University's First Woman Vice-Chancellor In 100 Years

Professor Naima Khatoon has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). The Ministry of Education appointed Ms Khatoon after receiving approval from President Droupadi Murmu, who serves as the Visitor of the university.

Naima Khatoon becomes first woman Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University

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Aligarh Muslim University gets 1st woman Vice-Chancellor in over 100 years

Aligarh Muslim University gets st woman ViceChancellor in over years

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's incumbent MP Mahesh Sharma to face SP, BSP candidates in Gautam Buddha Nagar in Phase 2

The Gautam Buddha Nagar constituency will go to polls in the second phase on April 26 along with Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Mathura and Bulandshahr seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Naima Ist woman VC of AMU in 100 years

NEW DELHI, Apr 22: Naima Khatoon has been appointed as Vice Chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), making her first woman to hold the top post in over 100 years, sources said on Monday. Khatoon was appointed after receiving approval from President Droupadi Murmu, who is Visitor to the University, they said. Permission from the Election Commission of India (ECI) was also sought in view of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) being in place, they said. Naima Khatoon, [] The post Naima Ist woman VC of AMU in 100 years appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PM Modi renews 'snatch, redistribute wealth' attack on Congress; tries to woo Muslims in Aligarh speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed to address the concerns of Muslims a day after accusing the Congress party of attempting to seize people's wealth and redistribute it to Muslims. Speaking at an election rally in Aligarh on Monday, Modi emphasized the initiation of discussions on the issues faced by Pasmanda Muslims, the enactment of laws to abolish instant triple talaq, and the increase in the Haj quota.

PM Modi's redistribution of wealth remarks: What does Congress manifesto actually say?

NEW DELHI: A huge political row has erupted over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech that the Congress manifesto promised that the party will redistribute wealth among infiltrators, if it comes to power. While the opposition parties are up in arms about the PM's speech and had approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking action, the controversy has turned the spotlight on the Congress election manifesto , which was released on April 5. I want to warn the countrymen. Congress and the INDI alliance have their eyes on your earnings and your property. The 'Shehzada' of Congress says that if their government comes to power, they will investigate who earns how much, who has how many properties...Our mothers and sisters have gold. It is 'stree dhan', it is considered sacred, and the law also protects it. Now these people's eyes are on the 'Mangalsutra' of women. Their intention is to steal the gold of mothers and sisters.If you have an old ancestor's home in your village and you also purchased a small flat in your city for the future of your children. Then they will take away one of the two, said Prime Minister Modi during an election rally in Aligarh. PM's remark against Muslims and Congress atrocious; silence of EC even more so: CPM On Sunday, Modi made similar claims during a rally in Rajasthan's Banswara. To buttress his claims, Modi also referred to former PM Manmohan Singh's remark that the minority community had the first claim on the country's assets. The Congress, which has contested the PMs claims that the party says so in its manifesto, has said it will approach the Election Commission demanding action against Modi. It has also said that its chiefMallikarjun Khargehassought an appointment with Modi to educate him on the Congress manifesto. This is not the first time that Modi is attacking Congress for its promises made in the manifesto. Just a day after the Congress released the manifesto, the PM attacked it saying that the manifesto completely bears the imprint of the Muslim League. Congress issued a bundle of lies in its manifesto every page reeks of attempts to tear India apart. It reflects the thoughts the Muslim League had before independence, the PM had said during a rally in Uttar Pradeshs Saharanpur. PM Modi has resorted to lies: Congress on his 'redistribution of wealth' remarks On Wealth distribution Recalibrating its strategies for the 2024 elections, the Congress manifesto hinges prominently on the themes of social justice and equity. In the manifesto, the party has promised to conduct a Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) to enumerate the castes and sub-castes and their socio-economic conditions. If the Opposition alliance comes to power, the party also pledged to pass a constitutional amendment to remove the Supreme Court-mandated 50 percent cap on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Other Backward Classes (OBC). The Congresss poll strategy in the recent assembly elections also revolved around the plank of caste census and social justice, though it did not resonate with the electorate. We will first conduct a nationwide caste census to determine how many people belong to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and minorities. After that, we will conduct a financial and institutional survey in a historic step to ascertain the distribution of wealth, Rahul Gandhi had said during the release of the manifesto in Telangana. Gandhis renewed call to expand caste quotas and surveys for wealth redistribution has sparked debate with many seeking clarity on his proposal. However, Praveen Chakravarty, a key member of the manifesto committee dismissed such arguments as ludicrous. Sharing a video message in X, Chakravarty said that Gandhi was referring to a more philosophical idea 'Jitni Abadi, Utna Haq' (rights proportional to population). The Congress has nowhere in the 48-page manifesto mentioned that we will take away someones wealth and give it to someone else. Its bizarre to even say that. We do not want to get into anyones house. It is the BJP who has been doing it, he said Rahul Gandhis question was shouldnt we aspire for a society that is representative in the rewards and the benefits as per identity?. Now we can have a legitimate debate on that. Is it utopian or not utopian or is it too idealistic or pragmatic. Mr Gandhi believes it can be aspired for. It does not mean barging into someones house and taking their wealth away, said Chakravarty. On BJPs Muslim League imprint claim While PM Modi and the BJP have been attacking the Congress over the Muslim League imprint in the manifesto, the Congress leaders challenge the BJP to find a single reference to Hindu or Muslim in the document. The manifesto is also silent on the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act ( CAA),a dominant political issue in the 2024 general elections. 2024 LS polls: PM Modi claims Congress manifesto 'bears imprint of Muslim League' BJP defends Modi's remarks on Congress redistributing money to Muslims On minorities, the manifesto said, We will encourage reform of personal laws. Such reform must be undertaken with the participation and consent of the communities concerned. The party also promises not to interfere with personal choices of food and dress, to love and marry, and to travel and reside in any part of India. It adds that all existing laws and rules which interfere unreasonably with personal freedoms will be repealed. On the upliftment of minorities, it said, the economic empowerment of minorities is a necessary step for India to realise its full potential and promises to ensure that banks will provide institutional credit to minorities without discrimination. we will ensure that the minorities receive their fair share of opportunities in education, healthcare, public employment, public works contracts, skill development, sports and cultural activities without discrimination. Responding to the Muslim League barbs, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had responded everyone knows how Syama Prasad Mookerjee formed his governments in Bengal, Sindh, and NWFP (North West Frontier Province) in the 1940s in coalition with the Muslim League.Modi-Shah's political and ideological ancestors supported the British and Muslim League against the Indians in the freedom struggle. Congress hits back at PM Modi's 'Muslim League' jibe, says BJP practicing 'politics of divisiveness'

Aligarh Muslim University Gets 1st Woman Vice-Chancellor

Naima Khatoon has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), making her the first woman to hold the top post in over 100 years, sources said on Monday.

First woman in 100 years, Naima Khatoon appointed as AMU V-C

New Delhi: Naima Khatoon has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), making her the first woman to hold the top post in over 100 years, sources said on Monday. Khatoon was appointed after receiving approval from President Droupadi Murmu, who is Visitor to the University, they said. Also ReadAligarh 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 .

Naima Khatoon Appointed As Vice Chancellor Of Aligarh University: Report

Naima Khatoon has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), making her the first woman to hold the top post in over 100 years, sources said on Monday.

Naima Khatoon appointed as AMU's first female Vice Chancellor in over 100 years

Naima Khatoon has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), making her the first woman to hold this position in over a century. Her appointment follows approval from President Droupadi Murmu, with permission also sought from the Election Commission of India due to the Model Code of Conduct being in effect. Khatoon, a PhD holder in psychology from AMU, has a long-standing association with the university, having joined as a lecturer in 1988 and later serving as the principal of the Women's College.

Congress will snatch away people's wealth, says Modi

New Delhi/Aligarh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reiterated that the Congress would snatch away the property of Indians if it came to power at the centre. Asserting that the grand old party believed in the politics of appeasement, the Prime Minister claimed this was the mindset of Naxals and Communists. Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradeshs Aligarh, a Muslim-dominated constituency, the Prime Minister accused the Congress and its I.N.D.I.A. bloc ally Samajwadi Party of doing politics of appeasement. Parties like the Congress-SP always practiced appeasement politics and never did anything for the political-social-economic upliftment of Muslims, he said. On Sunday, while addressing a rally in Rajasthan, the Prime Minister had triggered a row by claiming that the Congress believed that Muslims have the first right to the wealth of the nation. In Aligarh, however, the Prime Minister changed tack and spoke of his governments contribution by coming to the aid of Muslims, be it triple talaq, increasing the Haj quota and making visa rules easier for Muslims to visit Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage. Slamming the I.N.D.I.A. bloc, the Prime Minister said, the I.N.D.I.A. bloc members are hopeless, unwilling to look towards the future. They question why I speak of a developed India or making us the third-largest economic power. All they care about is their family and power greed. Warning the people of Aligarh against the Congress-SP, Modi said, they (Opposition) plan to confiscate property and money as they see fit, based on a survey they conduct. This is akin to Communist ideology, which has ruined many countries. Now, they want to implement this policy in India These family-oriented politicians have amassed vast fortunes by looting the people and have never shared their wealth with the poor, he said. The Prime Minister noted that Congress leaders have openly declared that if they come to power, they will investigate everyones earnings and property, even down to how much gold women possess, how many FDs employees have, and how much land farmers own. Hitting out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, he said: When I first came to Aligarh, I asked you to lock away the factories of nepotism, corruption and appeasement. You locked them so tight that even the two shehzaades cant find the key. Talking about several development initiatives aimed at the uplift of various sections of society, the Prime Minister noted that he had requested the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to increase the Haj quota. Today, not only has Indias Haj quota increased but visa rules have also been made easier. The government has also allowed women to go for Haj without Mehram, he said. Asserting that under the BJP-rule peace reigns in Aligarh, Modi said, Curfews were a daily ordeal in Aligarh, but not anymore. Under the SP government, riots, murders, and gang wars plagued us. Today, under Yogijis governance, peace reigns, and our sisters and daughters walk freely, without fear, he said.

Congress will snatch mangalsutra of mothers and sisters: Modi

At an election rally in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, PM says he has done much for Pasmanda Muslims and women

PM Doubles Down Amid Row: Congress Will Take Away Your Homes, Jewels

New Delhi, Apr 22: Amid the massive row over his remarks at Rajasthan's Banswara, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today doubled down on his property redistribution charge at the Congress, alleging that the Opposition party is eyeing the property of citizens and wants to loot it. Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Aligarh, he said members [] The post PM Doubles Down Amid Row: Congress Will Take Away Your Homes, Jewels appeared first on Northlines .

Pavna Industries Signs Agreement With OLA Electric To Provide Auto Components

As part of the pact, it will provide auto components like ignition switches and latches to OLA Electric across its manufacturing plants in India from its manufacturing unit at Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, Pavna Industries said in a statement.

Congress, SP hate it when I talk about Pasmanda Muslims, because their appeasement only helped the rich and powerful: PM Modi in Aligarh

Prime Minister said that Congress and SP have always been involved in appeasement politics and that it was the BJP that secured the lives of Muslim women by bringing legislation against triple talaq.

Put Aligarh lock on fate of SP, BSP: CM Yogi Adityanath asks voters

Adityanath urges 'Aligarh lock' in polls, supports candidates. Criticizes neglect by opposition, manipulation of faith. PM Modi's contributions garner BJP support. Mention of Aligarh University, defence corridor, Surya Tilak ceremony, and UP ministers.

Pavna Industries Expands into EV Market with Strategic Partnership with OLA Electric

Pavna Industries Expands into EV Market with Strategic Partnership with OLA Electric Steel and automotive player Pavna Industries on Monday said it has signed an agreement with EV player OLA Electric to supply auto components, marking an entry into the domestic EV sector. As part of the pact, it will provide auto components like ignition switches and latches to OLA Electric across its manufacturing plants in India from its manufacturing unit at Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, Pavna Industries said in a statement. ''With this partnership, we are foraying into the two-wheeler electric vehicle segment,'' Pavna Industries Managing Director Swapnil Jain said. Shares of the UP-based Pavna Group closed at Rs 561.40 apiece, up 4.99 per cent from its previous close on the BSE.

At Aligarh rally, PM Modi again accuses Congress of planning to redistribute wealth

Echoing the remarks made a day earlier in Rajasthan, PM Modi said at a poll rally here that the Congress planned to conduct a survey peoples possessions and redistribute them

'You have put a lock to the factories of nepotism, corruption and appeasement of SP and Congress': PM Modi

PM Modi criticizes opposition, praises BJP initiatives, and condemns dynastic politics in Aligarh rally. Mentions strong lock legacy, financial survey criticism, and Triple talaq law support. Addresses Muslim appeasement issue and Yogi Adityanath's governance in UP.

`They Are Eyeing Your Property...`: PM Modi `Warns` Aligarh Against Congress

PM Modi alleged that the Congress party is embracing Maoist and communist ideologies, with intentions to seize the possessions and valuables of the common people.

UP:Congress, SP have done nothing for economic upliftment of Muslims: PM Modi

Aligarh: Slamming Congress and Samajwadi Party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged that these political parties have always done politics of appeasement and have never done anything for the social and economic upliftment of Muslims. Addressing an election rally for the Lok Sabha Elections at Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh Prime Minister Modi said The people at the []

Congress, Oppn have eyes on peoples properties, planning to redistribute: PM Modi at Aligarh rally

When I discuss plight of Pasmanda Muslims...: PM Modi slams Congress, SP in Aligarh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has criticized Congress and Samajwadi Party for their appeasement politics and lack of action towards the upliftment of Pasmanda Muslims. He cited the BJP's legislation against triple talaq as a significant step towards securing the lives of Muslim women. Modi also praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his efforts in making the state a hub of self-reliance and promoting industrial development.

When I discuss plight of Pasmanda Muslims: PM Modi slams Congress, SP in Aligarh

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PM Modi Briefs Public Rally In Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh | Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | English News

PM Modi Briefs Public Rally In Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh | Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | English News Riots, murders, gang wars, extortion etc were the trademarks of the SP government, this was their identity and their politics was also run by this. But now in Yogi Ji's government: PM Modi briefs public meeting in

PM Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath in Aligarh

PM Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath in Aligarh

LS polls: PM Modi to campaign in UP today

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public meeting in Uttar Pradeshs Aligarh at 2 p.m. on Monday. Prime Minister Modi will campaign for the BJP candidate from Aligarh Lok Sabha seat, Satish Gautam. Also ReadNearly 66K Indians officially became American citizens in 2022: CRS report Home Minister Amit Shah will address 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 .

Samajwadi Party struggling to save its Mainpuri, Kannauj bastions: UP minister

Samajwadi Party struggling to save its Mainpuri, Kannauj bastions: UP minister The Samajwadi Party is struggling to save its bastions of Mainpuri and Kannauj in the Lok Sabha elections, Uttar Pradesh Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary said on Sunday and claimed that there is no impact of its alliance with the Congress. The Congress virtually has no public support in the state. As a result, there is no impact of its alliance with the Samajwadi Party, he claimed. Chaudhary, the minister for sugarcane development, said, ''The Samajwadi Party is struggling to save its Mainpuri and Kannauj seats and it will be extremely difficult for the party to save those.'' In Mainpuri, the BJP has fielded UP Minister Jaiveer Singh against Dimple Yadav, the incumbent MP and the wife of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Mainpuri goes to the polls in the third phase on May 7. In Kannauj, which goes to the polls in the fourth phase on May 13, the BJP has fielded sitting MP Subrat Pathak. The Samajwadi Party is yet to announce its candidate from the seat. Chaudhary further claimed that the BJP's alliance with the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) will prevent the division of about 20 per cent Jat votes as more than 70 per cent people from the community have so far been voting for the saffron party. The minister also asserted that the BJP will sweep western Uttar Pradesh, like it did in previous elections. ''In Mathura, Hema Malini will set a record for victory margin in the state,'' he said. The BJP's Hema Malini is eyeing a third term in the Lok Sabha from Mathura. Owing to the welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the administration of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the BJP will register convincing victories in all 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Chaudhary admitted that while the poll battle will not be a cakewalk for the party in a few areas due to the caste factor, the BJP will ultimately win the elections on the back of the government's welfare programmes. The minister also lashed out at Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, saying, ''Her latest trick to give tickets to Muslims is not going to work. I have visited three constituencies of western Uttar Pradesh but did not find any support for the BSP.'' Chaudhary claimed the BJP will also get votes from Muslims after the Centre introduced a law criminalising triple talaq and other welfare programmes. Mathura will vote in the second phase of polling on April 26, alongside Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Bulandshahr and Aligarh.

This election crucial for protecting community's rights, pluralism, say Muslim voters in Aligarh

This election crucial for protecting community's rights, pluralism, say Muslim voters in Aligarh Campaigning in Aligarh is subdued with major parties focusing on their core support bases. In the Muslim community, views on this Lok Sabha election seem to vary, with some seeing it as crucial for India's pluralism while others feel neglected by political parties. Muslims are a sizeable community in the Aligarh parliamentary constituency. According to the 2011 Census, Islam is the second-most popular religion in Aligarh city, a lock-making hub in western Uttar Pradesh, with over 40 per cent of people following it. ''For me, this election is about safeguarding the Constitution, which grants me and everyone else in this country the right to equality,'' Shadab Khan, a 45-year-old driver at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), said. Many others in Aligarh's Muslim community echoed his sentiment. Syed Aamir, a worker at a local eatery in the city's Shamshad market, described this election as a matter of survival for pluralism in India. ''If we don't vote now, we may lose this chance forever,'' Aamir said. There is also a sense of disillusionment among some Muslim voters as well, such as Mohammad Shiraz from Aligarh's Civil Lines area who feels overlooked by political parties. ''The ruling party doesn't need our vote and the opposition assumes we have no choice but to vote for them. That is why even though the elections are just a few days away, no party worker has approached us, let alone candidates,'' Shiraz said, highlighting a perceived lack of engagement from political actors. Amid all this, election campaigning in Aligarh remains relatively subdued, with candidates from major parties like the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP) focusing heavily on specific demographic groups. The BJP's incumbent MP Satish Gautam is prioritising outreach to the trader community, a traditional support base for his party, while the SP is concentrating on mobilising support from Jat villages. ''Our alliance is fighting on Hindu-Muslim unity in Aligarh, that goes without saying, but just like in exams, you concentrate more on tough subjects. We are doing the same but we carry the welfare of the Muslim community in our hearts,'' a Samajwadi Party functionary told PTI. Mohammad Sajjad, a professor at AMU's history department, that in the current atmosphere of ''majoritarian consolidation'', minority voters often feel redundant. He felt that issues such as economic inequality and religious pluralism have been overshadowing. ''The way majoritarian consolidation has been observed for many years, the question is not about Muslim votes anymore. It is about whether Hindu voters should lean towards Hindutva or a pluralist and tolerant Hinduism. Whether they will vote based on economic issues such as poverty, unemployment, economic inequality or solely on matters of religious supremacism,'' he told PTI. ''This decision will ultimately be made by the majority community; the minority of 10-12 per cent does not retain such specific importance. This is something the Hindus have to decide,'' Sajjad added. AMU, one of India's largest residential universities, stands as a focal point in this narrative. According to academic experts like Dr Iftekhar Ahmad Ansari, the institution embodies India's secular and pluralistic ethos but also faces the challenge of adapting to evolving democratic and societal demands. ''Muslims have never voted as a conservative block as they have been labelled to. They have not voted en-masse... but they vote for those who can best conserve and foster their culture which they have been brought up into and that is the plural culture,'' Ansari said. ''Even at AMU, the perception of Muslims of having conservative mindset or that they have the herd mentality is not the fact here they have been very open-minded,'' the associate professor at the political science department told PTI. Professor Syed Ali Nadeem Rezavi also expressed similar views, saying there is not a single Muslim here who can be termed ''anti-national''. ''The Muslims here would talk about their rights and doing that does not make you anti-national,'' he said. Aligarh goes to poll in the second phase of elections on April 26. Khair, Baroli, Atroli, Kol and Aligarh city are assembly segments in the Aligarh parliamentary constituency.

In Aligarh, In the city of locks, Urdu as the key to a brighter future

The Supreme Court has reserved verdict on the legal challenge to the minority status of AMU, but non-Muslims make up at least 30% of its student strength and the university will remain the pre-eminent educational institution in the region for the foreseeable future

Historian Irfan Habib Says 'Marathas Gave Aligarh Its Name'- Maratha History Researcher Says 'Not True'

NHAI Identifies 33 Highway Stretches For Monetisation Through ToT/InvIT Modes

The identified stretches include Lucknow-Aligarh, Kanpur-Ayodhya-Gorakhpur, and Bareilly-Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, Gurugram-Kotputli-Jaipur bypass and Jaipur-Kishangarh in Rajasthan, Panikoili-Rimuli in Odisha, Chennai bypass in Tamil Nadu, and Muzaffarpur-Darbhanga-Purnia highway in Bihar.

NHAI identifies 33 highway stretches for monetisation in FY25

NHAI plans to monetise 33 highway stretches covering 2,741 kilometres in the current fiscal year through toll operate transfer (TOT) and infrastructure investment trust (InvIT) modes. Identified stretches include Lucknow-Aligarh, Kanpur-Ayodhya-Gorakhpur, and Bareilly-Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, among others.

BJP MP Hema Malini compares herself to Lord Krishna's devotee 'gopi' in Mathura

BJP MP Hema Malini compares herself to Lord Krishna's devotee 'gopi' in Mathura Actress-turned-politician Hema Malini, contesting the Lok Sabha election from Mathura as a BJP candidate for the third time, said Wednesday that she considers herself as a ''gopi'' of Lord Krishna. ''I joined politics neither for name nor for fame. I also did not join politics for any materialistic gain,'' the Mathura MP told reporters here. Calling herself ''Gopi of Krishna'', Hema Malini said since Lord Krishna loves the ''Brijwasis'', she thought that he will shower his blessings on her only if she serves them sincerely. ''And I am accordingly serving the Brijwasis,'' she said. She expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president J P Nadda for giving her the opportunity to serve the Brijwasis for the third time from Mathura. She said the development of 'Braj 84 Kos Parikrama', lying in a miserable condition, will be her first priority. ''Efforts will be made to turn Braj 84 Kos Parikrama soothing, alluring and fascinating for the tourists,'' Hema Malini, two-term MP from Mathura, said. She said Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari was kind enough to consider her request and he sanctioned Rs 5,000 crore for the renovation of Braj 84 Kos Parikrama. ''As the DPR (detailed project report) for it has been prepared for Rs 11,000 crore, I will get the rest of the amount sanctioned for an ideal infrastructure so that it provides the needed facilities to the pilgrims and turns attractive and mesmerising for the international tourists,'' she said. Tourism will open the gates for employment to the locals, she said. Her second priority will be to work towards cleaning the Yamuna river, she said. Hema Malini claimed to have raised a question in Parliament about the pollution of the Ganga and the Yamuna rivers even before the Namami Gange project was launched. She said ever since Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath Yogi has taken interest in the Namami Gange project, the Ganga water has turned transparent and pollution-free at Prayagraj. But the Delhi government did not take interest in solving the pollution problem of the Yamuna river and the holy river remains polluted in Mathura, she alleged. According to the Mathura MP, without cleaning the Yamuna in Delhi and Haryana, the dream of a clean Yamuna in Mathura can not be translated into reality. At present, the Yamunotri water is used by Delhi and Haryana and drain water of both the states is discharged into the Yamuna, Hema Malini said, adding that she will make every effort for a clean Yamuna. Expressing her gratitude to Yogi, she said he formed the UP Braj Tirth Vikas Parishad at her behest when his attention was drawn towards the need for the development of Mathura. It included Sant Gram (a village for the saints) in Vrindavan, renovation of kunds, Raskhan Samadhi, Sur (Surdas') Sadhana Sthali at Parasauli and Govardhan Parikrama. Much work including renovation of Raskhan Samadhi, Sur Sadhana Sthali and Govardhan Parikrama has been accomplished. Though work on other projects is in progress, it is on a slow speed due to encroachments, she said. Hema Malini thanked Yogi also for the declaration of Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, Govardhan, Gokul, Mathura and Baldeo as ''teerth sthals'' (pilgrimages) on her request. Her other priorities will be elevated broad gauge rail line between Mathura junction, connecting the holy city of Vrindavan with Aligarh, construction of a double line rail track between Mathura and Kasganj, replacing hard potable water with the Ganga river water and opening a central university that ultimately will pave the way for youths to succeed in the competitive examinations.

Aligarh constituency of Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Election 2024: Date of voting, result, candidates list, main parties, schedule

Flight tickets are available for just Rs 99, your dream of air travel will come true; Details here

This sequence of air travel will take place in every flight from Aligarh to Lucknow throughout the month of April. Under this, five seats each have been reserved for such passengers which will be made available on first come first serve basis. Flight tickets Price: If you live in Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh and [] The post Flight tickets are available for just Rs 99, your dream of air travel will come true; Details here first appeared on informalnewz .

UP: Free Palestine protest during Eid prayers; minor altercation with cops

Aligarh: A heated exchange took place on Thursday, April 11, between police and some people attending Eid prayers at an eidgah here who had put up a banner with the slogan Free Palestine, police said. Policemen posted there objected to the banner causing a minor altercation with the demonstrators but the matter was quickly defused, 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 .

Long and short of Raaj Anand's story: From Arvind Kejriwal's aide and admirer to critic

NEW DELHI: Raaj Kumar Anand, who shocked an already beleaguered AAP on Wednesday by quitting the party and the government, was associated with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal since his anti-corruption movement days. But as he quit the Cabinet, he said the Aam Aadmi Party which was born out of a crusade against corruption is embroiled in corruption now and it has ecome difficult for me to stay in this party. The Patel Nagar MLA's story is one of rags to riches though. According to his official bio on the Delhi government portal, his parents had to send him to his maternal grandparents in Aligarh due to poverty. His maternal grandfather was a ragman and whose financial condition was not that good so that he could educate his grandson, the portal said. The 57-year-old leader's profile also describes him as a person whose life was full of struggles. Anand had to work as a child labourer in a padlock factory in Aligarh, it read. But he later on succeeded as a businessman. From making pillows by using discarded foam from factories to becoming a successful businessman in Rexine Leather, Anand's journey may appear to be an easy and simple, but in reality it has gone through many difficulties and ups and downs, it said. In his Delhi Assembly poll affidavit in 2020, his assets were pegged at Rs 78.9 crore. Speaking to reporters as he resigned from the party, he said, I joined Arvind Kejriwal at a time when he said from the Ramlila Ground (the venue for the India Against Corruption movement) that country will change after its politics changes. Politics did not change but the politicians have now changed. The Aam Aadmi Party is embroiled in corruption. Given the situation, it has become difficult for me to stay in this party. That is why through your medium I want to convey that I am resigning from this party and my minister's post, he told the reporters. A masters of arts (political science) from Bundelkhand University, Anand actively participated in the 'India Against Corruption' in 2011 under influence of Kejriwal. He joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) founded by Kejriwal and other leaders of the anti-corruption movement in 2012. He was fielded by the party from Patel Nagar reserved constituency in 2020 Assembly polls that he won by defeating his nearest rival from the BJP. In November 2022, he joined the Delhi cabinet and was holding the portfolios of Social Welfare, SC and ST, Gurdwara Elections and Cooperative.

Raaj Anand: The Evolution of an Admirer to Critic of Arvind Kejriwal

Raaj Anand: The Evolution of an Admirer to Critic of Arvind Kejriwal Raaj Kumar Anand, who shocked an already beleaguered AAP on Wednesday by quitting the party and the government, was associated with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal since his anti-corruption movement days. But as he quit the Cabinet, he said the Aam Aadmi Party which was born out of a crusade against corruption is ''embroiled'' in corruption now and it has ''become difficult for me to stay in this party''. The Patel Nagar MLA's story is one of rags to riches though. According to his official bio on the Delhi government portal, his parents had to send him to his maternal grandparents in Aligarh ''due to poverty''. ''His maternal grandfather was a ragman and whose financial condition was not that good so that he could educate his grandson,'' the portal said. The 57-year-old leader's profile also describes him as a person whose life was ''full of struggles''. Anand had to work as a ''child labourer'' in a padlock factory in Aligarh, it read. But he later on succeeded as a businessman. ''From making pillows by using discarded foam from factories to becoming a successful businessman in Rexine Leather, Anand's journey may appear to be an easy and simple, but in reality it has gone through many difficulties and ups and downs,'' it said. In his Delhi Assembly poll affidavit in 2020, his assets were pegged at Rs 78.9 crore. Speaking to reporters as he resigned from the party, he said, ''I joined Arvind Kejriwal at a time when he said from the Ramlila Ground (the venue for the India Against Corruption movement) that country will change after its politics changes. Politics did not change but the politicians have now changed.'' ''The Aam Aadmi Party is embroiled in corruption. Given the situation, it has become difficult for me to stay in this party. That is why through your medium I want to convey that I am resigning from this party and my minister's post,'' he told the reporters. A masters of arts (political science) from Bundelkhand University, Anand actively participated in the 'India Against Corruption' in 2011 under ''influence'' of Kejriwal. He joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) founded by Kejriwal and other leaders of the anti-corruption movement in 2012. He was fielded by the party from Patel Nagar reserved constituency in 2020 Assembly polls that he won by defeating his nearest rival from the BJP. In November 2022, he joined the Delhi cabinet and was holding the portfolios of Social Welfare, SC and ST, Gurdwara Elections and Cooperative.

UP: Fire breaks out at restaurant in Aligarh, one injured

UP: Fire breaks out at restaurant in Aligarh, one injured A fire broke out at a restaurant opposite Aligarh railway station on Wednesday early morning. The incident left one person injured, said police. On getting the information, three fire tenders rushed to the spot and doused the fire. The incident happened around 4 AM and the reason behind the fire was a short circuit. Additional City Magistrate Sanjay Mishra said, There is Roshni restaurant in front of the railway station. The fire broke out due to a short circuit at around 4 am. On receiving information, three fire brigade and police administration teams reached the spot and brought the fire under control. One person has fainted in this incident, while the damage will be assessed after investigation, he added. Earlier, a fire broke out at a four-storey shop in Delhi's Gandhi Nagar market on Tuesday evening, according to officials. (ANI)

Independent candidate from Aligarh campaigns wearing garland of slippers, video viral

The Election Commission has allocated a range of symbols ice cream cone, refrigerator, TV and slippers among others to independent candidates

UP candidate dons garland of 7 slippers while campaigning; Here's why

The voting for the first two phases is set for April 19 and April 26, followed by subsequent phases on May 7, May 13, May 20, May 23, and June 1. Aligarh, specifically, will cast its votes during the second phase on April 26, with the counting of votes slated for June 4.

Garland of slippers: Lok Sabha candidate from Aligarh on quirky poll campaign

The News Mill

UP: Deaf, mute girl raped in Aligarh

UP: Deaf, mute girl raped in Aligarh A 16-year-old deaf and mute girl was allegedly raped in a village here, police said on Sunday. The incident occurred on March 25 but the girls family came to know about it when the accused shared a video of the act on social media a few days after, they said. The victim's father, in his complaint, accused two men, Ramu and Rahul, of raping his daughter, police said. An FIR was registered under IPC section 376 (rape) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act against the two accused on Friday. The minor was taken for a medical examination on Saturday, police said, adding that efforts are on to arrest the accused.

Minor girl raped in UPs Aligarh, accused on run

The News Mill

Looking for more extraordinary stories people have not witnessed

With three national awards and many critically-acclaimed films to his credit, Manoj Bajpayee says he is still looking for stories and roles that are extraordinary and explore an untapped side of the actor in him. Bajpayee, who has created a niche with many memorable projects across medium such as Satya, Shool, Raajneeti, Aligarh, Gangs of Wasseypur movies and The Family Man series, said his search for unique roles is always on. Ive been lucky to get really good offers. I [] The post Looking for more extraordinary stories people have not witnessed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

The trick UP Mayawati's electoral sleeve

A summer of survival it is for the irrepressible Mayawati and her Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). A little over a year ago, the BSP had won just one Assembly seat and seen its vote share shrink to 12.88%, down from the 19.48% the party secured in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. That Lok Sabha election five years ago was one in which the BSP won ten seats while being in an alliance with the Samajwadi Party. This election should prove way toughter as they are going it alone. Mayawati probably has a reason to do so. She has going by the names of the candidates announced so far resorted to some deft social engineering and that gamble may not have been possible if the BSP was part of any alliance. These bold experiments seem to be stemming from a lot of quiet and serious analysis. Since the party has a trustworthy vote bank among the Dalits, its intention clearly is to woo the Muslims and upper castes wherever possible in the hope of springing surprises. This strategy may hurt both NDA and INDIA blocs, but is to the BSP's advantage. The list till now and the message from it Till date, the party has declared 36 candidates for the 80 seats in the state, and despite the murmurs of there being a focus on Muslims in the first list, the composition as of now shows a clever pattern of strategic choices. Regardless of the common belief that BSP will favour a Dalit-Muslim combination, it appears that Brahmins have been given top priority as far as numbers are concerned. There are 11 Brahmins and other general castes, 10 Dalits, nine Muslims and six OBCs in the list so far. It is clear that rather than going in for a predictable strategy of naming any caste-community bloc, the party has taken care to pick a suitable candidate keeping in mind the constituencys demographics. A few things stand out from the BSP names announced so far: The party does not want to portray themselves as being a Dalit-only outfit. It is not shying away from hosting Muslims in key places, unlike the Samajwadi Party. Sensing the mood of upper castes, Brahmins are once again in the BSPs favoured list, unlike in the BJP, which is now being increasingly perceived as an OBC-dominated group. The BSP aims to dent the prospects of both the BJP and the SP-Congress alliance. Will he, wont he? Amethi awaits their Rahul answer even as Smriti Irani gets going Key names including the one fighting original Dream Girl Some key names give an idea of what the party could have in mind. The BSP has fielded Sarwar Malik, an old loyalist, from Lucknow, where Union Minister Rajnath Singh and SP MLA Ravidas Mehrotra are the other candidates. Regardless of whether he wins or not, Malik may appeal to Muslim voters who have been traditionally voting for BJP in the state capital. Malik being named by the BSP also elicited a prompt decision by the SP which named Fakhir Siddiqi as the Lucknow party president. In western UP, the BSP has posed a challenge to the Rashtriya Lok Dal (now a partner of BJP) in Bijnore by putting up a Jat candidate Chaudhary Vijendra Singh against RLD's Chandan Singh Chauhan, a Gujar. This may divide Jat votes considered loyal to RLD. Jat politics also sees a play in Mathura where BJPs Hema Malini, the original Dream Girl, is seeking a third term. BSP has named Suresh Singh, a Jat and former central services officer who had a long association with the BJP and joined the BSP in 2019. Surjewalas Hema Malini remarks vile, sexist: BJP The BSP's moves in Aligarh, Ghaziabad and Lakhimpur Kheri are indicative of a clever strategy of appealing to particular caste groups. Making last-minute changes, Hitendra Kumar alias Bunty Upadhyay (till recently with BJP) was named from Aligarh, whereas the previous BSP nominee was Gufran Noor, formerly with AIMIM. In Ghaziabad, a last-minute change saw Nandkishore Pundir, a Thakur candidate disgruntled with the BJP being name as BSP nominee, whereas the earlier candidate Anshay Kalra, a Punjabi real estate businessman from Kaushambi, was shifted to Kheri, which has a strong Punjabi and Sikh population. In Kannauj, for long a Samajwadi Party stronghold, the party has fielded a Muslim Imran Jafar. Brahmins have also been put up in Unnao and Mirzapur. When the BSP had allies The BSP had allied with the SP twice -- once in 1993, and then in 2017. Its alliance with BJP saw Mayawati become Chief Minister thrice. Since 2007, the party has failed to get good results in any election in UP, despite having run through all combinations. For example, in the 2023 Urban Local Bodies election, it had put up 11 Muslims for 17 Mayoral posts, but all of them lost. In the 2022 Assembly election, it had put up 89 Muslims, ensuring the defeat of the SP in many places. In the 2019 Lok Sabha election, it had allied with the SP and the combo won 15 seats - 10 for BSP and 5 for SP. The 2017 Assembly election saw SP and Congress contesting as an alliance, but winning only 54 seats, while BSP had to be content with 19. In the 2014 Lok Sabha electio, BSP failed to win any seat. It was in the 2007 Assembly election that the BSP had come to power in the state with a full majority, winning 206 seats. The new bet Despite the 2019 Lok Sabha election showing, allying with the SP has not been particularly advantageous for the BSP, and there have been no long-term benefits from such an alliance. In the last few months, there had been many overtures from the SP for a possible tie-up but Mayawati remained adamant and did not respond to them. It now appears that the BSP is instead betting on the new social engineering formula to get favourable results. It also noteworthy that Mayawati has announced her nephew Akash Anand as her political successor. It will only be natural on her part to want to hand over the party to him with a healthy vote share and a few seats. Hence, the extra effort in candidate selection. The announcement of names for rest of the seats in UP will indicate more facets of this strategy. 2024 LS Polls: SP Caught in bind yet again, this time in Badaun over Shivpal's candidature

Yogi shares stage with Jayant in Baghpat

LUCKNOW : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared the dais with Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhury in Baghpat on Friday and struck a chord with people in the Jat-dominated constituency by paying rich tributes to former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh. Addressing the Vijay Shankhnaad Rally in Baghpat, Adityanath expressed his fortune in visiting the sacred land of Bharat Matas great son and former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh. Claiming that the conferment of Bharat Ratna on Singh is a fitting tribute to the farming community of the country, Adityanath extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he claimed had paid attention to the values and ideals of Singh and made the issues of farmers part of the political agenda, implementing welfare schemes for their benefit. The CM sought votes for Rajkumaar Sangwan, the RLD member contesting from Baghpat, the pocket borough of Singh, as the NDA candidate. Addressing the rally, RLD chief Jayant Chaudhury recalled his father and former Union Minister Chaudhary Ajit Singh, claiming that having learned to make significant decisions from his father, he decided to be a part of the NDA and contribute to the growth story of the country. We are fighting with the BJP. This is a shared fight and a shared stage. The senior BJP leaders and party workers are putting in a lot of hard work. At this stage, we have come together to fight for our nation. We have the chance to advance PM Modis slogans and work. He (Modi) is seeking a historic third-time mandate from the people; every day he goes to some corner of the country, appeals to people, works hard. The outcome of hard work is always sweet, said the RLD chief. Later, the CM addressed a public rally in Barauli in Aligarh, organised to seek votes for BJP candidate and sitting MP Satish Gautam. At the rally, he emphasised that living life with the ethos of Lord Ram is paramount and that every task is accomplished by invoking his name. Adityanath also launched a blistering attack on the Opposition bloc over farmers issues and the law and order situation. The CM asserted that the BJP-led government had not only consecrated Lord Ram in his abode but also ensured the final journey (Ram Naam Satya hain) of all those who posed a threat to the safety and security of women and traders in the state. He also highlighted the accomplishments of Modis decade-long tenure.