With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now? Later, you could get it melted into and still obtain the same value or get other jewelry made,” says Radhakrishnan, the owner of RK Jewel Works in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

A traditional goldsmith, Radhakrishnan has worked in various functions in the jewelry-making field for over 35 years. It was about three years back that he started making and selling clothes made of Gold. Yes, you read that right!. Most of these were made to order for special occasions, for adorning deities, for children on their birthdays etc.&nbsp;

The experience gained over the years in making clothes out of precious metals is what led to the thought of making masks that are made of precious metals.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-wears-gold-face-mask-to-ward-off-coronavirus-310734">Also read:&nbsp;Indian man wears gold face mask to ward off coronavirus</a>

“We can make them in 18K, 22K hallmark certified gold and the purity is guaranteed. When it comes to silver we can make it only in 92.5 sterling silver. The metal weight would be about 50gms and the cloth part of the mask would weigh 6gms or so. Silver options are priced at $200 (INR 15,000) and upwards whereas the gold version start at $3,668 (INR 2,75,000),” the shop owner says.&nbsp;

Despite owning the shop, he claims to have kept his form of work closely guarded. Ninety per cent of the process is said to be handwork and he makes these precious items himself, often taking help from those in his family. From start to finish, it takes about seven days of intricate work to get these shining masks ready.&nbsp;

“We draw gold wires that are 0.06mm in thickness and this is the only machine work. After getting these fine and flexible wires, we use them for knitting and weaving. We have received orders from Bengaluru, Hyderabad and several places up north. But the farther the distance, people refuse to buy due to the issues involved in logistics. So far there are nine confirmed orders and we receive a lot of enquiries on a daily basis,” Radhakrishnan Sundaram Acharya, the shopowner and goldsmith told WION.

When asked about how it would feel to wear one for long hours, re-use it, besides the protection it offers, he says that his masks have a cloth-like feel. “The portion on top is made of metal and inside it we have the multiple layers of cloth material which are used in mask-making. It can be washed and re-used, but twisting it for any reason it is a strict no. If required later on, one can even get a goldsmith to replace the cloth material with a new one for the sake of better protection” he says.&nbsp;

It’s just been a little over a week since the gold and Silver masks were introduced, but Radhakrishnan is overwhelmed with the response as a few customers are preferring them as gifting options and even jewelry. In case one prefers more personalisation and customization, they even offer to engrave names.&nbsp;

With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now?

With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now? Later, you could get it melted into and still obtain the same value or get other jewelry made,” says Radhakrishnan, the owner of RK Jewel Works in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. A traditional goldsmith, Radhakrishnan has worked in various functions in the jewelry-making field for over 35 years. It was about three years back that he started making and selling clothes made of Gold. Yes, you read that right!. Most of these were made to order for special occasions, for adorning deities, for children on their birthdays etc. The experience gained over the years in making clothes out of precious metals is what led to the thought of making masks that are made of precious metals. Also read: Indian man wears gold face mask to ward off coronavirus “We can make them in 18K, 22K hallmark certified gold and the purity is guaranteed. When it comes to silver we can make it only in 92.5 sterling silver. The metal weight would be about 50gms and the cloth part of the mask would weigh 6gms or so. Silver options are priced at $200 (INR 15,000) and upwards whereas the gold version start at $3,668 (INR 2,75,000),” the shop owner says. Despite owning the shop, he claims to have kept his form of work closely guarded. Ninety per cent of the process is said to be handwork and he makes these precious items himself, often taking help from those in his family. From start to finish, it takes about seven days of intricate work to get these shining masks ready. “We draw gold wires that are 0.06mm in thickness and this is the only machine work. After getting these fine and flexible wires, we use them for knitting and weaving. We have received orders from Bengaluru, Hyderabad and several places up north. But the farther the distance, people refuse to buy due to the issues involved in logistics. So far there are nine confirmed orders and we receive a lot of enquiries on a daily basis,” Radhakrishnan Sundaram Acharya, the shopowner and goldsmith told WION. When asked about how it would feel to wear one for long hours, re-use it, besides the protection it offers, he says that his masks have a cloth-like feel. “The portion on top is made of metal and inside it we have the multiple layers of cloth material which are used in mask-making. It can be washed and re-used, but twisting it for any reason it is a strict no. If required later on, one can even get a goldsmith to replace the cloth material with a new one for the sake of better protection” he says. It’s just been a little over a week since the gold and Silver masks were introduced, but Radhakrishnan is overwhelmed with the response as a few customers are preferring them as gifting options and even jewelry. In case one prefers more personalisation and customization, they even offer to engrave names.

Coimbatore: Masks made of gold and silver on sale see high demand

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living. But there are also a few who look for opportunity in adversity. It was the mad-rush amongst the public to hoard on groceries and other essentials during different phases on India’s lockdown, that sparked an idea in 40-year old Anand’s mind. “Why not temporarily set-up a grocery shop? With more people staying indoors, isn’t the demand going to spike ?” were some of the film director’s thoughts.

Anand who has directed a handful of budget films over a decade, has one film ready for release and another in the final stages of shooting, but then the lockdown was imposed. This meant staying idle at home and not contributing to his family. “For a week it felt nice to be at home, but after a point I couldn’t remain idle. I was witnessing the high demand for essentials and the long queues at shops. That’s what led to the initial spark” Anand told WION as he attended to customers at his store.&nbsp;

Despite having nil experience in setting up or running a store, Anand took the decision to invest a small sum and get started with his new project. Observing the crowded shops and the goods they sold provided him considerable insights. Thats when he began to scout for a vacant commercial space near his residence.&nbsp;

The search led him to a place that was 2kms away from his residence. The vacant space happened to be owned by Anand’s childhood friend. As he was about to get started, the reactions from his known circles were expressing apprehension and disapproval. “While the friend who rented me the place was in support, most of my colleagues from the cinema industry weren’t happy with my decision. But I wanted to go ahead as it would fetch some income and I can help people” Anand recalls about the time he opened the store in mid-June.&nbsp;

Now, nearly a month after having started the store, Anand says that the going has been good, even quite busy. “I put up a board outside my shop about the price of certain essentials, I also offer a small discount of certain types of pulses and rice varieties. This keeps the crowd coming and there's also word-of-mouth publicity via friends and regular customers. Today there are 5 people working in the store with me” Anand says gladly.

Given how the Covid-19 pandemic has thrown life out of gear for many like him, Anand hopes that people seriously consider an alternative means of earning a living. “At least for 6 months to a year, we must think of doing something else, normalcy seems quite far. In my case I had some savings to fall back on, but surely each one can explore a way out” he says.&nbsp;

Recalling the five low-budget films he’s done so far and the ones pending for release, Anand feels that OTT platforms and online releases are the way ahead. “For small filmmakers like us, getting an OTT release means a lot. Even the platforms don’t have to spend much to buy our films when compared to that of big names” he says, hoping that his upcoming film ‘Naanum Pei Dhaan’ and the one in the pipeline ‘Thunindhu Sei' find takers.

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living.

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living. But there are also a few who look for opportunity in adversity. It was the mad-rush amongst the public to hoard on groceries and other essentials during different phases on India’s lockdown, that sparked an idea in 40-year old Anand’s mind. “Why not temporarily set-up a grocery shop? With more people staying indoors, isn’t the demand going to spike ?” were some of the film director’s thoughts. Anand who has directed a handful of budget films over a decade, has one film ready for release and another in the final stages of shooting, but then the lockdown was imposed. This meant staying idle at home and not contributing to his family. “For a week it felt nice to be at home, but after a point I couldn’t remain idle. I was witnessing the high demand for essentials and the long queues at shops. That’s what led to the initial spark” Anand told WION as he attended to customers at his store. Despite having nil experience in setting up or running a store, Anand took the decision to invest a small sum and get started with his new project. Observing the crowded shops and the goods they sold provided him considerable insights. Thats when he began to scout for a vacant commercial space near his residence. The search led him to a place that was 2kms away from his residence. The vacant space happened to be owned by Anand’s childhood friend. As he was about to get started, the reactions from his known circles were expressing apprehension and disapproval. “While the friend who rented me the place was in support, most of my colleagues from the cinema industry weren’t happy with my decision. But I wanted to go ahead as it would fetch some income and I can help people” Anand recalls about the time he opened the store in mid-June. Now, nearly a month after having started the store, Anand says that the going has been good, even quite busy. “I put up a board outside my shop about the price of certain essentials, I also offer a small discount of certain types of pulses and rice varieties. This keeps the crowd coming and there's also word-of-mouth publicity via friends and regular customers. Today there are 5 people working in the store with me” Anand says gladly. Given how the Covid-19 pandemic has thrown life out of gear for many like him, Anand hopes that people seriously consider an alternative means of earning a living. “At least for 6 months to a year, we must think of doing something else, normalcy seems quite far. In my case I had some savings to fall back on, but surely each one can explore a way out” he says. Recalling the five low-budget films he’s done so far and the ones pending for release, Anand feels that OTT platforms and online releases are the way ahead. “For small filmmakers like us, getting an OTT release means a lot. Even the platforms don’t have to spend much to buy our films when compared to that of big names” he says, hoping that his upcoming film ‘Naanum Pei Dhaan’ and the one in the pipeline ‘Thunindhu Sei' find takers.

Chennai: Budget-film director turns grocer amid challenging times

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin.&nbsp;

This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike. Tamil Nadu is the state with the second highest number of cases in India, after Maharashtra. The southern Indian state is the also second one in the country to have surpassed 1 lakh recoveries.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the state witnessed 4526 cases, the highest-ever single day spike and there were 4496 new cases on Wednesday. Despite the drop in daily cases, Chennai remains the hotspot in the state along with its three adjoining districts.&nbsp;

While Chennai and adjoining districts have seen a significant reduction in cases (in recent weeks), the worrying factor remains 13 other districts spread across the state where the daily new cases are surpassing or nearing 100. The number of deaths also in certain other districts has been going up in recent weeks.&nbsp;

On Wednesday alone, Madurai district saw 341 new cases, thus taking the total active cases in Madurai to 3347. After Chennai, Madurai is the other major city to see such a large number of cases.&nbsp;

However, the silver lining has been the high recovery rate in the state. On Wednesday alone, 5000 persons were discharged, thus taking the cumulative number of discharged patients to 1,02,310. The state currently has 47,340 active cases, of which over 23,000 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts.

In terms of the patients succumbing to Covid-19, the count in Tamil Nadu has been lesser(as per available data) when compared to states of similar size and case rates. 68 persons lost their battle to the deadly pandemic on Wednesday, taking the total count of deaths to 2,167.&nbsp;

It is also commendable that in recent months, Tamil Nadu has ramped up testing manifold. In late June, Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million(10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a huge feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so.&nbsp;

For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely scaled up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, &nbsp;from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a six-fold increase and currently 107 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 54 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 53 of them are private ones.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin. This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike.

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin. This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike. Tamil Nadu is the state with the second highest number of cases in India, after Maharashtra. The southern Indian state is the also second one in the country to have surpassed 1 lakh recoveries. On Tuesday, the state witnessed 4526 cases, the highest-ever single day spike and there were 4496 new cases on Wednesday. Despite the drop in daily cases, Chennai remains the hotspot in the state along with its three adjoining districts. While Chennai and adjoining districts have seen a significant reduction in cases (in recent weeks), the worrying factor remains 13 other districts spread across the state where the daily new cases are surpassing or nearing 100. The number of deaths also in certain other districts has been going up in recent weeks. On Wednesday alone, Madurai district saw 341 new cases, thus taking the total active cases in Madurai to 3347. After Chennai, Madurai is the other major city to see such a large number of cases. However, the silver lining has been the high recovery rate in the state. On Wednesday alone, 5000 persons were discharged, thus taking the cumulative number of discharged patients to 1,02,310. The state currently has 47,340 active cases, of which over 23,000 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts. In terms of the patients succumbing to Covid-19, the count in Tamil Nadu has been lesser(as per available data) when compared to states of similar size and case rates. 68 persons lost their battle to the deadly pandemic on Wednesday, taking the total count of deaths to 2,167. It is also commendable that in recent months, Tamil Nadu has ramped up testing manifold. In late June, Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million(10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a huge feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely scaled up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a six-fold increase and currently 107 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 54 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 53 of them are private ones.

Tamil Nadu: Over 1 lakh recover from Covid-19; Chennai sees lesser daily cases

The Transgender community in Chennai is actively participating with the government and the civic body in the battle against the coronavirus.

From creating awareness to conducting door-to-door screening and coordinating ground-level efforts, members of the trans community and their NGOs have been at the frontlines in many badly affected areas and slums across the city.

This is said to be a first-of-its campaign involving Transgenders working with the government authorities in fighting the deadly pandemic.

In partnership with the Chennai Corporation, the transgenders are taking up a variety of tasks, spending up to eight hours a day on the field. As a part of a 100-day employment scheme, the transgenders are paid around Rs.15000 per month, besides being provided breakfast and lunch.&nbsp;

“We are primarily assigned 3 tasks:&nbsp;&nbsp;Awareness, Prevention and Control. Awareness involves going on foot and spreading the word on personal hygiene, hand washing, immunity-boosting measures and physical distancing. We go in groups around localities and announce via loudspeakers and also speak to people individually and clarify their doubts” Jaya, General Manager of the NGO Sahodaran told WION.&nbsp;

Besides the awareness creation, they go around the assigned localities and distribute free cloth masks and immunity booster drinks. As a part of control measures, they individually cover about 150 houses and conduct fever surveillance and check for symptoms. In case, people with symptoms are found, they are advised to go to the nearest fever clinic or the Primary health centre for further checks.&nbsp;

“Recently we even conducted some new initiatives where we used to dance, drama and storytelling to create awareness. We hold placards, shout slogans, and even had transgenders who won national-level beauty contests participate in the awareness campaign.” Jaya added.&nbsp;

While the 100-day scheme has been a boon to the transgender community, its not as easy as it looks. They have to fight Covid-19 and also the stigma in people’s minds.&nbsp;

“Initially the public were apprehensive, there was&nbsp;stigma and discrimination. Their cooperation was less and they even questioned its on why we were coming to their houses daily. But eventually, the rapport got better and they started seeing us as family members” Sudha the director of Thozhi NGO told WION.&nbsp;

Jaya adds that their transgender community is glad to serve the society in their little ways. “We are fighting corona and stigma. We could say that the transgenders are joining this fight for their basic economic needs and, but we’re taking these risks for the welfare of fellow members in the society”.&nbsp;

Dhanabashyam of Snegithi NGO says that this has been a very good experience for her and that it also helps them financially. “We work for about 8 hours stating 7:30 and the corporation also provides us with breakfast and lunch. We are glad for the opportunity that has come our way”.

The Transgender community in Chennai is actively participating with the government and the civic body in the battle against the coronavirus. From creating awareness to conducting door-to-door screening and coordinating ground-level efforts, members of the trans community and their NGOs have been at the frontlines in many badly affected areas and slums across the city.

The Transgender community in Chennai is actively participating with the government and the civic body in the battle against the coronavirus. From creating awareness to conducting door-to-door screening and coordinating ground-level efforts, members of the trans community and their NGOs have been at the frontlines in many badly affected areas and slums across the city. This is said to be a first-of-its campaign involving Transgenders working with the government authorities in fighting the deadly pandemic. In partnership with the Chennai Corporation, the transgenders are taking up a variety of tasks, spending up to eight hours a day on the field. As a part of a 100-day employment scheme, the transgenders are paid around Rs.15000 per month, besides being provided breakfast and lunch. “We are primarily assigned 3 tasks: Awareness, Prevention and Control. Awareness involves going on foot and spreading the word on personal hygiene, hand washing, immunity-boosting measures and physical distancing. We go in groups around localities and announce via loudspeakers and also speak to people individually and clarify their doubts” Jaya, General Manager of the NGO Sahodaran told WION. Besides the awareness creation, they go around the assigned localities and distribute free cloth masks and immunity booster drinks. As a part of control measures, they individually cover about 150 houses and conduct fever surveillance and check for symptoms. In case, people with symptoms are found, they are advised to go to the nearest fever clinic or the Primary health centre for further checks. “Recently we even conducted some new initiatives where we used to dance, drama and storytelling to create awareness. We hold placards, shout slogans, and even had transgenders who won national-level beauty contests participate in the awareness campaign.” Jaya added. While the 100-day scheme has been a boon to the transgender community, its not as easy as it looks. They have to fight Covid-19 and also the stigma in people’s minds. “Initially the public were apprehensive, there was stigma and discrimination. Their cooperation was less and they even questioned its on why we were coming to their houses daily. But eventually, the rapport got better and they started seeing us as family members” Sudha the director of Thozhi NGO told WION. Jaya adds that their transgender community is glad to serve the society in their little ways. “We are fighting corona and stigma. We could say that the transgenders are joining this fight for their basic economic needs and, but we’re taking these risks for the welfare of fellow members in the society”. Dhanabashyam of Snegithi NGO says that this has been a very good experience for her and that it also helps them financially. “We work for about 8 hours stating 7:30 and the corporation also provides us with breakfast and lunch. We are glad for the opportunity that has come our way”.

Chennai transgender community battles COVID-19 and stigma by creating awareness

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide.

However, the police officers who investigated the case say that the boy was dealing with a lot of personal issues and did not perform the forgery with a sinister motive. So far, the cops haven’t received any complaint of people having been cheated of their money or valuables in this case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-death-needs-to-be-fully-investigated-un-on-thoothukudi-custodial-death-case-312688">Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case</a>

The investigating officer of the case told WION that the 19-year old accused in this case had a troubled past.&nbsp;

His parents were SBI bank employees, which made him expose&nbsp;with the banking functions from a very young age as his parents used to take him along to the branch.

The boy’s father who was the then bank manager passed away in 2007 when the boy was barely six years of age. Since then, he was brought up by his mother.

It is said that the young boy had made an attempt to apply for his father’s post on compassionate grounds. His mother had retired from the bank in 2017 and has been suffering from a serious mobility issue. The 19-year old had also failed his class 12 exams.

How the case came to light&nbsp;

There are two SBI branches in Panruti and Venkatesh was the manager of one of them.&nbsp;One customer asked Venkatesh about the third branch functioning in the North Bazaar area and told him that the receipt, withdrawal slip, and seal (of the new branch) are available.

Shocked by knowing this, the manager reached&nbsp;out to the cops and filed&nbsp;a complaint. Cops zero-in on this19-year old boy.

The investigation officer told WION that: "He was very keen on getting the bank manager job after his father died while on duty (13 years ago). After turning 18 years of age the boy applied for the bank job and was eagerly waiting. But, the boy’s application was not accepted".

It was during the recent months that the boy also got started with the basic work to run a bank branch. With the help of local printers and suppliers, he got the challans, documents, and seals ready. However, he did not use a nameboard to depict it was a bank branch.

The local suppliers who arranged the seals and documents told cops that they helped the boy considering that his parents were bank staff and assuming his reasons were legitimate.

The Panruti Station Police registered an FIR under Sections 471, 473, 468, and 109 IPC.&nbsp;

The boy and his accomplices were arrested and remanded and later the magistrate granted them bail.&nbsp;

Cops said that forgery of documents and seals have happened in this case.

But the public has not come up and registered complaints of them losing money or being cheated by this individual/group in the guise of a bank.&nbsp;

"It is learnt that the boy is an adopted child and it was kept secret all this while. The family suspects that he has gotten to know about being an adopted child. His mother and aunt who live with him were totally unaware of his activities. Although the boy has extraordinary knowledge of banking transactions, he has a very innocent, childlike demeanor. He was obsessed with the bank job and that’s what led him to forge the documents and seals and set-up a bank at home"&nbsp;Ambethkar, the Investigating officer said.

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide.

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide. However, the police officers who investigated the case say that the boy was dealing with a lot of personal issues and did not perform the forgery with a sinister motive. So far, the cops haven’t received any complaint of people having been cheated of their money or valuables in this case. Also read | Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case The investigating officer of the case told WION that the 19-year old accused in this case had a troubled past. His parents were SBI bank employees, which made him expose with the banking functions from a very young age as his parents used to take him along to the branch. The boy’s father who was the then bank manager passed away in 2007 when the boy was barely six years of age. Since then, he was brought up by his mother. It is said that the young boy had made an attempt to apply for his father’s post on compassionate grounds. His mother had retired from the bank in 2017 and has been suffering from a serious mobility issue. The 19-year old had also failed his class 12 exams. How the case came to light There are two SBI branches in Panruti and Venkatesh was the manager of one of them. One customer asked Venkatesh about the third branch functioning in the North Bazaar area and told him that the receipt, withdrawal slip, and seal (of the new branch) are available. Shocked by knowing this, the manager reached out to the cops and filed a complaint. Cops zero-in on this19-year old boy. The investigation officer told WION that: "He was very keen on getting the bank manager job after his father died while on duty (13 years ago). After turning 18 years of age the boy applied for the bank job and was eagerly waiting. But, the boy’s application was not accepted". It was during the recent months that the boy also got started with the basic work to run a bank branch. With the help of local printers and suppliers, he got the challans, documents, and seals ready. However, he did not use a nameboard to depict it was a bank branch. The local suppliers who arranged the seals and documents told cops that they helped the boy considering that his parents were bank staff and assuming his reasons were legitimate. The Panruti Station Police registered an FIR under Sections 471, 473, 468, and 109 IPC. The boy and his accomplices were arrested and remanded and later the magistrate granted them bail. Cops said that forgery of documents and seals have happened in this case. But the public has not come up and registered complaints of them losing money or being cheated by this individual/group in the guise of a bank. "It is learnt that the boy is an adopted child and it was kept secret all this while. The family suspects that he has gotten to know about being an adopted child. His mother and aunt who live with him were totally unaware of his activities. Although the boy has extraordinary knowledge of banking transactions, he has a very innocent, childlike demeanor. He was obsessed with the bank job and that’s what led him to forge the documents and seals and set-up a bank at home" Ambethkar, the Investigating officer said.

SBI fake branch case: Police says accused had personal issues, no ulterior motives

The Central Bureau of investigation has formally taken over the investigation of Jayaraj-Bennix custodial deaths case from the CB-CID. A team headed by CBI ADSP Vijaykumar Shukla began the probe at the residence of the bereaved family in Sathankulam on Saturday.&nbsp;

The team of CBI officials visited the residence of the late father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix, to speak to their family members. They questioned Jayaraj’s wife Selvarani and also their daughters in connection with the incident.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tuticorin-jayaraj-bennix-case-witness-intimidated-cctv-footage-erased-reveals-magistrates-letter-to-court-registrar-309699">Tuticorin Jayaraj-Bennix case: Witness intimidated, CCTV footage erased, reveals Magistrate’s letter to Court Registrar</a>

The High Court which has taken suo motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had earlier appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches.

The breakthrough in the case came when a woman constable of the Sathankulam Police Station who, despite facing intimidation from her male colleagues(as per the magistrate’s report), informed the Judicial Magistrate regarding the torture that took place in the station and the evidence connecting the same.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/locals-allege-if-earlier-police-excesses-were-probed-tuticorin-father-son-jayaraj-bennix-could-have-been-saved-309394">&nbsp;Locals allege, if earlier Police excesses were probed, Tuticorin father-son, Jayaraj-Bennix could have been saved</a>

As on Thursday, the CB-CID, which handled the case, as per the court’s orders had arrested 10 police personnel from the Sathankulam police station, where the alleged custodial torture had taken place.&nbsp;

During the recent hearing of the case on Thursday, the Court instructed either the CBI or the CB-CID to proceed with the formalities, file a plea to conduct custodial interrogation of the arrested police personnel within 15 days of their being arrested.&nbsp;

The Court also ordered the CBI and CB-CID to file their respective status reports in a sealed cover before the next hearing, which is scheduled for 28th July.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of investigation has formally taken over the investigation of Jayaraj-Bennix custodial deaths case from the CB-CID. A team headed by CBI ADSP Vijaykumar Shukla began the probe at the residence of the bereaved family in Sathankulam on Saturday.

The Central Bureau of investigation has formally taken over the investigation of Jayaraj-Bennix custodial deaths case from the CB-CID. A team headed by CBI ADSP Vijaykumar Shukla began the probe at the residence of the bereaved family in Sathankulam on Saturday. The team of CBI officials visited the residence of the late father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix, to speak to their family members. They questioned Jayaraj’s wife Selvarani and also their daughters in connection with the incident. Also read: Tuticorin Jayaraj-Bennix case: Witness intimidated, CCTV footage erased, reveals Magistrate’s letter to Court Registrar The High Court which has taken suo motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had earlier appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches. The breakthrough in the case came when a woman constable of the Sathankulam Police Station who, despite facing intimidation from her male colleagues(as per the magistrate’s report), informed the Judicial Magistrate regarding the torture that took place in the station and the evidence connecting the same. Also read: Locals allege, if earlier Police excesses were probed, Tuticorin father-son, Jayaraj-Bennix could have been saved As on Thursday, the CB-CID, which handled the case, as per the court’s orders had arrested 10 police personnel from the Sathankulam police station, where the alleged custodial torture had taken place. During the recent hearing of the case on Thursday, the Court instructed either the CBI or the CB-CID to proceed with the formalities, file a plea to conduct custodial interrogation of the arrested police personnel within 15 days of their being arrested. The Court also ordered the CBI and CB-CID to file their respective status reports in a sealed cover before the next hearing, which is scheduled for 28th July.

Tuticorin custodial deaths: CBI takes over probe from CB-CID

The Central government’s counsel informed the Kerala High Court on Friday, that the bail application filed by Swapna Suresh, the main accused in the Kerala gold smuggling case is not maintainable. This was owing to the NationalAgency(NIA) having taken over the probe.&nbsp;

The bench verbally agreed with the counsel’s submission and adjourned the hearing to Tuesday. The court has also agreed to provide the FIR copy (filed by the NIA) to Swapna’s advocate. &nbsp;

The Central government counsel, Mr. Ravi Prakash maintained that, under Section 21 of the NIA Act, the High Court has no original jurisdiction to consider the anticipatory bail application, adding that it can only be considered by the Special Court.&nbsp;

He further stated that the custodial interrogation of Swapna Suresh had to be conducted to establish her involvement and motive in the delivery of the diplomatic cargo.&nbsp;

The NIA informed the Court of having filed an FIR and that their investigation is underway as per Sections 16, 17, &amp;18 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).&nbsp;

The Central government lawyer informed the court that even if the bail was was to be considered, this case had serious implications and that the nature of crime affected the security, financial stability of the country.&nbsp;

Swapna Suresh’s bail plea that was filed earlier this week stated that she was working with the UAE Consulate general office from 2016-19 and that she had completed many assignments there, successfully. Following her resignation from there in 2019, she worked as a contract staff in PWC, which dealt with the Space park projects that came under Kerala government’s IT Department.

It added that the Consulate General of UAE in Thiruvananthapuram had again sought her assistance in administrative matters due to her experience in the same. The plea states that she worked with the Consulate under a “Work on request” basis, as a part of which she had checked with Customs regarding the delay of the Consignment.&nbsp;

The plea stated that “she was innocent, had not committed any criminal offenses as alleged and had no connection with respect to the smuggled gold”.&nbsp;

How the case progressed through the week

On Sunday, the Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued at nearly Rs.15crore, in a diplomatic cargo addressed to the UAE Consulate in the capital city. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them.&nbsp;

As per the remand request filed before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, the Charge d’Affairs of the UAE Consulate affirmed that his family had sent the list of nine items that were mentioned as food stuffs. He also confirmed that he had no relation with the items that are mentioned as “articles other than foodstuffs”.

Customs Officials registered a case pertaining to the illegal import of gold and also arrested Sarith, a former PRO of the UAE Consulate.&nbsp;

Opposition leaders alleged that the Kerala Chief Minister’s Office was connected to the case and that the CM’s Principal Secretary was in touch with Swapna Suresh and also behind her appointment in the Space Park job. This led to the CM’s Principal Secretary, Sivasankar being sent on one year leave.&nbsp;

According to reports, Sivasankar had been embroiled in another controversy recently, after he initiated an agreement with an American firm, Sprinklr to share details of COVID-19 patients and suspects, without the knowledge of CM and the cabinet.

Following the political storm and serious allegations that rocked the state government, the Kerala chief minister wrote to the Prime Minister and Finance Minister seeking a probe by the concerned Central agencies.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Home Ministry permitted the NIA to take over the probe on the grounds that “organized smuggling operation may have serious implications for national security”.&nbsp;

The Central government’s counsel informed the Kerala High Court on Friday, that the bail application filed by Swapna Suresh, the main accused in the Kerala gold smuggling case is not maintainable.

The Central government’s counsel informed the Kerala High Court on Friday, that the bail application filed by Swapna Suresh, the main accused in the Kerala gold smuggling case is not maintainable. This was owing to the NationalAgency(NIA) having taken over the probe. The bench verbally agreed with the counsel’s submission and adjourned the hearing to Tuesday. The court has also agreed to provide the FIR copy (filed by the NIA) to Swapna’s advocate. The Central government counsel, Mr. Ravi Prakash maintained that, under Section 21 of the NIA Act, the High Court has no original jurisdiction to consider the anticipatory bail application, adding that it can only be considered by the Special Court. He further stated that the custodial interrogation of Swapna Suresh had to be conducted to establish her involvement and motive in the delivery of the diplomatic cargo. The NIA informed the Court of having filed an FIR and that their investigation is underway as per Sections 16, 17, &18 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The Central government lawyer informed the court that even if the bail was was to be considered, this case had serious implications and that the nature of crime affected the security, financial stability of the country. Swapna Suresh’s bail plea that was filed earlier this week stated that she was working with the UAE Consulate general office from 2016-19 and that she had completed many assignments there, successfully. Following her resignation from there in 2019, she worked as a contract staff in PWC, which dealt with the Space park projects that came under Kerala government’s IT Department. It added that the Consulate General of UAE in Thiruvananthapuram had again sought her assistance in administrative matters due to her experience in the same. The plea states that she worked with the Consulate under a “Work on request” basis, as a part of which she had checked with Customs regarding the delay of the Consignment. The plea stated that “she was innocent, had not committed any criminal offenses as alleged and had no connection with respect to the smuggled gold”. How the case progressed through the week On Sunday, the Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued at nearly Rs.15crore, in a diplomatic cargo addressed to the UAE Consulate in the capital city. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them. As per the remand request filed before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, the Charge d’Affairs of the UAE Consulate affirmed that his family had sent the list of nine items that were mentioned as food stuffs. He also confirmed that he had no relation with the items that are mentioned as “articles other than foodstuffs”. Customs Officials registered a case pertaining to the illegal import of gold and also arrested Sarith, a former PRO of the UAE Consulate. Opposition leaders alleged that the Kerala Chief Minister’s Office was connected to the case and that the CM’s Principal Secretary was in touch with Swapna Suresh and also behind her appointment in the Space Park job. This led to the CM’s Principal Secretary, Sivasankar being sent on one year leave. According to reports, Sivasankar had been embroiled in another controversy recently, after he initiated an agreement with an American firm, Sprinklr to share details of COVID-19 patients and suspects, without the knowledge of CM and the cabinet. Following the political storm and serious allegations that rocked the state government, the Kerala chief minister wrote to the Prime Minister and Finance Minister seeking a probe by the concerned Central agencies. On Thursday, the Home Ministry permitted the NIA to take over the probe on the grounds that “organized smuggling operation may have serious implications for national security”.

Centre opposes bail for Kerala gold smuggling accused; hearing adjourned

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024.

In its earlier envisioned form, the project involves dredging and creating a shipping canal in the Palk Strait&nbsp;between India and Sri Lanka. This shipping canal would enable passage of ships from India's west to the east coast and vice-versa, without going around Sri Lanka.

The letter by the senior DMK leader emphasized the importance of the sea lane between Southern Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, comparing its strategic importance to that of the northern borders of the country.

Citing China's growing proximity with Sri Lanka and their, increasing investments in the island nation, the letter highlighted how it would not be in India’s national interest.

Referring to the immense strategic value of Southern Tamil Nadu Coast, especially the Adam’s Bridge and Sethu Samudram area, the letter called the region "India’s maritime strategic lifeline and the world’s most important global sea lane".

Invoking the projects'&nbsp;closeness to late leaders Anna, Kamaraj, Vajpayee, and Karunanidhi, Baalu appealed to the Prime Minister to "take a statesman's perspective and recommence the project".

He urged PM Modi to ensure project completion by 2024 (the end of Modi’s second tenure) and have the first ship sailing through the channel by the auspicious Tamil festival of Pongal that year.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that the DMK had made a mention of re-starting the Sethu Samudram project in its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto. It is hard to miss that this letter to the prime minister also comes at a time when Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are less than a year away.&nbsp;

The Controversy over Sethu Samudram project&nbsp;

Several objections were raised to this project in the past. The religious and political angle was that Adam's Bridge or Ram Sethu, which is believed to be constructed by Lord Ram, would be destroyed in the process of implementing this project.&nbsp;

Few also opposed the project on the grounds that it would be far too expensive and also cause damage to the environment and also affect the livelihood of fishermen.&nbsp;

“The Sethu Samudram project was said to be commercially unviable as it would only enable the passage of small ships. It was stated that even if dredging was done, there was a possibility of re-accumulation of silt, thus creating the need for regular dredging. When large vessels can't pass that way, how it will bolster security is unclear,"&nbsp;political analyst Sumanth C Raman told WION.

He also added that he didn’t see this project being implemented as long as the NDA remains in power.&nbsp;

Earlier too, there had been conflicting reports about the Ram Setu, which is said to be built by Lord Ram.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024.

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024. In its earlier envisioned form, the project involves dredging and creating a shipping canal in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka. This shipping canal would enable passage of ships from India's west to the east coast and vice-versa, without going around Sri Lanka. The letter by the senior DMK leader emphasized the importance of the sea lane between Southern Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, comparing its strategic importance to that of the northern borders of the country. Citing China's growing proximity with Sri Lanka and their, increasing investments in the island nation, the letter highlighted how it would not be in India’s national interest. Referring to the immense strategic value of Southern Tamil Nadu Coast, especially the Adam’s Bridge and Sethu Samudram area, the letter called the region "India’s maritime strategic lifeline and the world’s most important global sea lane". Invoking the projects' closeness to late leaders Anna, Kamaraj, Vajpayee, and Karunanidhi, Baalu appealed to the Prime Minister to "take a statesman's perspective and recommence the project". He urged PM Modi to ensure project completion by 2024 (the end of Modi’s second tenure) and have the first ship sailing through the channel by the auspicious Tamil festival of Pongal that year. It is to be noted that the DMK had made a mention of re-starting the Sethu Samudram project in its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto. It is hard to miss that this letter to the prime minister also comes at a time when Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are less than a year away. The Controversy over Sethu Samudram project Several objections were raised to this project in the past. The religious and political angle was that Adam's Bridge or Ram Sethu, which is believed to be constructed by Lord Ram, would be destroyed in the process of implementing this project. Few also opposed the project on the grounds that it would be far too expensive and also cause damage to the environment and also affect the livelihood of fishermen. “The Sethu Samudram project was said to be commercially unviable as it would only enable the passage of small ships. It was stated that even if dredging was done, there was a possibility of re-accumulation of silt, thus creating the need for regular dredging. When large vessels can't pass that way, how it will bolster security is unclear," political analyst Sumanth C Raman told WION. He also added that he didn’t see this project being implemented as long as the NDA remains in power. Earlier too, there had been conflicting reports about the Ram Setu, which is said to be built by Lord Ram.

Citing Chinese threat, DMK urges PM Modi to restart Sethu Samudram project

When 2020 has given the world COVID-19, “turn it into an opportunity and create awareness via food” is the mantra of KL Kumar, a Madurai based Hotelier. His Temple City hotel in has innovated their existing dishes and are presenting them in line with the current trend. Mask Parottas, Corona-shaped Dosas, Bondas and a new herbal concoction are the latest offerings on their menu since Tuesday morning.

Over the last week or so, the Madurai district has been seeing a rapid spike in COVID-19 cases, with over 300 new cases being reported daily. The district has also been under intense lockdown since the last week of June.&nbsp;

Amid these tough times, hotelier Kumar thought of giving their dishes a twist while also creating awareness among the public. And what better dish to start with than the iconic Parotta that Madurai is renowned for.&nbsp;

“From yesterday morning we have started selling these new dishes and they are available for take-away only, because of the current government restrictions. We didn’t expect that they would go viral in a day. We hope to revive the business as the last few months have hit us really hard” KL Kumar who owns the chain of Temple City Hotels told WION.

He adds that innovating with dishes is nothing new for them. Kumar recalls offering a bat-shaped dosa after Sachin Tendulkar scored 100 tons and also a ‘Rasi-dosa’ that was made from ingredients said to be suitable to one’s astrology. “Our idea is to create a small impact and awareness via the food we serve”, he says.

Besides these innovative eatables that are sold for Rs.50(for a set of 2), the hotel also offers a complimentary 'herbal rasam' with some of their dishes. They claim that it helps people build immunity.&nbsp;

“Usually during the lockdown we have a demand for only 50 sets of parottas, but now the demand has shot up nearly ten times. Parottas are generally sought after at night, but now the demand is high even from the morning” Kumar said.&nbsp;

While the quirky cuisine has brought about a big spike in sales at his branch in the Mattuthavani market area, he hopes to offer these dishes across his chain of 12 hotels in Madurai once the lockdown eases.&nbsp;

When 2020 has given the world COVID-19, “turn it into an opportunity and create awareness via food” is the mantra of KL Kumar, a Madurai based Hotelier. His Temple City hotel in has innovated their existing dishes and are presenting them in line with the current trend.

When 2020 has given the world COVID-19, “turn it into an opportunity and create awareness via food” is the mantra of KL Kumar, a Madurai based Hotelier. His Temple City hotel in has innovated their existing dishes and are presenting them in line with the current trend. Mask Parottas, Corona-shaped Dosas, Bondas and a new herbal concoction are the latest offerings on their menu since Tuesday morning. Over the last week or so, the Madurai district has been seeing a rapid spike in COVID-19 cases, with over 300 new cases being reported daily. The district has also been under intense lockdown since the last week of June. Amid these tough times, hotelier Kumar thought of giving their dishes a twist while also creating awareness among the public. And what better dish to start with than the iconic Parotta that Madurai is renowned for. “From yesterday morning we have started selling these new dishes and they are available for take-away only, because of the current government restrictions. We didn’t expect that they would go viral in a day. We hope to revive the business as the last few months have hit us really hard” KL Kumar who owns the chain of Temple City Hotels told WION. He adds that innovating with dishes is nothing new for them. Kumar recalls offering a bat-shaped dosa after Sachin Tendulkar scored 100 tons and also a ‘Rasi-dosa’ that was made from ingredients said to be suitable to one’s astrology. “Our idea is to create a small impact and awareness via the food we serve”, he says. Besides these innovative eatables that are sold for Rs.50(for a set of 2), the hotel also offers a complimentary 'herbal rasam' with some of their dishes. They claim that it helps people build immunity. “Usually during the lockdown we have a demand for only 50 sets of parottas, but now the demand has shot up nearly ten times. Parottas are generally sought after at night, but now the demand is high even from the morning” Kumar said. While the quirky cuisine has brought about a big spike in sales at his branch in the Mattuthavani market area, he hopes to offer these dishes across his chain of 12 hotels in Madurai once the lockdown eases.

Quirky COVID-19 cuisine: Mask Parottas, corona-shaped dosas and much more

In the latest incident, new variants of Ecstasy pills commonly known as ‘Frosch’ and ‘Lamborghini’ have been seized by Customs Officials at the Foreign post office in Chennai. There have been multiple thwarted attempts of Ecstasy pills coming into Chennai via Foreign post in the recent weeks.&nbsp;

On suspicion of containing narcotic substances, Chennai Air Customs had detained two postal parcels suspected which arrived from the Netherlands.&nbsp;

On examination, first parcel was found to contain 490 green-colored pills suspected to be MDMA, a narcotics substance. These pills are commonly known as ‘Frosch’ have a smiley on one side and contain around 160 mg of MDMA.&nbsp;

The second parcel was found to contain 50 orange pills embossed with a bull logo, similar to that of the supercar brand. These pills are known as “Lamborghini” and contain around 200 mg of MDMA. The seized pills are extremely potent as they contain a very high dosage of MDMA. Dosage above 120 mg is considered to be high and can be fatal.

Total 540 MDMA pills valued at Rs 16 lakhs were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985.

MDMA is commonly known as Ecstasy, a party drug that alters mood and perception and is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure.&nbsp;

The parcels were addressed to two different persons in the city. As a follow-up action, officials carried out searches at the addresses and detained two persons to ascertain their role in smuggling.&nbsp;

“During the lockdown period, the availability of alcohol and drugs have come down and we have been maintaining a strict vigil. In recent times most of the Ecstasy drug parcels have come from Europe as that is the hub of illegal MDMA pill manufacture. In terms of the pills, Netherlands are said to offer the best quality and these drugs are very common among youth in Europe. These are popular party drugs that are even used by teenagers in certain countries” &nbsp;Customs Commissioner, Rajan Choudhary told WION.&nbsp;

During the recent weeks(Including the 17-day lockdown in Chennai) there has been a spurt in Ecstasy seizures. Four parcels containing highly potent drugs had been seized over the last few weeks. The combined value of these four drug parcels(excluding the latest), all of which contained variants of ecstasy are Rs.26 lakhs.

In March this year, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs. 30 Lakhs at the Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In the latest incident, new variants of Ecstasy pills commonly known as ‘Frosch’ and ‘Lamborghini’ have been seized by Customs Officials at the Foreign post office in Chennai.

In the latest incident, new variants of Ecstasy pills commonly known as ‘Frosch’ and ‘Lamborghini’ have been seized by Customs Officials at the Foreign post office in Chennai. There have been multiple thwarted attempts of Ecstasy pills coming into Chennai via Foreign post in the recent weeks. On suspicion of containing narcotic substances, Chennai Air Customs had detained two postal parcels suspected which arrived from the Netherlands. On examination, first parcel was found to contain 490 green-colored pills suspected to be MDMA, a narcotics substance. These pills are commonly known as ‘Frosch’ have a smiley on one side and contain around 160 mg of MDMA. The second parcel was found to contain 50 orange pills embossed with a bull logo, similar to that of the supercar brand. These pills are known as “Lamborghini” and contain around 200 mg of MDMA. The seized pills are extremely potent as they contain a very high dosage of MDMA. Dosage above 120 mg is considered to be high and can be fatal. Total 540 MDMA pills valued at Rs 16 lakhs were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985. MDMA is commonly known as Ecstasy, a party drug that alters mood and perception and is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. The parcels were addressed to two different persons in the city. As a follow-up action, officials carried out searches at the addresses and detained two persons to ascertain their role in smuggling. “During the lockdown period, the availability of alcohol and drugs have come down and we have been maintaining a strict vigil. In recent times most of the Ecstasy drug parcels have come from Europe as that is the hub of illegal MDMA pill manufacture. In terms of the pills, Netherlands are said to offer the best quality and these drugs are very common among youth in Europe. These are popular party drugs that are even used by teenagers in certain countries” Customs Commissioner, Rajan Choudhary told WION. During the recent weeks(Including the 17-day lockdown in Chennai) there has been a spurt in Ecstasy seizures. Four parcels containing highly potent drugs had been seized over the last few weeks. The combined value of these four drug parcels(excluding the latest), all of which contained variants of ecstasy are Rs.26 lakhs. In March this year, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs. 30 Lakhs at the Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person.

Ecstasy pill variants ‘Frosch’ and ‘Lamborghini’ worth Rs 16 lakhs seized in Chennai

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers is to arrive in Madurai on Friday and continue investigations in the father-son custodial deaths case, the CBI counsel informed the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court.

The CBI counsel also added that the agency had sought all necessary facilities from the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary for the investigation of the case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cb-cid-questioning-five-more-policemen-in-tamil-nadu-custodial-deaths-case-311587">CB-CID questioning five more policemen in Tamil Nadu custodial deaths case</a>

The case of alleged custodial deaths of the father-son duo, which was taken up suo motu by the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, came up for hearing on Thursday.&nbsp;

The court instructed either the CBI or the CB-CID to proceed with the formalities, file a plea to conduct custodial interrogation of the arrested police personnel within 15 days of their being arrested.&nbsp;

In this regard, the CBI counsel informed Justice Sathyanarayanan and Rajamanickam that a team of seven CBI officers from Delhi would reach Madurai on Friday.&nbsp;

So far, the CB-CID which handled the case, as per the court’s orders has arrested 10 police personnel from the Sathankulam Police Station, where the alleged custodial torture had taken place.

The&nbsp;CB-CID counsel has informed the court that a petition has been filed to take them under police custody. The counsel also added that evidence had been collected from the Sathankulam Police station, the sub-jail and the hospital where the father-son duo spent their final days.&nbsp;

The court also ordered the CBI and CB-CID to file their respective status reports in a sealed cover before the next hearing, which is scheduled for&nbsp;July 28.&nbsp;

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers is to arrive in Madurai on Friday and continue investigations in the father-son custodial deaths case, the CBI counsel informed the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court.

A team of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers is to arrive in Madurai on Friday and continue investigations in the father-son custodial deaths case, the CBI counsel informed the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court. The CBI counsel also added that the agency had sought all necessary facilities from the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary for the investigation of the case. Also read | CB-CID questioning five more policemen in Tamil Nadu custodial deaths case The case of alleged custodial deaths of the father-son duo, which was taken up suo motu by the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, came up for hearing on Thursday. The court instructed either the CBI or the CB-CID to proceed with the formalities, file a plea to conduct custodial interrogation of the arrested police personnel within 15 days of their being arrested. In this regard, the CBI counsel informed Justice Sathyanarayanan and Rajamanickam that a team of seven CBI officers from Delhi would reach Madurai on Friday. So far, the CB-CID which handled the case, as per the court’s orders has arrested 10 police personnel from the Sathankulam Police Station, where the alleged custodial torture had taken place. The CB-CID counsel has informed the court that a petition has been filed to take them under police custody. The counsel also added that evidence had been collected from the Sathankulam Police station, the sub-jail and the hospital where the father-son duo spent their final days. The court also ordered the CBI and CB-CID to file their respective status reports in a sealed cover before the next hearing, which is scheduled for July 28.

TN custodial deaths: CBI team to arrive tomorrow for conducting probe

An important meeting pertaining to the investigation in the 30kg gold smuggling case is underway between CBI and Customs Officials at the Customs (Preventive) Office in Ernakulam, Kerala.

An important meeting pertaining to the investigation in the 30kg gold smuggling case is underway between CBI and Customs Officials at the Customs (Preventive) Office in Ernakulam, Kerala. This meeting comes after several developments in the investigation of this case and its political fallout on Tuesday. In response to the alleged involvement of a top bureaucrat M.Sivasankar in the gold smuggling via a diplomatic channel and the ensuing controversies, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said that the State government had nothing to do with it, and put the onus on the Central government. “All airports in the country come under the central government. For any issues happening here, the central government is responsible and the State government has nothing to do with this.” However, the opposition parties in Kerala suggest otherwise. Opposition leaders have claimed that M.Sivasankar, the bureaucrat who served as the Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary and IT Secretary had ties with a woman named Swapna Suresh, who is said to be the kingpin of the case. According to reports, Sivasankar had been embroiled in another controversy recently, after he initiated an agreement with an American firm, Sprinklr to share details of COVID-19 patients and suspects, without the knowledge of CM and the cabinet. Questions are being raised by Opposition parties on why Swapna Suresh(alleged kingpin) was appointed a few months ago on contract as the marketing liaison officer of the Space Park under the Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited (KSITIL). The KSITIL works under Kerala’s IT department, and it has been alleged that Sivasankar was behind her appointment. On Tuesday, the Kerala Chief Minister’s office said that M Sivasankar was removed from the post of Secretary to the Chief Minister. Some reports also say that the Sivasankar was sent on year-long leave. An old letter that has surfaced from the UAE Consulate in Kerala says that Swapna Suresh (alleged kingpin) had joined as Secretary to the Consul General of UAE, Kerala in October 2016. It added that within a few months she was offered a direct contract by MOFA office Secretary, considering her outstanding performance. The letter dated 3rd September 2019 states that she had creditably discharged the duties till 31st August 2019. “One of the major highlights of her tenure was her handling of the visit of the Ruler of Sharjah and other royal delegations” reads the letter. The smuggling case so far On Sunday, the Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued nearly Rs.15 crore, in a diplomatic cargo addressed to the UAE Consulate in the capital city. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them. As per the remand request filed before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, the Charge d’Affairs of the UAE Consulate affirmed that his family had sent the list of nine items that were mentioned as foodstuffs. He also confirmed that he had no relation with the items that are mentioned as “articles other than foodstuffs”. The charge d'affaires also informed the Customs officials that Sarith, a former PRO in the Consulate had helped in getting the goods cleared in India. Adding that Sarith was no longer a consulate staff, he stated that Sarith’s help was sought for odd jobs. The charge d'affaires specifically denied any legal claim on his part and that of the UAE Consulate on the gold that was recovered. Appearing before the Customs authorities, the former consulate PRO Sarith gave a voluntary statement under section 108 of the Customs Act, which indicated his active role in bringing the consignment containing gold to India under the guise of diplomatic baggage. The remand request also states that Sarith gave evasive answers when asked about his accomplices in the offence. Examination of Sarith’s mobile phone also revealed that he had formatted it after the goods were detained at the airport, indicating an attempt to destroy evidence. It is alleged that Swapna Suresh, who had earlier worked with the consulate is the kingpin of this gold smuggling racket. Pictures and videos from several Kerala government functions and banquets also show the woman in close proximity with senior government and opposition leaders and other officials. She is said to be facing a crime branch probe for fabricating a complaint against an Air India Official. However, Opposition leaders also claim that the alleged kingpin Swapna Suresh had been working as Operations Manager with Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited, under Kerala Government's IT department until Monday 6th July. She is currently missing and the Customs department has launched a search for her. Addressing a Press Conference, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asserted that the woman had no connection with the Chief Minister’s Office or the state government and that she served in a contractual role. “It is a contractual job and she was recruited through a placement agency, not directly by the government. She is understood to have worked under the Air India SATS and the consulate. It needs to be checked if she was appointed there (IT Dept) with some influence” he said. The UAE mission in Delhi had said that their authorities have launched an investigation to find out who sent the cargo containing gold to the UAE Consulate. The authorities stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. A diplomatic Cargo or bag is a physical box or container with legal protections that is used for carrying official documents or other items between a diplomatic mission and its home government. As long as these bags or containers are marked as Diplomatic, they have immunity from search or seizure as per International law. In this case, the search was conducted based on necessary permissions from the UAE authorities.

Kerala: 30kg gold smuggling controversy gets murky; CBI, Customs meeting underway

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidharth MP

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