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Wed, 16 October 2024
Damaging Brand India: Cong on Trudeau's charges
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23:59 Damaging Brand India: Cong on Trudeau's charges
The Congress on Wednesday said the government should clear its stance on the allegations made by Canada and the US which are tarnishing India's global image and take the opposition into confidence.
The opposition must be fully informed as safeguarding India's global standing is a shared responsibility, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said.
"Our nation's international image as a country that believes in and adheres to rule of law is at risk, and it is crucial that we act together to defend it," he said on X.
He said the Congress has already asked the Prime Minister to take the Leaders of Opposition in both Houses of Parliament, and other political leaders, into confidence on the "serious charges levelled against the government of India by USA and Canada".
He said this demand is necessitated by the worsening India-Canada relations and growing concerns about India-US ties.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has pointed fingers at India in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and also linked the Indian High Commissioner to the probe.
India has strongly rejected attempts by Canadian authorities to link Indian agents with criminal gangs in Canada with official sources even saying that Ottawa's assertion that it shared evidence with New Delhi in the Nijjar case was simply not true.
Ramesh said the allegations made by Canada, now backed by several other countries, are threatening to escalate, tarnishing India's global reputation and damaging Brand India.
"It is imperative that the Government of India promptly and clearly articulate its stance on this issue," the Congress leader noted.
"On matters relating to national security and foreign policy, the nation must always be one," the Congress leader asserted. -- PTI
23:23 NSG to deploy more 'Sky Marshals' on-board flights
The National Security Guard will deploy an enhanced number of 'Sky Marshals' or covert armed commandos on-board Indian airliners flying to sensitive routes as part of an enhanced civil aviation security protocol, official sources said on Wednesday.
The sources said the commandos drawn from the 'Black Cat' commandos 52 Special Action Group (SAG) have been drafted to be deployed in certain national and international routes as part of a reviewed counter-hijack policy.
The National Security Guard (NSG) 'Sky Marshals' are being trebled from currently about 40 to more than 110, the sources told PTI.
The NSG is a federal counter-terrorist commando force that was raised in 1984 to undertake specific operations to neutralise terror and hijack threats.
Its 52 SAG, drawn from Army personnel, is trained to undertake counter-hijack operations, make tactical breach and intervention in the aircraft in case of hijack or sabotage-like incidents.
NSG 'Sky Marshals' travel alone or in pairs on-board Indian airlines aircraft like normal passengers but they have a concealed weapon and some specialised gadgets to combat hijackers and rescue passengers in case such an incident takes place.
Traditionally, the 'Sky Marshals' have been deployed on flights that go towards the western side of the country. Over the last decade, officials said, these commandos are being deployed across various sectors including some international routes.
The identity of the 'Sky Marshals' is kept secret and only the pilot in command (PIC) of a flight knows the commandos. -- PTI
23:07 Our family is affected by Baba Siddique's murder: Arbaaz Khan
Describing NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique as a close family friend, actor-producer Arbaaz Khan on Wednesday said the film industry is trying to recover from his loss.
Siddique, known for his starry iftar parties and Bollywood connections, was gunned down on Saturday outside his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique's Mumbai office.
Siddique may have been targeted by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi because of his proximity to superstar Salman Khan, according to police.
At an event, Arbaaz, who is Salman's younger brother, said he is praying for Siddique's family.
"Baba Siddique was a close family friend and very loved person. The entire industry used to come together for his Eid celebrations.
"His passing is unfortunate... We all are affected by this incident. We are trying to recover from this," he told reporters.
The actor was speaking at a promotional event of Banda Singh Chaudhary. Produced by Arbaaz, the film stars Arshad Warsi and Meher Vij. PTI
22:28 Canadian MP calls for Trudeau's resignation amid row
Amid a diplomatic row between India and Canada, a Liberal Canadian MP has called for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation as party leader ahead of the next elections, asserting that the country's 'people have had enough'.
"The message that I've been getting loud and clear - and more and more strongly as time goes by - is that it is time for [Trudeau] to go. And I agree," Member of Parliament Sean Casey was quoted as saying by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation on Tuesday.
"People have had enough. They've tuned him out, and they want him to go," he said, underlining a "high level of anxiety" in the Liberal caucus over Trudeau's leadership.
"But those who have come to the same conclusion as me seem to be becoming more emboldened with the passage of time," the report quoted him as saying.
Casey's comments come a week after Liberal MPs held a series of meetings to discuss a path forward for the party following the byelection loss at Liberal stronghold Toronto-St. Paul's in June, according to the report.
Earlier in June, New Brunswick MP Wayne Long called for Trudeau's resignation, while Newfoundland and Labrador MP Ken McDonald has called for the prime minister to face a leadership review, the Toronto Sun newspaper reported.
Former Ottawa-area MP Catherine McKenna, who was a cabinet minister under Trudeau, has also said the party needs a new leader, it said.
21:33 Former HC judge falls prey to cyber fraud, loses Rs 1 lakh
A former judge of the Madhya Pradesh high court lost Rs 1 lakh to cyber fraud when trying to lodge a complaint regarding an online order of sweets, police said here on Wednesday.
The victim, a resident of Indore city, had ordered two packets of sweets through an online food delivery platform but received only one packet, he told police.
When he looked for the customer service number of the platform, his Google search took him to a fake website set up by unidentified fraudsters, said additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajesh Dandotia.
The gang members, posing as employees of the platform, sent the former judge a link. When he clicked it, a screen-sharing app got downloaded on his mobile phone without he realising it.
The gang then accessed one-time passwords (OTPs) received on his phone through the app, and stole Rs 1 lakh from his bank account, the official said.
"Detailed investigation is underway," Dandotiya added. -- PTI
21:31 Raj Thackeray's MNS to go solo in Maha polls
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will fight the Maharashtra assembly elections on its own, without any alliance, said party chief Raj Thackeray on Wednesday.
The head of MNS had backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's candidature in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and campaigned for the BJP-led Mahayuti candidates in the states.
The MNS will fight the assembly polls independently, he told reporters, asserting that they will contest more seats than any other party.
"We will be contesting the polls with full vigour. After the polls, the MNS will be in government. The MNS will contest the highest number of seats among all political parties," said the firebrand leader known for his oratory skills.
He also welcomed the state government's decision to waive toll at Mumbai's five entry points and said his party had been campaigning for it for several years.
Thackeray, who broke away from the undivided Shiv Sena and founded the MNS in 2006, had openly backed Modi's candidature for the PM's post in 2014. But he then changed tracks and went on to become his bitter critic, going to the extent of playing videos of promises made by Modi at his well-attended rallies, and pointing out how they remained unfulfilled.
Of the 288 assembly constituencies in the state, MNS had won one seat each in the 2014 and 2019 elections.
Maharashtra will go to polls in a single phase on November 20 and votes will be counted on November 23. -- PTI
21:27 5-10% water cut across Mumbai on October 17-18
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday announced a 5-10 per cent water cut across Mumbai from October 17 to October 18 citing a glitch in a valve on a pipeline in Thane district.
A BMC release said that a 900-mm valve of the Vaitarna pipeline at Tarali in the neighbouring district has malfunctioned, necessitating the partial shutdown of the water supply system. It is expected to be fixed in about 48 hours, said the civic body.
"Consequently, there has been a 5 per cent to 10 per cent reduction in the supply to the Bhandup Water Treatment Plant, which supplies water to Greater Mumbai," the release said, justifying the water cut in the city from Thursday to Friday.
Water to Mumbai city and suburbs is primarily sourced from the Vaitarna dam.
The civic body has requested citizens to stock water and use it judiciously, the release added. -- PTI
20:44 Ahead of state polls, govt hikes wheat MSP
The government on Wednesday increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat by Rs 150 to Rs 2,425 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season, a move that comes ahead of key state elections.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved price hikes for six rabi crops, with increases ranging from Rs 130 to Rs 300 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season beginning April 2025.
"Like for Kharif crops, there is a significant increase in the MSP for rabi crops," Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a media briefing after the cabinet meeting.
Reacting to the Cabinet decision, Modi said his government has been making big decisions continuously for the welfare of farmers. The rise in MSP will make the lives of farmers easier.
He highlighted that the new wheat MSP is 105 per cent higher than the cost of production, calling it "a big thing."
The government also raised the MSP for rapeseed and mustard seed by Rs 300 to Rs 5,950 per quintal, aiming to boost domestic oilseed production and reduce edible oil imports.
The support price for safflower increased by Rs 140 to Rs 5,940 per quintal for 2025-26 from Rs 5,800 per quintal in the previous season.
In the case of pulses, the support price for lentil (masur) increased by Rs 275 to Rs 6,700 per quintal, while that for gram MSP raised by Rs 210 to Rs 5,650 per quintal for 2025-26.
The support price for barley increased by Rs 130 to Rs 1,980 per quintal for 2025-26 from Rs 1,850 per quintal in the previous season.
The announcement comes as states like Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi prepare for elections.
However, Vaishnaw dismissed any connection between the MSP hikes and the upcoming polls, stating that such announcements typically occur around this time.
The minister asserted that farmers have a "good feeling" towards the government, citing transformative changes in their lives.
The MSP increases align with the 2018-19 Union Budget commitment to set support prices at least 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production.
The government expects these hikes to ensure remunerative prices for farmers and encourage crop diversification. -- PTI
20:40 Minor arrested in Mumbai over bomb threats to flights
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Wednesday said the government is closely monitoring the situation due to bomb threats to flights and asserted that all necessary measures are taken against such activities.
Strongly condemning the recent bomb threats to Indian carriers, the minister also the Mumbai police have arrested a minor responsible for issuing bomb threats to three flights and that others responsible for disruptions will be identified and prosecuted.
The law enforcement agencies are pursuing all cases actively, he said.
"We are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that We are committed to maintaining the highest security standards and passenger safety remains our topmost priority," he said in a statement.
As many as 19 flights of various domestic airlines have received bomb threats in three days and the threats turned out to be hoaxes. -- PTI
19:43 Samsung workers will resume work from Thursday: CITU
Workers at the Samsung India Electronics Ltd, who ended their strike demanding better pay and working conditions, would resume work from tomorrow, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) said on Wednesday.
The CITU has been spearheading the protest by the employees since September 9, pressing for various demands including pay revision, and recognition of the newly formed Samsung India Workers Union backed by it.
The announcement of the decision to resume work, comes a day after the Tamil Nadu government said that the 37 day strike was called off following discussions held between the representatives of the workers and the company's management.
A general body meeting of the CITU was held on Wednesday near the factory in Sriperumbudur, which was attended by the agitating workers, sources said.
"Strike has been called off. The employees will work from tomorrow (Oct 17)," CITU State President A Sounderarajan told PTI after emerging from the meeting.
He also clarified that as per the Samsung India 'No Work, No Pay' policy, the employees would not receive salary for the period of protest.
In a statement on Tuesday night, Samsung India welcomed CITU's decision to call off the strike.
"We thank the government of Tamil Nadu for its support and welcome our workers who have decided to return to work unconditionally. We will not take action against workers who merely participated in the illegal strike," said the company spokesperson.
Now all the striking workers will immediately return to work and Samsung will not initiate any disciplinary action against the employees, with workers agreeing not to take any 'pre-judicial' action.
About 1,100 employees of the total 1,750 were on strike at the Sriperumbudur plant, which produces appliances and consumer durable products such as refrigerators, televisions and washing machines since 2007. -- PTI
19:40 UP: Maid arrested for mixing urine in dough
A maid working for a real estate businessman for eight years has been arrested for allegedly mixing urine in the dough used to make rotis, police said.
The maid, identified as Reena (32) from Shanti Nagar Colony here, was caught on camera committing the alleged act, police said.
The incident came to light when Rupam, house owner Nitin Gautam's wife, noticed her family members experiencing liver problems. Suspecting a foul play, she began monitoring the maid's activities in the kitchen.
Gautam secretly recorded a video using his mobile phone, which captured the maid allegedly mixing urine in the flour.
Based on the complaint and evidence filed by the family, police lodged an FIR regarding the matter on Monday and arrested Reena on Tuesday.
"During interrogation, the maid initially denied the allegations. However, upon being confronted with the video, she confessed to her actions. The maid claimed she was motivated by revenge after being frequently scolded by her employer for minor mistakes," said ACP Wave City Lipi Nagaich.
Reena has been booked under Section 272 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the BNS, said the officer.
Similar incidents of human waste, including urine and spit, being added to food items have been reported from several places in the state.
In wake of such incidents, the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced it will soon introduce a new law against sellers who "hide their identity" and mix human waste or inedible material in food items and beverages. -- PTI
19:02 Musk thanks Scindia amid Ambani, Mittal face-off
Tech billionaire Elon Musk thanked Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia for not agreeing with Indian tycoons Mukesh Ambani and Sunil Bharti Mittal on auctioning spectrum for satellite services, saying he is looking forward to serving Indians.
Reacting to Scindia's statement that satellite spectrum will not be auctioned, Musk, in a post on X, said, "much appreciated! We will do our best to serve the people of India with Starlink".
Elon Musk and Indian tycoons Ambani and Mittal are locked in a standoff over satellite spectrum and nuances of its allocation.
Jio recently sought a revision of a consultation paper on recommending norms for "terms and conditions for the assignment of spectrum for certain satellite-based commercial Communications services".
"We have received a reference from the Telecom Department and we have initiated a consultation process in response to the reference that has been received from DoT, and it covers issues that have been referred to Trai by the DoT...the consultation process is on, we will consider all inputs and views that are received during the consultation process and we will come out with our considered recommendations," Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti told reporters on the sidelines of IMC on Tuesday.
Asked about the demand by Reliance Jio that the Trai consultation paper be revised to ensure a level playing field between terrestrial and satellite players, the Trai chairman said, "Different stakeholders raise different demands on the consultation process, and we consider all these viewpoints and inputs and take a considered view".
The world's richest man Musk has taken on Indian billionaires Ambani and Mittal over the allocation of spectrum used in wireless communication using satellites, calling their demand for the auction of such airwaves "unprecedented".
While Ambani's Reliance Jio has been vocal about the need to allocate such spectrum through an auction to give a level playing field to legacy operators who buy airwaves and set up infrastructure like telecom towers, Mittal on Tuesday articulated the need for satellite companies harbouring any headwinds urban ambitions to buy spectrum as telecom companies do.
Musk-led Starlink is demanding administrative allotment of licences in line with the global trend as it looks to tap into the world's fastest-growing mobile telephony and internet market. This has found some backing in Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who said on Tuesday that such airwaves will be given out through administrative allocation and not auctioned.
Scindia said the Telecom Act of 2023 passed in December has put the matter in 'Schedule 1', which means that for satcomm spectrum will be allocated administratively.
"That does not mean that spectrum does not come without a cost. What that cost is and what the formula of that cost is going to be, will not be decided by you or me ...it will be decided by Trai...and there is a paper that has already been circulated by Trai, and we have a regulatory authority for telecom, and that regulatory authority of telecom has been empowered by the constitution to decide what that administrative pricing is going to be," he had said. -- PTI
Representative image
18:54 Hy'bad idol desecration: Accused watched Zakir Naik's videos
A 30-year-old engineering graduate, who allegedly desecrated the main idol at a temple here on October 14, was self-radicalised by watching videos of Islamic preacher Zakir Naik and other preachers on social media and was earlier involved in similar incidents in Mumbai, the Hyderabad Police said on Wednesday.
Salman Salim Thakur alias Salman entered into the sanctum-sanctorum of Muthyalamma temple in Secunderabad early on Monday and desecrated the main idol of the temple, triggering protests by local people, Hindu outfits and the BJP.
Angered by the "provocative and mischievous" act, some of the locals thrashed the accused.
The police took the accused into custody and shifted him to a hospital.
The accused is under treatment for internal injuries and his condition remains serious, police said adding an FIR was registered against him under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).
Investigation revealed that Salman, a native of Mumbai, started watching videos of Islamic preachers like Zakir Naik on social media, a release from Hyderabad Police said.
"He is active on social media. We got information (about him watching videos of Naik and other Islamic preachers) after analysing his mobile phone and his social media (activities), a police official said.
He became "self-radicalised and developed a radical mindset and hatred" towards the practices of other religions like idolatry, it said.
The Maharashtra Police have booked him earlier for his alleged involvement of damaging idols in Mumbai.
Early this month, Salman came to Hyderabad to attend a month-long personality development workshop, police said. -- PTI
18:11 Delhi police file FIR in hoax threats to flights
The issue of multiple hoax threat messages to various airlines, which have disrupted many Indian flights, came up before a parliamentary committee on Wednesday as the civil aviation secretary told parliamentarians that accused are being identified and action taken.
Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam suggested in the meeting of the Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture, which is headed by JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha, that investigators have gathered some information and are taking action.
They are working on a few other cases of such hoax messages, he added.
He, however, cited the sensitivity of information due to the ongoing probe into the matter to decline to share more details, sources said.
They said Jha raised the issue of the number of hoax threat calls that airlines have received in the past couple of days, leading to diversion of flights, including one bound for Chicago.
At least 10 flights have been disrupted due to bomb threat messages, mostly on social media, received by airlines. -- PTI
17:53 Netaji niece Roma Ray dies at 95
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's niece Roma Day died on Wednesday at her south Kolkata residence due to old age ailments, her family said.
She was 95.
She has left behind a son, two daughters and five grandchildren, her son Ashis Ray said in a statement.
Ray was the daughter of eminent barrister and freedom fighter Sarat Chandra Bose. She had witnessed her uncle's rise in the 1930s when Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was elected the president of the Indian National Congress in 1938.
She was also very close to Netaji's wife, Emilie Schenkl, since she had lived in Vienna in the 1950s, where Schenkl also resided. Ray was invited to speak at Schenkl's funeral in Germany in 1996.
She was married to renowned medical practitioner Dr Sachis Ray. -- PTI
17:48 CEC Rajiv Kumar's chopper makes emergency landing
A helicopter carrying Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar had to make an emergency landing in a village near Munsiyari in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh due to bad weather on Wednesday, an official said.
Pithoragarh District Magistrate Vinod Girish Goswami said the chopper, which was on its way to Milam Glacier, left at around 1 pm.
However, due to the cloudy weather and low visibility, it landed on a helipad in Ralam village, 42 km away, at around 1.30 pm, he said.
Additional Chief Election Officer of Uttarakhand Vijay Kumar Jogdande is with the CEC, he said.
There were three people on board the helicopter apart from the pilot. They are all safe and waiting for the weather to clear up to return to Munsiyari, the DM said.
They have the necessary communication equipment including satellite phones, he added.
"I have talked to the CEC twice. They are all safe. If the weather clears up, they will be taken back to Munsiyari and if it does not, they will rest at the ITBP camp near Ralam," the DM said. -- PTI
17:18 Indigo has 60%+ market share in domestic travel
A graph of domestic air travel in India last month. Indigo carried 82 lakh passengers!
17:12 Sensex drops 318 pts, Nifty settles below 25,000
Benchmark Sensex declined by 318 points while Nifty slipped below 25,000 level on Wednesday due to selling in IT and auto shares amid unabated foreign fund outflows and weak trends in global markets. Falling for the second day, the BSE Sensex declined by 318.76 points or 0.39 per cent to settle at 81,501.36.
During the day, it slumped 461.86 points or 0.56 per cent to 81,358.26. The NSE Nifty declined by 86.05 points or 0.34 per cent to close at 24,971.30.
From the 30 Sensex firms, Mahindra & Mahindra, Infosys, Kotak Mahindra Bank, JSW Steel, Adani Ports, Tata Motors, Adani Ports, ITC and Titan were the major laggards. HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Industries, Asian Paints and State Bank of India were the gainers.
People form a 'human chain' to protest the RG Kar horror
17:09 WB guv compares Bengal govt with burning Rome
Alleging that the West Bengal government headed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has failed to carry out its basic duties to protect the lives and properties of citizens, Governor C V Ananda Bose on Wednesday said that his office is already intervening in the RG Kar impasse under provisions in the Constitution.
Expressing disgust over the ongoing impasse following the rape-murder incident, Bose said that the arrest of a police officer and a senior doctor in the case again pointed to "institutional criminality", rampant in various sectors.
"It is the duty of the state government, particularly of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to protect the lives and properties of the citizens.
"Here (in West Bengal), the government has failed to carry out its basic duties. Who should own up? If the chief minister is the chief (head of the administration), the answer lies in itself," Bose told PTI in an exclusive interview on the ongoing stalemate in the state.
On whether his office would intervene in the matter, Bose said, "Raj Bhavan is intervening and cannot be stopped from doing it because the Raj Bhavan intervenes under the provisions mandated in the Constitution of India."
Incidentally, a group of agitating doctors had met Bose at Raj Bhavan earlier this week and submitted a deputation highlighting their demands for quick investigation into the rape and murder of an on-duty woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital besides overhaul of the security infrastructure at the hospitals and removal of Health Secretary N S Nigam. Bose, in an apparent reference to the chief minister's 'Dandiya dance' at Tuesday's Durga Puja Carnival on Red Road, drew parallels to Roman emperor Nero, who "played the fiddle while Rome burned".
"Festivities of Durga Puja should not be embellished with the dance of death. Nero, they say, played the fiddle while Rome was burning. Is history repeating itself in West Bengal? Who is trying to imitate? It is said, 'I am the Roman Emperor, therefore above grammar'. Is there anyone who says, 'I am the ruler, therefore above the law'?" Bose questioned.
On whether the state government was trying to hide something by not addressing the impasse and the demands of the doctors, Bose declined to comment anything citing the ongoing CBI probe into the rape-murder incident.
He, however, criticised the role of the state government, stating it could have been more transparent in its approach while dealing with the situation. "I cannot pass judgments on the state government at this stage of investigation," he said.
On the arrest of a Kolkata Police civic volunteer as the prime suspect in the RG Kar rape-murder, the officer-in-charge of Tala police station and ex-principal of the medical establishment, the governor said, "It reflects the institutional criminality, which seems to be rampant in various sectors, including police and healthcare." PTI
16:43 I'm back, posts J-K CM Omar Abdullah
Omar Abdullah posts this image on X, writing, "I'm back." The J-K CM is yet to change is X bio, it still reads as JKNC Vice President.
Abdullah took oath as the chief minister of the first elected government in the Union Territory since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
16:39 Victoria's Secret: The Gorgeous Angels Are Back
Six years.
That's how long it has been since the last Victoria's Secret show.
Faced with accusations of a lack of inclusivity when it came to body types and ageism, the brand took a beating on the popularity scale.
Adding fuel to the fire was its then marketing chief Ed Razek's belief that a transgender and plus size models could not be Victoria's Secret angels. And that Jeffrey Epstein -- who was convicted of sex trafficking -- was an adviser to Les Wexner, Victoria's Secret's former CEO.
Several stores were closed over last few years, leading this intimate wear brand towards a financial crisis.
Now, the show has returned, promising inclusivity and diversity.
16:34 Omar takes charge as J-K CM, holds meeting
JKNC vice president takes charge as the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir at the Secretariat and holds a meeting with secretaries of various departments. Abdullah took oath as the chief minister of the first elected government in the Union Territory since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
As Jammu and Kashmir turned another page in its troubled history, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office and secrecy to Abdullah and five ministers, including Surinder Choudhary from Jammu who is deputy chief minister.
Abdullah, who takes over as chief minister for a second term, is the third generation of the influential Abdullah family to occupy the office -- after his grandfather Sheikh Abdullah and father Farooq Abdullah.
16:16 MVA govt will keep Ladki Bahin, toll waiver: Aaditya
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday said that if the MVA returns to power in Maharashtra, it will not scrap the incumbent Mahayuti government's 'Ladki Bahin' scheme and the waiver of toll at Mumbai's entry points.
Addressing a press conference, Thackeray took dig at Maharashtra Chief Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar for presenting their government's report card earlier in the day, and said people of the state have now prepared their "deport card".
"Businesses and jobs have been deported from the state under the Mahayuti government," he alleged.
The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government will scrap incentives above and beyond the tender of the multi-billion dollar Dharavi Redevelopment project, he said.
The Adani Group, which is executing the Dharavi Redevelopment project, is being given 1,080 acres of Mumbai land, Thackeray claimed. The former Maharashtra minister alleged that in the guise of announcing several sops in the last few cabinets ahead of the polls, the government took decisions to benefit the Adani Group.
"Why did the government not take the decision of the Ladki Bahin scheme and toll waiver earlier? We will not scrap the scheme of Ladki Bahin and toll waiver. Instead we will enhance the amount (of financial aid given under the Ladki Bahin scheme)," Thackeray said.
Eligible women get Rs 1,500 per month of financial assistance under the Shinde government's flagship 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana'. The government waived toll for light motor vehicles entering Mumbai at all five booths starting October 14 midnight. On CM Shinde's charge that all projects were stalled by the previous MVA government, Thackeray said he was Urban Development Minister in the same dispensation for two-and-a-half years and still he is shamelessly talking about.
15:44 Ex-king Karan Singh to CM Omar: Hope your govt...
Senior Congress leader Dr Karan Singh on Wednesday expressed hope that the government formed by Omar Abdullah will be successful after he took oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
"It is great that free and fair elections were held without any violence... The people of J-K got the chance to present their political wish... I hope the government formed by Omar Abdullah is successful. Our next wish is statehood. Because J-K was not an ordinary state. It is the crown of India, and now it is not even a state, just a union territory," Singh told ANI.
"The seats of the Congress are very few, just 6. Farooq Abdullah has the majority even without them... There should be a stable government... These elections were held after a long time... They have a lot of challenges... The youth of J-K want jobs and businesses," he added.
Pic: Umar Ganie
15:05 Farooq's message to Omar...
"The state is full of challenges and I hope this government will do what it had promised in the election manifesto. It is a crown of thorns and may (almighty) Allah succeed him (Omar) and he fulfils the people's hope. This is my message," Farooq Abdullah said after the oath-taking ceremony at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre.
15:01 No 'green corridor': Omar's first message as CM
J-K CM Omar Abdullah's first post on X after he was sworn-in: "I have spoken to the DG @JmuKmrPolice that there is to be no "green corridor' or traffic stoppage when I move anywhere by road. I have instructed him to minimise public inconvenience & the use of sirens is to be minimal. The use of any stick waving or aggressive gestures is to be totally avoided. I'm asking my cabinet colleagues to follow the same example. In everything our conduct must be people friendly. We are here to serve the people & not to inconvenience them."
It is a crown of thorns and may Allah help him fulfil the hopes of people, National Conference president Farooq Abdullah said on Wednesday after his son Omar Abdullah took oath as the first chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Taking a cue from his grandfather, Zahir Abdullah, Omar Abdullah's son, said the new government's first priority is restoration of statehood. "The state is full of challenges and I hope this government will do what it had promised in the election manifesto It is a crown of thorns and may (almighty) Allah succeed him (Omar) and he fulfils the people's hope. This is my message," Farooq Abdullah told reporters after the oath-taking ceremony at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC).
14:48 If Modi Wants His 3rd Term To Work...
"To govern effectively, to legislate successfully, Modi must reach out to the Opposition. As long as he does not and he is showing no signs that he accepts the reality, the drift his fans are anguishing over will remain," cautions Aakar Patel.
A vandalised cycle shop in Bahraich
14:42 Bahraich violence: No internet for third day
Mobile internet and and broadband services remained suspended for the third day in a row in trouble-torn Maharajganj on Wednesday, impacting daily life and businesses, officials said.
However, the situation in and around the two is returning to normalcy with no untoward incident being reported since Tuesday, they said.
There was heavy police deployment in the district, particularly in the 20-km radius of Maharajganj town in the Mahsi tehsil where communal violence broke out on Sunday leading to the death of a man.
In view of the situation in Bahraich, which shares an international border with Nepal, the Sashastra Seema Bal has increased vigilance on the border and reached out to their counterparts, too, asking them to put a check on "unnecessary" movement of people, a senior officer said.
Ram Gopal Mishra, 22, was shot dead and about half a dozen people were injured in stone pelting and firing as communal violence broke out during a Durga idol immersion procession in Bahraich on Sunday. The incident prompted heavy security deployment in the area and a police crackdown, leading to the arrest of over 50 suspected rioters till Tuesday evening and the lodging of five separate FIRs over the violence and arson.
"No untoward incident has been reported since Tuesday. The situation is under control in the area that witnessed the violence on Sunday and Monday," a local police officer told PTI. The situation in other parts of the district is said to be normal, with open markets and people going about their business as usual.
However, the suspension of internet services for the third day in a row has impacted business, local trade body officer-bearers said, as the district remained virtually cut off. SSB's 42nd battalion Commandant Ganga Singh Udawat said that they were instructed by the force's DIG-IG headquarters to step up security at the border immediately after the Sunday incident.
"We have spoken to the Armed Police Force of Nepal and asked them to check any unnecessary movement of people across the India-Nepal border through Rupaidiha (Bahraich) and increase frisking there," Udawat told PTI.
The SSB officer said the to and fro movement at the border here usually goes up around the time of Dussehra, which is an important festival in Nepal. UP Udyog Vyapar Mandal's Bahraich chapter president Gauri Shankar Bhaniramka said the suspension of internet services has impacted the business in the district.
"Business worth crores has been impacted due to internet services' suspension," he said. The police said so far five FIRs have been lodged in connection with the violence, mostly against unidentified persons.
Searches for key accused Abdul Hamid, his sons Rinku alias Sarfaraz alias Salman, and Fahim were underway. It was in their house where Mishra was injured, an official said.
Meanwhile, physically disabled Satyavan Mishra (45) who was injured during the Sunday violence was on Tuesday evening referred to Lucknow for better treatment, a hospital official said. He was admitted to the medical college Bahraich at the district headquarters here, the official added.
14:27 Akasa Air's Delhi-Bengaluru flight receives bomb threat
Another day, another bomb threat.
An Akasa Air flight en route to Bengaluru returned to the national capital on Wednesday afternoon following a bomb threat, according to sources. The sources in the know said the flight QP1335 had more than 180 people onboard and landed safely at the Delhi airport. An emergency was declared at the airport for the aircraft after the bomb threat, they added. PTI
14:26 About the paper that the PM signed...
The answer to the our 13:51 post is that PM Modi is signing up for continued membership of the BJP.
The PM wrote, "Adding momentum to our endeavour of making a Viksit Bharat! As a @BJP4India Karyakarta, proud to become the first Sakriya Sadasya and launch the Sakriya Sadasyata Abhiyan today in the presence of our national President, Shri @JPNadda Ji. This is a movement which will further strengthen our Party at the grassroots and ensure effective contribution of our Party Karyakartas for national progress.
In order to be an Active Member, a Karyakarta has to register 50 members either at a single booth or in a Vidhan Sabha seat. Such Karyakartas will be eligible to contest elections for a Mandal Committee and above. At the same time, they will get many opportunities to work for the party in the times to come."
(L to R) Akhilesh, Rahul, Farooq, Priyanka, Molly Abdullah, Mehbooba
14:14 Will fight together for strengthening democracy, statehood: Kharge on J-K
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday expressed happiness over National Conference leader Omar Abdullah taking oath as chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and said the two parties will fight jointly to restore statehood.
Kharge was among a galaxy of INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and left leaders Prakash Karat and D Raja, DMK's Kanimozhi and NCP's Supriya Sule who attended the swearing-in ceremony in Srinagar.
"We are happy that our alliance partner became the chief minister and it is a big success for J-K. Today, democracy has been restored and we will fight together to strengthen it. We will keep fighting till J-K gets back the statehood," the Congress president said. PTI
14:03 Fadnavis: Mahayuti's Maharashtra CM face is...
In the run-up to the Maharashtra assembly elections, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the ruling Mahayuti does not need to announce the candidate for the chief ministerial post, as Eknath Shinde has already been designated by the alliance for the Chief Minister's post.
Addressing a press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis said, "The Mahayuti doesn't have to announce a CM face, our chief minister is sitting here. I challenge Pawar Saheb to announce their face for the CM post."
Taking a dig at the opposition, Fadnavis said, "Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is not announcing CM face as they don't think their CM can come after elections."
Fadnavis further took a swipe at the MVA and said, "The alliance (Maha Vikas Aghadi) whose home minister went to jail for accepting a bribe of Rs 100 crore, who planted bombs outside a businessman's house, who were picking up journalists and putting them behind bars, are telling us about the law and order situation. Nirbhaya Squad vehicles were being used to escort their leaders in their government. These people who were the most careless about women's safety and security should not teach us how to keep our Nari Shakti safe."
Fadnavis added, "We have announced all the schemes, made all the financial provisions and budget for those schemes and not only this, but we will also announce some new schemes and benefits for everyone in our manifesto."
"I assure you that all the schemes and promises announced by us will have full support of financial provision and no scheme will lack financial support from our side. Initially when we announced the Ladki Bahin Yojana, people from the opposition were claiming that money would not be deposited in the accounts, but till now at least 4 to 5 instalments have been deposited in the accounts of more than 2.5 crore beneficiaries of our state," he said.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also spoke at the press conference and said, "Our two years of work and performance is the face of our alliance. The MVA should announce their face as the leader of the opposition."
13:51 What is the PM signing?
PM Narendra Modi today signed a paper in the presence of BJP president JP Nadda, saying, "Adding momentum to our endeavour of making a Viksit Bharat!"
What is the document about?
13:37 Omar chooses former BJP leader as his deputy
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday chose party leader Surender Choudhary from Nowshera in Jammu as his deputy, saying he did so to give a voice to people of the region and make his government inclusive.
"Our endeavour will be to take everyone along," the National Conference leader told reporters after being sworn in.
Five ministers -- Sakina Masood (Itoo), Javed Dar, Javed Rana, Surinder Choudhary and Satish Sharma -- also took the oath of office.
There are three vacancies and 'they will gradually be filled', Abdullah said.
He said Choudhary -- a former member of the People's Democratic Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party who emerged a giant killer when he defeated BJP's J-K president Ravinder Raina from Nowshera by 7,819 votes -- was chosen as deputy chief minister so people of Jammu do not feel left out from the government.
"I had said that we will not allow Jammu to feel that they do not have a voice or representatives in this government. I have chosen a deputy chief minister from Jammu so that the people of Jammu feel that this government is as much theirs as it is of the rest," he said.
In the 2014 assembly elections, Raina won the Nowshera seat by defeating Choudhary, who was then fighting on a PDP ticket, by a margin of over 10,000 votes.
Choudhary resigned from the PDP in 2022 to join the BJP before ending his over a year-long association with the party to join the NC in July last year. -- PTI
13:05 Standing on Pak soil, India's message on terrorism
In a thinly veiled message to Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said cooperation in areas like trade, energy and connectivity is unlikely to flourish if activities across borders are characterised by terrorism, extremism and separatism.
In his address at a conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Jaishankar also asserted that cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality and that it should recognise the territorial integrity and sovereignty of nations.
The external affairs minister led the Indian delegation at the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit in Islamabad which was chaired by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Jaishankar said trust was key for cooperation and the SCO member nations can benefit immensely if the grouping moves ahead collectively. He said cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality.
"It should recognise territorial integrity and sovereignty. It must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices, especially of trade and transit," he said, in remarks seen as an indirect reference to China's assertive behaviour on key issues. PTI
12:59 MVA has anti-development vision: Maharashtra CM
Ahead of the Maharashtra assembly polls, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday accused the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) of working with an "anti-development vision". Shinde was addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai along with Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar and Union minister Ramdas Athawale. The Mahayuti allies presented a "report card" of the government's work in the last two years.
Pawar said their opponents were baffled by the tremendous response to their government's schemes, like 'Ladki Bahin' for providing financial assistance to women.
Shinde, Fadnavis and Pawar also accused the opposition of creating a "fake narrative". The ruling Mahayuti alliance leaders were working as a team for the common man, Shinde said, adding that the opposition MVA was working with an "anti-development vision". The MVA comprises the Congress, Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) and Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP).
12:55 Varanasi touched my soul: US envoy Garcetti
US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti recently visited Varanasi, exploring its ghats and temples, and witnessed the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The US Ambassador was deeply moved by the Ganga Aarti, and said that the aarti "was more than just a ceremony; it was a beautiful reminder of how tradition shapes us." Garcetti posted photos of his trip to Varansi on X and wrote, "Namaste Varanasi! I'm excited to finally visit the "City of Light." Looking forward to exploring the beautiful ghats, ancient temples, and timeless traditions of this vibrant city."
12:44 I'm not corrupt, was jailed by BJP: Kejriwal at rally
AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday launched his party's 'Jan Sampark' campaign ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections. As part of the campaign, AAP workers will reach out to Delhiites with a letter from Kejriwal telling people the "truth" behind his arrest and that of other party leaders in corruption cases.
"I have prepared a letter and our workers will go door to door with this letter till October 29," said Kejriwal.
"I am not corrupt, I was sent to jail by the BJP to stop the AAP government's work for the people of Delhi," he said.
Reading the letter, the former chief minister said, "They arrested me and kept me in jail for five months. They did it to stop the facilities I am giving you and other work." PTI
12:30 Ujjwala Raut: Once a supermodel always a supermodel!
Designer Abhishek Sharma blended glam with earthy vibes with his collection Trin at the at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI. Think intricate ornamentation inspired by fields, using metal couching, heat-textured fabrics and sustainable raffia fibre.
And supermodel Ujjwala Raut showed it off!
12:24 CM must make sacrifices on seat-sharing: Maha BJP
Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Wednesday said Chief Minister Eknath Shinde should be willing to make "sacrifices", in terms of seat-sharing for the assembly polls, like the BJP has done to keep the alliance intact.
The comments come a day after the Election Commission announced the schedule for polls to 288 seats in the state assembly. Voting is scheduled on November 20 and the counting will take place on November 23.
"Chief Minister Eknath Shinde must remain open-minded and be willing to make sacrifices. We, too, have made sacrifices to uphold the alliance. It is evident that the BJP aims to contest the seats we previously held," Bawankule told ABP Majha news channel in Nagpur. As the dominant party in the alliance, it is only natural for the BJP to seek more seats," he said.
Asked if Union Home Minister Amit Shah reportedly stated that the BJP "sacrificed" the CM's post while forging an alliance with Shinde-led Shiv Sena, Bawankule said, "I do not know what Union minister Amit Shah said to Shinde. It is true that the chief minister holds the highest position and represents the government." He said they have urged Shinde that as the larger party, BJP should have a bigger share for contesting seats. It is impossible to measure who made greater "sacrifices", the BJP leader said.
"As the chief minister, he could have expected more seats to contest in the assembly polls. However, it is not feasible to enter the elections with tension within the alliance. Our stance is that we should be able to contest the seats we have previously won," Bawankule said.
There is no point in demanding more seats to contest for the sake of numbers, he said.
Asked about the agenda of BJP leaders' meeting in New Delhi scheduled on Wednesday, Bawankule said, "We will discuss the candidates and the seats we want to contest. There are some seats that we lost by a thin margin in the 2019 assembly elections."
There will not be any discussion on the seats won by the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar-headed NCP in today's meeting, he said. The BJP has conducted a detailed survey for Maharashtra and based on it, the discussion will take place in Delhi, he added.
Omar Abdullah offers prayers at his grandfather's mazhar
12:09 Unemployment in J-K is our top priority: NC
National Conference leader Sheikh Bashir Ahmad on Wednesday said that the new government in Jammu and Kashmir will fulfill people's expectations.
He stated that unemployment and inflation are major issues in the valley and that Article 370 must be restored.
"After ten years, a government that will represent Jammu and Kashmir is being formed. There has been presidential rule for five years. People were suppressed by bureaucracy. J-K has witnessed a lot. We hope that we fulfill all the expectations of the people. Unemployment will be the top priority. The youth has no opportunities. Prices have been skyrocketing. Along with that, there are so many issues. It is a border state. Peace must be established here. We will work together for it," said the NC leader.
Speaking on the demand for restoring statehood, he said, "The day BJP took away the statehood, they mentioned that it will be restored. If they empathise with people, then, it must be done. We will push for this demand. J-K's land and jobs were secure under Article 370. We will fight for it."
"The people who have been jailed without trial must also be freed," he added.
Clearing air over any dispute with the Congress party, he said, "There is no confrontation between Congress and NC. Congress is with us. There is no major issue. Small things will be resolved."
11:44 Papa kehte hain...
Just before Omar Abdullah went up on stage to take oath as the chief minister of J-K, he met all the INDIA leaders and Opposition leader Mehbooba Mufti. As he went back on to the stage he must've remembered something to ask/tell his dad, Farooq Abdullah, also a former chief minister. Here's the image alongside.
The INDIA bloc leaders present on the occasion include, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, D Raja, Akhilesh Yadav, Mallikarjun Kharge, Supriya Sule, Kanimozhi and Prakash Karat
11:36 Omar Abdullah takes oath as J-K CM
Omar Abdullah takes oath as Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister.
The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre in Srinagar and the oath of office to Abdullah along with his council of ministers was administered by J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Security has been heightened outside the residence of Omar Abdullah in Srinagar.
The Congress-National Conference secured 48 seats, with the NC winning 42 and the Congress only six seats in the Jammu Kashmir assembly elections.
This will be the first elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the former state into two Union Territories.
11:23 Pak PM welcomes Jaishankar to SCO Summit
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomed EAM Dr S Jaishankar at the venue of the SCO Summit in Islamabad. EAM is in Pakistan to participate in the 23rd Meeting of SCO Council of Heads of Government.
11:03 Siddique killers learnt to shoot via YouTube videos
Shooters involved in the killing of NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique learnt to handle firearms by watching videos on YouTube at a rented house in Kurla area in Mumbai, officials said on Wednesday.
Baba Siddique (66), a former Congress leader who had joined the Nationalist Congress Party earlier this year, was waylaid by three persons in Mumbai's Nirmal Nagar area, just outside his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique's office, and shot on Saturday night.
The Mumbai police's crime branch, which is investigating the case, during the interrogation of the accused persons found that suspected shooter Shivkumar Gautam, who is on the run, had learnt to handle guns during the celebratory firings at weddings in Uttar Pradesh, an official said.
During the interrogation of the arrested accused - Gurmail Singh and Dharmaraj Kashyap - it also came to light that Gautam was hired as the "main shooter", as he had the knowledge of handling firearms, he said.
Kashyap and Singh were trained in shooting by Gautam at a rented house in Kurla, where they did "dry practice" (shooting without bullets), he said. They learnt loading and unloading the weapon by watching YouTube videos for nearly four weeks, as they could not find an open space for practice, the official said.
One of the alleged co-conspirators, Shubham Lonkar, was on police radar till September 24, after he was questioned in June in connection with an incident of firing outside actor Salman Khan's residence in Bandra in April as the involvement of Lawrence Bishnoi gang was suspected.
Shubham Lonkar had been arrested in January in an Arms Act case registered at Akot police station in Maharashtra's Akola district but he later got bail. Police had recovered more than ten firearms in that case, an official said.
10:58 D Raja wishes Omar success
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) Vice President Omar Abdullah to take oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir today. CPI leader D Raja says, "On behalf of my party, I wish him success as CM. This will be a new beginning for Jammu and Kashmir."
10:54 Omar swearing-in: Rahul, Priyanka arrive in Srinagar
Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrived in Srinagar to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah on Tuesday.
Posters were put up outside Srinagar airport to welcome Lok Sabha LoP Congress leader Rahul Gandhi earlier this morning.
Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony for Omar Abdullah on Tuesday, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav expressed support for the alliance with the sentiment of 'Unity is INDIA.'
10:34 Rahul, Priyanka in Srinagar
Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrive in Srinagar to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Omar Abdullah as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. That's a screenshot of their convoy making its way through Srinagar.
10:21 Akhilesh arrives in Srinagar
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav is in Srinagar to attend the swearing-in ceremony of J&K CM-designate Omar Abdullah, seen here with Farooq Abdullah as well.
File pic
10:08 Canadian Air Force plane ferries stranded AI pax to Chicago
Canadian Air Force plane ferries stranded passengers of Air India flight from Iqaluit airport to Chicago.
The Air India plane from Delhi to Chicago was diverted to the airport in Canada on Tuesday following a bomb threat, according to an airline official.
"Flight AI127 operating from Delhi to Chicago on October 15, 2024, was the subject of a security threat posted online and, as a precautionary measure, has landed at Iqaluit Airport in Canada. The aircraft and passengers are being re-screened as per the laid down security protocol. Air India has activated agencies at the airport to assist the passengers until such time that their journey can resume," the Air India stated.
The airlines further said that Air India notes that it and other local airlines have been subject to a number of threats in recent days.
10:05 Markets fall in early trade amid foreign fund outflows
Market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Wednesday amid unabated foreign fund outflows and tracking a weak trend in global markets. The BSE Sensex went down by 240.75 points to 81,579.37 in early trade. The NSE Nifty declined 62.7 points to 24,994.65.
From the 30 Sensex firms, Mahindra & Mahindra, Nestle, UltraTech Cement, Tata Consultancy Services, Kotak Mahindra Bank and IndusInd Bank were the major laggards. HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finserv, Asian Paints and Sun Pharma were among the gainers.
09:46 Waiting for Omar
A visual from the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar where JKNC Vice President Omar Abdullah will take oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir today.
09:38 Being CM of UT has its own challenges: Omar
Ahead of his oath-taking ceremony as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah said on Wednesday that he "look forward" to working in cooperation with government of India but being the CM of a Union Territory has its own challenges.
While talking to ANI, Omar reiterated on statehood status to Jammu and Kashmir.
"I have some strange distinctions. I was the last chief minister to serve a full six-year term. Now I'll be the first chief minister of the Union territory of J-K. The last distinction, as in the one of serving six years, I'm quite happy about. Being a CM of a Union Territory is a different matter altogether. It has its own challenges. I hope that the status of a union territory is a temporary one. We look forward to working in cooperation with government of India to resolve the people's problems and the best way to do that would be to start by restoring statehood to J-K," Omar Abdullah said.
Further, he said asserted that the people of J-K has gone through difficult times and they have many expectations from this government.
He said, "Jammu Kashmir has gone through difficult times. People have many expectations and our challenge is to live up to them. We have a lot to do. We have to give people the hope that this is their government and they will be heard. They were not being heard for the last 5-6 years. It will be our responsibility to listen to them and act on it."
Omar Abdullah is set to take oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar today.
The oath-taking ceremony will be held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar and the oath of office to Abdullah along with his council of ministers will be administered by J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Posters have been put up outside Srinagar airport to welcome Lok Sabha LoP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who along with other INDIA bloc leaders like Akhilesh Yadav, Supriya Sule, Prakash Karat, Kanimozhi will attend the oath-taking ceremony of Omar.
09:27 Omar offers prayers at Sheikh Abdullah's grave
Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, Jammu and Kashmir CM-designate Omar Abdullah on Wednesday offered floral tributes at the Mazar-e-Anwar of "Sher-e-Kashmir" Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, in Srinagar.
Omar Abdullah's grandfather, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, was the first Prime Minister of JK after its accession to India and later served as Chief Minister.
Omar's father Farooq Abdullah has been the CM of the erstwhile state thrice.
Speaking after he offered prayers Omar Abdullah said his government has a lot to do for the people of the region.
"We have a lot to do. We have to give people the hope that this is their government and they will be heard. They were not being heard for the last 5-6 years. It will be our responsibility to listen to them and act on it,." he said"I have some strange distinctions. I was the last chief minister to serve a full six-year term. Now I'll be the first chief minister of the Union territory of J&K. The last distinction, as in the one of serving six years, I'm quite happy about...I hope that the status of a union territory is a temporary one. We look forward to working in cooperation with government of India to resolve the people's problems and the best way to do that would be to start by restoring statehood to J&K," he added.
The oath-taking ceremony will be held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar and the oath of office to Abdullah along with his council of ministers will be administered by J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
09:05 Canadian Trade Minister assures businesses to support commercial ties with India
Amidst an unprecedented diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Canadian Trade Minister has assured the country's business community that they are committed to supporting the well-established commercial ties between the two countries.
Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, made these remarks on Tuesday as tensions between India and Canada escalated after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday accused the Indian government of supporting criminal activities targeting Canadian citizens.
India on Monday expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Ottawa. Canada, however, said the Indian diplomats were expelled.
Ng also said that 'the Government of Canada remains open to a dialogue with India and we look forward to continuing our valued relationship'.
"I want to reassure our business community that our government remains fully committed to supporting the well-established commercial ties between Canada and India," Mary Ng, the minister of export promotion, international trade and economic development, said in a statement.
"Our Trade Commissioner Service will continue to assist and provide resources to Canadian companies operating in India," she said as India in an unprecedented step not only recalled its high commissioner from Ottawa but also expelled six of the Canadian diplomats from New Delhi.
"Let me be clear: Canada stands firmly by its businesses. We will work closely with all Canadian enterprises engaged with India to ensure these important economic connections remain strong," she said.
"However, we must consider our economic interests with the need to protect Canadians and uphold the rule of law. We will not tolerate any foreign government threatening, extorting, or harming Canadian citizens on our soil. We urge the government of India to respect the same principles of law and justice that guide our actions," Ng said.
"The Government of Canada remains open to a dialogue with India and we look forward to continuing our valued relationship," said the minister.
According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, Canada and India achieved a bilateral trade relationship that reached $8.27 billion in fiscal year 20203 and $5.3 billion during April-November 2023. -- PTI
Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, made these remarks on Tuesday as tensions between India and Canada escalated after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday accused the Indian government of supporting criminal activities targeting Canadian citizens.
India on Monday expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Ottawa. Canada, however, said the Indian diplomats were expelled.
Ng also said that 'the Government of Canada remains open to a dialogue with India and we look forward to continuing our valued relationship'.
"I want to reassure our business community that our government remains fully committed to supporting the well-established commercial ties between Canada and India," Mary Ng, the minister of export promotion, international trade and economic development, said in a statement.
"Our Trade Commissioner Service will continue to assist and provide resources to Canadian companies operating in India," she said as India in an unprecedented step not only recalled its high commissioner from Ottawa but also expelled six of the Canadian diplomats from New Delhi.
"Let me be clear: Canada stands firmly by its businesses. We will work closely with all Canadian enterprises engaged with India to ensure these important economic connections remain strong," she said.
"However, we must consider our economic interests with the need to protect Canadians and uphold the rule of law. We will not tolerate any foreign government threatening, extorting, or harming Canadian citizens on our soil. We urge the government of India to respect the same principles of law and justice that guide our actions," Ng said.
"The Government of Canada remains open to a dialogue with India and we look forward to continuing our valued relationship," said the minister.
According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, Canada and India achieved a bilateral trade relationship that reached $8.27 billion in fiscal year 20203 and $5.3 billion during April-November 2023. -- PTI
Photo: @JKNC_/X
08:57 Omar to take oath today, INDIA leaders reach Srinagar
Leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders including Akhilesh Yadav, Prakash Karat, Supriya Sule and Kanimozhi have arrived in Srinagar to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah.
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) shared pictures of leaders in a post on X.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav; Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar's working president Supriya Sule; Communist Party of India-Marxist central committee's interim leader Prakash Karat; Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam deputy general secretary Kanimozhi; CPI general secretary D Raja arrived in Srinagar to witness the swearing-in ceremony.
'India Block (sic) leaders @yadavakhilesh, @supriya_sule, Prakash Karat, @KanimozhiDMK , @ComradeDRaja, and others have arrived in Srinagar for tomorrow's oath-taking ceremony with Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister designate @OmarAbdullah !' read the post by JKNC.
Abdullah is set to take oath as the new chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir today.
This will be the first elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the reorganisation of the former state into two Union Territories.
The 90 seats in the region were contested in a three-phase election, with the results announced on October 8.
NC-Congress alliance secured 48 seats, with the NC leading the alliance to victory, as the Congress won only six seats. -- ANI
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) shared pictures of leaders in a post on X.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav; Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar's working president Supriya Sule; Communist Party of India-Marxist central committee's interim leader Prakash Karat; Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam deputy general secretary Kanimozhi; CPI general secretary D Raja arrived in Srinagar to witness the swearing-in ceremony.
'India Block (sic) leaders @yadavakhilesh, @supriya_sule, Prakash Karat, @KanimozhiDMK , @ComradeDRaja, and others have arrived in Srinagar for tomorrow's oath-taking ceremony with Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister designate @OmarAbdullah !' read the post by JKNC.
Abdullah is set to take oath as the new chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir today.
This will be the first elected government in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the reorganisation of the former state into two Union Territories.
The 90 seats in the region were contested in a three-phase election, with the results announced on October 8.
NC-Congress alliance secured 48 seats, with the NC leading the alliance to victory, as the Congress won only six seats. -- ANI
08:53 US backs Canada's allegations, asks India to...
Terming Canada's allegations 'extremely serious', the United States has asked India to 'cooperate' with Ottawa's investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India and Canada have been dealing with an unprecedented diplomatic crisis after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Nijjar in Canada.
India has rejected Canada's allegations, terming it 'absurd' and 'politically motivated'.
"We have made clear that the Canadian allegations are extremely serious and they need to be taken seriously and we wanted to see the Government of India cooperate with Canada and its investigation. But, India has chosen an alternate path...," US Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a press briefing on Tuesday.
He emphasised the need for cooperation between the two countries, stating, "I do not have any further comment beyond what the two countries have said publicly. We have urged them to cooperate and will continue to urge them to do so."
When questioned about the status of these allegations, Miller responded, "I will defer to those two countries to speak to the relevant status of the matter."
However, Miller reassured that the US-India bilateral relationship remain strong, citing multiple areas of collaboration.
"India continues to be an incredibly strong partner of the United States. We've worked with them on a number of matters including our shared vision for a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific, and when we have concerns, we have the kind of relationship where we can take those concerns to them and have very frank, candid conversations about those concerns, and that's what we've been doing," he said. -- ANI
India and Canada have been dealing with an unprecedented diplomatic crisis after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing of Nijjar in Canada.
India has rejected Canada's allegations, terming it 'absurd' and 'politically motivated'.
"We have made clear that the Canadian allegations are extremely serious and they need to be taken seriously and we wanted to see the Government of India cooperate with Canada and its investigation. But, India has chosen an alternate path...," US Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a press briefing on Tuesday.
He emphasised the need for cooperation between the two countries, stating, "I do not have any further comment beyond what the two countries have said publicly. We have urged them to cooperate and will continue to urge them to do so."
When questioned about the status of these allegations, Miller responded, "I will defer to those two countries to speak to the relevant status of the matter."
However, Miller reassured that the US-India bilateral relationship remain strong, citing multiple areas of collaboration.
"India continues to be an incredibly strong partner of the United States. We've worked with them on a number of matters including our shared vision for a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific, and when we have concerns, we have the kind of relationship where we can take those concerns to them and have very frank, candid conversations about those concerns, and that's what we've been doing," he said. -- ANI
01:12 Additional district magistrate found dead at his quarters in Kerala
A senior district administration official in Kerala was found dead at his official residence here on Tuesday, a day after facing corruption allegations from the district panchayat president during his farewell ceremony.
The police said additional district magistrate, Kannur, Naveen Babu K, who was supposed to reach his home district of Pathanamthitta on Tuesday morning to take charge as ADM there, was found hanging in his quarters.
At his farewell ceremony organised by his colleagues and attended by district collector Arun K Vijayan, the ADM faced allegations of corruption from district panchayat president PP Divya, who allegedly attended the event without an official invitation.
The death of Babu, allegedly by suicide, has sparked a row in the state, with the opposition Congress seeking the resignation of Divya, who is the ruling CPI-M's Kannur district panchayat president.
The Congress leaders alleged that the humiliation Babu suffered from Divya during his send-off ceremony was the reason for his extreme step. They demanded that Divya be arrested. -- PTI
00:40 Man, maid held hostage, robbed at knifepoint in Delhi; four apprehended
Three people were arrested and a juvenile apprehended for allegedly robbing a man and his domestic help at knifepoint in his house in north Delhi's Sarai Rohilla area, the police said on Tuesday.
The accused were identified as Jaskirat alias Aman (25), Mukul (22), Arjun alias Nonnu (22) and a 17-year-old boy, all living in the same area as the victim man, they said.
Deputy commissioner of police (North) Raja Banthia said a PCR call was received on October 8 regarding robbery in a house in Sarai Rohilla.
The man said at around 1.20 pm, two persons allegedly barged into his house at knife point and tied his and the maid's mouth and hands with cloth, and robbed cash and jewellery worth Rs 12 lakh, Banthia said.
When the CCTV footage of the area was checked, two accused Mukul and the juvenile were identified.
"With the help of technical surveillance and local enquiry, Mukul was arrested on October 10," the DCP said.
Jaskirat, the alleged main conspirator, was arrested on Mukul's instance and Rs 3 lakh looted cash was recovered from him, the officer said.
Subsequently, the other two accused were also apprehended from the same area and cash of Rs 2,79,000 was found in their possession. -- PTI
Former CBI director P C Sharma (right)/File image
00:36 CBI ex-chief PC Sharma, who steered Abu Salem's extradition, dies
Former CBI director P C Sharma, who played a key role in the extradition of Mumbai bomb blast accused Abu Salem from Portugal, died on Tuesday, his family said.
He was 82.
The former IPS officer was admitted in a private hospital three days back where he breathed his last at 7.45 pm.
The cremation will take place on Wednesday, a family member said.
An IPS officer of the 1966-batch Assam cadre, Sharma became the chief of the CBI on April 30, 2001, at a time when white-collar crime was on the rise.
He served the agency until December 6, 2003. Recognisable by his bamboo cap, which he wore at every public appearance as a symbol of his connection to Assam, Sharma had a distinguished career in law enforcement.
He first joined the CBI in 1978 as a superintendent of police.
He was called back by the Assam government to handle the agitation in 1982.
In Assam, he was given sensitive position of Deputy Inspector General (border and central range) and was tasked to identify and deport unauthorised intruding foreigners. -- PTI
File image
00:32 Prohibitory orders at night near IB in J-K's Samba
Authorities on Tuesday imposed prohibitory orders on the movement of people at night within a two-kilometer area from the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district, officials said.
Exercising powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, Samba district magistrate Rajesh Sharma ordered that no individual or group shall move in the designated areas from 10 pm to 5 am.
"If movement is necessary, individuals must present valid identity cards to BSF or police authorities," he said in the order.
Any violation of this order will be addressed according to the law, he added.
The order is effective immediately and will remain in force for sixty days from the date of issuance, unless withdrawn or rescinded earlier. -- PTI
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