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.
Nitish opens PMCHs new twin towers with 1,700 beds
Patnas streets transform into culinary havens after dark
Walk, eat & relax by the Ganges
Litti-chokha: From roadside flame to global fame
Arms smuggler held in Khagaria
Depressed medical aspirant dies by suicide ahead of NEET in Patna
Traffic restrictions to be in place for 9 hours
EBC people worst victims of prohibition law: Tejashwi
Dy CM asks firms to ensure timely supply of fertilisers
NEET-UG to be conducted at 125 centres amid tight security today
Citys CISCE-affiliated schools begin process to admit Class XI students
PM to virtually inaugurate 12-day Khelo India Youth Games today
BAUs community radio station wins gold medal at WAVES Summit
Honour killing: Man sent to jail for strangulating daughter
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 .
Tejashwi Yadav attempts to dent EBC vote through Atipichda Jagao rally in Bihar
According to Bihars caste survey, EBCs account for 36% of the population, forming a critical vote bank for the CM; RJD leader appeals to EBCs to discard the JD(U), which is presiding over atrocities against their community
Saran admin intensifies drive against child labour
Tejashwi writes to PM, seeks review of reservation policies
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.
Bihar Police SI Prohibition Preliminary Admit Card 2025 OUT Download Link bpssc.bihar.gov.in
Bihar Police Subordinate Services Commission has officially released the Bihar Police SI Prohibition Admit Card 2025. Candidates who have applied for the SI Prohibition Exam can now download their admit card from the official website bpssc.bihar.gov.in.
Bihar Police BPSSC SI Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online for 28 Posts
Bihar Police BPSSC has recruits 28 SI Posts. Candidates With Any Graduate Can Apply Online from 27-02-2025 to 27-03-2025.
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.
Caste Census: Tejashwi Yadav writes to PM, urges for comprehensive review of reservation policies
PATNA, May 3: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him for a comprehensive review of the social protection and reservation policies once the exercise to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census is completed. Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, shared the letter on X on Saturday. It was written on Friday. Conducting the caste census is merely the first step of the long journey towards social justice. The census [] The post Caste Census: Tejashwi Yadav writes to PM, urges for comprehensive review of reservation policies appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PUNE: leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for attending events in Mumbai and campaigning in Bihar even as the Central government is talking about giving a efitting reply to Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack. Raut also demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation for a security lapse. A big massacre took place in Kashmir. Our Prime Minister said Pakistan will be taught a lesson, but just days later, he was in Mumbai, spending nine hours with Bollywood celebrities. He also campaigned in Bihar and inaugurated a port belonging to Gautam Adani (in Kerala), Raut told reporters. The prime minister was in Mumbai on Thursday at the inauguration of the first World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Raut alleged the prime minister's demeanour does not reflect the seriousness of someone preparing to retaliate against Pakistan. While he is in a 'khush mijaaz' (cheerful) mood, we are worried about how to respond to Pakistan, he said. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader further said while fighter planes may be flying and drills underway, however, such exercises are routine for a country with neighbours like China and Pakistan. I am not a defence expert, but looking at the PM's body language, it doesn't seem like he's preparing for war, he claimed. Asked if India could afford a war in the current situation, Raut said it was not the opposition but the ruling BJP that used the war rhetoric. At the all-party meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke about entering Pakistan and wiping them out. Amit Shah said 'chun chun ke marenge'. Who is stopping you? he asked. Raut blamed Shah for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 persons and other terror incidents in Kashmir over the past decade. For every terror attack and killing in Kashmir in the last 10 years, Shah is responsible. Why the PM continues to retain him is a mystery. His resignation must be sought. I pity the opposition. They should have demanded his (Shah's) resignation first before offering support, he said. Raut claimed Shah himself had admitted to a lapse in Kashmir's security. If he admits a shortcoming, there must also be consequences. Even if a discussion is held in Parliament, the government will not allow the opposition to speak on the Pahalgam attack, Raut claimed.
OFSS Bihar 11th Admissions Online Application for 2025 Now Open
The Bihar School Examination Board has opened online applications for 11th-grade admissions for the 2025-2027 session. Candidates can register from April 24, 2025, until May 3, 2025. The application fee is set at Rs. 350 for all categories. Eligibility requires completion of Class 10th from a recognized board. The selection will be based on merit and personal preferences. For detailed information on the application process and important dates, read the full article.
'No Good Will Come Of It': Banke Bihari Temple on Call to Boycott Muslim Vendors
Who gave the call to boycott Muslim traders and why did the temple priest dismiss it, The Quint takes a closer look:
15-year-old girl escapes clutches of attackers in Kozhikode; two migrant workers held
KOZHIKODE: Even as the police are checking whether more people were involved in the attempted kidnapping and sexual assault of a 15-year-old in Kozhikode, the girl has come in for praise for her bravery in handling the situation and escaping. Though the incident happened on Monday, the CCTV footage surfaced on Thursday following the arrest of the two accused, Faizan Anwar, 36, and Himan Ali, 18, who are from Kishanganj in Bihar. The accused tried to molest and kidnap the girl who was returning home after tuition around 7.30pm on Monday. As she was walking towards her house through an isolated area after getting down from a bus, one of the accused suddenly covered her mouth from behind and the other tried to drag her. But the girl screamed and ran away from the accused. While patrolling is being intensified in the wake of the incident, the police suspect that more people are involved in the incident. The girls courage is worth mentioning here. She screamed and ran away from the attackers. The girl was returning home from the city after tuition. As she ran, the accused escaped from the scene, said Kasaba Station House Officer Kiran C Nair. The police registered a case based on the girls complaint. During investigation, a sandal found at the scene of the incident with cement stuck to it proved the turning point. The police surmised that the accused were migrant workers involved in construction. On Thursday, the accused were arrested from a place on Chalappuram Bhajan Kovil Road, where migrant workers stay in a group. The police are collecting information about workers from other states. A separate list of those with criminal backgrounds will be prepared and steps including patrolling will be intensified to prevent such incidents from recurring, an officer said.
PM Modi takes swipes at INDIA bloc, LDF government at Vizhinjam port inauguration event
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech at the Vizhinjam port inauguration was a blend of praise for Kerala and pointed political remarks aimed at the Opposition, particularly the INDIA bloc led by Rahul Gandhi. In a veiled jab, he said, I want to tell the chief minister: You are a strong pillar of the INDI alliance. Shashi Tharoor is also here. Todays event will surely disturb the sleep of many. The impromptu speech left even the translator Pallipuram Jayakumar stumped. And he erroneously translated the remark as, Care should be taken to address the problems related to our airlines. Noticing the error, Modi took it in his stride. The message has reached where it was meant to, he said, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. He also highlighted Ports Minister V N Vasavans reference to Adani as a partner during his welcome speech, portraying it as a sign of changing times when a communist government acknowledges a private company as a partner. In jest, he also lauded Gautam Adani, who was present on the dais, for developing in Vizhinjam a port grander than the one at Mundra, Gujarat. In Gujarat, he has been working on the [Mundra] port for 30 years. But its nothing compared to what he has developed here. He must to be prepared to hear complaints of the people of Gujarat, Modi said. Surprisingly, the PM made no mention of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, J&K an issue he had addressed at a recent public event in Bihar. Opening his speech, Modi expressed joy at being in the land of Sree Padmanabha and paid homage to Adi Shankaracharya on his birth anniversary. In his closing remarks, he remembered late Pope Francis, speaking warmly of their meeting and conversations about peace, humanity and service. Those discussions continue to inspire me, he said. However, Vasavan, sought to distance himself from controversy, saying there was not much to be read into his partner reference. Vizhinjam International Seaport seen as game changer Rajeev Chandrasekhar trolled for being seated on dais before Vizhinjam port inaugration event
People in north wanted to see larger-than-life heroes like Pushpa and KGF, says Nagarjuna
Mumbai, South superstar Nagarjuna on Friday said movies like Pushpa and KGF have done better in the northern belt as people there wanted to see larger-than-life heroes. A character like Allu Arjuns labourer-turned-smuggler Pushparaj from Pushpa came as a breath of fresh air to audiences in places like Bihar, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh and that []
Bihar govt to revisit caste survey data to help poor families
The Bihar government aims to expedite the disbursement of Rs 2 lakh financial aid to 9.4 million identified poor families, as promised in 2023. Despite initial delays and only 100,000 families receiving assistance so far, the government plans to re-evaluate the data to ensure efficient allocation and targets assisting 60,000 families this fiscal year, with potential budget increases.
Ajay elected new BOA president
NEET: Police issue advisory for students
Work on subway near junction almost over, need CMs approval for inauguration: Min
Min for overhaul of online services in revenue dept
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Pregnant woman dies in road accident
Police holds Awaj Do programme in Saran
12-year-old boy drowns in Ganga
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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.
Surge in violence by jilted lovers alarms police
Ganga riverfront to undergo major green transformation
Nitish inaugurates sports facilities at Rajgir academy ahead of Khelo India Youth Games
Hydraulic two-wheeler parking systems to be installed at key city locations soon
JD(U) takes credit for caste census, says nation adopts Nitishs vision
Jewellery worth Rs15L looted from Muz shop
Data entry aspirants seek merit-based selection system
Close shave for CM as tin shed flies near his chopper
Pvt hosp employee shot dead in city
Reconstructed Rajiv Gandhi Bus Terminal inaugurated
Efforts on to new inter-State bus terminal on East Coast Road near Latha Steel junction; the facility will be named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, says Chief Minister
Lunch Horror: More Than 100 Kids Fall Ill In Bihar After Eating Food Contaminated By Dead Snake
According to reports, the cook found a dead snake in the food and still served the lunch after removing the dead animal from it.
Beyond Bihar, Caste Census is Meant to Woo Estranged OBCs & Dalits in UP
The somersault on caste survey may be calculated to alter a growing sense of duplicity by BJP among OBCs & Dalits.
BSSC Field Assistant Syllabus 2025 Out Direct Link to Download Syllabus PDF here
BSSC Field Assistant Syllabus 2025: The Bihar Staff Selection Commission (BSSC) has released the detailed syllabus for the post of Field Assistant. The official syllabus for the Field Assistant Exam 2025 is available on the official website. In this article, well cover the BSSC Field Assistant exam pattern, detailed syllabus & preparation tips.
Business Wire India In the picture: Mathew Joseph, Country Director - AIF, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, GOI and Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary, DEPwD, MSJE - GOI. The American India Foundation (AIF), catalyzing social and economic change in India for the past two decades, co-sponsored the Purple Fest at the official residence of the President of India Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The illustrious event was organized by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India . Bringing together over 23,500, including Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) , industry leaders, policymakers, and civil society organizations, Purple Fest 2025 showcased Indias commitment to breaking employment barriers and fostering a truly inclusive economy. The presence of the Honble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu , along with Shri. B.L Verma, from DEPwD, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, further emphasized the governments commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible society. At the heart of this years fest was the DI-verse Certification Felicitation Ceremony a landmark initiative recognizing corporate pioneers in disability inclusion. The DI-verse Certificationthe nations First and Only Disability Inclusion Certification for Organizations was awarded to nine industry leaders for their commitment to building accessible, equitable workplaces. Infosys Limited , Wipro Limited , Compass India Food Services Pvt. Ltd , Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited , Godrej Properties Limited , Vindhya E-Infomedia Pvt. Ltd, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, and Randstad India Private Limited were honored for their exemplary efforts in inclusive hiring, workplace accessibility, and policy transformation. Additionally, a growing number of corporations are actively progressing through the certification process, signaling the momentum toward inclusive workplaces across industries. Further emphasizing its leadership in disability inclusion, AIF was honored with a Letter of Appreciation from the Honble Minister of DEPwD at Purple Fest 2025 . This distinguished recognition celebrates AIFs longstanding efforts in building an inclusive workforce through systemic interventions. AIFs network of 1,900+ inclusive employers, disability inclusion initiatives such as DI-verse certification, corporate sensitization training, and its dedicated inclusive job portal have positioned the organization at the forefront of Indias disability inclusion movement. Launched in 2024, with the encouragement and support of Dr. Rajesh Agarwal, IAS, Secretary, DEPwD - DI-verse provides companies with a structured, results-driven roadmap to assess, implement, and sustain best-in-class disability inclusion practices. Through its three-tier certification system (A, AA, AAA), DI-verse evaluates organizations across six key pillars: leadership commitment, workforce representation, workplace accessibility, supplier and customer inclusion, community engagement, and inclusive branding ensuring a structured, measurable approach to disability inclusion. Speaking at the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Honorable Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India , stressed the significance of corporate participation in Indias disability inclusion movement. Workplace inclusion is not an act of charityit is an economic and social imperative. The DI-verse Certification creates an ecosystem where businesses recognize and leverage the immense contributions of Persons with Disabilities. By embedding inclusive hiring and accessibility practices, companies are not just improving their workplaces but strengthening Indias workforce for the future. I encourage organizations across sectors to pursue this certification and actively contribute to Indias mission of empowering PwDs. Reaffirming AIFs commitment to driving change, Mr. Mathew Joseph, Country Director, AIF , stated, The DI-verse Certification is more than an awardit is a movement to reshape Indias corporate landscape. By building an inclusive workforce, businesses are unlocking untapped talent, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable economic growth. With our goal of enabling 100,000 jobs for PwDs and certifying 1,000 organizations by 2030, we are turning inclusion from an idea into measurable progress. AIFs 15-year-long flagship Ability-Based Livelihood Empowerment (ABLE) program has been a driving force behind Indias largest PwD employment campaign , accelerating the momentum for workplace disability inclusion. In the past year alone, AIF has organized 21 job fairs across 17 states , connecting 2,940 PwDs with 184 employers , achieving an impressive 80% placement rate for shortlisted candidates. Further amplifying these efforts, AIFs inclusive job portal , now integrated with the Divyangjan Rojgar Setu PM Daksh Portal , is expanding access to employment opportunities for millions of Unique Disability ID card holders across India . Beyond employment, AIF has also launched a 70-hour digital employability training program , developed in partnership with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment , to support young adults with disabilities. This fully accessible digital curriculum is tailored for individuals with visual, auditory, physical, and cognitive impairments , equipping them with long-term financial independence and workplace readiness. The first-ever DI-verse Certification Felicitation Ceremony at Purple Fest 2025 was more than a celebrationit was a turning point in Indias disability inclusion movement. As businesses commit to fostering truly equitable workplaces, DI-verse is setting the gold standard for inclusive leadership, transforming intent into quantifiable action. About American India Foundation (AIF) American India Foundation (AIF) is committed to improving the lives of Indias underprivileged, with a special focus on women, children, and youth. The Foundation achieves this through high-impact interventions in education, health, and livelihoods, addressing the multidimensional nature of poverty. Founded over two decades ago, in the aftermath of the Gujarat earthquake, as a humanitarian initiative by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and then US President Bill Clinton, AIF has impacted the lives of over 19 million people across 35 States and Union Territories. Learn more at www.aif-india.org .
Top 10 Crime Cases From UP And Bihar
Crimes, Chaos and Chiling Truths: The Dark pulse of UP and Bihar.
In dry Bihar, ambulance used to transport liquor
An ambulance is generally associated with ferrying patients to hospitals; however, on Thursday, May 1, an ambulance in Bihar was caught carrying foreign liquor. Given Bihar is a dry state since 2016, people find unique methods to get hold of booze. In this particular incident in Muzaffarpur districts Sadatpur area, forty cartons of foreign liquor 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 .
Study estimates at least 35,000 lives in India lost to extreme temperatures during 2001-2019
A new study reveals a concerning trend in India. Extreme temperatures led to significant loss of life. Thirty-five thousand deaths occurred between 2001 and 2019. Heatstroke and cold exposure were major factors. Men of working age were disproportionately affected. Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab reported high heatstroke deaths. Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Bihar saw many cold exposure deaths.
Which slogan will replace 'batenge to katenge': Manoj Kumar Jha takes veiled dig at BJP leaders
BIHAR: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha on Friday took a veiled dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders who previously made statements against the caste census, asserting that this was a demand that couldn't be ignored. Which slogan will replace 'batenge to katenge'? Jha told ANI. Our (Bihar) LoP Tejashwi Yadav has also said this, and we have been saying this too; this is such a demand that can't be left out. I am worried about those big leaders who have been saying things like, if caste census happens, the poison of casteism will spread, how will they cover up their statement now? he added. He demanded that the government create a timeline or roadmap to implement and conduct the caste census, as it was originally scheduled for 2021. Many issues, including women's reservation and delimitation, are closely tied to the government census. What is important is that many important things have been clubbed together. The census was supposed to happen in 2021. It has been four years, and there has been no initiative. Caste census, women's reservation, and delimitation are associated with the census. There should be a timeline or a roadmap for the same, Jha said. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Vasantrao Sapkal credited Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, as the central government decides to conduct a caste census. He demanded that the caste census be implemented in a time-bound manner. Earlier on Thursday, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav welcomed the government's decision to approve the caste census, describing it as a significant step towards achieving social justice. This move is a major victory for the PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) and a result of collective pressure from various groups, he said, adding that the decision to conduct a caste census is a 100 per cent victory for the 90 per cent PDA people. Yadav emphasised that the BJP government was forced to take this decision due to the combined pressure from all sections of society. This came after the centre decided to include castes in the forthcoming census. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decision on April 30 following the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs meeting.
Bihar, Karnataka, Telangana: What Three Big Experiments On Caste Survey Tell Us
Mayawati slams BJP-Congress over caste census, says OBCs' welfare lies only with BSP
LUCKNOW: BSP president Mayawati on Friday accused the BJP and Congress of politicising the issue of caste enumeration, claiming their anti-Bahujan character continues to deprive OBC communities of their due rights. Reacting to the Centre's decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census, she said Centre has taken the decision after a long delay and much reluctance. In a series of posts on X, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, The BJP and Congress are now rushing to take credit for it, attempting to position themselves as champions of OBCs. However, their track record shows a pattern of oppression and exclusion of Bahujan communities. Mayawati further stated that if the intentions and policies of the BJP and Congress had truly been honest and inclusive, the OBC community would already have had a fair share in the country's development. In that case, the mission of self-respect and dignity initiated by Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar would have seen real success, she added. EXPLAINER | Caste Census may impact assembly polls Highlighting the political motivations behind the move, the BSP chief said the OBC community, like Dalits, has become politically aware due to the sustained struggle of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the BSP. Today, OBCs are largely conscious of their rights. The apparent support they receive from other parties is merely driven by electoral compulsions, not genuine concern. It is clear that the true welfare of OBCs lies only with the BSP, she asserted. Mayawati said that the time has come for the Bahujan community to give real meaning to the slogan, 'Vote hamara, raj tumhara nahi chalega' (Our vote, your rule -this won't work). It's time for the marginalised to rise through a humane and result-oriented struggle. Continued negligence and tokenism by the BJP, Congress and other parties are dangerous, and they cannot be trusted for the welfare and upliftment of Dalits, OBCs, and the larger Bahujan society, she said. In a major decision, the government on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be included in the forthcoming census exercise in a ransparent manner. While making the announcement, the government slammed the opposition parties for using caste surveys as a political tool. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have been demanding a nationwide caste census, making it a major election issue, and some states like Bihar, Telangana and Karnataka have already conducted such surveys.
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Kajal in Gujarat, Seema in Haryana, Neha in Bihar: Who is Daku Dulhan Gulshana Riaz Khan?
Gulshana Riaz Khan, known as 'Daku Dulhan', faced arrest with her gang. They ran a marriage racket across states. Gulshana posed as a bride, conning families. After weddings, she vanished with valuables. Police caught them in Ambedkar Nagar. The gang targeted vulnerable families. They staged abductions after lavish ceremonies. Haryana groom's alarm led to the arrests.
CM Siddaramaiah says Centre declared caste census with eye on Bihar polls
BENGALURU: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government had decided to include caste enumeration in the census , keeping in mind the coming Bihar Assembly elections. In 2015 itself, our Congress government in Karnataka spent Rs 192 crore on conducting a socio-economic and educational survey. Inspired by this and keeping the Bihar elections in mind, the Union government had decided to conduct the census, he told reporters here. Siddaramaiah said that he would give full credit to Rahul Gandhi, who had been seeking such a caste census for long, for the Union governments decision. I welcome the Union governments decision to include caste enumeration in the census. To ensure social justice to people, a social and educational survey should be conducted along with this census. The ceiling of 50% for extending reservation should be removed to make quota proportional to the population, he said. Like Rahul Gandhi, he had also sought reservation in private educational institutions as per Article 15, Clause (5) of the Constitution, Siddaramaiah said. He said that a decision on the socio-economic and educational survey (SES-2015) report will be taken at the cabinet meeting on May 9. On whether the Centres census will affect the state governments survey, he said it will not as the SES-2015 report has already been presented before the cabinet. The Centre is yet to conduct the census, he added. Will recommend to Union govt to increase reservation for SCs, STs: CM On whether the Centres census will affect the state governments survey, he said it will not, as the SES-2015 report has already been presented before the cabinet. The Centre is yet to conduct the census. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said. In all, 5.90 crore people have been surveyed, covering 93% of the population. It is not possible to cover 100% of the population, Siddaramaiah said, stating that SES was conducted in a scientific manner. CM Siddaramaiah addresses the media in Bengaluru on Thursday He said that he will recommend to the Centre to increase the quota for the SCs and STs. If it has to be increased, the Centre should amend the Constitution. The state government can tell the Centre how much it should be increased. Then the Constitution can be amended, he added. An announcement that the census will be conducted is not enough, it should be conducted and steps taken accordingly. BJP had opposed 73-74 amendments. It never favoured social justice. Those who have been opposing caste census have now announced that it will be conducted, he said. On Union minister HD Kumaraswamys statement that the state governments survey had no sanctity, Siddaramaiah hit back, stating that when Puttaranga Shetty was Backward Classes minister in the Congress-JDS coalition government, Kumaraswamy did not accept the report. Kumaraswamy had threatened to remove Shetty from the cabinet. On Union minister Dharmendra Pradhans allegation that Nehru was against caste-based reservation and opposed caste census after Independence, Siddaramaiah dubbed it as BJPs false propaganda. Siddaramaiah further said the Centre was using the state governments ideas, including SES and the five guarantees.
Jostling intensifies among parties in Bihar to claim credit over caste Census
Ruling JD(U) claims it was because of CM Nitish Kumar, whereas Congress gave credit to Rahul Gandhi; RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav says it was important to see when the caste Census gets conducted as it is delayed by four years
In Dry Bihar, Ambulance Has No Patient, But Carton After Carton Of Liquor
Forty cartons of foreign liquor worth Rs 10 lakh were recovered from an ambulance in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar on Thursday evening, officials said, adding that the vehicle's driver has been arrested.
Orchestra Dancer Gang Raped In Front Of Husband In Bihar, 2 Arrested: Police
In a shocking incident, a female orchestra dancer from Vaishali district in Bihar was allegedly gang raped by three men in front of her husband near Sikandarpur Diyara, under Shahpur police station in Patna's outskirts, an official said.
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 .
How NDA Govt's Caste Census Call Shakes Up Politics Of Bihar, UP
The ruling BJP hopes to take the sting out of the opposition clamour that it is opposed to backwards and Dalits by latching on to the caste census demand
Tejashwi says caste census is Modi Govts compulsion, not choice; Cong credits LoP Gandhi
Tejashwi says caste census is Modi Govts compulsion, not choice; Cong credits LoP Gandhi 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 [] The post Tejashwi says caste census is Modi Govts compulsion, not choice; Cong credits LoP Gandhi appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
NHRC issues notice to Bihar government over 100 children falling ill after consuming mid-day meal
The cook allegedly served the food to the children after removing a dead snake from it
BENGALURU: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday urged for the allocation of sufficient funds and the fixing of a time limit for the caste enumeration in the next census, which has been announced by the Central government. The Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha said the Congress and other opposition parties had demanded a caste census and staged agitations for it throughout the country, and now they are happy that they have achieved what they intended. I had written a letter two years back on the caste census along with the general census. They did not agree then, but now the government has taken a decision to conduct a caste census along with the general census. It is a good thing, and we will fully cooperate with this. But they (BJP) should not comment unnecessarily on Jawaharlal Nehru, saying he was opposed to it, this and that, Kharge said. Speaking to reporters here, he said the Jan Sangh and RSS, by birth, are against reservation, and such people are now talking about the Congress not being in favour of the caste census. If we were against the caste census, would I have written the letter two years ago? Would we have conducted so many agitations for it? They (BJP) try to create confusion in the minds of the people and try to project that they are the only ones interested in the country's welfare. It is bogus. I don't agree. For political purposes, they always do such things, he added. In a major decision, the Union Government on Wednesday decided to include caste enumeration in the forthcoming census exercise in a ransparent manner. Urging the government to fulfill its announcement, Kharge said that as of today, the government has not allocated sufficient funds for the exercise, and asked how the survey can be conducted without money. He said, They should also give a time limit. If there is no time limit, it will take a long time. Therefore, my suggestion is that they should give special attention to this, and within two or three months... or whatever time limit is fixed they should conduct the survey and fulfil the promise and the people's demand. The AICC chief, in response to a question, said he doesn't think the caste census was announced with the upcoming Bihar polls in mind. I don't want to go into politics. Whatever is good, I welcome it. Whatever is bad, I oppose. Because ultimately, the country is important, the people are important. As people wanted the caste census, we agitated, demanding it. All opposition parties pressured and agitated for it throughout the country, and Rahul Gandhi took the lead in demanding the caste census. We have achieved it, and we are happy, he said. Reiterating that he welcomes the decision to include caste enumeration in the forthcoming census, he further said, It should be done soon, it should not be a show-off, and the economic and educational survey should be conducted in a perfect manner, satisfying everyone. Centre gave headline but where is deadline: Congress on govt's caste census move On caste surveys done by some states, including Karnataka, being criticised as unscientific, Kharge said, Let's see, now that they (Centre) are doing it. Later, speaking at a May Day event organised by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) here, Kharge once again stressed that adequate funds need to be provided for the survey. In Karnataka, Rs 165 crore was provided by the government for the social and educational survey (caste census) , while the Centre has allocated Rs 515 crore for the country-wide census. How is it possible? They (Centre) will not be able to survey a state like UP with this amount. This seems to just be a show-off, and it looks like they are not serious about the survey, he said. Noting that a socio-economic caste survey was done in September 2010 itself, when Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister and he was the Social Welfare Minister, Kharge said this survey was concluded in 2016, but the BJP government, which had come to power by then, did not release the report. He said he is happy that the caste census has been announced now, but there are two more things: one is providing reservation for SC/ST and OBCs in private institutions, and the other is removing the 50 per cent cap on reservation. The government has to think about these two things, too. If not, people will come to the streets and fight for their rights. Sanjay Raut claims Centre's caste census move is to 'divert attention' from Pahalgam attack, but gives credit to Rahul
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Snake Found In Mid-Day Meal, Children Forced To Eat It; NHRC Steps In
The NHRC of India took note of a dead snake found in a Mokama school's mid-day meal, causing over 100 children to fall ill. Notices were issued to Bihar officials for a report
MUMBAI: MP Sanjay Raut on Thursday credited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for the Centre's move to include caste enumeration in the next census, but claimed the decision was taken to divert people's attention from the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Talking to reporters here, Raut said the timing of the caste enumeration decision was suspect as it was taken just a week after the terrorist attack in south Kashmir's Pahalgam town, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were massacred. The Rajya Sabha MP claimed said the decision was taken to divert people's attention when the BJP-led government at the Centre was facing questions over the April 22 carnage. On Wednesday, the Centre announced that caste enumeration will be a part of the next population census, with the inclusion of caste details for the first time since independence hailed by the BJP and its allies as a historic step to help design ruly equitable and focused policies. The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA). Raut emphasised that caste census is an issue linked to social justice. This decision is important in terms of the bahujan (people in majority) population. Even if the Cabinet (CCPA) has taken the decision (on caste enumeration), the people, the country, Dalits, oppressed and underprivileged society are giving Rahul Gandhi credit for it, he asserted. The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, whose party is an ally of the Congress, pointed out that Gandhi has been consistently raising the issue of caste-based census for the last ten years. The government had to budge, he insisted, noting that credit for the move must be given to the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Raut said the decision was taken ahead of the assembly polls in Bihar (due in late 2025) and West Bengal (2026). The Rajya Sabha MP contended the BJP had been opposing a caste-based census. Raut welcomed NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar's remarks favouring a rapprochement between estranged cousins - Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena head Raj Thackeray. Pawar, an ally of the Shiv Sena (UBT), on Wednesday said it will be good if the two families (Thackeray cousins) come together. Raut maintained Uddhav Thackeray was very positive about political reunion with his estranged cousin Raj, who walked of the united Shiv Sena in 2005 and formed his own outfit the next year. Centre gave headline but where is deadline: Congress on govt's caste census move
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.
BSEB Exams 2025: Class 10 Special, Compartment Exams Schedule Announced
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Throwback Thursday: When Rajiv Gandhi questioned Mandal report move amid Kashmir tension
AAP MP Sanjay Singh criticised the government's timing of the caste census announcement, alleging it was a distraction from the Pahalgam terror attack where 26 tourists were killed. He questioned PM Modi's decision to campaign in Bihar instead of addressing the security failure. Interestingly, when former Prime Minister VP Singh had announced the implementation of the Mandal Commission report in 1990, his timing was also questioned by the then opposition led by Congress citing the situation in Kashmir.
Bihar: NHRC probes snake in school lunch after 100 children fall sick
NEW DELHI: India's human rights body said Thursday it was investigating reports more than 100 children fell sick after eating a school lunch served after a dead snake was found in the food. Reportedly, the cook served the food to the children after removing a dead snake from it, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said in a statement. The meal was served last week in a government-run school in the city of Mokama in Bihar, one of India's poorest states, it said. The commission demanded local government officials and police investigate media reports that more than 100 children fell ill after eating the school lunch. The incident sparked angry demonstrations from the children's families. The news about the children falling ill, due to the consumption of the midday meal, led to the blocking of the road by the protesting villagers, it said. Free lunches are offered to millions of children in government schools throughout India, seen by authorities as a way to encourage children to continue their education. The commission said it demanded a detailed report from senior state officials and the police, to include he health status of the children. It said the report, if confirmed, poses the serious issue of violation of the human rights of the students, the statement added. In 2013, 23 schoolchildren died after being served a meal laced with pesticides in Saran district of Bihar. The disaster prompted the government to improve food safety in schools.
Amid rising hate, Vrindavans Banke Bihari temple stands for communal harmony
As reports of rising animosity and hostility against Indian Muslims emerge in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, Uttar Pradeshs Vrindavans famous Banke Bihari templehas rejected right-wing organisations demands to socially boycott Muslims who work at the temple. Banke Bihari templepriest Gyanendra Kishore Goswamistated it was not practical to boycott scores of Muslims who 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 .
Centre should come out with clear-cut plan for caste census: MA Baby
NEW DELHI: The government should come out with a clear-cut plan for undertaking caste census and leaders of various political parties should be consulted on it, CPI-M general secretary MA Baby said on Thursday. He also demanded a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack and the situation in its aftermath. Speaking after hoisting the CPI(M) flag at the party headquarters here to mark Labour Day, Baby said demand for caste census has been made by all opposition parties, including the CPI(M). Government has to come out with clear-cut program when they are going to do the census. And in that, they can make their own decisions and we can react, or there can even be a consultation with floor leaders of various political parties in Parliament, he said. In a major decision, the government on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be included in the forthcoming census exercise in a ransparent manner. Baby noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on multiple occasions that there are only four castes in India - poor, youth, women and farmers. However, he has been now forced to undertake the caste census, he stated. We communists and Left forces fight for the rights of youth, workers, peasants, women and so on...caste oppression continues in Indian society, and caste discrimination leads to lots of problems, including the suicide or extrajudicial murder of Rohit Vemula, he said. Vemula, a Dalit student of University of Hyderabad, died by suicide on campus allegedly due to caste-based discrimination in 2016. Baby said the last caste census was conducted almost a century ago, and it is important to know the socio-economic situation of different caste groups. Last time there was a census where socio-economic positions of different groups - Dalits, castes, backward castes and all -- were assessed during British time, in 1930-31, he said. This is not to quantify how many castes are there, some people view it like that. What is the socio-economic condition, educational position of different castes? What is being provided to the marginalised sections, are they being uplifted? he said. Centres caste census move win for DMK, INDIA bloc: CM Stalin Baby added that reservation policies are also part of this. So, to plan our socio-economic program in our country, that is very, very important, he said, adding the Modi government, which is now in its third term, has so far been refusing to agree to a caste census. Even after the cabinet committee on political affairs took a decision, details are not being worked out. It is just an announcement that as part of the next census, socio-economic position of different castes will also be studied. Data will be collected, he said. Baby also reiterated the demand for a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack and slammed PM Modi for not attending the all-party meeting on the terror attack that left 26 people dead. There was a meeting of political parties, but the prime minister chose to go to Bihar to give a public speech rather than presiding over this political party meeting. So, I don't know what is the priority of the honourable prime minister of our country. In this context, we want a special session of Parliament also to be summarily called, he said. In his message on Labour Day, Baby stressed on the need to politicising the working class. We have to politicalise the working class also because there are conscious and systematic efforts to divide them. Communal forces are trying to divide people on the basis of caste and religion. The entire country condemned the attack in Kashmir in a single voice, this situation is also being exploited to make communal divisions in our country, he said. If we are unable to preserve the unity of the working class, the very idea of India would be assaulted. When we observe this historic May Day which gives us inspiration to carry on our struggle we have to defend the rights of workers, peasants, youth, students, marginalized sections. At the same time, we have to ensure we remain united against communal and fundamentalist forces, he said. EXPLAINER | Caste Census may impact assembly polls
Government should come out with clear-cut plan for caste census: MA Baby
NEW DELHI: The government should come out with a clear-cut plan for undertaking caste census and leaders of various political parties should be consulted on it, CPI-M general secretary MA Baby said on Thursday. He also demanded a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack and the situation in its aftermath. Speaking after hoisting the CPI(M) flag at the party headquarters here to mark Labour Day, Baby said demand for caste census has been made by all opposition parties, including the CPI(M). Government has to come out with clear-cut program when they are going to do the census. And in that, they can make their own decisions and we can react, or there can even be a consultation with floor leaders of various political parties in Parliament, he said. In a major decision, the government on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be included in the forthcoming census exercise in a ransparent manner. Baby noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on multiple occasions that there are only four castes in India - poor, youth, women and farmers. However, he has now been forced to undertake the caste census, he stated. We communists and Left forces fight for the rights of youth, workers, peasants, women and so on... caste oppression continues in Indian society, and caste discrimination leads to lots of problems, including the suicide or extrajudicial murder of Rohit Vemula, he said. Vemula, a Dalit student of University of Hyderabad, died by suicide on campus allegedly due to caste-based discrimination in 2016. Baby said the last caste census was conducted almost a century ago, and it is important to know the socio-economic situation of different caste groups. Last time there was a census where socio-economic positions of different groups - Dalits, castes, backward castes and all -- were assessed during British time, in 1930-31, he said. This is not to quantify how many castes are there, some people view it like that. What is the socio-economic condition, educational position of different castes? What is being provided to the marginalised sections, are they being uplifted? he said. Baby added that reservation policies are also part of this. So, to plan our socio-economic program in our country, that is very, very important, he said, adding the Modi government, which is now in its third term, has so far been refusing to agree to a caste census. Even after the cabinet committee on political affairs took a decision, details are not being worked out. It is just an announcement that as part of the next census, socio-economic position of different castes will also be studied. Data will be collected, he said. Centre gave headline but where is deadline: Congress on govt's caste census move Baby also reiterated the demand for a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack and slammed PM Modi for not attending the all-party meeting on the terror attack that left 26 people dead. There was a meeting of political parties, but the prime minister chose to go to Bihar to give a public speech rather than presiding over this political party meeting. So, I don't know what is the priority of the honourable prime minister of our country. In this context, we want a special session of Parliament also to be summarily called, he said. In his message on Labour Day, Baby stressed on the need to politicising the working class. We have to politicalise the working class also because there are conscious and systematic efforts to divide them. Communal forces are trying to divide people on the basis of caste and religion. The entire country condemned the attack in Kashmir in a single voice, this situation is also being exploited to make communal divisions in our country, he said. If we are unable to preserve the unity of the working class, the very idea of India would be assaulted. When we observe this historic May Day which gives us inspiration to carry on our struggle we have to defend the rights of workers, peasants, youth, students, marginalized sections. At the same time, we have to ensure we remain united against communal and fundamentalist forces, he said. EXPLAINER | Caste Census may impact assembly polls
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan says caste census decision exposes Opposition's empty slogans
NEW DELHI: Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday asserted the government's decision to include caste enumeration in the next census has exposed the difference between true intentions and empty sloganeering. Addressing a press conference at the BJP Headquarters, Pradhan termed the move as a gamechanger decision which has been welcomed by a majority of opposition parties. The gamechanger decision has exposed the difference between our true intentions and empty sloganeering by the Opposition, although it has been welcomed by most opposition parties, he said. In a major decision, the government on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be included in the forthcoming census exercise in a transparent manner. While making the announcement, the government slammed the opposition parties for using caste surveys as a political tool. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have been demanding a nationwide caste census, making it a major election issue, and some states like Bihar, Telangana and Karnataka have already conducted such surveys.
Centre gave headline but where is deadline: Congress on govt's caste census move
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday attacked the government after its announcement of the decision to include caste enumeration in the forthcoming census , saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the master of giving a headline without a deadline. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said many questions arise about the decision, especially on the intention of the government, and demanded that the census should be done as soon as possible. Taking a swipe at the prime minister at a debriefing at the party's 24, Akbar Road office here, Ramesh said he is the master at giving a headline without a deadline. Asserting that the barrier of 50 per cent cap on reservations should be removed, Ramesh asked what is stopping the Modi government from doing this. The Congress demands that there should be a Constitutional Amendment and the 50 per cent cap on reservations be removed, he said, adding that the caste census would be meaningful only when this is done. Ramesh cited a December, 2019 Cabinet meeting press release which stated that the Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for conducting the census of India in 2021 at the cost of Rs 8,254 crore. He pointed out that there was no mention of caste enumeration in that press release. Everyone knows that this census has not been done and six years have passed. Surprisingly, the announcement was made by the government yesterday, he said. Ramesh, however, urged the government to keep a roadmap for the caste census before the country. In the 2025-26 Budget, only Rs 575 crore has been allocated to the office of the census commissioner, he pointed out. So what kind of census are they planning to get done in Rs 575 crore. So what is the intention-- is it just about giving a headline? What is their intention? Many questions arise on the intention, the Congress leader said. You should have gotten the census done in 2021. They cite the Covid pandemic but more than 50 countries did their census during Covid. The pandemic was not there in 2023, 2024, but they did not get it done, Ramesh said. EXPLAINER | Caste Census may impact assembly polls He said when the PM was giving a string of interviews to TV channels last year, he had called those who talk of caste census urban naxals. Since when did he become an urban naxal? Since when did Home Minister Amit Shah become an urban naxal? Ramesh said. His remarks come a day after the Centre announced that caste enumeration will be part of the next population census, with the inclusion of caste details for the first time since independence. Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi has said he welcomes the government's sudden decision to include caste enumeration in the forthcoming census after 11 years of opposing it but asserted that the Centre should give a timeline for its implementation. Crediting the sustained campaign run by the Congress for the government's announcement on the caste census, Gandhi has said his immediate suspicion is that this could go the women's bill way in terms of implementation and demanded a specific date for it. The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said it is clear that the pressure the Congress put on the government for the caste census has worked. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have been demanding a nationwide caste census, making it a major election issue. Some states like Bihar, Telangana and Karnataka have conducted such surveys. Announcing the decision taken by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the census comes under the purview of the Centre, but some states have done caste enumeration in the name of surveys on-transparently which has created doubts in the society.
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