Civil defence volunteers rehearse emergency response in Lucknow ahead of nationwide mock drill
LUCKNOW: A day before the scheduled mock drill mandated by the Union government, civil defence volunteers conducted a rehearsal at the Lucknow police lines on Tuesday to strengthen emergency preparedness. Meanwhile, UP DGP Prashant Kumar, on Tuesday, said that comprehensive civil defence mock drills would be conducted across all districts on Wednesday in compliance of the instructions received from the Government of India. The exercise, which involved around 200 civil defence volunteers, was aimed at training volunteers in managing large-scale emergencies and responding effectively to potential missile or air attacks. According to Chief Warden, Civil Defence Lucknow, Amarnath Mishra, the participants demonstrated coordinated responses to sirens, evacuation procedures, and protective measures designed to minimise panic and chaos during emergencies. The drill focused on practical techniques to protect civilians during missile strikes and air attacks, along with educating the public on how to safeguard themselves in such situations, Mishra added. The development comes a day after the Union Home Ministry's directives to states to conduct mock drills on May 7 to enhance civil defence preparedness. The Union Home Ministry asked the states to operationalise air raid warning sirens and train civilians to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack. The states have also been directed to update and rehearse evacuation plans, crash blackout measures, and early camouflaging of vital plants and installations. Interacting with media persons, the UP DGP Prashant Kumar said that the Centre had identified 19 districts-- one placed in Category 1, two in Category 2 and the remaining 16 in Category 3-- for the exercise. Bulandshahr in western UP has been kept in Category 1; Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Bakshi Ka Talab, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Meerut, Prayagraj, Moradabad, Bareilly, Mathura, Ghaziabad, Jhansi, Saharanpur, Sarsawan, and Chandauli are there in Category 2; Baghpat and Muzaffarnagar, both western UP districts, have been kept in Category 3. However, keeping the preparedness in mind and also considering the local sensitivities, the state government has decided to conduct the mock drill across all the state districts, said the DGP. He explained that the exercise would involve coordinated participation from multiple agencies, including the police administration, fire services, and disaster response agencies, to cope with disasters and other critical situations. The mock drill is imperative to ensure better coordination and readiness among all response agencies, said Prashant Kumar. Meanwhile, DG Civil Defence, Abhay Prasad also confirmed the instructions received from the Centre, explaining preparations were already underway to equip civilians with the knowledge and readiness needed in case of any future conflict. He said the mock drill would be conducted between 7 pm to 9 pm on Wednesday. At present, the state Civil Defence department has offices in 15 districts but covers 26 districts through its network. As part of the initiative, an assessment of emergency medical infrastructure, response time, and coordination between various agencies would be assessed in the event of mass casualties and large-scale evacuations. The drill would also foster greater public awareness and resilience in times of national crisis, said a senior state government official.
Senior Advocate Shri Ram Sharan Nigam Passes Away in Nagpur
Nagpur:Shri Ram Sharan Nigam, esteemed legal luminary and former Chairman of the Elders Committee of the Jhansi District Bar Association, as well as Ex-District Government Counsel, passed away on May 4, 2025, in Nagpur after a brief illness. He was the father of Shri Amitabh Nigam, State President of the All India Professionals Congress (AIPC) [] The post Senior Advocate Shri Ram Sharan Nigam Passes Away in Nagpur appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .
Rs 443.19 Crore Has Been Lying Unclaimed In Jhansi Banks For 10 Years Now
LDM Ajay Sharma said many accounts were opened without informing families, so after the holders' deaths, relatives were unaware and the funds remained unclaimed for years
Rajasthan to join Indias first cheetah conservation corridor with Madhya Pradesh
JAIPUR: Rajasthan is all set to become a part of Indias first cheetah reintroduction project, currently operational in Madhya Pradesh. A wildlife corridor spanning 17,000 square kilometers will be developed across both states, allowing cheetahs to roam freely in a protected and connected habitat. The corridor will link Palpur Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh with the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan. As part of the plan, seven districts in Rajasthan Kota, Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, and Chittorgarh will be integrated into the project. Speaking in Jaipur on Tuesday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasised the success of the cheetah project, describing it as a unique initiative in Asia. It is a matter of pride that cheetahs are thriving here. This is among the most successful wildlife conservation efforts globally, he said. Yadav also stated that the project would now move forward in collaboration with Rajasthan. Highlighting past joint efforts, the MP Chief Minister recalled the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We are confident that both states will progress together on this project under the leadership of the Prime Minister, he added. According to the action plan released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has designated the Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape as a suitable cheetah habitat. Of the total corridor area, 10,500 square kilometers fall within Madhya Pradesh, while 6,500 square kilometers are in Rajasthan. The corridor will enable cheetahs to move from Kuno National Park through the Mukundara Hills Reserve in Rajasthan to Gandhi Sagar. Discussions are also underway to include parts of Uttar Pradesh, specifically the forest areas of Jhansi and Lalitpur, within the extended landscape. An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan is in the pipeline. The proposal has reached the Chief Ministers of both states and is awaiting final approval. During his visit to Jaipur, CM Mohan Yadav met with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Sources suggest that discussions on the cheetah corridor were held, and the signing of the MoU is expected soon.
Sharia Court, in any name & form, has no recognition in law: SC
NEW DELHI: In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court has held that a 'Court of Kazi,' 'Court of (Darul Kaja) Kajiyat,' 'Sharia Court,' etc., by whatever name or style, have no recognition in law. The Court made this ruling while allowing a Muslim woman's maintenance plea filed under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The bench of the top court delivered this judgment after hearing a plea filed by a woman, Shahjahan, who was challenging the Allahabad High Courts 2018 order. The order had dismissed her revision petition against a 2010 family court decision in Jhansi, which denied her maintenance. The family court had only allowed Rs 2,500 for her two children. A two-judge bench of the top court, led by Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, stated that any declaration made by such courts is not binding on anyone and is unenforceable by coercive measures. The only way such a declaration or decision can withstand scrutiny in the eyes of the law is when the affected parties accept such declaration/decision by acting on it or accepting it, and when such action does not conflict with any other law. Even then, such declaration/decision, at best, would only be valid inter se the parties that choose to act upon/accept it, and not a third party, the bench said. Explaining the legal position, the top court referred to various previous judgments, including Vishwa Lochan Madan versus Union of India. It cited a case where a Muslim man initially filed a plea in a 'Court of Kazi' and 'Court of (Darul Kaja) Kajiyat' seeking divorce from his wife. In the present case, the family court had allowed only Rs 2,500 for her two children. As per records, the marriage between the appellant and the respondent (husband) was solemnized on September 24, 2002, according to Islamic customs, rituals, and traditions. This was the second marriage for both parties. The top court held that maintenance could not have been denied to the appellant-wife under the prevailing circumstances. It directed the payment of Rs 4,000 per month as maintenance to her, starting from the date of filing the maintenance petition before the family court. The top court also said, A family court is not an institution to sermonize society on morality and ethics. The appellant woman had claimed that her husband had caused mental harassment and cruelty to her because she was unable to fulfill his demand for a motorcycle and Rs 50,000. On this, the family court had stated that since it was their second marriage, there was no possibility of the man demanding dowry, as he would be trying to rehabilitate his household. The top court, after reviewing the family court's observations and order, stated that such reasoning or observations were unknown to the canons of law and were based on mere conjecture and surmise.
Kanpur businessman among 27 shot dead in Pahalgam terror attack
LUCKNOW: Shubham Dwivedi, 31, a businessman from Kanpur,never knew that his trip to Kashmir would be his last. Married just two months ago, he was among 26 tourists killed in Tuesdays terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. Dwivedi was shot point blank in front of his wife leaving her shocked and family and friends distraught and devastated. Dwivedi had gone to Kashmir along with his wife and 11 members of his family. He was in Baisaran Valley, popularly known as Mini Switzerland, along with his wife and sister-in-law when terrorists opened fire at tourists around eateries, said survivors in his family travelling with him. The distraught wife, recounting the horrific incident, said the terrorists targeted male tourists only after confirming their religious identity. Aishanya, wife of deceased Shubham Dwivedi hails from Lucknow. The wedding of Shubham and Aishanya was solemnised in Jhansi on February 12, this year. There is a crowd of relatives and locals at Shubhams house in Shyam Nagar in the Chakeri area of Kanpur. As per Shubhams father Sanjay Dwivedi, the family visited Pahalgam on Tuesday and later proceeded to Baisaran Valley. When Shubham, his wife Aishanya and his sister-in-law were ascending a hill on horseback, terrorists shot Shubham dead after asking his name, said the family members. Sanjay Dwivedi, 52, a cement trader of Maharajpur town in Kanpur had travelled to J&K on April 17 along with his wife Seema, 50, son Shubham, 31, daughter-in-law Aishanya 27, daughter Aarti, 27 and six others. The family had taken a train to Delhi, followed by a flight to Srinagar. Their return was scheduled for Wednesday, April 23. The couple had left hotel at 1 pm on Tuesday for horse riding while other members of the family stayed back. As they were heading to a hill top on the horse back, they were cornered by the terrorists who asked Aishanya about their identity. As she told them that Shubham was her husband, they shot him dead in frontof her, says Shubham's uncle Jyotishacharya Manoj Dwivedi.
NHRC seeks reports on cases of 'dead' persons found alive across states
NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought Action Taken Reports (ATRs) on the issue of individuals who were officially declared dead but are physically alive in different parts of India. The human rights watchdog has requested the ATRs from the Secretary of the Ministries of Home Affairs and Law and Justice, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Bihar, and the Superintendent of Police, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, in response to the issues raised in the petitions. Acting on three separate petitions filed by noted human rights activist and Supreme Court advocate Radhakanta Tripathy, the NHRC has asked for the reports to be submitted within 15 days. Tripathy highlighted the growing number of cases where individuals are wrongly declared dead due to inaccurate investigations. He urged the Commission to intervene by recognising the rights of these individuals and restoring their legal status. The errors, he said, often result from clerical mistakes, false information, misidentification, and the failure of authorities to conduct thorough investigations. Tripathy requested proper investigation into such cases, restoration of legal identity, and compensation for the affected victims. In the second case, related to a fabricated murder in Bihar, police officials had declared an individual named Nathuni Pal, a resident of Deoria, Bihar, murdered 17 years ago. He was recently found alive in Jhansi in 2025. The false report led to the wrongful conviction of innocent individuals for murder and caused severe mental trauma to Pals family. In response, the NHRC directed the DGP of Bihar to examine the matter and submit a report within 15 days. In the third case, the NHRC instructed the Superintendent of Police in Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur to investigate and submit a report within 15 days. This case involved a woman, Lalita Bai, aged 35 and a mother of two, who had been reported murdered 18 months ago. However, she was later found alive. Four individuals accused of her murder were still in jail as of March 2024. According to the petition, Lalita was trafficked by one of the accused, Banchhanda, who sold her to another accused for Rs 5 lakh. She eventually escaped and returned home after 18 months. The role of police officials in this case has also come under scrutiny, as they allegedly implicated the four individuals in a false murder report. In all three cases, the NHRC observed that the allegations raised point to serious violations of the victims human rights. It directed the authorities concerned to examine the matters and submit reports within 15 days.
The Admit Card for BA, BSc, BCom has been released by BU Jhansi. Students who are yet to appear for the examination can download their hall tickets from the official website bujhansi.ac.in.
Car Crushed By Bundelkhand Express As GPS Error Sends Wedding Party To Railway Tracks
A wedding party in Jhansi faced danger when their GPS led them to a railway crossing where their car got stuck. The Bundelkhand Express hit the car, but passengers escaped
Keiichi Ono, Japan's ambassador met 95-year-old freedom fighter Asha Sahay Choudhry
Japan's ambassador to India, Keiichi Ono, met Asha Sahay Choudhry, a 95-year-old former member of the Rani of Jhansi regiment who was inspired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Ambassador Ono expressed his admiration for her dedication to India's independence. Earlier, the ambassador visited the Mahabodhi Mahavihara in Bodh Gaya, highlighting the spiritual and cultural connection between Japan and India.
MP to face Punjab in Senior Men National Cship final
Jhansi, April 13: Hockey Madhya Pradesh and Hockey Punjab won their Semi-Final matches in the 15th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2025 in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh and are one step away from lifting the coveted title. In the first Semi-Final match, Hockey Madhya Pradesh defeated Manipur Hockey 5-3 to seal their spot in the [] The post MP to face Punjab in Senior Men National Cship final appeared first on The Shillong Times .
MP, Manipur, Punjab enter Senior Mens National Hockey Championship semifinals
JHANSI, Apr 12: Madhya Pradesh, Manipur and Punjab advanced to the semifinals after winning their respective quarter-final matches of the 15th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship here on Saturday. In the first match of the day, after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, Madhya Pradesh emerged victorious over Maharashtra 4-2 in shootout. Pratap Lakra (6th minute) converted a penalty corner and opened the scoring for Madhya Pradesh early in the game. Three minutes later, Maharashtra equalised via a field [] The post MP, Manipur, Punjab enter Senior Mens National Hockey Championship semifinals appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
UP Law Student Dies By Suicide, Cops Find I Quit Written On Mirror With Lipstick
A 23-year-old law student died by suicide in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi over a failed affair, the police said.
Gwalior man shoots himself dead after his daughter elopes, details here
The man, who owned a medical shop in the Bhairon Baba ka Mandir area, took this extreme step by shooting himself in his bedroom late Wednesday night under Jhansi road police station area of the city.
Hockey India deploys additional support staff to ensure player well-being at Senior Nationals
New Delhi, Apr 8: Hockey India has sent additional support staff, including a physiotherapist and a masseuse, to the ongoing Senior Mens National Championship in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, to provide medical attention and recovery support to the players. This years championship features an impressive array of 31 Indian mens hockey team players such as Hardik Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Krishan B Pathak, Abhishek, Amit Rohidas, Sumit, Gurjant Singh and Sanjay. Recognising the high-intensity nature of the tournament and the workload on [] The post Hockey India deploys additional support staff to ensure player well-being at Senior Nationals appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 38.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday, which is 3.1 notches above the seasonal average, according to the IMD. The minimum temperature of national capital was 18.5 degrees Celsius, which was 1.5 notch below the seasonal average. Meanwhile, the relative humidity oscillated between 43 per cent and 27 per cent. The IMD has forecast mainly clear sky with heat wave for Monday. The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 41 degrees Celsius and 21 degrees Celsius, respectively. The weather department has forecast heatwave conditions for next two days in Delhi. According to the six-day forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital will experience heatwave conditions with the maximum temperature ranging between 39 and 42 degrees Celsius. The air quality was in the 'poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 209 at 4 pm, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good,' 51-100 'satisfactory,' 101-200 'moderate,' 201-300 'poor,' 301-400 'very poor,' and 401-500 'severe. Barmer hottest in Rajasthan with 45.6 degrees Celcius Barmer was the hottest place in Rajasthan on Sunday recording a maximum temperature of 45.6 degrees Celsius, 6.8 degrees above normal, the Jaipur Meteorological Center said. Parts of Rajasthan witnessed scorching heat today. Jaisalmer recorded a high of 45.0 degrees Celsius, Chittorgarh 43.2 degrees, Jodhpur 43 degrees, Kota 42.4 degrees and Jalore 42 degrees. Barmer saw a record breaking maximum temperature of 45.6 degrees in the first week of April. The highest temperature the city witnessed during this period was 45.2 degrees Celsius on April 3, 1998, a MeT department spokesperson said. The heat wave prevailing in many parts of the state will intensify in the coming days, he said. The temperature is likely to increase in the state by 3 to 4 degrees in the coming days. On Monday, the maximum temperature in some parts of southwestern Rajasthan is likely to settle around 44 to 45 degrees and 42 to 44 degrees in parts of eastern Rajasthan, he said. Uttar Pradesh braces for above normal temperatures this summer A punishing summer is in store for Uttar Pradesh, with prolonged periods of above normal temperature and intense heat waves predicted from April to June this year. The state's Bundelkhand region, which covers seven districts of Jhansi and Chitrakootdham division, will bear the brunt of the heatwaves, posing significant risks to both human and animal health, weather officials said. During these months, above-normal maximum temperatures are expected across Uttar Pradesh. The forecast indicates that daytime temperatures will consistently exceed the 40-degree Celsius mark, Atul Kumar Singh, a MeT official here, said. Adding to the concern, night time temperatures are also projected to remain unusually high. The minimum temperatures recorded during night time are also expected to remain above normal, Singh said. The Bundelkhand region is anticipated to be the epicentre of this extreme heat, he added. The first week of April has already provided a stark preview of the impending heat, with daytime temperatures surging. As per the MeT Department, the day temperature in Kanpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Amethi, Ghazipur, Sultanpur, and Hamirpur have been crossing the 40-degree mark since last week. On Saturday, Prayagraj recorded a maximum temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius, 4.2 degrees above the seasonal average, MeT officials said. The forecast predicts that maximum daytime temperature will frequently exceed 35 degrees Celsius, consistently bordering 40 degrees, and is likely to surpass 45 degrees in some areas. Night time temperatures are expected to remain in the range of 35 to 40 degrees Celsius. The possibility of rain that could provide any relief during these days over Uttar Pradesh remains below normal in the months of April, May and June, Singh added. Furthermore, an above-normal number of heatwave days are expected across the state. During April 2025, an above-normal number of heatwave days are likely over most parts of Uttar Pradesh, the forecast stated. Medical professionals emphasise that heat waves pose a greater health risk than high temperatures alone. High temperatures cause general discomfort, which can be managed by staying in the shade and consuming ample water. However, heat wave exposure disrupts the body's natural temperature regulation, leading to severe dehydration and potential health complications, explained Dr.Shantanu Mishra, a Lucknow-based general practitioner. In response to the MeT department's forecast, the state government has directed district administrations to implement mitigation measures. District administrations have been alerted to the expected adverse hot weather and instructed to take measures to reduce its impact. Hospitals in the districts have also been asked to prepare for a surge in heat-related illnesses, Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami said. The Animal Husbandry department is also taking proactive steps to protect livestock. Cattle shelters across the state have been instructed to provide shaded areas and ample water for animals. Veterinary departments have been placed on high alert to assist farmers in rural areas whose livestock may be affected by the extreme conditions, Animal Husbandry Minister Dharmpal Singh said. (With PTI inputs)
Lawyers clash inside Jhansi courtroom over client's bail proceedings; Watch viral video here
A physical altercation involving lawyers and their associates erupted in a courtroom on Saturday, with sticks and chairs being used as weapons. The confrontation, recorded by a bystander, took place during a bail proceeding and has led to an investigation by the District Bar Association.
Unable To Observe Navratri Due To Periods, UP Woman Dies By Suicide
Priyansha Soni, a resident of Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, couldn't worship the goddess Durga during Navratri because of periods.
Uttar Pradesh to showcase cultural heritage at Arabian Travel Mart in Dubai
LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh government is set to participate in the globally acclaimed Arabian Travel Mart (ATM), to be held in Dubai from April 28 to May 1, with the states Tourism Department gearing up to showcase its rich and diverse cultural heritage on an international platform. As part of its initiative, the department will organise a roadshow and set up an elaborate 50-square-metre pavilion at the event venue. The pavilion will offer a multi-sensory experience of Uttar Pradeshs tourism landscape, focusing on unique aspects such as perfume tourism, river journeys, and spiritual trails. Key attractions at the pavilion will include Perfume Tourism, showcasing Kannauj, the perfume capital of India; the Sufi Circuit, trails through revered sites; Royal Heritage, palaces, forts and the timeless pride of Agra; Eco and Rural Tourism, immersive experiences in natural and village settings; Health and Wellness Tourism, highlighting Unani and Ayurvedic traditions; and River Tourism, serene journeys through the states sacred rivers. There will be the fragrance of Kannauj Atars, the regal architecture and artistry of Agra coupled with a series of captivating cultural performances, including the Peacock Dance of Vrindavan, Bundeli Folk Dance of Jhansi, and the classical Kathak of Lucknow, said the official spokesman. The UP pavilion will feature modern amenities to facilitate B2B and B2G meetings. Interactive displays, thematic entry gates, selfie points, and digital content will be used to engage visitors. Guests will enjoy musical performances featuring traditional instruments and folk songs across Uttar Pradesh, the spokesman added. The Tourism Department will also promote its official website and mobile application, offering detailed insights into travel services and facilities across the state. As part of the promotional material, visitors will receive brochures, branded bags, and pen drives containing comprehensive information about tourist destinations, travel itineraries, promotional films, and a detailed map of Uttar Pradesh.
Unable To Fast In Navratri Due To Periods, Jhansi Woman Dies By Suicide
Priyansha Soni, 36, from Jhansi, committed suicide after being unable to observe the Navratri fast due to her periods. Despite initial medical treatment, she passed away. Investigation is ongoing
Hockey India Senior Men National Championship under new format begins on Apr 4 in Jhansi
Jhansi, Apr 3: Thirty teams will compete in three divisions in the 15th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship to be held here from April 4-15. This will be the first time the mens tournament, to be held at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium, is being played in the new three-division format. The Senior Women National Championship was played in the same new format in March. The domestic competition, which will now also feature promotion and relegation battles, has [] The post Hockey India Senior Men National Championship under new format begins on Apr 4 in Jhansi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Life' Science: Jhansi's Class 8 Students Develop Driverless Tractor For Farmers
The innovative project is currently undergoing the patenting process, and experts believe it could significantly contribute to the advancement of automated farming solutions.
Sadhus On Train Say 'No Money For Ticket', TC Points Out Their Expensive Smartphones
The two saints were fined for travelling without tickets on a train in Jhansi. They initially attempted to evade the issue with various excuses but eventually paid the fine after the inspector firmly insisted
Varanasi meat shops to remain closed, ban on sale of cigarettes
LUCKNOW: The Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) has ordered closure of all meat, fish and poultry shops falling under its limits during Navratri, which begins on Sunday. A decision to this effect was taken in an executive meeting of the VMC on Thursday. Varanasi Municipal Commissioner Akshat Verma said that an order has already been issued in this regard. Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari has directed the officials concerned to ensure strict compliance with the directive. Besides, the executive committee has also banned the sale of cigarettes near religious places and schools. The steps taken by the civic body assumes significance as the Chaitra Navratri will begin just a day before Eid, which will be celebrated on March 31. Navratri will conclude with Ram Navami on April 6. Notably, local leaders in various other UP cities, including a BJP MLA in Jhansi, have also called for ban on meat sale during Navratri. MLA seeks meat ban A similar demand for ban on meat sales are being raised in cities across UP. In Jhansi, BJP MLA Ravi Verma is looking to approach the district administration in this regard.
School Bus Overturns in Jhansi, Over a Dozen Students Injured
Three students critically injured as bus carrying over 25 children from remote villages loses control on Bajna Road
UP Man Dies By Suicide At In-Laws' Place, Claimed Threat To Life In Video Before Death
A 26-year-old man died by suicide at his in-laws' house in Jhansi after recording a video alleging a threat to his life. His family suspects foul play, while police are investigating the case.
TTE Gets Passenger's Number From Reservation Info, Loses Job For Sending Her Obscene Texts
A TTE on the Bundelkhand Express was reassigned to the parcel office in Jhansi after allegedly harassing a woman by sending obscene messages
Bank Employee Kills Self In UP's Jhansi, Police Suspects Suicide Due To Work Stress
A 35-year-old man allegedly jumped in front of a train at a railway crossing here on Thursday with police suspecting that he committed suicide due to work-related stress.
28 stitches on private parts: Five-year-old battles for life after brutal assault in Madhya Pradesh
BHOPAL: A five-year-old girl with severe wounds across her body is battling for life in the ICU of Gwaliors Kamla Raja Hospital, five days after being raped and brutally assaulted by a teenage neighbour in Madhya Pradeshs Shivpuri district. The child is in excruciating pain, unable to sleep due to multiple wounds across her body, including severe tears in her privates, face, and jaw. Even the slightest movement on the hospital bed makes her scream in agony. The 17-year-old accused has been taken into police custody. Recounting the horror which happened on February 22 night, the girls grandfather said, Both my wife and I were away with our ailing son (the girls father) for his treatment at a hospital in Jhansi district in neighbouring UP. Taking advantage of the situation, the neighbourhood boy abducted our five-year-old granddaughter and committed unimaginable brutality with her at an abandoned house in the neighbourhood. He has been arrested by the police, but we want him to be publicly hanged to death for what he has done to our little granddaughter, the grandfather said. At the time of the abduction, the girl was playing outside her house while her mother was inside with her infant brother. The severity of injuries on her face, jaw, head, and private parts suggests that the accused repeatedly slammed her head against the wall. After sexually assaulting her, he attempted to pull her legs apart, inflicting severe wounds on her private parts. We have so far managed to save her life through the sustained efforts of our team of paediatricians and gynaecologists, said Dr RKS Dhakad, Dean of Gajra Raja Government Medical College in Gwalior. Her private parts were so badly damaged that we had to perform a colostomy to create an opening in the abdominal wall to allow stool to pass through, Dhakad said. The doctor further added We have treated many cases of brutality, but the wounds suffered by this five-year-old girl suggest that the tormentor committed unimaginable savagery. Our doctors have secured her life and are working round the clock to improve her stable condition. According to the medical team treating her, as many as 28 stitches have been placed on her private parts to repair the severe damage caused there. Taking to the social media platform X, union minister and local BJP MP Jyotiraditya Scindia posted. Im constantly in touch with doctors. There is no place for such crimes in our region and state. I took immediate cognizance of the incident and spoke to the district administration and SP Shivpuri and directed them to take strict action against such dreaded criminals. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) February 25, 2025 According to sub-divisional officer police (SDOP-Shivpuri) Prashant Sharma, the accused has been taken into custody and booked under multiple sections, including provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) 2012.
UP jail inmates earn Rs 10 lakh at Mahakumbh through handcrafted products
LUCKNOW: Jail inmates from Uttar Pradesh actively participated in Mahakumbh, generating a revenue of Rs 10 lakh over the 45-day mega event through a stall showcasing their handmade products. The stall, set up in Sector-01, Triveni Road, exhibited and sold over 150 prison-made items, including paintings, footwear, deity attire, eco-friendly bags, carpets, wooden furniture, herbal products, artefacts, and bakery goods. These products were part of the state governments initiatives like One District One Product (ODOP), Local for Vocal, and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The exhibition-cum-sale stall featured items crafted by inmates from over 25 jails across the state, reflecting their skill development and rehabilitation efforts. Showcasing a diverse range of handcrafted items, the stall drew significant attention for its quality and creative craftsmanship. According to DIG, Prisons Administration and Reform Services, R.B. Patel, the diligence of the inmates and the leadership of DG Prisons, P.V. Ramasastry, led the endeavour to success. The quality and creativity of these products drew widespread appreciation during Mahakumbh, Patel said. The stall featured a wide array of items, including wooden sofas, umbrellas, tea tables, wooden temples, leather shoes, bags, carpets, tablecloths, ladies purses, phenyl, soaps, pickles, envelopes, tools, utensils, candles, and decorative pieces. Bakery products from Varanasi Jail were particularly popular, doing brisk business during Mahakumbh. Wooden sofas are our top-selling item, followed by carpets and blankets engraved with Mahakumbh-2025 motifs, Patel added. Furniture made of pure sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo) wood and footwear crafted by inmates of Agra Jail were among the bestsellers. The exhibition showcased products with prices ranging from Rs 2 to Rs 12,000. Carpets from Mirzapur-Bhadohi, handmade shoes from Agra Jail, deity outfits from Mathura, and decorative artefacts from Mainpuri gained significant traction among visitors. Inmates also produced household goods, kitchen essentials, and incense sticks, which were sold at competitive prices. Operational since 11th January, the stall was managed by a team of 10 jail employees, led by an officer of deputy jailor rank. Fatehpur District Jail inmates crafted eco-friendly cotton and denim bags, priced at Rs 10 and Rs 100, respectively. These bags, printed with Om Sarvasiddhiprada: Kumbh Mahakumbh Prayagraj 2025, were promoted to support cleanliness and environmental conservation under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Other popular items included folding chairs from Bareilly Jail, soft toys from Jhansi Jail, and amla-based food products from Pratapgarh Jail. An inlay painting by a Mainpuri jail inmate was priced at Rs 12,000, while a Sangam-themed painting by a Ghaziabad Jail inmate was priced at Rs 5,100. Incense sticks from Kannauj Jail were also in high demand. The stall also featured conch shells from Aligarh, Shiva idols from Varanasi, and wheat-straw Hanuman idols. Officials stated that these products were available at lower prices compared to the open market while maintaining high quality. A staff member confirmed that additional stock of shoes and wooden artefacts was ordered due to high demand. Visitors were impressed by the affordability and craftsmanship of the items. According to jail authorities, the strong sales reflected the inmates reintegration into society through vocational training programmes supported by the government and NGOs. Messages about the huge sales will be conveyed to the inmates to encourage them to stay connected with society, an officer added.
GainBitcoin scam case: CBI seizes cryptocurrencies worth over Rs 23.94 crore
NEW DELHI: The CBI has seized cryptocurrencies worth more than Rs 23.94 crore during its two-day countrywide search operation in the GainBitcoin scam case that concluded on Wednesday, officials said. The central probe agency has also seized multiple hardware crypto wallets, 121 documents, 34 laptops and hard disks, 12 mobile phones and multiple email and instant messaging application dumps, they said. Following the nationwide searches conducted on February 25 and 26 in connection with the GainBitcoin cases, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), using in-house capabilities, has seized significant incriminating evidence and virtual digital assets, further unravelling the extent of the cryptocurrency fraud, a spokesperson said in a statement. The agency has sent the electronic devices for forensic analysis to uncover further details regarding the misappropriation of funds and potential international transactions linked to the scam, the officials said. The CBI launched the search operation at 60 locations in Delhi, Pune, Nanded, Kolhapur, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Mohali, Jhansi, and Hubli on Tuesday as part of its probe into the scam. The operation concluded on Wednesday. The ponzi scam was perpetrated through a web of platforms, including flagship site www.gainbitcoin.com, was allegedly masterminded by Amit Bhardwaj (now deceased) and his brother Ajay Bhardwaj, the officials said. Launched in 2015, the illicit operation was camouflaged under the facade of Variable Tech Pvt. Ltd, they said. The investors were lured by the offer of a 10 per cent monthly return in Bitcoin over 18 months. They were urged them to purchase the digital currency from external exchanges and deposit it with GainBitcoin through cloud mining contracts, the central agency said. The model followed a multi-level marketing (MLM) structure, commonly associated with pyramid-structured ponzi schemes where payouts are dependent on bringing in new investors, the spokesperson said. In its early days, investors received payouts in Bitcoin, fuelling the illusion of a lucrative venture. However, as the influx of new capital dwindled by 2017, the charade began to crumble. In an attempt to cover up the losses, GainBitcoin unilaterally switched payouts to their alleged in-house cryptocurrency called MCAP, which had significantly less value than Bitcoin, further misleading investors, the statement said. The scale and complexity of the scam resulted in the registration of multiple FIRs across India, from Jammu and Kashmir to Maharashtra and from Delhi to West Bengal. The Supreme Court had handed over the investigation into the case to the CBI due to the expansive nature of the operation and the international ramifications it entailed. The agency has launched a probe to unravel the full extent of the fraudulent activities, identify all implicated parties and trace the misappropriated funds, including those that may have crossed borders.
Bulldozers Take Center Stage in Uttar Pradesh Weddings
Couples in Jhansi and Gorakhpur incorporate bulldozers in wedding processions, reflecting support for controversial policies
Video: Move Over Helicopters, UP Family Uses Dozen Bulldozers For Bride's 'Bidaai'
A family in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi used nearly a dozen bulldozers for a bride's 'bidaai', or ceremonial send-off.
Video: Move Over Choppers, Family Uses Dozen Bulldozers For Bride's 'Bidaai'
A family in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi used nearly a dozen bulldozers for a bride's 'bidaai', or ceremonial send-off.
'Papa killed mummy': 4-year-old's drawing creates suspicion over woman'sallegedsuicide
A woman was found dead suspiciously in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi. There are claims that she did not attempt suicide but was murdered. The woman's four-year-old daughter's drawing suggests that her father had killed her mother.
Sunny Deol begins shooting for Border 2 in Jhansi
NEW DELHI, Feb 18: Bollywood superstar Sunny Deol has started shooting for Border 2, the upcoming sequel to JP Duttas 1997 war epic Border, in Jhansi. Deol, one of the original stars of Border, was joined on the sets by his co-star Varun Dhawan. Production banner T-Series shared the update on its official X page on Tuesday. Action, legacy, and patriotism! #SunnyDeol on the sets of #Border2 in the rugged cantonment of Jhansi, alongside #VarunDhawan, Producer #BhushanKumar, #NidhiDutta, co-producer [] The post Sunny Deol begins shooting for Border 2 in Jhansi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
How a five-year-old girl's sketch helped in finding the murderer of her mother in UP's Jhansi
A woman allegedly strangled to death by her husband in Jhansi was revealed by her five-year-old daughter's drawing. Initially claimed as suicide, the victim's family accused the in-laws of murder due to dowry harassment. Police arrested the husband after the daughter depicted the crime, and further investigation is underway.
BSP's 'political strength remained intact' despite Mayawati's 'corruption and greed': Udit Raj
LUCKNOW: Former Lok Sabha MP Udit Raj hit out at Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, saying her political strength remained intact for a long time despite her misbehaviour, corruption and greed. He also said that the Muslim community is going through the same phase today as the Dalits were in a bad condition once. Speaking to reporters in Lucknow on Monday, Raj said, After the 1980s, Kanshiram ji started Bahujan awakening in Uttar Pradesh, which reached its peak in the 2000s. Even though the movement culminated in politics, the thinking and basis has been social justice. Other political parties start with politics and end with it, but this was not the case with Bahujan Samaj Party. Attacking Mayawati, he said, Despite Ms. Mayawati's cruelty and incompetence, the workers and voters kept fighting. The houses of the workers were sold, their children could not get education and they were treated cruelly, yet they kept on struggling to bring Bahujan Raj. Lakhs of workers who believe in Phule, Shahu, Ambedkar are going through a phase of despair. Some have set up small organizations at their own level but their thinking is not dead. The former Lok Sabha MP from North West Delhi also said, The Muslim community is going through the same phase today as the Dalits were once. The Muslim community cannot fight the situation alone. Dalits are also not capable alone. Whenever the Muslim community raises its problem, its outcome is converted into communalism. He added that on December 1, 2024, the first rally of DOMA Parisangh was held at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan in which the demand to save the Waqf Board was raised. The former Lok Sabha MP currently heads the Dalit, OBC, Minorities and Adivasi (DOMA) Parisangh. Urging the Ambedkarites to come together, he said, The so-called Ambedkarites could not even break the caste system, at least stop casteism and caste organization. Till when will you keep gathering people by speaking against Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas. Today's need is to change yourself. Hindus are united by speaking against Muslims and Dalit-backward classes by criticizing upper castes. Stop following this path. Lord Gautam Buddha had said - Atta Deepo Bhava. It means that change your own thinking. Dalits and backward classes want the upper castes to change themselves, but they should keep doing casteism among themselves, he added. Commenting on organisations of the Bahujans, he said, Till now the organisations of Bahujans formed have been based on individuals and castes. The population is 85 per cent, but do all classes have a share in the organisation from top to bottom? Those running the organisation appoint people of their own caste and their friends to important positions and say that they are doing the welfare of Bahujans. In the organizational structure of DOMA Parisangh, it will be mandatory to have four people - one Dalit, one OBC, one Muslim and one Adivasi at every level. Bahujan is not just in name, but will have to be shown by action, he added. The former Lok Sabha MP further said it has been decided to hold six conferences in Jhansi, Banda, Shravasti, Kanpur, Meerut and Azamgarh in the coming days. Udit Raj was a Lok Sabha MP between 2014 and 2019, representing North West Delhi as a member of the BJP, but left the party after its first term. He is the former deputy commissioner, joint commissioner and additional commissioner of Income Tax at New Delhi. On November 24, 2003, he resigned from the government service and formed the Indian Justice Party. He merged the Indian Justice Party with the BJP in February 2014. He later joined the Congress in 2019.
Papa Killed Mummy, Hung Body: Girl's Drawing Raises Doubt Over Suicide Claim
An illustration by a four-year-old girl, whose mother was found dead in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi on Monday, has raised suspicion that the woman was assaulted and murdered by her husband, after years of alleged harassment, the police said.
Railway stations across UP on high alert amid Mahakumbh rush
In the wake of the stampede at Delhi Railway Station that claimed 18 lives on Saturday, railway stations across Uttar Pradesh have been put on high alert following the massive convergence of devotees reaching Prayagraj for a holy dip at Sangam during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. Over 52 crore people have bathed on the ghats along Sangam in Prayagraj. However, the massive crowds of devotees have resulted in severe congestion on roads and railway stations, leading to significant travel disruptions. Over the weekend, Prayagraj and its neighbouring districts, including Ayodhya, Gonda, Varanasi, Fatehpur, Gorakhpur, and even the state capital Lucknow, experienced huge crowds at railway stations. Besides the above-mentioned stations, almost all other stations, including Chitrakoot, Kannauj, and Jhansi, have been put on alert after the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. At Charbagh Railway Station in Lucknow, cops have been carrying out inspections. They have prepared a list of trains going to Prayagraj and are brainstorming on arrangements to manage the crowd. They are also checking CCTV footage. The railways are witnessing a massive surge in footfall in view of the ongoing Mela. The trains reaching Prayagraj are overcrowded at stations, with passengers awaiting Prayagraj-bound or even adjoining district trains to reach the Mahakumbh, despite the three significant 'Amrit Snans' (holy dips) on the auspicious days of Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, and Basant Panchami being over. ADG Railways, Prakash D, has issued directives to the authorities concerned to ensure the deployment of GRP personnel at all railway stations across the state. Moreover, the GRP has also been directed to manage the crowd and maintain order on the platforms while working in coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and railway authorities. In order to avoid any chaos due to overcrowding at railway stations, GRP personnel have been deployed on footover bridges. Special caution is being taken on the platforms through which the Prayagraj-bound special Mela trains are passing. Meanwhile, the police authorities of all the districts through which trains for Prayagraj are passing have deployed district police personnel around railway stations for crowd management.
BHOPAL:A teenager was killed and two others were injured when a discarded shell reportedly exploded in the restricted area near the Army Firing Range in Jaitpur village of Datia district of Madhya Pradesh on Friday. While the local police have initiated investigations into the incident, the two injured persons have been admitted to the government medical college in the adjoining Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh. According to local police sources in Datia district, the incident happened when the three persons were searching junk/scrap from the restricted area near the Hirapur Army Firing Range in Jaitpur village under Basai police station area. The trio came across an unexploded and discarded shell while looking for the metal scrap. As they were attempting to open it, the shell went off, killing 17-year-old Ganga Ram on the spot and critically injuring the two others identified as 23-year-old Ramu and 16-year-old Manoj. Local residents soon informed about the incident to the police, who rushed the two injured persons to the Medical College in the adjoining Jhansi district. According to Datia police sources, the firing range is exclusively used by the army personnel for training purposes and unexploded shells sometimes remain behind as discarded shells. The three individuals and teenagers managed to enter the same restricted area in search of metal scrap and started tampering with the shells, owing to which one of the discarded shells exploded, leading to the tragedy.
Meet Likitha Murthy, the Jhansi of Telugu television
Likitha plays Jhansi, a passionate lawyer in the new Telugu serial Jhansi, a Warrior
Social welfare warden in ACB net
Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) officials, headed by its Eluru DSP V. Subba Raju, caught Social Welfare College warden red-handed while she was accepting Rs 30,000 as bribe from P. Jhansi, a hostel outsourcing staff, working as a housekeeper and sanitation worker, on Thursday night at Nuzvid in Eluru district.
No idea where to search for my mom
LUCKNOW: Mahendra Sahu is a hassled man, frantically searching for his 70-year-old mother Saroj Devi missing after the stampede which claimed at least 30 lives on Wednesday. I am having no idea where to search my mother. She has an identity card around her neck but her phone is not reachable. She knows how to call up from mobile but she has not contacted anyone, said Mahendra fearing the worst. He and her mother came with 20 others from UPs Unnao to take a holy dip at Sangam. Like him, lot of devotees are busy searching desperately for their dear ones while some fortunate ones managed to find their kin after hours wait. Most of those still missing are women. Lakshmi Kashyap from Jhansi has been missing since Mauni Amavasya. Her nephew Rakesh said, My aunt, uncle, my father and mother travelled to the Kumbh Mela for a holy dip at the Sangam. After taking a dip on Mauni Amavasya evening with all of us, my aunt got separated from the family and we are yet to get her whereabouts. Shyama Verma from Jaunpur had come with 15 of her relatives. We parked our vehicle before entering the Mela area. After the dip, we gathered at Sahso Chauraha to return home but Shayma got separated due to jostling by the huge crowd. All our efforts to find her have gone in vain so far, said her husband Ram Sharan Verma. While for many families the anxious wait continues, some have been fortunate to reunite with their loved ones. Among them is Renu Lata Nandi from Odishas Kendrapara who had been missing since Tuesday night after taking a dip in the Ganga. My mother got separated from our group after the bath. We were extremely worried, especially after hearing about the stampede. But today, a fellow villager from our group of 26 people found her in Sector 20. We are all relieved, her son Amar Kumar Nandi said. Some of those who lost touch with the group with whom they had travelled to Prayagraj were making efforts to return home alone. Among them were an elderly couple from Kushinagar Ram Sanehi and Bitta Devi. Now, we are just trying to find a way to reach the railway station and board a train to Gorakhpur. But we have no idea how to get there, said Sanehi. According to Umesh Chandra Tiwari, who runs the lost-and-found camp of the Bharat Seva Dal in Sector 4 on the Mela premises, the new digital lost-and-found centre is proving effective in reconnecting people. Most of the missing person reports are now being registered there, and they are coordinating with us to help track people, he said. After stampede, Stricter safety measures come up No-vehicle zone, complete ban on VVIP pass Ex-Divisional Commissioner Ashish Goyal and former Allahabad Development Authority Vice-Chairman Bhanu Goswami along with 5 special secys to coordinate 3rd Amrit Snan of Basant Panchami on February 3 Goyal and Goswami had their stint in Prayagaraj and supposed to have a fair idea of Kumbh management SP-level officers to be deployed for management and security; senior police and district administration officials from Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Mirzapur, Basti, Jaunpur, Chitrakoot, Banda, Ambedkarnagar, Pratapgarh, Sant Kabir Nagar, Bhadohi, Rae Bareli, and Gorakhpur to be roped in Extra buses from the state transport corporation to be deployed to maintain smooth flow of traffic Holding areas set up at border points to manage crowd; Devotees would be allowed to proceed to the mela based on the prevailing situation; Arrangements for food and drinking water at all holding areas with uninterrupted electricity supply Chief secy and DG to conduct review of arrangements
Kumbh-bound passengers hurl stones after being unable to board crowded trains in MP
Chhatarpur: People heading for the Maha Kumbh threw stones on Prayagraj-bound trains at two railway stations in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur after passengers inside the packed coaches did not open the doors for them, officials said on Tuesday. Following the ruckus at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations on Monday night, authorities said stricter security arrangements would be made to avoid such incidents and that special trains were being run for Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh according to the demand. Some videos have surfaced on social media showing some people shouting at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations. The clips also showed some people throwing stones and hitting at the doors of a train, and trying to force open them. RK Singh, a passenger from Chhatarpur, told reporters that he was going to Prayagraj in UP to take a dip at the Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh there. But, he could not board a Prayagraj-bound train as all its doors and windows were closed, he claimed. After the people created ruckus, the Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel opened doors of a train at Chhatarpur. But due to the train already being crowded, several people could not board it, he said. Jhansi railway division's public relations officer Manoj Kumar Singh said the matter of a dispute about boarding trains at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations has come to their notice. The Railways will make stricter security arrangements by coordinating with the administration so that such incidents do not recur, he said. Trains are being run continuously (for Prayagraj) and if needed, special trains are also being run as per the demand, Singh said. The administration expects cooperation from the passengers, he added.
Kumbh-bound passengers hurl stones after being unable to board crowded trains in Madhya Pradesh
CHHATARPUR: People heading for the Maha Kumbh threw stones on Prayagraj-bound trains at two railway stations in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur after passengers inside the packed coaches did not open the doors for them, officials said on Tuesday. Following the ruckus at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations on Monday night, authorities said stricter security arrangements would be made to avoid such incidents and that special trains were being run for Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh according to the demand. Some videos have surfaced on social media showing some people shouting at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations. The clips also showed some people throwing stones and hitting at the doors of a train, and trying to force open them. RK Singh, a passenger from Chhatarpur, told reporters that he was going to Prayagraj in UP to take a dip at the Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh there. But, he could not board a Prayagraj-bound train as all its doors and windows were closed, he claimed. After the people created ruckus, the Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel opened doors of a train at Chhatarpur. But due to the train already being crowded, several people could not board it, he said. Jhansi railway division's public relations officer Manoj Kumar Singh said the matter of a dispute about boarding trains at the Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations has come to their notice. The Railways will make stricter security arrangements by coordinating with the administration so that such incidents do not recur, he said. Trains are being run continuously (for Prayagraj) and if needed, special trains are also being run as per the demand, Singh said. The administration expects cooperation from the passengers, he added.
Passengers Throw Stones At Mahakumbh Special Train On Finding Doors Locked
A special train travelling from Jhansi to Prayaraj was pelted with stones at Harpalpur station after passengers waiting on the platform found the doors of the compartments locked
3 killed as car rams into truck parked on roadside in UP's Jhansi
Three men died in a car accident in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, when their vehicle collided with a parked truck on the Jhansi-Lalitpur highway. The driver lost control while trying to avoid hitting a puppy, resulting in the crash. The victims, aged between 20 and 25, were returning from an engagement ceremony.
Congress chief Kharge says Priyanka Gandhi is Stree Shakti, Rahul Gandhi Yuva Shakti
Belagavi (Karnataka), Jan 21 (PTI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said Lok Sabha MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra represented Stree Shakti and likened her with historic freedom fighters Kittur Rani Chennamma and Jhansi Ki Rani Lakshmi Bai. Kharge also hailed Rahul Gandhi as a symbol of Yuva Shakti. Addressing the Gandhi Bharat event here, Kharge said the Congress has organised the event to commemorate the centenary of the lone Congress session held in Belagavi, which Mahatma Gandhi had chaired as the grand old partys president way back in 1924. If there is Kittur Chennamma its Priyanka Gandhi. If there is
Mahakumbh 2025: Indian Railways Introduces 137 Special Trains for Devotees
Indian Railways has launched 137 special trains to accommodate the huge influx of devotees attending the fourth day of the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. These special services complement the 349 regular trains already serving the city. In the first two days, over 15.6 lakh passengers arrived at various Prayagraj stations. The special trains include long-distance options and ring rail services connecting nearby pilgrimage towns like Chitrakoot, Ayodhya, and Varanasi. During the 46-day Mahakumbh, Indian Railways plans to operate over 13,100 trains, including more than 10,000 regular services and around 3,100 special trains. This is a significant increase, with the number of special trains being 4.5 times higher than in the previous Kumbh Mela. Of these, 1,800 trains are for short-distance routes, while 700 cater to long-distance travel. Additionally, 560 services are running on four designated ring rail routes connecting Prayagraj with other cities. These routes include Prayagraj-Sangam Prayag-Jaunpur-Prayag-Prayagraj, Prayagraj-Ayodhya-Varanasi-Prayagraj, Govindpuri-Prayagraj-Chitrakoot-Govindpuri, and Jhansi-Govindpuri-Prayagraj-Manikpur-Chitrakoot-Jhansi. Over 3.5 crore devotees visited the Mahakumbh on the second day, with people traveling from across India and abroad. To manage the increasing footfall, additional train services are being arranged, with the Bhopal division preparing to introduce 15 more pairs of trains in the coming days. To handle the rush, nine railway stations around the Mahakumbh area have been upgraded. Major stations like Prayagraj, Phaphamau, Rambagh, and Jhunsi have been remodeled to manage more train operations. Subedarganj station has been developed as a satellite station to support Prayagraj Junction, which handled 45% of the crowd during the 2019 Kumbh. The Prayagraj region now boasts 48 platforms, following the addition of seven new ones. Passenger facilities have been improved, with the introduction of 17 new permanent Yatri Ashrayas, increasing the total accommodation capacity from 21,000 to over 1.1 lakh. Stations now feature a systematic color-coding scheme to guide passengers through waiting areas. Enhanced amenities such as upgraded toilets, improved waiting rooms, drinking water facilities, and food arrangements have been put in place. Additionally, Yatri Suvidha Kendras at Prayagraj Junction and Prayagraj Chheoki offer services like wheelchairs, luggage trolleys, hotel and taxi bookings, baby milk, and medicines. Security has also been intensified. Approximately 5,900 personnel, including 3,200 Railway Protection Force (RPF) members, have been deployed across the nine stations in Prayagraj. Surveillance has been bolstered with 1,186 CCTV cameras, 116 of which are equipped with Face Recognition Systems. For the first time, drone cameras are being used to monitor tracks and crowds on approach roads to stations.
Fraudsters swap QR codes at MP's Khajuraho shops to redirect digital payments
BHOPAL: A woman running a medicine shop in Khajuraho, a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh, has uncovered a cyber fraud affecting local traders. Omvati Gupta, who operates the medical shop, realised on Sunday morning that customers digital payments were not being credited to her bank account. Upon investigating, she discovered that the payments were being routed to a QR code linked to one Chotu Tiwari. I subsequently checked the CCTV footage outside the shop, which revealed that three men had replaced the QR code (digital payment code) of the shop with another QR code sticker, Gupta said. Gupta reported the incident to the local police and also alerted other traders in the area. Following her alert, several other shopkeepers reported similar incidents of fraud. Since the morning, 8-10 customers had come to the shop, but their payments never reached my bank account. After learning about the QR code issue from neighbouring shops, I found that the payments were instead being routed to another account, held by Chotu Tiwari. We also reported the matter to the police, said Abid Ali, who runs a popular biryani shop in the same area. The staff at a nearby petrol pump also reported a similar situation, prompting the local police to take immediate action. Khajuraho Police Station in-charge Atul Dixit confirmed the incident. Acting on the matter, we have detained the prime accused, Chotu Tiwari, who is also seen in the video footage retrieved from outside the shops. He hails from Jhansi in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh and had been working in Saharanpur, western UP, for some time. We are now searching for his two accomplices, who are currently on the run. On Monday, we will ascertain how much money Tiwari has siphoned off by changing the payment QR codes at various shops, Dixit said.
Woman exposes cyber fraud in MP's Khajuraho after discovering altered QR codes
BHOPAL: A woman running a medicine shop in Khajuraho, a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh, has uncovered a cyber fraud affecting local traders. Omvati Gupta, who operates the medical shop, realised on Sunday morning that customers digital payments were not being credited to her bank account. Upon investigating, she discovered that the payments were being routed to a QR code linked to one Chotu Tiwari. I subsequently checked the CCTV footage outside the shop, which revealed that three men had replaced the QR code (digital payment code) of the shop with another QR code sticker, Gupta said. Gupta reported the incident to the local police and also alerted other traders in the area. Following her alert, several other shopkeepers reported similar incidents of fraud. Since the morning, 8-10 customers had come to the shop, but their payments never reached my bank account. After learning about the QR code issue from neighbouring shops, I found that the payments were instead being routed to another account, held by Chotu Tiwari. We also reported the matter to the police, said Abid Ali, who runs a popular biryani shop in the same area. The staff at a nearby petrol pump also reported a similar situation, prompting the local police to take immediate action. Khajuraho Police Station in-charge Atul Dixit confirmed the incident. Acting on the matter, we have detained the prime accused, Chotu Tiwari, who is also seen in the video footage retrieved from outside the shops. He hails from Jhansi in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh and had been working in Saharanpur, western UP, for some time. We are now searching for his two accomplices, who are currently on the run. On Monday, we will ascertain how much money Tiwari has siphoned off by changing the payment QR codes at various shops, Dixit said.
Viral Video: Chaos In UP Mall As Monkey Attacks Woman, Snatches Her Shoe
Chaos ensued in a mall in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi as monkey attacked a woman customer and snatched her shoe.
I thought Indira Gandhi was powerful, but my research found her to be weak: BJP MP Kangana Ranaut
MUMBAI: Kangana Ranaut, who plays the role Indira Gandhi in her new film Emergency, said she did extensive research and now believes the former prime minister was not powerful as she had thought but weak and unsure of herself. The first-time MP from Mandi, often in the headlines for her provocative comments, also said there is no director today who deserves her. I'm very proudly saying that today there is not a single director in the film industry that I want to work with because they don't have that kind of quality that I feel that they deserve me, Ranaut told PTI in a video interview ahead of the release of the much in the news 'Emergency'. Ranaut, who has directed and produced the film that documents the 21 months of Emergency imposed in 1975 by the then prime minister, said she has empathy for Indira Gandhi and viewed as very powerful until she started working on the project. But when I did my research, I understood it was quite the contrary. It also strengthened my belief that the weaker you are, the more control you would want. She was a very weak person and she was also very unsure of herself and really vulnerable, Kangana claimed She had many crutches around and she was constantly seeking a kind of validation. She was also hugely dependent on many people, one of them was Sanjay Gandhi... I didn't have that kind of empathy for her before 'Emergency', she added. The 'Queen' star said she took o liberties at all in the portrayal of Indira Gandhi and the Emergency months. Ranaut also said she ran into Indira Gandhi's granddaughter and fellow MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Parliament and brought up the issue of the film. I met Mrs Priyanka Gandhi in Parliament and she complimented me on my work and my hair. So I was like, 'You know, I made this film Emergency and maybe you should see it'. And she was like, 'Okay, maybe', Ranaut said as she recounted her brief interaction with the Congress MP from Wayanad. And I think if they have a little bit of acceptance for what has been, they will appreciate the film, she added. The film, Ranaut said, has not been made with the intention of hurting people or their sentiments so the cuts don't matter. As the film is not made with that intention, even if that was removed, it doesn't impact my story. 'Emergency' will release on January 17 after months of controversy over its censor certificate and allegations that it misrepresents the Sikh community. It missed out on its September 6, 2024 release date as it was unable to obtain the clearance certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Ranaut had then accused the CBFC of stalling the certification. The matter went to the Bombay High Court where production banner Zee Studios eventually agreed to comply with the changes suggested by CBFC's revising committee. She did not reveal the number of cuts the CBFC directed but said she would have liked the film to release the way she had made it. According to Ranaut, people tried hard to stop 'Emergency' from releasing. I was completely devastated. I thought maybe it will never see the light of the day. Because there was earlier a film on Mrs Gandhi called 'Kissa Kursi Ka'. I thought maybe it's jinxed or something that you can't make a film on her...And I had also put some investments into it. There were a lot of issues, obviously I was disheartened, she said. Describing 'Emergency' as an unusual and controversial film, Ranaut said audiences are used to watching traditional song-and-dance movies from Bollywood. But when you have something so unusual, people are a bit unsettled about it. 'How come she made a film like this?' This is controversial and talks about a very important chapter in history. The 38-year-old, known for films such as Gangster, the Tanu Weds Manu franchise, Fashion and Panga, said she believes in the power of authenticity. Since my film was deeply scrutinised, I had to present proof of the documentation, the source, everything. I had to face a lot of setbacks, challenges, scrutiny and all kinds of pressures. They say truth eventually trumps over everything. We presented all the proof. Different communities, (political) parties, historians, common man, anyone who has seen the film has said there is nothing objectionable in it, she said. She rebuffed the suggestion that she is difficult to work with. No, there is no such thing that I can't collaborate with anyone. But it's just that I find deep satisfaction in people who are quality people. Somebody like Shreyas (Talpade) sir or Anupam (Kher) ji... I'm a person like that and these are the kind of people I deserve, she said about her 'Emergency' co-stars. Whoever I want to work with and I deserve, they are with me, whether it is the director of photography (Tetsuo Nagata) or my action director (Nick Powell ), who is also the one who did 'Gladiator'. My prosthetic artist (David Malinowski) is the one who's done Gary Oldman's 'Darkest Hour'. Has acting taken a back seat after she became an MP last June? Not really a back seat but yes being a parliamentarian is also a very demanding job. I have been going to Parliament almost every month. There has been a little bit of a setback in terms of my shootings. I'm not able to, but I will resume, she said. Emergency stars Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan, Shreyas Talpade in the role of a young Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Mahima Choudhary as Pupul Jayakar and the late Satish Kaushik in the role of Jagjivan Ram. It is produced by Manikarnika Films. Ranaut is no stranger to playing real-life characters on screen: she portrayed freedom fighter Rani of Jhansi in 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' and the late Tamil Nadu chief minister-film star J Jayalalithaa in 'Thalaivii'.
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