CBSE to establish six new regional, sub-regional offices to enhance governance

NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the establishment of six new Regional Offices, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), and Sub-Regional Offices to streamline its operations and improve governance of affiliated schools across the country. According to a notification issued by CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta, the decision was taken following the approval of the Finance Committee in December 2024, which was later ratified by the Governing Body and cleared by the Ministry of Education. The new offices are being set up in Gurugram, Lucknow, Raipur, Ranchi, Agartala, Itanagar and Gangtok. These will become fully functional between August and September 2025. Gurugram (Haryana) will cover 12 southern districts of Haryana, including Faridabad, Gurugram, Palwal and Sonipat, and is expected to function from 1 September 2025. Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) will oversee 30 districts, including Ayodhya, Etawah, Kanpur, Rae Bareli and Unnao, and will also become functional from 1 September 2025. Raipur (Chhattisgarh) will have jurisdiction across Chhattisgarh and became functional on 22 August 2025. Ranchi (Jharkhand) will cover Jharkhand and also became functional on 22 August 2025. Among the Sub-Regional Offices, Agartala (Tripura) will begin functioning from 15 September 2025. Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) became functional on 22 August 2025, along with Gangtok (Sikkim), which also started operations on the same date. The notification stated that all schools affiliated with CBSE will now fall under the jurisdictions of these newly established offices. This move will help strengthen administrative reach, ensure better coordination with schools, and enhance educational support services across these regions, the CBSE said.

Chhattisgarh Man, Who Hoisted Flag On Independence Day, Killed By Naxals In 'Jan Adalat'

A man was killed by Naxalites after hoisting the Tricolour on Independence Day. As per the police sources, Naxalites were unhappy with the man for hoisting the flag.

Women who accompanied Kerala nuns in Chhattisgarh allege harassment by Bajrang Dal, railway cops

RAIPUR: Three women from Bastars Narayanpur district have lodged a complaint with the Chhattisgarh State Womens Commission, alleging physical and mental harassment by Bajrang Dal cadres and Government Railway Police (GRP) at Durg station on July 25, in connection with an alleged human trafficking and forced religious conversion case . Kamleshwari Pradhan, Lalita Usendi and Sukmati Mandavi submitted their grievances to the commission in Raipur, seeking justice. On 2 August, a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Bilaspur granted bail to two Catholic nuns from Kerala, who had been arrested on charges of human trafficking and religious conversion. The women in their complaint against Jyoti Sharma, Ravi Nigam, Ratan Yadav and the GRP Durg incharge alleged they were physically ill-treated, verbally abused and threatened with gang rape in the presence of police personnel, said Kiranmayee Nayak, Chairperson of the Commission. During the hearing, the accused named in the complaint did not appear before the Commission. The complainants have arrived but the respondents have refused to attend. So, according to our laid down procedures, we will inform them through the concerned police station asking them to be present during the next hearing, Nayak said. She added that the GRP Durg incharge will also be summoned to attend the proceedings. Commission members conducted preliminary questioning of the three girls, who said they expected a fair and impartial hearing. The Chairperson has also sought detailed information on the 25 July incident, including CCTV footage, from the Durg district police chief. The women had earlier filed a complaint with the Narayanpur superintendent of police against Bajrang Dal activists. They stated that they were willingly travelling with the nuns to Agra to take up work in a hospital, and that they had converted to Christianity around six years ago. The Bajrang Dal cadres forcibly stopped the girls at Durg station and assaulted them with abusive remarks. All three were very scared and remain in shock after the incident, relatives of the women claimed, demanding an FIR against Jyoti Sharma and other Bajrang Dal members so that such alleged incidents should not happen again. Bail for Kerala nuns a feather in the political cap of BJP and Rajeev?

Maoists kill villager in Chhattisgarhs Kanker district

Video of the victim celebrating Independence Day surfaces on social media; floods delay recovery of body

Two senior Maoists surrender before Rachakonda CP in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Two senior members of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) surrendered before Rachakonda police commissioner G Sudheer Babu on Thursday, August 21. One of them is Kakarala Sunitha, who is presently a state committee member of the Maoist party in Chhattisgarh. Sunitha, who was influenced by the revolutionary ideology of her father, who 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 .

100 on debut! Prithvi Shaw announces Maharashtra arrival: 'Glad to start this way'

Prithvi Shaw marked his Maharashtra debut with a resilient century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025, held in Chennai. After a top-order collapse, Shaw's 111-run innings stabilised the team, showcasing a return to form after a challenging period. This performance reignites hopes for a career resurgence as he aims to carry this momentum into the Ranji Trophy season.

Chhattisgarh HC Orders Rs 25,000 Compensation For Students Who Ate Dog-Soiled Mid-Day Meals

While the students had alerted the teachers, who then instructed the SHG members not to serve the food, the warning was ignored and the food was served anyway.

NGT seeks action on coal-based sponge iron units

NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to respond within a month to a report by IIT-Kharagpur which has raised grave environmental concerns over the use of coal-based rotary kiln technology in steel manufacturing. IIT-Kharagpur submitted a report to the NGT, recommending the complete phasing out of small to medium and lower capacity coal-based sponge iron or Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) plants. These plants are primarily concentrated in Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. This recommendation aims to mitigate carbon emissions. The report suggests that the government should not grant any environmental clearance to such units. The DRI process is highly energy-intensive, using coal to remove impurities and produce sponge iron. It is called sponge because the removal of oxygen creates tiny holes, giving it a spongy appearance under a microscope. In addition, the report. titled Decarbonizing Coal-based Rotary Kiln Steel Sector in India advises providing support to larger plants with capacities exceeding 500 tonnes per day (tpd). These plants are more efficient and can be improved further through retrofitting with new technology. The IIT prepared this report in response to environmental concerns raised by the NGT regarding coal-based rotary kiln technology used in steel manufacturing. Following the report, the NGT directed the CPCB to respond within one month. Currently, smaller DRI plants lead to carbon emissions at a rate of 4.1 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of sponge iron, as compared to the global average of 1.9 tonnes of CO2 per tonne. This situation challenges Indias efforts to meet the goals set by the Paris Agreement in 2015 to curb global warming. The report indicates that there is limited potential to enhance the capacity and efficiency of these smaller plants. This is a critical time for India to ban granting environmental clearance to any new (greenfield) or existing (brownfield) coal-based sponge iron production through rotary kilns, as these processes are carbon-intensive, visibly polluting, and pose serious health risks to both workers and surrounding communities, the report says. It recommends the government establish short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals for these DRI plants to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance their sustainability. It also suggests installation of Waste Heat Recovery plants and tech interventions to curb pollution.

Limit Exceeded: Congress After BJP Inducts 3 More Ministers In Chhattisgarh

The political atmosphere in Chhattisgarh has heated up following the expansion of the Vishnudev Sai-led BJP cabinet.

Chhattisgarh: 8 Naxalites carrying collective bounty of Rs 30L surrender

Narayanpur: Eight Naxalites, including two women, carrying cumulative rewards of Rs 30 lakh on their heads, surrendered before the security forces in Chhattisgarhs Narayanpur district on Wednesday, police said. The Naxalites turned themselves in, citing inhuman and hollow Maoist ideology. They said they were also impressed by the polices rehabilitation drive and the state governments 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 .

Eight Naxalites carrying collective bounty of Rs 30 lakh surrender in Chhattisgarh

In Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district, eight Naxalites, including two women carrying a cumulative reward of Rs 30 lakh, surrendered to security forces, citing disillusionment with Maoist ideology and inspiration from the police's rehabilitation efforts and the state government's surrender policy. Among them, Sukhlal Jurri and Hurra, carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh each.

Chhattisgarh's cabinet gets 14 ministers for first time as 3 MLAs take oath

RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka administered the oath of office and secrecy to three ministers -- Gajendra Yadav, Rajesh Agrawal and Khushwant Saheb at the swearing-in function in Raj Bhawan, Raipur on Wednesday. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expanded his ministry almost 20 months after assuming office in December 2023, when the BJP returned to power in Chhattisgarh. With the expansion of the Sai cabinet, the total strength of the state council of ministers rose to 14 for the first time. All three --Yadav (MLA from Durg), Agrawal (MLA-Ambikapur) and Khushwant Saheb (MLA-Arang) are first-term legislators. CM Sai later distributed the portfolios to the new ministers. While Yadav got school education and Gramodyog, Khushwant Saheb was allotted skill development, technical education & employment and Agrawal was given tourism, culture, religious trust and endowment. The CM will proceed on his first scheduled 10-day foreign trip to Japan and South Korea on Thursday. BJP insiders said that the representation following the induction of three new faces will secure caste and regional balance, though several senior BJP MLAs who kept their hopes alive to secure a place in the cabinet felt 'desolate'. In the Sai Cabinet, there are only three ministers who were in the earlier BJP government led by Dr Raman Singh, which was in power for 15 years and the remaining 11 are new faces. Chhattisgarh, in accordance with the provision of the Constitution with maximum of 15 per cent of the strength of the Vidhan Sabha permissible for council of ministers, had continued with only 13 ministers, including the chief minister, ever since the state was created in the year 2000. The Chhattisgarh state has 90 legislators and the new cabinet expansion has apparently followed the model of Haryana which too has the same number of elected assembly members. Former CM Bhupesh Baghel cited the new 14-member cabinet expansion as unconstitutional. If the state government has taken a prior approval from the Centre then that should be made public and if not, then such a 14-member cabinet is unlawful. We had also sought the approval from the Centre for a 14-member cabinet but didn't get any response, claimed Baghel. CM Sai took oath on December 10, 2023, followed by 11 ministers administering oath on December 21, while keeping one post vacant. In June 2024, one more ministerial post fell vacant after a senior BJP leader, Brijmohan Agrawal, an eight-time MLA, was elected as a member of parliament from the Raipur Lok Sabha seat.

Unwilling to marry man of familys choice, woman lawyer planned mysterious disappearance from train

BHOPAL : Unwilling to buckle under family pressure to marry the man of their choice, a Madhya Pradesh-based young advocate, Archana Tiwari, who aspired to become a civil judge, masterminded her own disappearance from on board a train on August 7. 12 days after she disappeared and went underground in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu with the help of a close friend, Saransh Jokchand, who wanted to make a big in drone business, and Saransh's alleged fraudster friend Tejindar Singh, the 29-year-old advocate has been found near the Indo-Nepal border in UP's Lakhimpur district and brought to Bhopal on Wednesday. On August 7, the young advocate, who was travelling from her workplace in Indore to home city Katni for Raksha Bandhan in the B3 coach of the 18233 Indore-Bilaspur Narmada Express train didnt reach home on August 8, after which a missing persons complaint was filed by her family at the government railway police (GRP-Katni). The investigation was transferred the next day to the GRP-Rani Kamlapati station of Bhopal. With Archana's bag and some other things being found on her train's seat, the GRP police first started working on the theory of the woman having fallen from the train, despite its chances being low in the crowded AC-3 compartment. More than 2000 CCTV footage from over 500 cameras were examined in detail between Indore and Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh). Our teams comprising more than 70 personnel were deployed in the dense forest areas in central MP, where using drones and state forest department staff, extensive combing was done, police superintendent (GRP-Bhopal) Rahul Kumar Lodha said in Bhopal on Wednesday An SDERF team searched in an area of around 32 km in river Narmada, but found nothing incriminating, after which possibility of a mishap with Archana was ruled out. It consequently broadened the purview of our investigations, focussing more on digital and electronic methodology-based investigations, he said. Based on the call detail record (CDR) and Internet Protocol Detail Record (IDPR), it was found that Archana had been in contact with an Indore-based drone business startup operator Saransh Jokchand, since January. Related investigations also revealed that she and Saransh were in touch with one Tejindar Singh (who was residing in Itarsi-Narmadapuram), possibly via Saransh. But, before Tejindar could be grilled in detail by the GRP-Bhopal, a team of Delhi police arrested him from Itarsi in connection with a fraud case. Connecting the dots in the matter pertaining to the sensational disappearance, the GRP-Bhopal reached Delhi and grilled Tejinder in Delhi police custody, where he spilled the beans and admitted to his role in first embarking the Narmada Express train from Narmadapuram railway station on August 7 as planned by Archana and Saransh and then helping the young advocate deboard the train at Itarsi railway station, Lodha said. Knowing well about the nook and cranny of Itarsi railway station, Tejindar helped Archana deboard the train and get out of the station through blind spots, which werent within the peripheral vision of the CCTV cameras, he added. Subsequent investigations revealed that after detraining at Itarsi, Archana along with Saransh, went by road to his hometown Shujalpur, in Shajapur district in a car. Archana and Saransh then returned to Indore, but realizing that the matter was becoming big in the media, they decided to get out of MP. They went to southwestern MP's Burhanpur district and then reached Hyderabad, where they stayed for two days. But with the matter becoming bigger every passing day, it was decided that Archana would go to Nepal and get underground in Kathmandu with the help of Saranshs business client. The duo Archana and Saransh travelled from Hyderabad to Jodhpur to Delhi and then entered Nepal via road based on Saranshs ID on August 14. In Nepal, the young advocate planned to live for a few months as Sapna (her other name) and then return to pursue her preparations for the judicial services exam. Though, based on CDRs, Saransh had been questioned initially by the cops, the questioning of Tejinder in Delhi polices custody in the national capital, actually helped the GRP-Bhopal in establishing Saranshs actual role in the case. Saransh was picked up for questioning again on August 17, after which he narrated the entire saga about Archana's mysterious disappearance for staying away from marriage and focusing on judicial services exams preparations. It was Saransh who finally helped police in connecting Archana over phone in Nepal and convinced her to fly back from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi in Nepal and then reach the Indo-Nepal border in UP's Lakhimpur Kheri district on Tuesday. She was brought by the GRP-Bhopal team to MP capital on Wednesday morning by flight. Questioning of Archana (a former student leader), her close friend Saransh and Tejindar revealed that she didnt want to get married with a Patwari (revenue department staff) on familys wishes and wanted instead to focus on preparations to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a civil judge. It was owing to it only that she masterminded the entire mysterious disappearance, believing that in many cases of missing persons complaints, the victim often remained untraced, Lodha said. She left her bag and some other belongings on the train seat during the journey to home city Katni and then threw her mobile phone in the jungles of Midghat in central MP to create an impression that she fell from the train and will never be traced, Lodha said. While entire plot was masterminded by Archana, the travel plans and other aspects were finalized by Saransh and Tejindar. Though weve spent 10-12 days with more than 70 cops working round the clock in the sensational case, Archana being a major, nothing untoward has happened to her, no criminal case can be made against her. We will still seek additional legal opinion to further decide in the matter, Lodha maintained. Importantly, investigations suggest that Archana had planned her August 7 mysterious disappearance from the train on August 5, along with Saransh and Tejindar at a dhaba in central MPs Harda district, where she had gone for arguing a legal case. Out of the two SIM cards being used by her, she shut one of her SIM cards much before the August 7 rail journey and in the middle of the train journey, threw her cell-phone in the Midghat jungles of central MP to give credence to her missing person plot. Saransh, on the other hand, kept his cell phone on aeroplane mode right since returning to Indore with Archana from Shujalpur on August 9. He then purchased a new phone, got a new number in his labourer fathers name and used it till he left Archana in Nepal and returned to Indore on August 15, just to ensure that the last location of his original phone remained in Indore only.

8 Maoists carrying collective bounty of 30 lakh surrender in Chhattisgarh

The Maoists turned themselves in, citing inhuman and hollow Maoist ideology.

Chhattisgarh cabinet expanded; 3 first-term MLAs take oath as ministers

Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expanded his cabinet. Three BJP MLAs, Rajesh Agrawal, Guru Khushwant Saheb and Gajendra Yadav, were sworn in. This increases the cabinet size to 14, a historic high for the state. The expansion balances caste and regional representation. The BJP recently won the state elections, defeating the Congress party.

CGBSE Class 10th,12th supplementary exam results 2025 out at cgbse.nic.in: Check direct link to download scorecards here

The Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) has declared the Class 10 and 12 supplementary exam results 2025 on cgbse.nic.in and results.cg.nic.in. Students can download scorecards using their roll numbers. Class 10 exams were held from July 921 and Class 12 from July 822. Passing students can now choose academic streams or undergraduate courses accordingly.

Depression Crosses Odisha Coast, Thunderstorms For AP

it was likely to move north-westwards across south Odisha and south Chhattisgarh and weaken into a well-marked low-pressure area during next few hours: Weatherman

Buchi Babu tournament | Shaws breezy ton keeps Maharashtra afloat

His 141-ball 111 helps the side reach 217 in response to Chhattisgarhs 252 in the Group-A fixture; Achyuth takes five-for as TNCA Presidents XI get the lead against Himachal Pradesh

Oppositions V-P Pick Reddy Had Struck Down Anti-Naxal Campaign? The 2011 Verdict

Among Reddys key judgments is one given in 2011, striking down Salwa Judum, a key anti-Naxal initiative of the Chhattisgarh government

Prithvi Shaw Marks Maharashtra Debut With Century In Buchi Babu Invitational

Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament: Prithvi Shaw made an impact in his first competitive outing for Maharashtra, scoring a century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament at Guru Nanak College on Tuesday. The 25-year-old opener, who shifted from Mumbai earlier this year, brought up his hundred off 122 deliveries, holding firm on a challenging surface while his teammates struggled around him. Shaw reached the three-figure mark in the 44th over of Maharashtras innings with a boundary, raising his bat with a subdued celebration before sharing an embrace with batting partner Siddharth Mhatre. His innings, which included 14 fours and a six, was built on application and patience, as he negotiated uneven bounce and turn with composure. The milestone came just a day after his former Mumbai teammate Sarfaraz Khan struck a fighting hundred for Mumbai against TNCA XI in the same tournament. Maharashtra, however, found themselves in trouble after a solid start of 71 without loss, slipping to 86 for 4 in quick time. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed cheaply for just 1, leaving Shaw to shoulder the bulk of the scoring, contributing more than 75 percent of the teams total in the first two sessions. For Shaw, this century carries added significance. Once seen as a future star for India, he had been dropped from the Mumbai Ranji squad last season and last played for them in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 in December 2024. Maharashtra, however, found themselves in trouble after a solid start of 71 without loss, slipping to 86 for 4 in quick time. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed cheaply for just 1, leaving Shaw to shoulder the bulk of the scoring, contributing more than 75 percent of the teams total in the first two sessions. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Earlier, Chhattisgarh had posted 252 on Day 1, thanks to Sanjeet Desais 93 and Avnish Singh Dhaliwals 52. Article Source: IANS

Prithvi Shaw silences critics with stunning century on debut

Prithvi Shaw marked his Maharashtra debut with a brilliant century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025, held in Chennai. After facing form and fitness challenges, the right-hander's innings helped Maharashtra recover from an early collapse, showcasing his resilience. Shaw's move to Maharashtra aims to revitalise his career after a difficult period with Mumbai, seeking new opportunities for growth.

Rajasthans Manika Vishwakarma crowned Miss Universe India 2025

JAIPUR: Rajasthans Manika Vishwakarma has been crowned Miss Universe India 2025, earning the opportunity to represent the country at the 74th Miss Universe competition, scheduled to be held in Thailand on 21 November 2025. Manika, who hails from Sri Ganganagar, described the win as a proud moment for Rajasthan and the nation. This achievement proves that dreams can take flight even from small towns, she said while addressing the media in Jaipur after her victory. Sharing her journey, Manika said she began from her hometown Ganganagar before moving to Delhi for preparations. We must instill confidence and courage in ourselves. Everyone had a big role in my success. I thank all those who supported me and made me capable of this, she said. She added that the competition is not just a stage but a world that builds character. In the finale, Tanya Sharma emerged as the first runner-up. The judging panel included Miss Universe India owner Nikhil Anand, actress and Miss Universe India 2015 Urvashi Rautela, and director Farhad Samji. Anand said that Jaipur was chosen as the host city for the finale to showcase and promote Indias art and culture. Bollywood actress and former Miss Universe India Urvashi Rautela was also present as a jury member in this prestigious competition. She said, The competition was very tough, but the winner is with us. We are very happy that we have got our winner. She will definitely make us proud in Miss Universe. The grand finale saw 48 contestants from across the countryincluding Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Odisha, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhicompete for the prestigious crown. With this victory, Manika Vishwakarma will now prepare to raise Indias flag high on the international stage in Miss Universe 2025.

Chhattisgarh Bureaucrat Accused Of Rape, Exploitation By Woman Constable

A high-ranking government officer in Chhattisgarh finds himself at the centre of a storm as serious allegations of rape and exploitation under the false promise of marriage have been levelled against him.

Godavari flood: 198 fisherfolk families evacuated

The edges of the three islands abutting Havelock Bridge were washed away in the Godavari flood in 2022; Heavy inflows into the Godavari downstream of the Polavaram irrigation project Many villages cut-off as Godavari, Sabari in spate on AP-Chhattisgarh border.

Low becomes marked as IMD issues depression alert over Bay, East Coast

Extreme rainfall threat warned for Konkan, Goa, Coastal Karnataka, Coastal AP, south Odisha, south Chhattisgarh

Swipe, Pay, Stab? Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance Of Open Knife Sales After Sting

A sting operation had exposed the rampant sale of dangerous knives in Bilaspur.

DRG Jawan killed, three injured as IED planted by Maoists explodes in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

The explosion occurred in the morning in Indravati National Park area when a team of DRG, a unit of the State police, was out on an anti-Maoist operation, a senior official said

CGBSE Supplementary Result 2025: Class 10, 12 results to release soon at cgbse.nic.in; check steps to download

Chhattisgarh Board is set to release Class 10 and 12 supplementary results soon. Students can access results on cgbse.nic.in. Candidates need their roll number and date of birth. Exams occurred in July 2025. Results are expected by late August 2025. Students should keep admit cards ready. The marksheet can be downloaded from the website.

CGBSE Supplementary Result 2025: When will the CG Board Class 10 and 12 results be declared?

CGBSE Supplementary Result 2025: The Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) is expected to release the Class 10 and 12 supplementary examination results 2025 soon on its official websites, cgbse.nic.in and results.cg.nic.in. The exams were held in July 2025 for students who failed in one or two subjects. Results will include student details, marks, and result status. Students should keep their admit cards ready and check the websites regularly for updates on the official result declaration.

Chhattisgarh: Cop killed, 3 injured in anti-Maoist operation in Bijapur

One DRG jawan, Dinesh Nag, was martyred, and three others were injured. Check below to know more about this IED blast.

Chhattisgarh: Jawan Killed, 3 Injured in Naxalites' IED Blast

The explosion occurred in the morning in Indravati National Park area when a team of DRG, a unit of the state police, was out on an anti-Naxal operation

Cop Killed, 3 Injured In Maoist Blast In Chhattisgarh

A jawan of the Chhattisgarh police's District Reserve Guard was killed and three other personnel were injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by maoist went off in Bijapur district on Monday, officials said.

Police jawan killed, three others injured in Naxal IED blast in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur

A jawan of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was killed and three others injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast triggered by Naxalites in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Monday, police said. The explosion took place in the morning inside Indravati National Park, where a DRG team was carrying out an anti-Naxal operation. According to a senior police official, the operation had been launched on Sunday and was ongoing when the blast occurred. The deceased jawan has been identified as Dinesh Nag. The three injured personnel received immediate first aid at the site and are currently being evacuated from the dense forest area, the official added. The DRG is a specialised anti-Naxal unit of the Chhattisgarh Police, often deployed in high-risk areas in the state's conflict zones. Further details are awaited.

Jawan Dead, 2 Others Injured In Naxal IED Blast In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

A jawan was killed and two others sustained injuries in an IED blast triggered by Naxalites in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district.

Raipur Diary | Chhattisgarh heritage to be showcased at World Expo

The state is all set to showcase its unique identity at the prestigious World Expo 2025 in Osaka (Japan) next week where CM Vishnu Deo Sai has been specially invited to represent the state. The theme of the summit is Designing Future Society for our Lives with sub-themes on Saving Lives, Empowering Lives and Connecting Lives, celebrating global innovations. Over 160 countries and 9 international organisations are participating in the mega event. Chhattisgarh, at its dedicated state stall at the expansive summit venue in Yumeshima Island, will highlight its rich cultural heritage, technological advances, trade and infrastructure. The state looks to place itself on the global map of industrial growth by positing an investment hub image. New Assembly complex all set for inauguration With the construction of the new Chhattisgarh Assembly complex in its final stage, the new premises will be dedicated to the public during the states Rajyotsava celebration on November 1. PM Narendra Modi has been invited to inaugurate the sprawling new structure spread across 52 acres. The new Vidhan Sabha building beautifully blends the states rich cultural heritage and traditional architectural elements with cutting-edge facilities. The Assembly hall, to have seats for 200 MLAs, will include a state-of-the-art auditorium with a 500-person capacity. The complex will also include parking for 700 vehicles and two proposed lakes. State-of-the-art libraries to come up in every dist After encouraging response and favourable results from Raipur-based Nalanda Parisar, the states biggest Central Library, the State is now building 34 new libraries covering almost every district. These will be equipped with quality books for higher education, competitive exams and reference materials besides other modern facilities. The option of both offline and online will be made available. The state capital, besides the Nalanda Parisar complex-cum-reading zone, also has Takshashila Central library-cum-smart reading room and a 500-seater central library. Libraries are also proposed for Maoist-hit districts and hinterlands. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com

Acres of forest lands reclaimed, thanks to tech

RAIPUR: The foresters foot is best manure for the forest, so the saying goes. True to the word, foresters in Chhattisgarh have demonstrated how high-tech surveillance and decisive action can bring a paradigm shift in forest conservation, reclaiming nearly 1,800 acres of forest from the clutches of encroachment in the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR). Regaining the vast forest terrain progressively occupied over the past 18 years proved quite a task for the Chhattisgarh forest department as it painstakingly identified and cleared designated forestlands, worth over `500 crore, of illegal occupation, said Varun Jain (IFS) Deputy Director, USTR. Combating biodiversity threats, deforestation, loss of wildlife habitat and increased human-animal conflict, the officer deployed technological interventions to fill up patrolling gaps, reduce man-animal contact and strengthen monitoring of forests and wildlife. As many as seven major human settlements were cleared out and over 300 encroachers illegally occupying the region were evicted amid strong resistance during the anti-encroachment drive that began two years ago. Jain took help of the National Remote Sensing Centre, a key facility of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and acquired satellite images of the designated forestlands in 2008-2010, besides drone mapping of the encroached area to assess the 2022 situation. Analysis of the images revealed that forest cover loss began after 2012 and continued till 2020, during which the encroachers wiped-off trees from vast stretched of jungle. Its an exceptional feat for the state. Removal of encroachments using technology and force has created inviolate space for herbivores and carnivores, leading to diminishing man-animal conflicts. The compensation burden on the state exchequer has also reduced, said V Sreenivasa Rao (PCCF & Head of Forest Force). In 2022, the Chhattisgarh forest department built its own Google Earth-powered Remote Sensing Portal for assessing changes in forest cover and surface water cover on a weekly basis; Artificial Intelligence tools and machine learning helped identify forest loss over past 20 years. Based on the satellite images, the department arrived at the conclusion that all these illegal settlements had come up after 2008, and therefore, were not entitled to land rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) which is applicable on areas occupied before December 2005.

One-Sided Love Drives Chhattisgarh Man to Plot to Kill Girl's Hubby

The technical evidence had led the police to the accused identified as Vinay Verma who is an ITI diploma holder and works as an electrician.

Chhattisgarh: Security forces recover explosives after exchange of fire with Naxals

Gariaband: Security forces recovered explosives following a gunfight with Naxalites on Sunday in Gariaband district of Chhattisgarh after four Maoists carrying a cumulative reward of Rs 19 lakh surrendered themselves, a senior police officer said. On a tip-off provided by one of the surrendered Naxals, security forces recovered a Maoist dump in a forested hill 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 .

Man sends bomb to love interests husband in music speaker: Chhattisgarh police bust explosives racket; probe under way

Chhattisgarh police foiled a murder plot by arresting Vinay Verma, who sent an IED disguised as a music system to the husband of a woman he was obsessed with. The investigation uncovered an illegal explosives supply network, leading to six more arrests. Authorities seized gelatin sticks and detonators, revealing a dangerous scheme and preventing a potential tragedy.

Chhattisgarh: One-Sided Lovers Parcel Bomb Plot Foiled; Explosive Smuggling Racket Busted

KHAIRAGARH (Chhattisgarh), Aug 17: A 20-year-old electrician from Chhattisgarh allegedly planted an improvised explosive device (IED) in a music system speaker and sent it as a gift to the husband of a woman he was infatuated with, police said on Sunday. The accused assembled the IED using online tutorials, designing it to detonate upon being plugged in. His Google search history showed how to kill a person using a bomb without being caught by police, officials said. With the arrest [] The post Chhattisgarh: One-Sided Lovers Parcel Bomb Plot Foiled; Explosive Smuggling Racket Busted appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Centre says forest dept not nodal agency for community forest resource management

New Delhi, Aug 17: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has clarified that Community Forest Resource Management Plans (CFRMPs) must be prepared by Gram Sabhas through their Community Forest Resource Management Committees (CFRMCs), in accordance with the Forest Rights Act and its rules, and not by the forest department or any other agency. In a letter dated August 14 to the chief secretary of Chhattisgarh, the ministry responded to recent communications from the states forest department and tribal development department seeking [] The post Centre says forest dept not nodal agency for community forest resource management appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Chhattisgarh: One-sided lover's parcel bomb plot foiled; explosive smuggling racket busted

KHAIRAGARH: A 20-year-old electrician from Chhattisgarh allegedly planted an improvised explosive device (IED) in a music system speaker and sent it as a gift to the husband of a woman he was infatuated with, police said on Sunday. The accused assembled the IED using online tutorials, designing it to detonate upon being plugged in. His Google search history showed how to kill a person using a bomb without being caught by police, officials said. With the arrest of the man, the police in Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai district have not only foiled a planned murder but also unearthed an explosive smuggling racket which supplied gelatin sticks to the accused, they said. In a similar case in April 2023, a newly married man and his elder brother were killed after a home theatre music system received as wedding gift from his wife's former lover exploded in their house in neighbouring Kabirdham district. In the latest case, the prime accused, Vinay Verma, and six others have been arrested, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai district Superintendent of Police (SP) Lakshya Sharma told PTI. The others have been identified as Parmeshwar Verma (25), Gopal Verma (22), Ghasiram Verma (46), Dilip Dhimar (38), Gopal Khelwar and Khilesh Verma (19), as per the police. The conspiracy came to light when a suspicious parcel, neatly gift-wrapped and bearing a fake India Post logo, was delivered three-four days back to a shop in Manpur village under Gandai police station limits. The parcel was addressed to village resident Afsar Khan, the intended target. Finding it suspicious, Khan promptly alerted the police, the official said. A bomb disposal team examined the package and found a 2-kg IED concealed inside a brand-new speaker, the SP said. Technical analysis showed the IED was designed to detonate upon being plugged into a power source. The current would reach a detonator connected to the speaker's wiring, triggering the explosion, the official said. Gelatin sticks were used as the primary explosive, and the speaker's outer casing would act as deadly shrapnel upon detonation, he said. The investigation suggested that Vinay Verma, resident of Kusami village in Khairagarh, allegedly hatched the plot in a bid to murder Khan, the official said. Verma, an electrician, procured the speaker and assembled the IED using online tutorials. His mobile phone's Google search history included how to kill a person using a bomb without being caught by police, Sharma said. The accused was in one-sided love with Khan's wife since her college days. After she married Khan a few months back, Verma allegedly plotted to eliminate him, he said. Further probe indicated the explosives used in the device had been siphoned off from a stone quarry in Chhattisgarh's Durg district. Durg resident Parmeshwar allegedly paid Rs 6,000 to procure gelatin rods from Gopal and Dilip, also natives of Durg. Ghasiram delivered the explosives, while Khilesh is accused of preparing the fake India Post logo used on the parcel, the official said. Verma, with the help from Gopal, eventually delivered the explosive-laden gift to Khan's shop. Subsequent raids at the premises of Gopal and Dilip in Durg led to the seizure of 60 gelatin sticks and two detonators, he said. The explosives had been illegally diverted from a quarry in Patharia area, whose operator will also be questioned, he said. This action not only thwarted a planned murder but also exposed a network of illegal explosive supply in the region, Sharma said. Further investigation was underway and strict legal action will be taken against all those involved in the crime, he added.

Chhattisgarh Cabinet Expansion Likely Tomorrow, These Leaders May Be Included

Political activity has intensified in Chhattisgarh with Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai expected to expand his cabinet by Monday.

Meet India's fastest man who broke national records in both 100m, 200m races, he is from this smallvillagein...

At 22, Animesh Kujur is India's fastest man, as he broke the national record in the men's 100m as he clocked 10.18 seconds. A tribal youth from Ambikapur district in northern Chhattisgarh, Kujur is India's pride in athletics.

BJP seeks strong law to protect women from forced conversions in Kerala

KOCHI: Alleging the involvement of anti-national forces behind the death of a 23-year-old woman in Kothamangalam, the BJP has demanded that the state government bring in a piece of legislation against love jihad. If the government is apprehensive about the term love jihad, they can change it. But we want strong legislation to protect women who are cheated in the name of love and then tortured to convert to Islam. We cannot tolerate such activities, said BJP state vice-president Shone George. The Kothamangalam woman was taken to Panayikulam, where she was locked up in a room and tortured demanding to convert. The police say they cannot use the term love jihad because it has not been defined in legal terminology. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan have not spoken a word against such moves. By refusing to oppose love jihad, the government is supporting these activities. Panayikulam, where the girl was tortured, is notorious for anti-national activities. It was the location of a SIMI camp in the past. We have appealed to the government to hand over the investigation to a Central agency, he said. According to him, there were many people other than the relatives of the accused in the house during the torture. Though the parents of the accused were present at the house for three days, the police failed to arrest them. Now they are under PFI protection, making it difficult for the police to nab them. In a similar incident, a differently abled girl was tortured in Kollam. The police have not arrested the accused. Those who protested against the nuns arrest in Chhattisgarh are silent on love jihad, he said.

CPM leaders criticise Govindan for opportunistic jibe at Thalassery Archbishop Pamplany

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State secretary M V Govindan is facing criticism from within the CPM leadership for his remarks against Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany. Govindan had accused Bishop Pamplany of opportunism, and praising Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the two arrested nuns were granted bail in Chhattisgarh. The CPM secretary reportedly termed the Archbishop as someone who is very opportunist. The Syro Malabar Church retaliated in strong words and asked him not to speak like Govindachamy, a life sentence convict. Sources in the CPM told TNIE that Govindan faced criticism in the party forum for his unwanted remark. Leaders are of the opinion that Govindans intervention was untimely as it only helped lose the credit it earned through partys intervention after the arrest of the nuns . We have to be careful while expressing our position in public, a national leader from the party centre in Delhi told TNIE. As a public servant, every word from us is being scrutinised especially if we are from the Left or CPM. This was unfortunate and unwanted, he said. CPM MPs John Brittas and A A Rahim were in Chhattisgarh with other opposition leaders till the nuns were granted bail. It was following the partys instruction that Brittas and Rahim went to Chhattisgarh. They, along with other LDF MPs, met Amit Shah. Through this intervention, CPM could successfully uphold secular principles and declare a position on minority protection, a CPM MLA said. The church took these actions in good faith as it was visible in their statements. However, all these went in vain, he added. With local body and assembly elections to be held soon, there is criticism in the organisation for allegedly allowing a favourable situation to slip away. According to leaders, the silent approval given to the DYFI leaders to attack a church head has now placed the whole episode in an uneven level. The church authorities later came out with a video clip of Archbishop Pamplany in which he was seen expressing gratitude to the prime minister, home minister and at the same time demanding the Union government not to repeat such persecution, and end the case registered against the nuns. There is also apprehension among Kerala Congress (M) about the political implication of the tussle between CPM and the church in central Kerala. It has to be noted that the Congress did not respond, an upset KCM office-bearer told TNIE. Here the church was the victim. Yet Govindan questioned it in a do-or-die situation. Thereby he has given the BJP a chance to get closer to the church, he said. This is not the first time Govindan has put the CPM in a tight spot. In June 2025, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had to correct the state secretary after the latter said that CPM and RSS had come together against the then PM Indira Gandhi during Emergency. Pinarayi had clarified that there was no links between the RSS and CPM during Emergency.

5-yr-old boy raped, murdered in Uppal; migrant worker from Bihar held

Hyderabad: A migrant worker from Bihar was arrested by Uppal police on charges of an alleged rape and murder of a five-year-old boy on Friday, August 15. According to reports, the boys parents hail from Chhattisgarh and work as daily wage labourers in a timber depot. The child reportedly went missing while playing, which prompted 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 .

Tushar Gandhi slams governors for acting as Super Chancellors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Tushar Gandhi, great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and noted author, on Saturday lashed out at governors,alleging they haveturnedinto super chancellors andmisusetheir position to obstruct the functioning of elected governments. He alleged that governors were being used as political tools of the Centre to weaken state administrations. Speaking at a national seminar organised by the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP) on challenges in higher education, Gandhi said, Now the governors are acting as super chancellors. Those in BJP-ruled states enjoy retirement, while those in opposition states are tasked with making governance difficult, he remarked. Gandhi also came down heavily on the National Education Policy (NEP), warning that it would create enslaved minds by curbing rational thought and academic freedom. He argued that education had lost the freedom it once enjoyed, with teachers forced into a system that discouraged questioning. If primary education itself is shackled, the future will suffer. We need state-oriented education models instead of a one-size-fits-all union policy, he said. Expressing concern over the decline of rational thinking in society, Gandhi said even educated people were falling prey to irrational claims spread on social media. Citing an example, he said, One of my relatives, a former IIT professor, forwarded a photo of a circular rainbow calling it 'Brahma Danush'. Natural phenomena are now being projected as miracles to fuel irrational practices. These are propaganda tools of fascist forces. Referring to the recent imprisonment of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh, Gandhi said the incident reflected an increasingly vindictive attitude towards minorities. For decades, Hindus have been convinced their existence is in danger, even though they are the majority. This narrative silences society against atrocities and shows how vulnerable we have become, he observed. Invoking history, Gandhi reminded them that public resistance had changed the course of governance in the past. Even after Independence, people challenged the government. The Emergency was one such example. We must protest against anti-people policies, he said. Responding to questions from the audience, Gandhi clarified that he was not opposed to research on cow urine or dung but stressed it should not be prioritised at the cost of other major research areas. He also noted that many students were pursuing higher education abroad ot out of choice but desperation, as their research was more valued overseas. The seminar, attended by hundreds of teachers from universities and colleges across Kerala, underlined the need for reforms in the education system. KSSP president TK Meerabhai and other speakers warned that the ongoing clashes in higher education were undermining the federal principles guaranteed by the Constitution.

Six killed as vehicle jumps divider and hits truck in Chhattisgarh

The victims were travelling from Indore to Puri via Chhattisgarh when the vehicle they were in hit a road divider and vaulted over it to collide with a truck coming from the opposite direction

VHP-Bajrang Dal workers vandalise church in Chhattisgarh over conversion claim

Members from Hindutva organisations, Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, stormed and vandalised a church in Chhattisgarhs Raipur, alleging that forced religious conversion was taking place. The attack took place on August 10. The Hindutva members attacked the Christians present there and chanted the Hanuman Chalisa, creating a scene. A video of the incident 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 .

Wanted inter-state criminal killed in police encounter in Bihar, constable injured

PATNA: An interstate criminal carrying a bounty of Rs.50,000 on his head was killed in a fierce encounter with police in Bihars Vaishali district on Friday. Arvind Sahni, 30, had escaped from a court lockup after evading police in Samastipur district on May 28 this year and had been on the run since. According to police, he was involved in at least 22 cases of murder, loot, dacoity, and arms deals across Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Samastipur, and East Champaran districts. A police constable was injured during the exchange of fire. Based on a tip-off, a joint team of the Special Task Force (STF) and district police surrounded Chintamanipur village under Vaishali police station limits on Thursday evening to search for Sahni. On seeing the police, Sahni and his accomplices opened fire. Sahni sustained gunshot injuries, while his accomplices managed to escape. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead. Superintendent of Police, Vaishali, Lalit Mohan Sharma, said, While Sahni was killed, a police constable sustained injuries in the exchange of fire. The deceased, a member of an inter-state gang, was wanted in at least 22 cases in several districts in the state. Sahnis name had also figured in a major jewellery loot case in Chhattisgarh. Sahni, a resident of Sahtha Bhagwanpur village in Vaishali district, was also involved in the 2019 gold loot from the Hajipur office of a private finance company. SP Sharma added, We have launched intensive search for other members of the gang. The operation will continue till their arrest. Sahnis elimination in the police operation has come as a major relief for businessmen in Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, and Samastipur, who had been targeted by his gang. Police said the gang had unleashed a reign of terror in these districts, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining accomplices.

Six Dead, One Injured After Car Collides With Truck In Chhattisgarh's Rajnandgaon

Nine IAF, four Army personnel get Vir Chakra for role in Operation Sindoor

NEW DELHI: In a rare instance of Gallantry Awards being conferred in peacetime, 15 Vir Chakras, war-time gallantry awards, were conferred by President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday on armed forces personnel for their roles in Operation Sindoor launched to avenge the killing of 26 civilians in Pahalgam. A total of 127 Gallantry Awards and 40 Distinguished Service awards were given to the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel on the eve of 79th Independence Day. The list of personnel awarded for Operation Sindoor included 13 from the armed forces -- nine from the IAF and four from the Army who were conferred the Vir Chakra, the third-highest wartime gallantry award. Two recipients were from the Ministry of Home Affairs: Sub Inspector Mohd Imteyaj and Constable Deepak Chingakham. There was also a rare list of the seven top-level armed forces officers awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal for their role in Operation Sindoor. This award is given for exceptional operational planning, coordination and execution. President conferred 4 Kirti Chakras which are peacetime equivalents of the Mahavir Chakras of the war time. The other Gallantry Awards includes 15 Vir Chakras; 16 Shaurya Chakras; 2 Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry). When the award is conferred more than once it is termed as Bar to the award. The list also includes 58 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 6 Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry) and 26 Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry). The 40 Distinguished Service awards include 7 SarvottamYudh Seva Medals, 9 Uttam Yudh Seva Medals and 24 Yudh Seva Medals. The President has also approved 290 Mention-in-Despatches, including 115 personnel of the Army, 5 of the Navy, 167 of the Air Force and 3 of the Border Roads Development Board (BRDB). The Presidents awards also include three Tatrakshak Medals (TM), Indian Coast Guard personnel in recognition of their acts of conspicuous gallantry. Two more TMs were given for exceptional devotion to duty and meritorious service. Meanwhile, the MHA has released the list of 1,090 recipients of medals in different categories, including gallantry for Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence and Correctional Services, on the occasion of Independence Day. The 1,090 medals include 233 Gallantry Medals, 99 Presidents Medals for Distinguished Service and 758 Medals for Meritorious Service. In the Police category, 226 officers and personnel have been selected for the Gallantry Medal, 89 will be given the Presidents Medal for Distinguished Service, and 635 will receive the Medal for Meritorious Service. The J&K Police have once again led the pack of state police organisations and the Central Armed Police Forces by securing a record 127 Gallantry Medals on the occasion of Independence Day 2025. Among the awardees is DSP, late Humayun Muzamil Bhat, killed during a fierce encounter in Kokernag, who has been posthumously honoured for his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The CRPF on its part bagged 20 gallantry awards, whereas the BSF got 16, the Uttar Pradesh Police (17) and the Chhattisgarh Police (14). Top honours for forces Vir Chakra Awardees Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu, Group Capt Manish Arora, Group Capt Animesh Patni, Group Captain Kunal Kalra, Wing Commander Joy Chandra, Squadron Leader Sarthak Kumar, Squadron Leader Siddhant Singh, Squadron, Leader Rizwan Malik and Flight Lieutenant Aarshveer Singh Thakur are among, the IAF officers who have been awarded the Vir Chakra. Colonel Koshank Lamba of 302 Medium Regiment, Lt Col Sushil Bisht of 1988 Medium Battery, Naib Subedar Satish Kumar of 4 Dogra, and Rifleman Sunil Kumar of 4 Jammu And Kashmir Light Infantry are among Army personnel awarded. Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma; former DGMO Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai; CiC, Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh; Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari; Air Officer CiC, South Western Air Command, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor; CiC, Western Air Command, Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra; and Air Marshal AK Bharti. Ministry of Home Awardees Vir Chakra SUB INSPECTOR (GD) MOHD IMTEYAJ CONSTABLE DEEPAK CHINGAKHAM

BJP to launch campaign against love jihad in Kerala

KOCHI: Ignoring the political turmoil over vote theft, the reconstituted core committee of the state BJP, which met in Kochi on Thursday, decided to concentrate on preparations for the upcoming local body and assembly elections. The committee also decided to launch a campaign against love jihad and support the family of Sona Eldhose of Kothamangalam , who died by suicide recently following alleged religious conversion attempt, to fight the case legally. Party state vice-president Shone George will lead the campaign. The meeting congratulated the leadership for its effort to ensure the release of the nuns who were arrested in Chhattisgarh . The people who ran to Chhattisgarh pretending to help the nuns have not opened their mouths against the Kothamangalam incident where a girl was driven to suicide in the name of love. The LDF and the UDF are alarmed by the increasing influence of the BJP among the Christians and are spreading lies to misguide the community, said general secretary S Suresh. The core committee also condemned the alleged attempts of the LDF and UDF to tarnish the image of Thrissur MP and Union Minister Suresh Gopi. In addition, the meeting finalised the road map for a 100-day campaign.

BJP is stealing rights of tribals by erasing papers, says Rahul Gandhi

After a report by The Hindu on forest rights titles found missing in Chhattisgarh government records, Congress leader says his party enacted the Forest Rights Act to protect the water, forest, and land of tribals but the BJP was weakening the legislation

Will fight till my last breath to protect Bengali pride: CM Mamata dares BJP over language row

KOLKATA: Escalating attacks on BJP over Bengali asmita (pride), Trinamool Congress Chairperson and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday dared the saffron party to snatch away freedom of Bengali-speaking people. Is it a crime to speak in Bengali? Banerjee asked. Addressing a meeting at Behala in south Kolkata in the evening, she said, People are being tortured in Odisha. In Puri Jagannath Mandir, so many of our people have gone. We also eat dhokla. But why is Bengali bad? There can be no greater insult than this. I am launching my official protest today here on the eve of Independence Day. If anyone has ears, listen, if eyes then see, and if you have the ability to understand, then understand. This is our oath, we will not allow anyone to take away our freedom. As long as I live, I will fight and live, she announced. Alleging that Bengali-speaking people are being tortured in Assam, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Delhi, she informed that 22 lakh people from Bengal work in other states. In Bengal, 1.5 crore migrant workers are from other states. If I can give them shelter, why will you torture my people? I do not know this country. Did we ask for this freedom? Banerjee asked. The Chief Minister stated that Bengal gave birth to the freedom struggle and was also behind the renaissance and holistic development of India. If you attack this Bengal, you have to walk over our dead bodies to disrespect our language. We do not disrespect anyone but you cannot disrespect our language, she reminded. Are you not ashamed? This Bengal was once the capital and our people sacrificed lives, Banerjee added. Without naming the BJP, she alleged that those who do divisive politics, do they not read what Swami Vivekananda and Nazrul Islam said? Should we not listen to those who spoke of communal harmony and listen to these fake leaders instead? They get irked by Bengali. If I respect your language, why will you disrespect mine? There are even different dialects within Bengal too, Banerjee said. Taking a dig at the Election Commission of India for not allowing Aadhaar cards as a valid document in SIR (special intensive revision) exercise, she said, They [SC] have done the Aadhaar card inclusion. Bengals lawyers have fought well. We will present our case again. I will not allow anyone to snatch away our freedom. You cannot take away citizenship.

Six more Maoists from Chhattisgarh surrender before Telangana police in Kothagudem

MHA announces Independence Day honours; J&K Police lead with record 127 gallantry medals

NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Thursday announced and released the list of 1,090 recipients of medals in different categories including gallantry for Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence and Correctional Services on the occasion of Independence Day on Friday. These awards include Gallantry, the President's Medal for Distinguished Service and the Medal for Meritorious Service, as this year, a total 1,090 medals will be conferred, comprising 233 Gallantry Medals, 99 Presidents Medals for Distinguished Service and 758 Medals for Meritorious Service. According to the MHAs official release, in the Police category 226 officers and personnel have been selected for the Gallantry Medal, 89 will be given the Presidents Medal for Distinguished Service and 635 will receive the Medal for Meritorious Service. s the countrys internal security challenges are primarily posed in three theatres Jammu & Kashmir, Naxal-affected areas and the North East, the highest number of Gallantry Medals has gone to personnel of J&K Police, followed by members of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who majorly in anti-Left Wing extremism operations and the Border Security Force (BSF), guarding Indias sensitive frontiers with Pakistan and Bangladesh. The J&K Police have once again led the pack of state police organisations and the Central Armed Police Forces by securing a record 127 Gallantry Medals on the occasion of Independence Day 2025. Among the awardees include late Deputy SP Humayun Muzamil Bhat, who was killed during a fierce encounter in Kokernag, has been posthumously honoured for his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Other notables among them are Inspector General of Police (Security) Sujit Kumar and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, have been honoured for their exemplary leadership, professionalism, and fearless service in one of Indias most sensitive regions. Other notable recipients from J&K Police include Sajad Shah, SSP Awantipora, Iftikhar Talib, SSP Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Khan, SP South Srinagar and Hilal Khalid Bhat, SP Hazratbal. The CRPF on its part bagged 20 gallantry awards, whereas the BSF got 16 , the Uttar Pradesh Police (17) and the Chhattisgarh Police (14). For the Fire Services, 62 awards have been announced, which include six Gallantry Medals, five Presidents Medals for Distinguished Service, and 51 Medals for Meritorious Service. In the Home Guard and Civil Defence category, the honours include one Gallantry Medal, three President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 41 Medals for Meritorious Service. For Correctional Services, two officers will be recognised with the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, while 31 will receive the Medal for Meritorious Service. This annual recognition is a tribute to the bravery, dedication and distinguished service of officers and personnel across states, Union Territories and the CAPFs, the MHA said in the statement. The medals will be presented as part of the Independence Day celebrations to acknowledge the exceptional contribution of these officers in safeguarding law & order and public safety in the country. 16 BSF personnel get gallantry medals for Operation Sindoor

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Govt of Diluting Forest Rights Act, Vows to Protect Tribal Land

Congress leader alleges thousands of forest rights titles missing in Chhattisgarh records

DRG Officer Injured in Naxal IED Blast in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur

Separate operation in Tarrem area leads to recovery of 10 kg explosive, averting major tragedy

Maoist-hit Bastar Villages to Hoist Tricolour First Time Since Independence

Fourteen remote villages in Chhattisgarh's Maoist-hit Bastar region will witness hoisting of the national flag for the first time since India gained freedom, with locals enthusiastically preparing for Friday's Independence Day celebrations.

'Kagaz mitao, Adhikaar churao': Rahul Gandhi accuses BJP of 'stealing' Bahujan rights by deleting voters; claims tribal land records missing in Chhattisgarh

DRG Jawan Injured After IED Planted By Naxalites Explodes In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

A DRG jawan was injured by an IED planted by Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur during an anti-Naxal operation. The incident occurred in Indravati area.

Jharkhand liquor scam: Jharkhand HC denies bail to IAS officer Vinay Chaubey

RANCHI: In yet another setback for IAS Vinay Kumar Chaubey, the Jharkhand High Court denied him bail in the Jharkhand liquor scam case on Thursday. In his bail application, Chaubey had challenged the FIR filed against him by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and his subsequent arrest, urging the court to quash the charges and all punitive action. The ACB had summoned Chaubey on May 20 for questioning in connection with the liquor scam. He was arrested following the interrogation. The ACB has accused Vinay Chaubey of collaborating with the Chhattisgarh liquor syndicate to formulate a new liquor policy in Jharkhand, causing financial loss to the state government. The new liquor policy was implemented in Jharkhand on March 31, 2022, and Chaubey was the secretary of the excise department at that time. He is currently in judicial custody, and given the serious allegations levelled by the state government, he has been suspended from service. On Wednesday, the Anti-Corruption Bureau made Vinay Chaubey an accused in the Hazaribagh land scam case. Sources claimed that during the proceedings on Wednesday, Chaubey, already in judicial custody in connection with the liquor scam, appeared before the special ACB court in Hazaribagh through video-conferencing, and was taken into custody in the case. The case is related to changing the nature of 2.75 acres of Khasmahal land and allocating it to private persons during the period when Chaubey was the deputy commissioner of Hazaribagh. The Anti-Corruption Bureau had registered a case naming seven individuals implicated in the land scam. Vinay Chaubey's involvement surfaced during the investigation, leading to the addition of his name as an accused. The ACB has intensified its probe following earlier arrests in related cases, including the liquor scam.

CGBSE Class 10th,12th supplementary exam results expected to release soon: Check where and how to download scorecards, once released

The Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) will soon release the 2025 Class 10 and 12 supplementary exam results on cgbse.nic.in and results.cg.nic.in. Exams were held in July. Students can download scorecards by entering roll numbers online. Class 10 students will choose academic streams, while Class 12 graduates can select undergraduate courses. Regularly check the website for updates.

IMD issues red alert for flash floods, cloudburst risk in Uttarakhand, week after Dharali disaster

NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised a red alert, cautioning against an imminent threat of flash floods across the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Bihar and Sikkim in eastern India, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the south and some parts of Maharashtra. It has asked people to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as nature prepares to unleash fury. IMDs caution applies to Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Lahul and Spiti, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts in Himachal and Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi districts in Uttarakhand. The weather office has alerted the Himalayan states, including the Jammu region, of extremely heavy rainfall up to 210 mm in the next day and heavy rain in the next 6-7 days. Satellite imagery shows scattered to broken intense convective clouds over Uttarakhand and also around Uttarkashi, which may cause cloudburst-induced flash floods. Uttarakhand cloudburst-hit Dharali villagers seek Kedarnath-style rebuild, relocation to nearby sites Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim of east India, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, east and north Telangana and Maharashtras Marathwada region may also witness low to moderate flash flood risk. In its bulletin, the IMD said inundation may occur at some saturated soils and low-lying areas over the regions of concern. The IMD has warned of hefty rainfall in west-central India adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal off north Andhra and south Odisha coasts due to the emergence of a low-pressure area along the Bay of Bengal. Under its influence, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema, Telangana, and Karnataka are more likely to receive hefty rainfall from August 13 to 17. Fisherfolk have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea between August 13 and 18. A similar advice relates to areas along and off the Sri Lankan coast, along and off the Andhra Pradesh coast, and the Odisha coast during the same period. Blockbuster monsoon likely in the second fortnight of August, said Debashish Jena, researcher and agrometeorologist at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Uttarakhand. Experts blame decades of deodar tree felling for worsening Uttarkashi cloudburst

2 Naxals Carrying Rs 35 Lakh Bounty Killed By Security Forces In Chhattisgarh Encounter

The anti-Naxal operation was a collaborative effort between the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the 27th battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)

Kerala, Puducherry, Cttisgarh win in Division C; Chandigarh, UK, Delhi rule in Division B

JUNIOR MENS HOCKEY JALANDHAR, Aug 13: Kerala Hockey, Le Puducherry Hockey, Chhattisgarh Hockey, and Goans Hockey win in Division C while Hockey Chandigarh, Hockey Uttarakhand, and Delhi emerge victorious in their Division B league matches on Day 2 of the 15th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship here on Wednesday. The day began with a [] The post Kerala, Puducherry, Cttisgarh win in Division C; Chandigarh, UK, Delhi rule in Division B appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Woman, toddler son among 4 killed in accidents

Jammu: Four persons, including two students and a woman and her two-year-old son, were killed in two separate road accidents in Samba and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday. Sunny Kumar (19) from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and Joginder Kumar (19) from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, both Class-12 students, were killed on the spot []

2 Naxalites Killed In Encounter With Security Personnel In Chhattisgarh

Two Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district on Wednesday, police said

Thousands of forest rights titles go missing in Chhattisgarh records, officials claim reporting error

Community forest rights titles in Rajnandgaon halved from 40 to 20, according to monthly progress reports; Bastar sees individual titles drop by over 2,700, though there is no FRA process to withdraw titles

Two senior Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh

Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame were killed in an anti-Maoist operation conducted along the Banda Pahad hill under the Madanwada police station area

Two Naxalites killed in encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh

MOHLA: Two Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district on Wednesday, police said. The encounter took place in a forest of the Madanwada area when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxal operation, a senior police official told PTI . After guns fell silent, the bodies of two Naxalites were recovered from the spot, he said, adding that further details are awaited. This is a breaking story. More details are awaited.

Two Naxalites Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter

Security forces gun down ultras during anti-Naxal operation in Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district

Chhattisgarh Waqf board directs mosques, dargahs to hoist tricolour on I-Day

Chhattisgarh Waqf Board Directs Mosques, Dargahs to Hoist National Flag on August 15

The order applies to all Waqf-registered mosques, madrasas, and dargahs across the state, according to him.

Chhattisgarh: 2 Jawans Injured In Ongoing Bijapur Encounter

Two DRG jawans injured in Maoist encounter in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district

No foreign power can enslave us: Farmers across India hail PM Modi's agri trade stance

NEW DELHI: In a powerful show of unity, farmer leaders and cultivators from across India gathered here to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what they called a historic and courageous decision to safeguard Indian agriculture in global trade negotiations . The meeting brought together leaders from over a dozen farmer organisations. Farmer representatives lauded the central governments resolve to resist foreign pressure, particularly from the United States, regarding access to Indias agriculture and dairy markets. Prime Minister Modi has made an unwavering statement in the interest of farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen, said Dharmendra Choudhary, National President of the Indian Farmer Chaudhary Charan Singh Organisation. This vision brings relief to millions and strengthens rural India's self-reliance. Virendra Lohan, representing Chhattisgarhs Youth Progressive Farmers Association, praised the leadership for standing firm against multinational interests: The courageous decision not to allow American companies into our agriculture and dairy sectors is echoing in every field, village, and cowshed, he said. The Indian farmer is the soul of this nation, and no foreign power can ever control that soul. Dharmendra Malik, another prominent farmer leader urged the government to stay the course: We thank the Prime Minister and the Agriculture Minister and appeal to stand firm on this policy. We will always stand by you. In his address, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the government would bring a new law to crack down on fake fertilisers, seeds, and pesticides. He reiterated the PMs commitment to farmers welfare and rural empowerment. Grain is life. The farmer is the provider of that life, Chouhan said. For me, serving farmers is the highest form of worship. He also announced that under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, digital insurance payments were disbursed just yesterday to farmers in Rajasthan. Chouhan further praised PM Modis nationalistic resolve, referencing the cancellation of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam terror attack as another example of decisive leadership. The Prime Minister has always put the nation first. These bold, nation-centric decisions will be remembered by generations to come.

Chhattisgarh: Two DRG personnel injured in ongoing encounter with Naxals in Bijapur

In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, an encounter between District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel and Naxals resulted in injuries to two DRG members, though they are now out of danger. The DRG team was conducting an anti-Naxal operation when the clash occurred, with intermittent firing reported. Previously, security forces recovered a Naxal's body along with arms and ammunition in the same district.

All mosques, madrasas in Chhattisgarh must hoist tricolour on Independence Day: Waqf Board

The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has instructed mosques, dargahs, and madrasas to hoist the national flag on August 15. This directive emphasizes the tricolour as a symbol of honour, not tied to any religion. The board's letter urges fostering patriotism, unity, and brotherhood. Chairman Salim Raj stressed respect for the flag, warning against refusal as indicative of fundamentalist thinking.

All mosques, madrasas in Chhattisgarh must hoist tricolour on I-Day: Waqf Board

Raipur: The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has directed all mosques, dargahs and madrasas across the state to hoist the national flag on the occasion of Independence Day on August 15. The State Waqf Board chairman, Dr Salim Raj, said a letter was issued on Monday to all mutawallis (those responsible for managing Waqf properties) in 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 .

Chhattisgarh Waqf Board asks masjids, madrasas, dargahs to hoist national flag on Independence Day

RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board, in a first-of-its-kind circular, had announced that the Tricolour will be mandatorily hoisted at every mosque, dargah and madrasa across the state during the 79th Independence Day celebrations. According to the formal directive issued by the Waqf Board, the national flag will be unfurled at the main entrance of all mosques, dargahs and madarsas on August 15, symbolising gesture of patriotism that Indian Muslims strongly nurture with their motherland India, have deep respect for the Tricolour and stand united to mark the celebration of the country's freedom. Independence Day is our national festival and the Muslim minority should be seen to observe it with fervour. Indian Muslims have always been patriots who love their country. Owing to the misdeeds of a few, why should the entire community be subject to suspicion or scrutiny? The initiative will prove beyond doubt the wholehearted loyalty of the Muslim community towards Bharat where we all live in harmony, the Waqf Board chairman Salim Raj told The New Indian Express . Capital turns fortress for Independence Day He said the Imams and the mutavalli (caretaker) of mosques, dargahs and madarsas have been told to upload the images of observing the Independence Day with the hoisted flags from their respective locations on the dedicated portal created by the State Waqf Board. The option of sharing photos on the WhatsApp groups has also been given to them. Several Muslim scholars and intellectuals, however, felt there was no need for such a directive as the practice of hoisting the national flag is always organised during every Independence Day by the community in all their religious and educational institutions with high enthusiasm and national spirit. No one opposes to raise our Tiranga on Independence Day as Muslim community invariably endorses such occasions with pride and impeccable belief in unity and integrity, said Sajid-ul-Kadeer, the administrator of a 100-year-old Madarsa Arabia Islamia in Raipurs Baijnathpara.

Two DRG jawans injured in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur following encounter with Maoists

RAIPUR: Two personnel of District Reserve Guard (DRG) were injured in an encounter with the Maoists at Gangalur forest area in strife-torn Bijapur district, about 420 km south of Raipur,on Tuesday, the Bastar police said. Acting on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of cadres of the banned outfit near the Gangalur area of Bijapur, a team of DRG left for a search operation on Monday, said a senior police officer. Two jawans sustained injuries in the gunfight today and, after preliminary treatment, will be air-lifted to Raipur for immediate medical attention. The conditions of both are stable and out of danger, said a senior police officer. The intermittent firing continues between the troops and the Maoists since morning. There is also a possibility that several Maoists would be injured in the ongoing operation, as further details are awaited. In the last 18 months, as many as 425 Maoist cadres have been killed in various encounters in the Bastar Range. Bijapur, among the seven Maoist-affected districts in Bastar division, is cited as an epicentre of Red rebels in south Chhattisgarh. Union Home minister Amit Shah has declared that the country will be Maoist-free by March 31, 2026. In this context, the series of encounters against the left-wing extremists remains a part of the renewed strategy to free the Chhattisgarh state from the influence of the left-wing extremists.

Two police personnel injured in encounter with Maoists in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

Several Maoists might have also been injured in the gunfight, a police official said

Forcible conversions happening in Kerala, not in Chhattisgarh: Syro-Malabar Church

Chhattisgarh police officer faces social boycott over marriage, HC reprimands community

RAIPUR: A distressed Chhattisgarh Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Mekhlendra Pratap Singh facing social boycott from his own community for marrying a woman of his choice, lodged an FIR in his home town Bilaspur claiming that his marriage was performed as per the social tradition. Singh, 35, who hailed from Satgarh Tanwar community (Scheduled Tribe), is posted in Kanker district where he is engaged in the ongoing anti-Maoist operations. He claimed his wife too is from the same tribal caste. The community leaders however got further antagonised after the case was registered against them and approached the high court filing a petition that the FIR was lodged on baseless ground. They also alleged before the court of being harassed by the police with repeated notices served to them. Chhattisgarh high court has rebuked the community leaders warning them not to act like a Khap panchayat and dismissed their petition. But the community leaders remain adamant to continue their diktat and my entire family is socially ostracised. They are now threatening us to impose heavy punitive fine, the DSP told TNIE while sharing his mental agony. The police officer also wrote to the school education department seeking appropriate action against the two senior community leaders presently posted as a principal and a senior teacher in different schools citing that their behaviour is akin to serious social crime and against the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 1965. The police officer married Amisha Singh, who is from north Chhattisgarhs Sarguja district. The boycott apparently has more to do with the animosity between the communities living in two different regions rather than the caste. We both are from the same tribal community then where does such an issue of inter-caste marriage arise? said DSP Singh. The family of the officer's wife stated that they never had any problem with the marriage and were taken aback with the social boycott decree imposed on the police officer by his community. Rationalists cited that the DySP being an adult is well within his right to marry the woman. Such imposed exclusion from society or community on trivial reasons causes deeper and invisible pain. But sadly there is no effective law to combat the ever increasing menace. Over 25000 individuals or families are bearing the brunt of social boycott in Chhattisgarh alone, said Dr Dinesh Mishra, Raipur-based ophthalmologist and recipient of the union governments national award for promoting scientific temper. Officials told TNIE that there are already provisions under the protection of civil rights act that can offer relief to the victims.

CGBSE supplementary result 2025 date: Check likely announcement, official site and how to download scorecard

Chhattisgarh Board Supplementary Result 2025: The Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) is anticipated to announce the supplementary exam results for Classes 10 and 12 in the second week of August 2025. Students can access their results on the official CGBSE websites using their roll numbers.

'Khulja SIM SIM: Chhattisgarh villager gets calls from legends like Kohli, de Villiers

GARIABAND (Chhattisgarh): For Manish Bisi, a young man from Madagaon village in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district, the simple act of buying a SIM card from a local mobile phone shop let loose a whirlwind of disbelief, celebrity, and a bizarre series of events that felt more like a movie script than reality. The SIM card once belonged to rising cricket star Rajat Patidar, and soon an awestruck Bisi was fielding calls from legends like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. What Manish and his friend, Khemraj, thought was a system glitch when they saw the profile picture of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Patidar after they installed WhatsApp soon turned as real as voices on the other end of the phone line. The tryst with instant fame for Manish, son of farmer Gajendra Bisi, began on June 28 when he purchased a new Jio SIM from a mobile shop in Deobhog, around 8 kilometres from his village. Manish and Khemraj were soon sucked into a world of disbelief as callers identified themselves as Kohli, de Villiers and Yash Dayal, though the two tried to remain grounded in reality thinking these were all part of some elaborate prank by friends. In fact, the duo even played along, Khemraj claimed. The story turned on its head when, on July 15, Patidar himself called up with a fervent rother, please return my SIM. Manish and Khemraj still believed it was a prank before realising the seriousness in Patidar's tone when he spoke about sending police to solve the matter. A police team arrived some minutes later, putting a lid on any assumptions that it was a prank. Gariaband Deputy Superintendent of Police Neha Sinha said the SIM had been deactivated as per telecom policy after 90 days of inactivity and was reassigned to a new customer, which in this case happened to be Manish. Manish was actually getting calls from cricketers who were in contact with Rajat Patidar. Patidar informed the Madhya Pradesh Cyber Cell that his number had been allotted to someone else and requested to have it back, she said. The MP Cyber Cell contacted Gariaband police, who spoke with Manish and his family and with their consent, the SIM was recently returned to Patidar, the Deputy SP informed. There was no legal issue or fault on anyone's part. This was simply a result of standard telecom procedures, Sinha added. For Manish, Khemraj, and their families, meanwhile, the experience has been like something out of a film. Khemraj, an ardent Kohli fan, excitedly said, I never imagined I would speak to Virat Kohli one day, and that too from our village. When AB de Villiers called, he spoke in English. We couldn't understand a word, but we were so thrilled. When Manish used to get calls, he would hand over the phone to me. The callers who identified themselves as Virat Kohli and Yash Dayal asked us why we were using Patidar's number. We explained to them we had bought a new SIM and this is our number, Khemraj added. The villagers are overjoyed because most people here are RCB fans and talking to legends like Kohli and de Villiers is something that cannot be described and even now seems like a dream, said Manish's brother Deshbandhu Bisi. Even if it was all due to a mix-up, these conversations happened out of sheer luck. People just dream of seeing them, we got to speak to them, Deshbandhu gushed.

Suresh Gopi missing, probe needed; KSU leader lodges complaint

THRISSUR: KSU district president Gokul Guruvayur has lodged a man-missing complaint with the Thrissur City police, seeking a probe into the disappearance of Union Minister and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi. The police have not registered a case in that regard. In the complaint, the KSU leader alleged that Suresh Gopi went missing after the arrest of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh. He urged the police to probe the whereabouts of the MP and to find those behind his disappearance. According to his social media handles, Suresh Gopi is currently in Manipur on official duty as the Union minister of state for tourism and petroleum and natural gas. Meanwhile, BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar brushed aside complaints that Suresh Gopi has been missing from his constituency. Everyone knows that when an MP becomes a Union minister, he will have additional responsibilities, Chandrasekhar said. Further, the BJP leader said he would soon meet the Malankara Orthodox Churchs Thrissur Diocese Metropolitan Mar Yuhanon Meletius. The bishop had indirectly targeted Suresh Gopi in a recent Facebook post, expressing concern that the one we chose and sent to Delhi is missing.

BJP switches strategy in Kerala, to play health card for LSG elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The BJP appears to be recalibrating its political strategy in Kerala, shifting its focus to the health sector as a key campaign topic ahead of the local body elections. Sources said the move comes as the party sidesteps the controversy over the recent attack on nuns and priests in Odisha, a BJP-ruled state, which has threatened to strain its Christian outreach and slow momentum in certain constituencies. Many party leaders termed the Thrissur Lok Sabha election charges baseless and stressed that more counter-strategies would be rolled out. On Saturday, BJP state general secretary S Suresh said in a meeting the party would strongly oppose what it sees as the state governments targeting of Dr Haris Chirakkal. Dr Haris has raised the voice of the common people of this state. Things have reached a stage where honest officials struggle to work under this regime. The BJP is moving forward with strong protests against this dangerous approach, Suresh said. Party sources said the focus on the health sector is a calculated move to spotlight issues with direct public relevance, such as access to quality healthcare and safeguarding honest officials, while steering clear of overexposure to sensitive matters like the Odisha incident. In Chhattisgarh, the BJP played a key role in securing the release of two jailed nuns, but several leaders conceded that internal disagreements have risen over whether such interventions would bring political gains. With Church leaders now voicing concerns over religious freedom and citing the Odisha attack, the party has chosen to approach the matter cautiously, a source said. For instance, at another press meet on Sunday, BJP general secretary Anoop Antony reiterated Sureshs stand on the Dr Haris issue but refrained from criticising the Church authorities. At the same time, the BJP is pushing back against the Congress and Left allegations of voters list manipulation in Thrissur. Leaders noted that the party had already released, on August 7, evidence of large-scale irregularities in the recently released draft voters list, alleging the involvement of government officials and the Left. Both the Left and the Congress are worried about the BJPs growing influence. Thus, they are raising Thrissur voters list manipulations with a hidden agenda. The Left government is behind the manipulations in the recently released voters list as they are certain of a huge setback in the upcoming local body polls, a prominent BJP leader claimed. Grassroots workers believe the health card could be more effective in connecting with voters, alongside issues in the education sector. If the BJP focuses on these sectors (education and health) in each locality, we can position ourselves as the only party capable of ensuring development, a party worker said. CPI, Cong leaders try to insult voters Thrissur: BJP state general secretary M T Ramesh on Sunday said CPI and Congress leaders could not yet accept the defeat in Lok Sabha election in Thrissur and were insulting the voters by their allegations of voters list tampering. Suresh Gopis victory in Thrissur is a result of collective efforts by BJP workers. The leaders of CPI, CPM and Congress are yet to come out of the shock. All this while, they were behind Thrissur Pooram. Now they have come up with voters list issues. We followed all the regulations while adding names to the list, he said.