Tejashwi bats for stronger EBC representation in Bihar assembly polls
PATNA: Bihar Opposition leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav on Saturday appealed to the public to give him a chance by voting in a Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) government in the upcoming October-November assembly elections. Speaking at the EBC Jagao Rally in the state capital, Tejashwi said that if the Grand Alliance comes to power, his government would take swift action against wrongdoers, jail the corrupt, and deal firmly with criminals. Hitting out at the NDA government led by chief minister Nitish Kumar, the former deputy chief minister said that corruption was at its peak and criminals were ruling the roost. The government has failed to deliver justice to people, he alleged. He exhorted people to uproot the 20-year-old government in Bihar, which has lost both its credibility and relevance. This is the right time to uproot the NDA government. The new government will give due representation and dignity to extremely backward classes (EBCs), he asserted. He exuded confidence that NDA would not return to power in 2025 assembly elections. People will change this khatara government, he said, adding that the majority of people who migrate from Bihar to other states in search of livelihood were from EBC. He claimed that people were fed up with rising incidents of crime and corruption prevalent in government offices. No work is done in the government offices without paying bribes to the officials and employees. But the government is silent on the issue, he claimed. Tejashwi, however, credited his father and RJD chief Lalu Prasad for empowering the EBCS in Bihar. He alleged that before Lalu came to power, people from EBCs were denied their basic rights. It was Lalu ji who fought for their rights, he claimed. Before the 1990s, people from EBCs could not wear slippers, draw water from wells, ride horses at weddings, or even wear new clothes. Lalu Prasad gave them these rights. He made many people MLAs, MPs and ministers, he added. RJD leader promised greater political representation for EBCs this time, stating that RJD would give more election tickets to candidates from this community than ever before. If you take one step, we will take four, we will take sixteen. I am here to do politics till I am 75 and not for five years, he asserted. He emphasised that his aim was long-term structural work for upliftment of marginalised communities and not short-term political gains.
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'Amaravati will emerge as leading city in the country': PM Modi at AP capital city relaunch
VIJAYAWADA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and his Deputy Pawan Kalyan to transform Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh into a growth engine for a developed India, citing it as the dream of N T Rama Rao to develop the state. We must fulfill NTRs dreams. Chandrababu and Pawan Kalyan, together we must do it and we will do it, Modi said. While restarting the construction of Amaravati on Friday, the PM emphasized that the state capital city is not just a city but a dream coming true. Alongside the relaunch, Modi laid the foundation stone for several capital city-related projects and dedicated Rs 58,000 crore worth nine other projects to the nation. Addressing a large gathering, he stated, This is the beginning of building Swarna Andhra (Golden AP). These are not just concrete structures, but are strong foundations for the aspirations of Andhra Pradesh and the vision for a developed India. Modi expressed confidence that Amaravati, once completed in three years as promised by CM Naidu, will transform the state into a modern and progressive one, and it can fulfil the dreams of every Andhraite. Amaravati will emerge as a leading city in the country in fields like Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Green Energy, Clean Industries, Education, and Healthcare, he added, pledging full support to the state in providing necessary infrastructure. Recalling his role in laying the foundation for Amaravati as the Peoples Capital in 2015, Modi noted that the Central Government has extended its full support over the past decade, and now, under CM Naidu's leadership, development will progress rapidly, prioritizing essential structures like the High Court, Assembly, Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan. 'There's no one better than Chandrababu' The Prime Minister praised Chandrababu Naidu, saying, There's no one better than Chandrababu when it comes to executing large-scale projects quickly while ensuring top-notch quality. Modi revealed that he had closely observed how Chandrababu developed the IT industry in Hyderabad while he was the CM of Gujarat. Chandrababu praised me for adopting technology. But as the Gujarat CM I had observed how he developed the IT sector in Hyderabad and understood the process. Today, I'm able to implement those learnings across the country, Modi said. PM: India's strength lies not just in weapons, but in unity of its people While laying the foundation stone for a new defence facility in Nagayalanka for the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Navadurga missile launching range, Modi stated that this range, like goddess Kanakadurga, will strengthen the nations defence. The PM emphasized that Indias strength lies not just in its weapons but in the unity of its people. He highlighted the significance of the Polavaram project, saying it will transform the lives of millions of farmers in Andhra Pradesh, with both the central and state governments working together to complete it swiftly. Modi reiterated the central government's support to the state over the past decade. 'Will celebrate Yoga Day in Vizag' Chandrababu invited the Prime Minister to participate in International Yoga Day in Visakhapatnam on June 21. Thanking the CM and the people for the invitation, Modi said he would attend the yoga event and practice yoga with the public to draw global attention to yoga and India. Modi encouraged the people of Andhra Pradesh to practise yoga in every home, aiming to break world records and showcase yoga worldwide.
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Khelo India Youth Games: PM Modi to virtually inaugurate, 6000 participants in 27 events
Patna, May 3: More than 6,000 athletes will compete in 27 medal sports in the seventh edition of Khelo India Youth Games which will be inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. The Games, an under-18 event this time, will be held in five cities of Bihar, as well as in New Delhi, and will run till May 15. Thirty-six states and Union Territories will feature in KIYG 2025. In Bihar, the main venue of the Games will [] The post Khelo India Youth Games: PM Modi to virtually inaugurate, 6000 participants in 27 events appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
AIMIM chief Owaisi attacks Pakistan over Pahalgam terror attack
Patna: AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on Pakistan and its intelligence agency ISI over the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam where 26 tourists were gunned down after questioning their religion. Addressing a rally at Bahadurganj in Kishanganj district of Bihar, Owaisi condemned the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
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Time has come for a powerful response to Pakistan, AIMIM chief Owaisi says at Bihar rally
PATNA: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched a scathing attack on Pakistan for orchestrating the terror attack on tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22. He said that no outsider has the right to come to India and take the lives of innocent people. Addressing a public rally at Bahadurganj in Bihars Kishanganj district, Owaisi expressed his displeasure over the incident and promised full support to the Central government in dealing with terrorism. The time has come for a powerful response, Owaisi said, adding that terrorists asking tourists about their religion before killing them was highly condemnable. We have seen terror groups from Pakistan commit such heinous crimes before. I am standing firmly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue. Whatever action is decided against the terrorists, we are with you. We want justice for the victims and their families, who are shell-shocked by the incident, he told the gathering. Referring to Pakistans ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), the Hyderabad MP said, The ISI chief who is speaking nonsenselet me remind him that we chose to stay in India in 1947. We rejected Mohammad Ali Jinnahs message. India was, is, and will always remain our motherland, he told the crowd, which had gathered from far-flung areas to listen to their leader. The AIMIM chief also criticised Pakistans internal divisions and failures. In Pakistan, people are still dividedMuhajir, Pathan, Balochand poverty is so severe that your own people feel uneasy. You have conflicts with Iran and Afghanistan. Pakistan is a failed state, and that is why it tries to create disturbances in India. The time has come to dismantle these terrorist groups, he asserted. He lauded the Central government for taking tough diplomatic and economic stances against Pakistan. I praise the Indian government for suspending all trade and air and water routes used by Pakistan. Whatever missiles Pakistan can testIndia is much stronger and more capable, he added. Talking about the upcoming Bihar assembly elections due later this year, Owaisi said that AIMIM would win 24 assembly seats. Taking a dig at RJD leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, he said that the RJD would beg before AIMIM leaders, including Akhtarul Iman and Tausif Alam, a former MLA. He appealed to people to strengthen the base of AIMIM by extending their support in the upcoming assembly elections scheduled to be held in October-November this year. You must see which party is fighting a war for the protection of mosques and their sanctity, he said, adding that people should make the right decision at the right moment. Owaisi also slammed both the BJP-led Central government and the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government in Bihar over the Waqf (Amendment) Act . He raised a strong objection to the allegation that AIMIM was a B team of the BJP. He reiterated his resolve to fight against the Waqf (Amendment) Act until it is withdrawn.
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In Mokama, over 100 students became ill after eating a mid-day meal. The meal was allegedly contaminated by a snake. The NHRC took notice and started an inquiry. Sick children were admitted to the hospital. Locals protested the incident. The NHRC asked for a detailed report from Bihar government and Patna police.
Farooq Abdullah Urges People Of J&K To Take Stand Against Perpetrators Of Pahalgam-Like Attacks
ANANTNAG, May 3: National Conference supremo Farooq Abdullah on Saturday urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to stand against the perpetrators of Pahalgam-like attacks for progress and prosperity, asserting that those behind the April 22 massacre would rot in hell. The former chief minister of the erstwhile state visited the residence of Adil Hussain Shah, a pony ride operator who was among the 26 victims, at Hapatnaar in this south Kashmir district. He (Shah) is a martyr. He sacrificed [] The post Farooq Abdullah Urges People Of J&K To Take Stand Against Perpetrators Of Pahalgam-Like Attacks appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
RAID 2: Ajay Devgn vs the system Unpacking the money lessons hidden in the action
RAID 2 follows Ajay Devgn's Amay Patnaik as he leads income tax officers against a corrupt politician hoarding illegal wealth. The film explores themes of tax evasion and investment strategies while blending humor and drama in a quest for hidden treasures.
Tribals in Andhra's ASR seek reinstatement of GO No. 3
VISAKHAPATNAM: Tribal communities in Alluri Sitarama Raju district observed a bandh on Friday, demanding the reinstatement of Government Order (GO) No. 3, which earlier ensured 100% reservation for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates in teacher recruitment in scheduled areas. The protest saw wide participation, with shops closed voluntarily in places such as Araku Valley. Tourist destinations including the Tribal Museum, Padmapuram Botanical Garden, and the Coffee Museum remained shut, while roads across the region wore a deserted look. Protesters blocked roads and raised slogans urging the government to restore the provisions under GO No. 3. They recalled the promise made by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu during an election rally, where he assured 100% reservation in government jobs for tribals by reviving the special provisions under GO No. 3. In response, ASR District Collector AS Dinesh Kumar issued a statement appealing to the tribal communities to withdraw the bandh and cooperate with the government. He explained that GO No. 3, issued on January 10, 2000, by the Andhra Pradesh Tribal Welfare Department, provided for 100% reservation for local ST candidates in teacher recruitment within scheduled areas and included a 33% sub-reservation for ST women. He said that this policy was implemented in about 11 General and Special DSCs conducted after the issuance of GO No. 3, with all posts being filled by eligible local ST candidates. However, the Supreme Courts Constitution Bench, in a verdict delivered on April 22, 2020, declared GO No. 3 unconstitutional. Following the courts decision, the State government was required to re-evaluate and revise its recruitment policies in agency areas, he explained. The Collector added that in the recently announced Mega DSC-2025 recruitment, GO No. 3 was not considered due to the Supreme Court ruling, and reservations were allotted as per the general roster. The government is sincerely exploring legal alternatives to ensure justice for tribals without violating the SCs directions, he said. Tribal Welfare Minister Gummidi Sandhya Rani reiterated the governments commitment to the welfare of tribal communities. The coalition government is working on introducing an alternative Government Order to replace GO No. 3. Young unemployed tribal youth should not be misled by the YSRCPs political narrative, the Minister said. Out of the 16,437 DSC posts, 2,024 have been allocated specifically for tribals. She said Is it reasonable to ask for the cancellation of Mega DSC? It was the previous YSRCP government that nullified GO No. 3 and failed to fill even a single teacher post. She stated.
Odisha man arrested for cheating realtor of Rs 2.83 crore
ROURKELA: Jhirpani police on Friday arrested a 55-year-old man for allegedly duping a real estate businessman of Rs 2.83 crore. Police said Md Qumar Khan of Koelnagar along with his wife and an accomplice cheated realtor Biswa Bhusan Nanda (36) in 2024. Khans wife Sindhu AS (50), a native of Chengannur in Kerala, worked as a teacher in a reputed English medium school in Rourkela. In December last year, Nanda of Basanti Colony had filed a complaint with police stating that Sindhu was known to him through his sister. She along with her husband and their accomplice Pradipta Patnayak (50) duped him with the false promise of a profitable land deal, he alleged. The complainant claimed Sindhu informed him that her relatives and acquaintances in Chengannur were interested in selling their land worth Rs 3 crore. The accused trio told him to invest quickly as the land value was rising fast. Subsequently, he paid them Rs 2.83 crore in installments between April and May 2024. Nanda said when the accused could not provide him the land, he realised that he had been duped. Jhirpani IIC Pradip Nayak while Khan was arrested, his wife Sindhu and the other accused person were admitted to hospital after they complained of ill health. They would be arrested after discharge from hospital. The duped amount is yet to be recovered, he added.
Andhra temple wall collapse: Preliminary enquiry reveals structure constructed illegally
VISAKHAPATNAM: A preliminary enquiry into the retaining wall collapse at Simhachalam, which claimed seven lives during the Chandanotsavam festival on April 30, has revealed that the structure was constructed without formal approvals and in violation of the temples master plan. The three-member committee appointed by the Andhra Pradesh government to investigate into the incident completed its initial inquiry in Visakhapatnam on Friday and has since departed for Amaravati. Based on our findings so far, everything was done in a hasty manner, based merely on verbal instructions, said S Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of the MA&UD Department and chairman of the inquiry committee. The committee also includes Inspector General of Police Ake Ravi Krishna and Engineer-in-Chief (FAC) of the irrigation department, Venkateswar Rao. Contractor claims pressure to build wall before Simhachalam tragedy Panel plans to get extra inputs from devotees Addressing the media on Friday, Suresh Kumar stated that the construction of the retaining wall lacked official permission and violated norms outlined in the Simhachalam master plan. We have completed the preliminary investigation. It was learnt that due process was not followed in the construction. Everything appears to have been carried out informally, he said. The team interacted with temple priests, Agama experts scholars, and other stakeholders during the course of the inquiry. Agama experts, represented by Vaidiks, flagged a critical lapse pointing out that the wall was erected without consulting traditional Agamasastra practitioners, a clear deviation from established religious construction norms. Soil and structural samples were collected from the collapsed site for further analysis. The committee also plans to gather extra inputs from devotees who were present at the time of the incident. Officials noted that the works under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) Scheme were originally scheduled to be completed by August 2024. However, the committee flagged concerns over delays and systemic inefficiencies in implementation. The enquiry also highlighted a lack of coordination between the Endowments and Tourism Departments. This coordination gap needs to be addressed and we recommend escalating this integration issue to state-level leadership for resolution, the committee stated in its observations.
Indias strength lies not just in weaponry but in its unity: PM Modi
New Delhi: Indias strength lies not just in its weaponry but in its unity, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday. Highlighting that this spirit of unity is further reinforced through Ekta Malls, which are being set up in cities across the country, he announced that Visakhapatnam will soon have its own Ekta Mall, []
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Bihar to be first state to test political impact of Centre's caste census
PATNA: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will face its first test in Bihar following the sudden decision to conduct a caste census, a move whose impact will be closely watched in a state where Other Backward Classes (OBC) politics holds significant sway. Although the BJP virtually played a masterstroke by unexpectedly announcing a caste count, opposition parties, particularly Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, are left with no option but to face the reality and make claims that they have been demanding it since long. Bihar was the first state to demand a caste census, and an allparty delegation, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, had called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2021 to push for a caste-based census. Later Bihar government conducted the survey from its own resources when the Centre expressed its inability to conduct the caste census. Nitish later switched sides and joined hands with RJD-led Mahagathbandhan in August 2022. The findings of the survey were released in October 2023, and subsequently, reservation was hiked from 50 per cent to 65 per cent, in addition to a 10 per cent quota for WES and above. Bihar, already surcharged in view of the forthcoming assembly election, is poised to witness OBC politics as polls draw closer. The Bihar caste-based survey revealed that EBC (extremely backwards classes), which comprises 112 castes and OBC, which constitutes 30 castes, together made 63.13 per cent of the states population. Similarly, Scheduled Castes accounted for 19.65 per cent of the population, while Scheduled Tribes made up 1.68 per cent. Upper castes comprised just 15.52 per cent of the states total population. With the Centres announcement to conduct caste census alongside general census, experts feel that it would be interesting to see its impact in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections due later this year. Prof D M Diwakar, former director of AN Sinha Institute of Social Studies, said that RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav first raised the issue of caste census in Bihar, but it gradually turned into a major political issue at the national level. He said that PM Narendra Modi announced caste census mainly to divert peoples attention from the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack and also from the Supreme Courts interim order on Waqf Amendment Act and its realisation that Nitishs support base has shrunk considerably after his partys support to Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the parliament. He said that by announcing the caste census, the BJP will only be able to do damage control by not favouring any such idea, but chief minister Nitish Kumars JD(U) and RJD can hope to derive electoral advantages. He said that BJP can hope to make inroads into the non-Yadav OBC and EBC votes as the transfer of votes of these social groups from JD (U) to BJP has not also always been a very smooth exercise. JD(U) working president Sanjay Kumar Jha, however, refuted the Opposition's claim that the Nitish government conducted a caste-based survey under its pressure. He said that the Bihar government decided to conduct a caste-based survey in 2022 when JD(U) and BJP were sharing power in the state. Earlier, taking a dig at the opposition, Bihar deputy chief minister and BJP leader Samrat Choudhary said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi fulfilled the dreams of Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Prasad Yadav by announcing the caste census. Reacting sharply to Choudharys comments, RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav sought to corner the Centre by asserting that it was a victory for the party president Lalu Prasad and his ideology that forced BJP to conduct a caste census at the national level. Remember when Lalu Prasad started demanding for caste census and now when they are left with no option, they announced caste census under compulsion, he remarked, Question arises when the caste census will be conducted. Census has not been conducted so far. Delimitation has not been done. Definitely, caste census and general census will have to be conducted before delimitation, he added. JD(U) working president Sanjay Kumar Jha, however, refuted the Opposition claim that Nitish government conducted caste-based survey under any pressure. He said that the Bihar government decided to conduct a caste-based survey in 2022 when JD(U) and BJP were sharing power in the state.
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PM Modi relaunches Amaravati capital project, calls it the dream taking shape of Swarna Andhra
VIJAYAWADA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, rekindling the long-pending dream of Andhra Pradeshs greenfield capital, Amaravati, on Friday at Uddandarayunipalem, where he had laid its foundation stone nine years ago, described it as a land where tradition and progress intertwine. Addressing a massive gathering, Modi said, I dont see just a city, but a dream taking shape. A new Amaravati, a new Andhra. He highlighted the publics enthusiasm, noting Amaravatis Buddhist legacy of peace and its potential as a powerhouse for Vikasit Bharat. Beginning his speech in Telugu, the Prime Minister paid homage to Andhras heritage, invoking Goddess Durga Bhavani and expressing joy at the occasion. Referring to the foundation stone laying, the inauguration of projects worth nearly Rs 60,000 crore, and Amaravatis revival, Modi said, This isnt merely concrete construction but the foundation of Andhras aspirations and Vikasit Bharats vision. He recalled Amaravatis historical significance as the capital of the Gods, now becoming the states capital, calling it a divine sign for a Swarna Andhra that will fuel the vision of Vikasit Bharat. Amaravati isnt just a city; its the force to transform Andhra into a modern, progressive state, he said, envisioning it as a hub for IT, AI, green energy, clean industries, education, and healthcare. He pledged central support for building the necessary infrastructure. Praising Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Modi revealed he had studied Naidus initiatives during his tenure as Gujarats Chief Minister and applied those lessons in his governance. Naidu leads the nation in technology, he said, lauding him as the ideal leader for future tech projects. Invoking former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Raos vision for a developed Andhra, Modi urged unity to make Amaravati the growth engine of Vikasit Bharat. Chandrababu, Pawan Kalyan, we must fulfil NTRs dream together, he said. Taking a swipe at the previous regime, Modi remarked that the obstacles to the Praja Rajadhani, for which he laid the foundation in 2015, have now been cleared under Naidus leadership. He assured that the capital infrastructure, including the High Court, Assembly, Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan, would be built on priority. Modi highlighted Indias infrastructure strides over the past decade, positioning the country among the fastest-developing nations. Andhra has significantly benefited, with thousands of crores allocated to railway and road projects, enhancing both inter-district and interstate connectivity. These developments, he said, will enable farmers to reach markets faster, boost industries, and promote tourismsuch as easier access to the Lord Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirupati via the Renigunta-Naidupeta highway. He noted that Andhras railway infrastructure has transformed, with the states railway budget increasing from under Rs 900 crore (20092014) to Rs 9,000 crore today. This has enabled 100% electrification, the operation of eight Vande Bharat trains, and the introduction of modern Amrit Bharat trains. Over 750 railway bridges and underpasses have been constructed, and more than 70 stations are being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Scheme. Emphasising the economic multiplier effect of infrastructure, Modi said it increases demand for cement, steel, and transport, and creates thousands of jobs for Andhras youth. He reiterated the NDAs focus on the poor, farmers, youth, and women, citing Rs 12 lakh crore spent on fertilisers and modern seeds, along with Rs 5,500 crore in crop insurance for Andhra farmers. The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has delivered Rs 17,500 crore to lakhs of farmers, while the Polavaram project, a joint central-state effort, will transform the lives of millions of farmers. Modi celebrated Andhras contributions to Indias space programme through Sriharikota and announced a new DRDO defence facility, Navadurga missile range in Nagayalanka, which will strengthen national security. He emphasised unity as Indias true strength, citing Ekta Malls like the one in Visakhapatnam that promote handicrafts and the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. He commended Naidus announcement of hosting International Yoga Day on 21 June, pledging to attend the event in Visakhapatnam to promote yoga globally. Under Chandrababus leadership, well break world records, he said, thanking the state for the invitation.
AIMIM chief Owaisi to kickstart his election campaign from Bihar's Seemanchal region on May 3
PATNA: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi is scheduled to kickstart his partys election campaign from Bihars Muslim dominated Seemanchal region on May 3. He will address a rally under the Bahadurganj assembly constituency in Kishanganj district. Bihar chief of AIMIM Akhtarul Iman said on Friday that Owaisi will address rallies in Kishanganj, and other Muslim dominated regions of Seemanchal during his two-day visit to the state. The party has already announced that it would contest the upcoming assembly polls with a focus on the Seemanchal region. AIMIM has already declared the name of the candidate to contest the upcoming election from the Bahadurganj assembly constituency. Seemanchal region comprises Kishanganj, Araria, Katihar and Purnea districts. In the 2020 assembly elections, AIMIM had won five out of 18 seats it contested. All the seats where the party registered its victory for the first time in Bihar were in the Seemanchal region alone. However, four of its MLAs later joined Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) led by Lalu Prasad Yadav. A day earlier, Owaisi said in Hyderabad that the people of Bihar would teach the political party a lesson, which stole his legislators. The people of Seemanchal will teach a lesson to those who have stolen our MLAs, Owaisi said, adding that the partys candidates would be more successful in the 2025 assembly election than in the previous assembly election held in 2020. After four MLAs defected to RJD, AIMIM was left with only one MLA in the 243-member Bihar assembly. Iman said that the party would rebuild its support base and also reclaim its lost ground in the upcoming assembly polls. Upcoming assembly polls is significant for the party. We will have to improve our performance in the state, which has a sizable Muslim population. Apart from Seemanchal, the party aimed at contesting election from other seats. Muslims constitute nearly 18 per cent of the states population. Kishanganj has a 67 per cent Muslim population, where Owaisis party performed well in the 2020 assembly election. The party has also advocated for hike in reservation cap for Other Backwards Classes (OBCs). The political atmosphere in the Seemanchal region has surcharged following Owaisis announcement to contest the upcoming state assembly elections due in October-November this year.
VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, declared that even a hundred Pakistans could not harm India, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the nations ultimate weapon against aggression. Speaking at an event marking the resumption of Amaravatis construction, Lokesh condemned Pakistans recent actions, particularly the Pahalgam terror attack, accusing it of making a grave mistake by targeting innocent lives. Pakistan cannot uproot even a blade of grass on Indian soil, he asserted, warning that Modis decisive leadership could erase Pakistan from the world map. Lokesh claimed Pakistans military was in chaos, with personnel resigning or fleeing, calling it a testament to Modis formidable influence. He also criticised the previous Andhra Pradesh governments ruinous 20192024 tenure, alleging it had deliberately stalled Amaravatis development due to personal animosity towards Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He accused the former regime of wasting five years on a three-capital proposal without laying a single brick, thus hampering the states progress. Highlighting the Amaravati movements resilience, Lokesh noted its 1,631-day struggle, with participation from children to the elderly under the Jai Amaravati banner. He detailed the sacrifices made, including 270 farmer deaths, arrests, police brutality against women farmers, and 3,000 illegal cases filed against protesters. Saluting the farmers unwavering spirit, Lokesh called Amaravati a peoples capital that no conspiracy could suppress, crediting Modi for its foundation and asserting that no force could halt its development. On domestic policy, Lokesh hailed the central governments caste census decision as a bold, historic step by Modi to empower marginalised communities, addressing decades-long struggles for social justice among backward classes. Lokesh announced that Amaravatis construction, relaunched under Modis guidance, marked unstoppable progress for Andhra Pradesh. He outlined decentralised development plans, including the Polavaram project, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Bhogapuram Airport, and CNG plants in Prakasam. Reflecting on the post-bifurcation challenges of 2014, he praised Naidu for balancing welfare and development, with Amaravati chosen as the capital through consensus and built on farmers sacrifices. He said regions like Rayalaseema had become electronics and automobile hubs, Godavari districts aqua hubs, and North Andhra pharma and IT hubs. Lokesh underscored the double-engine government of Modi and Naidu, saying the NDAs 94% seat share in the 2024 elections reflected public trust. He said Modis supportthrough initiatives like the Visakhapatnam Railway Zone, NTPC Green Energy, and the Nakkapalli Bulk Drug Parkdemonstrated his commitment to Andhra Pradesh. Lokesh described Modi and Naidu as powerful engines driving development and welfare. On economic progress, Lokesh revealed that in 10 months, the state had secured Rs. 8 lakh crore in investments, generating 5 lakh jobs. A mega DSC notification for 16,347 posts had been issued, alongside major projects including NTPC Green Energy (Rs. 1.85 lakh crore, 57,000 jobs), ArcelorMittal in Anakapalli (Rs. 1.36 lakh crore, 55,000 jobs), and BPCL in Ramayapatnam (Rs. 97,000 crore, 3,000 jobs). He said investments from LG Electronics in Tirupati, renewable energy in Kurnool, Kadapa, and Anantapur, Reliance CNG in Prakasam, and pharma and IT in North Andhra were aimed at uplifting all districts. The government, he added, aimed to create 20 lakh jobs in five years, signalling a robust economic vision.
Partially burnt body of a woman found in Visakhapatnam district
YSR Congress Party politicising Simhachalam wall collapse tragedy, alleges Bheemunipatnam MLA
The party leaders are trying to gain political mileage from the unfortunate incident, says Ganta
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NITI Aayog, GAME tie up to foster entrepreneurship ecosystem in India New Delhi: NITI Aayog on Friday partnered with the Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) to foster vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystems across states in India. The collaboration will focus on advancing location-based interventions, starting with pilot sites in Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, and Uttar Pradesh. It [] The post NITI Aayog, GAME tie up to foster entrepreneurship ecosystem in India appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
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Contractor claims pressure to build wall before Simhachalam tragedy
VISAKHAPATNAM: A day after the tragic incident at the Simhachalam temple, where seven devotees lost their lives due to the collapse of a retaining wall during Chandanotsavam, contractor Lakshmana Rao has made serious revelations regarding the construction of the wall. I was pressured to build the wall, Rao, who was responsible for the walls construction, told the three-member inquiry committee during the investigation. The three-member committee, appointed by the State government, began its investigation into the incident in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. The committee members visited Simhachalam, and began examining the circumstances surrounding the wall collapse. Officials have been directed to submit a detailed report within 72 hours. Rao, in his testimony to the committee, stated that he had initially refused to undertake the construction due to the extremely tight timeline before the festival. There was hardly any time left, and I clearly informed them that it wasnt feasible to build the wall in just six days, he said. Despite his objections, Rao claimed that officials from both the Devasthanam and the Tourism Department insisted that he proceed with the project. They pressured me to build the wall. I was told it was only a temporary structure, he added. Rao further revealed that the construction work began just four days before Chandanotsavam, raising concerns about the quality of the work given the short time frame. The investigation is being conducted by a three-member committee led by S Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of the MA&UD Department. The other members of the committee include Ake Ravi Krishna, Inspector General of Police, and Venkateswar Rao, Engineer-in-Chief (FAC) of the Irrigation Department. After the investigation on Thursday, Suresh Kumar confirmed the initiation of a re-verification process regarding the incident. The three-member committee has decided to conduct a re-verification of the Simhachalam Devasthanam incident. The accident occurred due to the collapse of the retaining wall. It appears that the incident happened because of poor construction quality, he said. He also added that the wall was constructed as a temporary structure for the festival, and the committee would verify whether the construction adhered to the master plan regulations. Suresh Kumar further added that as part of the preliminary investigation, engineers and contractors involved in the project have already been questioned. A preliminary report will be submitted to the government based on the inquiry, and a comprehensive report on the failures and shortcomings will be presented within 30 days. The investigation will include an inquiry into the officials who gave permission along with the contractor, and their involvement will be examined, Suresh Kumar added.
IMD forecasts gusty winds, thunderstorms across Andhra Pradesh
VISAKHAPATNAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Amaravati, has issued a four-day weather warning for Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, predicting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across several regions from Friday through Monday. According to the Meteorological Centre, thunderstorms are likely at isolated places across North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), Rayalaseema, and the Union Territory of Yanam each day during the forecast period. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are expected at isolated locations in NCAP and Yanam, while SCAP and Rayalaseema may experience slightly lower wind speeds of 30-40 kmph. In addition to the storm warnings, hot, humid, and discomfort-inducing weather conditions are likely to persist over Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on Friday and Saturday. The IMD has also indicated that no significant changes are expected in maximum and minimum temperatures across NCAP, SCAP, and Yanam for the next five days, though a slight rise may occur thereafter. Similarly, Rayalaseema is not expected to see major changes in temperature during this period, with a marginal increase anticipated subsequently. Meteorologists noted that a north-south trough is currently extending from an upper air cyclonic circulation over southeast Rajasthan and its neighbouring regions to north Kerala. This trough passes through areas such as West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Interior Karnataka, and extends up to 1.5 km above mean sea level. Additionally, lower tropospheric southerly winds are prevailing over Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, contributing to the present weather patterns. The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) reported that no heatwaves are expected across the State on Friday.
IMD issues yellow alert for thunderstorm in Hyderabad as hail; rain lash several areas
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad witnessed rains and hailstorms in isolated parts on Thursday evening. The state will continue to experience light to moderate rain for the next six days. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 3040 kmph in many districts for the next four days. In Hyderabad, areas such as TGPA junction, Bandlaguda Jagir, Hydershakote, Attapur, Narsingi, Tolichowki, Shaikpet and Nanal Nagar experienced hail in the late evening hours, while areas of Madhapur, Miyapur, Kukatpally, Hitech City, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Mehdipatnam, Khairatabad, Nampally, Ameerpet, and Sanathnagar experienced moderate rains. The highest temperature in the state was recorded at 41.8C in Adilabad, while the citys maximum temperature was 40.8C on Thursday. For the next 48 hours, the city will experience partly cloudy skies. Maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to be around 38C and 25C respectively. Surface winds are likely to be southwesterlies with wind speeds around 48 kmph. Rain-soaked paddy in Khammam sparks farmer outrage Lakhs of quintals of paddy was soaked due to rain and strong winds that hit Khammam district on Wednesday night. Telangana Rythu Sangham district secretary Bonthu Rambabu stated that government apathy and officials negligence were to blame for this situation. The rythu sangham team inspected the rain-soaked paddy in Enkoor mandal following the unexpected rainfall. Rambabu stated that for the past 20 days, farmers had been waiting to sell their harvested paddy stacked at procurement centres, but the government did not even supply gunny bags. As a result, the paddy kept out in the open got drenched. He also mentioned that for the past five days, no tarpaulins have been provided and even the paddy already bagged was not transported to mills, leading them to getting wet.
Orchestra Dancer Gang Raped In Front Of Husband In Bihar, 2 Arrested: Police
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Tejashwi says caste census is Modi Govts compulsion, not choice
Patna: The political war of words over the caste census continues to escalate in Bihar, with Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav calling it a decision made under compulsion by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government. Speaking to the media in Patna on Thursday, Tejashwi Yadav declared that the move was 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 .
Metro rail to run till SCB medical college instead of Trisulia in Cuttack, confirms Minister
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Tejashwi says caste census is Modi Govts compulsion, not choice; Cong credits LoP Gandhi
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Maddila Gurumoorthy writes letter a day after the collapse of a wall at Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam, which claimed the lives of seven devotees
CBI takes NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya on four-day remand
PATNA: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday took Sanjeev Kumar Singh , alias Sanjeev Mukhiya, on a four-day remand for interrogation in connection with the NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak case. Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind several question paper leak rackets, was arrested from Patna last Friday. CBI special judge Sunil Kumar-2 granted the four-day remand after a petition was filed seeking his custody for interrogation in the undergraduate medical entrance exam case. Although the CBI had requested a seven-day remand, the court granted only four. Mukhiya, a native of Bihars Nalanda district, is believed to be at the centre of an inter-state solver gang involved in leaking question papers of various national-level exams. We hope to get substantial clue in the medical entrance exam question paper leak case, said an investigating officer on condition of anonymity. During an earlier interrogation by Bihar Polices Economic Offences Unit (EOU), Mukhiya reportedly claimed that he had helped several politicians, doctors and government officers by securing medical college seats for their children. He also confessed to maintaining connections with teachers at private coaching institutes, who would send candidates to him. He disclosed that the leaks were carried out in collusion with certain printing press employees. As soon as his men would inform him about question of a particular examination being printed in a press, he would start his work and contact them, the officer said. Mukhiya would allegedly offer hefty bribes to gain access to the papers. NTA initiates action against Telegram, Instagram channels claiming NEET-UG question paper leak Once the question papers were dispatched from the press, his men coordinated with carrier agents. The examination centre authorities were reportedly aware of only two locks on the boxes carrying the question papers, while Mukhiya had access to a third hidden lock. He would open the boxes, make xerox copies of the papers, reseal them carefully, and send them to the examination centres without raising suspicion. The xeroxed question papers were solved by his solver teams and passed on to the candidates before the exams. For the NEET-UG examination, the gang charged between Rs 40 to 50 lakh per candidate. Mukhiya claimed to have strong connections in examination rackets operating in Dehradun, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Gurugram, Noida and Gandhinagar. We used to take help of each other in our work, an investigating officer quoted him as saying. Revealing his personal motivation, Mukhiya reportedly told interrogators that he entered the question paper leak business to accumulate enough money to make his wife an MLA and eventually an MP. He said he had expanded his network to states including Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal. Additional Director General (ADG) of EOU, Naiyar Hasnain Khan, said information had been sought regarding the cases registered against Mukhiya in other states. We have shared relevant information to police officers of different states where Mukhiya has been links, Khan said. The ADG clarified that Mukhiya was arrested from an apartment near Saguna Mor under Danapur police limits in connection with the Bihar constable and teachers recruitment exam leak cases being probed by the states investigating agency. Mukhiya also confessed during interrogation that his son, Dr Shiv Prakash, and his associate, Rocky, were active members of the gang. He admitted to his involvement in leaks of question papers of NEET, BPSC, and constable recruitment exams in both Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
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Hyderabad: The long-awaited skywalk at Mehdipatnam Junction, designed to ease traffic congestion and provide a safer passage for pedestrians, is expected to be completed by June. According to local media reports, the project, which was delayed due to the time taken to obtain permissions from the defence department, is now progressing rapidly. The skywalk, designed 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 .
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Simhachalam wall collapse: Mans decision to leave wife at home saves her life
Visakhapatnam: Yedla Venkata Rao, one of the seven victims of the Simhachalam temple wall collapse on Wednesday, may have lost his life in the tragedy, but his decision to leave his wife at home ultimately saved her. Seven people were crushed to death in the early hours of the day when a rain-soaked wall collapsed 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 .
Thousands witness Nijaroopa Darshanam at Simhachalam during Chandanotsavam
VISAKHAPATNAM: The annual Chandanotsavam festival was observed with traditional fervour at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Simhachalam on Wednesday. Celebrated on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, Chandanotsavam is the only day in the year when devotees are allowed to have the Nijaroopa Darshanam of the deity, as the thick layer of sandalwood paste covering the idol is ceremoniously removed. Despite intermittent rainfall, thousands of devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and neighbouring states gathered to witness the Nijaroopa Darshanam, where the deity was presented without the customary layer of sandalwood paste. As per temple tradition, hereditary trustee P Ashok Gajapathi Raju, along with his family, participated in the early morning rituals and offered silk vastrams to the deity. Temple Executive Officer K Subbarao received the trustee's family and extended temple honours. Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad, along with priests from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), also presented silk robes and offered prayers on behalf of the State government. The first darshan was given to the hereditary trustee's family at around 3.30 am, after which general devotees were allowed into the queue lines. Earlier, rituals including Suprabhatam Seva, Viswaksena Puja, Punyavachanam, Ritwikvaranam, Panchakalavahanam, and Chananottaram were conducted from 1 am onwards. Due to the collapse of a wall in the Rs 300 queue line , authorities redirected Rs 300 ticket holders into the Rs 1,000 queue to manage the situation, resulting in temporary congestion. Rescue operations were undertaken promptly, and the situation was stabilised by noon. Transport arrangements were made by operating free RTC buses from Gosala Junction and Adavivaram side. Drinking water and first-aid facilities were arranged to assist the devotees. District Collector MN Harendhira Prasad personally oversaw crowd management throughout the day, coordinating efforts to ensure smooth movement of queues and minimise inconvenience. As part of the Chandanotsavam, TNIE team distributed special festival editions of the newspaper along with buttermilk and biscuit packets to devotees. The initiative was supported by BVK Junior College (Visalakshinagar), Charan Group (Akkayyapalem), Saraswathi School (Gajuwaka), and Sai Saraswathi Coaching Centre (Vizianagaram). Several dignitaries, including Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, In-charge Minister Dolla Veeranjaneyaswamy, Deputy Speaker Raghurama Krishna Raju, Government Whip Ganababu, MPs, and MLAs, visited the temple during the early hours to participate in the event
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Prakasam collector lays emphasis on promotion of nature farming
ONGOLE: Prakasam District Collector Thameem Ansariya on Wednesday directed officials and staff of the District Nature Farming Project to sincerely promote natural farming across the district, particularly in Kothapatnam mandal. The officials must be available to support enthusiastic farmers who want to adopt nature farming, she said during her visit to several organic plant nurseries, dairy farms, and nature farming fields in the district. She interacted with farmers and enquired about their incomes and challenges related to natural farming practices. She also inspected a horticulture model field and reviewed techniques used in natural farming. She planted saplings in the horticulture nursery and distributed black gram and yellow gram seeds for compost-making to farmers.
Construction of capital city is nothing but restoration of APs pride, says CM Naidu
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has urged the full strength of the TDP, JSP, and BJP cadres to actively participate in the grand relaunch of Amaravatis capital development works, to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2. In a teleconference held on Wednesday with MPs, MLAs, senior party leaders, and booth-level workers, Naidu described the occasion as a historic moment in Andhra Pradeshs development journey. This is not just about Amaravati, it is about restoring pride, growth, and governance to our State, he said. PM Modi will lay the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 49,040 crore in Amaravati and an additional Rs 57,962 crore for national-level works linked to Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and Indian Railways, Naidu announced. Attributing the NDAs 93% success rate in the elections to the publics faith in its promises, Naidu said the government, despite financial constraints, has delivered on welfare and development initiatives over the last 10 months. He also reaffirmed that the Polavaram project will be completed by 2027 and highlighted major investments, including TCS in Visakhapatnam and Rs 5,000 crore by LG at Sri City. The Chief Minister said AP is now attracting record-high investments and has launched the Swarnandhra Vision 2047, aimed at decentralised, inclusive development. He refuted allegations of land being undervalued in Visakhapatnam, terming them part of a false narrative propagated by the previous YSRCP government. They looted the State through wine, mine, sand, and land, he remarked. Naidu emphasised the significance of the farmers land pooling for Amaravati, calling it a world record in public-private cooperation. The previous YSRCP regimes three-capital proposal was a betrayal, he said. Our struggle and the peoples resilience have ensured Amaravatis revival. It will be built with the pride and ambition of the people, like Hyderabad, Chennai or Bengaluru. He reiterated Amaravatis model as a self-sustained capital, assuring that all core infrastructure will be in place within three years. The Chief Minister also announced two flagship welfare schemes set to launch next month -- Annadata Sukhibhava, the financial aid to farmers and Talliki Vandanam, Rs 15,000 annual support to mothers of school-going children. Naidu stressed that party activists were the backbone of governance and promised due recognition through nominated posts. He urged leaders not to act against grassroots sentiments and called for a united NDA front across all platforms. On the recent Simhachalam temple tragedy where seven devotees died in a wall collapse, Naidu expressed deep sorrow. He said he refrained from visiting the site to avoid inconveniencing pilgrims, trusting local leaders to oversee relief efforts. I have been monitoring the situation since morning, he said, adding that Ministers have visited victims families and assured government support. Finally, he called for a grand Mahanadu convention in Kadapa, stating, The NDA must win every future election to secure the States destiny. Capital Amaravati: Restart of works, restoring faith
Andhra temple wall collapse: Pilgrimage becomes a nightmare at Simhachalam
VISAKHAPATNAM: What began as a deeply spiritual day for thousands of devotees, turned into a nightmare at the Simhachalam Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, as a wall collapse in the early hours of Wednesday claimed seven lives during the annual Chandanotsavam. A pall of gloom descended on the mortuary premises at King George Hospital in Visakhapatnam as grieving families of the Simhachalam temple wall collapse victims struggled to come to terms with the tragedy. Seven devotees, including a young techie couple and their relatives, lost their lives while waiting for Nijaroopa Darshanam of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. Among the deceased were Pilla Umamaheswara Rao (30) and his wife Shailaja (27), natives of Chandrampalem village in Madhurawada. Both were software professionals employed in Hyderabad, and had returned to their hometown to work remotely. They were accompanied by Shailajas mother, P Venkata Ratna (45), and aunt, G Mahalakshmi (65), who also died in the incident. The family had arrived early at the temple and were waiting in the Rs 300 ticket queue when the wall collapsed around 3.15 am reportedly due to heavy rain. The other victims were identified as Pathi Durga Prasad Naidu (27), an architect from Konaseema district residing in Visakhapatnam; his friend K Manikantha (28) from Konaseema; and Y Venkat Rao (45) from Visakhapatnam. Rescue operations were immediately launched by the NDRF, police, and temple authorities. According to preliminary reports, the collapse occurred during the rainfall, but an official inquiry is underway to determine the structural integrity of the wall. Family members of the deceased demanded a thorough investigation into the construction of the wall. Four members of our family died because of the poor construction of the wall. Who will take responsibility for our family? We are demanding action against the contractor and the engineer responsible, said relatives of the deceased couple outside KGH. They also urged the government to announce an ex gratia of Rs 1 crore, and provide a government job to a family member of the victims. We will not allow postmortem unless the government responds to our demands, they added. They further said, Those responsible for the collapse must be held accountable. Accountability must be ensured so that such a tragedy does not happen again. Wall collapse claims lives of two friends Among the seven lives lost in the tragic wall collapse, were 32-year-old Pathi Durga Prasad Naidu, an architect based in Visakhapatnam, and his friend, 29-year-old K Manikanta. A native of Korlapativaripalem village, Prasad had been living in Visakhapatnam for the past four to five years, where he had established his own architectural firm, New Diamond Interiors. He had attended Chandanotsavam along with Manikanta. He was full of life, always cheerful, and had big dreams for his future. It is heartbreaking for all of us who knew him to see such a vibrant young man found lifeless in the mud. Its something we are struggling to come to terms with, said Navya Sree, a close family friend of Prasad. He was a deeply spiritual person, and he always cared for everyone around him, she told TNIE . Authorities identified Prasad and Manikanta using Aadhaar details provided during the Rs 300 ticket purchase. His family was notified soon after. She further shared that visible injuries were found on Prasads head and nose. He was found in a mix of cement. We were told that heavy rain and wind caused a tent to collapse first, which then brought down the wall, Navya explained. Prasad is survived by his parents and a sister. The incident occurred between 2.30 and 3.30 am near the Rs 300 darshan queue line. Authorities suspect torrential rains triggered the wall collapse, though an investigation is still underway. Andhra temple wall collapse: Construction done in haste for Chandanotsavam, sources say
Andhra temple wall collapse: Construction done in haste for Chandanotsavam, sources say
VISAKHAPATNAM: The tragic incident at the Simhachalam temple during the annual Chandanotsavam on Wednesday, has sparked widespread public anger and criticism. A newly built wall near the Rs 300 darshan queue line collapsed in the early hours of the day, killing seven devotees, and injuring several others. The wall, reportedly built just five days prior to the annual festival, gave way following a spell of moderate rain. Thousands of devotees had gathered at the hilltop temple for Nijaroopa Darshanam of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. Families of the victims and eyewitnesses alleged serious negligence in the construction, and oversight of festival arrangements. The structure was part of the ongoing PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) Scheme, for which the Ministry of Tourism had sanctioned `54.04 crore in December 2022 for development works at Simhachalam Devasthanam. The project is being executed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Tourism Regional Director Subramanyam confirmed that tenders had been called for the works by the Tourism Department, but declined to disclose the contractors name. However, sources claimed that the contract was awarded to a firm named K Anantha Rao and Co, based in Srikakulam. The wall in question was reportedly constructed in haste five days ago, and was asked to be completed before Chandanotsavam, sources claimed. Andhra temple wall collapse: Jagan demands Rs 1 crore compensation for victims' families, strict action Outside the King George Hospital mortuary in Visakhapatnam, grieving families of the victims demanded accountability from politicians, officials, and the temple authorities. This was not a case of torrential rain. Water runoff from the hilltop seems to have undermined the weak foundation of the wall, family members of the deceased alleged. We demand permanent government jobs, not outsourcing, and `1 crore ex gratia for each victim. The government cannot brush off its negligence with mere announcements, they said. They further questioned the role of ministers who were reportedly assigned to oversee Chandanotsavam arrangements. How did they miss inspecting a newly constructed wall? What kind of oversight was this? asked devotees waiting in the queue after the untoward incident. Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, who was at the site since morning, told the media, I have personally inspected the queue lines two to three days ago. The incident is extremely unfortunate. An inquiry will be conducted to identify the contractor, engineer, and quality evaluator involved in the wall construction. All those responsible will be held accountable. Anitha stated that despite all precautions taken by the temple authorities, the tragedy still occurred. A three-member committee has already been formed to probe the reasons behind the accident. Once the committee submits its report, legal action will be taken against those found responsible for negligence, she added.
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