Suresh Gopi's son Madhav briefly detained after road rage clash with Congress leader in T'Puram
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Actor Madhav Suresh, son of Union Minister Suresh Gopi, was taken into police custody late Thursday night following a road rage incident involving Congress leader Vinod Krishna near Sasthamangalam. The incident occurred around 11 pm when Madhav, en route to Vellayambalam, allegedly came dangerously close to Vinods car as the KPCC member attempted a U-turn. A verbal altercation ensued, which reportedly escalated when Madhav allegedly obstructed Vinods vehicle on the busy Vellayambalam-Sasthamangalam stretch. Speaking to the presspersons, Vinod said he recognized Madhav immediately and urged him to remain calm. He also informed the Museum police, suspecting that Madhav might be under the influence of alcohol. However, a breathalyzer test by police confirmed that Madhav was not intoxicated. Vinod later requested the police not to file a complaint. Responding to circulating reports, Madhav posted on Instagram that the narrative was being distorted. Apparently I am part of an incident where half the things that actually happened were not said and a lot of things that did not happen were said, he wrote.
Isha Gramotsavam 2025 begins in Thiruvananthapuram on August 23
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The 17th edition of Isha Gramotsavam, one of the largest rural sports festivals, will kick off in six districts of the state from August 23. Over 700 players from across the state are expected to participate, forming more than 140 teams. Matches will be held in Kasaragod, Kannur, Thrissur, Palakkad, Ernakulam, and Thiruvananthapuram districts. The festival unfolds in three stages: cluster level, divisional level, and the grand finale. The cluster-level matches will take place on August 23-24 in Thrissurs Varandarappilly and Ernakulams Ambalamugal. Kasaragods Cheruvathur will host matches on August 28-29, followed by Pothencode in Thiruvananthapuram and Vellachal-Makreri in Kannur on August 30-31. Palakkads Ayiloor will host matches on September 1-2. Nationally, Isha Gramotsavam will span over 35,000 villages across Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Puducherry, and, Odisha. More than 50,000 rural participants, including over 5,000 women, are competing this year, forming over 6,000 teams. The grand finale will take place before the iconic Adiyogi at the Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore, on September 21. Competing teams stand a chance to win from a prize pool of Rs 67 lakh, with Rs 5 lakh each awarded to the winners in both mens and womens categories.
Prabowo leads economic, investment meeting at Hambalang residence
President Prabowo Subianto chaired a closed-door meeting at his private residence in Hambalang, West Java, on Wednesday ...
Week on, cops yet to arrest inmate who fled from Ambala central jail
While Punjab and Haryana have seen normal monsoon rainfall overall, distribution has been uneven across paddy-growing regions. Several key districts like Sangrur, Muktsar, and Bathinda in Punjab, and Ambala, Karnal, Kaithal, and Jind in Haryana, have recorded deficient rainfall. Conversely, some districts experienced excess rainfall, potentially impacting paddy crops differently across both states.
10.45 crore sanctioned for construction of roads in Ambalappuzha Assembly constituency
2 Bishnoi Gang Operatives Arrested In Punjab, Pistols, Ammunition Recovered
Anti Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab has arrested two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from the Patiala-Ambala Highway near village Shambhu in Patiala, Director General of Police Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, said on Thursday.
Punjab Police arrests two operatives of Lawrence Bishnoi gang
In a major breakthrough, Anti Gangster Task Force (#AGTF) Punjab, arrests two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from #Patiala-#Ambala Highway near Village Shambhu, says DGP Gaurav Yadav on X
Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) apprehended two most-wanted operatives of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang near Shambhu village on the Patiala-Ambala Highway. According to DGP Gaurav Yadav, the accused fled to Nepal after a murder and returned to Punjab to commit another crime.
Kerala Congress leader Chennithala alleges large-scale voters list fraud; points fingers at CPM, BJP
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has alleged massive voters list fraud in Kerala, drawing a comparison to the irregularities exposed recently by Rahul Gandhi at the national level. In a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday, Chennithala recalled that in March 2021, he had brought out evidence of widespread fake and duplicate votes in the state ahead of the assembly elections. He said a scrutiny of the final voters list published by the Election Commission (EC) at the time showed shocking duplication. The initial findings indicated large numbers of fake votes in constituencies such as Kazhakoottam (4,506), Koyilandi (4,611), Nadapuram (6,171) and Ambalappuzha (4,750), he said. Follow-up checks by UDF workers across all 140 constituencies had allegedly uncovered 4.34 lakh duplicate or fake votes. Despite filing a complaint with the EC, Chennithala said action was limited. It admitted to 38,000 double votes but cited technical limitations in verifying the rest. He alleged the actual number of fraudulent votes could exceed 10 lakh, enough to have influenced the 2021 poll outcome, and accused the CPM and BJP of aiding each other to seize power. Chennithala also raised suspicions about alleged voters list manipulation in Thrissur, where the BJP won, suggesting it may have been done with CPMs knowledge.
Justice N. Anand Venkatesh dismisses a writ petition filed by a 71-year-old devotee residing at West Mambalam in Chennai
Sona wanted to spend life with Ramees, but fate had other plans
KOCHI: A distressing question haunts both the family and the entire Karukadam region. Why did Sona Eldhose choose to end her own life, especially when she was given the freedom to follow her heart, and even to marry someone from another religion? Echoing this, Sonas brother Basil Eldhose said, I always stood by her and supported everything she loved then why couldnt she open up to me, just once, about what she was going through? Ramees, along with his family and relatives, had come to our home recently to discuss marrying Sona. But they had set a strict condition that Sona should convert to Islam, and the marriage should be conducted immediately. Due to Sonas firm stance, we agreed to the marriage on one condition- it should take place only after the mourning period for our fathers death. But, they were unwilling to cooperate with that request. Amid all this, Ramees was arrested in connection with an immoral trafficking case. When Sona came to know about it, serious issues began to surface in their relationship, Basil told TNIE . Even after knowing about his profligacy, she still chose to stay with Ramees. Because, she was that committed to their relationship, Basil said in a broken voice. Following that incident, Sona stood firm on her decision not to change her religion, and she wanted a registered marriage. Their common friend and her husband from Adimali helped make the arrangements. But at the last moment, Ramees backed out of those plans and told her that the preparations for the marriage were being arranged at Aluva registrars office. And under the pretext of taking her for the registration of marriage at Aluva, Ramees took Sona with him, but instead of going to the registrars office, he took her to his house in Aluva. There, with the support of his parents, relatives, and close friends, he locked her inside a room. She was only released after she threatened to inform me, Basil said. She was so afraid of her safety that she didnt even drink a drop of water from that house before returning, he added. Kothamangalam woman suicide case: Police arrest boyfriend over rape; BJP alleges love jihad Adding further, Sonas mother Bindu said, She was willing to give her life for the love she had for him. But in return, all he (Ramees) cared about was his religion, not my daughter. Even after everything, she once told me that if she lives, she would still wanted to continue the relationship and live with him, she said. Eldhose Wilson, Sonas relative and neighbour, stated that Ramees and his family had taken a rigid stance regarding conversion. The relationship between Sona and Ramees began during their undergraduate days at UC College in Aluva. When I learnt about her plans to convert and marry him, I spoke to her brother who is a close friend of mine, and urged him to think deeply about the matter. But he is a kind-hearted person, always willing to accept anything for his sisters happiness, he said. At the time of Sonas tragic death, her mother was away at work, and her brother was also out of town, working as a part-time driver for the same household where their mother is employed. I was one of the first people to rush her to the hospital, and later to the police station with her mortal remains, Eldhose added. Weve known that family personally for years, and we were also aware of Sonas relationship with the young man. From what we understood, the marriage was supposed to take place after she completed her studies, said Babitha Mathai, a resident of Karukadam, and councillor of nearby ward, Ambalappady. Sonas father had passed away just three months earlier in a tragic incident, after drowning in a canal while under the influence of alcohol. Its heartbreaking to hear about yet another tragedy in a family that always seemed so peaceful, she added. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
Ambala Cantonment to host Tiranga Yatra on August 13: Minister Anil Vij
Ambala Cantonment to host Tiranga yatra on Aug 13
Contaminated water riles West Mambalam residents for six months
Special trains between Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram North ahead of Independence Day weekend
KASARAGOD: Kasaragod Southern Railway announced special trains between Mangaluru Junction and Thiruvananthapuram North to clear the rush of passengers during the Independence Day holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 06041 Mangaluru Junction Thiruvananthapuram North Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Mangaluru Junction at 7.30 p.m. on Aug. 14 and 16 (Thursday & Saturday) and reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 8.00 a.m., the next day. Train No.06042 Thiruvananthapuram North - Mangaluru Junction Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.15 p.m. on August 15 and 17 and reach Mangaluru Junction at 6.30 a.m. the next day. The trains will have a coach composition of 01- Two-tier AC Coach, 02- Three-tier AC Coaches, 17-Sleeper class Coaches, & 02- Second Class Luggage cum Brake Vans. These trains will stop at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Ambalapuzha, Haripad, Kayamkulam, Sasthankota and Kollam.
Kitex to launch US kidswear brand Little Stars in India after US imposes 50% tariff on exports
KOCHI: Facing the heat after the imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods and supplements by the United States, Kitex Garments, a Kerala-based garment manufacturer, is set to introduce its US brand in the domestic market. Little Stars, the brand exclusively for newborn babies and childrens clothing in the US, will be introduced in India soon. Addressing the media, Sabu Jacob, the MD of Kitex Garments Limited, said that by strengthening their presence in the Indian market, they will be able to address any challenges that may arise due to high tariffs on exports to the US. This will also protect the interests of Indian consumers and investors. With the arrival of Little Star, Indians who want the best for their children will be able to get clothes that meet American quality, safety, and fashion at an affordable price, he said on Thursday. The imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports to America by the US government recently will severely affect sectors such as leather, chemicals, footwear, gems and jewellery, textiles and others. Sabu Jacob also opined that by introducing US-based Kitexs own brand, Little Star, to the Indian market, it is also an opportunity to make high-quality clothing that meets international standards easily available to newborns and toddlers in the country. Studies suggest that the newborn baby clothing market in India is expected to reach around Rs 1.46 lakh crore by 2030. The birth rate in India is six times the birth rate in the US. The birth rate in India is around 24 million. Accordingly, the demand for newborn and childrens clothing in India is also increasing, said Sabu. He added that the company will look for digital and offline opportunities to establish its presence in the Indian market. In this changing environment, the role of digital channels is crucial to establish a strong presence in Indias retail sector and to meet the needs of consumers. Thus, Little Star will be featured on multiple online platforms. The chain will be expanded to all cities in India through e-commerce and then across the country through retail platforms and e-commerce platforms, he said. Kitex Garments is a leading producer that exports newborn and childrens clothing to countries such as Europe and the US. Through the expansion, the Kizhakkambalam-based company expects an additional revenue of Rs 1000 crore in the next two to three years.
ATFL offers affordable housing for Ambala Cantt residents
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: ATFL (Herman City), the first and only approved and planned township is offering the affordable housing for the residents of Ambala Cantt. The project is developed in an area of 50 Acres at Ambala Cantt, Sector 42, Ambala-Jagadhari National Highway under Deen Dayal Jan Awas Yojana. The seed of this dream is being implanted by ATFL (Monga Infratechs). The project is the first organized township of Ambala Cantt that has 8 parks, 4 commercial centres, [] The post ATFL offers affordable housing for Ambala Cantt residents appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
In Jawasia, Madhya Pradesh, Ambalal Prajapat honored his dying friend Sohanlal Jain's wish by dancing at his funeral. Sohanlal, battling cancer, requested a joyful farewell in a letter, asking for no weeping but only celebration. Ambalal's emotional tribute, a dance filled with tears and love, moved villagers and went viral, showcasing a profound friendship that transcended grief.
Man Dances at Friends Funeral to Fulfil His Last Wish in MP
In a moving tribute, Ambalal Prajapat honours his late friends heartfelt request to celebrate his final journey with dance, not sorrow
Leopard Captured at Golconda After 22-Day Hunt
The captured animal was initially shifted to the Nehru Zoological Park around 10 am on Thursday. After zoo authorities confirmed it was in good health, it was transported and released in the Kambalapalli range.
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The Train For Your Next Vaishno Devi Visit | Complete Guide
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The cities connected by the services are New Delhi, Ambala, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, and Katra
Quadcopter loses connection during training sortie, falls in open area in Ambala
The Army authorities and Air Force personnel also reached there. They took the drone into their possession
Cong. slams removal of plaque from childrens park in Payyambalam
50-year-old remanded in alleged rape case in Kasaragod
The alleged assaults reportedly took place in 2022 within the Ambalathara police station limits
Ambalappuzha MLA Merit Award presented
People will put an end to dynasty rule of DMK in 2026 Assembly election: Edappadi K. Palaniswami
Addressing a gathering of party workers following a roadshow on Thiruchitrambalam Road in Vanur in Villupuram district, he says the people are disillusioned with the ruling party
5 crore sanctioned for amenity centre at Ambalappuzha temple
In addition to spacious parking facilities, the centre will feature separate dormitories for men and women, storage space, and restroom facilities
ED raids 11 locations in Punjab, Haryana in dunki route money laundering probe
CHANDIGARH: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at eleven locations across Punjab and Haryana as part of an ongoing money-laundering investigation into a 'dunki route' case involving illegal immigrants who were deported by the United States earlier this year. Sources said that the Jalandhar zonal office of the apex agency carried out search operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala, and Moga in Punjab, and Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Karnal in Haryana. The EDs investigation is based on 19 FIRs registered by police in both Punjab and Haryana against several travel agents and middlemen. As part of the probe, the agency also raided the residence of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Totewala) leader Sukh Gill in Jalandhar. The searches were conducted at premises linked to individuals and entities whose names surfaced during the course of the investigation, said sources. According to officials, around 131 youths from Punjab were deported from the United States in February this year. They were flown back to India in handcuffs aboard US military aircraft, triggering widespread public outrage. Sources further revealed that the travel agents allegedly duped aspiring migrants out of rS 4555 lakh each. Many of these agents never met the victims in person and operated through local contacts. The youth were promised legitimate overseas placements but were instead pushed to take the illegal dunki route, passing through multiple countries. Investigators found that these donkers and their associates exerted pressure on the migrants and their families for additional payments while the youths were in transit. It is learnt that the ED has recorded statements from several deportees, which have helped map the networks operational structure and identify new suspects. The deportees were asked to submit all relevant documents, including bank account details of the travel agents who received payments. A thorough investigation was launched under PMLA as the case involves significant illegal financial transactions, said an official on condition of anonymity.
JALANDHAR: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a 'donkey route' case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year , official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states , Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said. The money laundering case stems from 17 FIRs registered by Punjab and Haryana police departments against the travel/visa agents and middlemen who cheated various persons willing to go to the US illegally, they said. A number of Indians from these two states and few others were deported onboard US military planes in February this year and the agency later recorded the statements of few deportees. These statements and some linked investigation threw up the names of certain suspects and they are being searched, the sources said. 682 Indians deported from US since January, majority had attempted to enter illegally: MEA The agents used to arget innocent persons who were willing to go abroad and on the false promise of sending them to the US through legal channels and flights they used to charge an amount ranging from Rs 45-50 lakh per candidate. However, the agents used to dupe these people as they were sent through illegal routes (donkey route) by crossing the borders of many countries illegally through dangerous/jungle routes under the influence of 'donkers' and mafias, the sources said. These agents, in collusion with 'donkers' and mafia used to create a hreatening situation for the aspiring travellers and their families that they were forced to cough up more and more money, the sources said.
ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case
Jalandhar, Jul 9: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a donkey route case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year, official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under [] The post ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Panic grips Ambalamugal after underground cables catch fire
Nayarambalam panchayat gets additional 10 lakh for geobag installation
Madras High Court refuses to reject election petition against AIADMK MLA Natham Viswanathan
Justice P.T. Asha dismisses a plea by the AIADMK MLA to reject the election petition filed against him by DMK candidate M.A. Andiambalam
Chandigarh diary | All official work only in Hindi: Haryana Edu Min
Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhandas directions to his department to conduct all official work and formal communications in Hindi have become a talking point in government circles. While Danda has issued these orders, the officials in his department are struggling to implement them. The problem is finding the right words in Hindi. This announcement follows a directive from the Directorate of Higher Education issued on June 10. Even I dont know English, and 90% of the people in Haryana dont understand it either. I have ordered all work in the education department to be done in Hindi, the minister said recently. Haryana engineers dressing down over dress He shorted the power supply over a pair of shorts and paid a price for it. Executive Engineer Harish Goel of Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam, posted in Yamunanagar, was denied entry to a popular club in Ambala Cantonment because he was wearing shorts. The clubs rules prohibit them. Peeved, he snapped the power supply to the club. Shailender Khanna, the president of Central Phoenix Club, submitted a complaint to Haryana Power and Energy Minister Anil Vij. He is also the MLA from Ambala Cantonment. Vij recommended Goels suspension, saying such behaviour from a public servant was unacceptable Rijijus dress-and-dance in Himachal Pradesh Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju spent a memorable three days travelling to remote tribal areas in Lahaul and Spiti of Himachal Pradesh. He donned the traditional dress and even took part in the Nati dance with the locals. BJP MP from Mandi, actor Kangana Ranaut, and local Congress MLA Anuradha Rana joined him. In a series of posts, Rijiju wrote on X, Love and affection of Spiti Valley is mesmerising! Launched various projects at Kaza, furthering the vision of PM @narendramodi ji to develop the border areas! In another post, he wrote, We joined (sic) with Kinnauri folk songs & dances! Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Two temples on Mambalam High Road to organise Kumbabhishekam on July 2
Transformative Governance, Security, Collective Spirit
The past decade has been a testament to Indias remarkable transformation under the decisive and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As our nation completes eleven years of this transformative journey, India stands significantly taller on global platforms, having achieved unprecedented progress across a multitude of sectors at home. Indias projected ascent to become the worlds fourth-largest economy by 2025, based on nominal GDP, is a clear reflection of the success of landmark policies, such as Make in India, and GST. The infrastructure sector has witnessed unparalleled growth, with the construction of nearly 50,000 km of national highways, including engineering marvels like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan is meticulously integrating infrastructure development across various sectors. Rural India has undergone a remarkable transformation, with nearly 100% electrification, bringing light and opportunity to countless households. Our renewable energy capacity has roughly tripled. The Digital India revolution has expanded financial inclusion. The Aadhaar-linked Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism has saved an astounding Rs 2.7 lakh crore by eliminating leakages and ensuring that aid reaches its intended beneficiaries directly. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system, now processing over 1000 crore monthly transactions, has evolved into a global benchmark for digital finance. The semiconductor mission and the introduction of production-linked incentives are strategically positioning India as a global manufacturing hub. With over 75 crore internet users, Indias digital economy is projected to reach an impressive $1 trillion by 2030. The Modi governments commitment to social welfare has been unwavering. The Swachh Bharat Mission, with the construction of over 10 crore toilets, has brought an end to open defecation. Ayushman Bharat has emerged as the worlds largest health assurance scheme, providing vital healthcare coverage to 50 crore. The Ujjwala Yojana has empowered nine crore women by providing them with clean cooking fuel. Similarly, PM-KISAN has provided direct income support to 11 crore farmers. Beyond these, education reforms, such as the National Education Policy 2020, have modernised learning frameworks, focusing on holistic development and future-ready skills. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign has significantly improved gender ratios and girls education enrolment. The Start-up India initiative has fostered an impressive ecosystem of over 100,000 start-ups. Initiatives like Lakhpati Didis are actively promoting womens Self-Help Groups (SHGs), bringing women into the mainstream of national. Indias security posture has undergone a historic and decisive shift from a defensive to a proactive deterrence approach. This resolute approach has been evident in actions such as the surgical strikes post-Uri attack and the Balakot airstrike, which established new red lines and conveyed Indias unwavering resolve against cross-border terrorism. More recently, operations like the decisive response to the Baisaran Valley massacre through Operation Sindoor further demonstrated our commitment to countering Pakistan-sponsored terrorism effectively. Our security forces have maintained relentless pressure on terror networks, neutralising 675 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019 while dramatically reducing terror incidents across the region. The revocation of Article 370 was a pivotal step that integrated Jammu & Kashmir into the national mainstream, enabling accelerated development and greater accountability. In the Left Wing Extremism affected tribal areas of Chhattisgarh, the dual strategy of a firm security response coupled with accelerated development has fundamentally transformed the Bastar region. The neutralisation of CPI(Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraju, marked a significant turning point in our determined fight against Left-Wing Extremism. Over 2,000 Maoists have surrendered, opting to participate in comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to reintegrate them into society and provide them with new opportunities. With the staunch support of the Modi government, we are firmly on track to eliminate the Maoist threat by March 2026. Development has reached previously inaccessible areas, directly challenging the Maoist narrative and providing tangible benefits to the local population. This includes the construction of 4,500 km of new roads, providing crucial connectivity, along with the establishment of 250 new schools and 175 healthcare centres in Bastar. The Bastar Net Project has provided internet connectivity to remote villages. In Chhattisgarh, we are deeply committed to making our tribal communities equal partners in the development journey. The Modi governments unwavering focus on Van Dhan initiatives and the recognition of forest rights have significantly empowered tribal populations, both economically and socially. As we move forward, guided by PM Modis profound vision of serving the man behind the plough, we are actively building an India that future generations will undoubtedly be proud of.
Kittu Park: for a stroll by the pond at Chennais West Mambalam
It was once the temple tank of Kothandaramar Temple nearby. In the last few years, it has been renovated into a public park.
Ahmedabad flight crash: A surprise that ended in tragedy
I didnt know they were coming. When they showed up at my door, I was speechless. I hadnt seen them since 2022, says Anil Ambalal Patel who lost his son and daughter-in-law in the devastating Air India plane crash
Liquor contractor shot dead on busy highway near Haryana's Kurukshetra
KURUKSHETRA: Unidentified assailants fatally shot a liquor contractor at Shahabad in Haryana's Kurukshetra district, police said on Saturday. Shantanu was shot dead near Meena Market on the national highway in Shahabad, 20 km from here, on Friday evening, they said. The victim briefly stopped his car to buy some items when two men on a sports bike pumped seven bullets into him, police said. Eyewitnesses told police that the attackers fired about eight rounds before fleeing. As panic spread on the busy highway, bystanders attempted to stop the shooters, who abandoned their bike, ran across the road, snatched a motorcycle at gunpoint and fled towards Ambala on the wrong side of the highway. Shantanu was rushed to Adesh Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. SP Nitish Aggarwal told PTI that he reached the crime scene with a police team along with DSP Ram Kumar and Shahabad SHO Satish Kumar. A case has been registered, and security has been tightened with blockades on all major routes and city borders as the search for the killers continues, he said. The SP said the victim, originally from a village in Jhajjar district, was living in Shahbad for sometime. Investigators have collected forensic evidence, questioned the shopkeepers, and began scanning CCTV footage from Meena Market and its nearby areas, the officer said. Police have found some clues and are hopeful for a breakthrough in the matter soon, he said. Checking has been intensified along the borders with Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, with multiple teams dispatched to the nearby regions, including Ambala, Saha, and Barara. A police officer said preliminary investigation suggests the murder could be linked to an old rivalry or a dispute in liquor trade.
Full of action against terrorism, Naxalism, but challenges remain as Modi 3.0 completes first year
NEW DELHI: Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in its third term largely succeeded in dealing and taming elements posing threats to Indias internal security situation in past one year, two deadly terror incidents in Jammu & Kashmir - Reasi pilgrim attack and the devastating Pahalgam massacre and the continuing ethnic unrest in Manipur still pose serious challenges to deal with. In case of Left-Wing-Extremism (LWE), the security and intelligence agencies succeeded in keeping the areas affected by the menace under control to make India free of them by March next year, as in the recent past several of the top Naxal leaders were either neutralised in operations or surrendered. The Modi government completed one year in office yesterday in its unprecedented third term. But this was marked by terror attacks leading to more civilian casualties in comparison to the first years of his two previous terms. It is a fact that the governments new doctrinal response, including Operation Sindoor, reflected a determined effort to counter terrorism, but the evolving tactics of highly trained terrorists have raised serious concerns about the nations security apparatus. On June 9, 2024, in Reasi, terrorists attacked a bus carrying pilgrims just minutes before Prime Minister Modi took the oath of office in which nine lives were lost and over 40 injured. The cycle of violence persisted, with security forces facing a series of ambushes by small, highly trained groups of terrorists wielding armour-piercing bullets. The most significant provocation came on April 22, 2025, with the Pahalgam massacre in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, in which 26 civilians, including two foreign nationals, were killed. The massacre prompted the launch of Operation Sindoor, a large-scale counterterrorism operation aimed at neutralising terrorist networks. South Asia Terrorism Portal, in one of its reports, claimed that 51 civilians lost their lives in terror-related incidents during the first year of Modis third term, a significant rise compared to 24 civilian deaths in the first year of his first term (2014-2015) and 33 in the first year of his second term (2019-2020). This marked the highest civilian toll in the initial year of any of Modis terms, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current counterterrorism strategies. Security forces also faced significant losses, with 35 personnel killed in operations during the first year of the third term, down from 51 in the first term and 46 in the second. Meanwhile, in counter offensives by the security forces 84 terrorists were eliminated, which is a decline from 109 in the first year of the first term and 155 in the second. Another major internal security concern is LWE-induced violence, but it is on the wane, as this year the number of Naxal-affected districts has reduced from 90 in April 2018 to 38 in April 2025, and the number of most affected districts has also come down from 12 to 6, which include four districts from Chhattisgarh (Bijapur, Kanker, Narayanpur, and Sukma), one from Jharkhand (West Singhbhum) and one from Maharashtra (Gadchiroli). In recent times, the Naxal movement took a severe blow as its number one leader Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, was eliminated along with his entire protection team in one of the longest encounters in Chhattisgarh. According to officials, the CPI (Maoist) now has only 14 active members, including 4 Polit Bureau leaders. Around a dozen Central Committee members are presently languishing in jail, and three died due to ailments, they added. The North-East, another internal security theatre, mostly remained violence-free, except for Manipur, where intermittent ethnic clashes continued for almost two years since May 3, 2023, when the first violent incident was reported. So far, 250 people have lost their lives and every effort of the government of India to defuse tension in the state failed to achieve its goal.
Maoists Severely Weakened After Top Leaders Killed; Only 3 Politburo Members Left: Report
In recent months, security forces have intensified their operations against the Maoists, eliminating high-profile leaders like Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju.
Forward Bloc condemns killing of Maoist leaders, demands halt in operation
New Delhi: The All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) on Saturday condemned the recent encounter killings of senior CPI (Maoist) leaders, including Nambala Keshava Rao. In a statement issued here, the AIFB also demanded the government to halt the operations in the so-called Maoist-affected areas. The All India Forward Bloc strongly condemns the ongoing so-called encounter 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 .
Day after Naxal leader Sudhakar's death, encounter breaks out in same area in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur
BIJAPUR: A day after top Naxal leader Sudhakar was eliminated by security forces in Indravati National Park area in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, an encounter broke out in the same area on Friday, an official said. The encounter is part of the same anti-Naxal operation underway since Wednesday by personnel from the state police's Special Task Force (STF) and District Reserve Guard (DRG) as well as the CRPF's specialised unit CoBRA, he added. Intermittent firing between security forces and the Maoist ultras is underway, the official said, adding further details were awaited. Senior Maoist leader Narasimha Chalam alias Sudhakar, who had a bounty of Rs 40 lakh on his head, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Bijapur district on Thursday. Originally hailing from Andhra Pradesh, the 67-year-old Sudhakar was involved in indoctrination and radicalization of youth and also responsible for numerous Naxal attacks in Chhattisgarh, resulting in the death of civilians and security personnel, police said. The killing of Sudhakar, a member of the Maoists' Central Committee, comes a fortnight after CPI (Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju (70) was neutralised by security forces in the Bastar region. Basavaraju was gunned down in Narayanpur on May 21. Senior Maoist leader Sudhakar killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh
Senior Maoist leader killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh
BIJAPUR: A senior Maoist leader carrying Rs 40 lakh bounty was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, official sources said. According to the sources, Maoists' Central Committee member Gautam alias Sudhakar was gunned down in the latest gunfight, which comes days after CPI (Maoist) general secretary Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju was killed by security forces in the Bastar region, dealing a major blow to the armed movement. However, Sudhakar's death is yet to be officially announced. The exchange of fire broke out in the forest of Indravati National Park area when a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation based on inputs about the presence of senior cadres, a senior police official posted in Bastar Range told PTI . Personnel belonging to the Special Task Force, District Reserve Guard, both units of the Chhattisgarh police, and CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action - an elite unit of CRPF) were involved in the operation, he said. The offensive was launched based on inputs about the presence of Maoist leader Sudhakar, Telangana State Committee member Bandi Prakash, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) member Pappa Rao, and a few other armed cadres, the official said. Preliminary reports suggest a strong possibility of major success for security forces in the operation, he said. Search operations were still underway in the area and more details will be shared later, he added.
Following the recent death of CPI (Maoist) leader Nambala Keshav Rao, sources report another senior Maoist, Gautam alias Sudhakar, has been killed in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. Sudhakar, a central committee member with a Rs 40 lakh bounty, was reportedly gunned down during an anti-Naxalite operation in the Indravati National Park area.
Revised ward delimitation of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation issued; Corporation to have 101 wards
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Haryana saw a rise in Covid cases. Gurugram and Faridabad reported the most new infections. Karnal, Jhajjar, and Ambala also had cases. The total active cases in Haryana increased. No patients are currently hospitalised. Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has asked for vigilance. The government prioritizes citizen health and safety. People should remain careful.
BASTAR: This year, 21 May emerged as an epoch-making day marked by exceptional operational efficiency in the ongoing battle against Indias single biggest internal security challenge, the CPI (Maoist). On that day, the valiant District Reserve Guard (DRG) in south Chhattisgarhs Bastar eliminated the dreaded supreme commander of the Naxals, Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju, who was the general secretary of the banned outfit. The DRGs are well-trained forces with combat capabilities raised in the strife-torn Bastar zone with a mission, to take on the Maoist challenge that has persisted as a virtual war against the state for over four decades. The DRG, a special combat team of the Chhattisgarh police force, came into existence in 2012 in Narayanpur and Kanker. Witnessing its effective and successful outcome, it was later established in the remaining five districts, Bijapur, Jagdalpur, Sukma, Kondagaon, and Dantewada, across the Bastar range. They operate under the command of the respective district police chiefs. DRG are young men and women recruited from remote tribal interiors of Bastar. They represent a unique, effective counter-insurgency model that blends local knowledge with rigorous training and operational excellence, Sundarraj P, Inspector General of Police (Bastar), told this newspaper. The personnel of the DRG are locally recruited, with relaxations given in educational and physical eligibility conditions, though candidates are preferably required to have passed Class 10 or 12. Compared with other forces, the DRGs possess explicit and decisive advantages, as they are innately familiar with the local geography, forested and hilly terrain, regional dialects, and customs. They operate with unmatched stealth, speed, and strategic mobility in challenging situations. The strength of such forces in Bastar is over 3,000 and also includes surrendered Maoists, who prove vital in any intelligence-based operation. Their remarkable physical endurance, tactical skills, and courage have earned them national recognition, the IG added. They continue to actively engage in strategically planned battles against the banned outfit, beat the odds, and participate in anti-Maoist campaigns to blunt the ambitions of the Naxalites across the seven districts of Bastar, with a determined mission to wipe out Maoists by March 2026. DRG personnel, in collaboration with other elite central paramilitary and state police forces, have led a series of successful joint operations aimed at eradicating the menace of left-wing extremism. DRGs and new battalions occupying the blank areas and establishing their network like a grid system, mutually supporting the security operation, have begun yielding outstanding results, opined Brigadier (Retd) B K Ponwar, the guerrilla warfare expert. DRG men have accessed guerrilla combat training in Kanker and other states, returning as warriors. They don soldier uniforms with modern weapons and are seen as battle-ready forces. Their consistent efforts and accomplishments in deterring and neutralising Maoists have created a strong sense of fear among the leaders and cadres of the left-wing extremists.
Anil Vij Urges Youth to Limit Screen Time, Announces Rs 12.5 Lakh Grant for Meritorious Students
Haryana minister Anil Vij voiced concerns about youth's excessive screen time at Ambala's 'Bhavishya Jyoti Samaroh.' He urged students to limit mobile and TV use for better mental health, donating 10,000 each to 125 top students. Vij highlighted technology's dual impact, praising newspapers' role in shaping society and recognizing talent.
'Surrender or get eliminated like Basavaraju': Bastar top cop's warning to Maoist leaders
RAIPUR: In a stern and explicit warning, the Bastar range inspector general of police has asked top Maoist leaders to give up arms and surrender or else be prepared to face the same fate meted out to the general secretary of the CPI (Maoist) Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju. Basavaraju was among the 27 Maoists killed in Abujhmad area of Narayanpur district in south Bastar during a fierce encounter with security forces on May 21. Amid the ongoing offensive against the left-wing extremists in Bastar region, the range IG Sundarraj P stated that following the killing of the top Maoist commander Basavaraju, their leaders must now be fully aware that there remains no place safe for them anywhere in Bastar. Why Chhattisgarh police cremated bodies of Maoists killed on May 21 despite Andhra HC's directive We consistently get solid information about the locations of the top Maoist leaders and they can be eliminated anytime by security forces. They now have only one option remaining. Either surrender and join the mainstream or get killed in upcoming decisive operations by the troops. The banned Maoist organisation has begun crumbling, said Sundarraj, while issuing the warning to Maoist leaders including Ganapathy, Devji, Sonu, Hidma, Sujata, K Ramchandra Reddy, Barse Dewa and others who have reportedly gone into hiding. The Maoist organisation is facing a serious crisis of leadership and there are rifts emerging within. The death of Basavaraju, the highest-ranking Maoist leader, represents not only a severe operational blow but also a psychological setback to the already demoralised Maoist network, the IG added. The Maoist movement, once feared for its brutality, is now breathing its last, as peace and development take root across Bastar, he asserted. Over 400 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters across Bastar zone during the last 17 months.
Key Maoist Leader Arrested In Odisha, AK-47 Rifle, Detonators Recovered From Him
Key Maoist leader Kunjam Hidma of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) was arrested in Odisha's Koraput, days after top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju was killed, along with 26 others, in a Chhattisgarh encounter.
End of an era in Naxalbari movement; Nambala Kesava Rao eliminated in an alleged police encounter
Hyderabad: It was a paradox that the CPI (Maoist) suffered its biggest blow this month losing general secretary Nambala Kesava Rao and 70 other comrades in encounters when the party should have actually been celebrating the anniversary of Naxalbari movement, considered the mother of all Naxalite groups. The encounters have continued unabated for 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 .
Family of Maoist Leader Keshava Rao Files Contempt Petition After Chhattisgarh Police Defy HC Order
AP High Court order defied as Chhattisgarh police cremate Nambala Keshava Raos body without family
Cops step up vigil on Maoists; Naxal statement says surrendered cadres aided in May 21 gunfight
RAIPUR: Police and intelligence agencies have been keeping a close watch on activities of Maoist cadres and their overground supporters following the last week's killing of their top leader Basavaraju in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, officials said on Monday. In a statement attributed to Maoists and shared nearly a week after the encounter, the Naxals have admitted that a total of 28 cadres, including Basavaraju, were killed in the gun-battle. In one of the biggest strikes on Naxalites, security forces gunned down Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, general secretary of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist), and 26 other cadres during a fierce encounter in forests of Abhujmad along Bijapur-Narayanpur inter-district border on May 21. Two jawans of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of state police were also killed during the gunfight. In the statement dated May 25, shared on social media on Monday, Maoists claimed some cadres active in the unit of Basavaraju recently surrendered before police and helped security forces in the operation, resulting in the death of the septuagenarian Naxal leader. The three-page statement was issued in the name of Vikalp, a spokesperson of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), which had been instrumental in executing several deadly attacks on security forces in south Bastar. The Maoists, in the statement said, there were 35 cadres, including Basavaraju, who were engaged in the encounter with security personnel on May 21 and of them, 28 were killed while seven others managed to escape. Police had recovered the bodies of 27 Naxalites. The body of a cadre, Nilesh, was found by Maoists, the statement said. The police intelligence was already aware of the presence of the party's (CPI-Maoist) general secretary BR Dada in Abhujmad. In the last 6 months, some people from different units active in the Maad area surrendered before police and became traitors. Police kept receiving our confidential information from these surrendered cadres. Two major operations were conducted (by security forces) in January and March targeting Basavaraju, but they were not successful, it said. After these operations, in the last one-and-a-half months, six people from the unit belonging to Basavaraju surrendered before police. A company party committee member (CYPCM), who was charged with key responsibility in Basavaraju's security, was also among them, said the statement. A member of the unified command of Maoists, which guides Naxal activities in Abhujmad, also sided with police which made their task easier. All these surrendered cadres took part in the (anti-Naxal) operation. Because of them, we had to suffer such a big loss, it said. Maoists admitted they failed to protect their leader. A senior police official said the CPI (Maoist), in the statement, has admitted to the loss of 28 cadres, including Basavaraju, Through the statement, the illegal and banned Maoist outfit was also trying to instigate their supporters to organise rallies and meetings throughout the country to glorify the death of their cruel and dreadful leadership, which was responsible for the death of thousands and thousands of innocent citizens, tribals, women, children and security personnel. Police and intelligence agencies have been keeping a strict vigil on activities of underground Maoist cadres as well as their overground workers and supporters, Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P noted. Three AK-47 rifles, four Self Loading Rifle (SLR), six Insas rifles, one carbine, six .303 rifles, one Barrel Grenade Launcher (BGL), two rocket launchers, two 12 bore guns, one country made pistol, two muzzle loading guns and a huge cache of explosives were recovered from the encounter site in forests of Kudmel-Kalhaja-Jatlur villages, he said. The recovered arms included an AK-47 weapon looted by Basavaraju and his associates from security forces in April 2010 Tadmetla ambush in then Dantewada district (where 76 security personnel were killed) and those looted by Naxals after 2010 Gawadi (Narayanpur district) and 2017 Burkapal (Sukma district) attacks, the IPS officer said. Efforts were on to establish the origin of other weapons, he added. Basavaraju was one of the most wanted criminals in the country and so far records of more than 258 criminal cases, in which he had direct or indirect involvement, are being screened by the investigation team, Sundarraj said. Further lawful action and investigation procedure is being carried out by Narayanapur Police in the case, the IG said.
Why Chhattisgarh police cremated bodies of Maoists killed on May 21 despite Andhra HC's directive
RAIPUR: The last rites of Nambala Keshava Rao alias Basavaraju and seven other Maoist cadres who were among the 27 killed in Abujhmad area in a fierce encounter with security forces on May 21 were performed in the state's Narayanpur district on Monday. The funerals were held in Chhattisgarh despite the family members of five dreaded Maoists, two from Andhra Pradesh and three from Telangana, arrived in the district demanding the bodies of the deceased be handed over to them. The supreme commander and general secretary of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist) was among the eight cremated. Earlier, following the direction of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, two petitioners, one of them claiming to be relatives of Basavaraju approached the Narayanpur police seeking custody of the bodies after the completion of the post-mortem. However the Chhattisgarh police declined to hand over the bodies to the petitioners and instead cremated them amid tight security, citing that the claimed relatives could not provide any valid and legal document in support of their claims to take the dead bodies to their respective states. Handover of Maoist leader's body: Pleas filed for compliance to Andhra Pradesh HC order Speaking to TNIE, a senior police officer in Bastar said, Andhra Pradesh high court didn't issue an order to Chhattisgarh Police to hand over the bodies to the petitioners. It was only a direction given to the petitioners to approach the concerned police authorities in Chhattisgarh. In total 05 groups of claimants (including two petitioners in the high court) reached Narayanpur but couldn't produce any valid and satisfactory documents to prove their relationship with the deceased Maoist cadres. Among the eight bodies, five were found to be invalid claims, two were unclaimed, the officer stated. Reliable sources informed us that, under pressure from Maoist front organisations and their urban associates, some individuals posing as relatives arrived in Narayanpur to claim the bodies, he added. According to the officer, this was part of a broader conspiracy orchestrated by Maoists and their supporters to stage an elaborate funeral for their slain leader and cadres. The police and intelligence agencies acted promptly and lawfully to prevent such glorification, which could have furthered their propaganda, he said. However, human rights activist Bela Bhatia, who was present in Narayanpur, strongly criticised the police action. She alleged that the rights of the families who had travelled long distances to claim the bodies were violated. Despite the High Court allowing the petitioners to approach the police in Chhattisgarh to seek custody of the bodies, the authorities denied the families their right to perform the last rites according to their cultural traditions, Bhatia said. The police conducted the cremations by force, without the consent of the families, she added. The incident has sparked a debate over the balance between state security concerns and the rights of families in conflict zones. INTERVIEW | Basavaraju killing a success, but gun cant kill ideology
CPN-Maoist Centre urges Indian govt, Maoists to exercise restraint
Kathmandu: The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) on Monday urged the Indian government and Maoist insurgents to exercise maximum restraint and seek a solution to the existing problems through peaceful means. The statement by the main opposition party, led by former prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, came after top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav 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 .
Authorities perform last rites of Basavaraju, 7 other Naxalites killed in Chhattisgarh encounter
Authorities in Narayanpur performed the last rites for top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju, and seven other Naxalites killed in a recent encounter in Chhattisgarh. While 20 bodies were handed over to families, some kin requested cremation due to decomposition fears.
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Rehmatullah had lured a three-year-old girl by offering her a banana while she had been playing outside her house at Kambaladinne village in Mylavaram mandal of Kadapa district on Friday - Sources
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A scenic transformation is underway at Kambalakonda Eco Tourism Park with upgraded trails, cottages and renewed focus on biodiversity
Naxalite killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
SUKMA : A Naxalite was killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, police confirmed on Friday. The gunfight broke out on Thursday evening in a forest near Kistaram, during an anti-Naxal operation carried out by a joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force, and the CRPF's elite CoBRA unit. This incident followed a separate encounter on Thursday along the Sukma-Bijapur border, where both a CoBRA commando and a Naxalite were killed. Earlier on Wednesday, security forces achieved a major breakthrough when 27 Naxalites, including top Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao (alias Basavaraju), were killed in a major operation along the Narayanpur-Bijapur border. Basavaraju was the general secretary of the outlawed CPI (Maoist).
Madvi Hidma To Be Made Gen Secy Of Banned Maoists
The youngest central committee (CC) member of the banned Maoists, Madvi Hidma, is likely to be appointed as general secretary of the outfit following the death of Nambala Keshav, alias Basavaraj, in an encounter in Chhattisgarh.
RAIPUR: Actionable intelligence from surrendered Maoists about the movements of supreme commander Basavaraju alias Nambala Keshav Rao, general secretary of the CPI (Maoist), in the Abujhmad area of Narayanpur, helped security forces neutralise him and 26 others in an encounter on Wednesday, said sources. Most of the left-wing rebels killed along with Basavaraju were his bodyguards and trained cadres of the military wing of the outfit. According to a source, crucial inputs were given by recently surrendered Maoists in south Bastar region about the probable locations and activity of Basavaraju and other senior leaders in the region of Abujhmad, covering the districts of Narayanpur and Bijapur in south Bastar. One of the Maoists who provided the information had reportedly served as an armed guard in the team engaged to escort and provide protection to Basavaraju. Abujhmad, a hilly terrain in south Chhattisgarh, has been the hideout of senior leaders and commanders of the CPI (Maoist) for decades. Following the inputs, a discreet plan of action was chalked out during the past couple of weeks to reach his location, the source added. 300 left-wing extremists neutralised this year, forces on track to meet target of Naxal-free India by 2026 The encounter took place after a a 50-hour search operation by the security forces. The elimination of the topmost Maoist commander is a huge achievement towards securing freedom for Bastar region from the terror of left-wing extremists. Maoism is now taking its last breath in Chhattisgarh. The pledge taken by our Prime Minister and Home Minister will be surely met. Such stern actions against the Maoists will continue till the menace gets wiped out, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai told media persons on Thursday. Basavaraju carried a bounty of Rs 3.25 crore on his head, said the CM. This included Rs 1 crore from the Chhattisgarh government, Rs 1 crore from the Union Home Ministry, Rs 50 lakh from the NIA and Rs 25 lakh each from the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, CM Sai elucidated. Meanwhile on Thursday, a member of the 210th battalion of CoBRA, the elite unit of the CRPF, and a Maoist were killed during an exchange of fire in an anti-Maoist operation in Bijapur district. The state home minister Vijay Sharma divulged that so far 424 Maoists have been neutralised in separate encounters across Chhattisgarh since 2024.
NEW DELHI: In the first five months of 2025, security forces succeeded in neutralising close to 300 Naxalites, marking the fastest annual pace of elimination of left-wing extremists since 2009, officials said on Thursday. They said the recent successes achieved by security forces indicate that they are on track to meet the target set to completely eliminate Naxalism in the country by March 31, 2026. The last year in which security forces eliminated over 300 Naxal operatives was 2009, a senior security official said, adding, Then 314 left extremists were killed, but that was in the whole year. If the current pace continues, 2025 could mark the most successful year in the decades-old battle against Naxalites. The official said that the ongoing operations against Naxal operatives are entirely based on actionable intelligence and better coordination among the central and state forces. These factors allowed us to strike them with unprecedented precision, he added. The crackdown against Naxalites is now mostly limited to Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and parts of Maharashtra. 27 Naxalites killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh; top leader Basavaraju among them On Wednesday, in a joint operation launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of three districts, Naxal leader Basava Raju, also known as Nambala Keshava Rao, was eliminated. Raju, 70, was the Supreme Commander of the CPI (Maoist) and its chief strategist, having taken over the reins of the movement after Ganapathys resignation in 2018. His death, along with that of 25 others in the same operation, is being hailed as a landmark success in Indias fight against left-wing extremism. Last month, in the biggest anti-Naxal operation, forces eliminated 31 Naxals. The operation was headed by CRPF DG GP Singh. Muppala Laxmana Rao alias Ganapathi, who is almost 75 years old and functions as a senior advisor and strategist for the CPI (Maoist), is now on the security forces' radar. Two other senior Naxal leaders being tracked are 68-year-old Mallojula Venugopal alias Vivek, who is a senior central committee member and spokesperson of the CIP-Maoist, and 65-year-old Mishir Besra alias Bhaskar, who is known for coordinating logistics and communications. Officials also said the spread of Naxal influence has been declining -- from 35 severely affected districts in 2014, the number has plummeted to just six in 2025. Overall, Naxal-affected districts have dropped from 126 in 2014 to 18 now. Basavaraju: From BTech graduate to top Maoist functionary
How a BTech degree holder 'engineered' major Naxal attacks on security forces
Nambala Keshav Rao, a top Maoist leader, is dead. He and 26 others died in Chhattisgarh. Rao was the general secretary of CPI (Maoist). He masterminded attacks on security forces. This is a big blow to the Maoist movement. Rao carried a large reward. Security forces have been hunting him for a long time.
CoBRA commando, Naxalite killed in anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur
RAIPUR: A CoBRA commando of the CRPF and a Naxalite were killed during an anti-Maoist operation in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, officials said. The operation is ongoing in the Tumrel area under the Usoor police station limits of the district, led by the 210th Battalion of CRPF's CoBRA unit and troops from the Chhattisgarh Police DRG and STF, the officials said. A CoBRA commando has been killed in action while another has been injured, they said. A Naxalite has also been neutralised in the exchange of fire and a weapon has been recovered, they added. The officials earlier identified the district where the operation is underway as Sukma. An IAF helicopter has been pressed into service to evacuate the injured, officials said. The Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) is a special jungle warfare unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which is the lead force for operations in the Left Wing Extremism-affected states. The security forces are undertaking continuous operations in the LWE-affected states as part of the Union government's declaration to end the menace from the country by March next year. The Bastar region in Chhattisgarh remains their core area of operation. At least 27 Naxalites, including their top commander Nambala Keshav Rao (70) alias Basavaraju, the general secretary of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), were killed in an encounter with the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of Chhattisgarh Police in the forests along the Narayanpur-Bijapur border on Wednesday.
TCLA Criticises Encounter of Maoist Leaders
Laxman stated that it was a loss to the Maoist party after killing Nambala Kesava Rao
Top Maoist leader among 27 killed in Chhattisgarh encounter
In a significant victory against Naxalism, security forces in Chhattisgarh neutralized 27 Maoists, including Nambala Keshavrao alias Basavaraju, the general secretary of CPI-Maoist. The 50-hour encounter occurred along the Narayanpur-Bijapur border. Keshavrao, wanted by the NIA and police with a 1.5 crore bounty, marks the first general secretary-ranked leader eliminated in three decades, disrupting Maoist leadership.
Basavaraju's killing major setback for Maoists
The killing of CPI-Maoist general secretary Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, the topmost leader by security forces in Chhattisgarh, is a major setback for the banned outfit. Basavaraju, who was on the most wanted list of the NIA, was among the 27 dreaded Naxals killed by security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. The Telangana Police official said that the killing will be a demoralising factor for the Maoists. The official pointed out that the Maoists are already demoralised and hundreds of their cadres have surrendered before Telangana police besides many being arrested.
Long hunt ends: Maoist chief Basavaraju gunned down
Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, the powerful general secretary of Communist Party of India-Maoist killed in an encounter along with 26 others on Wednesday, had masterminded several major attacks on security forces in Chhattisgarh and his death is a big blow to the armed movement, said officials.
Nambala Keshav Raos encounter death a monumental victory for security forces: Bandi Sanjay
Who was Basava Raju? How did brilliant engineering student become 'dreaded' Maoist leader?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday praised the efforts of India's security forces after 27 Maoists, including top CPI-Maoist leader Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, were killed in a major operation in Chhattisgarh.
Basavaraju: BTech degree holder who 'engineered' major Naxal attacks on security forces
In a major victory against Left-wing extremism, security forces in Chhattisgarh eliminated Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraju, the CPI (Maoist)'s general secretary, along with 26 others. Basavaraju, a master strategist behind numerous attacks on security personnel, had a reward of 1 crore on his head.
Top Maoist leader Baswaraj, 27 others killed in Chhattisgarh encounter: Reports
Hyderabad: At least 27 outlaws of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) were reportedly killed in an encounter with the security forces in Madh area of the Abujhmad forests in Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh in an operation which is still underway. The Maoist party general secretary, Nambala Keshava Rao alias Baswaraj, has also reportedly been 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 .
PM Modi hails 'remarkable success' of operation against Naxalites
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded security forces for neutralizing 27 Naxalites in Chhattisgarh, including top leader Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the operation as a landmark achievement in eliminating Naxalism. The government aims to eradicate Maoism by March 2026, with ongoing operations and surrenders contributing to the effort.
27 Maoists Including Top Leader Nambala Keshav Rao Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter: Amit Shah
Basavaraj hails from Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh. His death is considered a substantial setback to the Maoist movement in India.
K.C. Venugopal urges Railway Board to grant final approval for ThuravoorAmbalappuzha line doubling
Comprehensive plan to prevent sea erosion in Vypeen on the anvil
Puthenkadappuram in Njarakkal, Veliyathanparambu Kadappuram in Nayarambalam, and Cherai Kadappuram in Pallippuram have been identified for sea protection works in the Vypeen constituency
Airlines asked to resume normal operations at 32 shut airports from May 15
NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday night expressed optimism that airlines would resume their normal operations to the 32 closed airports from May 15. He released a statement to this effect after holding a review meeting with top officials and representatives of all airlines in New Delhi. The Minister said, With the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ending on 15th May, I suggested that airlines resume their normal schedules from the 15th across all 32 airports for which the NOTAM was issued. All airlines responded positively to this suggestion. A Ministry source said, At present, partial operations are taking place. The full-fledged operations will resume from May 15. This was the outcome after the meeting held on Tuesday. The NOTAM to close 32 airports in the North and Western India upto May 15 (5.29 am) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on May 9 as a precautionary step after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7 . A revised NOTAM by AAI said the airports would open for commercial operations from Monday (May 12) but leading airlines like Indigo and Air India had publicly stated they would not operate flights to specific airports on Monday and Tuesday (May 13). This was on account of unconfirmed reports of drone attacks by Pakistan at a few cities. Indigo operated a flight from Delhi to Amritsar but it had to turn back due to a sudden blackout imposed in Amritsar. Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #d32f2f; /* A bold red color */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; box-shadow: 0 0 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px 15px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #c62828; /* A deep red */ color: white; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(odd) { background-color: #fafafa; } tr:hover { background-color: #f1f1f1; } .bold { font-weight: bold; } Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations Airport Location Status Ambala Haryana Closed Hindon UP Closed Naliya Gujarat Closed Sarsawa UP Closed Uttarlai Rajasthan Closed Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir Closed Awantipur Jammu & Kashmir Closed Jammu Jammu & Kashmir Closed Amritsar Punjab Closed Chandigarh Punjab Closed Ludhiana Punjab Closed Patiala Punjab Closed Bhatinda Punjab Closed Adampur Punjab Closed Halwara Punjab Closed Pathankot Punjab Closed Bhuntar Himachal Pradesh Closed Shimla Himachal Pradesh Closed Kangra-Gaggal Himachal Pradesh Closed Kishangarh Rajasthan Closed Thoise Ladakh Closed Leh Ladakh Closed Mundra Gujarat Closed Jamnagar Gujarat Closed Hirasar Gujarat Closed Porbandar Gujarat Closed Keshod Gujarat Closed Kandla Gujarat Closed Bhuj Gujarat Closed Jaisalmer Rajasthan Closed Jodhpur Rajasthan Closed Bikaner Rajasthan Closed Air India Announcement: In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. Indigo Announcement: All flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh are cancelled for Tuesday (May 13). Responses from other airlines are awaited.
Complete blackout enforced in Ambala amid ceasefire between India Pakistan
Complete blackout enforced in Ambala amid ceasefire between India Pakistan
Pakistan ceasefire breach triggers blackouts, security measures in border areas of Punjab, Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Within hours of India and Pakistan declaring a ceasefire, the neighbouring country unilaterally broke the peace by indulging in shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Following this, blackouts were re-imposed in several districts of Punjab, as well as in Ambala, Haryana, which houses a key air force base. Sources said complete blackouts were suddenly imposed as a precautionary measure in six border districts of PunjabAmritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, and Fazilkaafter local administrations were alerted about ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. Blasts in Srinagar after ceasefire shock residents; all okay now, clarifies Centre Additional blackouts were also enforced in Moga, Sangrur, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Muktsar, Barnala, and Bathinda. Street lights were switched off in many parts of the state. Ambala in Haryana also faced blackout due to its strategic air force base. Sources claimed that a drone was spotted in Fazilka and Pathankot districts. Earlier in the day, the district administrations of Sangrur, Rupnagar, and Fazilka had withdrawn blackout orders, while authorities in districts like Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Patiala also cancelled restrictive orders. Local authorities in districts including Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Kapurthala had advised the closure of markets and commercial establishments and urged citizens to avoid large gatherings in the wake of the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan. India agrees to a ceasefire with Pakistan after call from across the border
32 Airports Shut For Civilian Flight Operations Till May 15: DGCA
The airports include Adhampur, Ambala, Amritsar, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, and Jammu.
CHANDIGARH: Three members of a family were injured in a village in Ferozepur as Pakistan launched drones into border districts of Punjab on Friday night. Multiple explosions were heard as the drones were neutralized. A widespread blackout was enforced in six border districts: Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Fazilka and Tarn Taran. Sources said that drones were sighted in Jammu and Samba in Jammu and Kashmir and Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka in Punjab. One drone fell on a house in Khai Feme Ke village injuring three members of a family. They were identified as Monu Singh son of Lakhwinder Singh. Sukhwinder Kaur, the wife of Lakhwinder. They were rushed to a private hospital. A senior officer on condition of anonymity said, There was a heavy drone attack in Ferozepur and a drone was neutralized. As it fell down in a ball of fire, it hit a house in Khai Feme Ke village near Ferozepur. Three of a family have burn injuries and were rushed a hospital. The lady was cooking food at that time and has maximum burn injuries, while her husband and son have also been burnt. Sources said the village is situated close to the army cantonment, and the drone attack was perhaps aimed to hit the army installation there but it landed in the village. Earlier, the Pakistan Army launched a series of drones in this border town on Friday evening. Several red coloured flying objects (swarm drones) could be seen coming one after another. Massive drone attacks also targetted the Srinagar airport and Awantipora airfield in south Kashmir on Friday evening. In addition to these locations, drones have been sighted at 26 locations ranging the Baramulla in the North to Bhuj in the South, along both the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan. These include suspected armed drones posing potential threats to civilian and military targets, according to an army statement. The locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet and Lakhi Nala. As per information, some of these drones were carrying explosvies and a few of them were meant for surveillance. Meanwhile, Army personnel have taken over the security of important bridges and other strategic installations in Ferozepur city. Deputy Commissioner of Ferozepur Deepshikha Sharma said that teams have been dispatched to the village where the house was damaged. Sources said that complete blackouts were imposed in the six border districts of the state at 8 pm as sirens went on and the authorities switched off the power supply. Besides the border districts, a blackout was also imposed in Hoshiarpur. Locals claim that sounds of explosions were heard in Ferozepur, Amritsar and Pathankot. On Thursday night too, there was a blackout in most of the districts in the state and electricity was back only on Friday morning around 5.30 am. Why military strategists are questioning Pakistan's abilities after Operation Sindoor The Airport Authority has extended the suspension period for all types of flights till May 15 at Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport, Amritsar. In a statement issued here, the Airport Authority said, It is intimated to all concerned that suspension of all commercial/civil domestic and international flight operations from Amritsar Airport is further extended till 05.30 hrs on 15.05.2025. The ban has also been extended at Chandigarh airport. In Haryana, the Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests. The use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite a terror/drone attack, the order reads. However, these may be used for indoor use on condition that all doors and windows are fully covered by thick curtains, so as to ensure no lights come out. In view of the emergent situation and shortage of time, this order is being passed ex-parte and is being addressed to the general public, it said. Any person found guilty of violating of the order shall be prosecuted and punished as per the law under Section 223 of the BNSS, it added. An advisory issued by Bilaspur District Magistrate Rahul Kumar appealed to the residents to ensure a complete blackout in their respective areas to minimise risks in the event of a potential aerial attack. Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh shares a boundary with Punjab which is on high alert following the escalating tensions with Pakistan. As per the guidelines issued by the district administration, all lights, both outdoor and indoor, must be turned off during night hours, while citizens have been advised to remain in sheltered locations and avoid unnecessary travel. Also, vehicular movement should be halted at night to facilitate the smooth functioning of security forces in case of any emergency. Pakistani drone attack on Pokhran foiled; Rajasthan border on red alert, blackout enforced This advisory has been issued in public interest. The administration requests strict compliance from all residents. Restraint and vigilance are the strongest shields in such situations, it said. Meanwhile, all educational institutions were shut in Una district on Friday for, which a notification was issued late on Thursday night. The Chandigarh administration has directed all shops selling non-essential items, such as clothing, eating joints, hotels, restaurants, and malls, to close starting at 7 pm. Shops selling essential items, including medicines, are exempt from the directive and can remain open. According to Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, the order is in effect for Friday only, and shops can resume their usual operations in the morning. Meanwhile, on Friday morning, the Chandigarh administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. In the neighbouring Mohali, cinema halls and shopping malls will remain closed daily from 8 pm to 6 am until further notice. India confronting challenge of terrorism, shared threat to international community: EAM Jaishankar
India Pakistan Tension: Blackout in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer
India Pakistan Tension: In Rajasthan, Jaisalmer has been under blackout. A complete blackout has been ordered in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot, Rajouri, Udhampur, Akhnoor and other areas and in Ambala and Panchkula area of Haryana.
Pakistani Drones Sighted In Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Sources
New Delhi, May 9: Pakistani drones were sighted in Jammu, Samba, Pathankot sector on Friday, according to defence sources. Red streaks could be seen and explosions were heard in Samba sector of Jammu as Indias air defence intercepted Pakistani drones amid blackout. Meanwhile a precautionary blackout has been enforfced in the multiple areas amid the esclating tensions between India and Pakistan. Complete blackout has been enforced, Akhnoor and Udhampur region of Jammu and Kashmir; Ambala and Panchkula area of Haryana. [] The post Pakistani Drones Sighted In Jammu, Samba, Pathankot Sector: Sources appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Authorities order complete blackout in Haryana's Ambala district as India-Pakistan tension surges
CHANDIGARH: With tension soaring between India and Pakistan the district administration of Ambala, Haryana, where a key air base is located, has issued an order to enforce blackout during night hours today. Meanwhile, in Chandigarh, all shops selling non-essential items, along with hotels and restaurants, will close at 7 PM. However, shops selling essential items, including medicines, are exempt from the directive and may remain open. According to Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, the order is in effect for Friday only, and shops can resume their usual operations in the morning. The Bilaspur district administration in Himachal Pradesh has issued a blackout advisory, prioritising citizen safety and security. In Haryana, the Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard were issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer who also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances, it is imperative to ensure a complete blackout during night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure a complete blackout during the night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests. And whereas, use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, billboard, street lights etc may invite any terror/drone attack in District Ambala, the orders reads. However, these may be used for indoor use on condition that all doors and windows are fully covered by thick curtains, so as to ensure no lights come out. In view of the emergent situation and shortage of time, this order is being passed ex parte and is being addressed to the general public, it said. Any person found guilty of violating of the order shall be prosecuted and punished as per the law under Section 223 of the BNSS, it added. An advisory issued by Bilaspur District Magistrate Rahul Kumar urged residents to enforce a complete blackout in their areas to reduce risks in the event of a potential aerial attack. Bilaspur district shares a boundary with Punjab, which remains on high alert amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. As per the guidelines issued by the district administration, all lights, both outdoor and indoor, must be turned off during night hours, while citizens have been advised to remain in sheltered locations and avoid unnecessary travel. Also, vehicular movement should be halted at night to facilitate the smooth functioning of security forces in case of any emergency. This advisory has been issued in public interest. The administration requests strict compliance from all residents. Restraint and vigilance are the strongest shields in such situations, it said. All educational institutions were shut in Una district today for which a notification was issued late yesterday night. The Chandigarh Administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, urging residents to stay indoors following a warning from the air force station about a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, an official statement said. About an hour later, authorities confirmed that the alert had been lifted. In neighboring Mohali, cinema halls and shopping malls will remain closed daily from 8 pm to 6 am until further notice.
