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Mon, 04 November 2024
Haryana Cong panel to find out poll 'malpractices'
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23:31 Cong forms panel to find out 'malpractices' in Haryana polls
The Haryana Congress on Monday formed an eight-member committee to find out, what the party alleged, 'malpractices and manipulations' in the recently held state assembly polls 'at the behest' of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, leading to its 'dismal performance'.
The committee was led by former MLA Karan Singh Dalal and it also comprises Nuh MLA Aftab Ahmed, former MLA Jaiveer Singh Valmiki, according to an office order issued by the Haryana Congress chief Udai Bhan.
'With a view to find out malpractices and manipulation committed in the recently held Haryana assembly election at the behest of BJP government/party/candidate which led to an unsuspected dismal performance of INC, a committee consisting of following is hereby constituted with immediate effect,' it said.
The committee will collect the relevant details in consultation with all party candidates and other leaders of the party and submit its report to Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee here within a week for 'taking further action in the matter', it further said. -- PTI
23:28 Man dies after sex with minor girl in Mumbai hotel, charged with rape
A 41-year-old man died after having sex with a minor girl in a hotel in Mumbai's Grant Road area, a police official said on Monday.
The deceased, a manager with a diamond company, has been booked for rape and other offences under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on the complaint of the 14-year-old girl's mother, the official said.
"He had brought the girl with him from Gujarat. The incident took place on Saturday. The hotel staff rushed him to a hospital where he died some time later. Prima facie, it seems he suffered a heart attack," the official informed.
"The child's mother came to Mumbai after being informed. She has told us the man had lured the child to Mumbai with a false promise. Further probe into the case is underway," the DB Marg police station official said. -- PTI
22:51 MP HC stays temple construction at police stations
The Madhya Pradesh high court on Monday stayed the construction of temples inside premises of various police stations across the state and served a notice to the government, said a lawyer representing the petitioner in the case.
A division bench of Chief Justice S K Kait and Justice Vivek Jain also served notices to the Director General of Police (DGP) and others on a petition challenging the construction of temples inside premises of police station across Madhya Pradesh, he said.
A detailed court order was awaited.
Om Prakash Yadav, a retired government employee who is also a lawyer, has filed the plea challenging the construction of temples inside premises of police stations, his counsel Satish Verma told reporters.
The open space where these temples are being constructed is a public place, the counsel argued.
Verma said the petition has cited a recent Supreme Court order restraining construction of religious structures in public places. Thus, the ongoing construction of temples inside premises of police station in Madhya Pradesh violates the SC order. Temples have already come up in some police stations in clear violation of constitutional provisions, the petitioner's counsel maintained.
The petitioner, along with his plea, has annexed photographs of what he said were temples constructed inside certain police stations, Verma said. -- PTI
22:43 After row, actress Kasthuri clarifies remarks on Telugu people
Actress Kasturi stoked controversy with her comments on Telugu-speaking people settled in Tamil Nadu but denied on Monday, saying she had only meant a section of Telugu-speaking people in TN claiming to be genuine Tamils.
Her recent remarks at a meeting of the Hindu Makkal Katchi evoked spontaneous criticism from Bharatiya Janata Party national co-incharge of Tamil Nadu Dr Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy, who demanded an apology from her.
"Kasthuri's irrelevant and uncalled-for statement on Telugu people is condemnable. She has to immediately withdraw her remarks on the Telugus settled in Tamil Nadu for decades," Reddy said.
Her comments hamper the cordial atmosphere among the people of Tamil Nadu and were against the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), the BJP leader told PTI.
"I had asked 'are those who brand other sections in Tamil Nadu as non-Tamils, really Tamils?' I didn't say anything new. Read history," the actress told reporters in Chennai.
She further clarified that she didn't say anything derogatory about Telugu people at the meeting she addressed.
"I condemn those diverting the issue, especially the elements that mislead people in the name of Dravidam," she added.
When a reporter pointed out that her statement at the meeting depicted the Telugus of TN in poor light, the actress replied, "I had only said those Telugu-speaking people who came to serve the women in palaces 300 years ago. Read history. I said nothing derogatory about Telugus or their descendants living in Tamil Nadu."
Elaborating, she said that she had meant those Telugu-speaking leaders who sought votes of Tamils for their political presence in the state, but after winning the election, declared a section of people in the state as non-Tamils.
"Can you say what the mother tongue of those political party leaders now claiming to be Tamils, really is?" Kasthuri asked. -- PTI
21:49 Ahead of US polls, arson attacks on ballot boxes
Last week, two ballot drop boxes in the Pacific Northwest were damaged in a suspected arson attack destroying hundreds of ballots at one location.
In neighbouring Portland, Oregon a fire suppression system contained a similar blaze, limiting damage.
These attacks involving ballot collection boxes have raised concerns about the security of the US presidential polls ahead of the main Election Day.
In New York, the officials of the Board of Elections say a 'stolen election' isn't possible and elaborate measures have been put in place to counter any subversive attempts.
"A multi-jurisdictional national, state and city wide security plan is in place for NYC. Some of these you see, some you don't. All the ballots are secured by the NYPD and we work closely with them. A stolen election in NYC is not possible. We are always trying to stay ahead of the bad guys for sure," says Vincent Ignizio, Deputy Executive Director Board of Elections in New York.
Ballot drop boxes have become an increasingly important part of the voting process in many states.
As many as 27 states and the District of Columbia allow the use of ballot drop boxes.
They are particularly crucial in states like Oregon and Washington, where voting predominantly occurs via mail or ballot drop-off.
In Clark County, Washington, about 60% of ballots are submitted through drop boxes.
The security of ballot drop boxes has become a significant focus in US presidential elections, with various measures implemented to ensure their integrity and protect against potential threats.
A watchdog group, Property of People, on October 28 published a US Department of Homeland Security bulletin from September. It pointed out concerning social media conversations around polls.
"Some social media users are discussing and encouraging various methods of sabotaging ballot drop boxes and avoiding detection, likely heightening the potential for targeting of this election infrastructure through the 2024 election cycle," states the bulletin, accessed by Property of People.
Terrance is an early voter who casted his ballot at the John Jay Memorial station in NYC.
He says the reports of arson are concerning for the citizens like him. His fears, however, are about broader safety of the overall process. He hopes that enough measures have been put in place to avoid what happened in the last election on January 6, 2021 when supporters of one side smashed through barricades and ransacked the US Capitol with the goal of stopping the certification of the next President.
"I think it is a concern, I also hope that there is preparation in place depending on what happens and we won't see what happened on Jan 6 last time. I am definitely concerned, I try not to fixate over it but it is concerning," says Terrance.
In neighbouring Portland, Oregon a fire suppression system contained a similar blaze, limiting damage.
These attacks involving ballot collection boxes have raised concerns about the security of the US presidential polls ahead of the main Election Day.
In New York, the officials of the Board of Elections say a 'stolen election' isn't possible and elaborate measures have been put in place to counter any subversive attempts.
"A multi-jurisdictional national, state and city wide security plan is in place for NYC. Some of these you see, some you don't. All the ballots are secured by the NYPD and we work closely with them. A stolen election in NYC is not possible. We are always trying to stay ahead of the bad guys for sure," says Vincent Ignizio, Deputy Executive Director Board of Elections in New York.
Ballot drop boxes have become an increasingly important part of the voting process in many states.
As many as 27 states and the District of Columbia allow the use of ballot drop boxes.
They are particularly crucial in states like Oregon and Washington, where voting predominantly occurs via mail or ballot drop-off.
In Clark County, Washington, about 60% of ballots are submitted through drop boxes.
The security of ballot drop boxes has become a significant focus in US presidential elections, with various measures implemented to ensure their integrity and protect against potential threats.
A watchdog group, Property of People, on October 28 published a US Department of Homeland Security bulletin from September. It pointed out concerning social media conversations around polls.
"Some social media users are discussing and encouraging various methods of sabotaging ballot drop boxes and avoiding detection, likely heightening the potential for targeting of this election infrastructure through the 2024 election cycle," states the bulletin, accessed by Property of People.
Terrance is an early voter who casted his ballot at the John Jay Memorial station in NYC.
He says the reports of arson are concerning for the citizens like him. His fears, however, are about broader safety of the overall process. He hopes that enough measures have been put in place to avoid what happened in the last election on January 6, 2021 when supporters of one side smashed through barricades and ransacked the US Capitol with the goal of stopping the certification of the next President.
"I think it is a concern, I also hope that there is preparation in place depending on what happens and we won't see what happened on Jan 6 last time. I am definitely concerned, I try not to fixate over it but it is concerning," says Terrance.
While the authorities claim that robust security measures are in place to protect ballot drop boxes and any possible threats, the incidents highlight the need for continued adaptation and enhancement of security protocols to ensure the safety and integrity of the overall election process. -- PTI
IMGE: Scraps of charred ballots, due to a ballot box attacked on October 28, 2024, in an arson incident, are rehabilitated by workers at Clark County Elections Office in Vancouver, Washington, DC, on October 31, 2024. Photograph: John Rudoff/Reuters
21:20 Bypolls deferred over turnout fears: Poll official
The EC Monday rescheduled assembly bypolls to November 20 for Kerala and Punjab as well.
Polling will be held on four seats in Punjab and one seat in Kerala.
In UP, the nine assembly seats going to polls are Katehari (Ambedkar Nagar), Karhal (Mainpuri), Meerapur (Muzaffarnagar), Ghaziabad, Majhawan (Mirzapur), Sishamau (Kanpur City), Khair (Aligarh), Phulpur (Prayagraj) and Kundarki (Moradabad).
Eight of these seats fell vacant after their MLAs were elected as Lok Sabha MPs, while bypoll is being held on the Sisamau seat due to the disqualification of SP MLA Irfan Solanki, who was convicted in a criminal case.
In the 2022 assembly polls, Sishamau, Katehari, Karhal, Milkipur and Kundarki were held by the SP, while the BJP had won Phulpur, Ghaziabad, Majhawan and Khair.
The Meerapur seat was held by the RLD, which is now an ally of the BJP in the NDA.
The Congress is not contesting the bypolls and supporting its INDIA bloc partner SP, while the BSP is contesting solo on all nine seats. -- PTI
Bypolls on nine assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh were deferred in view of several political parties fearing a low voter turnout due to festivals in the coming week, an official from the Election Commission said on Monday.
According to the revised date, voting, earlier scheduled to take place on November 13, will now be conducted on November 20.
The date for counting of votes, unchanged, will be November 23.
Additional Chief Electoral Officer Chandrashekhar in a statement said that the date for the election was changed in view of the requests made by several political parties (including the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Indian National Congress, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal) and certain social organisations.
The parties feared that due to large-scale 'social, cultural, and religious engagements' on November 13, people may not turn up to cast their votes.
The EC Monday rescheduled assembly bypolls to November 20 for Kerala and Punjab as well.
Polling will be held on four seats in Punjab and one seat in Kerala.
In UP, the nine assembly seats going to polls are Katehari (Ambedkar Nagar), Karhal (Mainpuri), Meerapur (Muzaffarnagar), Ghaziabad, Majhawan (Mirzapur), Sishamau (Kanpur City), Khair (Aligarh), Phulpur (Prayagraj) and Kundarki (Moradabad).
Eight of these seats fell vacant after their MLAs were elected as Lok Sabha MPs, while bypoll is being held on the Sisamau seat due to the disqualification of SP MLA Irfan Solanki, who was convicted in a criminal case.
In the 2022 assembly polls, Sishamau, Katehari, Karhal, Milkipur and Kundarki were held by the SP, while the BJP had won Phulpur, Ghaziabad, Majhawan and Khair.
The Meerapur seat was held by the RLD, which is now an ally of the BJP in the NDA.
The Congress is not contesting the bypolls and supporting its INDIA bloc partner SP, while the BSP is contesting solo on all nine seats. -- PTI
21:13 Flyers can access WiFi only when allowed, say new rules
The government on Monday clarified
that in-flight passengers will be able to use internet services through
WiFi only when electronic devices are permitted to be used in the
aircraft even after it attains altitude of 3,000 metres in Indian
airspace.
Under Flight and Maritime Connectivity Rules, 2018, the
government has mandated that In-flight and Maritime Connectivity service
providers shall provide the operation of mobile communication services
in aircraft at a minimum height of 3,000 metres in Indian airspace to
avoid interference with terrestrial mobile networks.
"Notwithstanding
the minimum height in Indian airspace referred to in sub-rule (1),
internet services through Wi-Fi in aircraft shall be made available when
electronic devices are permitted to be used in the aircraft," as per
the new rule notified on Monday.
The newly notified rule will be
called Flight and Maritime Connectivity (Amendment) Rules, 2024. -- PTI
20:31 Nothing wrong in PM visiting my home: CJI Chandrachud
Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud on Monday said there was "nothing wrong" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to his residence on Ganpati Puja and underscored the need for a "sense of maturity in political sphere" on such issues.
"The PM visited my residence for Ganpati Puja. There is absolutely nothing wrong as these are continuing meetings between the judiciary and the executive even at social level. We meet at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Republic Day, etc. We are in conversation with the prime minister and the ministers. This conversation does not involve the cases which we decide but life and society in general," Chandrachud said at an event organised by the Indian Express group.
The CJI said one had to respect that a dialogue took place as part of a robust inter-institutional mechanism, and separation of powers between judiciary and the executive did not mean the two not meeting.
On his statement that he prayed to God for the solution to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir dispute, Chandrachud shared he was a "person of faith" and equally respected all religions.
19:26 Editor arrested for 'defamatory' story against BJP MP
The editor of a local newspaper in Ghaziabad was arrested for publishing an allegedly defamatory story against BJP MP Atul Garg, the police said on Monday.
Garg, the BJP MP from Ghaziabad, had on October 6 lodged a police complaint against Congress leader Dolly Sharma for allegedly defaming him while campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls held earlier this year.
The BJP MP alleged that Sharma, who contested against him, "tarnished" his image by calling him a part of the "land mafia".
Imran Khan, the editor of Aap Abhi Tak, was booked for publishing the "defamatory" news. He was arrested on Saturday.
Sharma had accused Garg of encroaching on 31,000 square metres of government land on which he constructed a housing society. She even claimed to have documents supporting her charge and the same was published by some local newspapers and web portals.
Meanwhile, a group of local journalists submitted to district magistrate Indra Vikram Singh a memorandum addressed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in which they alleged that police had acted under pressure.
-- PTI
18:57 Canada temple attack: BJP assures of 'tough steps'
The Bharatiya Janata Party and its government have always taken 'tough steps' whenever it comes to the persecution of Hindus or infringement of their rights, the ruling party said in New Delhi on Monday as India condemned the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at a temple in Canada.
Protesters carrying Khalistani flags clashed with people at Brampton's Hindu Sabha Temple on Sunday, prompting the High Commission of India in Ottawa to issue a strong statement condemning the attack by the 'anti-India' elements.
"We have seen how strongly and clearly a firm reply has been given to Canada while displaying India's strength," BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said at a press conference at the party headquarters in Delhi when asked about the incident.
He said the BJP and its government take 'tough steps' whenever it comes to persecution of Hindus or infringement of their rights.
"I think taking cognisance of this case also, India will put forth its stand very firmly and take steps whatever is necessary," he added.
On Sunday, Peel Regional Police said a protest occurred at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton and unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported.
The videos showed fist fights and people striking each other with flagpoles on what appears to be the grounds surrounding the temple, the report added.
The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said that New Delhi remains 'deeply concerned' about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada.
"We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario yesterday.
"We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks," MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was quoted as saying in the statement.
"We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada," he said, adding, "The outreach of our consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence." -- PTI
Protesters carrying Khalistani flags clashed with people at Brampton's Hindu Sabha Temple on Sunday, prompting the High Commission of India in Ottawa to issue a strong statement condemning the attack by the 'anti-India' elements.
"We have seen how strongly and clearly a firm reply has been given to Canada while displaying India's strength," BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said at a press conference at the party headquarters in Delhi when asked about the incident.
He said the BJP and its government take 'tough steps' whenever it comes to persecution of Hindus or infringement of their rights.
"I think taking cognisance of this case also, India will put forth its stand very firmly and take steps whatever is necessary," he added.
On Sunday, Peel Regional Police said a protest occurred at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton and unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported.
The videos showed fist fights and people striking each other with flagpoles on what appears to be the grounds surrounding the temple, the report added.
The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said that New Delhi remains 'deeply concerned' about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada.
"We condemn the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario yesterday.
"We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks," MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was quoted as saying in the statement.
"We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada," he said, adding, "The outreach of our consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence." -- PTI
18:18 Dared by friends, man sits on box of bursting firecrackers; dies
A 32-year-old man died after he allegedly sat on a box of firecrackers burst by his friends, who dared him to do so, on the occasion of Deepavali, police said on Monday.
Shabarish, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, accepted the challenge of his six friends, who were also drunk, they said.
The bet was if he sat on the box at the time of bursting of crackers inside it, the group of six who had gathered in Konanakunte on October 31 here would buy him an autorickshaw.
The incident captured on a video, which is now being shared widely on social media platforms, shows how it results in a loud explosion with Shabarish falling to the ground.
He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to injuries on Saturday, a senior police officer said.
"A case of culpable homicide has been registered and the six members of the group involved in the incident have been arrested and produced before the court," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Bengaluru) Lokesh Jagalasar. -- PTI
18:07 IAF's MiG-29 fighter jet crashes near Agra
A MiG-29 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed in a field in Uttar Pradesh's Agra on Monday, sources said.
There were no casualties in the incident and the pilot ejected safely, they said.
A Court of Inquiry will be ordered, they said.
Visuals on social media showed the fighter jet engulfed in flames.
A MiG-29 fighter aircraft of the IAF had crashed in Rajasthan's Barmer on September 2 due to a 'critical' technical snag.
The pilot ejected safely and no loss of life was reported. -- PTI
There were no casualties in the incident and the pilot ejected safely, they said.
A Court of Inquiry will be ordered, they said.
Visuals on social media showed the fighter jet engulfed in flames.
A MiG-29 fighter aircraft of the IAF had crashed in Rajasthan's Barmer on September 2 due to a 'critical' technical snag.
The pilot ejected safely and no loss of life was reported. -- PTI
17:28 Imran Khan's wife weeps and weeps in court
A court in Pakistan on Monday witnessed emotional scenes when jailed former premier Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi burst into tears, expressing her utter helplessness against the inefficient justice system and her husband's "unjust sentencing".
The former first lady appeared before Islamabad District Magistrate Afzal Majoka's court to acquire bail for her husband in six cases and herself in another case, registered at Tarnol, Karachi Company, Ramna, Secretariat and Kohsar police stations.
During the hearing held at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, Khan was not produced in the court. He was also not allowed to appear through a video link. When Bushra took to the rostrum to speak, she became emotional. "I have been facing injustice by those responsible for serving justice for the past nine months. I and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder were unjustly sentenced," she said.
"There is no justice. I haven't come to seek justice," she sobbed, and even blamed lawyers, saying all lawyers, including the one representing her, "only waste the time". "The person inside [the prison], isn't he a human? Doesn't any judge see this," she said, adding that she would not come to this court again, where "there is no justice".
She told the judge that she had her blanket and other belongings in her car outside the court and that she was ready to go back to jail if ordered. Bushra was released from jail last month following the approval of her bail in the new Toshakhana case, but Khan remains incarcerated.
The former first lady was arrested after a court on January 31 convicted and sentenced her and Khan to 14 years in prison after finding them guilty of retaining and selling state gifts in violation of government rules while the PTI founder was in power. However, they deny all allegations against them. PTI
17:10 Markets crash by nearly 1000 points today
In a highly volatile trade, Indian stock indices hovered substantially lower from the previous closing, largely due to sustained selling by foreign portfolio investors.
Sensex closed at 78,782.24 points, down 941.88 points or 1.18 per cent, while Nifty closed at 23,995.35 points, down 309.00 points or 1.27 per cent. Among the sectoral indices, all declined with the Nifty realty being the top loser at 2.93 per cent. At one point during the session, Sensex was about 1,500 points lower, but it was able to pare some of the losses later.
The Canada PM buys jalebi at Brampton during Diwali. Arlyn McAdorey/Reuters
17:07 Three held for anti-Khalistani protests in Canada
The Peel Regional Police in Canada said that they have arrested three individuals following a demonstration held by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) in protest against the "Khalistani intimidation" and "anti-Hindu" hatred after the recent attacks on Hindu temples in Canada.
In an official statement released on Monday, Peel Regional Police stated that the demonstration "subsequently" relocated to two different locations within the city of Mississauga and the charges would be investigated by their 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau along with the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau. The individuals were arrested under criminal charges, the police added.
"Earlier today, Peel Regional Police were present at a demonstration held at a place of worship in Brampton. The event was subsequently relocated to two different locations within the city of Mississauga. As a result of these demonstrations, three individuals have been arrested and criminally charged for their actions.
Several acts of unlawfulness continue to be actively investigated by our 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau along with 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau," the statement read.
In another statement, the Peel Regional Police stated that the protest was relocated to the Westwood Mall area in the City of Mississauga and again to Airport Road and Derry Road in Mississauga. They further mentioned that they had arrested one individual during the management of the protest, in which a police officer sustained minor injuries.
16:50 IAF jet crashes, pilot ejects
A MiG-29 fighter jet has crashed near Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The pilot has ejected from the plane. The plane had taken off from Adampur in Punjab and was en route to Agra for an exercise when the incident happened. More details awaited. Court of Inquiry to be ordered: Defence officials
16:30 Pakistan blames India for horrible smog in Lahore
Pakistan on Monday blamed winds from India for worsening smog here, urging the Indian authorities to take up the matter seriously, after the air quality index in the capital city of Pakistan's Punjab province hit a record high over the weekend.
Toxic grey smog has sickened tens of thousands of people, mainly children and elderly people, since last month when the air quality started worsening in Lahore, the city bordering India. The concentration of PM 2.5, or tiny particulate matter, in the air, approached 450, considered hazardous, the Punjab Environment Protection Department said.
"The wind direction brings air from India into Pakistan, yet India does not seem to be taking this problem as seriously as it should," Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari told the media here. She urged the Indian side of Punjab state to take this matter seriously.
"Delhi ranks first in smog levels today, with Lahore following closely in second place. Delhi's air quality index is around 393, while Lahore's is close to 280," she said, adding that China has been battling smog for the past 26 years. -- PTI
16:13 Monday blues: Sensex, Nifty tank dragged by RIL
Benchmark Sensex tanked nearly 942 points to settle at a three-month low while Nifty tumbled more than 1 per cent to close below 24,000 on Monday dragged down by heavy selling in Reliance Industries and banking shares.
The 30-share BSE Sensex tumbled 941.88 points or 1.18 per cent to settle at 78,782.24, the lowest closing level since August 6.
During the day, it slumped 1,491.52 points or 1.87 per cent to 78,232.60. The NSE Nifty tanked 309 points or 1.27 per cent to 23,995.35. Uncertainty ahead of US presidential elections on November 5 and expectations of a fresh stimulus package by China to prop up growth triggered selling in Indian stocks, analysts said.
Relentless selling by foreign investors also dampened the sentiments in the equity market.
From the 30-share Sensex pack, Adani Ports, Reliance Industries, Sun Pharma, Bajaj Finserv, NTPC, Tata Motors, Axis Bank and Titan were among the major laggards. Mahindra & Mahindra, Tech Mahindra, State Bank of India, HCL Technologies, Infosys and IndusInd Bank were the gainers. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 211.93 crore on Friday, according to exchange data.
Foreign investors pulled out a massive Rs 94,000 crore (around USD 11.2 billion) from the Indian stock market in October, making it the worst-ever month in terms of outflows, triggered by the elevated valuation of domestic equities and attractive valuations of Chinese stocks. -- PTI
15:53 Two men lose Rs 95L with NRN, Ambani fake videos
Two people have complained to the police in Bengaluru that they have collectively lost about Rs 95 lakh to cyber fraudsters after they fell prey to fake videos allegedly featuring two top businessmen.
In both the cases, the complainants didn't check the authenticity of the alleged videos and ended up clicking some suspicious links which led them to fake websites created by fraudsters to cheat people and make money on promises of giving them higher returns, they said on Monday.
"As per the complainants, only after investing in these social media platforms they realised that the alleged videos featuring Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy and Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani were used to get them to suspicious links and without any due diligence on their part, they ended up investing only to realise that they were cheating using fake videos of such personalities," a senior police officer said.
In the first case, a resident of Banashankari here came across a video promoting a trading platform promising high returns on investments, police said.
According to the woman, she clicked the link on some suspicious looking website and shared her details with the alleged platform. Later, she received a call from the an unidentified man, claiming to be an agent associated with the alleged platform convincing her to make investments for higher returns. Initially, she invested around Rs 1.4 lakh and got returns of Rs 8,000 and when she invested Rs 6.7 lakh from the second time, she did not get any returns and lost the invested amount as well, a senior police officer said.
In a similar manner, she also got cheated of Rs 67 lakh with another platform, police said. In the second case, a retired employee fell victim to a video on a social media platform promoting a trading platform promising higher returns on investments, the officer said.
He lost Rs 19 lakh after he transferred the amount to two different bank accounts shared by the alleged fraudsters. But once the amount was transferred, he did not get any response, he said.
"It could also be so that the fraudsters must have used videos of these personalities which was meant for their general body meetings or for stakeholders and misused the same to cheat gullible people. Trusting the alleged videos, they landed in trouble by clicking on such fake websites created by fraudsters to trap gullible people," the officer said.
Two separate cases have been registered at CEN (Cyber Economic and Narcotics) South police station and an investigation is underway to track the culprits involved in the scam, police said. -- PTI
Video: @BroominsKaBaap
15:43 Devotees drink AC water thinking it's charan amrit
Footage of devotees at the Banke Bihari temple in Mathura has gone viral. The footage shows devotees gathering near a water outlet and drinking the water in a paper cup or from cupped palms so that the precious water doesn't spill on the floor.
The water appears to drip from a stone elephant sculpture and devotees drink it believing it to be 'Charan Amrit' or sacred water from Lord Krishna's feet.
In fact, the water is the discharge from an air-conditioning unit.
A man in the video says, "Didi, ye AC ka pani hai, charnon ka pani nahi hai ye Thakur ji ke. Yaha ke mandir ke pujariyon ne is cheez ki pushti ki hai.'' (This water is from the air conditioner, not from Lord Krishna's feet. The temple priests have confirmed this).
But the devotees continue collecting, drinking, and splashing the water.
As the person who shot the video writes, "Serious education is needed 100%."
15:23 Boy hung upside down over hot coals, 3 held
Three persons were arrested in Madhya Pradesh's Pandhurna district after a video of them hanging a minor boy upside down and placing hot coal near his head surfaced on social media, police said on Monday.
The incident occurred on Sunday in Mohgaon, around 30 km from the district headquarters, they said. The viral video shows a boy hanging upside down with hands tied with a rope and crying loudly, and later, a tray of hot coal is placed near his head. A man is also seen tying another boy in the video.
In the video, people are heard accusing the boy of stealing a watch and other items.
Pandhurna's Superintendent of Police (SP) Sundar Singh Kanesh said the police arrested three persons allegedly involved in the incident and booked them under sections 137(2) (kidnapping), 127(2) (wrongful confinement), 115 (causing hurt), 296 (obscene act) and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).
Meanwhile, former chief minister Kamal Nath condemned the incident. In a post on X, Nath wrote, "A video has surfaced of a small child being hung upside down and beaten and then two children being forced to inhale chilli smoke. This incident is highly condemnable. There is no place for such acts in a civilized society. I demand the local administration to take strict action against all the culprits in this case."
The Congress leader said he is requesting the people of Pandhurna and the entire Madhya Pradesh that losing patience in such small matters and punishing children so brutally is dangerous.
"If a crime is committed, action should be taken according to the law and not by taking the law in one's hands and behaving brutally with children. Such incidents of torturing children bring down our region's respect in the society," he tweeted. PTI
A case of accidental death has been registered
14:57 4 kids get locked in car, die of suffocation
Four children died of suffocation after getting locked inside a car while playing in Gujarat's Amreli district, police said Monday. The incident took place at Randhiya village in the district on Saturday.
The victims were children of a farm labourer couple hailing from Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, Deputy Superintendent of Police Chirag Desai told reporters.
"The parents left for work at the farm of one Bharat Mandani at around 7.30 am, leaving their seven children behind. Four of the children entered the car of the farm owner parked near their house," he said.
The four victims, in the age group of 2 to 7 years, got locked from inside. They died due to suffocation, the official said. When their parents and the car owner returned on Saturday evening, they found the bodies, he said. A case of accidental death was registered at Amreli (taluka) police station, the official said, adding that further investigation was underway. PTI
14:44 Kerala, Punjab, UP bypolls rescheduled to Nov 20
EC reschedules assembly bypolls in Kerala, Punjab and UP from November 13 to November 20 due to festivals.
In a press statement, the ECI said, "Representations have been received in the Commission from various recognised National and State political parties (including BJP, INC, BSP, RLD) and some social organisations for change of date of poll in some Assembly Constituencies having bye-elections on 13th November 2024, considering large scale social, cultural and religious engagements on that day which may cause inconvenience to large number of people, give rise to various logistic issues and may lead to reduced voters participation during the poll."
Nine seats are going to polls in Uttar Pradesh, four in Punjab and one in Kerala. Parties including Congress, BJP, BSP and RLD had urged the poll body to reschedule the polls in view of various festivals, saying that it could impact voter turnout.
According to the Congress, a significant portion of the electorate in the Palakkad assembly seat in Kerala will celebrate the festival of Kalpathi Rastholsavam from November 13 to 15.
In Punjab, the party had said, the 555th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Nanak Dev will be celebrated on November 15 and an 'akhand path' will be organised from November 13 onwards. BJP, BSP and RLD had said that in Uttar Pradesh, people travel for three-four days ahead of Kartik Purnima, which will be celebrated on November 15.
14:33 Music titan Quincy Jones dies at 91
Music legend Quincy Jones, who worked with likes of Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra has passed away at the age of 91, reported Variety.
Throughout his 70-year career, he won 28 Grammy awards.As per the outlet, Jones died Sunday night at his home in Bel Air, California according to a statement shared by his rep Arnold Robinson.
"Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing. And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him," the Jones family said in the statement.
The Hindu Sabha temple was attacked in Canada
13:31 'Khalistani situation will get worse in Canada'
Canadian journalist Daniel Bordman strongly condemned the "violent disruption" outside the Indian consular camp at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton and condemned the administration's handling of the situation, accusing them of acting in favour of Khalistani groups.
Speaking to ANI, Bordman criticised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for only 'talking' but not working towards it. He also warned that with Trudeau in office for around one more year, the situation is only going to "get worse."
"The response from the police was disgusting - they acted as the arm of the Khalistanis - they attacked the Hindus, they did not push the Khalistanis off. They attacked the Hindus in their own mandir," he said.
This comes after an Indian consular camp at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Canada's Brampton witnessed a "violent disruption".
The incident occurred on Sunday (local time) outside a consular camp organised in collaboration with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto. Following the attacks, the Hindu Canadian Foundation, a non-profit organisation working for the Hindu community in Canada shared a video of the attack on the temple and said that the Khalistani terrorists attacked kids and women.
Bordman further highlighted the unprecedented nature of the attack, which took place in broad daylight, noting that while Canada has seen previous incidents targeting religious sites such as synagogues and churches, this marks a "disturbing escalation" in violence against Hindu devotees.
"This is the first broad daylight attack on the devotees in this country," he stated, adding that the incident should have been prevented. Bordman also expressed frustration with what he described as the police's "selective enforcement" of the law. -- ANI
13:23 PM makes 'Mafia Ka Ghulam' speech in Jharkhand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a scathing attack on the JMM-led coalition in Jharkhand, labeling it a "Ghuspaithiya Bandhan" (infiltrators' alliance) and "Mafia Ka Ghulam" (mafia's slave) for allegedly supporting Bangladeshi infiltrators.
Scams by coalition leaders in Jharkhand have become an industry and corruption has devoured Jharkhand like termites, the Prime Minister said. "Appeasement politics has reached its pinnacle in Jharkhand where the JMM-led coalition is busy supporting Bangladeshi infiltrators. If this continues, tribal population in Jharkhand will shrink. This is a threat to tribal society and the country. This coalition has become a 'Gushpaithiya Bandhan' and a 'Mafia ka Gulam'", Modi said addressing a rally in Jharkhand's Garhwa.
This is the first visit of the PM to Jharkhand post announcement of assembly elections here which are scheduled on November 13 and November 20 with counting of votes on November 23. JMM, Congress, RJD are using Bangladeshi infiltrators for 'vote bank politics', facilitating them to settle in Jharkhand which is a threat to social structure, making the situation serious in Jharkhand, Modi said.
"If Sarastwati Vandana is prevented in schools, you can understand the level of threat. There is curfew during festivals...Durga Puja and all major festivals are being impacted," he said. Thousands of crores sent by Centre for various schemes are being devoured by JMM-led coalition's corrupt leaders in Jharkhand, he said. PTI
13:02 23 killed as bus falls into gorge in Uttarakhand
A privately operated bus fell into a deep gorge in Almora district on Monday, killing at least 23 of the about 40 people on board and injuring 15. While 22 people died on the spot, one succumbed to injuries while being taken to a hospital in Ramnagar, Almora's District Disaster Management Officer Vineet Pal told PTI.
The bus, operated by the Garhwal Motor Owner Association, was on its way from Pauri in Garhwal region to Ramnagar in Kumaon about 250 km away when the accident took place around 8 am. It's an overnight journey.
The 43-seater bus plunged into a 200-metre gorge in Almora's Marchula area just 35 km before its destination Ramnagar. Visuals from the area pointed to the magnitude of the accident, the vehicle reduced to a mangled mess as it rolled down the forested, rocky slope and stopped just short of a stream.
Rescuers could be seen working to pull out the passengers. The injured were taken to the nearest hospital in Ramnagar. Police and personnel of the National and State Disaster Response Forces rushed to the spot to launch a search and rescue operation, said District Magistrate Alok Kumar Pandey. About 40 passengers were in the bus when it fell into the gorge, he added. Details of those killed and injured were not immediately known.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed grief at the loss of lives in the accident. "Received very sad news of casualties of passengers in the unfortunate bus accident that took place in Marchula of Almora district. The district administration has been instructed to conduct relief and rescue operations swiftly," he said on X.
Representational image
12:43 Kerala govt to probe 'Hindu IAS WhatsApp' group
The Kerala government will examine the incident involving the controversial formation of a WhatsApp group for Hindu IAS officers, State Industries Minister P Rajeeve said on Monday. His statement followed a complaint lodged by an IAS officer with the police, alleging that his personal WhatsApp number was hacked and used to create a religious group.
Responding to the controversy, Rajeeve said that the state government would investigate the formation of a group specifically for Hindu IAS officers. Describing the incident as "serious," he said that community-based divisions are highly concerning.
"The government will look into this matter. There is a general code of conduct for IAS officers, which falls under the Public Administration department. We are currently examining the situation. Let's review and determine what needs to be done," he told reporters in New Delhi on Monday.
The controversy arose after an IAS officer lodged a complaint with the police, claiming his personal WhatsApp number had been hacked and used to create a religious group. He submitted a complaint to the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner, requesting an inquiry into the matter.
12:19 SC relaxes bail condition on journalist Siddique Kappan
The Supreme Court on Monday allowed a plea by Kerala-based journalist Siddique Kappan seeking relaxation of a bail condition of reporting to police every week in a UAPA case registered against him.
A bench of Justices P S Narasimhan and Sandeep Mehta relaxed the bail condition imposed by the top court on Kappan while granting bail in September 2022.
"The order dated September 9, 2022, is modified and it shall not be necessary for the petitioner to report to the local police station. The other prayers made in the present application can be agitated independently," the bench said.
The top court had on September 17 asked the state government to file its reply on the plea of Kappan, who was arrested in October 2020 while on his way to Hathras in Uttar Pradesh after a Dalit woman from there died following gangrape.
12:16 EC orders immediate transfer of Maha DGP due to...
The Election Commission orders immediate transfer of Maharashtra DGP following complaints by political parties, including Congress.
Acting on the complaints from INC and other parties, Election Commission of India orders transfer of Rashmi Shukla, DGP Maharashtra with immediate effect with directions to Chief Secretary to hand over her charge to the next senior most IPS officer in the cadre.
The Opposition, led by the Congress, had alleged that the senior IPS officer was biased towards the ruling Mahayuti alliance and fair polls won't be possible if she was in the top post.
The Chief Secretary has also been directed to send a panel of three IPS officers by 05.11.2024 (1 pm) for appointment as DGP Maharashtra.
CEC Rajiv Kumar had earlier during the review meetings and announcement of assembly elections in the state had warned officials to not only be impartial and fair but also perceived to be non-partisan in their conduct while carrying out their duties.
11:56 Make way, make way
Sadhus and sadhvis take part in a 'road show' ahead of Kumbh Mela early next year.
11:44 Sensex bear hug: Investors lose Rs 7.37L cr
Investors' wealth eroded by Rs 7.37 lakh crore on Monday morning, as the equity markets fell sharply with the BSE Sensex tumbling 1,192 points. Markets were dragged down by Reliance Industries and unabated selling by foreign investors.
Investors also turned cautious ahead of the US presidential elections and Federal Reserve interest rate decision scheduled to be announced later this week. The BSE benchmark tanked 1,192 points to 78,532.12 during the morning trade.
In line with a weak trend in equities, the market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms eroded by Rs 7,37,744.54 crore to Rs 4,40,72,863.01 crore (USD 5.24 trillion).
From the 30-share Sensex pack, Sun Pharma, NTPC, Reliance Industries, Adani Ports, Power Grid, Tata Motors, Titan and Tata Steel were among the major laggards. Mahindra & Mahindra, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies and IndusInd Bank were the gainers.
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 211.93 crore on Friday, according to exchange data. Foreign investors pulled out a massive Rs 94,000 crore (around USD 11.2 billion) from the Indian stock market in October, making it the worst-ever month in terms of outflows, triggered by the elevated valuation of domestic equities and attractive valuations of Chinese stocks.
Gopal Shetty, Piyush Goyal and Ashish Shelar
11:11 BJP rebel Gopal Shetty withdraws nomination
Senior leader and former MP Gopal Shetty, who had filed nomination as an independent after the BJP denied a ticket to him, on Monday announced withdrawal of his candidature from Borivali assembly seat in Mumbai.
The BJP has nominated Sanjay Upadhyay from the Borivali seat for the November 20 state assembly polls. Monday is the last day for withdrawing nominations. On Sunday, BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde held a meeting with Shetty to persuade him to withdraw his nomination.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Shetty said, "I am withdrawing my nomination today. My objection was to the BJP's style of functioning where decisions were taken without any consultation with party workers like me. The party was consistently nominating candidates for the assembly elections from outside, and it was presumed that it was being carried out with my consultation."
"I was never consulted when candidates were selected for the Borivali assembly segment (in the past). I am a party worker and I always expressed my concerns towards a certain style of decision-making," he said. Another BJP rebel, Sweekruti Sharma, from Andheri East assembly also announced withdrawal of her nomination. Shetty's rebellion was seen as a blow to the BJP in its stronghold.
He won the Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat by margins of more than four lakh in 2014 and 2019, but was denied a ticket in the 2024 general elections. The seat was won by senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal, who is now Union minister. Shetty, a veteran of the Mumbai north region, was MLA from Borivali in 2004 and 2009.
He was also corporator from the area for several years. In 2014, Shetty won the Lok Sabha election, and the BJP nominated Vinod Tawde from the Borivali assembly seat, considered one of the safest constituencies for the party. Tawde was not re-nominated in 2019 and he later became BJP's national general secretary. PTI
11:07 Speeding car mows down 2 morning walkers in MP
Two persons were killed and one was injured when a speeding car hit them on a highway in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore district on Monday morning, police said. The victims were on a morning walk when the car knocked them down, they said.
The incident took place at Saikdakhedi Jod on Bhopal-Indore highway at around 8.30 am, Kotwali police station in-charge Manoj Malviya said. Two persons, identified as Govind (50) and Mukesh (45), were killed in the accident.
One person was injured and undergoing treatment, he said. The official said three youth from Sagar were going to Indore in the car when the accident occurred due to careless driving. The car occupants also received minor injuries, he said. During questioning, the car occupants said the driver had fallen asleep, due to which the accident occurred, the official added. PTI
10:41 Jarange U-turn: Won't back any party, candidates
Taking a U-turn, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange on Monday said he will not support any contestant or party in the Maharashtra assembly polls and asked his supporters who had filed nominations to withdraw their candidature.
Monday is the last day for withdrawing nominations. The state assembly elections will be held on November 20 and votes will be counted on November 23. Jarange's decision not to participate in the electoral process marks a notable shift from his earlier strategy, as he had identified certain constituencies where he intended to support or oppose some candidates.
Speaking to reporters at Antarwali Sarathi village on Monday morning, Jarange said, "After much deliberation, I have decided not to field any candidate in the state. The Maratha community will decide on its own whom to defeat and whom to elect. I have no affiliation to or support for any candidate or political party."
The activist asserted he was not under any pressure from the ruling Mahayuti or the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).
"I am under no pressure from anyone. The community itself will decide whom to support based on their commitment to the Maratha cause," he said, while encouraging voters to seek commitments in written or video forms from candidates pledging to support the interests of Marathas.
Expressing faith in his community's influence over the elections, Jarange remarked, "No one can be elected in this state without the support of Marathas."
He urged the Maratha community members not to attend any political rally and not be swayed by any party.
"Those who have wronged or harassed the Maratha community should be taught a lesson through the ballot," he said.
Jarange reaffirmed his commitment to secure reservation for the Maratha community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category and said his struggle for the quota would continue. The activist on Sunday announced he would support two candidates from Parvati and Daund in the state assembly polls, though he said their names will be disclosed later.
The two seats are currently held by the BJP, which Jarange has often accused of opposing Maratha reservations. Jarange had earlier said he would support candidates in Phulambri, Kannad (in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), Hingoli, Pathari (in Parbhani) and Hadgaon (in Nanded). He had also claimed he would work to defeat sitting MLAs of Bhokardan (in Jalna), Gangapur (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), Kalamnuri (Hingoli), Gangakhed and Jintur (in Parbhani) and Ausa in Latur. These MLAs are from the Mahayuti government. PTI
10:33 BJP's anti-people policies corroding economy: Cong
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday alleged that the BJP's "anti-people" policies are "corroding" India's economy and challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak about real issues facing common people in his future election rallies.
Kharge said fake narratives cannot be a substitute for real welfare. "Have a look at the economic turmoil you have created by looting ordinary citizens of their last paisa! Even the festive cheer could not lift the spirits of India's economy - reeling under low consumption, high inflation, widening inequality, dampened investment and wage stagnation," the Congress chief said in a post on X.
Even industry captains are forced to talk about 'missing middle class' syndrome, as the Modi government deals a "body blow" to the poor and middle class by imposing "back-breaking" price rise and wiping out their savings through mindless taxation, he alleged.
"5 undeniable facts -- Food Inflation is at 9.2 per cent. Vegetable inflation surged from 10.7 per cent in August to a 14-month high of 36 per cent in September 2024. It is a fact that the FMCG sector has seen demand sharply decline, with growth in sales dropping from 10.1 per cent to just 2.8 per cent in a year. Your own Finance Ministry's monthly report states this," he said.
Kharge said FMCG companies reported a decline in margins and have stated that this could lead to an increase in prices if raw material costs become unmanageable for companies. The Congress chief claimed that household savings have plunged to a 50-year low.
"Consumption has severely dipped due to high food inflation. For instance, the growth in F&B sector, which used to be in double digits, is now down to 1.5-2 per cent. Analysts at Nomura India have noted that urban demand shall continue to lag due to lower salary increases, waning pent-up demand, high interest rates, and tight credit conditions," he said.
Kharge also pointed out that passenger vehicle sales dropped by 19 per cent in September, and most October sales are flat. The Finance Ministry has noted that there has been 2.3 per cent contraction in automobile sales, he said, adding that a crucial indicator of rural economic health, two-wheeler sales, has yet to surpass 2018 numbers.
"Even SUV sales are at a 26-month low. Housing sales in India's top 8 cities declined by 5 per cent in the quarter ending September 2024," he said. Kharge also claimed that real wages for labourers stagnated between 2014-2023, and in fact declined between 2019-2024, he said citing Labour Bureau's Wage Rate Index. -- PTI
10:23 Lady Gaga to headline Kamala Harris' rally
Lady Gaga is set to headline Kamala Harris' rally in Pennsylvania during Election Eve, as part of the final part of her and Tim Walz's campaign's last Get Out The Vote organizing effort, reported Variety.
The Philadelphia rally will showcase performances and speeches by various artists including DJ Cassidy, Fat Joe, Freeway, Just Blaze, Lady Gaga, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Ricky Martin, The Roots, Jazmine Sullivan, Adam Blackstone, and Oprah Winfrey. The Pittsburgh event will feature D-Nice, Katy Perry and Andra Day.
"It's time to get ready to vote, I'll see you guys in Pennsylvania," she can be heard saying in a video posted on her Instagram handle.
Gaga will be appearing at one of two star-studded "Get Out the Vote" events in the state, according to Variety. The US presidential elections are set to take place on November 5, with Harris going against former US President and Republican candidate Donald Trump.
Trump is aiming to make a comeback to the White House after his bitter exit last time, while Harris is aiming to create history by becoming the first woman president of the US.
10:17 'Trump Wants To Make America White Again'
Shekar Narasimhan has fought a hard campaign on Kamala Harris's behalf.
The co-chair of the Democratic National Committee's Indo American Council, and chair of AAPI Victory Fund, a PAC (political action committee), which wants more Asian Americans and Pacific islanders in elected offices, admits the race is yet close, and puts it down to the ability of Donald Trump's campaign to push their narrative.
Narasimhan, who has worked with Democratic presidential elections since 2004, and who influenced President Biden's agenda, spoke to Rediff.com. US Senior Contributor P Rajendran about the closeness of the November 5 election and what it augurs for the United States.
Read the interview here.
10:02 Nifty, Sensex will continue to decline till...
The selling pressure returned to Indian markets after gains on the Muhurat trading day, as both indices opened lower on Monday.
The Nifty 50 index opened with a marginal gain of 11 points, or 0.05 per cent, at 24,315.75 points, while the BSE Sensex index declined by 10 points, or 0.01 per cent, to 79,713 points. Both indices declined further in early trade.
Experts noted that this week is expected to be very volatile for stock markets globally due to various factors, and investors are advised to take cautious steps.
Ajay Bagga, Banking and Market Expert said "Four important numbers for this week, markets brace for the outcome of the US Presidential Election on Tuesday, November 5th. The second event is the Fed meets on Wednesday and Thursday, with a 25 basis points (0.25 pc) rate cut expected. Third, in a boost to oil prices, the OPEC+ alliance of oil producers will not be raising oil production by the previously announced daily levels in view of slow demand".
09:51 Six people beat maid to death in Chennai
Six people in Chennai were arrested for torturing a 15-year-old girl who was a caretaker, for three months, and beating her to death. On November 1, a complaint was received from a man namely Sharfudeen about the death of a girl.
Based on the complaint police registered a case under section of suspicious death. Investigation revealed that the girl was from Thanjavur and she was to look after a baby, whose father was Mohammad Nishad.
Investigation revealed injuries were found on the body of the girl and she died on October 31 while she was being beaten up. Accused were identified as Mohammed Nishad, Nivetha alias Nasiya, Lokesh, Jaya Sakthi, Seema and Maheshwari. After the investigation, all six accused were produced before the court and sent to judicial custody, the police said.
The consular camp at Brampton
09:41 Highly concerned: India on Khalistani attack
The Indian High Commission in Canada has condemned the "violent disruption" by 'anti-India' elements outside a consular camp in Brampton and raised concerns over the safety of Indian nationals in the country.
The incident occured on Sunday (local time) outside a consular camp organised in collaboration with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto. The High Commission said that any further events will be organised "contingent on security arrangements" made by the local authorities.
"We have seen violent disruption today (Nov 3) orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir, Brampton, near Toronto," the statement by the High Commission. The statement also highlighted other incidents of disruption during a consular camps held in Vancouver and Surrey on November 2 and 3. The Indian mission said it is "deeply disappointing" that such disruptions "being allowed" for routine counsular work.
"It is deeply disappointing to see such disruptions being allowed for routine counsular work being organised by our consulate with the fullest cooperation of the local co-organizers. We also remain very concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organized in the first place," the statement added.
The High Commission also confirmed that despite the disruption, more than a 1000 life certifications were issued to Indian and Canadian applicants. "In light of these incidents and with the continued threats posed to the Indian diplomats and officials, local venue organised are well as local attendees, organization of further scheduled consular camps will be contingent on security arrangements made for them by local authorities," the statement read.
Following the attacks, the Hindu Canadian Foundation, a non-profit organisation working for the Hindu community in Canada shared a video of the attack on the temple and said that the Khalistani terrorists attacked kids and women.
"Kids, Women and Men are being attacked. This is all happening under the support of Khalistaani politician sympathizers," the post added.
The incident sparked widespread criticism in and outside Canada.
Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre condemned the attack on the Hindu Sabha temple, calling it "completely unacceptable."
09:32 Delhi's AQI remains in 'very poor' category
With the winters approaching, a thin layer of smog engulfed the national capital as the air quality index in Delhi remained to be in the "very poor" category.
The AQI of Delhi was recorded above 300 at 7 AM on Monday in many areas of the national capital, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
At around 7.00 AM on Monday, New Moti Bagh recorded an AQI of 400, RK Puram at 393, Dwarka Sector 8 at 393, and ITO at 349. All these areas reported 'very poor' air quality levels, posing significant health risks.
The AQI at Vivek Vihar was recorded 421, and 409 in Ashok Vihar taking the air quality level to "severe category"
An AQI is considered as "poor" between '200 and 300', "very poor" at '301 and 400', "severe" at '401-450" and 450 and above, is "severe plus."..
09:23 Modi to address two rallies in Jharkhand today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address two rallies in poll-bound Jharkhand on Monday.
He will address the rallies in Chaibasa and Garhwa.
"Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to arrive at Gaya airport in Bihar around 11 am and fly to Garhwa via helicopter to address a rally there," a senior BJP leader told PTI.
After the Garhwa rally, the PM will head to Ranchi and travel to Chaibasa, where he is scheduled to address another rally around 2:30 pm, he said.
Last week, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who is also the BJP's election-in-charge of Jharkhand, said all arrangements have been made for the PM's visit.
Polling for the Jharkhand assembly elections will be held on November 13 and November 20. Counting of votes will be held on November 23.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed three political rallies here on Sunday and released the BJP's election manifesto. -- PTI
09:17 Hindu temple attacked in Canada, Trudeau reacts
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau strongly condemned the recent attack on the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton by Khalistani extremists.
Emphasising the importance of religious freedom, Trudeau asserted that every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely.
Sharing a post on X, Trudeau wrote, "The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely.
"Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident," the post added.
Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya also condemned the violence and said that a "red line has been crossed" by Khalistani extremists, highlighting the rise of brazen violent extremism in Canada.
Arya shared a video of the attack on X and wrote, "A red line has been crossed by Canadian Khalistani extremists today. The attack by Khalistanis on the Hindu-Canadian devotees inside the premises of the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton shows how deep and brazen has Khalistani violent extremism has become in Canada."
He added, "I begin to feel that there is a small grain of truth in the reports that in addition to Canadian political apparatus, Khalistanis have effectively infiltrated into our law enforcement agencies."
The Canadian Member of Parliament further expressed concerns that Khalistani extremists are taking advantage of Canada's freedom of expression laws, and are receiving a "free pass."
"No wonder that under the 'freedom of expression' Khalistani extremists are getting a free pass in Canada. As I have been saying for long, Hindu-Canadians, for the security and safety of our community, need to step up and assert their rights and hold politicians accountable," Arya wrote.
08:34 Shouldn't have left White House: Trump on 2020 poll
The United States will on Tuesday witness one of the tightest presidential elections in decades with Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic leader Kamala Harris making last ditch efforts to sway the remaining undecided voters in key battleground states.
As the countdown for the election day began, Trump raked up the bitter memories of the 2020 election and said he "shouldn't have left" the White House, triggering apprehensions that he may not accept the outcome of the November 5 voting if he loses the race to Harris.
More than 75 million Americans have already cast their votes as of Sunday, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab that tracks early and mail-in voting across the US.
In the overall campaign, Harris has been projecting the election as the one to protect the country's fundamental freedoms, safeguard constitutional values and ensure women's rights, while Trump has been promising to rebuild the economy and rid the US from illegal immigrants.
Vice President Harris and former President Donald Trump are criss-crossing politically pivotal battleground states, making closing arguments to drum up support as various polls continued to predict an exceptionally tight race between two contenders.
However, a new poll in Iowa said Harris is leading with 47 percent as against Trump's 44 percent. Trump has swiftly rejected the poll.
Political analysts say either of the two leaders wrestling at least four of the seven battleground states may take the reins at the White House in January.
Questioning the counting process in the 2020 presidential election, Trump said at a rally in Pennsylvania on Sunday that he shouldn't have "left" the White House.
Following the election that brought Joe Biden to power, Trump alleged fraud in the voting process and challenged the outcome in courts which rejected his claims.
In his address, Trump also questioned the immigration policy of the Biden administration and said the country's borders were safe till he was at the White House.
"We had the safest border in the history of our country the day that I left. I shouldn't have left. I mean, honestly, because ..we did so well," the former President said at a rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania.
Trump refused to concede the 2020 election and unsuccessfully filed a series of court cases in challenging the outcome.
In the rally, Trump also targeted Harris and accused the Democratic Party of being a "corrupt machine".
"It's all corrupt. She is corrupt. She is a corrupt person. I am running against a totally corrupt person," he alleged.
"I am really not running against her. I am running against a corrupt machine called the Democrat Party." -- PTI
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