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Srinagar: Surrounded by dense pine forests and overlooking the picturesque Kishanganga Valley, Keran is set to add a new attraction to its growing tourism landscape with the inauguration of the Keran Heritage Centre at Pharkian. The Centre marks an important step towards showcasing the tourism potential of North Kashmir's frontier region while bringing its history, cultural heritage and natural beauty into greater focus.&nbsp;Known for its strategic geographical location, Keran is increasingly emerging as a destination with considerable tourism potential. Its scenic landscapes, distinctive cultural identity and unique geographical setting offer visitors an experience that extends beyond conventional sightseeing. The newly developed Heritage Centre seeks to build on these strengths and establish the valley as an important destination on the border tourism circuit.&nbsp;The complex has been designed to combine heritage, tourism and national identity, with the National Flag Site forming its principal attraction. The majestic Tricolour, set against the mountain backdrop, gives the site a distinctive character. An imposing fort-inspired gateway featuring twin domed towers adds to the architectural appeal of the complex.&nbsp;The site also features commemorative walls bearing the inscriptions ‘Sacrifice, Service, Unity’ and ‘Higher Grounds, Stronger Bonds, A Greater India’, highlighting the values of national service, patriotism and unity. An artillery gun display and landscaped pathways further contribute to the visitor experience, recognising the role of the armed forces and the significance of India's frontier regions.&nbsp;A dedicated heritage gallery has also been developed to showcase the history, landscapes and cultural identity of Keran Valley. The gallery will provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the region's past, its distinctive traditions and the historical experiences that have shaped its identity.&nbsp;Another attraction within the complex is Keran Café – Pharkian, a specially designed valley-view café featuring a contemporary glass façade and warm wooden interiors.&nbsp;&nbsp;The establishment of the Heritage Centre is part of a broader effort to promote border tourism and develop lesser-explored destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. By strengthening tourism infrastructure and creating new visitor attractions, the initiative is expected to encourage more travellers to explore frontier areas such as Keran.&nbsp;The initiative also carries economic significance for the local population. Increased tourist footfall can create opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood generation, while encouraging greater community participation in tourism-related activities.

Keran is increasingly emerging as a destination with considerable tourism potential. Its scenic landscapes, distinctive cultural identity and unique geographical setting offer visitors an experience that extends beyond conventional sightseeing.

Srinagar: Surrounded by dense pine forests and overlooking the picturesque Kishanganga Valley, Keran is set to add a new attraction to its growing tourism landscape with the inauguration of the Keran Heritage Centre at Pharkian. The Centre marks an important step towards showcasing the tourism potential of North Kashmir's frontier region while bringing its history, cultural heritage and natural beauty into greater focus. Known for its strategic geographical location, Keran is increasingly emerging as a destination with considerable tourism potential. Its scenic landscapes, distinctive cultural identity and unique geographical setting offer visitors an experience that extends beyond conventional sightseeing. The newly developed Heritage Centre seeks to build on these strengths and establish the valley as an important destination on the border tourism circuit. The complex has been designed to combine heritage, tourism and national identity, with the National Flag Site forming its principal attraction. The majestic Tricolour, set against the mountain backdrop, gives the site a distinctive character. An imposing fort-inspired gateway featuring twin domed towers adds to the architectural appeal of the complex. The site also features commemorative walls bearing the inscriptions ‘Sacrifice, Service, Unity’ and ‘Higher Grounds, Stronger Bonds, A Greater India’, highlighting the values of national service, patriotism and unity. An artillery gun display and landscaped pathways further contribute to the visitor experience, recognising the role of the armed forces and the significance of India's frontier regions. A dedicated heritage gallery has also been developed to showcase the history, landscapes and cultural identity of Keran Valley. The gallery will provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the region's past, its distinctive traditions and the historical experiences that have shaped its identity. Another attraction within the complex is Keran Café – Pharkian, a specially designed valley-view café featuring a contemporary glass façade and warm wooden interiors. The establishment of the Heritage Centre is part of a broader effort to promote border tourism and develop lesser-explored destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. By strengthening tourism infrastructure and creating new visitor attractions, the initiative is expected to encourage more travellers to explore frontier areas such as Keran. The initiative also carries economic significance for the local population. Increased tourist footfall can create opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood generation, while encouraging greater community participation in tourism-related activities.

Keran is increasingly emerging as a destination with considerable tourism potential. Its scenic landscapes, distinctive cultural identity and unique geographical setting offer visitors an experience that extends beyond conventional sightseeing.

Keran Heritage Centre to give new impetus to border tourism in North Kashmir

Srinagar: Commemorating the historic Battle of Shalateng, the Indian Army’s Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo) organised a large-scale Ex-Servicemen Rally and educational outreach programme at Sharifabad Military Garrison on November 4, bringing together around 400 ex-servicemen and 200 students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools across Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts.&nbsp;The programme was presided over by Major General Tushar Sharma, Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo), and aimed at strengthening the Army’s engagement with veterans and their families while familiarising the younger generation with the region’s rich military history.&nbsp;A significant highlight of the commemoration was the remembrance of the historic contribution of 3 PARA Special Forces, which participated in the Battle of Shalateng on November 7, 1947. The unit was subsequently awarded the Battle Honour ‘Shalateng’ in recognition of its role in the historic engagement. The battle remains an important chapter in the military history of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;The veterans’ rally provided a dedicated platform to address the concerns and welfare requirements of ex-servicemen and their dependents. Several helpdesks and awareness stalls were established to facilitate access to Central and Jammu and Kashmir Government welfare schemes, Army initiatives, pension-related services, documentation assistance and resettlement opportunities.&nbsp;Representatives from JAK LI Records, Defence Pension Disbursement Office (DPDO), Srinagar, Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO), Srinagar, and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) interacted with veterans, providing guidance on pension entitlements, healthcare facilities and other post-retirement benefits.&nbsp;Medical facilities were also made available at the venue, while dedicated interaction sessions enabled ex-servicemen to raise grievances and seek assistance on matters concerning pensions, healthcare, documentation and welfare entitlements.&nbsp;In a parallel initiative to connect the younger generation with the region’s military heritage, an educational tour was organised for students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools. The visit provided them an opportunity to explore the military establishment and learn about the historical significance of the Battle of Shalateng, including the courage, commitment and sacrifices of soldiers who shaped the region’s history.&nbsp;The commemorative proceedings also featured a wreath-laying ceremony to pay homage to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Students of Army Goodwill Schools presented cultural performances, adding a vibrant dimension to the occasion.&nbsp;Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest underscored the importance of honouring veterans, preserving the legacy of historic military engagements and nurturing stronger bonds between the Army and the local population. He also highlighted the enduring values of service, sacrifice and patriotism that continue to inspire generations.

An educational tour was organised for students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools, providing them an opportunity to explore the military establishment and learn about the historical significance of the Battle of Shalateng, including the courage, commitment and sacrifices of soldiers.

Srinagar: Commemorating the historic Battle of Shalateng, the Indian Army’s Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo) organised a large-scale Ex-Servicemen Rally and educational outreach programme at Sharifabad Military Garrison on November 4, bringing together around 400 ex-servicemen and 200 students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools across Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts. The programme was presided over by Major General Tushar Sharma, Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo), and aimed at strengthening the Army’s engagement with veterans and their families while familiarising the younger generation with the region’s rich military history. A significant highlight of the commemoration was the remembrance of the historic contribution of 3 PARA Special Forces, which participated in the Battle of Shalateng on November 7, 1947. The unit was subsequently awarded the Battle Honour ‘Shalateng’ in recognition of its role in the historic engagement. The battle remains an important chapter in the military history of Jammu and Kashmir. The veterans’ rally provided a dedicated platform to address the concerns and welfare requirements of ex-servicemen and their dependents. Several helpdesks and awareness stalls were established to facilitate access to Central and Jammu and Kashmir Government welfare schemes, Army initiatives, pension-related services, documentation assistance and resettlement opportunities. Representatives from JAK LI Records, Defence Pension Disbursement Office (DPDO), Srinagar, Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO), Srinagar, and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) interacted with veterans, providing guidance on pension entitlements, healthcare facilities and other post-retirement benefits. Medical facilities were also made available at the venue, while dedicated interaction sessions enabled ex-servicemen to raise grievances and seek assistance on matters concerning pensions, healthcare, documentation and welfare entitlements. In a parallel initiative to connect the younger generation with the region’s military heritage, an educational tour was organised for students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools. The visit provided them an opportunity to explore the military establishment and learn about the historical significance of the Battle of Shalateng, including the courage, commitment and sacrifices of soldiers who shaped the region’s history. The commemorative proceedings also featured a wreath-laying ceremony to pay homage to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Students of Army Goodwill Schools presented cultural performances, adding a vibrant dimension to the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest underscored the importance of honouring veterans, preserving the legacy of historic military engagements and nurturing stronger bonds between the Army and the local population. He also highlighted the enduring values of service, sacrifice and patriotism that continue to inspire generations.

An educational tour was organised for students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools, providing them an opportunity to explore the military establishment and learn about the historical significance of the Battle of Shalateng, including the courage, commitment and sacrifices of soldiers.

Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng Day with veterans’ rally, educational outreach at Sharifabad

New Delhi: Sri Lanka has opened its first "Atal" Tinkering Lab, bringing a hands-on model of Indian STEM education to a leading Colombo school in a partnership that both countries describe as a step toward a shared innovation ecosystem.The lab, housed in the Centenary Building at Nalanda College, was inaugurated this week by India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, alongside Hemas Holdings Group CEO Ashish Chandra and former Sri Lankan cricket captain Mahela Jayawardena, an alumnus of the school. The facility was developed by Atlas Axillia, the education arm of Hemas Holdings, with technical support from India’s Atal Innovation Mission under NITI Aayog and facilitation by the Indian High Commission.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-expresses-appreciation-after-indian-navy-and-air-force-rescue-iranian-crew-from-somali-pirates-1793690677267">Iran expresses appreciation after Indian Navy and Air Force rescue Iranian crew from Somali pirates</a>Speaking at the opening, High Commissioner Jha highlighted the scale of the programme in India. “Today there are more than 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs across India, in big cities and small villages. Students have built products like automated irrigation systems and smart canes for the visually impaired. That is the real magic of Atal Tinkering Labs. It teaches a child that a problem is not a wall, it is an invitation. Today that invitation arrives in Sri Lanka.”Ashish Chandra described the Nalanda lab as distinctive. “It is one of its kind in the world. We have visited multiple tinkering labs in India. This tinkering lab has a class of its own. It will be a model, a reference.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-nsa-ajit-doval-holds-key-defence-and-security-talks-in-hanoi-with-vietnamese-leadership-1793612014263">India’s NSA Ajit Doval holds key defence and security talks in Hanoi with Vietnamese leadership</a>The lab is designed to give secondary students space to experiment with robotics, artificial intelligence, electronics and design thinking, combining scientific principles with creative problem-solving. Organisers say the aim is to move beyond textbook learning by encouraging students to build practical solutions to everyday challenges.India’s Atal Tinkering Labs, launched under the Atal Innovation Mission, have become a cornerstone of efforts to cultivate scientific curiosity among schoolchildren.By replicating the model in Sri Lanka, officials from both sides hope to foster similar skills while creating pathways for future collaboration. The launch is also expected to be followed by the inauguration of a broader India-Sri Lanka innovation forum.

Sri Lanka's first Atal Tinkering Lab has opened at Nalanda College in Colombo, backed by India's Atal Innovation Mission. Students will work on robotics, AI and design thinking. Read what India's High Commissioner said at the launch.

New Delhi: Sri Lanka has opened its first "Atal" Tinkering Lab, bringing a hands-on model of Indian STEM education to a leading Colombo school in a partnership that both countries describe as a step toward a shared innovation ecosystem. The lab, housed in the Centenary Building at Nalanda College, was inaugurated this week by India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, alongside Hemas Holdings Group CEO Ashish Chandra and former Sri Lankan cricket captain Mahela Jayawardena, an alumnus of the school. The facility was developed by Atlas Axillia, the education arm of Hemas Holdings, with technical support from India’s Atal Innovation Mission under NITI Aayog and facilitation by the Indian High Commission. Also read | Iran expresses appreciation after Indian Navy and Air Force rescue Iranian crew from Somali pirates Speaking at the opening, High Commissioner Jha highlighted the scale of the programme in India. “Today there are more than 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs across India, in big cities and small villages. Students have built products like automated irrigation systems and smart canes for the visually impaired. That is the real magic of Atal Tinkering Labs. It teaches a child that a problem is not a wall, it is an invitation. Today that invitation arrives in Sri Lanka.” Ashish Chandra described the Nalanda lab as distinctive. “It is one of its kind in the world. We have visited multiple tinkering labs in India. This tinkering lab has a class of its own. It will be a model, a reference.” Also read | India’s NSA Ajit Doval holds key defence and security talks in Hanoi with Vietnamese leadership The lab is designed to give secondary students space to experiment with robotics, artificial intelligence, electronics and design thinking, combining scientific principles with creative problem-solving. Organisers say the aim is to move beyond textbook learning by encouraging students to build practical solutions to everyday challenges. India’s Atal Tinkering Labs, launched under the Atal Innovation Mission, have become a cornerstone of efforts to cultivate scientific curiosity among schoolchildren. By replicating the model in Sri Lanka, officials from both sides hope to foster similar skills while creating pathways for future collaboration. The launch is also expected to be followed by the inauguration of a broader India-Sri Lanka innovation forum.

Sri Lanka's first Atal Tinkering Lab has opened at Nalanda College in Colombo, backed by India's Atal Innovation Mission. Students will work on robotics, AI and design thinking. Read what India's High Commissioner said at the launch.

India’s 'Atal' Tinkering Labs reach Sri Lanka as first facility opens in the country

Ravi Uppal, co-founder of the Mahadev betting app, has been arrested in Dubai, sources said on Wednesday, barely a week after the kingpin and founder Sourabh Chandrakar was extradited to India from Oman.Sources said the UAE authorities have not yet intimated India about Uppal’s arrest, but the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are working to bring him back to India at the earliest.&nbsp;An Interpol Red Corner Notice was issued against Uppal in October 2023, and he was subsequently detained in Dubai in December that year but released 45 days later.&nbsp;Uppal managed a hawala network involving hundreds of crores of rupees and was responsible for maintaining contacts with politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh, said sources in ED.&nbsp;In January 2026, assets worth about Rs 21 crore linked to Uppal were attached.&nbsp;The ED wants to question Uppal to trace the hawala network, the money trail and the beneficiaries of the illegal earnings, sources said.&nbsp;<h2>Uppal and Chandrakar hold Vanuatu passports</h2>&nbsp;According to the ED, Uppal and Chandrakar, both from Bhilai in Chhattisgarh, acquired Vanuatu passports to evade Indian investigative and legal processes. Vanuatu does not have an extradition treaty with India.&nbsp;“Uppal is a vital cog in the entire Mahadev organisation. He handled hawala deliveries running into hundreds of crores of rupees and was also the principal point of contact to liaise with the politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh. His interrogation will be crucial to establishing the money trail and identifying the beneficiaries of the illegal proceeds,” said a source in ED.&nbsp;Chandrakar was brought back from Muscat by a special CBI team on Sunday. He is wanted in two CBI cases and one ED case, and will face trial as chargesheets have been filed in all the three cases.&nbsp;Meanwhile, another accused named Vikas Chhaparia, who was allegedly the network’s financial manager, is also in Dubai, sources said.The ED estimates the turnover of the Mahadev network and its associated platforms at Rs 88,000 crore to Rs 94,000 crore. It alleges that Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 5,000 crore was sent out of India to the UAE and other countries. The agency has filed six chargesheets naming 116 accused and has arrested 14 people.&nbsp;The ED has been investigating the alleged financial operations of the betting syndicate, including the movement of illegal betting proceeds through numerous bank accounts, hawala operators and overseas entities.&nbsp;

Mahadev betting app co-founder Ravi Uppal managed a hawala network involving hundreds of crores of rupees and was responsible for maintaining contacts with politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh. In January 2026, assets worth about Rs 21 crore linked to Uppal were attached.

Ravi Uppal, co-founder of the Mahadev betting app, has been arrested in Dubai, sources said on Wednesday, barely a week after the kingpin and founder Sourabh Chandrakar was extradited to India from Oman. Sources said the UAE authorities have not yet intimated India about Uppal’s arrest, but the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are working to bring him back to India at the earliest. An Interpol Red Corner Notice was issued against Uppal in October 2023, and he was subsequently detained in Dubai in December that year but released 45 days later. Uppal managed a hawala network involving hundreds of crores of rupees and was responsible for maintaining contacts with politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh, said sources in ED. In January 2026, assets worth about Rs 21 crore linked to Uppal were attached. The ED wants to question Uppal to trace the hawala network, the money trail and the beneficiaries of the illegal earnings, sources said. Uppal and Chandrakar hold Vanuatu passports According to the ED, Uppal and Chandrakar, both from Bhilai in Chhattisgarh, acquired Vanuatu passports to evade Indian investigative and legal processes. Vanuatu does not have an extradition treaty with India. “Uppal is a vital cog in the entire Mahadev organisation. He handled hawala deliveries running into hundreds of crores of rupees and was also the principal point of contact to liaise with the politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh. His interrogation will be crucial to establishing the money trail and identifying the beneficiaries of the illegal proceeds,” said a source in ED. Chandrakar was brought back from Muscat by a special CBI team on Sunday. He is wanted in two CBI cases and one ED case, and will face trial as chargesheets have been filed in all the three cases. Meanwhile, another accused named Vikas Chhaparia, who was allegedly the network’s financial manager, is also in Dubai, sources said. The ED estimates the turnover of the Mahadev network and its associated platforms at Rs 88,000 crore to Rs 94,000 crore. It alleges that Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 5,000 crore was sent out of India to the UAE and other countries. The agency has filed six chargesheets naming 116 accused and has arrested 14 people. The ED has been investigating the alleged financial operations of the betting syndicate, including the movement of illegal betting proceeds through numerous bank accounts, hawala operators and overseas entities.

Mahadev betting app co-founder Ravi Uppal managed a hawala network involving hundreds of crores of rupees and was responsible for maintaining contacts with politicians and bureaucrats in Chhattisgarh. In January 2026, assets worth about Rs 21 crore linked to Uppal were attached.

Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Wednesday referred to the multiple protests that have been taking place in the country while rejecting a plea seeking mandatory rotation of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and state assemblies but quipped in a lighter vein that the petitioner may stage protests and demonstrations for the cause.&nbsp;“You are dialling the wrong number. This is the good season for protests and naarebaazi (slogans). You should also do the same,” the CJI said, adding, “This is also a good ground for protest.”&nbsp;The counsel for the petitioner apologised, stating that he had no intention of staging a protest and that he was suffering from a sore throat.&nbsp;<h2>SC bench upholds Allahabad High Court order</h2>&nbsp;A bench of CJI Surya Kant and justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana upheld the Allahabad high court order validating Section 9(1)(c) of the Delimitation Act, 2002, which provides for the identification of reserved constituencies in areas where the proportion of SC/ST residents is comparatively high.&nbsp;The bench, however, said that the petitioner was free to approach public representatives and persuade them to adopt the principle of rotation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The petitioner, Jagdish Singh from the 191-Kadipur Assembly Constituency in Uttar Pradesh's Sultanpur district, had challenged the continued reservation of his constituency for Scheduled Castes, claiming that it had remained reserved for over seven decades since the first election in 1952.&nbsp;He argued that the absence of a rotation mechanism violated Articles 14, 15 and 19 of the Constitution and restricted voters’ electoral choices by limiting the candidates they could elect to members of the SC community.&nbsp;He further claimed that the existing arrangement benefited a handful of political families rather than advancing the interests of the wider community.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Petitioner sought periodic rotation of SC/ST-reserved constituencies</h2>&nbsp;Seeking a mechanism similar to the rotational reservation provided for panchayats and municipalities under Articles 243D and 243T of the Constitution, the petitioner urged the bench to direct periodic rotation of SC/ST-reserved constituencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bench of Chief Justice Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said an assumption cannot be made that voting is based on caste.“This argument is premised on the assumption that the majority community will vote based on caste or community. That is not necessarily the case. The court cannot make a judicial pronouncement on democratic choices; that is a decision for the voters to make,” Justice Bagchi pointed out.&nbsp;The bench clarified that it could not rewrite the Constitution or the statute by introducing a rotation requirement that finds no mention in Articles 330 and 332 or the Delimitation Act.&nbsp;<h2>‘Cannot assume the role of third chamber of Parliament’</h2>&nbsp;“We cannot assume the role of a third chamber of Parliament,” Justice Bagchi remarked when the counsel urged the court to interpret the law in a way that would extend the rotation system to Assembly seats.&nbsp;The bench also distinguished between the right to vote and any claimed right to contest an election from a particular constituency. It observed that candidates belonging to the general category remain eligible to contest from constituencies that are not reserved.&nbsp;The Allahabad high court had held that Articles 330 and 332 merely prescribe the number of reserved seats in proportion to the population and leave the methodology for identifying reserved constituencies to Parliament under Article 327.It had found Section 9(1)(c) neither ultra vires nor violative of fundamental rights, ruling that courts cannot issue a mandamus directing the legislature to introduce a rotation provision. While acknowledging that rotation could better advance social and political justice by allowing SC/ST candidates to contest even from constituencies with smaller reserved-category populations, the high court had emphasised that the policy decision rests exclusively with Parliament.

The petitioner, Jagdish Singh from UP's Sultanpur, had challenged the continued reservation of his constituency for SCs, claiming it had remained reserved for over seven decades since the first election in 1952. He alleged that the arrangement benefited a handful of political families.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Wednesday referred to the multiple protests that have been taking place in the country while rejecting a plea seeking mandatory rotation of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and state assemblies but quipped in a lighter vein that the petitioner may stage protests and demonstrations for the cause. “You are dialling the wrong number. This is the good season for protests and naarebaazi (slogans). You should also do the same,” the CJI said, adding, “This is also a good ground for protest.” The counsel for the petitioner apologised, stating that he had no intention of staging a protest and that he was suffering from a sore throat. SC bench upholds Allahabad High Court order A bench of CJI Surya Kant and justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana upheld the Allahabad high court order validating Section 9(1)(c) of the Delimitation Act, 2002, which provides for the identification of reserved constituencies in areas where the proportion of SC/ST residents is comparatively high. The bench, however, said that the petitioner was free to approach public representatives and persuade them to adopt the principle of rotation. The petitioner, Jagdish Singh from the 191-Kadipur Assembly Constituency in Uttar Pradesh's Sultanpur district, had challenged the continued reservation of his constituency for Scheduled Castes, claiming that it had remained reserved for over seven decades since the first election in 1952. He argued that the absence of a rotation mechanism violated Articles 14, 15 and 19 of the Constitution and restricted voters’ electoral choices by limiting the candidates they could elect to members of the SC community. He further claimed that the existing arrangement benefited a handful of political families rather than advancing the interests of the wider community. Petitioner sought periodic rotation of SC/ST-reserved constituencies Seeking a mechanism similar to the rotational reservation provided for panchayats and municipalities under Articles 243D and 243T of the Constitution, the petitioner urged the bench to direct periodic rotation of SC/ST-reserved constituencies. The bench of Chief Justice Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said an assumption cannot be made that voting is based on caste. “This argument is premised on the assumption that the majority community will vote based on caste or community. That is not necessarily the case. The court cannot make a judicial pronouncement on democratic choices; that is a decision for the voters to make,” Justice Bagchi pointed out. The bench clarified that it could not rewrite the Constitution or the statute by introducing a rotation requirement that finds no mention in Articles 330 and 332 or the Delimitation Act. ‘Cannot assume the role of third chamber of Parliament’ “We cannot assume the role of a third chamber of Parliament,” Justice Bagchi remarked when the counsel urged the court to interpret the law in a way that would extend the rotation system to Assembly seats. The bench also distinguished between the right to vote and any claimed right to contest an election from a particular constituency. It observed that candidates belonging to the general category remain eligible to contest from constituencies that are not reserved. The Allahabad high court had held that Articles 330 and 332 merely prescribe the number of reserved seats in proportion to the population and leave the methodology for identifying reserved constituencies to Parliament under Article 327. It had found Section 9(1)(c) neither ultra vires nor violative of fundamental rights, ruling that courts cannot issue a mandamus directing the legislature to introduce a rotation provision. While acknowledging that rotation could better advance social and political justice by allowing SC/ST candidates to contest even from constituencies with smaller reserved-category populations, the high court had emphasised that the policy decision rests exclusively with Parliament.

The petitioner, Jagdish Singh from UP's Sultanpur, had challenged the continued reservation of his constituency for SCs, claiming it had remained reserved for over seven decades since the first election in 1952. He alleged that the arrangement benefited a handful of political families.

Reacting to Aga Ruhullah’s resignation from the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), party MLA Salman Sagar on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of executing “Operation Lotus” in Kashmir, alleging that the resignation was part of a systematic and well-planned strategy to weaken the party.Addressing a press conference, Sagar expressed sadness over Ruhullah’s decision to leave the party, saying the development was unfortunate for both the National Conference and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.“With great sadness, I say that the BJP has succeeded,” Sagar said, alleging that Ruhullah’s departure had helped fulfil the BJP’s agenda.He claimed that the political strategy, which he described as “Operation Lotus”, was aimed at weakening the NC and taking its elected representatives away from the party.“The Operation Lotus that takes place in Parliament, in which MPs are taken away from their parties, has now been carried out here in Kashmir,” he said, adding that the development was a matter of concern for the party.Sagar questioned Ruhullah’s decision to resign after spending around 25 years in the National Conference, during which he had served as an MLA, minister and Member of Parliament.“After living here for twenty-five years, during which you became an MLA several times, became an MP and became a minister, you never once felt that perhaps these people were not sincerely following this cause?” he asked.He maintained that differences within the party should have been addressed internally rather than through resignation, questioning whether Ruhullah had approached the party leadership or other elected representatives to seek collective action.“Everyone should have fought from within,” Sagar said, adding that the party had not wanted Ruhullah to leave.The NC MLA also rejected the argument that the party had compromised on its position regarding Article 370 and Article 35A, asserting that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and protection of its political identity remained central to the party’s agenda.“The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference will never compromise. We will not commit political suicide,” he said, reiterating that the party would continue to stand by its stated position on Article 370, Article 35A and the rights of the people.Referring to the party’s electoral mandate, Sagar said the NC’s victory was driven by public sentiment and the people’s rejection of the BJP’s actions since 2019, rather than the influence of any individual leader.He also disputed any suggestion that the party’s electoral performance was primarily attributable to Ruhullah, crediting party workers, constituency representatives and the broader political sentiment behind the NC’s campaign.Sagar further criticised what he described as the politicisation of the sacrifices of martyrs, saying their legacy should be treated with respect and not used as a political shield.He also called for restraint in political discourse, maintaining that disagreements should not lead to personal attacks or insulting language.“Whether it is our president or vice president, there must be a basic level of decency,” he said.While maintaining that the party would respond to the issues surrounding the resignation in due course, Sagar said some matters would be explained at a later stage.“As far as the MLAs are concerned, ask me again after two days,” he said, expressing confidence that differences within the party could be addressed.

Aga Ruhullah's resignation from the National Conference has triggered a sharp counter from within the party. NC MLA Salman Sagar says the BJP has "succeeded" and alleges "Operation Lotus" in Kashmir. Read the full story.

Reacting to Aga Ruhullah’s resignation from the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), party MLA Salman Sagar on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of executing “Operation Lotus” in Kashmir, alleging that the resignation was part of a systematic and well-planned strategy to weaken the party. Addressing a press conference, Sagar expressed sadness over Ruhullah’s decision to leave the party, saying the development was unfortunate for both the National Conference and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “With great sadness, I say that the BJP has succeeded,” Sagar said, alleging that Ruhullah’s departure had helped fulfil the BJP’s agenda. He claimed that the political strategy, which he described as “Operation Lotus”, was aimed at weakening the NC and taking its elected representatives away from the party. “The Operation Lotus that takes place in Parliament, in which MPs are taken away from their parties, has now been carried out here in Kashmir,” he said, adding that the development was a matter of concern for the party. Sagar questioned Ruhullah’s decision to resign after spending around 25 years in the National Conference, during which he had served as an MLA, minister and Member of Parliament. “After living here for twenty-five years, during which you became an MLA several times, became an MP and became a minister, you never once felt that perhaps these people were not sincerely following this cause?” he asked. He maintained that differences within the party should have been addressed internally rather than through resignation, questioning whether Ruhullah had approached the party leadership or other elected representatives to seek collective action. “Everyone should have fought from within,” Sagar said, adding that the party had not wanted Ruhullah to leave. The NC MLA also rejected the argument that the party had compromised on its position regarding Article 370 and Article 35A, asserting that the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and protection of its political identity remained central to the party’s agenda. “The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference will never compromise. We will not commit political suicide,” he said, reiterating that the party would continue to stand by its stated position on Article 370, Article 35A and the rights of the people. Referring to the party’s electoral mandate, Sagar said the NC’s victory was driven by public sentiment and the people’s rejection of the BJP’s actions since 2019, rather than the influence of any individual leader. He also disputed any suggestion that the party’s electoral performance was primarily attributable to Ruhullah, crediting party workers, constituency representatives and the broader political sentiment behind the NC’s campaign. Sagar further criticised what he described as the politicisation of the sacrifices of martyrs, saying their legacy should be treated with respect and not used as a political shield. He also called for restraint in political discourse, maintaining that disagreements should not lead to personal attacks or insulting language. “Whether it is our president or vice president, there must be a basic level of decency,” he said. While maintaining that the party would respond to the issues surrounding the resignation in due course, Sagar said some matters would be explained at a later stage. “As far as the MLAs are concerned, ask me again after two days,” he said, expressing confidence that differences within the party could be addressed.

Aga Ruhullah's resignation from the National Conference has triggered a sharp counter from within the party. NC MLA Salman Sagar says the BJP has "succeeded" and alleges "Operation Lotus" in Kashmir. Read the full story.

NC reacts to Aga Ruhullah’s resignation; Salman Sagar accuses BJP of executing ‘Operation Lotus’ in Kashmir

The Iranian government has exempted merchant vessels from India from restrictions on using the Strait of Hormuz besides those from China, Iraq and Qatar. Ahmad Hayat-Moghaddam, vice-chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, said ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar are exempt from restrictions imposed on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and are free to navigate through the strategic waterway, and the US is not stopping them either.&nbsp;The announcement comes amid repeated attacks on vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which prompted New Delhi to call for an end to attacks on commercial shipping.&nbsp;“We have currently exempted India, China, Iraq and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Ships from these countries pass freely, and the Americans do not intercept them either,” Hayat-Moghaddam said in an interview with the Iranian Students’ News Agency.&nbsp;Hayat-Moghaddam said India was granted the exemption to facilitate imports of medicines, while China’s exemption was linked to political support and economic ties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hayat-Moghaddam said Iran collects transit fees from Indian and Chinese vessels and allows Qatari vessels to pass without charges but did not specify whether Iraqi vessels pay transit fees or not.&nbsp;<h2>Around 90% of India’s LPG imports transit through Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;India imports around 90% of its crude oil needs, and about 30% of these imports currently pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Previously, the strait accounted for 70% of India’s crude imports, but the dependence has declined because New Delhi has diversified imports with purchases from Russia, the US, West Africa, and Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since the start of the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;However, 90% of India’s LPG imports still transit the Strait of Hormuz, and more than 50% of its LNG imports from Qatar and the UAE also arrive through the waterway, which is also crucial for fertiliser imports.India has repeatedly called for the unimpeded movement of energy supplies and freedom of navigation in international waterways.&nbsp;According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), there were at least 70 attacks on merchant ships between the start of the conflict in February and August. These attacks resulted in the death of 19 seafarers. Fifteen seafarers are among the 24 Indians killed so far in the West Asia conflict.&nbsp;<h2>Iran’s leaders urge military to consider Qatari-brokered proposal</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, senior Iranian political leaders are urging the country’s military leadership to consider a Qatari-brokered proposal to prevent a renewed conflict with the United States, said an Al Arabiya report.&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have advised military leaders to engage constructively with the proposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;The diplomatic push comes amid internal assessments in Iran that a resumption of direct conflict with the United States is the most likely scenario.&nbsp;

India has repeatedly called for the unimpeded movement of energy supplies and freedom of navigation in international waterways. According to the International Maritime Organization, there were at least 70 attacks on merchant ships during the conflict from February till August.

The Iranian government has exempted merchant vessels from India from restrictions on using the Strait of Hormuz besides those from China, Iraq and Qatar. Ahmad Hayat-Moghaddam, vice-chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, said ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar are exempt from restrictions imposed on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and are free to navigate through the strategic waterway, and the US is not stopping them either. The announcement comes amid repeated attacks on vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which prompted New Delhi to call for an end to attacks on commercial shipping. “We have currently exempted India, China, Iraq and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Ships from these countries pass freely, and the Americans do not intercept them either,” Hayat-Moghaddam said in an interview with the Iranian Students’ News Agency. Hayat-Moghaddam said India was granted the exemption to facilitate imports of medicines, while China’s exemption was linked to political support and economic ties. Hayat-Moghaddam said Iran collects transit fees from Indian and Chinese vessels and allows Qatari vessels to pass without charges but did not specify whether Iraqi vessels pay transit fees or not. Around 90% of India’s LPG imports transit through Hormuz India imports around 90% of its crude oil needs, and about 30% of these imports currently pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Previously, the strait accounted for 70% of India’s crude imports, but the dependence has declined because New Delhi has diversified imports with purchases from Russia, the US, West Africa, and Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since the start of the West Asia conflict. However, 90% of India’s LPG imports still transit the Strait of Hormuz, and more than 50% of its LNG imports from Qatar and the UAE also arrive through the waterway, which is also crucial for fertiliser imports. India has repeatedly called for the unimpeded movement of energy supplies and freedom of navigation in international waterways. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), there were at least 70 attacks on merchant ships between the start of the conflict in February and August. These attacks resulted in the death of 19 seafarers. Fifteen seafarers are among the 24 Indians killed so far in the West Asia conflict. Iran’s leaders urge military to consider Qatari-brokered proposal Meanwhile, senior Iranian political leaders are urging the country’s military leadership to consider a Qatari-brokered proposal to prevent a renewed conflict with the United States, said an Al Arabiya report. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have advised military leaders to engage constructively with the proposal. The diplomatic push comes amid internal assessments in Iran that a resumption of direct conflict with the United States is the most likely scenario.

India has repeatedly called for the unimpeded movement of energy supplies and freedom of navigation in international waterways. According to the International Maritime Organization, there were at least 70 attacks on merchant ships during the conflict from February till August.

New Delhi: Indian government has cleared a major revision to its short-service military recruitment scheme, creating a clear route for every Agniveer to eventually serve as a regular soldier.&nbsp;Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani announced on Wednesday that the Cabinet had approved an additional two-year engagement for the 75 per cent of Agniveers who were previously due to leave after four years. Those who accept the extension and later wish to stay will be eligible for permanent enrolment, subject to objective selection criteria.&nbsp;“Today is a very significant day for the Indian Defence Forces and for our Agniveers,” General Subramani said. “The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Defence Forces.”&nbsp;The Agnipath scheme was introduced on 14 June 2022. It was always intended to be reviewed, with continuous performance evaluation of the recruits. The first batch is now nearing the end of its four-year tenure, and feedback on their work has been “very positive,” the general said.&nbsp;Under the original rules, only 25 per cent of each batch were to be selected for regular service on merit. The remaining 75 per cent were expected to return to civilian life as disciplined young people, receiving a one-time Seva Nidhi package. That exit plan has now been altered.&nbsp;The 75 per cent not chosen for immediate retention will be offered more years. After a total of six years, anyone who wants to continue will be considered for enrolment as regular personnel, provided they meet the required standards. The 25 per cent already selected on merit will proceed as previously planned.&nbsp;The new arrangement gives those personnel an alternative to immediate demobilisation.&nbsp;Those who take the extra two years will receive higher pay than under the original four-year package, along with an enhanced Seva Nidhi amount if they choose to leave afterwards. Officials have described the change as preserving the youthful profile the scheme was meant to create, while retaining experienced and motivated troops.&nbsp;The Agnipath model was introduced to lower the average age of the armed forces, bring in younger talent and control long-term pension costs. The Cabinet decision follows months of internal review of performance data and operational needs.

Agniveers who take the extra two years will receive higher pay than under the four-year package, with an enhanced Seva Nidhi amount if they choose to leave. The Agnipath model was introduced to lower the average age of the armed forces and bring in younger talent.

New Delhi: Indian government has cleared a major revision to its short-service military recruitment scheme, creating a clear route for every Agniveer to eventually serve as a regular soldier. Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani announced on Wednesday that the Cabinet had approved an additional two-year engagement for the 75 per cent of Agniveers who were previously due to leave after four years. Those who accept the extension and later wish to stay will be eligible for permanent enrolment, subject to objective selection criteria. “Today is a very significant day for the Indian Defence Forces and for our Agniveers,” General Subramani said. “The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Defence Forces.” The Agnipath scheme was introduced on 14 June 2022. It was always intended to be reviewed, with continuous performance evaluation of the recruits. The first batch is now nearing the end of its four-year tenure, and feedback on their work has been “very positive,” the general said. Under the original rules, only 25 per cent of each batch were to be selected for regular service on merit. The remaining 75 per cent were expected to return to civilian life as disciplined young people, receiving a one-time Seva Nidhi package. That exit plan has now been altered. The 75 per cent not chosen for immediate retention will be offered more years. After a total of six years, anyone who wants to continue will be considered for enrolment as regular personnel, provided they meet the required standards. The 25 per cent already selected on merit will proceed as previously planned. The new arrangement gives those personnel an alternative to immediate demobilisation. Those who take the extra two years will receive higher pay than under the original four-year package, along with an enhanced Seva Nidhi amount if they choose to leave afterwards. Officials have described the change as preserving the youthful profile the scheme was meant to create, while retaining experienced and motivated troops. The Agnipath model was introduced to lower the average age of the armed forces, bring in younger talent and control long-term pension costs. The Cabinet decision follows months of internal review of performance data and operational needs.

Agniveers who take the extra two years will receive higher pay than under the four-year package, with an enhanced Seva Nidhi amount if they choose to leave. The Agnipath model was introduced to lower the average age of the armed forces and bring in younger talent.&nbsp;

India opens full pathway for Agniveers to join permanent military ranks

Democratic candidate Pooja Sethi has won her race for Texas House District 47, making history as the first Indian-American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature. She defeated Republican Jennifer Mushtaler in the open seat."Thank you, HD 47! Together, we made history! I am honoured to become the first Indian American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature," Sethi wrote on X. "But making history is an honour. Making a difference is the responsibility."<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261104/image-1793787001541.png"></figure>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-of-the-child-victims-of-donald-trump-new-york-psychologist-larissa-portnoff-accuses-potus-of-sexual-abuse-alleges-intimidation-in-viral-video-1793715741594">'I was one of his child victims': Former Miss Teen USA contestant Larissa Portnoff accuses Trump of sexual abuse in viral video | WATCH</a><h2>Who is Pooja Sethi?</h2>Sethi has been serving as the chief of staff to Texas State Representative Vikki Goodwin and chair of the Travis County Democratic Party, with nearly four years of legislative experience. Before her Capitol role, she worked as an immigration attorney with Catholic Charities, representing families navigating the immigration system.In the Legislature, she has helped pass laws on preventing child drownings, protecting domestic violence survivors and expanding affordable housing. Her priorities include strengthening democracy, fully funding public education and enacting common sense gun reform.<h2>Sethi on why she's running for Congress</h2>Sethi's campaign was deeply personal. "I'm running for Texas House District 47 because I'm a mom — and I cannot keep raising my child in a state that turns its back on kids," she said. She described standing beside a father who lost his child in the Uvalde shooting and watching lawmakers refuse to act on gun safety and public school funding.One of the key reforms she's backing includes raising the minimum age to purchase certain high-powered firearms from 18 to 21. The reform, as per the PoojaforTexas website, aims to reduce gun violence and keep communities safe.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-in-strange-tiktok-video-asks-voters-to-vote-for-ohio-senator-john-husted-gushes-about-his-powerful-a-watch-1793423091753">Trump in strange TikTok video asks voters to vote for Ohio Senator John Husted, gushes about his 'powerful a**' | Watch</a><h2>A race marked by controversy and anti-Indian hate speech</h2>Her final push was framed around a dispute over bigoted remarks. On the eve of the election, Sethi challenged Republican US Senate nominee Ken Paxton to condemn comments by his party colleague Bo French targeting Indian Americans, accusing Paxton of seeking community support while staying silent.The controversy began September 13, when French, the Republican nominee for the Texas Railroad Commission, posted an image of the University of Texas students, many of South Asian origin, with a comment that drew widespread criticism. Calling the students a "problem", he wrote, "Like body-cams exposed criminals, social media is exposing how many Americans have been displaced by foreigners." The post accumulated more than 54 million views on X.Paxton responded without naming French, condemning racism "in all its forms" while attacking his Democratic opponent, James Talarico. Sethi had also faced the issue head-on in her closing message: “Hate has no home in Texas.”

Pooja Sethi has made history as the first Indian-American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature, defeating Republican Jennifer Mushtaler. Her win caps a race marked by a dispute over bigoted remarks. Read the full story here.

Democratic candidate Pooja Sethi has won her race for Texas House District 47, making history as the first Indian-American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature. She defeated Republican Jennifer Mushtaler in the open seat. "Thank you, HD 47! Together, we made history! I am honoured to become the first Indian American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature," Sethi wrote on X. "But making history is an honour. Making a difference is the responsibility." Also read | 'I was one of his child victims': Former Miss Teen USA contestant Larissa Portnoff accuses Trump of sexual abuse in viral video | WATCH Who is Pooja Sethi? Sethi has been serving as the chief of staff to Texas State Representative Vikki Goodwin and chair of the Travis County Democratic Party, with nearly four years of legislative experience. Before her Capitol role, she worked as an immigration attorney with Catholic Charities, representing families navigating the immigration system. In the Legislature, she has helped pass laws on preventing child drownings, protecting domestic violence survivors and expanding affordable housing. Her priorities include strengthening democracy, fully funding public education and enacting common sense gun reform. Sethi on why she's running for Congress Sethi's campaign was deeply personal. "I'm running for Texas House District 47 because I'm a mom — and I cannot keep raising my child in a state that turns its back on kids," she said. She described standing beside a father who lost his child in the Uvalde shooting and watching lawmakers refuse to act on gun safety and public school funding. One of the key reforms she's backing includes raising the minimum age to purchase certain high-powered firearms from 18 to 21. The reform, as per the PoojaforTexas website, aims to reduce gun violence and keep communities safe. Also read | Trump in strange TikTok video asks voters to vote for Ohio Senator John Husted, gushes about his 'powerful a**' | Watch A race marked by controversy and anti-Indian hate speech Her final push was framed around a dispute over bigoted remarks. On the eve of the election, Sethi challenged Republican US Senate nominee Ken Paxton to condemn comments by his party colleague Bo French targeting Indian Americans, accusing Paxton of seeking community support while staying silent. The controversy began September 13, when French, the Republican nominee for the Texas Railroad Commission, posted an image of the University of Texas students, many of South Asian origin, with a comment that drew widespread criticism. Calling the students a "problem", he wrote, "Like body-cams exposed criminals, social media is exposing how many Americans have been displaced by foreigners." The post accumulated more than 54 million views on X. Paxton responded without naming French, condemning racism "in all its forms" while attacking his Democratic opponent, James Talarico. Sethi had also faced the issue head-on in her closing message: “Hate has no home in Texas.”

Pooja Sethi has made history as the first Indian-American woman and the first Asian American Democratic woman elected to the Texas Legislature, defeating Republican Jennifer Mushtaler. Her win caps a race marked by a dispute over bigoted remarks. Read the full story here.

India has expressed its readiness to support Nepal’s reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts following the devastating Bhotekoshi floods, with New Delhi open to considering specific assistance requests and project proposals from Kathmandu. Visiting Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed this during bilateral talks with his Nepali counterpart Amrit Bahadur Rai in Kathmandu on Wednesday, where the two sides also discussed preparations for Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s upcoming visit to India later this month.&nbsp;Acknowledging the extensive damage caused by the floods to Nepal’s infrastructure, Misri said India was prepared to consider proposals as Nepal moves towards reconstruction and rehabilitation. “We recognise, however, that the flood caused extensive damage to Nepal’s infrastructure. We look forward to receiving further details and discussing the matter with the Nepalese leadership,” Misri said.&nbsp;He added that the issue had been discussed previously and that New Delhi was open to considering specific requests from Kathmandu as it draws up its recovery plans. Misri described India-Nepal relations as unique, saying the two countries had stood by each other through both favourable and difficult circumstances. He said India's assistance following the Bhotekoshi floods reflected the longstanding ties between the neighbours and their commitment to supporting each other during difficult times.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-agnipath-revamp-agniveers-get-two-year-extension-and-a-chance-to-join-the-indian-army-1793786126049">India's Agnipath revamp: Agniveers get two-year extension and a chance to join the Indian Army</a>&nbsp;The talks also focused on preparations for Shah’s proposed visit to India later this month, with both sides discussing key initiatives and ways to advance bilateral cooperation. Rai said the two countries had been in regular contact and close coordination in preparation for the high-level visit.&nbsp;“In today's meeting, we will have substantive discussions on preparations for the upcoming high-level visit of the Prime Minister of Nepal to India later this month. Your visit will be instrumental in laying the groundwork,” Rai said. Misri said the two sides had a detailed agenda to discuss, including initiatives India wanted to see progress on in the context of Shah’s visit.&nbsp;He also credited continued engagement between the two countries with helping resolve long-pending issues and advance key initiatives, while praising officials on both sides for their efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Earlier, Misri paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to the ministry, the meeting focused on further deepening the multifaceted partnership and strengthening longstanding ties between Nepal and India.

Acknowledging the extensive flood damage to Nepal’s infrastructure, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India was prepared to consider proposals as Nepal moves towards reconstruction and rehabilitation.

India has expressed its readiness to support Nepal’s reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts following the devastating Bhotekoshi floods, with New Delhi open to considering specific assistance requests and project proposals from Kathmandu. Visiting Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed this during bilateral talks with his Nepali counterpart Amrit Bahadur Rai in Kathmandu on Wednesday, where the two sides also discussed preparations for Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s upcoming visit to India later this month. Acknowledging the extensive damage caused by the floods to Nepal’s infrastructure, Misri said India was prepared to consider proposals as Nepal moves towards reconstruction and rehabilitation. “We recognise, however, that the flood caused extensive damage to Nepal’s infrastructure. We look forward to receiving further details and discussing the matter with the Nepalese leadership,” Misri said. He added that the issue had been discussed previously and that New Delhi was open to considering specific requests from Kathmandu as it draws up its recovery plans. Misri described India-Nepal relations as unique, saying the two countries had stood by each other through both favourable and difficult circumstances. He said India's assistance following the Bhotekoshi floods reflected the longstanding ties between the neighbours and their commitment to supporting each other during difficult times. Also read: India's Agnipath revamp: Agniveers get two-year extension and a chance to join the Indian Army The talks also focused on preparations for Shah’s proposed visit to India later this month, with both sides discussing key initiatives and ways to advance bilateral cooperation. Rai said the two countries had been in regular contact and close coordination in preparation for the high-level visit. “In today's meeting, we will have substantive discussions on preparations for the upcoming high-level visit of the Prime Minister of Nepal to India later this month. Your visit will be instrumental in laying the groundwork,” Rai said. Misri said the two sides had a detailed agenda to discuss, including initiatives India wanted to see progress on in the context of Shah’s visit. He also credited continued engagement between the two countries with helping resolve long-pending issues and advance key initiatives, while praising officials on both sides for their efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Earlier, Misri paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to the ministry, the meeting focused on further deepening the multifaceted partnership and strengthening longstanding ties between Nepal and India.

Acknowledging the extensive flood damage to Nepal’s infrastructure, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India was prepared to consider proposals as Nepal moves towards reconstruction and rehabilitation.

India ready to support Nepal’s post-flood reconstruction, says Indian Foreign Secretary

Senior National Conference (NC) leader Mubarak Gul, who was scheduled to make a statement today on whether he would continue in the party or resign, has deferred his press conference, leaving his political future uncertain for now.Gul could have become the second National Conference leader to quit the party in two days. However, he has decided against making any announcement today, citing the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir and the sentiments of his supporters and colleagues.Gul's decision comes against the backdrop of his disappointment over being overlooked in the recent cabinet reshuffle and expansion under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The senior NC leader had expressed disappointment at being left out yet again, despite having been associated with the party for decades.Gul has also never been inducted into the Council of Ministers, despite his long association with the National Conference, a factor that has added to the significance of the latest developments surrounding his political future.In his statement, Gul said he had taken into account the advice of close associates and the feelings of party workers, many of whom, he said, had been associated with him for nearly five decades, dating back to around 1975.“I value their feelings, emotions and sentiments. Therefore, I announce that I am cancelling today's press conference. I will not make any statement today because I want to respect the feelings of my workers, colleagues and friends,” he said.Gul said he would refrain from making further comments on the matter for now, adding that his associates and workers would represent and express their views.He also thanked colleagues who had personally advised him over the telephone, saying he would continue to follow their guidance and move forward accordingly.“I am a fighter, and I will continue to fight,” Gul said, without clarifying whether he intended to remain with the National Conference or leave the party.His decision to defer the press conference has put off an announcement that was being keenly watched amid speculation over his political future. Whether he will continue in the NC or decide to part ways with the party remains unclear.“God willing, everything will happen at the appropriate time,” Gul said.

Senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul cancels his press conference on quitting the party, leaving his political future uncertain.

Senior National Conference (NC) leader Mubarak Gul, who was scheduled to make a statement today on whether he would continue in the party or resign, has deferred his press conference, leaving his political future uncertain for now. Gul could have become the second National Conference leader to quit the party in two days. However, he has decided against making any announcement today, citing the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir and the sentiments of his supporters and colleagues. Gul's decision comes against the backdrop of his disappointment over being overlooked in the recent cabinet reshuffle and expansion under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The senior NC leader had expressed disappointment at being left out yet again, despite having been associated with the party for decades. Gul has also never been inducted into the Council of Ministers, despite his long association with the National Conference, a factor that has added to the significance of the latest developments surrounding his political future. In his statement, Gul said he had taken into account the advice of close associates and the feelings of party workers, many of whom, he said, had been associated with him for nearly five decades, dating back to around 1975. “I value their feelings, emotions and sentiments. Therefore, I announce that I am cancelling today's press conference. I will not make any statement today because I want to respect the feelings of my workers, colleagues and friends,” he said. Gul said he would refrain from making further comments on the matter for now, adding that his associates and workers would represent and express their views. He also thanked colleagues who had personally advised him over the telephone, saying he would continue to follow their guidance and move forward accordingly. “I am a fighter, and I will continue to fight,” Gul said, without clarifying whether he intended to remain with the National Conference or leave the party. His decision to defer the press conference has put off an announcement that was being keenly watched amid speculation over his political future. Whether he will continue in the NC or decide to part ways with the party remains unclear. “God willing, everything will happen at the appropriate time,” Gul said.

Senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul cancels his press conference on quitting the party, leaving his political future uncertain.

NC leader Mubarak Gul defers press conference, keeps NC exit decision under wraps

Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani on Wednesday (Oct 04) announced a two-year extension of the engagement period under the Centre's Agnipath scheme, a move that lets the majority of Agniveers stay in service and eventually join the Armed Forces. Under the updated scheme, 75 per cent of Agniveers who were earlier set to exit will now be offered an additional two-year engagement period, after which willing recruits can be enrolled into the Armed Forces. The announcement came as the first batch of Agniveers nears the end of its four-year tenure."Today is a very significant day for the Indian Defence Forces and for our 'Agniveers'. The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Army," the CDS told the media.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/28-killed-2-missing-mea-reveals-deadly-price-india-s-seafarers-are-paying-as-attacks-on-commercial-ships-continue-in-west-asia-and-black-sea-1793721583632">28 killed, 2 missing: MEA reveals deadly price India's seafarers are paying as attacks on commercial ships continue in West Asia and Black Sea</a>The Agnipath scheme was introduced on June 14, 2022, with a promise of continuous performance evaluation and periodic review. "Based on the performance evaluations conducted over these four years, we have received very positive feedback regarding their performance," Subramani said.<h2>What changes in India's Agniveer scheme?</h2>Earlier, 25 per cent of Agniveers were to be enrolled into the regular forces on merit, while the remaining 75 per cent were to transition back into society as disciplined, motivated youth. Now, that 75 per cent will get two more years of engagement. Upon completion, all who are willing will be enrolled into the Armed Forces, subject to objective selection criteria."These are the four major aspects of this scheme," the CDS said of the Cabinet decision.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-nepal-helicopter-mid-air-collision-early-repatriation-of-the-mortal-remains-underway-1793699038952">India breaks silence on Nepal helicopter mid-air collision: Early repatriation of the mortal remains underway</a><h2>Why it matters</h2>The scheme, launched in 2022 to keep the forces youthful and dynamic, had drawn criticism over its short engagement period. That criticism prompted several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra, to offer Agniveers reservations in police and other services.&nbsp;

Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani on Wednesday (Oct 04) announced a two-year extension of the engagement period under the Centre's Agnipath scheme, a move that lets the majority of Agniveers stay in service and eventually join the Armed Forces. Under the updated scheme, 75 per cent of Agniveers who were earlier set to exit will now be offered an additional two-year engagement period, after which willing recruits can be enrolled into the Armed Forces. The announcement came as the first batch of Agniveers nears the end of its four-year tenure. "Today is a very significant day for the Indian Defence Forces and for our 'Agniveers'. The Cabinet has created a pathway for all Agniveers to be absorbed into the Indian Army," the CDS told the media. Also read | 28 killed, 2 missing: MEA reveals deadly price India's seafarers are paying as attacks on commercial ships continue in West Asia and Black Sea The Agnipath scheme was introduced on June 14, 2022, with a promise of continuous performance evaluation and periodic review. "Based on the performance evaluations conducted over these four years, we have received very positive feedback regarding their performance," Subramani said. What changes in India's Agniveer scheme? Earlier, 25 per cent of Agniveers were to be enrolled into the regular forces on merit, while the remaining 75 per cent were to transition back into society as disciplined, motivated youth. Now, that 75 per cent will get two more years of engagement. Upon completion, all who are willing will be enrolled into the Armed Forces, subject to objective selection criteria. "These are the four major aspects of this scheme," the CDS said of the Cabinet decision. Also read | India breaks silence on Nepal helicopter mid-air collision: Early repatriation of the mortal remains underway Why it matters The scheme, launched in 2022 to keep the forces youthful and dynamic, had drawn criticism over its short engagement period. That criticism prompted several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra, to offer Agniveers reservations in police and other services.

India has extended the Agnipath engagement period by two years, allowing 75% of Agniveers to stay in service and be enrolled into the Armed Forces. CDS General NS Raja Subramani announced the Cabinet decision as the first batch nears its four-year tenure. Read the full story here.

India's Agnipath revamp: Agniveers get two-year extension and a chance to join the Indian Army

The Ladakh administration on Tuesday (Nov 3) issued a notice to the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL), co-founded by Sonam Wangchuk and his wife Gitanjali J Angmo, asking it not to undertake any further activities at Desert Flower School in Phyang until the matter is decided by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This comes as Wangchuk extended support to people of Arunachal Pradesh resisting the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bloc-plans-mega-protest-on-monday-amid-delhi-crackdown-wangchuk-s-warns-to-launch-padyatra-1791645217417">INDIA bloc plans mega protest on Monday amid Delhi crackdown, Wangchuk's warns to launch 'padyatra'</a> In a notice issued by the Office of the Tehsildar, Leh, to HIAL Founder and CEO Gitanjali J Angmo, the administration said that classes and other activities were being started at Desert Flower School without obtaining proper consent, clearances or necessary approval from the concerned authorities. “Desert Flower School of the HIAL Ecosystem has commenced functioning of the school without necessary clearance/approval from the competent authority. The administration asks HIAL to strictly maintain the status quo and avoid causing any prejudice to the case pending before the High Court of J&amp;K and Ladakh,” said a spokesman of the L-G administration. The notice stated that Angmo had earlier written to the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, on September 22, seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or clearance for the proposed members of the Managing Committee of Desert Flower School under the HIAL ecosystem. However, the administration said it had received information that classes and other activities had commenced at the school without the required approvals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/sonam-wangchuk-reacts-to-aamir-khan-and-salman-khan-s-viral-remarks-amid-cjp-protest-1788079214649">Sonam Wangchuk reacts to Aamir Khan and Salman Khan's viral remarks amid CJP protest</a> It further stated that the matter concerning HIAL was currently pending before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. "In view of the matter being under consideration before the Hon'ble Court, you are hereby advised not to undertake any action whatsoever in furtherance of the functioning or commencement of activities, until the matter is finally decided by the Hon'ble Court or until further directions are issued, as the case may be," the notice stated. The administration also directed Angmo to strictly maintain status quo in the matter and ensure that no action was taken that could prejudice the case pending before the High Court. The notice puts a clear administrative restraint on the proposed activities of Desert Flower School amid the ongoing legal proceedings. The notice was issued by Tehsildar Leh on November 1, 2026.&nbsp;

The Ladakh administration has directed Sonam Wangchuk's HIAL not to undertake activities at Desert Flower School in Phyang until the High Court decides the matter. The notice cites a lack of required approvals and asks the institute to maintain status quo amid ongoing legal proceedings.

The Ladakh administration on Tuesday (Nov 3) issued a notice to the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL), co-founded by Sonam Wangchuk and his wife Gitanjali J Angmo, asking it not to undertake any further activities at Desert Flower School in Phyang until the matter is decided by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This comes as Wangchuk extended support to people of Arunachal Pradesh resisting the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. Also Read: INDIA bloc plans mega protest on Monday amid Delhi crackdown, Wangchuk's warns to launch 'padyatra' In a notice issued by the Office of the Tehsildar, Leh, to HIAL Founder and CEO Gitanjali J Angmo, the administration said that classes and other activities were being started at Desert Flower School without obtaining proper consent, clearances or necessary approval from the concerned authorities. “Desert Flower School of the HIAL Ecosystem has commenced functioning of the school without necessary clearance/approval from the competent authority. The administration asks HIAL to strictly maintain the status quo and avoid causing any prejudice to the case pending before the High Court of J&K and Ladakh,” said a spokesman of the L-G administration. The notice stated that Angmo had earlier written to the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, on September 22, seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or clearance for the proposed members of the Managing Committee of Desert Flower School under the HIAL ecosystem. However, the administration said it had received information that classes and other activities had commenced at the school without the required approvals. Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk reacts to Aamir Khan and Salman Khan's viral remarks amid CJP protest It further stated that the matter concerning HIAL was currently pending before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. "In view of the matter being under consideration before the Hon'ble Court, you are hereby advised not to undertake any action whatsoever in furtherance of the functioning or commencement of activities, until the matter is finally decided by the Hon'ble Court or until further directions are issued, as the case may be," the notice stated. The administration also directed Angmo to strictly maintain status quo in the matter and ensure that no action was taken that could prejudice the case pending before the High Court. The notice puts a clear administrative restraint on the proposed activities of Desert Flower School amid the ongoing legal proceedings. The notice was issued by Tehsildar Leh on November 1, 2026.

The Ladakh administration has directed Sonam Wangchuk's HIAL not to undertake activities at Desert Flower School in Phyang until the High Court decides the matter. The notice cites a lack of required approvals and asks the institute to maintain status quo amid ongoing legal proceedings.

Ladakh admin sends notice to Sonam Wangchuk's school, asks it to 'stop classes, other activities' amid pending case

BJP attacked the Congress party on Tuesday over the viral video of left-wing student activist Neha Bora whom it accused of slandering the Hindu faith and echoing Rahl Gandhi’s ‘anti-Hindu tirade’. BJP called Bora the “poster girl” of Rahul Gandhi’s anti-Hindu politics.&nbsp;Bora said in the video that women require protection from the ‘Brahmanical system’ and that priests commit rapes inside temples.BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said Bora’s remarks sounded like the anti-Hindu tirade of Congress party. He added that Bora’s remarks are similar to what Congress MP Rahul Gandhi had said and that her statement reflected an ideological campaign against Sanatan dharma.&nbsp;In 2014, reacting to the gang rape of a woman in Delhi, Rahul had remarked that people who go to temples to worship goddesses also molest women in buses.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Slandering Sanatan, targeting the Hindu faith’</h2>&nbsp;“It’s the same Congress party which has used terms like ‘Hindu terror’. Recall that Neha Bora is inspired by Islamists in Bangladesh and this tells you that the entire Congress ideology and thinking are against the unity and integrity of India because they are slandering Sanatan and they are targeting the Hindu faith, which reflects their communal mindset. This further tells you that the DNA of the Congress party is anti-Hindu, anti-Constitution, anti-Sanatan,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Neha Bora poster girl of Rahul Gandhi displays her Hindu hate!

Says-&quot;Pujaris rape in temple&quot;

She is inspired from Rahul Gandhi who earlier had said &quot;Mandiro main ladkiyon ke sath ched chad hoti hai&quot;.

Congress Hates Hindus, loves vote bank!

Congress Soch is a threat to India's unity!&mdash; Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) <a href="https://x.com/pradip103/status/2117456715839115453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The latest row erupted after Bora of the All India Students’ Association (AISA) made the remarks while backing an impeachment resolution against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.“Protection is absolutely necessary - and it is precisely from the Brahmanical system that such protection is required. This is a system which posits that the poor, the oppressed, animals and women are all deserving of subjugation and abuse. It is the very same system under which even Brahmin women are unsafe and fall victim to rape. Priests commit rapes inside temples. We have witnessed such instances,” Bora said. <h2>‘Simply unacceptable’: Samajwadi Party on Bora’s remark</h2> Congress ally Samajwadi Party also distanced itself from the remark of Left-wing student leader, who gained limelight under the patronage of INDIA bloc leaders for criticising CEC Gyanesh Kumar and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai said, “Making such a sweeping statement is not appropriate. Every religion has both good and bad people; we shouldn’t make such generalisations... We should avoid them. That is exactly what the BJP wants; why should we fall into their trap?”Rai, who represents the Ghosi Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh, firmly repudiated the AISA leader and said, “In this day and age, the kind of rhetoric being used is simply unacceptable. There is no basis for it. We shouldn’t make sweeping generalisations about any caste, community, religion, or region.” <h2>‘Derogatory language, radical thinking’</h2> Uddhav Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also called Bora’s remarks “unfortunate”. “It is highly unfortunate. While I believe this may be an old video, it reveals a mindset that asserts rapes happen in temples, are committed by priests, and that Brahmin women are unsafe. I generally avoid focusing on caste, but as a Brahmin woman myself, I must ask: is it appropriate to use such derogatory language? I have always maintained that this kind of radical thinking—whether from the Left or the Right—is harmful to the nation, the former Rajya Sabha member said.

BJP accused student activist Neha Bora of slandering the Hindu faith. The ruling party called Bora the “poster girl” of Rahul Gandhi’s anti-Hindu politics. Bora had said that women require protection from the ‘Brahmanical system’ and that priests commit rapes inside temples.

BJP attacked the Congress party on Tuesday over the viral video of left-wing student activist Neha Bora whom it accused of slandering the Hindu faith and echoing Rahl Gandhi’s ‘anti-Hindu tirade’. BJP called Bora the “poster girl” of Rahul Gandhi’s anti-Hindu politics. Bora said in the video that women require protection from the ‘Brahmanical system’ and that priests commit rapes inside temples. BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said Bora’s remarks sounded like the anti-Hindu tirade of Congress party. He added that Bora’s remarks are similar to what Congress MP Rahul Gandhi had said and that her statement reflected an ideological campaign against Sanatan dharma. In 2014, reacting to the gang rape of a woman in Delhi, Rahul had remarked that people who go to temples to worship goddesses also molest women in buses. ‘Slandering Sanatan, targeting the Hindu faith’ “It’s the same Congress party which has used terms like ‘Hindu terror’. Recall that Neha Bora is inspired by Islamists in Bangladesh and this tells you that the entire Congress ideology and thinking are against the unity and integrity of India because they are slandering Sanatan and they are targeting the Hindu faith, which reflects their communal mindset. This further tells you that the DNA of the Congress party is anti-Hindu, anti-Constitution, anti-Sanatan,” he added.

BJP accused student activist Neha Bora of slandering the Hindu faith. The ruling party called Bora the “poster girl” of Rahul Gandhi’s anti-Hindu politics. Bora had said that women require protection from the ‘Brahmanical system’ and that priests commit rapes inside temples.

BJP slams Congress over Neha Bora’s video; INDIA bloc allies too call it ‘radical thinking’

India's 2027 Assembly election calendar will be a crucial test of political strength ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Seven states—Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa, Manipur, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh—are scheduled to elect new Assemblies next year. Together, they account for 132 Lok Sabha seats, making their electoral outcomes politically significant for both the ruling BJP and the opposition.&nbsp;The first round of contests is expected in early 2027 in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur, followed by Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh towards the end of the year. The Election Commission has begun reviewing preparations in the five early-year poll-bound states, while the revision of electoral rolls is also underway. The formal election schedule, however, is yet to be announced.&nbsp;These elections will unfold against sharply contrasting political, social and economic backdrops. From Uttar Pradesh's caste equations and governance record to Punjab's fiscal challenges, Uttarakhand's ecological concerns, Goa's coalition politics and Manipur's quest for peace, each state will present a distinct electoral challenge.&nbsp;For the BJP, the contests will test the strength of its state leadership, welfare delivery, organisational machinery and alliances. For the opposition, the challenge will be to convert public dissatisfaction into electoral gains through credible leadership, effective campaigning and, where possible, seat-sharing arrangements. The results will offer important clues about the political landscape ahead of 2029, although Assembly elections alone cannot predict the outcome of a Lok Sabha contest.&nbsp;<h2>Uttar Pradesh | Yogi's governance versus opposition arithmetic</h2>&nbsp;With 403 Assembly seats, Uttar Pradesh will be the biggest electoral battleground of 2027. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will seek another mandate on the basis of the government's record on infrastructure, expressways, investment, welfare delivery and law and order.&nbsp;The BJP won 255 seats with 41.29 per cent of the vote in 2022, while the Samajwadi Party secured 111 seats with 32.06 per cent. The BJP's victory reflected its organisational strength, welfare outreach, social coalition and alliance support. The SP, meanwhile, demonstrated that it could consolidate a substantial opposition vote.&nbsp;The central question for 2027 is whether the BJP can sustain its electoral advantage amid changing voter expectations and constituency-level challenges. Employment, inflation, rural incomes, agricultural concerns, social justice and the delivery of government services could influence voter sentiment.&nbsp;For the SP and Congress, coordination will be critical. Their ability to manage seat-sharing, avoid vote fragmentation and build a common narrative could determine whether anti-incumbency translates into electoral gains. The Bahujan Samaj Party's strategy and the distribution of votes among smaller parties will also matter.&nbsp;Ultimately, Uttar Pradesh will test whether the BJP can retain its broad social coalition and whether the Opposition can turn its combined electoral potential into seats.&nbsp;<h2>Punjab | AAP's welfare model meets fiscal scrutiny</h2>&nbsp;Punjab's 117-seat Assembly will provide a major test of the Aam Aadmi Party's governance model. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's government has emphasised welfare, employment, education, healthcare and agricultural support.&nbsp;The 2026–27 state budget introduced the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satikar Yojana, providing for monthly financial assistance to eligible women, with a higher amount for women from Scheduled Castes. The budget also provides for expenditure on education, health, rural development, infrastructure and measures to address drug-related problems.&nbsp;These commitments could help AAP reinforce its welfare credentials. However, the implementation of promises, the state's fiscal position, employment opportunities, agricultural distress and the continuing challenge of drug abuse are likely to remain central to the political debate.&nbsp;AAP won a landslide 92 seats with 42.01 per cent of the vote in 2022. Repeating that performance will not be easy. The Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiromani Akali Dal will seek to expand their support bases, while questions of leadership and possible political understandings could influence the contest.&nbsp;Punjab's election will therefore be a test of whether welfare measures and government delivery can sustain public support amid financial constraints and persistent social and economic challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Uttarakhand | Dhami balances development and ecology</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;In Uttarakhand, the 70-seat Assembly election will test Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's development agenda against the state's environmental vulnerabilities and local concerns.&nbsp;The BJP government has highlighted road connectivity, tourism, investment, employment and infrastructure development. Preparations for the 2027 Kumbh in Haridwar will also bring attention to the state's capacity to manage a major religious gathering while maintaining essential public services.&nbsp;However, Uttarakhand's geography presents a difficult policy balance. Infrastructure expansion and tourism can generate employment and economic activity, but unplanned construction, landslides, floods and other disaster risks have heightened concerns about ecological sustainability.&nbsp;The BJP won 47 seats with 44.33 per cent of the vote in 2022, while Congress secured 19 seats with 37.91 per cent. The BJP's organisational strength and leadership will be important assets, but the opposition will seek to highlight local grievances, employment and questions of development.&nbsp;The election will test whether the government can demonstrate tangible improvements in people's lives while responding credibly to environmental concerns and the vulnerabilities of mountain communities.&nbsp;<h2>Goa | Sawant's report card meets coalition arithmetic</h2>&nbsp;Goa's 40-member Assembly will be another important test for the BJP under Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. Infrastructure, tourism, employment, road connectivity, environmental protection and the management of rapid development are likely to feature prominently in the campaign.&nbsp;Goa's political landscape is fragmented, making alliances, candidate selection and constituency-level calculations particularly important. The Congress and other opposition parties will look for opportunities to coordinate their efforts, while the BJP will seek to consolidate its position among voters and maintain the support of its allies.&nbsp;In 2022, the BJP won 20 seats with 33.31 per cent of the vote, narrowly missing the majority mark of 21. Congress secured 11 seats with 23.46 per cent, while the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and Aam Aadmi Party won two seats each.&nbsp;The BJP subsequently formed the government with support from allies and other legislators. This demonstrated how a fragmented mandate can make post-election negotiations as important as the statewide vote share.&nbsp;In 2027, the BJP's governance record, its relationship with regional parties and the Opposition's ability to avoid vote splitting could shape the outcome. Goa's election will once again underline the importance of local leadership and alliance management in a small but politically competitive state.&nbsp;<h2>Manipur | Peace, confidence overshadow every other issue</h2>&nbsp;Manipur presents the most complex political challenge among the five states expected to vote early in 2027.&nbsp;The BJP won 32 of the state's 60 Assembly seats in 2022, with 37.83 per cent of the vote. However, the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 fundamentally altered the political and social landscape.&nbsp;After a period of President's Rule, Yumnam Khemchand Singh became Chief Minister in February 2026. The new government includes representation from different communities in its leadership, including Kuki-Zo and Naga representation among the Deputy Chief Ministers.&nbsp;The immediate challenge is to restore peace, facilitate the rehabilitation of displaced people and rebuild confidence across communities. Security, relief, livelihoods, infrastructure and development remain important, but progress on these fronts will be closely linked to reconciliation and the restoration of normal life.&nbsp;For the BJP, the election will be an assessment of its ability to demonstrate credible progress towards peace and stability. Congress and regional political forces will seek to mobilise support around community concerns, rehabilitation, security and governance.&nbsp;The political contest will depend not merely on conventional electoral calculations but also on whether voters see meaningful progress towards reconciliation and a more secure future.&nbsp;<h2>Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh — Two contrasting tests</h2>&nbsp;The later part of 2027 will bring two contrasting electoral contests in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;In Gujarat, the 182-seat Assembly election will test the BJP's long-standing political dominance. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's government will seek to build on the state's record of industrialisation, investment, infrastructure and economic growth.&nbsp;In 2022, the BJP won a commanding 156 seats with approximately 52.5 per cent of the vote. Congress secured 17 seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party won five.&nbsp;The BJP will aim to retain its development-focused political narrative, but employment, rural economic conditions, agricultural concerns and public service delivery could influence the campaign. For the Opposition, expanding its organisational reach and building a stronger constituency-level presence will be essential.&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh, by contrast, will test the Congress government led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Congress won 40 of the state's 68 seats in 2022 with 43.9 per cent of the vote, while the BJP secured 25 seats with approximately 43 per cent.&nbsp;Fiscal management, welfare commitments, rural development, employment and the government's ability to deliver on promises will be central to the contest. Himachal Pradesh's history of alternating governments also makes the election particularly significant for both parties.&nbsp;The two states will offer different political lessons: Gujarat will test the durability of the BJP's established electoral dominance, while Himachal Pradesh will assess the Congress government's ability to retain power.&nbsp;<h2>2027—The Bridge to 'Mission 2029'</h2>&nbsp;The seven Assembly elections will provide a significant assessment of India's political landscape ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha contest. For the BJP, the results will test its state-level leadership, organisational strength, welfare credentials and ability to manage alliances. For the Opposition, they will reveal whether it can build credible alternatives to the ruling party and translate local discontent into electoral gains.&nbsp;The combined Lok Sabha strength of these seven states is 132 seats: Uttar Pradesh accounts for 80, Gujarat 26, Punjab 13, Uttarakhand five, Himachal Pradesh four, Goa two and Manipur two. Although Assembly results do not automatically determine parliamentary outcomes, the political narratives, leadership assessments and organisational lessons emerging from these contests will influence preparations for 2029.&nbsp;The elections will also test different models of governance. In Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, the BJP will seek to sustain its development and welfare narrative. In Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, the performance of non-BJP governments will come under scrutiny. Uttarakhand and Goa will test the balance between governance, local concerns and political alliances, while Manipur's contest will be inseparable from the pursuit of peace and reconciliation.&nbsp;For Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP leadership, 2027 will be an opportunity to assess the party's political strength before the next general election. For the Opposition, it will be a chance to demonstrate that electoral competition can be strengthened through better coordination, credible leadership and a focus on people's concerns.&nbsp;However, the seven states will not move as a single political bloc. Their social coalitions, regional aspirations, governance challenges and electoral calculations differ considerably.&nbsp;The road to Mission 2029 will therefore be shaped not by one sweeping national narrative, but by seven distinct political battles—and by the ability of parties to understand and respond to voters, constituency by constituency.

The seven Assembly elections will provide an assessment of India's political landscape ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls. The combined Lok Sabha strength of these seven states is 132 seats: UP accounts for 80, Gujarat 26, Punjab 13, Uttarakhand five, Himachal four, Goa two and Manipur two.

India's 2027 Assembly election calendar will be a crucial test of political strength ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Seven states—Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa, Manipur, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh—are scheduled to elect new Assemblies next year. Together, they account for 132 Lok Sabha seats, making their electoral outcomes politically significant for both the ruling BJP and the opposition. The first round of contests is expected in early 2027 in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur, followed by Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh towards the end of the year. The Election Commission has begun reviewing preparations in the five early-year poll-bound states, while the revision of electoral rolls is also underway. The formal election schedule, however, is yet to be announced. These elections will unfold against sharply contrasting political, social and economic backdrops. From Uttar Pradesh's caste equations and governance record to Punjab's fiscal challenges, Uttarakhand's ecological concerns, Goa's coalition politics and Manipur's quest for peace, each state will present a distinct electoral challenge. For the BJP, the contests will test the strength of its state leadership, welfare delivery, organisational machinery and alliances. For the opposition, the challenge will be to convert public dissatisfaction into electoral gains through credible leadership, effective campaigning and, where possible, seat-sharing arrangements. The results will offer important clues about the political landscape ahead of 2029, although Assembly elections alone cannot predict the outcome of a Lok Sabha contest. Uttar Pradesh | Yogi's governance versus opposition arithmetic With 403 Assembly seats, Uttar Pradesh will be the biggest electoral battleground of 2027. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will seek another mandate on the basis of the government's record on infrastructure, expressways, investment, welfare delivery and law and order. The BJP won 255 seats with 41.29 per cent of the vote in 2022, while the Samajwadi Party secured 111 seats with 32.06 per cent. The BJP's victory reflected its organisational strength, welfare outreach, social coalition and alliance support. The SP, meanwhile, demonstrated that it could consolidate a substantial opposition vote. The central question for 2027 is whether the BJP can sustain its electoral advantage amid changing voter expectations and constituency-level challenges. Employment, inflation, rural incomes, agricultural concerns, social justice and the delivery of government services could influence voter sentiment. For the SP and Congress, coordination will be critical. Their ability to manage seat-sharing, avoid vote fragmentation and build a common narrative could determine whether anti-incumbency translates into electoral gains. The Bahujan Samaj Party's strategy and the distribution of votes among smaller parties will also matter. Ultimately, Uttar Pradesh will test whether the BJP can retain its broad social coalition and whether the Opposition can turn its combined electoral potential into seats. Punjab | AAP's welfare model meets fiscal scrutiny Punjab's 117-seat Assembly will provide a major test of the Aam Aadmi Party's governance model. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's government has emphasised welfare, employment, education, healthcare and agricultural support. The 2026–27 state budget introduced the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satikar Yojana, providing for monthly financial assistance to eligible women, with a higher amount for women from Scheduled Castes. The budget also provides for expenditure on education, health, rural development, infrastructure and measures to address drug-related problems. These commitments could help AAP reinforce its welfare credentials. However, the implementation of promises, the state's fiscal position, employment opportunities, agricultural distress and the continuing challenge of drug abuse are likely to remain central to the political debate. AAP won a landslide 92 seats with 42.01 per cent of the vote in 2022. Repeating that performance will not be easy. The Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiromani Akali Dal will seek to expand their support bases, while questions of leadership and possible political understandings could influence the contest. Punjab's election will therefore be a test of whether welfare measures and government delivery can sustain public support amid financial constraints and persistent social and economic challenges. Uttarakhand | Dhami balances development and ecology In Uttarakhand, the 70-seat Assembly election will test Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's development agenda against the state's environmental vulnerabilities and local concerns. The BJP government has highlighted road connectivity, tourism, investment, employment and infrastructure development. Preparations for the 2027 Kumbh in Haridwar will also bring attention to the state's capacity to manage a major religious gathering while maintaining essential public services. However, Uttarakhand's geography presents a difficult policy balance. Infrastructure expansion and tourism can generate employment and economic activity, but unplanned construction, landslides, floods and other disaster risks have heightened concerns about ecological sustainability. The BJP won 47 seats with 44.33 per cent of the vote in 2022, while Congress secured 19 seats with 37.91 per cent. The BJP's organisational strength and leadership will be important assets, but the opposition will seek to highlight local grievances, employment and questions of development. The election will test whether the government can demonstrate tangible improvements in people's lives while responding credibly to environmental concerns and the vulnerabilities of mountain communities. Goa | Sawant's report card meets coalition arithmetic Goa's 40-member Assembly will be another important test for the BJP under Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. Infrastructure, tourism, employment, road connectivity, environmental protection and the management of rapid development are likely to feature prominently in the campaign. Goa's political landscape is fragmented, making alliances, candidate selection and constituency-level calculations particularly important. The Congress and other opposition parties will look for opportunities to coordinate their efforts, while the BJP will seek to consolidate its position among voters and maintain the support of its allies. In 2022, the BJP won 20 seats with 33.31 per cent of the vote, narrowly missing the majority mark of 21. Congress secured 11 seats with 23.46 per cent, while the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and Aam Aadmi Party won two seats each. The BJP subsequently formed the government with support from allies and other legislators. This demonstrated how a fragmented mandate can make post-election negotiations as important as the statewide vote share. In 2027, the BJP's governance record, its relationship with regional parties and the Opposition's ability to avoid vote splitting could shape the outcome. Goa's election will once again underline the importance of local leadership and alliance management in a small but politically competitive state. Manipur | Peace, confidence overshadow every other issue Manipur presents the most complex political challenge among the five states expected to vote early in 2027. The BJP won 32 of the state's 60 Assembly seats in 2022, with 37.83 per cent of the vote. However, the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 fundamentally altered the political and social landscape. After a period of President's Rule, Yumnam Khemchand Singh became Chief Minister in February 2026. The new government includes representation from different communities in its leadership, including Kuki-Zo and Naga representation among the Deputy Chief Ministers. The immediate challenge is to restore peace, facilitate the rehabilitation of displaced people and rebuild confidence across communities. Security, relief, livelihoods, infrastructure and development remain important, but progress on these fronts will be closely linked to reconciliation and the restoration of normal life. For the BJP, the election will be an assessment of its ability to demonstrate credible progress towards peace and stability. Congress and regional political forces will seek to mobilise support around community concerns, rehabilitation, security and governance. The political contest will depend not merely on conventional electoral calculations but also on whether voters see meaningful progress towards reconciliation and a more secure future. Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh — Two contrasting tests The later part of 2027 will bring two contrasting electoral contests in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. In Gujarat, the 182-seat Assembly election will test the BJP's long-standing political dominance. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's government will seek to build on the state's record of industrialisation, investment, infrastructure and economic growth. In 2022, the BJP won a commanding 156 seats with approximately 52.5 per cent of the vote. Congress secured 17 seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party won five. The BJP will aim to retain its development-focused political narrative, but employment, rural economic conditions, agricultural concerns and public service delivery could influence the campaign. For the Opposition, expanding its organisational reach and building a stronger constituency-level presence will be essential. Himachal Pradesh, by contrast, will test the Congress government led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Congress won 40 of the state's 68 seats in 2022 with 43.9 per cent of the vote, while the BJP secured 25 seats with approximately 43 per cent. Fiscal management, welfare commitments, rural development, employment and the government's ability to deliver on promises will be central to the contest. Himachal Pradesh's history of alternating governments also makes the election particularly significant for both parties. The two states will offer different political lessons: Gujarat will test the durability of the BJP's established electoral dominance, while Himachal Pradesh will assess the Congress government's ability to retain power. 2027—The Bridge to 'Mission 2029' The seven Assembly elections will provide a significant assessment of India's political landscape ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha contest. For the BJP, the results will test its state-level leadership, organisational strength, welfare credentials and ability to manage alliances. For the Opposition, they will reveal whether it can build credible alternatives to the ruling party and translate local discontent into electoral gains. The combined Lok Sabha strength of these seven states is 132 seats: Uttar Pradesh accounts for 80, Gujarat 26, Punjab 13, Uttarakhand five, Himachal Pradesh four, Goa two and Manipur two. Although Assembly results do not automatically determine parliamentary outcomes, the political narratives, leadership assessments and organisational lessons emerging from these contests will influence preparations for 2029. The elections will also test different models of governance. In Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, the BJP will seek to sustain its development and welfare narrative. In Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, the performance of non-BJP governments will come under scrutiny. Uttarakhand and Goa will test the balance between governance, local concerns and political alliances, while Manipur's contest will be inseparable from the pursuit of peace and reconciliation. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP leadership, 2027 will be an opportunity to assess the party's political strength before the next general election. For the Opposition, it will be a chance to demonstrate that electoral competition can be strengthened through better coordination, credible leadership and a focus on people's concerns. However, the seven states will not move as a single political bloc. Their social coalitions, regional aspirations, governance challenges and electoral calculations differ considerably. The road to Mission 2029 will therefore be shaped not by one sweeping national narrative, but by seven distinct political battles—and by the ability of parties to understand and respond to voters, constituency by constituency.

The seven Assembly elections will provide an assessment of India's political landscape ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls. The combined Lok Sabha strength of these seven states is 132 seats: UP accounts for 80, Gujarat 26, Punjab 13, Uttarakhand five, Himachal four, Goa two and Manipur two.

Seven states, 132 Lok Sabha seats & the battle for Delhi Sultanate; Why 2027 matters

India has lost 23 nationals to the conflict in West Asia, including 15 seafarers, while five more have been killed in attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea region, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday (Nov 03). In addition, two others remain missing, they said.The figures, shared by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal at the ministry's bi-weekly press briefing, came as New Delhi once again pressed for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and protect maritime navigation. The appeal follows the death of an Indian seafarer in an attack off the coast of Oman.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-nepal-helicopter-mid-air-collision-early-repatriation-of-the-mortal-remains-underway-1793699038952">India breaks silence on Nepal helicopter mid-air collision: Early repatriation of the mortal remains underway</a><h2>India and West Asia war: The toll</h2>"We have lost 23 Indian nationals in the conflict in West Asia, out of which 15 were Indian seafarers," Jaiswal said. Additionally, responding to a question about Indian nationals killed in the Black Sea, he confirmed, "There, we have lost five Indian nationals, and 2 continue to be missing."<h2>The Oman attack</h2>The latest casualty came when a commercial vessel was struck near Limah, Oman. The dead seafarer, identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat, was among 14 Indian crew members aboard the Indian-flagged MSV AL JUSUFI."On that ship, we had 14 Indian crew members. Of them, tragically, unfortunately, one of them has died. We are now in the process of ensuring that the 13 Indian nationals who are there are repatriated back to India," Jaiswal said, thanking Omani authorities for their swift action.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-100-000-h-1b-fee-why-neither-republicans-nor-democrats-want-to-make-it-a-2026-us-midterm-issue-1791971903938">Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue</a>Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal had earlier in the day confirmed the seafarer's death.The incident is the latest in a string of attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers across the Persian Gulf and the wider West Asian region amid the ongoing conflict.<h2>India calls for calm</h2>"We once again call upon parties to take dialogue and diplomacy forward so that there can be an early return of peace to the region, and that freedom of navigation through international waters and waterways must be restored and must be guaranteed," Jaiswal said.

India has lost 23 nationals in the West Asia conflict, including 15 seafarers, while five more died in Black Sea shipping attacks and two remain missing. New Delhi continues to push for diplomacy and dialogue towards ‘early return of peace to the region’.

India has lost 23 nationals to the conflict in West Asia, including 15 seafarers, while five more have been killed in attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea region, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday (Nov 03). In addition, two others remain missing, they said. The figures, shared by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal at the ministry's bi-weekly press briefing, came as New Delhi once again pressed for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and protect maritime navigation. The appeal follows the death of an Indian seafarer in an attack off the coast of Oman. Also read | India breaks silence on Nepal helicopter mid-air collision: Early repatriation of the mortal remains underway India and West Asia war: The toll "We have lost 23 Indian nationals in the conflict in West Asia, out of which 15 were Indian seafarers," Jaiswal said. Additionally, responding to a question about Indian nationals killed in the Black Sea, he confirmed, "There, we have lost five Indian nationals, and 2 continue to be missing." The Oman attack The latest casualty came when a commercial vessel was struck near Limah, Oman. The dead seafarer, identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat, was among 14 Indian crew members aboard the Indian-flagged MSV AL JUSUFI. "On that ship, we had 14 Indian crew members. Of them, tragically, unfortunately, one of them has died. We are now in the process of ensuring that the 13 Indian nationals who are there are repatriated back to India," Jaiswal said, thanking Omani authorities for their swift action. Also read | Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal had earlier in the day confirmed the seafarer's death. The incident is the latest in a string of attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers across the Persian Gulf and the wider West Asian region amid the ongoing conflict. India calls for calm "We once again call upon parties to take dialogue and diplomacy forward so that there can be an early return of peace to the region, and that freedom of navigation through international waters and waterways must be restored and must be guaranteed," Jaiswal said.

India has lost 23 nationals in the West Asia conflict, including 15 seafarers, while five more died in Black Sea shipping attacks and two remain missing. New Delhi continues to push for diplomacy and dialogue towards ‘early return of peace to the region’.

28 killed, 2 missing: MEA reveals deadly price India's seafarers are paying as attacks on commercial ships continue in West Asia and Black Sea

The National Conference (NC) has hit back at Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi over his remarks against the party leadership, accusing him of using derogatory and unparliamentary language and questioning his record on the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and reservation issues.&nbsp;In a strongly worded response, the party described Ruhullah’s speech as a manifestation of what it termed his “mental and moral bankruptcy” and “self-obsession,” alleging that his remarks contradicted the values of dignity and respect he invoked while referring to the holy Quran.&nbsp;The NC also questioned the timing of Ruhullah’s resignation, claiming that he acted only after being asked to do so by the party president. Taking aim at his political record, the party said Ruhullah had continued as a minister in 2010 until he was removed during a general reshuffle and subsequently contested the 2014 Assembly elections on an NC ticket.“He conveniently forgot all about it until 2026, 16 years later,” the party said, questioning his renewed references to 2010.&nbsp;On the issue of special status, the NC asked whether Ruhullah, who had welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly’s November 6 resolution seeking restoration of special status, had taken concrete steps in Parliament to advance the demand. The party questioned whether the MP had mobilised support among MPs, moved a resolution or introduced a bill seeking restoration of special status or statehood.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mob-brutally-attacks-bsf-jawans-in-tripura-s-bangladesh-border-belt-spotlight-on-cattle-and-drug-trafficking-1793717237139">Mob brutally attacks BSF jawans in Tripura’s Bangladesh border belt, spotlight on cattle and drug trafficking</a>&nbsp;It also challenged Ruhullah to explain his parliamentary interventions on what it described as the weakening of the elected government’s authority under the Union Territory arrangement, particularly in departments that fall under the elected government.&nbsp;On reservation, the NC said Ruhullah had initially raised objections over the issue of job quotas and alleged injustice to candidates from the open merit category but accused him of directing his criticism at the party instead of the Lieutenant Governor-led administration and the Centre.&nbsp;The party maintained that the reservation issue had figured prominently in its election manifesto and said its government had constituted a cabinet sub-committee to examine the matter and introduce changes.However, it alleged that the file concerning the cabinet’s decision had been stalled by the “powers that be.”The NC also questioned whether Ruhullah had raised the issue in Parliament or demanded answers from the Centre over the delay in implementing the proposed reservation changes.&nbsp;Further, the party asked whether the MP had organised protests against the Lieutenant Governor over reservation-related grievances, alleged recruitment irregularities and concerns that job aspirants from one region were being systematically excluded.&nbsp;Defending its own approach, the National Conference said the elected government was conscious of the limitations imposed by the existing administrative framework and was pursuing a roadmap on issues linked to Jammu and Kashmir’s identity and political rights.

Taking aim at his political record, the party said Ruhullah had continued as a minister in 2010 until he was removed during a general reshuffle and subsequently contested the 2014 Assembly elections on an NC ticket.

The National Conference (NC) has hit back at Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi over his remarks against the party leadership, accusing him of using derogatory and unparliamentary language and questioning his record on the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and reservation issues. In a strongly worded response, the party described Ruhullah’s speech as a manifestation of what it termed his “mental and moral bankruptcy” and “self-obsession,” alleging that his remarks contradicted the values of dignity and respect he invoked while referring to the holy Quran. The NC also questioned the timing of Ruhullah’s resignation, claiming that he acted only after being asked to do so by the party president. Taking aim at his political record, the party said Ruhullah had continued as a minister in 2010 until he was removed during a general reshuffle and subsequently contested the 2014 Assembly elections on an NC ticket. “He conveniently forgot all about it until 2026, 16 years later,” the party said, questioning his renewed references to 2010. On the issue of special status, the NC asked whether Ruhullah, who had welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly’s November 6 resolution seeking restoration of special status, had taken concrete steps in Parliament to advance the demand. The party questioned whether the MP had mobilised support among MPs, moved a resolution or introduced a bill seeking restoration of special status or statehood. Also read: Mob brutally attacks BSF jawans in Tripura’s Bangladesh border belt, spotlight on cattle and drug trafficking It also challenged Ruhullah to explain his parliamentary interventions on what it described as the weakening of the elected government’s authority under the Union Territory arrangement, particularly in departments that fall under the elected government. On reservation, the NC said Ruhullah had initially raised objections over the issue of job quotas and alleged injustice to candidates from the open merit category but accused him of directing his criticism at the party instead of the Lieutenant Governor-led administration and the Centre. The party maintained that the reservation issue had figured prominently in its election manifesto and said its government had constituted a cabinet sub-committee to examine the matter and introduce changes. However, it alleged that the file concerning the cabinet’s decision had been stalled by the “powers that be.” The NC also questioned whether Ruhullah had raised the issue in Parliament or demanded answers from the Centre over the delay in implementing the proposed reservation changes. Further, the party asked whether the MP had organised protests against the Lieutenant Governor over reservation-related grievances, alleged recruitment irregularities and concerns that job aspirants from one region were being systematically excluded. Defending its own approach, the National Conference said the elected government was conscious of the limitations imposed by the existing administrative framework and was pursuing a roadmap on issues linked to Jammu and Kashmir’s identity and political rights.

Taking aim at his political record, the party said Ruhullah had continued as a minister in 2010 until he was removed during a general reshuffle and subsequently contested the 2014 Assembly elections on an NC ticket.

‘Mental and moral bankruptcy’: NC launches sharp attack on Aga Ruhullah

In a shocking development, a 3-year-old girl has made a miraculous recovery in Gujarat after doctors at Civil Hospital Ahmedabad successfully removed a pair of sharp scissors embedded in her chest. The toddler, who hails from Kutch, was critically injured the previous month at around 11 am, when a pair for scissors got in chest while playing with her 5-year-old brother. After the accident, the girl was initially taken to a nearby private facility. Later, she was taken to a hospital in Gandhidham for a preliminary CT scan. Following the CT scan, the doctors referred her to Civil Hospital Ahmedabad after finding critical nature of the injury. Later, she was admitted at 10 pm that night in the hospital, and emergency surgery was immediately performed.&nbsp;The surgery was carried out by a specialised medical team from the Pediatric Surgery department under the guidance of Department Head Dr Rakesh Joshi and led by Assistant Professors Dr Kashvi and Dr Mrinalini. During the surgery, skilled anaesthetists were also part of the delicate operation. The team successfully ejected the scissors without damaging vital organs, and the patient's condition is now stable, and the patient is soon to be discharged from the hospital.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mob-brutally-attacks-bsf-jawans-in-tripura-s-bangladesh-border-belt-spotlight-on-cattle-and-drug-trafficking-1793717237139">Mob brutally attacks BSF jawans in Tripura’s Bangladesh border belt, spotlight on cattle and drug trafficking</a><h3>Matter of good fortune</h3>Medical experts noted that the patient’s survival was a matter of good fortune. Had the sharp object entered even an inch higher or shifted slightly to the side, it could have torn through major blood vessels, pierced the trachea, or damaged the intercostal vessels, any of which could have triggered severe internal bleeding. The toddler’s small size and age ultimately worked in their favour, limiting the force of impact and keeping the blades from breaking through the rib bone to reach deeper, more vital structures. Civil Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi said, "Parents must pay continuous attention to what their young children are playing with and keep sharp objects well out of reach. A 5-year-old child does not understand the severe harm these items can cause. If a child suddenly experiences difficulty breathing after an accident, parents should seek immediate medical attention."

The surgery was carried out by a specialised medical team from the Pediatric Surgery department under the guidance of Department Head Dr Rakesh Joshi and led by Assistant Professors Dr Kashvi and Dr Mrinalini.

In a shocking development, a 3-year-old girl has made a miraculous recovery in Gujarat after doctors at Civil Hospital Ahmedabad successfully removed a pair of sharp scissors embedded in her chest. The toddler, who hails from Kutch, was critically injured the previous month at around 11 am, when a pair for scissors got in chest while playing with her 5-year-old brother. After the accident, the girl was initially taken to a nearby private facility. Later, she was taken to a hospital in Gandhidham for a preliminary CT scan. Following the CT scan, the doctors referred her to Civil Hospital Ahmedabad after finding critical nature of the injury. Later, she was admitted at 10 pm that night in the hospital, and emergency surgery was immediately performed. The surgery was carried out by a specialised medical team from the Pediatric Surgery department under the guidance of Department Head Dr Rakesh Joshi and led by Assistant Professors Dr Kashvi and Dr Mrinalini. During the surgery, skilled anaesthetists were also part of the delicate operation. The team successfully ejected the scissors without damaging vital organs, and the patient's condition is now stable, and the patient is soon to be discharged from the hospital. Also read: Mob brutally attacks BSF jawans in Tripura’s Bangladesh border belt, spotlight on cattle and drug trafficking Matter of good fortune Medical experts noted that the patient’s survival was a matter of good fortune. Had the sharp object entered even an inch higher or shifted slightly to the side, it could have torn through major blood vessels, pierced the trachea, or damaged the intercostal vessels, any of which could have triggered severe internal bleeding. The toddler’s small size and age ultimately worked in their favour, limiting the force of impact and keeping the blades from breaking through the rib bone to reach deeper, more vital structures. Civil Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi said, "Parents must pay continuous attention to what their young children are playing with and keep sharp objects well out of reach. A 5-year-old child does not understand the severe harm these items can cause. If a child suddenly experiences difficulty breathing after an accident, parents should seek immediate medical attention."

The surgery was carried out by a specialised medical team from the Pediatric Surgery department under the guidance of Department Head Dr Rakesh Joshi and led by Assistant Professors Dr Kashvi and Dr Mrinalini.

Doctors remove scissors embedded in 3-year-old toddler's chest in Gujarat, girl survives

Three BSF personnel were badly injured when a mob assaulted them, snatched away a jawan’s service rifle and vandalised their vehicle at Ashabari in Tripura’s Sepahijala district on November 2, following the detention of suspected smuggler Hefzur Rahman.&nbsp;According to local reports, personnel of the 49th Battalion pursued suspected smugglers near border-fence gates 174 and 175 in the Ashabari Border Out Post (BOP) area. Rahman was detained and subsequently treated for a leg injury at Boxanagar hospital. A crowd blocked the Boxanagar–Rahimpur road and brutally attacked three BSF personnel approaching the blockade. Reinforcements later restored control.&nbsp;&nbsp;As per local media sources speaking to WION, Hefzur Rahman is allegedly involved in both cattle smuggling and drug trafficking in the border adjacent regions.&nbsp;The Ashabari assault has precedents. In October 2017, BSF officer Deepak Kumar Mandal of the 145th Battalion died after being struck by a vehicle allegedly used by cattle smugglers near Sonamura.&nbsp;In August 2021, lawyer Shreya Aggarwal was assaulted and her vehicle was vandalised at Routhkhola in Bishalgarh after she reported overloaded cattle vehicles to the police.&nbsp;More recently, in November 2025, two BSF personnel were injured in a confrontation with suspected cattle smugglers in Bishalgarh, where Bishalgarh police registered a case against the miscreants.&nbsp;Sepahijala directly borders Bangladesh, placing settlements such as Ashabari along the international boundary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has described the district as sharing more than 100 kilometres of border with Bangladesh. Its geography provides the backdrop to a longstanding challenge involving cattle theft, illicit transportation and suspected cross-border trafficking.&nbsp;The record stretches back years. Madhupur police confirmed receiving a cattle-theft FIR from the Dhyan Foundation shelter in Devipur which houses over 2100 bovines rescued at the borders by BSF jawans. Court records document separate proceedings involving cattle trafficking at Madhupur, Sonamura and Melaghar, including transportation cruelty.&nbsp;A September 2026 report quoting the Sepahijala district SP recorded seizures of 269 cattle, 5660 Methamphetamine tablets, 1,790.2 kilograms of ganja, brown sugar and 289 bottles of Eskuf cough syrup in the year till September.&nbsp;In its April 27, 2026 judgment, the Tripura High Court discussed the continuing cattle smuggling into Bangladesh statewide. The court addressed the persistent challenges of unauthorized cattle smuggling across the Tripura-Bangladesh border, highlighting that rescue efforts remain an ongoing challenge. The court said, “It is unfortunate that despite efforts put in by the State or its agencies, the protection and rescue is not coming to end.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Local sources told WION that cattle and drug trafficking remain widespread in the region, generating unaccounted cash despite authorities’ awareness. Fearing for their safety, the sources request for anonymity.The security implications are direct, criminal profits sustain trafficking networks, while violence against BSF patrols with attempts to seize weapons threaten personnel and undermine border enforcement.

A crowd blocked the Boxanagar–Rahimpur road and brutally attacked three BSF personnel approaching the blockade following the detention of suspected smuggler Hefzur Rahman. Reinforcements later restored control.

Three BSF personnel were badly injured when a mob assaulted them, snatched away a jawan’s service rifle and vandalised their vehicle at Ashabari in Tripura’s Sepahijala district on November 2, following the detention of suspected smuggler Hefzur Rahman. According to local reports, personnel of the 49th Battalion pursued suspected smugglers near border-fence gates 174 and 175 in the Ashabari Border Out Post (BOP) area. Rahman was detained and subsequently treated for a leg injury at Boxanagar hospital. A crowd blocked the Boxanagar–Rahimpur road and brutally attacked three BSF personnel approaching the blockade. Reinforcements later restored control. As per local media sources speaking to WION, Hefzur Rahman is allegedly involved in both cattle smuggling and drug trafficking in the border adjacent regions. The Ashabari assault has precedents. In October 2017, BSF officer Deepak Kumar Mandal of the 145th Battalion died after being struck by a vehicle allegedly used by cattle smugglers near Sonamura. In August 2021, lawyer Shreya Aggarwal was assaulted and her vehicle was vandalised at Routhkhola in Bishalgarh after she reported overloaded cattle vehicles to the police. More recently, in November 2025, two BSF personnel were injured in a confrontation with suspected cattle smugglers in Bishalgarh, where Bishalgarh police registered a case against the miscreants. Sepahijala directly borders Bangladesh, placing settlements such as Ashabari along the international boundary. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has described the district as sharing more than 100 kilometres of border with Bangladesh. Its geography provides the backdrop to a longstanding challenge involving cattle theft, illicit transportation and suspected cross-border trafficking. The record stretches back years. Madhupur police confirmed receiving a cattle-theft FIR from the Dhyan Foundation shelter in Devipur which houses over 2100 bovines rescued at the borders by BSF jawans. Court records document separate proceedings involving cattle trafficking at Madhupur, Sonamura and Melaghar, including transportation cruelty. A September 2026 report quoting the Sepahijala district SP recorded seizures of 269 cattle, 5660 Methamphetamine tablets, 1,790.2 kilograms of ganja, brown sugar and 289 bottles of Eskuf cough syrup in the year till September. In its April 27, 2026 judgment, the Tripura High Court discussed the continuing cattle smuggling into Bangladesh statewide. The court addressed the persistent challenges of unauthorized cattle smuggling across the Tripura-Bangladesh border, highlighting that rescue efforts remain an ongoing challenge. The court said, “It is unfortunate that despite efforts put in by the State or its agencies, the protection and rescue is not coming to end.” Local sources told WION that cattle and drug trafficking remain widespread in the region, generating unaccounted cash despite authorities’ awareness. Fearing for their safety, the sources request for anonymity. The security implications are direct, criminal profits sustain trafficking networks, while violence against BSF patrols with attempts to seize weapons threaten personnel and undermine border enforcement.

A crowd blocked the Boxanagar–Rahimpur road and brutally attacked three BSF personnel approaching the blockade following the detention of suspected smuggler Hefzur Rahman. Reinforcements later restored control.

Mob brutally attacks BSF jawans in Tripura’s Bangladesh border belt, spotlight on cattle and drug trafficking

The Rekha Gupta-led Delhi government has seized nearly 7,000 kg of suspected adulterated paneer and khoya in a major crackdown ahead of Diwali 2026. The move is part of increasing food safety checks in order to prevent the sale of unsafe food products in the run-up to the festive season. The crackdown comes as demand for paneer, khoya and other dairy products increases during the festive season, especially in Diwali. A video of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also surfaced on social media, inspecting the seized products. The visual shows her throwing away the suspected fake paneer and directing officials who accompanied her to step up inspections and take stringent action against those involved in food adulteration.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">7,000 kg of adulterated khoya seized in a major crackdown at Turkman Gate!

Visited the site to personally review the Food Safety Department’s operation and directed the strictest legal action against those responsible.

Raids will be intensified across Delhi, during the festive season and throughout the year. The crackdown will be relentless.

Nobody will be allowed to play with people’s health for profit.&mdash; Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) <a href="https://x.com/gupta_rekha/status/2117557951942811932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protesters-cannot-occupy-sites-indefinitely-sc-steps-in-as-traders-oppose-anti-cec-stir-1793707226147">Protesters cannot occupy sites indefinitely': Supreme Court steps in as traders oppose anti-CEC stir</a><h3>Directive issued for food safety officials</h3>In response, officials have also directed food safety officials to step up inspections and maintain stricter oversight of market products to shield consumers from adulterated food. The move comes as food adulteration continues to be a persistent issue across Indian cities, with inspections and laboratory testing repeatedly uncovering substandard and unsafe items. The concern intensifies during the festive season, when demand surges for milk-based items like paneer, khoya, ghee and sweets. According to data the Union government presented in Parliament, out of 1,70,535 food samples tested nationwide in 2024-25, 34,388 failed to meet prescribed standards. These figures span multiple food categories and are not restricted to dairy products alone. &nbsp;In April 2025, food safety officials in Noida and Greater Noida discovered that 83 per cent of the paneer samples failed to meet quality standards, with 40 per cent of the samples declared unsafe for consumption. Similarly, in Ahmedabad, the civic body's health department found eight of the 10 paneer samples unsafe between January and mid-April 2025. Recently, ahead of Holi in February 2026, authorities seized and destroyed 1,200 kg of suspected adulterated paneer in Ghaziabad and 900 kg of unhygienic khoya found in Kanpur.

The move comes as food adulteration continues to be a persistent issue across Indian cities, with inspections and laboratory testing repeatedly uncovering substandard and unsafe items.

The Rekha Gupta-led Delhi government has seized nearly 7,000 kg of suspected adulterated paneer and khoya in a major crackdown ahead of Diwali 2026. The move is part of increasing food safety checks in order to prevent the sale of unsafe food products in the run-up to the festive season. The crackdown comes as demand for paneer, khoya and other dairy products increases during the festive season, especially in Diwali. A video of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also surfaced on social media, inspecting the seized products. The visual shows her throwing away the suspected fake paneer and directing officials who accompanied her to step up inspections and take stringent action against those involved in food adulteration.

The move comes as food adulteration continues to be a persistent issue across Indian cities, with inspections and laboratory testing repeatedly uncovering substandard and unsafe items.

VIDEO: Delhi CM leads food safety crackdown, seizes nearly 7,000 Kg of suspected fake Paneer, Khoya

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (November 3) asked the central government and others to respond after traders’ organisations filed a plea seeking to stop the ongoing demonstrations during the festive season. The court's remark was in the context of the ongoing protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Underscoring the right to protest, the apex court observed that protesters cannot occupy a designated protest site indefinitely. This comes after the tag of a designated protest site was moved from Jantar Mantar to three alternative sites, including Ramlila Maidan. On the development, the government's top lawyer Tushar Mehta told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that whoever calls for a protest must take responsibility for any consequences during the course of the demonstrations. "You cannot occupy a site for all time to come. There are other protesters also. Where will farmers or lawyers go? Everyone has a right to protest," Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ruhullah-turns-up-heat-on-omar-abdullah-says-cm-should-pack-bags-for-england-as-political-rift-deepens-1793706936897"> Ruhullah turns up heat on Omar Abdullah, says CM should pack bags for England as political rift deepens</a><h3>Protest granted for one day</h3>Mehta told the Supreme Court that permission for the July 20 protest had been granted for just one day, yet the demonstration remained at the site and went on to march toward Parliament. He argued that Parliament isn’t simply another political building, emphasising that marches cannot be directed at either Parliament or the Supreme Court. The bench was examining a set of petitions, including one brought by traders, alongside concerns over alleged mass detentions, police misconduct, metro station closures, and internet suspensions linked to the protests. The bench, which also included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, directed the trader organisations to add the organisers of the anti-CEC protest as respondents in their petition concerning business losses. Praveen Khandelwal, MP and Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), welcomed the Court’s intervention as significant. According to Khandelwal, the Court’s remarks highlight the need to maintain a constitutional balance between the fundamental right to peaceful protest and citizens’ equally important right to pursue their occupations and earn a livelihood.

The bench was examining a set of petitions, including one brought by traders, alongside concerns over alleged mass detentions, police misconduct, metro station closures, and internet suspensions linked to the protests.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (November 3) asked the central government and others to respond after traders’ organisations filed a plea seeking to stop the ongoing demonstrations during the festive season. The court's remark was in the context of the ongoing protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Underscoring the right to protest, the apex court observed that protesters cannot occupy a designated protest site indefinitely. This comes after the tag of a designated protest site was moved from Jantar Mantar to three alternative sites, including Ramlila Maidan. On the development, the government's top lawyer Tushar Mehta told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that whoever calls for a protest must take responsibility for any consequences during the course of the demonstrations. "You cannot occupy a site for all time to come. There are other protesters also. Where will farmers or lawyers go? Everyone has a right to protest," Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said. Also read: Ruhullah turns up heat on Omar Abdullah, says CM should pack bags for England as political rift deepens Protest granted for one day Mehta told the Supreme Court that permission for the July 20 protest had been granted for just one day, yet the demonstration remained at the site and went on to march toward Parliament. He argued that Parliament isn’t simply another political building, emphasising that marches cannot be directed at either Parliament or the Supreme Court. The bench was examining a set of petitions, including one brought by traders, alongside concerns over alleged mass detentions, police misconduct, metro station closures, and internet suspensions linked to the protests. The bench, which also included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, directed the trader organisations to add the organisers of the anti-CEC protest as respondents in their petition concerning business losses. Praveen Khandelwal, MP and Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), welcomed the Court’s intervention as significant. According to Khandelwal, the Court’s remarks highlight the need to maintain a constitutional balance between the fundamental right to peaceful protest and citizens’ equally important right to pursue their occupations and earn a livelihood.

The bench was examining a set of petitions, including one brought by traders, alongside concerns over alleged mass detentions, police misconduct, metro station closures, and internet suspensions linked to the protests.

'Protesters cannot occupy sites indefinitely': Supreme Court steps in as traders oppose anti-CEC stir

In a sharp escalation of his confrontation with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has delivered a hard-hitting political message to the National Conference leadership, with the growing rift threatening to deepen the crisis within the ruling party.Ruhullah, who announced his separation from the National Conference and his decision to relinquish his Lok Sabha membership at a gathering in Budgam, launched a scathing attack on the party’s political direction, raising questions over Omar Abdullah’s leadership, credibility and future.The confrontation has increasingly taken on the character of a battle over political authority and accountability, with Ruhullah challenging the leadership over its handling of electoral promises and public expectations.In a pointed political jibe, Ruhullah’s message to Omar Abdullah can be framed as a call to “pack his bags and leave for England,” coupled with a warning that he would work to ensure the Chief Minister never gets his political chair back.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-accuses-nc-of-double-standards-says-its-politics-fuel-distrust-of-kashmiris-1793621398497">Mehbooba accuses NC of double standards, says its politics fuel distrust of Kashmiris</a>At the centre of Ruhullah’s revolt is his accusation that the National Conference has failed to honour commitments made to voters, particularly on Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional rights, reservation policy and the continued detention of prisoners.“Either there is honour, or there is politics. There is no politics without honour,” Ruhullah said, articulating what he described as the fundamental contradiction between political power and principles.He also questioned the preoccupation with ministerial positions and political chairs, arguing that leaders had become increasingly consumed by power while ordinary people continued to struggle with basic issues, including drinking water and public services.Ruhullah’s break with the NC is particularly significant given his long association with the party and his role as one of its prominent campaigners. His growing differences with the leadership have now culminated in an open political confrontation that could complicate Omar Abdullah’s efforts to manage dissent within the party.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-conference-crisis-20-mlas-demand-minister-removal-party-overhaul-1793615553250">NC faces internal crisis as 20 MLAs seek cabinet overhaul, Srinagar MP to quit party and seat on Nov 3</a>The development comes amid reports of discontent among a section of NC legislators and discussions surrounding a possible cabinet reshuffle, adding another layer of uncertainty for the party leadership.Despite his sharp criticism of the NC leadership, Ruhullah maintained that his political opposition remained directed against the BJP, urging the younger generation to continue the political struggle and calling for a new political course.His next move, including the possibility of building an organised political platform, could have implications beyond Budgam, particularly in constituencies where he enjoys influence.

Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has announced his separation from the National Conference and plans to give up his Lok Sabha seat, escalating his confrontation with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.



In a sharp escalation of his confrontation with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has delivered a hard-hitting political message to the National Conference leadership, with the growing rift threatening to deepen the crisis within the ruling party. Ruhullah, who announced his separation from the National Conference and his decision to relinquish his Lok Sabha membership at a gathering in Budgam, launched a scathing attack on the party’s political direction, raising questions over Omar Abdullah’s leadership, credibility and future. The confrontation has increasingly taken on the character of a battle over political authority and accountability, with Ruhullah challenging the leadership over its handling of electoral promises and public expectations. In a pointed political jibe, Ruhullah’s message to Omar Abdullah can be framed as a call to “pack his bags and leave for England,” coupled with a warning that he would work to ensure the Chief Minister never gets his political chair back. Also read | Mehbooba accuses NC of double standards, says its politics fuel distrust of Kashmiris At the centre of Ruhullah’s revolt is his accusation that the National Conference has failed to honour commitments made to voters, particularly on Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional rights, reservation policy and the continued detention of prisoners. “Either there is honour, or there is politics. There is no politics without honour,” Ruhullah said, articulating what he described as the fundamental contradiction between political power and principles. He also questioned the preoccupation with ministerial positions and political chairs, arguing that leaders had become increasingly consumed by power while ordinary people continued to struggle with basic issues, including drinking water and public services. Ruhullah’s break with the NC is particularly significant given his long association with the party and his role as one of its prominent campaigners. His growing differences with the leadership have now culminated in an open political confrontation that could complicate Omar Abdullah’s efforts to manage dissent within the party. Also read | NC faces internal crisis as 20 MLAs seek cabinet overhaul, Srinagar MP to quit party and seat on Nov 3 The development comes amid reports of discontent among a section of NC legislators and discussions surrounding a possible cabinet reshuffle, adding another layer of uncertainty for the party leadership. Despite his sharp criticism of the NC leadership, Ruhullah maintained that his political opposition remained directed against the BJP, urging the younger generation to continue the political struggle and calling for a new political course. His next move, including the possibility of building an organised political platform, could have implications beyond Budgam, particularly in constituencies where he enjoys influence.

Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has announced his separation from the National Conference and plans to give up his Lok Sabha seat, escalating his confrontation with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

Ruhullah turns up heat on Omar Abdullah, says CM should pack bags for England as political rift deepens

India on Tuesday (Nov 3) expressed its deepest condolences after an Indian national was killed when two helicopters collided mid-air during their landing sequence in Nepal's Solukhumbu district on Tuesday morning. The Embassy of India in Kathmandu said it is working in close coordination with Nepali authorities for early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased. Three other individuals sustained injuries in the crash, officials confirmed.The deceased was identified as Vasanth Kumar Balaramaramadu, an Indian national travelling on board the Fishtail Air helicopter. His body was transferred to a medical facility in Lukla, according to Inspector Mausam Tamang, as reported by The Kathmandu Post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Embassy of India in Kathmandu expresses its deepest condolences on the unfortunate demise of an Indian national in an incident involving collision between two helicopters in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal today. 

The Embassy is working in close coordination with Nepali authorities for early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased.

@MEAIndia&mdash; IndiaInNepal (@IndiaInNepal) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaInNepal/status/2117543642936307735?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-tourist-killed-in-nepal-helicopter-collision-pilots-among-three-injured-who-are-they-1793684166192">Indian tourist killed in Nepal helicopter collision, pilots among three injured</a><h2>What we know about the injured</h2>Shailesh Krishna Patel, a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin who was also a passenger on the same aircraft, suffered injuries in the crash. He was subsequently airlifted to Mediciti Hospital in Kathmandu via a Prabhu Air helicopter, Inspector Tamang stated.Additionally, both helicopter pilots received minor injuries and were transported to Kathmandu for further medical treatment.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/captured-on-cctv-video-six-year-old-special-needs-girl-brutally-attacked-by-class-iii-boy-student-at-panchkula-school-sanskriti-model-school-brick-1793432688240">Captured on CCTV video: Six-year-old special needs girl brutally attacked by Class III student at Panchkula school</a><h2>The collision: What happened?</h2>The collision, involving aircraft operated by Air Dynasty and Fishtail Air, occurred at approximately 8:11 am while both helicopters were attempting to land at Pheriche, located in Ward 4 of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, the District Police Office reported, as noted by The Kathmandu Post.

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-status="hidden">TWO HELICOPTERS COLLIDE NEAR EVEREST BASE CAMP; ONE FOREIGNER KILLED Scary footage this morning. Two helicopters operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty collided while attempting to land at Pheriche in Nepal’s Everest region One foreign passenger was killed and another person injured. The crash occurred around 8:15 AM (local time) The cause is under investigation.&mdash; Subodh Kumar (@kumarsubodh_) <a href="https://x.com/kumarsubodh_/status/2117468205237318069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Authorities stated that the total number of passengers on board both helicopters at the time of the impact remains unconfirmed, as law enforcement personnel continue gathering details surrounding the accident.Meanwhile, closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage capturing the crash has emerged publicly, showing the two aircraft drifting dangerously close together before their rotor blades made contact.

India has expressed its deepest condolences after an Indian national was killed when two helicopters collided mid-air during their landing sequence in Nepal's Solukhumbu district. The Embassy of India in Kathmandu is working with Nepali authorities for early repatriation of mortal remains.

India on Tuesday (Nov 3) expressed its deepest condolences after an Indian national was killed when two helicopters collided mid-air during their landing sequence in Nepal's Solukhumbu district on Tuesday morning. The Embassy of India in Kathmandu said it is working in close coordination with Nepali authorities for early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased. Three other individuals sustained injuries in the crash, officials confirmed. The deceased was identified as Vasanth Kumar Balaramaramadu, an Indian national travelling on board the Fishtail Air helicopter. His body was transferred to a medical facility in Lukla, according to Inspector Mausam Tamang, as reported by The Kathmandu Post.

India has expressed its deepest condolences after an Indian national was killed when two helicopters collided mid-air during their landing sequence in Nepal's Solukhumbu district. The Embassy of India in Kathmandu is working with Nepali authorities for early repatriation of mortal remains.

India breaks silence on Nepal helicopter mid-air collision: Early repatriation of the mortal remains underway

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has suspended Delhi's Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Manasvi Vashishta, who led the protest outside police headquarters in New Delhi. The suspension came on Tuesday (Nov 3), a day after Delhi Police personnel gathered outside the police headquarters to protest against the transfers of Shahdara Station House Officer (SHO) Inspector Arun Kumar and Vashishta.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/toxic-haze-engulfs-parts-of-ncr-as-delhi-s-aqi-crosses-400-ahead-of-diwali-1793675497738">Delhi's AQI crosses 400 ahead of Diwali, toxic haze engulfs parts of NCR</a><h2>Why were they protesting?</h2>On Monday 8 am, around 100 police personnel assembled on the road outside the headquarters &nbsp;on Nov 2, seeking a meeting with the Police Commissioner and an interactive session to raise their concerns over the transfers. Senior officers, including New Delhi DCP Sachin Sharma, were seen trying to persuade the protesters to take up their grievances with the Police Commissioner inside the headquarters rather than stage a roadside demonstration. While Vashistha was transferred from the post of Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Gandhi Nagar in the Shahdara subdivision to the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC), Kumar was moved from Shahdara police station to the Delhi Police Security Branch. The lawyers called off their strike after the transfer orders were issued. The protesting personnel demanded that the two officers be reinstated to their previous postings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-allows-green-crackers-in-delhi-ncr-on-november-7-and-8-sets-strict-timings-1793618437102">Supreme Court allows green crackers in Delhi-NCR on November 7 and 8, sets strict guidelines and timings</a>

<h2>What is the matter?</h2>On the evening of October 23, the matter began as a parking dispute. Around 11:00 AM, a lawyer named Amulya Ratan Sharma’s relative parked in a his bike at the entrance to a local salon. The salon owner, Sheetal Thakur and her husband, Rahul, asked the biker to move the vehicle. A heated argument ensued thereafter. The salon owners allege that a scuffle broke out when they objected about the parking. They said that it turned violent when a large group of lawyers came to the salon as an act of retaliation, vandalised the salon and physically assaulted Sheetal - who is pregnant. They also allege that when they went to the police station to lodge a complaint, they were threatened by a larger group of lawyers and violent scuffle broke out again.<h2>Lawyer's version</h2>During this fight, advocate Lalit Bansal suffered a severe head injury. Police personnel had to physically intervene to halt the clash. According to the Delhi District Courts Bar Association, during this confrontation, ACP Vashishta allegedly brandished his loaded service revolver, threatened, and intimidated the advocates. Lawyers also said that he allegedly warned "goons in black coats" and mentioned AK-47s. The lawyers said that they entered the station because they knew the salon owners were present and wanted to ensure the police formally booked and detained them on the spot. The lawyers urged Delhi High Court to take suo moto cognizance of the matter. However, the court refused and a bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre instructed the lawyers to file a formal petition instead.<h2>What is the police version?</h2>The police department strongly rejected this narrative, countering that the lawyers barged in, threw false bribery accusations at the officers, and physically obstructed government work. Vashishta filed a cross-complaint against 15–20 lawyers for misbehavior. During their protest on Monday, ACP Vashishta and the personnel argued that the police force shouldn't be penalized simply for doing their jobs. Vashishta stated to the media that the police took a stand because it is vital to raise a voice against the "hooliganism" that ground-level cops face daily. The police version asserts that “if police stations themselves are not safe from rampaging groups, then no place in society can be safe.”<h2>Why were they transferred?</h2>The transfers were ordered on Oct 28, 2026 and the MHA stated that it was done for “violation of discipline.”&nbsp;

The MHA has suspended ACP Manasvi Vashishta, a day after he led a protest by Delhi Police personnel against the transfer of two officers. The transfers followed a confrontation between lawyers and police over a parking dispute at a Gandhi Nagar salon, with both sides alleging misconduct.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has suspended Delhi's Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Manasvi Vashishta, who led the protest outside police headquarters in New Delhi. The suspension came on Tuesday (Nov 3), a day after Delhi Police personnel gathered outside the police headquarters to protest against the transfers of Shahdara Station House Officer (SHO) Inspector Arun Kumar and Vashishta. Also Read: Delhi's AQI crosses 400 ahead of Diwali, toxic haze engulfs parts of NCR Why were they protesting? On Monday 8 am, around 100 police personnel assembled on the road outside the headquarters on Nov 2, seeking a meeting with the Police Commissioner and an interactive session to raise their concerns over the transfers. Senior officers, including New Delhi DCP Sachin Sharma, were seen trying to persuade the protesters to take up their grievances with the Police Commissioner inside the headquarters rather than stage a roadside demonstration. While Vashistha was transferred from the post of Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Gandhi Nagar in the Shahdara subdivision to the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC), Kumar was moved from Shahdara police station to the Delhi Police Security Branch. The lawyers called off their strike after the transfer orders were issued. The protesting personnel demanded that the two officers be reinstated to their previous postings. Also Read: Supreme Court allows green crackers in Delhi-NCR on November 7 and 8, sets strict guidelines and timings

The MHA has suspended ACP Manasvi Vashishta, a day after he led a protest by Delhi Police personnel against the transfer of two officers. The transfers followed a confrontation between lawyers and police over a parking dispute at a Gandhi Nagar salon, with both sides alleging misconduct.

Delhi ACP Manasvi Vashishta suspended: Police vs police protest, clash with lawyers and parking dispute EXPLAINED

The Indian Navy, with support from the Indian Air Force, has rescued all 20 crew members of the Iranian fishing vessel Azini after a 48-hour operation against armed Somali pirates more than 3,000 km from Mumbai. No casualties or injuries were reported. The vessel was seized on 29 October off the northeastern coast of Somalia, between Bandarbayla and Hafun. About 12 armed pirates boarded the Iranian-flagged dhow, which was carrying Iranian crew. Maritime authorities, including the EU-backed Maritime Security Centre–Indian Ocean, warned that the pirates intended to use it as a “mother ship” to launch further attacks on merchant shipping in the region. In response, the Indian Navy diverted the guided-missile destroyer INS Kolkata, already on mission deployment, to intercept the vessel. It was supported by long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, including a P-8I, with additional assistance from platforms such as the MQ-9. After locating and tracking Azini through sustained surveillance, the naval force used calibrated non-kinetic measures to contain the vessel and prevent its escape toward busy shipping lanes. Marine Commandos (MARCOS) were then inserted by a precision airdrop from an Indian Air Force C-17 transport aircraft. In a coordinated tactical intervention, the commandos secured the vessel, overcame the pirate threat and freed the crew. Photographs released after the operation showed seized weapons, including firearms and ammunition, laid out on the deck, with INS Kolkata standing by. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the forces on Monday. “My congratulations to the Indian Navy for successfully executing a meticulously coordinated 48-hour operation to rescue all 20 crew members of the pirated fishing vessel, Azini, more than 3000 km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, on 2 Nov 26,” he said. “The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the Indian Air Force, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My congratulations to #Indian Navy for successfully executing a meticulously coordinated 48-hour operation to rescue all 20 crew members of the pirated fishing vessel, Azini, more than 3000 km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, on 02 Nov 26.

The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the Indian Air Force, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region.

Our brave personnel have once again demonstrated India’s ability, intent and resolve to safeguard lives, uphold maritime security and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region.

India continues to stand resolute in ensuring SAFE SEAS and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region.

#IndianNavy #IndianAirForce #SafeSeas&mdash; Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://x.com/rajnathsingh/status/2117303177964052506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2026</a></blockquote>
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He added that the operation demonstrated India’s resolve “to safeguard lives, uphold maritime security and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region” and its commitment to “SAFE SEAS and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region.” The Embassy of Iran in New Delhi welcomed the outcome. It expressed “sincere appreciation to the Government of India, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force” and commended “the professionalism, courage and effective coordination demonstrated by the Indian Armed Forces,” describing the mission as reflecting India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and its role in “saving lives beyond borders.” The embassy called the rescue a testament to the “spirit of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between Iran and India.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi expresses its sincere appreciation to the Government of India, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force for their successful operation to rescue the 20 Iranian crew members of the fishing vessel Azini from pirates.

We highly commend the professionalism, courage and effective coordination demonstrated by the Indian Armed Forces, reflecting India's strong commitment to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and its role in saving lives beyond borders.

This humanitarian operation stands as a testament to the spirit of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between Iran and India.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all those involved in ensuring the safe rescue of the Iranian crew.&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2117487737989394930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2026</a></blockquote>
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INS Kolkata has featured in previous high-profile anti-piracy missions, including the 2024 interception of the pirate vessel MV Ruen.

In a coordinated tactical intervention, the commandos secured the vessel, overcame the pirate threat and freed the crew. Photographs released after the operation showed seized weapons, including firearms and ammunition, laid out on the deck, with INS Kolkata standing by.

The Indian Navy, with support from the Indian Air Force, has rescued all 20 crew members of the Iranian fishing vessel Azini after a 48-hour operation against armed Somali pirates more than 3,000 km from Mumbai. No casualties or injuries were reported. The vessel was seized on 29 October off the northeastern coast of Somalia, between Bandarbayla and Hafun. About 12 armed pirates boarded the Iranian-flagged dhow, which was carrying Iranian crew. Maritime authorities, including the EU-backed Maritime Security Centre–Indian Ocean, warned that the pirates intended to use it as a “mother ship” to launch further attacks on merchant shipping in the region. In response, the Indian Navy diverted the guided-missile destroyer INS Kolkata, already on mission deployment, to intercept the vessel. It was supported by long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, including a P-8I, with additional assistance from platforms such as the MQ-9. After locating and tracking Azini through sustained surveillance, the naval force used calibrated non-kinetic measures to contain the vessel and prevent its escape toward busy shipping lanes. Marine Commandos (MARCOS) were then inserted by a precision airdrop from an Indian Air Force C-17 transport aircraft. In a coordinated tactical intervention, the commandos secured the vessel, overcame the pirate threat and freed the crew. Photographs released after the operation showed seized weapons, including firearms and ammunition, laid out on the deck, with INS Kolkata standing by. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the forces on Monday. “My congratulations to the Indian Navy for successfully executing a meticulously coordinated 48-hour operation to rescue all 20 crew members of the pirated fishing vessel, Azini, more than 3000 km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, on 2 Nov 26,” he said. “The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the Indian Air Force, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region.”

In a coordinated tactical intervention, the commandos secured the vessel, overcame the pirate threat and freed the crew. Photographs released after the operation showed seized weapons, including firearms and ammunition, laid out on the deck, with INS Kolkata standing by.

Iran expresses appreciation after Indian Navy and Air Force rescue Iranian crew from Somali pirates

‘India is a secular country’ the Bombay High Court cited on Tuesday as it ordered the Mumbai civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, to re-upload a deleted video of Dia Mirza appealing for an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali.&nbsp;The awareness video was produced by BMC and featured the 44-year-old actress appealing to the people of Mumbai to burst firecrackers on public roads and opt for an eco-friendly Diwali.<h2>‘A festival is for everyone to celebrate’</h2>On Tuesday, a division bench of Justice Girish Kulkarni and Justice Dr Neela Gokhale said it was “disturbed by the stray comments made by some politicians” and reminded them that “India is a secular country.”&nbsp;“A festival is for everyone to celebrate... No individual can be isolated from celebrating any festival in this country...how can you object to someone's participation just because that person is from some other religion? Aren't we a secular country,” the Bench said orally.&nbsp;The bench also cautioned those who had objected to the clip, stressing that every individual deserved respect, regardless of religion, caste or creed.&nbsp;"There has to be a secular spirit, and the Constitution expects citizens to foster the same. If the clip was taken off, then it would be ideal that the same should be re-uploaded," the court said.&nbsp;"We have not seen any politician or any person who made remarks yesterday put up videos spreading awareness. We are a secular country. We are really hurt by this. The issue pertains to the environment and every person, irrespective of their religion and caste, is breathing the same air," the High Court said.<h2>What’s the controversy?</h2>In an awareness video for the &nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the 44-year-old actor had appealed to the public, citing a High Court order, not to burst firecrackers on public roads.&nbsp;BJP Mumbai chief Ameet Satam had criticised the video and posted on X, "We don't need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture."&nbsp;Following the comment, the civic body removed the video featuring Dia Mirza.&nbsp;Interestingly, similar awareness videos featuring celebrities like Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, were retained on the BMC's X and Instagram pages.&nbsp;Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde had also backed the deletion of the video and accused the actor of being opposed to Hindutva.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We do not need Dia Mirza to teach how Hindus should celebrate Diwali. We know how to celebrate our Diwali. You (Mirza) are pursuing your own agenda, a selective agenda, and your overall stance is becoming very clear. It shows that you are against Hindutva. That is why we have strongly opposed the video," Tawde said, according to PTI.&nbsp;"If we look at Dia Mirza's entire profile, we can see that she has opposed the Narmada project and the Uniform Civil Code. She has also spoken against environmental issues that we were working on and opposed statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have consistently seen her opposition directed against Hindutva and those who work for it," the mayor had further claimed.&nbsp;On Tuesday afternoon, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis was asked to react on Bombay HC's verdict. To which CM Fadnavis said, "This is a very small issue. I believe the High Court may have expressed its opinion, but the matter has not even gone to the High Court. Deleting the video was the Mumbai Municipal Corporation's decision. The authority that manages the social media handle has the right to decide what content should be retained and what should be removed. Dia Mirza may be a good actress, but she is not a major political figure in the country. Anyway, I feel these issues are not at my level."

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over the rhetoric used by politicians against Dia Mirza and ordered BMC to re-upload the deleted video where the actor appeals for an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali.

‘India is a secular country’ the Bombay High Court cited on Tuesday as it ordered the Mumbai civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, to re-upload a deleted video of Dia Mirza appealing for an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali. The awareness video was produced by BMC and featured the 44-year-old actress appealing to the people of Mumbai to burst firecrackers on public roads and opt for an eco-friendly Diwali. ‘A festival is for everyone to celebrate’ On Tuesday, a division bench of Justice Girish Kulkarni and Justice Dr Neela Gokhale said it was “disturbed by the stray comments made by some politicians” and reminded them that “India is a secular country.” “A festival is for everyone to celebrate... No individual can be isolated from celebrating any festival in this country...how can you object to someone's participation just because that person is from some other religion? Aren't we a secular country,” the Bench said orally. The bench also cautioned those who had objected to the clip, stressing that every individual deserved respect, regardless of religion, caste or creed. "There has to be a secular spirit, and the Constitution expects citizens to foster the same. If the clip was taken off, then it would be ideal that the same should be re-uploaded," the court said. "We have not seen any politician or any person who made remarks yesterday put up videos spreading awareness. We are a secular country. We are really hurt by this. The issue pertains to the environment and every person, irrespective of their religion and caste, is breathing the same air," the High Court said. What’s the controversy? In an awareness video for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the 44-year-old actor had appealed to the public, citing a High Court order, not to burst firecrackers on public roads. BJP Mumbai chief Ameet Satam had criticised the video and posted on X, "We don't need lessons on how to celebrate #Diwali from @deespeak. Our traditions are deeply rooted in our culture." Following the comment, the civic body removed the video featuring Dia Mirza. Interestingly, similar awareness videos featuring celebrities like Madhuri Dixit and Nishigandha Wad, and cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, were retained on the BMC's X and Instagram pages. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde had also backed the deletion of the video and accused the actor of being opposed to Hindutva. "We do not need Dia Mirza to teach how Hindus should celebrate Diwali. We know how to celebrate our Diwali. You (Mirza) are pursuing your own agenda, a selective agenda, and your overall stance is becoming very clear. It shows that you are against Hindutva. That is why we have strongly opposed the video," Tawde said, according to PTI. "If we look at Dia Mirza's entire profile, we can see that she has opposed the Narmada project and the Uniform Civil Code. She has also spoken against environmental issues that we were working on and opposed statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have consistently seen her opposition directed against Hindutva and those who work for it," the mayor had further claimed. On Tuesday afternoon, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis was asked to react on Bombay HC's verdict. To which CM Fadnavis said, "This is a very small issue. I believe the High Court may have expressed its opinion, but the matter has not even gone to the High Court. Deleting the video was the Mumbai Municipal Corporation's decision. The authority that manages the social media handle has the right to decide what content should be retained and what should be removed. Dia Mirza may be a good actress, but she is not a major political figure in the country. Anyway, I feel these issues are not at my level."

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over the rhetoric used by politicians against Dia Mirza and ordered BMC to re-upload the deleted video where the actor appeals for an eco-friendly and firecracker-free Diwali.

‘India is a secular country’: Bombay High Court orders BMC to restore Dia Mirza’s video on eco-friendly Diwali

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‘India is a secular country’: Bombay HC orders BMC to restore Dia Mirza’s video