LIVE
Wed, 08 January 2025
4 people killed in stampede at Tirupati
Timeline Refresh
Cops struggle to control the huge number of devotees at Tirupati./ANI on X
22:23 4 people killed in stampede at Tirupati
Four people died and several feared hut in a stampede that occurred at Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens on Wednesday.
The mishap occurred at the Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to officials over the phone about the treatment being provided to the injured in the incident.
The CM has ordered higher officials to go to the scene of the incident and take relief measures to ensure that the injured get better treatment, said the CMO.
More detail soon. -- ANI
Representational image
21:56 ISRO's satellite docking experiment put off again
ISRO on Wednesday once again postponed the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) involving two satellites, citing excessive drift during a crucial manoeuvre.
The SpaDEx was supposed to take place on January 9.
'While making a manoeuvre to reach 225 m between satellites the drift was found to be more than expected, post non-visibility period. The planned docking for tomorrow is postponed. Satellites are safe. Stay tuned for updates,' ISRO said in a post on X.
This is the second time when the ISRO postponed the SpaDEx. The space agency had initially planned it on January 7, which was cancelled and postponed to Thursday, which again got cancelled.
The Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) is a pivotal project, which is designed to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking using two small satellites, the space agency said.
"SpaDeX will serve as a milestone in advancing India's capabilities in space docking, a critical technology for future space missions including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary missions," ISRO said in an explainer.
Malayalam actress Maala Parvathi/ANI Photo
21:44 Malayalam actress seeks action over offensive social media comments
Malayalam actress Maala Parvathi has lodged a complaint with the police against an individual who allegedly made offensive comments about her on social media, as well as a YouTube channel that created a video using still photos from her movies.
Based on the complaint filed by the Koode actress, the cyber police here registered a case against the accused last month under Section 67 of the IT Act, and procedures are underway to collect details from YouTube authorities, sources said.
Maala Parvathi stated that she had already deposed before the magistrate and given her statement.
"After receiving the order from the court, it will be sent to YouTube seeking the accused's details. The case will stand only if they hand over the accused's details officially," she said.
Parvathi also mentioned that she had replied to the individual who made the offensive remarks on social media, informing him that she had filed a police complaint against him.
In her complaint, she also requested action against the YouTube channel that had created a video using still photographs of her from films in which she had appeared.
The development comes a day after actress Honey Rose filed a sexual harassment complaint against prominent businessman Boby Chemmanur, who was taken into custody by the police from Wayanad on Wednesday. -- PTI
21:32 Suspected HMPV case detected in Gujarat
A suspected case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection has been reported in Himatnagar city of Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, officials said Wednesday.
The blood sample of the patient -- an eight-year-old boy, who is currently on a ventilator in the Intensive Care Unit of a private hospital -- has been sent to a government hospital for confirmation, they said.
"The case is under screening. A sample has been sent to a government lab for confirmation, and the result is awaited," Sabarkantha district collector Ratankanvar Gadhavicharan said.
The boy tested positive in the test of a private laboratory, but the health authorities want to double check and have sent his sample to a government lab for confirmation, doctors at the private hospital said.
"The patient, who was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday morning, showed signs of severe pneumonia after which his blood sample was sent for examination to a private laboratory which confirmed that he was infected with HMPV," Dr Imtiaz Memon of Baby Care Hospital said.
After he tested positive, the district health authorities were informed and they sent another sample to a government hospital for cross checking, he said.
The child is on a ventilator in the hospital's ICU, he added.
This comes two days after Gujarat reported its first confirmed case of HMPV infection in a two-month-old infant.
The baby tested positive in a report from a private laboratory on December 26 but the case was reported late to the health department. -- PTI
Pic Courtesy: Anupam Kher/X
21:14 Pritish Nandy, editor extraordinaire, passes away
Pritish Nandy, under whose editorship the Illustrated Weekly of India blossomed into the most vibrant news publication of its time, passed away today. He would have been 78 on January 15.
An award-winning poet and a film producer, Nandy redefined the rules of journalism with his path-breaking interviews and scoops.
For those of us who have worked with him, it feels like a personal loss.
Actor Anupam Kher posted a touching tribute on X to his dear friend.
'Deeply deeply saddened and shocked to know about the demise of one of my dearest and closest friends #PritishNandy! Amazing poet, writer, filmmaker and a brave and unique editor/journalist! He was my support system and a great source of strength in my initial days in Mumbai.
'We shared lots of things in common. He was also one of the most fearless people I had come across. Always Larger than life. I learnt so many things from him.
'Off-late we didn't meet often. But there was a time when we were inseparable! I will never forget when he surprised me by putting me on the cover of Filmfare and more importantly #TheIllustratedWeekly. He was the true definition of !
'I will miss you and our times together my friend. Rest well. #HeartBroken.'
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan/File image
20:46 Actor Varun Dhawan buys 2 luxury flats in Mumbai for Rs 87 cr: Square Yards
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan has purchased two luxury apartments, one with his mother Karuna David Dhawan and another with his wife Natasha, in Juhu, Mumbai, Square Yards said on Wednesday.
Real estate consultant Square Yards said it has reviewed registration documents.
Dhawan acquired both apartments within the same residential project.
"He purchased one property on the 6th floor in collaboration with his mother, Karuna David Dhawan, and another on the 7th floor with his wife, Natasha. The combined total of both acquisitions amounts to Rs 86.92 crore," Square Yards said in a statement.
The apartments are in Twenty by D'DECOR, a premium residential project in Juhu, known for its serene beaches, high-profile celebrity residences, and vibrant lifestyle, the consultant said.
As per Square Yards, the apartment purchased jointly with his mother comes at a price of Rs 42.40 crore.
It features a carpet area of 429.06 square metre (4,617 sq ft) and a built-up area of 471.96 square metre (5,069 sq ft).
In a separate transaction, Square Yards reported that Dhawan and his wife Natasha acquired the 7th-floor apartment for Rs 44.52 crore in the same residential project.
This property offers a larger carpet area of 474.92 square metre (5,112 sq ft) and a built-up area of 522.41 square metre (5,624 sq ft).
Both transactions were registered this month. -- PTI
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets his Maldives counterpart Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, in New Delhi/ANI Photo
20:22 India hands over defence equipment to Maldives
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral discussions with the Defence Minister of Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on Wednesday.
During the meeting, India handed over defence equipment and stores to the Maldives, as per the island nation's request.
Both sides comprehensively reviewed various aspects of bilateral defence and security cooperation and reasserted the firm commitment to work closely in realising the joint vision for the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, the ministry of external affairs said in a statement.
Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India's readiness to support the Maldives in capability enhancement for defence preparedness, including provisioning of defence platforms and assets to augment its capacities, as per its national priorities and in line with New Delhi's 'Neighborhood First' policy and the vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region). -- ANI
File image
19:35 Tricolour hoisted on 73-foot mast near India-China border in Arunachal
A tricolour on a 73-foot-tall mast now stands at Gorsam Chorten in Jemithang, the first administrative centre near the India-China border in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang district.
The flag was hoisted on Wednesday in the presence of over 200 locals and Indian Army personnel.
Organised jointly by the Army, the civil administration and local monks, the ceremony was led by Tawang Brigade Commander Brigadier Vipul Singh Rajput.
Zila parishad member Lek Norbu, Jemithang circle officer Deewan Mara, local village elders and school children attended the event, a statement said.
The flag was hoisted with full military honours by Army personnel, followed by the singing of the national anthem.
Beyond its symbolic importance as a national monument close to India's borders with China and Bhutan, the high-mast flag enhances the scenic Jemithang Valley's appeal to visitors, contributing to tourism development in the area, the statement said.
The project is part of broader development efforts in border areas, with plans to install more such flags at other key locations in the district in the future, it said.
The project was executed by the Tezpur-based Gajraj Corps and its Ball of Fire Division with the support of the Flag Foundation of India.
It is the second high-mast flag installed in the Tawang sector, following the one raised at the strategic Bum La Pass in January last year, it added. -- PTI
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri
19:30 Foreign secretary meets Taliban's FM in Dubai
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks with Afghanistan's acting foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai on Wednesday.
In the meeting, the Afghan side underlined its sensitivities to India's security concerns, according to an Indian readout.
India would consider engaging in development projects in the near future, in addition to the ongoing humanitarian assistance programme, it said.
"It was also agreed to promote the use of Chabahar port for supporting trade and commercial activities, including for the purpose of humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan," the ministry of external affairs said in the readout.
In response to the request from the Afghan side, India will provide further material support in the first instance to the health sector and for the rehabilitation of refugees, it said.
"The foreign secretary underlined India's historic friendship with the Afghan people and the strong people-to-people contacts between the two countries," the MEA said.
"In this context, he conveyed India's readiness to respond to the urgent developmental needs of the Afghan people," it said. -- PTI
File image
19:08 Dance bar raided in Maha's Panchgani, 21 arrested
As many as 21 persons have been arrested after women were found performing obscene dances at a hotel near the hill station of Panchgani in Maharashtra, the police said on Wednesday.
The owner of Hotel Hirabaug, located in Bhilar in Satara district, was among the accused, officials said.
A First Information Report was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Maharashtra Prohibition of Obscene Dance in Hotels, Restaurants, and Bar Rooms and Protection of Dignity of Women Act, 2016, as well as the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.
A raid was conducted on Tuesday after receiving information that women served as bar dancers at the hotel, said a release issued by the Satara police.
"Some 12 women, under the guise of singers and waitresses, wearing skimpy dresses were engaged in obscene dances in front of around 20 customers," it said.
Musical equipment, mobile phones and a car, worth more than Rs 25 lakh, were seized and further probe was on, the release said.
A police officer said they were probing from where these women were brought.
They women would be handed over to their relatives after counselling, he added. -- PTI
File image
18:42 Gold revisits Rs 80,000-mark on increased buying
Gold prices reclaimed the Rs 80,000-level in the national capital on Wednesday driven by increased buying from jewellers and stockists, according to the All India Sarafa Assocation.
The precious metal of 99.9 percent purity rose Rs 300 to touch nearly a one-month of Rs 80,000 per 10 grams.
It settled at Rs 79,700 per 10 grams in the previous session on Tuesday.
The price of gold of 99.5 percent purity climbed Rs 300 to Rs 79,600 per 10 grams on Wednesday.
The yellow metal finished at Rs 79,300 per 10 grams on Tuesday.
Extending its winning run for the third day, silver prices also jumped Rs 500 to hit almost a month high of Rs 92,500 per kg.
The white metal had closed at Rs 92,000 per kg in the previous market session.
Traders attributed the rise in increased demand from jewellers and retailers in local markets.
On the MCX, gold contracts for February delivery appreciated Rs 43 to Rs 77,574 per 10 grams.
Silver contracts for March delivery increased Rs 224, or 0.25 percent, to Rs 91,097 per kg in futures trade on the Multi Commodity Exchange on Wednesday. -- PTI
18:28 BSE Sensex top losers today
Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended marginally lower in a volatile session on Wednesday, as investors stayed on the sidelines ahead of the earnings season amid lower economic growth projections.
Besides, a depreciating rupee and persistent foreign fund outflows also dented sentiments.
However, buying in bellwether stocks TCS and Reliance Industries managed to restrict a steep decline in markets, traders said.
The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex fell 50.62 points or 0.06 percent to settle at 78,148.49.
During the day, it dropped 712.32 points or 0.91 percent to 77,486.79.
The NSE Nifty skidded 18.95 points or 0.08 percent to 23,688.95.
From the 30-share blue-chip pack, Adani Ports, UltraTech Cement, Larsen & Toubro, Sun Pharma, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, NTPC and State Bank of India were the major laggards.
File image
17:56 Elephant goes berserk during religious ceremony in Kerala, 23 injured
Twenty-three people were injured when a captive elephant ran amok during a religious ceremony at a mosque near Tirur on Wednesday.
Of the injured, one person is in critical condition after being picked up and tossed by the elephant, the police said.
The remaining 22 individuals suffered minor injuries in the stampede caused by panic-stricken people following the elephant's attack at around 12.30 am, an official at the Tirur police station said.
According to visuals of the incident, of the five elephants lined up for the ceremony, one became violent and charged toward the crowd of people gathered in front of it.
The elephant picked up one man with its tusk, twirled him around, and then tossed him away.
The elephant was eventually pacified and calmed down by its mahouts after some effort.
The police confirmed that the mosque had the necessary permissions to use elephants for the ceremony. -- PTI
Gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli/File image
17:38 HC grants 28-day furlough to gangster Arun Gawli
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay high court has granted a 28-day furlough to gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli, who is currently serving a life sentence in Nagpur for the 2007 murder of a Mumbai Shiv Sena corporator.
A division of Justices Nitin Sambre and Vrushali Joshi on Tuesday allowed the petition filed by Gawli, seeking his release on furlough.
His lawyer Mir Nagman Ali said Gawli approached the Nagpur bench of the high court, praying for his release as his application was earlier rejected by the deputy inspector general, prisons, (East division) Nagpur.
The DIG Prisons had rejected Gawli's petition stating the gangster's release may create a law and order situation.
However, Gawli's counsel told the court that his release on furlough on earlier occasions had not created any law and order situation.
Gawli's application also mentioned that the Maharashtra assembly elections were already over. -- PTI
File image
17:10 Delhi college, school get bomb threats, police rush teams
Two educational institutes in the national capital received bomb threat e-mails on Wednesday, Delhi Fire Services said.
"We received two different bomb threat calls from Lady Shree Ram College (sic) at 11.40 am. Another bomb threat call was received from Tagore International School in East of Kailash area at 11.17 am," an official said.
He said teams were immediately rushed to the site, but nothing suspicious was found.
A dog squad and bomb disposal squad were part of the teams rushed to the spot, a police officer said. -- PTI
16:56 Delhi police arrest private firm director for Rs 3.2 cr investment fraud
The Delhi police arrested the director of a private company for allegedly defrauding multiple individuals by promising high returns on their investments, officials said on Wednesday.
The arrest followed a probe into allegations of cheating and fund misappropriation amounting to Rs 3.2 crore, a statement issued by the Economic Offences Wing of the Delhi police said.
Based on a complaint lodged by Anil Kumar and others, the police registered a case on November 3, 2023, under various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC), including cheating and fraud.
The probe found that Rahul Kumar, the director of a private company, allegedly lured victims by promising monthly returns of 20-30 percent on their investments, the statement said.
"Rahul Kumar claimed the funds would be reinvested in a lucrative infrastructure project at Khurja in Uttar Pradesh.
Between July 2021 and May 2022, at least 18 victims were persuaded to sign five agreements with the company and collectively invest Rs 3.2 crore through online transfers and cash payments," it said, adding that the promised returns never materialised.
When the investors demanded their money back, Kumar issued cheques which bounced due to insufficient funds in the account, the statement said. -- PTI
16:20 'Temples' found in Firozabad, excavation underway
Authorities in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday began excavation at two sites after the purported discovery of 'ancient temples' there.
The digging was being carried out under police supervision, following appeals from Hindu right bodies.
One of the two sites, located near Mohammadi Masjid in the Kashmiri Gate area under Rasulpur Police Station, was discovered two days ago, police said.
Police reached out to local Muslim representatives after they were approached for action at the site by the Hindu right bodies.
Rasulpur Station Officer Anuj Kumar Singh said, "Following appeals from Hindu organisations, both communities were consulted, and work began peacefully."
Bajrang Dal district chief Mohan Bajrangi, present at the site, said the structure appeared to be a Shiv temple.
"Details about the idols and artifacts will emerge after the excavation is completed," he said.
Akeel Ahmed, a native of the area, said the area was part of farmland owned by Hindu families till about 60 years ago. It is believed several Hindu families left the place after an increase in the Muslim population.
Another 'temple' was discovered in Chishti Nagar's 60-foot Road area under Ramgarh Police Station on Monday evening.
Rajeev Sharma, president of the Vishva Hindu Parishad's Firozabad unit, along with his team, cleaned the place in the presence of the police and local Muslims.
Ramgarh SHO Sanjeev Dubey said about 50 years ago the area was dominated by Hindus and there was a temple.
"Now this area is Muslim dominated. The excavation work is on and there is communal harmony in the area," he said. -- PTI
15:42 1984 riots: Verdict in murder case against Sajjan Kumar likely on January 21
A Delhi court is likely to deliver on January 21 its verdict in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots murder case against former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar.
The case is linked to the alleged killings of two men in the Saraswati Vihar area during the riots.
Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, who was scheduled to pass the order on Wednesday, deferred the pronouncement.
"January 21 is the next date," the judge said.
Kumar, currently lodged in Tihar central jail, appeared before the court via videoconferencing.
The court had reserved the judgment after hearing the final arguments in the case related to the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son Tarundeep Singh on November 1, 1984.
Though the Punjabi Bagh police station initially registered the case, a special investigation team subsequently took over the investigation.
On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar, finding a 'prima facie' case against him.
According to the prosecution, a huge mob armed with deadly weapons, resorted to large-scale looting, arson and destruction of properties of Sikhs to avenge the assassination of former prime minister Indira Gandhi.
The mob attacked the house of the complainant, Jaswant Singh's wife, killing her husband and their son, apart from looting articles and setting their home ablaze, the prosecution alleged.
Putting Kumar on trial, the court found sufficient material to form a 'prima facie opinion that he was not only a participant but had also led the mob'. -- PTI
The case is linked to the alleged killings of two men in the Saraswati Vihar area during the riots.
Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, who was scheduled to pass the order on Wednesday, deferred the pronouncement.
"January 21 is the next date," the judge said.
Kumar, currently lodged in Tihar central jail, appeared before the court via videoconferencing.
The court had reserved the judgment after hearing the final arguments in the case related to the killings of Jaswant Singh and his son Tarundeep Singh on November 1, 1984.
Though the Punjabi Bagh police station initially registered the case, a special investigation team subsequently took over the investigation.
On December 16, 2021, the court framed charges against Kumar, finding a 'prima facie' case against him.
According to the prosecution, a huge mob armed with deadly weapons, resorted to large-scale looting, arson and destruction of properties of Sikhs to avenge the assassination of former prime minister Indira Gandhi.
The mob attacked the house of the complainant, Jaswant Singh's wife, killing her husband and their son, apart from looting articles and setting their home ablaze, the prosecution alleged.
Putting Kumar on trial, the court found sufficient material to form a 'prima facie opinion that he was not only a participant but had also led the mob'. -- PTI
15:19 Commenting on woman's body sexual harassment: HC
The Kerala high court has held that a comment on a woman's 'body structure' is a sexually coloured remark which would constitute penal offence of sexual harassment.
The ruling by Justice A Badharudeen came while dismissing a former Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) employee's plea to quash the sexual harassment case against him filed by a woman staffer of the same organisation.
The woman had alleged that the accused used vulgar language against her from 2013 onwards and then in 2016-17 began sending objectionable messages and voice calls.
Despite complaints against him to the KSEB and the police, he continued sending her objectionable messages, she had claimed.
Following her complaints, the accused was booked for the offences under sections 354A (sexual harassment) and 509 (insulting modesty of a woman) of the IPC and section 120(o) (causing nuisance through any means of communication by undesirable call, letter, writing, message) of the Kerala Police Act.
Seeking to quash the case, the accused claimed that mere reference that a person has a nice body structure could not be attributed to sexually coloured remarks within the ambit of section 354A and 509 of the IPC and section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act.
The prosecution and the woman, on the other hand, contended that the calls and messages of the accused carried sexually coloured remarks intended to harass her and outrage her modesty.
Agreeing with the prosecution's contentions, the Kerala high court said that prima facie, the ingredients to attract the offences under sections 354A and 509 of IPC and section 120 (o) of the Kerala Police Act 'are made out'.
'Having noticed the facts of the case, it is discernible that the prosecution case is specifically made out, prima facie, to attract the offences alleged to be committed. In the result, this Criminal Miscellaneous Case stands dismissed. Interim order, already granted, shall stand vacated,' the court said in its January 6 order. -- PTI
The ruling by Justice A Badharudeen came while dismissing a former Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) employee's plea to quash the sexual harassment case against him filed by a woman staffer of the same organisation.
The woman had alleged that the accused used vulgar language against her from 2013 onwards and then in 2016-17 began sending objectionable messages and voice calls.
Despite complaints against him to the KSEB and the police, he continued sending her objectionable messages, she had claimed.
Following her complaints, the accused was booked for the offences under sections 354A (sexual harassment) and 509 (insulting modesty of a woman) of the IPC and section 120(o) (causing nuisance through any means of communication by undesirable call, letter, writing, message) of the Kerala Police Act.
Seeking to quash the case, the accused claimed that mere reference that a person has a nice body structure could not be attributed to sexually coloured remarks within the ambit of section 354A and 509 of the IPC and section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act.
The prosecution and the woman, on the other hand, contended that the calls and messages of the accused carried sexually coloured remarks intended to harass her and outrage her modesty.
Agreeing with the prosecution's contentions, the Kerala high court said that prima facie, the ingredients to attract the offences under sections 354A and 509 of IPC and section 120 (o) of the Kerala Police Act 'are made out'.
'Having noticed the facts of the case, it is discernible that the prosecution case is specifically made out, prima facie, to attract the offences alleged to be committed. In the result, this Criminal Miscellaneous Case stands dismissed. Interim order, already granted, shall stand vacated,' the court said in its January 6 order. -- PTI
Representational image
14:40 Villagers in Maharashtra face sudden hair loss
People from several villages in Maharashtra's Buldhana district have complained of sudden hair loss leading to baldness within a few days, prompting the authorities to initiate testing of local water sources for possible contamination.
A health department team started a survey in the villages on Tuesday after the matter came to light. It has begun medical treatment of the affected people, Shegaon health officer Dr Deepali Bahekar told reporters.
As many as 30 persons from Kalvad, Bondgaon and Hingna villages in Shegaon taluka were found suffering from the hair loss problem and baldness during the survey conducted by the zilla parishad's health department, officials said.
The department has started medical treatment of the patients as per the symptoms, and the advice from skincare specialists is also being taken, Bahekar said on Tuesday.
Water samples from these villages were also being sent for tests to check for possible contamination, a zilla parishad health official said.
14:27 'Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama' to release in India on January 24
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, the 1993 Japanese-Indian anime film, is set to hit Indian theatres on January 24, the movie's distributors said on Wednesday.
The animated film was earlier scheduled to be released with new dubs in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu alongside its original English version on October 18, 2024 in the 4K format.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is distributed across India by Geek Pictures India, AA Films, and Excel Entertainment.
Arjun Aggarwal, co-founder of Geek Pictures India, said they are honoured to introduce 'this beloved epic' to fans and newcomers alike.
"By collaborating with the best in the industry and presenting it in multiple languages, we aim to ensure this timeless tale touches hearts across every corner of India.
"This is more than a film it's a celebration of our culture that bridges generations, showcasing India's heritage through the unparalleled artistry of Japanese anime," Aggarwal said in a statement.
Earlier, Geek Picture India said it rescheduled the film's release with the aim to make the film accessible in a significantly greater number of cinemas.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is directed by Yugo Sako, Ram Mohan and Koichi Sasaki.
In its earlier Hindi version, Ramayan star Arun Govil voiced the character of Ram, Namrata Sawhney voice starred as Sita and the late Amrish Puri lent his voice to Raavan.
Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha served as the narrator.
Renowned screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad, known for the Baahubali franchise, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and RRR, has overseen the creative adaptation of the new versions of the film.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama was screened in India at the 24th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 1993 but wasn't released in cinema halls.
It became popular with Indian audiences upon its re-runs on TV channels in the early 2000s. -- PTI
13:41 AAP leaders reach PM's residence, denied entry
Aam Aadmi Party leader Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with other party leaders, reached the Prime Minister's residence on Wednesday after trying to enter the Delhi CM' residence and challenging the Bharatiya Janata Party to show the PM's residence to the public.
The visit comes after BJP's remarks regarding the Chief Minister's residence, where they claimed of extravagant features like gold commodes and swimming pools in the Delhi CM's house.
After being denied entry, Saurabh Bharadwaj said, "We came here to conclude this argument of 'tera ghar, mera ghar'. We said that the PM residence and CM residence should both be shown to the people. So, we came here."
AAP MP Sanjay Singh also accused the BJP of making baseless allegations about luxury amenities at the chief minister's residence, including a 'golden toilet, swimming pool, and mini bar'.
Singh, speaking to the media, said that despite these claims being repeatedly made by the BJP, the party failed to substantiate them.
"The allegation that the BJP keeps making against us -- they should have shown us where is the 'golden toilet', where is the swimming pool, where is a mini bar," he said.
Singh further claimed that the AAP delegation, which had arrived to inspect the property, was prevented from entering the premises.
"But, they didn't allow us to see and stopped us outside 'Raj Mahal'. Now, we are heading back," he added, referring to the Prime Minister's official residence as 'Raj Mahal'.
Earlier, as the AAP Leaders got into a stand-off with police amid a row ooutside the chief minister's residence, Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj accused the BJP of 'running away' from the claims of extravagant amenities being present at the bungalow, saying that public should see the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. -- ANI
13:30 Sambhal court to hear Jama Masjid-Harihar temple case on March 5
A local court has fixed March 5 as the next date of hearing in a case connected to the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid and its survey at Chandausi.
"The Supreme Court has directed all the lower courts not to entertain new suits seeking surveys of any place of worship until further orders. We have filed a copy of the said order in the court, which fixed March 5 as the next date of hearing," Shakil Ahmad Wari, advocate representing the Muslim side, told reporters.
When told about the Hindu side's claims that the mosque was built over an ancient Harihar temple, Wari said it is for the court to decide on the matter.
"We will prove in the court that it was not a Harihar temple, but Jama Masjid. We have all the evidence," he said.
Tensions escalated in Sambhal since November 19 last year, when a court-mandated survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid began following claims that a Harihar temple once stood on the site.
The situation turned violent on November 24 during the second survey when protesters clashed with security forces.
The ensuing stone-pelting and arson left four persons dead and many others injured. -- PTI
IMAGE: Anita Anand. Photograph: Patrick Doyle/Reuters
12:47 Will Trudeau's Desi minister succeed him as PM?
Canadian Minister of Transport Anita Anand is emerging as a potential contender to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister. Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, signaling the start of a leadership transition within his government. Anand, a prominent figure in Trudeau's cabinet, is being closely watched as a possible frontrunner for the role.
If she gets elected, she will become the first woman of colour and of Indian descent to become the prime minister of Canada.
12:10 Jeweller Boby Chemmanur taken into custody
Prominent businessman Boby Chemmanur was taken into custody on Wednesday by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the sexual harassment case filed by a Malayalam actress, official sources said on Monday.
He was taken into custody from Wayanad, a police officer with the Kochi City Police confirmed.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by the Circle Inspector of Kochi Central Station, was constituted to investigate the allegations of sexual harassment filed by the actress against Chemmanur, a jeweller.
Chemmanur was booked under non-bailable sections following Rose's complaint.
12:06 Simultaneous polls panel holds first meeting
The parliamentary panel constituted to scrutinise the two bills on simultaneous elections held its first meeting on Wednesday.
Officials of the Ministry of Law and Justice are briefing the panel members on the provisions of the proposed laws, sources said.
Headed by Bharatiya Janata Party MP PP Chaudhary, the 39-member joint committee of Parliament comprises members from all major parties, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from the Congress, Sanjay Jha from the Janata Dal-United, Shiv Sena's Shrikant Shinde, Aam Aadmi Party's Sanjay Singh, and Kalyan Banerjee from the Trinamool Congress.
Chaudhary is a former minister of state for law.
The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill were introduced in the Lok Sabha during the recent Winter Session and referred to the committee.
The government decided to increase the committee's strength from 31 to 39, as more political parties expressed their desire to be part of the exercise to examine the two draft legislations on simultaneous elections.
Former Union ministers Anurag Thakur, Parshottam Rupala and Manish Tewari and several other lawmakers, including Anil Baluni, Bansuri Swaraj and Sambit Patra, are also members of the committee.
The panel has 27 members from the Lok Sabha and 12 from the Rajya Sabha. -- PTI
Officials of the Ministry of Law and Justice are briefing the panel members on the provisions of the proposed laws, sources said.
Headed by Bharatiya Janata Party MP PP Chaudhary, the 39-member joint committee of Parliament comprises members from all major parties, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from the Congress, Sanjay Jha from the Janata Dal-United, Shiv Sena's Shrikant Shinde, Aam Aadmi Party's Sanjay Singh, and Kalyan Banerjee from the Trinamool Congress.
Chaudhary is a former minister of state for law.
The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill were introduced in the Lok Sabha during the recent Winter Session and referred to the committee.
The government decided to increase the committee's strength from 31 to 39, as more political parties expressed their desire to be part of the exercise to examine the two draft legislations on simultaneous elections.
Former Union ministers Anurag Thakur, Parshottam Rupala and Manish Tewari and several other lawmakers, including Anil Baluni, Bansuri Swaraj and Sambit Patra, are also members of the committee.
The panel has 27 members from the Lok Sabha and 12 from the Rajya Sabha. -- PTI
11:39 BJP MLA denies meeting Ajit Pawar to seek Munde's removal
Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Suresh Dhas has said he did not meet Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party head Ajit Pawar to seek minister Dhananjay Munde's removal in connection with the case of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh's murder.
Dhas has been targeting NCP leader Munde over his close associate's alleged involvement in an extortion case linked to Deshmukh's murder.
Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted, tortured, and murdered on December 9, allegedly in retaliation for his efforts to prevent extortion attempts against an energy firm linked to a windmill project.
As part of the investigation, police have so far arrested seven persons connected to the case.
Munde's associate Walmik Karad has been arrested in a related extortion case.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday evening after meeting the NCP chief, Dhas said, "I met Deputy CM Ajit Pawar regarding a multi-state cooperative bank that has caused heavy financial losses to people in Beed district and some neighbouring areas. I sought his intervention in this matter." -- PTI
Dhas has been targeting NCP leader Munde over his close associate's alleged involvement in an extortion case linked to Deshmukh's murder.
Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted, tortured, and murdered on December 9, allegedly in retaliation for his efforts to prevent extortion attempts against an energy firm linked to a windmill project.
As part of the investigation, police have so far arrested seven persons connected to the case.
Munde's associate Walmik Karad has been arrested in a related extortion case.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday evening after meeting the NCP chief, Dhas said, "I met Deputy CM Ajit Pawar regarding a multi-state cooperative bank that has caused heavy financial losses to people in Beed district and some neighbouring areas. I sought his intervention in this matter." -- PTI
11:02 US Congressman challenges Adani probe
Challenging the decision of the Biden Administration to investigate the activities of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his companies, an influential Republican lawmaker on Tuesday said such selective actions risk damaging critical alliance partners.
In a strongly worded letter to United States Attorney General Merrick B Garland, Congressman Lance Gooden, member of the House Judiciary Committee, demanded answers on the Justice Department's selective prosecution of foreign entities and the potential harm such actions pose to US's global alliances and economic growth and that if there is any Geroge Soros connection to it.
"The Department of Justice's selective actions risk damaging critical alliances with key partners like India, one of America's strongest allies in the Asia-Pacific region," Gooden said in his letter dated January 7.
"Instead of pursuing cases with tenuous jurisdiction and limited relevance to US interests, the DOJ should focus on punishing bad actors at home, rather than chasing rumours abroad," he said.
The five-term Republican lawmaker said that targeting entities who invest tens of billions of dollars and create tens of thousands of jobs for Americans only harms the US in the long run. -- PTI
In a strongly worded letter to United States Attorney General Merrick B Garland, Congressman Lance Gooden, member of the House Judiciary Committee, demanded answers on the Justice Department's selective prosecution of foreign entities and the potential harm such actions pose to US's global alliances and economic growth and that if there is any Geroge Soros connection to it.
"The Department of Justice's selective actions risk damaging critical alliances with key partners like India, one of America's strongest allies in the Asia-Pacific region," Gooden said in his letter dated January 7.
"Instead of pursuing cases with tenuous jurisdiction and limited relevance to US interests, the DOJ should focus on punishing bad actors at home, rather than chasing rumours abroad," he said.
The five-term Republican lawmaker said that targeting entities who invest tens of billions of dollars and create tens of thousands of jobs for Americans only harms the US in the long run. -- PTI
10:43 ASK Investment, Monarch Networth apply for MF licence
Blackstone-backed ASK Investment Managers and financial service firm Monarch Networth Capital have applied with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for a mutual fund licence.
Khushboo Tiwari/Business Standard
Blackstone-backed ASK Investment Managers and financial service firm Monarch Networth Capital have applied with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for a mutual fund licence.
While
Monarch Networth Capital filed its application on December 31, 2024,
ASK Investment Managers had applied in October 2024, according to Sebi.
ASK
is one of the leading asset managers in India catering to high-networth
individuals (HNIs) and ultra HNIs through portfolio management services
(PMS) and alternative investment funds (AIFs).Monarch
Networth, which is active in stock broking, MF distribution, and other
financial services, plans to offer active schemes once it receives Sebi
nod.
"We already have around 300,000 retail
clients. We will try to capitalise our presence in the retail segment.
We also have the experience of managing three schemes in the AIFs. As we
now have enough experience of fund management, it makes sense for us to
enter MFs. At later stages, we may look at opportunities in the new
investment class," said Gaurav Bhandari, CEO, Monarch Networth.
The
slew of new applications indicates rising competition in the industry,
which currently has over Rs 68 trillion assets under management.
Industry players said that financial awareness has led to a rising investor inclination towards mutual funds.
They
are of the opinion that though there are around 47 fund houses in the
Indian market, there is scope and space for others to grow and offer
different investment strategies.
Several
experts have added that once the new asset class between AIFs and PMS
with unique investment strategies is active, many other players may also
explore opportunities.
Further, the market
regulator has introduced norms to facilitate easier registrations for
fund houses planning to only launch passive schemes with MF Lite
regulations.
10:30 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas kicks off in Bhubaneswar
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention kicked off in Odisha's Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, with over 5,000 delegates from India and abroad expected to attend the three-day event, officials said.
The convention began with the inauguration of the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandviya and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take part in the inaugural session on Thursday, while President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the valedictory session on Friday, the officials said.
Murmu will also confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman upon members of the Indian diaspora to recognise their achievements in various fields.
Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo is the chief guest of this edition, which is being held on the theme 'Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat'. She will address the convention virtually.
Representational image
10:10 Fire in building near Mumbai hospital
A fire broke out in a three-storey residential building near the Sion Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday morning, officials said.
There was so far no report of any casualty, they said.
The blaze erupted on the first floor of Panchshil building on Sulochana Shetty Marg near the Sion Hospital at around 9 am, the officials said.
After receiving information, the Mumbai police, civic and fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot.
"Four fire engines were at the spot. Fire fighting is on. No injury reported yet," a fire brigade official said. The cause of the blaze was not yet known.
Representational image
10:01 1 worker dead, 8 trapped in Assam's coal mine
One dead body has been recovered from the collapsed coal mine at 3 Kilo, Umrangso, in Assam where nine miners were trapped on January 6.
According to a statement from an NDRF official, one body has been recovered by the divers of NDRF, the Indian army.
The joint rescue operation led by the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other agencies resumed early morning to rescue nine miners trapped in a coal mine in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso, Dima Hasao.
The operation had to be temporarily halted the previous evening but resumed with full force today, January 6.
According to NDRF Deputy Commandant, N. Tiwari, the efforts are continuing round-the-clock with an expanded team.
"The operation was closed yesterday evening, and we have resumed the operation again this morning. We expect and hope to reach our miners as soon as possible and rescue them," he said.
Tiwari added that the combined forces of the NDRF and the Army are working on the ground, with support expected from the Navy in the coming hours.
"Everyone from our commandant, our team, the army are here. Later, the officials from the Navy will also join the rescue operation," he said.
A miner who worked in the mine said, "A lot of people were in the mine and suddenly people started shouting that water is filling, around 30-35 people came up and nearly 15-16 were still trapped."
Meanwhile, as the rescue operation continued in Umrangso, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had announced the registration of an FIR and the arrest of one individual in connection with the incident.
In a post on X, Sarma informed, "The police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS, r/w Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to investigate the incident. Prima facie, it appears to be an illegal mine. One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case."
The CM had also discussed the rescue operation with Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy and sought assistance.
"I also spoke to Hon'ble Union Coal Minister, Shri @kishanreddybjp, seeking assistance for our rescue operation in Umrangsu. He has promptly issued directions to @CoalIndiaHQ to extend full support to the Assam government in this mission. My sincere gratitude to him for his swift response and support," CM Sarma posted on X.
09:25 Man who exploded Tesla Cybertruck used ChatGPT
The United States Army soldier Matthew Livelsberger, who exploded a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year's Day, used generative AI tools, including ChatGPT, to plan the attack, the Associated Press reported quoting the Las Vegas police.
The incident resulted in Livelsbergers death by suicide and minor injuries to seven others.
According to the AP report, Livelsberger, 37, packed his Tesla Cybertruck with 60 pounds of pyrotechnic material and 70 pounds of birdshot before driving to the hotel.
During the journey, he used racing-grade fuel that leaked into the truck's cabin. The explosion was triggered by a flash from his firearm, officials said, engulfing the truck in flames.
Investigations revealed Livelsberger used ChatGPT to research explosive materials and ammunition velocity.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill described the use of generative AI in planning such incidents as a 'game-changer', marking the first known case of its kind on US soil.
OpenAI, ChatGPT's developer, stated that its tools are designed to reject harmful instructions and provided only publicly available information. The company is cooperating with law enforcement.
Livelsberger's writings revealed he viewed the explosion as a 'wake-up call' to address societal and political issues, rather than an intent to harm others.
Authorities found notes touching on domestic and international grievances, including the war in Ukraine, and his belief in the US's 'terminal decline'. -- Agencies
The incident resulted in Livelsbergers death by suicide and minor injuries to seven others.
According to the AP report, Livelsberger, 37, packed his Tesla Cybertruck with 60 pounds of pyrotechnic material and 70 pounds of birdshot before driving to the hotel.
During the journey, he used racing-grade fuel that leaked into the truck's cabin. The explosion was triggered by a flash from his firearm, officials said, engulfing the truck in flames.
Investigations revealed Livelsberger used ChatGPT to research explosive materials and ammunition velocity.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill described the use of generative AI in planning such incidents as a 'game-changer', marking the first known case of its kind on US soil.
OpenAI, ChatGPT's developer, stated that its tools are designed to reject harmful instructions and provided only publicly available information. The company is cooperating with law enforcement.
Livelsberger's writings revealed he viewed the explosion as a 'wake-up call' to address societal and political issues, rather than an intent to harm others.
Authorities found notes touching on domestic and international grievances, including the war in Ukraine, and his belief in the US's 'terminal decline'. -- Agencies
09:01 'Equities may deliver 8%-12% in 2025'
Abhishek Kumar/Business Standard
In a year that is poised to be one of macroeconomic turbulence, with significant policy shifts and global trade uncertainties, investors should consider asset allocation strategies to capitalise on gains in all asset classes while reducing risks, Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund (ABSL MF) said in its outlook for 2025.
The asset manager estimates fixed income investments to deliver around 8 to 9 per cent and precious metals like gold and silver are forecast to generate returns between 8 to 12 per cent.
The fund house foresees equity market returns to moderate but still deliver 8 to 12 per cent returns.
'The key to success will lie in selective investing, focusing on companies with strong cash flows, prudent capital allocation, and a long-term track record of performance. While global uncertainty looms large, India's growth trajectory and structural story offer a solid foundation for those who approach the market with discipline and foresight,' ABSL MF stated.
On sectors, the fund house said it is bullish on private banks, energy proxies, cement, and metals.
'Business momentum is seen in consumer durables, IT, and capital goods. Conversely, real estate, defence/PSU stocks are viewed as sell-on-rise opportunities. With interest rates expected to decline, growth stocks may outperform value in the coming months,' it said.
The fund house highlighted that corporate earnings growth will likely be aligned more closely with revenue growth after outpacing the top line in the past few years on account of margin expansion.
Looking ahead, profit growth is expected to align more closely with revenue growth, with corporate earnings projected to grow in the low-to-mid teens over the next three years, particularly among BSE100 companies. Despite relatively low FPI positioning in India compared to other emerging markets, Indian households continue to embrace the buy the dip mentality, driving market resilience, the fund house said.
'Largecap valuations remain reasonable, with the Nifty 50 trading at just a 5 per cent premium to long term historical averages on a one-year forward PE basis, offering an attractive risk-reward proposition, ' it added.
In a year that is poised to be one of macroeconomic turbulence, with significant policy shifts and global trade uncertainties, investors should consider asset allocation strategies to capitalise on gains in all asset classes while reducing risks, Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund (ABSL MF) said in its outlook for 2025.
The asset manager estimates fixed income investments to deliver around 8 to 9 per cent and precious metals like gold and silver are forecast to generate returns between 8 to 12 per cent.
The fund house foresees equity market returns to moderate but still deliver 8 to 12 per cent returns.
'The key to success will lie in selective investing, focusing on companies with strong cash flows, prudent capital allocation, and a long-term track record of performance. While global uncertainty looms large, India's growth trajectory and structural story offer a solid foundation for those who approach the market with discipline and foresight,' ABSL MF stated.
On sectors, the fund house said it is bullish on private banks, energy proxies, cement, and metals.
'Business momentum is seen in consumer durables, IT, and capital goods. Conversely, real estate, defence/PSU stocks are viewed as sell-on-rise opportunities. With interest rates expected to decline, growth stocks may outperform value in the coming months,' it said.
The fund house highlighted that corporate earnings growth will likely be aligned more closely with revenue growth after outpacing the top line in the past few years on account of margin expansion.
Looking ahead, profit growth is expected to align more closely with revenue growth, with corporate earnings projected to grow in the low-to-mid teens over the next three years, particularly among BSE100 companies. Despite relatively low FPI positioning in India compared to other emerging markets, Indian households continue to embrace the buy the dip mentality, driving market resilience, the fund house said.
'Largecap valuations remain reasonable, with the Nifty 50 trading at just a 5 per cent premium to long term historical averages on a one-year forward PE basis, offering an attractive risk-reward proposition, ' it added.
08:45 Will acquire Canada by 'economic force': Trump
United States President-elect Donald Trump has refused to rule out the use of military force to take control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, and 'economic force' to acquire Canada, CNN reported.
While addressing a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Tuesday (local time), Trump was asked whether he would rule out using 'military or economic coercion' to achieve his goal of gaining those territories.
He responded, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security."
Trump said Denmark should give up its control of Greenland or it would face high tariffs.
He suggested people of Greenland could vote for independence or to become the part of the United States.
He said, "I'm talking about protecting the free world."
Since his election, Trump has repeatedly expressed his interest in gaining control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. Trump for the first time on Tuesday suggested using the military to achieve his goal, according to a CNN report.
Trump said later that he would only use 'economic force' and not military force against Canada. When asked whether he would also use the military to acquire Canada, Trump responded, "No, economic force."
He continued, "You get rid of that artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like -- and it would also be much better for national security."
In recent weeks, Trump in his social media posts has said that Canada should become the 51st state of the US.
He even used Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his plan to step down as PM and Liberal Party leader to reiterate his stance that Canada becomes the 51st state of the US.
During the press conference on Tuesday, Trump criticised former US President Jimmy Carter's decision to hand control of the Panama Canal back to Panama during his presidency, CNN reported.
Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, negotiated treaties that provided for the handover of the Panama Canal to Panama.
He said, "The Panama Canal is a disgrace."
Trump said, "What took place at the Panama Canal, Jimmy Carter gave it to them for $1 and they were supposed to treat us well."
The US President-elect said that he wants to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. He said, "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America -- what a beautiful name. And it's appropriate."
He slammed the Biden administration's handling of the transition ahead of his inauguration ceremony on January 20. Trump said the Biden administration is 'trying everything they can to make it more difficult' and wants to 'block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for', according to CNN.
"They say we're going to have a smooth transition. All they do is talk. It's all talk. Everything they do is talk, 'We're going to have a smooth transition.' And then they take 625 million acres, and they essentially landmark it, so you can't ever drill there again. Well, we're going to be drilling soon," he said.
While addressing a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Tuesday (local time), Trump was asked whether he would rule out using 'military or economic coercion' to achieve his goal of gaining those territories.
He responded, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security."
Trump said Denmark should give up its control of Greenland or it would face high tariffs.
He suggested people of Greenland could vote for independence or to become the part of the United States.
He said, "I'm talking about protecting the free world."
Since his election, Trump has repeatedly expressed his interest in gaining control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. Trump for the first time on Tuesday suggested using the military to achieve his goal, according to a CNN report.
Trump said later that he would only use 'economic force' and not military force against Canada. When asked whether he would also use the military to acquire Canada, Trump responded, "No, economic force."
He continued, "You get rid of that artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like -- and it would also be much better for national security."
In recent weeks, Trump in his social media posts has said that Canada should become the 51st state of the US.
He even used Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his plan to step down as PM and Liberal Party leader to reiterate his stance that Canada becomes the 51st state of the US.
During the press conference on Tuesday, Trump criticised former US President Jimmy Carter's decision to hand control of the Panama Canal back to Panama during his presidency, CNN reported.
Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, negotiated treaties that provided for the handover of the Panama Canal to Panama.
He said, "The Panama Canal is a disgrace."
Trump said, "What took place at the Panama Canal, Jimmy Carter gave it to them for $1 and they were supposed to treat us well."
The US President-elect said that he wants to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. He said, "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America -- what a beautiful name. And it's appropriate."
He slammed the Biden administration's handling of the transition ahead of his inauguration ceremony on January 20. Trump said the Biden administration is 'trying everything they can to make it more difficult' and wants to 'block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for', according to CNN.
"They say we're going to have a smooth transition. All they do is talk. It's all talk. Everything they do is talk, 'We're going to have a smooth transition.' And then they take 625 million acres, and they essentially landmark it, so you can't ever drill there again. Well, we're going to be drilling soon," he said.
Trump's remarks come a day after US Congress certified his election victory with no objections from any lawmakers as the tally of states was announced on the House floor. -- ANI
IMAGE: President-elect Donald Trump makes remarks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on January 7, 2025. Photograph: Carlos Barria/Reuters
08:26 All hell will break out if...: Trump warns Hamas
United States President-elect Donald Trump warned that 'all hell will break out in the Middle East' if hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are not released before his inauguration on January 20, CNN reported.
While addressing a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Tuesday (local time), Trump said, "It will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone. All hell will break out. I don't have to say anymore, but that's what it is," adding that 'there should have never been' the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel.
Steve Witkoff, who has been chosen by Trump to serve as the special envoy to the Middle East, expressed an optimistic view about the state of negotiations to reach a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that would secure the release of the hostages, saying negotiators are 'making a lot of progress', CNN reported.
He further said, "It's the president, his reputation, the things that he has said that are driving this negotiation, and so hopefully it'll all work out and we'll save some lives." -- ANI
01:07 Engineer killed in fire at ONGC facility in Assam
A senior engineer was killed in a fire at an ONGC facility in Assam's Jorhat district on Tuesday, a company spokesperson said.
The incident happened at the Borholla Group Gathering Station around 3.20 pm in one of the heater treaters, used to separate oil from water, she said.
"While scheduled maintenance was being carried out, a fire broke out in the heater treater. One employee, Rahul Dutta, a senior engineer (production), sustained burn injuries," the spokesperson said.
He was rushed to the Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, where he succumbed to the injuries, she said.
"The fire was promptly extinguished by the firefighting team. Further investigation on the cause of the fire is being undertaken," she added. -- PTI
00:56 Woman BPO employee dies after male colleague attacks her in Pune
A 28-year-old woman working with a business process outsourcing (BPO) company in Pune died after her male colleague allegedly attacked her with a sharp weapon on Tuesday evening, the police said.
The attack took place in the parking space of the firm - WNS, located in Yerwada area of the city, they said.
The victim was identified as Shubhada Kodare, while the accused was Krishna Kanoja, who worked in the accounts section of the firm.
"As per the primary information, the suspect allegedly attacked Kodare on her right elbow with a sharp weapon around 6 pm in the parking lot of the firm. It was found that the attack was a fallout of some dispute over money borrowing issue," additional commissioner of police Manoj Patil said.
The woman was bleeding profusely and was rushed to a nearby hospital.
However, she succumbed to her injuries during treatment, he said.
Kanoja was detained and based on a complaint lodged by the deceased woman's sister, a case was registered under relevant sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act. -- PTI
00:27 Two Class 10 students stabbed in exam hall in Mumbai school
Two Grade 10 students of a Mumbai-based school attacked two other pupils with a knife in the classroom after a dispute over sitting arrangement for internal exams, leaving them injured, the police said on Tuesday.
The incident took place on Monday morning at the private school in Antop Hill, Central Mumbai, when Class 10 preliminary exams were about to start, an official said.
Both the injured students are undergoing treatment at civic-run Lokmanya Tilak Hospital at Sion, he said.
Initially, a dispute arose between two Class 10 students, both aged 15, over occupying a bench in the exam hall situated on the fourth floor of the school building, he said.
A heated argument broke out and one student asked his friend to bring a knife.
He used the knife to stab the other pupil in the abdomen, back, and hand, according to the FIR filed in the case.
When a friend of the victim intervened, the accused student attacked him too, leaving him injured, police said.
As the scuffle escalated, some students intervened, while the injured students were rushed to hospital, they said.
A case under relevant sections of new criminal code BNS for attempt to murder, voluntarily causing hurt, causing hurt with dangerous weapons and objects was registered against the accused students, they added. -- PTI
00:18 Odisha: BJP MP acquitted in two cheating cases for 'lack of evidence'
Bharatiya Janata Party MP Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy was acquitted in two cases of cheating by a special court in Odisha's Ganjam district on Tuesday.
The court also acquitted former IFS officer Abhay Pathak and his son Akash Pathak who were the co-accused in one of the two cases against Panigrahy.
The judge of the special MP/MLA court acquitted them due to the lack of evidence, said the MP's counsel Deepak Patnaik.
One of the cases was registered against Panigrahy, Pathak and his son in Baidyanathpur police station in 2021 after a man filed a complaint, alleging that he had given Rs 6 lakh to the then Gopalpur MLA for a job for his son in an automobile company, the lawyer said.
The other case was registered at the Golanthara police station after a man lodged a complaint, alleging he had given Rs 5 lakh to Panigrahy for a job for his brother in 2021, he said.
Patnaik said the hearing of another three cheating cases registered against the MP at the Golanthara police station is pending.
Panigrahy, a former state minister, was arrested by the Crime Branch on December 3, 2020, for his alleged involvement in a job scam.
He was expelled from the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD for alleged "anti-people" activities.
He joined the BJP ahead of the 2024 elections and got elected from the Berhampur Lok Sabha seat.
00:05 Woman hangs self at Manipur relief camp
A 21-year-old woman allegedly died by suicide at a relief camp in Manipur's Imphal West district on Tuesday, the police said.
The incident happened at the Mekola relief camp in the afternoon, they said.
The body of Sukham Ongbi Chanu, hanging from the ceiling, was spotted by another inmate who tried to save her but failed, the police said.
A case has been registered and an investigation is underway, they added.
The body was sent to the Jawahar Lal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) for post-mortem examination, the police said.
Thousands of people are living in relief camps across Manipur which has been rocked by ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis since May 2023. -- PTI
TOP STORIES
© 2025 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances